Early this morning we rose...on the gangway by 07:45 to wait for transportation to the hospital. Me, Carys (massage therapist) and 5 other people all going to see the Doc.
Arrived at the cruise clinic and made our way up to the waiting room where there were another 10 people waiting from the Carnival cruise ship. When they put on a DVD for us to watch and brought out the coffee and pastries we knew we were in for a long wait.
First you go through and fill in forms, back out and wait, then on a little golf cart to another building where you have your x-rays done, then wait, go in and see the doc with your x-rays, back out and wait, back in to get the results and paperwork, then wait..............this was a 6hr process- with a good result i might add
I was diagnosed as being unfit for duty so they have signed me off medically, which means I GO HOME!!!!!
but now the race was on, we have to leave the ship by 4pm and it was already 3pm when we left the hospital, got back to the ship at 3:30, straight to medical, race up to the spa to see if our manager had organized flights, nope nothing as yet, back down to the cabin to pack up the last lots of goodies and wait for the phonecall that could come at 3:55pm to tell us to race off the ship...alas that did not happen, no flights for this evening so we are getting off the ship at San Juan on Tuesday, which means another 2 days of Wafting around. It has been nice to be a passenger for a while.
Time to say goodbye to everyone and pack properly!!!
See everybody soon soon soon!
Sunday, 6 May 2007
Saturday, 5 May 2007
Saturday
well it has been a fun 3 days. Yesterday, slept until 1pm, went Suntanning, watched DVD, went shopping with Amy, actually chewed my food before swallowing because I was under no time restraints to get back to work..
today slept until noon, then Amy and i went tanning again, spent $230 on promanade.. had a good slow lunch, and started packing.....yes packing....why you ask?
well apparently if the doctor in Miami says that i am unfit for duty I leave for home tomorrow, yes they just shove you out of here, it costs to much for them to keep you. So great if i do leave however if i don't then i have to unpack my whole 4month life back into my cabin!!! That will not be fun!
So i will update you on the happenings of my knee joint...considering i have triathlons and things happening when i get home i hope it is nothing to serious...I also hope I don't have to pay an Orthopedic doctor in dollars, might get a bit expensive!
So I am sitting in my cabino watching the 100th DVD, not that i am complaining (for those of you who know how important movies are to me), looking at my packed luggage waiting for the end of cruise meeting to get under way upstairs in the spa.
today slept until noon, then Amy and i went tanning again, spent $230 on promanade.. had a good slow lunch, and started packing.....yes packing....why you ask?
well apparently if the doctor in Miami says that i am unfit for duty I leave for home tomorrow, yes they just shove you out of here, it costs to much for them to keep you. So great if i do leave however if i don't then i have to unpack my whole 4month life back into my cabin!!! That will not be fun!
So i will update you on the happenings of my knee joint...considering i have triathlons and things happening when i get home i hope it is nothing to serious...I also hope I don't have to pay an Orthopedic doctor in dollars, might get a bit expensive!
So I am sitting in my cabino watching the 100th DVD, not that i am complaining (for those of you who know how important movies are to me), looking at my packed luggage waiting for the end of cruise meeting to get under way upstairs in the spa.
MAY 3 GRAN B-DAY
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRAN!!!!!
woke up to an 8am spinning class, nothing better to wake you up in the morning.
My knee was giving me grief this morning so i decided enough was enough, off to the doc I go, thinking he can just give me a knee support and some muscle rub. Anyway this fantastic Croatian doctor tells me there is 100% chance i will not work for the rest of my contract, i was like.."Excuse me?"............ he didn't even do a proper check..anyway the outcome is that I am "not fit for duty" till Sunday when i have to go to an Orthopedic doctor in Miami. Which means no work till Sunday.
Manager threw a tantrum when i handed her the doctors note, because I had not told her i was off to see the doctor- just for your information I have to get a form signed by her to go to the doctor, so where do you think i conjured that up from????
So back to the cabin, to watch DVD after DVD.
woke up to an 8am spinning class, nothing better to wake you up in the morning.
My knee was giving me grief this morning so i decided enough was enough, off to the doc I go, thinking he can just give me a knee support and some muscle rub. Anyway this fantastic Croatian doctor tells me there is 100% chance i will not work for the rest of my contract, i was like.."Excuse me?"............ he didn't even do a proper check..anyway the outcome is that I am "not fit for duty" till Sunday when i have to go to an Orthopedic doctor in Miami. Which means no work till Sunday.
Manager threw a tantrum when i handed her the doctors note, because I had not told her i was off to see the doctor- just for your information I have to get a form signed by her to go to the doctor, so where do you think i conjured that up from????
So back to the cabin, to watch DVD after DVD.
Today
Tuesday had the day off.
went to Carlos and Charlies for lunch with some of the dancers and Ryan's parents. It is a crazy place kinda like chango's but far more wild, never mind the dancing on the tables, the dancing goes outside and all down the road.
We drank cocktails out of yard long glasses. from there went to NO NAME BAR where all the crew meet on a tuesday. forgot my costume, but no worries, we just jumped off the pier into the ocean with all of our clothes on!! It was great. back to the ship at 3pm. had a sleep till 7pm, then to the Winjammer for dinner, with Ryan's family and Rose's family (they are also on board) and the dancers.
From there the party continued to the Schooner bar which I had never been to and then to Pharah's lounge to watch a Latino band play music from Elton John, Elvis, Frank sinatra etc..
One song they did play was Josh Groban "you lift me up"- i dedicated that to my parents for all they do for me!
It was so nice to spend time with families even though they are not mine, i felt more at home.
Went to bed around 2am.
went to Carlos and Charlies for lunch with some of the dancers and Ryan's parents. It is a crazy place kinda like chango's but far more wild, never mind the dancing on the tables, the dancing goes outside and all down the road.
We drank cocktails out of yard long glasses. from there went to NO NAME BAR where all the crew meet on a tuesday. forgot my costume, but no worries, we just jumped off the pier into the ocean with all of our clothes on!! It was great. back to the ship at 3pm. had a sleep till 7pm, then to the Winjammer for dinner, with Ryan's family and Rose's family (they are also on board) and the dancers.
From there the party continued to the Schooner bar which I had never been to and then to Pharah's lounge to watch a Latino band play music from Elton John, Elvis, Frank sinatra etc..
One song they did play was Josh Groban "you lift me up"- i dedicated that to my parents for all they do for me!
It was so nice to spend time with families even though they are not mine, i felt more at home.
Went to bed around 2am.
Monday, 30 April 2007
1st May
I am going home in 27 days
I am starting to get nervous now...i have become so accustomed to this way and these people and as unhappy as i am i am scared to face the real world again, have responsibilities.
Well Bobby is here..I am so excited, it is like being back in London for training all over again, we still take turns making tea at each meal, he is awesome.. taught him and Nicky how to box today cos i am busy taking all the classes cos they don't know how to do everything.
My feet are in such pain once again, it has now moved to my knee on one leg so I am going to the doctor tomorrow, I can barely spin and Yoga is painful..
had a fight with my manager on Sat night...what's new, she blamed fitness for losing keys that the whole Spa uses. Spoke to the big boss Tim yesterday and gave him a piece of my mind, i told him that I do not agree with the manager calling her staff "bitches and Dickheads" and I don't agree with how things are run around here. It is also hard having to train new people all the time as we can't get into any kind of rythm. So i feel better..
Tonight Bobby, Justine and I went to go watch the show 'Marquee' then went to Olive or Twist that is is a bar that overlooks the occean on the 14th level of the ship. We then went to the chapel and Bobby "married" Justine and I at the alter. got back tot the cabin and our 2 american friends Melissa and zanna were making 'Smores' which is lighting marshmallows, then squashing it between 2 honey buscuits that already have a piece of choc on it.. it is aparrently a big american tradition when they go camping, i feel ill from all the choc now..
tomorrow Justine and I are off all day so we are going to Lunch with all the dancers.
I am starting to get nervous now...i have become so accustomed to this way and these people and as unhappy as i am i am scared to face the real world again, have responsibilities.
Well Bobby is here..I am so excited, it is like being back in London for training all over again, we still take turns making tea at each meal, he is awesome.. taught him and Nicky how to box today cos i am busy taking all the classes cos they don't know how to do everything.
My feet are in such pain once again, it has now moved to my knee on one leg so I am going to the doctor tomorrow, I can barely spin and Yoga is painful..
had a fight with my manager on Sat night...what's new, she blamed fitness for losing keys that the whole Spa uses. Spoke to the big boss Tim yesterday and gave him a piece of my mind, i told him that I do not agree with the manager calling her staff "bitches and Dickheads" and I don't agree with how things are run around here. It is also hard having to train new people all the time as we can't get into any kind of rythm. So i feel better..
Tonight Bobby, Justine and I went to go watch the show 'Marquee' then went to Olive or Twist that is is a bar that overlooks the occean on the 14th level of the ship. We then went to the chapel and Bobby "married" Justine and I at the alter. got back tot the cabin and our 2 american friends Melissa and zanna were making 'Smores' which is lighting marshmallows, then squashing it between 2 honey buscuits that already have a piece of choc on it.. it is aparrently a big american tradition when they go camping, i feel ill from all the choc now..
tomorrow Justine and I are off all day so we are going to Lunch with all the dancers.
Friday, 27 April 2007
Freedom turns 1
Freedom of the Seas is 1 year old. we had a big party in back deck to celebrate, went very well only got home at 5am, Leo and Ryan stayed over, they are 2 dancers, Ryan is Justines new boyfriend on the ship, Leo is the the tumbler in the shows, so he does all the backflips etc. Woke up at 6:45 for work, Spinning at 8am was a tough struggle, so of course had a massive sleep in my 2hrs lunch.
The new fitness girl Nicole is such a cow, you have no idea, she believes she was sent to this ship to fix everything and be a positive motivation for us. Ian is leaving on Sunday and i got word of who they are replacing him with, Bobby- he was in my training with me at Boot camp, I am over the moon, he is so fantastic, little Scotish guy.
More flowers were delivered to our room last night but still no name on the card, have no idea who they are from.
30 days Left!
The new fitness girl Nicole is such a cow, you have no idea, she believes she was sent to this ship to fix everything and be a positive motivation for us. Ian is leaving on Sunday and i got word of who they are replacing him with, Bobby- he was in my training with me at Boot camp, I am over the moon, he is so fantastic, little Scotish guy.
More flowers were delivered to our room last night but still no name on the card, have no idea who they are from.
30 days Left!
Friday, 20 April 2007
Fun all around
Last night was sports night for the crew, so at 11pm we went up to the Rockwall and I tested my skills, Got up the first time and rang the bell, it felt so good it cramps your forearms so badly...second try I went up a slightly more challenging run, got within centimetres of the bell just could not get my foot on the last stone..
After 3 times my arms and fingers were so tired and shaking so we moved on to the Put Put course, So much fun playing golf on the top of a ship in the middle of the ocean.
Rebecca managed a hole in one on the last hole.
Today was very quiet and I felt bushed from the other night at Kyle's birthday. That was so much fun, Went to Portifino's for dinner which lasted till midnight, from there we went to Vintages to have our famous wine flights, then on to Back deck to party some more..the party moved to Kyle's cabin where we all sat in the corridor having drinks and a laugh. Got to bed at 4:20am so I was not a happy camper on Thursday morning.
We are getting a new fitness on Sunday named Nicole from Canada. I can't wait to get home. My boss phoned today in a panic cos he "heard" via the grapevine that me and Ian also want to quit. I obviously denied it but said that I was unhappy with a lot that is going on.
The bunch on this week are all Jewellers that won the trip cos they reached the target in thier specific areas, so they are pretentious, rich snobs who don't tip and won't buy anything.. so another low week with regards to retail. I don't like the person i am becoming, I am starting to become a true Steiner which means when someone comes into a consultation with me I look at thier watch, rings, sunglasses and shoes to judge how much money they have to see how much I should recommend to them, that is soooo bad, I am a horrible person, I am not even caring about thier needs..it is time to go home.
Well 5 more embarkations and Beryl here we come...........
After 3 times my arms and fingers were so tired and shaking so we moved on to the Put Put course, So much fun playing golf on the top of a ship in the middle of the ocean.
Rebecca managed a hole in one on the last hole.
