Good Evening everyone and I hope you are having a pleasant Sunday……..boy do I miss my Sundays. The newspapers, the football on TV, roast beef, Yorkshire pudding and spotted dick.Today, we were in Barcelona and the weather is still hot and sunny……..Have you seen the terrible fires in Greece? The one area that concerns me is the fire that is out of control and is just a mile or so away from the Ancient Village of Olympia. We are keeping a close eye on the situation as we are of course expected to go there this coming cruise.
Back to today and the morning started off with a port manning drill. What is that I hear you shout in unison? Well, for years cruise ships of all lines never really thought what would happen in an emergency if the ship was tied up against the pier either in homeport or at one of the ports of call. Nowadays however it is the law that we must have a structured plan to know what to do in order to get guests off the vessel using the gangways or other emergency exits if in case of a fire or other unpleasant situation. So today, we carried out this important drill as again nothing is more important than safety……….nothing.
Barcelona is one of those European cities that, unlike London, closes pretty much on a Sunday. Most of the shops are closed with the exception of the tourist souvenir shops. La Rambla, which is Barcelona’s major thoroughfare, is still bustling with street performers and today Heidi and me or is it Heidi and I took a walk down La Rambla.
Once again, on or off the ship I am the Cruise Director and as usual I was stopped a few times for a cheery hello and a photo and a complaint from a guest that indeed some of the shops were closed and that nobody informed them………even though I did, in my talk, on the TV’s and in writing in the Carnival Capers. Anyway, things were going well until we made the huge mistake of having a sit down for a drink and snack. Let me start with the good stuff……………the food. Heidi and I have been going to the same Tapas Bar since we discovered it back in April. It is called………….get ready for a brilliant name…………….TAPAS ………yep, that’s what the sign says……….just TAPAS…..what fantastic marketing. The restaurant is very small, maybe, 30 tables and is located next to the Starbucks half way up La Rambla. The reason we like it is because of the wonderful Spanish omelets they serve full of red, green and yellow peppers a really rich cheese, mushrooms and chorizo sausage……..excellent choice for me as I omit the now carb thingy. Heidi had ordered a tapas selection, we were relaxed, I was reading The Daily Telegraph (British) newspaper, birds were singing, the waiter was not rude (unusual for Barcelona………Fawlty Towers reference there ) I had not spilled anything on my shirt, the was a nice breeze from the air conditioning that was not only cooling us down but was helping to disguise the last particles of sugar free jellybeans that I had shared with everyone………….all was well………………….UNTIL…………………….”Can we join you?”……..”What?” ……I looked up from the article I was reading to find a lady and gentlemen plunking themselves down at our table………….Hello, I said…………….we want to talk to you………came the reply……….OH, I said, sensing they didn’t want to ask my opinion on the Spanish omelet…………….well let me introduce my wife Heidi (thinking this might alert them to the fact that we were enjoying a romantic lunch together………….well, as romantic as reading a newspaper and ignoring your wife can be.)
“We know who she is,” came the curt reply……………..I could see Heidi’s blood rising at that rude retort and before I could say anything Heidi got there first………..Oh, well I don’t know you both she said in a soft voice …………..what’s your names………..we are the &%$#@ said the lady, we are from Fort Lauderdale…………I was about to say something along the lines of ….Oh, I love Fort Lauderdale but Mrs. M was having none of it and continued………..we saw you come in here and we want to complain……. That was it then and I sat back in my chair, took a sip of Diet Coke and let Mrs. M unload both barrels on me for ten minutes or so.
Now, you are going to ask what her complaint was about….it really wasn’t one thing but a list………here are the ones I remember.
HAVING TO PAY FOR TRANSPORTATION (SHUTTLE BUSSES)………..OTHER LINES DO NOT CHARGE
NO RELIGIOUS SERVICE………….unlike Holland America
NO BRIDGE INSTRUCTOR…………..as above
DIDN’T LIKE THE SHOWS ………Holland America’s were more geared to people her age ……….she was in her 70’s
FOOD WAS TOO RICH…………….she prefers……..yep you guessed it
CABIN WAS TOO SMALL……………she has paid for an inside cabin on deck 1 by the way……….guess whose cabins were bigger?
AND MY FAVORITE…………”I HAVEN’T SPOKEN TO ONE CREW MEMBER WHO SPEAKS ENGLISH”
That was that…….and after her 10 minutes of shock and awe I asked her what she would like me to do……..her answer came back in a quick fire staccato……..compensation. I took her cabin number and said I would talk to the Chief Purser when I returned and would be in touch with her. The Chief Purser and I have since called her and her grievances have been documented.
There are three things that I need to tell you………….oh and by the way, this sort of thing is still very unusual and as always I remind you that 99.9% of our guests have a great time…….anyway, here they are.
1. This couple had followed me into the restaurant and sat down without being invited……..that takes a lot of ……something.
2. Halfway through her list of concerns, my omelet arrived as did Heidi’s Tapas…………we both said “bugger it” and started eating. The waiter hovered to ask Mrs. M if her and Mr M would like something but realizing that he didn’t speak good enough English he ran away……….quickly.
When she had finished, she stood up to go, I stood and offered my hand to be polite which she ignored and as they turned to walk away……………..Mr M looked back at me and looked almost apologetic as he obediently followed his wife out of the restaurant………………..There are very, very rare times when honestly, I don’t like my job very much and today unfortunately was one of those times
Here are today’s photos which really are a mixed bunch but I hope you will enjoy them.
1. This is a shot of all the teens from Club O2 who we took to the famous Barcelona Soccer Stadium “The Nou Camp “
2. Let’s go to Montserrat
3. Inside the Cathedral
4. The famous Black Madonna
5. What a beautiful place
Here are the letters from today’s In Their Own Words Section.
Let’s push on with the Q and A starting with the blog about the Carnival Miracle and then hopefully some from the blog called “Are We having Pun Yet.”
MATT – Yes mate, what a real shame that Costa Maya is as was Cozumel was after hurricane Wilma. The resort depends on the cruise industry and even if the shops and facilities can be repaired in double quick time I doubt the pier will be ready for a long time……….I hope I am wrong and it is indeed very, very sad. Matt, you asked if I got your comments…..are you waiting for an answer from me for something? Please let me know?
KEVIN AND HEIDI AND BETH – I just spoke to Ralph the Cruise Director and he has confirmed that the Carnival Glory will call at Progresso now instead of poor old Costa Maya. Progresso is a fun place and if you need any advice on what to do please let me know. I hope the three of you are well and can you send me your cabin number please. You are also correct in your praise of Shahnaz and yes she is indeed right at the top of her game. Glad also that you liked the photos of the Queen Mary, she too is quite a lady. Cheers.
I & MSMOM – Your thoughtful words about Costa Maya’s plight were said with obvious sadness. I am sure they will bounce back but how long that takes, who knows? We will all continue to think about them I am sure. Thank you also for your kind words about the blog thingy and I am still enjoying writing this each and every day. My warmest regards to you.
BRUCE BERRY – You found me Bruce and so your computer skills are intact. Welcome back from your July 24 cruise and to hear you say “WE WILL BE CARNIVAL TRAVELERS FOR LIFE” has made me and everyone associated with the cruise line very happy. If there is anything I can do to help you decide which cruise you want to take next, please let me know. I am glad you enjoyed my shows and one thing is for certain, I also wish I could be in the public eye even more, but unfortunately the job these days is so much more than just being on stage. Your comments have made me very happy and I hope you will continue to read this blog-thingy.
JOHN STEERS – Hello! How are things in Port Canaveral? I am glad you are still enjoying working for Carnival and as always, I thank you for all your help with the guests who face walking challenges. As for the blog, I assure you everything I write is indeed true and as you said “You can’t make this up.” Please keep reading and my best to everybody down there.
THE BEARS, BARB AND CARL – My mum will be sending me her amazing recipe for Chicken Curry. It will appear on a blog next week. It seems that Mother Nature is as mad as Mrs. M was these last few days. Wild fires in Europe, hurricanes in the Caribbean and Mexico and, of course, the weather conditions you described from Hurricane Erin. Heidi sends her best to you even though you are the reason she walks around with the air freshener spray in her pocket (Oust).
