Good Morning from Istanbul………..and its two pieces of bad news I start off with today. I have to show you the latest photos from Costa Maya which shows you just how a hurricane can change the fortune of a whole town. Here are photos taken by our Carnival team who went to investigate and see what they can do to help. It makes for sad viewing.
It is clear from these photos that it will take a lot of hard work and dedication to get this wonderful town by the sea back to its former glory.
That was Hurricane Dean, now we have Hurricane Felix which seems to be on a similar path of destruction.
This has meant at the time of writing that Carnival Cruise Lines have changed the following vessels itinerary
Carnival Imagination September 1 departure – The ship will visit Cozumel, Mexico and Freeport, The Bahamas.
Carnival Liberty September 1 departure – The ship will visit Cozumel, Mexico; Nassau, The Bahamas and Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos.
Carnival Legend September 2 departure – The ship will visit Key West; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos; Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Grand Cayman.
Carnival Valor September 2 departure – The ship will visit Nassau, the Bahamas; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos and Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
Carnival Pride September 2 departure – The ship will visit Catalina; San Diego and Ensenada.
We are closely monitoring the progress of these tropical weather systems and the following ships will sail their scheduled itineraries. However, please understand that there is a chance that we may need to modify our itineraries or change the sequence of the ports of call. We will continue to monitor the storm and provide you with additional information as required.
Carnival Conquest September 2 departure – The ship will visit Montego Bay, Jamaica; Grand Cayman and Cozumel as scheduled.
Carnival Elation September 3 departure – The ship will visit Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada.
Once again my friends in Miami along with each ship’s Captain are hard at work to make sure that the ship and its guests are safe and able to enjoy a wonderful cruise vacation.
As always, we think of the people who may be in harms way on land.
Sorry to start you off on such a bad note……………let me tell you something that made me laugh today and hopefully will you as well…..that is coming up later.
For now, here are today’s photos.
1. Heidi waving from the top of the vessel.
2. Off to Ephesus with photos taken by one of our dancers Ian, starting with the Great Library
3. The Ampitheatre (that’s Ian at the Top)
4. The original entrance to the bath house.
5. The guests of the Carnival Freedom enjoy the sights.
Here’s the “In Your Own Words” section for today
Here are today’s questions, starting with the last few from the blog about the Carnival Victory and then the ones from the Captain’s Blog.
JIMNI – Here is Heidi…….”I am glad you enjoyed my last blog, thank you for being so nice to us both. I will give my mum a big hug when she gets here and in my mind I know it’s from you.” John again…..and I just wanted to say thank you for all your beautiful words for Southern Dreams and Barb the Bear. I am sure they will receive strength from what you said. Thank you again and Heidi and I (or is it Heidi and me) send our kindest regards to you and your family.
LINDA HERNACKI – Here is Heidi ………….”Thank you Linda, it was really nice of you to say that you enjoyed the blog. At this time, both John and I have no idea what will happen after the crossing, we just have to see how John and I feel, I just don’t want to jeopardize his health. He will not admit it, but he is very tired. All the best and thank you again for being such a great friend.”
MARY BUSHNELL – You are correct Mary and thank you for showing Angela where I posted her very funny song. It would be wonderful if you and your husband could join us on the bloggers cruise and maybe, if he needs some gentle persuading I can help. One thing is for sure, it will be a fantastic vacation for your both. Please come.
PATRICK RANALLI – Yes I do speak perfect Italian……..not. Thank you for telling Heidi how much you enjoyed her blog. Yes, the jelly bean story goes way back, so if you have time start reading the blogs from the end of July to find out what it is all about. My jetpack is fully fuelled and I have plenty in reserve, however, I desperately need more so I can take some home for my Dad to eat with me and have our usual Christmas contest. Thanks Patrick, it’s great to hear from you and we will see you soon.
VICKI – Thank you, I really enjoy writing blogs when John gives me time at the computer so hopefully there will be another one from me soon. Until then, I send you a big hello!
MARIJ VAN DINTER – Hallo Marij. Bedankt voor de lieve woorden. Het lijkt al weer eeuwen geleden dat jullie hier aan boord waren. Een andere tante komt waarschijnlijk mee, want m’n tante Aartje is nog niet 100% fit, dus die komt volgend jaar weer, op de Splendor. Dan kan ze gewoon in Amsterdam aan boord komen en hoeft niet te vliegen. Hoop dat met jullie alles naar wens gaat. Houdoe he!
JO MYERLY – Jo, it was wonderful to have you on stage and there will be a bloggers get together as there are so many of you on this cruise.
BRIAN PADAN 77 – Thank you for the wonderful words about my wife, you are correct, she is one of a kind. Especially with that one look that can promote me to the doghouse within seconds.
CATMAMA 044 – Thank you catmama, it was really nice that you enjoyed my blog. It did take me a bit of time to get used to my life being an open book but I am now glad that I have made so many new cyberspace friends just like you. All the best.
JOAN CHRISTIAN – Joan, I am so sorry, but we don’t keep master copies of each cruise on video past one month. Therefore, I cannot give you a copy of the July 12 shows. I wish I could turn the clock back and help you out but unfortunately I can’t. However, hearing you say how fantastic your cruise was has certainly made me very happy, so thank you so much for that. Until the next time, all the best.
We now start with comments and questions from the Captain’s Blog blog-thingy.
KEVIN – Thank you Kevin, however, I found my jellybeans which Heidi had hidden in a place she thought I would never go. ……the laundry basket. However, I called my friend PA 007 and they suggested to look in the places where I never go and they suggested for me to look in the laundry basket. PA 007 was right again. Thank you for the wonderful story from your University days and I hope you have slapped this story on your blog which by the way, you should be very proud of. Hope things are well with you and this week I should have some good news.
HEIDI HYMAN – Hello. Heidi and I (my Heidi, not you Heidi) got your posting about the problems you had with the purchase from the Murano glass factory in Venice. I have spoken to the representative of the PPI group on board. PPI is our partner who looks after our shopping programs fleet wide.
Please contact:
Customer Service line: 1 888 774 4768 or 954 377 7777
E-mail: CCLservice@ppigroup.com
We have made them aware of your concerns and they are expecting your call. Please let us know if you have any further problems.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – I am excited to know that you are trying my mum’s chicken curry recipe. Don’t make it too spicy unless your bathroom is close to your kitchen. Malcolm, like all the Cruise Directors, was promoted through the ranks and he is part of the new young generation of Cruise Directors. Didn’t get much rest over the weekend, in fact, I think I have managed a blog every day last week, which is unusual. All the best Carol, hope you have a great Labor Day weekend.
FRANK AND PAULA BONZEN – Thank you for your question and the simple answer is, smart casual. This means no jeans, no tank tops, shirts with collar. Most men do wear a jacket. Hope this helps and I know you will enjoy your evening at the Supper Club.
BIG ED – Thank you for calling my wife a saint, although, there are a few days each month when that definitely not apply. You seem to think that Mr. Micky Arison reads my blog. I am not quite sure why you think that, but it would be nice to think that he has had a glance at it now and then. You suggested that we are best friends; I certainly have the utmost respect for a man who has done more for the industry and continues to do so. If we were friends I would ask him for a seat closer to the action at a Miami Heat basketball game and I would invite him to join me for a big bowl of Spotted Dick. Maybe one day, both these wishes will come true. Not long now and you and I will be stuck in the same booth together.
