Well………it’s all over for another year. I do really enjoy the Christmas holidays; it’s just that the lead-up to the event is so bloody stressful. I realized that as I didn’t write a blog thingy on the 25th and 26th that I had forgotten to tell you about the hell of shopping at Christmas……….not for gifts………but for food. Heidi and I decided on a dawn raid on our local supermarket which is called Waitrose the day before Christmas Eve. Unfortunately, our plans were discovered and the secret was out. We arrived to find that everyone in Essex was trying to do the same – it was a total and utter nightmare…
In one corner families struggled for control of the pancetta……….which seems to be the “in thing “this year. Elsewhere pitched battles were being fought in the goose fat aisle after celebrity chef Jamie Oliver had announced that this was what you should put on your roasted potatoes this year.
Some people had built shopping trolley barricades and had completely sealed off both the Christmas pudding and Brussels sprout areas. Heidi did her best and threw everything we could find into our trolley while I kept an eye out for trolley pinchers – these are the people who spot something in your trolley that they have forgotten and grab it from you.
Lined up down an aisle in a long queue to get to the cash registers, I heard a woman who looked like a horse ahead of me explode with rage as she turned to an ex-military looking type next to her, resplendent in mustard cords and vivid pink shirt: “This is unbearable. It’s complete chaos.” The military man nodded solemnly and then replied: “I know, I know, but it could be worse. We could be in Afghanistan.”
The lady calmed down as did all the rest of us. We might all be very stressed and bankrupt and in a queue with no end but at least we weren’t in Afghanistan, or, God forbid……………. Paris.
So, good morning everyone and in just a few days it will be 2009. This means that around the world in newspapers, Internet sites, on TV and in households everywhere people are looking back at the best and worst of 2008. For example…….Google revealed the most searched-for terms during 2008, I expected a list of whips, chains and the breasts of Britney Spears. Instead the winners were iPhones, Sarah Palin, and subprime. Britney, despite going totally and utterly bonkers this year, did not even feature…… I hoped to see www.johnhealdsblog.com there but I was nowhere to be seen.
One of the obscure sites that beat me were millions of very sad British people who Googled a school……….Oakwood School in south-east London, where 12-year-old students performed a “’new Nativity play” in which Mary muses over the extra benefits she will be able to claim while she is pregnant, the Three Wise Men are criticised for not turning up with Adidas and Burberry and Jesus turns water into Guinness……..what a load of bollocks.
I am back to writing to you on my own laptop……..but only just barely. The Internet provider thingy now works thanks not to the AOL man or should that be IOL (India Online) but to my mate Alan who having had similar problems was able to restore power yesterday. But…….the problems continue with the laptop itself. They say that artificial intelligence has not yet been achieved in the world of computing but my Dell has a brain all right. And it’s a vindictive little sod. It has come up with a new way of turning my nose hair grey. It won’t do the hyphen, which is a nuisance when I have to email this every week to someone@carnival in operations.
Anyway because Alan fixed my internet I promised him that today I would go with him to play the absurd game of golf. Apart from the fact that it’s freezing outside I don’t want to play golf…….I hate golf ……..I would rather shave Judge Judy’s back than play golf.
Golf is not mysterious. I understand absolutely why someone would play it once . . . and then decide to play it again. It’s not because they have a dressing up in Ralph Lauren fixation or because they dislike the company of women or because they secretly want to be a freemason. No. It’s because they think that if they keep playing, they might get a bit better.
Luckily, I was born with a body that renders me quite incapable of doing anything very well. Which means I never suffer from this.
Chess? I’m crap. Tennis? I’m so spectacularly bad, I can only just beat my six-year-old nephew. DIY? For me this is simply impossible. Even if I attempt something simple, such as hanging a picture, I end up in the ER, the painting ends up ruined and the wall ends up in the garden.
So when I played golf for the first time, I knew there would never be a second. There would be no point. Even if I played every day for 1,000 years, the ball would still never travel more than six inches. And in all probability I’d end up with a severed jugular vein.
This is a good thing, of course, because it means my life is varied and interesting. I never do the same thing twice whereas someone who has a hobby does exactly the same thing day after interminable day. My mate Danny, for instance, enjoys taking old car engines to pieces and then putting them back together again, as slowly as possible. Consequently, this is all he does.
My friend Michael, meanwhile, likes to spend all his free time standing up to his testicles in dirty water trying to outwit a fish, a creature with less brain capacity than a washing machine.
Anyway, later today I will be moving bits of frozen grass round the course and swearing in as many languages as I can. As I said I hate golf but as I owe my friend I shall suffer the consequences…….oh by the way………….isn’t the idea of playing golf to get the lowest score possible?…..in that case, I shall stay at home…………score nothing ……… and win.
Thanks so very much to all of you for taking the time to give us your honest opinions on our new commercials. I read with interest each and every one as did all our Carnival executives. I did find it interesting that some of you thought we should have used the towel animals in the commercials. Well, that’s all well and good if you have cruised on a Carnival ship before but if you haven’t then I am sure you would be thinking “what was that?”
However, I can at the same time see where many of you are coming from and it will be brilliant to read your thoughts on the next group of commercials which have all ready been filmed………aboard a Carnival Ship. These will be premiered soon and again I can’t say anything else about them as my friends at the “What’s Carnival Doing of the Seas” may be reading this. What I can say though is thanks again for your wonderful passion and for taking the time to write in. The beach ball commercial will now be shown here tomorrow……I know you will like that one.
I wanted to write more today about just why next year should be THE year to take a Carnival cruise. But I couldn’t. I walked round the house until my shoes were worn out, I have looked at the view, I have drunk gallons of monkey tea and I was unable to form a cohesive opinion.
Here’s the problem. I like to think I am a journalist. I know the world’s proper journalists will say “bugger off, are you a journalist?” at that and explain that two years writing a blog about ship’s and hemmeroids don’t make me a proper reporter, any more than the fact that I have a thingy entitles me to being a porn star.
I really wanted to write something uplifting and sincere and was about to send this blog without when suddenly my cell phone went “da da da weeeee” and there as if sent by God was a text.
I have been friends with Mr. and Mrs. and Gatetholes for a long time having lived near them in our previous house. I persuaded them to try and cruise and so back in 2002 we sailed together on the Carnival Legend….they have been hooked ever since. However, a few days ago they flew from the UK to Nassau to escape the winter cold here in the UK. ….here then is what he said in his text to me today…….if I can figure out to cut and paste from my e-mail.
Hello J
I am at the Atlantis Hotel in Nassau Bahamas. It’s mind boggling how people can afford this place and what they get for their money. The property is beautiful but the service is so-so which you can’t complain about because there isn’t any. A burger is $26, pasta with tomato sauce is $40 yet the place is bloody packed. Why are these people here and not on one of your cruises? In fact, why am I here and not on one of your cruises?
Best to you and Heidi and I promise I won’t forget the £200 I owe you.
Brian
And that was that. I didn’t need to write anything else. I am not knocking Atlantis, I its great and a must visit if you are ashore for the day during your cruise………but come on………..$40 for a bowl of pasta with ketchup?…..Unless it’s served by naked supermodels and comes with a complimentary Rolex Daytona……….that’s just ridiculous.
There are so many people out there who do not know about the wonders of cruising ……. that’s not their fault, it’s ours for not educating them……..but we will…….because onboard our ship’s there is Fun For All ………And All For Fun………..and the pasta is included.
By the way…….having spent so much money in Nassau I know that I will never see the £200 he owes me………bugger.
Well, it’s been a momentous year. The blog thingy reached 3.5 million readers. Carnival Splendor had a brilliant inaugural season as did Eurodam, P&O’s Ventura, Ruby Princess, AIDABella and a Costa ship whose name for now escapes me …….and, of course, after the Carnival Splendor listed one night while I was dreaming of Jessica Simpson …….Heidi was with child.
There have been some low points, as well………. EasyJet incarceration. If the police want to lock you up, they have to arrest you. If EasyJet wants to do it, it just closes the plane doors and keeps you sitting for hours on the tarmac. Then cancels the flight. Idiots.
And so, with that in mind I would like to take this opportunity to launch the first ever www.johnhealdsblog.com awards……that means you can’t, of course, vote for me in any of the categories.
You will see the categories below and I would ask as many of you to answer as possible. Maybe you don’t usually post comments but in this case and if you have the time I would like to ask that you do. We will post all the answers and this will I am sure make for wonderful reading. So……without further ado………..here are the 10 categories for you to post your votes on.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – who, out of the year’s captains, corporate executives and special guests I interviewed, did you find to be the most captivating?
Everyone at Carnival looks forward to reading your answers and I hope as many of you as possible will have fun with this.
If I was to hand out a stupidity award it would probably have to go to The European Union………who this week wrote to me stating that I must get passports for my donkey Mrs. S. Nob.
I tried to argue that I have no plans to take her aboard, or even out of the paddock thingy and that I had bought the donkey to stop her being turned into a tube of Super Glue, but it was no good. Council directive 90/426/EEC says that anyone with any horse, mule or donkey must get a passport. ……….at a cost of £20 ($32).
