A few weeks ago lots of bearded scientists along with Prime Ministers, Presidents and a dwarf from France decided, over a delicious lunch that they needed to do something about global warming.
And so just after dessert they stood in a circle and even sacrificed a goat. No, not a goat. That would be un-vegetarian and against a goat’s human rights. A virgin then. Or a turnip. Whatever …….I bet something was stabbed in jubilation. They then announced that we should all go to work on a bike and burn our cars to save oil and to save the polar bears. They then got in their chauffeured Bentleys and Mercedes which drove them to the airport where they boarded their private jets and buggered off home. I mean…….Air Force One doesn’t exactly run on camel urine now does it?
OK, this blog isn’t the for me to go on about global warming but it is quite funny that days after many millions of dollars was spent flying scientists and politicians to Denmark much of the world was flung into the coldest winter in many years. Here in the UK we had temperatures of minus 15 last night and this morning I woke up to another 20 inches of snow. Thousands of schools are closed and many roads are undriveable. It’s much the same across Europe and it was officially announced today that this is the coldest winter in 44 years. Even the Polar Bears at London Zoo said bugger this, put on a North Face jacket and buggered off to get warm inside the tropical plant greenhouse.
It’s not just Europe that has been plunged into the ice age. Here is an e-mail that I received from a British friend of mine who now lives in Miami.
Hello John
Last night it went down to 39 degrees here in Miami and it was hysterically funny.The funny part is that Miamians are very good about showing as much skin as legally possible most of the time (nothing wrong with that) but when the temperature goes below 85 degrees; they raid their closets for the most ridiculous outfits.
They bring out jackets designed to climb Mt Everest that they bought the last year’s thanksgiving in New York. We saw a girl with a wife beater shirt, knee high boots and a scarf … anyway you get the point!
Stay Warm
Greg
Heidi’s Mum was supposed to fly back today but of course Easy Jet canceled the flight as there was too much ice under the wing. Air France canceled their flights as there was too much hair under the wing.
So the coldest weather in Europe for 44 years and frozen orange juice in Miami and my mate Chris, someone who has lived in Miami for many, many years even told me he had used his heated seats in the car for the very first time.
I tried to stop myself but I just can’t and therefore I have to say…….Global Warming…… my arse!
Lets crack on with some questions……..here we go.
Jeanette Asked:
John, reply or notYou best get a photo of you, Kye, and Heidi in the snow. You never know when or if it will snow like that again.
Snow is a fact of life in Western Canada. You don’t know what it is like until you have to trudge though a foot of snow in a raging blizzard and they are saying it’ll be around all day and night! Cold, that is another factor why so many of us want to leave for warmer climates. You haven’t lived until you’ve lived through a week or two of -36C to -48C temperatures……downright balmy!!!! (If you’re wearing two layers under your triple goose down filled jacket and can’t see anything past your nose because the scarf you’re wearing only has a narrow slit for your eyes).
John, you must experience a Canadian winter to know how bad it can be!!!! Better yet, go to the corner of Portage and Main in Winnipeg in winter to see how truly cold winter can be!!!!!
Damn, 28 days until I leave for my cruise!John Says:
Hello JeanetteIt seems the snow is here to stay and we took more photos this morning of Kye looking rather puzzled as snow fell all around her. I know that you Canadians are the champions of winter survival but us Brits are just useless. I have to say though that even with all my extra padding that having some “x’s ” on my clothing labels provide…..last night it was – 15 and even I was as cold as a witches boob as we say here in the UK (well, we really don’t say boob but you get the point) ….. Not long now and you will be cocooned in the warmth of the sun on your Carnival cruise.
Best wishes
JohnErnie Asked:
Dear John, reply if you wish!!I was on the Carnival Dream when the Menorah was set up and all of the Hebrew/Jewish people preformed the Hanukkah candle lighting ceremony, I felt that it was a very moving ceremony that was well attended. I as a Christian was happy that the Carnival Dream would open minded to allow this to happen, as well it should.
I was disappointed that there were no Christmas decorations or trees at that time. I do understand that the ship was decorated for the trip after ours.
Have fun with those 2 adorable ladies of yours and a Merry Christmas to the Heald family. Bah Humbug to those who do like Christmas music or parades etc.
ERNIEJohn Says:
Hello ErnieI wonder if you read my thoughts on the Christmas decorations in yesterday’s blog? I did mention that I thought that they could be more festive and I will be mentioning this to folks in the office to see if we can improve next year. I know that your Carnival Dream did not get her decorations until the 12th of December which was due to the fact that she was in transit from New York to Florida which is where the professional decorators we use are based but you are correct ………..it would have been better if they went up earlier. I was glad to hear that the Hanukkah service was well appreciated.
Thanks for taking the time to write
Best wishes to all
JohnElaine Asked:
John, Please reply…First, just in case you missed my earlier post, thank you soooooo much for the great picture of Daddy & Daughter. I truly understand protecting our kids, but I was getting Kye withdrawal and the picture of the two of you has helped… Please also thank Heidi for sharing it with us. Don’t really know how far behind you are with the posts, but I hope the HEALD Family has/had a VERY MERRY XMAS and A HAPPY NEW YEAR…
Now for my question…We are just minutes away from booking our 18th Carnival Cruise (23rd for Naomi & Marty, the grandparents) on the Freedom, March 27th sailing. Can you tell me a bit about the CD who I believe will be Ryan Fitzgerald? Also, can you please share with all of us, what, if anything, will be done, or has been done as far as changes in the Platinum Program… Please at the very least tell me that we’re not going to get our 5th Picture Frame EACH!!!
