Good Afternoon.I have finally found time to sit and do a little blogging after a busy day with the morning show, travel talk, marriage show etc etc. I also just finished an on camera interview about the blog and the Carnival Freedom’s venture into the Mediterranean for an NBC station in Miami (Channel 6, I think ). We filmed it outside on the open decks and it was wonderful, me standing there in my woolen blazer, shirt and tie while the 92 degree sun turned me into a big blob of sweat…………oh well, anything for the Public Relations Department. If anyone is from Miami and you see the interview, please let me know how it looks.
So, the good news…………..not one comment about the tender and shuttle service in Dubrovnik yesterday……………….not one, and that has made me very happy. We all worked hard to make it as easy as possible for the guests to get ashore in this beautiful port and compared to the last time there was a massive improvement. Now, if I could only do the same with Venice.
However, amongst all the back-slapping about yesterdays triumph, an old and ugly monster raised its head…………..here it is……………I don’t mean the guest is an old and ugly monster, I mean the problem is………..as you will see.
2293 – Too many deck chairs are reservedMrs. Hoffman came to the Purser’s Desk expressing her disappointment with the fact that she could not use the deck chairs. She said that she had an injury to her leg and all that she wanted was to have a seat on the deck chair and have her lunch yesterday but all the beach chairs had some stuff like towels and clothes on them but there were no guests around. Finally, when she found a beach chair with nothing on it, she was told by a gentleman sitting on the next chair that ‘his friend is coming soon so she will have to get off the chair when he comes back from lunch. Mrs. Hoffman said that this was not acceptable as 75% of the beach chairs are reserved by guests and the rest are being used. Purser apologized to Mrs. Hoffman and explained that we are trying to enforce the policy for the guests not to reserve the deck chairs and we also have it in the Capers. Mrs. Hoffman said that this was not enough as most of the guests do not read the Capers but we should have our housekeeping staff go around the deck and collect any stuff left on the chairs if nobody is using them so the guests would realize that they can not save the deck chairs. Mrs. Hoffman said that maybe the Cruise Director can make some announcements at the shows or in the morning shows and enforce the policy and he should be up there with his staff making sure people did listen.
Purser advised that her suggestions will be forwarded to Housekeeping and Cruise Director. Mrs. Hoffman said that it better be done as “she will not be happy” if tomorrow during the sea day she can not find a chair.
Now, this is a problem on every ship. In fact I know we have discussed this before on the blog thingy back in May but now, as the weather invites people to the outside decks this old problem is back again.
Let me tell you what we do here at the moment.
1. Written statements advising guests that saving of chairs is not allowed with consideration to other guests.
2. Announcement made at the beginning of the cruise by me.
That’s it. Short of doing what Mrs. Hoffman wants and having staff patrol the decks all day, every day, I am not sure how this will ever get better. I was speaking to the Cruise Director on the Emerald Princess and she told me that they have the same issue there as well. I will keep on trying but the best way we can alleviate this is to hope that guests are more considerate to others.
Overall, as we reach midway into the cruise I feel most people are very happy and enjoying the perfect weather. The ship has glided through the water on what has been the most perfect sea conditions we have had so far, everyday has been just beautiful.
Here are today’s photos, which should be available to be viewed by everyone as Roberto Potter has worked his magic.
VENICE AT ITS BEST
Here are today’s letters from IN THEIR OWN WORDS
I would also like you to read this one. I read their letter out on the morning show and as you will see, their story is both fun and inspirational. Here are Anne and Dan Conesti.
I had to have them as part of the Marriage Show and their story brought both tears and laughter. As you will see from the letter, they were married 63 years ago after a one week whirlwind romance. The reason for this was that Dan had to go to France to serve at the height of World War II with the infantry. They did not see each other for 2-1/2 years. During this time they wrote each other every week and Anne kept every letter in a box. After the war ended and Dan came home she sealed the box and marked it “NOT TO BE OPENED UNTIL 2000″ and then forgot about it.
I asked her why she did this and she said “I thought I would be dead by then and I wanted the kids to have some memories.” Of course, 2000 has come and gone and Anne is very much alive and has since labeled the box “do not open until 2020″……………..that’s the spirit.
So, 63 years married and they are here with all the family and I am going to send them to the Supper Club tomorrow for a romantic dinner for two on me.
Time for the Q and A……………………but, before I do. I want to thank all of you for your kind words regarding the incident I had with Mrs. Stern. I did give her this blog address so she could see my public apology. For this reason and because I want to move on, I will not be commenting on this incident anymore, but again, thank each and everyone of you for your kind words of support…………….where would I be without you all.
So, here we go, let me answer some questions.
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – First of all I want to say hello, how are you. Secondly, I see that you mentioned your cruise in February and your comment saying how disappointed you are that I may not be there to finally meet you. I have to say that I will really try to be there. As yet though my 2008 schedule is undecided.
I am glad to know that you to found the love of your life straight away and I am eternally grateful that I was able to find Heidi. I am also glad you liked the t-shirts and I promise you one day I will shake your hand as we meet personally. As always we send our best wishes to you and all your family.
MARY AND MOE – Thank you for being addicted to the blog. I hope it’s a healthy addiction and if it is I will keep feeding your habit. Thank you for the wonderful words and Heidi and I send you our best.
