DreamTheaterForums.org Dream Theater Fan Site
General => General Discussion => Topic started by: Phoenix87x on March 09, 2018, 04:52:41 PM
-
There's variations of this thread all over general discussion, but I just wanted to make one for anyone to post in if you have a cool trip you went on or are planning.
So I just applied for my very first passport two weeks ago. I am crazy excited to finally be able to travel outside the US for the first time. My first trip I want to go on is the Switzerland to snowboard in the Swiss alps. Its supposed to be awesome and as soon as the passport comes in I will start planning.
How about you guys, any cool trips you want to share or have coming up?
-
It's not nearly as cool as Switzerland (at least not to anyone but me), but I just drove up to Monterey because my daughter's middle school jazz band was invited to play at the Monterey Next Generation Jazz Festival this weekend!
-
We are planning a trip to London and Paris. I am more of a cruise/Caribbean island kind of guy and have never been to Europe so I could use some suggestions as to where to stay and what to do. Also how to make things easier on us as we travel.
-
I was planning to go to Tokyo in June. My girlfriend is turning 30 and she wants a big trip but, we decided to go to Greece instead and visit a few islands. Maybe even make a quick stop in Egypt for the pyramids.
-
You're going to love Switzerland, I went there for two weeks 10 years ago (holy shit it's been 10 years!!)
I'm going to napa in April and Montana in August.
No overseas trips for me this year.
-
We're planning an epic road trip later in the spring. We live in Minneapolis and are flying to San Jose to visit some family, then picking up my grandma's car that she can no longer drive. We're then visiting my sister near Fresno, CA, then on to the Grand Canyon, Zion Nation Park, and Arches National Park. From there we can't decide if we want to take the northern route home through Yellowstone and Grand Tetons or the southern route home through Colorado. I've been to both before as a kid, but no one else in my family has been to either. They were both really fun 20 years ago. Any recommendations?
-
Lasy year I broke two records: I've been more to the north and to the south than I've ever been previously (Copenhagen in the north and Cefalų in Sicily in the south). Previous year, 2016, I broke three records in several weeks: went westernmost so far (Barcelona), then two weeks later going to holidays in south east Italy allowed me both to go easternmost (yeah, Italy is so curved that it goes more east than Wien) and southernmost (ancient town of Matera, Passion of the Christ anyone?).
This year I hope to break another record, it'd be about time to finally see Norway :metal
-
We're planning an epic road trip later in the spring. We live in Minneapolis and are flying to San Jose to visit some family, then picking up my grandma's car that she can no longer drive. We're then visiting my sister near Fresno, CA, then on to the Grand Canyon, Zion Nation Park, and Arches National Park. From there we can't decide if we want to take the northern route home through Yellowstone and Grand Tetons or the southern route home through Colorado. I've been to both before as a kid, but no one else in my family has been to either. They were both really fun 20 years ago. Any recommendations?
Nice. I going to Utah on May 12th. Doing Arches, Zion, La Sal mountains , and much more.
-
We're planning an epic road trip later in the spring. We live in Minneapolis and are flying to San Jose to visit some family, then picking up my grandma's car that she can no longer drive. We're then visiting my sister near Fresno, CA, then on to the Grand Canyon, Zion Nation Park, and Arches National Park. From there we can't decide if we want to take the northern route home through Yellowstone and Grand Tetons or the southern route home through Colorado. I've been to both before as a kid, but no one else in my family has been to either. They were both really fun 20 years ago. Any recommendations?
Nice. I going to Utah on May 12th. Doing Arches, Zion, La Sal mountains , and much more.
I'll be there the week before!
-
Last weekend I roadtripped to Boston, this weekend the gf and I roadtripped to Cape May. Also doing a 7 night road trip through Florida in May and going to Atlanta for Prog power in September. I'm sure more will come up between work travel and more personal trips.
-
. From there we can't decide if we want to take the northern route home through Yellowstone and Grand Tetons
Two summers ago, we flew into Denver. From there we went up to Rapid City to see Mount Rushmore. We rode through the western part of Nebraska because my son wanted to see Carhenge. After Mt Rushmore, we visited Devil's Tower and drove through southern Montana to Yellowstone for a couple of days. We then went to Jackson Hole to the Grand Tetons. I think we paid like $40 for a 7 day car pass that included both Yellowstone and GT Nat'l Park. Back to Denver and flew home to Boston.
-
For the record, we decided on Yellowstone and Grand Teton. 17 days on the road with the family. Sounds both awesome and terrifying at the same time.
-
Yellowstone was awesome, and we didn't even venture off the loop.
-
That's awesome. Yellowstone is definitely on my list, somewhere down the line. I've heard nothing but good things.
-
Yea, I'd love to do something similar to what TAC did.
For the record, we decided on Yellowstone and Grand Teton. 17 days on the road with the family. Sounds both awesome and terrifying at the same time.
However, 17 days on the road with the family may be too much for me and I really enjoy time with my family :lol
-
We're planning an epic road trip later in the spring. We live in Minneapolis and are flying to San Jose to visit some family, then picking up my grandma's car that she can no longer drive. We're then visiting my sister near Fresno, CA, then on to the Grand Canyon, Zion Nation Park, and Arches National Park. From there we can't decide if we want to take the northern route home through Yellowstone and Grand Tetons or the southern route home through Colorado. I've been to both before as a kid, but no one else in my family has been to either. They were both really fun 20 years ago. Any recommendations?
Nice. I going to Utah on May 12th. Doing Arches, Zion, La Sal mountains , and much more.
I'll be there the week before!
Being a Utah native, I feel it's my duty to point out that Zion, and Arches are nice and all but they are really crowded. If you want to experience our geological treasures with a lot less tour buses, try Bryce Canyon, then drive Highway 12 (spectacular in it's own right) to Capital Reef National Park (probably the best desert hiking in the entire state). Allow for plenty of time to drive Highway 12 because you will want to stop frequently. Kodachrome Basin, Petrified Forest, the Hogback, Calf Creek Falls, and countless other overlooks are all worth savoring.
