It’s 7:20 am. I couldn’t sleep and have been awake since 5:43 am. So, I have just come down to the kitchen and turned the espresso machine on. I bought it myself and I it’s the only thing with a plug in our kitchen that I truly know how to operate…….and truly love. I also bought one of those ludicrously big leather massage chairs. It’s a chair that massages you. I’m thinking of buying a hot tub next. There are a lot of things in my life that aren’t quite ’70s-porn enough and I’ve seen the way the neighbors look at me.
They’d definitely like to see more of my arse.
I have also been looking at buying a “home gymnasium” as Heidi is worried about shedding the excess weight after the Thingy has been born and lets face it…..I could do with losing a few prime rib dinners which have outstayed their welcome now. So……I have been researching which of the many home gym thingies to buy and I have definitely found the one for me……..it’s the future.
The Rom Time Machine is a home exercise system that retails at just under $15,000.
“Bugger off! Who makes it, NASA?” I hear you cry in disbelief. ……by the way ……… do any of you regular bloggers actually use the word “bugger “in everyday conversation?
Anyway……back to the gym. The Rom’s main selling point is that it promises to get you fit in four minutes a day. Yes, four minutes. The Rom (standing for range of motion) is an imposingly beautiful machine, in a Harley-Davidson meets Star Trek kind of way.
It’s also a quality piece of hardware — sturdy and built to last, even though the most useful characteristic of any home exercise machine is surely the ability hang laundry on.
I might get one simply on the grounds that it’s much easier to fail to work out for four minutes a day than for an hour. I know it’s $15,000, but what a timesaver! Think about it — spending that much money on not going to the gym would take me about 10 years.
I think I speak for all lazy sods everywhere when I say how very, very much we want to believe there is a magical exception to the “no pain, no gain” theory of fitness ……. even though we know this to be total bollocks.
Unfortunately the fitness industry has devised a bewildering array of products with this exact combination of personality traits in mind. There’s even one that makes less demand on my precious time than the Rom’s four minutes a day — a hand-held plastic device called 6 Second Abs. And it costs only $50. In my heart of hearts I know it can’t work. Who can’t afford $50 and six seconds a day? If it were that easy, everybody would not only own the machine, but sport a perfect six-pack too.
We’re back in “reassuringly expensive” territory with the $2,600 Power Plate, which looks like a set of bathroom scales and a metal detector. All it does, as far as I can tell, is vibrate. On the plus side, you use it for only five minutes.
If you’re looking for something cheaper, but have a whole half hour a day to spare, you could go for a $100 “toning belt” — a set of actual electrodes that you attach to your actual stomach in the hope of making it flat. Of course it doesn’t actually work; on the other hand, electric shock therapy is a highly effective cure for mental illness. And your brain would have to be the size of a mosquito’s kneecap to believe that mild electric currents would give you a six-pack.
Nevertheless, there’s something invigorating about having a selection of state-of-the-art fitness equipment close at hand whenever the mood for exercise takes me.
Why, only yesterday I spent a strenuous 40 minutes in the attic, rummaging in vain for — okay, I admit it — my 6 Second Abs machine. I was exhausted……but fortunately that counts as a whole year’s workout.
Let’s see if I have enough energy left to answer today’s questions………..here we go.
techmom Asked:
To Roxianne: My son worked with Jen on the Conquest and he liked her a lot. She was the CD in the midst of the hurricane and the Conquest had to relocate. Poor thing was “baptized” very quickly into her position.
To John (please reply): We are going on the Pride May 30th. It is going to strange to be only passengers on the ship not being greeted by our son when we embark or meeting everyone he had worked with. I asked him if he knew anyone working in the entertainment area on the ship who would like a mom and dad for the week. He didn’t so we will just have to be like everyone else…. Anyways, looking at your CD list, will Mark Price still be on the Pride for our cruise? We did have him on the Conquest and enjoyed him.
Thanks for your help!
KarenJohn says:
Hello Karen
Thanks for singing the praises of Jen who as you said became an overnight star during last year’s hurricane season. I appreciate your words of support do much and I am sure Roxianne will have a wonderful time with Jen as the cruise director.
I am sure there will be plenty of people on the Carnival Pride who will want a bonus Mum and Dad for a week and one such person is our great friend here on the blog Jaime who will be the assistant cruise director. Unfortunately I might as well tell you and many others that Mark Price will not be the CD has unfortunately Mark has decided to retire and will be leaving May 1. I want to take this opportunity to wish he and Lenka his wife much happiness in their new endeavors and welcome Kirk Benning as the new CD of the Carnival Pride. I have known Kirk a long time and I know he will do a brilliant job.
Please let me know if you have any more questions and my best to your son and have a wonderful cruise
Cheers
JohnBobby Asked:
Hi John, please reply. I went back to the other reply from two days ago. Thank you so much for answering the sea spi tour question, it is a bummer that they discontinued it. Oh well, do u know if they got a burrito bar on the Valor? John I appreciate all of your help, I have one more question, is there away that I can request to dine by a window in the dining room? All 5 of my cruises I have been seated in the middle it would be nice to look out while dining, if I can request it how do I go bout it?? Thank
BobbyJohn Says:
Hello Bobby
Yes, I know you and others are disappointed about the sea spi tour being cancelled but I hope you found some other possibilities from the list of tours I posted a few blogs ago. There is no burrito bar on the Carnival Valor as of yet but there is the brilliant Fish and Chips on deck 10 aft……….don’t miss that. Please remind me one week before you cruise and I will see what we can do for your table
Cheers
JohnRick Asked:
Hello John,
(Please Reply)
Thank you again for answering my previous questions and your help with the maitre’d and the supper club on our April 19 Conquest cruise. I think Jeanne will be very surprised.
Loved the blog yesterday and today. I would say to implement the Burrito bar on the ships, it’s a perfect anytime snack or meal.
I took your test and could honestly answer “B” to all but the last question. The cheese grater would be a tad to much.
It’s funny why they did away with the fruit punch (even though I could care less about fruit punch) was it primarily because of children spilling them or Adults? I ask because I know there are a few cocktails available as well as the drink of the day with fruit punch and I would have assumed someone imbibing might be more likely to spill or drop their drink.
Could you explain as to why there seems to be such a premium on the shore excursions offered by Carnival versus an independent broker?
Hope your still enjoying your time at home.
All of the best to yourself, Heidi and the new addition.
RickJohn Says:
Hello Rick
The fruit punch spillage situation was caused by a mixture of guests and the crew who clear the tables. Regardless whose fault it was I can understand why our housekeeping staff didn’t like it very much if it left permanent marks on the carpets. As I said the other day, we are looking for a replacement product so hopefully one will come along soon.
You asked about the cost of our shore excursions. Well, that’s a good question. We are given a price by the tour operator, that’s their cost and we also have to add our costs on which then gives you the price of the excursion. However, what you do get is the following: only the best operators offering the best excursions. Then, just as important you get the same peace of mind as you do when you onboard. This means that these excursions have been personally vetted by Carnival’s shore excursion team and we are able to keep track of which guests are on which tour at any given time. Also, if you are with an independent operator and you do not get the tour you were promised or the description of what they were going to give you does not match the actual experience then you have to deal with that operator alone. Obviously on a ship-purchased shore excursion you have a dedicated team of professional staff who will look after any concerns you have. For many people the major reason they take a Carnival tour is the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the operators are in touch with the vessel and can monitor the status of a particular tour.
Yes……….our excursions may cost a few more dollars than those you may find while Internet shopping but the reasons I have listed above are priceless.
