When you stay in hotels as much as I have these past few years since I was anointed Brand Ambassador, certain things start to really get on your tits……….that’s a very British saying by the way and if I was talking about your tits I wouldn’t have used that word……….I would have used nerves instead of tits. But as they are my tits that I am talking about………I can say tits and nobody can say anything about it.
Take for example the arrival. At Carnival we will very soon be making the whole embarkation experience more exciting and fun and I will have specific details on this soon. I did mention on my FB page that there would be more prizes and lively and fun music and a prize for the 1,000th guest whose card makes the machine go ping. There is no such welcome at a hotel. Take the one I am staying at here in Miami, The Intermarrioyatt.
I have stayed here probably 20 times or more and am probably the only fat British bloke with a bent tooth that stays here yet the reception staff, even though I know all of them, make no effort to recognise me. There is no “Welcome back, Mr. Heald.” Nope……..there is bugger all and unless George Clooney stays there or I was to walk into reception naked with a parrot on my shoulder who screeches “Royal Caribbean My Arse” every 10 seconds……I doubt they would.
Carnival pre-books my rooms and yet as soon as I walk up to the desk the first thing they do is question my honesty. The receptionist doesn’t go as far as saying “Mr. Heald, I do hope you’re not going to sneak a robe into your suitcase or smuggle the Gideon Bible out of the hotel in your underpants” but it’s close. It’s the automatic “Can I have your credit card for any extras?’ that I dislike. Yes, I know many people would steal the bathrobe and yes we do the same on the ships ……..but that doesn’t stop me hating the coldness that hotels show when they do this.
I have rented a car this time and I cannot believe the parking charges. It cost me $23 a day to have my car valet parked. As I was walking out yesterday I noticed the cost on a discreetly placed panel by the entrance. Now if it was a topless Latvian called Luci Dickov who was parking it then maybe I would say it was worth it. But it isn’t. It’s a guy called Jose and he moved the seat forward as well……. the bastard.
Finally on today’s rant is the air conditioning in hotels. Why can’t they get it right? It’s either so loud that it sounds like an F16 is taking off next to your bed or it’s so quiet and that means that the air will be circulated behind the vent with all the force of an asthmatic hamster blowing through a straw.
Time for today’s Q and A – here we go.
Jill H Asked:
Please replyJohn, I was on my first Carnival cruise and it was good but I cannot understand why you allow the crew to get on and off the ship with the passengers. This never happens at Disney cruise lines. There should be a different exit and entry point for the workers. I think it is unfair that paying passengers should have to wait behind the workers. I was on the Freedom last week and there were a group of 4 workers in the line ahead of me. It was already a long line in Cozumel to get back on the boat but made longer because I had the workers AHEAD OF ME. This is very unprofessional and I spoke to probably 50 other passengers who felt the same. Please stop the hired help doing this immediately as Disney does!
Thank you
Jill HJohn Says:
Hello Jill H,I understand that crew does sometimes add to the line to return to the ship. In some ports we have crew only gangways and in some ports this is not possible due to the logistics of the pier and space, etc. Crew are also told to make sure that they give way to the guests but I am also aware that sometimes this doesn’t happen mostly because the crew have very little time ashore and need to get back to work. I will bring this up to the ship’s command on the Carnival Freedom and I apologise for the inconvenience. I hope you had a brilliant cruise nevertheless.
Best wishes,
John
Kevin Oates Asked:
John please replyI am new to the blog and have a question concerning the chefs dinner. We are taking our 3rd cruise with Carnival. The second being last year on the liberty and we are returning on the Liberty on May 14 this year to celebrate our 30th anniversary. I am wondering about the chefs dinner if it is something that we should consider since we do not drink alcohol and my daughter who is a trained chef has a allergy to mushrooms. She and I would do it as it is her desire to learn more of the ship and from the chefs. My wife and I will be doing Harry’s at least to help in our celebration our anniversary is in June but we due to work are going in May. I have enjoyed the blog. Our last trip in May this year was great the best vacation we have had in years which is why we are going back.
John Says:
Hello Kevin Oates,Yes, yes yes. That’s three times a yes because not only is The Chef’s Table a brilliant seven- course dinner cooked by the executive chef and served in a private venue but it is also a chance to see the galley in full dinner-time operation. I say this because as your daughter is in the food business, this is something she must see. Please don’t worry about allergies as the chef will visit you the day before to discuss this and make sure that he is aware and replaces anything anyone cannot eat. The wine will also be replaced with whatever you would prefer. So go on, book it and I can help you do so here on the blog thingy if you would like.
Have a wonderful cruise.
Best wishes,
John
Sharon Perros Asked:
Hello, John! (Please reply, if possible),I am a rather new to your blog, having found it after the Splendor fire. Your report was better than any Tom Clancy novel. It was a real page turner and I been an avid fan since. I look forward to your stories daily, and my husband is often drawn to my home office upon hearing me laugh while reading them – so thank you! Because of your blog I am treating my husband to a surprise second honeymoon and our first ever cruise on the Conquest and wanted to know if there is a vegetarian option at the Steak House. My husband loves meat but I didn’t want to go if there was nothing I could have. Thanks again for the daily laughs
Sharon
John Says:
Hi Sharon:I am so glad you have discovered the blog thingy and I hope the laughs continue for many months to come. Yes indeed, there are vegetarian options for you in the steakhouse including a special main course so please do go as it will be a wonderful place to celebrate the second honeymoon. I wish you both a wonderful cruise and happy honeymoon. Thanks so much for the kind words
Best wishes,
John
Pete Gregson Asked:
PLEASE REPLYIt seems you have a lot of enemies at Cruise Critic and I am not surprised. I joined a few years ago and found it to be a place where people with a love of cruising could meet and talk and discuss and then things changed and suddenly people started insulting each other and I have not been back since. Here is what one wrote about you “I stopped reading it because of all the “gimmes”. Why they have to be posted, I’ll never know. The only one interested in getting a free cruise because mom died and I didn’t have insurance would be the guy whose mom died. Do exactly what your readers and clientele hate or are irritated by John.
I was called a “jerk” because I defended Carnival’s decision to charge the prices you do in the bars and so I left. It is strange how a place that is dedicated to the love of cruising has become so negative. So please don’t worry about the people over there who hate you and keep doing what you are doing.
Pete
John Says:
Hello Pete Gregson,Thanks for taking the time to write and I am aware that there are a few over on Cruise Critic who really do not like me but I do think it is the few not the many and everyone is entitled to an opinion of course. I still think that Cruise Critic is a very important website but I wish even harder that I could understand why the minority have to be so cruel at times. Thank you for those kind words and I hope you continue to enjoy the blog.