-
about six days into a trip around Israel. second time here, but picking up stuff I missed last time. floated in the dead sea today
-
We're planning an epic road trip later in the spring. We live in Minneapolis and are flying to San Jose to visit some family, then picking up my grandma's car that she can no longer drive. We're then visiting my sister near Fresno, CA, then on to the Grand Canyon, Zion Nation Park, and Arches National Park. From there we can't decide if we want to take the northern route home through Yellowstone and Grand Tetons or the southern route home through Colorado. I've been to both before as a kid, but no one else in my family has been to either. They were both really fun 20 years ago. Any recommendations?
Nice. I going to Utah on May 12th. Doing Arches, Zion, La Sal mountains , and much more.
I'll be there the week before!
Being a Utah native, I feel it's my duty to point out that Zion, and Arches are nice and all but they are really crowded. If you want to experience our geological treasures with a lot less tour buses, try Bryce Canyon, then drive Highway 12 (spectacular in it's own right) to Capital Reef National Park (probably the best desert hiking in the entire state). Allow for plenty of time to drive Highway 12 because you will want to stop frequently. Kodachrome Basin, Petrified Forest, the Hogback, Calf Creek Falls, and countless other overlooks are all worth savoring.
We're planning on swinging by Bryce Canyon. I'll have to look and see if Capital Reef will fit into our schedule as well.
-
Contemplating whether or not to travel to Mexico later in the year. But not sure now with some of the travel advisories, even though the most recent one was just reduced from a level 3 back to level 2 (which is basically "business as usual" for Mexico).
-
Pretty sure "business as usual" for Mexico still means stay the F out.
-
Let's see...
Barely travel, but I'll be in NYC April 28-30 for Steven Wilson shows. Wouldn't even consider that travel if I wasn't staying in/near city.
I'll likely be in Gettysburg May 4-7 for RoSfest.
July is the big trip I have a thread about, but in brief it's July 2-15, and I'll be in Iceland, England, Ireland, and Germany.
October (forget dates), I'll be 3 days in Rahway, NJ for ProgStock.
-
Yea, I'd love to do something similar to what TAC did.
For the record, we decided on Yellowstone and Grand Teton. 17 days on the road with the family. Sounds both awesome and terrifying at the same time.
However, 17 days on the road with the family may be too much for me and I really enjoy time with my family :lol
I would love to do something like that but it'd just have to be me solo. If I had to be on the road with my gf for that long I'd be single after 3 days :lol
-
Reaper, have you ever traveled the entire US (Like a big loop) by motorcycle and if not is it on your bucketlist?
I would love to see the entire US by motorcycle
-
Still knocking around a trip to Europe in June to see Maiden (et al). They're playing an airport in Prague and I think that'd be pretty damned cool to see. I'll include a week or so of driving around Germany in a rented BMW, and probably a week meandering through the Swiss/Italian Alps.
If I decide to skip Europe and do something cheaper I'll probably spend the first ten days of October driving all-hell over upstate NY and Eastern Canada, catching whoever's on tour. I'd like to be up there when there's some color, and there are always bands to see.
Contemplating whether or not to travel to Mexico later in the year. But not sure now with some of the travel advisories, even though the most recent one was just reduced from a level 3 back to level 2 (which is basically "business as usual" for Mexico).
I certainly wouldn't be planning a camping trip to Matamoros or anything, but I gather the bigger cities are fine. My only experience is DF, but it seemed safer than most of Dallas.
-
Yea, I'd love to do something similar to what TAC did.
For the record, we decided on Yellowstone and Grand Teton. 17 days on the road with the family. Sounds both awesome and terrifying at the same time.
However, 17 days on the road with the family may be too much for me and I really enjoy time with my family :lol
I would love to do something like that but it'd just have to be me solo. If I had to be on the road with my gf for that long I'd be single after 3 days :lol
I can deal with the gf, we did our 7 day road trip last year really well together and we have another one coming up in 2 months. I just couldn't deal with probably anyone else though. Maybe one good friend. Just can't do like my family of 6+ people all together for such a long time and not in our family home or something.
Still knocking around a trip to Europe in June to see Maiden (et al). They're playing an airport in Prague and I think that'd be pretty damned cool to see. I'll include a week or so of driving around Germany in a rented BMW, and probably a week meandering through the Swiss/Italian Alps.
If I decide to skip Europe and do something cheaper I'll probably spend the first ten days of October driving all-hell over upstate NY and Eastern Canada, catching whoever's on tour. I'd like to be up there when there's some color, and there are always bands to see.
Contemplating whether or not to travel to Mexico later in the year. But not sure now with some of the travel advisories, even though the most recent one was just reduced from a level 3 back to level 2 (which is basically "business as usual" for Mexico).
I certainly wouldn't be planning a camping trip to Matamoros or anything, but I gather the bigger cities are fine. My only experience is DF, but it seemed safer than most of Dallas.
I'd love to see IM in Europe, overall costs usually turn me off from flying overseas though. Bruce saying he wants people surprised by the setlist this summer and working giving everyone the week off for the 4th of July does make it tempting to head out there though.
As for catching a band in the northeast in the fall, Ozzy is coming near me and also Metallica is touring the upstate NY area in late October. That's what I am aware of for now.
-
Reaper, have you ever traveled the entire US (Like a big loop) by motorcycle and if not is it on your bucketlist?
I would love to see the entire US by motorcycle
I got as far as planning my trip out and was seriously considering it but then I met my now current gf and those plans fell by the wayside. I do plan on doing it some day, getting a v-strom and doing a massive loop. I could never do it on my current bike. I did 600 miles in one day on my R6 and it broke me lol
-
In addition to our epic road trip this pring, we're also going to Orlando and Disney world this October. I have a conference for work and it was too good to pass up bringing the family with. Not sure how I feel about Disney World. freaking expensive so I doubt I'll find it worth it, but the wife really wants to go.
-
Yea I hear ya, should be buying our Disney tickets soon and that is a big hit to the wallets, and not even including the day expenses for being there
-
Still knocking around a trip to Europe in June to see Maiden (et al). They're playing an airport in Prague and I think that'd be pretty damned cool to see. I'll include a week or so of driving around Germany in a rented BMW, and probably a week meandering through the Swiss/Italian Alps.
