Just before I start with today’s jam packed blog I wanted to………..with your kind permission ………..just say this. I have seen that there have been a few comments recently that are quite frankly flippant and somewhat rude. I want you to tell me when we as a company do things that you do not agree with and if you have concerns I will always be here to help. But……..I have decided to, as of today, not to personally respond or reply to any comments that are written only to tell me that they don’t like the blog.
While I respect the opinion of those who don’t appreciate the blog, it appears that with 50,000 readers a week that many do enjoy it and I will continue to write for them.
I never intended to have this blog become a Carnival Customer Care branch but I am glad that I have been able to and will continue to help many people. I now have 343 Stephanies and a gaggle of vice presidents to help me with your comments and so please continue to let me know if you need help. If I write something you don’t agree with……tell me please………….if we do something right …………tell me please……………I don’t want that to change.
I think of all of you as friends……….not stalkers as the blog fans were so rudely called yesterday and that I promise was the last time I will post a reply to someone who is writing for the sole purpose of telling me that they don’t like the blog.
But this is……….my blog……..and its foundations must always be built around fun………..just as Carnival has been for nearly 40 years. And if you don’t like fun………… if you want boring, coma- inducing corporate bollocks…….. why not read the nation of why not blog………because one thing is for certain…………. you won’t find any fun there!
Good Morning.
Do you remember a few blogs ago I asked a question about whether or not I should add humor into my life boat drill? Well, I was thinking about this when I was flying back to the UK. The American Airlines drill was performed on video and at no point did the flight attendants interact with the passengers……something that didn’t change at all during the 8 hour flight. I can’t complain about the service………….. because there wasn’t any.
Anyway, I had been thinking about how many of you told me what Southwest Airlines do occasionally to make their safety drills more humorous and I wonder if this would settle my nerves or have them flare up along with my hemorrhoids.
A lot of people are scared to fly. They don’t like the idea that a metal pipe with wings is somehow supposed to get them from Miami to London.
They don’t like the recycled air or the cramped seats or the food or the fake grin of the air crew as they demonstrate, as one, how to self-inflate the whistle on a puny yellow vest. It was as the life vest was mentioned during the AA pre-fright……..sorry……..flight …….video that I got my first idea for a bit of humor at the Carnival life boat drill.
I say ……”There is also a light and a whistle for attracting attention should you find yourself in the water “………and I think it should be changed to ………”There is also a light and a whistle for attracting sharks ……..sorry……….for attracting attention.”
You could say that on a plane as well……. And add……….. “Before using the escape chute, don’t forget to remove high-heeled shoes, belts and other sharp objects, like red hot pieces of engine casing that are currently buried in different orifices in your body. Can you imagine the sharks swimming around after you have survived the crash………taking chunks out of your leg and spitting it out again saying “yuck……..airplane food.”
Taking a cruise and flying have very little if anything in common and certainly one thing that the cruise industry does differently is to put up with people who if they did what passengers sometimes do on a plane…….. would be denied boarding and thrown off before the ship departs.
Misbehave and you’re going to get slung off by stony-faced airport security chaps with iron on badges. In fact, over the past few years, cabin crew has taken to disembarking passengers out of planes in unprecedented numbers.
I had a quick chat with Uncle Google about this and found many stories such as a Dr. Paolo Tomasi from London was unceremoniously dumped off a Ryanair flight for the heinous crime of talking to his eight-year-old son during the safety briefing.
Can you imagine if we did that…….right………”You………put down the Fun Ship Special cocktail ……how dare you talk to your son while the I am doing the lifeboat drill”………..”Hey you ………. yes you with the beard………..I can see you on the monitor here on the bridge” ………….. right ……. “pack your bags and bugger off.”
Uncle Google also showed me that in November, a woman on an Alitalia flight from California to Rome refused to move her meter-long cuddly toy crocodile, which the crew said was blocking the emergency exit. All three were removed. Yes……..exits are important, but you’ve got to admit there’s something cool about a life-threatening cuddly croc. We say during our drills that “absolutely no bags or suitcases are allowed to be brought to the muster stations”…….I will now add “all cuddly or inflatable toys”………maybe I should in today’s world add “adult toys “as well.
Here is a brilliant one. Lorrie Heasley took her seat on a Delta Airlines flight sporting a T-shirt that featured pictures of George Bush and friends, with a slogan based on the hit film Meet the Fockers – but with one crucial vowel altered. Airline staff was not amused, and she was dumped halfway through her journey at Reno, Nevada.
I spoke about T-shirts a few days ago when a guest on the Carnival Freedom complained about a guest that was wearing an anti-Obama T-shirt. So………now I had better look at the monitor on the bridge before I start the drill……..can you imagine?………..”Hey you……….yes you with the beard wearing the Royal Caribbean T-shirt”………you’re out of here!”
Uncle Google spat out so many stories for me. Amongst them was the crime of Kyla Ebbert, a 23-year-old waitress at my friend Mr. Bentley’s favorite restaurant chain…….Hooters. She was removed from a Southwest Airlines plane in San Diego for being dressed too provocatively, in micro miniskirt the size of a belt that revealed her lady garden.
Can you imagine me doing this at boat drill?………”Hey you…….you with the beard ……… oh ………. sorry…………..that isn’t a beard is it……..ok………….Miss Alps……….report to the cruise director’s office directly after the drill so I can show you my muster station.”
On the other end of the scale is the story of a captain of a Northwest Airlines flight from Las Vegas to Detroit who was heard by first-class passengers making prolific use of the f-word on his cell phone as he boarded the plane. When they complained, he continued to swear…..at them this time. Eventually, the airline’s management removed him from the flight. A rare example of passenger power.
Our captain’s sometime swear but even if the PA system was accidentally on the guests would have no idea unless they spoke Italian. The Italian language is so beautiful and lyrical even “the bastard linesman aren’t fu***ing here yet” in Italian sounds like “the sun is shining and the world is a beautiful place.”
The last story is the unfortunate incident of a passenger who died……… but got upgraded. Last March, a woman who expired in an economy seat on a British Airways flight was immediately reseated at the front of the plane. One first-class passenger was understandably pissed off when he woke up to find that the vacant seat next to him was now occupied by a corpse. The airline later apologized.
So, hear this. If you do meet your maker and get promoted to glory during your cruise…as senior cruise director and brand ambassador I hereby promise you will get that upgrade that may have always alluded you and we will put you in the penthouse……..and I will send you a fruit basket.
OK, time for today’s questions………..here we go.
Shawn Asked:
Please Respond John:
Hi John… Shawn here I contacted you earlier this year about my Friend & I sailing aboard the Splendor this Oct 18 2009 sailing … Our Booking Number is … Well my friend is going to have his birthday on Monday the 19 of Oct. and I was hoping that you could help me out by surprising him with a birthday wish via a card or to pass on to Goose that he will be having his 31st birthday with the rest of us on the cruise.
Thanks,
ShawnJohn Says:
Hello Shawn
It would be an honour (spelt correctly) for me to do this for you. However, I will no doubt forget by then so on October 5 or thereabouts can you please post a reminder and I will ask Goose to arrange this for you.Look forward to hearing from you then
Best wishes
JohnIrene Garner Asked:
Dear John……… Please reply,
I wondered who I should contact about the mugs I purchased on board the Carnival Destiny and Carnival Paradise. I know lots of people collect pins, but I collect mugs, so that when I use them it brings back the memories from that place I visited. I have 2 different style mugs from the Carnival Freedom, but they are just as nice as the day I bought them. The problem is that with the mugs from the Paradise and the Destiny, the printing is wearing off. These are dark blue mugs with silver or white printing. I’m not sure how to add pictures to this email otherwise I would send you a picture, but the image of the ship has disappeared from both of them, and the Destiny only says “Desti now”. I don’t think I paid any less for these mugs, but the quality certainly isn’t there. Should I take these mugs with me on my next cruise in September on the Carnival Valor, and show them to somebody there? I would like to have the mugs replaced, but if the printing wears off them too, I would prefer the type I bought on the Carnival Freedom.
Thanks….Irene Garner (still hooked on cruising)John Says:
Hello Irene
I am sorry to say that the ship will not be able to replace these lovely mugs for you Irene. I know the ones you are talking about and as much as the shop managers would like to help I am sure they will not be permitted to do so. However, may I suggest that you contact the on board shop concession directly. Tell them your problems and maybe…….no promises……..they may replace them for you. Here is the address and I wish you a lot of luck. Let me know how it goes.
Starboard Cruise Services, Inc.
Attn: Customer Service Dept.
8034 N.W. 14th Street
Miami, FL 33126Best wishes to you and the family
JohnWendy K Asked:
Hey John!! (please reply)
I have been lurking here on your blog for about a year now! I love every one of your entries! You are hilarious! I even find myself laughing at all of your poo references.
I was wondering if you could help me out–I want a table for two next to a window–oh just kidding, I don’t care where I eat dinner as long as it is on a Carnival ship!!Now for my real questions. I am sailing on the Victory out of San Juan next spring. Someone on Cruise Critic posted that shore excursions can’t be booked online ahead of time for the Southern Caribbean cruise. I hope this isn’t the case, as we prefer to pay before we go. Second, we are staying overnight in San Juan the night before the cruise. What is the earliest time we can drop our luggage to the pier porters and check into the ship? Again, there have been many posts about this with various answers.
Oh, and Kye is just such a cutie I am sure you are looking forward to seeing her soon! =]John Says:
Hello Wendy
Welcome aboard Wendy Lurker and I am so glad you decided to write a comment thingy. I know sometimes I over do the poo……..that rhymes by the way……..but I am glad to hear the blog does give you some laughs.I am not sure where that information came from but I just checked with the Miami office and they confirmed that you will be able to book most of the excursions on line. Please have a read of them on carnival.com and if you have any questions please let me know.
I also checked with the guest services manager of the Carnival Victory who confirmed that you can leave your bags with the porter from noon. Boarding starts at 12:45 pm and Zanet the GSM suggests noon is the perfect time to arrive, board and then go ashore again if you wish.
I hope this helps and thanks for coming to me for the right information I hope you will share with others on the cruise boards.
Best wishes
JohnStefani Asked:
Please Reply… no hurries though.
We are going on the Vancouver to Hawaii cruise on September 16… can’t wait. We have a great group of people on Cruise Critic already and I think we will all have lifelong friends after the cruise. I am a travel agent, and I work hard at selling Carnival. Still working on people on changing their mind about the “party” ships. It’s a work in progress.My question. My mom needs a gluten free diet and I have used the form that needs to be filled out for such things. Is there a wheat free version of the molten lava cake? Just thought I would ask. It is my hubbies favorite dessert… not mine though because I seem to be one of the few females in this world that doesn’t like chocolate that much… yup, I am weird HA HA HA.