Best wishes,
John
Karen St Hilaire Asked:
Dear John: Please respondI LOVE LOVE LOVE carnival. We just back from our December 5, 2010 cruise aboard Glory…Everything was excellent. We did the wine tasting with food ($15 fee) we decided we don’t like wine but loved the experience. We ate at the CHIEFS TABLE ($75). Oh my God, that was totally amazing…We ate at the steakhouse ($30) ..I was in heaven…I don’t mind paying for extra services to do extra things… I wish they offered more…
We are doing a b2b cruise Feb 15, 2011 and Feb 23, 2011 on Carnival Miracle room 6131 week 1 room 6139 week 2. I can’t wait to go. This will make 9 cruises I am looking forward to my 10 very soon.I am thinking Hawaii out of California…
My question is about the pilot boat we always see from our balcony after we pull out of port… I think I heard that they have captains that get us out and in ports but how do they get off the ship, we don’t stop the ship. I was wondering if you could explain more about this!!! We have done behind the scenes tour before……which is well worth the money. I love to read anything I can between cruises about the ships, ports, or anything.
Back in 2007 we took our son for a Senior Trip that was a once in a lifetime experience, but now it is turned into at least 2 a year but each trip feels like a once in a lifetime trip….Carnival, the staff. the ships, the ports, meeting people who become friends in just 1 week……are all priceless…thank you for all you do.
John Says:
Hello Karen St Hilaire,What a fantastic review, it really was a joy to read. I am so sorry that I am late in my reply to this and the indeed you are as I write on your back to back cruise. I have therefore asked Malcolm the CD to print a copy of this and send it to your stateroom. The pilot is responsible for the safe entry and exit to the port and he leaves the ship once the vessel is out of the harbour or depending on which port, sometimes he will remain on longer.
When he or she…..I have never seen a female pilot but I am sure there are some……..they will disembark onto the pilot boat while the ship is in motion as you said. The pilot will climb down a rope ladder which in rough seas and when the boat is pitching a rolling is a difficult and somewhat dangerous thing to do.
I hope you are having fun and I want to thank you for this brilliant review. Please write when you get home and tell us all about it.
Best wishes,
John
Tom Driscoll Asked:
John – Please reply if possible.My friend and I are regular repeat guests and booked on the Dream on 5-21. We invited two new cruisers along with us and booked them a cabin across the hall. We all have the Early Saver rates. While I do not need to change my booked at all, one of the other two in the separate room have a dilemmna. One of them just found out they cannot go due to a personal family issue. The other person still wants to go. I have read conflicting posts that no name changes are allowed. Since the one friend does not want to pay the entire fare themselves nor go alone, they were wondering if the other person can be switched out for someone else. Also, in the instance nothing at all can be changed, would my one friend be forced to change rooms if the other person does not show up? I appreciate any help you can offer. I hope you are feeling much better as well.
Thanks,
Tom
John Says:
Hello Tom,I recently asked for a 101 on this Early Save thingy as I really don’t understand it fully. While I take the time to learn more I have sent your request to someone in Miami who can help you. I hope you have a great cruise and please let me know if I can help further.
Best wishes,
John
The Granger Family Asked:
Please reply,Mr Heald, I was directed to you by my travel agent Diane from AAA Travel and this may seem a strange question but it is very important to us. We will be on the Liberty in May and are concerened that we may be the subject of some ridicule. We are a devout Christian family and always sing grace in Praise to the Lord before every meal. If we do this on the ship will others laugh or will the mangers ask us not to? Please could you put my fears to rest.
Thank you Mr Heald
John Says:
Hello The Granger Family,Please do not worry. I can promise that the dining room staff will in no way ask you not to give thanks before a meal and I’m sure no one is going to laugh……..so please don’t worry and enjoy what I’m sure will be a great cruise.
Best wishes to all
John
Mia M Asked:
Hi John (REPLY, TIME SENSITIVE) –Table for 8 is what I am asking for on the Valor. This is a make or break for if we cruise with your company again. We have cruised Celebrity 7 times and are giving you a chance. We ALWAYS get a table for 8 with the best waiter so I hope and I suggest that Carnival does the same for us.
SAILING DATE MARCH 27TH
SUITE#S – 7300, 7324, 7332John Says:
Hello Mia M,The good news is that unlike Celebrity it seems I don’t have to worry about giving you the best waiter because all our waiters are the best in the industry. I will certainly ask the maitre d to get you a table for 8 and I am sure that your first Carnival cruise will be the first of many.
Have a brilliant time.
Best wishes,
John
Rev Barb in Canada, eh? Asked:
Is it possible to add another couple to this reservation???
If so – Carol and Murray Bateman, 12 March 2011, Carnival Dream Cabin No. 7333John Says:
Hello Rev Barb in Canada,I take it this is for The Chef’s Table right? If so I have sent a message to the ship and they will add 2 more spaces. If not, please let me know otherwise Best wishes………eh.
John
That’s all for today and I will be back soon with more here and on Facebook.
Yesterday I forgot to post any Fun Times because I have the brain capacity of an ameba. So with apologies for that, here are the Fun Times from the Carnival Destiny.
(Download Fun Times here.)
I think about the Carnival Splendor a lot and I don’t think I have mentioned that having spent a week with Felipe the CD of the Carnival Splendor, I know he is the right choice for that ship. He is eager and proud to be there, passionate and full of ideas and as I said, I am certain he will be brilliant. I gave him as much advice as I could, including trying to save some money. The young CD’s do tend to splash their cash. We have a young, newly promoted cruise director colleague of mine who shall remain nameless but who has a collection of watches. Yes, a collection. But despite this he has just spent thousands of dollars on a watch made by something called Brietling. He showed me his new watch recently and explained that this company makes timepieces for fighter pilots and space shuttle commanders and people who parachute from helicopters into power boats for a living. Well that will be handy then for when he’s hosting a deck party then won’t it? But we do have a wonderful group of young and talented CD’s and with George and Chris leaving soon and Tory leaving this week…….there are three full time slots open. I wonder who will get them?
One rising star for sure is Entertainment Host Ryan who we visit now for an update on what is happening onboard the Carnival Splendor during her first voyage since returning from dry dock. Here he is.
Hey John!
Hello again from the Carnival Splendor! We’re calling a close to our first Fun Day at Sea….and what a day it was! As we head south of winter the skies are blue, the ocean is clear and calm, and the puffy clouds overhead seem to be welcoming the Carnival Splendor back to these familiar waters after three long months of repairs. I was headed to the main Lido Pool today and was surprised to find a large group of guests intently looking out the starboard-side windows of the Splendido Restaurant, of course I’m always curious as to what our guests are up to, so I jumped into the crowd and saw immediately what was the fuss….a group of dolphins were jumping and swimming beside the ship and putting on quite the show for these lucky passengers. Corny as it may be, I like to think that even the dolphins are happy to see us back where we belong!