SUSAN B – I have told Heidi to write more blogs and when she gets time on the computer, she promises to do so. However, I know she appreciates your kind words. Look out for a new blog from Heidi later this cruise.
You asked about the Supper Club and I think the middle of the cruise is the perfect time. Let me know if I can help you with a reservation.
You need 10 cruises to qualify for a Platinum Card and hopefully when you cruise with me on the Carnival Splendor next year you will be close to holding that shiny card in your hand. Thank you for your offer to bring me some Jelly Beans which I would appreciate very much as my personal jet pack is running low on fuel.
Looking forward to seeing you soon.
DAVID DODELL – We just spoke on the phone and looking forward to shaking your hand at the backstage tour.
VICKI – Hope you had a nice weekend. We didn’t see anybody famous at Harry’s although another guest did take a photo of me, which upset the waiter as photos are not allowed. I am glad you liked the t-shirts, I hope you are going to buy one, so strangers can come up to you and say: “Who is John, and what’s so special about his thingy?” Personally, I would buy the one with Heidi’s name on it as she is more famous than I am.
SHELLY P – Hello Shelly. The current age groups are 2-5, 6-8, 9-11 and 12-14.
Unfortunately, as you can see, the youngest will be in a different group to the 14 year old some of the time, however, they will be together for some activities and regardless, both will make new friends and have so much fun. You asked about 2-way radios, they work perfectly on board and many families use them. Thank you for enjoying the blog so much and we will see you in August. Let me know if you need any more information concerning Camp Carnival.
GRACE – Grace, the tour that you have booked, although not run through the ship itself, is conducted by the same tour operator we use in Rome. When you arrive at the airport Carnival staff will be there with Carnival Freedom signs. Please follow them to the buses and there you will be able to book your tour at the desk. Your luggage will go on a truck with luggage of other Carnival guests. The bus will do the tour, you will have a guide on board, then you will be brought to the ship and your luggage will be brought to your cabin. Enjoy the tour and if you have any questions, I will be here to help you.
TOM AND JANE – I will indeed pass on the recipe for the Wild Mushroom Cream Soup. Heidi and I have never had this, but it sounds nice.
I will get PA 007 on the case. Thank you for ordering your t-shirts, I am truly honoured.
Look out for the recipe in the days ahead.
TROLLEYGIRL – Your Supper Club Reservation has been confirmed.
The $30 charge is per person for the dinner. No gratuity is automatically added and is left to your discretion.
The service is wonderful and the steaks are the best ever. Have a wonderful cruise and please keep reading the blog thingy.
SHELEE – Of course I remember you, and I am so excited to hear that you have booked the Carnival Sensation and the Carnival Spirit for its 12-day cruise to Hawaii. What a wonderful way for your parents to celebrate 50 years of married happiness.
I have never been to Hawaii, however, I will ask my colleague Shawn, who is on the Carnival Spirit now and has done this cruise many times, for her advice. Before I do, please let me know what sort of things you would like to do i.e. active tours or sightseeing tours. I look forward to hearing from you and I am glad you are enjoying the blog.
SUE GROHOL – Welcome back Sue, we missed you and I hope you enjoyed the time with your daughter as well as your high school reunion. You asked if the Angels & Demons tour will be running on Sunday, October the 28th. As this moment in time the answer is yes and let me know also if you need my help with your flight concerns. Glad you are enjoying the blog and the t- shirts and hopefully I will get to see you wear it in October. The Angels and Demons tour is excellent so I know you will enjoy it. Congratulations to your daughter, you must be so proud of her. All the best Sue.
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – Hello Paul, it would be interesting for Heidi to interview me, although I am not sure it would be such a good idea as she knows everything about me. There will be some very interesting interviews coming up this week, which I hope you will enjoy. Thanks mate.
MRS.MISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISE – You have shattered my illusion. There is me thinking that the odd cigar I enjoy was rolled on the thigh of a stunning Angelina look-a-like. Instead, you tell me that the thighs are probably the size of Cuba itself. This may be the reason I need to stop smoking. Maybe one day, I will be missing the Paradise.
CAPTAIN CHUCK – Great idea, I wish my jet pack had been working but unfortunately I have run out of fuel. Therefore, I hope bloggers will take great pity on me and ignore my wife and send me more fuel in the shape of Sugar Free Jelly Beans. Maybe you could wrap them in a surgical mask for Heidi. It really was nice to meet the couple from the Emerald Princess and it was strange to hear that they were sailing on another ship after they were so nice. I am sure your Alaska cruise will be here before you know it and you will have another 1500 photos to load on to your computer. How are things at home? Heidi and I send you our best.
DEBBY CARPENTER – I see you still don’t have your passport, don’t worry, it will be here soon.
You asked if there will be Carnival Staff at the Cicerone Hotel. Yes, there will be and they will organize your transfer to the ship. As for your daughter and her desire to get a tattoo in Venice, after asking a few people from my staff, the only place they know where you can get a tattoo would be in Barcelona. If not I can draw something on her arm with a Sharpie. Hope your passport comes soon and best from us both.
LISA AND ELAINE – The temperature of the water in Jamaica is always very warm and some of the water is as blue and as clear as I have ever seen it.
It is one of the reasons why I love this island so much. Thank you for your kind words and see you soon.
