What’s the first thing you think of when you here the world Holland?…………..clogs, windmills, cheese, bicycles, Heidi?…………..well you would be right and I bet none of you said Chinese food………..yep, Chinese food and I just had the best Chinese food I have ever eaten ……….in Amsterdam at a restaurant called Dynasty………..correct me if I am wong…….I mean wrong……….but this was the very finest I have ever eaten. I had scallops in a special sauce that only Chef Woo knows the ingredients of and for main course Heidi and I shared the best Peking Duck this side of……well…….Peking.
So, hello from Holland where Heidi and I have come for two days to visit her Mum before Christmas. For some strange reason this blog will feature an eclectic menu of bits and pieces although I will be talking a lot about the environment and we start………..here in Holland. On landing at the world’s cleanest and most organized airport that is Amsterdam’s Schiphol (the luggage retrieval system is second to none) Heidi and I headed for the rent a car desk. We were met by a Dutch lady who had the unfortunate name was proudly displayed on her Avis nametag. Sonja Van Crapper – that really was her name …………by the way Heidi told me that it was a very common name in Holland and actually means a canal lock or crossing……….I was immediately put in the dog house when seeing Sonja’s name I asked her if she knew where the nearest toilet was. ………after the blow to the ribs I received from Heidi, we were asked what car we would like to have within the range we had booked.
Amongst the choices of our Premium Booking was a Toyota Pireus or Pireaus or anyway a Toyota and Sonja the Canal Crossing explained that this was part of their Green Range. Now, I was going to ask if this meant that it ran on well……..manure……..or …….well …….her last name………….but I decided against it and said that we would take the Toyota.
Now, I admit that I am a red meat eating, cigar smoking, Aston Martin dreaming sort of guy and environmental issues have not been on the top of my list of things to worry about while on vacation and my carbon footprint is the size of a Russian Shot Putters thigh. So, as we drove of in this battery, electrical, running on yak droppings car thingy I had no idea what to expect………..and you know what…………..it drove…………..like a car……….a normal ordinary car.
Now don’t get me wrong…………I still want a 30-ounce prime rib covered in lashings of Aston Martin sauce……….but even though we drove all over Holland the petrol gauge never moved and my carbon footprint was reduced a few sizes……………certainly it is something to think about. Now, here is the news from the BBC………..Bloggers Broadcasting Company.
The Carnival Pride has long been one of our most popular vessels and I really think her popularity is about to increase even further when you read the following.
Carnival Pride to Kick Off Schedule of Seven-Day Caribbean Cruises from Miami in Spring 2009
12/17/2007
MIAMI (December 14, 2007) – Carnival Cruise Lines’ 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride will operate a series of seven-day eastern and western Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning in April 2009.
Three different week-long itineraries will be offered on this unique program, which will run through August 2009.Carnival Pride’s seven-day program from Miami kicks off April 11, 2009, with a week-long cruise to the popular eastern Caribbean destinations of San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas/St. John, U.S.V.I.; and St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles.
Carnival Pride will then operate a series of seven-day western Caribbean cruises from Miami to Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Ocho Rios, Jamaica departing April 18, May 2, 16, and 30, June 13 and 27, July 11 and 25 and Aug. 8 and 22, 2009.
Also included in the program is a series of seven-day eastern Caribbean cruises calling at the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay; St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands. Departure dates include April 25, May 9 and 23, June 6 and 20, July 4 and 18, and Aug. 1, 15, and 29, 2009.
14-Day Panama Canal Cruise, Special One-Time Six-Day Voyage
Prior to these voyages, Carnival Pride will operate a special 14-day Panama Canal cruise departing Long Beach, Calif., March 22 and arriving Miami April 5, 2009. Featured ports include Manzanillo, Mexico; and Puntarenas, Costa Rica; prior to the Panama Canal transit; followed by Cartagena, Colombia; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and George Town, Grand Cayman. Carnival Pride will then operate a special one-time six-day cruise from Miami April 5-11, 2009, calling at Key West, Fla., George Town Grand Cayman; and Ocho Rios, Jamaica.Innovative Design, Wide-Ranging Amenities and Facilities
Carnival Pride, which entered service in 2002, is the second in the line’s highly successful “Spirit-class” and offers features such as an intimate reservations-only supper club at the top level of a soaring 10-deck-high atrium, indoor and outdoor promenades, a winter garden, a wedding chapel and a sleek hull design and interior layout that leads guests from one public area to the next in a seamless flow.
The ship also offers 16 lounges and bars, including a wine bar, sports bar, piano bar, two-level dance club and a 1,200-set theater showcasing lavish revues. Extensive facilities for children and teens – part of the line’s popular “Camp Carnival” and “Club O2″ programs, respectively – are also available.
Also featured is a 14,500-square-foot Spa Carnival health and fitness center with dedicated exercise space, sophisticated equipment, private treatment rooms, and more. An Internet café, Wi-Fi access and cell phone service are available, as well.Eighty percent of the vessel’s staterooms have an ocean view, and 80 percent of those have verandahs — providing an intimate and private venue for enjoying views of spectacular Caribbean destinations. All staterooms feature the Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows.
Reservations are currently being accepted for the Carnival Pride’s 2009 seven-day cruises from Miami, as well as the 14-day Panama Canal cruise.
For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.
Can you sing? Do you love Karaoke? Fancy a load of cash and a free Carnival Fun Vacation…………then read this.
Buzz On! Carnival rocks the airwaves on NBC’s The Singing Bee
Part variety show, part singing competition, and a whole bunch o’ fun. No, it’s not the return of Nick & Jessica it’s Singing Bee, NBC’s new reality show that’s guaranteed to take the karaoke world by storm. The best part of all?