If I decide to skip Europe and do something cheaper I'll probably spend the first ten days of October driving all-hell over upstate NY and Eastern Canada, catching whoever's on tour. I'd like to be up there when there's some color, and there are always bands to see.
Contemplating whether or not to travel to Mexico later in the year. But not sure now with some of the travel advisories, even though the most recent one was just reduced from a level 3 back to level 2 (which is basically "business as usual" for Mexico).
I certainly wouldn't be planning a camping trip to Matamoros or anything, but I gather the bigger cities are fine. My only experience is DF, but it seemed safer than most of Dallas.
I'd love to see IM in Europe, overall costs usually turn me off from flying overseas though. Bruce saying he wants people surprised by the setlist this summer and working giving everyone the week off for the 4th of July does make it tempting to head out there though.
As for catching a band in the northeast in the fall, Ozzy is coming near me and also Metallica is touring the upstate NY area in late October. That's what I am aware of for now.
In my case I need to get rid of my damn near useless Aadvantage miles. They've really devalued those things something awful. I've got the 60k I need and want to get into a better card. Where the cost adds up is hotels. It's only worth doing for me if I spend two and a half weeks exploring, and that's a lot of nights. It also has the advantage of allowing me to easily spend the requisite first 3 months money on a new card to get the bonus.
In my case I'd be looking at June. I'd prefer May, nicer weather and scenery, but the schedule doesn't really work out for it. If Maiden was playing Paris a couple of days later I'd consider doing a July trip to be there for Bastille Day. That would be fantastic, but they're ten days too early for that.
If I do the NY/Canada thing the Metallica dates don't do me much good. Perhaps they add a couple of Toronto/Montreal dates, which would be right on time, though. That trip would be dictated entirely by the time of year and not band schedules.
-
What card are you thinking of upgrading to if you don't mine me asking? Which actually is fairly relevant to the traveling thread when you think about it. I travel a decent (and increasingly less) amount for work using my own credit cards so earning points is a nice little hobby of mine which ends up paying for a decent amount of my personal travel.
I pretty much only use two credit cards. I have the chase sapphire card which gets me 2% back on hotels/airlines/rentals/restaurants which is great for my work travel (and personal use since I use it for everything just about). But the best part is when using their website to book travel, the points are worth 20% more. So $100 in points gets me $100 if I want it in cash, but if I book any travel it's worth $120. That really gets me the most bang for buck out of my points.
I have one other credit card that I've only been using for a year, but has really worked out well for me. That's my IHG Mastercard (also through Chase). Essentially I use this now only for my hotel bookings since for work we almost only stay at Holiday Inn Expresses. I have an insane amount of points with them that essentially gets me ~10 free rooms a year. But this credit card costs $50 a year and it also gives one free night (which I have set for South Beach on a Friday night $350 in value) so I say the cost is worth it.
Which leads me to my next trick in getting my free travel. Back to using those Chase points I earned for all my daily spending. If I burn those points booking airfare, I have found I still earn reward miles (I, sad to admit, use United). So I have about 100k United miles earned and I hardly ever pay for flights (that's work and my own free flights with Chase). Obviously I can only do this because work pays for me to travel about 40 days and 20k miles a year, but that's been my strategy to maximize it. My boss/coworker use Delta and use the Delta credit card to stack miles as their strategy. I personally just don't find airline miles worth much and like the flexibility with my Chase points plus the ability to earn miles using those points.
-
What card are you thinking of upgrading to if you don't mine me asking? Which actually is fairly relevant to the traveling thread when you think about it. I travel a decent (and increasingly less) amount for work using my own credit cards so earning points is a nice little hobby of mine which ends up paying for a decent amount of my personal travel.
I pretty much only use two credit cards. I have the chase sapphire card which gets me 2% back on hotels/airlines/rentals/restaurants which is great for my work travel (and personal use since I use it for everything just about). But the best part is when using their website to book travel, the points are worth 20% more. So $100 in points gets me $100 if I want it in cash, but if I book any travel it's worth $120. That really gets me the most bang for buck out of my points.
I have one other credit card that I've only been using for a year, but has really worked out well for me. That's my IHG Mastercard (also through Chase). Essentially I use this now only for my hotel bookings since for work we almost only stay at Holiday Inn Expresses. I have an insane amount of points with them that essentially gets me ~10 free rooms a year. But this credit card costs $50 a year and it also gives one free night (which I have set for South Beach on a Friday night $350 in value) so I say the cost is worth it.
Which leads me to my next trick in getting my free travel. Back to using those Chase points I earned for all my daily spending. If I burn those points booking airfare, I have found I still earn reward miles (I, sad to admit, use United). So I have about 100k United miles earned and I hardly ever pay for flights (that's work and my own free flights with Chase). Obviously I can only do this because work pays for me to travel about 40 days and 20k miles a year, but that's been my strategy to maximize it. My boss/coworker use Delta and use the Delta credit card to stack miles as their strategy. I personally just don't find airline miles worth much and like the flexibility with my Chase points plus the ability to earn miles using those points.
I haven't decided yet. Until I know I'm going to spend 4 grand in 3 months I'll just keep using an older card (still cancelling Aadvantage, though--it's annual fee time). The Sapphire card is definitely one of the 3 options. That's been the gold standard for a while now. Since I live in Dallas Southwest's card is a winner. Whole lotta perks with that one. Third option is just to get a cash back card.
Biggest problem for me is that I hate flying Southwest. Moreover, I never find it to be particularly convenient nor cheap. Unless you know six weeks in advance and can fly out at 0400 on a Wednesday morning it tends to be pretty pricey. I always travel over weekends so it doesn't work well for me. AA almost always does far better for me. Using SW's points works the same way. Maybe it costs you 5k, and maybe it costs you 19k, depending on the convenience of the flight. That said, their card gives you lots of free points and companion tickets on your anniversary, and they partner with a ton of hotels and rentals that score you beau-coup points.