Thnx again for all that you do….John Says:
Hello ElaineI am glad you enjoyed the photos of Kye and I will be posting another one before I return to work. I hope you booked the Carnival Freedom which regular readers of the blog will know is one of my favourite ships. The Cruise Director will be my good mate Ryan Fitzgerald who is currently serving on the Carnival Glory. There have been no changes to the Platinum program despite various scaremongering by some rock wall climbers who post silly stuff on the cruise boards. Only a few days ago someone posted that we had canceled the priority tender service which of course was utter nonsense.
I know that we are though working on the gift which I hope to bring you news of very soon so please stay tuned. Thanks for all the kind words and I am here should you have any further questions.
Best wishes
JohnCarla Strong Asked:
Hi John,I have been reading your blog thingy every day – you are a “hoot”! As to your question about posting the piano bar entertainer’s schedule, the answer is YES!
We are waiting for Vince to find out when and where he will be on board in the spring before booking. Needless to say without knowing when and where he will be leaves us unable to take advantage of any early discounts and special “deals”, and difficult for those who want to cruise with us who have work commitments and such. (We are retired but not all our friends are who would LOVE to see Vince).
Please reply and thanks for writing such an entertaining blog -
Carla Strong – the MomJohn Says:
Hello CarlaThanks for reminding me about the Piano Bar schedule as I had forgotten about this and I will post it within the next few days. Vince is indeed one of the best and I have asked Rob King who is in charge of all our musicians for the most up to date schedule. Thanks for recognizing him and highlighting our iconic piano bar entertainers. You must be very proud of Vince, he is an extraordinary talent. I am glad you enjoy the blog so much and I hope that continues for a long time to come.
Best wishes
JohnRichard Lorbeer Asked:
Dear Sir:I’m not sure where this question will end up if anywhere but thought I’d give it a try and if someone receives it where it doesn’t belong maybe they’d be kind enough to forward on to the proper person to answer my question. I’m booked on a W Caribbean cruise my 5th on Carnival next May 29th. One of the stops on the itinerary is to Belize. I know I’ve read in the past the popularity of the cave tubing shore excursions at that stop from previous cruisers visiting there. But do not find that available on my cruise this coming May can it please be explained to me or if my family and I should risk taking that type tour with one of the independent excursion operators that I’ve found that have numerous complimentary testimonials. Thank You again.
John Says:
Hello RichardYou came to the write place and I am glad to announce to you and to everyone else who has missed this brilliant excursion that Cave Tubing is once again offered to all our vessels that call at Belize. I spoke to Martin in our Shore Excursion department and he confirmed that it is available to pre-book on line as well as from the shore excursion desk on board. Have a fantastic cruise in May and enjoy the cave tubing experience. If you need anything else please let me know.
Best wishes
Johndivetrash Asked:
John – PLEASE REPLYYes! Yes! Yes! I would love for you to post a Piano Bar Entertainer schedule on here. Especially if it will include future dates. I’ve been asking for a long time. I even asked Chris Prideaux on BC2. He seemed to indicate that it would not be possible.
But if you could you would make many people happy. I keep my list as up to date as possible, but now people want to know who is on their ships months from now!
So yes, please!
Warm regards,
Laura (aka divetrash, aka Princess Laura of Big Ed’s Evil Crew)John Says:
Hello LauraYou want me to post the Piano Bar schedule? You ? Wow………what a shocker. Now for those of you who don’t know, I was being sarcastic there because Laura (AKA Divetrash) is the biggest supporter of our piano bars and I don’t think there is a single piano bar entertainer who does not know of her. I just e-mailed Rob King and asked for the most recent schedule and as soon as I get it you will see it posted here on the blog thingy. I hope you are continuing to grow from strength to strength following your surgery and thanks for your continuing blog thingy support.
Please send my best to Chef Kevin.
Best wishes
JohnKim Risley Asked:
John’s Attention PleaseDear John, I haven’t been on your web site in a while… We are working out butts off to be able to pay for another cruise. LOL.
I read your blog on the screaming baby. Although I have run in to those flights also. I guess we are lucky as we have our own plane and fly mostly in the South East and don’t have to par-take in commercial flts. unless further then what we want to fly our plane.
But I do understand why those babies cry. Personally people shouldn’t bring there kids under a current age on planes, being the fact they can’t deal with the air pressure change. I know “some” adults have had problems with this. Me for one, this happen one time when I had a “head” cold. Being a pilot I should have known better then to fly. But I don’t turn down a flight.
When my husband got to our destination. We had to descend and my ears felt like they were imploding in my head. It hurt like a “B@$%^ch”. I had to deal with until my ears cleared. I knew we had to descend. The problem is a baby has only one way to say I’m hurting and that’s crying.
I know some people have to “travel” with theirs babies. But it is something to keep in mind. Personally I would “medicate” a baby because of that. Those medications have so many “side effects”. To me to give a baby medicine just to keep him “calm” is a scary thing.
Yours Truly,
KimJohn Says:
Hello Kim.First of all can you please send your plane to England to collect Heidi and Kye and then fly them to Orlando to meet me on my Carnival Dream? How amazing it must be to have your own plane and I can imagine that this must make flying so much more enjoyable. I am very concerned about Heidi and Kye flying alone for 9 hours. Kye is a very content baby and Heidi is the best Mum in the world but 9 hours will surely test her patience and those of the passengers seated around her. Thanks for the advice on the ears and I will make sure Heidi takes appropriate action. Please let me know if you have any questions or need my help before the next time you cruise.
Best wishes
JohnCindy S. Asked:
Hi John, Please reply.I love your blog thingy and especially enjoyed it today. I have a camera with film, a land-line phone, and an address/phone book I write in. I do have e-mail, but no cell phone, no digital camera, no raspberry or blackberry, and I mailed Christmas cards this year (as opposed to e-mailing them).
One of the things someone wrote about but didn’t address is the propulsion problem on the Destiny. My 11 year old and I will be taking our first ever cruise on the Destiny in July and I’m a little concerned about this problem. Has it been fixed?