Hope this helps and please let me know if you have any other questions
Cheers
JohnMelody Asked:
John,
{{{{{PLEASE RESPOND}}}}}
Say it ain’t so!!!!!!!!!!!! I’ve been checking another website and it looks like Carnival has removed the Bahamas itinerary from the Triumph when it moves to New Orleans! ARRRGHHH! I know it was there last week, but now…..oh, never mind! I was looking under Caribbean, not Bahamas’.
Any idea on when the June 2010 schedules are going to be released for the Triumph? This is sounding a little repetitive so I will answer for you…..No Melody, nothing yet! LOL
BTW being a parent isn’t difficult….well, not all the time! Good luck! You will do just fine!
MelodyJohn Says:
Hello Melody
Thanks for the parental advice Melody and I hope you are right
Well, you basically answered your own question and I promise I have not forgotten you. The summer schedules for 2010 will be with us soon and the moment they are I shall promise to let you know within minutes of me receiving the information.
Hang in there
I remain at your service
Cheers
JohnLynn and Dave Asked:
John, please respond…….please, please help. We are sailing on the Carnival Glory room —, on May 9th with a brother and sister-in-law room —-. We all requested 8:15 dining time and believe our reservations are linked together so that we will be seated together.
Our request is to have a table for four on the main dining room floor so that we can see all the action of the great dancing wait staff.
Thanks for any help you can give us.
Lynn
P.S. This will be our fourth time on the Glory and we are looking forward to it this time just as much as all of the other times, just 24 more days. And, 255 days until our first suite and it will be on the Carnival Dream!John Says:
Hello Lynn and Dave
Thanks for taking the time to write and I will certainly make sure your requests are noted by the maitre d. Don’t worry and I promise your fourth cruise on the Carnival Glory will be the best ever.
Cheers
JohnJustin Flood Asked:
Hello John,
Please reply if you get the chance.
I just wanted to say hello, my girlfriend (now fiancée) and I sailed with you on the First Blogger’s cruise, and to date it has been my all-time favorite vacation experience. You made our cruise an absolutely fantastic time, and your rendition of “the bedtime story” was the very first time I have ever literally fallen out of my seat laughing. You are definitely the proof that a great Cruise Director can really make a difference.
That brings me to my question.
My fiancée and I are sailing on May 17th, on the Pride out of Baltimore. We are taking my parents on their very first cruise, and their first vacation since their honeymoon 30 years to the day that we’ll be sailing. I’d like to do something special for them on board, but I’m at a loss for ideas. Do you have any suggestions?
Also, would you happen to know who the cruise director on my voyage will be, and also who the Piano Bar player will be? The Piano Bar tends to be one of my favorite activities on the ship, and I’m hoping we’ll be able to enjoy the talents of someone great on our voyage.
Thanks again John! You’re the best! Best of luck to you and Heidi with your new thingy!
–Justin & JessicaJohn Says:
Hello Justin and Jessica
Thanks for the kind words and I am so glad you have such happy memories of that first bloggers cruise on the Carnival Freedom and that the Bedtime Story gave you a good chuckle.
The CD was supposed to be Mark Price and as you may have read above he has just announced his retirement and you will now have the brilliant Kirk Benning as your cruise director. I will check later today to see who the piano bar entertainer is but I bet Laura (Divetrash), our unofficial head of piano bar entertainment, will be able to tell you before I do. Anyway, I will let you know in tomorrows blog mate. Now, for your parents. I suggest you pay for them to go to the supper club for a romantic dinner for two paid for by a son and future daughter-in-law who love them very much. If you want to book this for them you can do so online using this link thingy here:
http://www.carnival.com/cms/Static_Templates/MyReservation/supper_club.aspx?icid=CC_Hyperlink_7
This will be a night they never forget and if you remind me a few days before sailing I am sure I can leave them a little belated honeymoon gift as well.
I know you will all have a brilliant time and I send my best wishes to you all
JohnBrenda R Asked:
John Please Reply
I previously wrote…My husband works for a man who runs a business institute. His boss is interested in conducting a week long series of classes while onboard a cruise ship…etc…
And you replied with a series of questions which I have copied below:
Just before I try and point you in the right direction may I ask if this chap wants to conduct these classes to the entire ship or is he travelling with a large group who have maybe already booked a cruise?
1. No, he has not yet booked a cruise. He would like to have a group consisting of around 300-700 people enrolled in his classes plus their families who will be travelling with them.
If this is the case I would need the name of the ship and sailing date. If not and he would like to do this as and when then please kindly send me his details and I will ask someone from our entertainment department contact him
2. He would like to schedule rooms for classes to hold 300-700 for 3-5 days on board. He does not have a particular date picked out yet. Please contact
Thank you very much!
BrendaJohn Says:
Hello Brenda
Thanks for the information and I will make sure you are contacted by someone in our group sales department. This sounds like a very exciting plan and we would be proud to host Paul and his guests onboard.
Thanks for writing and I remain here if you need me for anything else.
Best Regards
JohnSlickabrina Asked:
Hi John – PLEASE REPLY…
I’ll be sailing on Splendor shortly and while on our Glory sailing in October, our head waiter had indicated he would be heading to Splendor in January. I had mentioned this to you while on the Blogger’s Cruise but would it be possible to find out if he is on board and in which dining room? The only info I can share is that his name is Mel and he is from the Philippines. Also, he was going to be sent to Conquest but then got changed to Splendor.
I know that’s not much to go on so it’s ok if you aren’t able to find anything out.
Thank you!
ColleenJohn Says:
Hello Colleen
No worries…….let me ask Ken and let us see what we can find out. I will write as soon as I have the answer
Cheers
JohnMort13ers Asked:
For John/Thank you/Reply, Sorry it took a little while for me to write about our Fantastic time on the Freedom 4/5/09. First off we are all suffering from the Post cruise blues, not to mention we got to fly from Sunny 85 degree Fort Lauderdale into a very pleasant pouring rain/snow 32 degree Boston, Not the best way to end your cruise. John, thank you very much for the gifts, I heard the chocolate cover strawberries were delicious as I came back to the cabin 2 minutes after they arrived…… My wife and sons took care of them. Well the Fun ship experience started right at embarkation, as we sat in the lounge eagerly waiting to board the ship, the shore side staff started playing trivia, singing and even tossing around a beach ball with the passengers waiting to board. I like the fact once you board they were a number of crew members dressed in bright red shirts with the large letters of “Just ask Me” if you had any questions. We had a great table in the posh dinning room 333 right at the stern of the ship, we got to see the sunset everyday during dinner it was real nice. Dino was our ever Friendly Maitre d’ and Alexander and I believe Dimitri (I wrote their names down, but now I cannot find the paper) were our servers who did a fantastic job. The food was EXCELLENT, the best we have had in some time. We did have over 1500 kids on board and security did an excellent job with them, I would say 99% of the kids were well behaved, no issues, Just a few elevators with the buttons pushed, no big deal.( I am sure I would have done the same at that age). I along with you and probably everyone else out there agree Grand Cayman Needs a Dock; we were luckily that we could be tendered in on the other side of the island, but 4 other ships had to miss this beautiful port of call. The onboard staff was great always smiling, and I loved the new Deck Challenge for the Deck Party, that Todd and his staff have incorporated. It was a great cruise and we took full advantage of the future cruise deposit/on board credit program Carnival offered. My wife and I are trying to decide on a nice 5 day Anniversary cruise, but the kids are not happy as we are going to go solo this time. Sorry for the long post which could have been a lot longer but I wanted to say Thank you again. Just 2 quick thoughts Debarkation probably went the smoothest I’ve seen in years. We did not due self assist but saw that it ran very smoothly and then we were called by group number, and again very smoothly. A lot of passenger like the idea of the luggage express (that’s a keeper). One last note about the tipping of the maitre d’ this has been the long standing question of why tip him and how much. My comment would be like everyone else, have a suggested amount printed somewhere; as Dino did a great job for us.