Today was so chock-full of fun activities and things to do I hardly know where to start. Everyone is out and about, joining in the fun, and making the most of their week-long vacation. The highlights today were definitely on Lido Deck; Master Mixology Competition, Ice Carving Demonstration, Deck games, and of course, the ridiculously popular Men’s Hairy Chest Competition! A beautifully tropical frozen concoction won the Mixology judges over, and immediately you could see the icy pink treat being sipped pool-side while the guests soaked up some of the first real sunshine of this cruise. I’m always happy when the weather begins to warm up towards Puerto Vallarta…it means Mexico is getting closer and the stresses of home are just a passing thought between lunch #1 and lunch #2. Sweaters and scarves are replaced with bikinis and tanning lotion, jeans and socks are shunned for a pair of flip-flops and the ever-present (and ever grotesque) men’s Speedo. Speaking of men who reveal a bit too much on Lido Deck, the Men’s Hairy Chest Competition was a roaring success for this cruise. We have crowned the Carnival Splendor’s onboard Chewbacca for the next 7 days, and boy is he a hairy one. It was “all hands on chest” this afternoon while our fearless female judges put these bushy boys through the ringer of manly challenges.
I absolutely LOVE hosting the activities on Splendor’s Lido Deck, it’s a very unique open deck plan, and quite unmatched when it comes to showcasing our wonderfully talented bands, hosting group activities, and for people-watching by the pool. It even has a retractable dome that can cover the entire deck and the big screen theater in case of inclement weather (which I don’t think we’ll be needing on this cruise for even a second). Inside the ship our guests were learning all about Fun Aboard the ship and Fun Ashore at our ports of call with our Cruise Director Felipe and spinning through trivia challenges with my fellow hosts; Christy, Amy, and Michelle. I even got the opportunity to meet a wonderful group onboard that all religiously follow this relatively unknown blog thingy on the internet…hmmm.
On the Promenade tonight we had our Captain’s Celebration and the first Cruise Elegant Evening of the week, after coming in from a day at the pool I’m always impressed by how well our guests can clean-up! Snazzy suites, tailored tuxedos, formal dresses, and sparkly tops were the mainstay in the ship’s lounges…even the children in ruffles and bow-ties walked with a certain skip in their step that only comes with knowing you look like a million bucks. The cameras were flashing on every deck as the ship’s photographers snapped up guest’s pictures like the Los Angeles paparazzi. Captain Giorgio Pagano looked like a proud papa walking into the El Morocco Lounge to greet the room and offer some eagerly awaited face-time to the celebration attendees.
The Spectacular Lounge was a bit chilly this evening, but got really hot, really quick when the curtain went up for our jaw-dropping production show VROOM. The singers and dancers in the Splendor cast will never cease to amaze me with their raw talent and endless energy. As the night carried on there was no shortage of things to do…laughter rolled from the Punchliner Comedy Club, sing-a-longs jammed out of the piano bar, and the night owls partied in the Red Carpet dance club till the early hours of morning. It’s “business as usual” here on the Carnival Splendor, which means that anything can happen and there are exciting surprises around every corner! I can’t wait to see what tomorrow will bring.
Ciao for now
Ryan McQuarrie
Entertainment Host
Carnival Splendor
Thanks Ryan, it’s so good to hear that the ship is doing what she does best. We look forward to another update soon mate.
Well, yesterday we had our final meeting for the bloggers cruise on Sunday. My assistant Stephanie is already onboard the Carnival Glory and has done a full inventory of all the gifts the bloggers will be getting and I will join on Friday in Grand Cayman (build a sodding pier you cheap bastards) and then on Sunday some other beards will join me.
We will have the head of carnival.com, Jordan Topbeard, as well as the man responsible for the new blog format and much of the support I get here and on Facebook, Eric the Beard. On camera we will have Peter the Hair who will be updating those of you who are not joining me by slapping on daily videos of what we are all doing. Also on hand will be Chris Prideauxbeard who is the director of entertainment and the senior manager of online content and experience and tofu and long time friend of the blog thingy, Stephanie Leavittmoustache.
Also joining me will be my friend and top comedian Lewis Nixon and Carnival’s 358th best comedian Mr. Al…….oh bugger ……hold on. Sorry, I just heard that our President and CEO Gerry Cahill will now do a 30-minute comedy show entitled “Funny Words you can Make with numbers on a Calculator” ……..so Carnival’s 359th best comedian Al Ernst will also be joining me and talking of Al……..here is a segment from Alivers Travels written especially for the blog.
Good Morning! I do say ‘Good Morning’ as my writing begins, it is 7:15am, and I am typing the netbook from lido on the Carnival Sensation… It is not often at this hour, that I am awake, and not dropping my pants at airport security, trying to make a flight to another show… (Somehow, that just didn’t sound right…) Needless to say how beautiful it is to just enjoy the breeze, quiet, and relaxation of heading into Freeport.
As I glanced at the USA Today, I read in the travel section that records had be set several days for Carnival reservations, as the official term is the ‘Winter Wave.” I would call it the “rookie awakening.”
Most of the readers of John’s Blog are “Big Leaguers.” They have cruised as much as I have, and sometimes tell me things that I didn’t know about a port or the smallest details of the differences on the ships in the fleet. Now think back to your “Rookie Cruise” …….Wow, what a difference a few cruises make. Now, we know it all, never surprised, and always have the right answers.
My thought then went to Spring Training for Baseball, as this is one of my favorite times of the year….…and there are “Rookies,” who have been invited to the major leagues for shot at making the “Big Club”….…and how similar those feelings might be to a rookie cruiser.
A Rookie Cruiser has spent the ‘off season’ getting in training……with luggage, the perfect cruise wear, and of course the paperwork together for the big day……The night before travel they have a tough time sleeping, and they open the bag and add and subtract stuff until the minute they walk out the door.
The moment arrives, after all that, you can still see the mouths drop, and the eyes grow wide as they first see the size of the ship…Once on board, the rookies can be spotted easily…Most have some type of matching outfit to align them to their team, they walk on the ship and just stop…as no amount of research can match the reality of being in the ‘Big Leagues.”
They find there ‘locker room’ (cabin)…open every door, press every button, and look at the cabin safe thinking it is a microwave oven. Then it is out to the ‘field of dreams’ if they can ever make it out of the hallway as they the search for an elevator begins.
After an hour, they meet one of you, a veteran…and then you have a decision…do you “haze” this first timer? Or do you actually safely land them at the right place? Do you send them to the pizzeria when they looking for the casino?
So, this is where the story is all yours…whether this is your sixth or 600th cruise, I challenge you to go back to your rookie season on every trip…Feel that anticipation, the amazement, and the wonder of what we have all built together. That will make every cruise special…and when you run into that “rookie,” let them feel a part of the team. I promise, you will never lose your spot in the big leagues, and maybe you will be the “MVP” of that trip…at least to that rookie who you got to the right buffet line.
To those of you going on the bloggers cruise, I look forward to our time together, and just to let you know while you are at Punchliner Comedy Club, I have five completely different shows…Taken some of the old stuff, and did a ‘dry dock’ on some material, added many new bits, and the five shows tell a story…’A View from the Cheap Seats’.