I’ve also read so many wonderful things about Carnival and can’t wait for our cruise!
Wishing you, Heidi and Kye a wonderful Christmas and looking forward to your response.John Says:
Hello Cindy sI am very grateful to you for saying that you love the blog thingy and how lucky you are not to have a raspberry or a cell phone. What a peaceful world you must live in. There were indeed some propulsion concerns on the Carnival Destiny which were well noted on the cruise boards and here on the blog thingy. Since then appropriate maintenance has been carried out and the ship is back to her advertised schedule. Thanks for all the kind words and my best wishes to you and your family.
JohnDavid Davison Asked:
John, Please reply.Just wanted to say how much of a pleasure it was for Diane and me to finally meet you on the Dream Bloggers Cruise. It added a lot to an already fun honeymoon. A big round of applause to you, Stephanie “Go Hooters” and the rest of the gang for the events on the ship and the surprises we got in our cabin (wish I could have gotten a gold plated plastic ship on a stick, but hopefully another time). I must say, the Dream lived up to her name. She is a wonderful ship with a great crew and captain and we are looking forward to sailing on her again. From Todd to our waiter (Camillo) to our room steward, we were pleased beyond means. The food was fantastic. I really enjoyed the pasta bar and the pastrami/corned beef sandwiches we got at the deli counter at the stern. We went to the Steak House twice and the experience was fantastic and well worth the extra money. Diane and I are looking to book our one year anniversary cruise for the Western Caribbean and it will either be on the Dream or on the Legend. Since you take requests, could we ask you to be the CD on one of the above ships when we sail next September?
I know you will hear loads of people complain about various things and conspiracy theories about Carnival (and the Dream). I know I heard one lady saying we didn’t go into San Juan because Carnival wanted to make more money from the bars and the Casinos. We could have put her in the life boat (if necessary) that would have been damaged by us docking there. Our feelings are, it’s Murphy’s Law and if something doesn’t go wrong (no matter how small), it is not a vacation or an adventure. For instance, we were in the elevator when the Captain came in. We of course asked him who was running the ship. He pressed the button, the elevator door closed and it sat there unmoving for about 30 seconds. He said “interesting” or maybe it was bullocks in Italian. He pressed the button and opened the door, closed it again, and then the elevator moved off. Had we been stuck there, at least no one could say it was the Captain’s fault.
My only issues with the Dream would be The Air Supply elevator music in the Scarlett Dining room and the uncomfortable bar stools at the Piano Bar. Can I put in a request for some some Jimmy Buffett (or Ken) and some Preparation H and a chair donut for our next trip? lol.
Thanks again John and we really look forward to sailing with you again. Give Heidi and Kye a hug for us.John Says:
Hello DavidIt was an honour (spelt correctly) to meet you on our recent Bloggers Cruise and thanks so much for the great review. I know many people were disappointed that we didn’t get to go to San Juan and as I have said many times here on the blog thingy, it was our fault, our mistake and that’s that. However, to suggest that we did this on purpose so that guests would spend more money onboard is outrageous and thankfully those sorts of comments were few and far between. I am working on the elevator music fleet wide and will be writing more about this in the days ahead. Once again thanks so much for the review and I will make sure all those mentioned get to see your words of praise.
I hope to see you both again soon.
Best wishes
John
That’s all for today and there will be more answers to questions marked for my reply tomorrow.
Today’s photos feature your Carnival Dream and the port of St. Thomas. These were taken by my good friend and professional photographer Andy Newman who has been photographing our vessels for many, many years.
Thanks for sending those Andy and for all the great photos you have taken over the years.
Tomorrow, I will be showing you some wonderful photos of the Carnival Sensation.
Time to blow our own trumpet a bit……………….actually………….let me have our mate Vance do it.
John Heald’s Blog Named Best Cruise Line Blog in Porthole Editor-in-Chief Awards
The blog of popular Carnival Senior Cruise Director John Heald has been named “Best Cruise Line Blog” in Porthole Magazine’s 2010 Editor-in-Chief Awards. Since its debut in March 2007, Heald’s blog has received more than 5.5 million hits, with its popularity continuing to grow with more readers tuning in for his humorous and insightful posts on “Fun Ship” cruising and various other topics.
The blog has even spawned the “John Heald Bloggers Cruise,” which provides Heald’s fans an opportunity to sail with him and fellow blog enthusiasts and participate in a variety of exclusive events and activities. The most recent Bloggers Cruise took place aboard the new 130,000-ton Carnival Dream last month and a 2010 Bloggers Cruise is in the planning stages.
Thanks for those kind words Vance and my thanks once again to everyone who helps put this blog thing together and most of all to you………for taking the time to read it each and every day.
Actually, while we have Vance with us let’s ask him to tell us about William Filomena, a loyal Carnival guest who as you will see has achieved something quite remarkable.
He Did It! Loyal Carnival Guest Sails on All 23 ‘Fun Ships’ in One Year
When loyal Carnival supporter William Filomena boarded the Carnival Miracle in late December, he accomplished what no other guest has done in the company’s 38-year history – he sailed on all 23 “Fun Ships” in a year. Filomena’s unique achievement began with a seven-day cruise aboard the Carnival Spirit in fall 2008 and, over the course of the next year, he sailed aboard every “Fun Ship” in the fleet.
Although Filomena has already earned a place in the Carnival record book, he continues to sail with the line and already has 12 cruises planned for 2010!
Filomena (second from left) is pictured here on the Carnival Miracle’s bridge with the ship’s officers, including Captain Rocco Lubrano (far left), Hotel Director Pierre B. Camilleri (second from right) and Guest Services Manager Phil Holmes.
You may have noticed from today’s Q& A that someone mentioned about the Musack in our elevators. It was bone crushingly boring while I was on the Carnival Legend and I raised the flag and got it changed and I suggested that it be done fleet wide.