This was going to be a pain in the arse. Mrs S. Nob, our rescued grey donkey, is so stubborn that she won’t even go into her stable, so how in the name of all that’s holy was I supposed to get her into one of those photo booths? …….Small wonder that the Queen’s Daughter Princess Anne called the whole scheme “nonsense.”
So what, you might be wondering, is happening here? Why have those men with beards at the European Union in Brussels decided that all equine or asinine species must have a photo ID?
Well, and I promise you’re not going to believe this; the idea is that each passport will carry details of the animal’s medical history. This way you’ll know at a glance if it has been fed harmful drugs, should you decide to eat it.
Oh spiffing. One day I suddenly come over all peckish and decide that Mrs S. Nob’s hind leg would go well with a white wine sauce, I’ll be able to make sure that his previous owner did not feed him a drug that would make me grow two heads.
I think it’s worth pausing here for a moment. You see, over the years I have eaten a puffin, a snake, a whale (well, a bit of one), a reindeer, a crocodile and an anchovy. But I would sooner eat a Frenchman’s sock than my donkey. And I don’t think I’m alone on this one either.
In Britain, we have a line in the sand when it comes to what we will and what we will not put in our mouths. We will eat rats, so long as it’s called “chicken curries.” But we will not eat donkeys or horses.
Unfortunately, however, the line in the sands of Europe is a little further away. And consequently those buggers will eat anything.
In France you often find horse on the menu and in Germany, as has been recently reported, it’s not against the law to eat your dinner guests. Furthermore, I know they make salami out of the few donkeys in Spain that have not been hurled to their deaths from the nearest tower block. Over there across the water there is perhaps some argument for equine passports.
But do you believe for one minute that the farmers of Andalusia are actually going to act on the EU directive? Or do you think the letter will simply be fed to the mule?
That was my first reaction, I must admit. I thought it was a stupid joke and if I did nothing it would go away. But no. It turns out that in Britain, the only country in Europe where we don’t eat Mr. Ed or Eeyore, local authorities will be employing ass monitors to scour the countryside for unregistered donkeys and horses. And owners will be fined for non-compliance.
And so I have two choices. Pay the £20 and get a passport for Mrs S. Nob or invite you all round to my house for a barbecue……….who wants a leg?
Goodnight
Your friends
John, Heidi and the Thingy.
Filed under: Caribbean, Destinations, Tales from the Ship, Travel | Tagged: Awards, Caribbean, Carnival, Carnival Splendor, commercial, cruise, vacation
Hi John/Heidi:
Quite an interesting blog today and i can’t believe the passport story for your donkey. Just crazy.
Interesting questions you pose for your “awards”. That is going to take some time to figure out the answers.
Hope you had a pleasant weekend and I hope you played ok on the links today.
Stay warm and thanks for posting.
Take care!
David
1. YOUR FAVORITE CARNIVAL SHIP…AND WHY
My favorite Ship is the Glory – at first I didn’t like it and found it a bit confusing to navigate but have grown to love all the hidden rooms to discover and the colorful theme of the ship and the rooms. I also like that there are lots of Balcony rooms on this ship
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Butch Begovich – He is an awesome CD always full of energy and help and his shows are pretty funny
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Danny Barajas in Vacation Planning – He is awesome – always ready to help and get you the best cruise for your money
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Costa Maya – It is still fairly natural in appearance and not so touristy yet.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
“If I were not upon the sea” by the Glory Dancers and Entertainers
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Jerry Richardson and the Palace Show Band – They were awesome!
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Filet Minion
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Molten Chocolate Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Butch’s tales of life aboard a ship during the holidays
OK, here’s my votes:
1. Carnival Glory – Wonderful staff, fabulous ship!
2. John – our dining room waiter from the Philippines on our cruise in October. I became ill at dinner on the final night and my husband had to take me to the stateroom. 15 minutes later our phone rang, and it was John asking if he could bring our dinner to the room…That’s service above and beyond!
3. Everyone in Port Canaveral! You guys have that down to a science!
4. St. Maarten – Beautiful, great shopping, fun!
5. n/a
6. Can’t remember the names. All have been good!
7. Can’t remember his name…the Motown guy who lives in St. Thomas!
8. Lamb
9. Bitter and Blanc
10. Loved Butch’s blogs (if that counts!)
Happy New Year!
First of all the blog today was so hilarious! I hope you were joking about the picture i.d.
First I would like to say that the bloggers cruise in Feb. will be my 10th carnival cruise. Yea I’ll be platinum!Below are my answers:
1. Favorite ship- Conquest
2. Carnival crew member- His name was Roberto and he was our waiter on the Holiday in January of last year
3. shoreside employee is Carrasquillo, Jorge he is a PVP.
4.Best Caribbean port-I loved Ocho Rios
5.non Caribbean would have to be Cabo San Lucas- especially when the whales are there
Best show-I really enjoyed the country music show on the Holiday
6. Shipboard entertainer-I was realy amazed at the hypnotist on the Glory in 2007 and also enjoyed the fiddle playing by the CD on the Holiday in Jan.08
7. favorite dinner menu -I love them all never had a complaint about any of them
8.onboard dessert – I am a diabetic and can’t eat desserts but my DH he loved the chocolate melting cake and enjoyed it every evening
9.Best Guest interview probably would be Big Tex because on our cruise last year he was busy filming and was really hard to even speak during our cruise in April so I was glad to at least get to know a little about him.
Golf for me is a burdensome series of long putts. Chasing a ball around a large lawn, in the trees, on fairways adjacent to the one I am currently supposedly playing. One gets a whole slew of clubs to choose from…. For me just using the putter the entire game would suffice. Oh….. and if there is water nearby…. the ball is sure to head there…..
Next time I golf (never) I will bring my snorkel and dive mask.
As far as the Mrs. S. Nob BBQ….. No Thanks
Errr hmmm … If it was a truly nice piece of @ss I may reconsider….however eating @ss …. not so much.
The Flying (Equus asinus) Dutchman
You are so right about cruises. The perfect and cheapest vacation. We have been telling that to many over the years and we had introduced many (lots of people) to the pleasures of cruises and believe me the first thing I want to do when I have money is take a cruise. My husband believes this so much that he hardly takes a land vacation and believe me I had tried( I want a stay In Italy soooooo much !!)
UHHHH the awards…….not easy… almost impossible to choose just one in each category but I’ll try..
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Carnival Freedom!! Why ?? I spent the 12 most wonderful days onboard this ship. It provided the most perfect experience I had ever had in 30 cruises. Crew, food,CD, shows, ports of calls, everything was perfect!!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
If you take aside the fact that Carnival has the best CD and Maitre D on the seas I would choose Tina our waitress on the Freedom
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD N/A
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Puerto Rico!! but to be fair…………ST Marteen
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Still sad about Carnival not going to Europe but I would have choosen Naples because it takes me to my favorite place on earth the Amalfi Coast
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Opps don’t know
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Filet Mignon
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Chocolate Melting Cake of course
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
don’t remember
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY ( it is by far the Splendor, It is the biggest and the newest and we loved the seaside theatre)
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD ( has to go to the Singing Maitre D –KEN BYRNE on the Splendor, Irish guy singing Frank Sinatra, gotta love it)
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD (unknown)
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL (Belize)
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL (St. Petersburg, Russia)
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS (Vroom)
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD ( peed my pants with several comedians, names escape me)
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM ( Lobster )
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT (Chocolate Melting Cake )
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Our favorite ship is the Legend. Our favorite class of ship is the Spirit class. We have sailed all 4 Spirit class ships and the answer WAS the Miracle…until we sailed the Legend last May.
The Legend was the PERFECT cruise in May. Everything gelled….all the stars lined up correctly.
On that cruise, we had the perfect Club O2 Director (Jessen)….we had the perfect Karaoke Host (Rozwin)….we had the perfect ACD Brad… we had a wonderful CD Jen …
Josh won the Morning Show Contest. He and I both got to be in the Legends Show. (a first)
Food was wonderful. Staff and crew were wonderful.
Platinum Self Assist Debarkation was PERFECT!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Wow…this is a hard one.
After 25+ YEARS of cruising with crew members who have exceeded our expectations time and time again…..it is difficult to pick just one. We are partial to any crew member who made DJ feel special and there are just to many to list.
How to you pick just one? These folks have literally made DJ feel so comfortable that he gets to be a “normal kid” for entire week.
David said this is like asking which $100 bill is your favorite.
Since there are 4 members of our family with LOTS of cruises…..we are going to have more than one.
DJ’s pick would be Ria Bennett. Club O2 Director, Big Tex, and Jaime D. (“acting CD“)
David’s pick would be Big Tex, Goose and Malcolm.
Linda’s pick would be Noonan, Big Tex and Karaoke Hosts…Melvin, Michelle and Rozwin.
Josh’s pick would be Daniel (Pride 2006 Club O2 Director) and Big Tex..
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Our PVP, the “legendary” ( a title given by his co-workers…not me) THOMAS BURKE.
Honorary mention does go to Robert (Carnival Rep in New Orleans) and Taco Bill
(Carnival Rep in Galveston).
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Cozumel
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Any Alaskan port.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Shout
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Again…such a tough call. There have been sooo many great ones.
Piano Bar Entertainer – Greg G. (Freedom last month)
Promenade – Steve and his acoustic guitar (Freedom last month)
Comedian – Sadly I do not remember his name…but he did the entire Midnight Adult Comedy Show without ONE curse word. It was intelligent R comedy and he was GREAT!!!
