Good Morning from Istanbul………our last time here this season……………so of course………….something had to happen……..and it did. At 8 am this morning the Captain called me to let me know that we would be late into port this morning. There was a ship called The Antarctica docked in our place and because of some difficulties she would not be able to leave on time ………. Thus ……we would be late alongside. Our scheduled arrival is 9 am and the captain informed me we would not be alongside until 10 am……………..no big deal I hear you say……….ahhhhhhh, well, actually it is.
First of all we have 2,200 guests booked on a shore excursion this morning. Each one of these 2,200 people have to come at designated times to collect a coloured (spelt correctly) and numbered sticker from the Victoriana Lounge. This is scheduled so that each tour meets and leaves at 15 minutes intervals so there are no long lines and ample seating.
Because we are one hour late, this means that all 2,200 would be in the lounge at the same time………….problem………the lounge seats 1,500 people. So, after meeting with the staff Heidi sent her troops into action and I made the following announcement at 8:45am – in my underwear.’
Good Morning ladies and gentlemen. As many of you can see we have stopped the vessel outside of the port of Istanbul. Normally we would be making our way to the pier but unfortunately the captain has advised me of a one-hour delay this morning.
This is due to the ship you can see at the pier called The Antarctica which had some difficulties this morning and was unable to leave the pier at their scheduled time. Therefore, we will be alongside at approximately 10 am…….one hour late.
First of all the new back on board time is 8:30 pm and the ship will depart at 9 pm (one extra hour.) For those guests on a ship-organized tour please may I kindly ask for your undivided attention? Normally we ask you to collect your tour sticker and remain seated in the lounge however because of our delay we will change the system a little bit this morning. Please collect your sticker at the designated time stated on your tour ticket but instead of waiting in the lounge please go back to the open decks, watch the ship arrive and then listen for my announcements. As soon as you hear me call your sticker colour and number please proceed directly to the deck 0 gangway where you will be met staff on the pier who will direct you to the buses. For guests not on a tour, please listen for a general clearance announcement all of which should be given around 10:15 am.
This announcement was also made in Spanish, Russian and Japanese.
So, the staff were in place and so far everything is going well…………except.
We have 80 Russian guests who have a private tour who are all standing on the stairs blocking the entrance to deck 0. Russian-speaking staff has been dispatched to ask them to move.
It is now 10:08 am and the ship is just lining up position against the pier………..I will give you more real time updates as we go along.
It is now 10:17 am, the ship is alongside and we are waiting for the Immigration and Customs officials to give us permission to start disembarking.
It is now 10:23 am and we have just opened the gangways and I have invited guests not on a tour to disembark the ship and now it is time to start disembarking tours……………..back later.
OK, that’s that done. It is now 11:18 am and we have disembarked 2,200 on tour plus another 500 guests not on tours………….not bad in just under one hour……………..and only one or two guests who said we were disorganized ………..again, not bad.
So, Heidi is off with her Mum in Istanbul and work permitting I am going to meet them later. But first……………..the photos. These are from yesterday and Heidi’s trip to Ephesus…………..just a bunch of ruins!
Here is today’s joke of the day
Jesus was standing in for Saint Peter at the Pearly Gates when an old man shuffled up to him.
“Name?” said Jesus.
“Joseph” replied the old man.
“Occupation?” asked Jesus.
“Carpenter” replied the old man.
“And did you have a son?” asked Jesus.
“Yes, I did” said the old man.
“Describe him,” said Jesus.
“Well,” said the old man “he was strange and childlike and he had nails in his hands and feet”.
Jesus looked at the old man and said “Father?!”
The old man peered back and said…
“….. Pinocchio?”
Talking of religion I wanted to mention that Heidi lit some candles for Tara at the house of the Virgin Mary yesterday at Ephesus. One was in memory of her Dad, one for Tara and one for all our blogger friends who need our thoughts and prayers.
Here are the letters from today’s In Their Own Words Section.
On to some Q and A starting with the blog called The End of the Rhodes. Click here to skip the Q&A.
JAYME SULLIVAN – Hello and I think you are talking about my “signature bit,” The bedtime Story. I am so glad you enjoyed it, I love performing it as you never know what will happen. Have a wonderful time on the Carnival Liberty and please pass my best to Todd your Cruise Director. Have a great time and let us know when you get home how much fun you had. Cheers.
LAURA ZATZ – many thanks Laura, I was so proud to win the award. Is that wonderful, Heidi and I just lit a candle for SouthernDreams and you prayed for her at Temple…………..you are a very special person for doing so and I know how much she will appreciate your wonderful gesture understand she is sailing on October 4th and I will make sure I introduce you to her then ……….once I have met her of course. You are correct that the tour in Venice does not need to be changed especially as we arrive at 1 pm now. Looks like the weather will be fine but I do advise you bring a light jacket with you. See you soon and have a safe flight.
TERESA AND PAUL B – How wonderful that your first ever Carnival cruise will be here on the Carnival Freedom. If you have any questions please let me know. Don’t worry about the odd rude person I have to deal with ………..they are few and far between compared with the 99% who are wonderful folks and a pleasure to have on board. I hope the winter is not too cold for you and Heidi and I have always wanted to visit Montana, I hear it’s stunningly beautiful. See you soon and all the best.
CAPTAIN CHUCK – I guess everyday you spend with Dad are days that you cherish. I hope he continues to stay strong and please know we are thinking about you and the family. I am sure your Alaska photos must bring you so many memories and I hope we get to share some more one day in the future.