Contestants will be competing for a 7-day vacation aboard Carnival and $50,000 in cold hard cash.. not bad for a few bars of ‘Jessie’s Girl.’ Tune into NBC on December 21 or visit nbc.com/The_Singing_Bee for details.
OK, its time to move on and answer some questions that you have asked me so here we go.
I have read all your comments and really thank you all for taking the time to write. Now, I did ask that anyone who needed an instant reply to start their comments with the words JOHN PLEASE REPLY and those are the ones I will concentrate on but will do my best to write to you all as well. To skip the Q&A, click here.
SOUTHERN DREAMS – wishing you and Charlie a very happy Christmas a wonderful holiday season.
KIRSTEN L – Your Christmas ornaments sound divine and I hope you and your family enjoy this special time together.
LISA AND ELAINE – Hello Ladies. Unfortunately the recommended stores will not ship to the states from the islands of the Caribbean, etc. as it is illegal to do so. However, many people do box and ship liquor using the US postal service and this is something that maybe you can arrange to do from islands like St. Thomas and Puerto Rico which of course have U.S. postal offices. Or………you can just drink it yourself and that way you don’t have to pay any duty on it as well. Hope this helps and a have a wonderful holiday season and Merry Christmas.
BIG ED – Hello mate. It won’t belong now before we get to meet for the first time but I already feel like we are old friends. I remember when I was young and we could not afford a real tree and we were too poor to but tinsel so my grandfather would come over and sneeze over it………….see you soon mate and may I wish you and Mrs. Big Ed the most wonderful Christmas.
LINDA HERNACKI – Linda, how great to read your latest posting. I will be writing about the gifts you all sent in a moment and I did not realise that you could indeed get sugar-free jam……certainly have never seen it here in the UK. I know you would love to have been on the bloggers cruise and hopefully you and Mike will join me on the next one. I promise to tell you all about it during and after the cruise. Have a wonderful Christmas and I hope it is full of wonderful gifts for you from Mike ………. maybe a light bulb?
NANETTE – I would like to wish you and the family a wonderful Navidad . I know there have been some sad times for you this year Nani but hopefully you will have some much-needed family time this Christmas. I will look forward to seeing you on the Carnival Liberty next year…………maybe…….yes maybe I will be there……..we shall see. Muchos Hugos and Felice Navidad.
KEVIN – HEIDI AND BETH – Hello you three. Firstly, please tell your friend who is booked on the trans-Atlantic cruise that they can write with any questions they may have and I will be there. I will let you know about the bloggers cruise for 2009 very soon. May I wish you all a very merry Christmas and I hope the three of you have a spiffing time together.
RETIREMENTMAN – Hello Sir and I had to check that this was you as usually your blogger thingy has your name and not Retirmentman………although that does make you sound sort of Super Heroish. Paul, you asked for a photo of Heidi and I and your wish is my command. I will have one taken by our tree and if you could send Roberto the e-mail address for me to send it to I will of course do so. Congratulations on writing your own blog and I am sure it will be a wonderful way for people to see as I do that you are a truly wonderful man. Please have a fantastic Christmas and the same for all your family.
BETTYBOOP1BIGKAHUNA – Before I start, what is a Kahuna? I am sorry that I missed your last post and how wonderful to hear how much you enjoyed the David Dingle interview and also your high praise of Ocho Rios, Jamaica. It seems you have so many choices for the next time you cruise and although the Bloggers Cruise for 2009 is nearly ready to be announced, certainly the Baltic season on the Carnival Liberty is one I really cannot recommend enough………Please write to me if you are still undecided and I will answer any questions you may have as soon as I can. Until then have a wonderful holiday season and Heidi and I wish you a merry Christmas.
KEVIN – Hello mate. During the last few days I have eaten so many great meals and I know as the brilliant Chef you are you would have enjoyed them all as well. Maybe one day we will get to enjoy a great meal together. I know being CD for the entire ship may not be the best thing but I promise I will have lots of time to socialize a lot. I will not be involved in the running of the shipboard stuff and the travel talks and tours etc will be conducted by someone else thus allowing me to spend more time with you all. I know you are disappointed that you cannot join us but next time I know we shall be together. I am sure that you are also cooking a wonderful dinner for Christmas and I hope you and the family have a wonderful time together. Merry Christmas mate.
LOOKING FORWARD TO THE SMOKE FREE CARNIVAL FREEDOM – Thanks for the fun….as always……posting and for allowing me the splendid opportunity to wish you and Mrs. MTSFP a super Christmas and see you in Italy in 2009.
VICKI – The good news is that yes, I will be the Cruise Director on your Carnival Freedom Cruise Critic cruise……………let me know if you need anything and see you soon. Merry Christmas.
MYRA BUSHNELL – The poem was fantastic and I loved it all but the line that shall long stay in the memory is “Upon his handsome, manly form.”…………yep, that’s me, handsome and manly! I know that must have taken you lots of time and I am truly honoured. Alan continues to get better and better and it’s a wonderful Xmas gift for us all. Thanks again and may I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season and Merry Christmas.
LAUREN – Sorry I could not make your birthday lunch and as always I love the New York sense of humour. I hope you had a great birthday and I am sure there will be some “leftovers” and we shall distribute accordingly. Have a wonderful Christmas and once again……….happy birthday.