Honorary mention does have to go to Pat Moore ( Promenade Solo) …. Michael Smith (Piano Bar) … Michael (Casino solo performer that plays keyboard) … Comedian Fat Kat (Freedom last month) ….
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
David and Josh – Lobster
DJ – Tiger Shrimp
Linda – Don’t laugh – Fried Mozzarella – LOVE IT!!!!
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Tiramisu
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Interviews with the Cruise Directors.
Hi John & Heidi,
It was great hearing about your Xmas adventures with the family.
I see I wasn’ in the minority after all about the commercial. Sorry. The slogan is great, and I knew it sounded familiar – the original Mickey Mouse Club. Hi there Mouseketeers!
I will answer your questions tomorrow morning – now it’s time to catch my bus.
Maybe Alan will be allowed to fly to NY for the Dream Bloggers’ Cruise?
Hugs,
Carol
John,
I have to say Monty Python summed it up for you guys many years ago with their “Ministry of Silly Walks” skit. What a great slam on bloated government.
And I had a great laugh about it being better in Afghanistan than Paris. The French jokes NEVER grow old!
Looking forward to cruising on the Splendor on the 17th, less than 3 weeks! Just wish you were the CD.
Did you receive the package I sent yet?
Jeff
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY the valor, i love the flags!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD tossup between jaime on the splendor and james (hiya) both are awesome
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD annie arabi my pvp
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL grand turk, hands down!
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL venice, not even a question
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS freedom’s ticket to ride and splendor’s vroom
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM navy bean soup and ribs
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT bitter and blanc
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
The ones that don’t end in “of the Seas.”
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
John Heald
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
John Heald
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
They all kind of blend together, to be honest.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Rhodes (so far)
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride. As good as any show anywhere.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
John Heald
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
It’s all yummy.
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
By far that chocolate pudding cake tasty thingy.
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Jaime
1. YOUR FAVORITE CARNIVAL SHIP…AND WHY
I have only been on five Carnival ships so far, but my favorite is the Freedom. Great crew and incredible night shows make the Freedom the best ship on the seven seas. I am sailing on the Carnival Pride in 41 days and while I’m really looking forward to the Mexican Riviera, the pride will be hard pressed to out do the Freedom.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Krysta – Carnival Dancer on the Freedom. Outstanding. If you’ve ever seen their show “The Big Easy” then you know what I’m talking about. Krysta is fabulous … what a talent (and gorgeous!).
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Jennifer Blackinton — Carnival PVP in Miami —best in the biz.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
I absolutely love pulling into the port of Grand Cayman … it’s beautiful. But my fave would be Costa Maya; simple, unspoiled beauty.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
So far, it would be Nassau, but I’m fairly certain that will change when I get to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
“The Big Easy” by the Carnival Freedom Dancers and Entertainers.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Jim Brick, late night comedian on the Freedom (and the Liberty). He does a family rated comedy show that has you laughing out loud for the entire show! He’s a great act.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Lobster Bisque
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Melting Chocolate Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Carnival Liberty – sailed on her back in 2005 in her inaugral european season – stunning ship inside with the most beautiful decor i’ve seen on any ship. Wonderful.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Kokapan – Our head waiter on the Freedom in July 2008.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
n/a
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Grand Cayman
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Venice
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride – Freedom 2008
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Steve Rawlings I think his name was, a juggler/comedian.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Filet Mignon in the Steakhouse
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Chocolate Melting Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Jaimie’s guest blogs onboard the Splendor T/A cruise.
1. Favorite carnival ship & why: Carnival Glory. Loved, loved, loved the wait staff! I had my 40th birthday on that ship & they made it very special. Great balcony room (with the extended balcony).
2. The outstanding carnival crew member award: Wee Jimmie. Had a great time w/ him as CD. Always alot of fun!
3. The outstanding carnival shoreside employee award: Sherry (I wish I could remember her last name!) She booked my last cruise on the Glory. Very nice person.
4. The best caribbean port of call: Grand Cayman. I love seven mile beach.
5. N/A
6. The best onboard show featuring the dancers & singers: The Glory Dancers.
7. The best carnival shipboard entertainer award: I am really bad at names. Several were wonderful on the Glory and Valor.
8. Favorite onboard dinner menu item: lobster bisque soup.
9. Favorite onboard dessert: Molten chocolate cake.
10. Best blog guest inverview award: Jamie
1. Favorite ship: The Conquest (because she is my “home” port ship) or any other Conquest class ship. I’m sorry they won’t be built anymore, but they are new enough to be in service for many years to come. I think they are the perfect size.
2. Outstanding Carnival crewmember: Jai Jehnindar (bartender currently on the Glory), he is a gentle caring soul, very interesting to talk to, and always gives my sister and I extra special attention. We correspond with him regularly and hope to plan a cruise on what ever ship his next contract places him on. Also, Catherine Cruz (another bartender), we 1st met her on the Glory in 2007, but she is currently on the Valor (or was in May), she remembered sister and I from the Glory and again has always taken the time to know our preferences and take extra time to share stories about her life on and off the ship.
3. Carnival shoreside employee: I don’t know their names but any of the ladies in the VIP lounge at Port Canaveral, that is my favorite embarkation port and they do an excellent job. In fact everyone in PC is upbeat and friendly, always going through the crowds keeping people informed and joking around while everyone anxiously awates embarkation.
4. Best Carribean Port: St. Thomas pleantly of beautiful beaches and the Havensight shopping area is so convenient. When I 1st went there on the Festivale in 83 there were only a couple of shops and one bar at the pier. It’s really improved over the years.
5. Best non-Carribean Port: Sadly Carnival doesn’t sail in Europe anymore but my favorite place in the world is Venice. I fell in love with this place in the 4 days I spent there prior to the 1st voyage on the Freedom in 2007.
6. Best on-board show: I don’t go to shows much anymore, but I think any of them with the dancers are great.
7. Best Carnival shipboard entertainer: Again, since I rarely go to the big shows I would say that I most enjoy the classical trio or quad that plays in the lobby and at tea time.
8. Favorite dinner item: Any soup on the menu but if sister were answering this she would say Hay & Straw.
9. Favorite dessert: Warm Chocolate Melting cake
but sister would say the Cheese selection.
10. Best blog guest interview: Todd
John, I shall have to work on my list for a bit before I submit it as narrowing down ships to one and crew members to one will be extraordinarily difficult.
Shopping ANYWHERE on Christmas Eve seems to be an exercise in self flagellation. It’s one of those universal truths.
So, you have to get your ass a passport. That MUST have been a directive from the Ministry of Silly Walks. I can’t believe that such silliness isn’t part of a Monty Python skit.
I was at Atlantis when I sailed on the Splendor last month. I can confirm EVERYTHING that Brian said. It’s lovely, it’s outlandishly large and completely outrageous. One of the suites goes for $25,000/night, minimum stay 4 nights. Not bad. I believe I’ll check in for a month.
Please pass along my best to Heidi and the Thingy and my constant gratitude to the amazing Stephanie!!!
Ciao!!!
Host Mach
Wow,, what a Blog……
It is about time that we developed a”READERS CHOICE AWARDS”
Let me start by saying that i have been thinking of the questions and some of them will be very difficult to answer as they are truley subjective.
For Cindy and I to answer all the questions in one post would surley blow up someones laptop so we decided to do a few posts over the next few days rather that one long long long post ..(you know my loving wife can be a little long winded…i hope she dont read this post or dog house bound i will be) lol
ok here goes
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY ( That would be the FREEDOM,,, it was the first Carnival ship that we cruised on and totally converted us to loyal Carnival cruisers. Plus it will always be special because it is where a new FRIENDSHIP with a certain senior cruise director began)
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD ( has to go to the Singing Maitre D –KEN BYRNE on the Freedom at the time, Talk about a man who puts the needs , wants and desires of the passengers first, that would be Ken, Dinner was always an event, as we never knew what was comming next, which made it so enjoyable,fun and relaxing)
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD ……..thats an easy one … Jose F, Arreaza PVP Jose took over for a former Carnival employee and has done an outstanding Job for Cindy and I. He always takes the time to make sure that ALL of our questions, comments and concerns have been addressed. We feel very secure in booking thru him.He even has gone so far as to give us his personal cell phone number in case we had any questions at any time.. now thats service with a capitol “S”.
John, thank you for providing us with a way to say thank you to all the folks that make cruising on Carnival so exciting and so much FUN.
We will complete our vote tomorrow as Cindy and I are still discussing a few of the questions.
Take care my Friend
And a Very Happy and Healthy New Year to Heidi, Thingy, and of course Sir John..
Bill
THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
How could I forget!! BY far
Michael Andrew WOW!! How could I forget that week on the Ecstasy 16 years ago with Michael Andrew everywhere
I don’t want to stir up a hornet’s nest, but the donkey story seems a bit too similar to the following:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/article1036130.ece
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Has to be the Carnival Splendor – loved the pool side movie theatre and the retractible roof over the pool. We watched one movie bundled up under the beach towels – it was such fun.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
The matre’d on the Splendor – “Ken” has a great singing voice and was such an entertainer. We were on tour in Berlin (14 hours to and from) that night at dinner they served my favorite soup – cream of mushroom – the next night I mentioned to Ken how much I missed my soup and wouldn’t you know I had my own personal bowl at dinner the very next evening – where can you go and get service like that other than on a Carnival cruise.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Her name is “Carol” and she is employed at the Tampa port – we have been lucky enough to have her check us in a number of times and she is very friendly and helpful.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
It has to be Belize – went cave tubing will never forget it.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Has to be a tie between Berlin and Tallin, Estonia.