NICO R – How was class today mate? Hope the exams etc are going well for you. I passed your comments to Rico – Nico (goes together well) and I know he will appreciate hearing them. Cheers and please write soon.
NANETTE – I TO AM LOOKING FORWARD TO MEETING YOUR WHOLE FAMILY AGAIN IN San Juan. It has been years since I have been there. Heidi and I liked going to the beautiful El San Juan Hotel. There was a terrific Chinese Restaurant there called the Backstreets of Hong Kong………….the Peking Duck was amazing……………..anyway, please send my best to the family whom I will see soon. Much hugos and adios.
ROCHELLE – I think getting a new puppy was a smart idea as the last one you had obviously gave you so much joy and so much happiness. Say “woof” to Dexter for me………………my dog has no legs………….every morning I get up and take him for a drag. Time for some classic Peter Sellers.
This is best said in a French accent as Inspector Closseau
“Excuse me, Sir, but does your dog bite?”
The old man replied, “Non.”
Bending down to stroke the dog it bit Closseau on the arm
“I thought you said your dog didn’t bite!” said the Inspector
The old man replied, “That is not my dog.”
LISA AND ELAINE – Can you let me know your cabin number and I will be happy to give you a full description of it. It’s hard to do this without as we have so many different cabin categories. It is quite surreal that people are suggesting what colour thong I wear especially suggesting I wear one with an Alligator on it………………there are a few jokes I could do there but as this is a family blog I had best stay quiet. Have fun on the road and hope your Gators have a wonderful season. Cheers.
GIRLDOC – Welcome back from your Carnival Destiny cruise and its great to hear that we have another star in the making in Cruise Director Steve Knisley. I have not forgotten your question and I will chase up the answer tonight for you. You asked about our vacation and how long Heidi and I will take? Well, once we decide when we can go I think we will have 6 – 8 weeks off. However, we have the bloggers cruise in January so I am not sure as yet. Usually, and before the blog took over my life the vacations were 6 weeks off for every four months on board………………right now, we really need one and very soon I will have to decide what is going to happen. Anyway, welcome back and I would be interested to know what your favorite port of call was. All the best, thanks for the words of congratulations and please write soon.
THE BEARS CARL AND BARB – As always we start by hoping that you are well following your tough times. The bad news I received was family oriented and I am waiting on news as we speak. I will chat about it with you all as soon as I know anything more but thanks so much for all your kind words. Being Diabetic is, as you say, a challenge but I am doing well, check my sugar three times a day and with Heidi’s help I remember to take my pill. Not drinking alcohol helps but I really miss certain things…….like Mars bar and Mum’s homemade desserts………..oh well. Thanks again for your posting and I hope the new young bear cub is doing well. He certainly has the best grandparents in the world.
TEERI 910 – I spoke to someone quite “high up” yesterday about the comment card rating system and he was in total agreement. I understand also after speaking to Roger Blum that the whole system will be changing some time very soon and I will let you know as and when that happens. Congratulations on choosing your Hawaii cruise. Heidi and I have never been but it is on our places to visit and I am sure you will have lots of stories to share with us on the blog thingy…………..if it is still going then. Good luck with the lottery and if you win can I have an Aston Martin please? Cheers.
LEASA – It is fantastic to know that you, like so many others, take the time to contact the office in Miami at the end of each cruise you take to let them know who and what you have enjoyed. The comment card system will be changing and it may be returning as you suggested to the old, poor, good, excellent structure……….we shall see. Your beach properties sound marvelous and maybe Heidi and I will rent one from you…….we certainly could do with some beach time. Thank you so much for all the kind words and especially about the crew. Hope to see you soon.
PHIL INCORVIA – It is so super to hear that you read the blog everyday, I am honoured. You asked about the Grand Marnier Soufflé which is indeed served one night in the dining room and from reports, it is delicious. However, it now has some stiff competition in the form of the Chocolate Warming Cake which is available every night………….let battle commence. One of the best things about taking a cruise is meeting new friends as in the case of you and your friends from Portland who I see are cruising with you again in January ……….that’s great to hear. You will love Todd, apart from being ugly, he is a one of the best Cruise Directors in the business and he will make sure your cruise is the best ever. I am so sorry I will not be with you but I am sure we will meet again one day soon. Until then, all the best.
RICH HASKE – You have indeed found a way to post a comment on the blog thingy so……….welcome. I cannot wait to meet your group especially considering your group name is The Dirty Dozen. I have taken the liberty of ordering more security for the cruise you 12 are sailing. Drop me a note when you get here at the Information Desk……….should be a fun time for all. Thanks for reading the blog thingy so much and my best to the other dirty 11.
LV2CRUISE – A thought I have shared with myself many times. It does keep the world an interesting place though does it not? Hope you are enjoying the blog and cheers for now.
JULIE GANTT – I did need cheering up and those words you wrote provided me with smiles galore so many thanks. This blog has allowed me to meet so many people and I hope we all meet in person one day soon. Many thanks, you made my day.
GERI SMITH – Hello you three nurses……….was it June you sailed, it seems like yesterday. I loved your motto and I wish more people lived by it. My best to you three and I salute the wonderful work you all do.
KEVIN – I am working on another bloggers cruise and we will put out a referendum soon to see when and where the majority want to sail. Your blog made me smile mate especially the National Geographic reference……….very funny. Thanks for the kind words mate you are a true friend.