Thanks for all you do. Oh… we also have the Carnival Dream booked for September 2010… can’t wait to see the Dream.
Stefani (I have a better spelling than all the other Stephanie’s you know LOL)
John Says:
Hello Stefani………which is now officially the most common name……..in the world.I wonder………..did you read yesterday’s blog about the conception people have of the word party? I hope this will help you sell our brilliant Fun Ship experience and if you feel that you need more help from our sales team or from me to accomplish this, please let me know and I will be happy to help you help send your clients to enjoy a Fun Ship experience.
I am not sure if there is a wheat-free version of this cake but I will find out so please look out for this answer next week here on the blog thingy.
Thank you for your continuing support and I wish you all a wonderful cruise……and remember …..let me know if you need some sales tools.
Best wishes
JohnCruisinSue Asked:
Hi John (Please Reply)
I hope you are having a good weekend despite the tropical weather. Nanni is soooo disappointed that the storms kept you away from her.I have a question. I have a friend that loves to cruise CCL, and on the last cruise she was on there was a band named Blood Brothers. She would like very much to cruise with them again. Is it possible for you to find which ship they are on, so she can book that ship? Thanks in advance.
I sure hope to cruise with you as CD again soon. It looks like we have Karl with a K on the Carnival Victory in 13 days. I saw him as an asst CD and he was super, so I am sure he will be a fabulous CD.
Give my best to Heidi and Kye. I know you are glad to be returning to your 2 beautiful ladies soon.
Hugs to all
Gloria aka SueJohn Says:
Hello Sue
This shows how terribly behind I am with the questions that are marked for my reply as I did in fact get to see Nanni and family and it was wonderful to sit and chat with them again. We had muchos hugos. Blood Brothers are currently playing on the Carnival Destiny.Karl with a K is an excellent CD and I know you will appreciate his talent when you sail with him soon. I also hope to see you again and many thanks for the very kind words for Heidi and Kye.
Best wishes to you and your family
JohnMrPete Asked:
John…
RSVP
I appreciate your research regarding my Bermuda question that Mr. Terry Thornton answered, but I do have one follow up.I was half expecting that due to Bermuda building a second dock at Kings Wharf, this would have really opened the possibilities of Carnivals return. I watched it being built last year on my visit on one of the Envious of the Seas.
Did the other lines scoop that second berth all summer long?
John Says:
Hello Mr. Pete
I am glad you appreciated the answer from Terry Thornton our SVP of……stuff. He is a very busy man and I am honored that he is such a big supporter of the blog thingy. Terry is currently on vacation. Now, I think I know the answer to your question but just to make sure I will ask “the man” when he gets back and post his answer to you here on the blog thingy.
Best wishes
JohnJeanette Asked:
John, please reply!
I will be on the Glory in January (and it’d be nice if you were the CD…) and my friend will be Platinum and I will be one cruise away from Platinum. The problem is we are in two different cabins and two different booking numbers. We are flying down two days early and spending a day in Miami before the cruise to see a bit more of Miami. I’ll meet up with her in Denver and we’ll be on the same flight to Miami. Now, since she is platinum she has VIP boarding, but is it possible for me to get VIP boarding too as we are travelling together, just different cabins. Our booking numbers are linked for the dining room so we have the same table.I know it is asking much and if I have to wait then I wait. I’ll send her to wait at the Shore tours desk to wait in line to book a cabana!
Bloggers cruise 2010–when will you know when the next 7 or 8 day bloggers cruise will be and which ship so I can go and finally meet you (and hopefully Heidi and Kye!)
Hurricane season and complainers–It happens each time and when I was on the Liberty last year it was no different. I was disappointed, but I had one hell of a time!!! So what if I didn’t get to go to Half Moon Cay and Grand Turk, but being able to go to two new ports was a treat! I’ll get back to Half Moon Cay in Jan 2010.
John Says:
Hello Jeanette
Please don’t worry. I will let embarkation know and they will of course allow you and your friend to board together. Please would you remind me a few weeks before you sail and will make it so.I hope to announce the Bloggers Cruise for 2010 very soon. Everyone has been very busy with your Carnival Dream and now things are nearly complete there we will be able to concentrate on picking the right ship at the right time to appease as many bloggers as possible. So far ……..touch wood………it has been an OK hurricane season……….let’s hope it continues this way.
My best wishes to you and your Platinum friend
JohnIrene Garner Asked:
Hi John….Please reply
I hate to keep harping on about something that, due to miscommunications between yourself and one of the Stephanie’s my grandson has never received the small gift you had planned to give him for his 18th birthday when we sailed on the Carnival Paradise last April. You had said that once you got back to the States you would make sure it was sent to him, and I wrote to you again with our new address as we have just moved.I know you have not been onshore in quite a while, and the only thing you will be thinking of when you do get off the Carnival Freedom is your trip back to the UK to be with your girls again. As it happens we will be taking another cruise on September 13th from Miami, on the Carnival Valor. Our cabin number will be 2300, so I am just wondering whether you would be able to arrange with the CD on the Carnival Valor for the item you had planned to give to my grandson to be delivered to him there instead. If this is not possible I will understand.
Thanks…Irene Garner (counting down the days and hooked on cruising)John Says:
Hello Irene
The gift will be delivered and I once again apologize that my colleague did not do this last time. Have a wonderful cruise on the Carnival Paradise and I know Jeff Brooooooonnnnssssoooon will not forget.
Best wishes
JohnChris Packard Asked:
Hello John,
Please respond if you have a chance.
My wife and I will be sailing on the Carnival Victory from 30 Aug – 13 Sept stateroom 1421. I have two favors to ask of you. First could you recommend a good place to purchase cigars on this cruise? My wife and I sailed on the Carnival Freedom in 2007 with you and we both thought you to be the most entertaining CD we had ever had. When Janet and I got the chance to meet you and spend a bit of time talking you just absolutely made her cruise…I must say I was a bit jealous but what can I say.Now for the second favor. Janet and I don’t get to spend much time together with me working in Iraq so we have to celebrate all our holidays, birthdays, anniversarys etc. when we can. On this cruise we will be catching up with her birthday and our anniversary. Since she had so much fun meeting you, and you made such an impression, would there be any way that you could have an email delivered to our stateroom just saying Happy Birthday to her. I know she would get a real kick out of it.
Thanks for all the hard work you put into this blog and I want you to know that a lot of us over here read it every day and you sure do know how to keep us rolling on the floor.
John Says:
Hello Chris
I am so glad this reached me in time and I hope you get to chance to read this before you cruise this weekend. The best place to get cigars will be St. Thomas which although part of the United States and there not permitted to sell Cuban cigars they do have some wonderful cigar stores downtown including the Davidoff shop which has an amazing selection of Fuente’s and of course Davidoff.I must admit I have never bought Cuban cigars from any of the ports that you are going to and please be aware of the many fakes especially in the more common brands such as Cohiba and Monte Cristo.
I hope you have a fantastic cruise and look out for that birthday card. I wish I could be there to hand it to you in person.
Best wishes to you both
JohnSandy T Asked:
John, this isn’t a comment on today’s (or any day’s) blog but a request to you, the Stephanies and your blog readers for help.My husband and I plan to take my in-laws on b2b cruises on the Dream in January. They will be 87 and 88 at the time of our cruise. God willing, we will have an opportunity to take them on future Carnival cruises. But given their ages…. Well, you can understand how we would like to make this trip very special for them.
John, you have dealt with all kinds of people of every age. In your dealings with other elderly cruisers, is there something special you could suggest that we do for my in-laws?
Thank you John, the Stephanies and all readers of the blog thingy for your help!
John Says:
Hello Sandy
How wonderful. I know that you will do everything you can to make this experience very special ……….as will all the crew. They are all trained in dealing with our older guests and instead of me suggesting things for them that might make their time more comfortable why not send me your concerns…..maybe they have walking or dietary challenges etc……please let me know what you think we can do for them and I will do my best to make it happen.
Please though …don’t worry……..they will have the best of times.
Best wishes to you all
John
That’s all for today. There will be more on Monday and thanks to everyone for their comments.
OK, let’s do the news. First of all we must talk about the latest Fantasy-class ship to have her upgrades announced………..and she is the Carnival Fascination. Here is our mate Vance from Public Relations to tell you all about it.
Reservations Open Today for 98 Balconies Added During Carnival Fascination’s Dry Dock
Fantastic news. The Serenity deck, the Mongolian Wok and of course those new balcony cabins that have proven so very popular on the Carnival Ecstasy and Carnival Sensation. How do they do that though? Just add cabins. Well…….next week I will be posting an interview with a chap called Peter who is going to tell us all about that and some of the other amazing refit projects he is involved in for Carnival Corporation.
On a more personal news front I discussed my 2010 cruise director schedule today with Chris Prideaux who is in charge of the CD’s going where and when. I will definitely have this finalized by next week and I will tell you where I am going and also what CD will be on what ship in 2010. And of course………..where the 2010 Bloggers Cruise will be as well.
I saw one of the brand new gifts that those of you who will be sailing with us on your Carnival Dream bloggers cruise will be receiving and…………it’s hilarious. Can’t wait for you to see it.
In the days before Kye, rumpy pumpy was a magical thing. There were whole acres of weekends and evenings to indulge. But when the stork does its worst, all bets are off. The windows of opportunity for any bedroom antics bugger off and the venues become limited. Heidi won’t have even have a kiss or a cuddle within 300 feet of Kye so last night that was us……in the garden shed stopping panickily every few seconds to listen to the baby monitor.
However it’s also the very last thing we feel like, because the level of sleep deprivation you’re experiencing makes us laugh hysterically every time we recall how easy life used to be. The prospect of trying to avoid a shovel-related rumpy pumpy injury is almost too much to bear. And so we just laughed……. clinging to each other like survivors of a shipwreck because that’s pretty much what life is once you are silly enough to reproduce.
It didn’t matter that that the soundtrack is not smooth jazz but the neighbor putting out the garbage. Nothing matters except that you and she are having a moment to yourselves. And that you are still together — despite everything. And that you love each other…….my apologies if some of you have vomited after reading that paragraph of luvy dovy mush.
Anyway…….time for today’s highlight and an interview about your Carnival Dream with a man who knows it better than most…….her architect….the man who turns dreams into realities of the seas…………….Mr. Joe Farcus.
1. I am sure that you have read the huge excitement that everyone is feeling about the arrival of the Carnival Dream and I am sure you are as well. When did you start planning your designs for the ship.