Be safe, have fun, and see you soon.
AL
Thanks Al. It will be great t see both Al and Lewis again and as well as performing at the Punchliner comedy club we will all be doing an evening at the improv…….should be fun. So all is set for BC4 and I will see some of you there. For those who are not, I promised to keep you updated on FB and with video blogs here. Although I will not be able to write every day I will keep posting the Fun Times for the fleet through next week.
Tomorrow I will be on Facebook only and flying on Friday. It was fascinating reading your comments about the dress code and it seems many of you disagree with my opinion which is great. I love provoking good conversation and I love reading your views and ideas. There are no plans to change the current codes though and I wonder if we ever will? The one thing that nobody will ever be able to sell me on is why what someone else wears will change the experience and the food you have and you eat.
I couldn’t sleep last night so I went channel surfing and came across PBS and the Antiques Road Show. Have you seen this? If not it’s brilliant and you should. All those ladies with their knee high stockings and their house in the Hamptons imagine their Ming Vase was made by the Emperor Ming himself. But the expert, backed by a team of researchers, the internet and the Smithsonian invariably finds some tiny little detail that proves it was actually made by an unemployed man called Fu King in 1974 in a shed in Chicago. And is therefore worth only $1.99.
Oh they all try to look pleased with the valuation. But they’re not. Inside, every single one of them wants to smash the vase over the bearded expert’s head.
Goodnight.
Your friend,
John
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
Jill H……
That's me awwwwwwwww of you !!!! Some people …
All I can say is,,,,, SNOB< SNOB< SNOB…….. They work thier A$$E$ off for you and the rest of us, How dare you ???….. Oh Dear !!! You probably had to wait an extra 15 seconds….. I just can't understand some people, how rude of you, 15 seconds from your busy life… I'd bet those other people just agreed with you, to get you to shutup !!!!!! "( "( "(
John:
We will miss Jorge sooo much. But with this loss comes an opportunity for another wonderful CD to have his own ship….Gary Brierly.
We sailed with Gary many years ago when he was a Social Host.
Over the years, we have had the privilege of sailing with him as ACD many times and finally as CD. He is just tremendous. Not only is he a truly fine young man…..he is cute as a bug! It is so rewarding to see young men like Gary graduate up through the ranks and see just a brilliant end result.
I know what you mean about the Breitling. David has one and he loves that watch. Considering he is so “tight” (as in cheap) that the change in his pocket melts from the friction when he walks….I was shocked he would spend that much for a watch. Perhaps I have been a bad influence on him since I wear a Rolex. LOL
I sent my oldest son Josh a copy of the Destiny Fun Times…so that he and his college friends could get a preview of the fun ahead when they sail March 7th. I still can’t believe my “baby” is cruising without me.
Looks like I have trained him well.
Have a wonderful Blogger’s Cruise…and keep us all posted!!
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
Wow – Jill H needs to get a life. The “hired help”? Sounds positively Victorian – or Edwardian (think Titanic). In 13 cruises I’ve never had a problem with an occasional group of crew members boarding in the passenger area and I’ve never had boarding delayed because of the crew. Most of the time the crew boarding area moves faster anyway, so they’re not mixed in with “first class.” Jill H, I hope my son (studying to become a ship’s engineering officer and, if he every gets to sail with us again, a Carnival Platinum cruiser) never runs into you on a cruise.
I like Al’s “rookie cruise” challenge. It’s been 7 years since our rookie cruise. I do remember back to our first cruise out of NY on Carnival Victory – the feeling of looking down the Hudson River as we drove to the terminal and saying, “Look – There’s our ship!” The gaping looks when we entered the atrium. Since then, I have had the chance to go up to the rookie who looks absolutely lost and say “this way to the Lido deck.” It is a good feeling.
John,
We loved you on the Carnival Conquest. I Laughed more than any time in my life .Thanks!
Are you going to be Cruise Director on Barcelona to Galveston transatlantic on Oct 28 departure on the brand new Carnival Magic?
If you are going to be there We will come!
Bill B
John,
Forget Antiques Roadshow. There’s another show now called I think American Pickers. These guys travel in a van to find treasures in old barns, junk shops etc. Much more entertaining. Also Pawn Stars is fun to watch.
That’s when I start thinking my old junk might be worth something!
How about some more information about the Magic? I can’t wait to board her in October!
JoyceG
Wow I can not believe how rude and demanding people are.I’m so sorry you have to be nice to such jackholes and try and fulfill their request. Wow I will be joining Carnival with my Hubby for our very first ever cruise on the Facination in September and we can not wait. We will be going with an open mind and not expecting to be treated like we are entailed to someone to kiss our arses because we bought a ticket. I am ashamed by how some people act when asking for favors from you it is a sad commentary on the state of the human race when people can’t even use manners when asking for a favor. Take care I enjoy reading your post and watching you on FB.
Jill H – the hired help? Get over yourself. It’s a minor inconvenience at best.
Mia M.
Go threaten someone else. And learn that please and thank you cost nothing but mean a lot. Get some manners you ungrateful b…h!
I can’t believe someone used the phrase “the hired help” seriously. Every crew member works so gosh darned hard and will bend over backwards to help, and someone complains about them being in line so they can get back to work? Then again I’ve also seen people complain when there is a separate entrance for crew with no line because “why should we have to wait in line when the crew can just run right on?” You just can’t win, right?
These rude requests are getting tiresome. Mia M – Please and Thank You. Perhaps you should look up their usage and give them a try. A table request is a make or break thing? Really?
Ah, another John’s Blog and another rude request (strike that) demand for a favour.
I hope that such rude demanding people aren’t indicative of Celebrity cruisers. If they are you’ll never catch me on one of their ships.
No reply necessary, but please do read..
We just got off the Carnival Fantasy a few weeks ago and had an absolute blast.. I just had one comment. We signed up on the first night to take part in the Chef’s Table. I noticed it in the Fun Times that Embarkation day, in very small print, but never saw or heard it mentioned again.
When we signed up, the Room Service person who we talked to (as per the Fun Time’s suggestion) said that the maitre d’ would be speaking to us later in the cruise about times. Well, the maitre d’ finally came by the last night to tell us that the Chef’s Table had been canceled for lack of interest. Please, PLEASE could you pass along that perhaps some advertising is called for? We were very disappointed that we didn’t get to have that experience. Nobody we spoke with had even heard of the Chef’s Table or seen it mentioned.
Secondly, I hear you on the hotels. Our company has booked one hotel room per week every week for over a year. The same hotel, the same employee staying there, the same receptionist answering. Despite that, and countless faxes of credit card information, they still do not have our information on file. It’s enough to make me scream!!!!, especially when the employee arrives at 10pm at night, tired and hungry after work, and the reservation has been “lost”… again. Really, hotels should take some lessons from the cruise industry.