You see, why I think we get the music right on the open decks and in the lounges we, like many of the restaurants I have eaten in on land………….sometimes get it hopelessly wrong.
I also wanted to share this comment with you.
Hello Mr. Heald
I have never cruised with you or on any boat for that matter but my Father has and he remembers you very well. A friend of ours sent me a bit from You Tube and I was so shocked to see my Father had been made star by you. I surfed more and found you on this web site and I hope my writing gets to you. I have sent this and the You Tube bit so you can remember my Father. He and my Mother are going on your Triumph ship in March and want you to be there.Please remember him.
Thank you very much
Sally LeeJohn Says:
Hello SallyI didn’t know that this video was on You Tube but having watched it I certainly remember Mr. Lee your father and I know everyone who was onboard that cruise remembers his wonderful personality as well. I am sorry to say that I will not be on the ship with him in March but I know he will have a great time and please send him and your Mother my regards.
Best wishes
John
Have a look at the video by the way everyone…………he was so cute……….and so funny.
I have been on Carnival ships to find the music of Bali playing while our guests enjoy lunch on Lido deck…….in the Caribbean. Some people find the music of Bali relaxing. Not me. It’s a lot of percussion gongs, chimes and rattling cymbals. Why would we play that on our ships? OK, it maybe OK if you are having a massage or are suffering from a particularly nasty case of constipation and you need to breathe through your pain before your next push…….but on a fun for all ship………nope………it doesn’t work.
So then, what music should we play there and what music should we play at dinner time in our restaurants? Country music, pop, Sinatra, Pee Diddly, rap, drum and bass, hop hip …what about some Ratt, Poison or Iron Maiden?
Before sending in your suggestions…………….here’s a thought. Why do we need any music at all?
It’s hard to find a place to eat out where there isn’t some sort of music playing. What’s wrong with eating in silence? Does everything have to have a soundtrack?
I was thinking about this a few nights after Christmas when Heidi and I went to dinner leaving Kye with Grandma and Grandpa so we could have some “us” time. We went to a fantastic Japanese restaurant as Heidi had a hankering for Sushi and I love Tinpanyuki……. Tincanpanacki ………Timpannacki…………the think where they chuck a load of beef and shrimp on a hot plate and the chef does a Bruce Lee impression with his knifes.
However, our enjoyment was soon brought to a screeching halt when we saw that they had a “live band.”
I can understand going to hear a live band in one of our onboard lounges or at a club and I can understand going to hear a live band play at a venue that serves food, but there’s something so disheartening about showing up at a restaurant and seeing the empty drum set and microphone set up in the corner.
You know it’s only a matter of minutes before they begin. I have to think of everything important thing I want to say so I can get it out before they start. This of course is impossible …………….. Unless I am sitting in a different restaurant, I’m not going to be able to talk.
Heidi and I decided to stay because we had driven 20 miles to get there “How loud can it be?” Heidi said.
Turns out, loud. So loud, that after I’d ordered my food I had a sore throat. And this was before the 15 minute solo on the bongo drums started. Yep…….I said bongo drums because at the Japanese Restaurant where that Bali bollocks music may have just been OK…..they had a live Salsa Band.
Every time the band would end a song people would clap. I wanted to call out, “Take a break!”
But there were no breaks. Not once. They went from one number into another for over an hour. Didn’t they allegedly play non-stop loud music at Guantanamo as a form of torture? It’s not that the music was bad…………..it’s that it was loud, and it was relentless. It made it impossible to have a conversation. But I guess that’s why people loved it. I looked around. No one was talking.
Hearing live music while having dinner is ideal for people who have nothing to say.
Our entire conversation consisted of two questions: “What?” and “Did you hear me?” Once I added: “Why are you nodding if you didn’t hear me?”……..Heidi threw a Californian roll at me.
So, here is my question. Unless Ken is singing or unless we bring back the live duos in our Steakhouses which I must admit I do miss……..do you need to have music while you are eating breakfast, lunch and dinner? And if so……..what? You can forget that Bali bollocks though. I would rather eat deep fried kangaroo anus and share my dinner table with a naked Judge Judy and be served by a Frenchman who hasn’t bathed in three years ………than listen to that.
Goodnight
Your friends
John, Heidi and Kye.
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
Hi John. Excellent blog especially with Jimmy Lee. I was in St. Thomas last cruise and I really enjoyed this mountainous area. MaryLou and I took the excursion that took us around and around until we we at the ” Mountain Top “. What a sight. Everytime I visit a new place and I can’t wait until I go to new another location. Well, I’m getting excited for my cruise in two weeks. I wish I could do what William Filomena did but of course I know that would be impossible for us. One a year allows us to enjoy a beautiful cruise because of the cost of a cruise, flight and all the other costs involved but I still enjoy it. I’ll be looking forward to seeing you on the 23rd. See you soon.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
John, We saw the report on BBC America and they showed some video from Southend on the Sea. That is alot of snow.!!! They are forecasting Snow flurries here in Central Florida on Saturday with a high of 44. SNOW?? Nothing like you have but snow in Central florida???
On the music thing defentley keep Ken singing we love his Sinatra. As for the lido we have noticed that they do sometimes play the music. We don’t really have a problebm with and don’t mind it. Now as for so loud I cant here the chef cooking my Steak and Scallops in front of me then yes that is too loud. But My vote would be to keep the music maybe lite hits, none of this new stuff where you can’t understand whats being said or you get a headache from all the booming in the Music.
I did also get a chance to read most of the reviews on cruise critic of the dream and we are excitied to see the inside of her we seen her in port numerous times now. Some of the negatives or complaints are just silly and amazing that someone would complain over anything.
Big fans as Allways,
Frank and Bridie
John, I’m like you I like peace and quiet when I dine out so I can have a conversation with Don or whomever we are with. My hearing is bad enough so that the added music makes it impossible to hear what others are saying. Fortunately Don helps me when I can’t understand what is being said.