Today was very quiet and I felt bushed from the other night at Kyle's birthday. That was so much fun, Went to Portifino's for dinner which lasted till midnight, from there we went to Vintages to have our famous wine flights, then on to Back deck to party some more..the party moved to Kyle's cabin where we all sat in the corridor having drinks and a laugh. Got to bed at 4:20am so I was not a happy camper on Thursday morning.
We are getting a new fitness on Sunday named Nicole from Canada. I can't wait to get home. My boss phoned today in a panic cos he "heard" via the grapevine that me and Ian also want to quit. I obviously denied it but said that I was unhappy with a lot that is going on.
The bunch on this week are all Jewellers that won the trip cos they reached the target in thier specific areas, so they are pretentious, rich snobs who don't tip and won't buy anything.. so another low week with regards to retail. I don't like the person i am becoming, I am starting to become a true Steiner which means when someone comes into a consultation with me I look at thier watch, rings, sunglasses and shoes to judge how much money they have to see how much I should recommend to them, that is soooo bad, I am a horrible person, I am not even caring about thier needs..it is time to go home.
Well 5 more embarkations and Beryl here we come...........
Wednesday, 18 April 2007
Ship Life
It is Wednesday, we are in Cayman..had the whole day off, went for lunch at a gorgeous Italian resturant on the beach called Casanova's, went down to the rocks to watch the crabs run around, then it was off to shop..buying lots of presents for everyone.
I had flowers delivered to my room today, have no idea from who...anyway the only person i want sending me flowers is in South Africa.
Have Kyle's birthday tonight so we are going to Portifino's for dinner.
I am so excited that i'm leaving
I had flowers delivered to my room today, have no idea from who...anyway the only person i want sending me flowers is in South Africa.
Have Kyle's birthday tonight so we are going to Portifino's for dinner.
I am so excited that i'm leaving
Thursday, 12 April 2007
New news
Well i have come to realize that this company is up to maggotts! the product i am selling does not work. I am basically lying to everyone and manipulating them into spending thousands of dollars on junk.
The manager is getting worse, there are so many more rules which include that the fitness are not allowed to drink water in the gym, we have to hide in a cupboard if we want a sip.
We are doing 3 free classes a day and getting paid on average $3 for 6 hours of spinning during the week.
Our schedule has been taking away from us. So the spa reception books our appointments and tells us when we must leave for lunch, which means we are neva allowed to take incentives, there is always some excuse.
There have been 10 resignations on this ship this week, and I know of 3 more next week. Says something!
So enough moaning as i have already made up my mind.
I rented a bicycle on Tuesday on Cozumel and went for a 2 hour cycle down the beach front. it was awesome.
Tonight we went to Portifino's for dinner cos it is Jaquelin's last week. Stuffed myself silly.
The gym has been so quiet this week, we have had no appointments. So this week we will all be in the dog house...AGAIN!!!
Can't wait to get home...in fact i can't wait to just get to Beryl's house, have a cup of tea a home cooked meal and lie on a couch watching a DVD! Stuff to look forward to.
Quite ironic how this ship is named FREEDOM however I feel more trapped and unhappy than I ever have.
The manager is getting worse, there are so many more rules which include that the fitness are not allowed to drink water in the gym, we have to hide in a cupboard if we want a sip.
We are doing 3 free classes a day and getting paid on average $3 for 6 hours of spinning during the week.
Our schedule has been taking away from us. So the spa reception books our appointments and tells us when we must leave for lunch, which means we are neva allowed to take incentives, there is always some excuse.
There have been 10 resignations on this ship this week, and I know of 3 more next week. Says something!
So enough moaning as i have already made up my mind.
I rented a bicycle on Tuesday on Cozumel and went for a 2 hour cycle down the beach front. it was awesome.
Tonight we went to Portifino's for dinner cos it is Jaquelin's last week. Stuffed myself silly.
The gym has been so quiet this week, we have had no appointments. So this week we will all be in the dog house...AGAIN!!!
Can't wait to get home...in fact i can't wait to just get to Beryl's house, have a cup of tea a home cooked meal and lie on a couch watching a DVD! Stuff to look forward to.
Quite ironic how this ship is named FREEDOM however I feel more trapped and unhappy than I ever have.
Sunday, 8 April 2007
Well...
Today is start of cruise 45. Very very slow embarkation, no appointments for tomorrow. quite an arrogant bunch of Americans this week. 1400 children again!
Got a Performance counselling warning today cos i was apparently talking on my cell phone on duty, however it was 10 minutes before i was starting work, my manager gets all excited over nothing! Oh well life goes on. the new rule is that we are not allowed to drink water in public anymore, we must go hide in the cupboard and have a sip, have you ever heard anything so stupid! We are fitness! Oh and if we don't clean to her standards we will get a written warning! The pettiness is getting really pathetic now. I have never seen a company run so badly.
last night was my best friend Amy's birthday, we went to Vintages and she brought a cake. It was an awesome evening except that I forgot my name badge so security reported me to my manager this morning..seem to be getting into a lot of trouble lately hey?
Well I am hoping for a huge week so hold thumbs for me!
Got a Performance counselling warning today cos i was apparently talking on my cell phone on duty, however it was 10 minutes before i was starting work, my manager gets all excited over nothing! Oh well life goes on. the new rule is that we are not allowed to drink water in public anymore, we must go hide in the cupboard and have a sip, have you ever heard anything so stupid! We are fitness! Oh and if we don't clean to her standards we will get a written warning! The pettiness is getting really pathetic now. I have never seen a company run so badly.
last night was my best friend Amy's birthday, we went to Vintages and she brought a cake. It was an awesome evening except that I forgot my name badge so security reported me to my manager this morning..seem to be getting into a lot of trouble lately hey?
Well I am hoping for a huge week so hold thumbs for me!
Tuesday, 3 April 2007
MOMS BIRTHDAY
2nd April- HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOTHER DEAR
can't believe it is already April. Bought 3 Guess bags yesterday, having a bit of a shopping spurt lately, have to remember to save, my wireless account is active so at least I can start sending money home, then i won't have any to spend, good idea!
1400 children on board this cruise and 700 Spanish speaking people so i'm busy learing Spanish.
I can say a little bit and i can count to 7! doing well!
Still can't get internet up and running in my room so I have been going through withdrawl from not listening to 94.7!!!! Hooked on Marjong though and my Roomy and I have both seasons of Desperate housewives so we been watching that each evening.
Started the Detox program today, I figured it would be easier to sell something that I have tried myself, also I need to get off the desserts!!
One more month until the ship changes course, can't wait, the shopping in St Martin, San Jaun and St Thomas is apparently amazing. We are also having an African American charter in July almost the same as the gay cruise where they take over the ship, they are even brining on thier own fitness team so I gues i'm going to have a slight holiday week that week..
Living with my new roomy is awesome, I have loads more energy and not so drained each morning when I wake up.
I do apologize in the delay of updating my travels, wil try be more consistant...
can't believe it is already April. Bought 3 Guess bags yesterday, having a bit of a shopping spurt lately, have to remember to save, my wireless account is active so at least I can start sending money home, then i won't have any to spend, good idea!
1400 children on board this cruise and 700 Spanish speaking people so i'm busy learing Spanish.
I can say a little bit and i can count to 7! doing well!
Still can't get internet up and running in my room so I have been going through withdrawl from not listening to 94.7!!!! Hooked on Marjong though and my Roomy and I have both seasons of Desperate housewives so we been watching that each evening.
Started the Detox program today, I figured it would be easier to sell something that I have tried myself, also I need to get off the desserts!!
One more month until the ship changes course, can't wait, the shopping in St Martin, San Jaun and St Thomas is apparently amazing. We are also having an African American charter in July almost the same as the gay cruise where they take over the ship, they are even brining on thier own fitness team so I gues i'm going to have a slight holiday week that week..
Living with my new roomy is awesome, I have loads more energy and not so drained each morning when I wake up.
I do apologize in the delay of updating my travels, wil try be more consistant...
Monday, 26 March 2007
Cruise 43
I have 25 weeks left
My favourite food at the moment
Breakfast: Cherios cereal and watermelon, a muffin and danish with a cuppacino
Lunch: salad and usually grilled chicken breast or hamburger patty (tastes like wimpy)
Dinner: salad, watermelon, salmon, broccoli and eggplant in batter with tomato and grilled cheese on top.
trying very hard to eat well..been a bit hooked on the dessert at the moment.
Moved into my new room on Sunday, it's great, it's clean and organized and quiet. My new roomy's name is Justine from Lenasia in Joburg.
Saw the ice show the other night, it is excellent! Went to a place called Jonny rockets on board for a burger, it tastes like steers and they make the best milkshakes- the best part is we don't pay extra cos we are staff!
Shauni and Marissa 2 South Africans left on Sunday so we all went out to the Krypt- it's so horrible when people start to leave. Suppose it is part of the job.
Have realized that it does not make a difference whether the darkies are from America,Jamaica or Africa they are still all the same!
Have been keeping up to date with the cricket, it is great fun having a competition with the Aussies on board cos our 2 countries are always competing, now I can actually discuss it with people from that country. We all have bets on the world cup. The americans are not interested so the Aussies, Kiwi's, British and S.A stick together, it is great.
Had my first good comment the other day. It is a big thing here because the ship and the departments work on ratings. The Spa and the GYm are usually top so when someone gets a good comment from guest relations then you are in the good books, although you can imagine what happens when there is a bad comment about you.
Going for lunch in Mexico tomorrow with Amy then have the whole day off in Grand Cayman on Wednesday, don't think i'm going to get off the ship, going to spend the whole day in the spa, need my hair done, nails and a facial.
I recieved my parcel from my parents today, i love pressies, they delivered it right to my desk in the gym, it was the best surprise when i came out of my consultation to find it waiting for me.
I have the S.A flag as a keyring and i'm wearing the cricket top wherever i go. You become very patriotic when you are amongst so many countries.
It is formal night tonight so have to go get all dressed up to watch the show tonight at 22:45 called MArquee- it is all the broadway shows, i'm interested cos of the Phantom of the Opera and Joseph and the technicolour dreamcoat sections.
My favourite food at the moment
Breakfast: Cherios cereal and watermelon, a muffin and danish with a cuppacino
Lunch: salad and usually grilled chicken breast or hamburger patty (tastes like wimpy)
Dinner: salad, watermelon, salmon, broccoli and eggplant in batter with tomato and grilled cheese on top.
trying very hard to eat well..been a bit hooked on the dessert at the moment.
Moved into my new room on Sunday, it's great, it's clean and organized and quiet. My new roomy's name is Justine from Lenasia in Joburg.
Saw the ice show the other night, it is excellent! Went to a place called Jonny rockets on board for a burger, it tastes like steers and they make the best milkshakes- the best part is we don't pay extra cos we are staff!
Shauni and Marissa 2 South Africans left on Sunday so we all went out to the Krypt- it's so horrible when people start to leave. Suppose it is part of the job.
Have realized that it does not make a difference whether the darkies are from America,Jamaica or Africa they are still all the same!
Have been keeping up to date with the cricket, it is great fun having a competition with the Aussies on board cos our 2 countries are always competing, now I can actually discuss it with people from that country. We all have bets on the world cup. The americans are not interested so the Aussies, Kiwi's, British and S.A stick together, it is great.
Had my first good comment the other day. It is a big thing here because the ship and the departments work on ratings. The Spa and the GYm are usually top so when someone gets a good comment from guest relations then you are in the good books, although you can imagine what happens when there is a bad comment about you.
Going for lunch in Mexico tomorrow with Amy then have the whole day off in Grand Cayman on Wednesday, don't think i'm going to get off the ship, going to spend the whole day in the spa, need my hair done, nails and a facial.
I recieved my parcel from my parents today, i love pressies, they delivered it right to my desk in the gym, it was the best surprise when i came out of my consultation to find it waiting for me.
I have the S.A flag as a keyring and i'm wearing the cricket top wherever i go. You become very patriotic when you are amongst so many countries.
It is formal night tonight so have to go get all dressed up to watch the show tonight at 22:45 called MArquee- it is all the broadway shows, i'm interested cos of the Phantom of the Opera and Joseph and the technicolour dreamcoat sections.
Thursday, 22 March 2007
This week so far..
I have been a bit distant cos the internet is not working in our rooms so i have to walk all the way to the back of the ship to mail from the crew mail.
It's been a busy week, this week the guests are all wanting there body's tested but not willing to buy the products.
