Good Afternoon from the Carnival Freedom.
It is 3:27 pm here and I have just finished my afternoon show and have an hour before the formal night events start so I thought we could have a chat.
I very good friend of mine told me to stop winning about the number of International guests onboard so I have………..stopped whining, that’s whine in case you thought I meant I had won something. My friend meant whining not winning. Anyway, I went to the show last night thinking and expecting the worst……….the worst being that nobody would understand what it was I was saying and therefore would not appreciate my poor attempts at humour (spelt correctly).
Things started of OK and then as the evening went on the audience really started to laugh and have a good time. About ten minutes into the show I saw a lady stand up and leave from the sixth row in the center of the room. I hoped she would be coming back because she was wearing the strangest outfit I had seen. Her dress and a matching headpiece were made of nothing but flowers………she did come back and I made the mistake of walking off stage to interview her. I asked her had she made the dress herself and she grabbed the microphone from me and gave a 5-minute speech about the dress being made by her mother and that flowers were living creatures and should be cherished and loved. She kept talking and would not give me the microphone back and of course the audience was laughing hysterically. You did not need to speak English to understand this lovely lady was ………….well…………….different. Eventually, she gave me the mic back and sat down. I offered her a glass of water in case the flowers were thirsty and the show carried on. Here is a photo of the lady in question………………I can’t wait to see what she is going to wear for formal night……………maybe a grass skirt, who knows?
Then it was time to pick the eight people for the show and I was hoping that I would get mostly people who did speak English. I was lucky, out of the eight, only two were not from the USA or Canada. One was a lady called Simone who was from Valencia in Spain.
The other……Roger….pronounced Rogair from Paris, France..let the fun begin.
Rogair had the most French accent you have ever heard when he spoke the little English he did. It was like Inspector Closseau in the Pink Panther movies and seeing that unlike the majority of his countrymen he had a sense of humour I decided to have some fun. Basically, I also started speaking English in a French accent and we went back and forth together. I asked him if this was his first cruise (in my best English with a French accent) and he told me that he had seen the ship ” while passing by in Cannes last year,” I think he meant the Carnival Liberty………….anyway, it did not matter because when he spoke those words in English using his French accent it actually came out as ” I was pissing by the ship last year.” Well, this brought the house down and we continued pissing together for some time. I then told the audience that if they saw Rogair they should talk to him in French/English and indeed this morning I called Rogair and he said “I am famous, everywhere I go people say they are pissing by to see me.” And so, the show was a success and although the challenges of having so many different nationalities remain, my friend was correct and I have stopped whining and am trusting in the ability of people to have fun regardless of the language barriers and that is also thanks to Rogair…………..here he is.
Here are today’s photos which we took around the ship on this beautiful hot and sunny day at sea.
1. A busy day on Lido Deck
2. Having Fun On The Water Slide
3. The Seaside Theatre Big Screen – and a Turtle
4. The Pool
5. Chef Katut preparing Chinese Food
Here are the letters from today’s IN THEIR OWN WORDS
Time for the Q and A…………….my poor fingers.
KATHY AND PAUL – Let me know if you have any joy booking the flights. I am glad I could help and as always I will be here should further advice be needed. All the best.
LEZLEE – Hello, and it was a pleasure to make the supper club reservations for you. Let me now answer your other questions for you. The Internet Café does have a printer and for a small charge the Café Manager will allow you to use the printer as required so you will be fine. You asked about restaurant recommendations in Rome and as always I get a bit nervous about this because what I like, others may not. Therefore, I always suggest you head for Via Veneto which is a particular area in Rome with dozens and dozens of cafes and restaurants to suit all pockets and tastes and I know you will find the right place to celebrate your anniversary. Hope this helps and please let me know if you need anything else.
SOUTHERNDREAMS – Lois Grabyourknee. Please listen to the request of the folks from the Deep South and come and join us on the Bloggers Cruise. I hear you are not a Carnival fan Mrs. G and I would love the chance to show you what we are all about……..what do you say?
KEVIN – Kevin, I read your story and now I know for certain that you are a special man and one day I hope to shake your hand……..and drive your Aston Martin. Thank you for sharing that story with us all. This blog has become that extra bit special because of postings like that. Cheers mate.
ADAM – Thank you Adam. Meeting Jess and seeing how brave and sincere she is was the highlight of the cruise. I have kept her e-mail and we have already written each other e-mail, she is one kid I will never forget. Thanks again for your kind words.
MARK GOECKE – Thank you Mark………….your words were very special and mean a lot to me.
JIM ALTON – I have now confirmed the Supper Club reservation and it was my pleasure. Yep, 500,000 slaps and maybe, as you said we will one day hit the magic million mark and I hope you will be there to celebrate with me. Cheers Jim.
LUV2CRUISE – Leona, your words of kindness touched me deeply and I just wanted to say…………..thank you.
NANETTEALI – It is hard as you say to say goodbye to some people you meet on the ship. Jess was certainly one of those people as were you and your lovely family. The wonders of this job are that you do get a chance to make a difference in peoples vacations and sometimes maybe in their lives. Grasyarse mi amor.
