I have a runny nose, a sore throat, and a head that feels like Amy Winehouse, Lindsey Lohan and Paris Hilton are having one hell of a party in there. I have then all the ingredients you need to make a convincing claim that a pig has sneezed over me and I have HN1PIG flu. But I don’t………according to the ship’s doctor…… I have a cold. This means the American Navy will not come to the ship, board the vessel and take samples of my snot and bits from my scrotum to their biochemical warfare centre in Atlanta.
I do feel like crap though and I could therefore spend the first few paragraphs of this blog thingy getting you all to feel sorry for me……..but……..I can’t……..and the reason that I can’t………..is because of a young lady……………..called Alison.
Alison is not very well at all and has fought the bravest of fights and continues to do so. She is here thanks to Carnival’s association with the Make A Wish Foundation that as you may know grants special treats for children with life-threatening medical situations.
We are really taking wonderful care of her and her family and what a sweet young lady she is. Alison is 9 years old. She is originally from Africa and was adopted by a family from Vancouver and although I can’t tell you what is wrong with her I can tell you that it is very serious. And yet her smile and the way she looked up at me and said “Thank you” …….well…….how can I possibly complain about having a stupid cold………I can’t ………. and I hope that all the special surprises we have planned for Alison will rejuvenate her to face her fight to live and also help her family to face whatever the future brings ………….. and I hope and pray that her future is a happy one.
Here are a few photos of Alison and the cast after the big easy show and Alison and I making a video show for her family to treasure……………forever.
Time for today’s questions…………….here we go.
Millie S. Asked:
JOHN-PLEASE REPLY
Thank you so much for getting back to me regarding the price of the “Pearl Harbor/City and Shopping w/Airport Transfer” excursion. That little bit of information will help us indeed.As for our cabin we did indeed get our cabin-category 4E #8257.When we booked our cruise we specifically advised our PVP (which by the way has done a marvelous job) that were 3 grown women that needed and wanted three separate beds and not bunk beds. Our PVP stated she will write our preferences down but she could not guarantee anything since we were booking inside guarantee. Now between all three of us we have about 15 Carnival cruises under our belt and thought that possibly that would get our preferences. I know the cruise is coming up in about two months but is there possibly a way we can obtain a stateroom with 3 individual beds and not bunk beds. Our booking number is ******.
~millieJohn Says:
Hello Millie
I am glad that your PVP has been helpful and that you found the Pearl Harbor information useful. I will be interested to hear about that excursion, it sounds excellent.I can understand that when three women have to share a bathroom how difficult that must be. Heidi and I have trouble with just one…….although that may be because after I have been in there it is not safe to enter unless you are wearing a Hazmat suit. Anyway, I will put forth your request and although I cannot make any promises I will certainly try as hard as I possibly can to help you out with the bed options you would prefer. I will let you know if and when I have any news or you may hear directly from someone at Carnival.
Have a brilliant cruise and my best wishes to you all
JohnHitesh Asked:
John,
I have sailed with you twice on the Destiny. You my friend are the best. I will on the freedom on Aug 15 will you be the host on it? I am coming there with 4 families.
Hope to see you there.John Says:
Hello Hitesh
I will indeed be with you on August the 15 which will probably be my last cruise on the Carnival Freedom before returning home. Thank you so much for all the kind words and I hope that you will take the time to leave me a note at the guest services desk when you arrive with your cabin number, etc.See you soon and best wishes to all.
JohnDave Asked:
JOHN PLEASE REPLY
John,
You mentioned in your response to Patricia that the CD on the Liberty for her 9/5 sailing will be James Charlton… but the CD schedule still shows Butch. Will James still be the CD for my honeymoon sailing on 10/17? Just trying to figure out who I’ll be scheming with against… er… for the amusement of my new bride.
All the best to you, Heidi and Kye!John Says:
Hello Dave
Ahhh……I see where you are going with this. We can scheme together on this one with Butch who will be the cruise director in October. Please have a think about what you want to do and let me know so I can help plan with my mate Butch.Have a wonderful wedding and my best wishes for a long and happy life together with your beautiful bride.
JohnMelissa Asked:
John (please reply)
Ok, I am going to break this in to 2 parts (maybe I am too long winded) I have posted my questions 3 times and they never appear on the blog thingy just says waiting for moderation.1. You answered a question for a lady a couple of days ago regarding an estimate of how many children were going to be on her sailing, wondered if you could do the same for us. My husband, 3yr old son, 7 yr old daughter, my mom, my step-dad and 2 family friends of ours are all sailing on the Carnival Dream 2-13-2010 and since I know from my travel agent that this sailing is almost sold out I wonder if you could give us an idea of how many kids will be on ship during that sailing?
2. We discovered on our last cruise (Carnival Miracle) that an aft dining room does not work for us. My husband and the other gentleman traveling with us can’t handle the motion. We were wondering (if I let you know closer to the sail date) if you could help us make sure that we are in the Crimson Dining room not the Crimson II dining room.
I will post this and see if it goes through. If so I will post my last 2 questions later. Hope everything is well with Heidi and Kye and I can’t wait for Kye-day (Friday) for new pics.John Says:
Hello Melissa
I am sorry for the time it is taking to post and reply to your comments. As you can see the comments and questions are getting more and more each day but I promise that I will eventually post and reply to the comments where I am asked to do so.OK, let’s answer your questions. The official counts have not yet been calculated for the 2010 Carnival Dream sailings although you are quite correct, the voyage of 2-13-10 is close to being sold out. The kid count (as we call here) is already over 200 although I don’t have the exact breakdown of the ages just yet. I will be able to provide you with more information much nearer the time of course but it seems your kids will have lots of playmates. I will be happy to help you with the dining request you mentioned although I think the “ride” of your Carnival Dream may be a lot different to that of the Carnival Miracle. Regardless, please let me know a few weeks before you sail and I will ask Ken to help you with a table in the forward dining room.
So, your post made it and I again apologize for the delay.
My best wishes to you and all the family
JohnBill R. Asked:
John, Please Reply
If I read between the lines I guess we will be accepted at Blogger functions but not receive the gifts, etc, that the bloggers with the code get. Still doesn’t seem fair. Might cancel the cruise though I don’t want to. I really want to see you again; you were super as CD the last time on the Glory I think.John Says:
Hello Bill and Joan
Never read between the lines…………….and don’t cancel…………..all will be well…….and you will have fun, meet new blogger friends and enjoy the gifts…….promise.
See you soon.