Day off in Jamiaca today, Justine and I went to Dunn's river falls, the largest waterfall in Jamaica. We climbed up the emtire way. It is a 2 hour drive to Ocho Rios to get to the falls. Learnt alot of the history behind Jamaica, saw lots of World cup cricket signs.
Each group has a guide that takes you up the falls, we all link hands at the bottom of the falls to make a human chain and then slowly climb up, rock by rock through the water. I bought the DVD so all at home can see what i experienced. They then took us shopping to buy some souveniers.
Broke the news to my roomy today about me moving out. It was so hard. She started crying, just what i thought, then told me i was unfair cos she was so happy living with me, I feel so bad but now it's done and a whole weight is lifted off my shoulders. I will be so much happier in the other cabin.
It's been a busy week, this week the guests are all wanting there body's tested but not willing to buy the products.
Day off in Jamiaca today, Justine and I went to Dunn's river falls, the largest waterfall in Jamaica. We climbed up the emtire way. It is a 2 hour drive to Ocho Rios to get to the falls. Learnt alot of the history behind Jamaica, saw lots of World cup cricket signs.
Each group has a guide that takes you up the falls, we all link hands at the bottom of the falls to make a human chain and then slowly climb up, rock by rock through the water. I bought the DVD so all at home can see what i experienced. They then took us shopping to buy some souveniers.
Broke the news to my roomy today about me moving out. It was so hard. She started crying, just what i thought, then told me i was unfair cos she was so happy living with me, I feel so bad but now it's done and a whole weight is lifted off my shoulders. I will be so much happier in the other cabin.
Sunday, 18 March 2007
Slamming
Well well well....what do we have here???? a new retailer in the making, if i might say so myself. I started yesterday (saturday) on $1400 and that was far to low- well I made $2950 in one day alone, 2 huge dockets of retail, $1200 and $730- so I finished on $4489 for the week, I am saved for this week, out of the bad books for a while.
New cruise today, once again, loads of kids, once again. started at 11:30 2 lie ins this week, wow!
Have made stacks of bookings so far for tomorrow so hold thumbs for me that I can do my retail magic.
Looks like I'll be making a visit to the Dentist in Mexico on Tuesday, I think i need my filling replaced. I am so stingy with my money right now, I really don't want to start having to pay for things.
Only finished work at 11pm cos we had to count and unpack 8 crates of stock. We then had a race down the elevators and all the way along the I-95 (highway) to the garbage place with our trolleys...got to have some fun.
Sea day tomorrow so guess i should make my way to bed now. It's gonna be hectic!!
New cruise today, once again, loads of kids, once again. started at 11:30 2 lie ins this week, wow!
Have made stacks of bookings so far for tomorrow so hold thumbs for me that I can do my retail magic.
Looks like I'll be making a visit to the Dentist in Mexico on Tuesday, I think i need my filling replaced. I am so stingy with my money right now, I really don't want to start having to pay for things.
Only finished work at 11pm cos we had to count and unpack 8 crates of stock. We then had a race down the elevators and all the way along the I-95 (highway) to the garbage place with our trolleys...got to have some fun.
Sea day tomorrow so guess i should make my way to bed now. It's gonna be hectic!!
16th March
Last night Amy, Lyle and I had a date at the Windjammer, so I had Sushi 2 nights in a row, yum yum! From there we went to Vintages which is the wine bar on board, we ordered our wine flights, i ordered the 'Down Under' flight which is all New Zealand wines, they give you half glasses of 4 different wines to taste, from there we went to "the Zoo" which is the Crew bar, in our formal wear and all!! Stayed there till I have no idea when, thank goodness I had today off!
Speaking of which, I made my way to the beach around 11am after a wee deserved lie in! Amy and I lay on floating mats in the middle of the ocean for about an hour, drifting all over the place, I then went and got some snorkel equipment to venture around the reefs, saw some small fish but one of the girls on the other beach had a baby shark following her, how cute, nothing exciting from my side though! Lay on the beach for about another hour until we had tanned enough, had some Labadee lunch and made our way back to the ship.
Rebecca (the new fitness) and I went to go watch the show at 9pm 'ONCE UPON A TIME' It is so good and what makes it so much better is that we are all friends with the dancers so they come to our fitness classes and we go to thier shows.
Came home and watched a DVD.
Speaking of which, I made my way to the beach around 11am after a wee deserved lie in! Amy and I lay on floating mats in the middle of the ocean for about an hour, drifting all over the place, I then went and got some snorkel equipment to venture around the reefs, saw some small fish but one of the girls on the other beach had a baby shark following her, how cute, nothing exciting from my side though! Lay on the beach for about another hour until we had tanned enough, had some Labadee lunch and made our way back to the ship.
Rebecca (the new fitness) and I went to go watch the show at 9pm 'ONCE UPON A TIME' It is so good and what makes it so much better is that we are all friends with the dancers so they come to our fitness classes and we go to thier shows.
Came home and watched a DVD.
Told off
15th March
Already half way through another month. No retail yet so i'm in trouble, once again.
Last night we went to Windjammer for Dinner. I was craving my Sushi. Went with Joy, Rebecca, Justine and Marisa. I heard today that they read my global Hi out on the radio, I'm so glad, can't believe how quickly they read it.
I was chatting to the Sports staff supervisor today about getting a job in sports staff, they get paid salary each month, they only work when we are sailing and they get to be outside all day workinga at the rockwall, flowrider, organizing the family quests, Adventure golf etc...think that is far more up my street, that is if I come back onto the ships, just keeping my options open.
Watching the Tennis masters at the moment, wish we got coverage of the world cup cricket but tennis will do.
Tomorrow I have the whole entire day off in Labadee, tonight I have a date with Amy and Kyle.
Already half way through another month. No retail yet so i'm in trouble, once again.
Last night we went to Windjammer for Dinner. I was craving my Sushi. Went with Joy, Rebecca, Justine and Marisa. I heard today that they read my global Hi out on the radio, I'm so glad, can't believe how quickly they read it.
I was chatting to the Sports staff supervisor today about getting a job in sports staff, they get paid salary each month, they only work when we are sailing and they get to be outside all day workinga at the rockwall, flowrider, organizing the family quests, Adventure golf etc...think that is far more up my street, that is if I come back onto the ships, just keeping my options open.
Watching the Tennis masters at the moment, wish we got coverage of the world cup cricket but tennis will do.
Tomorrow I have the whole entire day off in Labadee, tonight I have a date with Amy and Kyle.
Monday, 12 March 2007
Cruise 41
New cruise, new fitness girl, new week. It is new everything each week. which is great but each week you start all over again trying to seel and get appointments in, its like starting new job each week, so quite stressful.
Our clocks moved forward 1 hour on Sunday night cos America has gone out of daylight saving now, so we wake up in the dark but on our way from breakfast we walk on the outside of the ship and watch the most incredible sunrises. It is light until 8pm now which messes your head up.
I am really loving my boxing and getting really strong, took on two brothers today for a whole hour and i was the only one not sweating. My shoulders are stiff though and the bones in my right hand feel like they have been smashed together.
Loads of kids on board again, and will be for the next month cos there are spring breaks everywhere. It's so facinating how different each cruise is, one week there are stax of French then the next week is all spanish. This week is all Texas and Canada. I have also realized how different Canadians and Americans are. each week you have to learn how to handle the different people for example if they are New Yorkers they are very strong ubrupt, arrogent people so you have to be over strong and tell them what to do not giving any options. The Irish you have to be a bit gentler with and they are always full of jokes.
The tennis Masters is on, watched Fed lose and Hewitt. So great to watch some normal sport not just Basketball and baseball.
Our clocks moved forward 1 hour on Sunday night cos America has gone out of daylight saving now, so we wake up in the dark but on our way from breakfast we walk on the outside of the ship and watch the most incredible sunrises. It is light until 8pm now which messes your head up.
I am really loving my boxing and getting really strong, took on two brothers today for a whole hour and i was the only one not sweating. My shoulders are stiff though and the bones in my right hand feel like they have been smashed together.
Loads of kids on board again, and will be for the next month cos there are spring breaks everywhere. It's so facinating how different each cruise is, one week there are stax of French then the next week is all spanish. This week is all Texas and Canada. I have also realized how different Canadians and Americans are. each week you have to learn how to handle the different people for example if they are New Yorkers they are very strong ubrupt, arrogent people so you have to be over strong and tell them what to do not giving any options. The Irish you have to be a bit gentler with and they are always full of jokes.
The tennis Masters is on, watched Fed lose and Hewitt. So great to watch some normal sport not just Basketball and baseball.
Friday, 9 March 2007
Biggest one yet!
Good news, my cruise was saved tonight by a guy named JP! he bought 9 months detox from me $924!!! I was being told off this morning cos my retail was so low- now i'm back in the good books for this week. My biggest sale yet! and we get an hour incentive for any sale over $600 so next week i have an extra hour off!!! YAY!
It is Marcelle and Shaun wedding today Saturday 10th March!
My roomate bought me PJ pants as a pressie today! I feel so bad cos I'm going to have to tell her i'm leaving her and moving out!
Did some Yoga on the beach this morning in Labadee, then I had my first swim in the sea in about 2 weeks, it felt so good- then lay on the beach for an hour reading and tanning, been very lazy getting off the ship lately cos been using all my extra hours to sleep. Felt good to lie on the sand. I have decided next week i'm going to make my whole day off in Labadee and just Veg on the beach the whole day tanning and drinking Labadoozies (island cocktail) it is the best way to relax and I don't spend any money. Some lady crashed her jet ski into one of the tenders today-such excitement!
My fitness partner Ian and i are going to start swimming tomorrow. (in the huge lap pool that is about 15m) i suppose it is better than nothing.
This evening I had a walk down the promanade for some late night shopping, still very stingy with my money, wish my sis was here,, there is so much i could buy for her. Had a drink in Vintages, the wine bar. My father would love that. My favourite is to buy the wine "platter" which means they give you about 4 different wines to try for $25. No South African wines though so I have found a good New Zealand wine.
Sitting in my cabin listening to Highveld stereo, drinking a Carona (i know, i hate beer but you have to get used to it here, its the only thing everyone drinks). Very long day tomorrow, I start at 07:30 and my last appointment is 21:00 with only one hour off for lunch. Tomorrow evening we set up for sunday Embark so we should finish around 11pm.
It is Marcelle and Shaun wedding today Saturday 10th March!
My roomate bought me PJ pants as a pressie today! I feel so bad cos I'm going to have to tell her i'm leaving her and moving out!
Did some Yoga on the beach this morning in Labadee, then I had my first swim in the sea in about 2 weeks, it felt so good- then lay on the beach for an hour reading and tanning, been very lazy getting off the ship lately cos been using all my extra hours to sleep. Felt good to lie on the sand. I have decided next week i'm going to make my whole day off in Labadee and just Veg on the beach the whole day tanning and drinking Labadoozies (island cocktail) it is the best way to relax and I don't spend any money. Some lady crashed her jet ski into one of the tenders today-such excitement!
My fitness partner Ian and i are going to start swimming tomorrow. (in the huge lap pool that is about 15m) i suppose it is better than nothing.
This evening I had a walk down the promanade for some late night shopping, still very stingy with my money, wish my sis was here,, there is so much i could buy for her. Had a drink in Vintages, the wine bar. My father would love that. My favourite is to buy the wine "platter" which means they give you about 4 different wines to try for $25. No South African wines though so I have found a good New Zealand wine.
Sitting in my cabin listening to Highveld stereo, drinking a Carona (i know, i hate beer but you have to get used to it here, its the only thing everyone drinks). Very long day tomorrow, I start at 07:30 and my last appointment is 21:00 with only one hour off for lunch. Tomorrow evening we set up for sunday Embark so we should finish around 11pm.
Thursday, 8 March 2007
FEELS LIKE HOME
I was so excited last night, i managed to Audio stream 94.7 highveld stereo. I was listening to the Rude Awakening LIVE ON AIR!!! it's perfect timing cos 11pm here is 6am back home so i can listen to most of it. ( I am listening to it right now as I write to you) It costs $7 for 99min. It was so good to hear the traffic and news! Although i don't miss the crime! It Really made me feel at home! I love the internet!
Not doing any retail this week, so i'm expecting a telling off session on Sat night that will go something like "so Leisha what went wrong this week, why is your retail so bad, you really need to make target......"