CAPTAIN CHUCK – What a fantastic description of your day in Juneau. The float plane trip over the glaciers sounds outstanding and you have wetted our appetite to try this ourselves. Thank you for the recommendation of this wonderful Carnival shore excursion. Please keep the postings coming, it makes wonderful reading. Thank you also for your kind words for Brad and Chrissy and our best to your dad.
ADIAS.ANGEL – Beautiful words from a beautiful lady. Thank you Carla.
MRS. MTSFP – Heidi and I just wanted to say thank you for your postings on both our blogs and we are so excited to finally meet you and your extra medium husband.
ANTHONY LANG – Thank you mate. Kind words and so much appreciated I am sure by Southern Dreams and Barb the Bear. Thank you for being so special.
GREG BALDASARRI – I am glad you enjoyed Heidi’s blog. She has become quite a talented writer and now sits in the computer and opens her heart for all the see. I am very proud of her. Thank you also for your sympathetic words for Chrissy and Brad they have been in all our thoughts these last few days. Thanks mate.
THE KOOPMANS – Welcome back and how fantastic that you enjoyed your first cruise so very much. It was great weather and your compliments about the shows have been passed to the cast. I look forward to seeing you next time on the Carnival Splendor. Welcome home.
NANETTE – Hello Nanni. Thank you for reminding us all that laughter is indeed a wonderful medicine. I hope to try and provide some more as the blogs continue. Thank you Nanni and a big hug from Heidi and I.
LINDA THE MOUSE – Heidi just told me that there was a comment on her blog that you had send me some more jellybeans. There is now mixed emotion in the cabin. I hope you enjoy the homecoming of the DM we will be home ourselves before too long. Thank you Linda, you are a true friend.
THE VEROTTINGS FROM OHIO – Thank you again. Here is another blogger who has taken their time to post their wishes of health and happiness to Barb the Bear and Southern Dreams. We thank you so very much.
CATHERINE EBERT – One of the greatest things I’ve read recently was when Chrissy and Brad mentioned that through all their sadness the thoughts of what happened in the Bedtime Story brought a smile to their face, if just for a moment. Thank you for mentioning the people of Greece as well. I hope that they move on from what was a terrible tragedy. We will see you in three weeks and hopefully we will find something as good as the canoli.
LISA AND ELAINE – Congratulations on getting your bloggers shirts. It will be fun for you to wear them in 140 days time. I saw Jo and Dave Myerly wearing theirs today and it was the first time I have actually seen anyone wear them except Heidi and it felt quite strange but I was very proud. You also asked as there will be another Cruise Director on the bloggers cruise if I will be welcoming people on board. I am not sure but there definitely will be a welcome aboard party for all the bloggers and I am very excited as this special cruise comes together.
JOSEPH MANLICHT – I have no idea at this moment if there will be Carnival ships in Europe in 2009. My super spy PA 007 is on the case and will let us all know ASAP. It would not surprise me if the answer is yes because certainly from my point of few, our European seasons have been so very successful. Hope to hear from you again very soon.
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – I am sorry, I never got to meet your dad but I am sure he is laughing somewhere with us about my poor Italian. You are correct in your assumption that Malcolm in the Middle is indeed an excitable and enthusiastic young man who truly loves his job. Here is Heidi. “Hello Sir, thank you for your lovely words to me after writing my blog. It’s so nice to read your comments every time.” John and I send you all our best.
SOUTHERN DREAMS – OK, after immense pressure I have agreed that Thursdays will be Jelly Bean Free Days. How are you feeling today? I hope you continue to keep a smile on your face and I hope you know we are all thinking about you. Best to Prince Charlie.
LV2CRUISE – I am glad the blog makes you smile, which makes me smile.
SANDRA AND BILL GAF – The photos are very much a favorite for most people of each blog and I hope I don’t run out of ideas. Today’s are very beautiful, especially the ones of Ephesus and I hope you enjoy them.
BRYAN – I haven’t been to Barcelona Stadium myself but I understand from all who have that it is an awesome sight. You asked about Malcolm and yes, he was indeed on the Carnival Fantasy and he has recently been promoted to Cruise Director and I am sure he will continue to do a fantastic job. We are looking forward to receiving your letter and we will let you know as soon as it arrives.
LINDA – I am glad you enjoyed the blog about the Carnival Victory especially as you will be sailing on her next month. I am sure that having a 16 year old with special needs can be a challenge and if there is anything you can think of that we can do for you, please let us know and I will arrange what I can. It seems to me that your entire family are proud Carnival cruisers and we are very grateful for that. I hope one day we get the pleasure of your company and please let me know if there is anything I can do for your son.
DAVE SOREFF – Hello Mate. I always look for your name in the blogs and it’s great to hear from you today. Which ship are you on at the moment? Thank you for the information about having a Rabbi on board the Princess ships. I was surprised that this lady mentioned there was one every cruise, without fail and from the information you provided, it seems that is true. I hope one day to sit and chat and reminisce about our days on the Holiday……….it’s probably best our wives are not there. All the best mate and say Hi to Doug when you see him.
CANUCK CRUISER – You are welcome. I just wanted you to know that the situation on the Carnival Liberty, if true, will not be tolerated and I am glad I could share my thoughts with you. You will have a wonderful time on the Carnival Liberty, just a reminder to drop Todd a message at the purser’s office reminding him of your desire to be in the Newlywed Game. Can you slap on your cabin number please? Heidi sends her best and thanks you for the kind words about her blog.
MRS. MTSFP – What a brilliant, fantastic, wonderful, superb advert for the Supper Club. It seems to me that this is worth presenting to our Food & Beverage Department and that is exactly what I have done. Now, how about writing a report and tell everyone about John and Diane. Here is your husband.
LFTTNSFCF – As usual, your thoughts about the People’s Princess were exactly correct and it was interesting to read that she was being remembered in the U.S.A. as well on the 10th anniversary of her passing. I never got to see the Royal Yacht Britannia, however, your description proves that it was a shame she passed her sell-buy date. Thank you for sharing the memories and soon we will be able to share many more together.
MARYLYN VISCHIO – Congratulations on discovering how to slap on a posting on my thingy. The 26 days that you will be on the ship with us next year will be the best time of your life, I promise. Don’t worry, that it is too long to be on a ship because when you leave I know that you will wish you could have stayed longer. If you need any specific advice on ports of call or activities on board I remain at your service. All the best until then.
KEVIN – I am glad you enjoyed Heidi’s blog and like Princess Cruises, I have mentioned today if there was any clergyman on board, to please let me know. So far, nobody has stepped forward. I did the same for a Rabbi on Friday, but again with no positive result. We try during the Jewish and Christian holidays to have services, however, like Princess, it seems that we too are not able to provide this service each and every cruise. I look forward to sitting down with a cigar and talking about the most beautiful car in the world, the Aston Martin. Beauty, Passion, Soul.