BILL – ZYDECOCRUISER – The Gumbo sounds great and thanks also for the Todd English report. Having eaten in his establishment on the Queen Victoria, I cannot recommend this man enough……….even if he is too handsome to be a chef. So, what are you cooking for your New Orleans Christmas feast? Whatever it is I hope you and the family have a great time together. Merry Christmas mate.
ROBIN IN NEW YORK – Hello Robin. You asked where the three Cunard ships will be docked in New York on January 13. They will, I am sure, be docked in down town Manhattan at pier 20 or close by. This is by the old U.S. Navy Aircraft Carrier that is there. I forget her name but I am sure someone else will tell you the name of that ship…………Kevin, Paul, DWA ?? Anyway, if you do get a chance please go as the sight of those ships together will be incomparable. As for the constant mention of Sabrina in my Queen Victoria blog………….well, that was payback for Heidi’s obvious infatuation over Chef Todd English…….who to me needs a smack with a soup ladle. Have a wonderful Christmas and please if you can, go see the three Queens.
OK, I have to stop………….why so soon I hear you cry. Well, our flight back to the UK leaves in a few hours and we have to return the Toyota thingy to Miss Crapper plus I want to get this blog posted ASAP. I will finish answering ALL the comments tomorrow (Wednesday) and post them tomorrow night I promise starting with Frank C.
Now, the other reason I wanted to post this blog thingy tonight before I fly is because of this special interview. One of the most popular destinations for Carnival guests is the unspoiled paradise of Half Moon Cay, Holland America’s private island refuge. Here then is an old mate of mine to tell us all about it. We worked together for some years and I can honestly say that he was and continues to be a great ambassador for cruising. Please then sit back and enjoy an interview with Mr. Matt Sams.
1. PLEASE CAN YOU TELL US ALL ABOUT YOUR CAREER IN THE INDUSTRY SO FAR? I joined Carnival Cruise Lines in 1985 as an Operations Supervisor. I held positions such as Assistant Operations Manager, Operations Manager, and Director of Port Operations. During my time at CCL, I was in charge of all port operations, interior dry dock repairs, major refurbishments and interior designs of existing vessels, shore excursion operations, new buildings of Jubilee, Celebration, on board revenue. I joined Holland America Line on May 13, 1997, to become the vice president of Caribbean relations.
2. WHAT DOES YOUR CURRENT POSITION INVOLVE? My current position is Vice President- Caribbean Relations for Holland America Line. My responsibilities include the negotiations and relationships with all government agencies, port authorities and private sectors for the Caribbean, Central America, South America, the Bahamas, and Florida. I also oversee the development and operation of Half Moon Cay, Holland America’s private island. I also work with Carnival Corporation on special projects.
3. YOU HAVE BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MAGNIFICENT SUCCESS THAT IS HALF MOON CAY. BEFORE WE TALK ABOUT HOW THE ISLAND LOOKS NOW WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT WHAT IS INVOLVED IN PURCHASING AN ISLAND AND HOW IT WAS WHEN YOU TOOK POSSESSION? Half Moon Cay, located less than 100 miles southeast of Nassau, was conceived to provide an indigenous Caribbean island experience in an authentic natural setting to Holland America Line guests on Caribbean and Panama Canal itineraries. As an award-winning island, Half Moon Cay is our highest rated port call in the Caribbean and one of the highest in the world. What makes it so special is that it really represents the quintessential private island image for most travelers. Sandy beaches, aquamarine waters, no one else around, and we’ve added the fantastic service of our shipboard staff and the locals that assist with shore activities. Each year, the island’s stellar reputation keeps growing and we are excited about celebrating our 10th year of visiting the island this year. It was officially opened on December 12, 1997, by Bahamian Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham.
Amenities that were required to support ship visits included food and beverage facilities, shops, restrooms and other various support facilities. The island’s offerings have steadily expanded to also provide a full beachside water park for children, private beach cabanas and an array of shore excursions that include horseback riding by land and sea, personal watercraft adventures and an opportunity to swim with stingrays.
In December 1996, Holland America Line purchased the uninhabited 2,400-acre island of Little San Salvador from several Bahamian owners for $6 million and debuted Half Moon Cay as a port of call Dec. 12, 1997. The line initially invested $16 million in the facility – which today is situated on approximately 50 acres – and developed it according to the guidelines of the Business Charter for Sustainable Development established by the International Chamber of Commerce.
The island was uninhabited and there was no infrastructure whatsoever. In May 1997, I joined Holland America Line. Construction of Half Moon Cay began that same month and completed in December 1997. Due to the topography of the island, we needed to raise the developed areas by 14 feet in order to be above the flood plane. A marina was dredged and constructed in order to allow safe tender operation and shore excursion vessel departures. All mechanical systems such as electrical generators, reverse osmosis water plants, sewer treatment and incineration plants needed to be installed in order to accommodate our guests.
There’s a lot to do on the island. The idyllic Bahamian island offers extraordinary activities, such as its horseback riding and swimming excursion, guided AquaTrax watercraft tour, stingray adventure, bicycle tour of island highlights, and fun-filled family aqua park. In addition, guests can enjoy excursions including catch-and-release deep sea fishing trips, eco tours by glass-bottom boat, kayak trips and parasailing. Or they can simply relax on the crescent-shaped, white sand beach, swim, snorkel and sail in the turquoise waters, indulge in a beachside massage, enjoy traditional barbecue fare and play volleyball.
Half Moon Cay also features a walking trail and a designated wild bird reserve. All facilities are accessible to persons using wheelchairs, featuring hard-surfaced pathways to connect venues. Beach and jitney trams facilitate getting around the island.