Thanks for reading and for all that you do.
Okay John. Another Latvian joke? There must be another country you can make fun of. It’s the second one in a week. I know most people don’t know where it is and have never heard of it, but there are some Latvians that read your blog. We will be on the Dream April 30. We’re are looking forward to it. It will be a family trip with teen agers. Wish us luck .The best part is that they will not be texting during each meal. Really do enjoy your blog. Even the Latvian jokes made me laugh. Paldies, Juris
Love the Antique Roadshow. It is a very neat show. Thanks for posting the Destiny Funtimes as my family will be on that ship in less than 2 weeks! Makes me look forward to it that much more!
Mia M,
With all your grace go back to that other ship.
It saddens me that a guest would be upset with crew members ahead of them in line. They are employees not second class citizens. I am sure if the staff member in question was late to his shift and not able to bring your drink, or turn down your bed you would not have accepted the explanation that he was stuck in line behind a guest waiting to board the ship.
John,
What is the normal turn around time for getting s response from Carnival when requesting a steakhouse reservation? About 2 weeks ago I requested a reservation on the Legend on 5/14/11 at 7pm for 2. I didn’t get a response so I did the request again last night. Still no response.
Thanks,
Melissa
Just like Janice on yesterdays blog, Mia should be told to bugger off and go begging somewhere else! John, you are TOO kind.
What a rude person Jill H. is. Does she think her s*i* doesn’t smell. The workers cause no problem as I see it. Many who have seen me on the ports have always been so respectful to me. To me whenever I’m at a port and see a worker I make sure to say hello to them as well as on the ship. Who does Jill H. think she is? I doubt that there were 50 people agreeing with her, maybe two if any. I don’t understand people like her.
You know John, I think back to first cruise and I was one of those rookies, shocked as I entered the atrium, amazed it the size and colours, getting lost looking for our cabin and just amazed with the amount of food on the ship. After now my 5th cruise I no longer get lost finding my cabin, careful with how much food I eat but still get excited as I walk into the atrium. Meeting you for the first time with Bee, Charlie, Linda & Mike was a proud moment and once again having the opportunity of seeing you again onboard the Carnival Dream also with Bee & Charlie gives me the feeling that I been given another chance
of spending some time listening to your words of wisdom. I’ve been with you since you began your blog, knowing & meeting you twice makes me give thanks because there will be many who will never be given that chance of meeting you. If ever I get that opportunity again of seeing you It will make me feel how lucky of a man I am.
Have a great week onboard the Carnival Glory with the Bloogers.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
BRILLIANT BLOG ENTRY once again! A couple of comments – a) we love seeing the crew on the ship or getting off the ship – they are remarkable hard working individuals and as far as I’m concerned the way they have pampered us they can get in front of me anytime and I’d even carry their bags! b) you are so incredibly nice with this people and their demands – table for please, where is my fruit basket? IDK how you do it but BRAVO for being so giving! c) IF YOU HAD TO PICK – TELL ME HAWAII OR ALASKA? We are looking to book another while we are on Splendour in October! Can’t wait to read your next entry! HB Carnival Spirit 2002 – Carnival Paradise 2008 & 2009 and Carnival Splendour 2011
John,
I have to say you keep me rolling in the isles…. I was thinking about movies and thought of one you might like to watch if you get a chance it is called “RED” it stars Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman and a cast of others… it is a great shoot’m up movie that will have you laughing also….
I also wanted to add that the Pilot has the ship turn so that they can board in the Lee of the wind and seas if possible. I also know that there are times the pilot must stay on the shop till the next port if call because conditions don’t let them get off the ship. also there are several Female Pilots. I know of 1 who is a former “America’ cup” sail Boat captain who works as a pilot in the Chesapeake bay. she was by the way the first and only female skipper in the america;s cup challange (back about 15 years ago)
tell Ryan to keep up the good work he is right up there with Jammie (who by the way we haven’t heard form lately HINT HINT Jammie….
Take care and have a safe flight and enjoy the bloggers cruise.
Capt Bill
I found Jill H’s comments to be totally distastful. I’m sitting here looking around, wanting to make sure we’re not back in the 1800′s. She’s essentially saying that “the crew” are second class and she’s above them. OY!! I hope I am NEVER on a cruise with her. I can guarantee that I would NOT have been with the 50 other ignorant (which I highly doubt) others that agreed with her.
I absolutey LOVED the crew on the Pride and would have LOVED hanging out with then waiting to get either on or off the ship.
I absolutely agree with you Kim. I have lots of friends that are crew members.
Hi John,
Jill made a comment above which you answered which struck a wrong note with me. This was about the crew using the passenger gangways. It reminds me of an incident in Venice with you and Heidi and a passenger said the crew should not be let off the ship. Get real Jill! Crew are people too. I’ve said this before and I say again that crew have just as much right to be somewhere as passengers. When you get off work, wherever and whatever it is. are you not allowed back into your town/city/whatever because you might interact with your customers or people that have business with you? When the crew is off they should be able to do what they want where they want.
I’ve been on Cruise Critic for several years and have gotten lots of great information there as well as making great friends through the roll calls. Lately it seems that some people have gotten very offensive and I hope you don’t let them get to you. Just ignore those and remember the rest of us are there for the information.
See you Sunday.
Linda & George
Singing Praises. We spent a whole week with a minister at our dinner table. I asked if he wanted us to wit for him to say Grace as we normally don’t, and he said “no problem as I usually say it to myself”. The family that is worried about being laughed at might think about singing to them selves to avoid being embarrassed. Why call attention to themselves?
John,
You were my first and you will now be my 10th. CD of course. We will hit Platinum on May 22 with you on Magic. Do we have to do anything special ahead of time to get the great perks or will CCL get it on your own. We will be packing very lightly and my wife does not like me wearing the same tighty whities for mor than 2 days. Thanks and can’t wait.
Figgie
To Jill H: “Hired help”??? Screw you, uppity broad. (Which is not what I want to call you but is much more polite.) With your attitude, I’m surprised you are involved with Carnival at all. After all, Carnival runs “fun ships” and it doesn’t sound like you’ve ever had any fun in your life, ever. I am only grateful that I’ve never come into contact with someone like you in person. I’m a woman, but if I ever met you I don’t think I’d be a lady. If people are so far beneath you…stay home.
John, I’ve said it once and I’ll say it any time I see someone being so unbelievably demanding and rude. You are by far too kind and so patient. I’m sure you have to be stunned by just how inconsiderate some of your customers can be. I give you credit for being so polite and accommodating despite how truly ungrateful so many people are to you. At least these folks seems to be in the minority, and those of us who appreciate what you do are in the majority. So to Mia M who wrote that incredibly RUDE note not ASKING nicely for a table for 8 but “suggesting that Carnival do the same” since Celebrity always has…..and also saying that this is a “make or break” it cruise. I’ll be shocked if this woman doesn’t write back after her cruise full of complaints. Not because they’re warranted, but because she’s already established herself as a demanding person who obviously is looking for just the smallest thing to complain about and then state her preference for another cruise line. Gotta love people that feel so entitled!! (Insert eye roll here!)