LUV TO CRUISE – I am glad you enjoyed the interview with Brent and I am sure your January cruise will be an exciting adventure. Having a balcony cabin is indeed a very special luxury which, if you have, you should enjoy each and every night watching the sunset and if you can, the sunrise. Happy sailing!
LEASA – You indeed will enjoy Todd on the Carnival Liberty and I am sorry I couldn’t be there with you. Thank you also for your kind words for the people of Costa Maya. I am sorry I am hogging the computer and I will tell Heidi how much you would enjoy another blog from her. Cheers.
INDYGIRL – Thank you also for thinking of the people of Costa Maya. You are very kind to take the time to write those wonderful words.
LOIS GREATSKIBOOT – You have a source for Spotted Dick? Wow, that’s amazing, can you send me some? Thank you very much for your kind words. That was the last picture ever taking of me on the beach. Heidi sends a big hello back to you and if I did behave you would be reading a blank piece of paper.
It’s always great to hear from you and I still have 50 more abbreviations of your name…. Take care.
BILL ZYDECOCRUISER – I thought you should know that we play the cd’s you sent us during our bingo sessions, it really gets everyone in the mood. I have not heard if there is a possibility of Costa Maya building a temporary tender docking facility. I am not sure if that is even possible based on the damage. Certainly, it would take some time to rebuild the shopping area and get it back to its former glory. Have a go at the scones, I promise you will not be disappointed and the Chicken Curry recipe will be forthcoming. How funny you mentioned Brussels sprouts. These are very popular in the U.K… My dad loves them, although I wouldn’t recommend sharing a small room with him afterwards. Once again, we talk about food; we were destined to be friends.
UNCLE DOUG – How great to hear that you saw the Carnival Fantasy’s smoke stack during your stay in New Orleans. I am sure this sight is a joy for all the people of the Big Easy. I am sure all the people, like your good self, who have recently been to Costa Maya, will share your sadness at the devastation caused by the wrath of Dean. You are correct of course, as always, Carnival will do everything they can to assist with the rebuilding. Thank you for your concern and I will keep you all updated with any news I have.
CINDY 56 – Wendell’s ceremony was very special and hopefully he now rests peacefully. Costa Maya did indeed take over from Cozumel after hurricane Wilma devastated that island. Let’s hope, this is the last major storm of the season. Heidi and I send our best to you.
THE CHADS – Thank you for completing the registration form for the bloggers cruise, you need to add the reservation number. I hope you do get a chance to make my mum’s scones, they are simply delicious. A charity cookbook for the bloggers cruise is also a wonderful idea, I am sure Bill Zydecocruiser will have a few recipes to offer. I hope you are all well and slapping on this posting has made me very hungry.
MARLENE – Marlene, I hope you get to read this before you fly here. I am very excited to see what gift you have for Heidi and I and please make sure you leave me your cabin number at the information desk when you arrive. Have a safe flight.
LYNN AND MIKE SAGARA – It is truly wonderful to feel the compassion everyone has for Costa Maya. I wonder if ROGER BLUM can find some way to pass all these goodwill messages to the tourism office there. It was interesting to read about your desire to help with charity fund raising while you are on a cruise and I wonder if you saw the upcoming events on my last blog which will be held to raise money to find a cure for breast cancer. I am excited to be part of that challenge. Thank you for your lovely posting and my continued best wishes.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – I am glad you are enjoying all the photos and I especially want to say thank you for your kind words also for the people of Costa Maya. The Cruise Director you are thinking off, I think, was Rand Woodbury. He was and still is a master magician and yes, he did have wild animals at one point including a 300-pound cougar called GIO. I will pass on to my mum that you loved her scones. You must try her Chicken Curry, the recipe will follow. As always Carol, we wish you much happiness.
IVANA – Funny you should mention Samantha Brown, as Heidi is a big fan and me…………I am just jealous. I would love to be a travel reporter for the cruise industry. Wouldn’t it be great to have a live T.V. blog or a fly on the wall documentary?….except on the bathroom wall…..Thank you also for mentioning Costa Maya. You are very kind. See you soon.
SOUTHERN DREAMS – I am glad the surgery went well but I am sorry to hear that maybe you will need radiation. Without racing ahead, may I just tell you that whatever happens I will always be here for you and each time I type your name it will be done with much positive thought and hope for continued health. Keep smiling) and I am going to dedicate a joke to you every time I mention your name. Here is the one for today.
A couple of drinkin’ buddies, who are airplane mechanics, are in the hangar at Atlanta airport; it’s fogged in and they have nothing to do.
One of them says to the other, “Hey, have you got anything to drink?”
The other one says, “Nah, but I hear you can drink jet fuel, and that it will kinda give you a buzz.”
So they drink it, get smashed and have a great time; like only drinkin’ buddies can do.
The following morning, one of them gets up and is surprised he feels good, in fact, he feels great – NO hangover!
The phone rings, it’s his buddy.
The buddy says, “Hey, how do you feel?”
He said, “I feel great!”
“I feel great too! You don’t have a hangover?”
“No – that jet fuel is great stuff – no hangover – we ought to do this more often.”
“Yeah, we could, but there’s just one thing…..”
“What’s that?”
“Well, that’s what I called to tell you. For goodness-sakes don’t fart, I’m calling you from Miami.”
DWA76 – Sad it is, to see Costa Maya in such a terrible state. I am glad you enjoyed the interview with Brent and hopefully one day you will sail on a Carnival ship out of New York City. It is an unforgettable feeling. You asked if I can do anything about the dollar and how weak it is. Obviously, going to London is more expensive for Americans these days and the euro is catching up. Unfortunately, I am paid in U.S. dollars and I certainly hope that the dollar can find its strength from somewhere. The dollar is strong against the Turkish Lira; in fact, I know a place where you can get a great Turkish bath for just $10. Let me know if you want the address. Thanks for everything mate; it always brings a smile to my face to see your name slapped on the blog.
RIKKI BOYZE – I have to admit, I was surprised also that it took this long for the company lawyers to ask for a disclaimer. Although I really do not think I say anything that would cause Carnival Corporation concern, I know I do tend to speak without thinking sometimes, so I am happy to cover them with those few words. If anything happens, I have a brilliant lawyer who will protect me. He is half-Japanese and half-Jewish and his law practice is called So Sue Mi. I am glad the Carnival Miracle won you back to cruising; she is one of our most beautiful ships. I have never been on board but I have heard of the famous pink flying saucers in the dining room. Wishing you all the best.
RUTH JAMISON – Welcome back to the blog and I am glad you caught up. I see you are a fan of Rod Stewart’s song “Sailing,” have you heard the song of the same title by Christopher Cross? You have my taste buds salivating at the thought of what you mind be sending me…….you are too kind. Wishing you a wonderful day and all the best from Heidi.
BIG ED – Thank you for helping edit the blog. You truly are becoming the assistant to the Cruise Director. Well, as for the Vote For John campaign, if I do win the award I promise it will be shared with each and every person who has made this blog what it is today. Thanks mate.
KEVIN – Congratulations on reaching nearly 6,000 slaps on your blog. This is a brilliant total and I am sure it will continue to grow. Thank you for driving the Aston while wearing the bloggers t-shirt, you have no idea how jealous I am, but grateful at the same time. Everyone tells me that the Diamond Princess is a truly magnificent vessel. I am going to ask, the next time we are in Venice, if I can visit the Emerald Princess. I have never been on a Princess ship before and I would love to write a blog article about her. Hopefully, someone from Princess will read this posting and allow this to happen. I am glad you enjoyed the scones, my mum will be so happy. Thanks mate and I haven’t forgotten you.
SUSETTE LOEWENSTEIN – Thank you for showing me what Cunard has written about my Queen Victoria blog. Seeing my name on their website was a huge thrill and I am deeply honored. Thank you for passing it on to me, for which I am also very grateful. All the best.
