Monday, July 21st, 2008...1:39 pm
Sorry Al
Obviously I live in a crew cabin. Yes, it’s bigger than most but its still a cabin and not furnished to the luxurious standards of our guest staterooms and suites. I remember the days when there were no amenities in the cabin………nothing………..it was a bed, a TV that had two channels, a bathroom and that was that. Nowadays the Carnival fleet all have amenity baskets, hairdryers, flat screen TVs are a feature on many of the ships and all are fitted out to be of the highest standard. We never get anything but praise for our cabins…………….always ……………well, except this one.
Guest: Mrs _______ Ref: 002801422A Owner: (LAEP) Laszlo Pergel
Cabin: _____ Booking#: ________ Added-Changed: 07/20/08 - 07/20/08________ - CABIN TOO SMALL
Guest called the Pursers Office to say her cabin was too small. Guest stated that for the same price on her Celebrity cruise she had a cabin twice the size and that the decor was like a cheap business hotel. Guest wanted to speak to John Cruise Director. Purser explained that the Cruise Director was not in charge of the cabins but guest insisted on speaking to him. Tasked to cruise Director.
Guest is in 3C inside cabin.
Well, far be it for me to disagree with a guest but on this occasion I have to say ………..what a load of bollocks. I spoke with the guest and she insists the standard inside cabin on the Celebrity Millennium is twice as big as ours……….twice as big would put her in a suite or more likely……….in the land of the fairies. She also reiterated that the cabin was a cheap impression of a cheap business hotel…………………oh, she did admit that her stateroom steward was the best she ever had.
I have never heard a complaint about the size or standard of our cabins before which I think are some of the best in the industry and value for money wise they ARE the best in the industry. As for her comment about the business hotel…………….well.
We all know what businessmen’s hotels are like. There’s a priority check-in section where you wait behind some rope, on a bit of carpet. There are staff in shiny suits who say things like “If there’s anything else at all for yourself at all.” And you are given a credit card key that makes lots of whirring noises when you put it in the lock but will not, no matter what you do, open the door.
After you’ve kicked it down, you have the room. There’s no obvious button to turn off the air-conditioning, which sounds like a F16 jet. The light switch by the bed turns all the lights off, except one. Which means you have to get out of bed and walk to the other side of the room which is about three paces away while you fiddle about for the switch witch you can never find. You then realize the only way you will be able to turn the light off is to unplug it so you do this and the room is then plunged into darkness and you end up banging your knee on the IKEA table which is next to the TV.
The plug you need to charge your mobile is always behind the mini bar, and the “tea and coffee making facilities” are designed to ensure you can’t make either.
No, really: the kettle lead is never more than a foot long and the brown powder they put in the packets is way closer on the periodic table to nitric acid than it is to coffee.
The restaurant, furnished in beige, is overseen by a woman who says: “Can I get any bread items for yourself at all, sir?” and then hands you over to a young inexperienced server.
Your fellow diners are chomping their way through their suppers, some reading books, some newspapers, and there’s always one who’s reading the drinks special leaflet over and over again. Just killing time till they can go to their room and watch the pornography on the room TV.
Businessmen’s hotels, I think, are the most miserable, soul destroying, soulless, energy sapping, embarrassing, badly run and badly organized edifices in the entire world. I’d rather stay in cardboard box under a bridge…………… And that’s before we get to the food.
The menus are always written in a massively squiggly, curly-whirly typeface. And there’s much talk of jus and things being drizzled onto other things. But you know the chef is not from Paris or Rome. He’s from Bolivia where he used to be a cook at the El Casa De Waffle.
We also know whatever the sign says outside that none will have the warmth, friendliness and fun of a Carnival ship……………… and……….your toilet will be more than 3 inches off the ground. So, the next time you happen to be in one of these cookie cutter hotels …….just think…….you could be in one of our cabins……..I know where I would rather be.
This guest was a minority and although people are very tired after two long days in St. Petersburg moving the clocks one hour back last night seems to have rejuvenated them and ready for today’s adventures in Tallinn, Estonia. When I was aboard the Carnival Legend in 2002 the one port that stuck in my mind was beautiful Tallinn. It still has that medieval charm and even though the country was occupied by the Nazis in World War II and then suffered the iron fist of Communism the old town has not changed that much. Estonia gained her independence in August 1991 and since then their economy has been booming. They are part of the European Union although like Denmark and the UK they still have their own currency although most shops here except Euros.
Here are some of the tour highlights we offer.
