Diplomacy

A cruise line has announced a new partnership with LINDOR that includes an elevated turndown service with milk chocolate truffles.

Holland America Line’s new partnership with LINDOR, the #1 premium chocolate brand in the U.S., will add new crafted experiences to their cruise ships.

On Gala Night, cruise passengers will return to their cabin and find Lindt LINDOR milk chocolate truffles or Sea Salt milk chocolate truffles once per cruise. It is part of the cruise line’s “Sweet Dreams” turndown service.

Also new to Holland America Line ships will be Lindt chocolate desserts that include a signature tulip-shaped Lindt chocolate mousse cake. While it is currently only on Rotterdam, it will be added to the entire fleet by August 2024.

This summer, Holland America guests will also be able to enjoy a Lindt Sundae including vanilla ice cream topped with a custom-made Lindt chocolate sauce.

One night per cruise in the main dining room, Lindt chocolate tulips will be offered on the Dutch Day menu.

For cruises that are seven days and longer, Lindt Flourless Chocolate Cake will be on the menu in the main dining room during the “Cake Me Away” program. The program offers 22 different five-layer cakes.

Melissa Mendoza, vice president of marketing at Lindt & Sprüngli (USA), gave the following statement about this new partnership with Holland America Line:

“Holland America Line’s dedication to extraordinary service mirrors the meticulous craftsmanship behind Lindt chocolate, where the fusion of the finest ingredients creates an unparalleled indulgent experience.”

“The partnership between Holland America Line and Lindt presents a remarkable chance for the Lindt LINDOR brand to connect with travelers passionate about cuisine and attract a new generation of LINDOR fans with unforgettable brand moments.”

Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line, said that this new partnership will help elevate the culinary experience on board their cruise ships.

Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald recently addressed a passenger complaint on a Facebook Live video.

The passenger was simply trying to work out in the gym on Carnival Celebration when a woman told him to get out of her shot as she filmed with her phone.

Graham, a 52-year-old corrections officer from Montgomery, shared the following experience with Heald.

Diagnosed with a recent health condition, Graham found exercise helpful in managing it, but also admitted with a touch of humor,

“I’m trying so hard to plan on being good with exercising so I can eat all the yummy food they are serving here without one ounce of guilt!” He continued, “I was in the gym this morning early around 8:00-ish.”

But his workout plans in the cruise ship gym were quickly thwarted by a woman who was recording a video.

“She told me I needed to move out of the way from the view in the mirror,” Graham recounted. “I was shocked… She told me she was filming for Carnival and I had to get out of the view!“

According to Graham, the passenger wasn’t just filming herself casually.

“She filmed herself with a phone making motivational mantras,” he said, implying the woman was creating content for social media.

He added that she told another passenger the same thing, ‘get out of my film shot’.

Heald responded to the message saying he did some checking into the situation.

Upon investigating with Carnival’s PR and marketing teams, Heald assured Graham that there were no official filming projects happening onboard, particularly not with iPhones in the gym.

“This was obviously some lady who is doing one of her influencer things that people do these days,” Heald said on the live video.

Heald went on to express his amusement at the situation, calling the passenger’s behavior “very rude.”

In a lighthearted attempt to resolve the situation, Heald offered Graham some playful advice.

“I told him to go back to the gym… and if this lady is there filming, that he has my full permission to walk into the background of her film and twerk,” Heald said.

“I promise that if he does that then I will send him some nice free things to say thank you for the wonderful work he does and to have fun.”

Whether Graham chose to follow Heald’s tongue-in-cheek suggestion will have to remain a mystery for now.

But this is not an occurrence that is exclusive to cruise ships.  Many videos have gone viral as of late as ‘influencers’ have pushed the boundaries in claiming spaces in local gyms.

We encourage cruisers to avoid bad cruise ship etiquette, so everyone on board can have an enjoyable vacation.

Bimini, a cruise port in The Bahamas that opened in 2021, celebrated the completion of Fisherman’s Village. Fisherman’s Village is an open-air retail center that is now open to cruise passengers.

This island-inspired marketplace from Genting Group is a short walk from the cruise pier. It can also be accessed by a free tram that will take you right from the ship to village.  The tram runs every 10-15 minutes.

It is also steps away from the lobby of Resorts World Bimini.

Retail offerings that are open at Fisherman’s Village include:

• Coralds
• Hidden Treasure
• Beach Essentials
• Reef
• Home Fit
• Splash
• Elephant Gem
• Reef Joint
• Rainbow Reef

Each store is unique with items ranging from home goods, athleisure wear, athletic goods, jewelry, women’s clothing, resort wear and essential items.

Healing Hole is a Bahamian restaurant with live music that serves everything from Bahamian cuisine to island cocktail drinks. There is also a pizzeria and gelateria. 

Robert DeSalvio, President of Genting Americas East, gave the following statement:

“Fisherman’s Village has been carefully curated to provide a unique and elevated shopping experience for all visitors, whether staying at our resort or visiting via cruise.

The boutiques at Fisherman’s Village are named for our love and respect for Bimini’s vast marine life, which brings visitors near and far to discover our corner of the world. We hope for all who come to Bimini to find a feeling of comfort and enjoyment at Fisherman’s Village.”

Virgin Voyages, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Holland America Line and Norwegian Cruise Line all have ships that will visit Bimini this year.

Since Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port opened in 2021, it has welcomed over one million cruise passengers. 

When a Virgin cruise ship visits Bimini, the Beach Club becomes a private, complimentary destination for their guests.

Cruising to Italy: How to Make the Most of Your Shore Day in Verona

When your cruise ship docks in Italy, the charm and romance of Verona awaits you. Famed as one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, Verona is a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you are a literature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveller looking to explore new horizons, Verona offers something for everyone. Here’s how to maximize your shore day in this enchanting city.

