Good Morning from Izmir, TurkeyIt is now 11 am and it has been a very busy morning so far. We arrived into port where after yesterday’s call at Rhodes where we shared the town with six other ships, it was strange to see us being the only ship in the harbour (spelt correctly) today.

While Heidi was disembarking the guests on their tours to Ephesus, I was on the bridge at 9:30 am ready for a very important drill. This cruise we have a Safety and Environmental Audit and Inspection being carried out by Lloyds Of London. These gentlemen are here to make sure we are all meeting and exceeding the high standards of safety that they require. These inspectors check everything from top to bottom and are very thorough. This morning, we held a full muster drill for the crew only starting with a mock fire where our specially trained fire squads simulated fighting back the flames while other squads cooled the surrounding areas. Then, pretending that the fire was out of control, the order was given to sound the general Emergency Alarm and at that time the crew all proceed to their emergency stations.

Following this, the Lloyds inspectors want to see the operation of preparing and lowering the lifeboats as well as testing the crew to make sure every one of us knows what to do should a real emergency arise. I am happy to say that everything went well and I am sure everyone reading this will appreciate and find comfort in the knowledge that the crew passed the inspection with flying colours (spelt correctly).

Lloyds of London have inspectors based all over the world and are the best at what they do. They are part of the famous Lloyds Insurance Company whose headquarters in the heart of London. I used to work in the old building or “Room” as it was called. Nowadays, there is a brand new building, modern, shiny and in my opinion…..ugly. Anyway, as an 18-year-old, I ran a round the room getting things signed and sitting with the underwriters. It was like going back to the days of Dickens, you had to wear three-piece suits, the underwriters still wrote with quill pens and if you went to the wrong school (like me) then the chances of you progressing were limited.

I remember broking some TLO insurance for cruise ships………TLO, stands for Total Loss Only and I wish I could remember the names of the ships that I used to ask the underwriters to insure…………..maybe it was one of the old Carnival ships, I just can’t remember. I do remember my Director used to give me the tough jobs including getting the underwriters to sign a line (insurance) on tankers and cargo ships who were sailing in the Gulf. Now remember, this was during the Iran and Iraq war when they were knocking the stuffing out of each other…..needless to say, it was never easy to get the underwriters to insure anything in that area and I used to leave the room having been rejected nearly as much at work as Alan and I were by girls.

So …………….I quit and here I am working with Lloyds Inspectors…………………it’s a funny old world.

What else, well the International guests seem to be settling in. I asked someone to find out what Costa does for their many International (should that word have a capital I?) Anyway, I wanted to find out what they did and that meant I needed to unleash someone who could find out the recipe they use on the wonderful ships of Costa.

Who could find this information out…………………well there was really only one person for the job.

Some say that this person has the power to make themselves invisible and that they have one red eye and one green eye, all we know is that they are called PA 007 and here is what they have discovered.

John, They structure their entertainment differently as their customers are mostly Italian, French, and Spanish. Everything is done in five languages (Italian is the first language) including the Cruise Director’s very short intro even the Captain’s talk in his cocktail party. The main shows focus on music, acts are visual (no comedians) they have jugglers or magic shows etc. There is a lot of focus on themed parties and dancing. The cruise staff are high energy and are called “animators” — they create and energize the parties. All this works well with most nationalities but not so well with Middle Americans – Latin Americans love it. That’s what I heard from a colleague at Costa and I hope this helps.

I really enjoyed my Train Spotting conference. I am very excited because I am going bowling tonight and then to Taco Bell afterwards, should be a great night. Congratulations on getting to 500,000 recorded hits on the Blog.

PA007 at your service.

Here are today’s Photos of Ephesus as taken by one of the Dancers, Richard…………..thanks mate

1. Looking down on the Grand Library

2. The spot where St. Paul The Apostle Preached His letters To the Corinthians

3. The Entrance to the Emperor’s Baths.

4. The Amphitheatre

Here the letters from today’s IN THEIR OWN WORDS SECTION.

Starting with this comment that was sent to me via the Purser’s office
6266 Gil Calvo (From Spain) – - To much and loud music
The following comment card was received:
Too much music and so high. This is not a fun ship, is a crazy ship. Music is ok but half an hour or one hour. Not always. SILENCE PLEASE!
OK, SSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHH, I AM WHISPERING………………….HERE ARE THE REST OF THE LETTERS SLAPPED ON VERY QUIETLY

OH, BY THE WAY, HERE IS THE PRESS RELEASE ABOUT OUR 500,000 HITS……………..BRILLIANTLY WRITTEN BY OUR PR DEPARTMENT

Now, about today’s Q and A…………on my desk I have 98 comments to answer and that’s not including the ones from yesterday’s blog thingy. Therefore, with your kind permission I am going to answer the ones that have a direct question if that is OK with you. I will get back to answering everyone’s comments again tomorrow I promise but as time is short today with shows, past guest parties and the continuing safety drills and inspections, I will just answer certain ones today.

I want to start thought by saying thank you to each and every one of you who took the time to congratulate me on my 20-year anniversary yesterday. Your sincere words meant that yesterday was a special day for me. I would love to reply to each and every one of you but time does not allow for this today so please except this group thank you from Heidi and I.

Some people asked if I really was getting an Aston Martin as I mentioned in the blog. ………NO, that was wishful thinking on my part. I belive though that in the weeks or months to come I will receive a beautiful pin with a diamond on it which I shall wear with pride……………….but if they get me an Aston, well that’s fine as well

Anyway, here are some of your questions answered.

GREG BALSASARRI – Just wanted to make sure Greg that when you mentioned dining you meant the regular dining room and not the Supper Club. Please let me know. Thanks mate.
BIG ED – I know we have joked over the past few months and had lots of fun doing it but on a serious note, I know it took a lot for you and Mrs. Big Ed to change your cruise plans and for that I will be forever grateful. You are right though, this will be an unforgettable cruise and over the next few weeks we can discuss the plans for this great adventure. Thanks again mate, you will not regret it.
LINDA HERNACKI – Hello Linda. You asked about plans for a second bloggers cruise. There will indeed be one and soon, not yet, but soon I will be taking a poll on when and where people like you would like that to be. For now, I will say have a great day and my best as always to you and my mate Mike.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Hello carol, you asked me what ship I used to work in the bar department on. Well, it was Holiday, Jubilee, Celebration and The Carnivale. In fact, have a look at the end of the blog and you will see what was what back then. I am sure our paths crossed and I hope they will again.
RICHARD D – I wanted to drop you a line because I remember when you and the family had to leave the ship suddenly in Greece and I always wondered how you all were. I hope everything is OK now and Heidi and I send our best to you and your family. Bedankt and Doooeeee.
LUV CRUISIN – Hello, I see you are having problems matching the answers to the questions in these sessions. It is really hard for me and I do try to kind of repeat the question when I can. However, your idea to mention which blog I am answering questions from is a good idea and one I shall try and adopt starting tomorrow. I wish I could do so now but I have such a pile on my desk I have no idea myself. Let’s see if this helps. All the best and thanks for the great idea.
ROCHELLE – You asked for photos of crew areas and indeed there are some I will take for you and slap on the blog. Look out for these very soon and thanks for catching up on the blogs. All the best and please keep reading the blog thingy.
BRYAN – Your question is about how I plan the Welcome aboard show…………well, I really don’t. I have three or four versions in my pocket and after 5 minutes of being on stage I pretty much know what version I am going to use. This week for example I went with the shorter show as I new I had a lot of people who may have not understood the verbal humour I was performing and instead switched to making the guests the stars. I was lucky with the people I picked and as always if the guest smiles and looks you in the eye when you are choosing volunteers then usually they will be fun on stage. Apart from that, I just take whatever is thrown at me and see what happens. Hope that answers your question and hopefully soon you will be seeing the show for yourself. Thanks mate.
DAYLE WITH A Y – I see that you say you never posted before so I wanted to say thank you to you for reading the blog since the beginning. I hope you will slap on a question when you need anything as I am here for you. Cheers mate.
EVA B – when I find myself in times of trouble mother Mary comes to me, speaking words of wisdom Eva B……………sorry, I have been listening to the Fab Four’s music tonight and your name prompted me to start singing the song. Anyway, you asked if I would be on the Carnival Splendor for its South America cruise. At this time I still do not know and I am waiting for Roger Blum and Chris Prideaux to give me the word……………but, I think so. Regardless, I see that you have booked the Brazilian portion of the cruise and that is going to be a cruise to remember forever regardless if I am there or not so congratulations. Thanks for reading the blog and maybe………….I will see you in Rio.
MELISSASNEU – Thanks for the most wonderful words about the blog thingy. I see you are taking a cruise with me in September so let me answer your questions.
1. Can You take Your Own Suitcase Off……………Yes, if you would like you can keep your bags inside your cabin and leave the vessel anytime from 6 am – 9 am.
2. What Time Do I Need To Be Off The Ship………….as mentioned above, last call is usually at 9 am. Hope this helps in making your plans so please let me know if I can help further. See you in September and all the best.
GODWIN SULTANA AND IRENE VELLA – First of all I am glad to hear that you had such a wonderful time last week onboard but I am very sad lo learn you lost a bag on the way back. I checked with the front desk and they have a record of the tour operator finding a bag on Blue 27 so that could be yours. You need to call our Miami Office – Guest Relations on 305 – 599 – 2600 and describe the bag so you can claim it. Hopefully, it will be yours especially as it contains all your photos. Please let me know how you get on and let me know if I can be of any further help. Mr Sultana, I hope I have raisen your hopes…………raisen…………a little Sultana humour there:) Look forward to hearing from you.
SEWING NUT – thank you for slapping on the latest information on dress codes in the Vatican, I found that very useful. I will see you soon and as I say to all Bloggers, please leave me a note when you arrive so I can call and say hello. Have a safe flight and see you soon.
LINDA THE MOUSE – Heidi will honour your request and slap on a new blog very soon. However, like most celebrations, birthdays, anniversaries etc, there is little time to celebrate as there is work to be done. Last night we really did not celebrate at all but reading all the special mentions from my friends in blog land have really made me feel special……….I will write more about that in a minute. So, look forward to another blog by Heidi soon and many thanks as always for your kind words.
SHARON AND JEFF – Ahhhhhhhhhh, the memories, some of which I will be writing about in a moment. You asked if I will be on the Splendor, just in case you did not read my posting above here it is again for you. At this time I still do not know and I am waiting for Roger Blum and Chris Prideaux to give me the word……………but, I think so. Regardless, I see that you have booked the Brazilian portion of the cruise and that is going to be a cruise to remember forever regardless if I am there or not so congratulations. Thanks for reading the blog and maybe………….I will see you in Rio. So Sharon and Jeff, I hope we get to have some Brazilian fun together………….Heidi just laughed because she is reading over my shoulder and just told me that apparently a Brazilian…….well…………….you know………..anyway, I had better stop now as I could end up in the dog house………..that was a close shave
TERRI 910 – Hello Terri, how are you. You asked me an interesting question. Do I ever reflect on where my life has taken me? Normally the answer to this would be “no.” I am not really a deep thinker and usually I tend to live for the day and tomorrow and not the past. However, one cannot help reflecting on what has happened to me in the last 20 years and more recently since March and the birth of our baby blog. All I can say is that I am very lucky and maybe when I stop working for Carnival on board ships then I will have time to reflect. One thing is for certain, when I look back in the past, I think, what the hell was I wearing?? All the best to you and Larry.
DEB ROWE – Congratulations on getting your tickets and very soon you will be walking up the gangway. Do you need any other questions answered before you sail? You asked if they have green tea with mint on board. Yes, we do, this tea is available for you at the Viennese Café. Look forward to seeing you in a couple of weeks. Have a safe journey.
LYNN AND MIKE SAGARA – I had to respond to your comment as I remember meeting you and your family like it was yesterday. You asked if you could attach a photo to the blog message. I have asked Roberto to answer this for me as basically I haven’t a Scooby Doo. Thank you for the wonderful memories and my sincere best wishes to you and your family.
WILL – I just noticed that I celebrated my 20th anniversary with your parents yesterday. Therefore, I wanted to pause and wish them many more happy years together. All the best.
LAUREN – Thank you for mentioning Gordon Ramsey’s restaurant. Try the risotto. I love the risotto reference. I actually have a very good friend who is considered the world’s expert in risotto and she enjoys giving her opinion to the chef on each recipe. Hopefully in the winter they will join us so we can take them to dinner at his restaurant in London. Just wanted to say thank you for everything you wrote.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – What a fantastic posting and sorry that you were getting teary – eyed and you mentioned PMS, which in my house stands for Permanent …….. That’s me, back living with the dogs. Cheers Carol, all the best.
EWAGMA – It won’t be long before we are all together on the Carnival Splendor. You asked if we will get to see the inaugural ceremony. Certainly, if I have anything to do with it, you will. When we did this on the Carnival Legend, the ceremony was on the pier and all the guests were able to look over the side of the ship and watch. In my opinion, guests who have chosen the sail on the inaugural cruise deserve to be part of this special occasion. You also asked if I would be commenting on Shore Excursions. Indeed I will. I will be traveling to all the ports in the first week of April and directly after that I will be posting my comments. I will also give daily brief updates using my new RASBERRY E-MAIL MACHINE, which Roger Blum is sending me soon. See you in 300 and something days…
THAIS & FABIAN – Hartelijk dank voor de lieve woorden vanuit Nederland. Het allerbeste voor jullie en de hele familie!
PATRICIA – I had to reply to you. I saw the words I HAVE NEVER SAILED ON CARNIVAL. Now, I see you love the blog, so what can I do to persuade you to come and see us and experience a Fun Ship cruise? Let me be your guide.
JOHN AND SUSAN IN FRISCO – How kind for you to mention sugar-free candy. It’s very nice of you to offer and any kind will do as my jet pack needs constant refueling. All the best to you both.

I feel very guilty not answering all 100+ comments. Please forgive me as I know I normally answer every single one but the next few days I am going to be very busy here and I did not want too long to go by without posting another blog. I must say, however, that I read each and every comment. So many of you have reminded me just why I enjoy my job so very much and I promise you I will continue to be here for each and every one of you. Thank you for your thoughts, congratulations and heartfelt words which I have just finished reading. On the next blog I will return to answer each and every comment but for now please accept this communal Thank You which is said from the bottom of my heart and on behalf of Heidi.

Here is today’s interview featuring a wonderful Cruise Director from Liverpool. He has been with us for a long time and is someone I have always looked up to. He has a brilliant voice and is a marvelous entertainer. Here is my mate Lenny Halliday.

1. Please can you tell us about your career with Carnival so far? How did you start and when? Originally, I came out on ships in 1982 as a singer/guitarist on a little ship called the Scotia Prince in Portland Maine. Then a chance encounter in Miami with entertainment manager, Arthur Ashton, (a fellow Liverpudlian, and a performer in the Beatles era) saw me work briefly with Paquet Cruises and a month on the Mardi Gras with the legendary Gary Hunter, before returning to the Scotia Prince as Cruise Director just one year later. After 8 years sailing out of Portland Maine, my wife and I decided to get some sunshine again in Miami and Carnival were the team to play for. Also, coming from Liverpool, it seemed inevitable that I would be in the entertainment business. Worked on 19 of the Fun ships so far and looking forward to more to come.

2. What ship are you currently on and what is its itinerary? Right now I’m on the Celebration out of Jacksonville, then over to the Miracle in September out of NY, and the Triumph for Christmas out of Miami. You get around a bit doing this gig! The Celebration sails out of Jacksonville, to the Bahamas and Key West, four and 5-day cruises.

3.Please can you pick two excursions from each port and tell us why you recommend them so much? In Key West, the Catamaran Snorkel Tour, as this is the only way to see the only living coral reef around the mainland USA. One of the six walking tours, such as the Pub Crawl or Tastes of KW. For Nassau the trip over to Atlantis resort with its massive outdoor aquarium, is great for the whole family, and it looks as though the resort will be opening up its beach facilities to our guests very soon. This has only been available to their own Atlantis guests until now. Kayaking is the fastest growing water sport in the world right now, and is a great day for all family members to bond. Swimming with the Dolphins.

4.What are your favorite activities or events that you host and why? The Talent shows, in their various forms around the fleet, have always been a favorite, as it not only gives you the opportunity of making several of our guests into stars, but it is different every cruise, for obvious reasons. All the live stuff that we do, whether walk-about interviews or quizzes live on TV. Again it gives us the chance to go one on one with our guests, rather than addressing them from the confinements of a stage.

5. Fill in the blank please……………..People should sail on the Celebration because It’s the best vacation in the world, with the friendliest service staff you’ll ever encounter

6. What do you enjoy most about being a Cruise Director? Providing, watching and being involved in the fun that we provide our guests, with a young enthusiastic staff. It keeps you young, and on your toes. The challenges are different every day. Variety is the spice and all that. Also, reading John’s blog, and touching base with the other (younger!!) Cruise Directors.

7. Share your favorite story with us that involve our guests and your job? Over 17 years there are soooo many, but the guests who we all see, coming back time and time again, and often because you are the Cruise Director, is always a big thrill. However, the most unlikely occurrence was meeting a fellow cruise director for the first time, (Greg Kneale – now retired from CCL) in 1996, and finding out that his father was my father’s best man in 1950. They had since lost contact, but after a few phone calls, they are both now reunited army buddies, who keep in touch with each other regularly.

8. List your three favorite ports you have visited? Barbados, Maui, Skagway. There’s variety for you!

9. Name three ports you would really like to see that you have never been to? Barcelona (been there but not as a CD), Venice (Been there too but not on a ship) and Sydney (not been there at all, but I have relatives “Darn Onder.”)

10. Finally, if you could introduce on stage any star, alive or not who would it be and why? Paul McCartney or John Lennon. Just to share the stage, play some guitar and vocals with them, as without their inspiration to the kids of Liverpool in the 1960s, I probably would not be here right now. By the way, give peace a chance!

Just before I finish talking about the past, I thought I would share these photos with you. These are rated R for ridiculously dressed, and what the heck was that gold watch?

Me as an Asst. bar Manager on the Jubilee – 1988

Me, Captain Spisa, My sister Suzanne and her husband Paul

Me, Captain Catugno and his family in 1992 on the Fantasy

Me and my favorite entertainer Michael Andrew from the Ecstasy in 1993 or 1994 or 1995

To finish, I want to tell you about our trip to Newfoundland as I see we have some people from there. This took place on the transatlantic crossing on board the Carnival Leg-end. We were on our way to St. John’s and were due to arrive at 9 am in the morning. Unfortunately at 6 pm the night before our arrival I was informed that we had a very sick guest who we needed to get ashore as quick as possible. Captain Cupisti who is a wonderful man, took the ship to full speed and informed me that we would be arriving at 11 pm that evening. As usual, I went down to the infirmary and visited with the family of the guest. They were very worried but I promised them that all would be well and we continued on to Newfoundland. At 10:30 pm I went to the bridge for our arrival and to this day, we have never experienced an arrival like this one. It was cold, foggy and damp as we sailed between the two large rock formations that can be found at the entrance to St. John’s. They have a name but at this time I can’t remember. They are full of puffins and sea birds and are quite a sight.