(Click image to enlarge)
Hope you are finding these brief tour suggestions useful.
I wanted to clarify a few things about St.Petersburg. Certainly the burocacy that lives on like a Tom Clancy novel is annoying to us onboard………but outside of the guests having to stand in line as you would at an airport to go through Immigration……well St.Pertersburg is worth that wait and so much more.
I saw a few comment’s about “ why does carnival go there “ and that is a reasonable question………the answer……..it’s simply one of the most amazing cities on earth….it’s a must see and having to wait a few minutes to show Mr and Mrs Frying Pan head your passport……..is a small price to pay.
Now, for today’s photos we are in fact not going to Estonia……I will post some tomorrow ……….but for today I wanted to share some beautiful photos with you from another cruise destination. These photos are courtesy of some friends of mine Emma and George Bentley. They have just finished a voyage on the new Holland America ship Eurodam and now are on a smaller ship sailing through the Norwegian Fjords. When I saw their photos I knew I had to share them with you as they are simply stunning. Holland America, AIDA, Princess and Cunard are some of the family ships who offer cruises through this stunning part of the world. So, here are some photos that will have all of you who love cruising and spectacular destinations salivating.
Thanks to Emma and George for those wonderful photos………..you may have seen the Bentley’s daughter writing some comments under the name Princess…….she missed out the R…………it should be Princess R……………and she mentioned potatoes in one of her posts. This is because George (her dad) is a potato farmer in Idaho and grows some HUGE mutant size potatoes which I have to say……….are the best I have ever eaten. I know George spends many hours a day tending the fields and I am glad he is taking some well-deserved vacation with Emma. Thanks for photos and I think all of us now want to cruise the Fjords…………and try one of George’s potatoes.
Someone else I need to mention is Big Ed who as many of you know has been with us here at the thingy from the start. Will you join me in thinking of Ed and his wife Pat whose brother in-law suddenly passed away a few days ago…………we are thinking of you mate.
Hello also Mima………..Mima is friends of Dawn and Jane who are here now on the cruise. Mima was due to come as well but he is bravely fighting cancer at the moment………………..Mima…………..we all send our support it won’t be long I am sure until you are here with us. I know there are many Cancer survivors who read the blog and I know they especially will be there for you.
OK, let’s have a look at today’s bio featuring someone very important…………..the Staff Captain. He is the official second in command of the vessel and thus the Captain’s right arm. Please meet our Staff Captain…………Alessandro Lemmi.
NAME Alessandri Lemmi
DEPARTMENT AND POSITION Staff Captain, Bridge
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES
I joined Carnival Cruise Line On Nov. 2000 as 2nd Officer on the Victory, after 15 years spent at sea serving as Deck officer on Liquefied Petroleum Gas Tankers
WHAT DOES YOUR JOB INVOLVE
Second in command of the ship, in charge of the vessel, in the Master’s absence and/or incapacitation
Oversees ship’s security and crew discipline, including concessionaires and guests
In charge of all aspects of Safety, Health and Environmental policies and procedures
Participate to Arrival and Departure maneuvers as established by the Master
Maintains and update the Deck Department inventory, Deck equipment status, ship’s records and Logs
Compilation of Deck requisitions
Compilation of requisitions for items related to Hotel Department maintenance
Supervision of Ballast operations
Tank structure and coating evaluation
Vessel’s general upkeep
Coordination of Class surveys
Supervision of Tanks inspection and cleaning
Supervision of Chief Security Officer and complaint investigation
Supervision of Crew cabins inspections
Evaluation and Supervision of all Deck repair works during normal operations and during scheduled repair periods
Supervision all aspects of the Waste Management Systems including the designation of suitable waste storage and handling areas for all garbage, hazardous and non hazardous wastes.
Ensuring that aspects of the Waste Management System are duly carried out as specified by the following Environmental Responsibilities’ sectionThe Staff Captain is responsible for security onboard the vessel, including the enforcement of all rules and regulations. He is responsible for the security and safety of everyone aboard the vessel.
WHERE ARE YOU FROM
I born on 04/15/64 in Montecchio Emilia a small town between Milan, and Bologna in the North part of Italy
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB
Ship’s handling during docking and undocking operation.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY BACK HOME
I’ve got married in April 2000 with the love of my life Elisbetta, she is a Pharmacist and is working in her mother Pharmacy, in 2002 my little daughter Giulia born and this September she will start the elementary school.