While I’m thinking of it a lady wrote on the blog the other day requesting a table for 2 because she too is hard of hearing. May I suggest to her that before they go to a show, they might go in early, walk around and find the speakers so she can sit under them and possibly hear the CD and the shows a wee bit better.
I think the Arctic air and snow that is making it’s way all over the USA and other countries, has made it to Orlando. Princess Elaine emailed the Crew and told us that they are expecting snow in FLA this weekend. It might just be some of the Crew are sending some of their snow her way and getting even, She was bragging about how warm it was when the rest of us are freezing………
Our Carnival Dream may have to clear snow off of the Lido deck and balconies………… whew what a thought.
For the ones of us that have been trying to view the Cruise Directors schedule Jan – June 2010 only to get the dreaded X This is the link to the blog that had the CD schedule on it. When I want to refer to the schedule I just go back ot it.
http://johnhealdsblog.com/2009/12/17/a-developing-blog/
Tell all of the family hello for us
Cuddles to Kye and ((((hugs to you and Heidi))))
Carolyn and Don
John, you need to go and buy some long underwear (with a flap in the bag) and a pair of knee high snow boots to manage that wonderful weather this so called global warming is giving Europe and the British Isles!
Isn’t Global Warming supposed to WARM the planet, Not make it snow where it rare if ever snows?
Eight more days and I leave for warmer climates and Miami best be warm, I need to get a good 2nd degree sunburn to prove I went away, or get some time off work for being to sore to work…
Reply please
We are heading our March 1 on the Carnival Triumph. Can’t wait.
Regarding music–I like music during dinner but I too hate loud music. I like classical and jazz for the most part, but any would be for we all have our likes and dislikes but no music should intrude on our conversationability with each other or our wait staff.
We got a Cat 11 for our cruise. Hope we will be happy up there. Got any hints for the cruise.
Karen pee
“So, here is my question. Unless Ken is singing or unless we bring back the live duos in our steakhouses which I must admit I do miss……..do you need to have music while you are eating breakfast, lunch and dinner? And if so……..what? You can forget that Bali bollocks though. I would rather eat deep fried kangaroo anus and share my dinner table with a naked Judge Judy and be served by a Frenchman who hasn’t bathed in three years ………than listen to that.”
BRING BACK THE DUOS IN THE SUPPER CLUB! BRING BACK THE SUPPER CLUB! We LOVE the supper club atmosphere so much more than the steak house concept… Thank you.
Congratulations to the most amazing Mr. William Filomena!! What a brilliant accomplishment, something I fear I will never accomplish. Amazing.
The LEAST serene thing about the Serenity areas is the music. That New Age excuse for music is annoying… throughly annoying. Give us some island music at a low volume… something to reminds us of where we’re going and why.
Weather… John, we have the lowest temperatures in Texas that we’ve had in over 30 years. No snow in San Antonio but when the temperatures go into the teens and threaten single digits I can tell you that Al Gore has fallen down on the job. I think I just saw a Polar Bear eat a tire off my car.
The pictures of our Carnival Dream are amazing. No surprise. A subject as lovely as that ship is impossible to take a bad picture of.
All the best to the Stephanies, the Hair and, of course, your lovely ladies.
Ciao!!
Host Mach
PLEASE RESPOND
John, I wanted to chime in on your music topic. I have been on 19 Carnival cruises and love the product.
I notice in all the dining rooms they seem to have pianos but no one is ever playing them. Why don’t they have the piano player from the band play during dinner.
Seems a waste of resources not to use the piano.
thanks for everything.
Tom
Hi John, Thanks for asking about the music. Please no music. I want silence. There is just too much noise in our lives. I only turn on the sound on my computer when there is something I really want to hear. I believe computers should be seen and not heard.
The volume at the shows is way too loud. The music in the spa is really annoying. It makes me want to grind my teeth. One time we were on another cruise line our table mate talked really loud constantly. We moved. Another time our table was right beside a harp player. We moved. Another time we were at a table were the husband had a hearing problem. The wife had to repeat everything that was said. Really loud. We moved.
Silence is golden. Give us more of it. Please.
Jo
We were on the Triumph cruise with you and Jimmy Lee – he was cute LOL
Hi John,
Congratulations on the blog thingy being named best cruise line blog!
As far as the music goes…in the dining room at dinner time, I would think classical type in a non-muzak way would be appropriate. Oh, and Ken singing.
Wonderful pictures of the Carnival Dream in St. Thomas.
Clair
hi john, would love a reply..
my sister and i are booked on a cruise for jan 15th. she became very ill and i was informed today that because we chose to buy our tickets so early we would NOT be allowed to do a name change for her ticket. i dont know why this would ever be a part of the rules that if you buy your ticket TOO EARLY that you would not be able to take someone different. carnival got the money for the ticket.. plus the 50 extra dollars to change the names so why this be a problem for carnival? sincerely anita barringer
Dear John,
Congrats on your award!! You deserve it!
Regarding the “music to eat by,” I agree with you that no music is best. Trying to have a conversation, with people you have just met, at a table that seats 6 to 10, can be quite a challenge with out any music. Add in the music and it’s a recipe for disaster. Years ago I used to frequent a very upscale restaurant that had tuxedo clad waiters and the only music they allowed was a live Harp. That was lovely, quiet and really added to the ambiance of the dinner. The main dining room is like that fine restaurant. Tuxedoed servers, excellent food, white tablecloths and fun people should equal elegant (or no) music. When the music takes center stage, something else has to be pushed out of the limelight. There are plenty of venues to hear music on a Fun Ship, let the Dining Room be an oasis of calm. Just my two cents worth.
Cheers!
Derek
Hi John,
Well it’s almost Feb. 20, 2010! Thats when me and 137 of my closest friends, along with the other passengers will get to finally experience the Dream in person!! We are so excited!!