Thanks again John, and here is wishing Heidi, Thingy and you a very Healthy, Happy, glorious day coming up. (Notice the Order Heidi, thingy and Then YOU) Like all of us men you will get used to it.John Says:
Hello Mort13ers
What a wonderful report and one I have already shared with the vessel. I am so glad that you enjoyed the staff and all the special touches you mentioned above. I am glad also that you enjoyed Todd and his staff. It is obvious why we have chosen him to be the cruise director of the Carnival Dream and I am so very proud of what he has accomplished. It was also wonderful to read that the debarkation went smoothly. I know we have been working hard on this and will continue to do so and it’s nice to read that this hard work has been noticed.
Yep………I agree Grand Cayman needs a dock but as far as I know I don’t think we will be seeing one in the near future. I also see that you stated how friendly the crew were and the scene for a fun cruise was set right from embarkation as the shore side staff entertained you ………that’s brilliant.
You asked about tipping the maitre d and why we ask you to do so. Well, they all set the scene and all the parades and iconic dances and the friendly and fun service you hopefully receive all starts with the maitre d and all cruise lines…………..not just Carnival ……………we do ask that if you have experienced great service and if the maitre d has been attentive to your table that you pass on a gratuity to him or her.
Now………how much? Well, that’s at your discretion and when people ask me I always say “just a few dollars.” That probably doesn’t help does it? OK, let’s say you are on the cruise with a family of four. If it were me and the maitre d had visited the table and provided a fun environment in the dining room, I would put $5 in the envelope provided in the cabin……obviously this is just a suggestion and you may decide they deserve more, or less or nothing at all. It’s at your discretion which is why we never really mention amounts.
I would be interested to read what other bloggers have to say about this.
Anyway…….thanks again for the glowing report and I am so glad you had such a wonderful time
My best to you all
John
That’s all for today. I will have more tomorrow.
I see many of you have written in regarding the smoking policies onboard. On Monday I will collate all the information together and send your thoughts way up the line. So, if you have anything to add please let me know over the weekend ………remember your opinion counts.
Now, someone had asked “How is it decided who gets an upgrade?” and I had promised to find out………..well………here is the official answer from the lovely Brenda Yester who leads a very talented team of professionals as our vice president of revenue management.
Hi John:
Thanks for the opportunity to respond to your reader’s question about upgrades aboard Carnival.While we do receive upgrade requests, the reality is that most of our cruises sail at full capacity so the opportunities for upgrades are somewhat limited.
Typically, when we are able to upgrade we give our Platinum guests priority. We also consider how much a guest paid for the cabin.
Thanks John and big thank you to all the blog readers for their continuing support.
Brenda
Thanks Brenda. So, those are the basic guidelines that our staff offer upgrades on and I think we would all agree that upgrades should go to those who are Platinum guests first …………..this should be an incentive for everyone to reach their 10 cruises.
However, as Brenda says, upgrades are few and far between because for the most part our ships sail full. You know, it is quite amazing that each and every cruise on each and every ship our pursers office…….bugger………I mean our guest services desk always gets requests for upgrades and usually from people who have booked an inside cabin and now want an upgrade to a balcony cabin.
This is something that has gotten more popular over the years as compared to yesteryear people seem to have no problem in asking for free upgrades, not just on a ship but with the airlines and in the hotel industry. There is never any harm in asking although but do prepared to hear the news that the ship is sold out.
One of the most common reasons our guests ask to get upgraded is to say that “they are on their honeymoon” and while many are……many are definitely not. And it’s the same top reason used in order to blag (www.urbandictionary.com) a free upgrade on a plane? The things people will do for a bit of extra legroom and a linen napkin…
Now, here with important money saving news…….is our friend Stephanie
Hi Everyone,
In honor of fun times and the approach of summer we launched a 72 hour sale yesterday. So Thursday, April 16th through Saturday, April 18th ONLY – book any of our select summer sailings, and receive a FREE stateroom upgrade plus up to $240* to spend on board. Best of all, whatever you don’t spend, you can take home with you.
For more info on the 72 hour sale click here
Have a great weekend!
Stephanie
I read recently about a Mrs. Mason who had her daughter feign paraplegia to get to the front of the lines at Euro Disney which of course is totally and utterly wrong. Yet we stand back and applaud airline and cruise ship passengers who’ll pull any old scam to win something for nothing. I have yet to see a book entitled How to Buy a Hyundai for $20,000 but make them give you an Aston Martin instead but there are several volumes on how to get upgraded on airlines and many different posts and comments on how to get something for free onboard……..for all I know there may even be a book about it.
If I sound pissed off it’s because a) I never get upgraded, and b) my friend and ex-Dutch Purser Mioline used to work at an airport check-in desk and spent years stifling giggles as passengers tried anything from manic flirting to dressing in a expensive suit and addressing her as if she were a scullery maid so that they might turn left on the plane.
Mioline did tell me that the best bet is to volunteer to be “bumped” on to a later flight if the airline has overbooked. But surely hanging around the crap shops for another three hours rather defeats the point? Then there’s the tip about greeting your check-in person with a winning smile and a “Wow, you have beautiful eyes”…. but don’t forget they have heard it 2,000 times before and will almost certainly think you’re a tosspot (www.urbandictionary.com) especially if you have just told someone called Bob that he has beautiful eyes.
Here are some of the things that Mioline has told me about during her time at the British Airways Desk at Heathrow. Many people claim that these have worked for them: walking to check-in with a pronounced limp; claiming to have just recovered from DVT; buying coffee for the gate agents; wearing a tie (Eh? Have you seen how millionaire celebs dress?); lying that they nearly missed their connection due to a “crap” rival airline, thus making staff seize a PR opportunity to upgrade them; deliberately breaking their economy seat; arriving late; arriving early; wearing comedy high heels, claiming to be a giant or a power forward for the Miami Heat.
It’s nice to be in business but, really, I care more about my plane not plunging to the ground in flames than the width of the armrest. But FYI, here’s what my friend Mioline says: Upgrades these days tend to go to frequent fliers and those who’ve paid top dollar for their ticket. However, when she had the discretion she’d give it to someone who didn’t ask at all but just seemed nice. Oh yes……..and there’s always that old-fashioned, sure-fire way to guarantee your upgrade………….Open your wallet and pay for it.
Of course people still go to the purser’s office…..bugger………guest relations desk on that first day for what is quite often the strangest reasons.
Let’s go back to 1996 on the Carnival Destiny where I experienced this first hand. Now the important thing here is that the ship is in Miami……it’s embarkation day……..the ship has yet to leave…….it’s tied up against the side of the pier………..this is very important to remember.
So, there I am in the back office of the then purser’s office and suddenly I hear quite a commotion at the desk. So being a nosey bugger I go to see what’s happening. There at the desk is a man refusing to stand in the busy embarkation line which is full of honeymooners, giants of industry and people wanting upgrades because they are good friends of the owners “Mr. and Mrs. Arnisen” ….that’s another very common way of trying to get an upgrade……”I am the next door neighbor of Gerry Cahill’s cousin’s gardener.”
Anyway, I digress. This chap is really irate and so the purser (Andy Brown who is now a hotel director) started to try and calm him down……..and this is honestly…..I swear …….. how the conversation went that embarkation day two hours before sailing
ANDY WHAT SEEMS TO BE THE PROBLEM?
MR. ANGRY I HAVE PAID HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS
FOR A CABIN WITH A BALCONY
ANDY OK, LETS SEE WHAT WE CAN DO, WHAT’S YOUR CABIN NUMBER?
