Friday, January 13, 2023

Carnival Radiance cruise (1/9/-1/13/2023) - Solo cruising

 Unfortunately, my 4-night cruise turned into a 'cruise to nowhere' thanks to the weather. Bad weather last Tuesday caused our stop in Catalina Island to be canceled as the tenders could not operate, going down to Ensenada the rain caused my tour for Mexican Food & Margaritas to be canceled as well.


Can't blame Carnival for that and port charges & tour costs were refunded. Naturally, the weather on Wednesday and Thursday was nice so I could sit out and get some sun.

The comedians were both pretty good, although one did a better job in the 'adult' show than in the 'family' show earlier in the evening. You could tell he wasn't as comfortable trying to keep his routine more acceptable, but he's not the only comedian I've seen have that problem, no matter where they may be performing.

Carnival Radiance was built as the Victory beginning in '98 and sailed under that name until late 2021 when it was refitted and renamed. It's similar to its sister ship the Triumph (now the Sunrise), which was the first cruise ship Donna and I sailed on in '99, which was her inaugural year. The Destiny class all have the same issue where it is impossible to go directly forward or aft on some decks, making it a pain in the ass getting to the dining rooms if you happen to be either forward or aft and your reservation is in the restaurant on the opposite end.

Guy Fieri has two restaurants on board, including at no additional cost, his Guy's Burger Joint and the later Pig & Anchor BBQ. I recommend both. Shaquille O'Neal heavily promotes the 'Funships' and has his Big Chicken franchise aboard as well. I enjoyed all three places. The only restaurant, at an extra cost I went to was Bonsai Sushi, open in the evenings.



Wednesday, January 04, 2023

A few quick comments on politcal events.

 Things could change by the time I post this, but earlier it does not look good for Kevin McCarthy in his desperate attempt to become speaker. Already a proven non-entity he's giving away any power he might have had by kowtowing to the worst elements in his Party.


I find it funny that he actually had his office files moved into the Speaker's office (video available) and may have to move them back out later. At least he's moved George Santos (if that is his name) out of the headlines for a bit.

By the way, does the editor in charge of Santos' Wikipedia page get extra for changing things daily? There is more stuff there than on the pages of politicians who have been in office for decades.