I do, now and then, talk about my friend and staff member Calvyn and indeed late in the blog I will be chatting about some of the other staff members here on the Carnival Magic. Calvyn is from another world. Now I don’t mean than he is from a strange planet like Jupiter or Uranus but from a world where fashion and behavior is strange to me………very strange.
This includes the new thing Calvyn wears. It is a vest. A spandex paneled man’s vest that….. and I’ll put this nicely ……….holds in his…….ummmmm…….chest skin. A vest that, if you believe what Calvyn says, banishes his man boobs, or mobs, and his love handles and gives him an “instant six-pack”……the abdominal kind, not the ThirstyFrog Red kind. Calvyn wears this vest, which along with his control pants, compresses his colon like the filling of a Lido Deck burrito. Calvyn has suddenly become obsessed with trying to eliminate every lump and bump with this “magic” elasticized underwear. I am sure he is only a few days away from dining on laxatives and boiling his arse in seaweed or whatever it is they do with these cellulite loss treatments in the spa. I thought it was only women that do all this kind of stuff to improve their image but apparently it’s men that do it, as well. Who knew? I’m told that men use Botox eye lift, bleach, peel and be wrapped in oils and mud to achieve the GQ Magazine-approved version of a “hot” body. What a load of bollocks, honestly, it really is.
Calvyn’s latest thing is he wants his hands waxed. It is a sad day when a man looks at the back of his own hand and feels that it could look better, prettier even. Why, unless the back of your hand is covered in welts and sores and zits, then leave it alone for God’s sake. Whiskery nostrils? I’ll pass you the clippers myself, Calvyn. But a slightly hairy hand? It’s just a hand. Let it be. Who is Calvyn modeling himself on…….Cameron Diaz? He has gone too far and the final straw was as we were about to go live on the morning show when he said, “Be honest, John, does my gut look big in this?” That’s when I realised that I am not living in the same world as Calvyn and many of my metro sexual colleagues. Control pants? My underpants are men’s underpants or at least I thought they were. They are either plain white or are military camouflage while some have Aston Martins or rocket-blasting-off imagery. I also know while boxer shorts are undoubtedly cooler, big baggy briefs are rather better at containing unexpected toilet related accidents.
And after that wonderful image to start today’s blog, let’s get on with some Q and A. Here we go:
Scott Pullen asked:
Hi John/Beards,I love the blog, read it daily, and my wife and I are avid Facebook followers. We started reading the blog a couple of years ago but never caught up all the way back to the beginning. Before the new format, there was a calendar that you could click on to view the archived blogs. Is there any chance of getting that back? It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much for all you guys do for us. My best to Heidi & Kye. John, keep up the awesome work.
Sincerely,
Scott
John says:
Hello Scott,
I asked the beards about this as someone else mentioned it as well and here is Eric the Beards response.
“We are working to get this back up shortly. Will send you a note once it’s back up”
Thanks, Eric, and I will, of course, let you know as soon as he tells me.
Thanks so much for being such fans of my writing and I hope we get to sail together soon.
Best wishes to you both.
John
Beth James asked:
Hi John,It’s interesting that in today’s blog you mention Postini. You see, we stopped receiving emails from CCL about a year ago. We talked to a PVP about the problem and although he tried to help, the problem is still not solved. We had the PVP send us the error message he was receiving, my husband is a techie kind of guy and we could track that the email being sent never leaves CCL and could see it was being held up by Postini. When we tried to explain this, the concept was lost. He even has CCL tech support look into it. Well, sometime later we were told CCL no longer uses Postini and it must be that they have stopped sending out blast emails. I guess the point of all this is, maybe you can have someone contact me to see if we can get this resolved. We continue to cruise with you and will for a very long time, but we feel we could be missing out on great specials or just CCL news. My phone number is _______and my email address is already here. Thank you for all you do. You really are a wonderful and helpful man.
John says:
Hello Beth James,A few weeks ago I was trying to send and receive emails with one of my Facebook friends about an experience he had on the Carnival Legend and the same thing that happened to you happened to him, as well. It was only after much deliberation that we discovered that his email was sent to our Postini system which filters emails. Now, as I don’t have a beard, I cannot pretend to understand the complexities of this, but the bottom line I think is that the same thing is indeed happening to you and therefore we can and will make sure we contact you. I will pass this onto someone who can make this happen. My apologies and thanks also for the kind words and please let me know once you get that first email.
Best wishes.
John
Grace Keddie asked:
John,Love the blog but have to say that sometimes your humor is not appropriate for my 14 year old son to read. We cruised with you the week before the Carnival Splendor fire and had a great time and Marcus, my son, loved your shows and has been reading your blog ever since and has written to you on Facebook as well. Please can I ask that you start placing a rating at the top of each page such as PG and R and X so that I know which ones he can read or not if the case may be? Please start this as soon as you can.
John says:
Hello Grace Keddie,Thanks for taking the time to write and I apologise sincerely if what I have written here may not have been suitable for your son to read. I often forget that younger people read this blog and agree that I need to keep younger readers in mind as it can be a bit on the naughty side sometimes. I hope you enjoyed sailing with me on the Carnival Splendor and please send my best to Marcus.
Best wishes,
John
Nancy O’Hara asked:
John,I’ve cruised on Carnival only once on Carnival Sensation and what keeps me from returning is the price of booze. I like a cocktail at lunchtime and a few in the afternoon and again in the evening but the prices were so high, I spent more on liquor then I did on my cruise!!!!!!! I am from Aiken, SC where a margarita is only $2 and it’s even cheaper at happy hour. How does Carnival think it can charge $5 or more?
John says:
Hello Nancy O’Hara,Those sound like some very cheap bar prices indeed and I expect a few of the blog readers may be heading to their car now to drive to your town. On a serious note, our prices are on par with most land-based resorts and are also priced competitively in the cruise industry. I hope you will consider coming again with us and consider the fact that you spent little on the cruise experience itself and all the happy memories you had……..if you can remember them with that bar bill …….. sorry, cheap shot. Seriously, come and sail again and if you have any questions, please let me know.
Best wishes.
John
Kurt Eberle asked:
John,Hannah’s parents here (from the July 17th cruise). This was our first cruise ever and while we had low expectations (I worked on a cruise line after college in Alaska), the family consensus was that every aspect of our experience on the Carnival Magic was fantastic! Thank you for a great first night welcome show. Hannah had fun on stage; the magic medallion you gave her was a problem because she has two brothers (thanks a lot).
John says:
Hello Kurt Eberle,Your daughter is clear in my memory and her antics with me on stage brought the house down. She is a wonderful little girl and you should be very proud to have raised such an angel. I apologise for costing you $20 – or was it $60? I hope to see you all soon and I am so glad you had a brilliant cruise.
Best wishes.
John
Bonnie Gill asked:
Hello Dear John!You and I have sailed together four times (remember the Salmons?) and I look forward to seeing you again on the BC5 next March. I have a request…On September 17, 2011 I will be sailing on the Carnival Glory out of New York. The request is not for me – as a Platinum guest, I already have more than I need – but for my dear childhood friend, Gail Tyler. We will be roomies on that cruise and will be seeing each other again for the first time in 36 YEARS!! As this will be her first cruise ever, I am hoping you can think of a way to help me make her maiden cruise memorable. Our stateroom is 8445 and booking #****** Thank you, John, for all that you do and I really appreciate anything you can come up with – I know you are so very busy.
Love from your FB and blogging buddy, Bonnie!
John says:
Hello Bonnie Gill,Thank you, first of all, for your loyalty as a Platinum guest and I am excited to read you have booked the Bloggers Cruise here on Carnival Magic. I am now about four weeks behind on my questions here on the blog thingy and I wondered that as you are not sailing until mid-November that you could ask me this again by posting here on the blog on October 10 or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/johnheald a week before you sail. Either way, I will be happy to send Gail something. I look forward to hearing from you and I will see you here in March.