We offer an open-air market, ice cream parlor, ships, first aid station, several bars and beverage stations, sports area, a chapel for wedding renewals, and an array of watersports equipment to rent — kayaks, sailboards, snorkel gear, floating mats, and those fun aquabikes. One of the most popular features is the barbecue area, where we hold a lunch barbecue for guests on the island. Ribs, fish, burgers, sausage, salads, fruit, corn on the cob, brownies, cookies and more. I’m getting hungry thinking about it.
And for anyone wanting to have a real exclusive experience on the island, there are 15 beachfront cabanas for rent, and one Grand Cabana. The beachfront cabanas have air conditioning, misting station, dining table and four chairs, lounge chairs, changing room, refrigerator, dry bar, fresh water shower, and sun deck. Optional Butler and Drink packages are also available. The Grand Cabana accommodates 24 guests and is perfect for a large family or small group. This cabana has a hot tub for 8, 2 changing rooms, his and hers rest rooms, fresh hot water showers, misting stations, dining room, wet bar, BBQ grill, covered and outdoor seating, massage table. Optional food and beverage packages are available for the Grand Cabana as well.
4. CAN YOU DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON HALF MOON CAY FOR OUR CRUISE SHIP GUESTS? WHAT FACILITIES DOES THE ISLAND OFFER AND WHAT CAN THE GUESTS ENJOY? Guests motor from the cruise ship via state-of-the-art shore tenders. These tenders are designed to safely and efficiently offer a quick transit too and from the island. Once on the island, guests have a wide variety of choices. The island has 9 miles of beach so finding a secluded area is not a problem. Guests enjoy the lounge chairs, hammocks, clamshell sunshades, shaded sitting areas and the natural beauty of the island. There is a water park for the kids to enjoy, while mom and dad watch them from shore. Often, guests arrive and mingle in the open-air market a bit. They then wander to the beach for a few hours to swim and relax. And about noon, the open sitting BBQ luncheon is very popular. Of course, many folks opt for shore activities in the morning or afternoon, too.
5. HOW IS THE ISLAND MANAGED, HOW MANY STAFF IS INVOLVED IN ITS RUNNING? More than 110 Bahamians operate the island. This group is in charge of all of the maintenance of the island, technical areas, landscaping, shore excursions, vessel captains, crew, staff and guides, lifeguards, tram drivers, engineers, mechanics, chef, straw market vendors, secretary, police, customs and island managers.
6. WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES OF OWNING AN ISLAND? Location, location, location. The island does not have the benefit of having a hardware store, or super market. Every piece of material arrives by cruise ship, cargo ship, or seaplane. So, while the middle of the Caribbean Sea sounds great to a lot of folks, after about three weeks, you wonder when the next ship will arrive. Half Moon is in a great location: remote yet accessible by boat and seaplane as required and only a day’s cruising from South Florida.
7. I KNOW YOU WORK VERY CLOSELY WITH A WONDERFUL ORGANIZATION CALLED THE FCCA? WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THEM AND THE WORK THEY DO? The Florida Caribbean Cruise Association, or FCCA, is a trade organization made up of 11 major cruise lines. The FCCA is a conduit to assist the cruise lines in communicating with the governments and the private organizations and businesses in the Caribbean region regarding a wide variety of issues. Currently, I am serving as the Chairman of the Operations Committee for a second 2-year term. Micky Arison, is the Chairman of the FCCA. It provides a wonderful forum to discuss common issues, challenges, and solutions.
8. FINALLY, IF YOU LIVED ON HALF MOON CAY ALONE FOR A YEAR WHAT WOULD YOU TAKE WITH YOU?
ONE MOVIE
Swiss Family Robinson, the original Disney version.ONE BOOK
Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe.ONE LUXURY ITEM
Biodegradable Toilet Paper
ONE CD
Jimmy Buffet’s greatest hits
ONE SUPERMODEL OR ACTRESS
My wife of 23 years, Michelle, who I met on a cruise to Alaska in 1979.
I was 17, she was 15.
Thanks Matt, and for the thousands of guests who have visited Half Moon Cay and those many thousands who will, that was a wonderful insight to what is an unmissable port of call…………..great answer as well with the supermodel question! Thanks again, Matt, on behalf of us all.
We were talking about the environment and seriously it is, of course, a most serious issue not just on land but of course within our industry as well.
Some years ago we onboard we ……………… were ……well……….not so educated when it came to the environment and we certainly could have done more to protect our oceans and seas, along with the rest of the industry. I’m pleased to say that today Carnival Corporation is now at the forefront of environmental protection. The crew, every single one of them regardless of position, are trained in this area and as you know each ship has a dedicated environmental officer onboard whose position is as important as anyone’s. Hopefully, cruise ship guests will see how seriously we are taking this subject and will assist us in our goals………….maybe one day there will be a cruise ship that runs on electricity, battery power or the fuel provided by the guests……….with me and Big Ed onboard there should be enough fuel to get us to Australia and back.
One last thing before I fly out. I have a HUGE box of gifts and cards………..there must be over 500 cards….from you………..my blogging friends. These were sent to the ship and to Chris in the office and have been sent to me. Now, if I was king of my castle I would have opened them all now, however Heidi’s word is unanimous and she says we will open them on Christmas day…………………bugger. However, in advance thanks to all of you and I will post photo evidence of the grand opening on Christmas Day.
OK, time to go and fly again…………I hate to say this but the only airline that flies into my local airport is Easy Jet…………yes…………the airline I said I would never fly again……….so once again I will climb onboard a plane with seats so small and service so bad that the word Easy in the title is well…………fill in the blank. When I am rich and famous, the first thing I will by is after an Aston Martin and a private island is a private plane with extra wide seats, cabin staff that look like Halle Berry ( my new favorite ) and the colour orange will not be visible anywhere.