SUSAN B – I have no words to describe the look on my face when one of our blogger friends handed me a letter opener on the top of which was perched ……..uhm………2 things which I am sure the kangaroo is missing right now and is probably
HOPPING MAD – Thank you for the information on MIT and it seems we have a very bright and intelligent young person on board. I am glad you are enjoying the pictures and I also appreciate you telling me that Royal Caribbean also does not have a Rabbi on board every cruise…………..why do people say these things? Thank you also for your compassion for Southern Dreams and with our combined faith, I am sure all will be well. What a fantastic idea to teach cheerleading on board….that really is brilliant and I am passing this on to our Club O2 Director to see what he can make of it. Thank you for the great idea. Thank you Jennifer and thank you Susan, you are both wonderful people.
MICHELLE MAN – Thank you for the information on Righmove.co.uk and thank you also for sending out the Yellow Advertiser, that is so kind. Heidi and I are considering moving, so this information will be very useful and it’s great to have a blogger who lives just around the corner. Thank you all, say Hi to Mum and Dad and we will see you soon.
That’s all for the Q & A for today.
Let’s have a chat now with our guest. We have just two cruise Directors left to feature including one more lady. Today though is Danny Blake who is on the Carnival Fascination. Rather than answer questions, I asked Danny to tell us why being a Cruise Director is his dream job. Here he is.
An Interview with Cruise Director Danny Blake of the Carnival Fascination
Believe it or not I have always wanted to be a Cruise Director ever since my first cruise with Carnival Cruise Lines on the Fun Ship Tropicale when I was 10 years old. I specifically remember sitting in the audience and saying to my mom and dad that this was one of my ambitions in life and I am proud to say that here I am on the Carnival Fascination as a CCL Cruise Director many years later. I even remember on that first cruise meeting the Cruise Director, Gary Hunter, and had the chance to sit down with him and ask all sorts of questions about how it was to be in his position. I sometimes wonder what Gary thought and how amazed he would be to see me doing this fabulous career with Carnival Cruise Lines many years later.
My mom, dad and I were very avid cruisers in my younger years, even deciding at the age of 15 to go on the inaugural cruise of the Carnival Holiday. That was quite the experience and it amazes me today to walk onboard that ship and remember all those memories from so long ago. The Holiday is still dear to my heart and I do hope that I will have the honor of being the Cruise Director on that vessel.
Ever since I was a young lad I wanted to go into a career in Entertainment and even had a very vibrant career in Musical Theater performing in such shows as “Bye, Bye Birdie,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Godspell,” and many others. In 1989 I traveled with a musical production of “Peace Child” throughout what was then the Soviet Union and the country of Latvia, entertaining thousands of people in small towns and cities. Some of these people had never seen a big production show in their lives and it was just a life changing experience for me to see the amazement and wonder in their eyes.
I decided after that musical journey that I wanted to go into Musical Theater and earn a degree in that field. My parents said “No way!” So I decided to attend UNLV and earned a degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management. After graduating, I spent many years in the Hotel Industry and in the Airline Industry. After 9/11 happened, I decided that life is too short and decided to spend more time at home with my mom and one day got a call from an old friend who informed me that she was going back to work for her former employer, Carnival Cruise Lines. I was shocked! I never knew that she had worked for CCL before and told her of my dreams to work onboard a cruise ship. To my amazement she told me that they were looking for Social Hosts and so I decided to pursue my childhood dreams of working on a luxury liner and after applying, I was onboard a Carnival Fun Ship!
Thus began my career here at Carnival Cruise Lines! I joined Carnival in 2003 as a Social Host and eventually was promoted to Assistant Cruise Director. Because of some great guidance by my good friends Mark Hawkins and Trevor Block, I was promoted to Cruise Director in 2006. So it is true…dreams come true when you set your goals and work hard for them (thanks to my mom who always taught me this from a young age). The only unfortunate thing is that my dad never got to see me reach this goal in my life since I lost him in 2000 to cancer. But I do believe that he is watching over me and had something to do with this as well!
I have been fortunate to work on several of the Carnival Ships during my career here and have met so many incredible people in this journey. Talk about having friends all over the world! I don’t think I have to worry about hotels these days with all the friends that I have made from so many places.
Currently I am onboard the Carnival Fascination doing the 3 & 4 day run out of Miami. On our 4 day run we visit Key West and Cozumel and Playa del Carmen, Mexico. On our 3 day run we overnight in Nassau. I have always enjoyed working on the shorter cruises for you really get to meet so many guests in a seven day period (over 5,000 guests per week).
I have had the chance to attend so many great tours in our exciting ports of call. In Cozumel my favorite tour has been the ATV Jungle adventure where you get to ride semi-automatic ATV’s and get covered in mud! On one of my ATV adventures it had rained the day before and we actually had to cross a large river which took us about knee deep into the river. WOW! I am sure that my cabin steward wasn’t too pleased to see me return from these tours though, granted all the mud I brought back onboard the vessel!
Key West is a gorgeous spot and I really enjoy our time spent there for it is a very lovely little island and the locals are all so very nice to interact there. I do plan on spending some more “vacation” time there one of these days! There is only one thing I can say about Nassau and that is Atlantis Resort! What a hotel! It really reminds me of my days in Las Vegas and what an incredible place it is.
The Carnival Fascination has been my home since August 2006 and in September of 2006 the vessel went through a major renovation and let me tell you she is more beautiful than ever! They have renovated all the guest cabins which bring them up to par with land resort rooms. We have 2 incredible production shows: “Fiesta Latina” with a Latin beat and “Far From Over: An 80′s Tribute” with all the great music from the 80′s! Even the costumes will take you back and you will sit there and be like, “I remember wearing that back then!” There are also 2 break dancers that do some incredible dancing (always the highlight of the show)!
Soon I will be moving back to the West Coast and to the Carnival Paradise, which will bring me closer to home and my mom. I am very thankful to so many people at Carnival Cruise Lines for the chance to achieve one of my life long dreams and I am thankful everyday for this dream career (Did you know that Oprah named being a Cruise Director as one of the top 10 dream careers?). I look forward to many years with this fantastic company and I do hope that I will have the opportunity to have you onboard a Carnival FunShip with me.
Thanks mate and I think it is clear for all to see that you really swam out to your ship rather than wait for it to come to you. I had no idea that Oprah had said being a Cruise Director was a “top ten dream jobs.” I wonder what the others were? Anyway, congratulations on opening your book of life to us all and enjoy every minute.
I just returned from the Past Guests Parties, one for each sitting dinner. At the end of the party I draw an invitation out of the bucket and the winner is presented with a prize on stage. So, I drew a name ………….Mr.Pethan……….nothing funny about that you cry……………you are correct…………but wait……………up comes Mr. Pethan and………….ummm………he is wearing…………..and I have 800 witnesses to this………….he is wearing at our Past Guest Party…………….
a ROYAL CARIBBEAN shirt.
I could not believe it as there he was, standing on stage, next to me and the Captain…………..wearing…………that thing and you know what the audience realized it as well as laughter and some OOOOS could be heard. This is then how the conversation went.