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – I wonder by now if you have had the results of your biopsy Paul. I am so sorry to hear about the pain you endured and I wish I could have been there for you mate. I know you mentioned lots of other subjects in your posting Paul but I wanted you to know that nothing is more important than you knowing that Heidi and I are thinking about you as I know are thousands of bloggers. Stay positive, keep reading the blog and if you need anything I am here.
LINDSEY B – Thank you first of all for mentioning the award, I appreciate it very much. I know you will have a fantastic time on the Carnival Triumph which will always be one of my favorite ships. You asked when the last time I was onboard a ship that was affected by a hurricane. The answer is the Carnival Glory in 2004 and what a season that was with many storms that changed itineraries of so many ships. One of the great things about being here in Europe is that there are no hurricanes. I am so glad you are loving the blog and as pus flows from my two blistered typing fingers this gives me a reason to carry on. Thanks Lindsey and Ciao For Now……………as you are Italian.
BRYAN – Glad you like the jokes. The Carnival Freedom is heading for Miami, Bryan, arriving on November 11. We then have a one-off 4-day cruise to Key West and Cozumel and then start our Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises. Then, in April 2008 we head back to Europe. Come and join us mate.
VINETTE EDWARDS – I remember those inaugural cruises on the Carnival Legend with so much fondness. I am therefore equally excited to call at those ports of call on the Carnival Splendor in 2008. You asked for South America cruises and of course I am happy to tell you that in 2009 the Carnival Splendor will cruise around the horn to California calling at Rio and Buenos Aries along the way. Check out www.carnival.com/splendor for more details. I am also sure that Asia and other exotic ports are not too far away…………..well, they are far away but not far away from us calling there………..if you know what I mean. Think it is time to stop now. All the best Vinette – pretty name by the way.
There will many more comments and questions answered tomorrow.
Indeed, I have to stop now as its sailing time from Istanbul and I need to get ready for Showtime. The call went well today despite the late arrival and the unusual way we disembarked the guests. No complaints so far.
I know I should not mention this but I have to. I read an e-mail the other day that suggested that the blog had run its course and that I concentrated too much on the negative comments from guests. Now, this was written by someone outside of the corporation and whom I respect greatly and for a few moments I was angry and then started thinking he may be correct………..do I spend to much time passing on these stories………….is it unprofessional to do so?
Well, unless they write me a direct letter, I always disguise the names of the people and if I do share an incident that involves a complaint or comment from a guest I think I balance it out with the letters and comments from the many, many more guests who have the best vacation in the world ever………………I hope I am right.
I know a lot of my blogger friends will spring to my defense which I am grateful for. However, rather than do this I just ask that you all promise me if I ever step over the line or report something that you think inappropriate that you tell me.
Sometimes, my sense of humour takes over my limited common sense and if it does, please all of you, pull me back.
Unless I hear from you otherwise I will continue as is and celebrate the fact that 702,000 slaps show that our friendship base is growing and that we continue together to celebrate the world of cruising.
Time has run away with me but please enjoy the interview that follows with Mr. Rick Meadows………it’s a great read.
For now, we say goodbye to Istanbul. I remember the first call when a guest refused to go ashore saying we should not be calling there as it was unsafe etc. Well, I think I speak for everyone when I say that it is a city of enchantment and culture which I will miss very much………………………except Fatima of course ……………….her at that bloody hosepipe.
Goodnight
Your friends
John and Heidi
Filed under: Catherine Zeta Jones, Tales from the Ship | Tagged: Splendor Godmother, Tales from the Ship
John,
Sept 27 was my 30th birthday, what a great night well I just got home from it and it started at 3 pm and it’s almost 3am right now. Anyway the highlight of the evening was a cake with a picture of Angelina Jolie and Carmen Electra on top of it what can I say yes it wasn’t CZJ but still AJ and CE wow. Pictures will be on my blog once who ever has my camera gives it back to me. Going to go crash now as I had way way way way way way way way way, to much to drink tonight, no I diden’t drive so no worries folks I took a cab both ways. Best to Heidi and her mum.
Kevin
John,
SPRING……SPRING…SPRING….I would love the email of the person who said that about this blog. I am steaming mad! Ok, you can respect them, but do they REALLY know how much the blog means to so many people? How much good has come out of the blog? How much we need your stories to brighten our days? Do they realize we (all regular bloggers) feel like you are a very special human being and are friends with us even though we have never met? I am so mad I could…….spit, and that’s really mad for me. We need all your stories including your “trials” because it makes our day not seem so bad…we need all of you John, the good, the bad, and the….friendship. I say don’t change a thing! Boy I bet if you published that person’s email, he/she would get a lot of not nice email. I want to go on and on in your defense, but, I believe you know how we love you, and in the end, that is all that matters!
Hope you get good news from home soon! Oh, one more thing, who should you listen to, one email, or 720,000 bloggers?
We love you John,
Hedi give him a big hug! (and we will discuss Notting Hill later)
Susan
Mr. John Heald
Man of the World
Man’s Man
Sir:
I’ve tried three times to say something. Can’t.
Why didn’t you just say,
Am I bothered.
I like the person you are, mostly, your tales quench my gossipy greed, and the only reason I can stand for one story to end and wait for another day is in the sure and hopeful knowledge that you will share with us again. I started reading before this transatlantic cruise at the top of my wish list ever sidled over into a reservation, but I’d still be here any way. I have to admit I have forgotten one of your entries: Did Alan give you the bag of money so we wouldn’t hear about how he ended up on the front page with …..
ps – you may not be fashionable according to some, but you are comfortable and genuine and I will never cast you out of my wardrobe of simple pleasures.