So, that’s it for now and think of me flying the friendly skies in a seat that by the end of the one hour flight will I think smell of Peking Duck.
Goodnight
Your Friends
John and Heidi
Filed under: Catherine Zeta Jones, Tales from the Ship | Tagged: Splendor Godmother, Tales from the Ship
John,
What a wonderful blog and what a sweet and romantic man Matt is!! The island is beautiful. I have only cruised, so far, to Mexican ports — but will be on the Conquest in Sept and look forward to the new ports!!
I’m very jealous of your trip to Amsterdam. My sister lives in Den Hauge, and we get to see her about once a year. (I took her on a cruise, four ladies: Mom, daughter, and us, the two sisters, last year) but this year she’s travelling to Spain and India… BUT, I’m still cruising three times out of Galveston in ‘08. (And I’m saving my pennies for the bloggers cruise ‘09! HOORAY!!!!)
Merry Christmas!! Be good, be safe, and keep writing!! We love to see the world and Carnival, through your mind!!!
Best regards, Kirsten
Hi John and Heidi
Would just like to wish you a Fabulous Christmas and a Happy New Year from All of us including Dad. We will be on the Splendour next year 18th august cruise to St Petersburg etc… Hope you will be on that cruise as you were so good on the Freedom this year. We were part of the Mellow Yellows group and we still keep in touch. A great bunch of people.
So from Essex England – The seasons Greetings to you and yours. Xxx
Hyacinth
John, I was still laughing at your shopping experience in London when the following came through. Wherever you see Mr. Denton’s name, please insert Mr. Heald:
Subject: Walmart Shopper
This is why women should not take men shopping against their will.
DON’T TAKE ME IF I DON’T WANT TO GO……….
After Mr. and Mrs. Denton retired, Mrs. Denton insisted her husband accompany her on her trips to Wal-Mart.
Unfortunately, Mr. Denton was like most men–he found shopping boring and preferred to get in and get out.
Equally unfortunately, Mrs. Denton was like most women-she loved to browse. One day Mrs. Denton received the following letter from her local Wal-Mart.
Dear Mrs. Denton,
Over the past six months, your husband has been causing quite a commotion in our store. We cannot tolerate this behavior and may be forced to ban both of you from the store. Our complaints against Mr. Denton are listed below and are documented by our video surveillance cameras.
1. June 15: Took 24 boxes of condoms and randomly put them in people’s carts when they weren’t looking.
2 . July 2: Set all the alarm clocks in Housewares to go off at 5-minute intervals.
3. July 7: Made a trail of tomato juice on the floor leading to the women’s restroom.
4. July 19: Walked up to an employee and told her in an official voice, ‘Code 3 in Housewares. Get on it right away.’
5. August 4: Went to the Service Desk and tried to put a bag of M&M’s on layaway.
6. September 14: Moved a ‘CAUTION – WET FLOOR’ sign to a carpeted area.
7. September 15: Set up a tent in the camping department and told other shoppers he’d invite them in if they would bring pillows and blankets from the bedding department.
8. September 23: When a clerk asked if they could help him he began crying and screamed, ‘Why can’t you people just leave me alone?’
9. October 4: Looked right into the security camera and used it as a mirror while he picked his nose.
10. November 10: While handling guns in the hunting department, he asked the clerk where the antidepressants were.
11. December 3: Darted around the store suspiciously while loudly humming the ‘Mission Impossible’ theme.
12. December 6: In the auto department, he practiced his ‘Madonna Vogue’ by using different sizes of funnels.
13. December 18: Hid in a clothing rack and when people browsed through, yelled ‘PICK ME! PICK ME!’
14. December 21: When an announcement came over the loud speaker, he assumed a fetal position and screamed ‘OH NO! IT’S THOSE VOICES AGAIN!’
And last, but not least…
15. December 23: Went into a fitting room, shut the door, waited awhile, then yelled very loudly, ‘Hey! There’s no toilet paper in here!’
Regards,
Walmart
What’s the first thing you think of when you here the world Holland?…………..You forgot Tulips lots of and lots of them…..well that’s what I think of anyway. But then again I come from the Michigan version
Although…..when I visit my parents we often venture to a Chinese dining establishment.
A Big Kahuna is a term which typically refers to an important or influential person.
What beautiful pictures of half moon cay. A nurse I work with went there last spring and hasn’t stopped talking about about it. Thanks for the info on the Pride. We will be on her in 12 days….yahoo…..can’t wait!!!! So not looking forward to the airlines though
they all suck no matter what size the seats or the stewardess’s are. We also agree with the chinese food in Amsterdam. I can’t for the life of me remember the name of the resteraunt but it was a floating chinese place and the food was great.
Have a great holiday!
Blanche & Dave
ONE MONTH TO GO THE BLOGGERS CRUISE
Every day I look outside and see the snow
I know I’m closer to packing to go.
Every day I chat with MY CREW
I know how much more our friendship grew.
Every day I count down to the Bloggers Cruise
I know I will soon be rid of the winter blues.
Every day I get closer to meeting MY CREW
I know I’m one day closer to meeting YOU.
John, one month till we will be belly to belly trying to figure out how to hug each other. Remember to smile because it will be sent out on international cell phones to those Bloggers not making the bloggers cruise. It will most likely be on Utube by dinner that day.