LFTTNSFCF – YEP, it’s a disclaimer and I added a touch of humor to make it more palatable. I know they just want to protect themselves and I understand why. Sometimes, I am a naughty boy. Hope all is well with you and the Mrs. MTSFP and as always, it’s great to see your name on the blog thingy.
LISA AND ELAINE – Thank you so much. You echo the words for everyone in wishing Southern Dreams well. I am not sure about Jack Daniels being the cure, but we certainly will be thinking of her each and every day. I see you are a survivor and you are still cruising and that is so brilliant to hear. Thank you for your compassion Elaine and thank you for being there for your blogger friend.
PEGGY P – You are welcome and I have passed your thanks on to Chris Prideaux. Enjoy the arts & crafts.
CRUISE FAN NAN – At the moment, there are many new deployments of ships happening in the fleet. I am sure that everyone will miss the Carnival Victory from Miami, but it will be a major asset to San Juan and the southern Caribbean. I have not heard any rumors about the Carnival Triumph moving to Mobile and I will ask PA 007 to keep their eyes and ears open in case anything should happen. The super spy is on the case and will let me know any news.
Steve Knisley will indeed be the Cruise Director on the Carnival Liberty during your sailing. Thanks for reading the blog-thingy and all the best.
WILLIAM – DALLAS, TX – We warmly welcome you William to this blog-thingy. As a lover of ships, you are in the right place with the right people and I also thank my friends at Cunard for passing on the blog’s information. William, if you have any stories to share with us, we would welcome them. If you have any questions to ask, please do so and mostly, please enjoy the fun and every day life along with me of working on board a cruise ship. Cheers mate.
LINDA HERNACKI – I am so happy you enjoyed the photos of the Queen Mary II. I wish I could have been there to see it for myself. Alan Atkins is still on board, however, he leaves tomorrow and I will miss having fun with him. Wish Mike well in his new job and I am sure he is very happy working for Hilton hotels…….has he seen Paris? I have been to Costa Maya many times and I know how hard the people of this small resort to get it where it was and I am sure they will do so again. Linda, have a wonderful weekend and thank you for slapping on another posting.
LV2CRUISE – I am glad your husband enjoyed the puns, I promise there will be no more as I could here the groans from here. Heidi and I have a good size cabin, as you asked what our living accommodation is like. It has a separate living area office and bedroom and our two greatest luxuries, a bathtub and a 42″ plasma T.V. which I have to have on as much as possible, showing the news……………I am a big newsperson. I have to know what’s going on in the world. As for closet space, Heidi has four closets and I have one hanger. Cheers.
MEDCRUISER – Ok, sorry, no more puns, promise………..after this one.
Just as a surgeon was finishing up an operation the patient wakes up, sits up and demands to know what is going on. “I’m about to close,” the surgeon says. The patient grabs his hand and says, “Oh, no you’re not! I’ll close my own incision.” The doctor hands him the needle and says, “Suture self.”
What do you call a mushroom that runs into a bar and buys a round of drinks for everyone? I guess that would be a Fun Guy.
Sorry
KAREN R – Alan Adkins decided to stay a few extra days, I guess he is a glutton for punishment. Thank you for complimenting Shahnaz who is a brilliant Hotel Director and as loyal an employee as Carnival could wish to have.
As for the Queen Mary 2, well I hope one day to be able to visit her and also have the total privilege of writing a blog about this grand lady liner.
Now, as for the Puns…….well I don’t know what came over me but I was feeling a little “punnish” and the result I am sure were groans from around the world. I hope you are well and I do hope you continue to enjoy the blog thingies.
GREG BALDASARRI – You can call me friend……..because that is what we indeed are. Thank you for mentioning my friends Marsha and Hans. They were truly in awe of the Queen Mary and their description summed up perfectly the grand liners presence in Hamburg. Indeed, it truly must have been something the Germans felt so passionate about as they lined the streets and the port hoping to catch a glimpse of the beautiful lady………..The Queen Mary………not my friend Marsh although she too is beautiful.
Greg, I hope my daily mutterings will continue to provide you with fun and also to allow our blog friendship to grow from strength to strength.
DAVE AND BARB – What a site that must be as the proud and gallant sailors stand at attention as they sail away to protect our freedom. I certainly would stop the car to pay tribute to those brave men and women.
Obviously seeing a cruise ship leave is completely different but it was great to hear that the Queen Mary 2 can still command respect and attention as happened in Germany. I hope I get to sail past your house so you can wave and throw sugar free jellybeans at me. Many thanks for the posting and all the best.
KATHY KROLL – I am sure once your are standing you still possess the grace and agility that is obvious from the photos on your blog. The Queens Room on the Queen Victoria is full of magic………there is honestly something special about it…….as unfinished as it was it already cast a spell over me and I can imagine watching Heidi glide over the floor while I eat cucumber sandwiches and drink tea. I hope your dream of sailing on her and the Carnival Splendor do come true………..one day. All the best Kathy and best to the Bodyguard.
BILL ZYDECOCRUISER – You said that was Micky Arison in the photo of the Queen Mary……….well spotted and well spotted Hans my mate who took the photo…………personally I was more interested in the HUGE PRETZEL he was eating. Thaks for the food link and I think we should open a Zydeco restaurant and serve those Pretzels.
OK, I am going to stop there and continue with Mr Bob Poland’s comment tomorrow.
Let’s continue with an interview from the Cruise Director on the Carnival Imagination Mr. George Solano. Here is his interview and I will chat about him in moment.
1. Please can you tell us about your career with Carnival so far? How did you start and when?
Started in 1992 as A Fly-on Comedian and I’ve been a cruise director for 6 years
2. What ship are you currently on and what is its itinerary?
Carnival Imagination which operates four- and five-day cruises from Miami. Five-day cruises departing Mondays visit Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios; five-day cruises departing Saturdays call at Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay & Nassau; four-day cruises departing Thursdays feature Key West and Calica
3. Please can you pick two excursions from each port and tell us why you recommend them so much?
Grand Cayman – Atlantis Submarine – The Marine life in Grand Cayman is amazing due to all the shipwrecks.
Sea Trek – It’s my one of my favorites because I never had the guts to scuba dive and is the closest I can get to it. The coral is amazing.
Ocho Rios Jamaica – Bob Marley Tour – all my life I have been a Marley fan, it’s about an hour bus ride, with several stops to really admire how beautiful Jamaica truly is, once you arrive at his state, you learn everything about his life and what inspire him to write all those songs we never get tired of listening to, I even met a few of his cousins and heard some amazing stories (I did come back a little hungry J ) it was truly an experience for me.
Dolphin Cove- Dolphin Swim – An other one of my favorites as a child of the 70’s I grew up watching Flipper so I always wanted to swim with them. It’s everything you imagine and more. The dolphin performs for you, the highlight is when you and the dolphin pose for a picture, after you’re finished with tour, you also get to enjoy all the amenities the park has to offer from Beaches, walking trails, shark show, aviary Etc. It’s a great experience for the entire family.
Key west- Bike tour – very laid back; don’t have to be in shape; all flat terrain and you’ll see over 100 points of interest, including the southernmost point. Plus you learn quite a bit about the Civil War.
Calica – Mayan ruins Of Tulum – I have always been fascinated by The Mayan Indians culture, Tulum was built next to the Caribbean Sea, you’ll visit the Temple of the Frescos my personal favorite because of the detailed Carved figures of original paintings and writings, you also have a chance to climb the towering cliff for amazing breathtaking views of the Caribbean sea, is a once in a lifetime experience.
Xcaret – an archeological park, with underground rivers and cenotes, as well as an Aviary. It also has a replica of all the Mayan Pyramids and a museum of Mayan cities and much more great fun for all ages.
Grand Turk- Is a new port of call for us, I’ve been going out and enjoying a different excursion every call. My favorite so far is the Guana Loop you ride along an air-conditioned bus it has several stops where you have the option of getting off and walk around and truly explore the island, the buses come by every 15 minutes so you can spend as long or little time as wish.