So your last Hurricane was my last hurricane as well! I want to send you the picture of you and I together from the glory, it is very funny! You were walking very very fast, and I asked you for a picture, you were so nice and graciously posed even though I knew you were so busy dealing with hurricane business. Do you know who the CD is on the Triumph? I am very excited to be going on this cruise (even though it’s almose a year away) because I am almost up to the prestigous Platinum card (woo hoo)!! I was very upset last time because I got married and my name changed, so carnival did not recognize me as a past guest- I almost did not get the gold card! Alas, a few last minute phone calls ensured my gold card status! There is not greater feeling then people seeing your gold card and asking you about your previous cruises! What would you say is your favorite ship that you have ever been on?
We all tend to focus on the negative instead of the positive. You could get 100 positive comments and one negative and what is the one that is going to grate at you for the rest of the day/evening, etc.? You are even focusing on it by sharing the email from your respected friend. If the blog had run its course, would your hits/slaps whatever continue to rise?
I will just tell you that it is BECAUSE of your blog that the family has even considered its first Carnival cruise. You have shared more than any glossy brochure. Your enthusiasm for the product has done such for changing my never cruised on Carnival but heard stories perception of what a Carnival cruise can be.
You have constantly shared stories of a credo I have tried to live by “Under promising and over delivering”. Unless ordered by the brass at HQ, please do not censor yourself and continue with the same wit and candor that you have.
One more thing!
Why are you not going to Istanbul anymore? And I love hearing you complain anout nasty guests, the stories are very entertaining! :>)~
Lindsey
Good Morning John! I hope this day finds you well. Thanks for the response and answer to my question. You asked which port is my favorite on the Destiny itinerary…Its a toss up–Dominica and Barbados! I did the best shore excursion I have ever done in 8 cruises on Dominica i.e. river tubing, and Barbardos was such an unexpected surprise.
I know there must be huge logisitics in picking ports of call, but there are so many cruises that go to St. Thomas, St. Martin, etc. I would love to see new and different itineraries. Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire are not represented in Carnival Cruises, nor are Isla Margerita, Grenada, St. Vincent, and Trinidad and Tobago. There are so many places I want to see, and cruising is the way I “try out” an island….Any chance you can put a bug in the person’s ear who picks where the ships go?
As for the question regarding your stories of complaints…I for one love reading the letters and hearing the stories. Reading what people’s expectations are makes me realize just how simple mine are!!
Dear John & Heidi…..
The blog has not run its course. This blog is not about Carnival….it is the John & Heidi show starring guests from every part of the earth as they visit your home. Nobody wants to read your blog if it constantly blows pleasant smoke up their ___! This blog will have run its course when the lid closes! Send the person that made that comment (whom you respect deeply) a spa day with with Fatima.
John & Susan in Frisco
Hi John,
A friend & I just returned from a short 5 day cruise on the Ecstasy so I didn’t learn of your Sea Trade Award until this morning. Congratulations!! You are very deserving.!!
my word john, how much more successful can you get? the nerve of anyone to say you are doing it wrong just shows what they do not know! keep on being yourself, you are an amazing success story honey!!!
thanks for lighting the candle for me too, i so appreciate it! and to all the bloggers and commenters that have said prayers or asked about me, i am overwhelmed with gratitude!
on another note, my tickets arrived yesterday. carnival mailed them august 21st, yesterday was september 27th, nice postal service we have, huh? but at least they are in my chubby hands and i shall see y’all very soon!!
are you and big ed going to wear matching thongs? just askin’…
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
John- you do a great job on this blog, it adds to the experience for sure. Don’t know of others in the industry do the same, they should. Keep up the HARD work.
I feel a little dismayed in reading about saying goodbye to Istanbul. We sailed on the Freedom in July and enjoyed each stop. The infusion of different cultures can do nothing but give a person a greater understanding of the world. Congratulations to John and Heidi on your award. You are blessed to be doing something you really love and it shows. That’s why people enjoy their cruise experience. The one phase I took from Europe was “till we meet again”. Thanks John, Heidi and Carnival for making it a summer to remember.
John, Is the reason you want to see Montana have anything to do with “Hunt for Red October” being on your best movie list. The dying russian saying “I’ve always wanted to see Montana”. Both Pat and I like that movie too.
John since we are from Michigan the land of the Wolverines you will never see an Alligator on my thong. There maybe an alley-gator in the thong but never an alligator on it.
“BIG” ED
113 days till us two BIG bears hug
Good morning John & Heidi,
After catching up with 3 days worth of blogs, I have one thing to say: Congratulations Sea-Going Employee of the Year. It was truly my honour (spelled correctly) to have voted for you. I really wish I was going on the Bloggers’ cruise – seeing you and Big Ed in thongs would be a special occasion, unique.
Funny you mentioned you may be the worst speller in the world. I have just gone through 3 days of taking refresher courses in office administration, spelling, proofreading, grammar, etc. and the spent the last 1 1/2 days teaching highly-paid, college educated, graduate degree’d engineers, budget analysts, administrative assistants and executives the simple art of the English language. It amazes me that these super-educated people can’t spell or construct simple sentences. So have no fear John, I’m sure you’re a lot better than they are.