Best wishes
JohnBrett Asked:
John, please reply,
I am cruising the Carnival Destiny in August. I am planning to propose to my girlfriend of 5 1/2 years on the cruise and would appreciate your suggestion as to the best way to do this on the boat. I have some ideas myself but would love your expert advice. We met on a cruise and this will be our 4th Carnival cruise together. Great job on the blog thingy, definitely the best on the web!John Says:
Hello Brett
Thanks for all the kind words and I think your plan to propose to your hopefully bride to be is superb. I would suggest this. We make it as though you are planning to sing in the talent show. The CD will invite you on stage to sing some outrageous song……..maybe “Oops, I Did It Again”……..anyway…….you don’t actually sing but instead you invite your girlfriend to the stage and with romantic music being played by the orchestra and in front of 1,500 people……….you ask her that special question.We will record this for you and you can play it time and time again and if she says “no”…..you can play it backwards and it will have a happy ending.
If this is something you are interested in doing please drop me a line a week before you sail so I can arrange it for you.
Best wishes
JohnLeroy & Pat Asked:
John Please respond:
Hi John,
I’m just wondering if the afghan I made for Kye arrived. I had asked that you let me know when it does and I haven’t heard yet. I don’t know if I should put a tracer on it or not, so please let me know. I mailed it 6/17/09.John Says:
Hello Leroy and Pat
It is a strange world………it really is……….that’s because it has taken a month to get to us but yesterday Heidi told me that a package arrived with a beautiful handmade blanket in it. She has written a card to you and hopefully that will get there quicker than the one I sent to Big Ed recently. Anyway, it is beautiful. Heidi sent me a photo of it and I cannot thank you enough on behalf of Kye who will enjoy snuggling with it.Please let me know when you get the card and your kindness is extraordinary…..thank you.
Best wishes to you and all the family.
JohnTracy Asked:
John please respond. What’s the difference between the regular dining room and the supper club (steakhouse) and do u know how much it is on the splendor.John Says:
Hello Tracy
The Carnival Splendor’s steak house is called The Pinnacle. The main difference between this and the dining room is that not only in the steak house do we use only the finest cuts of meat but also the service and ambience is extraordinary. The price of a meal in a setting like this on land would be $100 plus but on the Carnival Splendor and in all our steak houses on the Spirit class and the Conquest class ships the price is only $30. You must try it Tracy…….it will be the best meal you have ever had at sea……try the porterhouse!
Best wishes
JohnWil-da Beast Asked:
Hi John and please reply…my best to you and your beautiful girls. When we were on the Freedom last Feb there was an entertainer named Amanda (red hair) who was very special to us. Is she still on the ship? Also she was hoping to be on the Dream. Do you know if that will happen? We were hoping to connect with her again as we will be on the Dream’s TA. We also heard word that Jaime will be on the Dream. That would just be the icing on the cake if we had both of them. Thanks for all you do…Regards from Texas…The Beast…John Says:
Hello Wil-da-Beast
Thanks for the kind words mate. Jaime will be there but I am a little unsure as to which Amanda you are referring to. Was she part of the entertainment staff or was she a dancer or musician. Can you let me know mate.I am sure you are looking forward to your trans-Atlantic voyage on your Carnival Dream and I think you may like the photos coming up in a moment.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Best wishes
JohnTorbelinoblanco Asked:
John, (Please Reply)
On last fall’s Transatlantic on the Splendor we finally decided, after seven cruises, to try the Supper Club (AKA Steak House) and it was all you said it would be, plus some! My question is: We have some friends who will be taking their first cruise in December, how can we gift them dinner for two at the Steak House. While it appears possible to give certificates for bar coupons and drink coupons, there doesn’t appear to be a way to gift dinner. Megadittos! (Translation: We love what you’re doing, keep it up)John Says:
Hello Torbelinblanco
There are some things which as a cruise director I have to promote that I truly know little about myself. I talk about the spa for instance and the various forms of massage they offer but considering the only time I have tried one I farted during the process so loudly that I have since been banned from the treatment rooms…….thus I promote what they do ……not from experience. However the steak house is another subject entirely… food … on which I consider myself quite the expert. I am glad therefore that you listened and tried a meal there and had a brilliant experience. A few days ago another blogger suggested we add gift vouchers to the bon voyage menu and our VP of food and beverage is examining this great idea as I write.Hopefully we will have this in place before your friends cruise so that you can offer them this very kind gesture.
Thanks so much for the megadittos……….I will keep writing as long as I am able.
Best wishes to all
JohnRuth G. Asked:
John
I had posted a question on Wednesday and it’s now Friday night and still no answer and so I found your work e mail address which is on cruise critic. There is not much point in offering your customers a service if you are not going to answer them is there?I am on the Carnival Glory and want a table for two as last time our table companions were hideous.
My details are:
Ruth and Al G.
October 24th sailing
Suite # – 7288
Want table for two by window – late sitting
Reply please when confirmedJohn Says:
Hello Ruth and Al
I wanted to reply to your e mail which I did receive ………..I had no idea my e mail had been posted on cruise critic though.I do offer a service and do my very best to send a timely response. However, I am only one man and I have a full-time job as a cruise director so there will be times when I am delayed in responding. Please accept my apologies for the delay.
I will be happy to help you with your dinning request but as it is not for another two months I wondered if I might kindly ask for you to remind me a week or so before you sail.
Best wishes to you both.
John
That’s all for today. Just a quick couple of follow ups. A blogger had asked about a specific cabin on your Carnival Dream …….here is the information you needed ……….. sorry I forgot who asked ………anyway…………….
Cabin 1001 on the Freedom is cabin 10201 on the Dream and the obstructed view are probably referring at half bulkhead of the ship looking forward same height bulkhead that is outside your cabin on deck five, they’re both outside cabin but don’t have a clear view of the sea.
That information was from Denato the hotel director for your Carnival Dream and I thank him for following up with me.
Now, another blogger had asked why they could not pay online when they book using one of our PVPs………and thanks to our loyalty and future cruise expert Jeff for this reply. Pay online…….This option is only available when someone books online. We do not keep credit card numbers on file (for the guests privacy and safety), that’s why they have to tell us the number again (it only takes a second to read the number so it’s not really time consuming and reading it can be quicker than typing it in for every booking).
There you go…….my apologies for the delay in answering but I would much rather get you the correct information.
As always, please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Now………let me introduce you to a new activity which is already on the Carnival Liberty and has started here on the Carnival Freedom this cruise. It’s called ………. mixology.
Here is how we present this to the guests.
• Do you have a favorite cocktail with that secret little something that only you know how to make?
• Would you like to be able to name that drink and call it your very own for the whole cruise?