Half Moon Cay is our very own private island – I Love it!!! Is one of the most beautiful and relaxing ports of call. Parasailing – is the one I recommend the most you’re up 200 feet in the air, amazing views of the island and the ship!!
Aqua Boats _ Jet skiing at its best It rocks!!
Nassau -Discover Atlantis and Historical Harbor tour- It takes you on a harbor cruise – you’ll see and learn about many historical points of interest, once you arrive at Paradise Island your guide will take you on a walking tour of Atlantis, you will visit the “Atlantis Dig,” home to thousands of the world most exotic fish and sea creatures as well as the ancient artifacts of Atlantis.
Catamaran Snorkel – you’ll go to Athol Island – for amazing snorkeling,
4. What are your favorite activities or events that you host and why?
Welcome aboard show – no two shows are ever alike and it sets the tone for your cruise. Newlywed not so newlywed show is another because I love improving and I always get to throw in some of my comedy bits!
5. Fill in the blank please……………..People should sail on the Carnival Imagination because……………………………..??????????? People should sail on the Carnival Imagination because we boast an extremely friendly crew and we have tons of fun. The entertainment on board is outstanding and because we’re the coolest.. that’s right, I said it!
6. What do you enjoy most about being a Cruise Director? I love getting up every day and making people laugh. Entertaining guests is my absolute most favorite thing to do and I feel extremely lucky each and every day to be able to do what I love. And oh yeah, the pay isn’t bad either.
7. Share your favorite story with us that involve our guests and your job? I don’t think I have a favorite story but I can say that at times, people come up to you and share a little bit of their life story with you. Some have just lost someone close, some are very ill, some are just going through a rough patch. For these people to come up to me and tell me that I’ve made a difference, that I’ve made their vacation, that I’ve made them laugh every day of the cruise.. there’s no feeling in the world like it.
8. List your three favorite ports you have visited? Jamaica, Aruba & Cozumel
9. Name three ports you would really like to see that you have never been to? Argentina, Peru & Brazil (hint hint!)
10. Finally, if you could introduce on stage any star, alive or not who would it be and why? Hands down – Richard Pryor. He has inspired me beyond words to become a stand up comic and has been an extreme influence in my life.
THANK YOU GEORGE.
He and I go way back and we were always playing tricks on each other when he was a fly on entertainer onboard the Carnival Imagination with me. One time, seconds before I went on stage he blew pepper in my face so I spent the first few minutes of the show sneezing over the front row.
I got my own back many times and my favorite was when I had pre planned with the audience that after George had told his first joke to do something special. So, out comes George, he tells his first joke and then at once and in unison (same thing I know) all 800 stood up booed and walked out of the lounge…………George just stood there ………..his mouth open…eventually they came back and the show carried on because I had one more surprise for him
George is originally from Colombia, South America and does this joke about the name Jose being popular….anyway the punch line is that if the presenter of The Price Is Right was to say Jose Rodriguez come on day a thousand people would rush the stage…….well………..they did……….when he said it I had planned for 50 men and women to all run up on the stage and start hugging and kissing George……….one lady tried to take his shirt of……………ah, those were the days. George is now one of our finest Cruise Directors and there is nobody who cares about the guests cruise experience than my mate Jorge……………..mi amigo.
I want to talk about John Horner a guest who is sailing here with his wife Jess and their daughters Jasmin and Summer……….beautiful names. I got to know John early on this cruise and we have had some great conversations. John is from the UK like me and is from Manchester which is in the North of the country. Why am I mentioning John………..well, it is simple. John was in the British Military and was injured last year when his convoy was hit by a roadside explosive device in Basara, Iraq. He has a great sense of humour and has loved every bit of the cruise. He has come to all the shows and told me this was the best vacation he has ever had. He won a trophy for taking part in the newly wed and Not So newlywed game, and this evening after the Carnival Legends show we smoked a cigar together. He talked about the love of his family, his passion for the charity work he does and how his military career is still so important to him changed as it is now as he fights for his country from behind a desk. Mostly though, he just told jokes, praised the staff and crew of the vessel. We spent a great 30 minutes together talking as men do and then he got up to leave……..which is not as easy as it used to be as John lost his left leg ….. As I helped him lean onto his crutches he shook my hand and told me that nothing had made him laugh as much as the Talent Show and bedtime story and thank you for the best time ever. As I walked back to the cabin I suddenly realised that the Tapas Bar incident with the angry Mrs. M did not matter anymore….I do love my job, I really do and tonight it took a man like John Horner to remind me……………thanks mate.
Goodnight
Your friends
John and Heidi
Filed under: Catherine Zeta Jones, Tales from the Ship | Tagged: Splendor Godmother, Tales from the Ship
Hello John the Almighty,
Very interesting to learn about a port manning drill. It’s always been in the back of my mind since 9/11 whenever I cruise & see the small Coast Guard boats before we leave the pier & wonder if anything could happen. It’s good to feel safe.
It’s “Heidi and I”. Just drop the other person’s name and see if it makes sense. “I took a walk” or “me took a walk”. OK, grammar lesson over for the day.
Mr. & Mrs. M, obvious reply – why not take Holland America, and what language are you speaking – Klingon? The “something” word you’re looking for is “chutzpah”. Just hang in there John, they’re the not-so-silent minority. We all love you and know how great a job you are doing. And the letters you showed us just prove how appreciated you are.
Rand Woodbury – yes, that does ring a bell.
Thanks for the interview with George Solano – I think I remember him as a comedian, but I’m not sure which ship – I’ve been on the Imagination twice (2001 and 2003). Question – will he still be CD on the Imagination when I cruise in early December?
Very heart-warming story about John Horner and I wish him and his family all the best and thank him for what he has so bravely done.
I was reading about the eclipse tomorrow, but from what I read, it won’t be visible in Europe. Sorry.
I guess it’s time to say goodnight, have a great evening,
Regards,
Carol
I guess that’s all for n
John,
Thanks for sharing the story of Mr. John Horner. I’ve met several people like him in my lifetime and it seems as though they appear at the oddest times. Most often, they appear when I’m either wallowing in self-pity or ready to bodily harm to someone the gene pool would be much better off without.
These folks invariably leave me in awe. The courage, humor and wisdom they manage is truly humbling.
Please pass along my thanks to Mr. Horner and his family for their sacrifice.
Regards,
Greg
Let’s talk about people who are rude
Especially the ones who interupt our food
During the shows they are typically booed
And their social skills are often crude
They walk around the ship in a foul mood
And in their cabin they sit and brood
Other’s feel sorry for how they are viewed
Minor gripes they often include
For this they say you should be sued
Compensation is what they want issued
Now we don’t want to start a big feud
But lets hope these people just get *%$#) and tattoed!
John: we are going on the Libery in 3 weeks. This post was on CC web site. I would like your comments, did this happen, and what is CCL’s response? Thanks
“Our week of terror on the Liberty ”
——————————————————————————–
The Liberty 8-18 ..If Carnival is trying to improve their image this cruise did nothing to help it, on the contrary …any new Carnival passenger on this trip may never cruise again let alone on Carnival. My family will not
My family just returned home after one of the most disappointing and terrifying cruises we have ever been on and this was our 10th!
Our ship was filled to capacity 3500 passengers, as I was told by our cruise director, but there was a large group of 700-800 who over ran the ship and dominated most of the public areas either by design or intimidation by their behavior. My family never was able to use the following locations, Victoria lounge, the disco, the teen disco, the arcade, a large portion of the promenade deck.
Carnival allowed this group to have private access to the Victoria Lounge every night, therefore denying use of this area to all other passengers.
The other areas mentioned were off limits to the other passengers on this trip because the behavior of the individuals who occupied it was so terrifying that all other passengers avoided these areas. My teen age daughters were so fearful of what went on this ship that after dinner they spend it in their cabin watching movies.
Now you must all be wondering what types of behaviors could be so disruptive that this ship was held hostage by this one group.