Thank you for your interview with my personal photographer Gary. I love taking sunset and sunrise photos too (if I’m awake that early). Sunset Photos #6 were absolutely incredible. I’m going to have to remember the whirlpool shot on my cruise. Gary, what a life you’re leading – you’re so young and you have seen so much of the world already. I hope things go as well for you in the future.
John – do not get me started on Yankees/Red Sox, okay?
You mentioned the sugar-free cheesecake – no it’s not a homemade-cake but I’m sure just substituting Splenda for sugar in a recipe would work. This cake was from one of the local restaurant chains (Cheesecake Factory, Juniors, etc.). I thought I remembered a sugar-free cheesecake on the Valor?
I’m still voting for a Caribbean cruise for the next Bloggers’cruise in 2009. Hopefully you’ll decide before the end of the year. I thought that I would book my next one when I get back from the Imagination – so I would have more time to save.
OK, I guess I’ll do some work now. I’ll check back on your blog thingy later,
Regards,
Carol
Hi John and Heidi,
It won’t be long now till we are on board the Freedom – we sail with you on Oct 16. I have met such a great group of fellow cruisers on Cruise Critic and all of us (around 88) will be getting together for our 1st meet and greet around 5pm Embarkation day.
We were wondering if you could help us arrange a place to meet the 1st and 2nd sea days.
See you soon!
Hi John
Don’t know if you will remember me? Sam Lloyd, dancer on the inaugural of the Cranival Destiny. I have been reading your blog for the last couple of months and it is so good to hear that Heidi and yourself are still enjoying life at sea. It brings back so many good memories. it would be great to here from you. Take care, Sam xxx
You’re right about Montana! We live close to Glacier Park and the early summer or fall are the best times to visit the park. We enjoy riding our motorcycle through the park. As for our cruise, the only worry I have is being seated with the “grumpies” at dinner. I’ll cross my fingers on that. I have a feeling we are going to become “cruise junkies” and want to go every year, funds permitting. Everyone working for Carnival is wonderful! The agent we have been working with has made everything so easy, maybe that will be good luck for us and our luggage won’t get lost. Your comments about the “grumpies” have been a kick. Don’t stop! It makes everyone laugh at their stupidity.
John,
In my opinion, what you share on this blog is all about people’s experiences…good or bad. If life was all about the good…we’d be perfect. John, I know you’re perfect!!! People reading this blog want to experience all there is to experience on a ship and having been on a few, we experience the “rude” people too. As a social worker, I wouldn’t hesitate to let you know when you’ve crossed the line. Keep us the good work! Say hi to all my friends on the Freedom.
Hi John,
I’m sorry, but i definitely don’t think this blog has run its course.
I’m wondering if someone from the competition is trying to get you to stop this, but 700k+ readers have to tell you that something is going right for the blog.
Think about how many people you have convinced and “influenced” to cruise not only with Carnival, but with other vessels in the industry?
Don’t let one negative comment get you down.
I have not been to Istanbul. I remember being in Kusadasi many years ago and how I always wished I would go back. Hopefully this will become a reality sooner rather than later.
Thank you for a good read.
David
Good morning Mr. Heald. Thank you for your kind words unfortunately I won’t get my results until Wednesday, October the 3rd, next week. Either way, I will let you and Heidi know since I consider you both like family even though I’ve never met you both. I’m a little worried but since I’ve already went through a great deal involving my stroke years ago, I know I can deal with it. Just keep on doing your blog. By opening it up each day, I enjoy your words, photos and jokes and
they really keep me very positive. There must be a reason why God created you and your blog and the reason is to allow you to spend more time with many different people like me. I do hope that you and Heidi with be on the Freedom when my wife and I go on our cruise. It would be an opportunity to meet the man with the words. One final thing, I hope that Heidi has received the gift I sent. Ciao for now.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
Hi John,
I see my last comment is sill awaiting moderation, so I’m assuming it is lost in cyber land. To be honest I can’t remember all that I wrote, but I know I did leave some information on the Golden Princess. I did have a wonderful time on her in Alaska. The food was amazing (I can’t wait to hear about your first meal on the Emerald Princess!!!), the crew could not have been better and the weather, well, it rained, but any day on a ship is better than any day on land in my book. You had asked who the CD was on the Golden Princess, it was Billy Hygate. One other quick note that I will mention, while I am not a fan of anytime dinning, that is what I was assigned since I had booked so late. To get the best of both worlds, I was let in on a little secret that changed my mind about anytime dinning. I was able to make reservations for each night at the same time at the same table. So, basically I was able to turn my anytime dinning into a set dinner with the same table, waiters and time. It worked out wonderfully!!!
I’m sure there is more I wanted to share, but it will have to wait until I get some coffee flowing through my body. Please trust that you and Heidi are in my thoughts and prayers and I hope all the worries back home have a comforting outcome.
~R
Please keep the passenger stories. They’re my favorite part of the blog! I’m always shouting out to hubby what some clueless passenger said or did and we both have a great laugh, shake our heads, and wonder how people like that function in today’s world.
Do you have any idea how full the trans-Atlantic cruise will be? Most our cruises have been on ships in the 2000 passenger area. Only one other was as big as the Freedom and it was quite crowded, so we’ve been a bit apprehensive about the numbers. I know the cruise will be great, but are there any tucked away, somewhat shady spots on deck that we might search for?