[Joseph Farcus] We are really excited! We last saw the ship last in mid June & there was plenty to be excited about. We have been working on her for about 2 years now. The first step was to design the changes we wanted to incorporate into what will be Carnival’s largest ship ever. The idea of course was not just to make the ship larger, but to add features which our other ships did not have so that she would continue the evolutionary progression that Carnival has adopted over the years. For example we know that our guests like to lay out on deck during the day. Making the ship larger does not proportionately increase the area of open deck traditionally located at the top of the ship. This was addressed cleverly by The Lanai, which is the addition of 2 lower sun decks at the sides of deck 5, off of the main public room deck of the ship, configured as overhanging extensions to the ship’s beam or width. I see these decks as being very popular, being used more by adults I think, who would like the much closer communion with the sea. We have added 4 half overhanging spa pools on this deck so that guests can lounge in them with spectacular & thrilling views of the sea. You’ll be able to hear the ship moving through the water at this location, which to those who appreciate it will be a very pleasant experience indeed.
2. People always ask me what the theme is for each of your brilliant designs. Is there a general theme for the Carnival Dream.
[Joseph Farcus] Normally I have begun the design process by envisioning what I have called a Central Idea from which the ship designs evolve. These ideas have mainly been a concrete specific characteristic, such as ‘The Impressionist Artists’ or ‘Colors’. I’ve tried to do this a little differently for this ship, making the ‘Central Idea’ much more abstract. I knew the name of the vessel was going to be Carnival Dream & with that in mind I began my thought process. The word ‘Dream’ began to take on an importance, which led me to think about a ‘Dream Cruise.’ That was it for me & my inspiration. My idea was to put this ideal into my creative thought process so that it would be the inspiration for each design. So when I began to create each public room I thought of how each function could be realized as an integral part of the Dream Cruise. It was a frame of mind really using all of my experience in creating successful ships & applying it to take the next step in the design process by consciously using this abstract concept of a ship where all of the designs stem from this ideal dream. Certainly the new spaces & areas of this vessel added to this concept, but even more so was my desire to create something extra special for her guests.
3.One of the most anticipated areas of the Carnival Dream is the Ocean Plaza so please tell us what we can accept from you with this Carnival first.
[Joseph Farcus] The Ocean Plaza is a new space on the main guest deck 5, which was added as a result of this ship’s increased length over her last sister, Carnival Splendor. When the ship was lengthened in the planning stages creating a new space to be defined & The Lanai open decks added there as well, it was clear to me that this new space was needed to connect these decks & to create a new nerve center for the ship. I believed that The Lanai decks were going to be very popular by day & also by night to a lesser extent. This area is for those who love the sea & want that added communion with it by virtue of being rather close to it. You will hear the sea as never before on one of our ships. Almost like being on the beach. With all of this in mind & working with Carnival’s management the concept was created & generically named the Piazza after the traditional Italian town center square where the people congregate to meet, talk, eat, & enjoy. Such is what we can offer in The Ocean Plaza & the adjacent Lanais. There is a café, bars, & entertainment to keep this town center active day & night. There is also a large computer communication facility here too. It is the new ubiquitous Fun Hubs, which will be located all over the ship for the guests’ pleasure in their desire to reach out to others onboard, all sorts of Carnival & ship information as well as normal Internet functions. “Meet me in Ocean Plaza”, will be a logical & pleasant expression on Carnival Dream & a new concept for Carnival guests. The décor is clean & modern featuring special blue & gray tinted wood walls punctuated with a dark blue mirror fashioned as a horizontal wavy sea horizon. Beautiful orange handmade glass mosaics, mirror-like stainless steel pillar coves, & Venetian Murrina circular lamps finish the décor. On the Lanai decks we have 4 overhanging whirpools with amazing views & the ability to circumnavigate the ship by foot for miles & miles of beach-like hiking. The Lanai has also been widen at the Ocean Plaza on either side to create large under cover seating areas for those who want to be in the shade to watch the sea go by on a beautiful day while they… enjoy a dream cruise!
4.First impressions are so important in life and I have enjoyed watching the guests first impression reaction when they walk into one of your stunning lobbies.
What have you created for us in the lobby of the Carnival Dream.[Joseph Farcus]
I share your enjoyment of watching guests board the ship for the first time as well. First impressions are also something we agree on. Based upon my first impression of seeing the lobby & atrium on the Dream, even before she was totally finished was awesome. Awesome is a word that has perhaps become an overused. However in this case the first impression feeling will give new meaning to the word onboard a ship! I think the dreamy nature of this ship will be realized at this moment of entry. The space itself will seem larger than Dream’s sisters as the lobby is almost 30 feet wider. Also the opening in the deck above is significantly wider greatly adding to the space of the atrium. Then there is the main feature, the back lit antique mirror panels, walls, & ceilings. This material despite its ancient name is actually quite new & as far as I know never used on such a scale. One will see a sort of tinted mirror with veins as you might see in antique mirror, but the Italian manufacturer introduced veins of translucent glass, which results in its illumination breathing life into the panels. To that effect we introduced small colored glass lights with convex lens that are interspersed throughout the mirror with color changing L.E.D. lighting. The effect is a vibrant, yet peaceful space that is just awesome. In the atrium we created a new architectural feature that captures the scale of the space & provides a monumental jewel which begs a guest to explore. It is the main staircase, which has been made into a gleaming spiral of stainless steel with clear glass steps! Attached to it & flying over the lobby bar we have introduced a stage, which will be used for various entertainment & because of its mid level height will make the whole 3 deck plus lobby into a theatre for these performances. The atmosphere will be unique & the functioning will present a whole new major entertainment venue, which I think will also help bring the guests to their Dream cruise.5. The promeande deck is also very different with a more open plan design which I am personally very excited about. Can you take us on a tour of Promeande Deck 5
[Joseph Farcus] Moving up the Dream atrium again we come to deck 5, where the Ocean Plaza & Lanai open decks are located. There are several entrances to the Lanai’s all along deck 5 for easy access & convenient use. Our shopping center is located here as in the past, with more shops & a completely new layout & décor. Rich woods of various colors are used throughout giving a completely new & contemporary feeling for shopping. Coming out of the Dream on the starboard side we come into Upper Dream Street, which in this area is combined with the Jackpot Casino. The casino is larger & follows the model successfully arranged aboard the Carnival Spirit Class ships, where one walks through it moving fore & aft on the ship. The décor here is dream-like wild with copper frames holding huge lenses, which gives one a different view of the world (you have to be onboard to understand) combined with black & white striped woodwork, & multi-colored handmade art glass wall panels. Running throughout are beams of light points creating an ever changing color symphony replicating the action of this gaming spot. Located at the aft corner is the bar, lounge area, & bandstand. The bar features large video monitors for sports & other event showings culminating this action center. Continuing on Upper Dream Street we come to Ocean Plaza at the midship position & described above, with the exception that a stage is located here as well fulfilling the entertainment function mentioned above.
Continuing through Ocean Plaza we come to a large seating area in Upper Dream Street, where the walkup Wasabi sushi bar is located in Japanese décor. Aft of that we come to the entrance to the Collection art gallery, which is our largest yet designed as a museum with many contemporary designed alcoves to effectively display the art for sale onboard. Just aft of this entrance is the Caliente dance club. Here we have gone with the South Beach model of upscale & very now in way of décor. Sofa seating encircled by diaphanous gold curtains form the main seating groups, along with many high boy tables encouraging meeting & having fun in this state of the art equipped dance club. The large dance floor is made ip of graphic LED displays with other LED graphic panels over it in a kind of cone-like shape. We even have an outdoor section on the port side of the Lanai, where groups can gather in the outdoors on beautiful nights with the feeling of being in a top spot club. The remaining walls & ceiling coves are painted with bi-color changing wall finishes & the pleated chrome ceiling is painted on one side black to give a now it’s here, now it’s not feeling. At the end of Upper Dream Street we come into the open piano bar, Sam’s. The homage to pianos is carried out through simulated ivory moldings & our traditional oversized piano keyboard bar where guest can imagine (or dream) they are talented piano players while enjoying the music. Rich woodwork is used for the walls & furniture accented with string-like red strip lights weaving through the room. Our traditional piano on a turntable will still be here & located in a much larger bar than previous ships with a large convex mirror above it giving those seated there an extraordinary view of the performer.
When you move through Sam’s you come to the aft atrium, which serves as not only the entrance to the Scarlet Restaurant, but also to The Song jazz/ karaoke bar & the Burgundy aft show lounge. The Song’s architectural style is lyrical as the music played there. The columns are tapered wave-like flutes finished in a heavy textured copper color with royal purple velour curtains festooned in the windows. The ceiling undulates with the music so to speak & the floors & bar area is finished with a mosaic made up of broken pieces of 5 different fancy marbles. The translucent dome over the dance floor has a similar finish replicated on glass & backlit giving a Tiffany glass effect. The Burgundy follows the new layout first used aboard Carnival Splendor, where the stage is located completely aft with a very large dance floor in front of it & tiered seating all around. This new layout is very conducive to performances, but also for conference seating making the aft show lounge a great venue for meetings, cocktail parties, & the like. Here is also the most themed room on the Dream, taking its inspiration from Carnivale in Venice. This is sort of my dream of remembrance as the Carnivale was the first ship I worked on for Carnival Cruise Lines. The walls are a Venetian design fabric wall covering above a quilted maple wood wainscot with gold leafed quatrefoil appliqués. In front of the wall covering are Venetian Carnival masks back lit with color changing lights creating a multi-color glow on the walls. Large versions of the masks are used behind the bar & in gold leafed domes in the ceiling. The main domes also have handmade Venetian glass chandeliers adding to the Venetian theme.
6. Obviously I have to ask about the main theatre. What is it called and what have you created for our center of live entertainment.
[Joseph Farcus] Well John, we couldn’t make a cruise ship for a dream cruise without making our great theaters even greater. Such is the case for the Encore! In the first place it is larger & obviously has a larger seating capacity. We worked closely with Carnival’s Entertainment Department to add the features, which would also increase the production capabilities. That would be better access to & from the stage, as well as more backstage facilities for more elaborate sets, costumes, & general operating space for the entertainers & technicians. So the groundwork for even better shows is an integral part of the Carnival Dream. From the audience point of view the auditorium portion of the room is improved. The lower deck or main floor if you will now goes beam to beam, which is considerably wider than the previous theaters. This has allowed me to add additional side tiers to the seating arrangement ensuring better sight lines to the stage for the audience. The addition of these areas has allowed the for the reduction in the side depth or projection of the balcony over the main floor. This result is a bigger ‘hole’ as it were in the balcony giving everyone in the audience a much larger sense of space in this theater. What had been a grand theater on the previous ships will be even grander aboard Dream. The décor is contemporary & features walls of a handmade finish consisting of a textured spatula applied reddish iridescent paint broken up into stone-like panels with joints of gold leaf. Flanking the stage are massive marble columns & the walls & ceiling are accented with Macassar Ebony wood columns & beams. The overall color scheme of the upholstery & carpets features mainly gold with dark red accents. The ceiling over the main part of the auditorium is a starlit sky creating an even more soaring effect to this theatre of the Dream.