I sent a message to you a couple of months ago and asked if you could attend our Cruise Critic meet and greet on Feb. 21st. And you told me to remind you in January.
Well, it’s January, and I am reminding you!! LOL
We have our meet and greet all set up for Feb. 21st, at 10 am in the Burgundy lounge. We would really love it if you could come by and say hi. We will be there until probably 11:30 or noon because we have lots of fun things planned. We should have an attendance of about 100 people or so, and we would love to get a group photo with you.
Thanks so much for your time!
Janet Sammons
Cruise Critic group leader.
Hi John,
Happy New Year to you, Heidi, and Kye! I will be writing a review about our amazing New Years on the Dream soon with a few suggestions for rooms for improvement on the Dream and in general. In the meantime, as for music:
We discussed this in the dining room. It’s funny, because we heard the same few Christmas songs throughout dinner, until at the end of the cruise, we began to hear some Sinatra.
My family thinks that music should only be played in the dining room at dinner. Breakfast and lunch are more casual. The nice, relaxing music adds to the elegant dinner atmosphere with the nicely dressed passengers and the dim dining room. It should be background music to add to the environment so we can enjoy a nice dinner and have dinner conversation. As for what should be played at dinner… I think Sinatra and Sinatra type music (quiet, older songs – favorites and maybe not as popular mellow songs)… Dianna Ross, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Frank Sinatra… and other Artists with quiet, mellow, slower songs.
Thanks so much for the blogging. Enjoy the rest of your time home, and I look forward to putting together a great review from the Dream and hopefully recognizing a few staff members who went above and beyond.
-Matt and family
John
Happy New Year!! I had to smile while I was reading your story about having dinner out and music playing so loud you couldn’t talk. Yesterday I meet Mike for lunch. The music was so loud and bad that I left with a headache. I will not go back.
I would vote no to having music being played while eating because everyone has different taste in music. I rather have a meal with good company, good conversation and sharing of ideas not have to yell or stop talking to listen to the artist and/or clap.
Give my best to Heidi and Kye. Lynn
Dear John,
Sorry to hear that you are experiencing such a colsd and snowy winter. Guess you’ll be glad to be returning to the Caribbean soon and Heidi and Kye will be anxious to join you shortly after. One of my best friends is back home in England now too and she emailed and said they have had to bring in sand from the beach areas for the roads. We here in Southern Ontario, Canada are prepared for lots of snow and cold but so far have had a mild temps ( only about 10 degrees colder than your friend in Miami ) and very little snow.
Congratulations on the award….very well deserved!
Mary aka Mrs. Shy
Personally I prefer no music while in a restaurant. It isn’t necessary.
Here on Long Island it is cold too. But other places are far worse than we are.
Loved the clip with you and Jimmy Lee. Our first cruise was on Carnival Triumph with you. It was the start of many. Thank you.
I don’t think music at breakfast or lunch is necessary…but for dinner, I’d say YES! Why not use the dinner menu’s theme as the music selections to complete the entire dinner experience? Italian night…Italian music, Caribbean night…Caribbean tunes, Etc.. And for the steakhouse…please bring back the duos or how about part of the showband? Maybe two or three pieces?
Thanks for listening…..
Carol
John,
As a musician (not professional) I’ve often stunned fellow musicians when I say “I do not need a soundtrack to my life.”
I do not own an ipod, and rarely listen to CDs. I think there is too much background music, and that background music diminishes the distinctiveness of purposefully listening to a musical performance.
No music needed, and if you do play music, make sure the volume is at a level allowing people to converse without straining their volcal cords, thanks for asking. 17 days untill we board MY Carnival Splendor, I’ll make sure I give steph. a hard time for you!
John, When on a cruise I simply enjoy the sounds of the caribbean. I find it restful. It definately takes your mind off work or things going on at home.
Jim
Dear John,
Thanks for another great blog! It’s freezing here in Northern Florida…literally! My husband left an insulated thermos of water in his truck overnight, and it was a block of ice the next morning!
Are we still on for lunch on the 23rd? I’m getting a little nervous, because we’re 2 weeks out, and haven’t heard from you or any of the Stephanies about it. I don’t want to show up at the terminal and get bounced out for not being on “the list.”
Let me know, and stay warm!
Laura
John please reply
“but there’s something so disheartening about showing up at a restaurant and seeing the empty drum set and microphone set up in the corner”
I know exactly how you feel John. It is exactly how I felt when I discovered, to my horror the the jazz trio in the Destiny cigar bar had been replaced by a salsa band.
I realize that this is probably more of a revenue earner, but I really missed sitting with friends and enjoying a fine cigar and beverage in relative serenity.
Not all “Fun” need be loud and boisterous. Is there any chance that this trend will be reversed?
Hi John. I agree with you about music while you’re dining. I don’t mind the music but when it is too loud to hear yourself think, let alone have a conversation, it’s too much.
I think of music with food like I think of salt. Salt makes your food taste better but you don’t want your food to taste like salt. It should just make your food enjoyable without you realizing why. Music, played in the background, just to cut the silence, is nice with a good meal. But if it is blowing you out of your seat, it ruins the entire evening.
When I got married, we had a DJ at our reception. I specifically told him that once dinner was over he could blow the roof off the place if he wanted but during the cocktail and dinner hours he was NOT to play it loud because I wanted my guests to be able to hear each other speak. Also, I chose music that I felt was the type that lent itself to soft background music. Frank Sinatra, soft jazz, Billy Joel, etc.
It was a wonderful evening and I know the music was perfect because afterwards many people commented on how wonderful the dance music was and how much fun everyone had dancing but no one ever mentioned the music during dinner. It was just there, made the meal enjoyable, but no one really realized it was playing. Just like salt
John Heald’s Blog Named Best Cruise Line Blog in Porthole Editor-in-Chief Awards
Way to go John, CONGRATULATIONS. This is not surprising at all. I am so proud to be a posting member of your blog. I can only hope that one day we will sail again and hopefully it will be in Europe.