Loved them both!
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Loved “Vrroom” very exciting – great singers on the Splendor also.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Sorry we can’t submit “John Heald” cause his bedtime story on the Baltic Cruise in August 08′ had us peeing our pants. So the featured singers on the Splendor had to be the best we heard in a long time.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
My favorite – cream of mushroom soup and then Lobster a close second.
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Bitter and Blanc ( I think it is called)
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Has to be “Jaime” we saw her up close and in person on the Splendor and are so proud she is now an assistant CD.
1. Favorite Ship – Conquest, Why- It is the prettiest ship in the fleet.
2. Outstanding crewmember award – Sweca from Indonesia who was my room steward on the Splendor.
3. Outstanding Carnival shoreside employee.
4. Best Caribbean port of call – Martinique
5. Best non Caribbean port of call – Istanbul
6. Best onboard show -Vroom
7. Best shipboard entertainer – Marcus Anthony
8. Favorite onboard dinner menu item- Gaspazo Andalouse (think my spelling is way off)
9. Favorite onboard dessert – warm melting Chocolate cake
10. Best blog guest interview award
John,
Here are my votes:
1. Liberty – loved the Seaside theater, food, European ports of call…I could go on and on.
2. Veronica, Casino hostess on the Legend, Miracle and several other ships – She’s no longer with Carnival. What a loss!
3. N/A
4. Cozumel – even though it’s a bit touristy.
5. Civitevecchia (sp) – because all roads lead to Rome, my favorite city.
6. Ticket To Ride – Love, Love, Love the Beatles.
7. Entertainer(s)- Music Boardwalk, what a fabulous band.
8. Surf&Turf at the Supper Clubs – everything served on that plate was heavenly.
9. Chocolate Melting Cake – sinful.
10. The Gavin McLeod interview – brought back wonderful Love Boat memories.
Thanks for this opportunity to share my thoughts.
1. carnival ship Spirit
2.crew member Mr. G head waiter
3.shoreside n/a
4.caribbean port of call St. Thomas
5.Non Caribbean port of call Hawaii
6.Dancers & singer tribute to the Beetles
7.Entertainer J Heald
8.Dinner menu Prime Rib Roast
9.Dessert melting chocolate cake
10 jamie
Hi John, Heidi, and everyone,
Hopefully the other commercials will be better. As for the awards, I will get back to you with my opinion(s).
I was reading another message board, and I have one concern about the Dream, and for that matter, any ship with big screen tv’s at the pool. We stopped cruising a ruise line “of the seas” because they cut their pool band hours to two hours a day (about). It may seem so small, but it is really so big and important to us.
I saw some discussion about if the screens take away from the reggae bands and live entertainment, and some have expressed that on Princess, it does not really take away as they have the bands at another pool than the tv pool. On Carnival, there is one main pool area (not sure how it will be on the Dream). Please tell me that Carnival will never been cutting back on the reggae bands, as we love cruising Carnival for the traditional cruise experience; yes, that goes as small as the reggae bands by the pool. This is one reason we have not cruised on ships with the tvs by the pool.
Please keep the great, quality reggae bands FOREVER!
Keep up the great work. Happy Holidays.
Here’s my list:
Best ship-Splendor because it was so unexpected, with the pink polka-dots etc.
Best crew member-.Our room steward on Splendor Rm.# 7434
Best shoreside employee-They’ve all been very helpful
Favorite Caribbean port-St. Maarten
Favorite non port- St Petersburg. Still can’t believe I was really in Russia!
Best show by far-Vroom
Favorite entertainer-Marcus Anthony
Food favorite-Lobster
Best dessert-Creme brule
Interview favorite Captain Nogano
I am really looking forward to being on the Splendor again to experience South America for the first time.
Hey JOhn,
Well, here it goes.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Carnival Inspiration. I like the smaller ships, and the crew on the Inspiration was the best.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Wee Jimmy. He made our cruise on the Carnival Glory last year unforgettable.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD Mike Alvira, our Vacation Planner. He was attentive to all of our requests, and had no problems making whatever changes we needed.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Progreso Mexico. Not commericialized like Nassau or Cozumel
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
N/A
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Shout
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Sal Albano
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Beef Wellington, (and strawberry bisque)
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Concorde Chocolate Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
1well id have to say the glory and the imagination why imagination was my frist cruise. and i was just on it again. the glory loved the staff very colorfull.wondufull staff
constatene sorry its not spelled rite. he is a waiter on imagination 2nd time around. he spun my son around hes 3 and then he had a bad mess to clean i felt bad for him
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
my vacation planner cheryl chesley shes the best i had 1 before here but shes the best.
st thomas very pretty loved it their love to visit again and cozmel been their 2 times
keywest loved it
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS it was when i was on the glory i cant rember the show sorry
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD happy cole i saw him on the imagination fist time and the glory.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM lobster tail a bit salty though
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT the molten cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD cant think of his real name but the capt of the love boat. i loved that show. and said one day i will cruise and wow have i 4 cruises sence 04 love it.
john love ur stories the best to u heidi and baby to be. and hope to see u on the dream in dec.skippy was cd on imagination had a great time.
Afternoon John….
Here goes for our ten!
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY . The Carnival Legend. We have sailed on her 3 times and each and every time from embark to debark the service was impeccable, the staff way above the rest, the ship itself. We love the theme!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD-We remember a waiter (her name was Winnie and she was from Indonesia!) She was wonderful each and every night!
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE- EMPLOYEE AWARD-Our personal Vacation Planner Natalie Savage! She works understands us and works to get us the best destinations! She calls us occasionally just to see if we are ready to book again! We recommend her….her extension is 85952! Tell her John and Susan sent you!
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL Dominica-The beauty!
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL- Venice, Italy- Cut a Cannes and spend an extra night in Venice!
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS-Take Two- (Nothing funnier that dancing and singing monsters from Rocky Horror!)
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD-The physical comedian Max Winfrey!
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM- Lobster & Filet Mignon!!
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT- Warm Chocolate Melting Cake!!
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
John Cleese!
John, Can I give you another idea….The last couple of cruises Susan and I have done actual books with Susan’s journal and my pictures of the trip! Makes for a very professional looking keepsake! Seems to me some cross marketing between Creative Memories and Carnival would be a natural! You might even be able to have a rep aboard to teach folks how to use the software! It is really not that hard to use but it would boost sales! OK…..that is two good ideas for you! Any word on the Shipping idea (Fed Ex or UPS)
Can’t wait to see you in February!
John and Susan from Frisco!!
Hello John ,
Ok I have been reading your blog for about 18 months now, I know sometimes you tell stories that are hard to believe but I do. I am drawing the line though about getting your donkey a passport.
Best Ship Legend love the size.
Crew member aboard, Ken Byrne on the Splendor, Great voice and personality.
Crew member ashore Wil Garcia PVP always there to answer my questions.
Caribbean port St Maarten my DW has her favorite jeweler there:)
Best show Ticket to ride
Best entertainer Todd Witmer CD
Dinner Prime Rib
Dessert Melting chocolate cake
Best Blog guest Mr Cleese and his impressions
of Queen Mary 2
You and Heidi and thingy
have a great and happy new year
Papanh
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Carnival Splendor, I liked the lido deck.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Jamie, She always found time to talk or listen.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
The MOB herself Stephany.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Antigua
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Victoria Canada
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Varooom
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Greg the piano man on the Splendor.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Filet Migon
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Warm Melting Chocolate Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW
AWARD Chris “Bubba” Roberts
Not sure if you call it an interview but I enjoyed the writings.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP …Splendor…………..AND WHY –It was my first cruise for and with my grandchildren and I absolutely loved it and so did they! I am going to love it again on 1-31-09 when I cruise for 31 days–ok since the big guys are reading this–VIP should be based on number of days cruised–31 days only counts as two cruises???? Not a just system for those that prefer longer cruises.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD–Romie/ Splendor waiter in Black Pearl & Sonja dining hostess–both were spectacular!
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD– Stephanie Leavitt
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL–Grand Turk–awesome when only one ship is there, too crowded otherwise.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL–Venice or Messina–both are awesome!
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS–Vroom!!!
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD Don’t have one for this.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM–Surf & Turf
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT–Warm chocolate melting cake!! Another reason I look forward to my Carnival cruises…
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
I love the Eurodam ones but I love Jaime’s Dear John letters too!
Sounds like your food shopping is much the same as before Christmas here. I liked the “trolley” name for the shopping cart though..I am glad Alan helped you get your internet fixed–what a good friend he is to you. I hope you didn’t freeze playing golf.
Can’t believe the year is over…
Dear John
Great blog as usual. Here are some answers.
1. Carnival Freedom – Had a great 1st european experience so much so that we came back and immediately booked our Splendor Baltic cruise for the following year!!