Well where to start…..I will list behaviors that I witnessed firsthand…
Drug sales, smoking in cabins, lying in wait in hall ways and on elevators and intimidating other passengers who wanted to use these areas, by the stream of four letter words which were spoken to and about fellow passengers as they walked by at decibels which started at a scream and ended in a bellow.
Description of individual’s anatomical body parts in such graphic and vivid details that it would make an X rated movie sound tame.
Running, shoving and pushing fellow passengers on the promenade deck, and on the stair case in the lobby. I was shoved down the stairs by a group who were running down the spiral staircase. After I fell they turned back and laughed.
Standing on furniture, placing chairs in front of doors in the teen disco and “locking” other youngsters in.
On 2 separate evenings, a full blown riot on the promenade deck, involving at least 40-50 individuals who were fighting throwing furniture, punches, filthy language and breaking a bottle to use a weapon..
The entire security staff was called, bar tenders left their stations, officers arrived to break up the fight.
Running and screaming in the corridors at all hours of the night, a night with 100 complaint calls to security alone, a figure told to me by the purser during my third meeting with her regarding the closing of the laundry across from my cabin, after 12 pm as I was awoken each night by the gathering of groups of 10-20 individuals who were doing laundry all night all while smoking and drinking, and laughing yelling so loud I could hear every word in my bed.
The staff of the Liberty was either unable or unwilling to enforce any limitations on the individuals in these groups. I spoke to a high ranking crew member who informed me that these passengers paid for their cruise and there was nothing they could do.
My question to the Carnival Cooperate Office is what about the other passengers who paid for their cruise. Where are our rights as paying passengers?? Are we not entitled to use of all the facilities on the ship and a safe environment? Because during this past week we were denied both of these, as well as the enjoyment of a trip we were looking forward to .
Hello John Almighty and Heidi the Angelette
I have been keeping up with the blog haven’t had much to say until now
Here comes another 2 cents worth!
But just like Mr. Angry disrupting your dinner
And Mrs. M. disrupting your Tapas, they make my Irish/German blood boil!
What in the Mell gives them the right to disrupt your quiet time?
Your almost are there for the passengers 24/7 as it is now after seeing your schedules
You sleep & private times are far and few between
I’m afraid to go out you and Heidi might have to go out in disquise..
I realize that you are both worth your weight in Gold to the Cruise Lines and I am sure they know It!
Cunard knows it, otherwise you waould not have got to share the QV with us
And like I said before I hope you get every penny you are soo worth$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
To endure some of the % of these crass rude people you do ! Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
But remember for these there are us bloggers, Carnival retreads(lovers) and Dr. Mohammad’s
& Ken Byrnes who love you guys over and over and over, you make us come back wanting more no matter what………………
Mrs M likes about her other lines and if SHE really did her homework
she might know you all sort of fly under one big giant corporate umbrella… CIAO
61 Days and Counting!
Elizabeth & Arnold Tucker
P.S. Loved the pix of you and Heidi when you met. I think age has become you both, your not getting older your’s getting better looking!
Good Afternoon Mr. John (and Mrs. Heidi!)…
Another good edition of the blog today. I was thinking that you might want to keep your $10 US just in case there is some weakness in the pound/Euro against the dollar. That way, hopefully Fatma will only cost $5 the next time you choose to let her “examine” you.
It’s nice that there are Mr. Horner’s in the world (I salute his service) who are able to show you the light that Mrs. M so quickly ruined today. Once again, a big shocker that she is looking for $ to cheer her up.
Too many good things in your position John. You could be a desk jockey like me. Now how much fun would that be?
Have a good one. My thoughts are with all the Greek residents near Olympus having to battle the fire. Let’s send some positive vibes their way.
David
John, in response to your story about Mrs M at the Tapas restaurant in Barcelona. Just another one of us ugly Americans at our finest. My wife and I have done 11 cruises (all on Carnival companies). We started out on with a couple on Carnival, then one on Princess then most of the remainder on Holland America. We liked the experience that line offers. It was with a bit of trepidation that we decided to try something else , booking on the November 2006 transatlantic sailing on the Liberty , which I believe was also your last sailing on that ship. While all the lines have maintained their identities, we were pleasantly surprised at how the “best qualities” of each line had made their way to the sister lines. Many touches we had come to expect at Holland were now present on the Liberty…. and we saw certain positive things make their way from Carnival and Princess to Holland. If Holland cabins are any larger than the newer Carnival vessels, well it is imperceptable to me. The quality of the food on the Liberty was every bit as good as any Holland ship we’ve sailed – even at the premium restaurants. As for the entertainment, thank The Maker that Carnival upgraded Holland America’s entertainment after they acquired them. We will no longer exclusively book on Holland anymore – you’ll see us again on Carnival. There is no pleasing some people like Mrs. M , but you already know that. Some people just get crotchity as they age (and yes I do remember how to pronounce crochet). Oh yes, I distinctly remember when we docked in Barcelona on Sunday, November 5th 2006 you went out of your way (excessively) to tell us that most shops except for Las Ramblas were closed. Hope we get to sail with you again sometime.
Randy and Marta Ponik
Hi John and Heidi!
The Splendor is almost a reality as we have been booked on her since May 10th. The day before we flew out of LAX for the Freedom Cruise! It was the first day of reservations for the new ship! Can’t wait!
Still working along with the good folks at Carnival, Heidi, Jerry and Mendy trying to get a reasonable business class flight. You know, one that isn’t more than the cruise!! Having some luck . Still pretty high!
Oh yes, grace on the dance floor! Up til 2002 I was still able to dance , can’t anymore. Just tried doing a couple of 8’s as we say and knocked my neck out. Ha! It’s dancing or excursions…can’t have both !! I’ve done the dance now I want to play normal civilian tourist !! and a 5,6,7,8 !!!
Kathy and Paul ( Lee Paul- Bodyguard )
Hey John,
We are starting to really look forward to Progreso. It looks like we will actually get to see a real Mexican town that has not been spoiled by the tourist trade yet. We are not sure what to do yet. Probably just wander the town, and soak up the atmosphere. I understand that it is a great place for shopping. Have not made a decision yet about the Mayan Ruins tours. I was told by a friend that the mosquitoes in the jungle are some of the most ferocious creatures on the face of the planet.
Our cabin number is 6257. We are leaving on Sept 8. David and Joey are also looking forward to the trophies that you said they would get. Either way, my wife is looking forward to meeting Wee Jimmy. Seems that all she wants is to hear him speak. Something about the Scottish in my background intrigues her.
Thanks for your help
Kevin
John,why do you let this kind of people get you down? It isnt worth it.They didnt have one complain who was valid.Their minds are closed. You should pity them.They dont know how to appreciate little things and dont know how to live and find the joy in everything.John Horner he knows and this are the kind of people that are worthwhile.Although thinking about it after having been sooo spoiled by the CD on the Carnival Freedom maybe on the my next cruise on another cruise line I will have some complaining to do myself.
And I never complain JA!
Un abrazo grande grande grande!!
Hi John,
I mentioned to you a couple of weeks ago I’ll be on both the Fall and Spring Freedom TA’s. A question has arisen about the short port time in Livorno on Friday May 9th ‘08.
On the Fall TA we have 13 hours in Livorno (7am-8pm), in the Spring it’s only 10 hours (9am-7pm). How is Carnival doing any of their Tuscany and Florence tours, they are mostly 10 hour tours?
Any ideas? Thanks, wine wanderer
loved the joke john, made me laugh out loud and i understand laughter is good for the soul. we are still hoping upon hope that we can make the trip in october on the 16th, but if not i will still be on the bloggers cruise if i have to bring radiation machines with me!!!!! on to bigger and better things i say.
and to the (rude) ft. lauderdale person, sooooo sorry that happened. if i see her when i get there i’ll slap her a good one. imagine being the poor guy she is married to and just be thankful you have your sweet heidi!!! can you even imagine going home with her every day??? sigh.
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
Are they working on the webcam?