BTW John, Air Force One does run on Camel Urine. But the problem they have is we do not have enough Camel Urine to fly that plane sooooooooooo we use fuel.
Keep smiling John, you truly are one of the good guys.
My best to Heidi and Kye.
I must admit, I had to really think if I have heard music during dinner on the ships. There is normally so much “chatter” noise that it is really hard to notice the background music. And if you have a seat in the two-story dining rooms, right in the middle, it is almost impossible to hear anything because of the acustics. But, when you do hear music during a moment of silence at the table, it is a conversation starter.
I say leave it as it is.
I second your opinion on global warming..Al Gore has been noticeably absent from the media lately too. It even snowed here in Atlanta last night and the news was showing photos of iguana’s falling out of trees in Florida because they were so cold.
Congratulations on your award and of course I consider you extremely deserving. I think that was the best marketing tool any one has ever done getting you to write the blog. What a valuable way to be able to find out about your own product without paying for expensive surveys and get the information or feedback instantly to boot! No one else could have done this but you John…how lucky Carnival and we are to have you.
I haven’t done the favorites list because I just can’t choose just one of anything Carnival…I love the ships, the crews are fantastic and the food is awesome! We are all counting the days (now 83) until we cruise the Carnival Dream…sadly you get off the day we get on…sniff, sniff.
Cheryl
Great blog today, I laughed out loud more than once! I agree with you about the music during dining, with so many people in one place it’s already a little on the loud side, so music makes conversation that much harder.
But, if music is being played anywahere on Lido, it needs to to be FUN! My mother in law (who is my favorite traveling buddy other than my hubby) told me I was lacking culture because I got tired of hearing Andrea Bocelli. After 3 days of that, I wanted to pull my hair out or at least go to sleep.
I love the steel drums and I enjoy the newer country music that has a little caribbean flare (Zac Brown, Kenny Chesney, etc). And, John, I do miss the entertainment in the Steakhouse. Taking that out truly changed the ambiance of the restaurant in my opinion.
All that being said, none of this is really going to have much of an impact on my FUN CRUISE, and I need one bad as our temps haven’t risen above freezing in days. I need to thaw out!
John,
I remember being on cruises where they had soft dinner music playing quietly by a live pianist. It created a relaxed atmosphere, without interfering with dinner conversation. That I approve of definitely. And of course, the fine performances by Ken & his talented staff top off the dinner perfectly.
One quick comment on our cold, snowy winter- It makes cruising this time of year just that more enjoyable.
Buried in snow in Illinois, Joyce
Congratulations on being named “Best Cruise Line Blog” in Porthole Magazine’s 2010 Editor-in-Chief Awards. I am very glad I found this blog. You have made it very entertaining and informative. I am looking to sailing on my first Carnival Cruise and am fortunate enough that it will be on the Dream with you as the CD.
My best to you, Heidi and Kye.
Hi John (PLEASE REPLY),
My brother and I are sailing on the Carnival Triumph with our parents next month for winter break and the last two years we’ve had a table in the dining room in the corner where we couldn’t see the “entertainment” or much of anything else.
My mom said you might help. I was hoping you might send a request for us for either a window table aft or a table on the main floor in the center. It doesn’t really matter if we are with others, or not.
THANKS,
Topher (ChrisTOPHER Webb)
Hi John!
I like quiet, peaceful music when I dine so I don’t mind having it. It becomes an issue when it overpowers the scene.
That’s quite a feat to sail on all of the Carnival vessels in a year. Congrats!
Thanks for the great pictures.
Stay warm and be safe.
Take care!
David
Hi John,
It’s me, PennyB from New Orleans, now Lafayette.
I hope you have been wearing your Royal Writing Underwear with the camel fur lining. Guess that was a good idea considering everyone’s winter chill. It’s even cold here in Louisiana – in the teens tonight (real temp)- and we are not at all equipped for the cold. I buy my firewood at the grocery store in little bundles for the few times I want to light a fire.
I’m writing today to let you know I saw the new Carnival commercial and I love it. That could be my kids saying what’s up with Mom? I now have friends I have met from all over, and they are in my cruise pictures. There is a pic of me drinking out of a pineapple and another of me sliding down the Dream water slide. Who is this person, my kids ask? I have a “cougar” picture with Craig and another with Todd. Sorry, John, my kids know what you look like so they
Hi John, Congratulations on being named “Best Cruise Line Blog” in Porthole Magazine’s 2010 Editor-in-Chief Awards. We all knew you were the best, but it’s nice to get acknowledgment in the cruise industry too!!! No music is good music during meals…I too like to enjoy conversation at the table and find music generally too loud. It’s very cold here in Nova Scotia and we are counting down to our Feb 21 cruise on the Carnival Glory! Can’t wait for some Caribbean Sunshine and warmth and Carnival fun and hospitality! Love to your family, GLoria
As a life long resident of Maine, I have never bought into the farcical theory of global warming … glad you don’t either. If Al Gore reads this blog, perhaps he will weigh in on a subject that has made him millions of undeserved dollars.
On a warmer note, only 29 days ’til we board the Dream … really looking forward to seeing “Dancin’ in the Streets” by the Carnival dance team … and the laser show!
DEAR JOHN HEIDI AND KEYE
Congratulations on being voted Best Blog by Porthole Magazine! KUDOS!
Sorry bout the Snow but I hope you stay warm. My Brother got out of England the other day 30 minutes befor they closed down the flights.
I personally hope it snows here In Florida tomorow as I remember it when it did in 1977,
Congratulations to Mr. William Filomenain his accomplishment, cruising the whole fleet in 1 year, Amazing.