2. Ken O’brien the singing Maitre D. on Freedom and Splendor.
3
4. Grand Turk
5. St. Petersburg
6. VROOM – very energetic and the dancers enjoyed it as well.
7. Ron Pass – Pianist
8. Lobster
9. Chocolate melting cake – yummy
10. Bubba
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Carnival Miracle…Spirit class ship is our favorite, and our cruise on Miracle out of Baltimore several years ago was the best cruise we’ve ever done in terms of shipboard activities, entertainment, etc.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
If I can’t vote for John, I’ll pick Todd Wittmer and Shawn Bussey.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Francisco Robleto
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
St. Thomas
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Honolulu, Oahu and Lahaina, Maui
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride
If I Were Not Upon the Sea on the Miracle several years ago with Todd, Big Tex, Karl with a K, etc.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Gosh, there are so many, can’t pick just one
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Penne in Tomato Vodka Sauce
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Bitter and Blanc
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
CD interviews and Gavin McLeod
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
I love the Ecstasy… The Fantasy class ships are great!!! Closeness, size and the Verandah deck on the bow to watch the night skies with not a lot of lights to hinder me!!! And the wind blow right into my face!!!! And the Atlantic Deck aft… like a private wrap balcony for those of us who don’t get the balconies!!!!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Ralphy – Wee Jimmy…
but as a non-CD, it would be “Slovacia” Ass’t Maitre D’ on the Conquest
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
I don’t recall any… Sorry… no impressions made…
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Jamaica!!!! No way any other!!! The $15 bus that takes you everywhere!! The shopping, the Margaritaville, the band before you leave… and The sailaway party!!! Coz comes in second, but with the old port, Punta Longosta because we were right there in the middle of everything!!! I would have said this was my #1 choice, but the new port dropped it a notch!
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Never been yet…
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Hummmm…. Ecstasy’s XTreme Country… The performance last Feb ‘08 was better than this Sept 08’s!!
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Steve Cassel and his fiddle… I know, he’s a CD,but as an entertainer… WOW!!!!!
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Chateau briand…
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
The lunch dining room’s Chocolate Gateau… I renamed it: Sex on a plate!!! Bitter n Blanc would be #2!!! Sorry, don’t like Choc Melting Cake at all… ????
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Cunard’s: I love the way he talked about the retiring Queen… He made me WANT TO cruise CUNARD!!!
Best Ship’s Captain: SCALA!!! No doubts. His Q&A is WONDERFUL!!!!! Andhe stops and talks and Greets and Meets!!!
OK: From you food reference ou have reminded me: Don’t ever eat the hamburger in Nepal… It may have been barking just the morning before… I made that mistake and was promptly upset!!!!
Bless you and Heidi and Thingy…
Lambie
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY It had to be Carnival Destiny. That was my first cruise, and you never forget your first love!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD Viktoria, a waiter in the cigar bar on Carnival Valor, October 2005. Awsome service!
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD Our PVP, Oscar Vagara.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL We love Belize.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL I’ve only been on Caribbean cruises. Maybe someday…
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD “Ed Rocks.” He was in the piano bar on Carnival Valor in October 2005.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM Lobster
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT Creme Brule
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD I loved Butch’s Cristmas blogs!
Good evening John. Here are my choices.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Since I’ve only been on two cruises, both ships were great but I totally enjoyed the Freedom
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
It would be very difficult because they are all fantastic people.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
n/a
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
St. Maarten, beautiful, colourful, enthusiastic enjoyable.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Miami
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Singing Maitre D –KEN BYRNE
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU
ITEM
The spring lamb
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Dessert melting chocolate cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – who, out of the year’s captains, corporate executives and special guests I interviewed, did you find to be the most captivating?
John Cleese
You just inform the higher ups just to keep on doing what they are doing, thinking about us and caring about us. We do appreciate everything and I plan on continuing cruising with Carnival. Fantastic. Ciao.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
John,
Your comments on being a “journalist” had me rolling on the floor. As my blog last week was entitled “Life as an imcompetent cruise travel writer”.
http://www.cruisemates.com/blog/20081223412/life-incompetent-cruise-travel-writer/
I’ve been able to get away with it for coming up on 10 years, and no one has reported me yet!
Unlike you I love golf! Like you I’m awful at it! My motto… you don’t have to play like a professional, you only have to look like one. Each year I get to purchase all the new fashionable golf wear and equipment, and then get to spend all my time in summer months banging my balls around.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
The Legend.. because of the layout and all those urns… somewhere to put me if my life happens to end onboard.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Ken Byrne.. took great care of our CruiseMates group on the crossing last spring
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Stephanie .. Of course, for keeping all things blog!
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Barbados
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Istanbul – my favorite city in the world.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
I love the costumes, but I know bugger about singing and dancing.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Al Ernst – TOO funny!
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Anything in the Supper Clubs and though it isn’t “dinner” the Rueben Sandwiches from the “delis”
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Chocolate covered strawberries.. whereever I find them
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
I prefer the guest bloggers to the interviews… so go with Butch, Jamie, and Tex
Regards,
Kuki
CruiseMates.com
John you make things rough trying to pick out our favorites. Don doesn’t have many favorites so I guess I’ll do most of the chosing if he doesn’t chime in.
1. Your favorite ship..The Carnival Holiday. I hate to think she is leaving the fleet of ships. It is smaller than a the rest of the ships we have sailed on. It is the ship we have celebrated my birthday and our anniversay on the last 2 years. Don doesn’t have a favorite he has liked them all.
2.Outstanding crew member,,Maitre D’ Ken He is so special. love to hear him sing. He makes dining so enjoyable. Z our waiter on the Splendor he was so attentive to my dietary needs…. Larisa P who I understand is now a Maitre D’ I don’t remember which ship she was on but she is so friendly, and she too made sure I didn’t order something that contained milk products that would make me sick. She always visited with us when we were on the Lido deck. I would love to see her again
3 . Outstanding shoreside employee…………….I have to pick 2 ……. STEPHANIE and also Kanecia Allen our PVP
4.Best Caribbean port of call Cayman Islands
5. N/A
6.Best onboard show The country show on Holiday
7.Best Shipboard entertainer award
John Heald…. he is the reason we kept coming back after we sailed with him on the Glory and the reason we believe in Carnival so strongly. The reason we bought stock. The reason we drove all the way to Philly to see him. He is Carnival’s best hands down. Don says ditto.
8.Your favorite onboard dinner menu item navy bean soup I wish you had it more than once during the week
Don says shrimp, shrimp, and more shrimp
9. Your favorite onboard dessert. Yogurt in the ice cream machine, it’s the only dessert you have except cookies and jello that I can eat Everything else contains milk products which I can’t eat.
10. The best blog interview. Jaime and unfortunately she left the Splendor before we sailed and we didn’t get to meet her.
We’ll be platinum on the BCv2 it will be our 8th ship since we have sailed on the Holiday 2 times.
John I wish they would fix more food items that people like myself that are lactose intolerant and also can not egg yolks. I have to bring my own cheese, butter, salad dressings, and dairy free cream for my coffee Makes dining unpleasant sometimes on the ship. Z, our waiter on the Splendor, sent one of the waitresses up on Lido to get me yogurt every night so I wouldn’t have to sit and watch everyone else eatting desserts.
Countess Carolyn and Don
Hi Heidi, what did John get you for Christmas?
well the best I can do is echo my husband’s (Kevin) account for the most part but I will add to it a littl too…
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
I found things I loved about all the ships and would have a hard time picking but I liked the Glory best it was very attractively decorated.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Wee Jimmy. He made our cruise on the Carnival Glory last year unforgettable.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD Mike Alvira, our Vacation Planner. He was attentive to all of our requests, and had no problems making whatever changes we needed.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Progreso Mexico. Not commericialized like Nassau or Cozumel
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
N/A (have only sail in Caribbean… so far)
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Shout and thsi has the vote of our 2 sons too
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Sal Albano
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Beef Wellington, roast lamb, (and strawberry bisque) well thsi list could go on….
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Concorde Chocolate Cake!!!!!
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Bubba
John;
You ask for it so here go’s:
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……Carnival Freedom
2. WHY: The Friendly Crew and of course the food
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER : Christopher D’Costa
4. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD: Social Host Gary
5. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL: Unk
6. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL: Isle of Capri
7. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS:The Big Easy
8. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD: Unk
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM: The Lamb
10. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT: Cream Brule
11. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD: All of them
1.YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP Liberty
AND WHY –Been on her twice, and each time provided wonderful memories.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD–Richard Anderson from Jamaica, as well as Sadka, and Dean all great Carnival employees.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE
EMPLOYEE AWARD– N/A
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL–St. Thomas
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL–N/A
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS–N/A
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD Percy Crews.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM–Any Steak at Harry’s Supper club
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT–Warm chocolate melting cake!!