Hi John and Heidi,
It has been awhile since my last posting…actually I have been shopping to refuel your jetpack!!! I have been unable to find Russell Stover’s sugar free jelly beans…maybe some bloggers can clue me in to where they located them as I could only find the regular variety. However, I found some sugar free Jelly Belly brand jelly beans and some sugar free candy from “Goofy” along with some other items for both of you. I just have to get the pkg ready and get to the Post Office.
It was sad to see Costa Maya getting hit with the hurricane….during my cruise aboard the Glory in October 2004 during which I celebrated my 50th birthday while aboard we docked in Costa Maya, but all excursions were xcld due to the bad weather..other cruise lines did not even attempt to dock. We rode the tram to the shops near the pier and then got back on the ship rather quickly…it was a disappointment as friends had told me about renting a golf cart and touring on our own…but of course we cannot control the weather nor did I ask Carnival for compensation!!! We did go to Progresso and I enjoyed the excursion and meal that we had there.
I have also been following the terrible brush fires in Greece and it was sad to see them so close to areas that I had toured while on the Carnival Freedom; my heart goes out to those people…we have had our share of brush fires in Florida and to see how arson or a simple lit cigarette carelessly thrown out of a car window can bring such tragic consequences.
Take care and don’t let the chronic complainers get you down.
Linda
Hello John,
Sorry to hear the your lovely wife and you can’t even enjoy a simple romantic brunch as all couples are entitled to without someone getting on you with WORK related issues, that is a very shame!!:(
In reference to my comments was that when i originally booked my supper club reservation was through the link and not you directly.
But when i did this was not taking into when formal nights would be aand captains party.
So if you could book the date and time i gave you that would be appreciated, and just by chance it went through could you cancel Dec 2,2007 7:00 pm reservation for 2 onboard on the freedom.It’s 12/1/07 sailing. guest name matthew edmunds booking#9Q0T95.
Thank you mate if any reason i confused you let me know as i will be more than happy to assist.:)
See you in 95 days,12hrs,47mins,13secs.
Thanks again john
Matt
Hi John & Heidi,
Thank you so much for this blog. My sister and I love checking in daily. We even checked in while we sailed with you in April.
I have a question and will understand if you can’t help.
We have been cruising with carnival since August31, 1986. Having been on about 40 cruises we have established great friendships with some of the employees. One in particular with Ike Catuncan. We have been friends for 20 years and keep in touch while at home.
I make a zucchini relish that Ike loves….. yesterday was canning day. I would like to send a jar to him as a suprise but, I don’t have an address in Europe to mail to. This is where I hope you can help. Is there an address in Italy for me to send a jar of relish? I would even send it to you and trust that you will see to it that Ike gets his surprise.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Jillian Fox
P.S. Iwould even send an extra one for your enjoyment to insure safe delivery.
John
It always makes me laugh when people travel to a foreign country or on a cruise ship from a foreign port and complain about people not speaking English! Sounds like Mrs M is one of those “glass half empty” kinda gals. Mr. Horner, however, is one of those folks you meet every now and then. Just chatting a while with them always makes your day a better one. John, you have that quality too.
Good night to you and Heidi.
Southerndreams I hope you make your cruise in October and I will see you on The Blogger’s Cruise. laughter is good for the soul and as you know, so is John’s blog. Perspective. Like Nanette said. John Horner knows all about perspective! I am happy he enjoyed his Freedom Cruise. Costa Maya was my favorite port of call last year on the Miracle. Jeff and Denver so injoyed the dolphin excursion as did Dan and I. She is a great ship too. I hope the docks are rebuilt soon as I know the income is going to be missed. Prayers tonight for Greece! It is so tragic to see the ancient lands scorched and the casualties of this fire are devastating. No doubt some changes will be made to your next cruise and I hope you and Heidi are spared the rude treatment.
The Hazzard Coiunty Sheriff’s Office has issued arrest warrants for MR and MRS M. Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane says they will be found and put in jail. Sheriff Coltrane also said the inside cabins on Riviera deck are much larger than the jail cells they will be staying in. Sheriff Coltrane also said he does not have a complaint department so if they whine, they will be talking to themselves!!
John
First, condolences to the young couple who had to leave their cruise early due to her father’s passing. My father is in very ill health and we are thankful for every day we have with him.
It is only 38 days now until we board the Freedom for our cruise. My mother and step-father (both 70yrs old) are travelling with us and what a blessing it is to have them to tag along. They are even planning to climb the Eiffel Tower. I am interested in treating them to the Supper Club. Is it possible to make their reservations and let me pay the tab? If so, please respond with how to do this and I will give info for their reservations.
Thank you in advance and keep up the great blog thingy. I enjoy reading it every day. Give my best to Heidi
John, I would have told your lady who interupted you to talk to you on the ship, wow you are amazing with people, I work in retail and have to endure a lot of customer complaints, but after reading what you do and how you handle your guests, my problems I handle dont seem that bad. Did you get my supper club reservations and what do you recomend.Hoping to see you on Oct.4th. Keep up the great bloging.
Hi John, Please don’t let Mrs. M. get you down, she is someone not worthy of your polite comments, if I were you I would have told her, excuse me, but Heidi and I are on OUR time, if you have any complaints they can wait till we are back on the ship and back at work, even you two deserve time to yourselves! You should have told her no, I am sorry you cannot join us, we are having a quiet meditation time, and cannot be disturbed, if she didn’t like it, too bad!!!!!!!!! I hope you will not consider retiring because of rude people like her! Weren’t these people brought up with any manners? Sorry, I don’t mean to sound off, it just infuriates me how people act, and treat other people. She is a jerk, plain and simple! Well, I hope the rest of your weekend was enjoyable. No, Mike hasn’t run into Paris Hilton! HA! HA! Say hi to Heidi for me, can’t wait to see you guys in 3 mos. Linda & Mike
Good evening John. I sat here reading your blog thingy today as you related your story about Mrs. M. I have come to a conclusion. My husband and I are pastors of a church…your life as cruise director sounds soooo much like our life! Trying to enjoy some needed time off only to be rudely interrupted by someone who has to tell you what they think! Being ‘off the job’ never really happens. You might be technically ‘off’ but always must be ‘on call’. Some days you wonder why you subject yourself to such a life, then you meet people who make you realize why you do subject yourself to such a life! Most days, I love my life and wouldn’t trade it…especially when I see that I contributed to making someone else’s life better. I KNOW why I do what I do and wouldn’t be happy doing anything else. It is a calling! I learn to take the ‘nasty’ with the good! As I have spent these months reading the blog, I see that in you. You do your work because you love it! It is such a blessing to do something you love each day.
Have a good day Mr. Heald!
John, obviously Mrs. M was related to the lady from the St. Mark’s square incident…LOL! Don’t you just wonder about these folks? I kinda almost feel sorry for them. Heck, even my worst cruise was WAY better than my best day at work and I didn’t ask for “compensation.”
I can send you some canned spotted dick….but it’s loaded with carbs… YIKES! There’s a store three hours away I visit regularly that carries it. I’ll try and remember to bring some cans for the bloggers cruise and we can all have fun with it. Think customs will let it in?
Loved the pictures from Spain… and the tapas omelet sounds divine… May have to make one for hubby this week.
Loved the joke you dedicated to my friend Ms. Southerndreams. She’s a great lady!
)
Continue “behaving” (wink wink)
Hi John and Heidi!
First have to say how much I love the bloggy thingy! It is interesting hearing the goings on the ship and your interaction with the guest. This is where you are so good at what you do!! I felt your pain with the stories of the dinner club and now the Tappas ordeal. My friend you have alot of patience! I am glad at the end of the day you were able to see the difference you do and can make in peoples lives. God Bless Mr Horner I hope he
knows how thankful we are for our servicemen!
Have been an admirer of your funny stories since 2000 on the Triumph. This was our fourth cruise but first with Carnival. This is still one of our favorite cruises to remember. We laughed till we cried all week! In two weeks will be my 11th Carnival cruise going on the Legend. You got us hooked and Carnival has continued to deliver the best vacations.
I don’t know how you do all you do in one day and find time for the blog….. please know that it is appreciated and greatly enjoyed!!