WENDY IN HAYWARD WI – How kind of you to think of me and buy me some sugar-free candy. Yes, please leave them at the Information Desk and make sure you leave me your cabin number so I can send you something in return. I will see you in a few days and thank you also for the kind words about the blog which, I hope you keep reading after the cruise. See you soon and have a safe flight.
MEDCRUISER – Thank you Manuel. It is nice to see that people are enjoying the blog and it seems Jess has touched everyone’s heart.
PAPANH – I am glad that you and your son enjoyed the interview with Chef Blanc. He is such a talented maestro and one day I hope everyone gets the chance to sample his kitchen magic. Indeed, as you say you have to have real passion to be a Chef and I think Chef Blanc’s passion shone through during his interview. As for me, I once tried to boil an egg in the microwave so that shows you my abilities in the kitchen. My best to you, your son and the rest of your family and please keep reading the blog thingy.
LV2CRUISE – I am sorry that the blog made you cry and indeed she brought a tear to my eye as well. I can tell you though that Jess firmly believes that her Mum and dad are in heaven and that she can talk to them every night and they listen and give her advice as well. She is a very special lady.
LFTTNSFCF – Thanks mate. I often wonder if I should write the stories like Jess on this blog. I never want to upset people but living and working on a big ship like this is like living in a small town. I really want this blog to include the whole roller coaster journey I travel on each and every day and Jess’s story was one I truly felt I had to share with you all. Thanks again for your support and see you soon.
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – Hello Paul, how are you today? Yes, Chef Blanc is such a talented man and is responsible for altering the waistline of many guests’ suits and dresses. You asked if he comes onboard the ships? He has done in the past for special functions and events and I hope he will do so soon, hopefully when I am onboard so he can cook me dinner………that really would be a treat. I am sorry that due to security reasons I am unable to post photos of the bridge but that is the price we pay for living in today’s world………..I miss the old days when guests could visit the bridge and see what was happening as we were sailing along. Maybe one day those days will return. So, I have known you for five months and one day our relationship will be cemented by a shake of the hand and a good cup of tea. Take care and the best to you from us both.
GILLIAN – A Newfi, living in Paris, now there are two completely different styles of living. You mentioned that you are concerned that you will get Carnival Capers in French but you would prefer them in English. Never fear, I will make sure you get the English version as you requested as you have supplied your cabin number. I could have done with you this week to help me translate as we have many French guests onboard this week………… (I know my friend will say I am whining again so I will stop there). I made a reservation in the Supper Club for the Thursday which is a great time to eat and you will so enjoy your special occasion there. I hope I meet you when you cruise and if there is anything else you need, please let me know. If not, have a safe flight and see you soon.
VICKI – Yes, I actually got to blog on a Sunday, which is very unusual, but I am glad that you enjoyed it. Still no jellybeans and my jet pack is non-operational however, Heidi is a happy bunny. Wish you were here and all the best.
HYACINTH1 – Of course Heidi and I remember you as part of the Mellow Yellow’s. You were the first group of blogging friends who sailed since I started writing this thingy. How fantastic to hear that you and your family have booked the Carnival Splendor, as a reward I will make sure as requested we have Pimms on board. We could actually have a Pimms happy hour in the afternoon. That would be very sophisticated and Heidi has just told me that she will host it!
I know the Carnival Splendor is a long time away but it will be here before you know it and hopefully the blog will keep you going until then.
I&MsMOM – It seems my last blog caused you mixed emotion, which I hope is ok. You say I will make a terrific father and I hope I get the chance. It will be Thursday soon, let’s see what happens.
HEIDI-BETH AND KEVIN – Glad to hear that you three and the seven pixels enjoyed the photo of the trashcan on the bridge. It is a shame that was the only thing I could photograph. It is wonderful to read the appreciation for Chef Blanc’s interview and maybe one day you can hire a bus and take the whole family to his restaurant in France. Heidi and I send our best to you and the rest of the Brady Bunch.
DEAN LAIL – I am so sorry you lost your car keys. I just checked with lost and found here on the ship but no keys were turned in. Maybe Mrs. Barsby has them) I am really glad you enjoyed the cruise and I hope you think about taking another one very soon.
RICHIE RICH – Yes mate, this is were you post your questions, which I will be happy to answer. Slap them on and I will be here waiting.
DWA76 – Glad you enjoyed the blog today and I see we have another George Blanc fan. You mentioned Heidi’s favorite chef, Gordon Ramsey and it would be fun to have him in the kitchen on one of our ships, although he would have to learn to swear in many other languages. Heidi and I are looking forward to our vacation when we hope to go to one of his restaurants with our friends who took us to Harry’s Bar, the only problem is, it’s my turn to pay. Just read your second posting and wanted so say another big thank you for your support. Knowing I make people laugh is such a great reward. Thanks as always and please write soon.
DAVE AND JO MYERLY – Hi guys, yep, two blogs in one day. It was Super Sunday. Heidi has made your reservation as you requested and it will be a meal to remember.
How wonderful to hear that you are joining me for the bloggers cruise and it will not be long before you have that Platinum card in your hand. Can’t wait to see you again. All the best from Heidi and I.