7. And of course we have the dining rooms…….what can you tell us about them.
[Joseph Farcus] Moving aft one comes to the Crimson Restaurant. The name comes from the prevalent color used inside for colored glass lamps & chandeliers, mosaic tiles, ceiling coves, & the glass balustrades & privacy screens used throughout. All of these features are framed by beautiful light olive wood paneling evoking a warm & sophisticated, yet comfortable look. The layout of the room itself has been changed as well as being made larger. Our two level previous design has been kept, but reconfigured to give a more open & formal entrance. Additionally the upper level has changed by virtue of a new circulation space added to the Dream, which is a lower promenade on the starboard side called Lower Dream Street. This new configuration will allow for more open seating possibilities as we have the majority of tables there for two persons. The ambiance is casual elegance & just puts a smile on your face when you enter. It’s comfortable & the feeling is warm as one should expect on a Dream cruise. Just forward of the Crimson are two adjacent annexes, Crimson Lounge I & Crimson Lounge II, which are breakout rooms used as additional main restaurant seating, private party rooms, & card or game rooms. In these rooms the décor is overall lilac colored created by beautiful glass mosaics with elaborate multi-colored medallions, iridescent painted contoured wall panels, & fiddle back Movingue wood wainscoting. The aft restaurant, Scarlet, has the same overall design & materials with the same feelings expressed for The Crimson.
8. Are there any other areas of design on this amazing new ship that you would like to tell us about and can you tell us about the superb art work we will all discover.
[Joseph Farcus] Well it’s all pretty amazing. One of new features is Lower Dream Street. Guests who have sailed before on Carnival know of our successful promenades. We learned early on of the importance of this circulation space, which has evolved into a public room itself aboard Carnival ships. We also learned on our Spirit Class ships the improvement of having 2 promenades at 2 different public room levels. Well Lower Dream Street is the second promenade introduced on Dream. It provides complete fore to aft circulation on deck 4 in addition to Upper Dream Street on deck 5. It just makes getting around easier & more direct. On Lower Dream Street one can go from the atrium to the Crimson Restaurant, then onward to the biggest Conference Room we have ever had that can be broken up into 3 different spaces. In this promenade in way of the conference room is our second largest Fun Hub center. Moving aft we come to the young peoples’ area which contains Carnival’s signature Club O2 & Circle C Club, which are both adjacent to the video arcade, The Warehouse. The Warehouse as the name implies looks like an old brick warehouse with steel beams, bolts, & large atmosphere creating exhaust fans, not to mention the latest in electronic games. Finally Lower Dream Street brings you to the Aft Atrium & the Scarlet Restaurant. We have a small pre dinner lounge, Rendezvous, which features leather walls & furniture & Frederick Remington paintings & sculptures.
Moving to the top of the ship we have the Gathering lido restaurant complete with the international food bars consisting of the Mongolian, The Deli, The Tandoori, the Pizzeria, the Grille, & the daily special ones, not to mention the elaborate dessert & coffee bars. Here the walls have been covered with glass mosaic tile with real platinum tiles interspersed throughout the mosaic. These walls will be broken up by large angular forms on the walls & ceiling whose pyramid-like elements are polished stainless steel on one face & wood veneer on the opposite side They form really interesting geometric shapes half of which reflect angled views of the rooms creating an eye catching perspective from anywhere in the room. The ceilings are dark metallic lacquer panels alternated with bright red feature strips. Throughout are white wall & ceiling lamps with amber colored glass ‘buttons’ fused on creating a clean sparkling effect. The floor & walls in the serving lines are triangular tiles of pink & dark red granite. The banquets are trimmed in mirror stainless steel with the wall mosaic tile & orange tinted glass privacy panels. It’s a warm & pleasant environment with some visual reflective excitement for our informal dining experience.
Moving up one deck we come to our best restaurant onboard, The Chef’s Art. Our reservation recommended steakhouse. Here the décor is rich & beautiful. The main feature of the room is an almost full ceiling chandelier made up of hand blown violet glass sphere elements fixed on a black chrome background with small clear bulbs placed in between the spheres. The effect should be a dreamy evening sky when the lights are dimmed. The walls are mainly lavender tinted frosted & textured glass back lit panels framed with light wood frames accented with dark wood corners & pink & gray marble circular inserts. The remaining ceiling is coppery colored cassettes with a brushed in design framed with wood & marble strips as the walls. I think when a couple is dancing under the evening inspired chandelier a sense of relaxed style & satisfaction will be the effect.
Our public room tour will end in the Cloud 9 Spa. The décor will be Asian inspired as our new upgraded spa facilities on the Carnival Splendor, however everything will be larger. More treatment rooms, Asian themed cabins just below & associated with the spa, bigger gym, & special glass elevator strictly for the spa which goes from the Spa cabins up 4 decks to the Serenity Deck above for adult guests. It is surely our most comprehensive spa in our fleet. The facilities, services, & equipment are second to none & for those who book a spa cabin, a spa experience equal to the finest ashore.
Next we can go to the top of the ship & talk about the open decks. I have already gone into some detail about the deck 5 Lanai decks which forms a continuous connection around the sides & aft section of the ship. Additionally we have the Waves lido with the Seaside Theatre, which is the two deck high main lido area featuring our mega sized video wall for all sorts of performances, day or night. In fact this space with the video & bandstand make this the largest ‘public Room’ on the ship. So we have our normal swimming pool here, two Jacuzzi spa pools as well on the upper deck, plus bars & food bars. A great place to have fun in the sun or party down in the night.
The aft deck is a cruiser’s dream lido called Sunset. We also have two Jacuzzis here & the Sunset Bar. A magnificent view aft is the main feature here forming a perfect spot for lounging to watch the mesmerizing wake of the ship float on. Above this deck we have a basketball court & games deck. Also above Camp Carnival, which by the way will be Carnival’s most extensive facility in the fleet, will be the children’s play deck where the smaller children can enjoy playing on deck in Carnival’s super & supervised program. Carnival’s Mini Golf is located above this providing an interesting course at sea.
Above & forward of the Wave lido is Carnival’s WaterWorks, which is a great water park for all ages. Slides of different types & water jets & sprays are there for splashing fun in a self-contained area. Above & forward of the WarterWorks is the Serenity Deck, our adults only resort type sun deck. Upscale loungers, special Jacuzzis, cabanas, & sunshades complete this exclusive area located just above the Cloud 9 Spa.
The Wave & Sunset lidos are decorated in a yacht club style complete with sail boat masts complete with rigging, special lights, & signal flags. Large dished of Bougainvillea will adorn each mast as well. Garland light lines will also connect the masts giving a festive feeling at night. The walls around the bars will be a beautiful white ceramic tile with colorful confetti flecks on them. The decks are a new eco friendly teak wood resin. Beautiful bronze sculptures will be placed in both lidos with the one at the Sunset as part of waterfall feature that one can walk through. Surrounding the pools will be a wading pools fitted with amorphic shaped benches to lounge on in the shallow water.
9. It’s late July as I write. What is happening currently on board as far as your role is concerned.
[Joseph Farcus] Thank goodness this one is in the can as the film producers say. There are some odds & ends questions coming from minor problems onboard in the finishing. Fortunately Carnival has some great people working onboard watching all of the construction. They are our eyes so to speak as we cannot be there on a daily basis. I can report that everything is coming together well. Based upon my last visit it is not hard to believe. I am looking forward to my first impression that will occur on 13 September.
10. You have been leaving your incomparable mark on our Carnival ships for many years yet your designs continue to astound. Where does your inspiration come from and what does the future hold.
[Joseph Farcus] Thanks for those very kind words John. No doubt that designing & bringing that design to fruition is a difficult & tedious job. So many details, so many technical issues, so many budgetary arguments, so much to consider. The payback if you will is the opportunity to design & express myself artistically. It’s a potent & valuable prize for the effort. The fact is my inspiration is civilization. My motivation is to create my place in the whole of civilization by creating my art as I see & feel it. Of course it’s all done for the guests’ enjoyment & pleasure. I want my creations to be the fertile ground & the inspiration for each person to create their own cruise experience. The designs hopefully are fresh & even more so, new & different & conducive to the ability for one to shed that which makes life abrasive. I want my designs to do just that so when a guest debarks the Dream they are refreshed, ready for real life again, & most of all that they had their Dream cruise!
The future: more & better. Maybe even a Magical cruise. Thanks John for giving me the opportunity to talk about my ship again. Ciao.
Thanks Joe and thank you for making our Dream come true. I know that one or two people with beards may think of Joe’s designs as far too extravagant and I know that proper writers who don’t sit at their computers in their underpants have described just how brilliant and unique Joe and his designs are.
All I can say is that we are the Fun Ships……and his designs are the perfect way to remind you how much fun you’re having………..congratulations Joe and now let’s look at some photos of his and your Carnival Dream.
Amazing photos that show Mr. Farcus still has the passion and the twinkle in his eye that has kept him at the top of the interior design tree for so many years. It takes him months and months to come up with the designs and make them reality……..however……I have him beat ….. because it took only three minutes………………for me to make this:
Goodnight and see you on Monday
Your friends
John, Heidi, Kye and Joe
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,
I applaud you for your decision not to respond to those negative comments. All they have to do is to not read it. You are blogging for those who wish to read what you have to say.
It’s ok to point out negatives but only if it is constructive and can help others.
As most of us have learned, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, keep quiet.”
Keep up your good work!
Mary
Dear John and Heidi, (please reply)
This child is absolutely gorgeous! Yesterday I thought she looked like Heidi, but today in this picture I see you. She is definitely the most beautiful baby….that Dutch English combination is fantastic. Does she have a slinky yet, lol?
I am so enjoying catching up, reading the blog! Those who don’t like it and write to you must be idiots. If they don’t like it, they just shouldn’t read it, lol. Why did they go looking for it in the first place if they didn’t like it, lol.
Have you heard from Robert or Suzan? I am very concerned as I have not had a reply from him in quite some time and we normally communciated a few times a month, if not more often. I am going to write him snail mail and maybe cheer him up.
I wrote to you and Heidi asking where you’d be for October. Unfortunately when I didn’t hear back (probably Heidi is much to busy with Kye to be reading email, lol) I went ahead and booked a cruise on the Freedom for the Oct 18th sailing. I so wished you’d be the CD, John and I miss you and Heidi terribly. Is Ralph the CD now on the Freedom?
I also wanted to comment on how wonderful you looked in the picture holding Kye. I had a flash back when seeing it….you have lost soooo much weight, you handsome devil…you look like you did when I first met you on the Destiny back in 1998 when my company (you know the one) chartered the entire ship.