My Parents and relatives are living in the same town were I born; they gave me everything: love, education and support, we are really close to each other and in full harmony I consider myself very lucky and honored to have such a wonderful family.
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT BEING IN YOUR HOME COUNTRY APART FROM FAMILY
Riding motorbike on my Emilia’s roads
FAVORITE THINGS
MOVIE Thrillers
MUSIC Rock & Hard rock
FOOD Cappelletti in brodo which is a typical plate of my region, (prepared by my Mother)
IF YOU COULD MEET ANY FAMOUS PERSON IN THE WORLD WHO WOULD IT BE
Steven Tyler, Aerosmith’s vocalist
IF YOU HAD TO DO ANOTHER JOB ON THE SHIP WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO AND WHY
That’s an easy one….I would like to be the Captain… It’s my goal since I started my study at the nautical school
As you will see from his bio, he wants to be Captain…………and he will soon I am sure reach his goal.
So, as far as the cruise is going…………well, I think its going well. It’s our first and that means that it’s the first time in the ports of call……….can we do things better next time?…………yep………….for sure. For instance we now know not to fill our pools with the water around the St. Petersburg………we do this at least 12 miles outside of the port. Yet, when we filled the pools we noticed the water was umm……a bit ……….. ummm ……..yuchy. This was a shame because once in the harbour we certainly can’t use the water there………….not unless you want small fish and bits of old Soviet spies in the pool with you. On a serious note…………I am going on an all out effort to try and have the pools filled with fresh water………….I know this might not always be possible………….I know P&O do it………….and I think its time we did as well.
Here are today’s letters……………..in their own words.
Time for a blog apology to a blogger called Rikki…………who wrote.
“OK. I’ve lost patience. I can’t help it if you are as ignorant about the environment as Rush Limbaugh. But you shouldn’t talk about that which you know nothing.
Did it ever occur to you that doing things to reduce your carbon footprint were good regardless of any global warming risk? They can save dollars and improve your health.
Al Gore has championed the environment since his first days in the US Congress decades ago. I’ve had it with you dissing him.”
You have the right to do as you wish. And I have the right not to subject myself to it.
I am sorry mate but let me also say this………..I love arguing. I love filling my house with people who think differently to me so everyone can roll up their sleeves and have a damn good argument. That’s because I believe in freedom of speech…………..oh, and just in my defense……..I have studied a lot about the environment and listened to both sides of the arguments ….so yes, I do know a little on the subject.
I do not believe that man is responsible for global warming. There are many eminent scientists who would agree. And I believe that western governments are in the process of spending billions of pounds trying to stem something over which we have no control. I believe that this money could be used to make the world a fairer, more peaceful place. I would much rather bring clean drinking water to an impoverished village in Africa than bring a wind farm to the shores of California. You might not agree, but surely you can see it is a reasonable argument. I respect that argument. I respect Al Gore and the people who voted him into office. And I’d love to chat to him about it……..I just don’t agree with everything he says.
This blog is mostly about cruising and that’s what it has to be about. It is also a little bit about my life and with that comes a little bit of what I think and those thoughts are remember …….spiced with a little humor. Once again I apologize if I offended you and I wanted the entire blog to know that.
The most important part of today’s blog is this. Six months ago my mate Alan was not in a good way……………but yesterday…………..he had a scan…………and the results were simply amazing…………….the gammer stuff worked and the doctors say they are happy and content not to have to see him for a year…………it seems his positive and fun outlook on life and your thoughts and prayers have worked a miracle……………he sends his thanks to you all as do I………………..he is hoping to celebrate with a cruise in August and has now promised to join us on the Bloggers 2009 cruise….he may still be as ugly as bulldog’s bottom after its eaten a pound of prunes……but that……..is a small cross to bear.
Thanks again my friends………….you are simply…….the best.
And…….yesterday I met Callum……….who although burdened with more than any of us could ever imagine has to be one of the most special kids I have ever met…………and he is …………my hero.
Here is a picture he drew for me and a note from Mum.
Goodnight
Your Friends
John and Heidi and Callum Booker aged 8
52 Comments
July 21st, 2008 at 2:05 pm
As always, you go John! Al Gore is a hypocritical national embarassment who has a larger “carbon footprint” than some small countries. He epiomizes the American liberal’s “do as I say, don’t do as I do” policy. Knock him down a few more pegs.
Also, what’s up with the blogger’s cruise? I went to the website, which told me it was sold out. Is it?