JOHN………………congratulations, you won a prize
Mr.Pethan……… thank you
John…………what ships have you sailed on before
Mr.Pethan…….we were on the Miracle and the Conquest
John…………any other ship
Mr.Pethan (oblivious to what I was hinting at)…………………..No
John…………have you been on another cruise line
Mr.Pethan………..Yes
John………..Which One
Mr. Pethan……….Royal Caribbean
John…………Oh
Mr.Pethan…….realizing now from the way I am looking at his shirt and the audiences laughter………….yes, sorry about the shirt I didn’t think.
John…………It’s Ok, its no big deal but I can’t give you the prize wearing that thing.
Mr.Pethan………….OK, and without a word he takes it off and throws it on the floor and starts stamping on it…………so, there is a 50 year old something man, naked from the waist up doing some sort of strange tap dance on a
Royal Caribbean
sweatshirt. I was very embarrassed………..it was unprofessional for this to happen even though every one of the 800 people in the room were laughing hysterically…………….I didn’t know what to do, I felt bad that this had gone this way so I had no choice but to…………..join in and there we were me and my mate Mr. Ethan tap dancing on a
Royal Caribbean
sweatshirt……….and then the band joined in and started playing the Carnival’s Got The Fun theme tune and I knew it was time to stop when some random person ran on stage and started dancing with us…………………At this point I must point out that I wasn’t intending this to happen and I would have done the same thing if he was wearing a
N.C.L
shirt or a
Celebrity
shirt or……………….well, that’s about it really. I felt really bad afterwards but the audience thought it was funny and so far, nobody has complained………two thoughts plague my mind this evening.
I guess by writing this I will never work for
Royal Caribbean, Celebrity or N.C.L.
…………………….and I wonder why Carnival made me have a disclaimer on this blog?
Goodnight
Your Friends
John and Heidi
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
great post john and heide!
thanks for making me laugh, as always… and to the lovely commenters, thank you so much for your thoughts, prayers, and concerns. i shall know more in the next several days, and hopefully will know if i will make my 26 days aboard the lovely freedom on october 16th!!! if not, we are still booked on the bloggers cruise and will be on one in december on the miracle with all of the grandchildren and two of the children and one boyfriend of one granddaughter, home for the holidays from the navy! so you see, we surely hope above hope to see you very soon, but if it is not to be, we shall see you later rather than sooner. did that make any sense? ha ha ha… i need jelly beans!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
John,
Great blog today, sorry for all those people in the western Caribbean, another hurricane so soon is terrible. Looking forward to the good new, glad PA007 helped you track down the rocket fuel (sorry Heidi, next time hide them somewhere he will never ever look like, umm under the lettuce at the salad bar in the lido) Looking forward to the good new on the horizon. Yes I did post that over on my page, not as cool as your but none the less it’s cool. Counting the days till the Miracle cruise to no where only bad part your not the CD. BUt from the interview I read with the current CD it should be a blast. Talk to you soon, Best to Heidi
Kevin
John, the daily chats with all the other CDs has been great. If you regularly stay in touch with the other cruise directors, please pass our regards on to Shaun Bussey on the Spirit. It was a little over a year ago today that we boarded the Spirit in Vancouver for 3 weeks that took us from Vancouver to Glacier Bay and down to Honolulu. A marvellous trip, and the one that sealed our newfound love of cruising in general and Carnival in particular. Shaun was a lovely lady who went a long way towards making the 3 weeks really memorable. Big bad Brian, the casino boss, and his lovely 2 I/C Pam also played a big part, and not just from the gaming sense; they were really nice people who we enjoyed just having a drink and a chat with – I think Pam is now the casino boss on the Fascination, although I could be mistaken. Here’s hoping we have as good a time on the Splendor this time next year.
Cheers!
Mal
Hi John and Heidi; I have been reading this blog since the beginning, yes the beginning, every blog, and have tried several times to reply, but am no computer expert. Anyway lets hope this works.
Your blog is the greatest thing. I have several things in life to deal with right now and your blog is the highlight of my day. It makes me laugh and sometimes cry.
I have been on two CCL cruies, the Valour in 2006 and the Liberty this past March. We have a group of 22 so far for the Freedom 14 Feb 2009, hoping for at least 50. This crusie will be for renewing vows and at least two couples will be getting married. My husband and I were so young when we got married, 1979. We met, 3 weeks later engaged, and 3 months later married, and no I was not in the family way. Our first child was born 7 years later. It was just meant to be. It all happened so fast that we would like to do it again and relive it all over again. Trying to convince my parents to partake in this cruise, as they are celebrating their 50th this year, but they won’t book now as they keep telling me they could be dead by then. Not a chance. God doesn’t want them, their family does. Our whole family is booked at this point, along with co worker’s, except them. How can I convice them? Please if you could give me suggestions to help with ways to convince them it would be very much appreciated.
Todd was an excellent cruise director. He always was out and about and very funny. The only thing is my BIL asked if he would dance with me one night in the disco, he said he would and he never asked. I wasn’t upset, or maybe a little, this is the crews down time and I danced with plenty of officers and had a great time. After all I’m sure they get requests like this all the time and can’t do it all, and it’s no problem. Still had a good time. Look forward to being on this great ship in 2009. Wish you were to be the cruise director as I would love to meet you.
Thanks Mary
John,
More of our Alaska cruise review (you asked for it… I have proof: “keep the postings coming”). After Juneau our next port of call was Skagway. Our Carnival tour didn’t leave until noon so we spent the morning wandering the shops in Skagway. We would have liked to go to the gardens there, but we had slept in just a little bit too long for that (I guess one more reason to return someday). We did have enough time to drop off our shopping bounty to our cabin and hop right back off the ship for our tour. We took a train/hiking tour. My biggest concern was that some other guests who might not be in the greatest shape might have ignored or not seen the 3 hiking man symbol. When we saw the rest of the group, it dawned on me that they probably thought I was the one who didn’t heed the warning. I am past the 50 mark, but I live at altitude and walk frequently and as it turns out, had no trouble with the 3 hiking man level at all. We left town via train and rode up a canyon for about 5 miles. Then it was a 2.5 mile hike in on a wet, slippery, muddy, rocky, uphill trail (it was a blast). We had several breaks and good photo stops along the way. At the end was one last photo stop and then turn around to take the same trail back (it was still wet, slippery, muddy, and rocky, but somehow now it was downhill).
When we got back to the train pickup spot they had a cooler with choice of beer or juice (I chose beer, and did it hit the spot).
We got back just before the ship was going to sail (I’m was happy about the no leaving official carnival tour people behind policy). We actually made it on board at 4:45 for a 5:00 sailing so it wasn’t super tight (but I’m a get to the airport 2 hours early kind of guy). On ship at 4:45 – race to the cabin – shower and dress for the previous cruisers party at 5:00. A formal night, so I wore a suit (and I don’t own an RC teeshirt anyway
)
Between the party and dinner (we had late seating), we sat on the upper decks watching the beautiful late afternoon go by.
On several evenings after dinner we went dancing…. this wasn’t one of them (remember the 5 mile hike). This evening we were fortunate to get back to the cabin before falling asleep.
More to come in future posts.
I almost always comment on the photos you post. A bit of a different sort this time (at least the first set). Mother Nature can be astoundingly beautiful as in the glaciers and wildlife we saw, but it can also be astoundingly brutal as shown in your hurricane photos. I hope the folks whose itineraries get changed are understanding and make the best of it.