However, this was not the reason the entrance was so memorable. Back in 2003 when we visited on the Leg End a ship at this size had never called there before. As we sailed in through the fog we began to see the headlights of hundreds and hundreds of cars and trucks and as we sailed toward the pier we saw that it was lined with literally a thousand people. Word had gotten out through the local television station and local radio that we were coming in that evening. It seemed that the entire town was there to welcome us. They were cheering, applauding and even singing. Through all of this, the first thing we had to do was disembark our poor guest who needed attention. As he was taken off in a stretcher an amazing thing happened. We could hear the singing of Amazing Grace….it was quite extraordinary.

The guests were waiving and people on the pier were singing and shouting and some were doing the strangest thing I’d ever seen. They were cooking out of the back of their trucks on small BBQ’s; I have never seen this before. The next day the Captain, Hotel Director Shahnaz and I were guests of honor at a huge parade given on the pier. It was a traditional Canadian parade with musketeers and soldiers who reenacted the wars of independence. After this, I had to give a speech and was given the key to the city which sits proudly in my Dad’s office back home. It was a great parade, we were there for 2 hours and I really appreciated the honor. ……actually, all I wanted to do was eat a Tim Horton’s doughnut and go to bed.

It is one of my many treasured memories and I have many more which I look forward to sharing with you. Maybe not for another 20 years but certainly a while longer.

Thank you again for making this a very special day for me and Heidi and as always we wish you and all your loved ones continued happiness.

Good Night.

Your friends,

John & Heidi

Hello Bloggers!! Roberto here, again. I just got word that John has been nominated for the Seatrade Insider “Sea-Going Employee of the Year 2007″. I know you guys are huge fans of John; what better way to show your appreciation than to vote for him! Simply click on this link and vote; I know John will appreciate it.

Welcome to Rhodes, Greece where there are seven cruise ships docked here at the old town. The only one from our family is the AIDA, the rest are ships that I am not familiar with which are part of smaller Greek lines. Heidi is downstairs in the main lounge organizing the debarkation of the tours and I though I would therefore start today’s blog thingy.Yesterday was a long day and night and I didn’t get to bed until 12:30 am which because we are put the clocks forward one hour it meant that by the time my head touched the pillow it was 1:30 am. Anyway, it was a tale of two sittings fro the shows last night. Most of the 1st show’s audience were made up of American and Canadian guests whose response to the New Orleans tribute show The Big Easy was enthusiastic and resulted in a prolonged standing ovation and rampant singing of the finales “When The Saints Go Marching In.”

Now, the second sitting (and just a note for my friend, no, I am not whining again) was made up of our International guests who of course still enjoyed the show but their response was….. …..well………..more measured and refined. This has got me thinking, I wonder how Costa Cruises manages to entertain guests from so many countries. I wonder if I could interview someone from there, let me see what can be done.

Now, onto another subject and that is everyone’s favorite………..smoking. The three smoking bars and lounges we have are much busier than usual and that is obviously again due to the International count being so high. Last night, I was in the cigar bar and every seat and corner was taken, most unusual for that time of night. I was talking to a Russian guest called Vasily who I saw smoking a big Cuban cigar. We got talking (he spoke perfect English) and he told me that he owned a …………….are you ready……………a Kentucky Fried Chicken and a Pizza Hut franchise in Moscow.

Apparently KFC is more popular than pizza there by the way. Anyway, we chatted for a while and he told me the amazing fact that 6 in ten people smoke in Russia. Now, I do not know what the ratio is in the States, Canada or the UK but that does seem very high. Anyway, Vasily told me that he and his wife and son were having the greatest time and though the ship and the show were spectacular. It was a real feel good conversation and it was just what I needed.

Rogair from Paris is so famous that kids are having photos with him and trying to talk Fenchglish, he is having the time of his life…………thank goodness as I was worried that joke may backfire.

The only negative note last night was when a large group of Italians accosted me at the formal party and really were very rude. They complained that the announcements and shows were not in Italian. There was the usual hand waving and gestures which is part of the Italian way of speaking of course and eventually they left. The strange thing was, they complained to me in English!

Here are today’s photos which Heidi took during a solo shopping trip. She came back with some great photos but it cost me a fortune as she bought a bag by a company called MiuMiu……bloody hell, it’s the same price as an Aston Martin ! Anyway, here are the most expensive photos in the world.

1. THE CARNIVAL FREEDOM IN RHODES, GREECE

2. RHODES OLD TOWN………WISH SHE HAD BOUGH A SPONGE INSTEAD OF THE BAG

3. RHODES OLD TOWN PART 2

4. A BUSY DAY IN PORT WITH SEVEN SHIPS IN.

5. HEIDI’S MASTERPIECE AND THE PRICE OF A BAG

Here are today’s letters including two from Kids Corner, one of which has turned me into a Godzilla like creature capable of devouring whole cruise ships. Also, one from Fueng Turtle, an avid blogger who has lost her luggage……….I am doing my best to look after her.

Q & A time.

BIG ED – Morning mate. I have not had time to look at the replies to yesterday’s blog thingy but hopefully now word is out that you are cruising on the Bloggers Cruise. Therefore, I have to ask, what changed your mind? Yes, you are correct that Roberto has now made an easy to complete link thingy for the Supper Club. This means you just complete it, press submit and Roberto will send it to me and I will make the reservations through the fleet. It basically saves time for me in writing out extra e-mails…………basically, I am lazy. Now, as for Spa reservations, that may need more time and its hard for me to make appointments because I know so little about massages, facials etc……….I still use soap on a rope. Anyway, there are no restrictions on where this blog can go next and as long as I can provide a service for the guests I am happy.
DEBRA HEHN – Sorry Debbie, just grinning a bit because I see that after writing to just above about using the Supper Club form etc the next posting I read is one from you asking for……………a supper club reservation. If people prefer to do it this way, that’s fine, whatever you all feel is best for you. Debra, your reservation in the supper club has been confirmed………….try the French Onion Soup. Thanks Debra and I will see you soon.
STEVE J. GARROD – hello mate. I will be as requested hosting an interview with someone from Holland America Line very soon. Your web site looks great. Hope things are going well for you over there and our best regards to you and everyone at HAL.
HEIDI – BETH AND THE 7 PIXELS – I am happy to hear that you are enjoying the interviews with the Cruise Directors, there is another coming up in a moment. The reason I am doing these guest spots is so that guests can see who will be on the ship when they cruise and get a feel for the Cruise Director before boarding. I have read on Cruise Critic recently that some people say the do not care who the CD is and that a CD makes no difference to their cruise. That is understandable but I know for a lot of people a good CD can indeed be the difference between a good cruise and a great cruise……….anybody agree? So, our best to you and your ever-growing family and I hope the three of you will see the two of us soon.
INDYGIRL – Thank you for catching up on the blogs and also for your kind words about the 500,000 slaps. Now, I know that when you have enjoyed cruising as much as you have and then you invite friends for the next one who have NEVER cruised before, it can be a little nerve-racking. It is natural that you want them to have the best time and welcome them to your world of carnival fun vacations. Therefore, in answer to your question about suggestions on what to do, let me say this. I do recommend the Carnival Freedom in the Caribbean as you mentioned. Both the Eastern and Western Caribbean are fantastic so have a look at the www.carnival.com website, click on Carnival Freedom and see what ports you like best. You mentioned that you are in your 20s so I think the Western Caribbean of Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Jamaica will be the most fun for you. Again, have a read through and start asking me questions if that helps at all. I hope to be onboard in March and if I am I look forward to meeting you and your friends who will be, like you, hooked on cruising with Carnival. I remain at your service. Cheers.
LEASA – Thank you so much for your kind words but I am sorry I made you cry with Jess’s story. She is one person I intend to stay in contact with for as long as I can as she really did touch my heart. I am also happy to know that you have promised to keep reading the blog for as long as possible and knowledge like that keeps me going during the long lonely days at the keyboard. You asked if I am spending enough time with Heidi. Probably not……………but I will make sure I do in the days to come because I have no wish or desire to back in the dog house again. Anyway, thanks for the posting and your kind words mean a lot to us both.
LINDA HERNACKI – How are you both? It seems a lot of people are buying Bloggers T Shirts and I am so grateful, not because I am getting a single penny for them, really I am not but because it means people really do love this blog thingy enough to spend their hard-earned money on something with my name on it. You asked me how much sleep I get every night. Well, sometimes it’s as little as five hours and sometimes as much as seven or eight hours, it just depends on the circumstances. If I have eaten the Jelly Beans I get very little sleep as the couch really is not that comfortable. The diet is going OK and as always I thank you for your unconditional support of the blog thingy and your friendship towards Heidi and me. My best to Mike and his bulbs.
TOM AND JANE – Thank you so much for buying the T Shirts and I am truly amazed at how popular they are. I will put some Fish and Chips in an envelope and mail it to you. …………I really wish I could. You have to come to the Carnival Splendor and spend a few days in the UK first and try real British Fish and Chips. Before the days of Public Health you used to get your fish and chips wrapped in newspaper. I especially enjoyed this as a lad if mine were wrapped in Page 3 of the SUN Newspaper……..suggest you Google that one. I am truly appreciative of your kind words and as requested, I will keep on blogging.
JABEE – Congratulations on booking the New Year’s cruise on the Carnival Freedom. Unfortunately I will be on vacation on that time but please know that celebrating New Year’s Eve on board a Carnival ship is an unforgettable way to bring in the New Year.
You asked me about a Cruise Critic meet and greet at 11:00am on Sunday morning. I think that is a very good time to meet and may I suggest you contact the Groups Coordinator whose name is Charlene on embarkation day and ask for a lounge to meet. This will not be a problem and is free of charge. I suggest you meet in the piano bar which is called Scott’s. Todd will be your Cruise Director and he will provide you with the best cruise ever. I hope you and your Cruise Critic friends are well and Happy New Year.
JO MYERLY – You asked for a recommendation in Naples except Pompeii which you have done. This is an easy question to answer, I would spend some time in Sorrento and the Amalfi coast. These are beautiful areas, the shopping is wonderful and you leave feeling very romantic. Dave will be happy ) I love the island of Capri, but I think Sorrento is the way to go. Hope this helps and the best to you both.
KICIASKI – Hello Linda & George. You are absolutely correct that Jess is a very special girl and I shall never forget her. Thank you for the information that Mah jong can cause seizures. Certainly I nearly had one trying to find the damn board. Thank you for this, it really made me smile. I still look out on the front row and expect to see you and George there.
KEVIN – Sounds like the pizza classes were fun. I have been thinking about adding a pizza class to one of the tours in Naples which along with our new cooking tour in the south of France would be a great addition. Thank you again for the beautiful story about Brian. It touched a lot of people. Thank you Kevin and this is the first posting we have not mentioned the word Aston Martin……………….oops! I do see that you mentioned you have send me some refueling for my jet pack. I am very excited to hear this and as soon as it is recharged I will dedicate the first explosion to you. I still do not know my schedule for the rest of the year, although I do know I will be joining the Carnival Splendor in May and will remain on board through to December. After that, who knows? You asked about AJ or CZJ. No news on AJ at the moment and I am going to give it a few more days and Carnival people are following up on our request. I hear nothing, then of course I shall use the power of the blog which is enough to persuade Carnival that the gorgeous Catherine is the right choice. If she says: “No,” third choice is my friend Alan in a dress. Thank you for sending the jet fuel and all the best.
UNCLE DOUG – Thank you for your suggestions for who should play who in JOHN’S HEALD’S BLOG – THE MOVIE. I particularly liked the role of Steve Martin to play PA007. It’s very interesting that everyone is guessing that PA 007 is a “he.” I am not saying “he” isn’t or that “she” is, but certainly Steve Martin would be a good choice, although he is a little pale, compared to the real PA 007. I am glad that Fish & Chips has made the transition across the Atlantic Ocean. It’s certainly one of my old time favorite foods. I used to have two gold fish. I called them “Number one” and “Number two”, so if one died, I’d still have two. My best to you in Texas.
BIG ED – Great movie cast list, Heidi is extremely happy with you choosing AJ to play her. Does that mean tonight I get to sleep with Angelina Jolie? Now you have PA 007 played by something or someone called Monk, who or what is a Monk? I know a monk is someone who lives in a monastery and is celibate and has taken a vow of silence. I have to tell you that none of these apply to the real PA 007, although, I can picture PA 007 dressed as a monk. Great cast list and all we need to do now is bankroll the movie. As the assistant to the Cruise Director, that is your job.
SUSAN B – Very funny. Brad Pitt, I really like that one, Angelina Jolie? That’s twice she has been chosen to play Heidi. The only one you are way out on is Alan, Tom Cruise is far too handsome or so Heidi says. I am very sorry that your dad has decided along with your husband that they are too cheap to go to the Supper Club. I agree that the food is brilliant in the dining room, but you will be celebrating your 25th anniversary and a visit to the Supper Club would really make it extra special. Tell you what, book the Supper Club and I will pay for two bottles of champagne for you to celebrate with. What do you say? Heidi has been very busy at work and helping me with my thingy and my blog ) However, she promises she will write another blog soon.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – It seems to me that because of my blog your computer has been in the wars. It seems to be pelted with liquids as you laugh, spray and spill. It has been a little frustration so far, knowing that half the ship does not understand me, but I am doing my best to try and involve them as much as I can. I am glad you are enjoying the photos and the interviews with the Cruise Directors and as requested, I will be hosting an interview with the CD of the Imagination soon. You mentioned your sister’s trip on the Carnival Pride and I will be featuring the Cruise Director of that ship very soon. Thank you for your recommendation on the
MISLAMOYA Tour. I am sure this is one that the CD will recommend also. Thank you also for your recommendation for another big screen movie. I can see John Cleese wearing those stockings and suspenders in my mind and it’s making me smile. More interviews will be forthcoming, including some with the people that you mentioned. The great thing about this blog is that so far, the ideas to keep it interesting are still flowing. I just read your choices for the bloggers movie cast and Heidi is very happy at your choice of Heidi Klum. Apparently, Heidi says she is married to a seal……..very strange. My best regards to you as always and also my deepest sympathies to your computer.
CANUCK CRUISER – Your Supper Club reservation has been confirmed and I am sure it would be very special. You asked about formal nights on the 8-day cruise and yes, there are eight formal nights on the first and the second-to-last sea days. This means the night you have booked your Supper Club reservation is a Non-formal night. One day I will indeed send a list of my favorite questions I have been asked. I think these are pretty much generic questions as a lot of Cruise Directors report being asked similar questions. Very interesting that you should say ditch AJ and go for CZJ because she is more talented. I agree CZJ is very talented although AJ has a couple of things that really make her stand out. I wish you could have seen the look Heidi just gave me. Thank you very much for all your kind words and a special thank you for mentioning Alan and as you have called him Sr. Alan, the ugly. You obviously have met him. Hope all is well in Canada and thank you for slapping on a great posting.
NICO R – Hello Nico. I am glad you are enjoying the blog thingy. You asked if Carnival offers contract terms that are less than 6-9 months as I see that you are interested in working on board during summer recess from University. This depends on what position you are looking to hold on board so why don’t you send me some more information and let me see if I can help you. It’s very interesting what you told me about the cruise line that rhymes with boil (very funny) and I was surprised to say the least. Here at Carnival, tips are place on your Sail & Sign card and at the end of your cruise they are paid directly to your waiter and stateroom steward.
They will then give a percentage to their assistants. Within the dining room and the housekeeping department, tips are not pooled. I believe this is the best way and it seems that crewmembers prefer this as well. Why base what you earn on the service someone else gives, makes no sense.
Hope all is well with you at University and I will await your info.
DWA 76 – Hello Mate. It is fun having Alan here and also great to hear from you. Risa was on the Celebration for a long time and I am sure she would have been your Cruise Director when you were on board. Glad you are enjoying the blog and you correct, the Carnival Splendor is a real beauty.
I&MsMom – Yep, Carnival Splendor, your new home awaits you. She is going to be beautiful and a new class of ship for us which is always very exciting. See you in Dover and make sure you have Fish & Chips before you board.
BILL(ZYDECO CRUISER) – You asked if both sides of the Carnival Splendor are going to look the same? Have you been at the Bushwackers again? Tell you what, sail on the Carnival Splendor and I will take you ashore in Dover and buy you Fish & Chips. Let me know as soon as you can about the Fantasy. Once again, we have ended up talking about food. What a shocker.
JEFF STEVENSON – Boy, did you pick the wrong week to read the blog. Please don’t worry, everybody will love your show and I am sure that you will really enjoy performing on board. It will be interesting if afterwards you can slap on a posting saying how you enjoyed your time performing on this ship. See you in Athens mate and maybe during the flight you could learn French, Italian, German, Dutch, Spanish, Arabic and American.
POET LAUREATE JTODDINMAN – Another masterpiece, especially the line “And John will wear the pants.” How long have you had this talent? Have you considered writing a book of love sonnets? Seriously, I know you must put a lot of work into these and we are all very grateful.
BIG ED IS COMING ON THE BLOGGERS CRUISE HIP HIP HIP HOORAY
HE WILL SAIL WITH HEIDI, ME AND MY MATE ALAN
THE ONLY PROBLEM WITH BOTH OF US HERE, IS HOW MUCH THE SHIP WILL WEIGH
HEIDI WILL DO THE WASHING, EVEN BIG ED’S DRAWERS
SHE MAY WEAR A SURGICAL MASK BUT IT’S ALL FOR A VERY GOOD CAUSE
IVANA – Glad you enjoyed the interview with Chris from the Carnival Valor and for your congratulations on reaching half a million. I particularly enjoyed seeing you have chosen George Clooney to play me and Heidi was thrilled at your choice of Charlize Theron to play her. Now, as for the others, I see you have chosen someone called America Ferrara as PA 007. I need more information as again, I do not know who this is. As for Alan to be played by Al Pacino, maybe you need to go more towards Ernest Borgnine. Congratulations on getting your t-shirt, I am very grateful and Heidi and I send our warmest regards to you.
MILLIE S – Yes, we were able to find Sammy’s brother who will be highlighted towards the end of this blog. I see you want to book the Rome on your Own tour. What date is this for? Can you let me know, I just want to make sure it’s available and if you are having problems booking it via the internet, I will be able to help you out. We are in Rome on the 28 and 29, I just need to make sure which one applies. Look forward to hearing from you Millie and it won’t be long before we see each other.
DAVE MYERLY – You asked why there are so many Europeans on the cruise. Unlike the USA, Canada and the U.K., most Europeans take their vacations in August. This particularly applies to the French, Spanish and Italians. Obviously, this particular cruise which features Greek and Turkish ports is very popular unlike the Grand Med cruise, which features mostly Italian, French and Spanish ports. Hope this answers your question. Cheers mate.
LOIS GRABASTERNSKI (WE HAVE GONE FROM BOW TO STERN) – Thanks for the kind words. Big Ed has booked the bloggers cruise, now it’s your turn.
VICKI – I found your money in the casino and unfortunately on my way to mailing it back to you I spent it on Jelly Beans.
MRSMISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISE – I knew I could count on you for a sophisticated cast of cool characters for the movie. I prefer Hugh Grant to Hugh Laurie and Heidi would like to send a big hug to you for your choice of Scarlett Johansson to play her. James Earl Jones is the perfect choice for Big Ed, the only one you are off on is Alan’s………Daniel Craig, he is not. I notice none of your characters smoke which is perfect. Say hello to MTSFPBLTNSMCF. Cheers.
GIRL DOC – What a fantastic schedule of cruises you have. Let me get back to you at the end of this week and I will let you know how the single events have gone.
NANETTEALI – Ola Seneora. El perfecto casto. Muchos graci ares para Heidi who is mucho happyo foro youo chooseo Reneo Zellweggero to play her. Hope you and the family are well and I smile every time I write your name.
KEVIN AND HEIDI-BETH AND THE 7 PIXELS – Oops, it seems to me like Heidi and Beth are suffering from ATCOCS syndrome. Therefore, you need to book the Carnival Inspiration otherwise you could end up like poor Mr. Norman Palfreman who had not cruised on Carnival for over a year. He went on a ship which will remain nameless and on the first evening was found swapping the letters RCI around to CRI. When asked by ship’s security what he was doing, he proudly shouted: “Carnival Rules the Industry.” Security threatened to disembark him and he replied: “You can’t do that, I know John Heald.” He was immediately taken off the vessel.
So, Kevin, book the ship quickly or see a travel professional. Always read the label, side effects may include uncontrollable flatulence.
LISA BISTI – Welcome home from the July 24 sailing and it was a pleasure to read your lovely letter out in the morning show. My goodness, you took a lot of photos and I am sure you will have many happy memories when you look at them. You are not the first person to comment on how dreadful Rome airport is. I have experienced this myself but you are home safe now and I really appreciate your kind words. Take a look at the last few blogs and I hope this will encourage you to keep reading until your next cruise. I remain at your service.
JAMES EMM – You really do have an early flight after disembarking the Carnival Glory. It will be touch and go, however, you may just make it. Make sure you ask for Early Flight Debark at the information desk a few days before the end of the cruise. This will have you leaving the vessel as soon as permission is given by the authorities. If however you can, you may want to consider changing it. Hope this helps. All the best.