Thank you!
Mary
Hi John, I am afraid I can one up you on your story!!! I was an ice skating director at a park district facility. One of my staff coach’s father was very ill. One of her students showed up for a private lesson that the coach forgot to cancel. When the parent of the child complained to me about the coach missing her child’s lesson, I explained about her father being ill and that they were pulling the plug on life support that very day. Her reply was ” I know all about her dad, but it’s my child’s birthday! How am I supposed to explain to her why her skating coach didn’t show up!” It still amazes me how selfish and self centered the world has become! I realize it’s a very small percentage but we only seem to remember the selfish and rude people we encounter. So my words of wisdom are “life is way to short to bother with them! Enjoy each day and remember the glass is always half full, not half empty!” Keep on smiling! Judi
john and heidi, i want to say that i went back to yesterday’s comments and read all the lovely kind words of encouragement and prayers said for me by your lovely readers. thanks everyone, it means so much to me. carnival people are the greatest!!! (and i don’t mean carney people! ha ha) anyway, thanks again y’all. (now if roscoe p cotrane would just give me my get out of jail free card….)
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
John, what do you mean saying “if I do win”? You are going to win if all us BLOGGERS get off our ….. and your blog long enough to go vote for you. As for Mrs M there is nothing to say but tell her good bye. John you’ve seen cabs with “NOT FOR HIRE” signs well CARNIVAL should understand and allow you to ware a hat saying OFF DUTY. Do these people follow you into a public restroom too. If they ever do I have an idea. Make sure the CHARMIN does not protect your hand 100%. Walk out of the stall with your hand out and give them a nice WARM handshake. Then say I’m sorry you did not let me finish and wash my hands first. But really I think a quick “Look me up on the ship and I will be glad to talk to you then” should be good enough. If CARNIVAL doesn’t think so then send them the bill for every cold meal you eat. John it’s to bad that because your job is 24/7 you think you should not have a cold one now and then.I would just love to see us in Ocho Rios having a cold one, smoking a good cigar and somebody come up to us with some BS. Heidi would be proud of me. You did say WE got a good lawyer. Sorry Lee Paul I’m not taking your job just a stand-in.
“BIG” ED
Hi John,
You need to get a sign to wear around you neck that says “I’m not working right now, Please address all concerns when I’m back on board the ship. Thank you.
This will solve your problems with your meals with Heidi being interupted.
And on the other side of the coin…………a very brave man who made a sacrifice for us all and paid a large price for himself and his family. We salute you and wish you all the best.
Now on to my question RE: Clay Caldwell’s question about the recent Cruise Critics thread about the incident on the Liberty. As you know Donna and I will be sailing on the Liberty in less than 3 weeks. I am not so concerned about another similar incident happening ( or should I?) but I am concerned about how you think Carnival should address the issue. John you have proven to all of us that you are the KING of diplomacy and I welcome your thoughts on how you personally would have addressed this type of behaviour on your ship. I am sure you have had your share of large groups on every ship in the Carnival fleet and if a passenger or passengers feel threatened or intimidated ,what procedures would be followed to remedy the situation?
I consider myself a seasoned cruiser and let most things slide when I’m on vacation but if a large group starts to dictate more than just dinner sitting times…………where will Carnival draw the line?
I fully realize that there are always two sides to the story but now it seems more than just the original passenger with the complaint are surfacing on the Cruise Critic message board and I’m sure that Carnival phones are ringing off the hook looking for explanations.
I look forward to your reply .
As always,
Smooth sailing my friend and give our best to Heidi.
Your friends from across the pond.
Brad and Donna Hodgson.
John and Heidi,
First I want to say that it makes me mad that people are so rude as to sit uninvited, while you are enjoying a private meal and complain to you about small things in life. I know it gives Americans a bad name when the sour apples come out.
One month ago tonight we were in Venice having the time of our life on a gondola ride under a full moon. Tomorrow I head back to work as a teacher’s aid assisting special needs children. Sometimes my job makes me aware of how truly blessed my family is. Our summer was fantastic and the trip was a dream come true. The scrapbook is done (I was a little obsessive but my goal was to get it done before school started) and the memories are very sweet thanks largely to you and the crew. Say hi to Demetru (hope I’m spelling it right) and Jose, our waiters in the Posh at table 423. You, Heidi, Demetru and Jose all have space in our wonderful memory book.
The hard work of all of you was truly appreciated by us so don’t let the small percent that can’t be happy get you down. Best wishes from your Minnesota friends (including your favorite MN Gopher, Allie). Hope to sail with you again.
Barb from Minnesota
PS Did you ever find time to listen to the Garrison Keillor CD? It might cheer you up.
Hi John,
On the supper club reservation thingy, is it possible to make reservations for groups (as in part of a group cruise) or only for those listed under a single booking number?
Also, someone was curious about the security of the reservation system, since it doesn’t seem to be a Carnival website and doesn’t seem to be a secure connection? Can any of your elves shed some light on that?
Glad to hear you are sharing the CDs. The more Zydes, the merrier!
Hope to get my airfare for the Splendor Inaugural cruise booked tomorrow with Frequent Flier miles and that will be one more thing out of the way.
I’ll be cruising this time next week!
Bonnie, aka southerndreams, I want to wish you the best of luck! Always have a positive outlook towards things to come. I am a nurse, and have seen many people beat the awful “C” word. One of my best friends had cancer in both breasts, and had a bilateral mastectomy and has now been cancer free for 2 years without radiation or chemo. It can also happen that way for you! We should all be grateful for every morning we wake up, and live every day to the fullest, because none of us knows what lies ahead. Hopefully all of our family of bloggers will be able to walk on the pink ribbon walk with you some day soon!! Sheryl
Hey John!
Just read your experience at TAPAS with the ‘mean old’ Mr and Mrs. “Whatchamacallit” who decided to follow you & Heidi into the restaurant just to complain. The nerve!!!!!! You are better than I am, cause I would have told them a few things in a foreign language myself!!! Ha! I can’t believe that some people have the audacity to do that. Carnival has impressed me time and again, and no I’m not in my 70’s and no I haven’t sailed with Holland America, but as far as I’m concerned, you guys can’t be beat. Don’t let people like that get to you – of course you’ve seen the best and the worst of people in your career, and this was one of the ‘worst’, but you and Heidi know, the good always outweighs the bad, right? So, John I’m gonna teach you and Heidi a term we use down here in the ‘South’ that will help you get through an experience like that should it ever happen again…. repeat after me…. and please try to feign a southern drawl when you do it….. ready?
I……. (you say it)
AIN’T…… (pronounced EYE-NT)
STUNTIN….. (this is actually pronounced with one-syllable, like STUN’N')
YALL……. (like YAWWWL)
All together now….. I AIN’T STUNTIN YALL!!
Translation? The “G” rated version is…. You don’t bother me.
I’ll tell you the “R” rated version one of these days in person when I sail on the Splendor. hahahaha
Love yall (yawwwwl)
Esmee K
Don’t you see all types of “personalities”. Fortunately, the good ones trump the bad ones. I haven’t posted in a while but have contintued to keep up on the blog and have told many others to check it out. Congrats on your 20 years. Congrats on getting Big Ed on the Bloggers Cruise. Congrats on your nomination for the industry award.
Loved the Queen Victoria blog. Would love to see you on the Travel Channel. I would vote for Alaska bloggers cruise in 2009. If everyone checked out Kathy Kroll’s Alaska pix they would want to go there too.
Can’t wait…this time in 2 weeks I’ll be sailing with you and Heidi.