Best wishes.
John
Lane’ Small asked:
John,I just ended a call with a booking representative for suggesting I leave one of my family members home. My question to her was, I have a family of six. Two adults and four children under the age of 10 and needed a suite to accommodate us. She advised me that I would have to purchase two separate rooms or leave a family member behind. I would like to know is this truly Carnival’s only option or did I just have the misfortune of speaking to a less than accommodating rep?
John says:
Hello Lane’ Small,I am hoping there is another side to this story but I do apologise that you left this call feeling less than happy. I will pass this now to someone who can help you discuss cabin accommodations. By the way, our largest staterooms only accommodate five people and for six guests indeed you would need to purchase two staterooms. Please accept my apologies and someone will be contacting you shortly. I hope we see you and all your family soon.
Best wishes.
John
Sami asked:
John,When can I find out who the cruise director will be on the Carnival Legend in June 2012? I am wanting to book and it may seem harsh but if there is a specific female there I won’t go as her voice ruined my cruise. I won’t say any more here but please feel free to email me if you want more information.
John says:
Hello Sami,Thanks for taking the time to write and I am sorry to hear one of my colleagues had such a negative effect on your cruise. I obviously know who you are talking about and I should mention that this lady also has many fans. While I don’t have the complete schedule and as soon as it’s published, we’ll let you know. If there is anything else I can do for you please, let me know.
Best wishes.
John
Alexander Knight asked:
John,I am PLATINUM and I was just wondering if you could tell me where Maitre d’ George the Greek is these days. He was fantastic and we had him on four of our 14 cruises.
Thanks, John.
John says:
Hello Alexander Knight,George the Greek was indeed a brilliant maitre d’ and gave many great years of service to Carnival. He retired last year though and we miss him a lot. Please let me know if you have any other questions and thanks for your loyalty.
Best wishes.
John
And that’s all for today which is good as my arm is hurting ……bugger. I am going to take a break and turn things over to a good friend of mine Mr. Robert Brother. He and I are both from the UK and he owns my favourite fish and chips shop back home……..his cod and chips are the best in the world. Anyway, we are in Venice today and last week he was in Venice as well on the beautiful new Princess ship Azura.
Now because this blog often waffles on about underpants and stuff, I never get chance to truly describe the wonders of some of the ports we go to and none are more wondrous than Venice. Robert wrote me the following email describing what he did in Venice and I thought it was so brilliantly written that I would share it with you. Here is Mr. Robert Brother in his own words.
We had a really good cruise on Azura and were really well looked after. The highlight of the cruise was, of course, Venice. We had wanted to see the Dogana museum having seen scaffolding around it for so long, and having discussed how best to get there with Graham, the port presenter, we walked to the end of the dock area and got the “people mover” monorail. Graham had said you’ll need a one Euro coin for the ticket, but we didn’t have any one Euro coins and the ship only keeps notes. However, there was a small shop/kiosk at the end of the dock so I asked if he could change a five Euro note for coins for the people mover. “I sell you tickets” he cried, so we were fixed. Arrival at the people mover produced the next problem as there were hundreds of loud women with suitcases queuing for this having disembarked the ___ ship in the next dock. So we had to queue with them for I suppose 20 minutes but we made it. That took us to the Piazza Roma, the first stop on the Grand Canal where we queued again for tickets. We took the No 1 Vaporetto which stops everywhere along the Grand Canal to the Salute stop. What a lovely way to see Venice though and with a 12-hour ticket you could stay on it all day.
Anyway, you were right about the Dogana, the light is quite spectacular and I loved the roof timbers. We bought the guide book so we could reflect on it later. There were some works by artists that I’ve seen in England too. Having had a good look round and not been disappointed, we went back on the Vaporetto to the Accademia stop to see the Glasstress exhibition. The name of the venue is The Institute of Science, Letters and Arts (strange combination) and wasn’t shown on any of the maps, but it was clearly advertised with large posters and was right next to the Accademia bridge. It was interesting and there were some quite beautiful pieces. And then a quick walk back over the bridge and along to the Peggy Gugenheim Collection. We’ve been before but amongst other things, they have my favourite Kandinsky painting (Upward). Incidentally, the BBC has been making a big thing about art that is in storage in this country and not on display and one of these owned by the Tate is a quite beautiful Kandinsky painting (Swinging) of a similar type to my favourite. What a waste, maybe they’d lend it to me. So….Venice was a real adventure this time and we loved it.
I have posted this for two reasons. Firstly, because it describes passionately how beautiful Venice is and, of course,………..free fish and chips. Well written Robert – send more please.
As you know, this is my last cruise here in Europe on the Carnival Magic and my last cruise with the wonderful entertainment staff who have provided thousands of guests with so much fun. Indeed, James, Eli, Leonnie, Calvyn, Christian, John (aka LSOP) Eric, Katie, Ryan and Mel were the best start up team I have worked with. Some will be here when I return in November but a few will not and that’s because they have, thanks to their brilliant work here, been promoted and I would like to give them a mention here on my blog thingy and we shall start with Christian Davies:
Hi Everyone I’m Christian Davies and all I can say is becoming an assistant cruise director is a dream come true…quite literally as I will be heading off to sunny Port Canaveral to return to the Carnival Dream in my new position. When I found out from John that I was becoming assistant cruise director, I nearly fell out of my chair as it’s an honor to get one step closer to that hallowed chair of the cruise director. I have had some amazing times on board and even crazier memories I will never forget from many of my activities…..I just love the unexpected. I am looking forward to guiding others now in creating a fantastic experience for all our guests and create some more everlasting memories. I also want to thank John for believing in me and giving all his wisdom which I intend to take with me. He is like a cruise ship Yoda.
Thanks, Christian and I am sure that it won’t be long before you are in the big chair and I wish you all the best…………….oh, and Yoda, my arse.
Now let’s meet L.S.O.P. or John Gleason as few call him.
Greetings Everyone! Or as they say back home in the Big Apple, “How you doing?” My name is John Gleason and I am extremely excited about this promotion to assistant cruise director. I remember embarking on this great new adventure; with the intentions to one day hopefully grace the big chair as cruise director…..and I’m now one step closer. (Cue dramatic movie trailer music). It has been a whirlwind of great challenges and even greater memories, and I know that there are even more around the corner. I am looking forward to the new challenges and new adventures that await me and of course all the opportunities to put smiles on the faces of the people and help make their cruise with me an amazing memory. One for the record books or, more fitting, the scrapbooks.
And if you see John, ask him what LSOP stands for. I wish him much success and he is another star of the future.
Also promoted to assistant cruise director is Melody De Dios and I will miss her the most.
She has been my personal assistant and worked so hard and put up with my mood swings which on the days directly after my girls leave me, are pretty dramatic. Mel will join me in Galveston and back here for the Bloggers Cruise but will then take her place as ACD on the Carnival Conquest.
She has been invaluable but it’s time for her to move on and bring the same smile that she brings me every day to thousands of lucky guests. Good luck, Mel……and thank you.
So who is going to be my new personal assistant? Who is going to fill the huge gap that Melody will leave? I looked hard around the fleet and finally went with someone who is funny and extroverted and someone who I hope will be able to look after me in the same way as Melody did. Here he is
My name is Calvyn Sean Champagne Martens (I am one man). I come from Vancouver, Canada, and have accepted the position of executive assistant to Mr. John Heald. At first, I had to think about it, but after John literally was on his knees pleading with me, I had to say yes. What I look forward to the most (besides learning from an outstanding cruise director) is bringing him his coffee at 5 in the morning. What I am not looking forward to the most is him throwing it at me if it is not precisely 118 degrees (he has a digital thermometer). I also relish the challenge of turning him into a metro sexual and giving him warm hugs and a friendly pat on his bottom when he is feeling blue. I imagine that on the Carnival Breeze we will work hard but in the evenings take long walks around the shipyard, sit at a Trattoria and talk about our shared passions, Liza Minnelli, The Golden Girls and David Hasselhoff. I am so lucky and feel like skipping down promenade naked. See you on the Bloggers Cruise.