Are you on the Legend in October? If only I had known….are the ships in port at the same time? We’d love to see you even for a brief moment…well my friend, kiss that beautiful baby and Heidi for me…hope to hear from you, it’s been too long. If you’d prefer not to answer me here, you have my email address…I hope.
Hugs,
Barbara Emmanouilidis
Vice president of your fan club
(I let Robert be president, lol)
John:
I loved reading about the waterfall on the Dream.
One of the things I love about the Spirit class ships is the water treatments on Promenade. It is an area I could sit and listen to the waterfall for hours. Sooo relaxing….
While Farcus has done an amazing job…. nothing (and no one) can compare to Kye!!
I agree with your decision to ignore the blatantly jealous folks trying to ruin our fun.
Over the years, you have proven time and time again that you are willing to deal with any legitimate concern…but these recent posts are probably from the now deflated Royal Chompers…who are gritting their teeth because they are caught in the act of being “bought”.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
amazing photos john and i was so excited to read the interview with joe farcus! i always say carnival ships are all “farcusy” and i love the decor! way to go joe…
and that baby??? sigh. just beautiful…
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie (the still sick)
John,
I am so happy to hear that you will not be responding to those who only want to complain that they don’t like your blog. As you stated this is your blog, honestly, if they don’t like it they don’t have to read it. You can’t please everyone!
Asking questions, providing constructive feedback and bringing solutions, not problems, are the things I like to read from others. People that want a special this or that, a table by the window, or you to co-ordinate some event do annoy me. They should get with their PVP, TA, or the CD on their cruise for special thingys.
Keep up the good work – the day is not complete without reading the blog thingy wearing the same thing you wear writing it …my underwear
As always, I love this weeks picture of Kye.
Mary
John, you are wonderful!! I will send a message a week or two out to let you know before I jump on the Glory and they have to drag me kicking and screaming away from Half Moon Cay!!!!
Thanks John!
PS If you were the CD on the blogges cruse and Hiedi/Kye were onboard with you I might consider volunteering babysitting services so you n Heidi have some rumpy-pumpy time *BG*
Ah, John – you always save the best for last
Jon
John, THANK YOU for not publishing any more of the comments made by the “Trevors” in the world. This is YOUR blog and they take away from the fun and laughter that we all enjoy.
John, you and Heidi, made a little one that a million Carnival ships could never compete with. It may have taken you 3 minutes to plant the seed, but it took Heidi 9 months to make her.
Don can always tell when there is a picture of Kye on the blog, he hears a ahhhhhhhhh and a big smile comes on my face.
I get more excited with each picture of the Carnival Dream in the making. She is going to be the most beautiful ship in Carnival.
I can’t wait for you to post the 2010 CD schedule and the date and info about the 2010 Blogger’s cruise. There are a lot of good prices on cruises for next year, but we want to schedule future cruises around cruise directors.
Goodnight and give that sweet little one a hug and kiss from us.
Carolyn and Don
Big Ed, how many more days until the BC4?
John,
Would you please do me a favor and put Kye’s Friday photo at the top of the blog? I so look forward to seeing her latest photo every Friday, and I am sure I am not the only one who scrolls quickly past whatever you have written, to see her and then go back up and read your blog.
Heidi, Can you please convince John that we would all love to see a picture of the 3 of you together next week? It would be great to see you as the happy family that you are.
Thanks,
Sheryl
John, Good decision to no longer allow the turkeys to pull you down. Do not respond to the negative personal blog attacks.
About the mugs sold in the gift shops, I too have the same problem with the Splendor mugs we bought last year. I think it is a design flaw and should be investigated by the management. Probably many thousands don’t complain because it is a trivial item and they believe that Carnival would not take the time to address it.
Enjoy time with your two beauties.
John (PLEASE REPLY)
I just wanted to personally thank you for helping me with a pretty bad situation from our last cruise.
Carnival responded, and resolved the issue.
Thank you again for being willing to help. We are looking forward to seeing you on the Carnival Legend in just a few short weeks. It will be a honour (spelt correct) to meet you personally on our favorite ship in the fleet.
Speaking of Legend. So many of us LOVE the Spirit Class Ships. We are hearing that Costa has improved on the Spirit Class Design with the NEW Costa Luminosa. My question is will the folks with beards that read this blog see the light, and introduce an update to the hugely popular SPIRIT CLASS? Don’t get me wrong, I am looking forward to a Carnival Dream or Carnival Magic cruise, but would LOVE to see Mr. Farcus have his way with this new class for a CARNIVAL Ship. Am I just dreaming?
By the way, Kye is getting cuter as the days go by. My 7th month old son enjoys reading your blog, just for the Kye pictures…so keep them up!
Please don’t let complainers ruin the wonderful thing you have created here on this blog. Thanks again from a lurker…from the beginning.
John,
I am now an official arse.
I was told this by a parent on carnival connection cruise talk. I was replying to a post about the Carnival Dream contest. A parent had come on there and asked for everyone to vote for her child, another parent did the same and got emails saying that the site was for the other child, so he apologied for what he did. This is what I said “sorry that others have jumped on you, this site is not for only one person, it is for all of us to share and voice our opinion. I have decided that I would vote for who I thought had the best picture and there are more than one or two of them. I have not voted for anyone who parents has asked others to vote for their child, I feel like every one deserve a fair chance.” Well I did vote for the kid because I have voted for all of them so far, they are all so good, hard to pick just one.
I still feel sorry for the other parent all he wanted was the same as the other parent. I have told others about the contest and to vote for the one they liked.
Thanks for the Carnival Dream pictures, I love the colors. Also the picture of your little girl is so lovely, she is a angel, so sweet.
Have a nice weekend with your girls.
Hi John,
It isn’t hard to find a lot of unhappy, mean spirited and evil people on a the Internet. THEY, are the stalkers. It seems they have discovered and spilled over into your blog. Perhaps even the one who referred to you as the Sperm of the Devil or some such nonsense, elsewhere.
Anyway – you can’t please all the people all the time, so no need to try. As long as you believe you are doing the right thing, ignore the pissants.
Keep up the good work and please don’t change a thing – well, other than not responding to the legends in their own minds who think this blog is just for them.
Also…
Thanks for all the Carnival Dream pictures. Elizabeth and I are REALLY looking forward to our Carnival Dream cruises. We need a vacation ( and I need to take more pictures )
! Wish you could join us.
Best regards,
bill
Dear John,
First, let me say “Good for you!” for ignoring those who try to poo-poo your blog! I’m always amazed when people say they hate something, yet continue to subject themselves to it. Sheesh! I can’t stand shellfish – it makes me stop breathing – so you better believe I’m not going to be dining out at seafood restaurants and then complain that the food is horrible because all they have on the menu is seafood. DUH!
On to something, or rather someone, more pleasant, Kye is absolutely beautiful. Treasure these sleepless, hectic, crazy moments with her, because babies are babies for only a very brief period of time. Unfortunately, she’s growing up right before your eyes, and there’s nothing anyone can do to stop it.
Thanks for the interview and the pictures, too. I am so very excited about my Dream cruise in May! We are booked in a spa cabin, which will be a treat for sure! Hopefully, future pictures will give me a sneak peak at my future spa OV home. (Hint! Hint!)
Seriously, though, John. You are doing a great job and I appreciate you.
Thanks!
Laura
Hi John,
What a precious picture of Kye!
Clair
Oh…my absolute favorite picture of Kye yet! She is soooo beautiful. I miss my daughter being that age!
Hi John,
I am booked on the Splendor this weekend and have been reading your blog for about a month, and love it. In regards to airplane safety drills, here’s one account a friend sent me a few years ago:
I was flying to San Francisco from Seattle this weekend, and the flight attendant reading the flight safety information had the whole plane looking at each other like “what the heck?” So, once we got airborne, I took out my laptop and typed up what she said so I wouldn’t forget. I’ve left out a few parts, I’m sure, but this is most of it:
(Before Takeoff…)
Hello and welcome to Alaska flight 438 to San Francisco. If you’re going to San Francisco, you’re in the right place. If you’re not going to San Francisco, you’re about to have a really long evening.
We’d like to tell you now about some important safety features of this aircraft. The most important safety feature we have aboard this plane is…The Flight Attendant. Please look at one now.
There are 5 exits aboard this plane, 2 at the front, 2 over the wings, and one out the plane’s rear end. If you’re seated in one of the exit rows, please do not store your bags by your feet. That would be a really bad idea.
Please take a moment and look around and find the nearest exit. Count the rows of seats between you and the exit. In the event that the need arises to find one, trust me, you’ll be glad you did. We have pretty blinking lights on the floor that will blink in the direction of the exits. White ones along the normal rows, and pretty red ones at the exit rows.
In the event of a loss of cabin pressure these baggy things will drop down over your head. You stick it over your nose and mouth like the flight attendant is doing now. The bag won’t inflate but there’s oxygen there, I promise.
If you are sitting next to a small child, or someone who’s acting like one, please do us all a favor and put your mask on first.
If you are traveling with two or more children, please take a moment now to decide which one is your favorite. Help that one first, and then work your way down.
In the seat pocket in front of you is a pamphlet about the safety features of this airplane. I usually use it as a fan when I’m having my own personal summer. It makes a very good fan. It also has pretty pictures. Please take it out and play with it now.
Please take a moment now to make sure your seat belts are fastened low and tight about your waist. To fasten the belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle. To release, it’s a pulley thing and not a pushy thing like your car, cuz you’re in an airplane, hello!!
There is no smoking in the cabin during this flight. There is also no smoking in the lavatories. If we see smoke coming from the lavatories, we will assume you are on fire and put you out. This is a free service we provide.
There are, however, two smoking sections on this flight, one outside each wing exit. We do have a movie in the smoking sections for this flight, let me check to see what it is… Oh here it is, “Gone With The Wind.”
In a moment we will be turning off the cabin lights, and it’s going to get really dark, really fast. If you’re afraid of the dark, now would be a good time to reach up and press the yellow button. The yellow button turns on your reading light. Please don’t press the orange button unless you absolutely have to. The orange is your seat ejection button.
We’re glad to have you with us on board this flight. Thank you for choosing Alaska Air, and giving us your business and your money. If there’s anything we can do to make you more comfortable, please don’t hesitate to ask.
(After Landing…)
Welcome to San Francisco International Airport. Sorry about the bumpy landing. It’s not the captain’s fault. It’s not the co-pilot’s fault either. It’s the asphalt…
Please remain seated until the plane is parked at the gate. At no time in history has a passenger ever beaten a plane to the gate. So, please don’t even try.
Please be careful opening the overhead compartments, because shift happens!
************************************************
keep on blogging to your hearts content John!!!
Joel V.
Hey John,
Keep up the great work on your blog . . . . and the 49,997 of us who read & love your blog each week will keep loving it!
