Only 1 more week

Hi cruisers- I can't believe we're just about one week away from cruise time! First off...

Nick JUST tweeted that he will likely do a dinner event before the cruise.

"Hey Florida, do you wanna have a dinner date with me before the backstreet cruise on the 23rd?" - Nick

So it looks like we'll be split between Brian's Wylee event and Nick's dinner event. I have to laugh that my biggest problem next week will be whether I want to have dinner with Nick or Brian. I love my life! #BackstreetFanProblems


My Schedule
 
These next few days are going to be super hectic, so I'm saying bon voyage now! If you have any last minute questions, comments, or just want to say hi- don't hesitate to email me!

I'll be headed down to Florida on Wednesday and participating in all of the pre-cruise festivities as well as hopefully find time to relax by the pool. If you see me around before the cruise or on board, please come up and say hi! I might appear a bit frazzled on the outside, but this is normal during cruise time ;) And I do really want to meet you all! I'll also be staying in Florida two days after the cruise just to ensure some quality R&R time.
 
Don't forget to please come by my cabin, U299, and say hi! We have a fun door decoration this year with little giveaways. Here's a sneak peak.

See you all on board and safe travels!

Itineraries are Here!

Okay cruisers....it's official. We are 2 weeks away and now have the coveted itinerary!

But first, here's the email that came with the itinerary.

Ahoy Cruisers...

Just 14 more days till you set sail with BSB! Get your sleep in now while you still can.

Here is just a sneak peak of what we have in-store for you.

BSB wants you to add to the set list for the IN A WORLD LIKE THIS REDUX concert. Please list your top five song choices here?

See you on-board.

 Backstreet Boys Cruise 2014 Itinerary

View the PDF of the itinerary here

Lots of fun stuff to talk about!

BSB Loves the 90's Game Show
Not sure what exactly to expect with this event, but I'm sure it will be a lot of fun and full of lots of laugh! 

In a World Like This Redux Concert
Well, I wasn't sure exactly what they'd do for the concert and it seems we have our answer. I admittedly had to look up what 'redux' means (don't judge me!) and it means 'brought back' or 'revived'. So it seems we'll be getting a modified version of the In a World Like This concert. I'm happy with that! I'm super happy we get to vote on additional songs to be put in the set list so the show is at least somewhat new and different. So everyone be sure to cast your vote for your favorite songs you want to hear the boys sing! And please, please, don't vote for singles. I think you in advance.

'Show Em What You're Made Of’ Preview and Q+A
Wow- I can't believe they're going to show a preview of the documentary! I actually was already super fortunate to see the movie during the screening last month and I absolutely loved it and can't wait to see it again. This time I know to bring extra tissues! And of course the Q&A, nothing new here but nonetheless, I'm excited and know I'll have a good time. It is interesting to note that this is the first year they're doing 2 separate Q&As. We'll see how that goes; I did like it as one big group in years past.

Don’t Forget the Lyrics
I wonder if the boys will be challenged with lyrics to their old songs? Because if that's the case we know how that will go ;) I also wonder if they'll incorporate fans into this event. Should be a fun, new event. I like my new events!

Lack of solo events
The ONLY thing that disappoints me about the itinerary is lack of solo events. I really enjoyed that last year and it gave us so much more to do, and each boy only had to put in work for 1 more event. So definitely a bit bummed about that, but I won't let that stop my fun. On the bright side, at least we'll have more time to relax and it won't be quite as hectic.

So what is everyone most excited about?

Wylee Party at Soyka

In case you missed it, yesterday Leighanne tweeted that there will be a Wylee party Oct 23rd, the night before the cruise, at Soyka from 6-9pm.  More details to follow.

Soyka Restaurant
5556 NE 4th Ct, Miami, FL 33137
(305) 759-3117

For anyone who doesn't know what a Wylee party is - it's a party thrown by Brian's wife, Leighanne, to feature products from her clothing and accessory line. She has everything from cute handbags to clothing. Here's the Wylee website if you want to do some pre-event shopping. At the party she'll have a lot of her products up for display and she's also be available to mingle.

Now most of you are probably wondering if Brian will show up. And historically, yes, he has shown up. There are NO guarantees, but I'd be willing to bet he'll be there. In the past he was around to mingle, but keep in mind the main purpose of the event is to sell Wylee products. It's not a Brian stalkfest. Thus Brian is typically helping Leighanne sell, but will certainly chat with fans. He typically doesn't really do picture or autographs during the event, but if we're lucky, he may. It seems to vary depending on the day and how he's feeling. *Fingers crossed*

You don't have to buy anything, but I would encourage you to buy something. Just consider that the event is free, so its a way to show your support.

Happy shopping!

***UPDATED INFO***
 Brian shared more info about the Wylee party.

Are you sailing away with the Backstreet Boys?

Come party with us before! We're hosting the biggest Wylee by Leighanne Littrell Party yet and you're invited! Enjoy complimentary hors' d'oeuvres, sip on a complimentary cocktail and shop our fabulous new collection. Select lucky guests can ride in style from your hotel to the party in the Wylee Hummer. Email Cruise@WyleeBags.com with your information for your chance to win.