“BIG” ED
Dear John and Heidi;
Feliz Navidad my friends!! I hope you have a very happy Christmas and many blessings for the new year. Thanks for your kind thoughts and for writing.We as a family had a big loss and a big win this year so this is going to be a different Christmas but we are going to make the best out of it together as always.Im going to start praying for a miracle (in $ LoL) so I can hopefully sail Northern Europe on the Liberty 2009. It would be perfect dream cruise part #2 if by any chance you are the CD.
A grande huggo and beso for both. See you soon right?
To all my bloggers friends part of this family:
Feliz Navidad to all!! It has been a blessing getting to know you all.Love,
Nanette
hi john and heidi- we just received this cute “a cruise christmas” version from alan fox of vacationstogo and thought that your readers would get a kick out of it as well. even though it alludes to a certain unnamed evil rival, it is humourous(spelt correctly!). happy christmas to
all.
‘Twas the night before Christmas, and far out at sea
Our vessel was sailing, as smooth as could be
The stockings were hung from the balcony chairs
With hope that St. Nicholas would find them out there
The children were nestled all snug in their uppers
Having just settled down from a Christmas Eve supper
And ma and myself, we were covered in aloe
A bit too much sun, in a pool, warm and shallow
When up in the sky, there arose such a clatter
I leapt from my bed to see what was the matter
To the sliding glass door, I flew like a flash
Well, more like a saunter, and less like a dash
And what to my skeptical eyes should appear
But a great shiny sleigh, and eight flying reindeer
They circled our ship, from starboard to port
As the moon lit the driver, a jolly old sort
Who called to his team, in a happy retort
“Now Dasher, now Dancer,” so on and so forth
We raced through our cabin and into the hall
To the very top deck, in time for us all
To be awed by the sight of Old Santa’s sleigh
As he lightly touched down, by the midnight buffet
With a bundle of goodies thrown over his back
He rose in the air and dropped down the smokestack
Santa went straight to work, and later we learned
He found every child’s cabin, from the bow to the stern
Insides and oceanviews, balconies and suites
Santa filled every stocking, with toys and with treats
Until all his deliveries had been handled with care
Then he noted he still had a minute to spare
So he surfed the wave rider, with nary a fall
While Dasher and Dancer scaled the rock-climbing wall
And Prancer, who had always been fond of the cold
Tried the ice-skating rink, a sight to behold
And then with a whistle, Santa summoned his team
And he bade us farewell, silent nights and sweet dreams
And I heard him exclaim, as he flew out of view
Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good cruise.
John PLEASE REPLY
Am I to take a hint from the change in my name? Is the Carnival Freedom really going smoke free or have you simply been mixing sugar-free jelly beans with your brain matter?
Thoroughly enjoyed the interview with Mr. Sams – particularly his choice of music. I absolutely love Jimmy Buffet – I actually saw him in 1978 at Angels Camp, California along with (get this lineup) Jackson Browne, Warren Zevon and the DKF Band. Unbelievable concert.
So when do we start hearing about the almost completely smoke-free Carnival Splendor? Also, can you expand on what exactly the Spa Suites actually mean? We have booked an outside cabin spa 6E booking for ourselves and the two girls going with us.
Hi John and Heidi,
I’m glad you like your poem, John. And actually you are quite handsome…and manly. Don’t you agree Heidi?
Anyhoo, I hope you didn’t suffer too horribly on your flight home. You need to fly on Orient Air (I think it is). Of course, you’d have to be headed for China, but they apparently have little cabins similar to those on trains, with doors, and seats that recline all the way to “bed” level. They look very comfy, but would probably cost a year’s salary.
Glad to hear Alan is doing so well. Please give him my regards.
Can’t wait to get your Christmas Day blog with pictures of the “grand opening ceremony.” So, if I don’t write again before the 25th, do have a very merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous new year.
Your fan,
Myra
Roberto: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you, and thanks for all your hard work on the blog!
John, my friend!
Good to hear from you again. I love Chinese and the dinner you had sounds fantastic. However, I don’t think I’ll be headed to Holland very soon to sample Chef Woo’s work. However, I’m seriously thinking about booking a sailing to include Half Moon Cay so the interview with Mr. Sims was perfectly timed.
I’ve heard nothing but good things about Half Moon Cay and I’m dying to get there to experience it my self. Have you had an opportunity to visit there?
I was going to make mention of Ms. Crapper but I couldn’t come up with anything that wouldn’t get me in deep… well… nevermind !
I have to ask how the flight back home was on Queasy Jet? It couldn’t have been worse than your first experience. You, good sir, are a brave, determined man.
I sit here before my computer patiently awaiting word regarding the 2009 bloggers adventure. I’m considering holding my breath until you spill the beans. Well, not really, but it sounded good, didn’t it??
Please have a wonderful Christmas, offer Heidi all my Holiday best and don’t forget to pass along the same to the always amazing Roberto!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL MY BLOGGING FRIENDS!!!
Regards,
Greg
Please reply
Hi John, you tell all about these cruises and make them sound so inviting that I want to go on every one of them. But guess I’d better not ask, 3 cruises in 5 months is more than most people ever go on, with the exception of you guys that work on the ships, of course…..grin.
I felt fortunate that my hubby said yes to the bloggers cruise in January, without any hesitation. But it was only because you are going to be the CD. He really enjoyed the cruise that we took when you were the CD.
I don’t know if you know how special you are. There are people that you never forget even if you have never spoken to them or shook their hands. You are one of those people. You make cruising so much fun. You also made a memory for us that we will never forget. So now we will have another cruise with you to add to those memories.
