Recap 2013- Day 3

Last day already?! Gosh it really flies by. Though day 3 would prove to be the most action packed and the hardest on my poor feet. So much standing!

AJ's Blackjack Tournament

I decided to sign up for the blackjack tournament to see what it was all about. Even though I'm no expert, I know enough to play. I know its awful, but I was guessing that a lot of fans who signed up probably didn't know a lot either and just wanted the chance to play with AJ.

Fortunately my scheduled time wasn't super early, so I scoped out the tables to see how it all worked. Turns out you're not playing against the table, you're playing against everyone. Everyone gets 7 hands and whoever comes out with the most money at the end wins. Knowing this, my strategy was 'go big or go home'. So by the time I sat down, I was pumped. First hand- black jack! Sweet, off to a great start. But my luck ran out there...the next 6 hands didn't go quite as well. As quickly as won, I was just as quick to give all my money right back to the dealer. Which reminds me why I don't gamble in real life. Even though I didn't win, I'm glad I tried. If he were to do it again next year, at least I'll have a better understanding of how the tournament is set up so I can prep a bit better.

BSB-skinned poker table

Meet & Greet

No time to waste after the blackjack tournament, I had to find my group for the picture! As I was looking for my photo group, I heard a lot of mutterings about the group sizes changing. Ugh- I knew it! But in another history-making Backstreet moment, they were actually cutting the group sizes down to 4-5 fans. I seriously couldn't believe it! After all that preparation & drama, I just had to laugh. Certainly not complaining though!

The gang waiting to take our picture with the boys

So I inched my way up to the front of the line and honestly didn't have anything prepared to say. I went down the line and thanked them all for everything and for a good cruise. Last minute I decided I wanted to say something to Nick about his book, but before I could get the words out of my mouth he already moved on to the next person in line. And I felt too awkward going backwards. I really do need to start taking my own advice- I should've been more assertive! But no biggie- I'm happy with how the picture turned out. The only other thing I remember was that Mr Brightside by the Killers was playing, and Nick was like scream-singing along with the song in my ear. I guess he has to keep meeting 2,000 girls exciting somehow, right?

Meet & Greet in the Sailor Costumes!

After the meet & greet I had time for a super quick lunch but then we had a packed afternoon. Seriously, no time to relax on this cruise.

Wylee Fashion Show

The Wylee fashion show was running late, making me awfully suspicious that perhaps Brian is the real culprit behind backstreet time? Hmmm. Though I know the pictures took a while so I suppose I should give him the benefit of the doubt.

I was a little skeptical going into this event, but honestly I think it turned out well. Brian and Leighanne hosted a fashion show of the Wylee product line, as worn by fans. I thought it was good that Brian opened up the event stating it was his idea to do the event and that he had to convince Leighanne to do it. Whether that's true or not, it needed to be said since the event was met with a lot of criticism. Essentially the event was a bunch of fans modeling her clothes/accessories and Brian making funny commentary throughout.

Brian & Leighanne hosting the Wylee Fashion Show

One of my favorite Brian commentaries was when he was talking about a tshirt that's shaped so you cant see your bra. I started to type out the quote and realized that it loses all of its pizzazz unless you hear it in Brian's voice. The clip I'm referring to starts around 6 minutes in...

6 minutes in Brian goes on about one shirt and how its designed not to show a bra. Quite comical

All in all, a good time. I think I most enjoyed the fashion show because I knew a couple of the girls on stage, modeling. I loved that he incorporated fans in his event. I thought he did a great job of hosting and bringing life to the outfits and models. I also thought it was really nice of them to throw out some of the items into the audience. So it really did have all the pieces to make a successful event. But would I want him to do it again next year, no, probably not. I think it was something unique and fun as a one-time thing but I'd love to see him try something else next year.

Rum DMC with Howie
 

After Brian's event was Rum DMC with Howie. This is one that I had no idea what to expect going into it but was soooo happy when I realized he'd be singing some of his solo songs. Such a nice surprise! I personally love his solo album and was bummed he never went on tour with it in the US. So for anyone who may have missed it, his concept was to mix his 2 favorite activities- drinking and singing. So he'd sing a song and then do a round of rum-based drinks with some fans. For those who want the visual....

Howie Singing

+

Howie Drinking

= Rum DMC

During the event he sang 100 Kisses, Back to Me, Going Going Gone, This is Just What I Needed, and Lie to Me. So it was like a little mini concert. I also had to laugh when he emerged wearing a long sleeve black shirt in the middle of the Caribbean, had 5 drinks, and then commented on how hot he was. Well, gee, Howie, not really sure what you were expecting there? haha  Here are some clips of a few of my favorite moments. Though I honestly think the whole thing is worth youtubing.

  

Howie drinking with fans...love his reaction afterward

 

Howie mixing up his own song, Back to Me...guess it was all the rum

Overall I loved Rum DMC! I really liked how he incorporated fans into the event, but they also weren't the focus. It was the perfect mix. I also really liked it because I thought it suited him well. I loved that we got another little concert and corny Howie jokes mixed in throughout. I would be 100% content if the did the same thing next year, maybe just pick different songs or something. My one and only complaint about this event was that he didn't sing my favorite song- Dominoes!

OK, Im going to take a pause here since day 3 was so action-packed with events. The rest of day 3 coming soon in another post soon!

2013 Itinerary

So exciting we finally have our itineraries! Here was the email in case you missed it...

Did someone ask for an itinerary?

So were reading on Twitter that there were a few requests for the Backstreet Boys Cruise itinerary.....Well, your wait is over.....