Oh FFS! What have I done?
On a more serious if not confused note, I have to talk about yesterday, the 10th anniversary of September 11…….oh, by the way, before I forget, thanks so much for all the wonderful words about Friday’s blog, that was so kind of you.
Anyway, like all the ships, we here on the Carnival Magic paused for thought just before we arrived into Venice. It was a beautiful day with the early morning mist having dissapissatated (spelt correctly) and the sun shining through and onto this beautiful ship and her guests. At 11:30am local time I gave a small brief speech about memories that would be created in Venice and how today we should also remember what happened, etc., and then invited the guests for one minute of silence. Now most of the ship were lining the open decks and on their balconies to see the arrival into Venice and as I invited everyone to hold hands together I could, from my position on the bridge, see that everyone was doing so and as the minute of silence began that most were bowing their heads in remembrance. The minute ticked by and the end was marked by one blast of the ships whistle. And we moved on and I spoke about Venice and all was well. Well, you can imagine my surprise then that over the next few hours I received three complaints and because I am both frustrated and confused, I wanted to share them with you.
The first one is self explanatory.
Guest: Mr ————- Ref: 848081432A
Cabin: **** Booking#: ******Added-Changed: 09/11/11 – 09/11/11
C – ****- RUDE GUESTS
Mr. **** approached and said that during the CD’s talk on 9/11 on the PA system the guest who was on deck 10 starboard side said that during the silence minute that a group of guests were laughing and talking. Mr ______ told them to be quiet but guest was rude and swore at him. Mr___said this was very disrespectful and wanted to make sure his opinion was recorded.
Considering that there are numerous other nationalities here on the Carnival Magic, including several hundred French and Russian guests, I am certain that they didn’t understand the announcement which was not repeated in multiple languages….or at least I hope that’s the case.
That comment is a little frustrating because obviously it spoiled the moment for the guest who commented. And while that is, I guess sort of, understandable…………these two are not.
From: MAGIC GUEST SERVICES
Sent: Sunday, September 11, 2011 7:49 PM
To: MAGIC CRUISE DIRECTOR; MAGIC HOTEL DIRECTOR
Cc: MAGIC GUEST SERVICES SUPERVISOR;
Subject: 9/11 ANNOUNCEMENT COMMENTS – 09/10/2011John, following your announcement earlier today, we have received the following comments from three cabins.
Cabin****
Mr._______ said that he was on vacation and shouldn’t have to be forced into a moment of silence. Guest was very angry, John, and has asked to speak to you and the captain. He feels that he is on vacation to get away from the event.Cabin ****
Mrs________ also said basically the same thing but added that your announcement woke her up as well.Cabin ****
Mrs________said that it was inappropriate for the event to be mentioned as the ship is in Europe not in the USA. Mrs______also said that the American flag hanging in the lobby was also wrong and asked for it to be removed. John, this lady has also asked for a meeting with you. I will let you know if we get anymore.Guest Services, Carnival Magic
You know, having done this job for as many years as I have you would think I would be prepared for anything. Well, I wasn’t prepared for this and what I truly am confused about is all three guests that made those comments are all U.S. citizens. I have spoken already to the lady who complained about the speech and the moment of silence and she berated me with her political views. And even though she is from California, her views on what I had said and her flag flying proudly, high in the lobby, really made me have to bite my lip severely. All I could really say was my hope was that all the guests could simply just pay our respects to the people who lost their lives and the families that lost loved ones and leave any political debate on the pier in Barcelona, it will be waiting for her when the ship returns in four days time.
You see, I have already upset the guest who offered the diet pills to me who in fact hung the phone up on me when I tried to apologise, so the last thing I wanted to do was to upset another guest. But it was hard not to express my true beliefs to her and so I have to force them on you, my blog readers and friends. It’s not often I express my political beliefs here and before I do, a kind reminder that the disclaimer says that this is my blog and my opinion and not Carnival’s etc., etc., etc.
But as I said, she stood there telling me how she hates her country and the government and actually what her country’s flag represents. But what really got to me is when she told me that “America had got what it deserved.” How can she say that? How can she say that about her own country and not have an ounce of sadness in heart for those who lost their lives and the remorse for the families that still mourn today and will be still mourning tomorrow? I had to force myself from not looking her in the eye and tell her and all the defeatist sods who share her views……… to bugger off. But I didn’t. I stood there listening and nodding my head until Mrs. Ihatemycountry and her hairy legs headed for the deck 5 coffee shop to no doubt buy a soya milk latte.
Yesterday on the Carnival Miracle 2000 guests got to experience what surely was the most emotional event and only those with ice in their veins could not have been moved by what they saw. The following photos speak more clearly than any words I could write.
GOD BLESS AMERICA.
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.
Beautiful John. Thank you for sharing.
Hi John,
I wold like to say keep your blog the way it is and don’t change anything. That lady who said your blog is not rated for a 14 year old would be surprised what her son hears in high school or how he talks among his friends when mom is not around. I think there is more people who like your blog as is than don’t like it because it is not rated PG14.
Thank you for your kind words, John. Most of us are proud to be Americans, and proud of our British friends.
Thanks to Carnival for marking the moment of remembrance.
I do not understand how an American Citizen can feel that way. John, you did the right thing
I hope this finds you well John and that you are wearing your brace as instructed. Hard to believe that the first time I wrote you I was sitting at 51 days before my Platinum cruise on the Fascination. Here we are 13 days and counting down. Please enjoy your time off that you have coming up before your assignment in the Colonies. I will be sailing on 26SEP11 onboard the Carnival Fascination my booking number is 79Z6M7. I saw that you needed this before you took that time off. Hopefully you will be able to talk the beards into letting you revisit some of the Fantasy Class ships. They are my favorites. Have a great rest of the evening and keep that brace on!!!
Well, I think in a crowd of 2500, four total idiots is about statistically correct. Might I suggest that Carnival’s spa department add a soothing treatment called Removing That Stick That’s Lodged Up Your Butt (them, I mean, not you, not that I think you’ve got one)? It can be a soothing herbal/aromatherapy and massage treatment ending with a swift smack on the left butt cheek and someone screaming SNAP OUT OF IT! at them.
And instead of sending flowers or fruit baskets or whatever, you can send them a free certificate for that instead.
LOL! Well said!!
Dan, I love the way you think! A new SPA treatment…lol!!! I know quite a few people I’d like to recommend that one to! ; )
I LIKE IT!!!!!! Perhaps an all-expense paid trip to France (for life) and to enjoy the fresh air (NOT) over there.
John, It never ceases to amazes me that in one second you can make me laugh and the next second make me cry. For anyone to say that about their country should honestly not be allowed to enter into the country.
I am sure that all those that have been promoted before you leave are the most deserving. I hope that when I get on the Carnival Magic on September 25th, that your Calvyn will still be there. After seeing the excellent drawing of him, I am anxious to meet him.
John, I hope you have an excellent holiday with your precious Kye and Heidi. I hope your wrist will get some rest while you are gone. Thank you again for all you have done to make my September 25th very special. I will miss you but I do hope your holiday is very special.
Keep smiling John; you truly are one of the good guys.
My best to Heidi and Kye.
Well said Mr H…Well said!
John, Please forward the names and address’s of the pieces of #&%@ that complained about the moments of silence and the American flag being displayed. I would like to stop by thier house and have a short chat with them……..
All I can say is wow. You are a better person than I am. I probably would have went off on her and ripped her a new one. LOL I am a New Yorker and lost a few friends on 9/11. I am disgusted by these peoples remarks and what is worse is that they are from the US.
Thank you for making me laugh each day. I have only sailed with you once and hope to sail with you again one day. I will be taking my 9th Carnival cruise in December and I cannot wait.