We had a lovely lady that was hostess in our dining room on the Liberty last month, that was so extra special too. Her name is Larisa Poliakova. She really went the extra mile to make sure that I had food that I wasn’t allergic too. I hope our paths cross hers again one day.
Now my question is…….. are the DVD’s/CD’s they make on the cruises still available many years later? Or is it a one time deal? I have regretted not buying the one when we were on the ship with you.
Do you remember Winston and his wife and Yabba Dabba Do thing? RALMHO!
Please reply and let me know about the dvd/cd. I would buy one if it were available.
See you in 4 weeks….. on the Freedom bloggers cruise
Carolyn and Don
PS Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
John,
I sent off a card you you and heidi the other day I hope it arrivies in time for the holiday probally not but oh well I did send it to you both. Yes sir I wish I was coming Big ED’s crew keeps begging me and threating me with kidnapping so I can attend. Please get out the info for 2009 soon John so we can work it out to come on the cruise early. And maybe march or February for a time span. Cheery Merry Christmas to all.
Kevin
Hi John,
Christmas dinner is currently a complete mystery! I’ll be on Carnival Fantasy – departing from New Orleans Dec 24th. Perhaps you could shed some light?
Two nieces will also be sailing and their 22nd birthday is Dec 26th. Any suggestions for something suitably embarrassing to help commemorate the event?
Merry Christmas!
Dearest Mr. & Mrs. Heald,
Our sincere wish that you and your families have a joyous Christmas, peace and good health in the New Year. See you Jan. 19…safe travels till then…..Cheers,
Ray & Deb
Good evening Mr. Heald. I’ve sent Roberto my email address. Thank you doing the photo of you and your wife. I’ll be looking forward to it. Christmas is quickly upon us and I hope that you and Heidi have a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New year. In Italian it is
Buon Natale E Prospero Anno Nuovo.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
Great blog again John! Nice interview with Mr. Sams. What a beautiful place that is! Love the color of the water and the clarity! How nice that you were both able to go to Holland and spend some time with Heidi’s mum. I don’t know if you will end up blogging again before Christmas (even though you said you would–I know how busy it gets right before a holiday) so wanted to be sure and wish you, Heidi, Alan and his family, and all the faithful bloggers the happiest holidays ever! Here’s hoping that I can cruise with you again in 2008! Sheryl
Merry Christmas John and Heidi!
Just wanted to send you many Happy Holiday wishes and let you know John that I will be giving your mum’s Yorkshire Pudding recipe a try for our Christmas Eve dinner. I can’t wait!
Since we now have high speed internet, the pictures are loading with amazing speed. Thanks again Roberto, and Merry Christmas!
And finally, we have finally hit our 30 days out mark for our cruise on the Miracle. We are soooo looking forward to it! I used the online reservation form for the supper club, and am awaiting confirmation.
Once again, Merry Christmas to all!!
Still reading your blog John and congrats on your anniversary!
Sorry I will not be joining you on the Blogger’s Cruise, but never heard back from you and just couldn’t afford the airfares from Australia as well as 2 cruises (am booked on the Carnival Valor on March 2nd 08 for my 34th Carnival cruise)!
Will be thinking of you ALL in a month’s time on your cruise!
Regards to Heidi!
Your Favorite Aussie!
Storm’n Norman
Buon Natale E Prospero Anno Nuovo to Paul
Feliz Navidad to Nanette
And a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all my other blogger friends – Big Ed and Pat, Kevin, etc.
Hi John: another great blog, by the way any chance Roberto can post that pix of you and Heidi in front of your Christmas tree for all of us bloggers to see, I know you are emailing it to Paul, but how about sharing it with all of us bloggers, I would love to print out a copy of it.
I wish everyone a Happy Holiday and John, we really do appreciate all that you do. Any idea yet where you will be from February thru May? What ships? We haven’t booked a cruise yet, and want to wait till we now where you will be, in case we might be able to book on one of the ships you will be on, let us know soon, and also publish the NEW list of CD’s and what ships they will be on for next year. Thanks! Linda & Mike
Hi John & Heidi,
Glad to hear from you and thank you for that posting about Half Moon Cay. Better than I could describe it, including the pictures. But it is absolutely gorgeous. And nice to see lifeguards at the beach – you never know!
I am planning to go over to the Jersey side of the river to see the 3 Queens. I will send you a photo.
Terry & Danielle – thank you for posting the poem – I have it too and was going to send it. You beat me to it. Too bad the end of it refers to that other cruise line. John, when I got back to Miami the Liberty of the Seas was there and she is HUGE. I didn’t get a real good look at her because I was driving by at the time, just enough to see how big she was.
Peking Duck, yum yum. The Ritz Carlton Hotel opened up the block from my office last night with a VIP reception held at one of the restaurants. Truffles in risotto, Steaks, tapas – excellent reviews this morning. The chef is one of the premier chefs in the tri-state area. I will be attending a party New Years Eve in their 44th floor restaurant. You can see for miles – it’s the tallest (or close to it) building in Westchester County. By the way, I also mingled with a celebrity – Vanessa Williams. She’s from the area, in fact we used to go to the same hair salon. She’s also a real sweetie.
John, any word on Godmother of the Splendor – I have another choice – Julia Roberts. I was reading about all her charitable activities.
Hopefully, you will see this comment – so many seem to disappear.
Anyway, Happy Holidays to you, your family & Alan (how is he?). And Heidi, Vroliijk Kerstfeest en een Gelukkig Niewwjaar.
Love & Hugs,
Christmas Carol (birthday 12/24 hence the name given me by my father)
And Roberto, Happy Holidays to you & yours.
Have a great Christmas & New Year John & Heidi.
