Every night before I go to bed and every night when I wake up I think about the same thing …………Megan Fox’s bottom…………..oh……..and what the heck am I going to write about in the next blog. And every time…….when I think I will be sitting in my underpants ……….staring at a blank screen…………something happens.
A few weeks ago or less I wrote a blog about how a guest had followed me into the toilet and as I stood pointing Percy at the porcelain he questioned me about the dolphin excursions in Grand Cayman. Well, this morning it happened again……not in the toilet ……..but in a scary, unforgiving place which I have discovered…….it’s called the gym….or as I like to call it…..hell.
Before I explain what happened I should perhaps allow those bloggers who just read that I was in a gym………… and fainted…………… to regain consciousness ……. OK ………….is everyone with me………………..right, let me carry on.
I know I have to get fit…er….and I know that won’t just happen with diet. And thus whenever I can I have been walking on the treadmill thingy. In the past I have looked at my fellow cruise directors and many of the senior management that work for Carnival in the Miami office and find it weird that most of them have not embraced middle age gleefully by running three times a day, going to the gym every morning at 6 am before work and eating a slice of lettuce for lunch…..me…..I have been laughing hysterically at them and at the mere mention of diets before helping myself to another piece of fried chicken.
Anyway, ignoring as I do now the fried chicken I headed to the gym this morning at 8 am. There were a few guests working out and as I mentioned a few blogs ago as well when I spoke about the bodybuilder type…….the gym is a hilarious source of comedy.
You see, normal men do normal workouts, which is all well and good, but there’s always some slightly cheesy bloke aged between 50 and 60 going for the hard stuff. Such was the case this morning when a chap in his early sixties wearing something I have been told is charmingly called a “wife beater” fell off the insanely inclined, insanely resistanced treadmill and lay on the gym floor……..like a beetle………. legs in the air.
As I helped him up and asked him if he was OK he seemed more interested that his hair weave was in place and I could picture him in my mind driving around in his big red Ferrari winking at pretty girls……..I bet he would be on Lido deck later………..in Speedos ………..looking like he was smuggling two Brussels sprouts.
I can’t pretend I don’t find gym culture baffling. It seems to me that, in gyms, you have two types of creature….. the good-looking young, who are good-looking because they are young, not because they go to the gym; and the less good-looking middle-aged, who are trying really hard to be as good-looking as the young. Which will never happen because they’re not young any more. If older people are wiser, why are they not wise enough to know that you can’t hold back time?
I am sorry to bring her up again but take that lady I was seated next to at the captain’s table last cruise. You can inject your face up to a point, because it’s good to stop before you start looking like an alien. All I wanted to do was to lose the beach ball that burrowed its way under my T-shirt some 10 years ago and for that I had to use the treadmill. So after making sure the Ferrari driving guest didn’t need medical assistance after falling on his arse I climbed onboard my own treadmill, plugged in my Eye Pod thingy and to the sounds of Iron Maiden singing Run To The Hills, I began my two-mile walk to no bloody where.
As I continued my torture I became aware of a woman standing next to me in full gym gear. I looked at her and wondered if she was just admiring my buns of steel. Of course she wasn’t. She motioned me to take of my headphones and as soon as I did and without even bothering with the usual “Sorry to bother you” and ignoring the fact that my breathing was as labored as an asthmatic tortoise she said “You are the activities director aren’t you?”……….I tried to say yes but considering I am as fit as a kangaroo with no legs the yes came out like “Ahyehshhhhhhhh.”
Unperturbed, Mrs. Rude started telling me that the costumes in last night’s Big Easy Show were unsuitable for children and despite the fact that I was sweating more than Brian Epstein when he dropped the soap in the prison shower………she continued to wag her finger at me and tell me why her children wouldn’t be coming to the shows. Now, at this point many of you would expect me to stop the treadmill, get off, apologize and send her a fruit basket……but for some reason……..I don’t why………..I said “Am I bothered though”…….put my head phones back on and listened to Elton John sing The Bitch Is Back.
Actually………that’s a lie……..and you already know that don’t you? You know that I stopped the treadmill, you know that I stood there sweating and apologized and explained that I announce there would be showgirl style costumes and you know that tonight ………. she will receive some apples and plums.
I hate the gym.
Let’s get on with today’s questions………………here we go.
Laverne Ord Asked:
John-Please reply my husband Harold and I will be sailing with you on Carnival Freedom Aug 15 booking 20JH65/cabin 8438 as we celebrate 80 and 85 yr birthdays and anniversary of 57 years. We would so like to have a table for 2 on our confirmed 6PM dining. Thank you for all you do and hope that cold is better.John Says:
Hello Laverne
I think I replied to you in a blog a few days ago so I am sure this has overlapped. Anyway, just in case you missed it I have asked the maitre d to help with your request so all should be well.
See you very soon
Best wishes
JohnKim Risley Asked:
Please Reply
Dear John,
Don’t mean to be a pain in the ass…But I read on my roll call for Cruise Critic that a few of the people that are going on my cruise have gotten some up sell calls… and I haven’t heard anything yet other than that 1st call. Someone posted a number for the up sell department on Cruise Critic. Should I call or just wait? I know it’s still 30 days away, but for some reason I would like to try to get an up sell or upgrade. But I will be very happy with my room we have now.
Let me know, by the way you don’t need to post this. Just asking you this question… I’m a little concerned I will not even be called…
Kim Risley Valor Sept. 6th Booking ******
John Says:
Hello Kim
No need to apologize for asking, Kim. I have forwarded your booking number to reservations and mentioned that you are willing to maybe up sell to the next level of stateroom. I also suggest that you call the number that Cruise Critic provided as well so you have a double chance. Wait until Thursday until doing this so it gives them chance to read my message. Good luck and I wish you and your CC friends a brilliant cruise
Best wishes
JohnMike White Asked:
John, two months ago I was asked by my peers in a club I belong to, to organize a club cruise. They knew that my wife and I were avid cruisers (one cruise from platinum status) so I obliged and as of today we have booked 25 rooms on the Inspiration sailing from Tampa on February 18, 2010.My reason for writing is that after I contacted you via the blog you gave me Stephanie Leavitt’s name and the social networking e-mail address which I contacted twice. I wrote her about promotional material, so that I can provide the club members with some visual aids in hopes of selling more cabins. Stephanie replied to me, however after two months, I have never received a thing. In spite of the fact that 25 cabins have been booked, I feel I could have done a lot better had I been provided some promo items. Don’t get me wrong, I am not looking for freebie stuff, but instead a promotional DVD, brochures, flyers, heck even balloons would have been good to generate some excitement and possibly book even more rooms than we had. Our two month price guarantee has now expired, but I wanted to let you know, that there was a lapse somewhere, which ultimately will only affect me, as organizer, as I am sure the cruise will eventually sell out anyway. As requested I will let you know a couple of weeks prior to sailing. In the meantime I will see you on the Dream 12/3/09.
MikeJohn Says:
Hello Mike
First of all congratulations on booking so many cabins on the Carnival Inspiration. I know that you are a loyal Carnival supporter and I thank you for introducing many more people to the fun ship cruise experience.I remember you asking for more promo material and I know that your request was forwarded to our groups department but what happened after that……..I have no idea. But you are correct of course, you could have booked more cabins and therefore I owe you an apology. We messed up there and I will make sure someone important realizes that. On a positive note I want you to know that now the cruise is planned that if there is anything I can do to help you and your group once onboard I will be honored to assist.
Once again, my apologies that we did not follow up here and I also wish you all a great cruise.
Best wishes
JohnJen Asked:
John Please reply,
A couple of things before my petty little question. Like many others, I would like to commend you for being so nice to Ruth and her request for a table for 2 by the window. I would also like to commend you for being nice to the woman who wrote the book and wanted to “help” you lose weight. As a person with quite a bit of extra weight on her, I probably would have thrown her off the ship.Now on to my petty little question. I am sailing on the Dream on December 3rd (and quite looking forward to it). Normally, when the ship comes in, it goes through debarkation, embarkation, and the cleaning of the ship while this is happening which means that we cannot go to our cabins until 1:30 pm or so. When the Dream comes into Port Canaveral, there will be no debarkation as there will be no passengers. What time will we be allowed to go to our cabins? Will we still have to wait until 1:30?