For the person who doubted John’s story about getting a passport for his donkey
read this
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/2795161.stm
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY Freedom because I got to meet my new family on the Bloggers cruise
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD Ken the singing matre’d
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD Stephanie Leavitt
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL All but ohco rios
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD Al Ernst
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM Beef, Beef, and more beef like the 24 oz porterhouse
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT Is there anything else but the chocolate melting cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
John Cleese
BIG ED
1. FAVORITE CARNIVAL SHIP: Splendor. We really enjoyed the retractable cover over the swimming pool. It got chilly in the Baltic!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD: Our cabin steward, Mario on the Splendor and on the Conquest. He remembered us, three years later, when we sailed on the Splendor. He did a fantastic job! It is hard to single out just one, though, since we have met so many great crew members during our 6 cruise history with Carnival.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD: The employees who had to deal with Russian immigration.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL: Grand Cayman.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL: Rhodes, Greece or Izmur, Turkey.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS: Tribute to the Beatles on the Freedom. I think it was Ticket to Ride.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD: John Heald.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM: Shrimp, Prime Rib, Steak.
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT: Chocolate melting cake.
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD: Jaime. We sailed with her and John and hiyaaaa James on the Splendor.
Hello John,
The donkey passport story is so stupid that it must be true.
If you’ve been on more than one Carnival cruise we think it’s impossible to name our choices in your categories because everyone is great. But I will try and list a few of our favorites but this in no way is to say the others we’ve met are not also great. So we hope that we don’t risk offending some of our friends since there are way too many to name. So–
Best ship and why – It could be the Fascination because she was our first Carnival cruise. But, the Carnival Freedom ranks very highly because we spent more time on her than any other and we got to meet a lot of great people – staff, crew and guests.
Best crew member – This could be impossible but here are a few off the top of my head. John Heald because you’re the first CD we’ve ever really noticed. Other top CD’s are Butch and Wee Jimmy because we spent some time talking with them. Ken Byrne, Jogi, Rafal, Omur, Nihal, Damir, Boris, Bianca, Fabiana and many wait staff make our dining experience wonderful. Costin and James in the photography department also helped us have a great time.
Best Shoreside Employee – I really don’t remember their names but especially the ones at Port Canaveral are very helpful and efficient.
Best Caribbean Port – We like them all but St. Thomas is a favorite of ours.
Best Non Caribbean Port – Everything in Europe is wonderful but especially Istanbul, Dubrovnik, St. Petersburg and Ephesus which had a big impact on us.
Best Shows – They’re all very good and I can’t pick out a specific one.
Best Entertainer – Ron Pass from the Piano Bar.
Best Dinner Menu Item – for George without a doubt it is the lamp chops. I like the soups, especially the Chilled Apple Curry Soup.
Best Dessert Item – The chocolate melting cake ranks as a favorite.
Favorite Guest Blog – We like all of them but since we’re a fan of Butch and his was the last we’ll name him.
I wish we could list all of the people that help us have a great time on our cruise but that would take forever. I hope they know we’re not leaving them out because we don’t like them. I did tend to list people from our more recent cruises though. Can’t wait to see them all soon.
George and Linda Mattie
Ah Naneteali
I love Michael Andrew! I just saw him in his Annual holiday show in Orlando. I can only imagine what a week on the ship would have been like. He is a very talented person.
And I will have to think of my favorites- so far the one I can answer is the ship- the Glory. My first cruise with a balcony, and my first time to see the Bedtime story. I became a John fan for life after that.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
The Smokefree Paradise – as to why, I have no idea.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
I don’t remember her name, but the dancer from Toronto who was leaving the boat to return to home and take care of her family.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Any porter who picks up my luggage after the cruise, when I can not longer walk.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
St. Thomas, USVI
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Funchal, the Madeira Islands, Portugal
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
The last show I saw.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Just Du’et
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Pumpkin Soup
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Warm Melting Chocolate Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
John Cleese
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP – Carnival Glory, loved the decor and great staff
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER – Wee Jimmy
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE – Stephanie
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – St. Thomas/St. John
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Cabo
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS – Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD – Ron Pass
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM – Filet Mignon
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT – Grand Marnier Soufle
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – Jamie
Hi John,
Thanks to Christmas break, I have time to read and comment on the blog! In response to the questions you posed:
1. FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP = Carnival Glory. Celebrated the grandparents’ 50th anniversary on the Glory in 2003, and came back for high school graduation in 2007… Oh, and its Canaveral location is close to home.
2. OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER = Diana (Slovakia), from the Carnival Glory Golden Dining Room in 2003? Yeah, that’s a stretch, but that’s the only name I can remember at the moment. Personally, I’d rather just nominate everyone who works on a ship in the fleet. They work hard everyday and excel at what they do
3. OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD = I’m drawing a blank again, so I’ll just say everyone again.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL = Half Moon Cay had the best beach. Ever.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL = I still have to get to Europe.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS = Tie between the shows on the Carnival Glory and Carnival Liberty. I remember the content of each show, but my memory is terrible with the names of the shows.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD = I liked Simone Catalano on the Liberty, especially in “Con Te Partiro.” (By the way, does this category also include Cruise Directors? If so, I’ll have to add in Wee Jimmy and Karl with a K. Those guys were hilarious)
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM = I liked the pasta… and the steak… and the fish. I’m bad with names again.
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT = Warm Melting Chocolate Cake For the Win.
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – Jaime’s blogs take this one, in my opinion.
Yeah, I know, I was pretty indecisive with a lot of my answers. But that’s just a testament to how great Carnival and its people are, in my opinion.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Conquest because it is lovely and the staff is great. We Conquest Crazies Have adopted it as our ship.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
The Conquest Assistant Maitre D, Slavica Dimitrieva, was wonderful. She passed our table and other tables at least twice every night. She remembered our names. She asked how our day was. She asked how our dinner was. Thursday we were eating lunch in the Lido deck. She stopped by to ask how our day went. She will be an excellent Maitre D.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP
Liberty has a great Lido Deck, Movies under the Stars has a good screen and sound system, like all Conquest class, love the Lido deck forward cabins, so convenient.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
John Heald – has sold the best shore excursions, his shows make you laugh, his “welcome home” when you come back aboard from the ports. His rare P.A. announcements, “sorry to bother you, just one more, I promise”. His Dick Little and Mary characters. Ken Byrne is a great Maitre D, always comes around to your table to make sure everything is ok.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Our pvp Bernadine Christian.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Cozumel, so many great things to do.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
St Petersburg, Russia. The Russians are a hoot.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride, Vroom close second.
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
A balance, juggler act man onboard the Elation out of Galveston the night Katrina came onshore, too rough for the dancers, so this balancing act substituted, wow.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Filet Mignon
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
The Grand Marnier Souffle with the white sauce poured on it.
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Captain Mercer of the Eurodam
Don’t know the category for this, Jamie’s journals from the Splendor were very nice.
John…
My mind has returned.. Let me fill in the blank I left after the shoreside Carnival employee…
I meant to say Tim Labanon, my PVP, ext 85614… I guess I don’t think of him as shore side cause he’s available ANYTIME and ANYWHERE I need him… down to him giving me his cell number!!
He even called ma last year on New Year’s Day!! His holiday!!! His vacation!!! Just because he saw my favorite ship and favorite cabin was available.
This is man dedicated to making my life and my cruise HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY!!!!
TIM LABANON!!!!
Hi John,
Here’s my list:
1. Jubilee because she was my 1st cruise and Miracle because she was my latest cruise. But I think the Miracle was absolutely beautiful.
2. Vesey, my waitress on the Imagination last year. She went out of her way to see that everyone was completely satisfied with the dining experience.
3. Ian Cort, my PVP.
4. St. Thomas – the beaches, the shopping and the sightseeing – I can never get enough.
5. N/A
6. Ticket to Ride
7. Music Unlimited (on the Miracle) & John Heald, of course.
8. Surf & turf
9. Warm Melting Chocolate Cake.
10. Bubba’s blogs.
It’s hard to choose from so many wonderful cruises & Carnival people. They’re all the best.
Hugs,
Carol
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY: Whichever Carnival ship that I’m booked to sail on next!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD: All of the crew and staff of each and every ship – the guys who work the omelet stations; the purser desk staff who put up with so much $(#* from unrational guests; the wait staff; housekeeping, etc. – the list is too long to name everyone….
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD – Our PVP Thomas Burke.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Grand Caymans
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Anything in Alaska or perhaps Cabo San Lucas
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS – Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD – all of them
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM – Prime Rib
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT – creme brule
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – each and every one that you print. I’m sure I speak for everyone who reads your blog daily that we all enjoy hearing about life aboard a cruise ship, whether it is an interview with a Captain, a CD, or any other crew member.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY- I must say the Liberty that is the ship I had the best cruise on. I do not know if it was the itinerary or the Cruise Director and his staff but it was the most fun I have had on a ship.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD- Lucio our waiter on the Liberty in its inaugrial season his assistant Lady should be mentioned here also.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD- ????
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL- St. Thomas
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL-I never have been in any other area. 6 Carribean cruises
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS- VROOM awesome show the best on the seas
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD- One of the Jugglers/comedy act I cannot remember his name
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM- Chocolate Melting Cake
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT- Chocolate Melting Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – Todd the Cruise Director He was the cruise director when I was on the Freedom and it was nice to learn something about him other than what we knew on the ship.
THis is a really great idea to have awards for 2008. It was fun thinking about what things I liked the most about Carnival and its cruises.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Carnival Triumph….probably due to that “first cruise” intoxication. It totally hooked me on cruising and Carnival.