Grace Keddie, I hate to break it to you, but there is absolutely nothing in any of John’s blogs that a 14 yr old boy hasn’t seen or heard before. You can’t shelter kids forever and I’d never even try to ‘protect’ them by censoring John’s blog. Be glad he’s reading!!!
Please ignore and write off people like hairy legs…I’m sorry that you had to listen to her you are so much better than that. Her final judgement will be waiting for her…
John, I wasn’t stunned or even surprised when you told us about Mrs. Ihatemycountry. There are people, a remarkably small percentage mind you, who are of the opinion that the United States is a war mongering, imperialist state bent on global domination… they also believe in the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and that carrots can and do talk.
No one with a lick of common sense can believe that terrorist thugs murdering civilians is appropriate or deserved… no one.
I pray that Mrs. Ihatemycountry is never a guest on a ship with me or any of my friends. I fear that she would have a difficult time finding anyone to chat with. Can you chat with a person’s back anyway?
Enjoy your time off. Tell the folks in Miami to come to the UK to visit you… they need a vacation anyway.
All the best to your wonderful girls.
Ciao!
Host Mach
John -
I honestly can not believe that an American would make these comments. If they have such an attitude, they frankly should move to a country that meets their political views – if they can honestly find one.
As for the pictures of the WTC ceremony from the Carnival Magic, they are “magical”.
Hi John,
First of all, thanks for the wonderful blog as always. Secondly, I am absolutely appauled at the lady from California and her ignorant, uncaring and despicable views. I commend you for maintaining your composure, as I am not sure I could have. This woman, whatever her political views, has the right to express those views BECAUSE she is American. All of those people who died on 9/11 did so, not because of their political views, but because they were hard working, ordinary citizens who got in the middle of a mess between another ARSE who was “expressing” (ahem) his political views with TERROR. I pray for this woman and that she is never touched by terror because Karma is a horrible thing. God bless!!
A beautiful blog..what fantastic pics. good luck to all the staff changing positions and well done on the promotions. Calvyn will be brilliant alongside u john. I look forward to seeing u together soon.
my grandson sent the above photo to me, and i cried at the beauty of two simple lights. the world is full of hatred,but it’s full of love and compassion for our fellow man too, so tell the haters to bugger off (your words) you don’t want me to print my words. have a wonderfull break, i will be on my dream cruise on the 1st of october. it’s our 20th, can’t wait.
Greetings John,
)
I hope this finds you in some quiet pleasant times.
I am sorry for the loss of Melody as your assistant but, have a bone to pick with Calvyn. This may be small to some but, as a fellow Canuck,(Wynyard, SK) please tell folks you are from Vancouver, B.C. If they do not know where that is, educate them! When you say Van. Can., that is like saying Galveston, USA. I learn nothing. Narrowing it down to Galveston, Tx. is a help. Geography is not a strong point for some and a little education goes a long way.
Ok, I am done, lol.(I have also written to several magazines with the same complaint, do not feel bad.
My birthday is today 9/12, the day after that terrible day in history. I am in flux with trying to learn to celebrate yearly after such a horrid event. However, after reading about the Cali woman, I shake my head and continue to be thankful she has the freedom to say what she believes and the knowledge that what goes around comes around!!She will get hers, of that I have no doubt.
I look forward to meeting the both of you in Jan. the week of the 22nd (a great day)sailing on the Magic out of Galveston, TX.
Cheers,
Marie
I am sorry to tell you, but John will not be in that cruise. He will return from vacation on Jan 29th.
John,
All I can say is it takes all kinds. Thank you for sticking to your beliefs and yours and Carnival’s support of the 9/11 ceremonies. Our freedom allows for that lady to believe what she wants, whether we agree or not.
Thank You,
Mark Millere
@Grace Keddie – Maybe you could read the blog each day before your son and see if it is ‘appropiate’ for him to read. Johns humor is unique and he shouldn’t have to tone it down or place a rating on the blog. The blog isn’t written for children so pre-read it for your child, please. Mrs ihatemycountry should stay in Europe. We don’t need her here in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. It is very coldhearted to not respect the moment of silence but people who didn’t wish to participate could do something else. I can’t believe what petty things people complain to GS about!
PS – the pictures from New York are BEAUTIFUL!!
Thanks for your words regarding 9/11 John. Without regard to anyone’s political beliefs, the idea of murdering innocent men and women, children for God’s sake – it boggles the mind that anyone, America or not, would support such an action in any way. I’ve been privileged to live here in the US, where every state is like a different country in Europe culturally, and abroad (in the UK mate!) and it saddens me to read of such shallow-mindedness, selfishness, and hatred in my countrymen. The events of that day were tragic for my country, but have also left lasting scars upon the world – pausing a moment in remebrance for the blameless victims of the terrorists costs nothing, except a moment of each of our time and some humility and compassion.
Well said John!!! Enjoy your time with the girls!!!!
Thanks for sharing the pictures, John. So sorry that you had to put up with Ms. Ihatemycountrybutilovemybodyhair.
Sheesh … some people.
Well John, I for one am looking forward to the “changes” Calvyn has in store for you. If should make for some very interesting blogs to say the least.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I don’t know how you deal with the idiot people you deal with day in and day out. You are a far, far better person than most.
Thank you.
If she hates America so much, why does she still live there?? I think she should be booked on the next flight to Iraq or Afghanistan and left there myself, since that seems to be where her allegiance is (America deserved that??). She makes me sick, I am glad you had to deal with her and not me.
Yes, I say ship her off to Iraq. Where I am sure she will be very happy.
Question l would like feedback on. How many days in a row (as a passenger) have you sailed on a cruise ship??
/nvv
l
Are you asking John or anyone?
Mary, if you’re asking the passengers, that would be 9 days for me and if you’re asking because you’re worried about a lengthy cruise, you can stop worrying. I had the same concern but it went by much too quickly. I thought 9 days might be too much. It was not enough. Have fun!
I’ve done a 4,7,8,and 9 day cruises each one was better than the last, dnow am booked on two 7 day BTB cruises and looking forward to it. have fun
John I hate to admit it but there still are those here in the USA that would rather burn and split on our Flag. But there the first ones in line to claim all those entitlements that come along with being a citizen or even an illegal alien. Why these people can’t just live in their own world and not try to change the rest of us. Just like the atheist that want all bibles removed so that don’t have to know there in the drawer of their cabin. I blame all this on that PC crap they keep pushing on us.
Mrs. IHATEAMERICA is clearly a sad reminder that there are some truly ignorant and self centered people in our world. I say you can leave her right there in the Med and not send her back to us here in the states. The pictures are beautiful and as a NJ native right outside of the city it’s great to see the memory of the day captured so beautifully. I’m sorry you have to contend with such “brainiacs” onboard.
As an American, thank you John. As regards 9/11, it occurred on US soil, but victims came from more than 90 countries around the world.
Big congratulations to Calvyn, he certainly deserves his promotion. Sailed with him on the Fascination last January; he was awesome. Made the Q & A session the most enjoyable one I’ve ever been to. Treat him kindly, please…lol
You have got to be kidding me. I wasn’t too keen on the idea of having a moment of silence had I sailed on the Pride yesterday because I had originally booked the cruise to forget about the bad memories of Sept. 11 but I would never have taken that moment away from anyone else. I thought your way of handling it fleet wide was an awesome compromise. As for Ms. I hate my country…Stay in Europe…Don’t come back. We don’t need you or people like you here. If you hate the United States so much then emigrate to some other country.
I may not agree with everything this country and its leaders do but I do believe we live in the best country in the world (Sorry John…I am an American) and if you don’t like it here get the heck out
There is nothing to say about someone like Mrs. california other than she should go live in Iraq or Afghanistan if she doesn’t love her country. My son and others in the Armed Services are fighting this war so her sorry butt has the freedom to go on her cruise. Thank God I wasn’t there to hear her rant or she would have visited Venice doing the dog paddle!