• Well this afternoon you’re going to have your opportunity to mix it up and compete for the title of Carnival Liberty’s Master Mixologist.
• We’re looking for 5 contestants who will work with our best bartender to produce their favorite concoctions for a panel of “celebrity” judges.
• The winning cocktail will become the featured beverage for the rest of the voyage and all aboard will know that you are the ship’s Master Mixologist!
And so we had our five guests who were picked from more than 50 who wanted to try to participate at 1 pm this afternoon to create a custom-made cocktail which was then tasted by a panel of judges made up of the bar manager, one of the comedians, Phat Cat, Carnival Pride’s Cruise Director Kirk Benning (who is here to mix Jaime a cocktail) and a chosen guest.
And the winner was………..Sandra Suckling who invented a cocktail called “Love Potion Number Nine”………..which consists of rum, Southern Comfort, pineapple juice, and grenadine, poured over crushed ice…………add slice of orange with umbrella in it.
The winner gets a funnel hat and other goodies as well as her drink advertised in the Carnival Capers for the rest of the cruise and sold around the ship. We have already sold 50-plus drinks of Love Potion Number Nine.
I have invented Love Potion Number 10 which consists of rum, Southern Comfort, pineapple juice, grenadine and Viagra……poured over crushed ice……….it has an umbrella in it as well but you don’t need to put it in a piece of orange…….as the Viagra has the little umbrella standing up all by itself.
Here are some photos of the Mixology contest.
Here are today’s letters from guests that I shared in my morning show.
Well, as I mentioned we have some important folks from the office here as part of the QCC…..or Quality Control Committee. The captain led them on a tour of the ship to discuss what we are doing well and what help we need from our friends at Miami HQ to improve. Tomorrow we have a big meeting……..when I say big…I mean long……..and its going to play merry hell with my hemorrhoids….anyway, a long meeting to discuss as much as we can to make your already brilliant vacation experience even better.
Last night they met with the captain and senior officers for dinner…and as you can see ……….I had to take the photo.
From left to right we have:
Stefan Christoffersson – Senior Director of Personal and Manning and Hair Design
Roger Blum – Vice President of Entertainment and Polo Shirts
Alina Chefneaux – Hotel Director
Orazio D’Aita – Captain
Lynn Torrent – Senior Vice President of Sales and Guest Services
Alfonso Verdoliva – Chief Engineer
Raymondo Astroini – Ship’s Manager
Francesco Borrgogna – Staff Captain
Anna Dumitro – Guest Services Manager
Over the next few days I will fill you in as to what we spoke about and because I have to attend all day meetings me and my underpants will have to write a shorter blog than is usual.
However, there are still a few minutes for me to show you today’s live photos from Captain Queirolo and Boris of your Carnival Dream. These were taken Tuesday morning Italian time from a top the smoke stack………..hope you enjoy them.
OK, time for the 9 am senior officer and QCC meeting………back ………. Well ……… hopefully sooner rather than later.
Bugger…….it was later. It’s now 2:30 pm and the meeting went on and on and on and has only just finished at that’s only because the Miami team have a flight to catch.
We got a lot accomplished and would have got so much more done if certain people didn’t love the sound of their own voice as much as love my daughter. Honestly…..say what you mean……….and STOP TALKING…
I can’t say who this employee is of course or whether he or she is shipboard or shore side. If he or she had though kept talking a few minutes longer then the clue would have been obvious because he or she would have had my show sticking out of their arse ………… ”SHUT UP!”
I guess we are all born with our crosses to bear. Judge Judy made it even though at some point in her teenage years her face melted and someone then hit her repeatedly in the face with a frying pan. And every year thousands and thousands of people have to overcome the massive problem of being born French.
Then of course there are those who are ummmm………vertically challenged…….. He or she simply won’t be able to achieve a state of happiness if she or he has to go through life banging his or her head on coffee tables.
If you’re small, it doesn’t matter whether you’re rich, poor, British, American or French, you will be consumed with a sense that people aren’t just physically looking down on you, but mentally as well. This will make you permanently angry, and equipped with a chip so large you could be mistaken for a bag of family sized Doritos.
I am afraid therefore that during the six-hour meeting and as she (yes….OK….it was a she that wouldn’t stop talking……ssshhhh) there may have been times that I drifted off and I realized as I did that …….I am getting old.
The worst thing about being 44 is that may brain’s default setting have changed. Before, when I used to lose myself in thought I would be thinking about rumpy pumpy. Not now……oh no…I am sad to say that Angelina Jolie’s breasts and Megan Fox’s bottom have been replaced by what I can buy Kye for Christmas and worrying about how much money Heidi is spending on nipple pads.
So, here I am back in the cabin ready to face the 78 e-mails that have infested my in box thingy……..one of which caught my eye.
Guest: ———670006891A
Cabin: ____ Booking#: _____ Added-Changed: 07/21/09 – 07/21/09
WANTS TO SPEAK TO CRUISE DIRECTOR
Guest called into the desk from their cabin asking to be put through to John’s phone. GSA asked what the concern was and guest said that they had been to the shopping in St. Thomas today and that it had rained.Guest said that no mention of rain was given by John and that their clothes were soaked. Guest said that if they had known it was going to rain they would have stayed onboard. Guest demanded that their clothing be laundered without charge.
GSA said she would pass on to CD
So, I guess I shall have to put my apology hat on and call the guests. Actually, the Carnival Capers does say “sunny with 30% chance of showers,” which is what we had ………..a shower…….it lasted for 30 minutes or so and was a heavy one but it is sunny again now. So, let me call their cabin…………hold on.
Oh well……..couldn’t win that argument and the only choice I had was to offer my apologies and agree to have housekeeping do their laundry for free.
I could have probably said no and have every right to do so but after a six-hour meeting …………I just couldn’t be bothered. I told him I couldn’t control the weather etc but he droned on about how on another cruise line every guest was given a free raincoat thingy and “a good cruise director should provide a correct weather forecast,” he said.
He would have still been talking my ear off if I hadn’t said yes to the laundry thing.
What he doesn’t know is that their clothes are being washed in the same machine as my underpants…….the same underpants I have been sitting in these past six hours and even the toughest wash won’t get rid of the bits of hemorrhoid that are now embedded into their clothing……….Willard Scott my arse.
Goodnight
Your friend
John
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 hope Alison has a fantastic voyage.
A mixology class/contest is a great idea. I bet its fleetwide soon.
Love the pics today.
I hate meetings. Why take 6 hours when it could be done in 1 hour?
Hi to Heidi/Kye and take care!