John,
I have been a cruise critic member for many years now.
I have not seen any of this hatred.
As a family we love to cruise on Carnival.
We love your kind of humor.
Most of the posts I have seen on cruise critics boards have to do with hotels before the cruise, things to do in port and talk about the cabins.
Perhaps I have been isolated on the boards I have been on but actually I have not seen your name mentioned once, neither good nor bad.
You are correct that cruise critic is a large forum and many members are also readers of this blog.
Seems to me that in recent weeks there has been a lot of Q&A centered around answering cruise critics hatred posts, where are these coming from, facebook perhaps? I went through several months of the blogs and did not find many instances of the example in your Q&A!!!!
I have never seen people say things like one of the posts you answered…….
“I was called a “jerk” because I defended Carnival’s decision to charge the prices you do in the bars and so I left. It is strange how a place that is dedicated to the love of cruising has become so negative. So please don’t worry about the people over there who hate you and keep doing what you are doing.”
I see stuff like this on other forums, usually computer forums, but have not witnessed anything like that on cruise critic.
Could someone post the links to a few of these threads so that I can take a look.
Perhaps I am just being a little naive
John,
How well I feel your pain with hotel heating and A/C units. As one who spends 3/4 of her life in hotel rooms, I don’t understand with modern technology how no one can come up with a QUIET a/c unit.
I think every hotel owner – CEO should spend their nights trying to sleep with a short cycling a/c unit that sounds like a jet taking off every 90 seconds, ripping one from the dream of a lifetime (Elvis and me) and slamming you back into the reality of a lonely, and either too hot or too cold hotel room.
I’ve found out, it doesn’t matter the cost of room either or hotel chain.
Pet Hotel Peeves
1. Loud A/C units
2. Flushing toilets that sound like they are sucking in universe
3. Race car seat toilets – these are the toilets that are 2 inches off the floor
4. Mirrors on the back of the bathroom door that face the toilet
(dear God, do I really need to look at myself?)
5. Over head lighting in the bathroom with the lighting capability of an anemic firefly
6. Mattresses that are hard as concrete in the parking lot
7. Partiers that make loud noises at 2:AM – Hey, some of have to work
8. Bosses that watch XXX movies, and the noises you hear aren’t on the TV
(Don’t ask me how I know)
9. Getting dirty feet when you have just taken a bath, and walked accross the floor – I know, gross…
10. Hotel room cards (Keys) that won’t work after 1 try….
So, my fellow traveler, you have my deepest sympathy….
MissKitty
I would just like to reply to Jill H. I think it is insulting that you have referred to the hardworking Carnival employees as “hired help”. These are people, and your term is of bygone days when cooks, maids and drivers were forced to walk in separate doors and eat in separate rooms and act like they weren’t worthy of being treated like people. This is 2011 and I would hope that most people realize that everyone, no matter what their job is, is a human being and deserves to be treated the same. If the “cast members” over at Disney are treated like hired help, you go ahead and hang out there, but I’m glad I’ve never been on one of their cruises. I’ll stay on Carnival with the fun loving, awesome crew of PEOPLE!
well said!!!!
Hi John!
Every time I read your blog I crack up and DH always asks if it is your blog or Facebook thingy. We are boarding the Sensation today to show our boys (both16 – first timers) what the fuss about cruising is about! We hope you have a great bloggers cruise and will be checking out the video updates, hoping we can sail with you one day.Thanks for being you!
Tina
to Mia A: didnt your mom or teachers never taught you any manners? you ask like if you were netitled to it and yet NEVER mentioned the word PLEASE or THANK YOU. you know? those words does a body good, and get you father in life.. use them, and you will see.. it will not kill you to be nice
Hey John
Just want to say what a great time Melanie Tina and I had on the Freedom the first week of February… And thanks again for the DVD of Me doing the morning show You and Ryan…. looking forward to our next cruise with you.. And remember it MELANIE NOT MEL…lol ( if you do) Cheers
Re Jill H
As you state John, the crew don’t have very long ashore and have to get back to work. Would this lady prefer there to be launches especially for the staff which would leave at set times, and possibly depart with empty seats while the guests are left standing in “their” queue?
To Mia M…..From a cruise nut myself to you….Please and Thank you are wonderful words. I’ve cruised Celebrity and Carnival. You will see that yes, there are differences, but, I don’t ever EXPECT anyone to give me something, without even saying PLEASE and THANK YOU. Words you might want to try!
You will find as much fun as you choose. Cruise life, regardless of which cruise line is more about attitude than the Cruise line your on. Carnival does a fantastic job of making every moment fun filled and great food. Now, I have a hunch, with the attitude your showing, nothing anyone does or says will make you happy. So, do us all a favor, and just forget your pretentiousness, and enjoy life! After 50 Cruises…I”m still loving every moment on any cruise ship…and, Carnival does a fabulous job! REMEMBER…Please and Thank you….They are powerful words!
john as you know i am one of carnival’s biggest fans, going to be milestone on sunday, but i must say one thing. where you said you have to pay $23 to valet park at the marriott, at the ports we have to pay $20 a day and park ourselves. valet would be lovely! of course i know this is not carnival’s doing! once we get inside the building we are treated so good (in miami and pt. canaveral anyway, not in ft. lauderdale).
see you sunday!
smiles, bee
xoxo
YES, YES AND YES!!! IT’S ABOUT TIME SOMEONE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE HIGH PARKING PRICES IN THE PORTS. ON SOME CRUISES IT’S OVER $100 ADDED TO THE CRUISE. THANKS FOR MENTIONING THIS. IT’S JUST NOT FAIR!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hello John,
My boyfriend and I are taking our first trip together and we are sailing on the Liberty March 19th from Miami. This is my first cruise and I’m very excited. We booked through Carnival and the agent was extremely helpful. I’ve been reading up on the dos and donts on the Carnival forums and have gotten tones of information. Any valuable tips for a first time cruiser?
I would like to know if its possible to have a table for 2 for our late dining (8:15pm) in the MDR. We are staying in room 7328.
I appreciate the help!!!
Ryan, if you’re reading this, I’m reading your comments with your voice in my head! Crazy, huh? When you make cruise director, I’ll try to be there! John and Ryan, keep up the good work!
Ray (one half of The Newbies – winners of Super Duper Trivia on the Splendor the week before the fire – fan of John and Ryan)
G’day John! I LOVE when I come home to Carnival, the first thing that is said to me at the embarkatiion desk (in the terminal) and when I board the ship is “Welcome back Sari”. It warms my heart and makes me so happy to be home!
I know I’ve said it before, but thanks for all you do!