Hey John:
Your blog as always keeps me laughing…. You and Calvyn are a unique pair, kind of like Laurel and Hardy.
To the smuck who gave you diet pills, tell him to stick him where the sun don’t shine. When will people learn there is no miracle pill to loose weight. It doesn’t take a few short months to put on 100 lbs it isn’t going to take a few short months to take it off and KEEP IT OFF.
Lastly…. I try not to work myself up for those self rightous idiots out there who are hate mongers. I love my country… America… We are one of the most forgiven and given countries in the world and I am proud to live in this great nation…. But there are other great nations and great people all over this world. Many whos hearts are filled with love but most of all a mutual respect for the human race.
Thank you John for all the laughter and insite. Tell everyone on their promotions as we know they were well deserved. Tell Christian I will see him in April on the Dream….
To all the cruise staff… Love and appreciate all you do to make our vacations enjoyable.
Terri
Hey John, Leave Ms. IHATEMYCOUNTRY there, we don’t need or want her type in this great country.. May God Bless the USA
John:
Please do us all a favor and leave not only the political debate on the pier in Barcelona, but also Mrs. Ihatemycountry. If she hates her country of citizenship that much, perhaps she should find a new one.
Congratulations to Calvyn. I’m sure you two will be so happy together. You make a cute couple.
Shelly
Regarding the Q and A about the price of drinks . . . I am always impressed at how inexpensive the drinks on cruise ships are! I live in the Washington, DC area, and drink prices in restaurants are much higher than the prices on ships.
Regarding the woman who hates her country and thought we got what we deserved . . . She’s an embarrassment and a disgrace to the U.S. If she hates the U.S. so much, she should go live somewhere else – but I can’t imagine any other country wanting her.
What a shame that those complaints came from an american citizen. I do not always like our government either and I’m sure alot of people do not always agree with government but to say we got what we deserved is VERY sad. All those innocent people who lost there lives DID NOT “get what they deserved” and what about ALL the children who were left behind with no fathers or mothers. This women is a VERY COLD person and MAYBE it’s NOT government she should blame for her miserable life!! If this is SUCH a horrible place to live GO TO The middle east and live there. I will come see you off and wave good bye as you fly away. Live where women are not respected and there is no law. Get a job there and see if u make enough money to CRUISE. I assuming you lost NO family member on 911 because if you did than you are worse off than imaginable!! I know way TOO MANY people who lost lives that day, children who who don’t have daddy’s. If you lived near NY after 9/11/01 you couldn’t get through streets because there were so many funerals going on.. So GO, GO somewhere else and live and report back to blog in a Year and tell the AMERICAN citizens how it’s going OVER THERE
THANK YOU JOHN – all I can say for the ‘IhateAmericaLady” is to pack you bags and get the hell out of the country you hate. Move – live someplace – and make others around you there miserable.
God Bless America!! Thank you John for all you do!!
BTW BEAUTIFUL pictures-it really is an amazing site to see
Hi John,
I’m sure you’re going to get lots of comments about the woman who objected to your minute of silence for the 9/11 anniversary, most of which will probably agree with your viewpoint. I would like to point out that a vital right we Americans have is Freedom of Religion – which includes freedom FROM religion. You probably feel your tribute was not religious, but in my mind, getting on the ship-wide intercom and essentially commanding everyone to be silent in order to honor the memory of people we have never met sure seems to have a lot in common with the bad old days in Europe when the King would order you to attend services at the church of HIS choosing.
You may argue that a minute of silence is not much to ask, but first, who put YOU in charge of honoring the dead, and second, why stop with the dead of 9/11? Why not for the dead of Pearl Harbor? Or the soldiers of WWI, or the Civil War, or the Revolutionary War? How about the people who died in London on 07/07/07, or in the Blitz, or the Jews in the Holocaust, or the Armenians in Turkey, or American Indians during the 1800′s? You could have a minute of silence for a different group every day of the year.
John, I believe your job is, first, to keep your guests safe, and second, to provide us with a cruise full of fun. Telling us how to mourn ten years after the tragedy is not in your job description, I think, and it is certainly not what I want when I cruise.
If you felt there was a lot of interest in memorializing the event, why not pick one area of the ship, such as the theater or the Lido deck, and announce ahead of time that guests who wish to may meet there at 9:30 to observe a minute of silence? That way, it would be entirely voluntary.
Are you serious? I think the idea of a moment of silence every day is a good one. We should all remember on a daily basis that people have died so we are free to voice our opinions and believe how we choose no matter how selfish or cold those opinions or beliefs are.
I believe John did not force anyone to participate in a moment of silence. He asked!! That sounds like voluntary to me! Just a simple respectful request from a caring person like John and a people focused cruise company like Carnival.
JoyceG
May I just say you are a (I won’t say it). He ASKED people to observe a moment of silence not forced them. If you feel that threatened by that, you have the problem – may I suggest therapy for your insecurities. And for your information Freedom of Religion also means you CANNOT FORCE ME TO IGNORE MINE FOR YOUR SAKE!!!!! Again if you feel that threatened then you have major insecurities with your position.
Dearest Scott:
John asked for a moment of silence. What you did with that moment of silence was totally up to you. You could think about your parents, family, and past events ect. He wasn’t asking you to pray, he wasn’t asking you to get on your knees, he asked for a brief moment of silence. What happened to common courtesy? Oh yeah these are things that are taught and some people are never taught this. Most of these folks who know no common courtesy are the ones that live in the category of entitled.
John did announce the 9/11 plans ahead of time. And since you are a blog reader, you know this. He even asked opinions about it on his FB page and received several hundred. The LEAST of the comments was a moment of silence.
As for religion, this was not a religious act. It was out of respect for those lives lost to people who hate America and its freedoms. Not only was the workers in the towers lost, but so were military, fire, law officers who SERVED this country everyday. Then there were the lives of those on the planes; small children, babies, mothers, fathers, sons, daughters who were just on a plane heading to loved ones, home or a vacation. There was those great heros on flight 93 who sacrificed their lives to save our great capitol. This moment was not religious. People of all religions observed it worldwide, even atheists. It was just out of respect. Anyone with an ounce of compassion would understand this. Have you no daughter, son, mother, father, sister, brother, friend who if murdered you would not like to have remembered in a respectful way?
I feel so sorry for you for the way you feel. Maybe someday you will see what others have done for YOUR FREEDOM of speech.
Signed,
Proud Law Enforcement Wife, Navy Mom, and American!
Well opinions are like everyone’s rear ends….we all have one and many of them stink. While I understand there are a lot of moment’s in every country’s history that were tragic and many lives lost, the events of 9/11 happened in most everyone’s lives who are living today and a lot of lives were lost in a very, very short period of time. And the efforts of the servicemen who have lost their lives since that time are also being considered as a part of the awful day.
Wow. Just wow. First of all, it was just one minute…60 seconds. Your cruise will not be ruined in that minute. If it does not interest you, just walk away and cover your ears. I do not think that anyone had a gun held to their head and force to observe the moment of silence. Whether they knew the people that perished or not, is irrelevant. It affected most of us as human beings and as Americans. Just think, you and MsIHateAmerica could have had the buffet all to yourselves during that one moment.
And you are not memorializing the “event”, just the lives lost. Geez!
Lissete,
I was not on that cruise, but based on these comments John received:
“Mrs________ … added that your announcement woke her up as well.”
“Mr ______ told them to be quiet”
I judge that people WERE forced to participate against their wishes.
Saudi Arabia has gangs of imams that look for people who don’t go to the mosques to pray and they beat them with sticks. Kinda sounds like you’d be very much at home there.
Quite the contrary, that sounds more like your kind of gig.
Um, excuse me Mr. “freedom from religion”. First of all, It says (and this is from memory…don’t know if you’ve ever bothered to read the constitution) The government shall make no law establishing a religion, nor prohibit the free exercise thereof.