Jeff
July 21st, 2008 at 2:07 pm
John, what great news. Alan coming to the 2009 Bloggers Cruise. Now all I have to do is get him to join My Evil Krewe. My Evil Krewe would just love to help him get even with you for all those ugly jokes about him.
ALAN, just post a comment on my blog by clicking on my name above and I will get your email address to contact you.
BIG ED
July 21st, 2008 at 2:09 pm
First, Big Ed, Pat and family… I’ll be keeping you in my prayers during this difficult time. The same is true for Mima.
Thank God for gems like Callum Booker. Wonders like him make tolerating some of the Earth’s less desirable occupants a bit easier… You know who you are…
PHENOMENAL news about your mate and our friend, Alan!! Now, I have one more high point to look forward to on the Blogger’s Cruise.
Some people refuse to see the truth even when it’s the size of the sun. Some people are so ready to blame all of the worlds woes on man that they hang on the words of pseudo-intellectuals, like Al Bore, hoping to hear some new tidbit that will roundly condemn humans for everything up to and including the Big Bang.
Please thank the Bently’s for the gorgeous pictures. Lovely, just lovely.
The thought of fresh water pools is outstanding. It’s never really been an issue for me in the past but I’m sure I’d enjoy the pool more if it was filled with fresh water.
Again, pass along my howdies to the lovely Heidi and my thanks to the lovely and industrious Stephanie!!
And, by the way, SAVE THE CIGAR BARS!!!
Thank you for your kind attention!!!
Cheers!!!
Host Mach
July 21st, 2008 at 2:27 pm
John:
Thanks for the shout out my way… I am cruising vicariously through your blog and love every entry. Planning on a 2010 world cruise with HAL !
Thanks
mima
July 21st, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Good Afternoon John,
Sounds like all is going well on the “first cruise”. We (Jack, Janis/Dave (sister & husband), Dad and step Mom) were on the “first cruise” of the Carnival Miracle and did a back to back. What a wonderful cruise and the horror stories about “first cruise” with a new ship are just that. Someone’s vivid imagination. The Miracle back to back rates up there with the best of the best. Crew was amazing and the ship was beautiful. Sure there were a few oppsy’s but when aren’t there. We had a great time and we still talk about it. Now on to the guest who was complaining about the size of the cabin. I’m not sure what she was smoking on the Celebrity cruise (I’m sure it wasn’t legal) but when we cruised with them on the Summit we had a suite and let me tell you that it was smaller than a “regular” cabin on a Carnival ship. It also was more expensive. Celebrity is a nice cruiseline but I will take a Carnival cruise any day!!! Just tell me when and what time the Ship leaves ;D. You know that there is always one or two (or eleventeen) guests that you just can’t do anything to please them so concentrate on all the guests who are having a great time and the “grumps” of the world will just have to get by. Being grumpy must make them happy somehow. Just smile and keep a stiff upper lip (LOL)
You take care
Joan
July 21st, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Great news regarding Alan. We’re looking forward to seeing him on the Bloggers Cruise.
Our sympathy goes out to Big Ed, Pat and family. Larry’s oldest brother passed away last Thursday and we know how hard this is on the family at this time.
July 21st, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Hi John, Great blogs as usual. SO glad to hear that Alan is doing so amazingly well! I’m always glad to encounter someone who isn’t afraid to state what isn’t politically correct at the moment (and yes, i too believe that Al Gore is wrong!). Keep up the great writing….your life from your POV, whether or not everyone agrees with you! Thanks for the great pics. GLoria
July 21st, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Hi John/Heidi:
Great blog today and thanks for posting.
I really loved the pics from the Eurodam cruise. I can’t get over at how beautiful the fjords are.
That’s very exciting that Alan is going to be on the blogger’s cruise next year.
Hope everything else is going well and the diet is ok.
Keep in touch and take care,
Thanks!
David
July 21st, 2008 at 3:01 pm
John,
I’m so happy to hear the great news about Alan and that he will indeed be joining us on the bloggers cruise. Maybe your sister will come also ? As far as the environment goes i really don’t know enough about all the hot topics but what i can say on that topic is I know the planet is in trouble and needs help. But I think all the go green hype and concerns are a bit too late The only thing we can really do is learn from our past and try not to continue to make the same mistakes or new ones and let the planet heal it’s self, no matter what form it requires to do that. I respect Mr. Gore’s opinions and concerns, but does he think that he can do it by himself. In this day and age of fast everything or quick whatever we depend on petroleum products too much in out everyday lives and to make these require refineries that do release green house gas and so on. Do I think we can survive without oil based products no because they are way to much a dependent on our way of life, but I’m sure we can find other things to use at some point as a earth friendly replacement.