I am moving house next Sunday, moving in with south African girl Justine, I cannot live with Joy anymore, It is going to be hard telling her though, i feel like i'm breaking up with a boyfriend cos she is so insecure and tells me everyday how she depends on me and needs me and I motivate her! I do feel sorry for her but I am so drained trying to work and then get home to moans and groans and sickness and whatever else is wrong with her.
We are back in code yellow which means we are probable going to have to bleach the ship this Sunday, which means I can't get off!!!! i will be most upset.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to TASH WOOD for yesterday!
Not doing any retail this week, so i'm expecting a telling off session on Sat night that will go something like "so Leisha what went wrong this week, why is your retail so bad, you really need to make target......"
I am moving house next Sunday, moving in with south African girl Justine, I cannot live with Joy anymore, It is going to be hard telling her though, i feel like i'm breaking up with a boyfriend cos she is so insecure and tells me everyday how she depends on me and needs me and I motivate her! I do feel sorry for her but I am so drained trying to work and then get home to moans and groans and sickness and whatever else is wrong with her.
We are back in code yellow which means we are probable going to have to bleach the ship this Sunday, which means I can't get off!!!! i will be most upset.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to TASH WOOD for yesterday!
Tuesday, 6 March 2007
ROCKY
The ship has gone headfirst into a thunderstorm, we are rocking all over the place, it's great, you can;t walk straight and when you sit down you have to hold on...it's so much fun. I was sitting doing a consult and one of the pilates machines rolled straight past me. I couldn't help but laugh, it's like everything comes to life.
However it means that tomorrow we might not be able to dock in Gran cayman cos it is a port where we rely on tenders to take us across to the island and if the sea is to rough we can't use the small tender boats, nevermind trying to get people across from one boat to another. which means that everyone with a day off tomorrow can't get off/ Lucky my day off is in jamaica..
The new Fitness that arrived on Sunday is leaving tomorrow, he found out today that his dad is really ill with Lukemia and might not see the end of this week. I swear the fitness centre on this ship is cursed. I don't know when we will ever settle down, into a routine and have some conssityancy, the managers must be freaking out.
We are getting a new girl on Sunday fresh out of Boot camp, which sucks cos we need experience on this ship. that makes 3 new people on this monster of a ship. sometimes i don't know how our managers think!!!!
Been eating really badly this week, i tend to look for comfort food when i'm stressed, as i said before we get so many choices, however you have to choose the healthy stuff cos you can chosse all the desserts and boy are they divine!!!! yip been pigging out a bit.
I got into trouble again this morning, it was my fauilt though, i forgot to set my alarm and arrived at work half our late...you can imagine how much i got told off..i'm getting used to it though! Think I am back in pre school.....
i'll keep you up to date with the ever changing fitness as the days go by...
However it means that tomorrow we might not be able to dock in Gran cayman cos it is a port where we rely on tenders to take us across to the island and if the sea is to rough we can't use the small tender boats, nevermind trying to get people across from one boat to another. which means that everyone with a day off tomorrow can't get off/ Lucky my day off is in jamaica..
The new Fitness that arrived on Sunday is leaving tomorrow, he found out today that his dad is really ill with Lukemia and might not see the end of this week. I swear the fitness centre on this ship is cursed. I don't know when we will ever settle down, into a routine and have some conssityancy, the managers must be freaking out.
We are getting a new girl on Sunday fresh out of Boot camp, which sucks cos we need experience on this ship. that makes 3 new people on this monster of a ship. sometimes i don't know how our managers think!!!!
Been eating really badly this week, i tend to look for comfort food when i'm stressed, as i said before we get so many choices, however you have to choose the healthy stuff cos you can chosse all the desserts and boy are they divine!!!! yip been pigging out a bit.
I got into trouble again this morning, it was my fauilt though, i forgot to set my alarm and arrived at work half our late...you can imagine how much i got told off..i'm getting used to it though! Think I am back in pre school.....
i'll keep you up to date with the ever changing fitness as the days go by...
Friday, 2 March 2007
Friday
Started the day with Yoga on the beach...saw my first ant since leaving home, walking on the sand, sat and watched it for ages, such an insignificant thing but so meaningful to me. I lay on the beach and listened to the birds, such an amazing sound. Makes me feel normal to lie under a tree, listen to the waves, hear the birds..i even didn't mind having a fly buzzing around my head!
My sister would love the ship there is not one fly or insect anywhere to be seen...
Very busy at work, I started helping a guy with a knee replacement, doing rehab on him. I really enjoy rehab training, seeing how much better they feel after the week. The people here this week are really a great bunch, so easy to get along with, most are from Michigan and Massachusettes. Couple of freanch people and 16 South Africans (from Glenvista), so you can imagine the joyous cries when they visit us in the gym and the Spa cos there are 10 South Africans in the Spa and Fitness team.
Went for Dinner at a resturant named CHOPS, with the fitness team, Tim, Wayne, Ian and I. I had a fillet, is was amazing, my father would have loved it. They are really happy with the hard work we did this week and told us that we are going to so very well.
We are getting one more fitness on sunday named David, he is New Zealander. Apparently he is making lots of money on the ship that he is already on, so hopefully is will all be up from here on.
I found out that they hire out bicycles on the ship so guess what i'm going to be doing next time i get a day off, i'm gonna be riding a bike! I miss it so much!
I have been here for 6 weeks and I still have not seen half of the ship. I wish i could explain how big the ship is, it takes about 10 minutes to walk from work on the 11th deck in the front of the ship to the dining room on the 3rd deck at the back of the ship.
Started the day with Yoga on the beach...saw my first ant since leaving home, walking on the sand, sat and watched it for ages, such an insignificant thing but so meaningful to me. I lay on the beach and listened to the birds, such an amazing sound. Makes me feel normal to lie under a tree, listen to the waves, hear the birds..i even didn't mind having a fly buzzing around my head!
My sister would love the ship there is not one fly or insect anywhere to be seen...
Very busy at work, I started helping a guy with a knee replacement, doing rehab on him. I really enjoy rehab training, seeing how much better they feel after the week. The people here this week are really a great bunch, so easy to get along with, most are from Michigan and Massachusettes. Couple of freanch people and 16 South Africans (from Glenvista), so you can imagine the joyous cries when they visit us in the gym and the Spa cos there are 10 South Africans in the Spa and Fitness team.
Went for Dinner at a resturant named CHOPS, with the fitness team, Tim, Wayne, Ian and I. I had a fillet, is was amazing, my father would have loved it. They are really happy with the hard work we did this week and told us that we are going to so very well.
We are getting one more fitness on sunday named David, he is New Zealander. Apparently he is making lots of money on the ship that he is already on, so hopefully is will all be up from here on.
I found out that they hire out bicycles on the ship so guess what i'm going to be doing next time i get a day off, i'm gonna be riding a bike! I miss it so much!
I have been here for 6 weeks and I still have not seen half of the ship. I wish i could explain how big the ship is, it takes about 10 minutes to walk from work on the 11th deck in the front of the ship to the dining room on the 3rd deck at the back of the ship.
Thursday, 1 March 2007
1st March
my car is the elevator, the highway is the I-95 (main corridor) my family consits of people from 25 different countries, my garden is the ocean!
good week this week, fantastic people on board, 2 managers have come on to help us. making loads of money, they are giving us all the money they are making. i have learned a lot.
never had a day off this week cos we having training, worked till midnight each night but it feels so good cos i'm learining, everything is more organized and the vibe is incredible. I made my biggest docket this week, i sold $725 worth of products.
Got my first commision pay so i feel like i'm working for something.
My end of contract date is the 16 September- i hope all of you are going to plan the biggest welcome home party ever with all the South african stuff you can conjure up!!!!
One of my guests offered me a job in America organizing events at a university in michigan. I would never move to the US though.
had a PJ party the other night, was so great to go out and dance in my Pajamas!!
Going for dinner tomorrow night with the fitness team.
The new Fitness guy is from SA Cape town....he knows how to work hard, i am so glad.
Losing weight...but have eaten all the desserts this week, they are so awesome!!!
Think i may be settling in finally, i have been away from home for 2 months, i miss home and can't wait to get back but like my manager said the other night "you have been given the biggest ship in the world, grab the opportunity, even if you don't want to be here, live every moment"
Tomorrow is Labadee again, doing yoga on the beach.
good week this week, fantastic people on board, 2 managers have come on to help us. making loads of money, they are giving us all the money they are making. i have learned a lot.
never had a day off this week cos we having training, worked till midnight each night but it feels so good cos i'm learining, everything is more organized and the vibe is incredible. I made my biggest docket this week, i sold $725 worth of products.
Got my first commision pay so i feel like i'm working for something.
My end of contract date is the 16 September- i hope all of you are going to plan the biggest welcome home party ever with all the South african stuff you can conjure up!!!!
One of my guests offered me a job in America organizing events at a university in michigan. I would never move to the US though.
had a PJ party the other night, was so great to go out and dance in my Pajamas!!
Going for dinner tomorrow night with the fitness team.
The new Fitness guy is from SA Cape town....he knows how to work hard, i am so glad.
Losing weight...but have eaten all the desserts this week, they are so awesome!!!
Think i may be settling in finally, i have been away from home for 2 months, i miss home and can't wait to get back but like my manager said the other night "you have been given the biggest ship in the world, grab the opportunity, even if you don't want to be here, live every moment"
Tomorrow is Labadee again, doing yoga on the beach.
Thursday, 22 February 2007
Jamaica
22 Feb already..wow
Slept until 1pm this afternoon, had half day off and was feeling so ill. Eventully managed to get myself up to the mes to eat some lunch, started work at 2pm, but got a phonecall from my manager from the reception upstairs at the spa asking why i was late??? Yip couldn't understand it myself, got there at 1:45pm like we are meant to 15 min before shift...he said i hadn't, I will let you all know if i can get through a day without doing something wrong, I will go out and celebrate!
Have decided i need to learn spanish and very quickly, never realized how many people are spanish in the USA.
I also learned that last night when we had to turn back to Grand Cayman cos someone was left there, i was wrong, someone had a heart atack on the ship so we had to take them to land so that they could be rushed to hospital.
Battling to send more pics so will do so as soon as internet allows. i learned how to make movies on my computer so that is keeping me nice and busy after hours.
We had a crew BBQ (Braai) tonight...nothing like home, Us South Africans certainly know how to braai a piece of meat, they did have nice rice pudding, just for you Gran, i had some!!
There is Crew Rock wall climbing happening tonight, i'm a bit bummed cos i am sick soo don't think i will make it up there
Pondering whether to go lie on the beach in Labadee tomorrow or stay in my cabin- what a hard decision..... :)
The lady that cleans our room each Thursday is so sweet this week she dressed one of my teddy bears in my sleep shirt on my bed.. i'm collecting teddy bears from everyone who leaves, my bed is getting jam packed. Looks good though.
tomorrow is another day..let's see what it brings.
Slept until 1pm this afternoon, had half day off and was feeling so ill. Eventully managed to get myself up to the mes to eat some lunch, started work at 2pm, but got a phonecall from my manager from the reception upstairs at the spa asking why i was late??? Yip couldn't understand it myself, got there at 1:45pm like we are meant to 15 min before shift...he said i hadn't, I will let you all know if i can get through a day without doing something wrong, I will go out and celebrate!
Have decided i need to learn spanish and very quickly, never realized how many people are spanish in the USA.
I also learned that last night when we had to turn back to Grand Cayman cos someone was left there, i was wrong, someone had a heart atack on the ship so we had to take them to land so that they could be rushed to hospital.
Battling to send more pics so will do so as soon as internet allows. i learned how to make movies on my computer so that is keeping me nice and busy after hours.
We had a crew BBQ (Braai) tonight...nothing like home, Us South Africans certainly know how to braai a piece of meat, they did have nice rice pudding, just for you Gran, i had some!!
There is Crew Rock wall climbing happening tonight, i'm a bit bummed cos i am sick soo don't think i will make it up there
Pondering whether to go lie on the beach in Labadee tomorrow or stay in my cabin- what a hard decision..... :)
The lady that cleans our room each Thursday is so sweet this week she dressed one of my teddy bears in my sleep shirt on my bed.. i'm collecting teddy bears from everyone who leaves, my bed is getting jam packed. Looks good though.
tomorrow is another day..let's see what it brings.