First off, last I checked John Heald is not a government official, unless I missed some secret election and he is now a Senator.
Second, as a private citizen you, or anybody else, cannot prohibit his or anybody elses free exercise thereof. The government cannot prohibit it either (well, they’re not supposed to but they certainly do)
So next time you may want to put some thought into your comment, if indeed you have any thought left in your little brain.
Oh my goodness, John….I cannot believe people complained about the flag and the moment of silence……these people are heartless. The area where I live was just hit with major flooding so with that, and the anniversary of 9-11, it has been an emotional few days for so many….thank you for doing that on your ship and for the postings of those beautiful pictures from the Carnival Miracle. I am glad Carnival has the belief of “we will never forget”….And yes, I agree…God Bless America!!
Thank You, John.
John- I feel so sorry that you couldn’t say what you wanted to Mrs Ihatemycountry. She is rather lucky she didn’t say that around an soldier or family of those who passed on 9/11/01. I know as a military spouse- and I know my husband would have said- politely but firmly- “Your welcome for the freedom you receive to cruise- and say those nasty disrespectful words.. I will gladly still fight for you.. Inless you wanna fight for your own freedom of course” Sorry- I dont mean to be rude if it seems like I am John- I am not- I just don’t understand how she can say that nor anyone else about it… I guess us Military and Military spouses take it with grain of assult and move on- speaking respectfully but with a hint of ice in our voice
I hope you have a blessed day and enjoy your vacation- look forward to cruising with you soon!
Jamie
Grace, how about you take an active role as a parent, and rate the blog posts yourself? If there were ratings, your son would ignore them just as surely as he ignores the “Do not enter if not 18 years old” warnings on more risqué websites.
I agree this is a mother’s job not John’s.
God does bless America in spite of people like her!!! Somebody might want to mention to her, that if America is so awful, she is free to leave at any time!!!
The pictures are amazing. Thanks John for sharing them with us.
Mrs. Ihatemycountry: What the heck is her problem!? Ugg, some people make me sick.
Thanks for the blog John and hope you feel better.
John, what a lovely blog tonight! The pictures are keepers. I wish I could kick that woman, well, somewhere. Terry and I are doing a car trip across the southern US right now, so hearing her say that about our country just makes my blood boil. On a happier note, I am so happy to see Calvyn is getting promoted to your assistant! We got to know him on our Liberty (?) cruise in the Spring. Remind him that we were the couple always sitting in the Cigar Bar having a drink before dinner when he and Ryan (then the 3rd) would come through. I’ll wear my purple ring again next time I see him (maybe he’ll remember commenting on it). The ? mark above is because we take too dang many Carnival cruises and I wasn’t sure which of the three in the first three months of the year that it was! May have been the same one where we met you. Enjoy your time off and we will see you next year on the Breeze if not before.
Yaaaaay a fellow Canadian has made it !!!!! Calvyn gets to bring your coffee to you in the morning. I hope it’s a Timmies NO SUGAR . Let me know if he is missing his Timmies when we meet him in Barcelona in November for the Transatlantic and I will bring him a tin. By the way how much alcohol are we allowed to bring on an 8 day cruise and how much soda pop are we allowed to bring on board?
Way to go Calvyn can’t wait to meet you.
What, you’re not going to have one of the Stephanie’s as your assistant on the BC5, which I can’t make cuz the money tree growing in my yard hasn’t bloomed for me for a long time…oh well…I was on BC4…
My thoughts are if you disagree with the recognition of an major world event, just let it go and don’t spoil it for anyone else. You are one person in 4000+, let the others who want the moment have it because if 99% want to note the occasion/event then do so, the 1% can respect everyone else and be somewhere else when it occurs….
John,
You handled the CA idiot better than I or most other people would have. I would have went off on her big time. That is a person with no heart or soul. She doesn’t deserve the freedoms that go with being an American.
On a lighter notev- enjoy your time off with your family. You deserve it!
Please Post
We were on the Ecstasy in August. It was exactly as we had hoped that it would be. I once thought that I didn’t like the ship. It wasn’t the ship, it was the (relatively) short 5 day cruise.
There are several crew members who should be mentioned. A member of the wait team, Melody from South Africa was an absolute delight. She took time to tell us South African names for foods. She is taking ship offered computer courses. I hope that she stays with Carnival for a long time for I think she will add a great deal to any company for which she works. Bryan, the singer, was always very friendly and often had children playing percussion for him, much to the delight of the children, parents and those passing by. I can’t mention our cabin steward. He kept the room very clean but we never met him.
We are looking forward to our May 20 cruise on the Magic. I wish that you could be there.
Elizabeth
Amazing how people can be so totally selfish, and self-centered! ‘My vacation!, Woke me up!, American got what it deserved!???” The heroes on flight 92 did not deserve this! The men and women who went to work in the towers that day, to support their families, and pay the taxes that support our government, did not deserve this! No living creature deserves to be the target of hate! As for entitlement, this woman does NOT DESERVE to live in the U.S. where she has the right to spew such venom – she’s just darned lucky!
To Nancy O’Hara from NC, not sure if you realize it or not but moonshine is not allowed to be sold on cruise ships. Also, uncle Willie’s barn and still does not qualify as a bar. I have sailed on Navy ships ( Canadian), where there is no tax on alcohol and they could not touch those prices that you say you get a the “local bar”.
It is unfortunate that we now live in a “me” world. To disrespect a moment of silence because it does fall into aline with your political view is unbelievable. Do you not take a moment to remember to those that lost their lives fighting for your freedom? If not shame on you. I would not have disrespected the memory of those that lost their lives by by even acknowledging these people. Instead of a fruit basket to them, you should send a basket of your used underwear and lumps of coals.
Nancy O’hara was from Aiken, SC, not North Carolina. Out of curiosity, I went online and researched prices of drinks in the Aiken area. I did find one for $2 as a twofer during happy hour. Most were in the same price line as those on the ship.
NOW, I am from NC and take offense to your reference to moonshine. Ever been to beautiful Asheville and the Biltmore House or Pinehurst and its great golf courses (home of the US Men’s and Women’s opens next year back to back). What about our beautiful outerbanks with its majestic lighthouse and sand dunes? Visit us and then make your judgement. We do have moonshine here. It is sold in our ABC stores and is called “Moon over Georgia”. When mixed with lemon and honey it is good for a cough.
Hi John, I look forward to your blog & read it faithfully. Was lucky enough to sail with you once & hope to again. I think you might of misread the question above from Bonnie Gill ~ I believe she & her friend are sailing Sept. 17th. Enjoy your time off, you deserve it!
Are you sure Mrs. ihatemycountry wasnt french? just kidding.. It is sad when people can get caught up in the political ferver (that our 24hr “news” channels love to expel) that a person cant respect the fact that 3,000 people were murdered. Theese victims were not just U.S. citizens, they were from all over the world…I actually feel bad for her and hope someone does not udder those same ugly words she said at her funeral “she got what she deserved”
Thanks for having class John and Bless you, your family, and jolly ole England!
Not surprising that someone from The Late Great Golden State had something hateful to say about the US. The Left Coast is full of people like that.
At any rate, great blog as usual and you did a fantastic job with the 9/11 piece you wrote. Thanks again for laughter, tears, and putting up with ridiculous guests so we can hear the good stories!
Hi John – Love the blog! At the end of October I am sailing on the Pride out of Baltimore. about one month later a dear sweet friend of mine is taking the same cruise. I’d love to surprise this woman and her husband in some way. At first I considered hiding something on the ship and telling them where to find it, but I am concerned that it might be found between our cruises. Do you have any suggestions?
I just have two things to say to Nancy O’Hare. First, you appear to drink way too much. Second, we were at Disneyworld this weekend where a glass of Coke started at $2.45 and went higher if you wanted a large. That’s a pretty steep profit margin on a product that wholesales for about 15 cents.
