Recap 2013- Day 2

I swear the alarm went off 10 minutes after I fell asleep, but I still eagerly jumped out of bed knowing the fun we had in store. Beach party day! Turns out the weather set things back like an hour and half, making things run even more on Backstreet time. So I decided not to rush down to get in line for the life boats but rather grab a semi-leisurely breakfast. I also took some time to stroll the halls and check out the door decorations.

Beach Party

Around 12:30 we finally decided to head over to Half Moon Cay. So gorgeous! I decided to set up camp towards the back-ish and wait for the boys to arrive. Eventually the boys would make their way to the island via a motor boat. Nick couldn't even wait until they got to shore- he dove right into the water and swam up to the beach. Next the boys went up to grab their lunch thus I sat around and awkwardly watched Nick eat some chicken wings. Meanwhile the sky was growing darker- seriously I just want one backstreet cruise where it doesn't rain! .

The boys took to the stage started entertaining us by dancing, playing with their water guns- squirting each other and us. Nick proceeded to yell at all of us for being too quiet. Fortunately the rain didn't last long and they were able to get underway with the games. First up was a wet t-shirt contest. My favorite part of the wet tshirt contest was this Nick quote afterward...

"I feel like we could do a little bit better but you girls got some daggers for eyes out there. You all need to simmer down a little bit. She's like 'Why did you bring her up on stage. That's bullshit. I paid just the same amount of money.' "- Nick

Oh lordy....they really do know what's going on in our heads, huh? I honestly can say I don't disagree with the guy! Limbo was up next and a couple lucky fans got to go on stage with the guys. I did enjoy seeing Howie try to limbo without putting down his beer. And in typical Brian fashion when it came to his turn, he decided to jump over the limbo poll rather than go under. Oh Brian! Is it just me or are his antics becoming more and more predictable?

Brian holding the limbo pole

After limbo they brought back the infamous coconut game- played to 'Under the Sea' from Little Mermaid. I think this year I found it more comical than anything. Howie ended up winning this game, I guess all that beer helped him out. Then they did musical chairs. Sidebar- I realized I really do like AJ hosting all the game he is pretty good at that. I think he lost musical chairs the first round on purpose so he could just get back to being a ham on the mic, which was fine by me. As the game continued, Nick used his water gun to squirt the fans and distract them. I feel like that was more of a Brian move but I did like how Nick got so into it. There was some funny interaction between Kev & Nick when they got into it over their sports teams...

Kevin was giving Nick a hard time about the Bucs

This somehow segued into the first ever Backstreet obstacle course. I happened to be right in the middle where they parted the fans so I ended up with a great view of that game. I really enjoyed this one. Could've been because I had a good view. Could've been because it was the first time they did the game. But I think the dynamic of putting fans with each of the boys and then having them go against each other works nicely. I liked how Nick had his team stretching off to the side to prep (even though he still ended up losing) I liked how competitive the guys get. I liked how AJ encourages Brian to finish the course with his eyes closed. I liked how badly Kev lost that second match up. All in all a lot of fun- lets hope that bring this one back next time.

Brian winning the obstacle course

When the games were over it gave me a bit of time to relax. AJ went off on some jetskis, some of the other boys stuck around and did pictures, and some left early. The beach started to clear off and I was torn between wanting to stay a bit longer but also wanting to get back to the ship for AJ's event. I ended up staying a bit longer and am so happy I did. I ended up getting a picture with Howito while he was on his way out. He actually took my camera and took the picture himself, so that was pretty cool.

Me and Howie

Howie double fisting his beers

AJ covered in sand

Kev dancing

Nick and his team stretching before the obstacle course

Another successful Backstreet beach party under my belt, I hightailed it back to the ship. Well, at least I attempted to. Even though I had like 45 minutes until AJs hip hop flip flop, it somehow took over an hour to get back. The tenders were super slow, which was killing me because I didn't want to miss AJs event. I was seriously ready to jump over the side and swim back to the Imagination. And what made it worse was the sky opened up and started down pouring on us. Ugh. So there I was on the tender in the rain praying for Backstreet time to work in my favor.

I did make it back to the ship just in time to find out they were going to "reschedule" his event due to safety conditions, which of course never did get rescheduled. Part of me understands, but part of me was bummed they couldn't squeeze it in. Just another reason they need to make it a 4 day cruise next time!

Seeing as how AJs event was cancelled and the other group had their concert, it was a light evening for me. I took a shower and freshened up before having a lovely dinner with my girlfriends...and Brian & Howie eating right around the corner :) But before I hit dinner- I swung by the main lounge to get a good listen of their sound check. Maybe its just me, but even the audio is super exciting. And despite the fact that they had signs on their doors, saying 'no peaking'.... I most definitely stole a peak or 2...or 3.

Me peaking in soundcheck despite the sign. Shhh dont tell!

Dinner with the gang

Halloween Night
After dinner it was time to go get ready for Halloween night. I'm really not a Halloween person and was struggling to come up with a costume. I decided I wanted to try and do something related to the TV show, Friends, because I love that show. I seriously watch it every night before I go to bed. I was thinking I could either be the holiday armadillo or Spudnick, and Spudnick ended up being a lot easier to pull off. So that's just what I did!