All for now
John -
As always, your blog is good for, at the least, a chuckle.
How anyone could go to a Carnival past guests party wearing the attire of any other cruise line is beyond me.
55 days (but who is counting?)
Jon
first off kevin and I are more that aware of the path of Felix, we watch it and wonder where are we going to be next week? …… Well, as long as they have lobster and that wonderful chocolate buffet I’ll be more than happy
Mostly we have friends in Belize and they made it through Deen unharmed and pray for the same from Felix. However we will have to wait till another cruise to meat up with them…… hmmm maybe next year, but what ship…… maybe the Leg-end in Sept or Dec of 08? isn’t the end of the leg an ankle? so does that make the ship the Carnival Ankle? 
we are at 5 days and oh are we counting, one of the boys asked to get up early enough to go watch the Glory come into port too. I hate to break it to him I am not getting up that early!
Wish you both all the best
Heidi-Beth
P.S.if I spelled my name Heidibeth would that help? probably not :p
Felix.
I see the Carnival Pride will not be sailing down to Cabo today. Good thing! We have friends who are in Cabo right now, don’t know if they will try to fly home to LA. before Felix hits.
The pictures of Costa Maya are just terrible. We hope they can return their town to a beautiful resort once again. It looks like it may take some time however.
The world’s weather is most peculiar! We are still
in the middle of a heat wave. It was 108 in my neighborhood today and it’s still 93 this evening. We’re in LA. I heard there was a quake somewhere in CA today too ! We may have the effects of Felix as well when it passes Cabo and comes north towards us.
Kathy and Paul
I want to thank both you and Heidi for all the effort you put in to this awesome blog thingie!!
I loved the interviews you did with the CD’s. The one that touched me was with Goose. I think the Mission they do with the Orphanage is Great. Maybe you can interview Captain Scala one day??
I have a picture request when you have the time. I would like to see one of the Brig, if you can do that I would be most Thankful. Thats a place I dont want to hang out in, just want to see what it looks like. LOL
Thanks again for all the Laughes
John and Heidi
Thanks for the blog and info about the Caribbean. I wish the best for those hit by the hurricanes there. Belize is one of my favorite ports and I hope they are spared by Felix.
My thoughts are with you SouthernDreams. I hope all is well and that you will enjoy those cruises you are so looking forward to.
I am getting closer to my Freedom cruise and so looking forward to that. I leave on the Liberty in 6 days and can hardly wait.
We were on the Spirit, Mexican Riviera, and the CD was Michael (wife Jenny) Any idea where they are now? Such nice people they were. Would
love to know where they are. Any info on this would be appreciated. My best to both of you and see you in 30 days!
The devistation in Costa Maya is horrible! I’ve been there, and it is normally a beautiful place. There is definately a lot of work to be done. Thanks for posting the pictures though so we could all see the damage. Well, I’m in the middle of packing, but your Jelly Belly’s and other treats are already packed. Now I just have to hope that my luggage doesn’t get lost! Heidi will probably be praying that it does, though so she could have an aroma-free cabin! We fly out from San Francisco Saturday morning. The flight to Rome is what I am dreading the most. WAY TOO MANY HOURS in the air–how I wish that the ship came to San Francisco and we could board it there and go on a really long cruise to Europe! Now that would be a true vacation!! Sea days are my favorite and I’m looking forward to the 3 that we will have. See you on Monday!!! Yea! Sheryl
Mah Dahlink John,
NO! They are Mine! I don’t want to share!
Well, that’s not right.
John and Diane are people who make an 80 seat lounge into an intimate setting and a great party.
If you need Sax on a Thursday night, there is none better than Just Du-et.
Our addiction to cruising started with a newlywed couple in our Adult Education Night School Social Ballroom Dancing with Roberto class. Cruising for us became a possibility when I heard about the Smoke Free Paradise and Mr. booked a cruise.
We were scuffling along the Promenade and heard some nice dance music wafting out. So we grabbed each other and started dancing. Then we realized, we don’t have to use second hand music, where is this place?
Honestly, shortly after we wandered into the Leonardo Lounge, Diane sang her medley of Patsy Cline songs. Nobody, but nobody, should sing MY Patsy’s songs. But they were good.
And every song they provide is soooo danceable. Diane ALWAYS asks you what you want. You want Tango? Is that the Long one or the Short one? I can’t tell you how many “dances” we have been to that don’t play the first Tango or Waltz, after all the trouble our teachers have gone to making us basic. You want Waltzes? Beautiful waltzes. You are in the Caribbean, mon, it is hot hot hot. Salsa is the rhythm, Mambo is the dance. Do you kinda like the Big Band Sound? Or how about some Rock ‘n Roll! At the end of the night it is mind boggling that anybody could provide a seamless repertoire of music spanning the better part of a century and such a broad spectrum of tastes and influences. Jimmy Buffet, Glenn Miller, The Big Bopper, the Beatles, all music to my ears.
The next night, we are waiting for the doors to open for another evening of incomparable music. We are never disappointed.
So, I told you Diane has a beautiful voice. It pales in comparison to the tones and melodies that John coaxes from his horns. It makes me glad someone invented woodwinds. I have turned my tv and my stereo to world renowned orchestral performances, and been present for the New York City Philharmonic. Yet, on a Carnival Cruise, I can sit or stand or dance within 10 feet of a master. The price of a cruise: dollars. Being in the presence of genius: priceless.
There is an inward struggle when present when John and Diane play. This is a fine concert. Period. The arrangements are perfect. One should show respect by sitting attentively. But, then, the feet want to get up and dance. This is not to worry.
I read an interview by some young recording artist who proclaimed he didn’t want to play in a bar where people always jumped up to dance, he wanted to have concerts with people screaming his praises.
Obviously, he is not in the same class as John and Diane. She says, come on out, here’s the dance floor! What do you like? Any special song?
As the Host and Hostess of a grand party (with a cash bar), no one is more gracious. While everyone is warmly invited to have a wonderful time, respect is given to those who have decided they must be miserable. Alone. The rest of us become the best of old friends as we rumba and cha cha and polka the night away.
If we have all been really really good, Diane will introduce John playing his very special teeny tiny instrument. But it got broken the last time it flew, and I hope somebody gets it mended. Hint Hint Hint, JH That will just make a transatlantic cruise perfect.
Warmth and consideration are an intrinsic part of two of the nicest people ever to walk the face of the earth, and I hope they don’t mind we like to call them friends.
ttfn
ps – always applaud each piece of music, especially if you dance to it.
WOW John Great blog as usual! The story about the person with the RCCL shirt was hysterical. One thing for certain Carnival sure knows how to pick cruise directors; they all seem so totally committed and so incredible.
I’m ashamed to admit that I only remember three Cruise director’s names out of the six cruises I’ve been on, Greg on the Sensation (2001), you of course (Liberty, 2006 and the BEST) and Trevor on the Celebration (2007), but for the life of me I can’t remember the other CD’s which were on the Imagination (2006), Carnival Spirit (2004) and Carnival Victory (2005)-shame on me!! Although in my defense I was sick for the entire cruise on the Carnival Spirit (8 days) and I mean the entire cruise! On the Imagination is when we had to leave the ship due to a medical emergency (with Dean) after just 2 days. But honestly I have no excuse for the Carnival Victory 2005, except maybe I can blame the fact the we took our two grandchildren on their first cruise and had to keep up with them every minute! Yeah that sounds good…
Just wondering if you remember an Alexandra, (Alex for short), from the Carnival Liberty (2006). She worked in the casino and if I’m not mistaken she was from Poland. Just wondering if she’s still with Carnival?