Hi John,
It’s interesting as I was catching up on the blogs, I would occasionally read bits out loud to my boyfriend, especially the jokes and the umm… “interesting” passenger stories. I forget which blog and which passenger it was, but I turned to Scott and said, “Wow! John is really tired.” It wasn’t because your response to whomever it was or the post itself was paticularly inappropriate. It was the feeling I got from your writing and the stories you were choosing to tell and I guess reading them consecutively like that really made it clear.
When people see you having fun on stage, entertaining them, it’s so easy to think that your job is all fun and games. And yes, 99% of the people are great and make your job enjoyable. This blog has been an eye opening look into what you really do.
Your job means that you are the public face of Carnival and that means that not even your own time is truly your own. It’s hard to be “on” all the time and all that interacting with people every day, dealing with their needs and problems is really draining, even when it’s all good.
I don’t think the blog has run it’s course, but I do think you need a break. I can’t believe you’ve been on that ship since February with only a couple days off. I know you didn’t want to disappoint people who were hoping to sail with you, but you are not doing yourself any favors. Every one needs some time to recharge their batteries, even you Mr. Super Cruise Director.
Will I miss the blog if you take a break? Absolutely. It certainly is a bright spot in my day. I do love reading about your adventures, good and bad. But I would look forward to a re-energized blog when you returned.
I know your vacation is finally going to start soon. I hope you enjoy it. I hope you get the rest that you need and the relaxation you desire. I hope you turn your Cruise Director brain off for a while and think only of yourself and Heidi.
Cheers mate,
Laura
For many of us, we turn on our computers in the morning and settle in with a piping hot cup of coffee. After checking email, we open our ‘favorites’ and read your blog. This has become as much routine for us and it is for you writing it. If this stops, I may as well just stay in bed.
That is rediculous thing for that person to say, you tell great stories and very few are about the bad behavior some guest exhibit while on their cruise. I think that those stories actually help some people who are going to cruise. Maybe it will save someone else from acting like a not so smart person. I think you performing a service to those people. Keep up the fantastic job that you do and don’t worry, I promise that I will tell you if you have gone to far and I’m sure Carnival will too! You have a great sense of humor and we could use a whole lot more people in the world like you.
I know that I scheduled a land tour with 9 other family members to Turkey and Greece and they were all concerned that I picked Turkey, they kept teasing around that we would be taken hostage but at least we would all be together. It is a awesome place and we all want to go back there again. It snowed like a foot of snow while we were there and it was beautiful.
Have a great day and keep smiling!
To be, or not to be: that is the question:
Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous critics,
Or to take arms against a sea of buttheads,
And by opposing end them? (with apologies to the Bard of Avon).
John, success breeds criticism. The more criticism, the greater your success. Can you truly apologize for bringing happiness and joy into our lives?
“NOT trust you, dear? Nay, ’t is not true.
As sailors trust the shifting sea
From day to day, so I trust you.
They know how smooth the sea can be;
And well they know its treachery
When tempests blow; yet forth they thrust
Their ships, as in security.
They trust it, dear, because they must.”
(Hannah Parker Kimball)
John, all the beauty you share with us is gratefully received by all. I have walked the streets of Ephesus, stood on a mountain in Dubrovnik, strolled on the Aventine in Rome, and heard the delightful harmony one person can create in the darkness of the Blue Grotto on Capri. Yet, of all these memories, the ones most special were spent onstage with you. Your blog is just a continuation of those voyages on the Liberty and Freedom.
Should the blog change? Everything must change, but not for us–for you. I enjoy the blog every day, but this is a difficult task, perhaps more so than you thought. If the blog were to go to 3-4 days weekly, perhaps you would have time to create that lovely child (if it looks like Heidi) who will revel in the tales his old sea-going dad will tell! And perhaps we could have you around longer to share with us.
Much love from Arizona, where the temp has finally dropped below 100-degrees.
Rus & Nina Franklin
Hi John,
I guess I would just put that negative letter on the bottom of the files. There are 702,000 positive comments that have buried it!!! There is nothing negative about this blog thingy. It’s what keeps all of us bloggers going. We are a family and families stick together through the good times and the bad times. We bloggers are here as much for you as you are for us. Besides you put so much humor into every situation that a person can’t help but walk away smiling.
I just want to say to Lauren (in thier own words section) and to Paul Pietrangelo that you are both in my prayers and wish you both all the best with your battle.
Work is starting to get a little easier. The leg is healing nicely (getting itchy and the dissolvable stitches are working thier way out. ouch!) I have a great support system at work. They are all there for me when I need them. Like a family.
Loved the joke today!!! And the pictures of the “ruins” are great. I think Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary were really the highlight of our Med cruise last March. And the tour guides in both Izmer and Istanbul are so wonderful. We are hoping to go back someday. I keep telling Carl let’s just sell the house and go from cruise ship to cruise ship!
I hope you and Heidi get word on your vacation soon. You certainly deserve one. We will miss you both a lot, but maybe you can check in with us a couple times a week while your off???
Hello to Heidi and her Mum and Hello to your Mum and Dad as well.
Take care John and you and your family are in my prayers as well. Hope all turns out well for your loved ones.
Big Bear Hugs to you!
Barb
Kevin:
So, was there a Tanked Spice involved?
Happy belated birthday, and I hope there were no issues with the fire brigade when you blew out your candles.
Don’t even think about changing the way you write. 600,000 Bloggers can’t be wrong!! Keep up the good work. See you in January with my Corvette friends!! The group keep growing.