David
Dear John, please reply
Just a quick question. I just looked up who will be our CD on our upcoming (4th) cruise on the Carnival Valor, September 13th I see that there will be changeover of CD during the month of September, but I wondered why some of the entries are highlighted in yellow, as the CD on our cruise has his name highlighted.
Thanks…Irene Garner (still hooked on cruising)
Ooooo… I like the Mixology thingy!! How fun! Sadly, I’m not inventive enough to come up with a cocktail that might have the most remote chance of winning but I’m certain that the competition will draw a crowd!!
I HATE meetings. Someone is always trying to sell you something regardless of it’s your own people or someone from the outside… Selling products, ideas or selling themselves it’s still selling and I refuse to buy…
Alison is adorable. I hope she has a wonderful experience on board and remembers it for the rest of her life… a very, very long life… My thanks to Carnival for what they do. Carnival has a heart… a HUGE heart and all of us here on the Blog are very aware of that.
Personally, John, I’m quite disappointed that you couldn’t control the weather. You should have offered Mr & Mrs Soggy a free cruise, at least. My God… it’s the CARIBBEAN people!!! There’s a 30% chance of rain pretty much EVERY day!!! People… ugh…
All my best to the bevy of Stephanies for all they do, please tell Jaime that she looked great in the Mixology contest and please tell Heidi that Stitch and I send our best to her and the beautiful Kye…
Ciao, my friend!!!
Host Mach
John, (please reply)
Just a note to say Hi! from a lurker. I was quite surprised today to see that not are you not only the Carnival Brand Ambassador but you must be the Carnival Head Maitre ‘d! (Sorry about those hideous tablemates Ruth!)
You are a very patient man. How do you do it?
John, I sure hope the card gets to Leroy and Pat faster then the one you sent us because it still has not arrived. I’ve heard of snail mail before but I think you use an empty snail shell. Pat looks every day for your mail with no luck.
BIG ED
John, Pat says thank you she now has a different complaint to use for everyday of the 9 day bloggers cruise. So I guess you will be calling our cabin and sending her gifts everyday.
BIG ED
PS. Could you have larger laundry bags put in our cabin. Those small bags only hold one pair of my underpants.
hello john! it’s a crying shame you can’t give in to the demands of ruth there and her table for two. please be so kind to the “other” guests and do so! yeesh… that little lady has a bit of a “tude” and you did great keeping your cool there. same with the raincoat people. i once wanted to go ashore and it was raining and a carnival lady at the guest services desk lent me her umbrella. but then i asked really nicely and brought her back a little something for her trouble. you can sure get farther with a kind word in this world i suppose!
see you sunday!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
John,
I can understand the death by meeting you experienced. I sympathize with you. That said, your response was great. Maybe you should have put your foot up her arse.
Dear John,
Hang in there buddy. There should be a law that states if you are in a meeting and your mouth has diahrea and just won’t stop. That everyone in the meeting should be allowed to scream in your face. SHUUUUUUUUT UUUUUUUUUP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! After all fair is fair.
Great pics of the inside of the smokestack. I new a waterslide would be possible from there! LOL
Hope the cold gets better. I know you don’t drink so a Hot Toddy is out of the question. Too Bad!
Get Well fast as we all have you in our prayers!
Nancy & James
The Cruzin2some
John:
I swear my brain is older than dirt these days.
I have been forgetting to tell you that Ria B. (Club O2 Director on the Victory and DJ’s cruise sister) and Michele had their little girl on July 15th (I think). Both are doing very well and Lily is adorable. Michele was able to be there for the big event. You can tell in the pictures that he is so proud. What a beautiful family they make.
Just for reference …
it is Phat Kat…not Phat Cat! Improper English is the basis of Kwifafa’s comedic style. LOVE HIM!!
What a lovely cruise for Alison and her family. We will pray for the strength she and her family will need to get through this health issue.
You should have told Mr ” iamtostupidtoreadacaperandknowitisgoingtorain”
that you indeed did give a lady a coat….because she came on a European cruise to cold weather totally unprepared…and that you (rather Heidi) never got it back! Proof positive once again that you can’t fix stupid!!!
BTW, you had better watch it…Lynn is going to know you were talking about her again. LOL
Good news….DJ gained a pound!!! He went back to the doctor today and we are back up to 100 pounds !! (Of course, gaining one pound doesn’t really show when you are 6′ ft tall) This is after 6 weeks of 2,400 calories and 90 grams of fat PER DAY! He told me the solution was simple…just live on a cruise ship!!! I agree!!
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….RAIN?!
its amazing what people will complain about in order to get something for free
John,
I know that you’ve heard this before and I’m sure that you will hear it again, but you truly are an amazing man.
To put up with passengers like Ruth G who DEMANDS things to others like the passenger who blames you for the weather and then to do the wonderful things that you do for passengers like Alison is just amazing or sending a small gift to my Dad for his 80th Birthday (which he is still talking about). Amazing that you can do all this without showing how angry or mad you can/do get. Amazing that you can be nice to those nasty/rude passengers who really don’t deserve it. I know I could never do your job, I would have to tell some of those passengers to stick it where the sun don’t shine!!
Once again, thank you for being you… I love reading your blog, don’t ever stop doing what you’re doing….
John, You HAVE to write a book when you retire as Carnival’s senior cruise director. So I do hope you are writing a journal and keep a record of all of these ridiculous things the passengers come up with.
.
I hope you can get some Nyquil. That is what helped me get over my cold and aching body. I don’t know who was on the cruise with us that had this cold virus, but I wish I did I’d be tempted to kick their “arse” as you say
Big Ed has started the countdown until the BC4 on the Dream. The Krewe will be well represented, but a lot of the original Krewe won’t be there this time.
Hope you feel better.
Hugs to you and sending them to Heidi and our precious little Kye.
Carolyn and Don
John, Please Reply:
Hi there, we are booked on the Oct 15th sailing of the Dream. We’ve enjoyed the photos and videos you’ve been posting. We are booked in a Cove Balcony cabin. We debated for quite awhile on whether or not this would be a good cabin choice as these cabins are below the galley. How much noise should we expect (especially in the early mornings)? In looking at the deck plans, I booked the Cove Balcony cabin as far aft as possible (2414). Are you able to tell me what part of the galley is directly above us?
Thank you so much. I really enjoy your blog.
Jilly
Hi John, please reply
My question is this please:
We are in an 8S on the Spa deck balcony on the DREAM in November and is the balcony looking down on a deck or straight into the water. I can’t make it out in the pictures you sent here. Thank you in advance for your answer. See you on the B2B Blogger’s Cruise.