Kind Regards.
mehyder
John,
Mrs M should be keel hauled for being such a annoying *&%$^! I wonder if she can hold her breath that long. Mr. M could probably use a drink and a cigar in seeing he probably hasn’t been allowed to pee in 50 years without telling her where he is going and why and for how long. Anyway, The interviews just keep getting better and better. Looking forward to a new blog from your wonderful wife who has the patience of a saint, just like you my friend. Yes once again the Diamond Princess is great, but the Triumph is the one that got me hooked on carnival, just something about that ship that is so special. On a personal note I sent roberto a email to forward to you with a comment from a certain carnival exec I’m sure you know. Yes my blog is growning in leaps and bounds but nothing thankfully like your. Hope you week gets better. Your friend (with a Aston Martin)
Kevin
Hello John,
Thought I would share some photos I found of the wildfires in Greece…this is terrible! Apparently flames were right next to the ruins at Olympia. Lets pray for the citizens of Athens, Katakolon and all others, affected by the fires…
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20450608/displaymode/1107/s/2/
Manuel
Hi John,
It would be great if all of these goodwill messages could find thier way into the Costa Maya’s local paper.
Also, we did see the annoucement of the cure for breast cancer project in yesterday’s blog. We agree that finding a cure for breast cancer is something we all need to support however in the States there are many oppurnities to donate money to this cause. In fact today alone we received two fundraising pieces in the mail. One listed 27 different locations throughout the United States where Race for the Cure will take place.
We find it more appealing to have the opportunity to join Carnival’s crew in supporting local concerns of the ports of call where the lack of infrastructure limits their ablity to do fundraising campaigns. Take care of each other. Lynn and Mike
Morning John,
Nou Camp. I so want to go there. Was there like some offseason tour given to the Freedom’s guests to visit the stadium, or are you allowed to just walk in and take pictures during certain hours when there’s no match going on?
Give my thanks to Mr. John Horner for his service for his country. The US/UK alliance has been pretty close lately, so I’d like to thank someone working with my country too for their dedication.
Hi John, I may have missed this in a previous blog but what is spotted dick? It sounds like a social disease.
We are pretty much packed and ready to go. We have an early evening Continental Airlines flight out of Newark NJ today.
See you tomorrow in Rome.
Jo and Dave
Good morning John! I just wanted to let you know how much I love your blog. I’m 28 years old and I’ve been cruising on Carnival for 8 years now. My husband and I have been on 4 Carnival cruises so far and are going on #5 in 26 days with 4 of our friends. Our cruise is on the Legend and we are anxiously awaiting Carnival’s announcement on which ports we will be going to (since Costa Maya and Belize are a little under the weather these days). I love cruising and most of my friends tell me that I should be a cruise travel agent or Carnival spokesperson. My friends call me “travel agent Meghan.” Anyway… thanks for giving us a peak into your life as a cruise director. Its so much fun learning about the cruise life I love so much
Roscoe, please send me the address of Mrs. M’s cell please. I would like to send her some sugar free jelly beans.
John, did you ever talk to the young boy who fell on Mt. Etna? I know you got him out of his room, but I missed the tale?
John and Heidi,
First of all, I want to let Southern Dreams, Brad, and Christie know that I am keeping them in my thoughts and prayers.
I also am extremely saddened over the wild fires in Greece. Pat, my friend who was there in mid July, and I were talking yesterday about how awful it was to see that entire area engulfed in flames. We mentioned that the Olympic Village was very close to Katakolon.
My familly found the people of Greece to be very welcoming when we were there in June. It is very sad to see them going through this difficult time.
Hi John!
I’m a friend of Lois G. and my grandmother (Empress Bee of the High Sea) is an avid cruiser. I found your blog thingy through her site. I’ve only been on one cruise (the Carnival Liberty) last Christmas, but it was the most fun I’ve ever had on a vacation. We are going again this Christmas, this time to the Virgin Islands! I’m so excited. This time around, my boyfriend, who is a Naval Flight Officer, will be joining us for our Christmas cruise!! I just cannot wait… I love cruises more than any other vacation. I can’t wait for my boyfriend to get to see the shows, meet the servers (my family loved our waitresses last year! we wanted to take them home with us!), see how adorable the towel animals are (my favorite last year was the monkey hanging from the ceiling). I also want him to get the crap scared out of him the first time he flushes the toilet (my sisters, who had cruised before, scared me last year, lol). And the food– oh how I miss the food!
Last year when our vacation was over, I actually cried. It may be childish, but it was just so much fun, and relaxing at the same time, I didn’t want to go back home where I had to work and it was cold… THAT was a good vacation!
And I want to say I love your blog thingy!!
Hey John… many thanks for taking the trouble to respond to my last comment… I honestly don’t know how you manage to keep on top of things!!!
Helen gets home from Cyprus on Thursday… I can’t wait to show her your message! She’s living with me at the moment due to a problematic house buying / selling thing.
Re my world cruise on the QV… any tips or assistance you can offer will be greatly appreciated. However, I know you have a busy schedule, so I’m not expecting you to put yourself out on this.
As for popping round for a coffee sometime… when you next come home we’d love to see you.
Oh… and I’m gonna have a go at this blog thing once the QV sets off in January!
Many thanks John
Kaz
John, I posted here last night but it must have went to outerspace instead of cyberspace. So I will try to remember what I said.
About Mrs “M” enough said I wont try to remember that. But I think even though you say your job is 24/7 people do have to give you your space. You should be allowed to say to people when your enjoying time in port “find me on the ship I will help you then” and if CARNIVAL doesn’t like it they should pay for your cold meals. You’ve seen cabs with signs saying “NOT FOR HIRE” well you should ware a hat that says “OFF DUTY”. John when the two of us are in Ocho Rios having a cold one and smoking a palm tree heaven forbid somebody do that. I would make Heidi proud. You did say WE have a good lawyer. Sorry Lee Paul I’m not taking over your job just a stand-in.
“BIG” ED
Stand-in for Lee Paul
Hello John,
No need to respond, I can truly feel your pain in the complaint department.
First to Brad and Chrissy, my prayers and deepest sympathy go out to you and your family.
John I’m so happy to hear that Carnival is helping the Susan G. Komen foundation, being a 2 time cancer survivor myself I am a supporter of any and all cancer foundations, especially the Susan G. Komen foundation.
Bonnie, you will stay in my prayers and I wish you all the best.
Take Care,
Inez
Hi John & Hiedi
Just arrived onboard and was delighted to hear your voice again John, welcoming me home.
Will have to catch up on some of the past blogs, have been traveling for about 5 days and not been keeping up.
But sure glad to be onboard and in decent Airconditioning. Im used to heat in Phoenix, but humidity her has been a killer for me.
Look forward to saying hi in person
Ken. (Cabin 7285)
John,
I am sure the Emerald Princess would gladly welcome you aboard to preview their ship for your bloggers.
We have only strayed twice from Carnival, the first time was awful (not a Carnival Corp. family member). I knew we had made a terrible mistake as soon as I arrived at port and saw this other ship and a glorious Carnival docked nearby. I cried as we sailed past it.
Last spring we strayed again and sailed on the Goldern Princess 10 day Mexican Riveria Cruise. We chose it because it sailed from San Francisco and under the Golden Gate Bridge, and also because it was a 10 day cruise. It was a grand experience, and we have wonderful memories of our cruise and the service was outstanding. We particularly enjoyed the Conservatory and especially at night – for a night swim. However, we did miss the “FUN SHIP” atmosphere and personnel. Two different style experiences, each with their own pleasures.
We will be on the bloggers cruise in January and are looking at another cruise to Hawaii. We are considering the 15 day from LA to Hawaii on the Diamond Princess. Since my dear hubby does occasionally suffer from sea sickness can you find out for us when is the calmest time of the year to sail from LA to Hawaii.
Also, we love the Carribean and hope the 09 Bloggers cruise will return again to that area, maybe a different route and more than 7 days, PLEASE. Florida ports are best for us too, since “same hubby” does not like to fly anymore.
Hi John
myself and family were on the Carnival freedom 17th Aug for twelve nights around the med. We all had a fantastic time not only because of the ports of call, it was the friendly entertainment staff. All the shows were of a excellent standard, including Mary !! Brilliant dancers, great entertainment. Stephanie, James, Adelle and all staff made us all very welcome, please say a huge thanks to them all , yourself included from shazer and family. Oh ps was Alan Atkins real?????? surely not????? wot a hoot!! see you soon