RONS ANGEL – It is so nice to hear that you are making your own mind up and thinking of giving Carnival Cruise Lines a try. I am honoured that you have decided to do this based on the service I provide in this blog. When you are ready to book your cruise please let me know and hopefully we can arrange for you and I to meet. Thanks mate, you made my day.
SHERIFF ROSCOE P. COLTRANE – Sheriff, have you been drinking the moonshine again? You and I could and should be family though and one day I would love to ride in the police car with you so we can sing the COPS theme song together. Thank you for making me smile. My best to you both mate.
CLEO AND GARTH COOPER – G’day! Thank you for taking the time to write and let me answer your questions.
1. You asked about the tour to Capri and the fact that it does not go to the Blue Grotto. The reason for this is that the cave itself is only accessible during very low tide and you need to take a small motorboat to go into the cave itself. Now, I have never done this, however, I can tell you that many people I have spoken to always tell me how disappointed they were, but that’s just their opinion.
2. You also asked about Anacapri, which is indeed visited on the Island Of Capri Tour along with the beautiful Villa San Michele.
The Island Of Capri Tour is marvelous and will give you plenty of free time and if you do decide to go on your own you can disembark the ship at your leisure and walk to the jetfoil station. The boats leave at various times during the day and I do suggest you check the time table very carefully to allow yourself plenty of time to return to the ship.
3. You asked if your son could throw a discus at Olympia. My suggestion is yes, just do it, they may ask you not to afterwards but in Greece it is often better to ask for forgiveness rather than permission.
Heidi and I will be on the cruise and we both look forward to meeting you and your family.
ROBERT – The Bloggers cruise will have a pre-registration form so I will know who is on board to see me. I expect this to be many of the guests, however, hopefully doing it this way will allow me to see who needs special attention. You asked about Todd, he will be taking over for me some time in November, I am just not sure yet when. I am working on making this cruise the most special that you and Suzann have ever had.
KATHY KROLL – Hello Kathy, hope you are well. When you were on the Liberty last August, Europe was at the start of its popularity as a cruise ship destination.
This season, I have seen even more ships and I am sure this trend will continue in 2008. I hope that you are excited about the Carnival Splendor and I do not expect the Baltic to be as busy as the Grand Med cruise. Of course we will remember you, and both Heidi and I send you our kindest regards.
MARIJ VAN DINTER – Welkom thuis! We hopen dat jullie een fantastische reis hebben gehad en eentje waar je op terug kunt kijken. Bedankt voor alle tijdschriften die jullie nog voor mij achtergelaten hebben!!!!! John maakt zich niet meer druk om de dame in kwestie…je maakt zo iedere keer weer wat nieuws mee toch.
Groeten aan de familie.
RUTH JAMESON – The meal sounds fantastic and after reading your posting I feel very hungry, the appetizer sounds delicious. Please go ahead and order the t-shirts, they are not reserved just for people who are on the Bloggers cruise.
Here is Heidi. Hello Ruth, how wonderful to hear that you went to the Flower Auction when you visited Amsterdam in 1971. You asked if the tulips will be blooming on my Amsterdam cruise in July next year. I am afraid not. The best time to see the tulips is in May and the beginning of June. We are going to have a tour to the Flower Auction. I am sure you won’t recognize it after all those years.
You asked for an address to send me a card which is so thoughtful and here it is:
MV CARNIVAL FREEDOM
HEIDI AND JOHN HEALD – CRUISE DIRECTOR
CEMAR CIVITAVECCHIA
LUNGOPORTO GRAMSCI N.19
00053 CIVITAVECCHIA (ROMA) – ITALIA
DAWN – Thank you for asking for Heidi’s recommendation for a good tour in Athens with not too much walking up hill. All the tours go to the Acropolis and it just depends whether you choose one that goes inside or a panoramic visit. If you decide to take a tour that goes inside the Acropolis, Heidi reminds you that there are 30+ steps to climb before you reach the Parthenon. We both suggest that you wait until you are on board, see how you feel after a few days, before deciding what to book.
We are both here, should you be needing any further help.
MEDCRUISER – Thanks for discovering the blog thingy and I am happy you have done so. Your kind words of appreciation concerning your recent cruise have been passed to the Captain and crew and posted on our boards for everyone to read. You are very kind and we are all so pleased that you had such a great time.
I am also so privileged that my blog is the first that you have ever followed………………..I am grateful.
I will keep blogging as often as I can and if you should require any further help please know that I will be here for you. Looking forward then to the next time we cruise together and my best wishes to you and your family.
BOB POLAND – If you enjoyed the carrot cake recipe, I think you may like whets coming in a few moments. Thanks mate for your kind words and let me know how the cake comes out.
DEBORAH HEHN – Hello Deborah. You asked about the back-on-board times in the ports of call. Well, this is always 30 minutes before the ship sailing time. Therefore in Livorno for example we sail at 7:00pm so the back-on-board time for all guests is 6:30pm. We are always on a tight schedule in Europe so we encourage guests to always be on time. Hope this helps and a reminder to always carry your Carnival Capers with you as it contains the scheduled arrival and departure times as well as an emergency contact number should you miss the ship and need directions on which way to swim:)
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – next time you cruise I promise a big screen Trek movie, maybe even the new one that is due out next year. The sugar free jelly beans have pushed my jet pack to warp speed and caused me a few Klingons.