Wednesday, 21 February 2007
My life
WEDNESDAY 21 FEBURAY
well let's see what has this week been like so far...Great!!! My roomy and I failed our room inspection..for excess garbage!! We have one small dustbin in our room- someone please help me to understand???? Apparently if you fail more than 2x you get a warning and counselling, that will be a laugh.
I have officially picked up Joy's (my roomy) flu. I feel like hell!!! Would do anything to get my hands on a Myprodol. Anyway i'll get over it. Did all 6 classes today and yesterday cos Peter has hurt his knee and spent the whole of Tuesday at the hospital in Mexico.. it's quite nice running the gym on my own.
peter and I were told today that we have to phone Tim (the fitness boss) every week to comment on our revenue- it's like a phonecall setting yourself up for a lecture- my revenue this week is up to maggots..I'm gonna see how it goes for the next 4 months otherwise ask to go to a smaller ship, it is only our ship that has all the pressure regarding targets!
Watching the Champions league soccer- can't believe we actually get coverage here. So exciting..have only seen one Man U game and busy watching Liverpool v Barcelona..Please can someone fill me in on what the overall status is?
We had to turn around tonight and go back to Grand Cayman to fetch someone who was left there- they don'tt usually do that!! Must have been an emergency.
So far this is a great challenge for me but it will get easier i'm sure- I await the day where i can wake up to sunshine through a window...
well let's see what has this week been like so far...Great!!! My roomy and I failed our room inspection..for excess garbage!! We have one small dustbin in our room- someone please help me to understand???? Apparently if you fail more than 2x you get a warning and counselling, that will be a laugh.
I have officially picked up Joy's (my roomy) flu. I feel like hell!!! Would do anything to get my hands on a Myprodol. Anyway i'll get over it. Did all 6 classes today and yesterday cos Peter has hurt his knee and spent the whole of Tuesday at the hospital in Mexico.. it's quite nice running the gym on my own.
peter and I were told today that we have to phone Tim (the fitness boss) every week to comment on our revenue- it's like a phonecall setting yourself up for a lecture- my revenue this week is up to maggots..I'm gonna see how it goes for the next 4 months otherwise ask to go to a smaller ship, it is only our ship that has all the pressure regarding targets!
Watching the Champions league soccer- can't believe we actually get coverage here. So exciting..have only seen one Man U game and busy watching Liverpool v Barcelona..Please can someone fill me in on what the overall status is?
We had to turn around tonight and go back to Grand Cayman to fetch someone who was left there- they don'tt usually do that!! Must have been an emergency.
So far this is a great challenge for me but it will get easier i'm sure- I await the day where i can wake up to sunshine through a window...
Monday, 19 February 2007
Going on my 5th week
SUN-Went through to Best buy to find myself a laptop, got a stunning HP it is white. Couldn't find cycling shoes so gonna have to get them off the internet and get them mailed to me.
Embarkation was so weird this week, 1100 children on board and most of them New Yorkers cos it is bank holiday in New york this week. They are the most stuck up know it alls...SAVE ME~!!! Did parade again at 11pm, people think i'm slightly sick in the head cos i offer to do it each week but i love parading down the Royal promanade with flags and pom poms!!!
MON-today was slow, not many bookings, not making much money this week, suppose it is only Monday. had meeting with the HR manager, who also screamed our heads off cos apparently the Steiners (thats the company we all work for) are not behaving, they are getting drunk and going into areas that they are not allowed. we are also apparently not dressing appropriatly for when we are in guest areas- RULES RULES RULES.. at least i'm not one of the trouble makers.
My roomate is so sweet she bought me a card to tell me that i'm so wonderful and she bought me the PINK CD...I love Pink!!!!
Embarkation was so weird this week, 1100 children on board and most of them New Yorkers cos it is bank holiday in New york this week. They are the most stuck up know it alls...SAVE ME~!!! Did parade again at 11pm, people think i'm slightly sick in the head cos i offer to do it each week but i love parading down the Royal promanade with flags and pom poms!!!
MON-today was slow, not many bookings, not making much money this week, suppose it is only Monday. had meeting with the HR manager, who also screamed our heads off cos apparently the Steiners (thats the company we all work for) are not behaving, they are getting drunk and going into areas that they are not allowed. we are also apparently not dressing appropriatly for when we are in guest areas- RULES RULES RULES.. at least i'm not one of the trouble makers.
My roomate is so sweet she bought me a card to tell me that i'm so wonderful and she bought me the PINK CD...I love Pink!!!!
16/02
SHAUN B-DAY
Happy Birthday to you..
Very hectic week, we had the sales and revenue guy sailing with us so we got our heads screamed off for 3 days straight cos our revenue is under target. We are not humans we are slaves!!!
anyway he managed to break a lot of the Spa girls, Pieter the fitness guy got upset about the way this guy was speaking so they had an argument, Pieter got slapped with a warning (for standing up for the right thing) see what i mean you can't do anything right? So him and his girlfriend (the barber) resigned. They left today leaving us one fitness and one barber short..
I must comment on the food here, it really is 5 star, we have a full buffet of 1million choices. today i had Taco's for lunch and last night i had lamb chops, even though i don't like them that much it reminded me of my mom so i had to have one.
Happy Birthday to you..
Very hectic week, we had the sales and revenue guy sailing with us so we got our heads screamed off for 3 days straight cos our revenue is under target. We are not humans we are slaves!!!
anyway he managed to break a lot of the Spa girls, Pieter the fitness guy got upset about the way this guy was speaking so they had an argument, Pieter got slapped with a warning (for standing up for the right thing) see what i mean you can't do anything right? So him and his girlfriend (the barber) resigned. They left today leaving us one fitness and one barber short..
I must comment on the food here, it really is 5 star, we have a full buffet of 1million choices. today i had Taco's for lunch and last night i had lamb chops, even though i don't like them that much it reminded me of my mom so i had to have one.
Monday, 12 February 2007
Time Flies
12 February 2007
Cruise 37. I have so many bookings for this week. Fantastic! Our manager has given us so many incentives, for example if we make our target for the week we get an extra half day off..so I’m booking my column full until 10pm at night.
Saturday night we went out to oliver twist a bar on the highest level of the ship, never been there-it is so stunning. Got home around 1am, Jaqui stayed over in our cabin.
Sunday we got to Miami, I was excited cos I needed to go buy a laptop and cycling shoes cos my feet are killing me! I was greatly disappointed when they announced that we had gone into Code Yellow, meaning that the ship has had to many incidences of gastro and us staff have to spend Sunday morning bleaching the whole ship..A couple of weeks ago the ship was in code red, meaning they were not allowed to sail! That is bad, you don’t want to get that far.
One thing that I have found really different from home is that in a lot of the islands we go to people are allowed to smoke anywhere even inside small shops…weird.
I have had so many compliments on my accent and it amazes me how many Americans love South Africa! I have gotten quite close with my friend Jacqulin-she is from Australia, but the more time I spend with her I realize how close we South Africans are to Australians, our culture, our mannerisms and even the way we phrase our sentences. It is definitely the next place on my list to visit.
We have a fitness convention tomorrow in Mexico with the big bosses of the fitness team. Think it could be good training for me, I need to master this sales thing I have to do! That is all they are interested in. I think if I had to come back onto the ships I ould work as Sports staff where you get to organize all sports tournaments, work at the rock wall and the wave pool, their hours are also much better.
I have learned to drink Carona beer cos that is all that everyone drinks on the ship and to order wine cost about $7 a glass, madness. I did have a Jameson and water..remined me of my sis and I at News cafe.
I am writing fitness programs for all the spa girls, then I get all my treatments free…works for me.
I can't believe I have been here 4 months, it feels like I was in England last year.
Cruise 37. I have so many bookings for this week. Fantastic! Our manager has given us so many incentives, for example if we make our target for the week we get an extra half day off..so I’m booking my column full until 10pm at night.
Saturday night we went out to oliver twist a bar on the highest level of the ship, never been there-it is so stunning. Got home around 1am, Jaqui stayed over in our cabin.
Sunday we got to Miami, I was excited cos I needed to go buy a laptop and cycling shoes cos my feet are killing me! I was greatly disappointed when they announced that we had gone into Code Yellow, meaning that the ship has had to many incidences of gastro and us staff have to spend Sunday morning bleaching the whole ship..A couple of weeks ago the ship was in code red, meaning they were not allowed to sail! That is bad, you don’t want to get that far.
One thing that I have found really different from home is that in a lot of the islands we go to people are allowed to smoke anywhere even inside small shops…weird.
I have had so many compliments on my accent and it amazes me how many Americans love South Africa! I have gotten quite close with my friend Jacqulin-she is from Australia, but the more time I spend with her I realize how close we South Africans are to Australians, our culture, our mannerisms and even the way we phrase our sentences. It is definitely the next place on my list to visit.
We have a fitness convention tomorrow in Mexico with the big bosses of the fitness team. Think it could be good training for me, I need to master this sales thing I have to do! That is all they are interested in. I think if I had to come back onto the ships I ould work as Sports staff where you get to organize all sports tournaments, work at the rock wall and the wave pool, their hours are also much better.
I have learned to drink Carona beer cos that is all that everyone drinks on the ship and to order wine cost about $7 a glass, madness. I did have a Jameson and water..remined me of my sis and I at News cafe.
I am writing fitness programs for all the spa girls, then I get all my treatments free…works for me.
I can't believe I have been here 4 months, it feels like I was in England last year.
Tuesday, 6 February 2007
MEXICO- Cozumel
woken up by Boat drill...has to be done every Tuesday, practise for emergencies. they sound the alarm, we have to grab lifejackets and go to emergency stations, from there directed to stations to help passengers, then back to designated lifeboats (incase the ship sinks and we need to get off)...Jacqui, Justine and I hopped off to shop around Mexico, in the rain i might add, but i was not gonna miss Mexico. The shopping is great and not that expensive, we got coffee at 7Eleven, everything is vanilla flavoured in Mexico. Bought some souveniers and a cute black dress. I will have to come back to Cozumel cos there were far to many shops to get through. I found a Tequila shop...it was fantastic, i love tequila and he let us taste original mexican tequila, so i bought a couple of small bottles.
Walked to THE NO NAME BAR, it is especially for crew memebers, it has flags up of all the different countries and you sign on your flag, I can't tell you how happy i was to see an SA flag. Had lunch and a cockail, back on the boat by 3pm.
Went for a massage, excellent idea! then an aerobic class. the 3 of us had a steam bath and got ready for dinner. Back to the Windjammer, no duck tonight though, so i filled up on Sushi.
Joy has moved into my room now, she is from the US. only 20 years old. I get on with her and thought it was a good idea to have someone i know move in instead of taking a chance with the new girl that comes on Sunday.
Well thats all for today, we are on our way to Grand Cayman!
Walked to THE NO NAME BAR, it is especially for crew memebers, it has flags up of all the different countries and you sign on your flag, I can't tell you how happy i was to see an SA flag. Had lunch and a cockail, back on the boat by 3pm.
Went for a massage, excellent idea! then an aerobic class. the 3 of us had a steam bath and got ready for dinner. Back to the Windjammer, no duck tonight though, so i filled up on Sushi.
Joy has moved into my room now, she is from the US. only 20 years old. I get on with her and thought it was a good idea to have someone i know move in instead of taking a chance with the new girl that comes on Sunday.
Well thats all for today, we are on our way to Grand Cayman!
Monday, 5 February 2007
Sea Day
Cruise 36, I have 33 weeks to go! Very busy day today. The weather is awful, it is raining and windy, so the sea is very rough, everything was flying all over the gym, my yoga class was a joke, considering yoga is all about balance :) I had one guy puke in my yoga class and one girl in my Pilates class.. I love the rough seas, it feels so cool, i hope it stays like this when i go to sleep!
I made $100 tips today! I am so pleased about that! Our cleaner came for the first time today, she is from Jamaica, and although i am quite capable of cleaning my own space, it is so nice to have someone to bring new towels and change the sheets.
It is formal night tonight so we got into our evening wear and went for dinner in the guest restaurant, Windjammer....I ATE DUCK!!!! yum yum...and then sushi and dessert, the best part is we don't pay for it.
There is a bridal couple on board they got married on the ship on sunday, so cute, although i would not like to get married in the chapel they have here!
