If there is one port that sits atop the ” why doesn’t a Carnival ship go there ” it is of course………..Detroit…………in second place is my home town of Southend On Sea and in third place……………it is of course Aruba. And while the motor city and the chance for me to go home for lunch and a poo on my own toilet remain a dream……Aruba……….is back.
We will substitute the 8 day Exotic Western Caribbean itinerary (visiting Colon, Panama; Limon, Costa Rica & Belize) with a new 4-port Exotic Southern Caribbean itinerary for departures from October 18, 2010 through March 27, 2011. The itinerary will visit Grand Turk, La Romana / Casa de Campo, Aruba & Curacao. We would rotate this new itinerary with the current 3-port 8 Day Exotic Southern Caribbean.
Day Port of Call Arrive Depart
Ft. Lauderdale 4:00 p.m.
1 “Fun Day” At Sea
2 Grand Turk 7:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m.
3 La Romana / Casa De Campo* 9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m.
4 Aruba Noon 10:00 p.m.
5 Curacao 8:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m.
6 “Fun Day” At Sea
7 “Fun Day” At Sea
8 Ft. Lauderdale 8:00 a.m.
And there was much rejoicing as Aruba fans danced in the streets in their underwear ……………….and I bet the people of Aruba are pretty happy as well.
If you are reading this and thinking what all the fuss is about let me see what I can remember about my times in Aruba.
Uncle Google tells us this island sits 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela and was formerly a Heidi ten Brink colony, achieving independence from the clog wearing, windmill living Dutchies in 1986. The island is tiny — a mere six miles at its widest point, and just under 20 miles long and has a population of some 100,000 people. Dutch, English and Spanish are widely spoken, but the local language is Papiamento, a curious dollop of all three. It’s been a long, long time since I have been there though. The last time was for the special Millennium cruise on the Carnival Triumph. My Mum and Dad and sister were sailing and as well as worrying about them, organizing a party that would meet all the Millennium hype, I was concerned that all the computers would crash because of the bug thingy and the world would come to an end.
I do remember the beaches are great, and there is the cutely colonial architecture near the ship with diamond stores and lots of great restaurants. There is great diving and snorkeling and a weird desert-like interior where if memory serves me well we ran some great Jeep and ATV tours.
I do remember though that it has a wonderful clean and fresh feeling and the Arubans are extremely non French……..as in………..welcoming. So, here you go, for those who have been asking to go back to Aruba……….your cries have been heard…………..so get booking as I am positive these cruises will sell like full size photos of me in my underpants.
Time for today’s questions. Here we go.
Janet Sammons Asked:
Please reply
Hi John. I just love reading your blog. It always makes me laugh. I love all the information you have given us. I am the particularly laughing about the bathroom incident. I too have made that mistake, but since I am a girl, I usually see way more than I mean to, and my mistake is always noticed right away! As soon as I see the urinals!
I wanted to drop you a note and tell you that I am the group leader for a cruise critic group cruise on the Dream 2/20/2010. So far we have 68 cabins booked. I have been working like a mad woman planning all the fun things we will be doing on and off the ship. I am referred to as the Cruise Director!! We also have a tour director, slot tourney director, etc. We have a total of 9 directors. It’s so much fun!
I would like to know a couple of things about the dream if you don’t mind.
1. What will the hours be for the slides? I want to plan a slide race for our group and need to know when to schedule it.
2. We will have our meet and greet on the first full see day. 2/21/2010. It has not been scheduled with Carnival yet, so the time and place are unknown as of now. I was wondering if you could possibly make an appearance at our meet and greet. So many of us are huge fans and it would mean the world to my group if they could meet you even if it is just for a minute or two.
I realize you are extremely busy, so if it is not possible I will completely understand. I was just thinking what a treat it would be.
Our groups name is the “Dream Catchers” and we would be honored to meet you and are so so so excited to be cruising with you!!
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Janet SammonsJohn Says:
Hello JanetThanks for the kind words about the blog and I am glad you enjoy the fun stuff and the information. Congratulations on the Cruise Critic group and I am sure you are all looking forward to cruising on your Carnival Dream. It looks like with all your Directors you won’t be needing me that week …….so I will take the week off. Hope that’s OK.
Let’s see if we can help answer your questions. You asked for information on the ship’s WaterWorks…….here it is.
Slide Hours:
Name: Carnival’s WaterWorks
Location: Sky Deck 15 – midship (top of slide)
Spa Deck 12 – midship (bottom of slide)
Hours: 10:00am-5:00pm (weather conditions permitting)
Function: Aqua Park
• 3-deck high, 300′ long spiraling water tube slide
• 82′ long double-lane racing waterslide
• Slide Policy: Kids must be 42″ or taller to use the slide.I am sure you saw me and my beige socks go down the slides and if I can do it ……….. anyone can.
It would be an honor to come and join you and I will also help you organize your meet and greet if you need me to. If so, please post a comment to me in January and I will make sure we take care of your needs.
See you and the Dream Catchers soon.
Best wishes
JohnKathy M. Asked:
Dear John,
Please Reply,I am so sorry for my post to you about the Carnival Elation, it just came as such a surprise to some of us after Carnival had led us on about the special Cabo trips and would give us booking dates after September 17th only to find out they were pulling her. It is not your fault what Corporate does and for that please accept my apology for taking it out on you, you did not deserve that from me.
I know exactly how you feel about going into the wrong bathroom, I did it as a teenager (13) and I could not figure out why they had to white things on the wall (I had just started PE classes at school and taking a shower was all in the open so I just thought it was a new kind of bathroom). I had never seen them before and I tried to sit on one and do my thing. That is when I realized I was in the wrong bathroom and scooted out of here in a real hurry. I sure thanked God a lot for not letting anyone see me. In case it happens again and you are caught, just tell them that you are doing bathroom inspections and that you are done. Most will never know the difference.
Your #1 bloggy thingy friend and #1 fan,
Kathy M.John Says:
Hello Kathy MThere is never any need to apologize Kathy. One of the many reasons I continue to write this blog is to allow for you all to have somewhere to express your concerns knowing that they will be read………it continues to surprise me that other cruise lines have not done the same. Anyway, I remain here at your service should you need me and thanks for sharing in your bathroom story, glad to see I wasn’t the only one.
Best wishes
JohnKerensa Asked:
Hi John (Please reply)I am also in the cruise industry and work for one of Carnival’s sister companies. I’m planning out our first cruise for next year and Carnival seems a bit more suited to us than the line that I work for as we have 3 small children. Here’s a hint: Our line is very classy but we’re almost packed with seniors
BTW, your family is lovely. Your pictures brim with such tenderness for both of your ladies and it feels as if we know you guys. Much love to you all!
John Says:
Hello KerensaFirst of all it’s a joy to welcome someone who works in the industry and indeed someone who works for one of our sister companies. I think I know which one but I won’t say …… damn……sorry to say damn……I just banged my elbow on the desk…….hence me saying “damn.” Anyway…..I am sure that we can provide your family with a true Carnival Fun for All experience and what better than our new ship, your Carnival Dream. I will be there in February and March and it would be an honor to meet you. The Camp carnival facilities for the 3 year olds will make sure they have the time of their lives and I will do the same for you, Dad and the 1 year old. If not your Carnival Dream then I will be on the Carnival Conquest in April and the Carnival Fantasy in May. Please let me know if you need any other information and my best to everyone at……damn……..I nearly said it.
Best wishes
JohnApril Z Asked:
Dear John (please reply),Generally how long does it take for a brand new ship to start taking 5 day cruises? I am DYING to sail the Carnival Dream, but a 7 day is just not feasible for my family at this time. Can I expect some 5 days to be added to the itinerary soon?
Thank you!
AprilJohn Says:
Hello AprilI hope somehow, some way, you can find a way to stretch 5 days to 7 as there no plans at the moment for your Carnival Dream to start a 5 day itinerary. If it’s a question of getting time of work I can write you a sick note.
To Whom It May Concern
Please note that April has been diagnosed with a serious case of Lackoffunitus. She will therefore need seven days of immediate Fun on a Carnival Cruise Lines ship.Dr John Heald. Q.U.A.C.K. There you go……..sorted.