Once again ED my deepest condolences to you and Pat, you know the entire krewe is behind you right now along with all the bloggers.
Great photos from the Bentleys I wonder what kind of car they drive John ?
And to Heidi the goddess of the blog, where is your blog that we all have been waiting for ? We know your busy but we haven’t had a really good Heidi blog in a long time. Best to you and everyone else
Kevin
July 21st, 2008 at 3:19 pm
dude, deepest sympathy to big ed and pat. so sorry to hear this mates. and the news about alan is tits! (that’s good john in case you were wondering.) and al gore? biggest hypocrite of the century with his big private airplanes and huge homes and big suv’s and he is making a fortune off the carbon footprint stuff. (do you want to buy a bridge?)
you go john, you hit the nail on the head! for him to have won that award makes the award worthless to me, nobel shmobel. just my two cents. i know, that and a buck will get me a cup of coffee, maybe.
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
July 21st, 2008 at 3:39 pm
John
Thanks for the quick response.
I will email Stephine the pic of Freddy on Michael’s arm.
Feel free to post it
Thanks for all you do
Cheri & Michael
July 21st, 2008 at 3:56 pm
A big Whoo-hoo to Alan, fabulous news about his recovery. Mima, you’re next in the “fabulous news” column! Big Ed and Pat, condolences. We don’t know each other but I feel that you should all know that it seems like any friend of John’s is a friend of mine.
I wonder if the Russians simply do not know the niceties of making a new ship welcome as it comes to their port of call. They may have few traditions of celebration and happiness. Things were grim for so many years.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Hey ……Bubba would love the El Casa De Waffle and the master chef from Boliva….
Actually with me being somewhat finicky….I occasionally resort to the plastic food from a business hotel Waffle House type joint…(Denny’s….Shoney’s…Big Boy)….The greasy dive joints are sometimes palatable…..well almost …
Ed & Pat …my sympathy to you and your family …..
The Flying Dutchman
July 21st, 2008 at 4:14 pm
Hi John,
First, my condolences to Big Ed & Pat. I’m glad about Alan’s news. He is one of the lucky ones. I say this because I have lost 2 people (not relatives)in the space of 3 years who underwent surgery, chemo, etc. just to give us hope for a short while. But a year later (in each case), they were gone. I’m glad all is well with him.
Great photos from that other cruise.
I have a lot to say about the environment, but as you said this blog thingy is about cruising, not politics. But it wouldn’t hurt if everyone did a small part. And why can’t California get their wind farms & Africa get their water? Both of them?
Hugs,
Carol
July 21st, 2008 at 4:24 pm
John I’m so glad to hear that Alan ia feeling so much better and will be joining us on the BC. I think I would watch my back if I were you in case Ed and Alan team up against you………giggle
Jeri Green………I’m sorry to hear about the death in your family. And of course Ed already knows we are here for him and his family.
Don got a phone call yesterday afternoon. His brother passed away. He had colon cancer which had just been diagnosed a few weeks ago.
Goodness our blogging family is going thru so much lately.
The Evil Krewe is such a blessing to be a part of, too.We are one great big family and there for each other.We are so fortunate to have each other.
Carolyn
Try and work on Suzanne and Mum and Dad and see if they will join us on the BC.
Hi Heidi
July 21st, 2008 at 5:00 pm
Alright, I have to take issue with Ms. Cabintoosmall. I’m sorry, but her information is INCORRECT! Here’s a bit from Celebrity themselves about their cabin size and amenities:
“All Celebrity ships have cabins/suites that are standard in size and amenities. (A minimum category stateroom at 172 square ft. is a plus for bargain seekers.) Celebrity has also upgraded amenities in all cabin categories to include terry cloth robes and in-room service from the dining room menu. Celebrity’s Millennium-class ships possess all the contemporary accoutrements, such as cybercafes-at-sea; double-deck libraries; martini bars; themed spas; and on Infinity, Constellation and Summit, Connect@Sea, 24-hour Internet access in all cabins for passengers who bring their laptops.
All standard cabins have a TV with CNN/ESPN, closed circuit movies and Sony’s interactive features; direct dial telephone; minibars; safes; hair dryers and convertible twin/queen beds. A large number of cabins have private balconies (56 percent of all accommodations on Millennium-class ships).”
And Carnival: (Interior 4A - 185 sq. ft.)
“Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.”