Heidi-great blog , looking forward to many more. Take care and hope to see you both real soon!
Inez & Dean
Hi John, We were with you on the cruise June 18th. Had a great time in Europe and of course with you and the Freedom. So, now we have done Last summer on the Liberty in Europe, then New years on the Miracle in the Carribean, then this year Italy, Greece and Turkey on the Freedom and now I have just booked the Legend out of Tampa for this New Years!! I guess you should let people know that this cruise stuff can be addictive! the photos at the beginning of this blog show one of the planned stops for the new years trip but to me its more about the cruise than the places visited and I’m sure Carnival will take care of us well! by the way my wife looks a lot like that Angelina girl you are always talking about, so if you ask Shelly to be the God Mother of the Splendor, I’ll book that one too!! As always, Thanks for the good times!! Mark
Once again, we find ourselves praying and hoping for those poor folks in the path of a hurricane. Sometimes we become so concerned with our daily lives that we forget just how fortunate we really are.
Just one question about Mr. Pethan… have you seen him recently and is he wearing a Carnival shirt? Perhaps ‘someone’ should offer him one. Poor man obviously has a difficult time picking out appropriate clothing!!
Danny Blake’s monologue about becoming a CD was very interesting. Going from social host to Cruise Director in a mere three years is a testament to Danny’s ability and drive. Good for him!
Take care, my friend, offer my ‘Howdy’s to Heidi and Roberto!
Regards,
Greg
Dear John and Heidi,
If Mr. Ed can’t get you tickets to a Miami Heat game I can certainly get you great tickets to a DEEETROIT PISTONS game. Now that’s “REAL” Basketball. Hmmm did “my Boys” beat the Heat last season?!?!?
Thank you so much for clearing up what a Spotted Dick was. My Grandmother, bless her heart, made the best Suet Pudding so apparently it’s similar to Spotted Dick. She only made it at Thanksgiving and Christmas but what a treat. I’m not sure if I liked the pudding or the butter, brown sugars sauce she put over it.
You and Heidi have a great day!
Joan Fredendall
Good morning John & Heidi,
First Hurricane Dean, now Hurricane Felix – both Category 5′s, both in almost the same spot. At 5:00 a.m. (EDT), Felix was heading towards Honduras & Belize again, but a little further south than Dean. Fires in Greece & the US, floods in Greece & the US, Triple digit heat out west, 2 Cat 5 hurricanes, Mt. Etna erupting – Mother Nature is having a temper tantrum.
I think my response to Heidi’s blog got lost in cyber space so here’s some of it. Heidi – it was good to hear from you again and I agree with you about how wonderful John is and how much he does. (Stop blushing John). Carnival should be as proud of him as you are. I’m sure you’re thrilled about your mum cruising with you. I hope your Aunt can make it too.
John, regarding Uncle Doug’s strange cruise dream – it was probably because I kept reminiscing about my cruise 20 years ago and all the stuff we used to do.
Susan B’s daughter Jennifer had an excellent idea about Carnival Cheerleaders.
I haven’t tried the ice cream flavor yet, but I think I have to disagree with you on the origins of Haagen Daz. I will check my facts later, but I remember reading the story recently about the creator – I think he’s from New Jersey. But I will double-check and let you know. Does anyone else know the story?
When you asked about religious services on other ships, I remembered my cruise on the Holiday in April 1989. There was a priest on board that cruise. I think he was a passenger but he conducted services on Sunday. But this priest did not look or act like your typical priest. Very handsome, tanned, silver haired gentleman who was at the pool every day. The last sea day he bought bottle after bottle of champagne at the aft pool. Somehow I never got that image out of my mind.
I read your blog thingy first, now it’s time to read 3-days worth of e-mails.
Later,gator,
Regards,
Carol
I think I’ve caught up on all your postings from the weekend.
Hi Saint John,
It’s me again. Sorry I couldn’t help it – I checked Haagen Daz’ website; here in their own words is their history:
“Reuben Mattus, a young entrepreneur with a passion for quality and a vision for creating the finest ice cream, worked in his mother’s ice cream business selling fruit ice and ice cream pops from a horse drawn wagon in the bustling streets of the Bronx, New York. To produce the finest ice cream available, he insisted on using only the finest, purest ingredients.
The family business prospered throughout the 1930′s, 40′s and 50′s. By 1961, Mr. Mattus, supported by his wife Rose, decided to form a new company dedicated to his ice cream vision. He called his new brand Häagen-Dazs, to convey an aura of the old-world traditions and craftsmanship to which he remained dedicated.
Häagen-Dazs started out with only three flavors: vanilla, chocolate and coffee. But Mr. Mattus’ passion for quality soon took him to the four corners of the globe. His unique ice cream recipes included dark chocolate from Belgium and hand picked vanilla beans from Madagascar, creating distinctive and indulgent taste experiences.
The Häagen-Dazs brand quickly developed a loyal following. Its early success was created by word of mouth and praise. Without the benefit of advertising the story of an incredibly rich and creamy confection spread rapidly. At first, it was only available at gourmet shops in New York City, but soon distribution expanded throughout the east coast of the U.S., and by 1973 Häagen-Dazs® products were enjoyed by discerning customers throughout the United States. Then in 1976, Mr. Mattus’ daughter Doris opened the first Häagen-Dazs® shop. It was an immediate success, and its popularity led to a rapid expansion of Häagen-Dazs shops across the country.
In 1983 Mr. Mattus agreed to sell Häagen-Dazs to The Pillsbury Company, which remained committed to the tradition of superior quality and innovation on which Häagen-Dazs was founded. Since then, it has become a global phenomenon, available in 54 countries. But the same careful attention to quality that Reuben Mattus built into every Häagen-Dazs® product, remains today. Ice Cream lovers the world over now recognize the unique Häagen-Dazs logo as synonymous with the ultimate super-premium ice cream.”
I was wrong too – it wasn’t New Jersey, it was the Bronx. And for not knowing that, this loyal Bronxite should get 40 lashes with a wet noodle.
Regards,
Carol
Don’t have a website but how do I get to your blog?????? Help Judy
Thank you for those pictures of Costa Maya. Our family had just joined the “hole in the fence” gang at Chac-Chi … the week before Dean hit. We were on the Fantasy and had one TS ahead of us and Dean behind us and our weather was perfect!
Our thoughts and prayers are with them. One prayer had been answered that there was no loss of life there. Everything else we can help rebuild!
John:
I thought of mr. & mrs.missingthesmokefreeparadise this past weekend while Larry & I were on our weekend cruise on the Paradise out of Long Beach. She still looks good, but I’m afraid there is the smell of smoke here and there!
We had a fine time — what a relaxing way to spend a holiday weekend! We were blessed with excellent weather and smooth seas the entire time.