Best wishes
Johnwil-da beast Asked:
John…Please reply……….Thanks for the videos.The water slide episode was so much fun to watch and also the screaming of “little” Boys…Can’t wait to be a passenger on the Dream very soon is why I’m writing. A while back I mentioned that my husband and I will be sailing on the Transatlantic and would appreciate being in Ken’s dining room. You said to remind you when it’s closer to the time and you would see what you could do about it. So am asking for your assistance. Not sure how much info you need but…..we’ll be on the Dream’s TA Oct 27th…our last name is Sukman…room #2443…have early dining 6 pm..prefer table with fellow cruisers…Also if I’m not being too bold..Could you send a little surprise to my husband? He’s 71 years old and still working to support my habit of cruising. People ask him when he’s going to retire and he replies “I can’t, she just booked another CRUISE”..Thanks so much for your time and for all that you do for all of us. Can’t wait to see you on board in Bermuda. Hope that is still on your schedule. Sorry to make this so long. Before ending..I send my love to your girls. Little Kye is growing by leaps and bounds and getting cuter all the time…Regards from Houston…A&W
John Says:
Hello Wil-da beastI am glad the water slide videos were enjoyed by so many and I have to admit, as scared as I was, and as embarrassed as I was at my shorts falling down……..I loved every minute of it and I hope everyone who sails on the ship gets to be a “big kid” as well.
I have sent your request to Ken and I know he will look forward to welcoming you. I will see you in Bermuda and have a wonderful time on your Carnival Dream.
Best wishes
JohnIrene Garner Asked:
Dear John…Please replyI am wondering if the Carnival tag line “All for fun, Fun for all “is copyrighted? I just heard the exact same thing on a Kellogg’s Pop Tart commercial.
Thanks…Irene Garner (hooked on cruising)John Says:
Hello IreneThis is very interesting because the Fun for All, All for Fun is indeed a SM – Serviced Marked thingy. I have sent this to the people with beards to have a look at.
By the way and more importantly……….what the heck is a Pop Tart?
Best wishes
JohnVickie Greiner Asked:
John — please reply,I truly enjoy reading your daily question/answer sessions. They are incredibly informative and greatly appreciated. To say you face a daunting challenge in trying to keep up with all our questions is an understatement, but please know we are grateful for your ongoing efforts.
I look forward to our 12/3 Blogger’s voyage on the Carnival Dream. Over on Cruise Critic, several people have been questioning the selection of Grand Turk as one of the elegant nights on this nine-day itinerary (since we have a late arrival there and don’t depart until 7 p.m.) Many have suggested that our early departure from San Juan would be a more preferable selection for elegant night. Can you please explain what decisions are factored in when choosing the elegant nights, specifically why Grand Turk as opposed to San Juan night?
Also, it is with great disappointment that I have been reading some CC people providing criticism on Todd Whitmer’s lack of visibility on the Carnival Dream’s first voyage and the fact that not all the entertainment shows were ready to be presented to guests. I can only imagine the demands which must have been placed on Todd in trying to get everything pulled together, so if you have insight on some of the behind-the-scenes obligations that a cruise director faces when bringing out a new ship, I believe it would be nice to share. Having sailed with Todd in the past, I found him to be personal, professional, and enthusiastic, so I want to take the time to speak on his behalf and say what a splendid choice I think Carnival made when picking him to bring out the new ship.
Bon voyage to all those who are sailing soon.
…Vickie aka LilmatcatJohn Says:
Hello VickieI want to start by saying thank you for the kind words about the blog and I hope you continue to enjoy it. Having read your comments about the second elegant night and taking a closer look at the itinerary I have to agree that yes, it makes much more sense to have this after departure from San Juan. I will recommend this to the ship accordingly and thank you for bringing this to my attention.
I apologize to those who were on the first Carnival Dream voyage and did not get to see one of the production shows. Unfortunately, time got away from us and it just wasn’t ready to open. However, I know we brought on top class entertainment in its place and the reviews I am reading about the Dancin in the Street show are glowing with many calling it “the best show we have ever seen.”
As for Todd not being visible on that first cruise. He is, on a normal cruise, one of the most visible and energetic cruise directors Carnival has ever had and with the start up of a new ship things can get very hectic at times. And, having delivered 11 new ships myself I know that despite all the planning and all the preparation that first voyage is manic to say the least. I know Todd will have worked into the wee small hours of the morning and will have been up just a few hours later. Todd was and is the perfect choice for this ship because he is simply……..the best. Anyway, let me apologize on his behalf nobody was more disappointed than Todd as he is a CD who loves being out with guests more than anything.
Thanks for your kind words of support.Best wishes
JohnTeresa Richardson Asked:
John, Please replyPlease explain how you got that fantastic camera angle in the 7th picture from the bottom in this blog of the two Carnival ships with the names showing on both ships. Our family of 10 will be on the Nov 5 Fantasy cruise and I’d like to try my hand at duplicating that shot. In all of our trips to Cozumel, I’ve never taken one that neat. We love your blog thingy and I can always tell when you have an especially good one–my husband can’t quit laughing. Rather than just reading me a line or two, he passes the computer to me to read while he wipes his eyes and I pass it back to him to wipe mine. You really do have a great gift for blogging. Hopefully we will meet on a Carnival cruise one day. We are thankful no one was hurt and that both ships received minor damage. Teresa
John Says:
Hello TeresaGreat question. The photo manager tells me he was virtually lying down on the pier looking up at the bow of both ships. It was a great photo and one I hope you can replicate when you sail. The description of you and your husband reading the blog has made me a very happy man indeed. Best wishes to you both and have a brilliant cruise.
Best wishes
John
That’s all for today. More tomorrow and as always thanks for all the comments and a special thanks for the continuing support of the blog thingy.
One of the 343 Stephanies is compiling your favorite photos and will keep doing so until Monday when she will put them on …….ummmm……a rotating ……ummm……..thingy and we share them all with you. If you have a favorite Carnival photo please send it to her.
I have been approached by two different people this week via the blog on a subject that is not easy to write about but it’s one that I need to briefly mention. The subject…….. burial at sea. In days gone past this would have been a simple task but these days there are of course environmental rules to follow.
The ashes, biodegradable urns, and flowers may be dispersed but not plastic materials such as plastic ribbons, plastic flowers, plastic urns, balloons, etc. The ceremony must also be conducted 12 miles out from port.
However, saying all that the on board team will assist with the ceremony to make it as dignified as possible.
It feels slightly awkward saying this but ……….if you need my assistance with this please let me know.
It was a strange night last night and not just because I shared an elevator with a 5 foot woman wearing 3 foot high black boots. While the first show was packed as normal the second performance at 10:30 pm was as empty as Paris Hilton’s head. I know the Goth group had their own party going on in another lounge but where the other guests. As I sat back stage pondering this thought I asked my assistant Craig to take a wander around the ship. He reported the casino was busy, Karaoke was packed and the lobby bar was also popular. So why didn’t they want to come to the show?
Now, it is important that we provide entertainment all over the ship not just in the main showroom and I must admit that in past months on various ships I have seen and my fellow cruise directors have reported that attendance at shows are not what they used to be. And I guess that’s a good thing because it shows that our strategy to have the entire ship full of life is working. However, I guess I need to ask you…………how important are the shows to you and what shows would you like to see more of?…….dancers and big productions, comedy, variety, reality?…….as always I remind you how important your comments are to us, so thanks for sharing them with us.
I see the comments on our smoking policy continue to come in thick and fast and that’s a good thing. All these comments are being read by the Carnival executive team .It is though very difficult to legislate a one-size-fits all ban across our fleet. The deciding factor in all of this should be personal choice. I think it’s a good thing that we offer a variety of smoking a non-smoking areas, from which you the guest is able to choose. We can still improve though and make it better for everyone……..and we will continue to try and do so.
Time for a comment.
Guest: Mrs ————–Ref: 828010241A
Cabin: ___Booking#: ______Added-Changed: 10/13/09 – 10/13/09
Mrs.———- approached the desk asking who does she has to speak in order to make a complaint. GSA replied that this is the right place and asked Mrs _____ what the complaint was. Guest said that the DJ would not play her request and that this was very rude. GSA apologized and said that he would pass the comment to the Cruise Director.
And after investigation it was discovered the reason the DJ would not play the request was two-fold. A) he didn’t have the song . B) It was by someone called Marilyn Manson and apparently his (or is he a she) has music that certainly would not be appropriate for our Dance Club. I know I should ask Uncle Google for more information about this but honestly……..I can’t be asked. Anyway, I had Craig call the guest and apologize……he did ……….they hung up on him.