PS–My vote is for Alaska for the next Bloggers Cruise!!
John and Heidi,
I wanted to address your comment about were you focusing on too much negativity. I do not think that is occurring in the blog. You are sharing real experiences from the perspective of a Cruise Director. You are always very careful to give the person a fictional name. I see nothing wrong with the way the blog is being done.
Secondly, that person who refused to get off in Istanbul missed a truly phenomenal experience. There is so much intrigue and mystery associated with that city. I loved it there and hope to return again at some point!
Dear John
Hope my last email isn’t in cyberspace- but if it is, I asked if you ( meaning Carnival) was stopping the port of Rhodes- I loved it – I sailed on Aug 29 and met you at the Capt’s reception, I also wore my bloggers tshirt on the sea days… The whole itinerary was wonderful and the best cruise/vacation I have taken. My friend at work mentioned a cruise next year and it has 3 Turkish ports and 2 Greek ports and it seems different than my itinerary. Also I’m the one who asked you to send the Freedom ornament that’s in the ship shops- I collect them and didn’t realize the shops would be closed that Sunday when we were in Rome and we debarked Mon AM. Thanks again for a lovely cruise
Hello to both of you
Congrats on the award, well done,truly deserved.
Wishing we were on the Freedom as the weather in Thorpe Bay is awful, had enough of the rain and decided the only way to cheer myself up is to book the Splendor for july 25 08, YIPPEE all done and dusted, looking forward to visiting new places. So now have three cruises two over christmas and next year on splendor so bettter get out and earn some £££! Will the splendor been in $$$ onboard?
Have sent a few papers over the last couple of weeks, hope you have received them.
Anyway love from southend, take care michelle & Dave
Hi John and Heidi,
I know you said we didn’t have to comment on the email you got but did you really think we wouldn’t? John and Heidi I have really come to care so much about both of you. Even though we haven’t met yet, I regard you as friends. I agree with everyone else, I love the blog. I told you last time it’s the first thing I look for after work. You’re just keeping it real. I don’t find that negative. I find it refreshing. You could be one long commercial for Carnival but what you do each and every time you post a blog is, share your life with us. You just keep doing what you do as long as you feel like you can. If you need a rest, we all understand but don’t let someone who is being negative bring you down. O.k. I’ll stop carrying on now! I’d love to have you and Heidi come and join us here in NW. Fl on our sugar white beaches. I’ve been all over the world and even though I have limited sight, these are truly the most beautiful beaches in the world. It would be a honour (spelled correctly) and a pleasure to show you and Heidi my home. Love and hugs to both of you.
Leasa
P.S. – It’s all the negative stuff people say that keep up rolling in our seats
That’s half of why I read it everyday. Nothing makes us feel better about ourselves than laughing at stupid people.
John,
You asked which room Lisa and I are in…it is 8357. As to something thinking “this blog had run its course” I say poo poo on them. We love you and Heidi and hearing of your experiences. As well, you bring a group of people together that have formed a bond. Not only do I enjoy reading about your trials and tribulations but I feel as if Big Ed, Southern Dreams, the Bears, etc..are close friends..we share something..not only our love for cruising, but our love for you and Heidi. There, my tantrum is done.
Now, my friend Big Ed, are those the same Wolverines that lost to Appalacian State? Here’s a deal for you..if I can raise $50 for the cure, will you walk around the ship for a day in a Gator shirt?
Elaine
John, Ugly Alan is still getting more hits then your post on my blog. Below are the counts from yesterday and so far today. The hite are not for AJ searches because as you see I spelled her name wrong, AL-GELINA
TODAYS HITS
Title Views
WANTED FOR IMPERSONATING ALGELINA JOLIE 65
JOHN WINS SEA GOING EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR 7
YESTERDAYS HITS
Title Views
WANTED FOR IMPERSONATING ALGELINA JOLIE 64
JOHN WINS SEA GOING EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR 15
So I don’t Alan must have a growing fan club someplace.
“BIG” ED
113 days till Alan starts getting revenge
Rikki -
In answer to your question, I understand that the transatlantic cruise is sold out. I spoke to my PVP earlier this week just to see if any upgrade deals were worth it and even he could not pull up an empty cabin for the cruise. Looks like the Mrs & I are stuck in the outside balcony cabin.
See you in 29 days.
——–
J0hn -
I think the real problem is the 702,000 slaps you have received – that much abuse must do some damage to your brain synapses.
Don’t even think about stopping the blog or pointing out the absurdity of some of the complaints that you received.
I had a dream the other night – I was talking with you on the Lido deck when we were approached by an unhappy individual who rudely interrupted us without even waiting for my sentence to end. As you tried to explain to the individual that you would be with him in a moment, I chipped in “Oh, no – it is obvious that his complaint is much more important than mine. Let him go first.” As I recall, the look on your face (in my dream) was priceless.
See you in 29 days.
Jon
HELLO JOHN & HEIDI
We hope HEIDI & HER MUM are having a wonderful & most excellent time together !
JOHN you and your staff do a WONDERFUL JOB @EVERYTHING YOU DO . That is obvious by the Istanbul incident that you described above.
I would not let that 1 % of misunderstanding peoplelet you think negativley about your blog focusing on too much negativity. I do not think that is occurring in your blog. You are sharing your real experiences from your job as a Cruise Director. You are always very careful to give the person a fictional name. I see nothing wrong with the way the blog is being done.
let that 1% of compliners blog elsewhere.