I knew that I liked Calvyn…..he’s a fellow Canadian!!!
Well you just can’t seem to win at anything these days. I am personally sick and tired of my fellow countrymen and Women who are so unhappy that they would rather belly ache about it rather than do something productive about it. If they are so unhappy, maybe they should just load their belongings and sell off all their american property and move to let see Ahhhh!! I know France!!!
Don’t let it bother you John, Hope you have a great time off with your girls. I cannot wait until the Bloggers Cruise so that I finally get to meet you in person.
Best Wishes,
Marqueta From Oklahoma
John, wonderful blog, as always…but I have to add:
The photos are magnificent, and I cannot thank you enough for your tribute to a country from which you are not. I agree with your thoughts on the defeatism I often witness myself from my countrymen/women who seem to think you can only be an “okay” American if you are busy apologizing for BEING an American. Well, I am not sorry I’m an American. Every country has had moments I am sure it is not proud of; but, I refuse to be sorry for my heritage, and all that America has always represented. I very much appreciate that there are others that are not even American, that feel our country has something to offer the world, and I thank you.
And to Grace Keddie: SUGGESTION: READ THE BLOG YOURSELF BEFORE YOU ALLOW your son to. Where is parental responsibility? Not only that, but I guarantee your 14-yo sees/hears way worse at high school than on a blog that mentions Megan Fox’s bottom and toilet bowl humor.
The NERVE of some people. I cannot believe that they made comments towards your respectable act… I only wish I could’ve been there bowing my head in a moment of silence (which I didn’t yesterday- but instead I lived for those who died, which is in a way tribute to them in my own way). I just cannot believe people- especially americans- would show such disrespect towards their countrymen. I mean I understand the politics of it, but the people who died that day were all races, genders, religions, democrats, republicans, independents, anarchists probably… they kill themselves, they were killed and for that we should pay respects. The tragedy of that day not only killed the people who died, but their families and the people who knew them; the cashier at their favorite grocery store, the mailman/woman, the waiter at their favorite restaurant… this tragedy was a domino effect that is still affecting a wounded nation… it’s just blasphemy for that type of disrespect. I’m sorry, but I think what you did was honorable and those people can shove it where the sun don’t shine.
I feel reluctant to post this as it’s insignificant among such recollections of sheer terror and anxiety, but with regard to the drink prices on ships, it should be remembered that alcohol is duty free, so hotel and ship prices shouldn’t be compared. It put’s thinks into perspective when Carnival admits to making a profit at the $11.44 all you can drink for an hour, cocktail parties.
with regard to 9/11, it’s up to us who hold values to look after the world for our children and their children.
John, as a resident of Aiken, SC, I would really like to know where Nancy O’Hara is getting $2 margaritas that are even cheaper during happy hour! I can assure you that if it contains tequila and comes in a washed glass from a restaurant that has passed inspection, it is NOT two bucks.
I find what Ms Ihateamerica said to be an utter disrespect to those who lost their lives on 9/11. If she hates the USA so much, maybe she should pack her crap and move to a cave in Afghanistan. I have come to the realization that some folks simply go through life with very unrealistic expectations!
Hello John:
Little wonder that antipsychotic drugs are such big sellers in the US.
Looks to me like you and Champagne will make a volatile combination, or maybe quirky.
Have a great time with your girls. My best to your family.
Following Seas.
Your friend,
Bill Heck
John,
Please do not let the few ugly American guests upset you and your tribute to those lost in the 9/11 crisis. For every one who “hates” their home country of the US – there are hundreds – make that thousands of us who love “her”. Yes – there are big problems, yes – we need better government – but all in all I wouldn’t trade her for the world. My resonse to Ms.”IhateAmerica” is – if you hate it so much – just leave – you are free to do so.
Thank you John for all you do.
Congratulations to all the promoted staff…looking forward to meetin Calvyn on the Magic on our TA soon!
John,
I want to thank you for your blog and thank Carnival for the amazing respect it demonstrated in recognizing a moment of silence for the victims and tradegy of 9/11. There are people who hate this wonderful Republic called America. They are in the minority, but we have listened and tried to accomodate too long. The tide is slowly changing, and it will take years, but there will always be those that hate and have ice in their veins, but the brave young men and women will continue to fight for their right to complain. God Bless America.
As far as the America hating person, will not say lady, I would be willing to bet the world she would not give up her USA Passport and leave. Its too bad she doesnt realize what she is saying hurts many americans who lost people on 9-11.
John
A very interesting article from BBC news on Trolls and cyber bullying. You might enjoy:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-berkshire-14897948
Your ex crew mate
Nikki the nurse
x
Hi John,
please excuse my bad english, normally I only read your blog, but today I had to write something.
I really can not belive that there are U.S. citizens which say such things.
As me beeing from Germany, I can tell I didn`t like the politics of the Bush Time but this will never let me belive that the People who died, deserved ther fate. That is absolutley cruel to say and it makes me really sad.
I adore youre paitience, I`m sure I would have told her to bugger off.
Kind regards
Hi John,
The lady that thinks we got what we deserved should have her passport revoked while she is out of the country. The attack was on US soil, but there were people from countries all over the world in that building. I hope you have a good vacation and enjoy your time with your family.
Hi John,
First, I have the GREAT Honor of working on the rebuilding effort of the World Trade Center and while the all of the comments bother me, the one that bothers me the most is the lady who mentioned the fact that because the ship was in Europe we should ignore any sort of remembrance. Does this lady really believe that of the nearly 3000 people killed on that day, none of them were from Europe? Granted majority of them were not, but this was a global tragedy that happened on American soil. It had a global impact like few other events in history. I sure would love to give this lady a piece of my mind!!
Second, the photos from the Carnival Miracle are fantastic. I am on the redevelpment site reguarly, but it is nice to see it from another perspective that only a few people will ever had experienced.
Lastly, keep up the good work!! People will always find a reason to complain about something. We might as well us it as entertainment for the rest of us! I read your blog regularly. I also sent you a message via “Ask John” regarding this very topic. I look forward to hearing your response.
Thank you for the New York pictures. They are gorgeous and the two lights for the twin towers is such an awesome sight.
Drink prices are fine….I am tired of these cheap people..let them take a trip to Disney World !!
And I am tired of the few complaining guests. Too much attention is given to them. When you know there are 3000 – 4000 people on these cruiseships there are bound to be a few that are “off their rocker” and just are miserable with anything. If they are unhappy with the cruise, I’d offer for them to get off the ship.
California I hate America Queen,
May I suggest a book for your reading pleasure? It’s called, “The Man Without a Country”. Be careful what you wish for, those wishes may come true!
JoyceG
ok, so it should say DESERT!!! sorry, spell check was off on that one.
John,
Thanks for such a wonderful blog commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in NYC, Pennsylvania, and Washington DC. I was happy to hear that Carnival decided to have Miracle anchor off Ground Zero so that those on board could see the lights and have a memorial service.
Best of luck to Melody, John, and Christian in their new assignments as ACDs, and you definitely made the right choice in having Calvyn “fill” Melody’s shoes. Oh the blogs and Facebook postings that we will be seeing!!!
Enjoy your last week on Magic, and I hope that you stay away from here and Facebook while on vacation! Focus on the girls, we’ll all be here when you return…
I guess when I made my comments about Mrs. Ihatemycountryhairyleggs that I was too mean
I wasn’t approved for print… oops 
Sorry but I thought my views on her were not harsh enough. For someone to say we got what we deserved for the ones who died in the twin towers and other places is crazy and needs her meds…
I agree that the 14 year old should be monitored by the parent not by putting up disclaimers, she should read the posts and if it is ok for him to read she should be the one making the decision.
Beautiful picture of the double lights
Re: 14 year old reading blogs. Mom, unless your kid is kept under a rock and behind a locked door. I can almost promise you he has seen or heard, much, much worse than any poop or boob talk here on the blog.