Damn shame AA has gone the way it has. Since they hub out of DFW it's always been a steel for me. Now the points aren't worth a whole lot and they make them a PITA to use. Moreover, they've added a "Spirit Airlines" pricing tier that basically took up the original economy class, so now you pay the same price don't get to choose your seat and don't even get a free carry-on.
Really, frequent flyer programs don't work well for civvies anymore. Unless your company is sending you all hell over the place it's probably best just to find a good cash back card. My old man spent much of the 80's essentially being Clooney's character in Up in the Air, flying places to fire people and do their job until it's restaffed, and he's still spending the miles he accrued 30 years ago. Similarly, a dear friend (you met him down here at DT) makes a killing off of SWA. He travels 8-10 times a year with his old lady and is able to do the 000 Wed thing, so he's rolling in points. Someone like me that only travels 3 or 4 times a year over long weekends doesn't need to really worry about it all that much.
-
Yea, miles programs aren't what they used to be. I do believe there's a newer chase card that offers a really good intro point package that you are looking for. I've thought of doing that myself.
-
I've done the Chase Sapphire Preferred card as well as a couple others in recent months. Saving $2000 on our vacation with points earned through sign up bonuses. Pretty sweet deal really. I am trying to reign myself in now so I don't go overboard. We have $1000 in points save for our fall Orlando trip as well.
-
The introductory bonuses all seem to be about the same. 50k after you spend 4 grand in the first 3 months. Since we're talking about it, how much traveling money will 50k points get you with that Sapphire card? With American it'll get you to Europe but not back (30k each way), or 3 legs domestic (15k ea). SWA varies depending on how crappy the flight is. You might get 8-10 legs flying red-eyes, or two legs for a flight that doesn't suck ass (at least more than customary).
-
We ended up using most of the point we got for hotel stays rather than airfare. What you get out of it is of course going to vary greatly depending on the cost of the flight.
Keep in mind you're also gaining regular points while spending the $4000, so you should end up with 54000-58000 points by the time you've met the bonus requirements. Plus you can get another 5000 for adding an authorized user.
The reason the Chase Sapphire is generally considered the best is due to the flexibility of the points. You can transfer them into a bunch of different hotel and airline rewards programs 1:1, plus the bonus you get if you purchase directly through Chase. The annual fee is the only thing that sucks, but you can't get that big of a reward without one. I'll probably cancel mine before I pay that.
-
The introductory bonuses all seem to be about the same. 50k after you spend 4 grand in the first 3 months. Since we're talking about it, how much traveling money will 50k points get you with that Sapphire card? With American it'll get you to Europe but not back (30k each way), or 3 legs domestic (15k ea). SWA varies depending on how crappy the flight is. You might get 8-10 legs flying red-eyes, or two legs for a flight that doesn't suck ass (at least more than customary).
The Chase points relate directly to the dollar so 50k points will be worth $500 straight up. But if you use those points and book through Chase, you get the 20% additional worth so now your 50k points are worth $600 in travel. So now it all depends on what flight you want/airline to see how far $600 gets you.
and pretty much what lord said
-
It'd be nice if they had more travel partners. United and SWA are the only two that'd really be of use to me, and the 1/1 transfer to air miles would generally be a better travel deal. Sadly, KLM doesn't do many DFW-LAX flights.
I did discover this, though:EXTRA VALUE ON the Chase FreedomŽ
Many people carry both the Chase Sapphire PreferredŽ Card and the Chase FreedomŽ and enjoy serious rewards for doing so. The Chase FreedomŽ gives you 5% back on up to $1,500 in spending per quarter in bonus categories, and 1% back on all other spending. Although the Chase FreedomŽ is a cash-back card, its rewards are technically earned in the form of Ultimate Rewards points which you can transfer to the Chase Sapphire PreferredŽ Card.
The Jan-Mar bonus category was "gas stations, internet, cable, phone." That would have worked pretty well for me. Apr-Jun is grocery stores. It has no annual fee and comes with a 15k bonus after a very modest $500 purchases. If you use one for nothing but travel and the other for everything else you'd really jack up your earnings.
-
Yea, I have the Chase Freedom as well since it's free and was using that for the 5% categories for years before I got the Sapphire once I started traveling. It's nice and all, but I find myself forgetting to use it in the changing categories and find it mostly goes to waste for the bonus because I can't remember to use it in those times. But it is nice that it has the same rewards program that you can transfer to and from.
There is a newer similar Chase card (Chase Unlimited) to the freedom that does away with the 5% and just gives 1.5% back on everything that I considered switching too, but the $150 bonus isn't very enticing and I keep telling myself "remember to use the Freedom on gas/whatever"
-
And then there's this:
(https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/s720x720/25299939_1808267112517451_404334404465869344_o.jpg?oh=80b74645db9c48b19db909782ae08d73&oe=5B421260)
-
I should add that I've been wrong, and for the better, that the Chase points used toward travel are actually worth 25% more, not the 20% I've been saying.
-
I have the three Chase cards as well. I use the Chase Freedom for anything in the 5% back categories. Chase Sapphire for all dining and travel to get 2% back. Chase Freedom Unlimited for everything else to get the 1.5% back. Then I transfer all the points to the Sapphire card to get the 25% bonus on points. A little complicated, but that's the best way to maximize points.
-
I have the three Chase cards as well. I use the Chase Freedom for anything in the 5% back categories. Chase Sapphire for all dining and travel to get 2% back. Chase Freedom Unlimited for everything else to get the 1.5% back. Then I transfer all the points to the Sapphire card to get the 25% bonus on points. A little complicated, but that's the best way to maximize points.
I applied for the Freedom today. I'll get the sapphire when it's time to blow a few grand. I'll pass on the Unlimited since that's a little too much hassle (and credit) for the .5%.