GREG BALDASARRI – Great to hear you got the t-shirt. Heidi has made reservations for you on Monday, September 24 and Thursday, September 27 at 6:30 pm. A reminder will be sent to your cabin when you are on board. (We made it for 4 people, hope this is correct) September 22 is our last Greek / Turkey run for this season. Looking forward to welcoming you all on board.
BRYAN – Just a quick note to say hello. I always feel really guilty making an announcement at 6 am for debarkation as I know people hate to leave. Hope all is well with you and you are enjoying the blog thingy.
THE PLAZ – Thank you for all your wonderful links and I am sure people will appreciate your photos of the Carnival Valor. You asked if it would be possible to interview Joe Farcus, the Interior Designer of the Carnival fleet. That is a great idea and is now on my “to do” list. Thanks again Plaz and I now know why you have that name.
BRYANT – Great to hear you are enjoying the blog and I see that you are about to enjoy your first ever cruise on the Carnival Valor. You asked about seasickness and you seem a little worried by it. Please do not be and my suggestion is that you do not take anything unless you really feel ill. This is the doctor’s advice and only take something like Dramamine if you feel ill but not before. You also seem concerned that you are cruising during hurricane season. That is one thing that should be far from your mind. With today’s technology the ships are always many steps ahead and can determine a new course way ahead of time in order to stay out of any storm’s path. Therefore, relax and get ready for the best vacations you have ever had. I promise.
LOIS GRABWATERSKI – I have now spelled your name correctly. Thank you for being such a sport and I am so happy to hear the blog has you laughing. You asked what tea Heidi prefers and I can tell you she is a lover of Earl Grey and Green Tea, while I prefer plain old breakfast tea. My favorite brand is PG tips which is affectionately know as Monkey Tea. This was because the commercials featured chimpanzees drinking tea. A few weeks ago, a friend of mine and I were singing a commercial from the late 70’s. If you see PG tips in your supermarket, buy some, it’s the best tea in the world. All the best and look forward to writing your name again soon.
KEVIN – You know Heidi and I feel that we have known people like you and the other bloggers for a long time, which is one of the rewards for the hours we spend doing this blog – thingy. One day soon we will have dinner together. You asked about airfare for the Carnival Splendor. Have you checked with Carnival to see what Air/Sea programs we offer? Also, try flying to Holland or Germany and taking a low cost airline such as Easyjet and Ryanair to the UK. If you do this, be aware of the high excess baggage charges. All the best, see you tomorrow on the blog thingy.
BIG ED – I have given you the week off, will full pay and full laundry facilities. I will be talking to you in a moment.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Hello Carol. Hope you had a great weekend and I am happy to hear you are enjoying the blog so much. You asked about buying the t-shirts without using the credit card. ROBERTO, CAN SHE USE A CHEQUE OR MONEY ORDER?? Carol, Roberto is checking into this right now and I will let you know as quickly as possible. It’s good to hear you enjoyed the interview with Chris Jefferson and you are right, Carnival Valor is a wonderful ship.
From the choices you have for your next cruise, I really think you should try the Carnival Miracle out of New York. The ship is stunning, the crew are wonderful and sailing out of New York is a one of a kind experience. Please don’t let the cat scratch your suitcase too much, you will need it again very soon for your next Carnival cruise. Thank you Carol and my warmest regards to you.
KAREN MAGUIRE – Your Supper Club reservation has been made ……………. try the Ribeye Steak. See you in a few weeks.
RUTH JAMISON – Yes, Mrs. Barsby is home safe and sound but without her suitcase so the adventure continues. How wonderful to hear that you have met up with a fellow cruiser, Pat, who of course I remember. Who can forget her Row, Row, Row Your Boat song? It is also interesting to read your thoughts on the Grand Bazaar. Indeed, some people love it, some people hate it and I am never truly sure if it is a place where true bargains can be found. Some people say yes, some people say no. I would appreciate everyone’s feedback. I hope your husband enjoys his Christmas present of a Bloggers t-shirt, he must be very easy to please. Please send him my best regards and your kind words about me being a life line have made my day.
Many thanks and our warmest regards.
VIKKI AND MATT TILL – I wouldn’t say Heidi and I are counting the days to vacation but we certainly will be ready for it when it arrives. We have been going flat-out since the beginning of February and there are days when it is difficult to get out of bed. That is why I need to refuel my jet pack as for some reason after eating jellybeans I am able to get out of bed very quickly in the morning with a little help from Heidi’s foot. I am not sure of my official leaving date but it will be some time in the winter. I am so sorry we won’t be there when you cruise but we can look forward to officially meeting on the Carnival Splendor, something which I truly look forward to. Until then I remain at your service.
FRANK C – Thank you for mentioning the crew and it is always very hard for them to be away from their families which is why everyone always look forward to their vacation. I am glad to hear the blog is still is making you chuckle so I will keep typing away hoping there are some more laughs just around the corner.
SHARON R – Before long you will be walking on the gangway and we are both looking forward to meeting you. Thank you so much for asking if Heidi or I would like anything from the UK and if possible, Heidi would like a copy of NOW and HELLO magazine and I would love TOP GEAR magazine. This is a car magazine, which is about as close as I will ever get to an Aston Martin. Have a safe journey and I look forward to returning gifts in kind.