Mr. Angry then tells him and Andy checks his cabin number
ANDY SIR, I HAVE CHECKED YOUR CABIN AND
IT DOES INDEED HAVE A BALCONY
MR. ANGRY YES IT HAS A BALCONY BUT ALL I CAN
SEE IS THE PARKING LOT.
Andy fainted.
Goodnight
Your friends
John, Heidi and the Thingy
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
Hi John, I can tell you the perfect home exercise machine to buy. It is really simple. Buy the one you will use. If you buy one that just ends up being an expensive coat hanger you have just thrown your money away. Maybe you should hire a personal trainer who will make you work out. Sometimes life just gets in the way of things we should do doesn’t it?
Say hi to Heidi.
Jo
Ay John John,
You messed that one up, lol. It is suppossed to be I bought an ocean view and all I can see is the parking lot. Oh well, it happens, I’m sure you have a lot on your mind. Have a great weekend!
-Marc G
John, yes you have made BUGGER part of our everyday speaking.
Why would you want just a six-pack of abs when you and I have a whole KEG-O-ABS. Would you rather have a party with only a six pack of beer or one with a whole keg of beer. Well the same goes for men have a real man a man with Keg-O-Abs.
Now I see why I don’t get upgrades. I watch for the sales that have upgrades built in to them. For BC4 I got a 8F cabin for the price of a 8A. That was a 6 cat upgrade. So I guess I wont be getting upgraded to a suite for that cruise either.
BIG ED
Bugger With Keg-O-Abs and no Upgrades
Hi John,
Once again I will leave my office with a smile on my face. That exchange on the Destiny was priceless.
I’m the last person to advise about exercising, but I think I would recommend the Wii system. My sister bought the exercise component, they have the golf game, the bowling game, plus others – you really get a workout with the system. It’s probably a whole lot cheaper than all the home-gym equipment and takes up a lot less space.
Have a great weekend, and one last time, I still want to smoke on my balcony and in some of the lounges & starboard side of Lido.
Hugs,
Carol
Sorry to hear about Mark Price retiring. He was our cruise director for our first cruise and he was also the first CD to experience the ‘Scots from the Conquest Crazies, I believe. The Crazies wish him luck and hope he has a very happy post Carnival life.
John,
I have periodically checked in on your website and think it and you remain a major pr force in the industry. I just wanted to ad my warmest congratulations on the pending arrival of Carnival’s next super CD.
All the best,
Joe
Well John, thank you for the shout out.
There’s a lot of turnover in the piano bars right now through the beginning of May. So I’ve been beating the bushes harder than usual… and I’ve come up with a name for the Pride Piano Bar Doug Ross from 4/19/2009 to 7/17/2009, when Richie Canter will take over from him.
Whew. So has Carnival got an official job for me yet? LOL!
All the best to Heidi and Thingy. Big hello to Stephanie, Mistress of the Blog.
Take care,
Laura (aka divetrash, aka Princess Laura)
Please pass along my wishes for a wonderful, fruitful life to Mark. He will be missed.
Bugger… I use it but in this way ‘As John would say… bugger…’ and everyone knows what I’m talking about!! Gotta love Bloggers!!!
Regarding the mental midget who was berating poor Andy, someone should have told him that they will be glad to move the parking lot but it will take about two hours…
All my best to Heidi and the Thingy!!!
Ciao!!
Host Mach
HELLO JOHN:
Sorry for shouting, but you are so far away.
As far as smoking, I used t0 do it, and now being around smoking is hard to take, never was this bad before I smoked, and of course while I smoked. I have been on balconies where the smoke was drifting past and it was enough to put me inside. I have been on the fantail and had smoke drifting past from the smoking tables, and left. Also some of the cabin ventilation must draw from an upper deck area, because from time to time on the Freedom we would get gassed by some cigar odor coming out of the ventilator. But, I always considered that the smokers had the right to do what Carnival allowed. I would like it if Carnival set up some none smoking cabins in an area, like the whole bloody starboard side, so we could get away from it and also post no smoking signs near the cabin ventilation intakes. But, not a make or break proposition, just a tweak if you can do it.
I would be gobsmacked if we could go to Cuba on a funship. So lets hope the feds eliminate the travel restrictions, 47 years is a long time and what good does it do? Carnival would be in tall cotton (local term for in the money) because I hear the land accomodations are sparse.
Go for at least 30 minute brisk walks every day while you still can, quit eating anything made with flour, and leave out all sugar (easy for you), eat reasonable portions during regular mealtimes, lots of green beans when you get hungry, and the pounds will melt off. No preaching, it just works, or go buy a $15,000 fad that will end up as you said a clothes rack. I have about four machines that gather dust, every once in a while I use the thingy that uses the big black rubber springs, feels good, but a weight loss miracle, no way. A treadmill is good for rainy days when you can’t walk, uses different muscle groups I found out.
If you think the pregnancy hormones are something, wait till your sweetie gets the change of life hormonal swings, brutal. That little Heald to be is in the driver seat now my friend. The labor will start when the baby gets hungry and can’t get enough from the feeding hose. Well nourished mamma, full term baby, most of the time.
Best wishes Heidi, Heald to be, and of course proud papa, John.
YOUR FRIEND
BILL HECK
Can you hear me now?
John,
Love Susan Boyle, she made me cry, and I watch the video daily. She should be Carnival Dream’s godmother, or at least sign for the celebration! (Her video is on Oprah today!)
Smoking: I know I’ve already posted my opinion, but I really want Carnival to understand that because of the smoke in the Casino, we don’t go there. We usually go to our local casino monthly and pay some executive’s salary for a year, but they have better smoke abatement than Carnival appears to have.
Why can’t the ships have better smoke removal systems? I can handle a little smoke, but it tends to be overwhelming in the smaller areas.
As for some comments about smoking outdoors and why would it bother someone, well, when you are smoking, it blows around and it may or may not drift my direction. On a balcony, I would appreciate not smelling smoke at all, but I can handle a little bit. Our last cruise, it was A LOT. I didn’t realize the Starboard side was smokers side on the lido, consequently a lot of the smoke made it to our balcony just below the lido. Next time I’ll know better. THankfully our neighbor tried to smoke when we were indoors, and when we came out to the balcony, he stopped. He is a thoughtful smoker.
I just wish there was one side or front of the ship was non-smoking cabins. It would probably solve a lot of the arguments.
Anyway thank you for asking our opinion. I appreciate it.
Lisa
John,
You, sir, are a brilliant blogging buggar! You keep me in bollocking stitches with every post!
I started reading your blog after I got back from our 3-29-09 Valor sailing. I ran into a gal who was waiting with me for the shuttle from the parking garage to the pier, and she was on her 44th CRUISE with Carnival. I was so impressed! Is that not a brillant and envious feat?
This gal name dropped you, and mentioned that she was disappointed you just left the ship the week earlier to go home to Heidi and your Thingy-babe, and would not be sailing with us. She must have been one of your blogging groupies. Anyhoo, after your name came up, I decided I would check you out when I got home…and you have not disappointed since.
Thank you for the daily musings and your cute Brit wit, and for the informative information that is very informing, provided in an informal, yet non formidable setting, concerning all things Carnival (and pre-natal, and even trivial). I have learned lots from you…and tho I am not a Platinum Carnie yet, I am 1/2 way there. (So what level are you at on your 44th cruise? God?)
So, in closing…we did have a grand time, in our first balcony room on the Spa deck, and met some wonderful strangers and who we parted with as friends, as well as enjoyed every exhilirating excursion. I am just sorry we missed you on this ship…I am not sure when I will catch up with you again as CD on a future sailing (man, I was THISCLOSE to meeting you, BUGGAR!)…..but you are most DEF an asset to the fleet! It would be our priviledge if you were ever our CD on a future cruise.
