SMOKERS - Freedom of the Seas policy change?

[EVALUATOR]

OMG! Are you for real! I won't give much of a reply to your insensitive remarks, but I will say this, what I do and where I do it is my own personal business and none of yours. I don't care about your sob story, blah, blah, blah, I read enough on these boards. I have a fabulous life which I intend to fully enjoy to my last breath.

You obviously did not read, or at least comprehend what I wrote. If you believe you did, than by all means, rip me a new one.

Tell me what was insensitive to you.

My point with my Father is that smoking is addictive and quitting is hard for even those most serious about quitting. He had a friend that would tell me that smoking does calm nerves. He said a heart attack can kill just as fast as smoking. He was probably right.Smoking was my Father's choice, and he suffered most from the consequences.

Clearly, RCI says you can smoke on your balcony, and you have a right to do what you want with your life. Hopefully, you are considerate enough to refrain from smoking where it is not allowed. Are you? Assuming this is the case, for that I thank you.

Many reformed smokers will attest to the troubles associated with trying to quit. Most would say the wish they never started. You could be lucky and live to 105, and your last breath could be while smoking.

It is obvious you don't care about my "sob" story. I am not pretending to care about you. I didn't suggest either of us should give a second thought to the other.

Assumably, your "fabulous life" has people in it you care about. However, how you "intend" to live it and how you actually live it could end up significantly different. And yes, it is 100% your business.

[babies12]

You obviously did not read, or at least comprehend what I wrote. If you believe you did, than by all means, rip me a new one.

Tell me what was insensitive to you.

My point with my Father is that smoking is addictive and quitting is hard for even those most serious about quitting. He had a friend that would tell me that smoking does calm nerves. He said a heart attack can kill just as fast as smoking. He was probably right.Smoking was my Father's choice, and he suffered most from the consequences.

Clearly, RCI says you can smoke on your balcony, and you have a right to do what you want with your life. Hopefully, you are considerate enough to refrain from smoking where it is not allowed. Are you? Assuming this is the case, for that I thank you.

Many reformed smokers will attest to the troubles associated with trying to quit. Most would say the wish they never started. You could be lucky and live to 105, and your last breath could be while smoking.

It is obvious you don't care about my "sob" story. I am not pretending to care about you. I didn't suggest either of us should give a second thought to the other.

Assumably, your "fabulous life" has people in it you care about. However, how you "intend" to live it and how you actually live it could end up significantly different. And yes, it is 100% your business.

 

Thanks for your response, have a nice day.

[retdon]

I would really like to see a ban extended to balconies. My wife and I enjoy having a balcony to sit out on in the morning and in the evening, and it never fails we end up with cigar smoke drifting into our balcony. Can only keep our fingers crossed.

 

Mike

 

I say YES, YES, YES to ban balcony smoking. In Jan. on IOS I had ashes blown into my hair while on the balcony, glad they didn't catch my hair on fire....... Reformed smoker are always the worst kind, but at least we learned our lesson, smoking will kill you one way or the other..............:eek:

[Linco711]

If this is for sure, I am thrilled!!!! :D

Whenever I cruise, the smoking in many areas is awful, and has always limited me to certain areas in the evenings, as I am so allergic and hate the smoke...At least at the solarium pool you can relax and enjoy without getting choked by someone smoking bedside you...

Ok, all smokers, please don't ream me..sorry..just my 2c...

 

I so agree...that would be great news!!:)

[sandbox]

I am a smoker and always have a balcony room because of the restriction placed upon us.

However I alway check that either my neighbours either side are out or their balcony doors are closed.

Its called considerstion.:)

[patnolen]

I would really like to see a ban extended to balconies. My wife and I enjoy having a balcony to sit out on in the morning and in the evening, and it never fails we end up with cigar smoke drifting into our balcony. Can only keep our fingers crossed.

 

Mike

as a non-smoker, i agree about balconies not being smoked on, but only on one side. port/starboard. I don't think it's fair to smokers to have no where to go and some people pay for a balcony so they have a convenient place to smoke. I just would like to be able to be on the side without them (if possible). The advantage of booking early!