The crew and staff were excellent, and we thought the two comedians on the trip were fabulous. Also worthy of special mention, in our opinion, is Misty, the karaoke hostess. (Yes, we noted all this on our comment cards!)
After ejoying another little taste of a Carnival cruise, Larry is hoping that we will be able to swing a trip on the Splendor in 2008 after all — keep your fingers crossed for us!
Terri & Larry
I work with seniors and really hadn’t considered Carnival in my vacation planning or group tour promotionals. However, one thing that Baby Boomers and Seniors say is most important to them when vacationing (more important than being on a NEW cruise ship) are warm and friendly cruise staff. I have heard so many PHENOMENAL comments about John Heald that I think the next group cruise I adverstise will have to be on Carnival!!! John, you must be one amazing person because I’ve heard about you even when I was attending a ship inspection on another cruise line!
Patrick Toal, Cruise & Vacation Planner
http://www.openseastravel.com
JOHN
I WILL BE SAILING ON THE VALOR
MARCH 2 2008.
I HAVE BEEN READING YOUR BLOG THINGY
FOR SEVERAL MONTHS NOW AND WAS NOT SURE HOW TO BE A PART OF THEM.
MY WIFE AND I HAVE CRUISED CARNIVAL
TEN TIMES SINCE 1986. STARTING WITH
THE CARNIVAL TO THE SPIRIT IN ALASKA 2007
VALOR WILL BE #11.
WEV’E SAILED WITH YOU A COUPLE OF TIMES
AND WOULD LIKE TO AGAIN BEFORE YOU
DECIDE TO CALL IT QUITS.
CARNIVAL RULES.
JOHN & JANET MILLER
NASHVILLE TN.
Another great one John! Hope the webcam gets fixed soon. I love to see what ports your in.
Hi John/Heidi,
Great interview with Danny Blake today. I remember being like him at that age wishing i could be a cruise director. My parents put a quick stop to that one (and i’m still upset) but its nice to see that Danny is making his dreams come true! Congrats!!
Great story about the past cruisers party. I repeat what another blogger said about how one can wear another cruise line’s wardrobe at this event. How strange.
Hope all is well. Thoughts to those in Nicaragua affected by Felix coming ashore.
David
John
We have enjoyed reading the blog for the last several months and decided it was time to jump in and make a posting ourselves. Thank you so much for the many hours you spend at your keyboard writing this blog. I am sure you have precious few spare moments for yourself in your busy schedule. That you spend them entertaining us all each day, makes you very special indeed.
Dave and I are booked on the blogger’s cruise in January. It will be our 13th cruise with Carnival. We have always looked forward with great anticipation to each and every upcoming cruise, but we are especially excited for this one. We are quite sure it will be a great one !!
Thanks again for the great blog thingy !!
Melanie and Dave
John, at least with the DISCLAIMER your blog will live another day. I may have to take over for you the days your in court being sued unless I’m called as a witness. But all the other cruises lines have to do is start their own blog things unless you get a copyright on “BLOG THINGY”. Now that sould like a good idea ROBERTO and the legal beagles.
You said about Heidi “there are a few days each month when that definitely not apply”. But just like the jelly bean effect that too will soon pass and she will return to being ST. HEIDI. So for those days just take refuge in your dogie cabin and pray your not found.
“BIG” ED
137 days till the cruise the world will be watching
John hope you don’t mind me sending this to
To CruisinSue,
Sue, not sure if you saw this posting so I thought I would send it again.
I currently live in a small college town, ELON for almost four years now. Elon University is right up the street along with the thousands & thousands of lovely college kids, no really believe it or not it’s a pretty quite area. When I first came to North Carolina (1990) I lived in Kernersville, was there for four years and then we moved to Greensboro and was there for about 10 years. We ended up selling our house in 2003 (was too much for Dean to handle when I got sick) and moved to a townhome in Elon, NC. so far we’ve been here for 4 years now & love it.
My husband is from Reidsville, NC.
Sorry if I sound like I’m repeating myself from a previous blog but I met Dean when he was working for the same company that I was working for while I was living in NJ. So the rest is history-we met, fell in love & had a long distance relationship for awhile & then almost a year later I relocated. (which I constantly remind him of) ha ha.
So all in all I’ve been here 17 years- Wow does time fly!! Still miss family though but I try to see them as often as possible.
Thank you for replying to me
Inez
Hi John & Heidi,
I hope things on board are going well. Thanks for the “interview” with Danny Blake. Dreams certainly do come true. It must be so exciting for him to be doing exactly what he wanted his whole life (or most of it). And, Danny, you will absolutely love the Paradise – she’s beautiful.
John, I have a couple of jokes for you. Perhaps you can use them when confronted by beligerant passengers or when thinking about those who have spoiled your day:
1) I must admit, you brought Religion into my life. I never believed in Hell until I met you. (Apply to Mrs. M., Sperm of the Devil, Mrs. Knee-Hi, etc.).
2) As the days go by, I think of how lucky I am… that you’re not here to ruin it for me. (Same as above).
Hope they made you laugh,
From one half of the Heald & Schoenberger Ice Cream Company,
Regards,
Carol
John and Heidi,
Only 54 days ’til we see you on the TA!
Through my Cruise Planner, RoseMarie, I discovered the next best thing to sliced bread. She told me I could get all my boarding documents on-line at “My Reservation” via e-docs. It was so easy! Everything is there – flight info (although I haven’t heard from my daughter and our friend if we are all on the same flight into Rome), Transfers, Sign & Sail application, luggage tag, shore excursion order form, etc. . . And RoseMarie said she can review the documents on-line as well. Think of all the extra postage and handling this saves!
I am so sorry for the areas being hit with the recent hurricanes. I was on a cruise (Carnival, of course) after hurricane Hugo and saw first hand the kind of damage your pictures showed. The trees and foliage are black and crisp from the salt water being washed over them. I hope these areas recover quickly so they aren’t deprived of the livelihood brought to them by tourism.
Oh – I see in the news that Mt. Etna has been erupting. What kind of comments do you expect from Mr. and Mrs. Grumpasaurus??? “What do you mean my excursion is cancelled because it’s erupting! Make it stop!!!” Or – “They said on the news Mt. Etna is erupting. It stopped before I got to see it! I want my money back!”
Speaking of excursions – - – Any update on the “Angels and Demons” tour in Rome on Sun. Oct. 28? If there’s no chance of that one being available, we need to fall back on “Plan B”.
Sue (and Jennifer and Karen)
This is to Inez
I did see your post and thought I responded. LOL I grew up near Asheville and moved to Fayetteville in 1975, compliments of US Army. I met my husband while I was on active duty. He stayed 21 yrs in Special Forces and I got out early and went to school. Now that my son is grown, cruising has become my passion. I average 5-6 cruises a year. I love NC because of the proximity of the beach and mountains. It is a beautiful state with lots of fun things to do. Hubby and I just bought a 2008 Honda GoldWing and there’s nothing like riding and seeing this wonderful state. You can contact me at BooGotchYa@aol.com if you would like. Hope to hear from you soon.
Sue
Hi John,
Currently, we’re on the Diamond Princess, doing the Alaska inside passage up to Whittier and back. It’s our first time doing Alaska, and except for the rain, dreary cold and bad internet, it’s pretty alright. Seriously, we have it enjoyed it very much. Unbelievable beauty.