I want to stop there but will continue tomorrow.

Can I say a big thank you to my friend and colleague Roberto for the new banner on the blog representing my 20 years of service which deserves an Aston Martin Vanquish or DB9. I am not fussy although a black one would be wonderful……….sorry, lost the plot there. Back to Roberto……and I thought it was time you met him…..here he is and again my thanks for all he does to support this blog thingy of mine.

Now, let’s have a chat with the Cruise Director of the Carnival Glory, my mate and a rising star Ralph “Wee Jimmy” Valente.

1. Please can you tell us about your career with Carnival so far? How did you start and when?

In 1999 (8 years ago), I was hired by Carnival Cruise Lines as a DJ, yet when I arrived at the ship they were in need of a Social Host . A Scot looking forwards to sunny tropical weather. Back then, my ship was the “Jubilee” and the Social Hosts were also Groups Co-coordinators, Backstage Managers, Karaoke Hosts and Activities Hosts; so that gave me a true understanding of the overall job that I was to later to fulfill as a well-rounded Cruise Director (around the waist, LOL!). A huge part of getting to where I am today comes from a lot of supportive friends in the Carnival family, from Cruise Directors & the Carnival office. A special thanks in my career goes to John Heald, Heidi, Mark Price and Lenka. I have been a fully-fledged Cruise Director now for 2 months but I still wear diapers.

2. What ship are you currently on and what is its itinerary?

I am on vacation at the moment but I’m looking forward to being onboard the Carnival Glory as of August 18, 2007. (I can’t wait to see you there).

The itinerary on the 7-Day Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

The Carnival Glory “Fun Ship” cruise departs from Port Canaveral and spends seven wonderful days cruising the Western Caribbean. With stops in The Bahamas, Mexico and Belize, this is one cruise vacation you’ll never forget.

ARRIVAL DEPARTURE

Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL 4:00pm
Fun Day At Sea
Cozumel, Mexico 10:00am 7:00pm
Belize 8:00am 5:00pm
Costa Maya, Mexico 8:00am 5:00pm
Fun Day At Sea
Nassau, Bahamas 10:00am 4:00pm
Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL 7:00am

The itinerary on the 7-Day Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

Join me on the Carnival Glory and set sail for seven fun-filled days to the amazing islands of the Eastern Caribbean.

ARRIVAL DEPARTURE

Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL 4:00pm
Nassau, Bahamas 8:30am 2:00pm
Fun Day At Sea
St. Thomas, USVI 10:00am 8:00pm
St. Maarten, NA 8:00am 6:00pm
Fun Day At Sea
Fun Day At Sea
Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL 7:00am

3.Please can you pick two excursions from each port and tell us why you recommend them so much?

Belize -

Cave tubing - Awesome tour that is really a genuine great family experience that is fun, adventurous and unique, good for everyone. It is one of those tours that never really appealed to me, but hundreds of guests go with us every week and they all kept telling me to go……so eventually I did and loved it, one of the best days out I have ever had!!!

Barrier Reef Snorkel at Turneffe with Beach break - Honestly, I’m not normally much of a water bunny, but as Belize has the world’s second largest barrier reef I figured I may as well give it a go – and what an experience! The water was crystal clear and so alive with color and fish everywhere; I saw Stingrays and a little turtle as well. Great fun on the boat ride back, with rum punch which made me feel like Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean!!! Johnny Depp eat your heart out! “How much did the pirate pay for his new earrings? A buck an ear (Buccaneer)”

Cozumel -

Dolphin Swim - In the 8 years I have been with Carnival this is one of my highlights, I had my photo taken which still sits on my desk; dolphins are just so intelligent and fun and you can’t stop smiling when you are in the water with them. They are so playful and everyone loves them, they really bring out the inner child in you although one of them thought I was an inner tube. If you get the chance to do this….do it; you will love it! I took my Mum on this tour and she will never forget it.

ATV Jungle Adventure - This is more my thing, getting totally dirty! I thought this would be a tame ‘safe’ boring guided tour; totally not! You get to really fly through the forest on these machines and try to keep up with the guide. My advice, don’t wear white & expect to look like a Panda Bear when you remove your goggles, don’t forget your camera (the before and after photos are great).

Costa Maya -

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins - It is great doing fun things in the ports like dolphins, ATV’s, etc but at the same time I really like to see what the ports are really about. Seeing the Mayan ruins is so interesting, representing the country’s history, its heritage and learn about its cultural past. When you go on the ruins tours, of which there are a lot in Mexico, you really start to gain an appreciation for what they did and achieved and learn about their past. No adrenaline rushes here, but I would definitely recommend it, if you get the chance to go and see one Mayan ruin during your cruise.

Xtreme Speed Boat - You know they say boys never grow up, they just get more expensive toys; I want one of these boats, you get to drive a two person speedboat around, like it was the ultimate thrill speeding over the waves, flying over turquoise waters, it makes you feel very 007…..Bond…James Bond!! This will really keep you shaken, not stirred!

St Thomas -

BOSS Underwater Adventure - You really have to see this to believe it; it is the dumbest I have ever felt in my life, yet so much fun, I actually think you see more fish on this tour than any snorkel tour because they all come up to you thinking “What the heck is that?!!” Loads of fun and has the great advantage that, as it uses compressed air and there are loads of bubbles, you can even make your own bubbles and nobody really knows!

Skyride to Paradise Point - This one is not really a tour as such, it is a ride to the top of Paradise Point and it has the most amazing views of the ship and the islands off the coast. There is a great bar and restaurant up there, but honestly, what I like best is just going up there to watch the sunset, sometimes, like in every job you work hard, you get tired. You start taking everything for granted, but when I sit up there and look over the Caribbean I really realize just how lucky I am and what a great lifestyle I have. It is a place that really just makes you feel happy to be alive (Tip: Ask at the bar for a Bushwacker or two).

St Maarten -

America‘s Cup Regatta - My Grandfather was in the Royal Navy and my Father was in the Merchant Navy, so you know I started life as a seaman, and this tour makes me realize that I still am. It is loads of fun whether you sail every day or have never sailed before, I have taken all the staff out on this as it is such a good team building tour, you can be really active and grind the main sails (or like me) just take it easy manning the Poop Deck and being the Barman. You get to race actual America’s Cup yachts in the Caribbean, how cool is that?!! “Awesome” is the only word that truly describes this tour.

Butterfly Farm & Marigot - You get to see St Maarten as they do on the Island tour, so you can see the French side of the Island and visit the capital: Marigot. They have amazing patisseries there that do the best cakes and pastries anywhere — Mmmmmm, cakes. Then they take you to the butterfly farm, but it is so interesting there, they show you loads of different butterflies. You actually get to see them hatch and even with an average camera you’ll get the best photos that really impress your friends, it is a great surprise!

Nassau -

Stingray Adventure & Beach Break -. After boarding a Motor-powered boat to a beautiful Cay you will get to watch the feeding program before an interactive meeting with the stingrays face to face and skin to scale as they swim around you. When I went in the water I have to admit I screamed at first, but there really is nothing to be afraid of. I then managed to do my famous Baywatch impression on the beach part of the tour.

Discover Atlantis & Historical Harbor Cruise – Nassau is the capital city as well as the cultural, commercial and financial heart of the Bahamas. You get to see some of the most famous properties along the way to Atlantis. We were escorted on a 45-minute guided walking tour through the spectacular “Atlantis Dig,” home to tens of thousands of the world’s most exotic fish and sea creatures as well as the ancient artifacts of Atlantis. There is a hands-on part of the tour – really cool! I got to touch a Starfish and a Sea Cucumber. “What do you call a fish with no eyes?…..Fsh”

4.What are your favorite activities or events that you host and why?

I enjoy hosting the spectacular stage shows onboard as I am proud to be work alongside such an array of talented performers; comedians, dancers, singers, musicians and technicians that know no limits. Also, I love being able to have fun with people who like to have fun.

5. Fill in the blank please……………..People should sail on the Fun Ship Carnival Glory because…with a wide diversity of ports, adventures & entertainment with organized activities from sunrise to the “wee” hours of the morning, there is always something for everyone of any age.

6. What do you enjoy most about being a Cruise Director?

The most rewarding thing for me would is making people laugh and creating memories of a lifetime. When I get to talk to the guests and joke with them and hear a real laugh come out. I see tired, stressed people come onboard from traveling, working and everyday life at the Welcome Aboard show, then moments later, when I’m out and about talking to people I see all of their tension from the first night disappear, and you know they’ve really got away from it all due to the smiles on their faces.

7. Share your favorite story with us that involve our guests and your job?

Rather than share this moment from my perspective, let me show you the best experience I’ve had as a Cruise Director, expressed by a guest.

“Dear Sir,
> My family and I have grown accustomed to the tremendous value a cruise
>aboard a Carnival ship represents and have come to expect a series of
>wonderful memories with each embarkation. In attempting to define
>Carnival’s “secret” as to how they are able to consistently deliver a
>Superior product, one thought stands above all else.
>
> EFFORT!
>
> Each of the folks at Carnival willingly gives “Max Effort” to deliver a
>great vacation! At the point where unavoidable, unforeseen conflicts arise,
>never will it be as a result of a lack of effort and within seconds of it’s
>recognition, it is resolved. This commendable mindset is the baseline from
>which each of our cruises begins.
>
> Occasionally, an individual exceeds these lofty expectations. Carnival
>Glory’s Cruise Director, Wee Jimmy (Ralph Valente,) is such a person. As
>though he was in my living room, Wee Jimmy delivered during his briefings,
>all the requisite information in an entertaining manner. He is a natural!
>Specifically, his delivery of the Homeland Security
> “One person in Three is suspicious” routine that we’ve all heard
>numerous times was on par with the best efforts of Jackie Gleason! While
>this is good and continues the finest traditions of Carnival Cruise Lines,
>it doesn’t reflect the motivation behind the Email.
>
> My son is autistic and doesn’t communicate very much at all. When he
>indicated a desire to meet Wee Jimmy, an effort to reach out to him was
>made. Realizing the nature of Wee Jimmy’s responsibilities and time
>constraints, our expectations were understandably low. This turned out to
>be a mistaken assumption. Wee Jimmy took time from his busy day to meet our
>son, take pictures and find common ground upon which to communicate. My
>son’s response to Wee Jimmy could best be described as fantastic! This made
>what was already a wonderful cruise into an event that will live in our
>hearts forever!
>
> Ralph Valente, (Wee Jimmy) is a “Top Shelf” man with admirable
>character and is an asset fitting exceedingly well with the high standards
>CCL holds. His efforts are worthy of a high placed nod of approval and are
>appreciated by a grateful family!
>
> Respectfully yours,
>*Name removed

8. List your three favorite ports you have visited?

St. Thomas USVI / ALL Mexican Ports “tequila!” (Carnival Glory)
Juneau, Alaska / Maui, Hawaii (Carnival Spirit)
St. Petersburg, Russia / Port Glasgow, Scotland (Carnival Legend)

Sorry, I couldn’t decide on just three, 6-close enough!

9. Name 3 ports you would really like to see that you have never been to?

Venice, Italy (Carnival Freedom),
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Carnival Splendor),
Boston (Carnival Triumph, Victory)

10. Finally, if you could introduce on stage any star, alive or not who would it be and why?

Star Singer/Legend-Frank Sinatra, class, cool and character – one cool cat… Star comedian-Billy Connelly-the funniest comedian ever – oh, and he’s Scottish! Movie star-Sean Connery (Oh, did I mention he’s Scottish). The Loch Ness Monster-because I want my water wings back so I can go on the Barrier Reef Water tour!

Thank you Wee Jimmy. I gave him that name by the way based on a comic character from the U.K. called Wee Jimmy Krankie. It stuck and even Wee Jimmy’s Mum calls him this now. Here is a photo of us together on stage……………a time I will always Cherish. People ask if he actually wears anything under his Kilt but I have no idea and honestly I am not bothered………..I am sure its no big thing Here is a photo of Wee Jimmy and I and thanks to Stormin Norman for sending it to me.

Do you remember the young man whose Grandma left his dog Sammy on the plane and who has been crying ever since. Well, as I said we found Sammy and Mum, if you are reading this, please let your son see these photos of Sammy. We are looking after him until you tell me the address you want him flown first class to. Here is Sammy who says he misses you all.

SAMMY AND ME

SAMMY AND HIS ASTON MARTIN

SAMMY LEARNING TO POOP IN THE RIGHT PLACE AND NOT IN MY SHOE

I just wanted to also show you this e-mail which I just received. After this I will keep the communication between jess and I private but her Aunty told me it was ok to post this.

From: Jessica
Sent: Wednesday, August 08, 2007 1:33PM
To: FREEDOM CRUISE DIRECTOR;

Subject: Hello John

Hello John I am home again. My mummy and daddy liked the joke very much and they laughed and I told them you were very funny and everything

I am looking at the photos tomorrow because there are lots and lots and some of you

Will you write to me please because I am your friend

Jess

I have written and as long as she wants me to, I will be her friend

OK, showtime and before I go, there is one more photo I need to show you…………………….it’s of me, from 1993 a young stud of a Cruise Director.

Look at that jacket………………………what was I thinking?

Goodnight

Your Friends

John and Heidi

Hi Bloggers!

Roberto here. I’ve taken over the blog temporarily to let you guys know that tomorrow, August 8^th, 2007, is John’s 20^th anniversary at Carnival. With all the special moments John shares on a daily basis, what better way to say thanks than to share your favorite John moment on the blog. Congratulations to John on this important milestone; here’s to many more successful years at Carnival Cruise Lines!

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

Good Afternoon.So, just off now to do my Welcome Aboard talk and I have just spent the last 45 minutes walking around the ship with Alan Adkins and his family. I must say that my fears are being recognized as we seem to have so many people who do not speak English. I met a nice young couple from Austria who asked me in German where the Posh Dining Room was………..at least, that’s what I think they asked. I then tried to show them in my poor and frankly schoolboy German………..I hope they found it. Then, oh no, I saw a sight that made me very nervous indeed. A whole family of people obviously from Saudi Arabia and the five ladies were all wearing full Burkas.

Hold on, I do not mean that I am nervous because they are here, I am nervous as to the reaction of other guests based on that one chap a few weeks ago, hopefully we will not have the same concerns this cruise.

So, its going to be a challenge and I head now the theatre to start my talk hoping that enough people understand me and I in turn them…………I just want them to have a great time.

I will let you know how it goes later.

And, I was correct. The lounge is usually full, 1,500 plus but today it was probably about 600 or so. The non-US count is now 1,800 and it showed today by the talk attendance and the number of people who are on our organized tours. I will do my best to try and make the guests happy but boy, it’s frustrating not having the tools in which to do so. On a happier note, Alan and family are having a great time and I hope to see them later tonight. For now, its boat drill and then paper work and an early night, I have been going since 5:30am and this is my second blog I have written today so I will continue from Naples tomorrow……………ciao for now.

It was a beautiful day in Naples today the sun shone and the temperature reached 92 degrees. I am sure if they could speak English or more importantly if I could speak their language I would be able to ask them. I know, same old tune John, but …….well, it’s just a bit frustrating and leaves me with a feeling of inadequacy…..sorry to vent.

One person who did not have a good day in Naples was this young man.

Good afternoon,

Please see below incident and follow up with guest if possible since he insisted to speak to you.

Kind Regards,

Salvino Chini

Purser office

1365 – Stolen wallet in Naples

Mr _____ came to the information desk this afternoon requesting to speak to the Cruise Director. When Purser inquired about the reason why, Mr _____ stated his son’s friend had his wallet stolen today in Naples. Purser then asked Mr _________if he reported the above to the local police authorities. Mr _____ replied, “I did but didn’t help.” Purser offered Mr __________phone call in case the wallet was containing a credit card or some personal documentation. Mr __________ refused stating he just wanted to speak to the Cruise Director because he thought CD should warn people that are leaving the ship independently since there are a lot of robbers in Naples. Purser explained Mr __________ that incidents like this can happen everywhere if you’re traveling alone and if you’re not involved into a guided excursion. Purser again offered him a phone call but Mr ________ refused stating he expects to be contacted from the Cruise Director. Mr __________ thanked and left the desk.