BIG ED – A full length mirror. Now there is a scary thought. I once fell asleep in a hotel bed that had mirrors on the ceiling. Unfortunately I decided to lay on top of the bed naked, woke up from a deep sleep, looked up and thought I was being attacked by a nude skydiver. I will be talking about you soon.
SHERYL PELTON – You are welcome. Thank you for inviting Heidi and I to eat at the Supper Club with you. I truly wish our schedules allowed for this. You need to allow 3 hours to enjoy this culinary journey and I am sure it would be a meal you would never forget. Thank you for your information on your group of 700 who will be sailing with us in a few weeks time. I have definitely cruised with this group before and have fond memories of how much fun they bring to any cruise. How kind of you to offer to bring Heidi some wine from California. I just told her and she is smiling and would like to say thank you and that she prefers red. We look forward to meeting you and Heidi looks forward to raising a glass with you and I will join you for a Diet Coke.
I am going to stop there and continue with more Q & A tomorrow. There will also be more Cruise Director and special guest interviews from tomorrow.
A few days ago somebody asked about what new features would be applied to the Fantasy Class ships in the weeks and months ahead. Therefore, I am very proud to show you this press release and photos of what you can expect.
To learn more, visit the Evolutions of Fun website.
Also, I have worked out that one of our most prolific and dedicated bloggers has decided to book the Bloggers Cruise. Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Mr. and Mrs. BIG ED.
I am so happy to hear this. Ed, what finally persuaded you? Was it Heidi washing your underwear or the fact that I made you the Assistant to the Cruise Director? Whatever the reason, I look forward to meeting you and saying thank you for everything you have done to help this blog be successful. I have reserved a booth for your dinner……..just kidding. ………let the fun begin.
And finally.
Twenty years ago, a young slim handsome man said goodbye to a very worried Mum and Dad at Heathrow airport and boarded a Continental Airlines flight to Miami, Florida. A few days later that young man walked up the gangway of the Carnival cruise ship Holiday and the adventure began.
Tomorrow marks my 20th anniversary with Carnival Cruise Lines. It has been a journey that has allowed me to meet and converse with people from all corners of the world. It has allowed me to find a talent which I never knew I had, that of being able to entertain. I am so thankful to Carnival for allowing me to be the first ever Cruise Director who was not a recognized entertainer, with no skill and no background in the industry. They gave me a chance and for that I will be ever grateful. I also want to say thank you to my Mum and Dad who supported me when I said I was off to be a bar waiter on a cruise ship and have put up with my coming and going for the last 20 years. I have always had a room at home for me should I ever need it. I do not know how many more years I will be at sea, probably not too many. I also have no idea where the last 20 years have gone. I have watched this company grow and watched myself grow and I wouldn’t change a thing. Thank you for sharing this anniversary with me and it is tradition that on 20 years each employee receives a special gift. I have no idea what mine will be but I hope they got me a black one with chrome wheels and cream leather seats.
20 years, who would have thought it?
Goodnight,
Your friends,
John & Heidi
Filed under: Tales from the Ship | Tagged: Tales from the Ship
Hi John,
Let me be the first to congratulate you on 20 great years with Carnival!
You must be doing something right to have such a loyal following amongst the many passengers who have sailed with you over those years.
Here’s to many more and I hope our paths cross someday on a future voyage upon the seas.
Smooth sailing mate.
All the best to Heidi and don’t eat too many rocket jelly beans when you’re celebrating. LOL
All the best,
Brad and Donna.
John, bravo and congratulations on the occasion of twenty years with Carnival. That’s quite the accomplishment. Consider yourself fortunate to have had such a marvelous run and been able to bring happy moments to so many thousands of people. You’ve expanded on that tradition with this marvelous blog. Should your days at sea end I’m sure that you’ll be able to continue to enthrall us with many more anecdotes and insights into the world of Carnival Cruise Lines. I, for one, shall accept no less!
As for my dinner reservations aboard the Conquest, I’ll only require seating for two. Both my brother and I are sailing solo (separate cabins… I do need my space!), our first vacation together since we were in our early teens. It should be a fantastic time.
Thanks again for the peek into your world. It slightly slakes my lust to be at sea, but not much!
John,
Congrats on your twenty years! Looking forward
to your next twenty…may we all live and cruise
that long…
Keep up the good work.
John, It only took you a month to get all the clues I have given you and then it took Roberto to really get close. My clues started on July 9th in your “PA 007 – License to Thrill” post The first was at the end of my comment I said to Linda H., “your still far enough away from your November cruise to get a full refund and book the bloggers cruise. We, oops, John wants you there.” I even drew attention to the “WE” by saying “OOPS”. They I put 14 (the number of days in a BTB) and 19-2 ( the dates of the BTB) at the end of two other comments that day. Finally one the same post I started the series of anagrams with “dewruenar” , underwear. The rest of the anagrams that followed were all the things you offered as bribes to get us on the Blogger Cruise. My last hints I just as much told you to have PA 007 or Roberto call my PVP at CARNIVAL and ask her. She told me Roberto E-mailed her. So now you know I WILL BE ON THE BLOGGERS CRUISE. So I think all the Bloggers better prepare themselves for the best cruise they were ever on. This will go down as the best THEME cruise ever held. From your morning show to your late night walks on deck we will all need DEPENDS. The photo department will probably sell more highlight and show tapes then on any other cruise. Your eyes will go blind from all the pictures that will be taken of you with and by Bloggers. CARNIVAL was smart to already make this a two CD cruise. So as the OFFICIAL ASSISTANT TO THE CRUISE DIRECTOR I await your orders.