On a much more pleasant subject I met Mr. and Mrs. Goldberg today at the past guest party and this wonderful and very cute couple were celebrating their 62nd wedding anniversary so of course I made a big fuss of them. What was so cute was that Mr. Goldberg is very hard of hearing and even with me speaking in the microphone, he couldn’t hear. So, I would say something and Mrs. Goldberg would grab him by his jacket collar and tug him toward her and scream in his ear……..and I mean scream. It was hilarious and the look of sublime acceptance on his face was just perfect.
By the way……..it’s a bloody miracle that I have been able to blog to you today. Not because I’ve been bitten by a vampire or been kidnapped by some Mormons. Nope ……… it’s my lap top computer on which I blog to you daily from. I’ve altered none of its settings and yet, mid-typing, the cursor has developed the habit of randomly flinging itself to another part of the document. This means that, before I cut and pasted it back to here, the end of this paragraph migrated to the beginning of it……..and me and my underpants are getting thoroughly pissed off about it. Does anyone with a beard have any idea why?
You know me and technology and how we have a hate-hate relationship. As I sit here I remember some years ago how Heidi and I rented a car on vacation in Orlando. We were talking about this during a phone call today. I speak to my wife by phone as I am of course a selfish bastard for working here on the ship and leaving her to live in a shoe box and scrounge for food in the neighbors garbage bins (see yesterdays blog.)
Anyway, we rented a car and eventually we had to fill up with petrol……..sorry……….gas. Now, respectfully I have to say that while in the UK it’s a simple task of putting the nozzle in the hole and pressing the pump handle thingy, in America you need to be a tofu eating beardy to understand how you use the dam thing.
I remember standing at the Citgo station reading the instructions. To use my credit card at the pump I had to enter my zip code, and not having a zip code, I ventured inside to ask them to switch the pump on. They couldn’t. In some parts of America you must pay before you put the petrol in. Trouble is, this involves knowing exactly how much petrol you want to put in, and as I’m in a hire car that’s two-thirds empty and must be returned full, I have no idea how much it might take to fill it. I explain this to the lady. She just stares at me.
“You have to pay first,” she repeated. “How much are you putting in?”
“I don’t know how much I’m putting in until I’ve put it in.” I explained. “I need to fill it up.”
“Well, just pay what you need to fill it up.”
“I don’t know what I need to fill it up, it’s a hire car. Can’t I just fill it up and then pay?”
“No.”
This is a stupid system. It’s like going for dinner and being asked to pay the check before you know what you are going to order. I mentioned this. The lady just stared at me.
Hertz my arse.
Goodnight
Your friend
John
Filed under: Caribbean, Destinations, Links, Tales from the Ship, Travel | Tagged: Carnival Conquest, Carnival Dream, Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Triumph
I’m sure that the folks in Aruba are rejoicing. I know that a number of folks at Cruise Critic are, as well!!
Regarding the entertainment, my favorite is the comedians, hands down but having said that I’ve been amazed by a number of the really high energy production shows like VROOM!! I’d hate to see them go. The table side magicians are BRILLIANT, simply brilliant! More of those, please!!
I finalized our flights today for the trip to New York to join the Carnival Dream so the thought of even more pictures is very exciting! Bring ‘em on!!
Please thank all of the Stephanies for me and offer my howdies to your lovely ladies!!
Ciao!!!
Host Mach
This is great. I am calling my PVP right now to book.
Dear John (Please Reply)
That is very happy news about a Carnival ship going to Aruba…but my question is WHICH SHIP ARE WE TALKING ABOUT? Did I miss it somewhere in the blog?
Thanks for all the laughs and information!
Denise
Hey John-
And bygeorgedam…n I think you’ve got it 
Thanks so much! I’m sitting here belatedly thinking that I should have put on my 2nd post ‘no need to reply if you already have’ and seeing as how you won’t get this comment until you already HAVE replied then I suppose that this is a moot point
PLEASE REPLY: Could you tell me how your F&F program works? (If you can’t post on the blog thingy no worries…maybe direct e-mail?)
Again thanks so much and sorry for the repeat question!
Kerensa
John,
Did some glitter possibly get stuck in your laptop? Could it be a stuck key on the pad or is there a way to turn off the internal mouse or finger pad and plug in an external mouse? Don’t know if this will help?
Big Fans as Allways,
Frank and Bridie
Dear John,
Your blog today, as usual, is brilliant! Asking about the shows… I love to see the shows and will go twice if there is a way. The problem is when the schedule goes all wonky. Having to see the show before dinner throws all the pre-dinner festivities out. Since I prefer the late seating, I like to see the late shows, however if they are switched and my show is early, then I get done with dinner and wander aimlessly about until something catches my eye. I assume it’s the same with early seating except instead of going to the late show, they go to bed! So if the time can remain early dining=early show and late dining=late show then I would think your second show would be filled.
As for the type of show preferred, always the production shows for me. The Carnival shows are the best and the best produced and I’ve seen a lot of other ships shows. I hope you don’t change a thing.
Cheers,
Derek
Hey John,
GREAT Blog and thanks for the news about the new Southern route to Aruba………….solved my problem on where to cruise in 2011. Thanks.
About the gas thing………………….thank you……….I thought I was the only one on the planet that thought that paying for gas before you pump was a stupid idea. Now we’re supposed to be mind readers and guestimate how much gas the tank will take. DUMB beyond belief! Men with beards probably came up with that one.
You promised us all some photos of the cabins on the CARNIVAL DREAM……….where might they be?
Just curious and wanting to see some of the aft cabins on deck 7 if you can arrange it.
HINT HINT………..Cohiba Siglo 6’s …….right?
I haven’t forgotten……………all the best.
Say Hi to Heidi and all of the Stephanie’s
Message to Jaime……………..I’m a diehard TIGERS fan and we got screwed on that call in Minnesota.
Watch out next year……………….TIGERS will roar back.
That’s all from ( getting colder by the minute) Canada.
B&D
Dear John,
As always your blog is filled with delightful humour, compassion and sound common sense. The thought of not having those wonderful singing and dancing shows fills me with panic and great dissapointment. They are just superb and as show singers ourselves for a great number of years I know the enormous dedication and hard work it takes to put on these shows. We spend the days on board looking forward to the wonderful entertainment that is offered to us each evening in the gorgeous theatre, so please don’t think of taking them away from us.
By the way if you find out how to stop the cursor on your computer from jumping to the wrong place I would love to know how to stop it as it happens to me too!
Please send our kindest love to the ladies in your life,Heidi and Kye,
Joan and Rick
Hi John,
I haven’t wanted to touch on the smoking issue, but since you are asking for opinions about the shows I’ve decided to put my two cents in.
I am a smoker. All I would ask for is the ability to smoke on the Balcony of my cabin (if I ever get one), outside in a nice, not too windy, portion of the ship, and in the casino. The thought of not being able to smoke in the casino, which by the way is a smokers refuge, really makes me think. As much fun as cruising is, if there were no smoking facilities, I don’t think I would go. It sounds like I am saying smoking rules my life doesn’t it, well no it doesn’t. My issue is vacation is about release and freedom for me. Freedom to roam and do as I normally cannot do. I know I am the minority, but I also know there is a middle ground yet to be found. I would like to add that as a [smoking] human being, I 100% respect others in that I will not smoke in my cabin out of respect for the next guests. I will put out my cigarette upon the very first sign that the person next to me is bothered in the casino and I pretty much hang out where smoking is allowed outdoors. This is ALL of our vacations and we all deserve to sit back and enjoy our own ways. Please don’t ban smoking in the casinos.
Now, as far as the shows go, I have to say that my smoking, gambling, xl ‘arse’, could really care less about the shows. I have enjoyed the late night comedy, and the marriage show, but honestly haven’t tried any others out of lack of interest. I find that just walking the ship is enough for me. Hanging out and eating even better. O how I love the food. I am anxious to take another cruise, but have to wait an eternity til 2011…uuggg
Do you really not know what a pop tart is? Someone really needs to send you a care package with some in it.
It’s kind of a flaky pasty with fruit filling in the middle and icing on top. Very unhealthy and way too much sugar for any normal person. But they do have sugar free versions for the diabetics out there!