[pmshirl]

I have heard this many times before about the casinos being empty on non smoking formal nights and on all the cruises we have been on, it is simply NOT TRUE.

 

Maybe it wasn't True on the Ship's you sailed on, but it was on the one's I sailed on!

 

Just did a B2B in June 2009 on the AOS, when I go into the Casino in the evenings...I STAY until I'm kicked out! Some nights that can be 1:30am-3AM. I generally go right after late dinner EVERY NIGHT! On the Formal nights when I arrive at the Casino, you can get any type Slot machine and also find a seat on any table game! I have had the announcement..Casino will be closing in 15 minutes as early as 11:30pm!

 

On non-Formal nights ( smoking night) the wall with the poker machines are FULL, and mostly all the other slots are too, along with the table games! Casino closing announcements are generally after 1:30 AM!

 

This same scenerio was on my 13 nite Explorer in May 2009, and my 10 night Jewel Cruise in Jan, 2009

 

We also have a Sands casino in my hometown, ( which has nothing to do with Crusing), when they first opened in May 2009, only 1/3 of it was Smoking, in August they made 2/3 of it smoking! I don't go there, so I can't answer whether it is full or not, in what sections, whatever, but there has to be a reason WHY they changed their Policy and made more Smoking AREA!

 

What Next....People will want their Balcont neighbor tested for Swine Flu...since it can Kill too?

 

Geeze....Maybe RC should start handing out Masks when you Board!:eek:

[imsulin]

Someone's uncontrollable child (while extremely annoying) will not kill you.

 

Not so sure about that! I once saw an "uncontrollable child" (kid about 7 years old, no parents in sight) come flying down the stairs leading to the buffet right in front of an older woman, who, with her husband's help, was slowly walking down the the stairs. She tripped over this kid, and tumbled down about five steps, landing in a heap at the bottom. The kid just kept on going. Crew were immediately there to assist her, and I was asked for a witness statement, as I was at the end of the buffet line and saw the whole thing. Was asked to give description of "the kid", which I did. Heard later via pax gossip that "the kid" was identified, but don't know what happened beyond that. I saw the injured woman a couple of days later, and she had a ton of bruises, but said she was doing OK. This was on the HAL Zuiderdam.

 

While on the Princess CB, there were two "uncontrollable kids" who jumped into the Adult Only hot tub, while an older lady (who had just had her hair done onboard) was in there, and she got a bad bruise on her leg, besides having her hairdo ruined. Heard later that kids and family were escorted off the ship, but don't know for sure.

 

While on the RCI Jewel, I was re-boarding in Nassau, and an "uncontrollable whole family..including kids" rushed right in front of me, and caused me to fall, injuring my knee. Crew was right there to assist me. Since this was our last POC, and we arrived back in FLL the next day, I don't know what was done. But I do know that I had to pay a porter at the FLL airport to help me with my bags. Took a couple of weeks for that knee abrasion to heal.

 

The "uncontrollable kids" may not outright kill you, but they can definitely HURT you! I'll take a cigarette over one of these kids!

[yarlenna]

Not so sure about that! I once saw an "uncontrollable child" (kid about 7 years old, no parents in sight) come flying down the stairs leading to the buffet right in front of an older woman, who, with her husband's help, was slowly walking down the the stairs. She tripped over this kid, and tumbled down about five steps, landing in a heap at the bottom. The kid just kept on going. Crew were immediately there to assist her, and I was asked for a witness statement, as I was at the end of the buffet line and saw the whole thing. Was asked to give description of "the kid", which I did. Heard later via pax gossip that "the kid" was identified, but don't know what happened beyond that. I saw the injured woman a couple of days later, and she had a ton of bruises, but said she was doing OK. This was on the HAL Zuiderdam.

 

While on the Princess CB, there were two "uncontrollable kids" who jumped into the Adult Only hot tub, while an older lady (who had just had her hair done onboard) was in there, and she got a bad bruise on her leg, besides having her hairdo ruined. Heard later that kids and family were escorted off the ship, but don't know for sure.