I will be thinking of you, your lovely Heidi and Thingy-babe on his/her upcoming eviction!
Whatever you do, DON’T FREAK!
Signed,
Your latest blogging groupie thingy (who spent 3 years in London as a teen – some of them buggar years tho – and who very much appreciates your HUMOUR, and who misses Flake bars and Peach Melba),
Jessica T.
Hi John!
I love the tv commercials promoting these fitness machines. The cost of one of these is astronomical.
That is afunny story about the parking lot/balcony. I agree with Mach that the guy clearly was a mental midget.
I donlt get upgrades for anything regardless of my status. I agree with you that I would rather get from A to B safely. Now if you want to comp an owner’s suite just cuz you like me, then that’s ok
Have a nice evening.
Hi Heidi!
David
Hi John;
Please add me to the list of those for the less areas for smoking on board the better. A great job by the cabin staff as it never smells like someone has smoked in the cabin, and I am sure they have, but the smoke wafting along the balcony spoils the enjoyment of a clear night and a good scotch.
Think of you as you await the arrival.
John,
I agree with the previous poster that the best exercise is the one that you will do and the best machine is one that you will use. I think you are about to get an exercise machine delivered to you. Put that Thingy in a stroller, place your hands on the handles and push. Repeat several times a day or whenever Heidi needs a few minutes to herself.
Chuck
Hi John,
Just wanted to let you know that Carnival Triumph’s schedule through 2010 is on Carnival’s web site. It is nice to know the schedule from New Orleans for next year, now I am just waiting for the schedule for the Fantasy to be posted so I can decide which cruise for 2010.
Have a good weekend.
Cindy
Hey John….
Hope things are well with you, Heidi, and Thingy!
Cuba- Let’s go. Seeing all the old cars and buildings would be wonderful.
Smoking- Being a former smoker I understand the rights of smokers. I tried always to be careful not to offend anyone while practicing my nasty habit. However, I did get berated at outside places where smoking was allowed! (California not where I live in Texas) This is difficult….Maybe you could make either side of the ship non-smoking or how about from the center back so that folks still had a pick of port or starboard.
I’m glad it is a decision I don’t have to make! Fortunately it is Carnivals decision to make. Be careful however, government will soon be making that decision for you! Most US cities are getting very critical of where smoking is allowed!
Please take care!
John & Susan from Frisco, Tx
P.S. Try a recumbent bike. It is for guys like me and you. It saves your knees while giving you a workout. Also, I know that I told you Susan and I were dieting. Boy is it tough! But, we are doing weight watchers. In eight weeks Susan is down over twenty lbs and I’m down over 40! There is no quick fix….it is till less calories in than you use in a day!
John,
Thanks to you I use the word “bugger” all the time instead of the “f” word. Thank you for that.
Love to you, Heidi and the Thingy!
Princess Elaine, the quiet and single
John, I know of an exercise that doesn’t take any time out of your schedule at all. It’s is very simple and doesn’t cost any money, and even better you don’t have another gadget to store in the attic. You don’t even end up with sore muscles,
You have pushed, lifted and also walked……………. 3 great exercises……….. giggle
It’s pushing your chair away from the table, getting up, and walking away before you have eaten too much and especially before the dessert is served…
Thomgirl is speaking of Gloria aka Sue. Sue
and I were talking to her while we were waiting on the shuttle bus. And of course we were speaking highly of our favorite CD…… drum roll………
the one and only writer of this blog………… John Heald
Tell Heidi that I have always heard that more babies are born around the full of the moon. But that isn’t going to make it any sooner in her case. The full of the moon is May 9th…………..booger. I was hoping it might be a week or so before her actual due date.
I’m so glad the blankets I crocheted for the wee little one finally made it to you. You can wrap it up in one of them and know it is wrapped
in love from Don and myself.
Countess Carolyn
PS better get all of the sleep you can, it’s not long until 2 o’clock feedings and walking the floor.
Dear John: I hate to be a negative person, but –
does Cruiselion ever think about what that scotch does to his liver. Oops here I go being negative again.
As for the exercise machines, please think this over very carefully. I have a room full of equipment, bought on the spur of the moment with good intentions, that I would give you to take off my hands real cheap. (and sorrowfully, I’m still chubby).
Love to Heidi and the coming attraction, Mary Lou
John,
you asked for some input on the Smoking and Cuba, well here is my 2 cents
1) Cuba, It is unfortunate to have what I am sure is a beautiful island in the carribbean that all boats, ships are leaving from rather than visiting. I have mixed feeling on this. But to also say what better a way to show how well cappitalism works then to spend money. I am sure you might appreciate that you can get your cigars easier. I will say it would be nice to see more of the world and adding Cuba would be good and maybe with the traffice we can inffluence a change. just make sure security is on alert when people are boarding or you may get a few extra travelers.
2) Smoking. This issue actually is very important to me, I am a non smoker and do not like smoke from Cigarettes and think that the idea of a considerate smoker to be an oxymoron. I fully support Carnival making all indor pubic areas smoke free and I think making 1 side of the ship cabins and all open decks smoke free.
The smoking population is shrinking and there is a reason for that, they keep dying. people may compare drinking to smoking, but if I have a beer I am not affecting other people’s ability to breath.
Most smokers not all are very inconsiderate, they will stand right outside doors so you have to walk through there smoke and worst off throw butts on the ground.
The biggest issue I have with smoking is My mothers Health, my Mother has Chronic bronchitis and one wiff of smoke she will be in the hospital needing steroids for an infection in her lungs.
I have gone on long enough but I look forwad to the day when I can go to a store, bar or where ever and walk out side the door and not have to walk through a could of cigarette smoke
John:
Mark Price will be missed. We were only able to sail with him once, but he made a lasting impression.
I know I have told this story before, but it will truly never be forgotten. Mark found out that DJ had never won a ship on a stick while Josh (oldest son), David and I always won at least one on a cruise.
DJ was 11 years old and had really tried in Camp Carnival for years to win one…but (because of his Autism) had been unsuccessful.
Mark arranged for DJ to gain his first ship on a stick (along with a kiss from two very cute young ladies who were Social Hosts….) I will have to see if I can load up the pictures, because they were priceless.
It was one of those “shine” moments (that I talked about yesterday) that Cruise Directors create. And DJ really shined. DJ still talks about it to this day.
Thanks Mark….may the next phase of your life be as rewarding as the past!!
Btw, the best way to lose weight is absolutely free.
It is called walking. 4 miles a day will take 30 pounds off in 6 months. I am living proof!!!
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
JOHN – PLEASE REPLY
Upgrades – we’ve had more than a few. Carnival has upgraded us twice to a Cat 12 suite on the Paradise and we have also gotten upgrades on other cruises – all because of the fact that we are willing to accept TBA as our cabin assignment.
But the best story I have about upgrades relates to our fourth cruise on the (now defunct) Smokefree Paradise. We had made our own flight reservations and arrived at the airport to discover we were #3 on the waiting list – the airline had oversold the flight.
Anyway, we waited patiently and finally, the agent called for “MTSFP party of two, please come to the desk”. I went up and we were give our tickets – seats 2D and 2F.
When I got back to the Mrs. and informed her of our seat assignments, she expressed displeasure “because we weren’t sitting together.” I responded with glee “there is no E in First Class.”
We got to board with the Elite and were enjoying the amenities that we were given – one of the stewardesses asked where we were going, so I said, quite tongue in cheek, “on our second honeymoon.” It was a lie, because we never really had a first honeymoon.