Tomorrow we are in Mexico and is my day off, going snorkeling i think.
Till next time keep well all
I made $100 tips today! I am so pleased about that! Our cleaner came for the first time today, she is from Jamaica, and although i am quite capable of cleaning my own space, it is so nice to have someone to bring new towels and change the sheets.
It is formal night tonight so we got into our evening wear and went for dinner in the guest restaurant, Windjammer....I ATE DUCK!!!! yum yum...and then sushi and dessert, the best part is we don't pay for it.
There is a bridal couple on board they got married on the ship on sunday, so cute, although i would not like to get married in the chapel they have here!
Tomorrow we are in Mexico and is my day off, going snorkeling i think.
Till next time keep well all
Miami
End of the gay cruise, was a bit sad, it was loads of fun. Got off in Miami went shopping with Amy and Chris. Found Pizza hut, damn good pizza. back to the ship to welcome the next cruise on board, loads of arrogant americans but they have money, we are fully booked for monday.
My roommate was fired today, i'm really sad about that. Her alcahol level was to high when they tested her..little bit unfair to fir her straight away cos she never goes out and drinks! there are others in our corridor who are complete drunks and nothing every happens to them. So i'm alone in my little room.
My roommate was fired today, i'm really sad about that. Her alcahol level was to high when they tested her..little bit unfair to fir her straight away cos she never goes out and drinks! there are others in our corridor who are complete drunks and nothing every happens to them. So i'm alone in my little room.
Saturday, 3 February 2007
LABADEE
Back in paradise. Started the day off with Yoga on the beach. Shopped at the local market, the people working on the stalls are just as pushy as the ones in Durban!! Bought a gecko for my room, 2 pictures for me and my sis. Went back to the boat for 1 hour of work then I was off for the rest of the day. Met Amy and Chris on the beach, the 3 of us girls went to get buffet lunch then lay on the beach for a bit, gay guys round us all over fondling on the beach! Went up to the Dragons Breath, which is a cluster of rocks which makes the sound of a dragon breathing when the water goes in. Very cool, surroundings on the Atlantic side are a lot like Cape Town, waves, green pathways and loads of seaweed, it is better to swim on the Caribbean side, the water is clearer and still. Went back to work and finished at 10pm.
Tonight is the WHITE party up on the pool deck, you can’t miss these gay parties, they turn the ship into something from another world, I had nothing white so I bought Pashmina, wrapped it around me and used Tash’s belt to hold it in place, went down very well. They had Big screens with lazers going around (apparently last night the lasers could be seen from surrounding islands and other ships. Try imagine how huge these parties are, and they carry on until noon the next day- they just move into the Crypt for the morning parties, so I have been waking up to booming music every morning.
Tomorrow is the last day of the Gay cruise, I’m sad; it has been such an interesting, week. It’s gonna go back to the normal stuck up Americans!
Back in paradise. Started the day off with Yoga on the beach. Shopped at the local market, the people working on the stalls are just as pushy as the ones in Durban!! Bought a gecko for my room, 2 pictures for me and my sis. Went back to the boat for 1 hour of work then I was off for the rest of the day. Met Amy and Chris on the beach, the 3 of us girls went to get buffet lunch then lay on the beach for a bit, gay guys round us all over fondling on the beach! Went up to the Dragons Breath, which is a cluster of rocks which makes the sound of a dragon breathing when the water goes in. Very cool, surroundings on the Atlantic side are a lot like Cape Town, waves, green pathways and loads of seaweed, it is better to swim on the Caribbean side, the water is clearer and still. Went back to work and finished at 10pm.
Tonight is the WHITE party up on the pool deck, you can’t miss these gay parties, they turn the ship into something from another world, I had nothing white so I bought Pashmina, wrapped it around me and used Tash’s belt to hold it in place, went down very well. They had Big screens with lazers going around (apparently last night the lasers could be seen from surrounding islands and other ships. Try imagine how huge these parties are, and they carry on until noon the next day- they just move into the Crypt for the morning parties, so I have been waking up to booming music every morning.
Tomorrow is the last day of the Gay cruise, I’m sad; it has been such an interesting, week. It’s gonna go back to the normal stuck up Americans!
St Maarten
Gym was quiet in the morning; I was counting down the hours until I could have my half day off. Amy and I left the ship at noon, couldn’t wait to get reception on my phone, found it very frustrating when I couldn’t phone home! Eventually found phone cards to use a tickey box.
Took a Water taxi across the bay, we just wanted to find somewhere for lunch. Passed a little pub called “Black Pearl” means a lot to me because it is the name of one of the ships in my favorite movie! At at a place that I can’t remember the name of, I had my first pizza since South Africa, wasn’t as good as Panarottis. The cocktails on the islands re the best! Went shopping until about 6pm when the shops close. Didn’t buy anything, a bit stingy cos I haven’t been paid yet.
The island is known as the Electronics and Jeweler Island, those are the only shops you can find, except for a few designer stores that charge about $400 for a handbag and $280 for a skirt. All the shops are down one long street and there are 2 casinos on the side of the road, very weird.
There is a Dutch side and a French side, I loved the Dutch side, all the restaurants are Dutch, I even found a delft shop.
Amy and I went to have dinner at the most gorgeous restaurant called The Greenhouse. The give discount to crew members, fantastic (I’m still converting $ to Rand)
Got back to the ship at 10pm, we sailed at 1am.
Gym was quiet in the morning; I was counting down the hours until I could have my half day off. Amy and I left the ship at noon, couldn’t wait to get reception on my phone, found it very frustrating when I couldn’t phone home! Eventually found phone cards to use a tickey box.
Took a Water taxi across the bay, we just wanted to find somewhere for lunch. Passed a little pub called “Black Pearl” means a lot to me because it is the name of one of the ships in my favorite movie! At at a place that I can’t remember the name of, I had my first pizza since South Africa, wasn’t as good as Panarottis. The cocktails on the islands re the best! Went shopping until about 6pm when the shops close. Didn’t buy anything, a bit stingy cos I haven’t been paid yet.
The island is known as the Electronics and Jeweler Island, those are the only shops you can find, except for a few designer stores that charge about $400 for a handbag and $280 for a skirt. All the shops are down one long street and there are 2 casinos on the side of the road, very weird.
There is a Dutch side and a French side, I loved the Dutch side, all the restaurants are Dutch, I even found a delft shop.
Amy and I went to have dinner at the most gorgeous restaurant called The Greenhouse. The give discount to crew members, fantastic (I’m still converting $ to Rand)
Got back to the ship at 10pm, we sailed at 1am.
St Maarten
Gym was quiet in the morning; I was counting down the hours until I could have my half day off. Amy and I left the ship at noon, couldn’t wait to get reception on my phone, found it very frustrating when I couldn’t phone home! Eventually found phone cards to use a tickey box.
Took a Water taxi across the bay, we just wanted to find somewhere for lunch. Passed a little pub called “Black Pearl” means a lot to me because it is the name of one of the ships in my favorite movie! At at a place that I can’t remember the name of, I had my first pizza since South Africa, wasn’t as good as Panarottis. The cocktails on the islands re the best! Went shopping until about 6pm when the shops close. Didn’t buy anything, a bit stingy cos I haven’t been paid yet.
The island is known as the Electronics and Jeweler Island, those are the only shops you can find, except for a few designer stores that charge about $400 for a handbag and $280 for a skirt. All the shops are down one long street and there are 2 casinos on the side of the road, very weird.
There is a Dutch side and a French side, I loved the Dutch side, all the restaurants are Dutch, I even found a delft shop.
Amy and I went to have dinner at the most gorgeous restaurant called The Greenhouse. The give discount to crew members, fantastic (I’m still converting $ to Rand)
Got back to the ship at 10pm, we sailed at 1am.
Gym was quiet in the morning; I was counting down the hours until I could have my half day off. Amy and I left the ship at noon, couldn’t wait to get reception on my phone, found it very frustrating when I couldn’t phone home! Eventually found phone cards to use a tickey box.
Took a Water taxi across the bay, we just wanted to find somewhere for lunch. Passed a little pub called “Black Pearl” means a lot to me because it is the name of one of the ships in my favorite movie! At at a place that I can’t remember the name of, I had my first pizza since South Africa, wasn’t as good as Panarottis. The cocktails on the islands re the best! Went shopping until about 6pm when the shops close. Didn’t buy anything, a bit stingy cos I haven’t been paid yet.
The island is known as the Electronics and Jeweler Island, those are the only shops you can find, except for a few designer stores that charge about $400 for a handbag and $280 for a skirt. All the shops are down one long street and there are 2 casinos on the side of the road, very weird.
There is a Dutch side and a French side, I loved the Dutch side, all the restaurants are Dutch, I even found a delft shop.
Amy and I went to have dinner at the most gorgeous restaurant called The Greenhouse. The give discount to crew members, fantastic (I’m still converting $ to Rand)
Got back to the ship at 10pm, we sailed at 1am.
1st Feb
Yay we are in a new month..
Woke up to banging music coming from the gay party, yes at 7am they were still partying from the night before, and they carried on until 9:30am..there is only one way they are able to party like this every night- Drugs! Yip loads on the ship at the moment, but it is part of there culture, the ship has a zero tolerance to drugs and alcohol so there are police and sniffer dogs 24hrs, if they find someone on drugs or in possession, or a crew member over the limit ( 0.04% alcohol) is is immediate dismissal at the next port!
Work was slow; I made my second sale at 9pm-fantastic, made the whole day worth it! Doing lots of Personal Training sessions, the gay’s have loads of money and like personal attention- however in saying that they prefer a male giving them personal training, so I’m not getting all the appointments a should be. They have hired 3 extra male massage therapists in the spa just for this week!
I closed the gym at 10pm, sitting on the floor of cabin watching DVD’s- my favourite!
P.S We hired a cleaner today, $20 per day once a week!
Yay we are in a new month..
Woke up to banging music coming from the gay party, yes at 7am they were still partying from the night before, and they carried on until 9:30am..there is only one way they are able to party like this every night- Drugs! Yip loads on the ship at the moment, but it is part of there culture, the ship has a zero tolerance to drugs and alcohol so there are police and sniffer dogs 24hrs, if they find someone on drugs or in possession, or a crew member over the limit ( 0.04% alcohol) is is immediate dismissal at the next port!
Work was slow; I made my second sale at 9pm-fantastic, made the whole day worth it! Doing lots of Personal Training sessions, the gay’s have loads of money and like personal attention- however in saying that they prefer a male giving them personal training, so I’m not getting all the appointments a should be. They have hired 3 extra male massage therapists in the spa just for this week!
I closed the gym at 10pm, sitting on the floor of cabin watching DVD’s- my favourite!
P.S We hired a cleaner today, $20 per day once a week!
Tuesday, 30 January 2007
29/01/07
Clocks moved forward one hour last night cos we are moving into the Eastern Caribbean so crossing a time zone, i missed 1 hour sleep..which is needed the way we work.
Did 5 classes today including spin, aerobics,yoga,stretch and Abs!!My feet are sore and I am very stiff. There is such a great vibe around the ship, the gay's bring a lot of energy.
Finished work at 10pm went to do laundry for the 2nd time in my life, it's actually not that bad. My roommate and I get on so well, she is a lot like me, very organized and neat, we both enjoy watching DVD till we fall asleep and the room is always clean. We do most things together so it makes laundry duty a lot better. Still haven't been able to find a cleaner for our room. It is very tiny but it is nice to have someone to chnge the sheets and towels, vacum and clean the bathroom.
Started to get ready for our Mardi Gras party. The Atlantis crowd organize the best parties. went to the Royal Promanade to see the parade..i have to post pictures i have never seen such a party, drag queens with the most spectacular outfits, clowns, guys on stilts.....we then moved up to the pool area on deck 11, we stood on deck 12, to see 3500 men dancing. They brought lazers,DJ,sound and costumes like I have never seen before! It is too hard to explain I will show you pics.
Did 5 classes today including spin, aerobics,yoga,stretch and Abs!!My feet are sore and I am very stiff. There is such a great vibe around the ship, the gay's bring a lot of energy.
Finished work at 10pm went to do laundry for the 2nd time in my life, it's actually not that bad. My roommate and I get on so well, she is a lot like me, very organized and neat, we both enjoy watching DVD till we fall asleep and the room is always clean. We do most things together so it makes laundry duty a lot better. Still haven't been able to find a cleaner for our room. It is very tiny but it is nice to have someone to chnge the sheets and towels, vacum and clean the bathroom.