(for any Portal Fans)
This was a Triumph! I’m making a note here: “HUGE SUCCESS!!”
It’s hard to overstate my satisfaction.
Carnival Cruise Lines…… We do what we must, because we can.
For the good of all of us….
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Every single Carnival Crew member is outstanding in their own regard. Each contributes to an unparalleled experience for thousands and thousands of guests each and every week….like no other. From the impeccable dining room staff to the smiling and friendly cabin stewards, from the talented entertainment staff and to the deck and bridge crew members that make the entire experience possible.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
St. Martin/St. Maarten
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Grilled Chicken Breast
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Chocolate Melting Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – John Cleese
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY – the style and elegance of the spirit class
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD – all supper club hotess’es
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD – any one that’s not the air department
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Half Moon Cay
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Dubrovnik
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD – Jaime, asst CD
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM – prime rib
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT – molton chocolate
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – any captain
John,
Another great Blog!
I personaly believe that little minds make up the “so called rules” and they lack any common sense.
As far as Donkey meat, no thanks I agree with you. Let’s keep Cats, Dogs, Horses and Donkeys off the menu. I have eaten Snake, Aligator, and being in the south (USA) I’m really not sure what else might have been in the local cuisine.
As far as your $ goes, well I firmly believe as a weekly traveler in business that I get the best value vacationing taking a cruise. I have been all over the globe and cruising has been the best value not necessarily the “cheapest” but the best value.
Have a great New year and looking forward to the February Bloggers Cruise.
Jim
Nice idea for an “end-of-year” list. Here goes:
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY – The only one I’ve been on is Victory, so I have to say that. I have several others on my list!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD – Cruise Director Malcolm Burns. Woo hoo!
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD – N/A
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Cozumel (lots to do, cheap shopping)
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL –
Halifax (love the esplanade and easy-to-access shopping and museums – similar to Monterey, but more affordable)
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS – Vroom. Great show!
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD – Sorry, can’t recall.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM – Lobster
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT – Chocolate Melting Cake, without a doubt!
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – Sorry, too many to choose from, but I enjoyed Heidi’s guest blogging!
1. Favorite Carnival ship-GLORY-on it 3 times
2. Carnival Crew member award-John Heald, hands down! Also, love Ken Byrne’s singing
3. BEST Shoreside employee-Armando Anton-my (PVP)
4. Best Caribbean Port of Call- Costa Maya
5. Best Non caribbean port – Key West
6. Best onboard show-Ticket to Ride
7. Best shipboard entertainer- Al Ernst & Marcus Anthony
8. Favorite onboard dinner item- Eggplant parmig.
9. Favorite dessert-Sugar free cheesecake
10. Best Blog Guest interview-John Cleese
Deby:
John:
Michael Andrew doesn’t do cruises anymore?? I guess not but anyway I’m curious.It will be a blast
Love;
Nanni
Okay here goes:
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY:
I’d have to go with the Valor. I’ve sailed her twice and I love the itineraries and I found her large enough that I never felt crowded. And it was so easy to get around and find things. Loved the mosaic of Rosie the Riveter in the Lido restaurant.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
It’s hard to single out because everyone I’ve encountered has been so nice and helpful. And I’m terrible with names.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
This is hard because I don’t deal with a PVP and I’m terrible about getting names when I check in. Although I have to say that the entire embarkation staff at the Port of New York was one of the friendliest and most efficient I’ve dealt with.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Roatan Island, Honduras hands down favorite. A beautiful island, not overbuilt (yet), great snorkeling, beautiful beaches, lots of interesting things to see and do and friendly people.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
N/A
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Ron Pass, piano bar entertainer. Terrifically talented, amazing personality and a gift for making everyone feel welcome and included. I would book a cruise based solely on whether he was on the ship.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Escargot
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Bitter and Blanc
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
John Cleese! What a funny and fun interview to read and listen to.
There you go, my opinion on as many as I could answer…
Happy New Year All!
Laura (aka divetrash, aka Princess Laura, the sweet and innocent of Big Ed’s Evil Krewe)
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
The Holiday. It is small, very home – like atmosphere, very friendly crew!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD – all are Outstanding!
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Carnival vacation planner Jacquelyn Spier – the best in the business!
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Cozumel
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
any port in Alaska
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Vrooom
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Cruise Director Steve Cassell
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Steak – any cut
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Baked Alaska
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – who, out of the year’s captains, corporate executives and special guests I interviewed, did you find to be the most captivating?
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY The one I am on…why? well, duh??!!! I have yet to find a ship I don’t like!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD How can I pick just one???? If I have to then I pick Diana Metelka a bar waitress most recently on the Carnival Destiny!!! She earned her extra tips 10-fold!!! a true ambassador for Carnival!!
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD Again I can’t pick just one. They are all very welcoming…and of course sad when we have to leave
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL Just like the ship, the port I am in at the moment. I do particularly like Grand Turk and Halfmoon Cay
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL Costa Maya
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS I don’t attend enough shows to fairly comment
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD Why you of course…John Heald!
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM Spare ribs
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT tie between creme brulee and grand marnier souffle
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD the CD who did the series on his Alaska adventure
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY Inspiration Home Port Home Ship. Leaving 1/8/09 for 5th on Inspiration 20th CCL.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD George the Greek Carnival Inspiration Maitre D
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD Ian Cort my PVP Always goes above and beyond getting us the best deals and handling any special requests. Calls back on days off. Truly the best!
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Cozumel
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Key West used to be New Orleans when the 7 day Tampa Itinerary went there.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS – Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD – John Heald / Ron Pass
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM – Lobster
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT Warm Chocolate Melting Cake.
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – Jaimes “Dear John” Blogs
1) Carnival Conquest-went on it twice and prefer the larger ships.
Anything I didn’t have to cook! Ok, like the pork chops because I don’t get them often.
2) Bryon Frye-Sr Ent Tech-(my son of course) but since he doesn’t work for Carnival anymore I will say Karl with a K-loved him on the Paradise and he went out of his way to make our visit with our son special
3) DJ Myrick (my PVP)-she goes above and beyond.
4) Cozumel-have only been on 3 cruises and since 2 were the same, don’t have much to go on but like the shopping and Isle of Passion.
5) Catalina was a nice quiet break to roam.
6) Point and Click
7) Not sure of his name but was on the Conquest in April and did the Motown show. He was friendly and I appreciated the fact that he recognized the techs and band. Also liked the magician on the Paradise in April 2007.
9) Chocolate Melting Cake.
10) Any that talk about life on a ship.
Hello,
I love it when someone asks me for my opinion. So here goes:
1. Favorite ship – For decor, the formerly non-smoking Paradise. But since it’s no longer non-smoking, I like the Legend. We like the layout of the Spirit class ships the best, and of those I like the decor of the Legend, especially the lido buffet with all the castles.
2. Outstanding crew member – wow, there have been so many. My favorite CD’s so far were Wee Jimmy and Todd Whitmer. There was a South African man named CJ (I think) on Todd’s staff who was really nice, and helpful.
3. Stephanie.
4. Cozumel or St. Thomas
5. Tie- Honolulu, Skagway, Bermuda, Halifax, Venice, and Monte Carlo.
6. Ticket to Ride
7. Marvin Bell
8. Pork chop with rice and beans dish, and filet mignon – as long as mushrooms are available.
9. Chocolate melting cake. That’s why it’s always on the menu. You didn’t ask, but my least favorite is Baked Alaska. Yuk.
10. I really enjoyed them all. The one I personally enjoyed is Lawrence, the production singer. Because if I ever got a job on a cruise ship, it would be that one. (I’m probably too old now, though.)
Thanks for asking.
This is tough! All subject to change after next week on the Glory, though!
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Tied between the Carnival Liberty and Carnival Miracle
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
“Karl with a K” – he really made both our Liberty cruises so much fun!
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Vacation Planner Linda Cassidy – always there to answer any questions or help with any issues
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Limon, Costa Rica
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Haven’t been to one yet!
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride on the Miracle
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Tied between Al Ernst and the gentleman who’s name escapes me that does the Samy Davis/Frank Sinatra type tribute
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Filet Mignon and the Mango Cream Soup
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Tiramisu
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD -
Tough on this one – they are all fun to read!
John, I am in complete agreement with you regarding golf. I have played once, a beautiful course on Captiva Island. It’s in the southwest corner of Florida and it hangs out over the water. I shot a very respectable 72. My problem was, that was over the first four holes.
I hit straight, it looks like I hit properly, but it goes 10 feet. I was tired after that and gave it up.
Awards:
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY: the Glory. Good size to contain activity for everyone we travel with. First entertained by John Heald; who could resist after that.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD: John Heald; Butch the CD; Putu the waiter, Glory 9/08; Torcado the waiter, Inspiration 5/08.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD: split between Stephanie for her work on this blog, and the whole team at Port Canaveral that makes the process so easy.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL: St. Maarten
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS: Rock Down Broadway
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD: Marcus Anthony; Percy Crews II; Happy Coles; Al Ernst
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM: prime rib
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT: warm chocolate melting cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD: Gavin McLeod
1.YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP
The Freedom – love the Seaside Theatre and the Piano Bar. I have spent most of my time on this ship as well.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
We had a waiter on our first cruise on the Liberty (I think his name was Willmer). At dinner one night, my friend inquired about a dessert he had seen on Lido during the day. It was not on the menu that evening but this gentleman went up to Lido, found the cake and brought down a considerable chunk of this cake. My friend had enough for dinner and stored the rest in his cabin fridge for the remainder of the cruise.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Hands down – Half Moon Cay
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Istanbul – We visited Istanbul as part of our Med. cruise this summer and fell in love with the people and the overwhelming cultural significance of this city.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride – The Beatles are the best!