Before we deplaned, the stewardess gave us a bottle of champagne to celebrate “our second honeymoon”. Since we knew we weren’t supposed to take alcoholic beverages on board, I was forced to drink it that night in our hotel room.
To make things even better, we arrived at the Ft Lauderdale airport the next morning to take the shuttle down to Miami. Because we were TBA, the Carnival representative gave us our cabin assignment. We had booked a Cat 6C, but were assigned to a wonderful Cat 12 suite – our first experience in a suite.
Upgrades are wonderful and they do help to make the experience better, but, as I have always stated, these issues do not make the cruise experience. You make the cruise experience.
Anyway, I really don’t have anything for you to respond to – except for my idea for a name for Thingy. If it is a boy, I think you should name him WOULDYOULIKETOBE – think of the benefit to him when he gets older. He can introduce himself and ask the pretty ladies “would you like to be heald” at the same time
JustcausingtroubleJon
Hi John,
I had replied to Melody for you awhile back but here it is again as it seems she did not see it. The schedule for the Triumph for June 2010 is
June 5 7-night Belize, Roatan & Cozumel
June 12 5-night Progreso & Cozumel
June 17 4-night Cozumel
June 21 5-night Progreso & Cozumel
June 26 5-night Progreso & Cozumel
This is from the Carnival 2009-2010 Cruise Vacations book. She was wanting to do an Eastern but it is not offered in June.
Dave
I am looking forward to going to Cuba. I will be booked on the first cruise there, even if it is not with Carnival, hopefully not. I have figured out that when you exercise and work up a sweat that is your muscles crying so I have decided not to put my muscles thru that. When it gets closer to our cruise on Legend I will set up supper club reservations for us 4. I am still trying to get my Aunt and Uncle’s booking number from them so I can have there room decorated and the supper club. They are in for a real treat from me and Carnival. Tell Heidi to hold thingy in until May 16 I will be happy to share it with your family.
John,
On both of our cruises we have sailed on our Anniversary (25th and 28th) and both times were lucky enough to have been bumped into either a higher level of a Balcony or a Suite. This was neither something that we had asked for or expected but when Carnival did so it really made our cruise and our appreciation of Carnival Cruise Lines that much better. We had paid full price for the balcony rooms which are absolutely wonderful but now that you have bumped us into a suite on the Blogger Cruise I will have to purchase a suite from now on. The VIP checkin was wonderful but the real reason is that Nancy loves to ride horses. We did so in Ocho Rios, Jamaica and after the horsey ride in the caribbean the Jacuzzi bath-tub came to be mandatory equipment for any future cruises. LOL! We have had great luck and great times each time we have cruised with Carnival and I have been told that I should be a salesman for the cruiseline as I am so sold on them as the best possible vacation for the money. Hands Down!!!
James & Nancy
The Cruzin2some
John, now I know why even after making Platinum I never get upgraded. I tend to book the cheapest cabin on the ship.
We have ended up in 1A’s over the show lounge where between 2 shows a night plus rehersals we got very little sleep. Never knew that booking a 1A through a TA would leave you stuck in the upper bunk. We then switched to booking a IS and had the most forward cabin and could feel each and every wave and a few speed bumps. Not to mention the anchor chain drops at Grand Cayman very early.
Now days I do request at least a 4B. We are very happy with an inside cabin but also never take a TA’s word that an inside cabin will sleep 3 without a roll-a-way. Been there, done that. I did snag a upper deck inside cabin for the price of a 4A on our up coming Ecstasy cruise on June 1 with the 2 grand daughters. That is how we cruise 3 or 4 times a year instead of once every other year.
I guess that is why I love Cruise Critic as I have become a much better educated cruiser over the past couple of years.
I guess I can still hope the upgrade fairy will visit and when I open my cruise doc’s to find I have been moved from my inside cabin to the penthouse suite.
It’s nice to know that Platinum members would be first for an upgrade and even though I have one to go, I still think its fair. Its difficult to get upgraded anywhere anymore even being Medallion on the airlines–they have cut so many flights, the ones they do run are full so no empty seats. I have never asked on a cruise–I want a balcony and I want to pick the location of my cabin so I always book what I want from day one.
Yes, you have made bugger and thingy household words the world over!
And I can’t say enough about the lady from Scotland and I agree she should sing at the ceremony if not be the godmother of the Dream as well. What an absolute inspiration to the world she has been. The first time I saw her sing I cried and I was so happy for the first time ever to see that Simon Cruel acknowledged her talent as well.
I gave my smoking speech the first day you brought it up but to summarize–yes there should be non-smoking cabins.
Heidi is getting close and I laughed about cleaning the table legs as I did that too–I think I sanitized anything and everything that was in the house. Let me know when you find the perfect exercise equipment. I have a treadmill and I have started using it again but for the last 5 years it has been a clothes rack.
Hi John!
Read about your upgrade stories…and have one to share. My husband and I were flying back from Disney World, maybe 10 years ago. It was Halloween day and I made my (emabarrassed) husband wear his Mickey Ears to the airport as our pseudo-costume. We checked in at the gate, and the gate agent looked at us and smiled…he was also in costume. I asked if he knew a of a shop where I could buy a lottery ticket, it was very high, and he gave me directions. That place didn’t have them and it took me a while to find shop that did. When I got back, most people had boarded and my husband and I got in line. We were half way down the tunnel, and the gate agent caught up to us and told us that we had the best costume and would we like to be upgraded to first class. It was a completely unexpected and most wonderful surprise.
Also John, my family and I are sailing with my parents and my brother’s family on the May 3rd sailing of Pride. It’s my parents 50th anniversary. I noticed that you suggested to another passenger a trip to the Supper Club. Is there anything else that you can suggest that I do to make their trip extra special for them? Thanks for the advice. My best, Robin.
Hi John! Please reply. First I’d like to say that I really enjoy reading your blog. It’s one of the few I read on a regular basis.
Also, as a Platinum cruiser, I want to add my support for another past guest level. A black Elite level at 25 cruises seems popular on other websites, and I like the sound of that.
But now for my question.
I know it might be a longshot, but has Carnival considered, or are they considering for the future, to sail out of Philadelphia? With NYC, and now Baltimore, I realize the chances aren’t too great that Philadelphia will become a home port for Carnival, but it would be so convenient for us. I know a couple other lines have sailed out of Philly before, so it’s not totally out of the question. Is there any chance of this happening?
Thanks again, John!
PLEASE RESPOND
Hi John,
I will be cruising out of Baltimore on the Carnival Pride in August. I was told that it takes quite a while to get into international waters. Can you tell me when the casino and shops will open, if that is the case? Also, when returning, will everything close up early the night before disembarkation?
Hi John/Heidi/Stephanie/Vance,
TO Karen.. please come introduce yourself to me and I will take care of you during your cruise on the Pride =)
You and your husband can even play the part of mom and dad during that week if you like! Just so you know, whenever my dad comes on board he immediately takes his credit card to the Guest services desk and connects my sail and sign card directly to that!!!
Looking forward to meeting you soon,
Jaime
John, I have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that for the first time I have to cancel a cruise that I had booked (after ten booked and completed cruises). So I won’t be joining you for the TA next October. The good news is that the reason I can’t go away for so long is that my daughter is expecting a new baby in late September. She already has three children and her youngest is almost eight, and she insisted for years that her family is compete, so this is a total surprise. Her eight year old son is my youngest grandchild (of ten) and all of my kids have said they were done, so I am thrilled to be expecting a new little one again after so long. My only regret is that I will miss cruising with you and your family. Maybe I’ll manage a shorter cruise some time next year. And I fully intend to cruise with the new child when he/she is old enough to go.