Started to get ready for our Mardi Gras party. The Atlantis crowd organize the best parties. went to the Royal Promanade to see the parade..i have to post pictures i have never seen such a party, drag queens with the most spectacular outfits, clowns, guys on stilts.....we then moved up to the pool area on deck 11, we stood on deck 12, to see 3500 men dancing. They brought lazers,DJ,sound and costumes like I have never seen before! It is too hard to explain I will show you pics.
END Of Cruise 1- Start of the GAY cruise
Woke up late only had to be in at 11am for work. That was good cos we had a late night last night at a club called the Crypt. The Atlantis Gay Cruise started to Embark at 1pm..they started floodin the gym, 3500 of them and 100 lesbians, they have hired out the cruise for the whole week $4 mil later. Worked till 10:30pm the gym is packed and the spa is fully booked! They have loads of money so i hope i can make some this week.
Sunday, 28 January 2007
YMCA and Training
Some of my friends gathering in the room at the YMCA before going to dinner. Next pic is the Sports academy that we had training in each day. Then a pic of the girls, we were all out at Lloyds a cute little nightclub in Watford- from the left Emily (USA-hairdresser), Amy (UK-Hairdresser), Maura (Irish-fitness) and Sinead (Irish-fitness). The last pic is of the Pilates/Yoga studio during training.
Friday, 26 January 2007
Thursday, 25 January 2007
JAMAICA
The week has been really hectic although yesterday I made my first sale! Made me feel a bit better about myself. Last night was an Aussie outback party in the Crew bar, we have an Activities team and manager what make sure we have something planned for each night.
Today I had the day off and we were in Jamaica. 5 of us decided to go around the island a bit. Hopped into a shuttle and off we were to Jamaica town. It is exactly how I pictured it in the movies, Everyone has dreadlocks, Reggae music plays everywhere.
Bob Marley "Don't worry bout a thing, cos every little things gonna be alright" was playing in the shuttle.
They dropped us off at the beach, we had lunch at a typical Jamaican restaurant, then off to the beach. WOW!! The sand is white and the sea is transparent, the water is clear and about 10 degrees warmer than Durban. I just sat in the water for about 2hours, there are no waves so you can just sit and waddle around.
Went shopping a bit, bought some souvenirs.
Shuttle took us back to the Ship at 3pm.
Jamaica sayings:
"ya man"
"no problem"
I think most of them are completely stoned and they drive far worse than a Joburg taxi any day!
I figured out how to use the ships phone in my room so was able to phone home. I have met many people, I spend most of my time with the South African girls, my roommate (Maran) and a girl who works as a youth staff (Amy from Calafornia)
I think there are far more South Africn staff than anything else. It is great though, we want to have a South African party in March, Braai, Biltong and Boerie!!!
Watched a spectacular Sunset form the top deck whilst we left Jamaica. Tomorrow is Labadee Haiti, until then..........
Today I had the day off and we were in Jamaica. 5 of us decided to go around the island a bit. Hopped into a shuttle and off we were to Jamaica town. It is exactly how I pictured it in the movies, Everyone has dreadlocks, Reggae music plays everywhere.
Bob Marley "Don't worry bout a thing, cos every little things gonna be alright" was playing in the shuttle.
They dropped us off at the beach, we had lunch at a typical Jamaican restaurant, then off to the beach. WOW!! The sand is white and the sea is transparent, the water is clear and about 10 degrees warmer than Durban. I just sat in the water for about 2hours, there are no waves so you can just sit and waddle around.
Went shopping a bit, bought some souvenirs.
Shuttle took us back to the Ship at 3pm.
Jamaica sayings:
"ya man"
"no problem"
I think most of them are completely stoned and they drive far worse than a Joburg taxi any day!
I figured out how to use the ships phone in my room so was able to phone home. I have met many people, I spend most of my time with the South African girls, my roommate (Maran) and a girl who works as a youth staff (Amy from Calafornia)
I think there are far more South Africn staff than anything else. It is great though, we want to have a South African party in March, Braai, Biltong and Boerie!!!
Watched a spectacular Sunset form the top deck whilst we left Jamaica. Tomorrow is Labadee Haiti, until then..........
First day on the job
Up for breakfast at 6am, need to get to a meeting at the spa at 7:45. Work started at 8am. I had no idea what i was meant to do whare i should be, where anything was so I was a bit rattled, completely out of my conmfort zone. The first day was a sea day so the gym was packed! Eventually at 8pm my day was finished after completing a spinning class and a stratch class I could go eat and sleep.
Dinner was great, my roommate and I went and rented DVD and bought pringles, she is from Germany, very nice girl. Fell asleep watching DVD, feels weird not having cell phone reception, can't just pick up the phone when you want to.
Dinner was great, my roommate and I went and rented DVD and bought pringles, she is from Germany, very nice girl. Fell asleep watching DVD, feels weird not having cell phone reception, can't just pick up the phone when you want to.
FREEDOM OF THE SEAS
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!
The shuttle dropped me off in front of a montrosity! I had to strain my neck to see the top of the ship. Sat outside waiting until about 10:30am when they started letting crew board. I was so nervous and so excited, i knew that once I was over the gangway there was a whole new world waiting for me. I was right! They search you when you get on, our bags were dumped and we were shuttled off into a room known as the Crew day room. There were about 40 of us starting new. Filled in paperwork listened to the training speech and had pphotos taken for our ID cards.
One of my fitnes team was sent down from the spa to show me around, he is a South African! Fantastic!
A quick brief tour of the ship left me speechless, It was even bigger inside, it has everything that you can imagine on it! Running track, Wave rider, Climbing wall, about 5 pools, a few Jaccuzi, H2O world to name a few. The gym is huge, top notch equipment, Spinning bikes like Cyclelab.
We eat in the Staff mes as apposed to crew mes so we have nicely layed tables and cutlery, floweres and a full buffet. You have a choice of about 5 different salads,main meals, desserts, cheeses, coldmeats, soups and there are machines for juice, coffee, tea etc. It is just like a hotel.
Started work at about 3pm showing people around.
The ship set sail at 5pm, went to statnd on the balcony to watch it leave. It was a fantaastic site, all the cruise liners leave together, passing each other, hooting, waving, I had goose bumps all over.
Got into bed at about 9pm when i got a phone call in my room asking me to do the parade at 11:30 down the promanade. I left a bit to late and It took me half an hour to make my way there, landed up being late!
Finally got back to the cabin, which is very tiny, the upside being that we have our own TV and DVD in our cabin, all I wanted was to sleep, it had been a very hectic day!
The shuttle dropped me off in front of a montrosity! I had to strain my neck to see the top of the ship. Sat outside waiting until about 10:30am when they started letting crew board. I was so nervous and so excited, i knew that once I was over the gangway there was a whole new world waiting for me. I was right! They search you when you get on, our bags were dumped and we were shuttled off into a room known as the Crew day room. There were about 40 of us starting new. Filled in paperwork listened to the training speech and had pphotos taken for our ID cards.
One of my fitnes team was sent down from the spa to show me around, he is a South African! Fantastic!
A quick brief tour of the ship left me speechless, It was even bigger inside, it has everything that you can imagine on it! Running track, Wave rider, Climbing wall, about 5 pools, a few Jaccuzi, H2O world to name a few. The gym is huge, top notch equipment, Spinning bikes like Cyclelab.
We eat in the Staff mes as apposed to crew mes so we have nicely layed tables and cutlery, floweres and a full buffet. You have a choice of about 5 different salads,main meals, desserts, cheeses, coldmeats, soups and there are machines for juice, coffee, tea etc. It is just like a hotel.
Started work at about 3pm showing people around.
The ship set sail at 5pm, went to statnd on the balcony to watch it leave. It was a fantaastic site, all the cruise liners leave together, passing each other, hooting, waving, I had goose bumps all over.
Got into bed at about 9pm when i got a phone call in my room asking me to do the parade at 11:30 down the promanade. I left a bit to late and It took me half an hour to make my way there, landed up being late!
Finally got back to the cabin, which is very tiny, the upside being that we have our own TV and DVD in our cabin, all I wanted was to sleep, it had been a very hectic day!
Thursday, 18 January 2007
18th January
Today is a special day..it's my Dad's birthday HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD, wish i was there to spend it with him.
This week has been slow, but exciting, 1 girl left to go to her ship this morning. 2 others from fitnss got thier details , one is leaving on Saturday, it starts to fel real when people around you are leaving, it just makes you wonder 'when is it my turn?'
The family that we are staying with are really fantastic, our washing gets done, food is dished up for us each evening..so much better than the YMCA, the only thing i miss from there is having all those people around all the time, always someone to talk to.
Last night we went to a pub called Revolution, really nice, the pubs here in Watford are all over the place but each and every one of them is different, my favorite so far is a little place called O'Niells, little Irish pub, all Irish finishes, Irish food and Irish music, fantastic!
Weather is getting worse, can't remember what the sun looks like. it rains through parts of the day- usually when need to walk to or from training! I can't wait to go off and feel the warm sun of the Carrabean!!!
We are training Indoor cycling today, my favorite and it feels so good to be back on a bike! I miss my cycling and i promise to train more when i get home. After Sun our bootcamp is complete and we have learned everything they can teach us before we go to our ships. Hopefully I am gone by then, our one roommate, is a massage thearapist and has been here 6weeks. i'll die if that had to happen to me, I want to go now see what this whole experience is!
This week has been slow, but exciting, 1 girl left to go to her ship this morning. 2 others from fitnss got thier details , one is leaving on Saturday, it starts to fel real when people around you are leaving, it just makes you wonder 'when is it my turn?'
The family that we are staying with are really fantastic, our washing gets done, food is dished up for us each evening..so much better than the YMCA, the only thing i miss from there is having all those people around all the time, always someone to talk to.
Last night we went to a pub called Revolution, really nice, the pubs here in Watford are all over the place but each and every one of them is different, my favorite so far is a little place called O'Niells, little Irish pub, all Irish finishes, Irish food and Irish music, fantastic!
Weather is getting worse, can't remember what the sun looks like. it rains through parts of the day- usually when need to walk to or from training! I can't wait to go off and feel the warm sun of the Carrabean!!!
We are training Indoor cycling today, my favorite and it feels so good to be back on a bike! I miss my cycling and i promise to train more when i get home. After Sun our bootcamp is complete and we have learned everything they can teach us before we go to our ships. Hopefully I am gone by then, our one roommate, is a massage thearapist and has been here 6weeks. i'll die if that had to happen to me, I want to go now see what this whole experience is!
Monday, 15 January 2007
MY NEW FAMILY
We only needed to be at training at 10am on Sun morning, so we went through to meet our new family and drop our bags off before we went to the academy. Kim, one of the girls I am staying with and who is doing fitness had her boyfriend down from Leeds for a couple of days so he quite kindly offered to take us to the family and then to college.
Finished off at college around 5:30pm after our lecturer made us 'practise' a port clean (vacuming, dusting, washing windows..) i really think at 25 years old I know how to clean? Surely we can leave that till we are on the ship? I think he just gets a kick out of telling us what to do!
Back to the host family and them I got a fantastic visit....my Aunt and Uncle drove down from Milton Keynes to vist!!!! YAY I didn't know weather i would see them before i went on my ship. Anyway they took me out for a drink and then back to my family.. Dinner was ready when i got home, roast chicken and chips- my new mommy then washed my cothes for me while i had a shower..(they also got a juccuzi) we have DVD player and tv in our room so i am in Heaven right now.
And I found a Cat...his name is Casper...I miss my Tashka and it is so nice to have a cat around.
I hope I get my details for my ship this week..I really want to be gone by Sat..fingers crossed
Finished off at college around 5:30pm after our lecturer made us 'practise' a port clean (vacuming, dusting, washing windows..) i really think at 25 years old I know how to clean? Surely we can leave that till we are on the ship? I think he just gets a kick out of telling us what to do!
Back to the host family and them I got a fantastic visit....my Aunt and Uncle drove down from Milton Keynes to vist!!!! YAY I didn't know weather i would see them before i went on my ship. Anyway they took me out for a drink and then back to my family.. Dinner was ready when i got home, roast chicken and chips- my new mommy then washed my cothes for me while i had a shower..(they also got a juccuzi) we have DVD player and tv in our room so i am in Heaven right now.