Me as Spudnick and Chrissy as a UK cheerleader

Before I made my way up to the deck- I wanted to swing by the main lounge again. Even though I couldn't go in and see the other group's concert, I figured I didn't have much better to do so I had fun sitting outside listening. And by the end of the show the doors were actually open, so I could actually peek in. At one point Leighanne came out of the theater and asked me what I was doing. I told her and she was so sweet about it. She was like, "Oh I wish you told me and you could've sat with me." I really don't think she was serious but I thought it was still pretty cool she made the offer. How neat would it be to actually see a concert with one of their wives?

By the last 5 songs, the crowd around me grew and we actually were all having a ball sitting outside singing and dancing together. The boys were winding down the show, singing Everybody, and I figured that was probably a good time to leave. I wanted to beat the crowd to the deck party. But minutes before I was ready to go, someone from Rose Tours nonchalantly strolled over and whipped out a pack of VIP bracelets for the deck party that evening. He only had 5 which got snatched up immediately before I could grab one. My heart sank. But then he reached in his coat pocket and pulled out another sheet of them. I was able to grab one for myself and I boldly asked for 1 more for a friend. He actually gave me both!! I thanked him profusely. As much fun as it would be to get one just for myself, it wouldn't have been the same if I couldn't share it with a friend.

Now my mind is running in a million different directions. I was so happy and to finally get an opportunity to check out the VIP area on deck, but I was also in such a tough situation. I had 1 extra bracelet to share and like 20 girls I wanted to give it to and like 2 minutes to figure out what to do. It was almost a blessing and a curse. I scurried up to the pool deck and found my group of gals. Appropriately I had to pull a move from Friends.... Remember the episode where Monica let Rachel and Phoebe decide who would be her maid of honor? Yeah, that's what I did. I let them decide who would get it.

Anyway- back to the deck party. With my VIP bracelet in tow, I went upstairs to check out what all the fuss was about. I was actually one of the first people up there, which was nice so I claimed my spot right up front by their little restricted area. The crowd continued to grow as the night went on. And in an ironic and unfortunate twist for me, the boys did not enter up through the VIP area as they did the night prior. Nor did they make their way up there for at least the first 30 minutes of the deck party. I was trying to be so patient hoping they would eventually make their way up top, but I finally got to the point where I felt like I was missing all of the fun down below. So I gave up my spot and headed back downstairs. I just have to laugh how things turn out sometime. I suppose the VIP would've been a lot better for Neon night, but sadly it didn't get me anywhere that night. I'm still really happy I had the experience to at least know for the future that I'm not missing much.

Overall I thought Halloween night was good, but maybe not their best deck party either. They all came out dressed as the Village People. Its funny how it never occurred to me that they'd do a group costume, but it makes sense when I stop and think about it. I was actually pretty impressed by all of the fans' costumes. I was expecting a lot more slutty ones than were actually there. I thought people got really clever with it- some Backstreet themed, a lot not.

The boys as the Village People

The deck party was pretty much your typical deck party. Fun banter, fun music, dancing, etc. They brought fans up on stage to bob for apples, which I give them credit for trying something different. Eventually AJ made his way through the crowds and I saw him start to head back upstairs so I went back up to the VIP area hoping maybe I'd get lucky with a run-in or picture. And I did! AJ saw my costume and he loved it- he got the reference. We actually chatted for all of 15 seconds about Friends. He said he could've gone as Chandler except for his beard. That interaction was super fun, probably one of the highlights of the trip for me. Here's the pic we took...

Me poking AJ's eye out as
"Spudnick"

I don't even care that he isn't looking at the camera. I do however care that it appears I almost poked his eye out with my antenna. I didn't even realize it until I looked back at the picture. Oopsies! Thank goodness it was just aluminum foil. So in the end my VIP bracelet did end up paying off, just maybe not in the way I expected it to.

Nick at Night

The deck party was still going pretty strong but we also had Nick at Night starting up. I got there a tad late and the atrium was packed. For some reason I didn't think it would be as crowded as it was, particularly since there was a still a lot of action on the lido deck. But alas, I forget that it's Nick and even at 2:30 in the morning, fans would anxiously be waiting for him.

I wish I could say something more exciting happened at this event, but it was pretty much what I expected. Nick DJing for a while. Not a whole lot of interaction with fans or anything noteworthy, in my humble opinion. But it was still a good time. I'll never turn down a chance to see Nick!

Nick at Night in a nutshell

So after Nick at Night, I strolled back to the lido deck and of course Howie is still up there partying. Gotta love his energy! I hung out for a bit but it seemed like not much else was going to happen. He was up in the VIP section mingling so I decided to head down and call it quits for the night.

I made it down to my deck and saw a crowd of girls huddled around the stairs. I figured they were the same crew camping out in the hallway outside the boys' cabins. But I quickly realized something else unique was going on.... AJ was chatting to the 20-30 girls who were there. OMG!! I had flashbacks to the past cruise where AJ was chatting on the back of the ship. I couldn't believe my luck that I stumbled onto this again!!! I was so excited. I caught the tail-end of his little chat but apparently he was there for 10-15 minutes or so answering questions. He talked a little about bachelorette night and gave us a preview of what to expect. He also talked a little more about Friends, go figure!  Made few Friends jokes...and then went off to bed. This was definitely a highlight of the trip for me, even though it was short. I just love the unscripted moments that not everyone gets to experience. And it also reminds me why I stay up to such an ungodly hour every night. A lot of my best moments tend to happen after 4am.

AJ chatting with a few fans in the wee hours of the morning

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.