I’ve never understood why the other 3 people (the ones who, for some reason that I cannot comprehend, dislike your blog) would take the time to leave you nasty comments, when they could just as easily . . . . oh, I don’t know . . . . NOT READ IT . . . . and leave it for the rest of us to enjoy! Sometimes people do things I just can’t understand.
Thank you for all that you do, and keep up the outstanding job!!
Cheers,
Michael
John, Air New Zealand, hardly the world’s largest airline, has probably done more for airline safety than anyone else with their new, ALL NUDE air safety visit. Claiming “nothing to hide” your standard pre-flight safety video is presented by five crew members wearing nothing but body painted uniforms and painted on smiles.
They “bare all” cheerfully telling you how to happily prepare for the plane to go crashing head first into the sea. Since most people find a zillion things to do other than watching the safety video . . . well, now the whole world is watching on YouTube and the special Air New Zealand “Nothing to Hide” Web site.
http://www.nothingtohide.co.nz/
There’s even a “blooper role” and a “behind the scenes” roll along with a new gay icon, Will ["You sound like my husband!] who gets his willie “twisted” in his seat belt, which is probably why you wear pants on a flight in the first place.
I’ve always thought we could find a more enjoyable, memorable, and unique way to do the life boat drill. This might just work!
BTW, the tag line is “Some low cost airlines tack on extra charges to their fares, but with us, what you see is what you pay. Our fares have nothing to hide.”
So . . . I was thinking of just how this might work on Carnival . . . it would take a while in make up for you . . . but were you to do a safety demonstration . . . how to put on your life jacket correctly . . . au natural in body paint . . .
Regards, Richard
Hi John. Finally – after asking a question on my cruise bo@rd of choice – I found where you post the pics of your lovely daughter! She’s a doll!
I have just recently discovered your blog thingy and find it hilarious! I have printed a few to show hubby.
We will be sailing on the Carnival Spirit twice in the next few months – to Alaska on Sept. 9 and to Mexico on Feb. 23. Can’t wait@!!
I am also a travel agent and am trying my best to convince people Carnival is not the “spring break type” cruise they have in their minds. Our group is mostly in the 40′s & 50′s age group – and I know we’ll have a blast!
Keep up the good work!
You are the best!! We truly appreciate all of the work you do for all of us loyal Carnival followers and to heck with the rest of them!
Can’t wait to see you on the Carnival Dream 2/6/10!!
I love the photos and although I love my Carnival Dream, Kye’s is the bestest. And oh, when admonishing Trevor yesterday I meant to type humour spelt incorrectly but oh well.
Hi John,
PLEASE REPLY
We are leaving in 4 hours to get on the Carnival Inspiration here in Tampa. I was wondering if you would be able to get my wife and me a table for two, at a window, with a waiter who will remember our names, make sure the captain comes by to say hello, have a bottle of champagne ready for us since we had to stand in line for 10 minutes to get onboard. Thanks. Oh by the way its my wifes birthday so could you arrange for some free gifts, decorations and food in the cabin? I know its only a five day cruise, but could you make sure that the sun is always shining and that there be no tropical storms or I swear I will raise holy heck at the guest service desk. Please make sure there are no kids running around. They should be in school, shouldn’t they. I would appreciate the comedians having a politically correct show with no foul language regardless of the time, and for the dancers please make sure their bottoms are covered. We have been married now for almost 7 years so I was hoping that you might be able to arrange for us to be on the Newlywed Game Show. I need a ship on a stick and a pin for a souvenir. Well that should do it. I thank you.
JUST KIDDING except for we really are getting on a cruise in 4 hours. BON VOYAGE.
See ya in December on the Carnival Dream
Mike & Janette
John,
First of all and most important great Kye-Day!
As some rude people are posting on this blog do erase any unwanted e-mails arriving using your private address you should not even read the mails at all. You not knowing the sender , only bad luck for Mr. unwanted.
Please do not change the blog at all!!.
Few rudes can never outnumber 5 Million friends!!!
Ralf
Hi John
Just to let you know that we, way down South, enjoy your blog and appreciate your commitment.
Please keep it up!!
Regards
Des & Carol
Cape Town, South Africa
We waited all week for Kyeday and only got one picture??? One little picture? You can do better!
Bravo John..I agree with you whole heartedly and you decision with negative comments…Having “lurked” for sometime on this blog I can tell you that I and many many others LOVE your humor and would be lost without you. Looking forward to getting to know you as our CD on the Carnival Legend on 10/4.
Also, thanks for including your weekly picture of Kye…she is such a cutie…
Emmy
Kye is a beauty!! I have a question ?? Is there a Mongolian Grill on the Freedom and where is it located? Thanks Beth
Hello John:
Regarding your blog and Carnival cruising.
“It’s all about enjoying yourself and not messing with other people’s fun.”
Tim McGraw on his concerts.
Your Friend
Bill Heck
Hi John (PLEASE REPLY)
Susan from the West Midlands here. It has been a while since I sent a comment but I still enjoy reading your blog. Welcome back to England – thanks for bringing the rements of Hurricane Bill with you earlier this week. Hopefully all the rain is now gone and we will have a good Bank Holiday Weekend.
I noticed all the comments recently on your blog about the Carnival Pins. I have collected a few of these over the years but am more interested in collecting the pictures that are given out by the waiters on the last night of dinner. I have a collection of 10 different pictures now. (I think I have all but two ships I have sailed on) I have them displayed at home and it is great to look at each different picture and remember all the different Carnival cruises I have taken. One waiter also suggested laminating the pictures and using them as place mats. It makes an interesting talking point at dinner parties. Do Carnival still give these out?
I am off on the Grand Princess next weekend sailing from Southampton to Rome. Intially we had planned to do this route on the Carnival Freedom before she was pulled from Europe but like you am keeping my fingers crossed that Carnival return to Europe soon.
Love to Heidi and Kye
Susan
I am glad you will not be responding to “them”. You have enough on your plate, why add “them” to it. I know you are far behind in writing so I am patiently
waiting for your reply on Europe cruises for next year and beyond.
The pictures of the Dream are amazing. To think in just a few short weeks she will be full of pax and then the fun can begin.
The blog was as always great today. The picture of Kye is adorable.
Keep smiling John, you truly are one of the good guys.
My best to Heidi and Kye.
John–Bravo for your comments at the beginning of the blog. So many people get a sense of entitlement given the slightest opening!
Kye is amazingly beautiful. You must be SO proud!
I read your blog everyday and laugh! You have a wonderful sense of humor and I very much appreciate it! People have the choice of whether to subscribe to a blog or not. If you don’t like it – don’t subscribe to it! My husband and I sailed with you on the Liberty in the Mediterranean and thought you were hysterical. You made the cruise very memorable. We’ve cruised some of the other cruise lines within your company but that one was the best!! Thanks for your witty humor, your terrific blog, and a cruise that we’ll never forget! Hopefully we’ll get the opportunity to cruise with you again sometime! By the way – as if you already didn’t know it – Kye is just beautiful!
John, please respond:
Horrible dream last night! This week we booked the Legend for Oct. 11. When we boarded we found that you were not there. Horrors! Please, don’t tell me that the scheudual can change. You took a picture with my cousin and me in Dallas, Texas when the big beach ball commericial was being filmed. We treasure it. We’re booked on two Holland America cruises now, but we just can’t stay away from Carnival! This Legend cruise will make me Platinum.
I too am glad that you will no longer post nasty, rude and hateful comments from those few people who do not enjoy your blog. As an earlier poster noted, it is possible to ask questions and share concerns in a respectful and courteous way.
I will say that I often skip your replies to the folks who request specific favors, such as a table for two or a birthday greeting or small gift. While those requests are very important and meaningful to the ones making them they are of less importance to others. With the assistance of the many Stephanies, would it be possible to reply to those requests privately, off the blog? Just a thought and if not possible it’s a simple matter to just skip over them.
Keep up the good work. There are so many of us who enjoy your sharing your stories and adventures that we do not want you to be discouraged by the few toxic people who are so negative.
John,
hi, we’ll be on the Freedom with you, Sept.26,’09. This will be our 5th cruise, our 3rd Carnival. Have something in common with you. You’re a CD & I’m a RD. Director of Recreation/Volunteers, at a nursing/rehab facility in Philadelphia, Pa. I’ve been doing this for 20 plus years. I enjoy all kinds of people. I keep my population-both physically and mentally stimulated, as independent as possible. With my population, I stress they can do everything that’s on the calendar-on their feet or in their seat. Maybe we can meet during the cruise. If I was to do it all over again, I’d be an CD. Counting the days till the cruise…Randie Duretz
We just sailed on our first Carnival cruise. We have been loyal to Royal for many yrs (diamond member, or should I say cubic zirconia ((after the cutbacks of perks)) )
My husband and I loved our cruise. Miracle on July 11th. We are now blowing up to St John on the hurricane express. Sept 3rd on the Triumph.
Anyway, thanks for your blog, you turned us onto Carnival.
We are looking forward to many more cruises with Carnival.
Stephanie: Please reply…
I was wondering if the reason my post was not…well posted…is because it was one of the ones that was considered sarcastic and rude? I wasn’t trying to be rude but I really did think the “stalker” guy could get his info from a travel agent that he was seeking…
For the first time in two and a half years we have another Nanette writing comments. Did you notice? I’m glad you change my name to Nanni. I was surprised to see it.
Dear John,
When you put out communication like you do in a blog, there will be people that will have negative comments. So you probably have about 2% that will be negative. But the rest seem to like what you are doing.
As for making the muster drills more “entertaining” I don’t see anything wrong with that. I fly a small airplane and have been to a lot of FAA forums and AOPA forums. The more entertaining they are the more I remember. People need to be entertain more these days. As long as you still get the important info that needs to be said. Plus it probably will make people pay attention..
I have seen people at the muster drills talking to other people or not even paying a little attention to what is being said. So a little entertainment with the life saving info. they need will help them remember.
Sincerely Yours,
Kim
HI!
John, can you respond please?
OOOHH!!!
Loving the pictures above of the lounge with all of the Remington artwork and scultptures! Where is the lounge located and what is it called?
Thanks!
Lisa
Hello John,
I really appreciate the info on the cigars and as you can tell your reply did reach me in time. We arrives in San Juan this afternoon and have officially started our vacation. Thank you also on the birthday card and I shall be watching for it.
Have a great day and please don’t change a thing about the blog as most of us very much enjoy your great sense of humor.
Applauds to you John, people who don’t appreciate your humour or this blog can go to H_ _ L! Thanks so much for the interview with Joe Farcus, can’t wait to step on the Dream on 12/26 and spend New Years on the ship. WOW! And that little girl of yours is getting so big! She sure is looking more and more like you John! With a touch of Heidi! LOVE all the Dream pictures too! Your friends, Linda & Mike
Hi John,
Although I seldom comment, I read your blog every day & throughly enjoy it!!!