Indulge in Culinary Delights: Piazza Bra

Feeling hungry already? Head over to Piazza Bra for brunch. It is the largest piazza in Verona and boasts an imposing view of the Arena di Verona, an ancient Roman amphitheater that’s still in use today. Try local dishes such as Risotto all’Amarone or Bollito con la Pearà at one of the many inviting restaurants that line the square. If you’re visiting during the opera season, consider returning here in the evening for the Verona Opera, one of the city’s most iconic cultural experiences.

The Heart of Verona: Piazza delle Erbe

Once you’re ready check out Piazza delle Erbe, the pulse of Verona and one of Italy’s most striking squares. This historical market square is brimming with vibrant energy and is a stunning amalgamation of Roman, Renaissance, and medieval influences. From the quaint market stalls offering local produce and souvenirs to the beautiful surrounding architecture, this is where you can get a real feel for the local culture.

Don’t miss the chance to admire the frescoed houses and the imposing bell towers. Grab an espresso at one of the bustling cafes, and take a moment to soak it all in. It’s the perfect way to start your day on a high note.

Literary Landmarks: Casa di Giulietta

Your next stop should be Casa di Giulietta, or Juliet’s House, a poignant homage to Shakespeare’s tragic heroine from “Romeo and Juliet”. Located a short walk from Piazza delle Erbe, this medieval house boasts the famous balcony where, according to legend, Juliet paused to listen to Romeo’s declarations of love.

While the romantic in you may revel in the courtyard filled with love notes and locks, the house itself offers a museum detailing the life and times of Romeo and Juliet. Feel free to take photos but prepare for crowds, as this is one of Verona’s most popular tourist spots.

Exploring History: Arena di Verona

After lunch, definitely visit the Arena di Verona. This colossal Roman amphitheater is one of the best-preserved ancient structures in the world. Step inside to get a sense of the grandeur that once entertained a city with gladiatorial games and other spectacles. If you’re lucky enough, your visit may coincide with a concert or performance, giving you an opportunity to experience the arena in action.

Charming Streets and Hidden Gems

Take the time to wander the cobblestone streets of Verona where you’ll come across numerous hidden gems. Stroll along Via Mazzini, the main shopping street, where you can indulge in some retail therapy. Head towards Ponte Pietra, the oldest bridge in Verona, offering picturesque views of the Adige River. While traversing these streets, you’ll find an array of charming boutiques and delightful cafes inviting you to step inside.

Heritage and Art: Castelvecchio

Your next stop should be Castelvecchio, a 14th-century fortress that now houses a comprehensive museum showcasing medieval, Renaissance, and modern art. The moated fortress itself is an architectural marvel and offers an intriguing contrast between its defensive structures and the art within. Spend some time appreciating the masterpieces by Bellini, Veronese, and other Italian greats housed within the castle’s walls.

Captivating Views: Torre dei Lamberti

End your day with a breath-taking panoramic view of Verona from Torre dei Lamberti. This striking tower stands 84 meters tall and provides one of the best vantage points in the city. You can take the elevator up if you’re pressed for time, or if you’re feeling adventurous, climb the stairs. The vista of red-tiled roofs, winding streets, and distant mountains is a fitting capstone to your perfect day in Verona.

Farewell, But Not Goodbye

As your shore day in Verona draws to a close and you head back to your cruise ship, you’ll carry with you memories steeped in culture, history, and romance. Verona is a city that invites you to return, and with so much more to explore, who’s to say this visit will be your last?

By carefully planning your day and focusing on these key highlights, you’ll have made the most of your enchanted visit to Verona. Buon viaggio!

Collaborative Post

There’s a reason Carnival Cruise Line would like passengers to refrain from feeding seagulls and other wildlife when on their ships.

I’ve seen firsthand what happens when someone on board gets the bright idea of feeding the nearby wildlife.  It isn’t pretty.

A recent message from a Carnival passenger was addressed by Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald on the topic of feeding seagulls.

The passenger, referred to as V, was in Alaska when some left over bread was all too alluring to some nearby seagulls.

Here is the entire message from the passenger:

“On our cruise on the Luminosa around Alaska and while on our own personal balcony me and my husband were throwing some left over bread from room service in the air for the seagulls to eat. We were in Ketchikan.” 

“Some busy body reported us. We had someone from security knock on our door and humiliate us by telling us like we were school kids. Seagulls are Gods creatures. I like them, they don’t cause any bother (and their cries make you feel as though you are really on the high seas.? SMH that this happened John Heald.”

Heald replied to the complaint, explaining why the cruise line has this policy in place, saying,

“I do understand but I am sure the security team member did not “ humiliate “ you but was doing his job to kindly ask you not to feed the birds. I know our wonderful naturalist on board will make announcements not to feed them.”

The problem?  Birds don’t discriminate on where they decide to leave their droppings.   And on a cruise ship that tries as hard as possible to keep a clean environment, this only complicates matters.

“When you have dozens of birds attracted to the ship they can make a huge mess as they drop massive dollops of poo all over the ship,” Heald added.

This policy is consistent with the rule that nothing is to be thrown overboard as well.

“So our housekeeping department thank you for not feeding them.  There are of course strict environmental reasons as well. Throwing anything overboard is forbidden and so that includes feeding them,” Heald said.

Additionally, when passengers start feeding seagulls it only attracts more wildlife.  I’ve been on some cruise ships that had outdoor spaces overwhelmed by seagulls who were feasting on abandoned plates.

When sailing out of Long Beach, California years ago, I remember the entire pool deck of Carnival Imagination being covered with a net to try to combat this problem. 

Certain cruise ports and parts of the world have more problems with birds than others, but it’s important that all passengers know not to feed the wildlife flying around the ship.