Always great to hear from you and glad you are part of the Bloggers Federation.
That is all the time I have tonight as I must get to the show. Tonight, we have a beautiful lady singing gorgeous Italian arias and some wonderful Lloyd Webber music, as well as Ave Maria and Danny Boy. Her voice comes straight from above and I wish you were all here to hear the amazing Penny Mathisen.
Just wanted to say that I know I did not reply above to some of you who made comments about the incident in St Marks Square and please (as I said at the start of the Q and A) I just want to move on as I know the lady in question may be reading the blog. I will answer all your questions and comments as of the next blog I promise but again, thank you to everyone for once again taking your valuable time to slap on your thoughts.
Yesterday, I was asked for a recipe for carrot cake and PA 007 was able to gather that from the files.
I then asked PA 007 for the recipe to the Warming Chocolate Melting cake thing and really I did not think PA would be able to get it, but, I WAS WRONG.
So, it’s time to unleash someone who has started calling their computer Miss Moneypenny, someone who knows no fear (except the boss M ever finding out what he really gets up to) and someone who looks good in rented bowling shoes and a Simpson’s t-shirt……………..we don’t know their real name…………..all we know is…………..It’s PA 007.
JOHN , HERE IS THE RECEIPE WHICH IS SUPPOSED TO BE FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY HOWEVER IT WILL BE GOING IN THE NEW CARNIVAL COOK BOOK WHICH WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM ALL THE SHIPS SOON……………..HERE IS A FIRST HAND LOOK. CAN YOU SEND ME A CAKE, I HAVE NEVER HAD IT.
OFF TO A TRAIN SPOTTING CONVENTION SO MAY BE OUT OF TOUCH FOR A FEW DAYS
PA 007
MELTING CHOCOLATE CAKE:
1 lb Black chocolate
1 lb Unsalted Butter
10 ea Eggs Whole
4 oz Sugar granulated
5.5 oz Flour H &R
METHOD:
- Melt the chocolate & butter
- Mix the eggs & sugar and whisk for few minutes, add the flour
- Add the egg mix to the melted chocolate and mix
- Pour the mix in a greased mould.
- Bake directly in the oven at 200 C° for 12 minutes
Note: - Please make sure that the eggs are at room temperature and chocolate is warm enough while making the mixture
Thanks PA 007, enjoy train spotting……………………….the perfect cover !
Got to run to the show, but very quickly, let me introduce you to a honeymoon couple named Andre and Tina.
They were in the marriage show with me and we had a lot of fun acting out a romantic movie scene. This had started because Tina told me that Andre’s mum was on the ship sharing their honeymoon with them and living in the cabin next door. The obvious jokes applied to that statement but Tina also said that he really was a mummy’s boy.
Anyway, on stage we were acting out this adventure which required Tina to collapse on the stage pretending to be unconsciousness while here husband came to the rescue.
The problem was Tina was wearing the smallest ……………um……………..well I was going to say skirt but I have belts that are longer ……………so, when she fell on the floor……..you could see…………………..well I could anyway………………………….well, you know.
So, being the gentlemen I am I took off my jacket and placed it over her ……………embarrassment………………..here is the photo.
WHY DO I LOOK SO UPSET………………………….MY JACKET COVERS HER ENTIRE BODY, THATS WHY!
So, Tina is another reason to keep dieting.
It has been a long day and its showtime now. Just before I go, I have had a long day but it has been a good one with lots of laughs and compliments from guests which I needed to hear.
For me though, the highlight was meeting Anne and Dan who have been married for 63 years. Dan went to war and did not see his new wife for over 2 years but their love stayed strong. I sit here typing, hoping that Heidi and I will be together for 63 years as well.
They had to overcome a world at war and separation from each other. Yet today, on stage and on Anne’s 82 birthday they were like honeymooners all over again and I was honoured to be in their presence.
Goodnight
Your Friends
John and Heidi
Filed under: Angelina Jolie, Tales from the Ship | Tagged: Splendor Godmother, Tales from the Ship
Is there a recipe for the DIET Warming Chocolate Melting cake thing ? Oh, why bother I’ll be on vacation….
Cheers,
FC
John,
Have you tried asking for the calorie and carb count at Harry’s? Perhaps as a way to keep on your diet, you can steer Heidi to a more wallet and diet friendly venue the next time you return.
Serious thoughts continue to be given to the Med in the fall of ‘09. I look forward to seeing the schedule once released and as always will be following your blog with great interest.
John,
Oh my…peasants associating with royality,what were you thinking? LOL There is not much you can say about a person like Mrs. Stern. It’s just unbelievable how rude some people can be. Do not let her get you down. We sailed on the Freedom in May (our 9th with Carnival) and it was awesome. Please keep up the good work!
Hi John, We are at 29 days and counting to our Carnival Freedom Europe cruise on August 29. Our documents arrived yesterday so we are official now:)).
I have a question. I know they do teeth whitening on board. Do you know anyone who has done it? Did it work? How long does it take? How long does it last? Any info would be appreciated.
Thanks again for all you do. Can’t wait to see you and Heidi.
Jo
YUM! The recipe I’ve been waiting for!
Thanks!
Calorie free, right?