Thanks for your decision to not respond to the “uglies” out there. They are either jerks or unhappy people that don’t like anyone or anything.
Kye is absolutely adorable!!!!!!!!!
John,
Thanks for the information, the pictures, and especially the humor. We’ll be sailing on the Dream on 1/30/10, and are looking forward to meeting you and seeing you in action.
My only fear is that you might end up ruining us for all other CD’s.
Thanks again!
Dave
Hi John! (please reply),
My Great-Grandmother sailed the Holiday in 1987, it was her favorite vacation of all time. She still talks about how much fun she had with her sisters on the ship. In fact, one of the few personal items she took from her apartment to her nursing home was the golden ship on a stick, which she proudly displays on a shelf near her bed.
We are sailing on the Holiday in October and I would love to be able to get one of my own to take back and show her the Holiday ship on a stick from 2009. Can you tell me if this is possible? I know that generally the ship on a stick comes from winning a contest, but the odds of winning are low. Can you purchase them?
Thank you so much, you are such a good man to all your readers!
April Z.
Way to go John. Those negative people have no place in your blog. From the first day I begin reading the blog I have loved reading about Carnival ships, their captains, the crew, the ports the food and especially the humourous stories about the many cruises you have taken us to. Sometimes the stories end up not so happy but that just tells us that living has and ending. But the most important stories for me are those about you, Heidi and especially now Kye, my such a beautiful child. These stories are the ones that I enjoy the most because they are real. I thoroughly enjoyed the story with Joe Farcus. The man is brilliant. Thank you for allowing us an opportunity to get into the mind of that fantastic man and why the Carnival ships are so great. I’m getting so excited for my cruise on the Carnival Dream. Only 4 and 1/2 months to go. See you then my friend.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
John (Please Reply)
Hello, this is my first time posting! I just completed a four day cruise aboard the second best rated ship the Imagination (my first cruise)! I traveled with a friend and had a fantastic time. We got to the ship very early, around 1030a and check-in was a breeze, we were onboard by around 1130a. The ship was in great shape for its age and crew was very friendly, always saying hello. Once to our room we met our wonderful room steward, Rommy/ Rommie, I forgot the correct spelling. She was so great! But wouldn’t that make her a room stewardess? Every evening we had a towel animal greeting us. I am very glad I got a photo with her. Is there anyway I could send her a copy and a nice letter? I know every crew member is away from home for months, I would like to make her smile.
Karl with a K was our cruise director and was a blast along with Assistant director george with his wild white framed glasses. The food was was great, I will be working it off for some time. Entertainment was amazing, I enjoyed every minute of it. All in all I had a great time and am looking at the Destiny for January.
A couple questions. I noticed on the top deck of the Imagination atrium that there are private cabins with large windows. Our those the captain and cruise director rooms? They look very nice and homey.
I was trilled to see the Holiday in Mexico, where will this ship be heading after its last cruise?
Thanks so much!
ps- I am not a drinker or a party guy (weird, I am 21 yrs old) and I can say to those who say it, Carnival has Fun Ships, not Party Ships. I never say one drunk person acting out. Bugger off HugeArsh of the Seas!
partyer
What a cutie! She is just perfect. 3 minutes well spent!
Hi John,
Please continue to provide the best travel/cruise blog
on the internet. I appreciate all the work you put into this venture. I know we (all your readers) will support and look forward to your daily blog. My best to you, Heidi, and Kye. A big thank you !!!!
MaryC
John, (please reply when you have the time)
Hello…sorry i have been away so long but I had a few medical issues however I am now all better and back to 100%.
I was spending the day catching up on all the Blogs that i missed and found my self getting a little aggrivated, so i decided that while you have to be politically correct I DONT
Was good to see ya back on the Carnival Freedom and back doing what you are the best at…being a cruise director .
While your roll as Brand ambassador is important you primary roll as a cruise director is even more important not only in my eyes but also the eyes of a whole lot of folks who have had the pleasure to sail with you.
What aggrivated me was some of the negative comments that i have been reading as of late.
while i certainly do believe in freedom of speach, to use that freedom to be vindictive or intenionally hurtfull to some one, especially one who bends over backward to help anyone who asks, is what has me agrivated.
These folks are just plain mean and hurtful. Here you are away from your family doing a super job making sure that other families have a great vacation while they sit back on their fat rumps and fire off spitefull notes is disgusting to me and I for one wont stand by while one of my friends is being attacked, and do nothing.
while i understand that by writing this i may just be doing what they want, i feel that it needs to be said at least to you so you will remember that there are by far a lot more of use that appreciate what you do each day then of the hurtful IDIOTS.
John , i am sorry but these narrow minded Bastards just get my blood boiling, and i know that you are too nice of a person to say it but if they dont like what you say in the blog then they can”to use your term ” “BUGGER OFF” or to use my term would cause you or Stephanie to have to censor me, but my question to them would be …do the letters KMA mean anything to you at all????
You just remember that there are litterally 50,000 folks who enjoy what you do each and every week plus the 3000 or so who get to partake of your musings live when they are sailing with you.
enough said on that topic and i feel better now.
on the topic of Heidi and Kye i was just looking at the pictures of Dad and Daughter and you can see the pride all over your face. (thank God she took after Heidi and wont gro up being and ugly sod like her dad )
Cant wait to actually see you on the crossing of the Carnival Dream. Cindy and I have come up with some Brilliant ideas that we want to run by you to drive poor Todd Crazy for the 16 days lol (i hope he dont read this lol)
In any case my friend, Please continue to do what you do as there are a lot of us who turn to the blog daily to brighten our days
Your Friend and Cohort in crime
Bill
Its not necessary to publish this if you decide not to i just want you to know how I feel.
Dear John…Please reply
Oh nooooo…I think my grandson is destined not to receive your gift. My grandson and I will be sailing on the Carnival Valour on September 13th. It was last April when we sailed on the Carnival Paradise, which was when the gift was supposed to have been delivered, so Jeff Broooonnnnsssoooon will be really confused if you ask him to deliver a gift to my grandson, as we won’t be on his ship in September.
Thanks for all your efforts….Irene Garner (hooked on cruising)
John,
Please read but a response is not needed.
Just a few points I’d like to make about comments from the last couple of weeks.
1) Menus on the interactive TVs. We had this on our recent Valor cruise (Aug 2-9) and -really- appreciated it because we then knew if we wanted to bring one of our special bottles of wine. The only negative is that for every selection and every course, the accompaniments and/or preparation were almost always listed incorrectly.
2) Humour during the Muster Drill. By all means, yes. Big Tex managed to sneak in a few little things that we found humourous, but were not intentionally so. “Put the lifejacket over your head. Perfect. Now, wrap the strap around your body and attach it in the front. Wonderful.” Being in job directly related to and requiring much time spent on airplanes, I understand the importance of safety drills but also appreciate when the scripted announcements are made more interesting. I would recommend you avoid any comments related to sharks as there are a great number of people that you would freak out for the duration of the cruise – not kidding (I am not one of them).
3) Non-smoking in the various lounges. I believe that smokers need to have times and places to engage in their ritual, and think they should be allowed to smoke in various venues, but I also do wish their were periodic smoke-free nights. Perhaps if it is not stressful on the crew, entertainers, and ventilation systems the smoking/non-smoking areas can be rotated throughout the cruise. This should accommodate everyone within reason. We generally do not get to spend time in the piano bar though we’d love to. I came home with a nasty case of bronchitis from my last cruise due to the chain smokers in the cabin next to me. I could not use the balcony past sailaway time on the first day and due to a poor door seal, I had smoke invade my room. Even though I am allergic to smoke and don’t engage in it myself, I will support the rights of smokers. I’d just like there to be some options.
4) Humour in your blog. Bottom line, it is your blog. Though you are producing it for the benefit of all your readers, it is from your head and heart. I do not always appreciate some of the jokes, but I do appreciate that you take the time out of your busy schedule to keep us updated on what is happening throughout the fleet. By all means do not change your content or writing style to appease the malcontents.
5) Why don’t you read this thread or go to this webpage or… I think that many of your readers do not realize that when on the ships you are working almost the entire time you are awake, and even some when you are not, and just plain don’t have the opportunity to spend hours poring over various and sundry websites. Not only that, but a lot of these people don’t realize that you are using the same internet service as anyone else on the ship, and have the same limited bandwidth which translates to a slower browsing experience. So if you’ve elected to publish this, it has now been said, and if you elect not too (which is completely fine by me) then you might want to mention it.
6) I want. My next cruise is on the Elation in mid-October. Can you ask them to install a sliding window in my oceanview cabin so I can get some fresh air and listen to the ocean? Completely kidding, of course! Carnival provides for us quite well, and though we have seen some adjustments in service and amenities it has not had a negative impact on the value and quality of our overall cruising experience. We are going to have a total of 5 sailings this year, all on Carnival, and hope to hit Platinum by the end of next year.
Cheers mate, congrats to you and the missus on producing a darling offspring, and thank you for the blog!
~ MattInSoCal
Can I just join in with the applause for not responding to the negative comments about your blog.
Like many things in life people have options, in this case the option not to read, pretty simple really.
and OMG, what a great picture of Kye.
John,
Someone once told me that when people start to hate you for what you do or they start to mimic you (copy what you do), then you have finally hit the big time……
please keep up the what you do, I don;t always getg hte chance to read the blog everyday nor do I get the chance to write very offten, but I do enjoy reading what you have to say, and I sometimes don’t agree with it but thats ok too. for example, the other day you said Carnival was going to start anytime, now I am a fan of assigned seating at dinner I think it is what makes Carnival diffierent form all the others (who wil remane nameless) and faceless…… I hope the many Vice pres. listen to this and keep the dinning the way it is.
thanks for listening and for being there for all of us,
your loyal reader and friend
Capt Bill
PS when you come back to Boston please let me know so that I can take you out and show you my town on my boat
John, please reply…
Juan’s still waiting for a reply to the one he sent you about 3 wks. ago, but it seems that either it got lost on cyber space…. it never showed up under “Comments” so we believe that your “Stephanies” never got it , or it may still be stuck somewhere! He was saying, among other things, how irrevent & funny you are & that you should be CD on more Carnival cruises instead of doing “Miami Office work” so you could justify the $1 Million salary Carnival pays you! Ho, Ho, Ho! How do you like that! Juan has a lot of nerve! I already told him that a couple of days ago you already said that the 2010 CD schedule would be ready this coming weeks. Hurrah!!!
Well, now here is my question: About a week or so ago you were replying to us re Weee Jimmy being the CD on our Nov.21/09 Freedom cruise…. then you said that in a moment you were going to talk to us more about him…. We kept watching the blogs for it but you never said anything else about him, although you have been showing pictures & information about different CD’s. Is he coming up soon on that very same list? He sounds like lot of fun and we are looking forward to meet him.