-
I worked for Chase for a few years and absolutely hated it there, but I got to admit, they have a really good product for their credit cards. I really didn't want to become a Chase customer because of my experience working for them, but it just made too much sense. I've also had no issues with them. I had one instance of about $10k of illegal charges on my card that they removed hassle free. So I think you made a good choice
-
I worked for Chase for a few years and absolutely hated it there, but I got to admit, they have a really good product for their credit cards. I really didn't want to become a Chase customer because of my experience working for them, but it just made too much sense. I've also had no issues with them. I had one instance of about $10k of illegal charges on my card that they removed hassle free. So I think you made a good choice
They were notoriously bad for a while. Not quite as bad as Cap1, but still pretty loathed. In my case I don't use cards in any way that would create problems, so I'm not concerned about it. I don't run credit, withdraw money, or transfer balances. I pay my bill at the end of each month and pay no attention to them. Besides, I'm still a Citi member since '91, so I'll have that card to fall back on should Chase shit the bed.
It's their banking that I can't stand. Every other year my bank would get bought out and eventually landed on Chase. Boy, did that suck. Using a regional bank now and I really dig those guys.
-
We're getting our 4th nor'easter in a month tomorrow... hoping it doesn't mess up my flight plans on Thursday.
-
Heading to Cozumel for an 18 day dive safari in mid-May! Can't wait! Then in mid June 6 days fishing the east vape of Baja in Los Barriles and diving with Sea Lions and Hammerheads in La Paz!
-
Pretty sure "business as usual" for Mexico still means stay the F out.
I feel safer in Mexico than I do in So Cal...... :lol I spend a LOT of time there, including 3 years living, and have had only very minor issues.
-
I was supposed to get on a plane to Florida today.
Thanks to [yet another] fucking snowstorm, not only did I have to postpone my trip, but now I still have to dig my car out from under 6 god damn inches of snow tomorrow morning, and I still have to go to work.
>:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
-
What's teh annual fee of the chase sapphire? I have a AmEx Gold that I get great rewards with.
-
What's teh annual fee of the chase sapphire? I have a AmEx Gold that I get great rewards with.
$95
-
What's teh annual fee of the chase sapphire? I have a AmEx Gold that I get great rewards with.
$95
Waived the first year (and if they're like Citi, subsequent years if you call and ask them nicely). The Freedom card that gets you 5x points has no annual fee.
-
Damn. I was just reminded that one of the reasons I quit using my Chase card in lieu of Citi is that I fucking hate talking to Bangladeshis. Anytime you're dealing with financial or technical matters you need to deal with somebody in their native language. I don't care how good your English is, if it's your secondary language you're not going to understand me and you are going to piss me off.
-
I'm personally a huge fan of chase, at least when choosing from the big banks. There are no local chase branches here but I make it work.
As far as "offshore" help is concerned I would love for them to go away. 80% of the time I have to work late at work or there is a production issue is because one of our offshore dudes fucked something up with zero consequences.
-
Not quite sure this fits with the topic, but I've decided to take my son on a baseball trip to New York when he's on summer vacation. We're going to go for about a week somewhere around June 20-30 and will be taking in a Yankees game and a Mets game (the Dodgers will be playing the Mets June 22-24, so we'll likely go to one of those games). We also may try to catch one or more minor league baseball games: Brooklyn Cyclones, Staten Island Yankees, Hudson Valley Renegades and/or Hartford Yard Goats (Hartford's on the list primary because "Yard Goats" might be the best team name I've heard in a long while).
Anyone have suggestions for hotels that will be reasonably close to both Yankee Stadium and Citi Field. I'd prefer to be in Manhattan if possible, but I don't want to break the bank on the hotel. I'm all about taking the Subway when I travel to cities with good public transportation, so all I really need is something with good subway access.
Also, suggestions for things that a 16 year old boy would enjoy doing in NYC would be appreciated.
-
Trying to stay between both stadiums and in Manhatten pretty much puts you in mid town. You can hop on subways to get where you need to go from there and you are in the heart of the city so Times Square, central park, broadway, and anything else is pretty much walking distance. But staying midtown usually isn't cheap so there's that to consider.
-
Trying to stay between both stadiums and in Manhatten pretty much puts you in mid town. You can hop on subways to get where you need to go from there and you are in the heart of the city so Times Square, central park, broadway, and anything else is pretty much walking distance. But staying midtown usually isn't cheap so there's that to consider.
Thanks. I don't need to be equidistant between the two stadiums: just somewhere I can hop on a subway and that is in a "reasonably nice" area. I suppose staying on Staten Island wouldn't be all that convenient either, but I'm open to Queens or Brooklyn.
-
If you're not opposed to the occasional 45 minute subway ride then it probably doesn't matter where you stay from a location standpoint. Staying in Manhattan saves you some travel time in your day to day sight-seeing and exploring. I crashed in Queens (Astoria) last time I was out there and dug it. A better "neighborhood" vibe, and every type of food known to man on my block. It added 20-30 minutes of subway time getting to Manhattan, though.
In my experience hotels pretty much double their rates Fri/Sat nights in NY. I wouldn't make it a Sat-Sat trip if I could avoid it. Also, don't forget about AirB&B.
There's a good part of a day just exploring Central Park. And the Met is one of the few museums even a 16 year old would dig. The Intrepid Air/Space Museum is pretty cool, but not exactly cheap. If you're staying there a week and looking for things to do, keep in mind that Phili is only an hour-ten away by train.
-
If you're not opposed to the occasional 45 minute subway ride then it probably doesn't matter where you stay from a location standpoint. Staying in Manhattan saves you some travel time in your day to day sight-seeing and exploring. I crashed in Queens (Astoria) last time I was out there and dug it. A better "neighborhood" vibe, and every type of food known to man on my block. It added 20-30 minutes of subway time getting to Manhattan, though.
In my experience hotels pretty much double their rates Fri/Sat nights in NY. I wouldn't make it a Sat-Sat trip if I could avoid it. Also, don't forget about AirB&B.
There's a good part of a day just exploring Central Park. And the Met is one of the few museums even a 16 year old would dig. The Intrepid Air/Space Museum is pretty cool, but not exactly cheap. If you're staying there a week and looking for things to do, keep in mind that Phili is only an hour-ten away by train.
Thanks for the tips!