I *love* Amsterdam! When I think of Amsterdam I think of rijsttafel (“rice table,” an Indonesian Dutch food specialty). The canals; the museums! Oh, and Heineken!
Schiphol Airport used to have the BEST shopping (at least it did in 1991)!
Have a great Christmas with family! See ya in January!
)
John & Heidi
I just wanted to wish you two the Very Merriest Christmas.
Has the 2009 Blogger Cruise been set yet? I really want to go since I have been reading your blog thingy since the very begining.
I am unable to be on the first Blooger Cruise because I am having Radiation & Chemotherapy for Cervical Cancer. They are pretty sure that they have caught it in time, and I just have to go through all the scary parts and have all the treatments. But in the end I will be fine. Positive thinking and alot of prayers please.
LADIES – HAVE THOSE YEARLY EXAMS. This crept up on me in 18 months.
Your interview with Mr. Sams. I had the joy of going to Half Moon Cay last year. The beaches are so very clean and the water was clear enough to see the little fishes around our feet. My husband and I look forward to going there again soon. I love to cruise especially with you.
Merry Christmas to all Bloggers
CarolAnn
JOHN PLEASE REPLY
Hello John and Heidi.
We were very happy to hear Alan is doing so well. We will continue to hold him in our prayers.
I do have a question regarding internet usage on-board. As we will have to keep in touch with family members via phone and internet, are there packages available?
Please have a Merry Christmas and a very happy new year. We are looking forward to meeting you in 23 days!
Dear John and Heidi,
I drive a hybrid! It is the Lexus 400h. really is neat to be saving on gas isn’t it? Quiet. Scares people in the parking lot when I back out and they can’t hear it! My license plate reads. KIKNGAS……..(grin) Scares some when they read it wrong! Hope you and Heidi enjoy Holland and Christmas. Jeff had surgery yesterday on his nose. Poor kid can’t cut a break this year. ( broke it playing basketball)… He and Jason were looking through their pictures of their greatest vacation of all time on the Freedom. Thank-you for your memories, the special touch you place on enjoyment and for getting some funny people together. Look forward to the new year.
Peace on Earth,
Kathie ( Kap)
PS. Kevin, we should kidnap you! Nanette, I will see you in the New Year!
Wooohoo- you will be on the Freedom when we are, that’s GREAT. Heidi too ? Would love to meet her. Cant think of anything that we need except to have a good time and I know that we will.
Yes I read that the Pride was coming back to Florida in 2009 ! We sailed on her out of Port Canaveral right after the inagural. I still thing that is my favorite ship, decor wise. Though the Liberty takes a close 2nd.
Off to the mall to get John’s Christmas present, maybe it wont be too crowded lol.
Merry Christmas !
John,
Thank you for the information. It was very helpful.
Could you please give us an update on Alan? How are he and his family doing?
In 30 days we will all be together and sharing what I am sure will be the best cruise ever. Until then, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you, Heidi, and of course, Roberto!
elaine
As always, great to hear from you John! I thought we’d hear more from you since you’ve been on holiday – and the pressures of being CD weren’t so heavy. Now I’m ready for you to be CD again, just so we can hear from you everyday! In all seriousness, I’m glad you’re getting the rest and relaxation you need.
Also, please give us an Alan update.
Hi John/Heidi:
Happy Holidays from Dallas…
Something wrong with your statement that the best Chinese food you had was in Amsterdam. That’s like me saying that the best BBQ or Mexican Food is found in Beverly Hills.
I can’t wait for the 3 Cunard ships to be in port together in January. That will be quite a photo opportunity and I am pretty sure that the company will take advantage of that great moment and take a lot of pictures.
Enjoy the New Year’s holiday in Holland.
Great to hear from you!
David
John, just a quick note to wish you, Heidi and Roberto the Merriest of Christmas’ and the Happiest of New Year’s!!
Loved the blog, Half Moon Cay looks so inviting. My family keeps asking what I want for Christmas – but they just laugh when I ask for a cruise! Guess I’ll have to win the lottery and pay my own way, hmmmm and who would pay for the rest of the family?? Guess they wouldn’t be laughing then.
Heidi’s Mum must be so happy to have her around, it’s hard on mom’s and daughter’s not to get to see each other often. And you got a great Peking Duck dinner. Then maybe Heidi had to leave you stuck in your Easy Jet set, just flying back and forth because you couldn’t stand up! LOL
Still keeping Alan in our prayers, I’m sure you’ll let him know we’re all still asking about him.
BLOGGERS: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you!
Diane from Texas
PLEASE REPLY
Good afternoon John and Heidi,
I was just wondering if you received the mugs I sent you? If not I’m going to have to find my “paperwork” and track it down.
John you should have seen the Pistons play last night OMGoodness! Played the Boston Celtics and what a game it was. “The Boys” won only because Chauncey Billups was fouled with a tenth of a second left in the game. Needless to say they beat the Celtics by 2. Nobody and I mean nobody should foul Billups. If they hadn’t fouled him it would have gone into OT. As it was the Pistons handed them their first loss at home this season. Heat seems to be doing a bit better. I would still like to see a match up in the Playoffs..not this year.
Counting the days until the cruise. You and Heidi have a wonderful Christmas and take care
Joan
John,
I knew some of the cruise lines had private Islands, but I didn’t think Carnival had one at their disposal. I guess you learn something new everyday… like the fact that you like Aston Martins… who wouldn’t guessed!
Have a very Merry Christmas…. I want to hear after Christmas just how long it takes to go through and open 500+ cards.
just wanted to say Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. i look forward to reading all your blogs.