Fondest Regards,
Sari
Quote
“John, I was on my first Carnival cruise and it was good but I cannot understand why you allow the crew to get on and off the ship with the passengers.”
It sounds like Hyacinth Bucket from keeping up appearances is sailing with Carnival.
Bea Harper (cruise#–too many to count) & Brenda Shields (cruise #4) Mother & Daughter from Arkansas
Cabin #1201
GREAT fans of John’s blog thingy!! Best entertainment value going.
Jill H.,
I’ve never had an issue with the crew being in the line to exit or board the ship. You really can’t expect them to always have a seperate entrance and if they go to the back of the line every time a passenger joins it, they would never get back on! Actually, at ports where there was a seperate entrance, I’ve never seen a line for the crew entrance so I doubt they’re adding much if any time to your wait.
This is in response to Jill H.,
Get over yourself.
Help!
We got the Carnival Cruise fever after our Pride cruise last summer. What a great vacation! My daughters (14, 13) chose another Carnival Cruise for our next trip in the summer of 2012. (you beat Disney!) Anyway, we want to sail out of NYC since we’ve never been there. Any idea when the July 2012 itineraries will be out for New York? I NEED to have a cruise booked–Pittsburgh winters are endless and I’m looking for a glimmer of hope! I’m also dreaming of my HMC cabana–I surprised the family on the last trip and now we’re spoiled! Thanks! I’m new to your blog thingy and I’m really enjoying it!
For Sherron Poros: My daughter and I sailed on Pride in January. She is a vegetarian. We dined at David’s one evening and her vegetarian entree was incredible….and, the “little tastes” sent to the table by the Chef were also vegetarian for her.
Right after boarding, we made a bee-line to David’s to confirm our dining time and so she could chat with those good folks. They had all the info about her dining preference (no meat, no fish, etc.) and spent about 10 minutes talking about her likes and dislikes.
I tasted her entree, a wonderful dish of incredible risotto with veggies, mushrooms, seasoned to perfection and HUGE. She declared it one of the best things she has ever consumed.
BTW: There were plenty of vegetarian selections in the main Dining room and she was more than pleased with dinner every night…and pleased with the buffet selections…. She ate herself silly!!
Have a great time.
Kevin Oates, yes to the Chef’s Table! Our experience was that no-one asked us about food allergies, and when we saw the menu there was shrimp on it. Well, then came the delimma of insulting the chef by not eating something he lovingly prepared, or breathing. Since I have become used to breathing, I called chef over discreetly and explained the problem. He smiled, told me he would take care of it and disappeared into the kitchen. He returned when they were serving that course, put a plate down in front of me and told me “Don’t worry, it’s chicken”. You couldn’t tell it from what everyone else was eating! He was so discreet about it I doubt if anyone else at the table besides my wife even noticed! My advice would be to say something ahead of time if no-one asks you though, I just didn’t think about it frankly. That was the BEST experience ever! I love to cook and would have been a chef had things gone differently in my life, your daughter will LOVE the experience! It was amazing to watch as we toured the kitchen. All I can say is that I highly reccommend experiencing this treat! Don’t worry about the alcohol thing either. No-one forced us to drink anything…we did, buit no one forced it!
Mike
John~
First off, let me say how much I enjoy reading your blogs and following you on facebook. I am sure I am not the first one to tell you just how entertaining they are for us!
My comment is in regards to building new friendships and Carnival’s role in that! Last March my husband and I cruised on the Triumph for five days. This was the first time that we had gone on a cruise without friends tagging along with us, and we were not sure what to expect. I logged onto Cruise Critic and starting chatting with other cruisers that would be on the same trip and got to know a lot of people through daily posts. By the time we cruised, I felt like I already knew some of them. We even ended up meeting one couple at the hotel the night before (in New Orleans) and sharing a ride to the terminal with them.
Anyway, long story a bit shorter…we met lots of great people on this cruise and continue to keep contact with several of them through facebook and emails. And how cool is this…..this May 8th we will be cruising for 7 days on the Conquest with a couple we became friends with (Jan & Mark from Louisiana!) on that cruise. We booked the cabin next to theirs (and this will be our first time with an extended balcony, very excited!) and arranged to have dinner seating together. I email with Jan daily and we are really looking forward to seeing them again in May! So, if your are open to it, you can make wonderful new friendships on Carnival!!! Thanks so much for that~
Alright, I’m just going to reply because over the last few days some of the Questions from passengers have really ticked me off. I could SO not do your job, John. To the woman who wanted to know why you didn’t send them a fruit basket after stating how everything you did do was perfect I say…”ARE YOU KIDDING ME?” Seriously…you want fruit go up to the Lido deck and help yourself. Geez, the world does not revolve around you. Secondly to Mia M above…I hope you get your table for 8 and that every table around you has crying, screaming kids who’s parents don’t believe in discipline. If you love Celebrity so much, why don’t you stick with them and quit making thinly veiled threats to a man who goes out of his way to help anyone and everyone he can. If you don’t sail with Carnival again, you won’t be missed!
Regarding the pilot boat as you said:
“…they will disembark onto the pilot boat while the ship is in motion as you said. The pilot will climb down a rope ladder which in rough seas and when the boat is pitching a rolling is a difficult and somewhat dangerous thing to do.”
We have actually watched them do this from the balcony of the Conquest on more than one occasion. It was quite the sight to see them (once there were two individuals) make the jump for our ship to their boat while we are moving. Looked like a James Bond thing!
To the lady complaining about the ship staff getting on in front of her…
Really, it’s that big of a pain to be in line with the “hired help”? Viewing them as “hired help” is pretty condescending to begin with. Yes they are on the ship to perform duties, just like any of us that have to work for a living are at our jobs. The crew members are not second class citizens.
Personally I’ve never came across this as being an issue, as the crew usually uses a separate gangway. With the exception of Cozumel a few years back when we had to tender in and out due to the pier being torn up by a recent hurricane. Regardless of the size of the line, we all must wait our turn.
If I did happen to be standing in line behind or with the crew, I would find it enjoyable as maybe it would be a chance to talk to them while they weren’t non-stop busy around the ship.
Besides what do you expect them to do? Just stand over to the side and wait for everyone who is not “hired help” to get on first? They would be there for possibly hours. Then you would be aggravated because they didn’t get something done prompt enough to your timing. They are humans just you and I. Stop being so elitist!
I totally agree with Randall. They are humans too, and they are taking care of us 24/7, cleaning after our mess. Who ever is complaining, should be in their shoes and then they will know. Thanks for posting
My wife and I went on a Carnival cruise a few months ago. The seas were rough and we couldn’t get to Freeport but the food was great.
The thing that completely ruined it for us though was the constant cigarette smoke coming from 2 cabins over that filled the hallway and our cabin. It gave both of us tremendous headaches to the point we couldn’t even enjoy our room.