JenJohn Says:
Hello Jen
Thanks for the kind words and as you may have read at the start of this blog it is not always easy to be nice. Your Carnival Dream will indeed arrive for the Bloggers Cruise and the first voyage from Port Canaveral on December 3. There won’t be any guests on board as you said so embarkation should start earlier and as nobody will have been staying in the guest cabins you should indeed be able to go straight there. The only thing that may slow things down is if the Coast Guard requires the crew to go through a full abandon ship drill but as they will have been in New York I don’t think that this will be a problem. I hope you are excited about this beautiful ship and there are more great photos of her in a few minutes.
Best wishes
JohnLruss71 Asked:
Oh Juan (Please reply), what a week you have had and it is only Tuesday! I just want to comment on all the people emailing you and asking for gifts. I just don’t understand why some people think it is ok to just ask for a gift. According to the dictionary, a Gift:1. something given voluntarily without payment in return, as to show favor toward someone, honor an occasion, or make a gesture of assistance; present.
2. The act of giving.
3. Something bestowed or acquired without any particular effort by the recipient or without its being earned:
4. A special ability or capacity; natural endowment; talent: the gift of saying the right thing at the right time.
You should just add a 5th it could be, something obtained from John Herald just because you asked.
I can understand a frequent cruiser asking perhaps a favor for a dining request, i.e., but to just out and out ask for something for nothing, it just galls me. I have never met you but from reading you blog I can tell you must be a nice man.
That said could you please surprise me on my cruise next year on my cruise of Dream, booking #
Made-up, with a gold ship on stick, past guest pin, table for 20 by window and by the way make sure I get a French waiter because I can speak French with the best of them……Just kidding.. Don’t need a thing. Next year when I cruise the Dream, just being there will be enough.
LaurieJohn Says:
Hello Laurie
I see that quite a few people have written about the sudden increase in people asking for gifts and I thank you all so very much for the support you have all shown me. Let me just say that if a blogger or a Carnival guest asks me to send someone special a birthday or anniversary gift or a past cruiser requests but does not expect a special table request then I will do my best to make them happy. Many people have been loyal to Carnival and this blog thingy for a long time and I am very happy to say thank you anyway I can. I must admit though that recently and thanks to some lovely person who posted my e-mail on Cruise Critic I have been receiving lots of e-mails requesting and demanding gifts, etc. Those…..well they get the delete button treatment. I just don’t have time to reply to them. I guess for every 100 people who ask for something and say thank you and please there is one person who will ask without the pleasantries. I refuse to allow that one person spoil it for the rest.I can accommodate all you requests except the French waiter and as we don’t have any French crew members onboard. Instead I will dress Ketut from Indonesia up with a fake moustache, get him to stare at your bottom, provide rude service and tell him not to shower for a month……………..you won’t know the difference.
Thanks so much for your concern, it means so much
Best wishes
JohnSharon Asked:
(Replying to your Reply, so reply if you want)
I’m sorry; I thought you read the Cruise critic boards. In internet lingo, “DD”, means dear daughter. There is also a DH, DW, etc., meaning dear hubby, wife etc.My DD has had different dialects. Her Pre-kindergarten teacher was from Spain, her Kindergarten teacher was from Mexico, and her latest teacher was from the Canary Islands. The program is wonderful. She has math, social studies, science, etc. all in a Spanish language, and then basic American English language for about an hour and a half. I truly hate the joke about Americans only speaking one language. The School System here has also a similar program for the French Language which is about 20 years old and next year they are starting Chinese.
When I say Kye is very pretty, I do mean it. All babies are cute, but some are beautiful, and I must say from last Fridays picture, (31/07/09), Kye is almost as pretty my girls were, sorry have to be a little bias.
In regards to Camp Carnival, a different “to color” t-shirt for each ship would be a good start. Getting rid of the electronic games would be better, Teddy Bear work shop, been there, done that, got two. Geography games, i.e.: where are we now on a map, where am I from for the counselors; cultural information, the counselors could teach a game they played as a child. Just like the ship itself, there are several counselors from all over the world and they could teach in the form of games and play about their country. My daughter can play “Duck Duck Goose”, at home.This is just my opinion. Thank you for your answer and the information about our favorite waitress of all time, Rosanna!!
Looking to book Alaska in 2011!
SharonJohn Says:
Hello Sharon
I wish I had time to read the Cruise Critic boards and then maybe I could discover which brain box started the “John should be President of Carnival” thread thingy and also find out who posted my e-mail address so I could introduce his arse to my cheese grater. I don’t quite understand the use of text speak such as “LOL” and “BTW.” I read a comment the other day on the blog that said something I had written had this person ROTFL ………..ummm…………what?So, I apologize that I didn’t understand DD to mean dear daughter. I thank you for the Camp Carnival ideas and I will pass them along to the ladies in charge of the program. I have to admit that I doubt you will see the end of the electronic games. I am sure there would be a junior riot if we took away their Playstation PSP thingies but I do like the idea of teaching the kids more international games etc.
So, I hope you and your DD are well and I thank you on behalf of my DW for the beautiful words for our DD.
BW
JKatrina Asked:
Hi John – please reply, thank you for getting the follow-up information regarding military discounts. I guess it’s just the luck of the draw. We are limited since we are only able to sail out of Galveston. We just can’t afford the added expense of flying to port. I hope one day that we’ll be lucky enough to cruise in a suite. We did get a considerable discount on our balcony room and are very gratefulWe’re already looking at booking another cruise next year. Are military rates only quoted by phone? Also all the cruises I’ve checked on don’t have any of the past guest rates listed online. Are these just not posted for next year yet? If not, when do they usually get posted?
On another note, I have a question regarding the Ecstasy. I see that sailings after 10/17/09 show balconies as guaranteed but don’t actually allow you to pick your exact stateroom. I know they will be refurbishing this ship and adding balconies and I’m very excited about all the added amenities! I called Carnival and got redirected a couple of times regarding this question and no one really had an answer for me. When will the balcony rooms open up for “Fun Select” so that we may book the exact stateroom of our choice? Just trying to plan out when I should look to book our next cruise!
I look forward to reading your blogs every day. You are not only very informative but also hilarious
I never know what you’re gonna talk about each day, which makes for even better reading.
Thanks again for taking time out of your hectic schedule to entertain us and answer our questions
John Says:
Hello Katrina
I am glad you found the information I posted about the military discounts and the suites. I hope one day you will be able to find the right deal for you and your husband to enjoy the suite life as you sail from Galveston.The Carnival Ecstasy is indeed adding balconies just as her sister the Carnival Sensation has done. I spoke to someone in reservations who told me that these balconies will be available toward the end of September on “Fun Select.” This coincides with the work starting when she enters dry dock. I am glad you are enjoying the blog so much and if you need any further help please let me know.
Best wishes to you all
JohnCheri Bolchoz Asked:
John (Please Reply)
As you know we are sailing on the Carnival Dream 9/21/09 there are several Cruise Critic members (about 100) on this sailing. We have a thread on Cruise critic “The Inaugural Dream September 21, 2009″ on pages 55 & 56 there is a lot of talk & disappointment that Carnival is doing nothing special for the 1st sailing of this Beautiful New Ship. I know you said that Carnival was still ironing things out. I just felt you needed to know about the feelings of several Cruise Critic members.Hopefully you will be able to clear some of this up soon. I know you said things were hush hush.
Hopefully you can help arrange a Cruise Critic Meet & Greet for the 1st sea day
I know you stay quite busy with all the questions on the blog & your work on the ship.Have you had any luck in getting in touch with Chris about my ornaments (Sorry to be a pest on this)
Hope Kye & Heidi are doing well. I have made something special for Kye & hopefully will be able to give it to you in Rome on the 21st.