Geri
Your cruise line is awesome! Josh and Nick and Gerald working in the Piano Bar are outstanding!!! Great Trip!!!!!
John, My husband an I are booked on the Carnival Freedom Aug 23. We are taking this cruise again(we did the same 1 in Dec) after I found out you would be the CD. We have cruised 17 times 16 with Carnival. We tried another cruise line once an came back to Carnival. You are the best CD an Carnival is the best Cruise Line. Looking forward to seeing you on the Freedom. You will still be the CD I hope. Gale . Please reply
John – PLEASE REPLY (It is not necessary to post all the info to the Blog)
First, I am amazed at all you do with the blog and helping people on top of being a full time cruise director and more.
I posted a comment yesterday, but I neglected to give you any information for possible follow-up contact. We sailed on the Carnival Glory on 7/11/09. The booking # is ******
As I mentioned, I just returned and had a horrible week. I wrote a letter to Miami, but wondered if there was anyone I could speak to regarding what happened. I really don’t think the comments section of the blog is the appropriate place to air what I feel to be a Carnival failure. I truely believe that Carnival can and will make this right if they have the opportunity.
If you are interested in the details of what happened, I can certainly share them with you, or whomever.
John – Thank you for being so accessible, and so much fun to read every day. I would be so grateful for any help you can provide.
It is amazing that anyone would hold a CD responsible for the weather! The caribbean island have a standard forcast most of the year–sunny with a chance of a shower. It can work the other way as well…on the Splendor it was pouring rain the day we were in Puerto Montt and it was a tender port made miserable by the driving rain. We were glad we continued with our excursion since just a few miles inland it turned out to be a beautiful day but rained the whole day at the port.
Hope your arse makes it through the meetings…
John -
I see that you already know the first lesson of parenthood…the one that you used on Mr. No Raincoat – pick and choose your battles.
I hear you on the endless meeting that just won’t end! After two hours most people lost focus and that left two more hours and plenty of detail still to go through….
Weather–Perhaps you should mention in the capers that there is a 50% chance of rain everyday!!! This way you can get out of it by saying the weather forecase said 50% chance it will rain!!!!! Honestly, some people will do anything to get something for free!!!
Dear John, Please reply
How do we get our copy of the Currents magazine? I thought we were supposed to get a free subscription after taking our first cruise with Carnival, but my first cruise with Carnival was in August 2008, and I have taken 3 cruises in total, but I have never received even one copy of the magazine. I am moving soon, so I will contact Carnival with my new address, but what will it take to start receiving the magazine?
Thanks….Irene Garner (hooked on cruising)
John,
It is amazing someone can not read the Capers to find out there was a 30% chance of rain. Instead of giving them free laundry, you should have asked them why they did not buy an umbrella while shopping in St. Thomas?
hi John,
i have been reading the blog more than posting but I sailed last year on the Miracle and had a great time, I am booked on the Triumph for this Monday (7/27) out of NYC, I was just wondering if you could tell me who the CD and Captain will be? too bad you won’t be the CD
Thanks John
Robert
Hello John – My family met you on the Carnival Freedom in February of 2008. My daughter actually left a box of Girl Scout Cookies and you mentioned it on your morning show (she still thinks she’s a super star because of that). This past February we boarded the Carnival Triumph and have booked the Dream for April of 2010. I know it is several months away, but will you still be on the Dream then? We read your blog nightly and enjoy them very much! Keep up the great work!!!
Hope you feel better soon. Work isn’t any fun especially when you’re sick.
Please stop giving in to the idiots who write their stupid complaints. Rain the Caribbean, especially in the summer? Who would have thought it. Really now are you supposed to control the weather? You shouldn’t apologize for something you have no control over.
We’re working on a drink for our Carnival Liberty cruise with Butch. That should be fun.
Get better.
George and Linda
John,
Good evening to you.
I saw the pictures of the little Make-A-Wish child and knew that she was having a great time. My son was also a Make-A-Wish child when he was 16, he got a big screen tv so that he could watch nascar racing. We almost lost him several times that year, but we didn’t and he will turn 30 in September. I try to give to them when I can, it is so wonderful to see the smiles on the kids that they help.
We were on the Carnival Splendor last December and went to the Pinnacle(Steakhouse) and had an excellent meal, it was worth the $. It was the first time we had done anything like that and we enjoyed it very much. I would recommend everyone to try it at least once, the service is excellent and the food was out of this world.
Looking forward to more pictures of the Carnival Dream and also of the very beautiful Kye.
John:
We have just returned from a an AWESOME 8 day cruise on the Freedom (July 4th week). It was a girls trip, and two of us in the froup were with you on the Carnival Glory when Hurricane Francis hit. We were very excited to find that you were the cruise director and we had a wonderful time. Your bed time story was wonderful. I celebrated my birthday at sea, and could not think of anything better. Hope to sail with you again next year.
Dear John,
May I suggest that you buy a mega box of 33 gallon black trash bags to hand out to these folks who think they are made of sugar and might melt. They make excellent ponchos for the caribbean showers. You just cut a hole out of the bottom where the seam is slide it over your head measure and cut an arm hole on each side. They fold up small enough to put in your pocket and can be whipped out in an instant. We never go cruisin without them. I personally enjoy the showers as it feels good during a hot humid day of shopping on the islands. Remember you can please some of the people some of the time, but never all the people all the time.
I wrote you on the the 6th of July with my Conquest review for the 24 May sailing and never saw you respond to it. I hope that the staff that I gave compliments to were told how much we appreciated them and for a job well done.
Hot tea with Honey in it will help you get over your cold.
Kye is such a beautiful baby. I love her smile and those dancing eyes.
Hope you get to feeling better soon
Marqueta
John Please reply! : )
I just finished reading Carnival’s Premier issue of Funville Times.
What a great story about Bill Filomena who has cruised 41 times with Carnival in 18 months!
John, it strikes me that Carnival is positioned wonderfully to appeal to the baby boomers as well as the Gen Xers and the others. After all Carnival is the Funship.
I am wondering how far off is that we see more of the Bill’s? I worry and actually hope that Carnival leads the way in maintaining value for money cruises. I am nearly 50 and have raised 4 children. My wife and I have always had to watch the nickles and dimes – no as I get older, I have a bit more disposable income. No one owes me anything – but I truly want and envision taking a cruise with Carnival every year – maybe a second every year on one of Carnival’s sister lines!
S0 John please tell me that long term that Bob Dickinson and Micky Arison, don’t depart from this sucessful formula!