Hmmm… looks like CCL cabins are larger for the standard cabins by 13 sq. ft. -AND- has similar amenities. And doesn’t the newer designs have bow-to-stern Wi-Fi access in the cabins (Carnival Valor and later ships)?
Yeah, Ms. Cabintoosmall needs to go back to remedial school and retake mathematics and/or geometry.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:47 pm
John,
All I can say is…Thank God! I have been sooo worried about Alan since you have not mentioned him in awhile! Guess I can take him off my church’s pray list. I can’t wait to meet him on the BC…he’s going to be more famous than you!
Between the news of Alan and the picture from Callum, it really makes one stop and count their blessings!
About Al Gore…he’s not worth my time to talk about!
Peanuts…..We were on the first cruise of the Carnival Miracle! We loved it! We leaned over the balcony and watched the cermony!
I must agree with Kevin…when shall we expect the next Hedi’s blog?? She sees things in such a different light than you John.
Princess Susan
ps..hi Stephanie
July 21st, 2008 at 5:48 pm
Hi John,
Firstly, congratulations on the blog - it’s great to see how things are going and your own “take” on life - keep it up! We can’t wait until we join you on October 5th for the Greek Islands cruise.
On that note - JOHN / STEPHANIE - URGENT, PLEASE REPLY - we picked the Greek Islands cruise so that my wife could visit Ancient Olympia having spent years at school and college researching the olympics and its original roots. But disaster! It looks like all the tours are sold out when we are in port on October 13th.
In your experience, is it likely that extra spaces will be added / come available or is it best to make seperate plans (taxi etc.)?
Thanks again and keep up the great work!
nibbs
July 21st, 2008 at 6:47 pm
My condolences to Big Ed and Carolyn and Don for their losses.
Great news about Alan!
It’s amazing what people can gripe about. That’s why I’ll never be any good in the service industries. I’ll want to tell them all to bugger off.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:53 pm
John -
Great news about Alan - now, we have to help Allison and him figure out how to get you back for the prank you pulled on him.
Jon
July 21st, 2008 at 7:03 pm
John
Right on about Al Bore more scientists have refuted him than have supported him.
Our condolences to Big Ed and his family.
Great news on Alan and keep up the good work on the blog.
Best to Heidi and Steph.
Papanh
July 21st, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Im very happy for Alan!!YAY!
July 21st, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Wow… I used to be a Club O2 Director for Carnival, but now I work at a Courtyard by Marriott- a strictly business hotel. Hopefully people aren’t that miserable when they stay at my hotel.
Thanks.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:34 pm
JOHN - PLEASE REPLY
Thank you for the heads up on the Panama Canal cruise. We were among the first to sign up. I just wanted to ask, since I remember you saying you haven’t been to California, if you would want to be CD on this cruise. It leaves on March 22, 2009 from Los Angeles for two weeks and that looks like an open spot on your schedule! Anyway, just wanted to put the thought in your mind. Can you consider???
We are so happy to hear about Alan’s progress. Give him a big hug from all of us who have kept him in our prayers and good thoughts.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:36 pm
My thoughts and prayers go out to Big Ed and Pat during this difficult time.
To Mima, my prayers also are with you. My wife is a cancer survivor as are several of our friends. Try to keep a positive outlook while undergoing your treatment - attitude is so important.
Great news about Alan - I am looking forward to meeting him on the bloggers cruise. Hopefully he will share with all of us some stories of his and John’s adventures.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:49 pm
sorry to hear about your brother in law big ed and pat remember all the good memories they will last forever. I been having a hard dealing with the lost of my dad but i snap out of it and say he had a great life and i think of all the good times. ed and pat we feel for you
July 21st, 2008 at 8:19 pm
John, We would like to thank all the bloggers, you and Heidi for the beautiful words and all the prayers for our brother in law and the family.
Pat and I will be adding Larry and Don’s brothers to all the prayers we will be offering up for all of the ones we have lost.
Pat and Ed Konefe
July 21st, 2008 at 8:22 pm
Good job Jason! Carnival does have the biggest cabins in the average dollar categories. Been on many so I didn’t get it from a book either. I am just in a constant state of amusement after reading this blog for just a few weeks the types of things that people will get upset and complain about–yikes! It’s a vacation people, on a beautiful new ship, people trying to please you at every turn, beautiful ports so how bad can that be? Trying on jeans in a tiny cubicle could be something to get upset about.
I didn’t get to post yesterday so I have to tell you John that your description of trying on jeans was too funny. The pics from the Eurodam were beautiful. Sympathies to Big Ed and Pat as well.