Not sure why Carnival doesn’t provide non-smoking cabin areas for passengers who don’t enjoy the stench of second hand smoke.
John,
I just started reading your blog in anticipation of my second cruise with Carnival on the Glory sailing 3/6. I can never seem to stay of your website the week leading up to a cruise because of the excitement. So if you hear rumblings in your IT department of someone excessively checking out the Glory’s deck-plans, virtual tours, and videos, it was probably me. This will be my daughters first cruise and I can tell you she’s equally excited.
I was interested to read about you having a gift sent to the stateroom of your fans, and was hoping My daughter and I could take part in that. I will be staying in room 8434. I realize this is short notice, and if this message does not reach you in time, I understand if you are not able to meet our request.
Cheers,
Lou
John, I LOVE reading your blog. I’m excited to hear about the “new” embarkation experience. Will it take effect before my 4/13 Fantasy cruise?
Why doesn’t John simply tell the likes of “Mia M” that until they can request something with the tiniest bit of manners instead of demanding and threatening a boycott that they should go enjoy their boycott? Those cruising Carnival would thank him and I think John would get a laugh knowing what Celebrity has just inherited. It boggles the mind how full of themselves some people can be!
Hi John first off I’m loving reading your blogs, so fun!!
My hubby and I are going on our first Carnival Cruise on the Fantasy on 3/12/11. We are on the late seating and I would love for us to have a table for 2. While we are very social people and the parents of 4 this is a get away from it all vacation for the both of us.
My husband just started a new work schedule and I only get to sit down and have dinner with him one night a week. So to be able to sit with just him for 6 nights would be wonderful!!
Thanks so much
Karey
I forgot to add that they Dave & Marina are celebrating their 29th anniversary and Marina’s birthday too!
John, Did you get the pictures I sent you at Christmastime???? They were from the maiden voyage of the Legend in 2002. It truly was the trip of a lifetime.
Wee Jimmy was with you at that time. You thought him well, happy to see he is a CD now. Looking forward to hearing from you.
John, in regard to your reply to Mia M:
I have cruised both Carnival and Celebrity. I assure you that what you state is absolutely true! I have had nothing but great service on CCL and pleasant exchanges with the staff/crew. However, when I cruised with Celebrity, I had both the dining room steward and the cabin steward make rude remarks to us.
I’m silver with CCL and I will NEVER got back on a Celebrity cruise because of those remarks!
John,
Good Evening – I will be on board the Carnival Destiny the week of March 7-11, 2011 to celebrate my husband 50th and cousin’s birthday. Can you please help me make arrangements to have a cake delivered to our table on their special day (March 9th)?
Thank you…
John,
We recently returned from our 13th or 14th cruise with Carnival. We were on the Freedom the week after you left. First, let me say we had a wonderful time. The maitre ‘d in the Early Seating dining room was the best we have ever had. He came to everyone’s table every night and made dining a pleasure. The comedy club was also very good. We only go to the PG shows but we totally enjoyed them. We were disappointed that there were not comics every night. As a matter of fact it seemed like there was no entertainment a couple of nights. Normally we have seen a juggler or hypnotist or some other kind of act, but not on this trip. We also noticed that neither our room steward or our waiter attempted to remember our names. This was no big deal, but definitely something we noticed. The buffet lines also seemed to be set up a little differently then the other 2 times we were on the Freedom. The salad line ran directly into the hot food line which made the lines very long. The chocolate fountain was combined with all the other desserts which meant if you only wanted a dish of rice pudding you had to wait in a line that was 45 minutes long. Our cruise director, Dan, was new and I think he will get better with time. The only comment I have, which I heard from others on the Lido deck, is that he was never seen around the ship other than if he was introducing a show. I honestly only saw him twice the whole cruise, and one of those times was when we were disembarking. Let me say the ACD was hysterical, although he had a tough time controlling the crowd who were gathered in the showroom before disembarking in Panama. He could have used more help. Although this last cruise was not quite up to par with the others we have taken, we came home just this past Sunday and today have booked our next cruise on the Liberty on 9/3/11. We were able to get cabin 6366 for a very good price. Do you know who the CD will be? Thank you for all your hard work. We cruisers do appreciate it.
Ryan is indeed a rising star! I see CD in his not too distant future and when he makes it, we’ll be there!
I don’t mean to pile onto Jill H, but we were also on Freedom last week. In Cozumel there were two gangways; one for passengers and one for crew. In order to speed embarkation during a too short port call Security allowed passengers to embark through the crew gangway.
I seriously wish people like Jill and Mia would stay on whatever lines they usually cruise with. It saddens me that Jill does not see the crew as the wonderful, diverse group of people who work very hard and should enjoy their day off (or few hours) too. I have had the privilage of really talking to many of them and what a fabulous group they are. Jill you have a huge prima donna complex that is not going to serve you well in 2011. Mia, Mia, Mia I wish John could send your party of 8 to eat in a lifeboat! Do not ask for favors without the use of please or Thank You, really, who do you think you are? On our last cruise John was gracious enough to send my daughter many presents, she was so appreciative (as was I) but, people like you suck the fun out of doing nice things, You cannot expect people to do nice things for you if you are so rude and demanding! Clearly you must have had some issues with your other cruise line if you are going on a Carnival cruise, maybe they could not accomodate some ridiculous request, regardless you should be ashamed! John, Mak is still talking about all her gifts from you. Her trophy is on the mantle LOL, Thank You again, you made it the trip of a lifetime for her, I will never be able to express just how much joy you brought her!
I LOVE THIS RESPONSE TO JILL AND MIA……BOTH OF YOU, GET OVER YOURSELVES. NO ONE APPOINTED YOU GOD SO LIVE WITH THE REST OF US……..AND BE KIND ABOUT IT!!!
John –
You are too nice – tell the guy (actually Gal – I think her name was JILL) that went to Disney lines – to well – GO BACK TO DISNEY – who is to say there werent crew out of uniform he didnt recognize in front of him there?
Crew is aloud their time off – and I cannot image that 4 people held him up more then a whole 2 minutes – you are on vacation – you really need those 2 minutes? Maybe he should be on vacation… Instead of bi***ing about the 4 crew members at a port trying to get back to work to SERVE him hand and foot withOUT complaint – SERIOUSLY? That guy needs a life! I would be THANKING those crew members for their hard work and ask if they enjoyed their time off –
I also found it horribly offensive using the words “hired help” — I am sure these are the people who also lower their tips at the end of the cruise or maybe to nothing at all and ruin it for other people as all they do is complain!
You are nicer then me – I would just tell her to GO BACK TO DISNEY THEN!
John,
Many thanks to you for taking on the extra task of organizing reservations for the Chef’s Table. My better half and I will be celebrating the end of his deployment to Germany with a 7 night cruise on the Magic. If possible, I would love to surprise him with dinner at the Chef’s Table. My fingers are crossed that we will see you on our July 3 sailing.
Michelle