I think every ship and water park in the world (at least which caters to Americans) has the same problem. You (the staff) have to either patrol the area and take towels and stuff which = very unhappy guests or ignore it and have everyone play the “saving seats” game. I guess Mrs. Hoffman needs to get there early to clam her spot.
You could also charge for chairs (or a small section) but on an all inclusive cruise that would not go over well. You could try allowing towels for a time period (but how would you enforce it?). You could issue chairs like you do dining room assignments, but that = headache and goes against decades of established practice.
It seems the best thing to do is to ignore it, and make it “first come, first serve” Possibly you (along with all of Carnival) could remove the “no saving” policy because everyone ignores it anyway, and it would not confuse first time cruisers. Plus you could tell Mrs. Hoffman to get up earlier (in a nice sounding way, of course)
-Michael (ThePlaz)
http://theplaz.com
Hi John,
Regarding the towel-on-chairs situation.
I noticed the problem on my trip in June. When the girls and I went to try and get chairs for the early evening movie there were lots of chairs out with towels…but no people. Finally, a woman pointed to four chairs and said “These people have been gone for hours. I think you should just throw their towels on the deck and sit. They do this everyday.” Clearly, she was sick of this family’s rudeness. So, I took the towels, folded them neatly and placed them all together behind one of the chairs.
An hour later this family of four shows up and looks completely pi$$ed off. They said, “Are those our towels?” I said, “I don’t know; I just noticed these lounge chairs were open and we sat down.” They didn’t say anything. They collected their towels and mumbled something. The woman who told me to throw the towels on the deck started laughing and mock clapping. So, my advice is. Find someone who can confirm if someone has been gone for awhile. I’ve found those that actually sit in the chairs get disgusted with the chair-hoggers and will help out those people who should have the chairs. If people have been gone for awhile just remove the damn towels and sit down. Then when they come back PLAY DUMB! Worked for me!
Best,
Anita
John,
I love the warming chocolate melting cake. Just the thought of eating sets my mouth watering. How many cakes does the recipe make?
Tammie
What you need are timers. When one of your staff notices a chair that is being saved, yet the person is no where in sight, slap a timer on the seat. Set it for, oh 10 to 15 minutes, and when that puppy goes off… FREE CHAIR!
Hi John,
I was on the 12th July cruise aboard the carnival Freedom and it was excellent. You and your crew made it a fantastic experience. Can’t wait for my mum to make me the Warm Chocolate melting cake as it was the most delicious thing i ate on the cruise. Thanks for posting the recipe
Whilst on the cruise there was this girl i liked and i spoke to her a few times. On the last nght i looked for her so i could give her my email address but i didn’t find her
Therefore i was wondering if you could look at the guest list for the 12th July 2007 cruise and get hold of this girls email address or telephone number. If it is possible i will give you information about her in a future comment. (However, i am aware there might be rule/laws which stop you giving me this information.)
Sorry for any inconvenience this might cause you and i will be very appreciative for any help you can give me in this matter.
Hope to her from you soon
Anita Dunham-Potter,
Are you my long lost sister? You got an evil mind just like me. I would do the same thing when it comes to the deck chairs. If they show up right after I sit, yes, I would get up. But if they don’t show up till right before something special is happening on the Lido deck they better have a crane to lift me out of that chair.
KayentaJane,
I like the timer idea. A simple timer, like a cooking timer, could be built right into the chair back. When you leave the chair you turn the timer to “RESERVED”. The timer times down for lets say a MAX of 30 min. Then the “RESERVED” turns to “CHAIR OPEN”. So if your butt is not back in that chair anybody can move your things to the deck under it. Is there a patent attorney in the house?
“BIG” ED
Official Assistant to the Cruise Director
Considering you can’t comment about our little word game for Mrs. Stearn let’s move on to something more fun.
Today John sits down and uses his software
To tell us about all the hogs of the chairs
They get up in the morning just to prepare
For what many would consider to be unfair
They creep through the aisles to find a good pair
And then lay down some of their footwear
For when they rise to use their flatware
Everyone else is searching in despair
For these chair hogs should be aware
What they are doing might cause warfare
Then we move on to discuss John’s menswear
Maybe Heidi should steal the cookware
For every night he might crave an eclair
But if he did he would be in her crosshairs
But for us, John is like a cuddly bear
To which no other CD can compare
Now Big Ed is being somewhat of a square
Because of this blog he has gotten great fanfare
On the ship you can’t rent his size neckwear
For a size XXXXL is very rare
And we all know he won’t cruise elsewhere
So to them both I have a dare
John would push Big Ed in a wheelchair
While both only wore their underwear
In the end they might be sent to day care
But it would be a hilarious affair!
MISSING YOU…….I’m sure they can’t give you her info but and this is a big but. Maybe if you give them YOUR info they might be able to give it to her. Asking her to contact you. CUPID
Hello there:
Love the Venezia photos, sigh, wish I was there. The t-shirt is ordered, cannot wait to get it. The production is 4-7 days, then it is shipped by UPS.
That chocolate cake sounds good. I cannot believe what your PA 007 can do…..
I have a question about hair salon on board. We requested first morning wedding on St. Thomas (Valor). Let’s say it is 9 or 10 am (they were not able to tell me at this time), is the hair salon going to be open early so I can have my hair done? Or will I have to have it done the day before and sleep sitting up ?:o) Or would they do my hair early (prior opening hours) if I had an appointment scheduled? Thanks for any info you can find out for me. Regards to you and Heidi!