Hi John; (Please Reply)
We are finally back on an even keel and I am writing to tell you what an awesome time we had on the 10-4 Carnival LegEnd (Legend) sailing. This was our first experience with you as a CD and I’ll tell you..NO ONE can compare..your quick wit and humor are amazing.. I had taken the time to write you that we were taking our 2 granddaughters with us for their 16th birthday presents. I had asked if perhaps you could get the captain to send them a birthday wish to make their cruise extra special…NEVER in my wildest dreams did I think you would be so clever.. When you (Pietro) called them on the phone and pretended to be from the purser’s desk and telling them that someone had seen a cat in their cabin..I thought I would die laughing..what was even more amazing is that they fell for it HOOK, LINE and SINKER…you could hear them on the phone telling the other one to go check the balcony and the corridor like you asked…We have never laughed so much …Their grandfather’s name is John and as you know they thought he was playing a trick on them…I had to explain that it wasn’t him, but you who played the prank..All of us were amazed to see it replayed on the “Morning Show” and I went so far as to video tape it off the TV so that their parents could laugh as much as we did..again..it was simply amazing..they are STILL talking about it…on another note..thank you for the bottle of champagne you sent for our anniversary..it was delicious and I meant to write down the name so that we could buy a bottle for New Year’s Eve…do you happen to know the name?
In closing..may I say we will be watching your CD schedule so that we can sail with you again…Oh and our new catch phrase is “with venom”
Our best to you, Heidi and Kye
John and Mary-Ellen Wiggins
Also-
Cheers!
Florida is weird. Here in Seattle you just say “Fill ‘er up” and what they do is swipe your card which turns on the pump and once it’s full then your card is charged for however much gas you needed…just had to add that
Dear John,
Thank you for answering my questions today on your blog! I am so excited you will be coming to our meet and greet. I will post again in January after we have final numbers, to arrange the M&G.
And by the way, PLEASE do not take the week off cuz we wanna play with you too!! Wanna race down the slides with us??? I promise to wear beige socks!!
Thanks again,
Janet Sammons
2/20/2010
Dream catchers cruise critic group.
John, please respond if you want to.
The shows? Hmmmm….let’s see. I’m not really sure how to answer your question. Since I’m not a frequent cruiser (this November will only be my 3rd cruise in 10 years and only my 2nd on Carnival) I don’t have a lot of experience. When we were on Miracle last July we went to all the evening shows and enjoyed them all. Some more than others but they were all really good.
But reading on Cruise Critic many of the reviews from others sailing it seems that the shows this year are pretty much the same one’s as last years shows. Even though I really enjoyed the shows I don’t think I need to see them again (except for Ticket To Ride, Beatles fanatic that I am). This November I think I’ll take advantage of the other entertainment around the ship, the piano bar for instance, that I didn’t get to enjoy as much last time.
Again, going by the folks on Cruise Critic, people are very loyal to Carnival so are taking many cruises. Maybe the powers that be need to re-evaluate the shows and bring in something new. I mean, looking at your pictures of the laser show on Dream, I’m sure they’ll have no trouble packing them in night after night. Any chance the other ships can get something new?
Dear John, (please reply, if you have time)
Thank you for another great blog! Can I get a note for work, too? I need someone to explain to the big cheeses at my job that an immediate long Carnival cruise vacation will prevent my sudden and painful blindness, as my current projects are causing me to poke my own eyes out.
In answer to your question about what shows I would like to see more of, at the top of my list are the impromptu shows like the marriage game and the Welcome Aboard show. I also enjoy a good comedy, and my husband and I were both very impressed by the magic act, Justin Illusion, on board the Carnival Glory this past May. In fact, the next night we asked the producer (is that his correct job title?) in the sound booth where we could score a copy of the incredible soundtrack used in his performance, and were disappointed that the soundtrack was unavailable.
Anyway, I wanted to suggest a show that I saw 5 years ago on the Carnival Miracle. Todd was the cruise director for that cruise, and Big Tex was the ACD.
One particular night, the comedian who was supposed to board the ship to do the R-rated comedy show had a family emergency and missed the ship. Rather than cancel the show, though, Todd and Big Tex rounded up a 3-4 other crew members (including a dancer named Barbie), and they all performed an improv “Who’s Line Is It Anyway?” audience participation type of show.
John, my face was soaking wet with tears from laughing so hard that night! It was so hilarious and so much fun, I have to say it was the best show I’ve seen on any of my 5 cruises. After all, how can you not laugh watching Big Tex and Todd perform a crazy skit in the style of Japanese anime?
So do you think such a show can be added to the current Carnival onboard entertainment schedule? That is, if Todd doesn’t mind other cruise directors “stealing” another one of his ideas. (Didn’t you mention once that he was the originator of the Carnival Colors Lounge Hop too?)
Thank you,
Laura
Hi John….
Please do not listen to the lady from yesterday.
That’s all I am going to say because I would probably say something so wrong that the men with beards would block me from reading the blog thingy!!
Just remember….. there are tons of us here who understand you…. and we totally want to throw some of your underpants at her…. or ban her to France!
We love ya, John!!!
Steph
Sorry, I don’t have a beard (although I do have a mustache)….
First, does your laptop have a track pad? Second, is the cursor drifting away or moving quickly? If your first answer is “yes” and your second answer is “drifting”, then try using your finger on the trackpad and make the letter “Z” (zee for some of us, zed for you). It’s like making the mark of Zorro. This usually takes care of the problem.
John:
Boy, don’t I know how you felt trying to buy gas in the States. As a Canuck from the unknown Frozen North, I too, do not have a zipper code. Surprise to all those in the Exited States of America….. (but we do have a system which uses an alpha/numeric postal code). This is of no use here!
My experiences with gassing up rental cars have been similar to yours. The attendant is incredulous that there could possibly be another postal system that is different from that in the US!
One solution one time in Lost Wages was to prepay a large sum of money on my credit card and the gas station then had to issue a credit memo for the difference! I offered to leave my credit card at the service counter, or failing that, my watch; my wife; or my first born male child but no….their system prevailed!
Next time I will just punch in a series of numbers and see where that takes me. (Slackjaw, Mississippi or Armpit, Oklahoma???)
Hey John,
I so enjoy your blog & read it everyday even though I have never sailed with Carnival. Once we make elite with Princess I know we will give it a try. Would love to sail out of Galveston or Charleston, S.C.
About the gas…maybe you have to deal in cash or just buy the gas from the car rental place & bring it back on empty.
Jan
John… Please reply on blog. I will be sailing on the Carnival Dream on May 1st, and would like information on a VERY IMPORTANT TOPIC!! What are the hours for the mini-golf course??? Can someone send a copy of the scorecard so that we can see the course layout in detail? A bet of a Drink-Of-The Day rides on the outcome of 18 holes and I must win!!! Oh yeah… lovethe blog thingy andPopTarts RULE!!!
John:
I know that our family truly appreciates the diversity of entertainment that Carnival offers.
As you know, I live in karaoke. And when karaoke is over, I head to the piano bar. Sadly, I generally can not stay in there long because of the smoke….but I have meet some fabulous Piano Bar entertainers. I also truly appreciate the time and effort the dance crew puts in (even though I don’t get to see all their shows). These talented individuals go the extra mile to make those of us participating in the Legends Show feel even more special.
David goes to the shows. DJ goes to the shows, but stands in the back just in case some “character” (like Beetlejuice or the Beatles) comes on stage…he can quickly exit stage left.
David and I both enjoy the solo performers around the ship.
And since DJ is now to old for Club O2…he is trying his hand at the Disco.
DJ looks so young, the Security guards (Hi Rohit) had his date of birth memorized, because they had to check his ID so often. Since DJ does not have a driver’s license….we got him a state issued picture ID before we came on the cruise. He simply wears it on his GATORS lanyard along with his Milestone Sail and Sign card.
Btw, I must say it was very cleaver of Carnival to incorporate the use of the old “new” Platinum cards for Milestone Members. Folks were wondering what those “white” cards were. So while we don’t have the Black Elite cards yet…the “white” cards seem to have served the same purpose.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
Dear John,
I love the stage shows that Carnival puts on their ships. My favorite was on BC1 Carnival Freedom’s “Ticket to Ride” fab4ulous! My wife refused to let me go to the Vegas style show on the Carnival Spirit. She said she didn’t want me oggling the dancers but as luck would have it there was a dancer in front of the Main Dinning Room for guest to take pictures with and a Photographer to take the pictures. There were three men in their seventies that were just staring at this beautiful young lady in a costume full of feathers. Finally their wives came and dragged them off by their ears. It was the funniest thing I saw all week. Hilarious!!!