Can't make it to the party? Don't worry you can still have your favorite Wylee items delivered right to your cabin. Simply place your order on http://www.wylee.com/, put your cabin number in the notes and select "Pick up on Cruise" for your shipping selection.

Bon Voyage!

~ Brian Littrell\

***MORE UPDATED INFO***

Leighanne also tweeted "No RSVP needed unless you want to make a dinner reservation. If you do call in to reserve a table, be sure to mention Wylee. !"

Activities Announcement

Cruisers received an exciting email today with 3 new activities announced as well as info about cabana rentals. In case you missed it....

Q&A

Q & A:  Got a question for the Backstreet Boys, here is your chance.  We will be selecting randomly among your questions to ask the boys during the event.

(You should have a unique link to submit a question in your email)

AJ McLean Poker Tournament

AJ McLean Poker Tournament:  AJ will be having a Poker Tournament in the Casino(Promenade deck 9,mid ship). Details will be announced with your cruise itinerary.90 Players will be randomly selected to participate. 45 from early dining (Group A) and 45 from late dining (Group B). Players selected will pay $30 entrance fee to the casino the day of the tournament.

Only one entry per person. Winners will be notified via email. A complete list will be posted in the Casino and at the Rose Tours Hospitality desk

Sign up for your chance to play here

Howie Dorough Black Jack Tournament
Howie Dorough Black Jack  Tournament:  Ever dream of playing blackjack on the High Seas? Ever dream of playing blackjack on the high seas with one Mr. Howie D?  Well, here is your chance. Howie is hosting his first ever Backstreet Boys Cruise - Blackjack Tournament.  For just $25 dollars (payable to the casino host on-board), you can have a chance to play in the grand finale with Howie. The top six chip winners from the qualifying rounds will test their skills against Howie himself.

The three players with the most chips will win cash prizes.
Submit your name, email address and dining time here.

Cabana Rentals

Cabana Rentals: We are pleased to offer you the opportunity to rent private cabanas in Half Moon Cay during our beach party.  You can read all about the different cabanas available, pricing and sign up for the Cabana Lottery here.

CABANA RENTALS:
We are pleased to offer you the opportunity to rent private cabanas in Half Moon Cay. In addition to the below amenities, all paid Cabana guests will receive priority departure to Half Moon Cay.
The standard Cabana is available for $500. You can have a max of 4 guests. Your cabana will be outfitted with a refrigerator, ceiling fan, air conditioner, table and chairs inside, as well as deck chairs and misting shower on the private terrace. You will be provided snacks and an assortment of soft drinks and bottled water to quench your thirst. Snorkel fins will also be available.

Beach Villas available for $1000. You can have a max of 8 guests. Enjoy the ultimate in luxury during your stay on Half Moon Cay with the use of your own deluxe two-story beach villa. For your comfort, you will find your villa outfitted with air-conditioning, a 5 person capacity hot tub, refrigerator, ceiling fan, dining area with table and chairs inside, misting shower, and private sun deck. You will be provided with fresh fruit, vegetables with dip, and chips and salsa to snack on as well as an assortment of soft drinks and bottled water to quench your thirst. Floating mats and snorkel gear are also included for your use throughout the day.”

The Private Oasis is available for up to 12 guests for $2200. In the exclusive 1,620 square foot grand cabana you can enjoy the following: full wet bar and refrigerator, indoor teak dining table seating six people, outdoor teak lounges and bar stools 2, iPod music system, multi-colored Bahamian tapestries, men’s and women’s changing rooms, indoor and outdoor showers with heated fresh water, 100-foot walkway with misting stations and privacy gate. Your package includes the services of a butler, personal chef, bartender, cabana Steward, and lifeguard along with the following:
• Whole fresh fruits, chips & salsa.
• Beverage package with Domestic and Imported beers; house pouring 'wine by the glass' (Red, White and White Zinfandel); Cocktails (Bahama Mama, Rum Punch, and Yellow Bird); frozen tropical classics (Pina Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri, Banana Colada, Margarita); mocktails (Virgin Pina Colada, Virgin Strawberry Daiquiri, Virgin Banana Colada).
• BBQ Lunch Buffet with selection of two salads, grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, fresh island fish, barbecued chicken, brownies and cookies.

Please submit your Cabana Request below no later than Monday, Oct 13th.

Since there are only a limited number of cabanas available, we have decided to randomly select passengers for the rentals. If you are selected, you will be contacted via email.
At that time, we will need the 4 , 8 or 12 names , fin sizes and soda selections for each Cabana.
The Cabana rental fees will be collected at the Cruise terminal prior to boarding the ship at the Customer Service Counter paid in cash only. 

Well I'm super excited for all of the announcements. I already signed up for both of the tournaments. I better brush up on my card skills. I'm also excited to see Howie get in on the betting action this year and AJ doing a poker tournament this year. Double the chances to hopefully get a chance to play cards with a Backstreet Boy.