Take Care
Cheri & MichaelJohn Says:
Hello Cheri and Michael
I hope that you saw the reply I sent you with regard to the Carnival Dream inaugural cruise and us meeting so I can give your Christmas ornaments. Let me know if you saw this or not please.In answer to your question on the Cruise Critic thread thingy that says:
“There is a lot of talk & disappointment that Carnival is doing nothing special for the 1st sailing of this Beautiful New Ship”
I would respectfully say…….how do they know we are not? I can tell you that the first cruise of any new ship is always special and when it’s a new class of vessel and you are the first guests to sail onboard then that is an incomparable experience……I promise. As for doing anything special. Well, as I said, maybe we are and I promise to let you know nearer the time what we are planning. Actually……..I wonder……..Cheri, can you do me a huge favor and ask the people on the thread thingy what their expectations are and indeed yours. What do you and they think we should be doing that qualifies as special? I would truly appreciate your thoughts and those of the readers …….is that a correct word?I will gladly arrange a roll call for you all. Please nominate one person to stay in touch with me and let me know how many and when you would like to meet. I will then have the time and place noted in the Carnival Capers.
Cheri…………..I promise you and all the guests sailing on your Carnival Dream that this will be a cruise that they will always remember.
Hope to hear from you soon and my best wishes to you both
JohnSean McGrath Asked:
Dear John, (please reply).
Thanks for the great blog thing.I was on the Valor last year and had a fantastic time. So good in fact I am returning again at the end of this year. While on the Valor I considerably enjoyed the draft Heineken. Being Irish, I like my beer and am used to drinking drafts. When on my previous cruise before that, on the Freedom in 07, they did not have any draft.
I don’t suppose you know if the Valor will still be serving draft Heineken in November do you?
One more question, hopefully one that is easier to answer, what is Carnival’s standard policy on drafts, is it normally stocked?
Many thanks.
Sean McGrathJohn Says:
Hello Sean
Many years ago I used to love draught beer and you will be glad to know that on the Carnival Valor and here on the Carnival Freedom now you will find Heineken in the lobby and sports bars plus now we have added that other Dutch favorite Amstel as well.I have a dream one day of having a British pub on one of our ships like Cunard and other lines do.
Hope this answers your question mate
CheersCameron Asked:
JOHN PLEASE REPLY- I remember a while back ago you told us in the blog that Carnival was working on some “Projects” and you said you would tell us in the coming weeks what they were. Well I was hoping, if you know what they are if you could tell us. Thanks.John Says:
Hello Cameron
I have just written in the last few days about the Behind the Fun Tour and today ,in a few minutes, you will see some information on the past guest pins.
There will be more very exciting news soon.
best wishes
John
John
That’s all for today. As always please let me say a big thank you for all the great comments and reviews and if you need anything at all please mark your postings John, please reply. I apologize once again if it takes me longer to reply than you would like but I do promise to reply eventually.
A few months ago Carnival canceled the past guest party pins and there was much sadness and crying in the streets. And so, I took up your challenge and did my best to see if we could change the minds of those at the top of the Carnival tree……..and I did …… well…….a little bit. Here is the official statement from Vance and the PR office.
We’ve conducted extensive research on the past guest pins regarding their popularity and how many guests are retaining them. Since our research indicated that platinum guests (10 Carnival cruises or more) were the most likely to keep the pins, the decision has been made to make the pins exclusive to Carnival’s platinum guests.
Pins will also be available for sale in Carnival’s gift shops beginning in late October.
We are pleased to continue to offer the pins, which many guests consider a treasured memento of their Carnival cruise.
Now, I would love to be able to take credit for this…..so I will………let’s hear it for me!
I know that non Platinum guests will be a little disappointed and I apologize that I won the battle rather than the war but…….you will get your pin when you reach your Platinum status and until then you can buy them from the gift shop. I don’t know the price just yet but I will do soon and of course let you all know. My thanks to Roberta Jacoby and Jim Berra, our two senior vice presidents who listened to me moan both in person and on the phone and on e-mail and I hope this small gesture shows how much they listen to what you post here on the blog thingy.
Time for some photos from today’s work on your Carnival Dream’s forward and aft dining rooms.
![Aft rest1[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/aft-rest11.jpg?84cd58 "Aft rest1[1]")
![Aft rest2[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/aft-rest21.jpg?84cd58 "Aft rest2[1]")
![Aft rest3[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/aft-rest31.jpg?84cd58 "Aft rest3[1]")
![fwd rest1[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/fwd-rest11.jpg?84cd58 "fwd rest1[1]")
![fwd rest2[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/fwd-rest21.jpg?84cd58 "fwd rest2[1]")
![fwd rest3[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/fwd-rest31.jpg?84cd58 "fwd rest3[1]")
![fwd rest4[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/fwd-rest41.jpg?84cd58 "fwd rest4[1]")
![fwd rest6[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/fwd-rest61.jpg?84cd58 "fwd rest6[1]")
More photos tomorrow.
I love the sound of laughter which along with my daughter cooing down the phone at me, the sound of a V12 Aston Martin and that wonderful noise your arse makes when you have eaten a huge plate of beans the sound of laughter is one of the most satisfying sounds on earth…….especially when it comes from the young……..like young Graham Rodgers………aged 8.
I bet Graham I could make him laugh and he told me “no way”………..so I said
What’s round and brown and lives in the forest?…………………Winnie the Poop
Here’s his reaction
![w1[1]](http://johnhealdsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/w11.jpg?84cd58 "w1[1]")
z
And now to someone who isn’t laughing
Guest: Mr. ————-Ref: 848007369A
Cabin: _______ Booking#: _______ Added-Changed: 08/11/09 – 08/11/09
UNHAPPY WITH THE PIZZA
Guest said that he owned a restaurant in Chicago and that the Pizza we served was not good and not proper Italian Pizza. Guest wants to speak to the Head Chef and teach him how to make proper Pizza. Guest also said that the pasta he had at dinner this evening was to soft and the sauce not fresh. GSA apologized to Mr. ____and said that his comments would be forwarded to the Chef.
Now, I have never heard of any complaints about our pizza before in fact most people tell me how much they enjoy it. I am sure that as a restaurant owner this guest is very proud of his own pizza and pasta but it’s a bit cheeky don’t you think…….demanding to speak to the chef to show him how to make “proper Italian pizza.” OK, you may go to dinner somewhere and think “I could cook better than that” and you might even complain about the food…….. but to actually ask to speak to the chef and offer to teach him how to cook ……….who does this guy think he is ” Gordon Fu**ing Ramsey.”
Anyway……………what is proper Italian pizza and where is the best?
I remember when Heidi and I were first in Naples on the Carnival Liberty we got in a taxi and asked driver to take us to try some real pizza. He got so excited; he had to turn round to lecture us directly, delegating the task of steering his Fiat to his knees. It was the perfect reminder that food, along with rumpy pumpy, wearing blue suits with brown shoes and football (soccer) is the most important parts of Neapolitan life………it is every Neapolitan man’s dream to have rumpy pumpy, while watching soccer and eating pizza ………come to think of it…………it’s my dream as well.
I can’t remember the name of the place we ended up that day but I can tell you that the best pizza I have ever eaten was in Capri……..at a stunning restaurant called Villa Verde. It is immersed in beautiful gardens in the heart of Capri. The restaurant has an elegant dining room leading out onto a large covered terrace where the likes of Denzel Washington, Mariah Carey, Ryan Seaweed and of course George Hamilton can usually be found.
The pasta is extraordinary and so is….well……..everything. The pizza, is sensational. If you have one of those “nothing but pizza will do” cravings that seem to afflict most of the world once a week and you find yourself in Italy, this is the place to have it.
However……where do you think the best pizza is…..I know one of our bloggers Kevin may have a few thoughts on this? And…….what do you think of the Carnival pizza? I would be interested in reading your thoughts.
But, it’s not pizza that I had for lunch today……..nope…….I had a special treat. One of the entertainment staff went ashore today in Grand Cayman and brought me back some Chinese food from ashore…….very nice I thought. So after munching down my Szechuan chicken I decided to open up the fortune cookie…..not to eat it……..too many carbs and sugar of course but to read the fortune inside.
Obviously what is written on that little slip of paper is total bollocks but unfortunately a Chinese crew member once told me that it is very unlucky not to open up the fortune cookie and since he told me that I always have done.