Attached for your for your viewing pleasure, we present the 2013

Cruise Itinerary
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We have just a few updates to mention. We were informed that Balmoral Island is not fully operational. Since we want everyone to have a fabulous experience, we are now sailing to the beautiful Half Moon Cay, Bahamas.

Half Moon Cay is a private island paradise. You will find a sun-drenched island hideaway where you can play in the turquoise seas, ride horseback on powdery white sand, and encounter silky stingrays.

If you had previously purchased a shore excursions in either Nassau or Balmoral, Carnival will be refunding your money.  Of course, there are some really great excursions availabe on Half Moon, such as horseback riding on the beach or taking a sail on a glass bottomed boat.

Shore excursions in Half Moon Cay will be available to book by Friday, Oct. 18th, 9am ET.

Half Moon Cay Excursions

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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, air conditioner, 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, Oct21st.

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.

Cabana Sign Up

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Spa Carnival:
There’s so much to do. So little time. So… just relax. The ultimate mental escape – Relax and rejuvenate in the Carnival Spa. Our onboard spa offers a variety of indulgent therapies and treatments which will leave you utterly relaxed and sumptuously renewed. Choose from an assortment of complexion reviving facials, therapeutic massages, exotic body wraps, restoring Medi-Spa services,and the latest in salon hair and nail treatments.

To book your spa apointment, just log into your carnival account and from the "TO DO" drop down menu -  select the PLAN ACTIVITIES tab

Why Book a Spa Treatment:

• Pre-booking ensures you will receive the treatment you desire at the time you choose.
• We offer a vast selection of soothing treatments at a great value.
• We guarantee exceptional service in a tranquil setting.
• Ensures you will be at your most refreshed and beautiful during your vacation.

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AJ McLean Blackjack Tournament:

Ever dream of playing blackjack on the High Seas? Ever dream of playing blackjack on the high seas with one Mr. AJ McLean?

Well, here is your chance.

On Sunday, Oct. 27th, AJ 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 AJ. The top six chip winners from the qualifying rounds (starting in the casino at 10am) will test their skills against AJ himself.

The three players with the most chips will win cash prizes. The player with the highest amount of chips will also win a very special BSB Cruise prize!

Submit your name, email address and dining time below. We will randomly select amoung all entries. You will receive a schedule with your table time in advance.

Good luck!

Sign up for Blackjack
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So get packed, get excited and get ready to have the time of your life.  See you next week!

BACKSTREET BOYS Cruise 2013 Itinerary

My Analysis
Congratulations if you made it this far in the post. A bunch of items to discuss!

• Looks like our beach party has been moved from this Balmoral Island to Half Moon Cay. Personally excited about the change, I love Carnival's private island and really have been wanting to go there since day one. Glad I didn't buy any excursions, not that I was planning to, but I think it just reinforces to never do too much planning with BSB. They always like to throw us these last minute curveballs
• Anyone want to go halvsies with me on a private oasis cabana?? Just teasing....goodness gracious thats a lot of money! Definitely passing on the $2200 cabana.
• AJ's Blackjack tournament- Sooo happy he's doing a solo event! Following in Donnie's footsteps too; as he does them on the NK cruise. I think its great, just wish I was more skilled to actually feel good enough to enter. I still plan on entering, but realize my odds of actually getting to the point where I'd play with AJ are probably hovering around the 2% mark.
• Are you Smarter than a Backstreet Boy game show- So appropriate for this group of guys! I'm already laughing just thinking about it.  This is one game show I think I'd feel confident getting up on stage and competing in!
• AJ's Hip Hop Flip Flop- No idea what this is and Im kind of okay with that. All I need to know is that AJ will be there, thus I will be there. I think this is the solo event I'm most excited for!
• IAWLT Concert- Yayyy! I have to assume that means they're doing the show they're currently doing on tour and I LOVE that show so I'm more than happy to see it again.
• Nick at Night- As I said with AJs event, all I need to know is that Nick will be there so Im game. If I was a betting gal though, I'd bet he'll be DJing for us in the atrium. 
• Rum DMC (Dorough Music and Cocktails)- A very Howie event. Seems like it'll be quite chill hanging by the pool with a delicious strawberry daquiri. What's not to like??
• Cover Story with Kevin- Based on the earlier rumors it sounded like this might be instrumental/music related. But the word 'story' is throwing me off. This is another one I'll just have to be patient and see.
• Wylee Fashion Show- It appears a lot of fans were complaining about this event. Now that I have the itinerary I can chime in a bit more educated on the topic. Previously I figured it would be a bonus event and was quite excited about. Now I can step back and see that each boy is having a solo event, and that this happens to be Brian's. I'm still excited, but if Im being honest here, its definitely not the solo event I would've picked for him. So I'll just leave it at that.
• Q&A- Happy to see that they're only doing one of these and its on the lido deck. This is one of those I would've definitely been trying to sneak my way  in to the other group's if they had two of these sessions.

Overall- I'm getting super pumped. I think by adding these solo events we're getting a LOT more entertainment than we have in previous cruises. I feel like there's a ton more to be said, but my poor head is about the explode trying to process this new information. So I'm going to let this digest some more and check-in later.

Wylee Fashion Show

Looks like we're going to have a fashion show, ladies!

@WyleebyLL
Bon Voyage! Wylee will be on board the @backstreetboys Cruise! Now is your chance to be a part of the fun. Details: pic.twitter.com/mBMpWmXU3k

Based on their flyer, Brian and his wife will be hosting a fashion show. I'm quite excited for this! Glad to see at least one of the boys doing a solo event. Hopefully indicative of the others doing something as well. This should also be neat because it hasn't been done before; and we'll have Brian hosting! So you know he'll turn into a comedy show for us.

If you're interested in being a model, make sure to email cruise@wyleebags.com! Good luck to those entering.