I know Carnival is in the business of the bottom line, but like the world of the mouse, you folks do make dreams come true. I wish everyone could experience one Carnival cruise in their lifetime. Wow what a wonderful retirement dream!
Hi John,
I’m wishing Alison and her family a wonderful cruise.
Hope you feel better soon.
Clair
Jemagine being away from my new baby as long as you do. You certainly are a dedicated employee and daddy because we all know that she will only want designer clothes and shoes and only the best schools. Need more pictures.
Sincerely,
ohn please reply
I apologise if you have gotten this before. I’m having computer problems.
I was writing about the loyalty program. If I take 1 three day cruise I get 1 point but if I take a 14 day cruise I still only get 1 point. The closer that I get
to the elusive platinum level the more that it bothers me. I think the you should get at least 2 points for a two week cruise. Even Valentine, my service dog has been on 5 cruises with the last 2 beeing 2 week cruises.
It’s time for a change I think. Any hope it could be soon?
John you are doing a great job and I can’t even Barbara Butler
Sunshine, mixology … and Jaimie … what a wonderful recipe for a perfect afternoon!
That mixology contest looks like a real winner. Just to be able to name the drink and have your name in the capers is pretty cool. And I guarantee your version, Love potion number 10 would be a huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge seller.
But why is Jaime staring so intently into Kirk’s ear? It’s good to know that when Kirk gets some free time from the Carnival Pride that he wants to hop back on………….
…..another Carnival cruise for his vacation.
Hey John, can you tell Kirk what kind of glove he needs to “catch the pigeon”.
Hope the ‘roids don’t hurt so much tomorrow.
Hi John,
Please reply
You had a post today that I just have to answer to. I have copied and pasted it.
Ruth G. Asked:
John
I had posted a question on Wednesday and it’s now Friday night and still no answer and so I found your work e mail address which is on cruise critic. There is not much point in offering your customers a service if you are not going to answer them is there?
I am on the Carnival Glory and want a table for two as last time our table companions were hideous.
My details are:
Ruth and Al G.
October 24th sailing
Suite # – 7288
Want table for two by window – late sitting
Reply please when confirmed
This poster just infuriates me, they want this and they want that. If they took the time to read your blog, you have mentioned many times to allow 5 days for a reply because of the amount of emails that you receive. Another point that ruffled my feathers is when she said that if you are going to offer a service and if you don’t fulfill that service why offer it. You offer these services because you care about US the passengers. There is not one other cruise line that I have seen anyone that works for them offer and do the things that you do, that is what makes you so special. If she wanted a table for two BY A WINDOW, then she should ask the head person of the dining room, but to demand that you do it for her just got to me. I could honestly see her asking for a table for two, but to demand it by a window just went to far.
Now to the reason that I was going to write to you. I do not know where to write to send a letter of commendation about the PVP that I have been working with. Her name is Nisha Hicks and John, she is like you, she cares about the passengers. We ran into a problem with a cruise that was coming up and I explained everything to her and she said “No Problem Kathy, this is what I am going to do for you.” Well to make a long story short, she saved the day and I just want someone to know at Carnival that they have a PVP that goes the extra mile for their passengers. So if you could send me someones name or pass this one to someone, I would greatly appreciate it.
Your Bloggy Thingy fan always
Kathy
PS, please send a hug to Kye from one of her American aunties, and say HI to Heidi for me. Thanks
John,
*Reply if you can manage the strenght*
Please send the, “our clothes got wet in the 30 seconds of rain” people 2 garbarge bags with a hole cut in the bottom and one in each side for their free rain gear with my regards, used ones work better.
These people must cruise with the people who insited on a free parka to use in the baltic, still can’t belive Heidi gave her coat to that lady. Anyway blog is great as always, and once again your sick VITAMINS !!! TAKE THEM!!! and stop working so much you need some rest if your going to be the best CD you can. The dream looks great I can’t wait to try her Dining room formerly known as a supper club but now known as a steakhouse or what I have renamed MGTCF – Mighty Good, This Carnival Food.
So till i can enjoy a 24 oz porterhouse with a nice glass of wine cook the way ordered not the way Sparks in NOLA does
All the best to the 100000000 Stephanies and the other 30000000 carnival is going to hire to assist you soon i’m sure, and to the boys over there who have to work with the stephanies.
Your Friend,
Kevin
great pics of the cocktail party,it justs helps me get more excited about the upcoming cruise that the wife and i will be taking,we will be sailing with you on the freedom on the august the 15th sailing.
cant wait to meet you john.you sound like a man after my own heart,44,English and you like the French about as much as toothache
John- Just writing to let you know what a fantastic time my wife and I had on the recent Freedom cruise! What luck that for our first cruise, you were the CD! Talk about being spoiled. I now understand some of the other posts that talk about scheduling their cruise around the CD schedule- I will be looking to do the same! Thanks for all your humour, kindness and for allowing me to tell my wife I love her on the big screen during the afternoon show. Give our best to Heidi and Desk, er, Kye!
Get well
Josh and Kari
Thanks John for getting back to me regarding my cabin and the need for three seperate beds…I hope you feel better….lots of chicken soup….
~millie
George and Linda, Gary and I will miss seeing Butch this year. We are on the Triumph in September, going north from New York for a change of pace. Certainly your drink must be a Crazy Disco Delight in his honor!
John, we love reading about the unassuming, joyful people that appreciate your thoughtfulness. Best wishes to little Alison and her parents. Janet
John Please Respond:
We are on the Triumph 9/19 and plan to bring Jorge Solano a little taste of Florida since he has a back ground from here. I might not be able to get Florida oranges on the plane. Any personality hints you can give me? We are celebrating our 32nd anniversary and so looking forward to this vacation. Janet
John or Stephanie please answer.
I see the receipe for the melting cake is on Carnival’s website and we really appreciate it:
8 oz semisweet chocolate
1 cup (2 sticks) butter
7 eggs, divided use
6 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup flour
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Melt chocolate and butter; cool 10 minutes. In separate bowl, mix four eggs with sugar. Whisk. Add flour and whisk. Add remaining three eggs. Add egg mixture to chocolate mixture. Pour in individual ramekins. Bake until just done, about 15-20 minutes (interior will be melting). Serve with vanilla ice cream.
My questions are what kind of flour (plain or self-rising) and how many individual servings does this make?
Your blog is so entertaining and so informative and everyone appreciates all of the time and effort you put into it and the assistance to all.
I’m thinking that maybe Ruth was the problem and not the table mates. Her comment is just plain rude.
and let’s not even talk about the rain comment.