Hi John,
Funny story about the parking lot.
Here’s my two cents on the questions you have asked:
Smoking – I’m a non-smoker who believes that smokers have the right to smoke. I’m not sure what the perfect solution would be, but just because I don’t smoke, doesn’t mean others should be told they cannot.
Cuba – Yes.
techmom (Karen) – Thank you for your word of encouragement! I am sure we will have a great time, we LOVE Carnival!
Hi John,
I finally caught up on the blog after 6 busy nights in the ER. I sure could use a cruise. Actually I have felt off since returning from my Feb. cruise, and I finally figured out why, This is the first time in 3 years I don;t have a cruise booked. I am considering changing jobs, so I am hesitant to book a cruise right now. I never did hear from Carnival about my resume, so I guess my dream job will have to wait.
Re: Cuba: I have had the pleasure of meeting several folks from Cuba here in Florida and in talking to them they all seem to agree on 2 things, 1) Fidel is a #$$%#%%$^, and 2) the US embargo only really hurts the Cuban people and feeds Fidel’s ego for standing up to the US. I would love to go to Cuba (and be able to buy Cuban cigars legaly) I think the Cubans have a rich culture and would love to experience and learn more of it.
Re: Smoking, I smoke, have tried to quit, but unsuccessful so far. I try to be considerate, but there is just no pleasing some people either. Smoking becomes more and more restrictive, taxed more and more, yet remains legal. People complain about smoking outside doorways, yet that is where the designated smoking areas are. Anti-smokers may be more vocal, but smokers take their business where they are more comfortable. Anti-smokers may be more vocal, but if they backed it up with their business, then maybe the Paradise would still be “Smoke Free”. Maybe smoking should be illeagal, what redeeming quality is there, but as long as it is legal, considerations need to be taken to balance the 2 sides.
Don’t ever think your blogs are boring, just because you are not currently at sea. While I love many aspects of the blog when your are actually being a CD, when you are ashore, we get more of your reflections on everyday life, which I enjoy as well, and keeping up with the life and times of Heidi and yourself is like keeping in touch with old friends. Keep on blogging!!!
<>
All this talk about dress codes got me wondering. What is the dress code in the Supper Clubs? I never considered going, as the food in the dinning room and on the Lido deck is always so good, but the more I hear about it I may have to give it a try.
Thanks to Stephanie and all the hard working folks in Miami.
All the best to You, Heidi and the Thingy!
Cheers,
Ron(going to check the summer sale link cuz i need a cruise real bad)RN
Good Morning John.
Just read Thursday and Fridays blog together. Saw the video of Susan Boyle again and still getting emotional.
As an ex Brit living in Canada I definately think that the song is without a doubt the theme song for the Carnival Dream which my husband and myself will be sailing across the Atlantic. “I Dreamed a Dream”
How appropriate for the lady herself to be the Godmother too as someone suggested.
“Bugger” is part of my everyday speech. Wish I could get rid of it actually. It really is not very ladylike of me but you can get away with it.
Putting May 10th on the calendar. All our good wishes to you, Heida and the baby.
Val. in Ontario.
OK John PLEASE REPLY… I was going to hold out bothering you and wasn’t going to ask any more questions until one week before our upcoming June 13th Liberty “Surprise 80th Birthday Cruise for Poppy” and after Thingy was born BUT… One thing has been bothering me since my March 29th cruise and now this upgrade thing has me thinking…
You know we love Carnival and everything about it (so much so that we have our 18th and my parents 23rd cruise booked) but you knew that already!!!) but I have to tell you that we were Platinum when the program started and not one of us has ever been offered an upgrade. I also have to say that there are posts on Cruise Critic where passengers who have never sailed before, are not Platinum etc have gotten the “Upgrade Fairy” phone call… More often than not, I see very few Platinum Members posting that they received the “Upgrade Fairy” call. I also know that most of our cruises were full but not all of them!!! I always ask the Room Steward if he has any “available/open” balcony cabins. Granted, most of the time we do book an inside “cheap” cabin, but after so many cruises, you would have thought we would have been asked at least one time… But, its ok because we’re fine as long as we’re on a cruise!!!
NOW, this might really open up a can of worms and if you don’t want to address it, it’s ok…. BUT… for our March 29th cruise out of the Port of Miami I had to sit for 50 minutes in the terminal waiting for Doug to park the car. What I observed really really upset me. The VIP line is suppose to be for Platinum Guests and Suite Passengers. Why do guests with wheelchairs also get to use this line? Now let me tell you why I am asking. My father-in-law is in a wheelchair and has cruised with us a couple of times but did not/would not get on the VIP line. He said he is no different than anyone who can stand, he just sits and waits his turn. Aside from that opinion, what I witnessed really annoyed me so much that I have now decided to address it. Again, while waiting for Doug, I witnessed the VIP line being extremely long. I saw lots of guests in wheelchairs on the line. Upon looking further, I noticed guests WALKING (one of them actually had a race with her grandson) to the rear of the terminal right behind the ladies bathroom where there were wheelchairs lined up. They/she literally sat themselves down in the wheelchair, called out to their family members, and then proceeded to get on the VIP Line!!! So, by the time Doug arrived, the VIP line was about 30 – 40 passengers deep… (mainly family members with one of them in a wheelchair). Please explain this to me and the reason why anyone other than Platinum/Suite passengers get to be on the VIP line? I have the upmost respect for anyone with any type of “handicap” (besides my father-in-law) both of my parents have each had double knee replacement surgery, but I can’t help but being angry at these other passengers using a wheelchair to get into the VIP line…
Thanks so much for your wonderful, informative and extremely entertaining posts. (and letting us vent once in a while). I truly look forward to reading your blog each day.
Again, my best to you, Heidi and thingy (who will soon have a name!!!)…
Hi John, Dave and I are doing the December 3 Bloggers cruise on the Dream. We are thinking of doing the November 15 Bloggers cruise as well. I know you usually have special tours for bloggers on these cruises. Are you planning some this time too. Any ideas which ports?
Thanks,
Jo
One of these days, I’m going to plan a cruise on the ship you’re on… You make me laugh so much!! The story about the balcony and the parking lot made me laugh so hard I cried!! Thank you for that much needed break….!!
Only 21 more days and we’ll be on the Triumph!! Can’t wait!!
All the best…
Bette
Smoking is, indeed, a horrible habit. That having been said, it is, indeed, a habit not easily broken. We (smokers) have been told for years to “get to the back of the bus.” We know it’s bad but truly do not need to be told, especially when we are in a smoking area. I do not smoke in my own home nor do I smoke in my cabin on board. Please, please do not take away my casino or my balcony!
Do be careful of exercise machines. Treadmills can be dangerous for children. The child of a local tv personality was badly burned by one.
Hi, John,
Just a comment about smoking. As a former smoker (20 years free!!!) I never-the-less completely sympathize with those who still have the habit. It is very difficult to break, and some people just enjoy it and don’t want to quit. Anyway, smoking on balconies disturbs me as I recall watching the practice from my own balcony and seeing “sparks” flying back toward the ship. So, I guess fire is a concern there, but if balconey smoking is permitted, I agree with the ideas of “one side of the ship” or “only rear cabin balconies” for those folks. I do think smokers should have at least one lounge in which they may indulge, and certainly the casino should allow smoking (what smoker could gamble without a puff every so often?), and if they leave their seat it will be gone when they return. The rest of us should just try to steer clear…or play bingo to lose our money (I mean to win).
Is the hospital suitcase sitting beside the front door yet? Getting close, guy! Bet you’re soooo excited.
Give Heidi and Thingy a hug, and best wishes to the three of you.