As for Rikki, there are as many opinions on the environment as there are on smoking and the cigar bar and I understand that people are passionate about their sides of the issues but I am with you and don’t believe all of the hype (and don’t smoke anymore but love the smell of a good cigar) but do believe that we can each do a little something to help things at least stay a little cleaner for those that come after us. The blog is about cruising–that’s what makes it fun for us. Thank you for that John and Heidi. I’m so looking forward to meeting you both in November.
Sleep well…its the middle of the night where you are.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:55 pm
John, according to Celebrity’s website, the interior cabins on Celebrity Millenium are 170 square feet in size. I can’t find the square footage of cabins on Carnival’s website, but I’m guessing that Carnival Splendor’s state rooms are similar in size.
July 21st, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Hello John,
So happy to read that Alan and family will be joining us on the Bloggers Cruise. I have said a lot of prayers for him and his family, along with the rest of our evil krewe. What a relief the doctors report must have been for him and Alison both. Congratulations Alan!!! Carl and I are looking forward to finally meeting you!
On a sadder note, Big Ed & Pat, Carolyn & Don and Jeri Green our sympathy goes out to all of you in the loss of your loved ones. We will include you and Mima also, in our prayers.
I really enjoyed the Bently’s photos of the Fjords. How beautiful! Someday, I will get there in person. But for now, seeing them through your blog is great. Thank you for sharing.
Hello to Heidi!!! How about a Blog soon? We miss you!
Princess Barb
July 21st, 2008 at 9:15 pm
John - that’s great news about Alan, yes will he be on the Bloggers Cruise, we’ve heard so much about him.
Big Ed & Pat, sorry for your loss, our prayers are with you and your family.
Love,
Suzann
July 21st, 2008 at 9:41 pm
John, as usual great blog and once again you document the Good, the B ad and the everyday UGLY (no Alan not you).
So much for the perpetual complainers, the bureaucy (be it frying pan heads or almost presidentsor whatever) Too much blah, blah,blah….end of the day Callum’s note and drawing is what we need to focus on, a wake-up call. Thank you.
Cheers, Ray
July 21st, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Hi John,
The pictures posted today are fantastic. That is wonderful news about Alan. My condolences to Big Ed and Pat.
July 21st, 2008 at 10:20 pm
I just want to let Big Ed, Pat, Carolyn and Don know that they are in my prayers. So sorry for your losses.
That is really great news about Alan.
Jennifer and Danny
July 21st, 2008 at 10:29 pm
Greetings John….
Glad to see your having a great time with the Wok shaped heads…
Our deepest sympathy is extended to Ed & his wife Pat. Hope to see you all on BC2009
Cheers ….. Richard & Louise
p.s. Keep up the great work Steph
July 21st, 2008 at 10:57 pm
Dear John and Heidi and Callum Booker
First of all my heartfelt condolences to Jeri Green, Don and Carolyn and Big ED and Pat on their losses.
Ms Cabin too small can go back to Celebrity where she came from. I love the inside cabins on Carnival , just as much as the outside cabins…..
AL Gore and his Green Effort. I’m all for keeping crap out of the oceans and cutting down on plastic & trash but there are times I think hes blowing his horn too much and he’s a little to late, he should have done a LOT of this whe he WAS in OFFICE!
CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES TO ALAN on his medical clearance! I cannot wait to meet him on the 2009 Bloggers Cruise. Please make sure he nakes it John. That would be too cool!…
Please thank the Bently’s for the wonderful pictures. Absolutely breathetaking!
Take Care
The Tuckers
Elizabeth & Arnold
July 21st, 2008 at 11:22 pm
To everyone who has suffered a loss lately….my condolences
We have lost 3 members lately…..my father-in-law’s sister, his sister-in-law, my uncle’s best friend of 50 years…..may they all rest in heavenly peace……
Glad to hear Alan is doing wonderful..
We don’t like Al Gore either…..think he’s a bit of a kook….
I have to disagree with Mrs. cabinistoosmall……..I have always had an inside (sometimes upgraded to a higher deck) and the cabins are not small….
Thanks to John, Heidi, Stephanie and everyone else who is involved in the blog.
Cindy
July 21st, 2008 at 11:44 pm
Could not resist checking celebrity.com. The stateroom detail specific for the Celebrity Millennium shows the inside cabin is 170 sq ft….
July 22nd, 2008 at 12:14 am
Great news about Alan…thrilled that he’ll be joining us in February.