Incident e-mailed to Cruise Director.

So, to follow up on this I spoke to the guest just now and I explained that in fact, at my talk yesterday I gave warnings that pickpockets are everywhere in Europe, not just Naples but in all the big tourist destinations. The talk is still playing on the cabin TV’s and there is a warning to be careful carrying money, etc. in the Carnival Capers today. I have not added the guests name as he was very upset so I certainly do not want to antagonize the situation. The young man had his wallet in his back shorts pocket. It was not fastened or zipped up and therefore unfortunately, he was an easy target and as in most of these cases, never felt a thing. Tomorrow, I will send the young man a few small gifts and hope they can enjoy the rest of the cruise.

Let’s get back to the nice things about Naples. Today, I took Heidi for lunch to a restaurant called La Piazzetta over looking the harbour (spelt correctly). It is a beautiful place where the mega tanned George Hamiltons moor their yachts and is over looked by the mighty Vesuvius Volcano. Anyway, we went for lunch with Alan and his family and here are some photos I wanted to share with you……………………..I highly recommend this restaurant, it is a must visit.

1. The View From The Restaurant with Vesuvius in the background

2. The Chef and his Pizza Oven (I had fish; no carbs for me and it was brilliant)

3. The View from the Terrace – the Costa (something) I couldn’t tell in port.

4. The Fortress near the port and a typical busy road in Naples

5. My great friend Adolfo Aloschi who owns the tour company we use in Naples

6. Finally, my best mate Alan.

Here are the letters from this last cruise for the In Their Own Words Section

The first one is a drawing from my bedtime story show as featured in Kids Corner.

The rest are letters and cards I received this week.

With regard to SAMMY THE LOST DOG. ……MUM, I HAVE FOUND SAMMY (WELL, HIS BROTHER) AND PLEASE TELL YOUR SON ANTHONY THAT AS SOON AS YOU PROVIDE ME WITH AN ADDRESS I WILL FLY SAMMY 1ST CLASS TO YOU………………..please post it on the blog and he will be on his way. Tell Anthony he misses him very much and Heidi is looking after him and taking him for walks………….he pooped in my shoe last night…………naughty Sammy!

Just before the Q and A, someone asked about the Mini Golf and what ships they were on. Well right now, there is a golf course on 12 ships with the rest will be fitted by the end of 2008. Thanks to Chris Prideaux fore that information……….noticed how I spell FORE………. A golf pun there for you.

To the Q and A we go.

FAMIGLIA BAUSCH – Thank you very much for finding the blog. It is always a pleasure to welcome new visitors. I am also very happy that you enjoyed your cruise so much and I remember Cody and Ally who were fantastic and I really enjoyed singing the Booger in the Sugar song with. Please send them a big hello from me and I hope you continue to enjoy the blog.
BIG ED - You are right, I remember how amazed I was at 25,000, yet here we are just 4 months later at 500,000. Thank you for suggestion I should be a Vice President. One day, maybe sooner than later, I indeed will be working for Carnival on land. Maybe for Carnival itself, the Corporation, who knows? I do know that land has been calling me for some time; so far I have been ignoring it. Ed, you have been a HUGE supporter of my blog thingy and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You mentioned that many people have booked Carnival cruises because of the blog and that is a wonderful testament to the blog itself and I continue to be in awe of how popular it is.
So, thank you and I look forward to meeting my official assistant to the Cruise Director in 169 days……….hold on a moment, is that the Bloggers Cruise, let me work it out. I MAKE THAT THE DATE OF THE BLOGGERS CRUISE, DOES THAT MEAN YOU ARE SAILING…..PLEASE SAY YES.
SUE GROHOL-Yes Sue, there have been good times, happy times, sad times, and time when I have sat at the computer at 2:00am in the morning wondering if this blog thingy is worth the time. However, 500,000 slaps shows that it has been and will continue to be worth it and I thank you for your kind words and support for us both.
MAXWELL 1100 – Thank you for the congratulations and the two thumbs up which is better than two fingers up. )Cheers mate.

DAVE MYERLY – Brilliant. A pure example of how crazy the English language is. By the way, do you itch a scratch? Or scratch an itch? My best to you and Jo and we will be having fun together soon.

JIMNI – I appreciate your congratulations on 500,000 slaps so very much and here is to many more.

TOM AND JANE – A big Thank You to you both from Heidi and I. Thank you for your lovely words. The Fish & Chips comment made me hungry and that’s not good at the moment as Fish & Chips are definitely not on my diet. I never did hear again from the lady who had her camera stolen in Venice, but thanks to the wonderful people on the ship who leant her cameras and gave her copies of their photos, I am sure she left happy. Thank you also for pointing out that the Carnival website’s news sections has the press release showing I had 25,000 hits, they will update it as I am highlighting my friend Vance on this so he can take care of it. I look forward to seeing you on your 35th Carnival cruise and I am grateful also that you are wearing your bloggers t-shirts. I hope you enjoy them. Our best regards to you both.

BRYAN – Many thanks to you Bryan for your congratulations posting. Hope to hear from you soon.

TAMMIE – Thank you Tammie, I am very proud of what we have all achieved.

KATHY KROLL – You mentioned that the blog should be a movie. Ok, let’s start a vote. Everyone, please give me your suggestions. Who plays who in the movie?

Fill in the blank:

1. John Heald

2. Heidi Heald

3. PA 007

4. Roberto Castro

5. Big Ed

6. Alan Adkins (remember, he is ugly)

This should be fun.

I&MsMOM – Thank you for mentioning Heidi, PA 007 and Roberto who are as important to this blog as I am. Also, I must add Roger and Chris in the office who are so supportive. Mostly, it’s people like you who deserve the thanks because otherwise I would be sitting here typing to myself which is only one step away from suffering from ATCOCS syndrome and a made to measure straight jacket. Thank you and our best regards.

JJ – Thank you JJ. I don’t remember typing your name before so would love to hear from you sometime and thank you for the congratulations.

INEZ – How kind of you and Dean to take the time to send in such kind words. Heidi and I appreciate them so very much.

KEVIN AND HEIDI-BETH AND THE 7 PIXELS – You are right, I had no idea what a blog was when I started writing in March. I thought it was the mess I used to make on my shirt when I spilt food. Heidi would say: “You’ve made a blog on your shirt from the pasta sauce.” Here we are today though, 500,000 slaps later and I eat, drink and sleep the word blog. Thank you to all nine of you for your appreciation posting and all the others you have made. Cheers!

TEXAS RAIN – Does it rain there? Great to hear that you are enjoying the blog, especially with a good cup of coffee. Congratulations on booking your first ever cruise in February on the Carnival Freedom. I am not sure if Heidi and I will be there but I would love to be, especially as this is your first cruise experience. I see you have a lot to celebrate and if you need help booking a particular tour or indeed a special dinner at our Supper Club, please let me know. Thank you also for the information on the Houston Chronicle which I enjoyed reading very much. I am here if you need any assistance and our best regards to you and your family.

DAVE AND BARB – It continues to astonish me that people are buying t-shirts with our names on it. However, I must say, it is very flattering and I hope one day we can have our photo taken together in our bloggers shirts. You mentioned about the pickpockets in Rome and that you were worried. As you can see from the beginning of this blog, these rascals are everywhere in Europe. There really is nothing to be worried about if you are couscous and keep your money and valuables in a secure bag and never leave your bag unattended or just on the floor while you sit in a restaurant or on the train etc. The trains are fine if you remember to be conscious as I said.

You asked for my opinion on the Hotel Coliseum. I have never stayed at or visited this hotel and therefore, I am very nervous about recommending it to you. However, maybe one of your fellow bloggers has stayed there and can give you their opinion. As your cruise gets nearer I will be here should you need any more advice. My best to you both.

NANETTE - There is no need to thank us. We are friends and it is great for us to provide fun and laughter for each other. Heidi says a big “thank you” to you for your beautiful words and sends you a big hug back. One day soon we will be in Puerto Rico and we can have a happy reunion and a mucho bueno timeo.

WILL - Thanks mate for your kind words about reaching 500,000. I see that you have recently taken your exams in the UK and I am sure you will get wonderful results and how brilliant to hear that as soon as you had finished your revision you clicked on the blog thingy to take your mind off the maths and other subjects. I truly hope you had a wonderful time in July and please let us know when you get your results. All the best from us both.

SHERIFF ROSCO P. COLTRANE – Sheriff, thank you for taking the time to say Well Done on reaching 500,000 slaps and thank you also for the offer of your handcuffs ) I wish you were here so we could sit and have a cigar and talk about your job and the daily service you provide to the people of Georgia. Be careful out there mate.

MPHIL53757 – Welcome home from your cruise in June which I hope was one you will have many happy memories of. I am glad you are enjoying the blog and thank you for your kind words on reaching 500,000 slaps. I look forward to the next time we sail together.

CINDY 56 – I am not sure if Heidi and I will be on the Carnival Freedom in March, however, just like you, I hope we will be able to meet. This blog has allowed me and Heidi to meet so many new and wonderful people like yourself. I hope you enjoyed your weekend in Canada and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

MELISSA – Congratulations on booking your Carnival Freedom cruise in March. As I just mentioned to Cindy, I am not sure of my schedule at this time but there is a good chance we will be together. Thank you for your kind words about the blog and I hope you will keep reading it.

ESMEE K – No need to thank me for my reply to your question, that is what I am here for. It is not easy keeping this job fresh but even though we do go to the same ports it is different every time with 3,500 different guests, each providing their own idiosyncrasies, so in fact, it’s never the same. I look forward to meeting this group in October and I am so sorry that you will not be there with them. You requested a photo of me in the disco, I am afraid that and the one of me on the jogging track will be found only in the history books. Thanks for the great posting and the best from us both.

MED CRUISER – Yes, half a million, who would have thought it? You mentioned the Monte Cristo # 2 Torpedo which is also one of my favorites. Have you tried the Cohiba Siglo 6? It’s amazing. I have dreams of me smoking one of those driving my Aston Martin. ……..it really is only a dream. Thank you Manuel, maybe one day we will have a cigar together, but not in St. Mark’s Square.

CRUISIN SUE – Your Supper Club reservation has been made for the 8th of October, the night sailing from Venice at 7:30pm, for 2……….try the crepes. Have fun on the Carnival Pride and let us know when you get back, how it was.

JOAN FREDENDALL – Amazing. How wonderful to hear that my blog is the site you go to after turning on your computer in the morning. I am humbled by this. I am very excited that you will be cruising with us in January on the bloggers cruise and I promise you will have fun.

You mentioned you were keeping a lookout for an Aston Martin for me, let me know if you find one. See you in January, where we will have the best time ever.

LISA AND ELAINE – Hope you had fun in Mississippi. You will have a lot of blogs to read when you come back. I also noticed Big Ed mentioned 169 days and I am waiting for clarification that YES he will be coming on the bloggers cruise.

DEB ROWE – Thanks Deb and here is to the next half a million.

KIM – We appreciate your kind words and hope we can make it to the million mark.

RUTH JAMISON - And the highlight of my day is hearing that I am the highlight of your day. ))

CRUISIN CINDY – Many thanks.

SHARON R – And thanks to you. See you in a few days.

LOVE2CRUISE – Thank you for supporting the blog from the very beginning and one of the highlights of this contract for Heidi and I was meeting you and John from Mount Holly.

TERRI 910 – Yes, 500,000 slaps, Heidi and I are very happy that we have reached this goal. Heidi is indeed very patient and without her I would never and could never have reached this target. Thanks Terri. We miss you.

MARIJ VAN DINTER – Heeeel hartelijk bedankt voor jullie leuke kaart, we kregen hem eergisteren in Rome. We zijn heel blij dat jullie een geweldige vakantie hebben gehad. Blijf lezen en schrijven! Lieve groeten van ons.

ICRUISE4ALIVING – Yes, mate it really has gone and exceeded my expectations, this little blog thingy of ours. You asked about getting cash from the casino and there is no fee if you open what is called a Player Bank Account which basically involves just using your Sail & Sign card. Thanks to you again for you kind words and I am here should you need anything at all.

SUEG54 – You asked about the change of schedule for the Carnival Freedom in 2008. We will indeed be docking in Marmaris, Turkey, instead of Rhodes, Greece. You will be happy to know however that we will be running a full day tour to Rhodes Old Town by jet boat (not my jet pack) which should take about an hour’s journey. You asked why we are changing ports and the answer is simple that it is due to dock availability. As Europe gets busier, more and more ships require berthing and we did not want to have to tender guests ashore. Also, Marmaris offers a lot of tour options for guests. I hope you are enjoying the blog and I remain at your service.

MONS – Thank you for slapping on your first posting, especially as it is a thank you and congratulations one. Thank you for also mentioning that Carnival should buy me an Aston Martin. If enough people mention this then maybe someone will go to the toyshop and buy me one. I wish you all the best and thanks again.

PEGGY P – Peggy, thank you for offering to teach arts & crafts during your upcoming cruise on the Carnival Miracle. We do indeed offer this service to our guests on some ships some of the time. I will ask Chris Prideaux to let me know the name of the lady who we use to organize this on various cruises and how it works. Chris is an avid reader of the blog so this information will be with you soon via this blog thingy.

Thank you for your interest and you are very kind to offer.

OK, time to get ready for the Welcome Aboard Show but first, here is an amazing photo of the NEW CARNIVAL SPLENDOR BEING FLOATED OUT OF ITS DRY DOCK.

She looks beautiful doesn’t she and I am sure that she will provide thousands of people with the best vacation ever and I am looking forward to seeing her in May next year.

Talking of beautiful ships and beautiful people, here is today’s guest interview featuring Cruise Director Risa Barnes who is onboard the Carnival Inspiration. As you we see she is the perfect example of how Carnival promotes from within the company. Here she is.

1. Please can you tell us about your career with Carnival so far? How did you start and when?

I joined Carnival the Carnival Destiny on its maiden voyage in November 1996 out of Miami. I was hired in the F&B department and was the first “cappuccino girl” in the Café on the Way. I did 8 months in the coffee bar and 2 months in Formalities fitting people for tuxedos and selling roses. I made pretty good chocolate milkshakes which helped me butter up Mr. John Heald and he accepted me in as a Social Host my next contract with Carnival. It took me a while, but I worked hard, didn’t give up and finally achieved the Cruise Director position “officially” in November of 2004. I love my job and look forward to every new day!

2. What ship are you currently on and what is its itinerary?

I am currently on the Inspiration going on my third contract here. We do four and five day voyages out of Tampa, Florida. The 4 day we visit Cozumel, Mexico. On the first 5 day we visit Grand Cayman and Cozumel and on the second 5 day we visit Grand Cayman and Calica, Mexico.

3.Please can you pick two excursions from each port and tell us why you recommend them so much?

GRAND CAYMAN - (1) I love the stingray tours…especially the Ray Runner Stingray and Coral Reef. It is fun ride out on the runners and the two guys that run the tour are fabulous with the guests. The reef is a great snorkel spot and the stingrays are always great. (2) Fisherman’s Rock Swim and Snorkel is another great one for people who just want to do some good snorkeling…beautiful area and a lot to see.

COZUMEL – (1) Deluxe Sail, Snorkel & Beach party because the snorkeling is always great over the reef and the beach stop is a bonus (2) Beach Buggy & Snorkel Combo – this is a fun tour with cool little Scooby Doo buggys. The snorkel stop is good and then you see more of the island on your way to their beach stop on the North side where you can swim, sun and snack a bit.

CALICA – (1) Xcaret…this is just an awesome park with everything to see and do! Animals, snorkeling, sight seeing and adventure. They also provide a shuttle service for most of the day back and forth to the ship which is really appealing to those guests who want to save a little money and come back for lunch then back to the park. (2) Caverns by Jeep & Beach Combo…you drive the jeeps, have a great cavern stop where they walk down in to explore and take a cavern swim and then to a beach where they can swim, sun, play volleyball or just relax with lunch included.

4.What are your favorite activities or events that you host and why?

I LOVE the Newlywed Game. I play the game with the guys coming out at the end as Chippendales and the whole show is just fun, freeing and great for all the guests. I also really enjoy doing the Spoon Game in between at the Welcome Aboard show. I know it is an old game, but we do is swiftly still having fun and still giving the comedian plenty of time to grab the guests. The Spoon Game allows me to get to know eight people by name the first night along with some of their family and I continue with those connections for the entire cruise. It makes the guests that participated special and a lot of times people that only watched are impressed and make a point to talk with me one on one which creates more connections with them for me and my team!

5. Fill in the blank please – ..People should sail on the (CARNIVAL INSPIRATION) because the atmosphere is fun and you can feel the family type bond the staff and crew have because it flows over to the guests who then feel they become part of the ship family…this is such a great feeling and I am proud of the team we have formed together!

6. What do you enjoy most about being a Cruise Director?

Making people smile, laugh and just be free from all the stresses back home

7. Share your favorite story with us that involve our guests and your job?

When I was an Asst. Cruise Director still acting here and there for the ultimate position I was always doing what I could to connect with the guests and make them happy. While on the Jubilee in 2001-2002 I met a couple from Tampa. They were at every trivia, every activity and never missed a show. They were so nice and at the end of the cruise they brought me a tiny teddy bear from the gift shop and on the t-shirt they wrote in black marker…Risa Barnes – Future #1 Cruise Director. I have carried that little bear to every ship since then as a reminder that I would and I did make it to my goal. Just 5 months ago during the spoon game I was doing the guest introductions and when I got to the second lady she smiled at me before I said anything then I asked her name and she said Rewa from Tampa….before she said anything else I said to her…do you have a husband named Xavier and her eyes were as big as quarters and she said I can’t believe you remember us!?!? That was the best feeling in the world that I had remembered such wonderful people that were encouraging and 5-6 years later it paid off making them feel so special and letting the audience see that really pay attention and love my job and the people that continue to keep me in this job!!

8. List your three favorite ports you have visited?

Cozumel, Mexico

St. Thomas

Grand Cayman

9. Name three ports you would really like to see that you have never been to?

Hawaii

Anywhere is Alaska

Brazil…coming soon!

10. Finally, if you could introduce on stage any star, alive or not who would it be and why?

I would have to say Steve Martin or Martin Short because there are two men that are funny no matter when or where and they are classic comedians. They can make anyone smile, laugh and just forget everything while they are performing.

Thank you Risa and congratulations on your continuing success.