I think mom should read the blog, if she wants to censor his reading, say “no, John for you today, son.”
Ah.. America,land of the free. A reminder that if you hate it so much you can leave.
Requesting a moment of silence is not forcing you to pray. Sing a song in your head if the silence upsets you.
Although there were only a few PITA, I’m sure you are looking forward to home. Enjoy your time with your girls. I don’t respond while you are home. I figure one less note to read means more time with them.
)
KathyG (not Kathy G
John:
I know that Calvyn will be a marvelous assistant.
As for the vile comments about you “ASKING” (not demanding) for a moment of silence…
there just aren’t any words to express my disgust at them.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
John:
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE don’t censor your blogs. Please let this remain a grown up place where we can enjoy your humor (spelled wrong) and your adventures.
For the lovely Ms Keddie:
Ma’am, I respectfully suggest that what your child reads is up to you.. You carried him for 9 months, you birthed him and have raised him for 14 years…don’t expect a “nanny” outside the home to coddle him.
Read John’s blog first…if you find something objectionable, don’t allow little Herman to read it. You are the parent..not John, not Carnival.
This is an adult environment and it’s up to you to protect your baby boy from whatever you find objectionable.
For Nancy O’Hara:
Madam, you obviously don’t get out of your town or state much. Carnival drink prices are lower than what you’d pay in almost any restaurant, bar or elsewhere – outside SC, it seem.
The best way to cut your bar bill is to quit bending your elbow..or stick to the daily specials or soft drinks.
John, I admire your self-control with the nitwit Ihatemycountry.
You are lucky.
We are assaulted by these people 24/7 on our 24 hour cable channels, on the radio, at debates. This segment of our society is only about 20%…we call them the lunatic fringe…and unfortuantely, for the last 10 years or so, they’ve reared their ugly heads again and have been permitted to hate their country and all it’s certain citizens in public.
We’ve always had this social group of nitwits…who’ve had many names in our history from KKK to John Birchers to Sons of Liberty….and, like these anti-American groups, the current rabble will soon fade away to revive in another generation or two
Two comments – if the lady with the 14-year-old doesn’t like what you say in YOUR blog, she can, as you’d say, bugger off and read some other blog. And next, of course it was a California liberal who berated the moment of silence and the American flag. It’s what they do. It really is a different planet out there, unfortunately.
*sigh* I live in California and I’m ashamed to share the state with that woman. I don’t remember who said it but I agree… “Sometimes living in California is like living in a bowl of granola… what ain’t fruits and nuts, is flakes!”
A brilliant blog, as always, John. Hope you enjoy your time with your girls, and I look forward to your arrival here in Houston/Galveston.
Glad to see Christian get a promotion. We thoroughly enjoyed him on the Dream last year, and have some great photos of him at various times – he has an excellent sense of humor!
As for the 9/11 tribute, some people apparently just want attention. My husband is a firefighter. Watching the sometimes overly-melodramatic events on TV this Sunday was not for him – brings back painful emotions. He SO appreciated the moment of silence on Carnival ships (he wasn’t surprised), along with the prayer & display of patriotism at our church.
While my husband normally loves the limelight (singing/acting), he never would try to attain it by criticizing anyone else’s right to commemorate in their own way. As you can see from the above posts, lots of folks agree: put those poor people out of your mind, John, and get ready for your vacation. Enjoy!!
My memories of September 11 are filled with gratitude for how Prime Minster Tony Blair and the British people stood in solidarity with America. Thank you John for your kind words.
WOW…..some people just never cease to amaze me!!!
And to the lady that can get drinks that cheap…..I suggest you stay home and enjoy them.
Hi John,
My wife and I will soon be on our 4th Carnival cruise onboard the Spirit to Hawaii.
I made the mistake of booking a future cruise
(Alaska in Sept 2012) through a travel agency. We are very dissappointed with their service. Is there anyway I can transfer that cruise to a Carnival PVP without losing my deposit? (We are booked Early Saver)
Thank you John. Your 9/11 comments are much appreciated and respected by this retired U.S. Navy Chief. I am proud to work with you and have you as my friend.
One more thing… Calvyn Rocks! Please give him my best wishes and a loud shout out of OKLAHOMA!!!
Ted
I agree with Nancy O’Hara the booze is a little on the pricey side (although I would love to find a bar that charges $2 for a mixed drink that was not the size of a thimble ). I love crusing with Carnival and recommend it to people all the time. When it comes to the drinks I tell them the drinks are a little pricey but strong in my opinion and also remember that tip is included in the price of the drink. When I budget for my trips booze is always a consideration but to me just like we pay for shore excursions to have fun I pay for drinks to have fun.
Kudos on today’s blog John. As for the lady who obviously hates her own country I say RO her ” Don’t let the door hit you in the a$$ when you leave”.
Your friend from Texas,
Larry Meador
You are so right John…. I don’t understand AMERICANS having ice in their veins re:9/11. Those beautiful pictures spoke volumns….and you are right to say…GOD BLESS AMERICA.
Theresa Martin-Taylor
Hi John, I enjoy reading your blog on a daily basis. You need to have Calvyn update your blog or facebook for you. I don’t know if I can go a week without an update but I hope you enjoy your vacation and rest your arm.
It seems that you are lucky with Calvyn Sean Champagne Martens. What a guy. Ha,ha,ha.
I was shocked when those three non – American Americans acted like they did. How poor individuals they must be.
John say hi to your girls from us.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
John,
I think your great! You even more endeared yourself to me, by your respect for 911, and by saying God Bless America. I can understand people’s opinions on the wars and such, and even when I don’t hold with what our politicians are doing, I never, ever stop loving America.
A rowdy Texan yowl is inserted here!
You should have misplaced her passport and reported her information to Homeland Security, including her anti-America hate speech. You might have added that although you had no proof she was a terrorist, you would rely on the experts to determine if she might be a threat. Let her do her complaining to them.
Thank you for the beautiful & moving pictures. I do not have the words express my anger at anyone having such disreguard for the tragic loss of life.
Thank-you John for the beautiful pictures and words about 9/11 again! And thank-you for choosing Calvyn! You may have second thoughts, but I am looking forward to all the brilliant material you will have for the blog! This is going to be outstanding! Have a great day!
is it wrong of my to hope she falls overboard?
John,
As a September 11, 2001 EMS responder, I too fight each year to not feal or remember that day. It is terribly painful. I would never dare try to forget the people who died, served, or the love of my country. To do so gives the terrorists exactly what they hoped for – permanant detruction of a great Country and people.
Mother always said, “get back at those who wish to hate you by living well, being happy, and having someone who loves you as much as you do them.” Thank you for being a gentleman and biting your lip but thank you more for defending the human race and not just America.
We will be on the Magic next week for our 20th anniversary and thought we would see you, now it sounds as if your off the Magic? I hope not! We have 20 sails under our belt and 12 with Carnival, so I chose the Magic for this wonderful celebration. Hopeully we will see you on 9/25/11? If not stay safe and honest, -Linda
sorry typed my own department email wrong.. It’s NBFARS
I am on the 9-11 Miracle cruise, and I just want to thank you for connecting all the people who made our late departure possilbe. It was a moving experience to be there and remember what happened that day. I will never forget the experience. The placque and coin that were presented to the Captain are already in the display case. Can’t say enough good things about all the extra effort everyone went to. When the bagpiper played “God Bless Americia” there was a feeling of unity and support you only get to experience a few times in your life. Thanks again!
We are sailing on the Magic on Oct 7 2011. I was hoping to see you again. You were our CD in September 2008 on a 12 day cruise on the Splendor. If we don’t see you have a great vacation and maybe another time.
The sailing out of NYC On 9/11 on the miracle was truely one of the most moving things I have ever experienced! We were truly impressed by carnival’s attention and efforts put into the sail away and stopping in the Hudson by Ground Zero. Most sail aways are something that I dont remember, but this sail away was one of the most memorable times of my life!