I have a couple questions about the recipe. What does H&R stand for in flour H&R? What size are the molds?
Thanks for the recipe!! Carla
Thanks for the Melting cake recipe, sailed 12th July 07 and had it every night! Tried to get our waiter to twist the chef’s arm for the recipe but he didn’t manage it. Ace!!
Oh the MELTING CHOCOLATE CAKE sounds sooooo good, I may even try that one at home, as I do love to bake, and I always use real butter in baking so I have that already now for the chocolate, if it last long enough to bake with…. I am a bit of a chocoholic… but for this cake I will not eat it all…. I might even share it with Kevin and the 2 boys.
Stories like Anne and Dan are heart warming, and the week-long romance is wonderful. We though we had a funny relation ship starter with no proposal just a friend asking us when we were getting married, Kevin did not even flinch he just pointed to the calendar at a date 3 weeks away and that was that, and we had only been dating a few months. We even had a church wedding thanks to my grandfather he took care of it all for us. It will be 17 years in December and I think my mom is still in shock
. We hope to make it to 50 + years some day too, and with a little time we will get there maybe God willing 60+ years.
I have been a dietary assistant and if I had the food on the ship to eat every day I would have a hard time with a diet too, keep going it is hard but worth the end result of being healthier and looking your best for Heidi.
Sending you and Heidi all the best
Heidi-Beth
Dear John & Heidi,
Bless you , and bless PA 007 for the Melting Chocolate cake recipe. Heidi mentioned one of your favorite shows is the Sopranos. It is “my John’s” favorite show as well. My John wanted me to tell you that he has always called me his Angelina Jolie since we first started dating. Between you and me, i look nothing like her and indeed love must be blind.
We so enjoy reading your blog everyday and hearing the many adventures of John and Heidi. Keep up the great work and hope to see you on the blogger’s cruise!
Peg, John and Jackson Forgotch
John, to save your bloody stubs I copy and pasted the following from your post of April 23, “Sleepless at sea”. Now you don’t have to interview yourself.
“BIG” ED
Official Assistant to the Cruise Director
FRANK FAIRCLOUGH
Myself and my wife cruised with you last year on the Liberty and thought you were brilliant.. Anyway, although we saw you on stage we never got to know the real John so I thought the people reading your blog would like to know the answers to these questions.
WHEN IS YOUR BIRTHDAY AND HOW OLD ARE YOU
I was born on January 22nd 1965 – that makes me %$, sorry &!, bugger I just cant bring myself to write it !
WHEN DID YOU START WORKING FOR CARNIVAL CRUISES
I started as a bar waiter (the worst they ever had) in June 1987
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST SHIP AS A CRUISE DIRECTOR
My first ship was the TSS Carnivale in 1990
WHO HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOUR CARREER AS A CRUISE DIRECTOR
Wow, that is a tough one. I think there are quite a few from the people in the office who first gave me the chance (Roger, Brendan) to Gary Hunter who trained me. In more recent times, It has been Heidi who always keeps me on the straight and narrow and most importantly mum and dad who have always been there for me as I traveled the world. Mum tapes all my favorite TV programs that I miss and I know Dad prints each blog out and is keeping them in a file. My Dad looks after all our finances, etc. while we are away and they has always been a major influence on my life .
WE ALL READ HOW DIFFICULT THE CRUISE OF SEPTEMBER 11TH WAS – ARE THERE ANY OTHERS THAT STAND OUT AS DIFFICULT OR CHALLENGING.
Each cruise has its own challenges and you never know what is going to happen. It may look routine but each cruise is always difficult. I do have one or two that stand out but I think I will save them for a later date !
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DRINK
I do not drink alcohol at all and have not for 11 years. Now I know what you are thinking but that’s not the reason. I never really liked it and I always feel that if there was ever an emergency onboard that the most important person to the guests is the Cruise Director so he or she must always have a clear head. So, my favorite drink is my Mum’s good old Cuppa Tea.
WHAT BOOK IS BY YOUR BEDSIDE
A Novel by Ex SAS soldier Andy McNab called CRISIS FOUR and the Auto Biography of Richard Branson – chairman Of Virgin Atlantic.
IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO THAT YOU HAVE NOT YET DONE WITHIN THE CRUISE INDUSTRY
OK, I paused here for ten minutes to think about this one and considering it is 1:30 am I hope these answers make sense.
1. I WOULD LIKE TO HOST A TALK SHOW WITH GUESTS FROM THE TRAVEL AND CRUISE INDUSTRY – CRUISE TV – MAYBE ON THE TRAVEL CHANNEL OR SIMILAR. THERE ARE ENOUGH PEOPLE WHO LOVE CRUISES WHO WOULD WATCH – ANY BLOGGERS AGREE
2. AS STATED ABOVE, I WOULD LOVE TO DO A TRANS-ATLANTIC ON A CUNARD SHIP – THERE IS SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT THAT I AM SURE
3. MOSTLY, I WANT TO CONTINUE FOR AS LONG AS I CAN MAKING PEOPLE LAUGH – YOU CAN NEVER GET ENOUGH OF THAT.
FINALLY, IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE FAMOUS IN THE WORLD ALIVE OR DEAD WHICH FOUR WOULD YOU CHOOSE
Frank – this one is easy:
WINSTON CHURCHILL – MY PERSONAL HERO
JOHN CLEESE – MY COMEDY HERO
MARGARET THATCHER – MY POLITICAL HERO
ANGELINA JOLIE – IF THE OTHER THREE CAN’T MAKE IT – OH WELL.