Here is the lost luggage score from this cruise.

51 pieces of missing luggage

18 returned today in Naples.

With that, it is time for the Welcome Aboard Show which tonight should be presented in subtitles considering less than half the ship will understand what I am talking about. Oh, well, I am sure it will be OK and I will let you know how it goes in tomorrow’s blog thingy.

I did not receive any Jelly Beans this week so I will have to suffer in silence for 12 days as my jetpack sits in neutral but Heidi is very happy about that.

Also, you will see Roberto has slapped on a request form for the SUPPER CLUB RESERVATIONS which you need to complete and Roberto will send me the requests and your booking will be confirmed………….thanks Roberto, this saves me typing out reservation orders . Remember, I can do this for any ship, not just the Carnival Freedom.

And finally the good news. I called Mrs Barsby’s daughter this evening to make sure she got home safe. She did, her daughter was very grateful………one thing though………..and I know you will think I am making this up but truly I am not – ……Delta lost one of her bags – ……..I feel so sorry…………not just for Mrs Barsby but for the Delta representative who she filled the report out with.

DELTA REP – What bag did is missing

MRS BARSBY – My bag

DELTA REP – Yes, I know it was your bag what was it

MRS BARSBY – A suitcase

DELTA REP – What colour

MRS BARSBY – I don’t know, my daughter knows

DELTA REP – Where is your daughter?

MRS BARSBY – In Pittsburgh

Goodnight

Your friends

John and Heidi

Good morning, and when I say morning, it really is, as it is 5:43am and I am going to be writing this blog as we start debarkation. Overall, it has been a great cruise and although I have met my normal share of characters, I would say that everything has gone very smoothly. I did receive
one comment from a guest who said he was going to write to the blog about the tender service in Dubrovnik and that he should have been allowed off earlier but I will address that when and if the guests posts a comment. I awoke this morning at 3:30am from the noise of the thrusters pushing us alongside the pier. Even though we do not start debarkation until 6:00am we need to be alongside at 4:00am to start unloading luggage – all ten thousand pieces.

So, here I sit, waiting for the kettle to boil so I can make my morning cup of tea and I will be making the first announcement in a few minutes to start the process. I often wonder (never having taken a cruise as a passenger) what guests must think when they hear my voice at 6:00am???? I am sure those still in bed greet my announcements with varied levels of happiness and I am glad I am not there to hear them in person.It’s funny though, I always try and talk in a very low and soothing voice this early in the morning and as guests rise and shine the last thing they want to hear is a happy and over exuberant voice…..can you tell its 5:47am? I am rambling and waffling a lot this morning. I had better start talking about something specific.

We are starting to have a big turnover of management now with everyone going on vacation. We have a new housekeeping manager, a new food and beverage manager, a new hotel director and new officers on the bridge. This is always an interesting time as the managers place their own style on the operation of the ship. Change is always good with fresh new ideas but I will miss the old crew who have been here since the ship was born with me back in February. Just think, it will be my turn soon…only 4 months and a bit to go.

Oh yes, last night I was walking down to see the Gavin Ahern Jazz Trio who are also leaving today, to say thanks and goodbye. As I walked into the lounge the guys were already packing up their equipment. I had my back to the drummer Christian and was talking to Gavin when Christian accidentally dropped his large cymbal right behind me. Now, I cannot describe the noise a cymbal makes when it is dropped from head height bit I don’t mind telling you I almost succumbed to an involuntary bowel movement!!!..Again, I am waffling so here are some photos of ROME AND THE VATICAN which will be the highlight of what so far is a boring blog.

Here are today’s letters from the IN THEIR OWN WORDS SECTION:

It is Q and A time…here we go….please excuse any typos as my eyes are barely open and my two typing fingers feel like lumps of lead this morning so I may spall thangs pong and af eye doo pleuse fourgave mi.

MEDCRUISER – MANUEL – You said “You slay me ” – ???..is that a good thing? I am never sure with some of these hip words. Yesterday someone said “I was a pisser” and I was very offended until they explained that being a pisser is a good thing so I hope being a slayer is as well. You mentioned the WEBCAM lens was dirty and needed cleaning. Please have a check this morning because I personally went up there, climbed up a ladder with a bucket of hot soapy water and cleaned the lens….Ok, I didn’t but someone did and they both should be ok now. Please confirm and thanks for letting me know. Your message of admiration has indeed been passed to Diana, the photographer, and I can understand why you do because she is so helpful and a lovely person. I shall await your report on the web cams and hope all is well mate.
LINDA HERNACKI – I hope you like the t-shirts and I hope you also like the weekend blog which I just posted. I may even get this one finished in time to post another. I have forgotten what a weekend feels like as each day feels pretty much the same. I certainly miss the weekends, just reading my newspapers and watching sports. I hope Mike likes his t-shirt and I look forward to seeing you and him wearing them one day soon. You are correct that we are always ready to help in an emergency as was the case when we received a distress call on our way into Barcelona. It is the law of the ocean that you must help those in need and Carnival ships are always ready should these situations ever happen. In this case the story had a happy ending as those people were found but they were very lucky. Sometimes we forget how dangerous the oceans can be. Hope you had a great weekend and my best to Mike.
SEWING NUT – Yes, your cruise is just 2 weeks away and I can see from your posting that you are very excited. You asked about the mini golf course and if you need to make a booking. The answer is no, you just show up when you are ready to play. There is never a line and it is open from 9:00am – 10:00pm every day so there are lots of chances to have a round. You also asked about restaurants in Rome. Rather than recommend one I will recommend an area where there are lots of ones to choose from. The area is called Via Veneto and has everything form small cafes to 5 star hotels and restaurants…..you will find something there for sure. Have a safe flight and see you very soon.
RIKKI BOYCE – Not quite sure that we will be offering any lap dancing classes as you received on your last trans-Atlantic cruise….what ship was that? Anyway, you will not be disappointed as we have arts and craft lessons, dance instructors, guest lecturers, digital photography classes and, yes, as requested, there will be a big Halloween party as well. There will be of course many
activities on the seven sea days coming back so you will not be bored, that is for certain. Lap dancing??.Mmmmmmmmm…something to think about, please tell me more.
LUV CRUISIN – I am so glad you liked the interview with Alan who by the way should be getting on a plane shortly to fly over here to start his cruise. We were very “naughty” growing up but he is a great mate. I will keep you informed as to what he gets up to this cruise, I am sure I will have lots to tell. I know it is hard to match up my answers to the questions in this section sometimes. I really do try to place a hint as to what the question was in my answer but sometimes I forget. It was much easier when I had a few to answer but when I have 50 plus each blog it gets harder. Anyway, I will renew my efforts and try harder. Glad you are laughing at the blog and that’s something that makes me happy.
TAMMIE – You mentioned how great Alaska was (see Luv Cruising, I am trying:) and it is something that Heidi and I must do one day. Shawn is a wonderful lady and a very talented Cruise Director who I know loves what she does. Come and try Europe sometime, you may not see a whale but you will see some amazing sites. Thanks for reading the blog thingy and I hope you will continue to do so.
GREY KITT N – Thank you for your kind words by asking if there are any treats the crew may like for guests to bring them when they cruise. You know what, as I think I mentioned way back in another blog, it is the small things that can mean so much. If therefore you would like to say thank you at the end of the cruise with something apart from the gratuities you have left, may I suggest something from home. By this, I mean something denoting where you are from, such as a key ring or maybe a t-shirt. Having something like that means a lot to the crew and many thanks for asking, you are very kind. For me, nothing says thank you like an Aston Martin or a bag of sugar free jelly beans — it is the gift that keeps on giving. Please let me know if you have any other questions and all the best to you and your family.
CARRIE – If only that were possible!
GIRLDOC – I have decided to add a morning meet for singles. You mentioned this was something that you would enjoy so let me see how it goes and I will let you know. I see you are still trying to get the Poet Laureate to sail, how’s that going Doc?
DWA76 – I really am glad that you and many others are enjoying the CD interviews and there is another heading your way in a few minutes. Glad also to see you enjoyed the photos although standing next to a big stall serving nothing but candy was very hard. My sugar level went up just by looking at it. Hope all is well mate.
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – Thank you for the congratulations, Paul, I really am very grateful Sir. I look forward to your postings as well, Paul, and together we make a great team.
FRANK C – You are welcome Frank. I am very proud to have reached 500,000 slaps and I appreciate your kind words of congratulations. See you very soon and please let me know if you need anything. Have a safe flight here and leave me a note when you arrive.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Thank you Carol for the kind words of congratulations and I know that you have been a supporter of the blog thingy since we started 5 months ago. Do not worry about Mrs. Barsby, the story has a happy ending and I will reveal all in a moment. Hope all is well and again thank you for everything ESPECIALLY SAYING I DESERVE AN ASTON MARTIN…..funny how my caps button and bold button got accidentally pressed then.
GREG BALDASARRI – Greg, I have a feeling that when you take your upcoming cruise on the Carnival Conquest you will no doubt get a few looks of “why is he wearing a t-shirt saying he has seen John’s thingy.” In fact, in Texas (the Conquest’s homeport) walking around with that t-shirt could get you locked up.
Please say hello to Mark the Cruise Director, he is a great friend and please tell him he owes me $20. Have you booked a Supper Club reservation yet? Please let me know if you would like me to do so for you. Thank you for buying the t-shirts and I hope to hear from you soon.
HEIDI – BETH AND KEVIN – Thank you for the support, it means a lot to know that all three of you are such fans of the blog thingy. The kids corner is very popular and I shall keep it going while the counts are high. Yep, Alan and I really did get into some mischief and I will share more stories with you as the blog continues and I hope all three of you enjoy them. Heidi sends her best by the way to Heidi but not to Beth, she prefers Heidi as does Heidi.
KEVIN – Thanks mate, I hope you will still be reading if and when we reach 1 million slaps. Maybe by then I will have driven an Aston Martin.
THE BEARS, CARL AND BARB – Thank you my cute and cuddly bears. I am so grateful to you for all that you do for me and the blog. Heidi and I send you our best regards.
LOIS GROWATOSTIE – Yes, I agree, let’s celebrate and take a cruise…..l spelt your name correctly this time:)
KAREN TESSIER – Thank you for your kind words and I am very proud to have reached the 500,000 mark. You will be here very soon and I look forward to saying “welcome on board.” You mentioned I should do an interview for the Travel Channel, if you know anyone there put a good word in for me. See you in two weeks and please let me know if you need anything.
DWA76 – Thank you David, you are too kind. If we do ever reach one million then we must celebrate. It is thanks to people like you that the million mark may actually be reachable. Thanks again mate.
MILLIE S – Please do not worry about the tour time for the Exclusive View of the Vatican. The ship will wait until the tour returns before we sail. The official departure time is 7:00pm but as I said, we will of course wait until all the tours return. It is an amazing trip and one you really must do if you possibly can. I checked and you have been confirmed on the tour and you will get confirmation very soon so no need to worry. I will be here should you need any other help.
SHERYL PELTON – Your Supper Club reservation has been confirmed for 7;30pm on the night we sail from Venice, please post your cabin number when you can……try the sushi platter.
You said there are 700 of you sailing from California. Is this a personal group or business group? Please do tell me more and I am here for you should you need more help.
JOKO JOAN – Congratulations on booking 50 days on the Carnival Splendor and hearing one of the reasons you did so was to sail with me again makes me feel very humble. I am sure I will be there with you and I am in discussion with Chris Prideaux and Roger Blum and I will confirm this shortly. Meanwhile, you will have a fantastic time on the Carnival Legend and I look forward to hearing all about it when you return. Please pass on my regards to Bubba and you will love his Blues Brothers routine.
NED RIFKEN – Thanks mate for the kind words. I am not surprised you speak so highly of Shawn, she is a wonderful person with a heart the size of Texas. I wish you continued success with your shows which I hear are going very well and I truly hope we get to work together soon. Thanks mate.
LISA K – I forwarded your kind words to Shawn and I know she will be thrilled to read them I am sure. Shawn is a great CD and a great friend and I am sure you must have many happy memories of your times with her and I am sure she will also remember your flotation devices!
Thank you for your nice words about the blog and I hope you will continue to read it. Thanks again, I know this will make Shawn’s day.
MTSFPBLFTTNSFCF……can you tell its early in the morning? I abbreviated you today. I am sorry that I mentioned that your wife needed an Italian purse to go with her Italian shoes. Please do not doubt our friendship it’s just that if I have to suffer the hell that is shopping for handbags….then so do you. That’s what friends are for….be thankful I did not mention matching belts….yet.
KHANH – Your Supper Club reservation has been reserved as requested….try the crab cakes.
I will see you in October and please let me know if you need anything else.
BILL – ZYDECOCRUISER – As soon as you get confirmation please let me know your cabin number. If not, can you send me your full name. Hope to hear from you soon. My dad had fish and chips again the other night and I thought of you when he told me…there we go, food again!
PHARMACY 2007 – You asked if you should book your tours for the cruise of the 17th. May I suggest that as it is just 12 days away that you wait until you are on board. Please come along to my travel talks and hopefully I can point you in the right direction and after the talk you can ask me any questions you may have. So, see you in 12 days and have a safe flight.
MATT EDMUNDS – Hello mate. I did notice that, as you said, one of the kids’ photos had me walking the plank. I love doing this kids corner and I will keep posting the best of the drawings and letters for you all to enjoy. You also asked when my interview with NBC Miami Channel 6 will be aired. I am not sure but I will make sure that I tell you in advance so you can make sure you are tuned to channel 7!
I still love your cruise clock showing how many days, hours, minutes and seconds until your next cruise….that is real dedication. All the best mate and see you soon.
JO MYERLY – You asked when you should eat at the Supper Club. Out of the days you gave me I think the second sea day will be the best. Please let me know and I will make the booking for you as it the most popular evening in the Supper Club. Just send me your cabin number and reservation time and I will be happy to make the booking for you. See you soon Jo and best to Dave.
MRS MTSFP – maybe we should have a contest to name the next Supper Club on the Carnival Magic….what do you think?
STEVE GARROD – Your website looks awesome mate. How are things over at Holland America? Please pass on my best to everyone and maybe I should do an interview with your President.
FRANK C – Yipeeeeeeee, your tickets arrived although I think you and your wife may be suffering from PPS – Premature Packing Syndrome.See you soon mate and let me know once you are here by leaving a note at the information desk.
DAVE – Thanks mate, I am really glad you are enjoying the blog thingy so much. I also hope that you and Dad sail here soon and we can indeed get your dad involved in all the singles fun. Please keep reading the blog thingy.
ALLIE DONNEGAN – Good Irish name. I enjoyed our fun time on the Morning Show together and thank you for posting your review. As I am writing this blog I am calling off the colour tags so probably you are on your way home by now. I truly hope you had a wonderful cruise and please let me know that you have arrived safe and sound. My best to you and the family and it was an honour to have you here with us.
SOUTHERNDREAMS – there is cake but it’s sugar free.
MRS MTSFP – Thanks for the poem of congratulations…on behalf of my two very tired and I think slightly smaller fingers.
MARY AND MOE – Thank you for asking if I will be the Cruise Director on the Carnival Splendor’s South American trip. I am in the process of discussing this with Chris and Roger in the office but I think it is safe to say that I will be there. I will confirm this shortly Mary. Thank you for mentioning Heidi and, you are correct, I could never have gotten this far without her….how lucky I am.
See you in Argentina.
JENNIFER HAMMOND – You say you have cruised with me 4 times and that makes me feel very special. Thank you for your kind words and I look forward to number five with you on the Carnival Splendor.
DEBBIE IN LOUISIANA – Happy Anniversary and I hope the Chocolate Melting Warming Cake makes it an extra special day for you. Congratulations and best wishes from us both.

AND THAT’S WHERE TIME HAS BEATEN ME….MORE QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS ANSWERED, I PROMISE, IN THE NEXT BLOG LATER TODAY OR TOMORROW…starting with Dave, Famiglia, Bausch and of course BIG ED.

Well, we are just finishing debarkation and it is 9:03am. This means we disembarked 3400 people in 3 hours and a few minutes I must admit that’s not bad. I also have to admit that I am a little apprehensive about today’s cruise because of the HIGH number of non-English speaking guests we have sailing. It always makes me feel very inadequate when I know some people have no clue what I am saying and I truly wish I could speak more languages.

Also, we have a big group of French people sailing and I must behave…no French jokes….I promise.

Let’s get on with today’s guest interview.

Here then is Chris Jefferson who is the Cruise Director of the Carnival Valor. Chris is a very talented Cruise Director and you will not find anyone more dedicated to making sure his ship is the best in the fleet and that the guests of the Carnival Valor have the best time. Always cool under pressure, Chris has risen through the ranks and is now one of our best. Here he is and I hope you enjoy his interview.

1. Please can you tell us about your career with Carnival so far. How did you start and when?
I have now been with CCL 8 years. I started on the baby Tropicale (an amazing ship) in 1999. My first position held was as a dancer/singer and it didn’t take me long to realize I wanted to be a CD. I hung up the dancing shoes and worked my way from host to CD in 3 years. I cannot believe that I have now been a CD for almost 4 years. It’s crazy! It’s gone so fast – but it has been a good laugh!

2. What ship are you currently on and what is it’s itinerary?
I am currently on the Carnival Valor. A great ship. Great entertainment. Great shows. Great crew. Great décor. Did I stress enough that this is a great ship! We do Eastern and Western Caribbean Itineraries. Eastern: Nassau, St. Thomas, St. Maarten. Western: Grand Cayman, Isla Roatan, Belize, Costa Maya.

3.Please can you pick two excursions from each port and tell us why you recommend them so much?

Nassau: Discover Atlantis Tour – the hotel is amazing, a must see!

Thriller Boat to Blackbeard Cay – a wild ride!
St Thomas: Discover Scuba – this is where I did my diving course. The guides and staff are just brilliant.
5 Star St John & Trunk Bay – simply a stunning beach!
St Maarten: America’s Cup Regatta – a great fun opportunity to race in actual yachts used in the Americas cup race. Cool!
Golden Eagle Catamaran – Excellent service and staff
Grand Cayman: Any Stingray tour – you have to encounter Stingrays – you just have to.

Atlantis Submarine – want to see the underwater world and stay dry? This one’s for you.
Isla Roatan: Pirates, Birds & Monkeys – Easy, fun, relaxing, interesting.
Any Diving & Snorkel Tours – You have the opportunity here to dive/snorkel at the world’s 2nd largest reef.
Belize: Cave Tubing – Very popular and a great way to spend the day.
Lost World Canopy – the location is like something out of the Jurassic Park Movie.