Meanwhile I was starting to get worried that they wouldn't have a Q&A this year, but I was happily proven wrong.

Can't believe we're just 18 days away!!

Fan Breakout Sessions

I don't talk much, or really at all, about my personal life. But when I'm not fangirling, I plan corporate events for a living. I realized that there is so much that can be translated from the corporate world of events I plan into the Backstreet cruise. In fact I feel like there's a huge missed opportunity by only having 1 track of activities. With the conferences I manage- they have so many things going on at any given time in various breakout sessions and I really wish BSB would do that too!

So I thought it would be fun to plan out a few hypothetical "Fan Breakout" sessions. All of these are just fun extra events where the boys wouldn't necessarily be present at all, but still super fun activities to bring us cruisers closer together because I still maintain one of the best parts of the cruise is meeting other fans.

• What It's Like to be Married to a Backstreet Boy
  Hosted by any/all of the lovely Backstreet wives on board (which of course would most likely just be Leighanne). The wive(s) dish about life on the road, what it's like to be married to a pop star, and of course spill some embarrassing secrets about their husbands. Q&A session to follow.
  
  
• Birds of  Feather Dinner
  Tonight for dinner meet some new fans local to your neck of the woods. Every table will be labeled with a different state/country so go find your table and meet a new friend or two.
  
  
• Struggles of a Fan Man
  Calling all male fans! This mixer is for you. Meet up with other male fans and share your Backstreet stories.
  
  
• The Business Behind BSB
  "Being in show business is just as much about the show as it is about the business" - Howie D.
  Hosted by Jen and any of the other management staff, you will learn all about the behind the scenes things that go into the business side of BSB. You'll hear about everything from putting together a touring schedule to BSB PR. Q&A session to follow.
  
• Protecting the Boys You Love
  Hosted by the infamous security guards that watch over the Backstreet Boys on a day to day basis. Hear some crazy fan stories and what it takes to keep BSB safe on the road. Q&A session to follow.
  
  
• Town Hall with Ground Ctrl
  Want to see another BSB BBQ or tell Ground Ctrl how much you love the new VIPs? Join this open forum to provide direct feedback to the ground ctrl staff and let them know your suggestions, feedback, or potential areas of improvement.
  
  
• Backstreet Taboo
  Challenge your fellow fans to this classic party game with a Backstreet twist.
  
  
• BSB Karaoke
  Come out and sing along to all of your favorite BSB hits
  
  
• Millennium Poolside at Sunset
  Long day in the sun? Come unwind poolside with a cocktail and the soothing music from the top-selling Millennium album
  
  
• Fanfic Forum
  Everything fanfic. Share your favorite stories, meet the authors, swap tips for writing the ultimate fanfic and much more!
  
  
• Memorabilia Auction
  Join us for an afternoon of autographed merchandise and classic BSB goodies as well as raffles and giveaways. Grab a glass of complementary champagne with one hand and cross your fingers with the other because you could win a rare BSB collectible.

I feel obliged to again point out that these are NOT actual events that will be on the cruise. But if I were in charge, most of these certainly would be ;)

Are you Nick Carter's Biggest Fan?

If you are, you might be able to win a cruise for 2! Be sure to check out this newly announced contest sponsored by VH1. All you have to do is submit a photo that shows why are you #NicksBiggestFan and you could be sailing the high seas with Nick and the rest of the Backstreet Boys. Be sure to check out the rules before you hit submit. Good luck to everyone entering!

Enter Contest Here

Third Theme Revealed- ABC Night

After a couple of teasers this week, it's officially confirmed that the third theme night will be Anything But Clothes (ABC) night. Here are all the juicy details per the BSB website....

Our third and final theme night for our 2014 cruise is ABC - Anything But Clothes!

For those of you that aren't familiar with what an ABC party is, we're here to help you out...

First, here are a few Do's and Don'ts to finding an ABC outfit:
1. Do get creative and have fun with your costume
2. Don't wear something you don't feel comfortable in - it's a party so we want you to have fun!
3. Do refer to the Urban dictionary definition:
Anything But Clothes party.
where you wear anything but clothes. ex: trashbags, saran wrap, lampshades, trashcans, tape, cardboard boxes, etc.
4. Do keep in mind, you're going to want to have pockets for your camera.. Our costumes are going to top last year's ;)
5. Don't be afraid to get ideas from Pinterest /YouTube/Instagram. We'll be sharing some ideas to help ya out.
6. Do: have fun with it!!

We created a board on our Pinterest to inspire you a bit more. Click here!

Last but not least, we're here to help. If you have any questions, tweet us!

We wanted to make the last theme something easy and fun, so keep that in mind!

Seems like there are mixed reviews of this theme. I'm personally looking forward to this one because I think its unique and different. I'm excited to see how creative people get with it, the boys included. As for myself, not too sure what I'll end up with at this point. If anyone has any good, easy ideas to share- let me know!

Now that we finally have all the themes, all that's left is the itinerary. Just 44 more days!