A reminder: What’s happening about the possibility of Carnival crediting cruises of 2 + days as 2 instead of one? A month or so ago you said that Carnival executives were discussing the matter and possiblity of changing the current policy. Have you heard anything new about it?
We have been away in Daytona Beach, Orlando and Vegas, that’s why you haven’t heard from us as much as usual…. but that doesn’t mean we don’t keep reading your blogs, etc… we always take our laptop to keep up with everything.
About what you recently commented re American Airlines and their onboard service or lack of it…. You are 100% right. We have been flying with them more than 18 yrs. and it is going from bad to worse. In fact, I’m pretty mad. The only reason we stayed with them is because we travel a lot, we have their Citibank/ AAdvantage credit cards and we get a lot of miles when using them and, of course, when we fly with them too. Their domestic policy about charging $15 for the 1st. checked bag, $25 for the 2nd, and so on, is terrible. On 9/15 or so, they are also going to charge for checked bags on the trasatlantic flights…. We read it on the paper & heard it on the news, but when we were talking on the phone yesterday and asked about it , she said that there was nothing about it…. yet….. Well, the funny thing is that Juan & I have not received a communication from them (e-mail or regular letter) announcing that policy change. Would you believe that on their 5 hour flight to Vegas from Miami and 4 hour flight Miami to Vegas they don’t serve any kind of snack? They only serve soft drinks, coffee, juices & water. If you dare to ask for a can of beer or a tiny wine bottle that would costs $6, a cookie $3, small turkey wrap $6, and most recently an italian sandwich I believe $10-12…. I can’t remember exactly. What a rip-off! Do you know that when oil prices went up long time ago the airlines imposed a fuel surcharge on their tickets & when it went down they never reduced the air fares? Months ago the cruise lines discontinued charging the fuel surcharge although they left “open” the possiblity of imposing the fee again if the oil prices climb again. Well, sorry for dumping on you my gripes, but after reading your “flight experience” going home I just couldn’t resist sharing our discontent with the airline.
Kisses to Kye & Heidi and warmest regards to you!
The Santanas of Miami Beach
John,
I’ve been away for a few days, and am trying to catch up on all the comments & your wonderful blogs. First thing I did was find the Kye picture. Can’t live without my Kye fix! Now I can concentrate on what you’ve written. Please continue to bring your own sense of humor(spelled the American way) to your blog. I love silly! The world is gloomy enough! I have learned to laugh my way through any situation. And it works for me! The Carnival Dream is a real dream by the looks of your pictures! Can’t wait til Oct. 27!
Joyce
John,
Wait a minute, three minutes to make Kye? I remember months and months and months of temperature taking and everything else you and poor Heidi could think of to become pregnant. Now your Dream Daughter is here and she is a beauty to be proud of. The second one is much easier, I remember those days well!
I appreciate contructive criticism but not nasty. I enjoy hearing peoples excitement before a cruise while asking for help weather it is about shore excursions, help with family members or even a table. I have gotten information from questions about matters I would of never thought of. So thank you for all you do and please keep up the good work. And if you don’t want to respond to some rude sod then so be it, this is your blog.
I guess I don’t understand….if people do not like what you are writing on your blog….why do they even read it????? Keep up the good work John,,, we love you!!!
Thank you for not responding to the negative comments. I really don’t want to waste my time reading them.
Kye is cute as a button!
John Please reply…
my wife and me will be on the dream for halloween, do you know if there are a special night with costume.
Thanks
Denis
Hi John, Please reply!
I just discovered your blog a few months ago! I now start each day with a cup of coffee while reading your blog. Makes for a great start of the day!
I have a cruise booked on the Carnival Triumph for June 2010 and have just booked the Carnival Fantasy for the Sept. 28th sailing. We were able to catch a great price with the “Pack and Go” rate.
The best part of this “Pack and Go” deal is that my sister and family were able to book this cruise. They had a cruise booked for last December, but had to cancel it due to my brother in law’s diagnosis of pancreas cancer.
My reason for writing to you is that he will be borrowing someone’s scooter to use while on the ship. After reading your posting a while back of the kids damaging someone’s scooter, I am concerned. Is there anywhere that the scooter can be stored while not in use? He will not always need to use it. Or do you have any suggestions to safe keep it?
I don’t want anything to spoil this cruise for them, since this may be the last family vacation for them. We are still praying for a miracle!
John, you and your blog give Carnival such a personal touch. Just knowing someone is reading and addressing the issues and questions. Thank you for all you do!
I especially look forward to Fridays to see the picture of the beautiful Kye!!!
John, please reply
I will be on the Splendor in two weeks (Sept 13th, and I hope we will be going where we are supposed to go). I will be celebrating my 40th birthday and I do not want to be disappointed when it comes to dining. I do not want to be stuck at a table with other married couples (in their 50′s, 60′s and beyond) who are self absorbed. I also don’t want to get stuck at a table where everyone is in their late 50′s, 60′s, and one foot in the grave and totally stuck up or about as boring as watching grass grow. I would like to have be at a table with some/all Canadians, solo cruisers, or cruisers who are celebrating their birthday too!
I was sorely let down on the Freedom by getting stuck at a table with people who were old enough to be my parents (and self absorbed in themselves), and two single women who were self absorbed (and moaning, groaning, and bitching about this or that). I tried to get a better table but the maitre’d couldn’t find a table that had Canadians, solo cruisers, or guests close to my age and not old enough to be my parents or one foot in the grave. I opted to dine at the buffet after night one and left it at that (and discovered how good the Mongolian really is). The other three people at our table were also Americans in their late 50′s and older. I have nothing against Americans or older people, but would a fellow Canadian or someone closer to my age that I could hang with at the table be a hard thing to ask for?
Alex and Miguel got it right on the Liberty last year–five single women all sailing solo (and a older man who didn’t speak much English, but he certainly loved the ladies!). I can tell you we had an amazing time and dinner just flew by! We bonded and hung out and spend some quality time in port shopping.
Please pass it on the maitre’d for the Splendor and see what he can do. One other request, a table that is in a good location that I don’t have to crane my neck or go elsewhere to enjoy the dancing waiters when they perform!
Now I can only hope my TA did something special cuz it’s a milestone b-day for me…..it’s wishful thinking, but hy, I can dream!
Thanks John!
Is there any chance of a repeat cruise…Ft. Lauderale to San Francisco (or reverse)????
Since you’re so good with “the Google,” I’m sure you’ve seen these youtube videos of Southwest flight attendants rapping the safety information but I thought I’d send them to you anyway. They really are my favorite airline even if I don’t like their newest changes to the boarding groups.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivjybzdXVmI
I’ll be on the September 13-20 sailing on the Carnival Splendor so I’m hoping you can get Goose to spice up his show in the next 14 days
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Hi John.I just wanted to say YOU ROCK.And thank you for taking the time out of your life to write your blog and share with us your life on the seas and your family at home.I know how busy you can get with kids and working and a wife/husband.I cant even check my voicemail (its glaring at me now with the number 30 flashing at me) much less write a funny blog .So thank you and take care.
John
As for the person with the invisible coffee mugs. Tell them they can not use a dishwasher on these, as the stenciling will come off. The newest one they have, (Freedom) will soon meet the same (Destiny) if they continue using a dishwasher. Their coffee will be in (Paradise) once again with this simple tip.
Glen
I agree about not replying to negative comments. I know Host Mach has them on his site too. If you are not interested in the topic or the blog, why go to that site. I am not a sport lover so I do not waste my time on those blogs and write negative comments. Some people just need to get a life.
No on the rumpy pumpy topic-it does not get much easier when the children get older. We were doing great when our older son worked on Carnival and our younger one was at college. Now, the oldest is home and the other has a job but pops in on the weekends and the girlfriends also trail in and out. We need to book a cruise just to have privacy!
Karen
Stephanie please reply
Is there a way I can make sure we are booked as a blogger for the NY bloggers cruise? We used the original fare code and we changed rooms and just wanted to make sure we were on the list. thanks
Hi John, Heidi, Kye & all the Stephanies,
I just finished skimming the past week’s worth of blog thingys. Thank you so much for the profiles of Big Sexy (definitely one of the best) and Malcolm (from the Bronx). I’m glad Malcolm is feeling so much better.
But I have been so excited about all my Carnival Dream updates. She is going to be one of the most beautiful of Carnival ships – if not the very best. Thank you for Mr. Farcus’ input. I was closing my eyes after reading his comments and imagining what he wrote. It’s 2 1/2 months to go to BC3 and I really can’t wait.
Hugs,
Carol
P.S. What a sweet little picture of Kye.
Hi John,
Just wondering if any pictures of the cabins on the DREAM will be posted. We are sailing December 3, on the Dream and can’t wait. Love your blog. Follow daily.
Dear John,
I agree with all of the others about your decision to no post an answer to the personal attack that have been posted lately.
I feel that if the don’t like your humouroids then they can kiss your arseteroids!
The pictures of the Carnival DREAM and the Heald DREAM were both fabulous. The interview with Joe was something special as you could really tell that he is very proud of this one. With good reason I might add!
James & Nancy
The Cruzin2some
Dear John —>Message to John
Thanks for your help on the upsell department. But it didn’t work out. I did get a call but just couldn’t due to the amount that was being asked. A 9A was four dollars more then what we can part with at this time. There is always next cruise.
. So thanks so much for your help.
Sincerely Yours,
Kim Risley Carnival Valor, Sept. 6th
Dear 343 Stephanies,
I just went to the Carnival.com homepage and watched the newest video of the Carnival DREAM. Very well done to all who worked on it. The virtual trip through the ship really gives you the feeling of what it is going to look like when you walk onto the CD for the first time. Of coarse, it also shows you what it would look like if you could fly all around it. Just one word “BEAUTIFUL”. Well done!!!
James & NAncy
The Cruzin2some
Dear John ( Please Reply),
I am sorry that people have been rude to you. Sadly, it is a reflection on society as a whole. We are now used to electronically relaying information, we sometimes forget that there is person at the other end receiving it. You are wonderful for what you do. I would long ago put on my pants and told everyone to “Bugger Off”. I do have a question but, i do not want anything for free
We are booked on the 9/12/09 Glory sailing. This will be my three year olds second carnival cruise! We have purchased the “French Beach Break” in St. Martine. We know that “European Style” bathing maybe observed but, we were wondering how common it really is? By the way, this is the second time we have cruised the Glory on this itinerary. You were our C/D back in 2005. A couple that we met on that cruise is joining us on this one. If only you were there, we could have a little reunion! Thank you so much for all that you do for us. Kye really is beautiful. I hope you are having a wonderful time with your girls!
Thanks!
Christy