Squeaky Wheel

It occurs to me that a blog is a great past-time for jetlag attacks. I've just spoken to Nanc about her lack of jetlag from transatlantic flying and am passing on her words of wisdom: ONE> on the plane drink heavily (alcohol....you bet she said it) and TWO> use the on-board entertainment system including at least 4 movies and various games. THREE> Arrive and never slow down, so that when you finally crash at night, you sleep soundly, with nary a hint of jetlag. I am jealous of her remedy, but hmmmmm, don't know if I can pull that off! Okay, here's another option from Elaine: simply arrive in the morning, hope for an early check-in, take a few hours nap and get back on states time, then head out to your adventure. And if there isn't an early check-in....do you crash on a park bench? Given Nanc or Elaine's suggestions, I would choose to adopt the sound conservative advice for the travels to the destination and Nanc's for the return trip home! Except, this year I am giving a jewelry party the night after we arrive home so maybe getting sloshed is not a great idea....well, it is my business you know, and the "bling must go on!"

I'm flying Air France and am looking forward to "un peu vin," and will try to sleep tout suite (6pm is 11pm in U.K. after all) and then wake for a movie about 5am Paris time, so that I am alert enough to navigate the plane transfer at Charles de Gaulle upon arrival. And taking a few strolls around the plane might be a great idea for my legs, shall we say sleep-walking anyone?

I'm sure your mother said what mine did, 'if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all' right? So, that's my excuse for silence yesterday and I'm sticking to it. The truth is I met two very interesting women to chat about our businesses, one I met early..... the other at lunch, and invariably the topics touched on travel. What can I say, I'm excited!! And when you share your life, be prepared to be amazed, as others share theirs. My first gal pal Mary, who is tops in my book, also is a world traveler and a person to be envied for her achievements and generosity in sharing her wisdom. She gushed about her favorite places, and my pleasure meter peaked to hear her speak of Spain, Egypt, Coco Island, and Italy....with special thoughts for her fav city Florence. Then, who would think, double the pleasure all in one day with Diane, who's motto must be "have work will travel" and thru her big smile shared her many worldwide travels as well! Wow, lucky me!

About 6pm last night, knowing that the TA is in Central time, I called....but not for him, but rather any other TA but him. I explained my plight, and per Carnival's instructions, asked for a 3-way conference call. Dear Ling did not comply, but rather called CCL herself while I was on hold, and yes reported the lesser of the cabin credits. I read to Ling my e-mails from her colleague verifying the higher cruise credits, and asked to speak to someone else, anyone else who could help me. After another short hold, I heard the familiar voice, but this time it was not angry, indeed it was very helpful and reassuring. The root cause had been found, and hopefully CCL will bill the TA's firm, the TA's firm will return the portion of the paid commission, and CCL will then release our cabin credits. Hooray. Can this be done in 11 days....we'll see. I hope CCL realizes that monies posted to Sign & Sail will be monies spent onboard.

Lesson learned, keep good notes, hold their feet to the fire and the squeaky wheel does indeed get the grease....or in this case, the dollars.....weak though they be! I'm happy, TA is happy, and life goes sweetly on!
Kiko