Your pal, Myra
John,
Although upgrades can be a nice surprise, I never expect to get them. I book what makes me (and my pocketbook) happy. I did get a great upgrade once. After 2 cruises in an inside cabin we thought we’d be extravagant and book a porthole (cheapest OV) cabin. We were upgraded to a mini suite! This was on the Elation so the mini suite was one of only a few balcony cabins available. I told my husband that Carnival’s plan worked as we now love the balcony cabins. Unfortunately due to loss of retirement funds we may have to go back to inside cabins again. Oh well, it’s still cruising and I don’t expect to have such a great upgrade again.
KathyG
Please Reply
John, carnival.com has many ways to pay for our cruise, however, from the information I have received from my PVP and the FAQ on the web page, there is no way to pay through PC Banking. For those that don’t know, this is where you can log into your bank. You sign into your account and make a payment directly to your payee of choice from your account of choice.
I would prefer to do this than paying by Credit Card. I like the debit card idea, but the Canadian Debit Card system is different that the US system. Our Debit Card is tied to our chequing (checking) or Savings account and I believe it does not work on Carnival.com.
Perhaps, I have it all wrong, can you please let me know if any of the options I described are possible? And if not available, why not? I am really hopeful. Someone told my wife that another cruiseline does allow PC Banking so I’d imagine that this is doable. Thanks John ! You and Heidi must be very excited…wishing you both joy, health and happiness.
Bugger is quite a common phrase in Australia, one I use often. Have you ever seen this TV ad – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-Y3AsZ19Hc
Cheers
Lyndal
Hi John
I haven’t written in a while, but thought I would drop an opinion on the smoking issue. As a part time smoker myself, I agree with having specific smoking areas. I have seen people sit in the smoking area in the casino, on deck, etc and ask the smoker to put out their cigarette. There are non smoking sections in both of these areas. Keep the dining rooms non smoking. Even some smokers don’t like the smell of smoke when they eat. Also, ALL cabins should be non smoking. Not only for the cleanliness, but think of the fire hazard. Just my thoughts.
Give my best to Heidi and Thingy. Enjoy your time home.
To Thomgirl
I was surprised to see your comment in the blog. That was in fact me your were talking to in the shuttle waiting area. You can email me at BooGotchYa@aol.com. I would love to hear how your week on the Valor was. Ours was wonderful. We had a really good time. We are heading out for cruise #45 in August. Send me an email if you would like.
Gloria aka Sue
John, (Please Reply)
I hope Heidi and your new baby is born on May 8. My son was born then, but at the time, it was Mother’s Day in the US. What more could I have asked for?
I cracked up at your story about the balcony man. Sometimes, what people say is beyond comprehension, lol.
Do you know who will be the CD on the Glory Oct 17 sailing? I loved Butch when we were on the end of Feb/beginning of March. I really hoped he’d be the CD on Dream when we go Jan 2.
Anyway, soon Baby Heald will be born and your life will change—albeit for the better.
Oh, by the way, my niece and family live in Swindon. I don’t know how far that is from you, but it’s lovely there. I have never heard my niece or her husband say bugger, nor have I heard the children say so. I might have to ask them about it.
Please reply,
Speaking of upgrades we sailed with you on the freedom in 2007. It was the last med.sailing and we sailed on the transition trip to Miami. We had a inside cabin on rivera stern on the med. trip. I cannot tell you how surprized we where when we wound up in a balcony room on deck 8 foward. P.S. You were missed on the transatlantic. We are sailing on Elation on may 7th and are planing too make our second bloggers cruise with you on the Dream on Dec.7th. That will be our 9th Carnival Trip and our 50th wedding aniversary.Best to you and Heidi we tried for 9 years and know the stress it caused you. You might be interested to know after the first one my wife could not stop and wound up with 2 boys, 2 girls and 6 grand children.
Susan and Larry
Wow, I had no clue such a Carnival world existed. I came here on a garden theme search. Go figure–gardening and exercising go hand in hand.
So anyhow you little bugger—you are entertaining. Laughed my fool head off every other paragraph and every third comment. You all are a very entertaining fun group.
I’ll never take a cruise probably but I’ll be back here to read your post and comments.
John,
Just a few comments. First, I have watched the Susan Boyle video and have to say it brought tears to my eyes to see the look of the faces on the judges when they realized that beauty is only skin deep….real beauty is on the inside….She has a beautiful voice and I have watched the video over and over…
As far as smoking…well, I am a non smoker but my parents smoked. My father is gone, passed at the age of 61 due to smoke related issues….my mom still smokes….worries me all the time….I had a sister in law that passed away from lung cancer at the very young age of 44.
However, if a person wants to smoke, it is their choice and their right. I do only have a couple of issues with it as far as the ship is concerned. I know they pay for their balcony…so do I. I enjoy being on the balcony and breathing the fresh sea air. On one cruise, we had a cigar smoker on his balcony next door. Unfortuneatly for me, while many enjoy their cigars, the smell really bothers me. So much, that when he was out on his balcony having a cigar, I had to return to the cabin. Sorry…I know you … as well as my bf enjoy a good cigar. My other big concern is safety. I worry about those who have been partying and drinking and returning to their cabin and lay down and have a cigarette in their cabin. As we all know, fire is very dangerous, especially at sea. One morning I awoke and stepped out onto my balcony and their was a half smoked cigarette laying on the deck of my balcony. Hmmmm…was it still lit when it landed? It did scare me to think that this could have begun a fire. My other thought was due to fire hazards, lounge chairs are not permitted on the balcony…but cigarettes are?? That does puzzle me.
I want to wish Mark Price a happy retirement! I only got to enjoy him once as a CD. I believe it was on the Glory. He was very funny….actually reminded me of you quite a bit….
Upgrades….well, I am Platinum and on the Sensation last year, I was upgraded from an oceanview to a cat. 12. Very nice…my daughters first balcony and she loved it.
But then again, I was on a ship about three years ago….there was a roll call on cruise critic…a large one actually and many of those had booked balcony guarantees. As I started seeing all the upgrades, I hurried and checked mine. There were many balcony cabins left, yet I received no upgrade at all. I did write to find out what determined the upgrades ( Most of those on the roll call were not Platinum) and was told that it just varies. I was then given a very nice upgrade but was also told that this was a one time only thing. That’s okay. Please don’t misunderstand. I book only what I know I will be happy with. I was just curious as to how the upgrades occur. And this one that I just mentioned seems to go against what you were told about the Platinum guests being offered upgrades first. Maybe they changed it?
Have a beautiful day!
Cruzn
John:
Since reading your daily blogs, I now have a new vocabulary, bugger, lazy sod, bollocks, but, I still do not know what a spotted dick is. I do hope it is nothing contagious.
As an ex-smoker 19 years, I too try not to make a big deal when other smokers are around. I just am afraid of fires caused by cigarettes or ashes thrown from balconies. I really did love the Paradise and sailed on it twice.
As a Platinum Carnival cruiser, I am hoping that my balcony guarantee on the Dec. 6 cruise on the Miracle will get me a nice midship cabin. I hope they will not tell me to bugger off.
Marie
The smoking policies have gotten too restrictive on most lines, which is why we choose to cruise Carnival. We will no longer sail on Celebrity since you can’t smoke on the balconies. I’m a non-smoker, but my husband is. I never had any issues with the smokers outside on the Lido deck or on the balconies. The smoke dissapates very quickly when you are outside. Also leaving one or two lounges with smoking is imperrative. The smokers are paying for a good cruise experience too. They are begining to get shut out of all entertainment venues since the exits to go smoke are far sometimes. I think the smokers are just not as vocal as the non-smokers and therefore are being relegated to the second class areas of the ship.