Also, agree with your take on global warming and Al Gore. Even if I didn’t I would still want to hear your opinion. I read the blog not only to hear all the cruise news but also because I enjoy learning about you and Heidi and what makes you tick.
Keep up the great work!
Lisa Kilmartin
July 22nd, 2008 at 4:10 am
Thanks John for remembering to post our hello’s to Mima. I can’t wait for the bloggers thingy today but if you posted a password I didn’t see it…hope you let me in
Dawn
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:41 am
Wonderful news to hear about Alan! Sorry to hear about Big Ed’s brother in law passing away, and all the other bloggers who have lost loved ones in the past few weeks. God Bless! Linda
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:48 am
Hi John.
I guess it’s a good idea to do whatever we can for the environment - after all, we can’t get another Earth to live on if we break this one……
It’s also important that businesses take the lead - to show people what can be easily done.
At my caravan park, we recycle over 90% of our waste, we are carbon neutral, and we have a planting scheme that is designed to both improve appearance and provide natural habitats.
Our rewards - well, we have a few Red Squirrels, a Pheasant that will eat out of your hand, and all you hear most of the day is the birds singing.
Paradise. (and it could be yours for a very reasonable price if you buy a caravan……….!)
There’s a village pub near enough to stroll to, just in case you don’t want to kill a few more polar bears with your Range Rover…..
Looking out of my office window I can see a garden with park benches, behind that is a field with a couple of horses gently grazing, and behind that a backdrop of trees.
I love working here - and if you look closely at my photo, I’m stood with David Bellamy OBE who promotes a conservation award scheme that we have taken part in since 2004 - we’re proud of our achievements and keep trying to make advances.
Next year’s major project - generating our own electricity with solar panels.
Oh - and our average caravans are 320 sq ft and upwards - but please DONT send Ms Cabintoosmall to us!
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:32 am
We so totally agree on the Al Bore scenario and wish he would just go away, but it is his right to be oh so wrong!
Thanks so much for all the posts/pics whetting our appetite for the Eurodam trip coming up SOON!
Big hugs to Big Ed and Pat…and to you, Heidi and the wonderful Stephanie.
Duchess Sandy in GA
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:57 am
I remember when my crew cabin was same size as my current closed. And there was four of us roommates in it
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:57 am
Hi John! I would like the blog to see my blog. I follow the blog. About the post, I cant beleave a guest would complain about the size of a Cabin. Cheers! Zack
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:04 am
John, what great news about Alan. It will be great to meet him on the Bloggers Cruise!
I have to shake my head, at the mycabinistoosmall guest. Give me a BREAK! However, you have been doing this long enough, I’m sure not much surprises you.
In all you do, you always manage to put a smile on my face! Thank you.
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:38 am
John, As a “frequent sleeper” in almost all types of hotels throughout the world I will say that I never found any Carnival ship cabin anything but like many of those rooms that I have stayed. I found Carnival cabins regardless of which type we selected, to be well appointed and very comfortable. As far any comparison to Celebrity, been there done that and the ship I was on was the PITS! Old and outdated with passengers about the same. Thanks Carnival, keep up the good work.
Jim
July 22nd, 2008 at 12:05 pm
John, yet again another great blog.
I love a good debate, and I most definately love it when people can agree to disagree! Too bad not everyone gets that concept. By the way, I agree with your view of the whole global warming subject…
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Off Topic:
HI DAN!!!!!
You were marvelous with DJ on our cruise.
I am sorry to hear you are no longer a Club O2 Director. DJ still talks about how great you were.
Which Courtyard???
Linda
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:33 pm
Hi John & Heidi,
Greetings to you both from a damp Lancashire.
It’s almost 12 months since our 25th anniv cruise on Freedom where we had a wonderful time and loved Johns humour and pasenger-friendly attitude. Our kids had geat fun trying to track Alan down following his ‘picture’ being posted on the morning show by John.
Its great to hear that Alan is now recovering well and we all send him and his family our very best wishes.
We are so looking forward to cruising again once my dear wife is fully recovered from some health issues earlier this year but in the meantime we love keeping tabs on John via his blog.
Declan, Karen, Katherine & Alex.
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:22 pm
John,
When I saw the title of this blog, Al Ernst was the first Al who came to mind, and I wondered what you had done to him that you felt needed an apology.
Pat
InMN253
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:04 pm
Big Ed and family, please accept my condolences on your loss.
Alan, wonderful to hear your news.
John Lewis
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