Hola John,
That story about Dan and Anne was sweet. Sixty three years and counting… Kudos to them.
Speaking of kudos and sweets, thanks to PA 007 for the recipe for the cake. I can’t cook, but I can try now. Because I love cake.
Cheers.
Hi John! Please tell PA 007 he’s back in the will! That cake is the best dessert ever~And I think I will add Roberto to the will as well, because whatever he did, it worked! The pics now load perfectly! Well done guys, and thanks~ : )
well john thanks for addressing the “chogs” as we call the chair hogs on cruise critics. no one cares how long anyone sits in a chair, but at 7:30 am if you watch this is when you will find the chogs out putting something on chairs to save them and they won’t be back until much later. now even a nice redneck would not be this rude! ha ha but alas, we have discovered the answer! if they are the 20 dollar carnival towels on the chair we simply put them in the dirty towel bin and they will be billed for them! simple, see? or other stuff like flip flops or books or stuff just gets sent to the lost and found. now i would never personally do this cause i don’t sit in the sun, but the cc’ers all think it’s grand!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
Hi John,
For the deck chair problem, I saw something on a travel show that might help. In some parts of Germany, instead of using parking meters, drivers get little cardboard clock faces at the filling station. When they park, they set the current time on their clock and place it on their dashboards for the meter maids to read.
So my solution is, if someone has to leave their chair for a few minutes, they could get a clock face from a crew person and set it with a “back by” time. Any chair without a clock, or with one set more than, say 30 minutes in the future, is fair game.
Hello John,
Thank you for the two way radio and Camp Carnival advice. I have just one more question. My in-laws (wonderful people, I might add) would like to renew their vows on board.
Would the Captain be able to do that one evening, or do you have a chaplain that would be able to do that for them? Also, would a ship photographer be able to cover the special moment for us? My husband and I are professional photographers, but unfortunately,my mother in law wants us in a few of the pictures. Would there be a cost for these things? What would we have to do in preparation?
Thank you and by the way, we love Heidi’s pictures and look forward to them every blog-thingy.
John,
Thanks for the Angels and Demons tour info. If I/we decide not to pre-book this tour, will we have the option to book it at the airport when we arrive on Oct. 28? (I’m still concerned that we three may not arrive on the same flight.) I think you mentioned to someone else that there would be an updated list of the tours available just for us on the TA, yes? That would be a big help.
The idea of putting timers on vacant deck chairs (10-15 min.) sounds like a good one. Sometimes ‘ya just gotta leave for a few minutes…. What a visual, though – - 50 or more timers ringing off all at the same time – deck stewards running around shutting them off – grabbing up towels – being assaulted by dozing sunbathers who have been rudely awakened. Hmmm… sounds like a Monty Python sketch in the making.
My day wouldn’t be complete without your blog thingy. Always good for a laugh, a sigh, a tear, a memory. And – - please don’t let the vain, ignorant and just plain grumpy people get you down.
Only 89 days to go! Woo hoo!!
Sue
P.S. The SMART car is finally coming to the US! I just reserved mine. I know it isn’t an Aston Martin, but I fell in love with the homely little things when I first saw one in Italy in 2005.
Hi John: Well, if you and Heidi make it 63 years you will be 101! Don’t think I want to live that long! HA! HA! Well, I am checking NBC news to see if your interview is on there, when was it supposed to be aired? And will it be on the nightly news? What time? I usually watch CBS news, but since you were interviewed by NBC I have that on, not channel 6 as in Miami, but the same news. Hope we get to see it! Well, glad you had a better day today, and about the chair issue it will never change, people just do that, (save chairs that is), it is more of a problem in the lounge during show time, but last cruise we were on it seemed to be getting better, so maybe people are finally starting to get the message! I plan to order our shirts this weekend, been busy with work etc. and I want to check out the colors of the shirts and decide what to put on the back of the shirts. Has Carnival sold 250 shirts yet? You said you were gonna put a picture on the blog that Heidi had never seen before, once 250 shirts were sold. How close are we to seeing that picture? Till later, Linda & Mike
John,
I’ve never understood the phenomena of saving deck chairs… if you had to be up that early to put your towel on a chair, why not just snuggle up and keep on sleeping in the morning sun? It’s much harder to kick a sleeping person from a lounger than a blue towel. Trust me, I’ve tried.
That said, I’m really enjoying your blog. A group of friends and I were lucky enough to take our first-ever cruise on the Carnival Triumph in January of 2003. Four years later, we’re still laughing about the bedtime story, welcome aboard show, and even the port talks. As someone who’s now a regular cruiser, thank you for the brilliant introduction to vacations at sea. You’re really the best advertising Carnival could ever do.
One question: do you have a favorite Carnival ship, and if so, what makes it your favorite?
Thanks again, and I look forward to reading even more of your blogs!