Again any Diving & Snorkel Tours – You have the opportunity here to dive/snorkel at the world’s 2nd largest reef.
Costa Maya: Dune Buggy Adventure: fun and upbeat.
Dolphin Swim. Just like the Stingrays, if you have the option to encounter these amazing creatures, then do!

4.What are your favorite activities or events that you host and why?
I really think my favorite activity to host is the Welcome Show. And I do look at this like an activity as well as a show. This is where the scene can be set for the entire cruise. When I have the opportunity to make people feel utterly at home and to have some fun. I do often come off stage from this show feeling utterly exhausted but also exhilarated and excited about the week ahead.

5. Fill in the blank please….People should sail on the Carnival Valor because…..
Even though its one of the larger ships we still have a real family feeling here, I think that’s why I like it so much. All our crew just get on really well and that atmosphere translates to our guests. The ship has a good vibe about it.

6. What do you enjoy most about being a Cruise Director?

The challenge that every new day brings. Each day/cruise is never the same and I am constantly learning as I go along.

7. Share your favorite story with us that involve our guests and your job?
Through the years there have been so many great guests and so many great stories, but the most recent one has been while working with the Susan G. Komen foundation. I ‘host’ and attend the Walk every cruise, and without going into too much detail, last cruise I met a lovely family and the mum who is losing her fight to cancer. I don’t want to go into detail as the story is pretty
heartbreaking, but from the hour we spent talking (and I admit a few tears were shed in the process) I can say that this lady was one of the most positive and inspirational ladies I have ever met. Her 2 eldest boys (aged 7 & 9) have vowed to become doctors and fight cancer. Her youngest (aged 2) will surely do the same. The whole situation, and meeting her entire family of brothers and sisters who were also cruising, was both wonderful and upsetting to be a part
of.
So, the positive side of the story – Carnival teaming up with this Foundation is a wonderful thing. Let’s keep it going and raise money to fight cancer. And after meeting this family I quit smoking,,, I haven’t had one for 7 days now.

8. List your three favorite ports you have visited?
Puerto Vallarta (because of the restaurants – amazing!); Isla Roatan (because of the beaches and scenery); Portland, Maine (amazing Lobster!)

9. Name three ports you would really like to see that you have never been to?
Of Course Hawaii & Alaska – doesn’t everyone? I would also like to go Bora Bora.. But alas none of our CCL ships sail there!

10. Finally, if you could introduce on stage any star, alive or not who would it be and why?
STING (from The Police) – the man is just talented, cool and a super star.

Thanks Chris and congratulations on all you have achieved. I am sure many bloggers will now look forward to their Carnival Valor cruise knowing you are there to make sure they have the best vacation ever.

So, back to Mrs. Barsby. Heidi met with her today and made sure she was on the last bus. Her departing words to Heidi were “you need to be more organized .” No thank you or goodbye…..just that. As I mentioned yesterday, I never have and never will make fun of anyone who is suffering from anything and as she left and Heidi told me how mean she had been to her this morning, I could not help remembering that her daughter had said she and her father refused to travel with her….it maybe a nasty thing to think, but I can see why. Anyway, she is on her way home. I tipped the guide on the bus myself to walk her to the check-in desk with her trolley and luggage and then to security…after that she should arrive in Pittsburgh this evening….I hope.

It seems strange to me that so many people are buying t-shirts with my name on it. I am so humbled by this and a little embarrassed. The humbling is because people I have never met are now wearing a statement that they know me, they like me and they have seen my thingy.

I am embarrassed because….well….I haven’t seen my thingy in years….hopefully the diet will help.

Good Morning

Your Friends

John and Heidi

Good Evening from Cannes, the South Of France. We are getting ready to leave after a beautiful day and one where, unlike the last two times we have called here, we did not need to reposition the vessel because of high winds. There was, however, a point where we stopped the tender service for a few minutes to turn the ship into the wind as it was getting a little choppy and therefore we needed to make it a bit more comfortable for guests to board the tenders.

Well, what can I tell you. As you saw from the letter I posted, the blog has hit 500,000 plus slaps. Actually as of today it has achieved 502,067 to be precise. I thought you might like to see some of the facts and figures that go along with this milestone.

TOTAL DAYS AS A LIVE BLOG – 151

NUMBER OF BLOGS POSTED BY ME – 122

NUMBER OF COMMENTS ANSWERED BY ME – 4,195

NUMBER OF WORDPRESS BLOGS – 1,267,467

OUR HIGHEST RANKING – 25

OUR CURRENT STANDING – 54

Not bad, even if I do say so myself and I guess I just did. Anyway, lets see what happens as we head for one million:)

The guests have been in a great mood the last few days, in fact, mostly for the entire cruise and I am very happy with the way things have gone. One new thing I started this week was: Kids Corner. I dedicated one of my Morning Shows just to kids and we held various competitions and had some of the kids as guests on the show. I am going to tell you about one particular wonderful child shortly.

OH, by the way HELLO TO TREVOR FROM THE JOHNSON 4..THE BEST OF THE JOHNSTONS..:)

This month I am going to go make or break for AJ as the godmother of the Carnival Splendor. She has gone radio silent at the moment and if I do not hear anything this month I am going to ask PA 007 TO SEE IF HE CAN GET ME INFORMATION ON HOW TO CONTACT CATHERINE ZETA JONES.

I am going to spend a bit of time answering questions today as I have sooooooooo many to do and I really need to catch up.

Before that though, here are three photos for you from Cannes today.

1. THE HARBOUR AT CANNES

2. THE HARBOUR AGAIN BUT WITH THE SHIP IN THE DISTANCE

3. THE RIVIERA HOTEL OVERLOOKING THE HARBOUR

Now, someone had asked if I could take photos of the bridge and its equipment but after checking I was informed that, unfortunately, I am not allowed to publish photos of the navigation center for security reasons. That’s a real shame isn’t it and I guess it is the price we have to pay for living in the world we do. I was not allowed to take a photo of any equipment on the bridge except this piece which is very important to the operation of the ship.

Here are today’s letters from the “IN THEIR OWN WORDS” section.

OK, I really must push on with the Q and A as I have 60-plus to answer again.

LINDA THE MOUSE – Good to hear from you Linda and I hope all is well with you. It seems a few weeks since I typed in your name but I am glad you have slapped on another comment. The scrapbooks will be made available online very soon and I will let you know when but it should be anyday now. Thank you for mailing the review card to our office and you are correct when you say how important they are to the people who work on board..it’s how crew are rewarded and, remember, the vast majority of promotions happen internally and a
lot of those depend on what is said on those review cards. Thank again Linda for your support of the blog and I hope you will keep reading.
A CRUISE BY ANY OTHER NAME – I understand that not everyone can make the Bloggers Cruise. If this one is a success I promise the next one will be even better and we will choose a ship and a date that will make it easy for everyone to attend. By the way….what’s a vacuum cleaner? Best to you and the family.
RUTH JAMISON – Great posting and what was your husband doing in the cabin as we passed Stromboli? I am happy you enjoyed the photos and even happier that you appreciate the highlighting of other Cruise Directors. Eventually, I hope to cover the whole fleet so they get some great exposure and also you can learn a little something about what to expect on the ship when you sail. There will be more exposing next week….and some of it isn’t pretty:) My best to you and your husband and hope you still have wonderful memories of
your cruise.
JIMNI – Thanks for trying. I really messed up when I slapped on the Mushroom Soup recipe and realized it was for 3 billion people. Still, if you like soup….
Thanks for trying to find a recipe resizing link thing and I have asked the Chef to do the same here so I can re-post it. Enjoy the soup for breakfast, lunch and dinner for the next year….can you freeze soup?
JANFRWA – Well that was a posting that started off making me feel sad and ended with me grinning like a silly thing. I am sorry to hear about your husband’s illness but relieved to hear that the stent was successful in unblocking the artery. I am sure that must have been a scary time for you and the entire family. This was made easier you said by the thoughts you received from the friends you had met on the blog, Cruise Critic
and of course the friends you had met personally on your recent cruise here on the Carnival Freedom.
The reason I was smiling was to hear that you had booked THE BLOGGERS CRUISE. I know that you have not told your husband yet but when you do, show him this would you please.
PHIL, I AM VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR RECENT TROUBLES BUT ALL OF THAT IS IN THE PAST. THE FUTURE IS THE BLOGGERS CRUISE WHICH JANET HAS NOW BOOKED. I KNOW YOU MUST TAKE IT EASY AND NOT HAVE ANY STRESS AND I THINK A WEEK’S CRUISE WILL BE THE PERFECT WAY FOR YOU TO RELAX AFTER ALL YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH.HEIDI AND I SEND YOU OUR MOST POSITIVE THOUGHTS AND WE WILL ALL BE TOGETHER AGAIN IN JANUARY…….SEE YOU THEN MATE.
Thanks Janet and please keep me informed as to how Phil is doing. See you soon
SOUTHERNDREAMS – I was just about to mail your royalty cheque for the chair hog comments but then I read your posting so I spent it instead. OK, you said the magic word..jelly beans and I am hoping I get a chance to refuel my personal jetpack this coming week if some blogger feeling sympathy for my plight has sent me some. I am hoping the jetpack is fully fueled and ready for when you cruise so you can experience its wonders for yourself. My best to you and the Prince…are you home now?
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Hello Carol and I am glad to see you got caught up with all the blogs. I seem to have written more than usual this cruise, I am not sure how or why but there has been lots to tell you all. I can tell you that the Tiramisu Cake you mentioned is available in all the guest dining rooms but not every night like the CWMC and unfortunately the Imagination does not have a Supper Club…maybe one day though. Thank you as always for your kind words and please keep reading the blog as it’s people like you that have
enabled us to reach 500,000 plus.
TAMMIE – Mrs. Barsby will be fine, we are taking good care of her although I must admit she is very demanding. Still, as I have said many times, it is what makes this job so interesting. Thanks Tammie and let me know if you need help with your hotel next time you sail:)
ESSEXMAN – There you are, have not heard from you in a while and I hope all is well. You asked about the hotels that the ship offers direct transportation to in Rome. They are:
THE VISCONTI PALACE
THE CICIRONE
THE AIRPORT HILTON
I hope this is ok and if you need any more help deciding what to book etc please let me know mate. Hope you are well and put the kettle on, I could do with a brew.
LOIS GRABOUCHMYKNEE – I am sorry I spelt your name wrong last time but I have spelt it correctly tonight. Thank you for your BRA story and your continued SUPPORT of the blog. I will be writing about the donation to the Orphanage in a moment so look forward to that and many thanks for the story which made me smile. My best to you and the family.
BRYAN- I am happy to hear that you are a Blues Brothers fan and you really would, I know, enjoy CD Chris Roberts’ interpretation of their great music. It has been an interesting few days and the conversation with Mrs. Barsby was priceless. Cheers for the kind words and hope all is good with you.
HEIDI – BETH & KEVIN – Congratulations on the new camera, it sounds amazing and I hope all of you will send me some photos. I had no idea that you had so many children, I thought it was just you, Heidi and Beth but now I discover you have SEVEN other children or Pixels as you called them in your posting. I hope therefore that all ten of you have a wonderful time on the Carnival Glory and I know you will love Wee Jimmy. Look out for a story covering him and the his ship next week. All the best to you and your ever expanding family which also means you will have to order even more t-shirts and 9 scrapbooks.
BIG ED- I just spent the last 22 minutes of my life trying to work out what the heck you are talking about but as its already 11;50pm my brain has just told me to give up… so I did. I hope that it is some sort of code that says you will be sailing on January 19th but if it is I will have to hire an Enigma machine to crack it. Throw me a bone mate and give me a clue. I will indeed ask ROBERTO TO HELP SEE IF HE CAN BREAK THE CODE ON YOUR SITE….ROBERTO???
FRANCIS – Congratulations on booking the Inaugural cruise of the Carnival Splendor. I will have details on tours etc very soon and of course will share the information with all of you soon. See you in July and get ready for a great and incomparable cruise.
BOB – I wanted to post your comments before I answered them Bob..Here they are. “I love your blog, but the lady who did not know her hotel name because she did not have one and is also forgetful according to her daughter probably has Alzheimer’s. You are correct that it is amazing that some of them get to the ship at all, but now dealing with an 86 year old father whose Alzheimer’s is even worse than the lady you poked fun at I would have to recommend you stop teasing Alzheimer’s patients. Their lives are rather frustrating and confusing to them. You get to laugh but they live with it 24/7 and do not know why they cannot function any more.I know you probably did not view it from this perspective because you never come across as having a mean streak in you, but with all the old people on cruise ships you should probably consider it in the future.”
I want to thank you first of all for taking the time to comment on what must be a very difficult topic for you considering what you must have to deal with each and every day looking after your father who suffers from the terrible affliction that is Alzheimer’s. I know how hard this is because I have a family member who
suffered from Alzheimer’s as well and I know how hard it is to see someone you care about become so unrecognizable as was the case with my Uncle George who passed away two years ago. He lived just round the corner from my mum and dad in a flat and my dad spent every day looking after him and the last time I saw
him he did not recognize me …it was very difficult. In the case of Mrs. Barsby I want to make sure that you know that after 20 years of doing what I do I am very much aware of the fine line between having fun and making fun and I certainly am very careful before I have fun with anyone by looking at the person, the situation and recognizing if indeed there are any medical or physical concerns the guest may have before I take the “comic route .”
Mrs. Barsby is only 51 years old and certainly is suffering from nothing except her expectation that everything be handled for her without her actually knowing what it is she wants. I do not feel that I need to defend myself but I want to quote something that her daughter Trisha who is just 22 told me when I called her …she said “Mum can be difficult at times which is why my dad and I did not want to come on vacation with her.” Anyway, I can truly understand what you must have thought and I don’t blame you….You do not know me and if you did I hope you would see a person who has never and could never make fun of anyone who was suffering from any affliction, especially one such as Alzheimer’s…..there is no comedic value in that and I as a person have and never will look for that cheap laugh. The most important thing though is to know that I send you my warmest regards and you and your family will be in my thoughts tonight. Thanks Bob and I hope you continue to read the blog.
MARK TWAIN AND A HALF – As I was just saying to Bob, Mrs. Barsby – according to her daughter – suffers from ” difficulties and complaintology” so much so that they stayed at home! I am glad that the blog is providing you with so much pleasure and that’s why I will keep surfing my two fingers over my now very old and rattled keyboard…..it really is making some strange noises.
JAMES EMM – You asked what ships have the miniature golf courses…let me check with CHRIS PRIDEAUX and get back to you. Chris?
BOB HICKLY – How fantastic that you recognized one of the Employees’ of the Month Christopha D’Costa who is indeed a worthy winner of the Employee of the Month title. I have passed on your comments to him and the hotel director as I know it will mean a lot for him to read them. Yes, you are indeed sounding like a Human Resources type but that is a good thing. I hope you are enjoying your retirement and hope you’re also enjoying the blog.
INEZ – Thank you for saying you enjoyed the conversation with Mrs. Barsby and I know some people may be thinking that I may make some of this stuff up but really I do not. This blog has allowed me to share with you all things that I could never have done before and the great characters I meet each and every day. Congratulations on ordering your t-shirt and I do not blame your big manly husband for not wanting to advertise that he has “seen my thingy” but I am happy to hear that you have no problem wearing it yourself. Hope you found the kitchen, it is not a place I have ever found myself. Best to you both.
MRS MTSFP – You will be happy to hear that the singles gathering in the Swingtime is indeed smoke free but you are correct that the “younger” singles gatherings are in the two smoking bars. I will this cruise look and see if that is affecting attendance and if it is I will adopt your ideas. I love the Over The Hill references but I wish I could add those headings into the Carnival Capers. I am going with the mature and 30-something titles at the moment but maybe I should adopt your OVER THE HILL titles. During the times the singles gatherings are on, the lounges are still open to all guests – married, single, divorced etc. Anyway, see you very soon and I, John
and Diane are looking forward to seeing you as well….in a smoke free lounge.
Moving on, you asked about the Rome By Night Tour. At the moment the operator is not sure if he will run this because of how the weather may be in late October. Do you think there will be interest in doing this? What are your thoughts? Look forward as always to hearing from you.
DONNAL LEE – Thanks Donna, what kind words. I hope you are having much success and happiness as a travel agent and thank you for supporting Carnival and this blog. I hope that you will let me know if you have clients sail on a ship I am on so I can look after them. Cheers.
JIM ALTON – Your Supper Club reservation has been made for the 16th at 7:30pm, can you slap on your cabin number when you have time please……try the trio of chocolate desserts. See you in September and let me know if I can help further.
MTSFPBLFTTNSFCF – Someday I want to give you your full hereditary title. With regard to what you said about the tour, yep, I will so just e-mail Roberto and I will take care of it….ssssssssssssssssssshhhhhhhhhhhhh.
KEVIN – Congratulations on getting 400 slaps, actually 401 because I will be having a look in a moment myself. You will enjoy the cruise to nowhere on the Carnival Miracle. They are a lot of fun and many people leave with no memory of what they did at all while on board….if you know what I mean. I will be talking about Rick Shaw, the man who will be donating money in a moment, he is truly special. Have fun on the Miracle and please keep writing your blog and we will support each other.
PAUL F.PIETRANGELO – Hello Paul, I hope you are well. Lets me start by answering what an Oiler/Greaser does. In fact, it does exactly what the name suggests. These young men are responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the thousands of moving parts that make up the ship’s engineering systems and they do this by constantly greasing and cleaning the engine parts to keep them working. This work is carried out in sauna-like conditions and it is one of the most physical jobs on board and it is great to see that one of these young men has been honoured (spelt correctly).
I am happy that you are enjoying the interviews with the other Cruise Directors and these continue on the next blog. Once again, I feel like I am writing to someone I have known for years which is one of the joys of this blog thingy. Our best to you as always.
MILISSASNEU – I am sure I speak for everyone when I say thank you for slapping on those wonderful stories about your time working at Midway Airport. It does seem that sometimes travel makes you have continuous brain farts. I have a great friend Rebecca who works for an airline at Luton Airport in the
UK which is a small commuter airport operating short haul flights to Europe and this is her favorite story and it’s TRUE. A crowded flight was cancelled after a mechanical fault had grounded the plane.. A single attendant was re-booking a long line of inconvenienced travelers.
Suddenly an angry passenger pushed his way to the desk. He slapped his ticket down on the counter and said, “I HAVE to be on this flight and it HAS to be FIRST CLASS.” The attendant replied, “I’m sorry sir. I’ll be happy to try to help you, but I’ve got to help these people first, and I’m sure we’ll be able to work something out.”
The passenger was unimpressed. He asked loudly, so that the passengers behind him could hear, “DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHO I AM?” Without hesitating, the attendant smiled and grabbed her public address
microphone: “May I have your attention please, may I have your attention please,” she began – her voice heard clearly throughout the terminal. “We have a passenger here at Gate 14 WHO DOES NOT KNOW WHO HE IS. If anyone can help him find his identity, please come to Gate 14.”
With the folks behind him in line laughing hysterically, the man glared at the Virgin attendant, gritted his teeth and said, ” Sc$% you!”Without flinching, she smiled and said, “I’m sorry, sir, but you’ll have to get
in line for that too.”
Thank you Melissa and I hope if you have any other stories to tell, please share them with us.
CARRIE – Your reservations in the Supper Club on the Carnival Valor have been confirmed…..try the steaks, any of them, but the porterhouse remains my favorite. Have fun on the Carnival Valor and look out for a review of the ship and its Cruise Director very soon.
LUV 2 CRUISE – You will indeed have a great time on the Carnival Miracle. There will be a review of the CD and the ship soon and I know you will have the perfect vacation. Let me know if I can help with anything and please…..keep laughing.
ED MILAN PAPANH -Well, what a glowing recommendation for our Supper Clubs and I have a feeling your son the Chef will enjoy today’s interview and I would be interested to hear what he thinks. I am amazed that you have found the time to read the blog from its inception but I am of course so very grateful that you have.
My jetpack is fueless at the moment but as soon as I get more it will be fully operational again…..maybe I should record this on a pod cast? Maybe not:)
CLAIR – You said that the photos I have posted may have changed your mind about cruising in Europe. Let me help you. Send me some questions, as many as you like, and let me gently persuade you. I will await your next posting and I send my best wishes until then.
KATHY KROLL – I know exactly what you mean about long haul flights as I to can’t do them in economy anymore and I am hoping that Roger and Chris will be charitable and allow me a business class flight. Have a look at http://www.eosairlines.com/flyeos/overview/home.jsf. They operate a business class service from New York to London’s third airport Stansted which is one I always fly into if I can. I have never flown with them myself but their rates seem pretty good….have a look. I hope you and Paul are well and let me know how things progress with your flights etc.
CAPTAIN CHUCK – Thanks Captain, how’s dad today? I was thinking of him immediately as I typed your name so that’s a big bunch of positive thinking on its way to you. Glad you like the photos and read more about Rick in a moment. Please keep me informed on dad’s progress and best to you from Heidi and I.
MARY – I HOPE YOU SAW MY EXPLANATION TO Bob above and hopefully you will understand that I would never ridicule anyone, certainly not the elderly. As for the singles, I am happy to tell you that we will have dance instructors on the crossing back to Miami and also there will be lots of single activities for all ages so I am sure you will meet many new friends and I will make sure we include a singles dance for people to find partners…..I am an awful dancer……but I will be happy to have you whisk me round the floor one
time…..what do you say?
SUE GROHOL – Sue, they are indeed the tours for the 29th and some do arrive back near to sailing time but do not worry, we will not sail without you. There is no news on the Angels and Demons tour yet but I hope to have this information very soon. I was sorry to learn you arrived with no luggage last time on the Carnival
Liberty. This cruise was a little better with only 3- something pieces unaccounted for but that will be of no help to the folks who went through what you did. I hope that you arrive with everything this time and you are correct that travel insurance is needed more today than ever. I will be back to you soon with information as I get it about the tour. All the best until then.
KIM – It looks like I am going to have a lot of friends joining me on the Carnival Splendor as I see you have booked as well. That is great news and I also hope the WCMC will keep you going until then hand in hand of course with the blog. As time gets nearer I will let you know some valuable port information. Congratulations and see you next year.