We also saw a hypnotist that we enjoyed very much. After seeing the adult show I vowed never to volunteer to be hynotized. Great fun to watch others make fools out of them selves.
Comedians are great as we go to the Improv here in California alot and get to see a wide variety of first class and no class comedians. Carnival tries to get good ones but sometimes they just don’t measure up as it is really hard to find a comedian that can clean up their potty mouth enough to entertain a family audience. Our favorite is a young hispanic comedian Gabriel Iglasis see http://www.fluffyguy.com for some of his videos. His trademark joke is this.
There is five levels of being overweight:
1. Hefty
2. Husky
3. Chunky
4. Fluffy
5. DAAAAAAMN!!!!
I’am still Fluffy
As you may have guessed Gabriel has had a fight with anorexia and beat the hell out of it.
Carnival does a great job of entertaining us and I think the lack of people this week on your ship is because many of the Morman crowd is probably hiding in the chapel having a prayer meeting.
I hope you got the message from all here on the blog yesterday. We have your back! Anyone attacking you or any of the great crew onboard the Carnival Ships are dogmeat.
Have a great cruise and I hope the rest of the week is full of great stories for the blog.
The Cruzin2some
James & Nancy Enslow
Since this is only the second time I’ve written in a blog I ‘m not sure how it works. My husband and I are sailing on Nov 15th on the Dream and can’t wait. We have already booked our trip, how do we become a part of the Bloggers Cruise?
Thanks
PS I’ve from CT and we got snow today… Bahama’s here I come.
Hey John….
Please Reply….It has been a long time since we have written but, we read the blog everyday. Susan and I need a favor….we are taking the family cruise I spoke of before, using the winnings from the casino on the Legend last year.
We have spoken with our wonderful PCP and she assures me that she has it taken care of it but, I really want to make sure that our family can all be seated either together or at tables next to each other at dinner. We will be going on the Conquest out of Galveston on the October 25th. Our booking number is 78DF79. Do you need the others numbers as well? I can provide them.
Thanks for anything you can do for us.
By the way, I read with great interest the negative response you got when you honored our service people. As a former Marine, I would say someone does not understand that “Freedom is not Free”!
Some are willing to pay the price and some are willing to let them!
One other thing…..when Susan and I left the bloggers cruise we decided to follow your lead and go on a diet. We started in February and Susan has now lost 60lbs (and is getting skinny) and I have lost 100lbs and still have a ways to go. Man on man what I would give for a big greasy hamburger. Anyway, I noticed you hadn’t mentioned your progress lately and wondered if you would fill us in?
Please give Heidi and Kye our best. They are two beautiful people!
John and Susan from Frisco, Tx
John Please Reply
I had previously asked about Carnival’s statement about passports needing to be valid 6 months after the end of the cruise.
You had one of your staff check with the US Customs at the port of disembarkation and they stated as long as the passport is valid that we are good to go. However you were going to check further into this as it is stated on Carnival’s web site.
http://johnhealdsblog.com/2009/07/13/kids/
Anyways I have renewed my passport as I would only have four months remaining on my passport for my cruise on the Freedom in February. I asked the Canadian Passport processing officer why Carnival may have made this statement. The answer she provided is “that some countries make this a requirement for entry into their country and if your passport is not valid 6 months from the end of your cruise, you may not be allowed to disembark.”
Sounds plausible, however, you may not have seen or heard this before? I know that each foreign port Carnival visits, Customs officials from that country board the ship to make sure all paperwork and passports are in order…maybe the six month requirement maybe more for countries where there maybe a higher risk of someone getting off the ship and not returning with intentions of staying.
My question after all this is…I know a lot of the passengers leave their passports on board the ship. If some terrible or unfortunate issue arises and a passenger is not on a Carnival excursion and they are without passport and perhaps identification (lost or stolen) is there a way for us to contact the ship or the Port Agent for assistance?
John your blog answers so many good questions and many very unknown services and good work done by Carnival staff…the story about the poor couple that had their scooters stolen allegedly by young’uns and vandalized. I was happy to hear how the ship’s technical staff and the ship’s upholsterer tried to make the scooters serviceable again. Keep up the good work! You do it(writing) with such panache and humour (spelled correctly!)
By the way……..it’s a bloody miracle that I have been able to blog to you today. Not because I’ve been bitten by a vampire or been kidnapped by some Mormons. Nope ……… it’s my lap top computer on which I blog to you daily from. I’ve altered none of its settings and yet, mid-typing, the cursor has developed the habit of randomly flinging itself to another part of the document. This means that, before I cut and pasted it back to here, the end of this paragraph migrated to the beginning of it……..and me and my underpants are getting thoroughly pissed off about it. Does anyone with a beard have any idea why?
John:
I had the same problem, I found that I was dragging my (a) thumb, (b) watch band, etc. across the keypad thingy. Why they put something asinine where everything would drag is beyond me. Doesn’t everyone have a mouse. Laptops used to have a little button between & under the g & h that you would use for the cursor.
Just keep your thumb OFF the keypad thingy!!!
Cruizer4662
John, please reply…
I am curious, who does the table seatings for the dining room and does it matter if you book a year in advance or six weeks? Does platinum status guarantee you a better table. I have been on nine cruises and not once have I had a table in the center of the lower level of the dining room where the best tables are located. Don’t get me wrong, a window is nice, but do all the platinum guests get the good tables…..er, wait, no they don’t cuz we had a crummy table on the Liberty and Alex was kind enough to move us and Miguel showed us a good time!
Thx!
Hello John,
and Heidi and Kye…haven’t written in a while but still reading, albeit usually playing catch up. Just a quick hello and Dec 3 is fast approaching, looking forward to all the Carnival Dream has to offer and see you then.
Cheers, Ray and Deb
The absolute best thing about living in NJ – we never pump gas as it is illegal. Nothing better – especially in the winter.
As far as the shows – I love the production shows! They are so much fun and the talent is amazing. I also love the live band on stage. Most comedians are good – talent shows are fun and the best is a funny cruise director
). I will be sailing with Kirk and Jaime in November and you in January. Looking forward to some humor.
Hi John,
Pop tarts are suppose to be a breakfast pastry like food, but are really too sugary, and not all that good for you. I think they have a shelf life of about 100 years..just kidding. Several flavors do come sugar free. Chocolate for instance…heated in the microwave…not that I have tried it.
As far as the shows go – My preference is the comedians. Next would be the big production shows.
Clair
Hi John,
We try to catch the main production show on each cruise like Ticket to Ride or VRROOMM or whatever. We also enjoy the comedians. On one cruise we saw a hypnotist that had us laughing like fools. We also enjoy the piano bar, live music outside the casino, and other live music around the ship. I hope you don’t do away with the main production show on each cruise.
Take care,
Lisa and George
I was in Aruba with Carnival Destiny in 2001 Loved it, very windy but beautiful we would go back. We love the shows very much have attended Vroom twice in the same evening, and watched it again on the very next cruise. Please do not take the shows away. We would still cruise but would miss the shows.
Dear John….
quote”By the way and more importantly……….what the heck is a Pop Tart?”
A pop tart is best described as a flat, rectangular shaped pastry with a fruit flavoured filling, and icing on top. It’s put into a toaster to heat through and is a popular breakfast treat for kids. Not for me though…too sweet.
I haven’t heard the ad in a while though.
Bye for now….Irene
I LOVE the shows, all of them!!!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
Hi John, (please reply)
You mentioned Christopher Alan Graves in a recent blog. We were lucky to see him perform on several of our Carnival cruises and thoroughly enjoyed his performances. Is he still performing on board?
We’re looking forward to celebrating our 25th Wedding Anniversary aboard the 11/15 sailing of the Carnival Dream. The countdown has begun!
Regards,
Debbie
John, Don and I really enjoy the shows. We are generally the first ones in the lounge in order to get out favorite seats.
I do wish the seats were a little more comfortable downstairs. I think I’ll take a small pillow with me on the Dre………. ooppppppps Carnival Dream to support my back in case the seats on the main floor are still made the same way.
I agree with the others. you are probably dragging your hand across the keypad. The same thing happens to me all the time. Aggravating isn’t it!
To Linda who is wanting to know about the bloggers cruise on the Nov 15th sailing of the Carnival Dream. It is no longer the blogger’s cruise. You’ll have to come join us on the Dec 3rd cruise out of Port Canaveral. Oh and please keep the snow up your way, we’re in TN and all we are getting is rain, rain, and more rain and that is bad
enough.