-
So, this month, one of the manufacturers that our company is a distributor for is sending the President of our company on a 10 day Danube River cruise, Nuremberg to Budapest. It's a reward for hitting a sales mark for their equipment. But, in January he found out his wife has pancreatic cancer and he told me, then, that he didn't think they could go on the trip so he wanted me and the Mrs. to go in his stead. I told him, no way. That at that point in the process they'd probably want to get away. Besides, it just felt goulish to me to take advantage of their tragedy.
So fast forward to last week. Months of diagnosis, chemo, etc and miracle of miracle the tumor is gone and she's now a candidate for surgery. Still the chemo has stomped the shit out of her. She feels terrible, has and infection in her leg, a blood clot in her leg, and convinces the Pres that they shouldn't go on the trip. So yesterday he announces that I have to go in his stead.
It just doesn't feel right, but I go home and tell Mrs. P that we have two weeks to get ready. She's sad for them too, but at the same time, Vienna and Budapest, right? We start planning for the weather there, making plans to get to the safety deposit box for our passports, deciding on who we want to ask to come stay with the animals and generally get the process going. We're starting to look forward to the trip. I'm just pulling out my digital SLR camera from the closet (to see if it needs cleaning) when the Pres calls. They just got back from another consultation with the surgeon and he told her to stop being a whiney-ass and go on the fucking trip. He wants her relaxed and a month done with chemo before he cuts her open.
So, now we're not going. Strangely, I'm pretty happy about it.
-
Pretty crazy and shitty scenario, but yeah, I can totally see how odd the feeling of going in their place would have been and it's great that they are just going to go and hopefully really enjoy it.
Last night I booked my next work trip, Denver for the first two weeks of May. When I get back I'll work a week and then I go to Florida for vacation for 8 days. Pretty excited, a lot of stuff going on in the near future including a road trip to Albany next weekend for my buddy's birthday who is doing his residency up there.
While the Denver trip is for work, I'm pretty excited. Definitely one of my favorite cities to visit and is really my favorite from a work perspective too. Also, I should have a day off over the weekend meaning I can do something fun, although my coworker will be with me which will really be annoying, but whatever.
-
So, I haven't been on a plane since 96 and the pre 911 days it was pretty smooth boarding.
With modern day TSA and airport security:
1. How long does it usually take to get through
2. Any tips on what to do and what not to do?
Its just me traveling alone. I'm not checking any luggage. Its just one bookbag with the bare minimum for a 3 day trip.
-
Well, if you have a couple of weeks before your flight and plan on flying in the future, I can highly recommend TSA pre check.
https://www.tsa.gov/precheck
-
Depending on the airport and the time of day allow plenty of time. At DAL you're only looking at 10 minutes or so to clear TSA. I've spent an hour at DEN, and two at LHR.
Personally, I opt out of the body scanner in favor of a pat down. Mostly because I don't play ball. It's also true that off the record a lot of TSA guys will tell you they don't really trust the things.
Don't wear baggy pants. Do wear underwear. Buy travel size toiletries.
-
So, I haven't been on a plane since 96 and the pre 911 days it was pretty smooth boarding.
With modern day TSA and airport security:
1. How long does it usually take to get through
2. Any tips on what to do and what not to do?
Its just me traveling alone. I'm not checking any luggage. Its just one bookbag with the bare minimum for a 3 day trip.
1. A lot of airports show the current security wait times on their website. Take a look and see how they look for you beforehand and the day of to get an idea of what it could be like. It's hard to give a specific answer as some airports are busier than others and some days/times are worse than others. I would say give yourself at least 30 minutes, but you may need more if you see a pattern beforehand that wait times are long. Especially summer travel or around the holidays, expect longer waits.
2. The best tip is to just comply and act normal. If you have nothing to hide then there's nothing to worry about. Just follow the instructions. Even if you are hiding something, they aren't very good at finding it :lol
-
2. The best tip is to just comply and act normal.
Just don't act too normal. They're looking for that. :lol
-
Very good points guys. Thanks
I don't think I could act normal if I tried :lol And I'm definitely going for the pat down. Beats paying the cuddle cafes :eyebrows:
-
Very good points guys. Thanks
I don't think I could act normal if I tried :lol And I'm definitely going for the pat down. Beats paying the cuddle cafes :eyebrows:
Well, I think you guys know what I mean :lol. Don't draw attention to yourself if you are looking for a smooth security experience. I would say opting for the pat down IS drawing attention to yourself, but I don't have much more else to say if that's the option you want, I respect your wanting of privacy, but that type of thing is something that definitely gets an extra look your way because you are now making an agent work a little more. I always say thank you to the agents and things like that, be polite. The TSA agents almost always look like they'd rather be somewhere else (and I can see why) so just be nice to them, even if one is being an asshole. I've found most to be pretty nice, but every once in awhile you got the one who takes their power too seriously. Be nice to that one too, niceness goes a long way.
-
Very good points guys. Thanks
I don't think I could act normal if I tried :lol And I'm definitely going for the pat down. Beats paying the cuddle cafes :eyebrows:
Well, I think you guys know what I mean :lol. Don't draw attention to yourself if you are looking for a smooth security experience. I would say opting for the pat down IS drawing attention to yourself, but I don't have much more else to say if that's the option you want, I respect your wanting of privacy, but that type of thing is something that definitely gets an extra look your way because you are now making an agent work a little more. I always say thank you to the agents and things like that, be polite. The TSA agents almost always look like they'd rather be somewhere else (and I can see why) so just be nice to them, even if one is being an asshole. I've found most to be pretty nice, but every once in awhile you got the one who takes their power too seriously. Be nice to that one too, niceness goes a long way.
I was mostly making a joke about their rules for identifying suspicious people. Looking nervous or looking calm are red flags. Being the last to board, the first to board, or slipping into the middle is a red flag. Bringing a lot of stuff or a little stuff is a red flag. You get the point.