REGARDING THE MUSIC:
BRING BACK THE DUOS IN THE SUPPER CLUB! We LOVE the supper club atmosphere so much more than the steak house concept… On the Dream it was a bit boring an NOT very romantic without the music,
The Dining Rooms: YOU HAVE to keep KEN & the Waiters singing and dancing post dinner on ALL the ships fleet wide.
As far as the musiack WE really NEVER noticed it upon entering, there has always been so much chatter amonsgts people. So I guess you might want to save yourselves some energy there and delete it.
Just our 4 cents worth,
Take Care
HUGS TO HEIDI & KYE
The Tuckers in Florida
Elizabeth & Arnold
John,
Love reading your blog. will not be on the dream but will be on the Fantasy again soon. We leave Feb 8th for a get away and it is not soon enough with all this blasted cold weather we are having in the Southeastern states.
Happy Sea
Jonathan Clayton
John,
My .02 cents worth, no music other than live performances in the MDR please.
Congratulations on the Award for your Blog. You well deserve it as a Ambassador of the Cruise Industry as well as Carnivals.
Best wishes to you and your girls.
ERNIE
Congratulations on the Best Crusie Blog award. Well deserved!
I don’t envy you the snow and cold but it’s very cold here in Florida too. Today it actually snowed in Orlando and across the middle of the state. We’re south of that and it’s just cold and raining. Brrr!
Regarding the music while dining. Please NO ! Not even in the Lido deck dining areas except by the pools. I can’t stand having someone singing about “lost love” etc. while I’m trying to enjoy my breakfast or lunch, Quiet works best for conversations or simple enjoyment. Jeri
Hi John,
It’s me, PennyB again. Some of my blog got cut off so I need to finish my story about the commercial. My kids know what you look like so they are not concerned – I keep telling them you have a beautiful, blond wife and a new baby. But who are these others they ask?? So I say, ” Come cruise with me and you will see, and meet my Carnival family.”
Have a great New Year and see you on the high seas.
PennyB
To the 342 Stephanies – this didn’t make my other entry
I love having music when dining. I agree that in the Lido buffet, there should be island music playing when we are sailing to the Caribbean.
I also would like the return of real music to the steakhouse and have it become a supper club once again.
On Dream the music in the Burgundy Lounge was wonderful, but way too loud to carry on a conversation. I don’t know that there is any way to “turn it down”, I think it is more that the size of the room doesn’t equal the sound of the music.
Music is part of most of our lives, even if it is in the background.
Congrats on your award. All your hard work is paying off and you are noticed for all you do. Keep up the good work.
Frank & Gerri
Hi John: I really like the music on the ships but I guess if you are looking for music that “sets the mood” I suggest classical at a low volume in the dining rooms and also in the elevators. Mostly the “calming effects” pieces not the 1812 overture:-) Sometimes the music is a bit loud on the mid-ship pool area but that’s where the party usually is so it should stay. Hopefully there will be no music on the adult only deck on the Dream (I believe it’s called the Serenity Deck). thanks much for all you do. Blessings on all your crew and family,Angela Guptill Dream Feb.13th/10
John:
You asked for suggestions for “music” for the Carnival ads…..
I love the song “If I Could Change the World” and I believe that IF we could change the world to act like the Carnival staff and crew from60+ countries do on a cruise ship…..
this planet would be heaven on earth!!!!
How amazing if we could give the world that “cruising state of mind”!!!
Congrats on your Award…..glad to see the rest of the cruising world agrees with us…you are the BEST!!!
As far as music VOLUME…..it is like a woman’s perfume….a little goes a long ways.
With perfume, you should not be able to smell it unless you are getting close enough to make things “interesting”…..in a restaurant, the same thing with music. You should have to “listen” to hear the lyrics….
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
john Please Reply
It was so nice to talk with you on Dec.3 on my Carnival Dream,my husband and I had a great time, 9 days go by so fast so on Feb.8,2010 we will be on the Carnival Destiny for a Back to Back, 10 days of Joy.Could you please help me get a table for 2(only) for dinner evry night?Dinner time is 8:15 for the first 5days then Booking for another 5 days room is 8111. Thank You for all you do.Happy New Year to you and your family. Ann-Marie
Dear John (Please Reply)
Just back from Carnival Destiny We of course had a fantastic tme, despite the weather. It was the worst weather we have ever had on all 17 cruise.
The Carnival Destiny being an older ship was still beautiful. You however could see some of the wear & tear in different areas.
The Your time dining is very successful. This was our 2nd time doing the Your time dining. It was great. Was a little disappointed that they did not serve Escargot or beef wellington any night on this cruise.
All of the shows were great. On little point, is that there were a couple shows (one production number & one comedy act that had a bit more Reavealing parts & language that was not be appropriate for young children.) And it was a family show not the adult show. Maybe they need to post in the capers for all shows, that some pars of the show might not be appropriate for the young. They did post it in the capers for the last show (even though they were not able to do the show (due to the weather & high winds) Understandable for the safety of the dancers. They did put a great act together quickly as a substitution.
The crew was fantastic. Every crew member we ran in to called us by our first names. The even interviewed us on the Captains Celebration party. It is on the Voayage tape, also showing all of Michael’s tattoos. You will have to see if you can get a copy for you, if not I will try to make a copy of ours & give it to you in May.
Michael Thanks you again for the name tag. Now What about the Christmas ornaments????
Chat with you later & See you in May 18th
Cheri
Dear Award Winner,
On you and Carnival winning the BEST BLOG award. No Brainer! It’s like Megan Fox winning the BEST BUTT award. There is no competition.
No music for Breakfast and Lunch. Something light at the most for dinner. Elevators should have no music so when the fat man next to you farts you can hear it and get off before your nose comits suicide and jumps off your face.
The Cruzin2some
James & Nancy Enslow