“BIG” ED
ATTENTION BLOGGERS, I’ve started a “ROLL CALL” on my blog site so we can make a list for all of us to have so we know who all is on the cruise. It’s in my post “BLOGGERS CRUISE ROLL CALL”. So click on my name at the top of this comment and add your name to the list. Just before the cruise you can print it out and have your own BLOGGERS DIRECTORY. This link will take you right to it; http://ekonefe.wordpress.com/2007/08/07/bloggers-cruise-roll-call/
John, this is a second post which we all yearned for the most. Since Big Ed’s been broken, it’s my small token. No need to reply, since we all got a chance to identify, now if we could only get his wife to fly.
HipHip Horray, it’s a cruise with Big Ed
It was confirmed by a BINGO we read
So now we can certainly move ahead
Since Big Ed is no longer being an bonehead
They would negotiate just like they were wed
In the end Big Ed was promised a huge spread
John has offered his own bunk bed
And threw in a table for them to break bread
On the Lido deck they shall prepare a huge sled
For this is where Big Ed shall have his grapes fed
Mrs. Big Ed gets a little rub, but not in the med
And John will wear Depends, but not on his head
A washing of his briefs John did offer instead
Now off to the laundry Heidi will be lead
Hopefully Big Ed hadn’t released a warhead
For Heidi might want to become unwed
It would be a real sight if they would rent a moped
And in Jamaica away they sped
In less than a mile the tires will go dead
Since these guys are not as light as a featherbed
Lastly we must focus on what the Captain will dread
For how the ship will smell after they are fed
For their briefs and boxers cannot contain the spread
Of the smell which equates to a fish that is dead
John, Thank you so much. You said “let the fun begin”. Begin, what do you call what has been happening four the last 5 months. All the keyboards this blog has destroyed. All the screens splattered with drinks. You have talked of a book on your life as a CD. Heck, you could right a book just on the 5 months of this Blog and it would sell.
You asked what made us decide to come to the Bloggers Cruise. Well I don’t think it was if we would come but whether we would do a BTB. But most of all it was fellow Bloggers that I don’t even know saying so many nice things to get me to come. So to them I also say Thank you. So for the next 165 days what evil can we plan for the Bloggers Cruise.
“BIG” ED
You crack me up John, I am sitting here in tears reading your blog tonight. So, did you get the Aston Martin? Unless you meant Angelina Jolie dressed in a slinky black dress wearing roller skates? (chrome wheels?) HA! HA! Happy 20th Big Guy! That lady with her FLORAL dress was precious! That was surely a fashion statement! Does she own a flower shop? Say, didn’t Heidi used to work at a flower shop? Maybe the two of them should go into business together, that lady can stand outside Heidi’s shop welcoming people into the shop each day. Run it by her and see what she thinks! Yes, that is wonderful news about Big Ed going on the bloggers cruise, by the way are there any plans for a 2nd bloggers cruise on the Splendor? Any news will be welcome. Happy Day John! Linda & Mike
P.S. How about posting a picture of how you looked 20 years ago when you first started working for Carnival! All of us bloggers would love to see that!
Mr. Heald, a very happy congratulations for 20 years aboard the CARNIVAL FUN SHIPS. Since I just began the enjoyment regarding cruising, you have introduced the whole aspect pertaining to cruising but very much more than you really know. Carnival must have known what kind a man they were getting. Brilliant, caring, thoughtful, humouress and very much more is all I can say. We say things like I don’t know you personally but there is a feeling in your words that do make us feel that we do know you. I do hope that we can cement our relationship with a shake of the hand and tea is a fine drink to have. When I arrive on aboard in February, I will give the pursor a note to give to you and let you know that I’m ready to meet a tremendous human being. I had a lot to write to you, but tonight is all about your 20th celebration and that is the most important thing to write about. I plan on sending a card to you to celebrate your 20th properly. Ciao my friend and have an extra piece of cake for me.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
wow, so many things to celebrate!!! john’s 20 years, big ed FINALLY agreeing to the bloggers cruise, plus i MAY have convinced lois grabyourdoorkey to come along too! woo hoo…
what fun!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
John – It’s an admirable feat for anyone to make 20 years with the same company these days with the corporate American average in the 3-5 year range. You continue to be an asset to the Carnival Corporation. I hope your anniversary day is filled with everything you would like and we’ll be looking forward to the photos of the new car I’m sure they’ll have waiting for you at your next port.
Thanks for the info on the printer! Also the recommendation to hit Via Veneto for good restaurants. However, it’s my friends who are celebrating an anniversary and me who is mourning that dreaded birthday ending with a zero! Sort of like your anniversary….ummmm….20…yeah, that’s it.