John,
I just want to comment on the NEW “Carnival Funville Times” I recived in my email today… it is absoltuly brilliant. I have enjoyed reading it so far, My congardulations to all who have put such a fine publication. I look forward to reading more of these as they come out.
Keep up the great work,
Capt Bill
John,
We are about to leave on our first cruise on Sunday July 26 on the Splendor. We are so excited! My husband and I just celebrated our 20th anniversary, our oldest son just graduated high school . So there are 6 of us, (my husband and I, 2 teens and my parents) and we plan on having the best vacation ever! Just wanted to say, I love your blog and your little Kye is just adorable! I am constantly amazed at what people will complain about. Good grief, its a vacation..have fun and don’t sweat the small stuff..like rain!!
Thanks for all you do!
Tanya
Dear John,
I know for sure that I could never do your job as a cruise director. The first passenger that came up to me and complained that I didn’t control the rain in the Caribbean would be doing the backstroke back to the mainland.
Put me down for a “LOVE POTION #10″ it sounds like it works better than #9. ROTFLOL!
It is hard to read some of your comments at work and not break out into full hesterical laughter and have everone at work think that I have totally lost my marbles.
You have to gifts my friend. One you share pictures with us every Friday, and the other is to make people laugh and have a good time sometimes in spite of themselves. Keep up the good work. If you can call making milk come out of peoples noses work.
James and Nancy
The Cruzin2some
Hi John,
Please reply
Will Teri Jo be on the July 26th sailing playing her keyboard by the casino?
Thanks
John,
I know you are caught in the middle when someone is rude and then demands something from you. If you reward them with what they demand, are you or anyone else for that matter not just encouraging bad behaviour ( spelt correctly..LOL )?
Hope you feel better soon.
As someone who at my last job was involved with Make – A – Wish and the fantastic work they do, let me just say thank you to you and your staff.
For so many of these children and their families without our companies and employee’s help there would be no way for these children to take such trips.
Just seeing the smile on the child’s face is a massive reward, I urge anyone and everyone to help Make – A – Wish in any ways they can and support those companies that help make a childs dream come true.
Dear John,
Let me start by saying I’m sorry you got a cold, especially when Heidi is not there to take care of you. I hope you get better soon.
I have been enjoying the blog thingy since the very beginning. My family and I had the privilege of sailing with you on the Freedom on August of 2007 on a 12 day European cruise. Needless to say we had the most incredible experience. The European sites, the carnival crew, the food, the shows, the kids activities, everything was perfect. We were all exhausted at the end of each day after having spent all day on one of the many great shores excursions. But coming back to ship after a long day of sightseeing felt even better than going home. Every staff member we encountered was solicitous, polite, and friendly. The food and service at the restaurants was first class. Even the beds were so comfy that we didn’t miss the ones at home. I didn’t get to meet you personally, (other than during the shows). However, I did get to meet and talk to Heidi for a while.
Please let me congratulate you and Heidi on the birth of your little princess. I have two of my own, and I know precious they are. Without a doubt Kye is the most famous little girl in the cruising world. I hope she and Heidi can join you soon so you get to enjoy those wonderful moments. Now that is something for you to look forward to.
In the mean time, we will look forward to enjoying yet another carnival cruise, and having you as our CD which will be in 24 days, as we are booked to sail with you, on the Freedom again, on August 15th, and guess what, I convinced my sister to come along. This will be our 4th cruise, and we are planning to book the 2 day cruise to nowhere on November 13th out of NYC. I’ve got to go on the Dream, and as luck will have it, you will be the CD on that cruise as well. Besides, it will count towards my platinum level. We had the opportunity to go thru the PIV check in once before, and it is sweet.
Here is my question. As I told you, my sister and her daughter are coming with us in august; we are a party of 6 and are confirmed for the late dining. How could we get a table by the window? My 7 year old and 8 year old niece are always sneaking by the other tables just so they can look out the window.
Well john I just wanted to tell you that we love cruising with Carnival. It is our favorite cruising line. Our kids enjoy Camp carnival so much that we must enforce the “we eat diner as a family” rule to get to see them. My 7 year old wishes she could be in 3 places at the same time. I just love being pampered for a whole week. Because that is what it translates into not having to clean, cook, or make beds. It is pure heaven. I can already picture myself on lido…. The Caribbean breeze…
Until then …….see you soon
Your blogger fan
Julia Burke
JOHN, PLEASE REPLY.
Hello again from Boston. Can’t wait to see you on the Dream 2/6/2010! Quick question about disembarkation….we have an early flight leaving from Orlando(necessary) and were wondering if there is such a thing as VIP Self Assist….meaning, does our VIP status allow us to disembark ahead of the normal self-assist folks??? If not, does Carnival still offer the early flight disembark process? As time draws nearer, am getting more concerned about our necessary flight time as Port Canaveral is so far away from the airport!
Thanks and can’t wait to see you then.
Patti
Hi John! I’m really enjoying reading your blog and just wanted to ask you a question.
We are going on our honeymoon cruise on the Conquest on 9/27 and we were wondering how we go about being contestants on the newlywed game. Just let me know if you can.
My email is sarah.mcgowan@courierpost.com. Thanks John! Hope you have a wonderful trip!
Sarah McGowan (soon-to-be Hathaway)
Carnival Freedom July 4-12, 2007
My original comment must have gotten lost in “cyberspace”. I just wanted to say that we had an incredible time aboard the Freedom and John Heald is the best cruise director! I have been on over 50 cruises (all different lines) and I have seen quite a few. John is just an incredibly funny man that has an uncanny ability to find the most humorous passengers and bring out the best in them! He has been with Carnival about 20 years and he had been our cruise director on a couple of sailings many years ago. As soon as I saw his name in the Carnival Caper, I knew we were in for a treat!
We had a bad experience on a Carnival ship about 4 years ago and hadn’t sailed with them until this cruise. This cruise restored our faith in Carnival. All employees were extremely courteous and pleasant at all times. Our room stewards (Tammee and Jamnean) were the sweetest girls and took such good care of us. The entertainment ( three production shows) were top notch, and the food was amazing. We had a delightful cruising experience.
John, all I can say is keep up the good work and I hope we will be honored to cruise with you again sometime.
Sincerely,
Monica
Hello John,
I hope you feel better soon! I love reading your blog thingy!
Brandon
John, how do I send you a message directly via email or through the blog thingy?
Brandon in Buffalo
Dear John,
Again, you gave in to someone who complained. And about the rain – it’s only water, the clothes will dry. Did you remember to mention it rains a lot in the summer in the Caribbean? But only for short periods of time – and sometimes only in selected spots. When I was there with my nephew 10 years ago, we were at Paradise Point when the heavens opened up, but our vantage point showed that the ship and other areas were in bright sunlight.