So, there I was, sitting in my underpants, opening up the cookie waiting for the usual….. “If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em”………“Trust your intuition”……or “Your luck is going to change” or………”don’t wait for your ship to come in, swim out to it”…… but this one was different…….it is obviously a new style of fortune cookie……..it was hilarious….. it simply said…….”Man going through turnstile sideways going to Bangkok.” ………….brilliant.
Goodnight
Your friend
Wong
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.
John – Did you know that you can add the words “in bed” to the end of any fortune in a fortune cookie? It may not come true, but it’s fun to try it out!
Dear John,
I can’t believe that someone doesn’t like the Pizza on the Fun Ships. I have had way too much of it on my cruises and can say that Carnival has the BEST PIZZA AT SEA! (Unfortunatly, another line in the Carnival family has the worst!) I believe I had pizza everyday on the last cruise. It was my before dinner snack. I felt sorry that they only had one employee working as the place got more and more popular as the cruise went on.
FYI – Just booked my Sister’s 50th Birthday Cruise on the Carnival Glory for next June and it will be her first time on Carnival. (Only 2nd cruise!!) Converting the World – One Cruise at a time.
I can hardly wait.
Cheers!
Derek
Hi John,
Tell Roberta Jacoby and Jim Berra thanks from the many of us who treasure the pins. Now to see if we can get them to follow through on the other suggestion.
That the gift shop carry pins for ALL the ships in Carnival’s fleet to include ones no longer in service. It would’nt take up that much more room to offer them and one case can be split up amongst all the ships.
Dave
Thank you, thank you, thank you John for getting the head office to listen to our pleas to keep the pins. George and I are looking forward to getting the Carnival Liberty pins in 3 1/2 weeks.
We like the pizza on Carnival and always have at least a few pieces during the week.
Thanks again,
Linda
John:
WOO HOO FOR THE GUEST PINS!!!!!!
And yes, I do give you ALL THE CREDIT.
Well, credit to you for going to bat for us and credit to Carnival for listening.
As for our Non-Platinum guests…fear not. Something tells me there are enough Platinum guests to “share” !!
I have to say I was SHOCKED to see the Holiday pins selling on Ebay for $25.00!! We have 6 of them….and while we may give them to friends….we would never sell them.
We also have a Ship on Stick from the Holiday (1980′s era) that has a MARBLE base!!
I hate to disappoint “Mr Italian Pizza”…but I have had authentic Italian pizza in Rome and it is yuck…it is nothing like the Americanized (is that a word) version. Carnival pizza a fine. Tell “Mr Italian Pizza” to go stuff something.
The weirdest pizza we have ever had was in Israel.
Try standing in a Pizza Hut and explaining to your two teenage sons why they can not have a pepperoni and cheese pizza???
I know the time is drawing near for you to be with your two darling ladies again … and we are thrilled that your time to travel home is so close!!!
Linda (Mom of your friend ~ the UNO King~ DJ)
Thank you for always being kind and answering all of our questions. I do appreciate you letting me know that I will in fact be able to drop off my backpack in my cabin when I get on the beautiful Carnival Dream. I am so looking forward to being on this ship and being a part of the bloggers. Is it December 3rd yet?
Jen
John, oh how I wish I could eat the pizza. One of these days I will find a pizza that is made with soy cheese or lactose free cheese. I bring my own soy cheese with me so I can enjoy the egg white omelets they make me on the Lido deck.
But anytime he saw me first , he would always have a big smile on his face. I really enjoyed him and the waiters on the Lido deck. They were so friendly. One waiter made me flowers out of the straw wrapper and napkins and put them in the end of a straw.
I was pleased to find that you have Lactaid milk on the Lido deck . I did not know you had it and suggested to the Maitre’D that they put a sign up that said it was available on request..
I finally got to the point on the Carnival Freedom that I didn’t have to request it. Nicholae, who I think is asst. Maitre’D or one of the waiters would bring it to our table before I even had a chance to ask for it.
If you would, please tell Nicholae that I said to smile……… I told him every morning to smile and he would always say he was thinking and couldn’t do both at the same time.
Where but on a Carnival ship could you find such nice people that spoil the passengers.
Keep up the good work exercising.
Countess Carolyn . 45 days and counting down the days until the next cruise
Dear John,
Thank you so much for news on the past guest pins!!!!! Thank you for fighting the “battle” for us
I am very thankful to have the opportunity to purchase one in the gift shop UNTIL I reach Platinum status. Hopefully this will prove to be a benificial arrangement for Carnival as well.
I am very happy that I will now be able to add a Carnival Dream pin to my collection – along with one from the Carnival Inspiration and the Carnival Fascination – in the coming year!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Charlotte G.
I’m very disappointed with the decision involving the pins. I guess once again those who have money will be ” GIVEN ” the pins ( as if they couldn’t pay for it ), and a person like me who can only take one cruise a year because of he total cost cruise and flight will have to ” PAY ” for a ship’s pin. Based on the company’s idea it would take me 6 more cruises before I can receive one free. Even though this silliness I will pay for my pin because I like the idea of having the name of the ship on a pin. Silly of me wanting a damn little pin. Sorry John but it bothers me so much that you constantly stand behind Carnival and this little thing called a pin can treat others who haven’t yet arrived at PLA ” TIN ” UM. Am I at” TIN ” yet after 4 cruises? As you can see this decision really burns my arse as you call it. But thanks for trying John. The CEO has spoken.
Paul ( Going on my 4th cruise on the Carnival Dream )
Dear John,
Once again, you had me ROFL (Rolling On The Floor Laughing), especially about the fortune cookie. I think I heard that fortune cookies originated in California, USA and not China, so the crew member who told you it was unlucky not to open a fortune cookie must have been pulling your leg.
Thank you (and YAY for you) for bringing back past guest pins! I’m a little sad that they are given only to platinum guests, but I have no problem buying them in the gift shop, as I tried to do exactly that on our last Carnival cruise.
In answer to your question about the Carnival pizza, my 3-year-old DD loved it. On our Carnival Glory cruise, she ordered either pizza or grilled cheese every evening.
Hubby and I thought the pizza smelled absolutely wonderful! I struck up a conversation with the very nice crew member at the pizza station on embarkation day as I waited for my daughter’s pizza lunch, and told him that I regretted being too full to try it. But we had a week ahead of us, so I was positive I’d get around to sampling a slice at some point.
Anyway, my first slice of pizza came one late night after the R-rate comedy show. Again, it smelled incredible and I couldn’t resist. Sadly, it was just ok. I was actually surprised that something that smelled so wonderful could be, well…bland.
Then again, my uncle/godfather owns a local Italian-American restaurant and serves a superb pizza, so maybe I’m just spoiled.
Still, I wouldn’t throw a big fit and complain about the pizza! After all, there are plenty of other wonderful things on Carnival’s menu, such as my absolute all-time favorite, the fork-tender baby back ribs. Yum!
Laura
John please reply
Hi John,
Just a quick question-
Can you tell me if any of the “Music….” bands will be on the Carnival Pride the week of 8/29/09? Would love to see my favorites, Music Boardwalk again. If not them, then who will it be?
Thanks for finding out for me!
Julio/Wong:
Once again you had me cracking up! Just wanted to let you know, we LOVED carnival pizza! Every night my husband and son would run to the lido deck around 11:00 for their nightly pizza fix. As for the past guests pins, I guess I better hurry up and book those cruises so I can get one!
Villa Verde in Capri and the gym….?????? I do believe those two go together!!!! I have been to both on numerous occasions (the gym more) and they are both awesome. I am an avid gym junkie and have exercised every day for 22 years….not saying I am super thin and have a hot but like Megan Fox (???) but I have no Cholestrol/Diabetes/Health problems and havn’t taken a sick day for eight years….I digress….oh yeah…..my point with this was……I like to think of the gym on the ship as a break. Well, not the crew gym (gymmette…..couple of weights and an old treadmill….oh yeah…I digress…..) The ship/guest spa is a happy place with nice showers and great towels and every morning there is a different view….and it is awesome for your muscles to shake them up with a little bit of movement from the ship….it is sort of like how it makes RUMPY BUMPY PUMPY better with the movement of the ship…..oh yeah…I digress…..and it is a hoot to see all those people on vacation who think that a cruise is the time to learn how to turn on an eliptical machine…..the more make-up on the face the more making up that they have a clue….MY POINT IS YOU COULD GET AWESOME JOKE MATERIAL FOR YOUR SHOW IN THE GYM!!! You could do a whole show….like the gal talking about the skimpy outfits in the show……Hello!!! Do you not care about your figure….why are you in the gym? Personally, if I looked as awesome as the lovely dance crew I would do a……well….I digress….maybe a pole dance…oh yeah, I did do a pole dance on the awesome Carnival Freedom on July 11th in the Piano Bar (AN AWESOME PLACE)……..but the pole was like really large in there so it was in porportion to my body……Anyhow……keep up with the gym because it could really be so ripe for great material. Love your blog!!!!!!!