)
John,
Thank you for your kind words, you truly are a great person, and one I’m proud to call a friend. Congrats on the 20 year mark, even though you keep saying sometime soon you will leave the sea, probably for a desk in Miami at cooperate as the vice president of entertainment, I can’t wait to cruise with you and Heidi. yes, we have to have dinner at some point. I’m looking into the splendor out of the UK for 2009, but i think thats too long to wait to have dinner, so in short within the next 3 days I will know if i can take the bloggers cruise assuming there are cabins still open that I can afford as a solo cruiser. Sadly if I do take the cruise, I won’t be able to drive due to a commitment I have in California on the last day of the cruise, so it’s straight to the Miami airport for me on that day to fly cross country, but no worries we will just have to cruise together again so you can get a test drive. Once again best wishes and congratulations.
Kevin
Big ED’s assistant
Hey John,
thanks for your reply. A very sincere congrats on 20 ‘fun’ years on the fun ships. I would consider myself lucky to be on a cruise with you as the CD. Perhaps, who knows. Valor will be our first…and I’m sure we will have many more after that. Hopefully one with you.
Bravo John!
Kevin -
The Mrs. and I volunteer to travel to Florida and return the Aston Martin to the northeast – I will even pay for the gas.
Jon
Big Ed -
Personally, I thought that the sign in the picture gave it away
I only wish that I could make the blogger’s cruise, but, alas, the relocation cruise for fourteen days kind of puts a kink into my vacation plans. I do still have to work for a living, but will certainly again take another cruise down the line. Maybe we will find ourselves on the same ship at the same time another time.
Jon
hello john
Congratulations on your 20th anniversary with Carnival.
)
whe met you just a few weekes ago on our first cruise.
and when whe are doing another cruise first thing whe ask is on what ship is john cruise director
whe think and lots of people with us you are truly the BEST Cruise Director in the cruise business.
up to another 20 years
and see you on our next cruise
andre en marij van dinter
Good morning John, even though NYC is in the middle of what seems like a monsoon, just reading your blog thingy brightens the day. Let me add to what everyone else has been saying – Happy 20th Anniversary. Another connection for us. It’s almost 20 years ago that I first took a Carnival Cruise. But, John, there never has been or never will be a Cruise Director to equal what you do. Not only do you do your “normal cruise director stuff”, but you take the time (your time) to do this blog. And we all love you for it. I will be on the Bloggers’ Cruise with you in spirit (someone have a drink for me) and hope I can be on the next one. And if you get that promotion to Corporate in Miami before we get a chance to meet again – I know where to send the jelly beans, etc. I came across the photos of the cruise on the Jubilee with Cyndi Lauper and will send some to you. Just where were you bartending? I’m SURE our paths crossed then.
Again, John, my best wishes to you & Heidi,
Carol
Congratulations John–a great day for Carnival and you 20 years ago. We all thank you for the cruising atmosphere you create on the blog, your hilarious caring presence in person on whatever FUN ship you find yourself on (we enjoyed every minute on the Carnival Freedom with you on the May 25th sailing) and the fact that you keep us all cruising even when we are at home. Your blog has had a lot to do with us booking our 3rd cruise on the Carnival Glory at Christmas (hoping to hear about the CD on board when you get a change). You, to me, personify the the fun, excitement and entertainment that a cruise vacation provides. Thank again for your outstanding personality, hard work and dedication to Carnival and just being you! Although I get the impression that you will eventually, in the not so distant future. want to be land-based, a loss to people who have never met you, I hope that Carnival eventually gives you a land based position when you are ready for it. So glad to hear that Big Ed and Mrs Big Ed are going to be able to join you on the bloggers cruise. Wish we could too, but impossible! Congratulations again JOhn—hope that Aston Martin shows up on the dock in Citivicchia! Gloria
John:
Congratulations on your 20th Anniversary! I think I read somewhere that Carnival does give out Aston Martin (or was is a Bentley?) for this milestone…..
You would sure deserve one! Cheers!!!!!
Dear John-John:
When you speak of twenty years you speak of your first day ~ this lets me know that it was never about the paycheck ~ it was a soul changing experience ~ the only best kind to have ~
I wonder twenty years did you start out as special as you are today ~hmmmmmm, I believe you did, no person becomes as special as you are overnight!
Congrats!!
Vikki and Mat
Kevin
I’m glad to see my assistant has now booked on the Bloggers Cruise.
John, I take the credit for that one. He booked after I said I was coming. To bad he will have to fly down and not drive his ASTON MARTIN because after the cruise he has to fly to a wedding in California the same day he will disembark. Since I will be in Miami on the day before the cruise I was hoping I could drive the ASTON MARTIN all over the night before. I’m Kevins BOSS so I would get it first, LOL
“BIG” ED
OFFICIAL ASSISTANT TO THE #1 CRUISE DIRECTOR
Hi John and Heidi
John, we want to congratulate you with your 20th anniversary. It’s great when you like your work so much. I must say you are doing a great job. Your style of working reflects direct on the passengers what again makes it a great vacation.
My wife, my 14 year old daughter and I sailed the Carnival Freedom on July 12th to the Greek isles and we had an awesome time. Unfortunately we had to leave the ship at Katakolon for family maters, but we are planning our next vacation on the freedom again. This time we want to go to Barcelona.. To bad you are not on the freedom next year.