Anyway, how are you feeling? You probably keep getting colds because you are in contact with loads of people who probably pass their bad germs to you. Like when my (former) friend greeted me at the airport before our trip on the Valor. He gives me a big hug & kiss and then tells me he has a cold. Well guess who got the worst cold ever halfway through the cruise, which turned into strep throat when I got home. But I hope you’re feeling good soon.
Speaking of the Valor, I never responded to the comments about children in the Piano Bars. Why take the children into the Piano Bar in the first place when there are wonderful age-appropriate facilities just for them? In 2005 on the Valor Ed Rocks was at the Piano Bar (His last cruise). His repertoire was a bit raunchy to say the least, but since there were no children there, it did not seem inappropriate. Truthfully I’ve heard far worse in the Dance Club – as far back as ’87 on the Jubilee.
JOHN – PLEASE REPLY:
John, your idea of having dinner at Kevin’s restaurant sounds like a great idea. Have you heard from Kevin? Will he be on BC3? It may be a matter of logistics for some (me included), since the restaurant is on Long Island and not in the City. A car is definitely needed to get there. And since I don’t drive, I’ll have to bribe someone to take me there. Also, when were you thinking of doing it? Will you have any free days in NY? So keep us posted. I cannot wait to see you again.
Feel good, and my best to Heidi and your little Angel,
Hugs,
Carol
John,
The ship is a dream! PLEAS REPLY,
“Will the Ship Have full court BasketBall”?
Jake-
Dear John, (Please reply.)
After reading about your 6 hour meeting, I promise myself that I will never again complain about the ones I attend that last only 3-1/2 hours. I always thought that since water-boarding is not permitted in the US anymore, the next best means of forcibly extracting information from an enemy would be to hold them captive in a long, drawn-out meeting with people who love to yammer on just for the sake of hearing themselves talk. But I digress…
Today I was wondering about the comment cards that Carnival guests turn in at the end of the cruise. Specifically, I’m curious about the section that asks if I’d like to mention by name anyone who helped make my cruise experience more enjoyable. Besides possibly receiving a pat on the back and an “at-a-boy” or “at-a-girl,” are these outstanding individuals rewarded?
I ask because there were several Carnival employees who really went above and beyond on my last cruise. I made sure to list them all by name on the comment card with details about their excellence, but I wonder if the individuals I mentioned were acknowledged and rewarded.
As a passenger, all I know about the Carnival comment cards is that guests fill them out, hopefully answer the questions honestly, then drop them into a box. Besides one prize-winning card being drawn from the box before debarkation, I haven’t the foggiest idea what actually happens to the cards after they feed the box or even if they are read by man or machine.
Can you enlighten me, please?
Thanks,
Laura
Dear John,
Booking #******
Valor 6th, 2009
Kim and Ken R.
I have received a call from Carnival…about my upgrade request.. They will let us know closure to the sail date weather they can give us an upgrade/upsell. I’m keeping my figures crossed for an upsell and both figures and toes crossed for a UPGRADE. As a upsell we “hubby and I” have agreed we only can spend a current amount on that.
Hopefully it will work out either way. I’ll let you know if we get an upgrade/upsell on our cruise.
Sincerely Yours,
Kim
Hi John:
We have had such a great time with you in the past. Do you remember ‘Mr Dick Little’? Who could EVER forget! Oh well, “fire a volley”!
We are going to be on Dream Jan 16 – 23. Are you going to be ‘heading up’ the new ship? Hope you are.
God bless!
Pete Turner
John:
Please consider this my official request for a free cruise for me, my family, and anyone else who may have sailed with us on any of our cruises. What is the basis for our request? Why, it rained at least once ON EACH AND EVERY CRUISE!!! Never mind that they were all to Caribbean ports, and that rain is to be expected in the tropics at any time. Please let us all know when we can expect our free cruises!
Seriously, I love to hear about the things that a few guests have the nerve to complain about. I hope that people such as these can learn from you and your readers, to understand what real problems are (such as those facing Alison and Suzanne’s husband Paul), and to see that the “problems” they have aren’t really problems.
My thoughts go out to Alison and Paul. Their vacations are in the very capable hands of Carnival’s Senior Cruise Director and Brand Ambassador!
Best to Heidi, Kye & the blog crew,
Rick H.
Just wanted to let you know what a GREAT time we had on our cruise (sailed July 12 on Freedom from Ft. Lauderdale). You, John, are what made this cruise memorable!!! You are fantastic. Our family was on a cruise 5 years ago & we were commenting that we could not remember anything about our cruise director from that sailing. We will, however, NOT be able to say that about this cruise.!! Thanks for all the laughs. Also..our best wishes to Alison & her family. Our family was on a Make-A-Wish trip for our son when he was 5 years old. He is now 18 years old & doing fine!! He was diagnosed with leukemia when he was 5 & at the time, our trip was to Disneyworld in Orlando. (However, I’m sure if we had known a cruise was posssible…..:)) Anyway…thanks again for everything. We are planning another cruise in 5 or 6 years (if not before) Hope to see you again.
Hi, John.
I love the Mixology contest idea! Can I be a celebrety judge?
Pat
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Hey John, I just found out that my best friend will be booking us on the Dream for Spring Break next year. Will you be there? I promise to leave my alter ego”Mary” at home…..LOL…. I am having Cruise withdrawl already and it hasn’t been a week since we disembarked the Freedom….. Well hope to hear from you and take care of your beautiful family.
Michelle
John Please Reply-
Hi John! I don’t write in to the blog much but have been reading it for a very long time. I moderate for Cruise Chat and watch in great interest the attention that Cruise Critic bloggers get (which is fine as they are a much bigger forum than us but thought I would let you know about us too)
However, the reason I am writing to you is that I I wanted to ask you a favor. We are loyal Carnival cruisers and we talked my sister and brother in law on a Valor cruise at the end of September. This would be their first cruise on Carnival. They are new to cruising and have tried “Oursshipshavegraffitionthem” and “Behemothshipswithmountainsonthemisallwebuildnowoftheseas” and I want to show here that Carnival ships are top notch vessels that will show her a great time and make this cruise special. She asked where we would be seated in the dinning room and if we could “request” a window table. I told here that Carnival doesn’t take requests for tables because then…well everyone would be asking for window tables.
Is it possible for you to pull some strings for me? Or do something else to make her cruise special?
We are sailing on the Valor Sept 27th,2009 cabins 6219 and 6215.