John,
The opportunity to buy the pins and once Platinum they will be given to you; is “brilliant” as you say! Seriously, I think it’s a great compromise. Thank you so much!
AS to the pizza – I will be platinum on our next cruise in Jan – hands down Carnival pizza is the best. We also have cruised with Princess and plan to again in the future, their pizza doesn’t come close AND they have no soft serve ice cream – you can see I have my priorities LOL
Oh, John, how I wish you had posted a video of Graham laughing, so we could have heard him — the photo is priceless!!!
You asked about pizza made me think of our Mediterranean cruise with you on the Carnival Freedom in May ’07. Larry was so anxious to try “real Italian pizza”! He tried it in Civitavecchia…not impressed. He tried it in Sorrento….not impressed. He tried it in Florence….not impressed. And he tried it in Rome…ummm….still not impressed! He liked the pizza on the Freedom more! I loved all my meals in those cities because I don’t like pizza so I never ordered it! I think that for pizza-lovers, the “best” pizza is a very subjective thing. Larry, a St. Louis native, thinks that St. Louis Luigi-style pizza is the best. A few times a year we have to place an order with his favorite St. Louis pizza place and have several pizza’s shipped overnight via FedEx….no joke. I spoil him.
Terri
Dear Wong, John Wong
Too Funny. You Funny Man! In regards to the Pizza Delimma. I have had Chicago style Pizza, I have Had New York Pizza.Being that my mum is from New York I have to say A slice of New York “not for nutin” Pizza almost a fourth of a pie is pretty darn good.
My aunt in Chicago, her pizza I need a fork &Knife!As for Carnivale Pizza, I have Had all of its many styles on several sailings all times of te day and only one time do I remember Not liking it.(Cannot remember wy now)
Sorry about you being accosted on the treaqdmill John, you really just can’t GO anywhere….
Im going to have to work on getting that Platinum to get those pins!! Im 2 cruises shy!
Take Care
The Tuckers in Fla
Elizabeth & Arnold
Hi John!
First, a big thank you to the high ups with Carnival for the pins…. I have quite a few years to go until I am platinum but I have no problem with buying them. I am a little bummed tho…. I cruise in September for the 2nd time on the Carnival Fascination (also our 2nd cruise ever) so I guess I won’t be able to purchase a pin yet. That kinda stinks. I guess I will have to sail on her a 3rd time. But knowing my luck you guys will move her to California! A big thank you to you for letting our voices be heard via the best blog thingy ever! We appreciate all you do!
Pizza….. that guy has some…. uhhh…. meatballs!!! I grew up in Chicago…. there are so many different types of pizza there to choose from. We enjoyed the pizza onboard very much!! Don’t change a thing!!
I hope the rest of the cruise goes well!
Stef
Hiya John,
Heidi and Kye are just beautiful and I love the Friday pictures and blog!
Now, about pizza. I LOVE pizza. It’s my favorite food. I eat pizza no matter where I go and I know I am not the only one who feels this way about pizza.
The best pizza I’ve ever had is from a place called Taos Pizza, Outback (It used to be called Outback Pizza, but the Australian themed restaurant The Outback Steak House had a copyright on the name apparently–the bastards. Like anyone would confuse Outback Pizza with The Outback Steakhouse!), it is located in Taos, New Mexico and in my opinion is the best pizza in the Universe. I think it should be mentioned in the Hitchikers Guide.
Carnival pizza is just regular pizza. Not great, not bad, just ordinary. Ordinary is not a terrible thing to be labeled. Carnival’s pizza certainly satisfies a person’s pizza cravings and the pizza crew are always awesome and great to chat with at 2am.
Hello John:
Stupendous pizza can be found at Pizzeria Aurora in Sorrento NA Italy. One advantage for the margarita is the mozarella is not pasturized. Right across the street from the inlaid wood gift shop on the square.
Prego
Thank you for the ship pins, good move.
Try to walk around the rubber track up on the top. The pretty girls are fun to watch as they cruise by and somehow walking on your own uses different muscles than the treadmill. All treadmill will give you a funny looking butt. Heidi will not like that at all.
You look more relaxed and about five years younger, keep up the smart choices and you will walk your beloved Kye down the aisle, bounce some grandkids on your knee…
All the best my friend.
Bill Heck
Hi John, The pizza on the ship is wonderful. Some of the best I have ever eaten. We live in Northern New Jersey. The pizza here is great. We have a special little Italian bistro here in our little town. There are only about 12 tables. Yumm. Good pizza starts with a good crust. The kind you eat every morsel of. And you take home the leftovers. Sometimes if we have had a busy day in port it is a real treat to have a couple of slices by the pool for dinner instead of going to the dining room. It just doesn’t get any better than that.
Jo
Loved the pizza on Carnival Legend in 2005, Fascination in 2006 and Carnival Freedom in 2007. Currently counting down to my Carnival Legend trip on 8/30/2009 for pizza, family and fun. Thanks John for all you do with this blog. I hope your countdown to getting home to Heidi and Kye zip.
Kind Regards.
Mary Hyder
John Please Reply,
not really a question but I comment I hope will not going overlooked so I am marking as please reply
if you want to find out who gave out your e-mail and started the John for Carnival President thread’s have Host Mach or another mod over there run an IP check of the user name ( of who ever posted that info) and that way we can at least narrow down what city/state they are from and go from there….just a though
hope all is well with the Family and yourself John,
Robert
Hi John,
The picture of Graham is fantastic!
Hi John,
Please Reply.
This is concerning the past guest pins. Carnival came up with another good marketing scheme and that is, they will sell more pins in the gift shops then by giving them to Platinum guests. If they sell 200 pins on a cruise and only give out let’s say 50 on each cruise, then they have made a profit on those pins.
Kathy
John please reply:
Good Early Morning John,
John a couple of days ago you was asked about the elegant nights on the Carnival Dreams inaugural voyage. You not only helped that person out but you also helped me out. As we will be on the OCT 3 sailing of the Carnival Dream. So thank you very much about putting my mind to rest about when we booked the steakhouse. During your answer to the question you also posted your favorite shore excursions for the Grand Mediterranean. I was over joyed to see your pick for Dubrovnik. My wife and myself had already book the “County home in Konavle” but I have a few questions. John, can you please tell me about this shore excursion not what the Carnival web site says but someone who has been there, done that, and consider’s it their favorite. My second question is where I come from it is a required courtsey to bring some type of gift when someone opens up their home to you. What kind of gift should we bring to this family? My third and final questions are about tipping. Do you tip on this shore excursion? Are the tips included in the price? Since this is a family home I don’t want to just leave money on the table. How do I show this family appreciation for a great time without insulting them?
Thank you for all that you do for us. May God continue to bless you and yours.
Michael
Hi John (Please reply)
Firstly, thanks for your reply on my previous message. I know you are a very busy man.
Some time ago I wrote asking about the celebrations of the maiden voyage of Carnival Dream(full name) and also if anything could be offered because we had to move ships 3 times. You asked for my thoughts. Here goes – perhaps a band playing on the pier as we sail away, fireworks(on the pier), being greeted with a glass of sparkling wine on entry to the ship. It’s not a lot but it was missing on Independence. I will say that as we checked in, all passengers received a backpack and there were gifts/goodies left in your stateroom everynight (not complaining about these). It was purely the leaving that was flat.