We want to wish you and Heidi all the best and much joy in what you do or decide to do in the future.
By he way, I love reading your blog, also good for pimping up my English. (Yes I am also an international guest.)
Richard D (The Netherlands)
Congratulations on 20 years!
Just wanted to wish you a quick congrats on the 20 years. Should we all send jelly beans in recognition of the event
Can’t wait till I have my 20 years with Carnival….cruising them that is LOL Carla
well another classic Blog Thingy, glad that you had so much fun with your new french friend,
and the nice lady with the flowers. I am sure you have met so many interesting people over the years, and you would be suprised how many will remember you for the rest of their lives, reliving the joy had laughter as they retell it to loved one.
the make over the Fantacy Class ship are getting looks great, look forward to see them again, this time all with mini-golf, this is my 2 boys favorite activity next to ice cream and pizza (yes they have it at the same time)
Wishing you and Heidi all the Best
Heidi-Beth
Congrats on your 20 yrs with Carnival! I have had the pleasure of cruising with you before and look forward to the Aug 29th cruise on the Freedom and enjoying your humor again. Again congratulations and congrats to Heidi also for putting up with you!
Looking forward to seeing you on the 29th.
Ken
BLOGGERS CRUISE ROLL CALL
If your going on the BLOGGERS CRUISE add your name to the list at;
http://ekonefe.wordpress.com/2007/08/07/bloggers-cruise-roll-call/
“BIG” ED
Congratulation on 20 years John!! That is really remarkable.
I think what would help with matching up the comments with your replys is if you said what blog you were answering for. I saw that you did that once and it might help. What do you think?
I have a question regarding reserving a tour on line before arriving. On the website it said you can if you have put a full deposit down. But all I get is a list of the tours and no way to book them. I wonder if its because the cruise isn’t until April? Also, the list of tours do not offer the prices. Any help you can provide would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Cheri (from Maine)
John & Heidi — I see the PG tea all the time. I will have to try that!
I’m actually quite fond of Carnival. I was just trying to get a rise out my friend Southerndreams … Been on the older ships —
Ecstacy (first trip after the fire – Had a blast. it was my birthday and I went with a whole bunch of folks from my singles group — I wasn’t married back then!), Fantasy (twice! – Mersin (sp?) was headwaiter on that ship … what a joy he was! Just loved that guy!!!), and a quickie cruise on Holiday (went in January with my nieces).
I’m having a difficult time getting Hubby Hank on board with this. He has a big job project coming up and may not be able to go with me. Plus I may finally have a job… So don’t worry, I’ll be there if I can swing it. In the meantime I’ll be buttering ol’ Hank up with meatloaf and pot roast.
Oh, how could I forget…
Happy 20th to you both. Here’s to a future that is brighter and more fun than the 20 years before…It can only get better from here!
Hugs!
Congratulations John!
20 years, Big Ed…this is too much excitement for one day!
elaine
Hi John,
I don’t know how I always seem to be at least one or two blogs behind and never get a chance to drop you a note of thanks and to say hello.
The story of Jess and Kevin’s story of Brian were both wonderful, amazing kids and these are the times they will remember forever. You both have hearts of gold!!!
Congratulations on the 20 years!!! It is amazing how quickly time goes by. I’m soon to celebrate 18 years at my job and I can’t believe it!!! And since both of us started when we were 9 (right?) we still have a few years to go……
If anyone is wondering about the GoSmile teeth whitening, I took the plunge on my last cruise and have never been happier. My teeth went about 5 shades lighter and look amazing. I was at my dentist 2 weeks ago and he commented on how natural they look, not that bleached out – almost glowing white look.
Since you can’t show us pictures of the bridge, is there anyway you could show us pictures of ‘crew only’ areas, like the crew bar, crew dinning options, areas to spend free time, that kind of thing? I’ve always wondered what the ‘off limits’ areas looked like.
Well, I have 9 days and a wake up until my Alaska trip on the Golden Princess (I don’t know why Carnival doesn’t sail out of Seattle….) and I haven’t started packing yet. I really need to talk to my boss about cutting back on the work so I have more time for the important things, all related to cruising!!!
Here’s to meeting one day upon the sea!!! Congratulations again!!!
Best wishes to you and Heidi,
Rochelle (from the left side)
Wow, all that and I totally forgot to throw my comments up about single cruising. While I am single, so far I have found a family member to travel with me, usually my mom (or mum) or my sister, sometimes both. I would not be against cruising alone, but when I start planning there is usually someone who wants to go, or would be too jealous if I went without them. While I understand the single supplement, I wish the standard was more around 50% extra instead of an entire extra fare. I have heard there are specials that run at times, but I’ve yet to see them. Has anyone else? If it was more around 50%, I might even be able to cruise more. And that is another thing I need to talk to my boss about, I need more vacation time!!!! I know you can’t change these things, just wanted to share…..
Thanks again for everything you do for us, John and a huge thank you to Heidi for sharing you with us!!!
Rochelle (from the left side)
I think it would be great to have Ramsey on one of the ships. It gives him an excuse to see “Piss off Bugger” in 20 different languages. Oh the entertainment!!!