Hi Heidi and Kye………… hope you are enjoying the visit with Sue drip. Tell her hello for all of us. We miss her addition to the blog.
Countess Carolyn……… counting the weeks until Dec 3rd
Shows…
My personal favorites are comedians. The Vegas shows are good but a good comedian is much better. (Don’t tell anyone but I hate musicals.)
Regarding whether the shows are important or not: YES, they are VERY important to us. We are not able to see broadway type shows, comedians, magicians, etc. at home. When we go on vacation, we never miss a show after dinner. On one cruise we took a few years ago (maybe on the Valor?? — I can’t remember which) they only had 2-3 shows for the week at the early time. The late show was held every night. We felt very cheated and were thrilled that they now do the shows both early and late. Please do not even THINK about discontinuing any of the big shows in the theatre. There …. you have my vote!
John, I love the production shows…seldom take in anything else. Might frequent the piano bar for sing along if it wasn’t so smoky. I am hoping Xtreme Country will be up and running by the TransAtlantic cruise…I saw it twice on Celebration and loved it. Carolyn
John, please reply……
I must be completely “daft” (I love that expression as I hear it on Corrie Street all the time…..lol) but I don’t know which ship will have that wonderful trip. Is it the Carnival Dream or another ship?
Cindy56
We love the production shows, would not like to see them go away. Loved Happy Cole the comedian very funny guy. Have never been to the piano bar, really must try that next cruise. We also enjoy the deck parties, fun time.
Marlene & Steve
John,
Please Reply
My girlfriend and I are cruising on the Inspiration on 11-07. I have 2 questions for you if you can please…. I saw that Felipe is the CD for our trip and just wondered….well i guess i wonder is he a good CD. I have sailed with Wee Jimmy (Loved Him!!) and Steve (also a great CD), and am just courious.
Also, we are looking at another cruise for May on the Valor. My question is what kind of special great fantabulous offers does Carnival offer if you book your next trip while at sea on a ship? I haven’t sailed in about 2 years and just can not remember.
I lost track of the blog for about a year and unfortunately missed Kye’s birth, but i have been reading back the months past to catch up…. she is simply adorable. i look forward to when you can post pics again!
Thanks,
Kris & Tabby
John… Is it possible to assign the ship ” DREAM ” on the ” ARUBA ” route instead of ” MIRACLE ” If possible then I will book tomorrow. Let me know, best SUKU
Hi John, (please reply if you want pop tarts)
Our .02 on entertainment is probably a variety of talents, comedians, dancer type shows, and we do really enjoy the audience participation type shows as well! They are always good for a laugh.
We’ll be on the Legend Nov. 1st.. let me know if you’d like me to bring you some pop-tarts
. They really are a yummy treat that try to pass them selves off as a breakfast.
John you didn’t say which ship was doing the 8 day Aruba. Carnival Miracle?
Good Morning John,
I think this is so weird. You had problems with your laptop on Wednesday, so did someone else and so did I. It was really weird.
Anyway, to answer your question about the shows. Mike and do not go to the Casino so we go to the shows. We love the big production numbers. We usually do not stay up for the late night comedy shows but from what I understand they are good. When we were on the Splendor with you last year John, you had a lovely violinist and a lovely lady that had the most incredible voice. When she sang the song from the Phantom of the Opera I honestly cried. We both enjoyed them very much. Chris did not have anything like that on the Spirit this, but he did “do” the Blues Brothers which not only Mike and I but everyone really enjoyed. I have to admit I am not a fan of the Legends show but when you did your Dolly Parton it made it much better. So, these are what Mike and I enjoy.
Keep smiling John, you truly are one of the good guys.
My best to Heidi and Kye.
John, (Please respond)
I’ve been considering the Legend for an extended family cruise next August. I’m still waiting on family members to finalize their schedules before booking, but that doesn’t stop me from logging onto the Carnival website frequently to check out prices, etc.
Today when I checked I noticed that the cabin categories have changed! I would love to have an explanation of what each category now represents.
I always thought Carnival’s classifications made so much more sense than some of the other cruise lines…but all of these extra choices are confusing me. (But then it doesn’t take much to confuse me…)
Thanks!
Hi John,
My 10 yr. old and I are taking our very first cruise in July of 2010. We’re taking the Destiny to the Bahamas and are having a hard time waiting!
The idea that some of the shows might not happen depresses me. I’m SO looking forward to them. Although I’d probably opt for the earlier ones. I tend to go to bed early and get up early, even on vacation.
Hi John , just wanted to say that we will be with you on our DREAM cruise on Jan 30,2010 and look forward to meeting you. your blog is great as I have just started reading it recently ( dummy me) I was just wondering if you have found out any more about the “wrap arounds” on deck 8, we have 8466 booked and are trying to decide if we need to change rooms while there may still be some available with a good balcony. this will be our first PLATINUM cruise ( yaa hoo) as well as our 20th anniv. so I want to make it as special as possible. thanks in advance for your reply see you there.
Be careful, John! Remember the time you asked, “What the heck is a …….”, you were bombarded with Slinkys! It was on the Carnival Triumph out of New York to Nova Scotia 10 years ago (October, 1999). It was my boyfriend (now husband)’s first cruise. The slinky became the running joke of the week. Care to bet how many Pop Tarts you’ll get now? Was that also the same cruise that your suspenders broke on stage and your pants fell down, too? Or, was that a different time? Either way, every cruise with you is an adventure and we look forward to cruising with you (and hopefully your girls) someday soon. In the meantime, I will live vicariously through your blog. I love it. My favorite part is when you post the ridiculous complaints people have on the ship. Every one makes me laugh. Be well and hello to Heidi & Kye.
Leanne Banks
As my son was Sr Entertainment Tech, we were at every show and loved them. On our recent cruise without him, we still went to the Main Shows. We always had late seating so we went to the late shows. Now sometimes, depending on the day and DOD’s, it is late and the choice would be to go to bed but we always make the effort to attend.
The dancers and band do a great job and they work really hard. (Ok, the techs do to. )
We always attend the Legends show because it is great to see fellow passengers and sometimes they are great and sometimes, well let’s just say, very entertaining.
I am not a fan of magicians so I avoid those shows and the comedian is hit and miss.
John (please reply if you want to…)
It’s pretty funny to me that I get to provide information for you instead of the other way around, but here is all the information regarding “Pop Tart” which you can find at the Wikipedia.
If we win the Trivia Contest Answer for today, please have my “Ship on a Stick” delivered our Stateroom for our 1/3/10 voyage on the Conquest. *lol*
Seriously though, just happy to share a little “Pop” culture with you this morning.
Sincerely,
Erik & Sharon Valentine
***********************************************
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pop_Tart
Pop-Tarts are a brand of flat, rectangular, pre-baked toaster pastries made by the Kellogg Company. Pop-Tarts have a sugary filling sealed inside two layers of rectangular, thin pastry crust. Some varieties are frosted. They can be eaten without being warmed, but are often warmed inside a toaster or microwave. They are usually sold in pairs inside foil packages, and do not require refrigeration.
Popular flavors include chocolate, apple, frosted strawberry, frosted brown sugar cinnamon, cherry, and S’mores.
Pop-Tarts are Kellogg’s most popular brand to date in the United States, with millions of Pop-Tarts sold each year. They are distributed mainly in the United States, but also in Canada. They can also be found in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Pop-Tarts were discontinued in Australia in 2005 and are now found only in import stores.
History
Post Cereals first created the confection that would become Pop-Tarts in the early 1960s. Post adapted its process for enclosing food in foil to keep it fresh without spoiling—first used for dog food—to its new toaster-prepared breakfast food. Intended to complement its cold cereals, Post announced its new product in 1963 to the press, giving them the name “Country Squares”.
Because Post had revealed Country Squares before it was ready, Post’s biggest competitor, Kellogg, was able to develop its own version in six months.
Kellogg’s rushed their new pastry into the market very quickly and its name came from one of the hottest things at the time: Pop Art which Andy Warhol made a household name with his giant soup cans and Brillo boxes. Pop-Tarts advertised its new product by an animated toaster named Milton and could not keep the shelves stocked because it became so popular.