I know you ask any other bloggers for their views but I have not seen any yet. You also said you would pass on my comments to head office about the extra days holidays we had to take. I just wondered if you had heard yet? I appreciate the offer of a bon voyage gift but I’m not sure that you would be able to track us down as we have booked both cabins as guaranteed outside category 6. Our names are Beggs and Brisbane.
I know you asked me to get back to you a couple of weeks before the cruise but given the amount of comments you are receiving I thought it might take a while to get to this. Also I know you will be on the ship on 21/09 but wondered, if there was somewhere bloggers could meet you before you leave. I am addicted to this blog and spend the first 1/2 hour every morning reading and giggling at it. I also think the videos on the website are a great idea and actually found myself quite emotional watching “The Dream becomes a reality”. Regardless of the outcome of this message I’m truly excited about being on this ship.
Look forward to seeing Kye’s next blog which I thought was brilliant. All the best.
John,
ROTFL = Rolls on the floor laughing.
Regards.
Wes and Liz
John please reply
I have enjoyed your blog thingy so much. I read it as soon as it pops into my inbox everyday and it always makes me smile.
I have a question – I, and a group of Cruise Critic members are sailing on the Triumph out of NYC to New England and Canada on September 19th (booking # ******) and would like to arrange a meet and greet on Sunday the 20th at around 10:00 AM. How do I go about arranging a place to hold this? Should I wait until we board or is this something that could be reserved prior?
Any help you could give me would be most appreciated.
Also, I wanted to tell you that Kye is such a beautiful baby and I’m sure you miss her terribly. I’m so glad you’ll be seeing them both soon.
Take care and thank you again for this blog thingy and all the help you provide.
Ellen
As a Platinum cruiser I think the past guest pin is a good deal, but…………. I expect you will still get quite a bit of feedback that the “Past Guest Pin” should go to all past guests. Maybe they can still be given to a past guest who presents their gols sail and sign card in the gift shop. Of course then they would have to track who got theirs and who did not.
Carnival Pizza, I think it is better than some big chain pizza places but not as good as some small owner pizza place. I guess you could say it is some where in the middle. Could it be improved, yes. It it a poorly made, bad tasting pizza, NO. I would just ask Mr Pizza Expert to make a short list of improvement ideas that you might forward to the chief. It is would then be no different than some of the bloggers giving some constructive improvement ideas to you on other matters. Being that I am still on a diet I did not have a chance to try the pizza on my last couple of cruises.
John,
Almost under 100 days til I’m sampling (probably more than) my share on Glory.
What a totally rude jerk that guy is. In my opinion, the pizza is perfectly fine but NOTHING compared to the chili dogs and fries from the grille.
Stacey
John
Please reply
I was glad to read that the past guest pins will be available again. I do understand that the platinnum guest should be able to get them as a “perk”, and those that are not platinum will have to purchase them…thats fine. We sail on the Carnival Freedom on 09/12/09 for our 9th cruise and is there anyother way to get the pins????
Kevin
That’s great news about the pins John!! Thank you for bringing it up to the “powers that be” and I am glad that they also read the comments about the pins here.
I think their decision is a reasonable one and it’s another reason I am happy I am a VIP/Platinum guest now!
Melissa
(Please Reply)
Hello again there John! We are looking forward to our repeat encounter with you on the 12/3/09 Dream sailing… can’t wait!
I would like to say, as I have before, that I enjoy reading your blog – you never cease to amaze me. Having said that, I must admit that I only read it periodically – thus my following question may have already been addressed. Nonetheless, here it goes:
I’m fully aware that Carnival has a new fellow devoted to refining the past guest program, and no doubt there’s not a shortage of “suggestions” from folks like yours truly! One thing which I have read time and time again on Cruise Critic is the desire among Platinum cruisers for a “Platinum Past Guest Party” – or similar get together. Any chance that something such as that, which to me at least appears an “easy” addition, is coming down the pike?
THANKS!
Tom
John Please Reply
I got to thinking .If you someday decide to go stuff shirt and join the suits im Miami (Along time from now I hope ) who, if it happen today ,would become Senior Cruise Director .Does it go to the next senior person behind you or is it a position that you must be appointed to .I guess what im asking is who is your Vice Senior Cruise Director.
Funny you should mention the pizza and passengers who think they can make better pies. While sailing on the Miracle the week of 7/27, I was first in line patiently waiting for a slice. Of course the Miracle sails from NYC with numerous NY passengers. The person behind me went into the same rant as to how he can make pizzas better and telling the person behind the counter how to make his pie – bigger and better!! There is definitely pride in pie making! I enjoyed my one slice – but have not had any slices in Capri. I look forward to Carnival sailing in Europe again and sampling more international recipes.
Your blog makes me smile daily – and 8 year old Graham is a hoot!!!
I’m so glad you asked for my opinion about the pizza on Carnival ships, as this is a subject I’m very interested in! I have to say that I am a pizza fan, usually having an all-you-can eat pizza lunch at my favorite pizza restaurant once a week, and also quite frequently having pizza a second time at some point in the week.
There are many different styles of pizza, and I think that what seems like a great pizza to the Italians or the British might not necessarily seem like a good pizza to the typical passenger on a Carnival cruise ship. I think it’s good you are asking your blog readers for a little feedback, as that will give you a better picture of whether your pizza is satisfying your typical customer or not.
As for my opinion, let me start by saying that I love cruising with Carnival and that later today I am getting on the Carnival Elation in San Diego! This will be my fifth cruise with Carnival, and my second time on the Carnival Elation. So, before I start complaining about the pizza, please know that I am a fan of Carnival and of your blog. But I truly dislike Carnival’s pizza! As a pizza fan, the pizza on Carnival cruises has always disappointed me. It’s just NOT on par with what is available at a good pizza restaurant here in California. It is on par with the pizza served in the cafeteria where I work, and that’s not a compliment!
I think your head chef needs to do some research on AMERICAN pizza, not Italian pizza… as Americans are primarily your passengers. Your crust is good. I think the problem areas are the sauce and the type of cheese used.
Sorry to complain, but you did ask for opinions!
Dear John,
(You do not have to reply.) Just wanted to follow-up with you after your helpful info. about supper club ressies. The Carnival Dream is now taking “steakhouse” online reservations. And what was really nice (i.e. good customer service) was the email confirmation which I received a couple days later. Now only 135 days until we spend New Year’s Eve on OUR Carnival Dream.
And may I add that Kye is precious…what a beauty!
Thanks.
Vicky
John – Please pass on compliments.
We recently wrote thanking you and Carnival for the superb cruise we had when our son was married on the Carnival Fantasy. I am writing again because we are also in the “service industry” and believe that when someone does a good job they deserve positive feedback. And no, we are not buttering you up for a favor (that would be a sight I bet HAHA) and we don’t have any special request for a gift. Congrats on your dedication to improve your health.
Upon returning from our cruise July 30, we contacted our PVP Karla Mueller to book the November 10, 2020 cruise on the Carnival Glory out of New York. At the same time, we were submitting final payment on our Nov 10th cruise on the Fantasy, Booking # ******. Since the original booking, we had upgraded and changed cabins twice. In the process, and in going over the events and paperwork we had received from Carnival, we discovered that there had been a miscommunication in the price of the cruise. I thought I had a $205 balance and was told that we had a $665 balance. The actual price of the cruise was the question. With that price difference, we were considering cancelling the cruise.
To make a long story short, Karla did her research and I provided the paperwork I had received from Carnival and we still had questions. Supervisor Sheila Laman became involved and we still had unanswered questions. After only a short period of time, we were able to come to an agreeable solution and we will be on the cruise. I want you to know that I was treated with great respect in all of our conversations and we are very pleased with the solution. While we started out the conversation in a disagreement of facts, your staff was attentive to my details and looking for a solution the entire time and speaking with kindness and solution oriented. In the end, we feel our cabin is better than we originally had at the agreed upon price.
Understand that the ship is almost sold out and your staff could have easily said for us to simply cancel the cruise because they could probably sell the cabin at a higher price now due to the demand.
We are very pleased with the outcome and more pleased to know that Carnival values their customers and truly believe in customer service and “Service First” with a smile.