As for opting out, it's not about privacy. As you pointed out, you actually draw more attention to yourself, and I don't have any hangups about modesty. I just think the whole thing is bullshit and choose to be an exception. Also, I'm pretty nice to them and they're pretty nice to me. Every guy that's patted me down has been apologetic and friendly. Talking football or offering sightseeing advice, that sort of thing. I think they appreciate a break from the routine, and they understand why people opt out. Lastly, if you're carrying, that's the best way to go about it. I hear they've changed their procedure a bit, but I've never had them get anywhere near friendly enough to find anything I might have had stashed. Bouncers at clubs will get far more familiar with you than those TSA guys.
-
I'm now filling out the global entry application. It apparently covers both international and domestic TSA pre check for 5 years. Should be helpful.
From how it looks, once cleared. I can just scan my passport at the kiosk, put my fingers on the screen to confirm its me and then it prints a ticket and I then can then bypass security?
-
I'm now filling out the global entry application. It apparently covers both international and domestic TSA pre check for 5 years. Should be helpful.
From how it looks, once cleared. I can just scan my passport at the kiosk, put my fingers on the screen to confirm its me and then it prints a ticket and I then can then bypass security?
Yea, so I guess you plan on travelling frequently? Especially in/out of the country?
So I had global entry. I don't anymore, I got a misdemeanor which lead to them taking it away from me, but that's another story. Global entry will give you everything the TSA pre-check gives you, but will also give you expedited access when returning to the USA. It allows you to bypass the line going through passport control in customs. You then get to use a kiosk instead of speaking to an officer. It takes a picture of you as well. It's makes returning to the country super quick and easy.
So back to your future plans of traveling, if you are travelling domestically frequently, the TSA pre-check is nice. If you travel internationally a lot, global entry is really nice.
Also you have to do an interview with a customs agent for the global entry. It was pretty much a joke for me, "why do you want this?" "For work" and off I go. I've heard a few others grilled a little harder as to their intentions, but never heard of any issues with the interview process other than it's annoying to have to do.
-
Yea, so I guess you plan on travelling frequently? Especially in/out of the country?
So I had global entry. I don't anymore, I got a misdemeanor which lead to them taking it away from me, but that's another story. Global entry will give you everything the TSA pre-check gives you, but will also give you expedited access when returning to the USA. It allows you to bypass the line going through passport control in customs. You then get to use a kiosk instead of speaking to an officer. It takes a picture of you as well. It's makes returning to the country super quick and easy.
So back to your future plans of traveling, if you are travelling domestically frequently, the TSA pre-check is nice. If you travel internationally a lot, global entry is really nice.
Also you have to do an interview with a customs agent for the global entry. It was pretty much a joke for me, "why do you want this?" "For work" and off I go. I've heard a few others grilled a little harder as to their intentions, but never heard of any issues with the interview process other than it's annoying to have to do.
That sounds pretty good.
Now that I have my passport, I'm probably gonna try and go international like once every two months give or take. My work schedule goes back and forth between 40-50 hour weeks to some weeks where I have only like one day, unless I hustle up some hours, so when there's a lull in schedule I'm going to see somewhere new. And I'll probably flip flop between international and domestic.
-
I'm now filling out the global entry application. It apparently covers both international and domestic TSA pre check for 5 years. Should be helpful.
From how it looks, once cleared. I can just scan my passport at the kiosk, put my fingers on the screen to confirm its me and then it prints a ticket and I then can then bypass security?
Yea, so I guess you plan on travelling frequently? Especially in/out of the country?
So I had global entry. I don't anymore, I got a misdemeanor which lead to them taking it away from me, but that's another story. Global entry will give you everything the TSA pre-check gives you, but will also give you expedited access when returning to the USA. It allows you to bypass the line going through passport control in customs. You then get to use a kiosk instead of speaking to an officer. It takes a picture of you as well. It's makes returning to the country super quick and easy.
So back to your future plans of traveling, if you are travelling domestically frequently, the TSA pre-check is nice. If you travel internationally a lot, global entry is really nice.
Also you have to do an interview with a customs agent for the global entry. It was pretty much a joke for me, "why do you want this?" "For work" and off I go. I've heard a few others grilled a little harder as to their intentions, but never heard of any issues with the interview process other than it's annoying to have to do.
I don't have any of that stuff and my experiences with passport control are the same way. At DFW you use a kiosk, smile at the camera, wave your printout at an officer as you walk to customs, answer the stupid questions and leave. It took me all of five minutes last time, and most of that was waiting for the customs agent.
-
Interesting, that's not the way at EWR at all, but I also haven't left the country in 1.5 years so maybe things have changed. Although, my experiences with customs has always been really quick regardless of my Global Entry or normal procedures.
Honestly the TSA pre-checks these days aren't that much faster than normal. Even at EWR since it's a United hub, they have a seperate security line for United Premiere members and that's often not any better than the rest either.
Essentially so many people have some sort of status or program that it almost makes it all negligible. But once again, I think that also depends on the airport.
-
I'm pretty excited right now! A buddy of mine who is one of the best Underwater cameraman and producer in the industry has invited me on a unique adventure. Next March I will have the opportunity to accompany him and a few select folks to go swim and film both Blue and Sperm Whales in Sri Lanka. It's an amazing chance to interact with the largest animal of all time. After that excursion I think we will probably pop over to the Maldives for some serious Liveaboard then resort Diving!
-
Wow that sounds amazing
-
Looking at his videos from this last months trip really got me going. There is only one month a year the Sri Lankan govt. allows this operation, which is the only legally licensed one, to interact with them. I do need to start working out though...LOL. Only snorkeling and free diving are allowed with these animals. Which means I need to start the cardio!!! :lol
-
That sounds incredible. That is going to be something you'll remember for a lifetime.
-
I travel a lot for work. Was in California, Germany, Spain and Tennessee in the last two months. Leaving for South Korea next Saturday, then down to Bangkok, Thailand and finally to Penang, Malaysia after that. Going to be a 2 week long trip. Might try to sneak away to Kuala Lampur to see the Petronas Towers really quick.
-
I travel a lot for work. Was in California, Germany, Spain and Tennessee in the last two months. Leaving for South Korea next Saturday, then down to Bangkok, Thailand and finally to Penang, Malaysia after that. Going to be a 2 week long trip. Might try to sneak away to Kuala Lampur to see the Petronas Towers really quick.