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Ron Pass – Piano God!
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Lobster, Tom Turkey, Seafood Penne
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Bitter and Blanc
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
John Cleese
Hi John:
)
I would like to wish you, Heidi and Thingy very happy, healthy & prosperous new year
Did I miss an announcement about Carnival not being in Europe anymore? I just wanted to plan a cruise there at the end of September ‘09.
1. Favorite Ship – Valor (it’s pretty & it was my first cruise)
2. Outstanding crewmember award – Dominique (ACD on Valor)
3. Outstanding Carnival shoreside employee. (N/A)
4. Best Caribbean port of call – St. Thomas
5. Best non Caribbean port of call – Venice
6. Best onboard show – the 80’s show on Valor)
7. Best shipboard entertainer – Marcus Anthony
8. Favorite onboard dinner menu item- Filet Mignon
9. Favorite onboard dessert – melting chocolate cake
10. Best blog guest interview award – Jamie
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP
……………..AND WHY
Carnival Fantasy because it was the first cruise ship I was on. The first is always special.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
I don’t know his name, but a couple months ago you had a video of your room steward on the Spelendor and I just thought he was great.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
—
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
St.Thomas
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
—
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Ticket to Ride (i think thats the name)
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Christopher Alan Graves
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Chateaubriand by far.
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Chocolate Melting Cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
I like Butch
I just was reading over what everyone had written about their favourite ship and why and it confirms my thoughts–I had a hard time choosing between the Sensation which was my very first cruise and I was so hooked, the Liberty which was my first time to Europe and what a spectacular cruise and the Splendor with the grandchildren. You love every one for a different reason and a waitress I met on the Destiny Alis Wah Kheng who is now a bartender on the Imagination that I still keep in touch with that made our family cruise on that ship so how do you choose a ship and an employee or crew member?
Big guys hear this–you are very lucky to have so many employees that make this company what it is and me as a stockholder very proud!
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY-Carnival Freedom, we’ve had 2 wonderful European cruises aboard her!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD-waiter Alan May 2008 on the Freedom, Katerina May 2007 Freedom
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD-Stephanie
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL-Grand Cayman–love stingray city
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL-Venice
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS-Ticket to Ride
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD-Motown guy from St Thomas, Anthony??
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM-lobster
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT-Chocolate melting cake
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW-Jaime’s guset blogs AWARD
I need to amend my answer to one of the questions and please anyone feel free to slap me upside the head for not thinking straight the first time…
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
It’s got to be Mistress of the Blog Stephanie. With all the work she puts into this blog and her other “social networking” duties, she still manages to answer all our queries and and deal with near constant pestering from the Krewe with graciousness and aplomb. I mean really, just dealing with Big Ed on a regular basis deserves some kind of award! LOL! (Love ya Ed!)
So yes, Stephanie is definitely the Oustanding Carnival Shoreside employee!
Laura (aka divetrash, aka Princess Laura, the sweet and innocent of Big Ed’s Evil Krewe)
John –
Here are the answers to your questions…
1. YOUR FAVORITE CARNIVAL SHIP – Carnival Splendor – She new and so shiny! Plus she had a wonderful staff that made for one of the most memorable vacations ever!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW (or staff in my case) MEMBER AWARD – Claire – Dance Captain of the Splendor, really one of the sweetest people I have ever met! Also a special shout out to Stitch – He knows how to get people involved! Also Kevin and Adele on the Splendor! =)
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD – Sandy in reservations! And the Port Canaveral folks! They have it down to a science!
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – Roatan BY FAR! So pretty and still somewhat untouched!
5. THE BEST NON-CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL – not sure but will be finding out on my Alaskan cruise on the Spirit in May!
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS – VROOM! This show is AMAZING
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD – I really enjoyed Scotch (guitar player/singer) on the Splendor! First entertainer I ever wanted to just sit and listen to! Also Happy Cole – one of the funniest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting (and actually having a conversation with)
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM – Beef Wellington and the Cesar Salad
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT – Bitter and Blanc
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD – I would say Wee Jimmy (which is not surprising) but I don’t think he ever got around to answering the questions…as for best guest Blogger I would say Bubba and Butch
Take Care and have a Happy New Year!
Ashley
Hello John
HERE WE Go!
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP …………….LEGEND BECAUSE IT TOOK US TO PLACES WE HAD NOT BEEN TO BEFORE AND WE MET JOHN HEALD.iT WAS OUR 1ST CRUISE WITH HIM.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD….KEN “THE VOICE” BYRNES. WE HAVE SAILED WITH HIM THREE TIMES.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD…..STEPHANIE LEAVITT.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL…….ST JOHNS.V.I.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL…….ST. JOHNS,NEWFOUNDLAND.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS……..”TICKET TO RIDE”
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD…….MARCUS ANTHONY
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM………PRIME RIB & LOBSTER
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT……CHOCOLATE MELTING CAKE.
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD……….KEN BYRNES, jOHN CLEESE,GUEST BLOGGER, BUBBA FROM ALASKA..
THANKS
HOPE THIS HELPS
HAPPY NEW YEAR
THE TUCKERS
ARNOLD & ELIZABETH
John please reply
How come the website price for balcony is cheaper on Carnival site than the Advertised doorbuster specials for past cruisers in the New Currents Magazine,price quoted in magazine… $799 4 balcony 4 Valor Sept/09 on line on Carnival site regular price is $749??? Whats up with that,??Thats kind of false advertising for a special isn’t it?-Sandra
NB Canada
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
The Mardi Gras, it was where the Fun began for us and many others. Best current ship would be the Conquest because its home ported in Galveston which is only an hours drive.
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
this would have to be Goose as we have never sailed with John.
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Sorry, when going ashore all thought of names is lost.
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Has to be Cozumel, been 10 times and still have not seen every thing.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Cabo, only other port we have been to.
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Varoom
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Steve Cassel, I know he is a CD but he is also so talented.
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
Lobster buy the two’s.
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
Chocolate melting cake, what else is there!
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Jamie and here dear John letters.
1. YOUR FAVOURITE CARNIVAL SHIP ……………..AND WHY
Splendor. She was beautiful, new, and that week was amazing! The stars all aligned to make it unforgettable!
2. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL CREW MEMBER AWARD
Oh wow! I can’t pick just one! So many have been wonderful. Claire-the dance captain on the Splendor. She is just so sweet and friendly. Really one of the nicest people in the world. Goose and Wee Jimmy rock! Stitch is really alot of fun and brings the fun out of people. Kevin and Adele are wonderful too! And our very first assistant waiter Dale Baker was great too. I wish I could remember his name, but our room steward on the Inspiration was the best ever! Oh and I can’t forget my very favorite ACD, BBig Sexy (even if he doesn’t answer email in a timely manner) One day John-I’ll add you to the lilist. Since we only met in Philly and not on a ship, I’ll have to hold back for now
3. THE OUTSTANDING CARNIVAL SHORESIDE EMPLOYEE AWARD
Sandy in Reservations. She has been great!
4. THE BEST CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Hmm. Roatan or Grand Turk. Though St. Thomas has always been special for other personal reasons.
5. THE BEST NON CARIBBEAN PORT OF CALL
Well, I’ve never cruised outside of the Caribbean, so I’ll have to pass. I’m hoping for Egypt one day!
6. THE BEST ONBOARD SHOW FEATURING THE DANCERS AND SINGERS
Vroom! and I liked the 80s a lot too!
7. THE BEST CARNIVAL SHIPBOARD ENTERTAINER AWARD
Happy Cole!!!
8. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DINNER MENU ITEM
You don’t serve it anymore, but the chicken stuffed with spinach was to die for.
9. YOUR FAVORITE ONBOARD DESSERT
The fig, date, and cinamon cake I tried last time. No idea the name of it though.
10. THE BEST BLOG GUEST INTERVIEW AWARD
Jamie’s letters are fun to read.
JOHN, I FINALLY FOUND YOU. IN NOV 2006 I SET SAIL ON THE CARNIVAL LIBERTY FROM ROME.(YES THE SHIP THAT GOT SICK) ANYWAY I WANTED TO SAY THAT , THAT WAS MY FIRST CARNIVAL CRUISE(ALSO MY HONEYMOON)
YOU WERE JUST AWSOME AND I TELL EVERYBODY IN MY FAMILY HOW FUN YOU MADE THE CRUISE. SOMETHING I WILL NEVER FORGET.
THANKS
JAIME@NICK
Hi John,
Just got back from my New Year’s cruise aboard the Carnival Splendor and am catching up on the blogs. I wanted to take the time to thank you for helping us arrange our dinner plans with Greg Gallello. We had an awesome time! Would’ve stayed on, but Laura had to get back for school (and I couldn’t convince anyone to pick her up at the airport and watch her for a week lol.