And I found a Cat...his name is Casper...I miss my Tashka and it is so nice to have a cat around.
I hope I get my details for my ship this week..I really want to be gone by Sat..fingers crossed
The weekend
Friday night was a blast went to a club/pub called LLOYDS. Fantastic- although one glass of wine cost me £3.50.. The whole of Steiner was there- from managers to Massage and Beauty, hair and a couple of us fitness guys. It was so nice to feel normal again, hear music and be aound other human beings that were not all dressed in white or fitness tracksuits. Our curfew is 12 midnight so at around 11:50pm they announced over microphone that all Steiner must make thier way back to the YMCA. Good evening, haven't had a good dance in a while.
Sat was a long day..our lecturer faffed around all day and eventually let us off around 4:30pm...very happy about that until we had to wait for a bus for another hour. anyway got home went down to shops and had my very first Burger King since i got here..it was so worth it..with a full belly we went back to the YMCA where my roommate had bought a DVD for us to watch. We took the mattress off one of the bunkbeds and rested the laptop on a chair, the 3 of us cuddled on the mattress to watch "head over heels" and then "Dirty Dancing"
Recieved word on our new families at around 9pm Sat night..we are off to a host family tomorrow.
Sat was a long day..our lecturer faffed around all day and eventually let us off around 4:30pm...very happy about that until we had to wait for a bus for another hour. anyway got home went down to shops and had my very first Burger King since i got here..it was so worth it..with a full belly we went back to the YMCA where my roommate had bought a DVD for us to watch. We took the mattress off one of the bunkbeds and rested the laptop on a chair, the 3 of us cuddled on the mattress to watch "head over heels" and then "Dirty Dancing"
Recieved word on our new families at around 9pm Sat night..we are off to a host family tomorrow.
Friday, 12 January 2007
Friday 12th Jan
Well another interesting day.. we had to present our De-tox seminar today.. It went very well, but it was a long day we had to sit and listen to everybody present for an hour each.
Recieved some interesting news today...i'm being moved out of my room on Sunday to go to a host family as there are so moany girls arriving for training on Sunday. 80% of the girls are moving out so hopefully they pair us up in the host houses. All i'm hoping for is a washing machine and a t.v..I am craving to watch a DVD cos I can't find a Cinema anywhere here.
Got back to YMCA only at 6:30pm...didn't feel like eating dinner so gave it a skip.
I am beginning to miss Highveld Stereo, Woolworths food, News Cafe and Afrikaans. This is such a completly different culture..it's great but I can't see myself every living here..I am a true South African through and through.
The weather is getting colder however the sun is rising earlier which is great, it has started getting light now at 7:30am...it's still dark at 4:00pm though, they are very short days.
It's Friday so everyone is going out tonight only around 10pm..there are the most beautiful little pubs around Watford..i'll let you know how it went tomorrow.
Recieved some interesting news today...i'm being moved out of my room on Sunday to go to a host family as there are so moany girls arriving for training on Sunday. 80% of the girls are moving out so hopefully they pair us up in the host houses. All i'm hoping for is a washing machine and a t.v..I am craving to watch a DVD cos I can't find a Cinema anywhere here.
Got back to YMCA only at 6:30pm...didn't feel like eating dinner so gave it a skip.
I am beginning to miss Highveld Stereo, Woolworths food, News Cafe and Afrikaans. This is such a completly different culture..it's great but I can't see myself every living here..I am a true South African through and through.
The weather is getting colder however the sun is rising earlier which is great, it has started getting light now at 7:30am...it's still dark at 4:00pm though, they are very short days.
It's Friday so everyone is going out tonight only around 10pm..there are the most beautiful little pubs around Watford..i'll let you know how it went tomorrow.
Thursday, 11 January 2007
Pilates
Wed was start of Pilates.. we did a nice 2hr class to start with- NEVER UNDERESTIMATE PILATES, i thought it was all stretching and the mind...i was greatly mistaken. By theend of the day we could basically teach a class although all of us were so stiff from the day she let us off early.. Got back ate dinner and back to the homework.. not so much tonight.
The girls in my room are great and we all get along very well, the one girl is a hairdresser and she is leaving on the 23rd Jan for her ship. 9 people left today to go to thier ships. It starts to get exciting when you hear everyone is leaving.. It reminds me of the movie "the Island" where all the people live together and wait everyday for thier number to roll up on the Lottery so they can get shipped off to "the Island"
Today being Thursday we are completing our Pilates course.. It is late night shopping in the centre that backs the YMCA so we gong shopping, I am then training my South African roomate in the gym cos she is a massage therapist and so we trade off one onother..perfect!!
I haven't attempted the whole washing thing yet cos i really don't want to iron so i'm just handwashing the essentials... :)
The weather is still grotty and seems to be getting worse, the wind blows you off balance and the rain stings your face..
All in all I'm having a blast and taking in all that I can, all I can hope for is my ship to come in soon!
The girls in my room are great and we all get along very well, the one girl is a hairdresser and she is leaving on the 23rd Jan for her ship. 9 people left today to go to thier ships. It starts to get exciting when you hear everyone is leaving.. It reminds me of the movie "the Island" where all the people live together and wait everyday for thier number to roll up on the Lottery so they can get shipped off to "the Island"
Today being Thursday we are completing our Pilates course.. It is late night shopping in the centre that backs the YMCA so we gong shopping, I am then training my South African roomate in the gym cos she is a massage therapist and so we trade off one onother..perfect!!
I haven't attempted the whole washing thing yet cos i really don't want to iron so i'm just handwashing the essentials... :)
The weather is still grotty and seems to be getting worse, the wind blows you off balance and the rain stings your face..
All in all I'm having a blast and taking in all that I can, all I can hope for is my ship to come in soon!
...And so it starts
please ignore the last 2 posts that only have headings i couldn't find a computer so attempted to post from my cell phone..
anyway the first real day of training Tuesday 9th Jan... Fitness got to wake up later that the others cos we just walk 2min down the road and we are at the gym. training starts at 9am each morning. There are now 10 people in our group (think they were a bit desperate)
the day started with all of us instructing a class so they could see what level we were at...Our trainer is from New Zealand and is the carbon copy of an Aussie comedian that Shaun and I watched (yes I know the accents are slightly different)..so you can imagine I was in hysterics the entire day!
Finished at around 5:30pm and walked back to have dinner. Met in the lounge after dinner to do our "homework" i feel like I'm back at Uni! homework only finished at 11:30pm
anyway the first real day of training Tuesday 9th Jan... Fitness got to wake up later that the others cos we just walk 2min down the road and we are at the gym. training starts at 9am each morning. There are now 10 people in our group (think they were a bit desperate)
the day started with all of us instructing a class so they could see what level we were at...Our trainer is from New Zealand and is the carbon copy of an Aussie comedian that Shaun and I watched (yes I know the accents are slightly different)..so you can imagine I was in hysterics the entire day!
Finished at around 5:30pm and walked back to have dinner. Met in the lounge after dinner to do our "homework" i feel like I'm back at Uni! homework only finished at 11:30pm
Monday, 8 January 2007
1ST Day at the Training Academy
Day started very early..in fact 1 whole hour earlier than needed as one of my roommates had the watch set wrong...so up at 04:45 and got dressed for the big day..As there are 2 others still sleeping everything gets done in the dark..i did learn that clothes should be packed out the night before- it saves you picking out a bright red bra to wear with black top..
After realizing that breakfast was closed because it was 05:30 not 06:30 we went back up to the rooms to waste some time.
Bus came at 07:05am right on time and all of us clambered in- 20min ride to the academy
After little intro we were taken up for the medical..Doctor was so sweet and didn't even feel the needle, next it was back down for a 2hr talk on how there will be no drinking of alcahol..ladies have to wear make up at all times, rooms are inspected for neatness and there is a curfew in the passengers areas- feel like it is school all over..anyway enough of the negatives, they also told us about the beaches we visit. how our days are planned, the tips we make, the people we meet and the fun time in the crew area.
After the talk it was into a taxi with Adam who scooted us off the the hospital for our chest x-rays then back to the bus stop to catch the 258 back to Watford. The 4 of us got off early and walked the rest of the way up high street. The shops are incredible and everything is on sale.
Personally I think the fitness instructors have the best of all worlds. We get get tracksuits and trainers as apposed to white tunics and nurses shoes.. we also don't have to travel into the academy for the rest of this week all our training is next door to the YMCA so that means an hour extra sleep compared to the others.
Another full day meeting many different people from all different countries...let's see what tomorrow holds.......
After realizing that breakfast was closed because it was 05:30 not 06:30 we went back up to the rooms to waste some time.
Bus came at 07:05am right on time and all of us clambered in- 20min ride to the academy
After little intro we were taken up for the medical..Doctor was so sweet and didn't even feel the needle, next it was back down for a 2hr talk on how there will be no drinking of alcahol..ladies have to wear make up at all times, rooms are inspected for neatness and there is a curfew in the passengers areas- feel like it is school all over..anyway enough of the negatives, they also told us about the beaches we visit. how our days are planned, the tips we make, the people we meet and the fun time in the crew area.
After the talk it was into a taxi with Adam who scooted us off the the hospital for our chest x-rays then back to the bus stop to catch the 258 back to Watford. The 4 of us got off early and walked the rest of the way up high street. The shops are incredible and everything is on sale.
Personally I think the fitness instructors have the best of all worlds. We get get tracksuits and trainers as apposed to white tunics and nurses shoes.. we also don't have to travel into the academy for the rest of this week all our training is next door to the YMCA so that means an hour extra sleep compared to the others.
Another full day meeting many different people from all different countries...let's see what tomorrow holds.......
Sunday, 7 January 2007
ARRIVING AT THE YMCA
Well i'm here. It is really fantastic.
Took us 1 hour to get here from Milton Keynes.
Staying in a room with 3 others, 1 South african and 2 girls from the USA in my room. Got no space to unpack so all my stuff is neatly packed under my bed. I have 2 hangers for about 10 items..i think i'm doing pretty well.
The YMCA backs on a huge shopping centre, going to need loads of time to wander through, no buying though, only allowed 20kg travelling to the ship...as is i'm already 7kg over. It is very weird hearing all the different accents.
Dinner was good, very much like varsity canteen style. Breakfast starts at 06:30 and our bus leaves at 7am to get to the academy..then the hard work starts- lucky i love studying!
Looks like this is going to be Fantastic!!!!!
Took us 1 hour to get here from Milton Keynes.
Staying in a room with 3 others, 1 South african and 2 girls from the USA in my room. Got no space to unpack so all my stuff is neatly packed under my bed. I have 2 hangers for about 10 items..i think i'm doing pretty well.
The YMCA backs on a huge shopping centre, going to need loads of time to wander through, no buying though, only allowed 20kg travelling to the ship...as is i'm already 7kg over. It is very weird hearing all the different accents.
Dinner was good, very much like varsity canteen style. Breakfast starts at 06:30 and our bus leaves at 7am to get to the academy..then the hard work starts- lucky i love studying!
Looks like this is going to be Fantastic!!!!!
Saturday, 6 January 2007
Life with the Brits
This is what some of the houses look like over Christmas, they really go to town. Small roads, Small houses, no space to park your car so they all line up along the street. What can you notice different to S.A, no high walls or huge security gates. I go for a run each morning feeling quite safe.
Wednesday, 3 January 2007
Monday 1st January 2007- And I'm Off
Flight was at 10pm, Virgin Atlantic.. very comfortable and the staff look after you well. Dinner was served at about 11pm-i was starving by then, watched a movie and hen got ready to sleep. I was fortunate to have an open seat next to me so after i managed to curl my whole body up onto 2 seats, i made my way to dreamland.
Woke up just in time for breakfast...was very confused as to why we were running 2 hours behind schedule until i realized it's time to set my watch back, we were in the U.K
Felt the freezing winter air as we made our way into the terminal building. Waited just over an hour to get through customs, fetched my bags and finally was able to step out onto British soil..
Woke up just in time for breakfast...was very confused as to why we were running 2 hours behind schedule until i realized it's time to set my watch back, we were in the U.K
Felt the freezing winter air as we made our way into the terminal building. Waited just over an hour to get through customs, fetched my bags and finally was able to step out onto British soil..
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