The Carnival Dream laser show looks great in thick fog

by Scott Carmichael on

We are currently about 100 miles off the coast of Long Island, in the middle of some really thick fog. Thick fog means two things – constant blowing of the ships horn, and a really neat effect up on the tenth deck for the laser show. The crew normally uses smoke generators, but the wind is so strong that it is blowing all their man made smoke away.

Tonight’s laser show was accompanied by Pink Floyd music, and the effect is actually quite stunning. The weather has been pretty miserable, but we are all covered by nice warm blankets, though those obviously don’t stop the damn ship from rocking and rolling all night long (though lots of booze does).

Later tonight the ship will be heading back to New York, ending its 2 night inaugural US voyage.

Disclaimer: this trip was paid for by Carnival Cruise Lines, but as with everything I write, my opinions are mine, and mine only. I am free to say whatever I want, which means I’ll be telling you all about the dreadful boarding procedure in New York when I am back home on solid ground.

Gadling coming to you live from the Carnival Dream

by Scott Carmichael on

Over the next couple of days, we’ll be coming to you live from the Carnival Dream – the newest ship in the Carnival fleet. This ship sets sail from New York in one hour, but thanks to satellite Internet, we’ll try and keep you updated with some of the cool new features on board this new “Dream Class” cruise ship.

Three days of cruise fun on the Carnival Elation for just $99

by Scott Carmichael on

If you need proof that this is the best time ever for finding hot travel deals, look no further than this offer. Enjoy a three day cruise on the Carnival Elation, sailing from San Diego to Ensenada, Mexico (and back) for just $99.

The Elation is one of the Carnival “Fun Class” ships – and the entertainment on board certainly justifies the name. From a three deck waterslide to a jogging track, ping pong, mini golf, adults only retreat, various kids clubs, a spa, live entertainment and of course various restaurants.

The $99 rate is only valid on the October 19th departure for an inside room. If you live in the area, this is a great chance to relax on the cheap. Remember, $99 includes all your meals and entertainment. Drinks and some on-board services are extra, and you’ll pay about $50 in government fees.

The itinerary is also available on October 26th and on November 23rd ($149 for an inside room) . You’ll find this deal on the Carnival site, where you’ll also find a list of shore activities and more information about the ship.

Carnival cruise passengers spend weekend in Antigua … in jail

by Tom Johansmeyer on

It looks like Carnival could use some new passengers. Not even a week after banning a family for life – and then reversing the ban – six passengers on one of its ships have been detained in Antigua. Now, if you’re going to get stuck someplace, Antigua isn’t bad, but I’d rather be in a resort than involved with the criminal justice system – it just seems more fun.

Dolores Lalanne, 25, Mike Pierre Paul, 24, Joshua Jackson, 25, Shoshonnah Henry, 24, Nancy Lalanne, 22, and Rachael Henry, 27 have been charged with assault, battery and malicious damage. A fight over cab fare got out of hand and turned into an altercation with the local police. They are being held in Antigua until trial.

The alleged fight broke out on Friday, when the Carnival Victory passengers got off the ship for a 10-hour port call. The passengers refused to pay a cab driver, claiming they were being overcharged. Original reports of the story say that the cab driver quoted a $50 price for a tour that would end at a beach. He later told them, supposedly, that it would cost more to get back to the ship. The driver drove the passengers to a police station, which is where the fight is said to have broken out.

After spending the weekend in jail, the passengers were released on $5,000 bail but had to give up their travel documents and check in with the court regularly. Apparently, jail is unpleasant in Antigua, particularly because of the mosquitoes.

%Gallery-13474%


%Gallery-68288%

America’s best Labor Day festivities

by Brenda Yun on

Happy Labor Day, everyone! The first two things that come to mind when it comes to this holiday is NO WORK and BBQ’S – yum! But there’s plenty more to look forward to today when it comes to festivals, music, and parades. What follows is a list of the top Labor Day events across America.

Brooklyn’s West Indian Carnival
A colorful carnival of culture, song and dance, this unique parade and festival Americans, is a massive celebration for Caribbeans, Brooklynites, New Yorkers and more. Over one million spectators take to the Brooklyn streets running along Eastern Parkway. The carnival originated back in 1920 and remains one of the most popular celebrations of Caribbean culture in the Americas. The midday parade features dancers donning elaborate costumes and bands playing lively music. Perhaps the highlight of the carnival, though, are the amazing West Indian food and drink (ginger beer, anyone?).

D.C Labor Day concert
If you’re a bit farther south of the Big Apple, maybe D.C.’s free Labor Day concert may pique your interest. The National Symphony Orchestra performs a free concert on the West Lawn of the Capitol Building in Washington D.C., which remains one of the only events in area where you don’t need tickets, special invitations, or a black tie to attend. Gates open to the public at 3:20 p.m., and the concert begins at 8 p.m. Many flock to the lawn early to barbecue before the show starts.

Detroit’s Labor Day Parade
Motor City’s labor may be lacking severely, but its enormously popular Labor Day parade is still going strong. Today also caps off a four-day jazz fest, which will satisfy even the most critical music goers.

Mackinac Bridge Walk
Another popular “parade” in the Midwest is on Mackinac Island in Michigan. The city itself has a relaxing island feel as it is home to less than 1,000 people. Reach Mackinac by ferry or plane. Then head to the Grand Hotel (boasting world’s largest hotel porch at 660 feet), which hosts an annual Labor Day Jazz weekend that features local artists and tons of food and drinks. Don’t leave too soon though! Be sure to participate in the famous Mackinac Bridge Walk, which has been held since 1958.