In conclusion, thank you for fighting for the ship pins. We have our collection from 8 different Carnival ships and proudly display them. We are happy that the Platinum guests will continue to receive them. Thank you!
John,
Please reply
My family and I sailed recently on the Freedom July 12th and like I mentioned in an earlier blog to you–it was by far one of our best vacations! It started out a little shaky when we arrived in our cabin but after that first day it was amazing! Since we returned I get up every morning with a cup of coffee and read your blog. I just want to say we thought you were amazing and some of the comments you get on this blog are ridiculous! They must pay you “big bucks” to put up with some of the “abuse” you get on here! I am sorry to disappoint you because I am not going to complain about the food or about the shows but I just have one “measley” question for you–We are planning another cruise next year and not sure where we want to go yet so I was wondering if you could give me your opinion on your favorite itinerary? I would like to thank you again for making our cruise as well as many many others’ cruises unforgettable!!! I look forward to hearing from you soon! Best Wishes, Jinna (Whitefamily)
John,
For change form the GYM (Yuck) Do what I do, walk the track on the top deck. if you out at that hour there are few people up there and the fresh air is ok too (some even say it is good for you, but that is hear say) just a thought and maybe a change of of pace for you.
Capt Bill
Hi John!
Iron Maiden? Who knew you loved “Hair Bands”!
I cannot believe this woman stopped you mid-workout to chastize about ‘showgirl’ costumes. Give me a break! These ‘people’ are the same ‘people’ that tried to turn Vegas (ruin Vegas) into a family vacation back in the early 90′s. Did NOT work, thank GOD!
That being said…when is Carnival going to introduce a male “Chippendale-type” act?
Best,
Anita
Hi John, THANK YOU SO MUCH for the hardwork you did to try and convince the “suits” to give back the pins. As you said, you won the battle, not the war and at least some of us will get a pin. It seems some past guest parties I attended gave pins, and some didn’t. I just roll with whatever happens.
Since I reach Platinum next Wednesday, 1st time Alaska – I will be fortunate to get a pin – sucks for the rest of my group, but heck – they’ll just have a little more incentive to get to #10.
Have a wonderful week. Don’t fall off the treadmill and keep it simple – you will do better taking it off slowly than killing yourself!
Hi to Heidi & Kye – what a beautiful baby and truly a blessing.
John, if I had half the stamina you have and the ability to write and put a smile on someone’s face I’d be happy – YOU ARE FANTASTIC – THANKS FOR BEING YOU!
Life is short …forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly,
laugh uncontrollably… and never regret anything that made you smile!
John,
I’m going to make this short & sweet. I’m platinum & am going to continue getting the pins! Thank you, thank you! You are the BEST!
Joyce
Dear John, Juan, Julio,
Thanks for going the extra mile and getting the pins back, sort of. Just eight more cruises and we will get them for free. Bugger! and Octabugger!
I love the gym as well. The people there are always trying to impress someone it seems. I suggest that you use the track instead of the machine. Fresh air better scenery and no one will be standing next to you. It also feels better each lap you make as you feel like you accomplish more when you are actually moving rather than being stationary.
The shows on the Freedom are fantastic and the little buns you see on the “Her majesty’s a very nice girl” number would only make my grandkids laugh. Whats wrong with seeing a cheek now and then. Send Mrs. Prude a basket of prunes insted of real fruit.
James & Nancy
The Cruzin2some
Hello John!
Whenever I read some of the “issues” that are forwarded to your attention while on board, I can’t help but think that these complainers need to get a hobby.
In regards to the pizza, I will say that I am not a fan. And it’s through no fault of Carnival’s. Though I now live in Arizona, I grew up in NY and lived there until 2000. Pizza is made different in NY and a pizza by any other name just doesn’t cut it for me! Fortunately we have a couple of places out here that have come close but I still think it’s the NY water that does the trick.
Can’t wait to sail with you in October!
Colleen
Hi Wong!
Nice fortune cookie. I’m still trying to figure out what your fortune is there.
Dining rooms are coming together quite nicely. I like the color scheme so far.
I’m imprssed with your early morning workout even though you were dealing with the passenger’s show complaint.
Keep up the great work and hope you have a good day.
Take care!
David
Dear John,
I was on the Carnival Freedom last week. You were a wonderful cruise director. I wanted to thank you for the gold ship you sent to my husband to congratulate him on becoming an EMT and firefighter and also for reading my letter on your morning show!
The last 2 days of the cruise a young gentlemen got very ill and needed to be taken to Grand Caymen for emergency surgery. I was wondering if you could tell me what happened and how the boy is doing. We have been praying for him and would love an update.
Thank you,
Kerin Smith
Good afternoon,
Hello John,
I lllloooovvvvveeeee the pizza on board. It is the best I have ever tasted. Especially the crust and varieties. Please Mr. Pizza Chef….don’t change a thing. The pizza is right up high in reasons we travel on Carnival. It would not be right unless I had my once a day (and variety) piece. It’s worth my visits to the treadmill. Move over, John and make room for me LOL! See you in the gym on the Dream…the gym is also high on my priority list – the whole Cloud 9 Spa is my ‘top’ # 1!!! as well as the Spa cabins!!! Sheer heaven.
Your are looking really good, John – keep up the good work.
Regards to your beautiful family.
Geri
John,
As a follow up to my earlier post, I love Carnival’s pizza! I miss it when I am not on board; it is some of the best pizza I have ever had but then again, I have never had pizza in Italy. (But I will in October when I am there on the Dream!)
The best pizza I ever had though was in a small, traditional, family owned Italian restaurant that was in Louisville, Kentucky for many, many, many years. Sadly when the owner died his children sold the restaurant and it is no more so I can never have that pizza (or pasta) again.
Melissa
John,
Many thanks for your response answering my question about the availability of draft beers on Carnival. That is great news and I appreciate you getting back to me on it.
Happy cruising and all the best to you and your family.
Sean
John, please reply.
Will the cruise director list for 2010 be out any time soon? I am booked on the Carnival Liberty for a Feb 27, 2010 sailing and really need to talk to the CD. I will be hosting a group of martial artists who will practicing with sticks (a Filipino art called Arnis or Escrima). I would like to make the CD aware of this so 1) people don’t freak out, 2) see if the CD can recommend the best place for us to do this, and 3) ask if the CD can post an announcement in case there are other martial artists on board who would like to join us. I am also posting announcements about this on martial arts sites because the person who will be leading it is one of the top masters in the world and well known in the martial arts community.
Thanks and we’re all looking forward to the cruise. I have four first-time cruisers with me and I expect they will be suitable impressed with the Carnival experience.
Hi John,
Glad they are bring the pins back even though I will have to “pay” for my past guest pin since I’m only coming up to my 4th cruise in October and have a ways to go to Platinum. This is my second cruise this year and you will have been on both of them.
Since I’m a NewYorker, I have never come across a pizza or bagel that lives up to the ones made in New York. That’s why I now do not try the pizzas on Carnival ships or anywhere else for that matter.
As Slickabrina said we believe it’s the water.
See you in October.
Charlotte
John, PLEASE REPLY
I’m already Platinum so thanks for the future pins. I had this idea for Carnival to think about. When a guest reaches Platinum their first Platinum gift for becoming Platinum should be the pins for their 9 previous cruises. The pins could be sent by Hdgt in Miami right to their home. This way the ships would not have to carry a supply to do this. All you would get in your cabin is a letter from Cahill thanking them for becoming Platinum and telling them they will be receiving their back pins at home soon.
BIG ED
John,
Love the blog as usual..I like the pizza too but I LOVE the burgers!! Wont eat them anywhere else!!lol
John,
Someone told me a long time ago ” A pizza is as individual as you are ” and you know what i find this to be totally correct some people like thin almost burnt little cheese light sauce thin crust. Others like almost raw extra cheese extra sauce pizza. So for anyone to eat a pizza and not appreciate the differences in it makes me kinda sad. That being said I do enjoy Carnival Pizza i make sure i try it on every ship at least once or twice or thrice ok i love pizza.
So in seeing I love pizza here are my top 5 favorite pizzas in no particular order
Margarita Pizza – Thin crust pizza with a crispy bottom, plum tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, grated Romano cheese, oregano, and some fresh basil.