Originally not frosted when first introduced, it was later proved that frosting could survive the toaster, and the first frosted Pop-Tarts were officially released in 1967. The first Pop-Tarts came out in four different flavors: strawberry, blueberry, brown sugar cinnamon, and apple currant. Today, there are a wide variety of Pop-Tart flavors, including Chocolate Chip, S’Mores, Raspberry, Flapjack rules, French Toast and Mint Chocolate Chip.
In 1992, Thomas Nangle sued Kellogg for damages after his Pop-Tart got stuck and caught fire in his toaster. The case gained wider notoriety when humor columnist Dave Barry wrote a column about starting a fire in his own toaster with Pop-Tarts. In 1994, Texas A&M University professor Joseph Delgado performed an experiment showing that, when left in the toaster too long, strawberry Pop-Tarts could produce flames over a foot high. The discovery triggered a flurry of lawsuits. Since then, Pop-Tarts carry the warning: “Due to possible risk of fire, never leave your toasting appliance or microwave unattended.”
Pop-Tarts were introduced with fairly substantial marketing to the United Kingdom in the early 1990s, although they have failed to replicate their U.S. success.
In 2001, the United States’ military dropped 2.4 million Pop-Tarts in Afghanistan during the United States War in Afghanistan.
In 2004, Pop-Tarts began a new ad campaign titled “Crazy Good”. Characters that appeared often were a singing lizard and a group of kids, dubbed “crazy-good kids”, who commonly frightened the Pop-Tarts and caused them to be eaten or chased away. The ads employ squiggly animation, surreal humor, and non sequitur, all of which bear a strong resemblance to the signature work of animator Don Hertzfeldt. One “crazy-good kid” in particular bears strong resemblance to Billy in Hertzfeldt’s Billy’s Balloon. However, Hertzfeldt was not involved in any way with the ads and in 2006 was considering possible litigation for stealing his work.
In 2006, Pop-Tarts also introduced a version of the product known as Go-Tarts. These were similar to Pop-Tarts, but were thicker, narrow, and wrapped individually (instead of in packages of two). Go-Tarts were discontinued in 2008.
Advertising
Industry trade groups have raised issues with Pop-Tarts advertising.
In 2003, the “Produce for Better Health Foundation” and the “United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association” told the Food and Drug Administration’s Obesity Working Group that: Efforts to capitalize on consumer demand for healthier foods has led to the on and off label promotion of products that contain relatively small amounts of fruits and vegetables and/or contain them as part of a product with unhealthy amounts of fat, sodium, or refined carbohydrates. These products, such as fruit drinks, Pop Tarts, and highly sugared cereals, are more often energy dense than nutrient dense. FDA, working with the FTC, should strengthen its guidelines to prevent the promotion of products based on their fruit and vegetable content unless these products maintain the integrity of fruits and vegetables as healthy foods, and make a reasonable contribution to the recommended daily intake for fruits and vegetables.
In 2006, the Children’s Advertising Review Unit(CARU)of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, prompted by a customer complaint, “recommended that Kellogg modify packaging, eliminate the phrase ‘made with real fruit’.” Kellogg agreed to do so, and redesigned packages for the Pop-Tarts line accordingly; they assured CARU that the “claim does not appear on television or print advertising” and offered to “participate in CARU’s self-regulatory process” and “take CARU’s focus areas into consideration” as Kellogg proceeds with its “future child-directed advertising.”
Cable in the Classroom has used a Pop-Tarts television commercial as an example in their media literacy program for children. They ask adults to watch a Pop-Tarts commercial with their children or students and “have them look at how much product information is presented and how much is really about lifestyle or attitude.”
Flavors
Pop-Tarts come in a variety of flavors. There are 25 of them:
Frosted flavor
Dutch Apple
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Apple Strudel
Frosted Blueberry
Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon
Frosted Cherry
Chocolate Chip
Chocolate Banana Split
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Frosted Chocolate Fudge
Cinnamon Roll
Frosted Cookies & Cream
Ginger Bread
Hot Fudge Sundae
Frosted Raspberry
S’Mores
Frosted Strawberry
Strawberry Cheese Danish
Frosted Strawberry Milkshake
Vanilla Milkshake
Frosted Wildberry
Blueberry Muffin
Cookies ‘N Creme
Unfrosted
Blueberry
Strawberry
Brown Sugar Cinnamon
Pop-Tarts Splitz
Chocolate Strawberry
Chocolate Vanilla
Strawberry Blueberry
Cotton Candy Bubblegum
Maple Brown Sugar
Crakers and Soup
Peaches Soap
Limited edition
Dulce De Leche (2008-Present)
Guava Mango (2008-Present)
Chocolate Banana Split (2009-Present)
Orange Cream (2009-Present)
Printed Fun
Knock Knock Jokes Frosted Berry Who?
Barbie Sparkleberry
Barbie Wildberry
Hot Wheels Cinna-Match 1 Brown Sugar Cinnamon
American Idol Blue Raspberry
Indiana Jones Brown Sugar Cinnamon
NFL Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon
Pictionary
Nix Family Laffy Taffy Flavors
Nascar Brown Sugar Cinnamon
Whole grain
Strawberry
Brown Sugar Cinnamon
Chocolate Fudge
Discontinued
My Goodness Cherry
Frosted Grape
Frosted Wild Watermelon
Hot Chocolate
French Toast
Wild Tropical Blast
Frosted Caramel Chocolate
Frosted Double Berry
Mint Chocolate Chip
Magic Mushroom
Low Fat Frosted Chocolate Fudge
Disney Princess Jewelberry
Hello Kitty Meowberry
Vanilla
Wild Magic Burst
Kool-Aid
Unfrosted Cherry
Broccoli and Cheese
Apple Cinnamon
Dear John,
As one of those “Mormons”, I would definitely kidnap you but only to make you the CD on each and every cruise I sail. That would be great having you as my own personal Cruise Director!!
Find some of those diabetic Pop Tarts and see what you are missing out on
Dear John,
Just another possibility about the cursor moving all over the screen. The Goths have brought a poltergist aboard without paying for the extra guest in the room, so they had it hide in your computer.
TRICK ER TREAT!!!
The Cruzin2some
James & Nancy Enslow
John:
We sailed with you on the Maiden Voyage of the wonderful Splendor (Dover-St. Petersburg) and had an absolutely fabulous time…you were great as was that wonderfully magic night at the Summer Palace…what a triumph for all of us lucky enough to share the the beauty, the music and the mood–damn it was a once in a lifetime experience–I still rave about the fact that Carnival Splendor (you) rented and the Summer Palace for an evening tour and dinner, exclusively for the use of Splendor’s passengers..Oh what a dream.
Now you (Corporate) have pulled Carnival out of Europe– Some of us Seniors love the “fun” in Carnival.(yes, we also sail Princess)–We just came back from a fun weekend on Carnival Fascination–JAX-Nassau-and we had a blast. We’re planning SUMMER 2010 and we have to go Princess or some competitor.
Last thought–your company is wasting a valuable resource in that you do not let your Carnival CSR’s who have built a great rapport with us through the years book travel on other corporate cruise lines….really dumb. My loyalty is with Eliz.B, at Carnival, not some newbie at P or C or you get the drift…..
Just a thought and sincere thanks again for the Magic on Splendor
Dear John, Please Reply
If you find out what is causing the cursor to jump around and such please let me know as it is happening to me too and, apparently, my people with beards are not nearly as smart as yours!
Hugs,
Maribeth Kring
BELC
JOHN! There needs to be MORE Comedy and Magicans for shows! My husband won’t go to shows with singing and dancing-hates them-so I go alone! After 1 or 2 shows-Thats enough for me too.
STILL haven’t heard WHEN you are getting an ITIN to GREECE!!??? ALOT of people want to go there including us! We have to go on NCL as you don’t go there!
Hi John!
I love most shows, but I have to say that the production shows are usually those I like the least. I like the comedians, magicians, and audience participation type shows much better…
Btw, LOVE reading this daily. Use it as a break during the monotony of my work day.
CJ
John
About attending the production shows. We depart on Sunday for our 8th cruise on the Carnival Spirit (32nd CCL cruise) and as such we don’t go to the big shows, not because we don’t like them but because we have seen them all more than once. We do go to see the specialty acts and we have a favorite fly-on singer, one Ned Rifkin and if he is back on the C. Spirit we will see him again because he just amazing!!
Regards
Roger T
Hi, I haven’t writen for a while but have been reading the blog daily. I certainly want to comment regarding the show – we always go to the production shows and get there early to get a good seat. Love them! Then it’s off to the casino which we can now enjoy without a sneezing attack. None smoking in most areas – yea!