It’s not not like you do it every day and by gosh, some times it gives us a relief from the stress of the day.
I do have another question, on 3 of our cruises we had a head waiter named Blaze from Shri Lanka , have you ever done a story or interview on him? If so let us know. We think of him often.
Thake care
Countin down in Fla
The Tuckers
John
I love the stories about passengers! The funny, the sad, the happy, the frustrating, the outragious… all of them are what makes your blog “real”. Your reactions/interactions with these guest is what I look forward to reading about each day.
More than once, I’ve come home from a frustrating day at work and read your blog and had a good laugh. Other times, when I’m fretting about some little thing, your guest story reminds me how fragile life can be and that I should just stop sweating the small stuff.
Please don’t stop sharing these stories and other realities of your daily adventures! Its good tonic!
Dear John:
I just have to send you my prediction that someday (soon, I hope) you will be authoring your first “best-seller.” Of course Fatima is among my favorites. You had me belly-laughing on the floor with that one. I wish I could draw, for the mental picture of Fatima as you described her is hilarious.
Hello John and Heidi,
John. First, we would like to express our feelings on your response to winning the (much deserved) award. It was done in your usual, tasteful and classy way. Secondly, what would the British be if not for their irreverent humour? (spelt correctly)
It is the very reason why I appreciate British television and films as much as I do. The US has become so obsessed with being “Politically Correct” that we have lost our collective sense of humor. We are afraid to be funny. To expose the absurdities that abound in life. I have always been of that “ilk” myself. It is why I appreciate Faulty Towers, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, Benny Hill, etc., etc. It exposes the absurdities of people and their reactions to particular situations. In no way have we ever thought of you as “stepping over the line.” I do not believe, Mr. Award Winning John Heald, that all of your blogger faithful would be logging on if you did. I do believe there is a grass roots feeling to this blog that touches a nerve in all of us. We would all like to react to a particular situation the way that you do, but for fear of ostracization, we refrain. We can however, experience what it is like to deal with the difficult folks of this world vicariously through you. We always get great delight in the way that you handle these situations with guests who are, shall we say, a tad bit “impossible.” We would also LOVE to resond to these particularly annoying people in the same way that you do (I know I would!) I often tell my wife, it would be SO much easier to deal with people if they wore a label that reads “I’m a moron.” It would save me SO much time!!! So, please do not change a thing. If you do, this blog thingy will just become another piece of politically correct pablum. THAT John, would truly be a pity. Keep it coming!!!
JOHN and HEIDI:
Congratulations on a well-deserved Award for your Blog.
You both, while working extremely tight schedules onboard, never forget to laugh, even in the most adverse pressure cooker situations, like you wrote about so real-life and nonchalantely in Istanbul the other day.
When you come to Puerto Limon, please give my boss and Partner, David Carnegie (Negie) a call at (506)385.1177 or pay a House Call to our Office across from St. Mark’s Church and School only 6 blocks from the PAX Terminal in Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.
We’d love to do a short interview with you for our Blogs, which I write for David, but have very few readers due to the fact Limon does not have much of a reputation, YET, for positive Publicity.
We at Caribbean Costaricans Tour Operator, an Autochthonous (unique) and locally family owned-and operated Eco-Friendly Tour Operator Business with high hopes for the Future Homeport Plans for our beloved Port City, are trying to change this negative image for the better, and perhaps by listening to some of your experiences, should you and Heidi have some free time, it would indeed be a privilege and honor to meet with you.
We have our own 14-28 and 54 PAX AC Buses and can meet you in a timely manner in front of the Puerto Limon Terminal at the hour of your choice.
Please give David a call upon your arrival.
Sincerely Yours,
MAX HARTMAN
Weather Advisor and Volunteer Helper
Caribbean Costaricans Tour Operator
Puerto Limon, Costa Rica
http://www.caribbeancostaricans.citymax.com
http://caribbean-costaricans.blogspot.com
I love the blog just the way it is. Please, don’t take away this distraction from the everyday drudgery of real life! PS – have to agree with Big Ed, no gators!
Hi John
I just thought I would drop a line to see how you and Carnival Freedom were. I still remember our cruise with you like it was yesterday. All the fun we had with BALTIMORE John. God rest his soul.
And that rainy day in Istanbul. You remember our friends all 3000 of them on the promenade at the same time. Well your doing alot better now. With all that going on getting everyone out and to there excursions well congratulations and I mean that. I bet Heidi gets up on Istanbul day and has 4 cups of coffee then stubs her toe just so she is good and ready for-all the fun thats about to happen LOL….. And I know you stay under the cover for as long as possible… OH GOD are we here again please I Dont want to die….LOL….Any way I glad you got it together Oh we are going back to Sorrento in Feb for three weeks we rented a Villa and have made all the arrangements we thought after our cruise with you that next year we would do it land style
and really see Rome Naples etc….. Well take care and we will keep reading. Isnt it something how long this Blog has been going on WOW.
Tom
San Lorenzo California, USA
Good morning John. No, this blog has not run its course. I think the upcoming blogger’s cruise and the soon to be determined future blogger’s cruise are good examples as to this blogs LONG future. Again congratulations for all that you do and for your outstanding award. Keep up the good work.
I love the not-so-positive experiences you share. It’s so much more then every other corporate blog out there. This might sound strange, but I think it helps Carnival in the long run when you post about everything; not just regurgitate the marketing speak.