 

While on the RCI Jewel, I was re-boarding in Nassau, and an "uncontrollable whole family..including kids" rushed right in front of me, and caused me to fall, injuring my knee. Crew was right there to assist me. Since this was our last POC, and we arrived back in FLL the next day, I don't know what was done. But I do know that I had to pay a porter at the FLL airport to help me with my bags. Took a couple of weeks for that knee abrasion to heal.

 

The "uncontrollable kids" may not outright kill you, but they can definitely HURT you! I'll take a cigarette over one of these kids!

 

Why should we have to deal with either? I think we need a new set of manners for cruising. Many years ago, smoking was done in a smoker lounge and children were "seen but not heard." OK, kids are kids - and some people love to smoke - but it would be nice if we all have some manners so our fellow cruisers can cruise without worry of harm.

[piercetc4]

we were also on freedom late august- i smoked on deck 12 occassionally and really didnt see that many smokers up there- 15 or 20 maybe - not a lot considering how large deck 12 is- most went to deck 12 sky bar for a cig on and off if they were sitting other places ( did that myself a few times)

if they ban smoking on balconies on rci then i will spend my balcony , drinking, gambling etc dollars on another line...................if i have quit smoking then would probably choose a line with stricter smoking policies i am guessing......

??

the casino did seem less occupied on formal nights when smoking was not allowed...................

[Kaboochi]

I find it interesting that you would have "babies" in your c.c. name and then try to pretend it isn't bad, or if it is bad, it is your choice to smoke.

 

.

 

I feel your sorrow and I hear you but this is WAY to heavy for CC. Just my opinion

[babies12]

I feel your sorrow and I hear you but this is WAY to heavy for CC. Just my opinion

 

Hi, this is Babies, which cc name I chose for my beloved dog, who recently passed away. As for Evaluator, I think he's a nut and gets to deep with his commentary. Anyway, live and let live is what I say. Live life to your fullest however may that be.

[slyster]

I know this is off topic, but most of this went off topic anyway...I'm just curious...I read quite a bit that some are allergic or severely allergic to smoke. What is it you feel or experience? I used to be a smoker...quit 10 months ago, but that's one thing i read quite a bit. I read that people were allergic to smoking, but I don't think I actually met someone who had allergic reactions to smoking nor have I seen someone having a reaction before.

 

Can you explain the reaction? Is it hives, difficulty breathing? I'm just curious...thanks in advance.

[HorrorFan]

I know this is off topic, but most of this went off topic anyway...I'm just curious...I read quite a bit that some are allergic or severely allergic to smoke. What is it you feel or experience? I used to be a smoker...quit 10 months ago, but that's one thing i read quite a bit. I read that people were allergic to smoking, but I don't think I actually met someone who had allergic reactions to smoking nor have I seen someone having a reaction before.

 

Can you explain the reaction? Is it hives, difficulty breathing? I'm just curious...thanks in advance.

My understanding from my limited research (a google or two, plus what has been previously posted on other threads here) is that cigarette smoke is an irritant, not an allergen, so people are not allergic to it. i think maybe it just makes a better argument if you say you are allergic, or 'severely' allergic rather than irritated by it.

Wait....ok, flameproof suit has been donned. Fire away.

[Moondawgie]

I just returned last weekend from an Eastern Caribbean itinerary (6-13 Sep) on Freedom of the Seas. After boarding I discovered that smoking was banned on the Pool deck (deck 11) including the Pool Bar. The outdoor smoking areas were limited to Deck 4 starboard and Deck 12 starboard (and your balcony if you're lucky enough to have one). Also, the pub on the Promenade was no-smoking (though some other indoor bars were designated for smoking). Has this always been the policy on Freedom?

This was a shocker for me and I was wondering if the policy is the same on other Freedom-class ships (Liberty and Independence). I'm used to sailing on Voyager-class and Sovereign-class ships and the pool deck starboard side has been one of my favorite hangouts to sit in the shade, have a smoke and people-watch.