The Fantasy upgrade looks very interesting. I hope they keep the beauty of those decks in tact. The blueprints look exciting though.
Great Rogair story. I guess he’s the celebrity of your cruise.
Congrats again on 20 years. Have a fun time celebrating.
David
John,
Congratulations on 20 years on the “high” seas–or is that 20 years high on the seas? Either way, you have enhanced our lives, and given our family so many memories in the past few years–and many more to come. Love to both you and Heidi, and if you ever come to Arizona, I’ll supply the jelly beans and a place to stay.
Rus Franklin
John,
The new additions to the Fantasy class ships look awesome, based on the concept pictures. Hooray!
Rogair was great. This was the welcome aboard show, right? How do you go about planning for a welcome aboard show, when a lot of it depends on the unique reactions that each guest gives to the situations you put them in?
Wow, congratulations on 20 years. What a huge accomplishment to not only be so amazing at your job but have so many life experiences in what is both a short and long time depending on the circumstance:) I understand you will eventually pack it in and start a family. Besides the blog, I hope you have made notes about some of your funniest moments and maybe down the road you can write books in between chasing toddlers. Your writing style will definitely appeal to most readers. Funny stuff.
I do want you to know that I haven’t missed your blog since day one. I don’t write often because I feel bad that you are taking so much of your own time away to reply. I’m sure there are tons of us out there that never miss it but you are too good at responding to everyone so they probably don’t write either.
Hope you have a great anniversary and a huge fuss is made over you.
Can’t wait to be on the Freedom. Only 69 more sleeps!!!!
Luv Cruisin:
In the upper right hand corner of your Carnival Home Page Screen is an Orange Welcome (or your name) / not you / Register
Select Register.
If you’ve done it before, then just select the sign in option at the beginning.
You need your reservation number.
If when signed in it comes up how many days until your next cruise, you can pull up your itinerary which lets you select add shore excursions.
Otherwise, select Shore Excursions from the blue line at the top, and on the left of the screen where it asks you to select where you want to be, it has a blue underline for already booked, book your shore excursions now, and follow those instructions. Which include logging in and your reservation number.
Since Mr. told me we have a reservation number I have been looking many times. For whatever reasons, our cruise doesn’t show all the tours in the book it as shows in the look at. I use both. Is there something therapeutic in knowing what you miss?
Or is it a symptom of the addiction of ATCOCS?
Enjoy.
John,
A hearty congratulations for this wonderful milestone in your life. How grateful we all are that Carnival gave you that big break. It was probably one of the best decisions they made. I can only imagine the number of vacations you made extra special and the number of passengers that decided to cruise again after having the joyful experience of cruising with you as the CD. I know it’s made a difference for hubby and me. The best cruises we’ve been on have been with you or CDs that you have mentored. Hope we get the opportunity to cruise with you again before you put away your sea legs. All the more reason to try to squeeze in that blogger’s cruise!
Enjoy this milestone and celebrate by doing something special!
Sincerely,
Lisa
Congratulations on 20 years and cheers to another 20 years! It was the smartest decision that Carnival made to make you a CD. I have booked on the Splendor for 8/30/08 and look so forward to it. I love your blog I read it every morning when I get to work first thing in the morning. Thank you for being you and making me laugh and smile. You and Heidi have a great day!
Congratulations on 20 years and another congrats on 500,000+ visitors to your blog!
Congratulations on your 20th! Rumor has it that the CCL Senior Leadership is sending the Aston your way as a token of their, (and our) appreciation for outstanding service!
Well Done mate!…
Manuel
Hello John,
I remember you from many years ago and you are the BEST cruise director. I never laughed so hard!
Now I here you will on the Splendor. I am booking
that cruise Sept 23rd, always wanted to take a cruise and now that I know you are the director, I am booking this for sure!
Hi John and Heidi!
We were on the Freedom on the June 30th sailing. There were about 66 passengers that had missing lugguage. Fortunately, we were not part of that number. However, during casual encounters with people in the laundry room I met two people that were really upset about their lugguage. One lady was on day 8 with only her sweatsuit and the shoes on her feet as with her 4 other family members. She was not upset with the loss of the lugguage as much as the lack of courtesy from Carnival to perhaps provide toothbrushes, sundries (deoderant, etc.) for their particular situation. Maybe even a Carnival shirt …just for good customer relations. They never talked about Carnival being responsible….they understood it was about the airlines. I lent the very frustrated lady some of my clothes for the rest of the trip. She nicely washed them and gave it back the night before we disembarked. She was so grateful! You have to understand that being on a ship limits your time and resources for a phone! It is very expensive to keep calling from your cabin. So every time you port you have to call from a pay phone! Their is no one point of contact except for the ship purser desk. It makes communicating with the airlines a NIGHTMARE! So, they count on the Pursers Desk because it has the phone line 24/7. I think in this situation, passengers could at least get a letter from you understanding their frustrations and offer a shirt or two. This wouldn’t be a cure all but definitely empathetic enough that they feel as though somebody cares. However, sometimes you just can’t make everyone happy!
By the way the lady never got her lugguage during the cruise or on debarkation day.
You guys are so wonderful to even be so concerned enough to put this on the blog. Just thought I would share mine with you.
Mona