That is enough for now so there will be more tomorrow. If I have not answered your question yet I promise I will get to it as soon as my fingers stop bleeding:)

So, we are in France today and therefore we need to add a touch of French flavor and just a touch of garlic to our interview. Here then is today’s special guest. You will recognize his name from our Supper Club and Dining Room menus and of course as one of the top Chef’s in the world. It is an honour (spelt correctly) and a privilege for me to introduce and interview CHEF, GEORGE BLANC.

Please read this in a French accent.

1. Chef, before we talk about Carnival please can you tell us all how and when you discovered your love of food and cooking?

I belong to the fourth generation of a family of innkeepers whose activities go back to 1872; my passion for cooking grabbed me while I was assisting my mother in the kitchen. For three generations, women were at the controls in the
kitchen of the restaurant called The Blanc Mother. My father, like his parents, was a soft drink seller; he was also the village mayor and a great connoisseur of the wine world : he is the one who made me discover this universe, by taking me to his wine-grower friends in the Beaujolais, Mâcon and Burgundy areas.

My mother’s cooking was a simple and generous cuisine, prepared with care and using most of the time regional products of very high quality and freshness.

It is probably during these years that I understood how to treat the most demanding palates, with a cooking where harmony, freshness and depth of taste remain the major characteristics of excellent cuisine.

When I took over the family business at the age of 25, in 1968, my passion had grown around a more personal and creative cooking, always focused around top products as the seasons go by.

2. When you were a junior chef working in a hot kitchen, did you ever think that you may not have made the right choice?
No, I never regretted to have taken this path; I had confidence in the future and I wanted to succeed by bringing another star to the restaurant. It came in 1981 and it was a crowning point. No rise without passion.

3.You now run your famous Michelin starred restaurant in Vonnas, France. Are you still there actually cooking or do you just oversee the day to day running of the restaurant?
I am present in my restaurant every opening day, in order to fulfill the high expectations of the numerous visitors. I remain the inspirer and the designer of the cooking. I must admit that nowadays, I am rather a composer and music
conductor than an instrumentalist. I am assisted in my cooking by my sons, with whom I share the same passion. I am more available for my clients and I meet them to exchange a few views and answer their many questions, especially about
the preparation of the served dishes. Lots of meals are organized for special events such as birthday, honeymoon . . .

4. Many of our readers on the blog travel a lot and I am sure after reading about you, will be heading for a gastronomic adventure at your restaurant. Can you tease us a little with your favorite dish of the moment from the menu.

Bresse is my home country and we are lucky to have the famous Bresse chicken, the only one, since 1st August 1957 (exactly 50 years ago) that has deserved the AOC label, like the greatest wines. This product is thus the theme of my inventive menu, as the seasons go by. Each piece of chicken (liver, breast, leg, wings) is associated with other
tasty elements in unexpected dishes. It is the menu, whose great success also comes from its originality.

5. Many of us (myself included) have enjoyed your signature dishes onboard one of the Carnival ships. Before you got involved with Carnival, did you know much about cruising, had you ever been on a cruise?

Not really. I only remember my military service as the Admiral Vedel’s cook on the Foch aircraft carrier. I was in charge of organizing onboard receptions when we were representing in our ports of call.

6. So, how did the wonderful relationship start between you and Carnival and what do you hope to achieve when designing dishes for our restaurants.

This collaboration is before all the result of several years of friendship with Mr. and Mrs. Arison, before even thinking about it; indeed the challenge of adapting a high level cooking to a large number of guests appeared to be difficult. We selected a certain number of dishes that could be made under required conditions and we worked a lot on the elaboration of a range of sauces. This seemed fundamental and it corresponded to the French Cooking’s specificity.
We bank a lot on the motivation of the cooks we train here in Vonnas, according to our sensitivity; they are initiated to our cooking techniques during intense internships.

7. For those guests who have not tried one of your signature dishes, which one is your favorite and one that every guest must try.

Chicken with Foie Gras sauce and preserved cloves of garlic, for instance, or a sea bass with marinière sauce, herbs and seasonings.

8. Simple question, why are the best and most famous chefs men?

It is now changing with the emergence of stars-holding women, especially in Italy, and today in France. Cuisine is a tough environment because of its working conditions, and I think that this is why there were so few women up to now.

9. What did you have for dinner last night?

Yesterday evening, 1st August, I had dinner with 2.000 people around a plate of firewood roast Bresse chicken, since we were officially celebrating the getting of the AOC label ‘Bresse chicken’ on 1st August 1957. It was a beautiful feast favoured by exceptional weather.

10. You have just heard that some VIP’s are coming over for dinner in 30 minutes and you only have the following in the house and only 30 minutes to cook…what would you conjure up using only these ingredients…..by the way, my wife came up with the ingredients because if it was me in this position I would have called for Chinese to be delivered..anyway, Chef, what can you do with this lot?

Chicken breasts
lasagna sheets
mozzarella
water cress
orange pepper
red chili
fresh tomatoes

Mince the chicken breasts, cook them quickly without drying them up, make a spicy tomato sauce with fresh tomatoes then cover the breasts. Blanch the watercress, strain and mix. Add the chicken to this purée. Season, then cover with some cooked lasagna leaves. Brown the dish with Mozarella.

Bon Appétit!!
Do not forget to serve this dish with a good glass of white wine, like Chardonnay.

Thank you Chef and I am sure there is not one among the thousands of bloggers reading this who is not feeling hungry right now.

That was a difficult interview to conduct because even though, as you know, I LOVE food, I have no idea how it arrives on my table. Anyway, should any of you be fortunate enough to be in France, you must visit the Chef’s restaurant for a gastronomic journey that I am sure will be like no other. Visit his site on http://www.georgesblanc.com/
and let him know that you are coming for dinner.

You remember Rick Shaw, the kind gentleman who offered to donate $1,000 to the school orphanage in Dubrovnik — Well I learned a bit more about him today. He was one of the most famous morning show DJ’s in Florida and recently retired.
He was broadcasting for Magic 102.7 and I have had loads of e mails from my friends in Public Relations, Tim Gallagher and Jennifer De La Cruz who are HUGE fans as well as our Vice President of Sales Maurice Zarmati who I know is also
a good friend of Rick’s. Also, my friend Roger Blum told me he used to wake up with Rick every morning but then his wife found out…..Anyway, Rick I know will be reading this and I wanted again to thank him for everything he has done
for children’s charities in the past and his donation for the kids in Dubrovnik is a testament to his generosity and love of children…….Thanks Rick and I have an idea…….how about coming on the Bloggers Cruise in January and maybe we can all help raise money somehow that week for the charity you work with and one we all support….Children…..what do you say mate?

Fittingly, we will finish with the story of Jessica, age 12 who drew me the photo of the ship that is posted above. Jessica has been at every show, every activity and has written to me every day. She is a wonderful kid and Heidi and I have grown fond of her these past 12 days. Jess (as she likes to be called) is from Seattle and has laughed so much, she says, at all the shows and is my biggest fan. Jess also loves the dancers and she was very excited when she met one of them after the Ticket To Ride Show. Yesterday, I called Jess on the afternoon show live to say thank you for the three drawings she had sent in. I asked her if she was having a good time and she said yes and then added “I wish my mummy and daddy were here as well,” — not thinking I asked if they were at home in Seattle, she replied “No, they are in heaven”. . .. .silence…….I was not sure what to say now because, I was on live TV. . . I told her that I am sure mummy and daddy are watching you have a great time and are very proud of you and she replied in a calm and clear voice “I know, I talk to them everyday and I told them your jokes”…..OK, now there is a lump the size of the ship in my throat…..and….not knowing what to do I said “Can you tell them another joke for me?”

“Yes” she said. I said “This one is just for you to tell your mummy and daddy and no one else” …YES, she said. I then asked everyone else watching to turn off their TV’s and then I carried on and told Jess the joke and she laughed and laughed and said she would tell her mummy and daddy straight away…we said our goodbyes.

I called later from my office and spoke to her Aunty (her mom’s sister) who has taken legal custody of Jess and she told me that her parents had died when she was 10 years old under tragic circumstances. I asked her also about Jess and
how strong she seemed and her Aunty said that is how she is and that every night she talks to her mummy and daddy before going to sleep. Last night she will have told her parents in heaven her special joke. It is one of my favorites.

I would tell you the joke…..but …..it’s Jess’s secret joke and just between me…… and her and her mum and dad.

Goodnight

Your friends

John and Heidi

Good Morning,

I just wanted to share with all of you that yesterday the number of slaps achieved for this humble blog reached 500,000.

I would like to say a huge thank you to all of you for your kind support and loyalty.

I would be remiss not to mention Roberto for his daily hard work in posting all your comments as well as continually improving the blog and its facilities.

I must also pay tribute to Roger and Chris from the office who have allowed me free range to conduct this blog as I see fit and, of course, a big thank you to our mystery PA 007.

There are some nights when I am blogging at 2:00am in the morning and this of course has affected my free time which, without the understanding of my wife and blogging partner Heidi…………………..well, let’s just say we would (delete have) never have reached this goal.

Mostly, I just want to say thanks again to each and every one of you who have and will continue to read my blog thingy.

The reason I will keep blogging is simply the knowledge that all my friends out there are enjoying the stories and appreciating the answers to their questions.

Knowing this is the only reward I need………………………………………………………….apart from an Aston Martin………………….

Your friend always,

John

Have you ever heard the song called Barcelona performed by the late great Freddie Mercury and some Spanish opera singer? I heard it recently and for some reason I can’t stop singing the damn song as it appears to be stuck on an endless loop, especially as we are in……………Barcelona today.Let’s rewind to last night when, at 2:50am, my bedside phone slapped me out of my dream with a right hook to the face. It’s a shame, because I was dreaming of Angelina Jolie, an Aston Martin Vanquish, a swimming pool filled with whipped cream and an extra large bag of sugar free jelly beans.

Anyway, the punch of the alarm had me sitting up in bed and I knew straight away that it would be the bridge before I answered. This is not due to my telepathetic powers but because I could feel that the thrusters were on and the ship was coming to a stop.

Sure enough, it was indeed a call to come to the bridge so I shook the last lingering memories of Angelina from my mind and headed to the bridge.

When this happens there are always things going through your mind as to what may be going on but after so many years of doing this you just wind your neck in and get on with the job.

Arriving at the bridge I was met by the Captain who informed me that the bridge had received a distress call over the VHF radio and the ship had been tasked by Spanish Coastguard to assist in the search for the boat that made the call.

It was now 3:00am and nobody was about but I checked on both sides of the ship to see if the thrusters and steady turning circle the ship was making had woken anyone. For the most part the answer was no as there were maybe a dozen or so people standing on their balconies peering into the darkness. I informed the Captain that in my opinion we should not make an announcement just yet and to see how the situation progressed, which he agreed with.

So, for the next hour Captain D’Aita searched for this vessel that had made the call but since had gone quiet. I sat on the bridge with a cup of tea waiting to see what would happen next and couldn’t help but think that somewhere out on that dark Mediterranean Sea, someone was in trouble. Just then one of the officers spotted an emergency beacon on our port side which was transmitting a signal and flashing strobe light………this meant that the boat was probably either in the area or worse had sunk. The search continued and we were joined by two cargo vessels and eventually the Spanish Coastguard vessel arrived and took over and we were released from our search and began to make our way to Barcelona at 4:00am……………it was very strange going back to bed thinking that somewhere people were in peril on the sea or……..well, it was hard getting back to sleep. I think I spent the next hour in that horrible place between being awake and being asleep when at 5:10am the phone rang again causing something to swear in Dutch from under the covers. I answered the phone and was told by Diego, the First Officer, that the people from the pleasure craft had been found in a small life raft about ten miles east of our search pattern and the spot where, after their yacht had sunk, we had found the transponder……..all were very scared but safe and well, and were now aboard the Coastguard vessel.

That was great news to hear and I closed my eyes hoping sleep would find me and that AJ would be waiting and the pool would still be full of whipped cream and the Aston Martin would be ready to be driven.

Sleep did come but the whipped cream had melted, the Aston had been stolen and replaced with a unicycle and AJ had morphed into an indescribable woman who was holding a sign saying no cigar smoking allowed………………………oh well.

And now, it is 5:52pm and we are leaving Barcelona heading for the South of France. The weather today was good but very humid as Heidi and I took a stroll through the street known as La Rambla. I say stroll, but as busy as it was today it was more like a slalom course as you take big steps then a few little ones as we zig-zagged through the crowd. Heidi took a few photos of La Rambla and the market there which I thought I would share with you……………..here they are:

1. A Human Statue at La Rambla

2. Edward Scissorhands

3. La Rambla………very busy today

4. Me buying pistachios in the huge open air food market

5.Fruit

6. Stuff I can’t have

Here are the letters from today’s IN THEIR OWN WORDS SECTION:

Just before we start the Q & A, someone was asking about the teeth whitening treatment in the spa, although I have never had it done, everyone says it truly is brilliant.

Here is how the Spa Manager describes it:

“Go Smile at Spa Carnival now available for $360 for Couples or $199 per person, It will lighten the shade of your teeth up to 8 x times whiter in a quick 35 minute, pain free treatment and with the guidance of homecare, will carry on whitening for the future – all this for a third of the cost and third of the mess and with amazing, lasting results!!!”

It’s time for today’s Q & A, sponsored by Gas Ex.