-Michael
As for the chair saving, this has worked for me. After “eyeballing” a lounge for 1/2 an hour or so and it has not been occupied or being “saved” by the person next to it, I remove the stuff to a table and sit. If they come back and say anything, I tell them that the people that just left said I could have it and continue reading my book.
You can also act like you don’t speak English but that doesn’t work if you are reading a book or magazine in English. Maybe I will go to a used book store and buy a book in some foreign language with a cover on it and put the cover on my trash novel I am reading (lol).
Tucker in Texas
Michael
I could answer that question real easy. My favorite CARNIVAL ship is always the one I was on last. Every time I go on a CARNIVAL cruise it’s better then the last one and I thought that one was perfect. And I just know my next one will top all my past cruises all rolled together.
“BIG” ED
Official Assistant to the Cruise Director
Glad you had a good day! I mean really glad you had a good day.
I’m not usually into the whole PA 007 stuff (too much anyway), but this episode got my attention. On our 12 day Hawaii cruise I bet I had warm chocolate melting cake at 7 of the dinners… I guess I liked it
So having the recipe is (well as Martha Stewart would say) “a good thing”.
On the home front my dad is still in the rehab center (but not rehabbing very much) and my wife is doing lots of research on hospice alternatives. I always appreciate your kind words and the fact you and Heidi think about blog folks half way round the world.
One last note… everything is relative… was that a really big coat you had… or is Tina a very tiny person?
Sorry about that last mess. hit the wrong key on my computer. I have written before and can’t wait till Oct. for our cruise, you seem like a fun guy, I think we are the same size, like you I am trying to loose weight, some suecess, but I need to do more. Can you answe what happens to our luggage when we arrive in Rome, I am paranoid about loosing my luggage and of course if anyone is going to loose their luggage its going to be me. I am a car buff like you but FERARRI is my dream of choise. and M & M’s are my sugar free jelly beans, luckaly no rocket fuel after. My wife and I are going to celebrate our 25th year of bliss(in case she reads this) we are staying an extra week and when we get off the boat we want to do a day in Rome, we are staying that night at a hotel, what excursion do you recomend for a day in Rome, when you have only one day, we are visiting family for the rest of the week.
John;
First, I’d like to tell you how much I enjoy your blog. I have to say, although I envy you the experience on the Carnival Freedom I certainly wouldn’t miss having to deal with many of the more grumpy cruisers that you’re forced to deal with. The ‘mad old bat’ with the gambling fetish comes readily to mind. At least you don’t have to deal with her on a daily basis.
I saw your most generous offer to book reservations for supper clubs fleet-wide. I appreciate this tremendously. It is, without doubt, well above and beyond the call of duty.
My brother and I are sailing on the Conquest on September 23 and would like to book reservations for Monday, the 24th of September and Thursday the 27th. Our scheduled diner seating is 6:15 PM. Time for diner at the Point would not be critical.
My booking # is 1Q79V4, cabin is 6319. My brother, Ed Baldasari, booked as #5Q4T83, cabin 7366.
If I’m premature with this request I understand entirely.
Thanks for your assistance and the wonderful job on the blog. Keep up the great work.
Warmest regards,
Greg Baldasarri
Oh John, John, what are you trying to do to me?:)
Now I have 2 cakes to make. No small feat for a non-baker! They both look fantastic, and of course my thanks to you and the ever resourceful PA007!
While we have never sailed with Carnival (we have with Princess, Holland America, Celebrity and Silversea), I have had lunch on board (though never on the Freedom), and found the food to be excellent. No small praise coming from someone who’s other half says “you spoil faster than fish!)
Your blog thingy makes me feel as if I am on board with you, and think that maybe, spoiled as I am, it is time to take a closer look at Carnival!
Thanks as always for all of your very hard work in putting together this blog thingy for all of us to enjoy! My best to Heidi, of course. If you keep posting recipes for cakes and goodies, I’m gonna tell her on you!
Most fondly from somewhere in cyberspace,
Bob
John and Heidi,
I loved the pictures from Venice. I think we will have to consider the Barcelona run after the Spendor.
I ordered a couple of the blog tee-shirts this morning. I am really looking forward to getting them.
Thanks for the recipe on the Melting Cake. I would not dare try to recreate it, however, it is nice to know it will be waiting for me on the Spendor next July. That dessert is incredibly good!
Your blog thingy keeps us going! It gets us through those difficult times.
Thanks for the address also. I sent you a card last week, but used the address provided by Carnival. It was a Miami address….oh well, I hope you get it before the maiden voyage of the Spendor!
Man that recipe looks delicious. Something tells me that my wife won’t let me make this version. Can you send along the fat-free recipe please?
007 is the man. If and when we ever meet, i’m buying him a drink.
63 years of marriage after 2 1/2 week courtship? Holy Cow!! I doubt this could happen today, although I have heard stranger things before.
Dear John,
I am sailing with you on the Freedom On Oct. 28th doing the TransAtlatinic crossing. I have been with you on both crossing on the Liberty. I am so looking forward to your morning show.
On the past 2 cruises I have been with my brothers. This time I am sailing with a friend of mine from college. We have been friends for 25 years now. I can’t wait to share Florence and Piza with her. She has never been out of the US and can’t wait to see the museums and statues.
I really don’t what else to say except YEAH!!!!! I am counting down the days!!!!!