Brooklyn Pizza – Deep dish pizza with the cheese under the sauce and grated cheese on top of the sauce.
Buffalo Pizza – Hot sauce topped with diced chicken cutlet mixed in hot sauce then covered in mozzarella cheese and cooked till done then dotted with bleu cheese dressing.
Sicilian Pizza – Deep dish pizza with sauce and cheese on top
Alla Vodka Pizza – Pizza topped with vodka sauce and diced penne pasta under a blanket of mozzarella cheese.
Fresh Mozzarella Pizza – Pizza topped with a thick plum tomato sauce with large chunks of tomato then fresh mozzarella cheese on top of it with basil. Just warmed not cooked till the cheese melts.
So John what are your top 5 pizza’s ?
Kevin
(Please reply)Hello there! As always soo good to read your blog.It has kept me in stitches many a time, as I sat in my underpants late at night. ( I picture you on the other side of the screen sans pants)
I enjoy reading all of the info that comes from the questions of other passengers.It has helped me so much in planning our first family cruise. So I really want to applaud your efforts and going above and beyond the call of duty. And kudos for listening to Throbbing Gristle in a previous blog.Or did you not know that is a real band? You may remember them by the hit “Detachable P***s” I didn’t want to type the real word but it has to do with a little friend of yours.
But i digress.I tried to find the info on here but with no luck I come to you. I know there is a form i can fill out pertaining to special needs guests.But i do not have a printer nor fax. My son is mildly autistic and does not do well in some situations.If avoided you would never know the difference.It was with much trepidation that we planned the cruise, but hearing how well Carnival did with its special needs passengers we choose this line.I will also be with my grandfather who has one leg.Seriously.Well he has a faux one.One with a running shoe and his water proof one.But he will need some help getting aboard too. I am sooo sorry for this long letter.But as time draws near (11-14-09) to leave , I realized that i have done nothing to prepare.Outside of booking 7 rooms and planning a wedding that is.So I feel awful that I have not addressed those needs first.If you could please help me figure out what can be done for them I would be forever in your debt. I do have some photos of Meghan Fox that might interest you.And I also do tattoos, so maybe I could do one for you. I was thinking of a cruise ship on your tummy.Much love and luck to you and yours.-C
Thanks so much for getting the pins back! We are sailing on the Carnival Victory for our 25th cruise and hated the thought of no pin. You solved the problem. Yea! Jeri
Hi John,
My 30 plus family members have the privilege of being on the Nov. 8th cruise with you. Some will be from Seattle area, California, N.C. and Florida:-)
I know from past (3) cruises the CruiseDirector has a special time on the ship to recommend the excurtions you like best. My question to you:Can you share with me now which excurtions you liek best tha tfit my families needs? We are looking for a beach that is exclusive to Carnival people at Isla Roatan(if possible). I see there is an excurtion to TABYANA BEACH (DAY) but it does not say it has umbrella’s which we would require because there will be toddlers. Thank you for your time and my hubby and I look forward to meet you. God bless you, Denise
John
Good job on the pins!! We are Milestone level cruisers and still we love the pins.
Carnival’s pizza is one of the things that I look forward to and as usual when we board the Splendor–bugger–Carnival Splendor at the end of the month pizza will be my first meal.
Regards
Roger T
Hello World Travelers:
Many New Yorkers agree that one of the best pizza places in New York is in Brooklyn. There was a recent article that DiFaro’s in now charging a mere
$5.00/a slice. I enjoyed the pizza on the Splendor,
no complaints here.
Janet and Bob
p.s. Jaime write again soon, please.
Did my last blog comment get bumped because I used the words humpy rumpy?
John,
Quick question…which ships have the aft pools as “adults only”, and which don’t? There is some confusion and controversy on that.
Thanks,
Stacey
Thank you for going to bat to us for Past Guest Pins. I treasure mine.
When they were doing research on them who did they ask? They didn’t ask me!
elg
John,
The new pin policy is another step towards alienating Carnival past cruisers. If I am not good enough to receive a pin after five Carnival cruises, then forget it. I was a walking advertisement for Carnival, until last November’s Inspiration cruise & the response I received from Miami. It seems from your blog, a lot of people have unresolved complaints & you become the sounding board. If it wasn’t for your blog & great Carnival experiences before the Inspiration, I would have little interest in Carnival. On another note, please stop addressing the requests of these people writing to you requesting tables for two by the window, gifts, etc. The special accomodations they receive, lessen the opportunity for better accomodations for the kettle that does not whistle.
Gary
Hi John,
Thank you, thank you, thank you! for giving us back our pins – sort of. Being Platinum already that means we will be getting our pins as usual when we sail in Sept. on the Triumph! However, forgive me for being sort of disappointed that the pins will also be on sale in the gift shops – I have mixed feelings on this. I’m glad in a way, cause now we will be able to purchase the Conquest pins we never got. But since a lot of us wear these pins as a badge of honor – showing our love & support for Carnival and our favorite ships by sporting these pins whenever & wherever we can, well, there are going to be numerous people who buy them without ever having sailed, just so they can make some of us think they are champion cruisers!
Maybe the ones you give out to the Platinum guests could be just a little bit different from the ones sold in the gift shops?
Just thinking out loud here John! Regardless, we can’t thank you enough for getting our pins back!
The Dream is gorgeous, but she’ll never be as beautiful as Kye!
O nice swing !
http://allainjulesblog.blogspot.com/
Dear John,
Thanks for getting the pins back. Also, as for the pizza, I definitely enjoy it, but it will never be NY pizza. I agree that it must be something in NY’s water ( oh, oh, maybe that’s not such a good thing!) that makes NY pizza the best. Living in Florida now and can not get a really good slice of pizza. The best we ever had, however was in Naples, Italy. People will always find something to complain about. If you don’t like the pizza, don’t eat it.
Love to Kye and Heidi.
Paula
Dear John:
I am a group leader on the 9/12 sailing of Carnival’s Glory with 40+ cruisers. I was advised to see the Group Coordinator on the ship to take care of getting the same color tags used to exit the ship on its return. As a first-time GL, where would I find this person?
I guess you might say that I am addicted to cruising. After sailing on Carnival’s Glory, we’ll be doing Carnival’s Freedom (for the first time) for Thanksgiving and doing the Eurodam for Christmas. This will bring our cruise count up to between 47 and 50 (I’m starting to lose count).
I’ve suggested to our (5) kids that if we could spend two months with each child and two months cruising – why then we would have no need to continuing to be bothered with such things as mortgages, etc. Hello?? Where did they all go??? Help!! They’re not answering their phones, John. We just don’t get any respect . . .
You scared me with the talk of group leaders possibly being asked to sit at the Captain’s table. Well John, this is not particularly my cup of tea either. Would it be terribly rude to decline an invitation? I know YOU can’t (unless you want to be the next person to walk the plank! What is the protocol for this?
Thank You John for getting the past guest pins back for us! That we will be able to buy them in the gift shops makes me happy!
My platinum cruise will be on the Carnival Dream, so I will get my pin!!!! My hubby is one cruise behind me so I will have to buy his in the Carnival Dream’s gift shop…a sacrifice I will do willingly. Thanks for going to bat for us!
John,
Just wanted to say you are the best darn cruise director that me and my wife had ever experienced. You are awsome!! We are just back from the Freedom 6 day cruise Aug 9th -15th 2009. This is our 7th cruise and 1st with carnival. This cruise celebrated my wife’s 40th birthday with our 3 kids. We are still laughing over the bed time stories. Thanks for the memories that will last forever!!
peace,
Mike
John you are a phenomena but that life style of yours has taken its toll. You gave most wonderful part of your life to your company and hope that the company recipocates. You are on the brink but I wish you well. Good luck my friend… SUKU.
John, first time responder. I thoroughly enjoy your blog. As to your question about the pizza on the Carnival ships – on our first cruise, my 12 year old son “lived” off of the pizza and the ice cream. This cruise, he still went after the ice cream – however, he said the pizza was different and not very good. A huge change for him. Just a comment. By our next cruise, he will probably love it.
Thanks for the blog.