SUE GROHOL – Hello Sue. Did you see the updated list of tours available for Rome which I posted? This should help you decide what tours to take. Please let me know if you need help deciding. At the moment, the Angels & Demons tour is not confirmed for the 28th and I am waiting on the tour operator to let me know if we will run the tour.
I thank you so much for saying that your day would not be complete without reading the blog. You have no idea what that means to Heidi and I. See you in 88 days.
Oh, I just read you have reserved a SMART car. These are very popular in Europe and I am sure you will have a lot of fun in yours. It will look very strange parked next to some huge American SUV. Send me a photo please )
LINDA HERNACKI – Hello Linda, how are you and the bulb changer? I will let you know when the NBC interview is on and it should be sometime next week.
I am so happy to hear you’ll be ordering some t-shirts and if we do sell 250, I will post a picture you will never forget.
The seat saving issue continues but over the last 24 hours and, I think, thanks to my multiple mentions before shows and in the Carnival Capers, the situation is improving.
I look forward to the day when all of us can have our photos taken together in our bloggers t-shirts.
All the best to you both.
MICHAEL – Thank you for saying you are enjoying the blog so much and I am also happy to hear that you have wonderful memories of the time we cruised together during your Carnival Triumph cruise. You asked me if I have a favorite Carnival ship. When people ask me this, I always say: “The one I am on at the moment.”
However, I think my favorite ship will always be the Carnival Triumph. I don’t know why, it’s not something I can put my finger on. Maybe it was just that we were there for so long, but there was something special about that ship. I hope to see you for new memories soon and until then, please keep reading the blog thingy.
TUCKER IN TEXAS – I love the pretense of not speaking in English and maybe we should all try that. I am hoping before I resort to trickery that if I play on people’s minds to do the right thing and not save seats then we will not have to fall back on some of the suggestions I have read in this blog. How are things in Texas? Hope to hear from you soon.
BIG ED – Great answer but I really think the best Carnival ship at the moment is the Carnival Freedom and, as my official Assistant to the Cruise Director, you should be here too. We do have a slight cabin problem at the moment which means you may have to sleep with Heidi and I. Just picture an old Laurel & Hardy movie.
They always used to sleep together and if they can, so can we.
Still waiting to hear the good news that you will be sailing on the Bloggers Cruise.
A Bloggers Cruise without Big Ed is like Eggs without Bacon.
CAPTAIN CHUCK – Thank you for mentioning PA 007 who really did a wonderful job in providing the recipe for the WCMC and as you had it 7 times on your last cruise, I am not surprised. Sorry to hear Dad is not getting better as quickly as you would have liked and as always we continue to think about you. You asked if Tina was very tiny or my jacket was very big. ……….Tina was a Smurf.
LFTTNSFCF – Thank you so much for you kind words towards my mate Alan. Although we spend our entire lives having fun at each other’s expense, I am very proud of him and the work that he does.
I do not want to be the reason you and Mrs. MTSFP which will happen if you decide to attend the singles party. However, John and Diane, I am sure will be only too happy to provide private entertainment for you both should you want to dance as you suggested. I do need somebody to come to all the singles activities with me and have delegated you for this position.
I see that you could be spending $1,000 plus dollars on tours. I wish Carnival did offer a bulk discount and maybe this is something we should look at doing.
I know you are both considering the Private Vatican tour, which will put your bill up even further, but I cannot recommend this tour enough.
Heidi and I will never forget it.
I see that you noticed that the recipe for the Mushroom Soup was for 100 plus people………ooops.
At least you can invite a lot of people over for dinner. See you in 89 days and we both send our kindest regards to you.
NANETTEALI – Ola! How are you and your 35 kids? Thank you for the big hug and today it is Heidi’s turn to send you one and a special one to Vicky.
Mucho tacos n buenos nachos con salsa.
LEZLEE – How exciting to hear that you are bringing a group of 33 friends who will be part of the Cruise Critic Group. Thank you for the invitation to your meet and greet on the first day, however, I have my Welcome Aboard Talk at the same time, so I won’t be able to attend. However, Heidi and I would love to attend your cocktail party and we will see you there. I have made your Supper Club reservation which is confirmed………you must try the Fillet Mignon.
As excited as you are to cruise again with me I am equally excited to be able to welcome you and your Cruise Critic friends home.
SCOTT – You asked for a recipe for American Navy Bean Soup. This is one of my favorites and I will see what I can do. By the way, anything with the word bean in it has been forbidden by Heidi for reasons which I am sure are explosively obvious. I am glad you are enjoying the letters I am posting. It always gives me a special thrill to receive the ones from children. Cheers Scott.
BEN EGGLESTON – Welcome home and how fantastic to hear that you enjoyed your cruise in July here on the Carnival Freedom. Your kind comments about the crew are so great to hear and I have forwarded your comments to other department heads. You asked about German wine you had in the Supper Club and you can’t remember the name. It’s a Spaetlaese, which translates into grapes that are picked at the end of the harvest to allow for the sweet taste.
Thank you for your brilliant comments and I do hope you keep reading this blog. My best to you and Elizabeth.
TOM AND JANE – I really am an idiot, I should have noticed the recipe for the soup would require a swimming pool to cook it in. Still, it is a good soup.
I will ask the chef to see if he can figure out a recipe for 2 or 4 people. I never admitted to being a chef. Beans on toast are the only thing I can cook.
Hope this blog keeps you going until you can cruise again. All the best and enjoy the soup. (again and again and again and again…)
DEBBIE IN LOUISIANA – You asked what black chocolate is Debbie in reference to the recipe for the WCMC. I checked with the chef and it refers to Dark instead of Milk chocolate that’s all and he recommends a good brand. We use a Belgian brand called LINDT which, as so many of you have testified to, tastes amazing. Let me know how yours turns out. …………….bon appetit
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – Good day to you Paul. Thank you for your comments on the last two blogs which I read with much pleasure as usual. As I stood on stage talking to Ann and Dan, I admit to hoping that Heidi and I will have the joy of being together for so long and I share that wish with you and your wife as well. I am lucky, so lucky that this blog has introduced me to so many new friends and you of course are one of them. I also hope that very soon we will meet and we can discuss smelly girls, French girls (same thing) and my mate Alan. Cheers mate and talk to you soon.
GRACE – I am glad you are feeling a bit more at ease about the cruise now that you have your tickets and you know what you are doing etc. I look forward to meeting your 6 year old and please can you write me a note when you board and leave it at the information desk. Have a safe flight and see you soon.
BILL (ZYDECOCRUISER) – Yes mate, the WCMC (unlike the soup) is for one serving. I expect a master chef like you will produce an exact replica of the one on the ship. Now, I just need to teach you how to cook British fish and chips. Remind me please the day before you cruise and slap on your cabin number. All the best mate.
JTODDINMAN – that was a laugh out loud poem…………..the Phillapines……….brilliant. Dinner on me at the supper club next time you cruise if you write a poem called…………….ATCOCS.
Looking forward to hearing that one and all the best.
How about a big round of applause for our Poet Laureate and her two poems which should be published.
KEVIN – As you have an Aston Martin and I do not, I would like to make you our official driver. Although, hopefully, I can do the driving and you can sit back and enjoy the ride. I see you are one of the singles who absolutely do not need my help but your points about the music being too loud thus making conversation difficult is an excellent point. Therefore, I have tried to move some of the activities into the quieter bars plus the Fast Friends activity is proven a big hit and certainly is a great ice breaker. The biggest problem is of course the cabin price which I know is a controversial subject. However, I will continue to forward your comments and that of other singles to the powers that be. I loved your suggestion about a singles mini golf event and I going to put that into practice immediately so I can now make you Assistant to the Assistant to the Cruise Director. This means you have to report to Big Ed. It’s great talking to you and although my dream of having an Aston Martin will never come true at least I can talk to someone who owns one.
MRS.MISSINGTHE-SMOKEFREEPARADISE – Congratulations on purchasing a new pair of shoes for your trip to Italy, although no good pair of Italian shoes is complete without a fine Italian handbag. Therefore, I suggest you ask Mr.MTSFPBLFTTSFCF……….to purchase one for you while in Rome.
If I have to suffer the anguish of handbag shopping, as my friend, so does he. Happy shopping!
KEVI – You asked for some photos on the bridge and indeed I will take some tomorrow for you and look out for these some time soon. Congratulations on booking the Carnival Miracle in October. Look out for the next few blogs which will contain an in depth look at the itinerary and it’s Cruise Director.
CRUISIN SUE – Yes, you are at the right place. Great to hear that you will be sailing on your 42nd Carnival cruise. That is wonderful to hear. I will get to see you in October and Todd will see you on the Liberty in September. Please post a comment on the next blog with your name, cabin number and the date and time you would like reservations in the Supper Club for both ships and I will be happy to make them for you. Thank you Sue for all your support to Carnival.
NEIL YOUNG – I am sorry to say the only Irish Whiskey we have is Jamesons.  However, maybe Ken, our Irish Maitre ‘ D has a secret supply of Bushmills.
I will see you in 3 days, have a safe trip mate.
SHELLY P – I am glad you are enjoying the stories on the blog, especially the one about Ann and Dan and their 63 years of happy marriage. I am very excited that Alan will be sailing and I intend to embarrass him as much as I can. You have no idea what he has put me through as a teenager.
DEB ROWE – I have made your Supper Club reservation as requested………try the lobster!
This will be the perfect way to celebrate your 24th anniversary and Heidi and I look forward to meeting you.
GIRLDOC – Thanks Doc for the great suggestions concerning singles. I have never thought about doing an early morning singles meeting just so people can hook up and plan to spend the day together. What do you think if I was to do a 10:00am meeting by the coffee shop on a sea day morning and just have one of the entertainment staff hang out with you and introduce people to each other and then leave to allow you to plan your day. Please let me know what you think because your input as a single cruiser is very important. I really do not want you to get ATCOCS like poor Mr. Sid Ruse. He had not cruised with Carnival for a long time and found himself on another cruise ship which will remain nameless. He saw a mouse with big ears, went up to the rodent and said: “Carnival’s Mickey can kick your AR$#”. He was removed from the ship but Don King is promoting this great fight which will be held aboard the Carnival Splendor, tickets are available from all good travel agents.
I look forward to hearing your advice.
DWA76 – Thanks for the compliment about the interview with my mate Alan. Maybe one day on the Bloggers cruise or a future Bloggers cruise we can all sit around and discuss why Alan was such a turn-off to anyone of the female sex. It’s always great to hear from you and thanks David for your help and support with the blog.
THELMA CAMERON – You sound very excited about your cruise in September and it is going to be the trip of a lifetime. I have made your Supper Club reservation as requested………try the Surf & Turf! I look forward to helping you celebrate your 25th wedding anniversary.

That’s all for the Q & A today, more tomorrow.

Just before I slap on today’s interview, here is something from the newspapers about our friend Jason, who is appearing on America’s Got Talent.

Yep, that’s a Carnival entertainer on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. Are you one of those people who loves to pooh-pooh cruise ship entertainment? Frankly, we can’t blame you: There are a lot of hokey shows out there on the high seas.

That said, there’s also a lot of talent. Just ask the producers of NBC’s America’s Got Talent, which airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EDT. One of the top 20 finalists on the show is vocalist Jason Pritchett, whose day job is singing on the cruise ship Carnival Spirit.

Pritchett, the lead male vocalist in the ship’s big production numbers, performs twice a week on the 2,124-passenger vessel, which is currently operating seven-day Alaska cruises. If you’re heading there this summer, say hello. The line says he’ll be onboard through September.

Two things.

1. Congratulations to Jason, he truly is a talent and we wish him continued success.

2. I wonder when the last time the person who wrote this was on a cruise. They state that cruise ship entertainment is “hokey.” First of all, what the heck does hokey mean and if it means what I think then I suggest that this person comes on board one of our ships now and decides if the word hokey is relevant. My bet is they have never been on a cruise. Another example of informed journalism.

Here is today’s interview featuring the beautiful Miss Shawn Bussey and her ship, Carnival Spirit.

I hope you enjoy this behind the scenes look at Shawn and her job and, of course, the wonders of the last frontier that is Alaska.

1. Please can you tell us about your career with Carnival so far. How did you start and when?

I began as a guest cruising on Carnival since my childhood.  My first contract working onboard was in 1994 as a youth counselor onboard the Sensation, back when John was a skinny Cruise Director with brown hair!  :O)  From there I worked in the Gift Shops for 2 years as Asst. Manager, and then took the leap to the Entertainment Department as a Social Host in 1997.    I became a Cruise Director in 1999 and have been playing on stage ever since.

2. What ship are you currently on and what is its itinerary?

I am currently on the Carnival Spirit cruising in Alaska.

We do 3 different cruises up here … the Glacier Bay Cruises, the Northbound Cruises, and the Southbound Cruises.

Glacier Bay Cruises are special itineraries that we can only do 3 times a year.  The Glacier Bay is a protected park which you can only sail in by reservation.   We cruise a 7 day cruise from Vancouver, sea day, Juneau, Glacier Bay, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sea Day, and then back to Vancouver! 

Northbound Cruises are 7 days in length from Vancouver, sea day, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Sea Day, Whittier Debark.

Southbound Cruises are 7 days long from Whittier, sea day, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Vancouver debark.

3. Please can you pick two excursions from each port and tell us why you recommend them so much?

There are SOOO many incredible tours in Alaska to choose from … but here are my top picks:  (I could not pick just 2 … sorry!!)  =0)

Vancouver:

1. Scenic Grouse Mountain Tour – gives you a bird’s eye view of Vancouver!  You are driven through the beautiful Stanley Park to Grouse Mountain. From there you take a ski lift (box car) up to the top of the mountain where they have bears, birds, and tons of wildlife shows!  It’s great for families!

Ketchikan -  

Adventurous: 

1. Zip Line – It’s simply a BLAST!  The trees are not as large as in other ports I have tried this, which makes it a bit rocky and all the more fun!

2. The Alaska wilderness fishing is also incredible!  You get to fish first, then they take you to a beach with a camp fire and they cook your fish for you for lunch in a gourmet stew! YUMMY!  They even have a “wilderness bathroom” for the ladies!  :O) You just have to see it!

3. The Adventure Karts are also a BLAST!  You go off road in 2-person adventure karts! FUN!

4. Snorkeling – YES, you can do it in Ketchikan and it is SO worth the chill!  :O)

Easier:

1. Land and Sea – you get a great overview of the city from both the land side (out to the end of the road) and the sea side.

2. Misty Fjords tours – are all beautiful to get out to this area where it’s just you and nature … and the boat you’re on!

3. Great Alaskan Lumberjack show (it’s a fast-paced fun show with the log rolling and axe throwing ..) COMBO w/ the Native Saxman Village – the only village we are invited to visit and meet the natives themselves.  Learn about totem poles and their lives.

Juneau -  ANY & ALL of the Helicopter Tours are amazing!

Adventurous:

1. Glacier Trekking – this is something that will definitely knock your socks right off!   They are breathtaking tours where you trek on a GLACIER!   The x-trek gives you the chance to ICE CLIMB!  YOWZAH!

2. Fly fishing is a blast!  You get a float plane trip out to a stream and you fly fish from there!  :O)

Easier:

1.Whale Watching tours are incredible!    You are guaranteed to see a whale!  COMBINE with the Mendenhall Glacier – the only glacier we can drive you to.

2. Dog Sledding – everyone, and I do mean everyone, loves this tour!  Dog Sledding in the snow, at the top of a mountain!  WOW!

3. Taku Wilderness Lodge – is like the BEST of Juneau Tour – float plane trip over glacier, land in front of a lodge in the mountains, have a salmon bake, walk on nature trails … a BLAST!

Skagway – The Helicopter and Train tours are amazing!!! 

Adventurous:

1. Rock Climbing and Rappelling – you rock climb on a true mountain side!  It’s sooo much fun!

2. The Hiking tours are beautiful.  The combo. With the train gives you the best of both worlds -

Easier: Any tour going to the Trail Camp or the Gold Dredge will have you panning for gold and finding your fortune!

1. Dog Sledding – again, a fabulously fun time!

2. ANY of the train tours are incredible!  On the train, you are taken up into Canada and go on the same trail that the gold stampeders took back in the day!  It’s historic and beautiful!

3. Eagle Preserve tours – best to see eagles in a neighboring town of Haines. See eagles in the tops of the trees and all around.

4. Dog Mushing camp – for those who do not want to ride in a helicopter, but still wish to experience dog sledding – on a dirt, mountain trail.

Sitka:

Adventurous:

1. Kayaking tour is beautiful

2. 4×4 wilderness Adventure tour is incredible to get out in the natural sides of Sitka – driving in an adventure kart!

3. The biking tours are a lot of fun as well.  The Bike and Hike will take you only 2 miles biking and 2 miles hiking on a loop trail.   The advanced biking is a 20 mile bike ride.  YOWZAH!  :O)

Easier –

1. The sea otter and wildlife tour – the sea otters are just adorable!

2. The fishing tours here are FANTASTIC!

Whittier:

Any of the debark tours are cool … I would choose these depending on your flight time.

4.What are your favorite activities or events that you host and why?

1. I love the Welcome Aboard Show – the guests come in not knowing what to expect, a little timid even.  We have a great time during the show, and they walk out laughing and talking about it!  It sets the tone for a great cruise!

2. Deck Party – because we let our hair down and just play!  :O)

5. Fill in the blank please……………..People should sail on the ( INSERT YOUR SHIP HERE ) because……………………………..???????????

You should sail on the Spirit because Alaska is like no other itinerary we cruise to!  Glaciers, whales, eagles … so much to do and see! It’s INCREDIBLE!! 

6. What do you enjoy most about being a Cruise Director?

Making people smile and getting some of our guests to do things they NEVER thought they could!  =0) I have also enjoyed meeting people from every part of Italy.

7. Share your favorite story with us that involve our guests and your job?

I met an older gentleman once, in his 70′s, who came to the Capt’s Cocktail Party many years ago.  I noticed he was sad and was walking out of the lounge, so I approached him to see if he was alright.   He told me that he was just sad because his wife had recently passed away.  They had planned the cruise together and now he was here without her.  He saw the guests dancing on the stage and missed his wife so dearly that he walked out.  I got his cabin number and he walked away.   I felt so dear for him that I went into the gift shop and bought one of the dancing teddy bears that we were selling at the time.  I sent it to his cabin with a note saying “so you do not have to dance alone”.    I never saw him after that for the rest of the cruise.  (I honestly thought I may have upset him at the time)!     Five years later, I am standing on the stage on the Lido Deck and a gentleman in a wheelchair comes up to me.  He said to me, you don’t remember me do you?   I sailed with you five years ago right after my wife passed away and you sent me a teddy bear.  You touched my heart so much I have looked for you on each cruise I go on because I never got to say thank you.   He then handed me a sparkly fashion watch and said I was a diamond.  I never saw him again.

8. List your three favorite ports you have visited?

Any port in Alaska  =0)

Maui, Hawaii

St. Thomas

9. Name three ports you would really like to see that you have never been to?

Any of the Greek Islands

Barcelona, Spain

Turkey

Basically I need to cruise on our European Ships … :O) 

10. Finally, if you could introduce on stage any star, alive or not who would it be and why?

I would love love love to introduce Carol Burnett.  She was someone I wish I could have seen live onstage! 

Thank you Shawn and I am sure your insight to Alaska will have people calling to book a cruise to see this amazing place and to experience the fun that you provide.

And so it is time for the Carnival Legends show so I am off backstage in a moment. Before I go I would like to follow up on yesterday’s blog when I quoted word for word the conversation with the lady who was confused as to her hotel arrangements in Rome………even though after I turned into Sherlock Holmes and discovered she was flying home the same day she left the ship, you will see the drama continues.

Good evening, John!

Please be advised of the following comments:

6211 – Barsby

Mrs. Barsby stopped by the Desk and inquired where she could find the Cruise Director. Purser advised that she could pass the message to him. Mrs. Barbsy stated that she is disappointed with the wrong information given by the Cruise Director. Purser offered her assistance and asked to elaborate. Mrs. Barsby advised that she was supposed to get information about her hotel in Rome but now has received a phone call from his assistant telling her that the Cruise Director has canceled her hotel stay and has booked her a flight to Pittsburgh. Mrs. Barbsy was very angry and stated that she wanted her hotel reservation re booked. When Purser asked what was the name of the hotel, Mrs. Barsby said she did not know because the Cruise Director had confused her.

Purser called Cruise Director who arranged to meet Mrs. Barsby at 8:30pm.

Follow up tasked to Cruise Director.

Thank you and regards,

Gulya

Purser

I had confused HER………………I have no words.

Goodnight

Your friends

John and Heidi