I'm also wondering if RCI is expecting to take this fleet-wide. I asked several folks (waiters, Guest Relations) but as usual, for every employee I asked I got a different response. The responses varied from "it's always been that way on Freedom", to "it just changed on Freedom last week", to "coming soon to a ship near you."

 

Being an ex-smoker, I really sympathize with those of you who are being shut out of smoking areas. However, after visiting the pub on the Voyager, I would love for it to be non-smoking ... I had to leave after 2 minutes.

 

Hopefully, we can make something constructive out of it and have more smokers decide it's not worth the hassle and the money to keep up the habit ... although I know it is very difficult to quit.

[struther1]

I know this is off topic, but most of this went off topic anyway...I'm just curious...I read quite a bit that some are allergic or severely allergic to smoke. What is it you feel or experience? I used to be a smoker...quit 10 months ago, but that's one thing i read quite a bit. I read that people were allergic to smoking, but I don't think I actually met someone who had allergic reactions to smoking nor have I seen someone having a reaction before.

 

Can you explain the reaction? Is it hives, difficulty breathing? I'm just curious...thanks in advance.

This is what I found through an online search

Symptoms of Cigarette Smoke Allergy

Individuals suffering from cigarette smoke allergy may experience an array of different symptoms. Most are mild. Some of these symptoms include:

• Nasal congestion and increased mucus production in the lungs and throat

• Coughing, and soreness of throat

• Hoarseness of voice

• Burning, watery, or irritated eyes.

• Shortness of breath and other breathing complications.

[HorrorFan]

Source: http://*************/hub/Allergic-to-Cigarette-Smoke

#1 Myth: "Allergic to Smoke”

No one really is allergic to smoke. Many people insist that they are allergic to smoke created by cigarettes or cigars, but the truth is that they have having an allergy-like reaction due to other health complications. Understanding exactly why you feel like you are having allergy attack when around a smoker is the key to understanding how to prevent symptoms in the future.

 

Smoke technically is not an allergen, but an irritant. This explains most people feel no relief when they take antihistamine allergy after exposure to smoke. The key to avoiding the problems caused by cigarette smoke is determining what type of sensitivity you have and how best to treat it.

 

Source: http://www.netwellness.org/question.cfm/25463.htm

Question:

 

Hello. I take Zyrtec occasionally for mild allergies to cat dander; ie: itchy eyes/nose, nasal congestion, runny nose. My main question is this: Whenever I am around cigarette smoke (or any smoke for that matter, but particularly cigarette) I get a severe headache and then nausea that, depending on the exposure, can last for a day or so. No one in my household smokes, nor do I, but I grew up in a house where both parents smoked heavily. I try to avoid anyone smoking if I can, but sometimes it`s unavoidable. The Zyrtec doesn`t really help with that particular problem. Any suggestions that I can pose to my ENT at my next appointment? Sorry for the length of this! Happy Holidays!

Answer:

 

You are experiencing an irritant respiratory response to environmental tobacco smoke. This is not uncommon and persons with underlying allergies may be especially prone. There is no evidence that tobacco smoke causes allergic reactions. It is likely that the smoke causes a reflex response in the nose causing increased nasal congestion etc. Avoidance is advised although it is possible that oral decongestants, intra-nasal antihistamines or intranasal steroids can be helpful in relieving some of these symptoms.

Source: http://allergies.emedtv.com/cigarette-smoke-allergy/cigarette-smoke-allergy.html

 

Cigarette Smoke Allergy: An Overview

Cigarette smoke contains a number of toxic chemicals and irritants. People with a cigarette smoke allergy may be more sensitive to cigarette smoke than others, and research studies indicate that smoking may aggravate allergies.

That one calls it a 'smoke allergy' but still admits that cigarette smoke is an irritant, not an allergen.