We stay on the Diamond until May of 2008, (yes, we’re that touched to stay on a ship for nearly 10 months) and the Hawaii run starts September 19th, at which time we go from the Wheelhouse Bar to the Hawaiian deck band gig by the pool. (My wife is Hawaiian….home court advantage I imagine) We did Hawaii last year and absolutely love it.
By the by, I have been dropping Doug numerous mails, and he seems to MIA. Maybe a line to him from his dear old mate John will raise him from the dead. He can be gotten through his wife’s website http://www.donnaboyd.com I know he’d get a kick out of hearing from you.
Do you know what ship you’re bound for next? Possibly in the future we’ll pull up next to each other…besides, we do work for the same company, eh? Stay well.
Aloha,
Dave
Larry & Terri -
Thank you for the thoughts of the Mrs & I as you cruised on the Paradise. It is a shame that the concept could not be made to be monetarily successful – I do certainly understand the difficulty of booking groups for a smoke-free ship, but it always seemed like the boat was pretty full when we sailed on her.
Personally, I would happily have paid a premium to be able to sail in a smoke-free environment and hopefully Carnival will consider the concept again in the future.
John -
First of all, I now understand the Mrs. questions about the Carnival Victory – she is absolutely correct. I would love to be on a cruise that features Lyle Lovett (what a voice) and Emmy Lou Harris (what a pure voice). The Cayamo cruise ought to be great.
Second, the Mrs. review of Just Du’et is, as usual, spot on – listening to John & Diane is such a joy. I have never heard a more enjoyable bagpipes player (of course, he is the only bagpipe player I actually know).
John’s horns, particularly his clarinet, make me literally weak in the knees.
Diane’s voice? What can be said about purity? And, their version of YMCA is such fun.
Want to dance – no problemo. Want to merengue? polka? mambo? salsa? All within their repetoire.
LFTSJD (lookingforwardtoseeingjustduet) in 54 days.
Jon
Hello John,
We sail in 6 days!! It’s been a busy month and we haven’t had much time to think about the cruise. Things have slowed down and now we can.
We’re looking forward to seeing the Freedom, the Med and you. Don’t forget your Red Sox.
By the way, on board, Coke or Pepsi???
See you on Monday.
Alan & Chris
Hi John,
I know it has been a *long* time since you have heard from me but rest assured I’m still here and still reading.
As you know a couple of weeks ago I went on a river cruise in France and I am happy to report that it was great fun… A river cruise is very, very different from a big-ship cruise but it is a wonderful experience and you should certainly try it some time!
Since returning I have been reading your blog but have not had a chance to comment… But I just wanted to let you know I am still here!
I had to chuckle about your Royal Caribbean t-shirt story. A friend of mine was on the Marco Polo (NCL) with a Pacific Princess t-shirt and the Captain saw him in it and said “we can’t have this” so he gave him a new Marco Polo shirt! I think you should give Mr. Pethan a nice Carnival t-shirt, maybe call him up on stage at a production show, tell the story and present him with the new shirt or something like that. Wouldn’t that be fun?
On another note what will you do when you are finished with all these cruise director interviews? (They’ve been great fun by the way.) I may have mentioned this before but have you considered interviewing some of your loyal readership? Perhaps it is a silly idea but, well, I had it so I figured I’d put it out there… What do you think?
Doug
Hi, John,
Thanks for responding to my post, though I do have a minor correction to your comments. (I will whisper so only you will hear. Please do not be offended that I am telling you this, but my name is Myra…not Mary. I know it’s picky and I apologize for bringing it up. Anyway, can we still be blog buddies?)
On a more serious note, our September 22 Glory cruise is looking more and more like seven days at sea. Every place we’re scheduled to go is having an earlier and very windy visitor. Perhaps Belize City will come through okay. If not, that leaves Cozumel and Nassau. But it’s going to be great no matter what!
My husband, Scott, surprised me by readily agreeing the bloggers cruise seems a great idea. So, I guess we’ll sign up! If we go, I sure hope I get to meet you. I plan to wear my “blog thingy” tank top on the Glory. It will be interesting to see how many people recognize it. Will let you know.
About the “previous guest” wearing the RC tee. I should think you would realize most fellows don’t pay much attention to what they’re wearing. The lucky ones have wives to watch out for faux pas. Though, of course, some choose to ignore all warnings. And speaking of attire, I wish that dinner every evening were more formal…not just a couple nights. I usually “dress up” anyway as I enjoy it and don’t get much opportunity except holiday parties, weddings, etc. As I live in Florida, this is especially true. We even wear tee shirts and flip flops to church.
Hey, how many bloggers would need to send you a dollar in order for you to buy an Aston Martin? Guess you’d need your blog to hit all the cruise lines, huh? You’d think the auto maker would just give you one, since you’ve given them such widespread free pr.
Will keep southerndreams in my thoughts and prayers, as well as all the folks in the hurricane zones. Also you and Heidi.
By the way, Danny Blake looks a bit like Bob Barker, don’t you think?
Good night and good wishes to you and Heidi.
I’m not having the best of luck with the sugar free jelly beans. I’ve found sugar free turtles, chocolate covered this and that, sugar free hard candy, I’m under the impression that it is strictly a jelly bean addiction not just any sugar free Russel Stover’s confection. Is that correct? I’ll keep searching, but I’m getting a little worried!!
Ciao,
Patrick
Hey John just a quick question about my up coming cruise on the Carnival Glory what shows will they have on my cruise which leaves on the 13th of October.
My best to you and Heidi
Hi John,
I’m still laughing from the “Hopping Mad” comment from you. That was a pretty good pun.
I’ve got a joke for you (remember I’m a redhead, and sorry Hedi)
The Redhead went to the doctor’s office and said, “Doctor, every bone in my body is broken.”
The doctor said, “I see. Does it hurt when you touch your arm?”
The Redhead touched her arm and screamed with pain.
The doctor said, “Does it hurt when you touch your leg?”
The Redhead touched her leg and moaned.
The doctor said, “Does it hurt when you touch your head?”
The Redhead touched her head and started crying with pain.
The doctor said, “You’re not really a redhead, are you?”
The Redhead said, “No, actually I’m a blonde.”
The doctor said, “I thought so. Your finger is broken.”
Hope you haven’t heard that joke before…
Susan
John,
I’d like to post a few pictures I have regarding the fires in Greece but I don’t know how to do that. Can you give me your email address? I couldn’t attach them to this comment.
I just returned from a cruise on Carnival Fascination on September 7, 2007. I met and spoke to Danny Blake several times. He was a pleasure to meet and chat with…and he is an awesome performer and singer as well. No one could ask for or expect to have a better cruise director than he…and this…my first cruise…has set the benchmark for any cruise I take in the future…which tomorrow wouldn’t be soon enough for me!!!!
I have been looking for the name of one of the officers on the Carnival Fascination. He is Italian, late 60′s and his first name is ED or EDOURDO. Can you find out that info or can you tell me where I can find out? I would like to send him a thank you note on behalf of my deceased Mother. I would really appreciate any info you can give. Thanks!!