I can sypathize with the gentleman who wants to smoke on his balcony but it seems that everytime we go on the balcony to have our coffee or just to read here comes the smoke so we’re driven inside. Maybe one side of the ship could be smoke free? Oh well, we always enjoy our cruise and on Dec. 26 we take our 25th cruise on the Carnival Dream. Can hardly wait.
We never miss the big production shows. We have early dinner seating so always go to the early show. On occasion we have gone to the show twice because it was so good!
Greatings Mr Holland & Dick Little
John – no reply needed
Been reading your blog “thingy” for some time and I just love it! I got off my very first cruise (Carnival Pride) over a month ago and I have been bitten by the bug. I have to cruise again!
The Carnival Pride (please note the Carnival preceding the ship name lest I be chastised with threats of underwear related beatings) was a wonderful ship and the crew was unbelievable! I had a great time and if all works out, and I can shake the money tree hard enough, I hope to be on Carnival Pride when you are CD later in 2010.
My main purpose for writing is to assist in your technical quandary. While I might not have a beard I do have a mustache and can drone on endless pontificating about this protocol and that new program that ..blah blah blah blah.
My take on your cursor woes is:
If you have an external mouse, it may have some dust accumulated by the laser sensor. Similar issue happened to me. I could watch my cursor float around my screen as if possessed. It was a little dust.
If indeed you have an external mouse flip the little bugger over and locate the hole usually in the center of the mouse. Now please pardon any sexual innuendo but blow hard into the hole. (please no giggling as you might spit or spurt – and mice just don’t like that)
Hopefully you are all fixed in the technical department, or at the very least have a rather aroused mouse.
My best to you and all the family.
Ward
Hi John,
It’s been a long time since I have posted, although I read your blog faithfully. First of all how are you, Heidi and Kye doing? I am so happy Carnival has decided to back to Aruba. Just one question what ship?
John,
Great to hear Aruba is back on the schedule. I Always wanted to take a cruise there but I didn’t want to go on another cruise lines. Now I can go on Carnival.
As for the shows, my family and I like the production shows a lot (some more than others), we always go see them. We also like the comedians and the jugglers, good entertainment.
But whatever you do keep the shows coming!
Hi John, We love the entertainment in the show lounge—anything, but especially the big shows, comediens, magicians, etc. we never miss a show unless we are exhausted (which is VERY rare indeed). We do enjoy going around to the other venues in the evening, before and after the show. Occasionally, we even go to both shows!!! XOXOX Gloria
John,
What loving what you do makes you selfish? Well
I guess you could be with your family more working at the local salt mine. Coming home all unhappy each day and wondering how you are going to make ends meet. Heidi having to go to work when you get in from work so that someone is with Kye 24-7. Oh how happy you all would be! Don’t let others make you second guess yourself. I’m sure Heidi is a good stay at home mom. They
will be able to travel more when Kye is older. Just
give it a little time.
John,
Well, you know where we stand on the entertainment…keep those dancers dancing!!
Kathy and Paul
Hi John.
When my laptop table dancer was doing that, the cursor darting off to the lower left corner of the screen and refusing or fighting to come out they had to replace the mother board. Good Luck!
It could be the cursor hiding from the gas too though! LOL!
Mike
No doubt about it…….the BIG PRODUCTION SHOWS are the best!!! I always go to both early and late shows. Would never miss them! Please don’t change anything!!!
We are in our early 40’s and we love all the shows. never miss one. Even our 18 year old son loves the shows. He says it is the best ever to cruise and get entertainment every night. My 10 year old son loves them and my 86 year old granny who lives and cruises with us, loves the shows. Dont change them. EVER!! …please…
Oh yeah, as we live in Detroit, do you think you could at least try to get Carnival here??? LOL
Beth Flynn
I’ve been suggesting that Carnival puts a ship on the Great Lakes for years now. With all the great cities all around the Great Lakes it would be wonderful to cruise. Just think about all those people that live in the HOT south that come up to the cooler north for vacations in the summer. The ship builder of the Carnival Dream even has a shipyard on the Great Lakes.
BIG ED
John – Please reply if you wish
From a recent blog:
If there is one port that sits atop the ” why doesn’t a Carnival ship go there ” it is of course………..Detroit…………in second place is my home town of Southend On Sea and in third place……………it is of course Aruba. And while the motor city and the chance for me to go home for lunch and a poo on my own toilet remain a dream……Aruba……….is back.
Your wish may come true:
The next major cruise ship hub will be in … Detroit?
Could Detroit become a major cruise ship hub? That’s the idea, say government officials who visited the down-on-its-luck city Monday to talk up a taxpayer-funded waterfront development.
The Detroit Free Press, a sister paper to USA TODAY, reports that U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and other leaders painted a vision of Detroit developing as a Midwest cruise ship capital.
LaHood and other politicians toured a $21 million port facility taking shape on the Detroit River that is being partly funded with federal stimulus funds. The facility will include a dock for cruise ships and water taxis as well as a new customs facility. It’s expected to be finished in late 2010.
The politicians didn’t say which cruise ships they expect to visit the port.
I’ll be ready to book the first Carnival cruise out of Detroit!
Hi John!
Pretty exciting that the company is going back to Aruba. That sounds like a fantastic itinerary.
Pre-paid gas is such a pain, but i can understand why it has to be done. Especially in this day and age of our economy, who knows what people are likely to do.
I hope you had a pleasant weekend.
Take care!
David
We are just off the Carnival Freedom and I too noticed that the shows weren’t as well attended as some of our previous cruises. I wonder if the advent of the “anytime” dining has anything to do with this??? For instance, if you return from port to sail at 7 p.m., go to your cabin and shower, dress and go to dinner – by the time you are finished with all that (probably around 9 p.m.) – the second show in the theater has already started. We have always made it a point to watch the production shows whenever we sail, but I must admit, I wish the shows would be changed more often. For instance, the Legend show has been doing the same “songs” for so long. I know there is alot that goes into set designs, music, etc., but would it be that difficult to have some of the musical numbers changed occasionally to feature other stars???
Yay for the new itinerary. It sounds perfect with Grand Turk, DR and Aruba. Can’t wait until 2010-2011. Any idea which ship will be sailing this itinerary?
And as for shows, we never miss them. Love the production shows with the dancers. And the comedians are great too.
Dear John,
Please Reply
We love the shows and have not seen any one that was not exceptional. I know a lot goes into putting these productions together and that is why you probably try to rotate them around the fleet. Although those of us who cruise often end up seeing the shows several times before they introduce a new one to the fleet. We have not taken part in the anytime dining and always choose 1st seating as we are used to eating dinner around 5:30 here at home. That always puts us at the late show I really have not seen that much of a decline in attendance.
We also love Karaoke and find it very entertaining. We follow the games and trivia’s around the ship all day long and are always there for towel folding.
I am a little tired of some of the lido deck entertainment, hairy chest; survivor and so on.
Smoking Topic; well as an asthmatic for all of my life, I can tell you that I am happy about having certain areas for the smokers and non-smokers. I can’t tell you how many times on the Conquest going to the internet cafe I would have to hold my breath and run through the cigar lounge. As a result of my medical condition, I hardly ever go to the bars on the ship because of the smoking.
On a personal note, John do not listen to the lady who said you were not being a good father or husband by working away from home. My husband was in the Air Force for 22 years and he missed a lot of the kids growing up years, as well as important occasions, but it was how he made a living and took care of us monetarily. We do not love him any less now that he is home all the time than we did then when he was gone. In fact it has made better people of our kids now 26 and 23. They appreciate their dad more because of the sacrifices he made to be gone to keep a roof over our heads and food on the table. I assure you that Heidi and Kye love you just the same too. We appreciate that they share you with all of us too.
Many thanks for all you do,
Marqueta
I will be going on the Carnival Sensation with my family and have booked 3 Suites for Thanksgiving, 11/26/2009. We decided to take this cruise then because my mother-in-law has never been on a cruise and her husband passed away May of this year and we wanted to do something different because this will be the first holiday without him. Since we booked this cruise, our financial situation has dramatically changed and we will not be able to do any excursions or really have enough money to spend much extra on this cruise. I was wondering if Carnival had any policies about awarding on board credits for it passengers even when there are no promotions or specials advertised. I would appreciate anything that Carnival can do to help (even it is just $50 per stateroom). Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Paula Hayes