 

Source: http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/c/cigarette_smoke_allergy/intro.htm

 

Cigarette smoke allergy: Cigarette smoke allergy refers to an adverse reaction by the body to cigarette smoke. Cigarette smoke allergy is not considered a true allergy but a sensitivity as the smoke is an irritant rather than an allergen. People with other allergies tend to be more sensitive to cigarette smoke. More detailed information about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of Cigarette smoke allergy is available below.

[berwyn]

I know this is off topic, but most of this went off topic anyway...I'm just curious...I read quite a bit that some are allergic or severely allergic to smoke. What is it you feel or experience? I used to be a smoker...quit 10 months ago, but that's one thing i read quite a bit. I read that people were allergic to smoking, but I don't think I actually met someone who had allergic reactions to smoking nor have I seen someone having a reaction before.

 

Can you explain the reaction? Is it hives, difficulty breathing? I'm just curious...thanks in advance.

I never knew of any one allergic to smoke untill I joined here.

[HorrorFan]

Oh, and just to add my two cents worth , I am a reformed smoker. I smoked for 30 years and quit for good about 3 years ago. My wife still smokes occasionally though.

And strangely enough, most times I actually LIKE the smell of cigarette smoke, as long as its not a thick cloud, and that NEVER happens on a cruise ship balcony. Not crazy about cigar smoke though.

Weird eh?

[BobandBrenda]

But I want to really tell the smokers on this thread is, my husband was a 2 pack smoker a day. He quit 15 years ago and he was diagnosed a year and a half ago with stage 4 lung cancer. He is still here only because the cancer moved to his back and he was having real back problems he couldnt hardly walk and they found it. Stage 4 is the worst level to be at. His doctor said as long as you put a ciggarette in your mouth, you are planting a seed in your body. Weather that seed germinates now or later or ever is your bodys chemistry.

So I dont want people to be living our nightmare. My husband goes to Chemo every 3 weeks and sometimes if the chemicals worked he get a couple months off. Now we are not stopping the cancer we are only temporarly holding it back. Eventually this is going to get him. Since he isfrom strong stock he is still here. Most of the people at his stage would already be gone. He will go in a few years but in the meantime maybe something in the medical area might help us. Wishful thinking. It hard when you finally find the person you want to spend your whole life with and now is going to be taken away. Its a dirty trick. So all you smokers out there its not worth it, its not worth the pain to your family and I hope you can find a way to quit.

 

Brenda and Bob

Peoria, AZ

[ama223]

I'm a little confused why my thread somehow went *POOF* but this one has kept going..

[JOKSTEN2000]

Smokers cost everyone that has health insurance. I smoked from age 8 to 44 Stopped cold. Didn't realize how everthing I had stunk of cigerette smoke till I stopped. I decided I wanted to live long enough to see my grandchildren get married.

 

It's common knowledge that second smoke kills people, I was always a considerate smoker, never in the house or around my children.

[Bakincakes]

Smokers cost everyone that has health insurance. I smoked from age 8 to 44 Stopped cold. Didn't realize how everthing I had stunk of cigerette smoke till I stopped. I decided I wanted to live long enough to see my grandchildren get married.

 

It's common knowledge that second smoke kills people, I was always a considerate smoker, never in the house or around my children.

 

Obesity is also a very expensive medical condition.

 

It doesn't kill others but it is sure costly to cover those who have high blood pressure, diabetes, joint problems, breathing problems...

[Iluvjo]

http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/Health/Obesity-More-Dangerous-Than-Smoking/Article/20071031288793?lpos=Health_Article_Related_Content_Region_5&lid=ARTICLE_1288793_Obesity_More_Dangerous_Than_Smoking

 

This article tells that obesity is more dangerous than smoking. You read and decide.

I am a food lover and a cigar lover:D which really bums me out to think that when my lips fall off from cancer i'll have to eat my big mac threw in I/V.

 

Smokers should be conciderate of other people end of story. I like to say should do and doo doo which one will you do?;)

[Captain Jake]

Obesity is also a very expensive medical condition.

 

It doesn't kill others but it is sure costly to cover those who have high blood pressure, diabetes, joint problems, breathing problems...

 

and smokers are more likely to be obese than non smokers

:cj