WOW!
-
I'm a little over half way through our 2.5 week roadtrip. We're in Utah at Arches National Park at the moment heading up to Yellowstone later today. It has been nothing short of amazing. To the point that I am really depressed at the thought of going back to work a week from today. My wife and I have both talked about selling everything, buying a big camper and traveling over North America for a couple years. The kids are homeschooled so that wouldn't be an issue. The problem is money. I'd need to work and I'm not in a career that works well for digital nomad type jobs where you can be literally anywhere in the world. I've already decided to ask my boss if it would be possible for me to work from the road 2-3 days a week for a few weeks at a time a couple times a year so that we could do more of these road trips while still having a full time career and a regular home. I know it's a complete fantasy to think we could travel full time, but I honestly feel like it's "what I want to do with my life." Maybe getting back to the real world won't be so bad, but right now I'm dreading it.
-
Yeah... the traveling bug, people usually have it hardcore, or not at all. I have yet to see the 2 parks you mention, but would love to. Especially from a photography standpoint.
As far as my exciting trip for next year to dive with the Whales...the balloon has burst. To make the overall package work my wife would have to fly solo for 30 hours to the Maldives. She has decided she's not comfortable with that. I have to of course respect her decision. It was a helluva plan though! :-[
-
Yeah... the traveling bug, people usually have it hardcore, or not at all. I have yet to see the 2 parks you mention, but would love to. Especially from a photography standpoint.
As far as my exciting trip for next year to dive with the Whales...the balloon has burst. To make the overall package work my wife would have to fly solo for 30 hours to the Maldives. She has decided she's not comfortable with that. I have to of course respect her decision. It was a helluva plan though! :-[
Sorry to hear it didn't pan out. It sounded absolutely miserable to me, but you certainly would have loved it.
-
Yeah... the traveling bug, people usually have it hardcore, or not at all. I have yet to see the 2 parks you mention, but would love to. Especially from a photography standpoint.
As far as my exciting trip for next year to dive with the Whales...the balloon has burst. To make the overall package work my wife would have to fly solo for 30 hours to the Maldives. She has decided she's not comfortable with that. I have to of course respect her decision. It was a helluva plan though! :-[
Sorry to hear it didn't pan out. It sounded absolutely miserable to me, but you certainly would have loved it.
:lol I don't love the travel part, believe me! I was just actually talking to my buddy, and MIGHT do a Humpback trip later in the year. That one my wife could come with and find stuff to do topside while I'm in the water. So...still a chance for some whale interaction!! Colder water though...which I'm NOT a fan of...LOL
-
Didn't travel anywhere too far, but today me and my friend rode down to Delaware to this cool ass little food place called Crabby Dick's right on the Delaware river. They do all you can eat crabs and stuff like that. I got the surf and turf burger which was fresh crab meat on top of an angus burger. Its was excellent.
Overall, it was an awesome day. This was my first time riding on the highway and that was very cool and not as scary as I thought it would be.
(https://s3.amazonaws.com/media.pinterest.com/previews/SIJd2876.png)
-
As far as my exciting trip for next year to dive with the Whales...the balloon has burst. To make the overall package work my wife would have to fly solo for 30 hours to the Maldives. She has decided she's not comfortable with that. I have to of course respect her decision. It was a helluva plan though! :-[
Devastating
Had a busy weekend in Denver. I can't recall the last time I had a full weekend off on a work trip, which meant I had plenty of time to do things... so went to Pikes Peak Saturday and the Red Rocks on Sunday. Absolutely amazing weekend.
-
Surprise, just found out a work trip was set for me. My coworker in Amsterdam is taking a 2 week vacation at the end of August and I've been asked to go there to cover for him. I just booked it. Pretty excited because I've never gone to Europe solo and I feel comfortable going to Ams since I've been there 5 times before (always with my boss). But I'll get a weekend out there and while it's far out, it's a coverage trip not a project trip so I shouldn't be crazy busy. :yarr
-
Surprise, just found out a work trip was set for me. My coworker in Amsterdam is taking a 2 week vacation at the end of August and I've been asked to go there to cover for him. I just booked it. Pretty excited because I've never gone to Europe solo and I feel comfortable going to Ams since I've been there 5 times before (always with my boss). But I'll get a weekend out there and while it's far out, it's a coverage trip not a project trip so I shouldn't be crazy busy. :yarr
Cool! Amsterdam will be awesome! August should be a good time!! Some day I'll make it there, and other parts of Europe. Probably when I can't dive anymore... :lol
-
I'm starting to plan a 2 week Colorado road trip for next summer and am wishing I had a month! So many good placed to check out. We're focusing mainly on natural areas and are hitting up the four national parks in the state for sure plus some national monuments and potentially some state parks. Anyone spend a lot of time in Colorado that has any recommendations of can't miss places to hit?
-
Rocky Mountain National Park is amazing, absolute loved my day trip there. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGQcGBQptEk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGQcGBQptEk)
I'd highly suggest checking out a concert at the Red Rocks, even if it's not necessarily your music, assuming there's some concerts during your stay in the area. I'd say it's easily my favorite concert venue and the two concerts I've been to there weren't bands I am totally into, it's just the atmosphere and setting.
-
Planning 3 nights at Rocky Mountain as of now. We won't be able to do a.concert at Red Rocks. Is it worth stopping and exploaring the area for a couple hours? It's right on our way from Rocky Mountain to Black Canyon NP.
-
Yea it's open to the public during the day so it's definitely cool to check out and you can walk around the area.
-
Planning 3 nights at Rocky Mountain as of now. We won't be able to do a.concert at Red Rocks. Is it worth stopping and exploaring the area for a couple hours? It's right on our way from Rocky Mountain to Black Canyon NP.
I showed up at Red Rocks in the afternoon and they were happy to let me in, even though they were setting up for a Crüe concert later on that night. "Sure, go on in. Please don't get in the way, and we'd kindly ask that you leave before the show starts."
Mt. Evans is probably already on your list, but it's certainly worth a couple of hours. Same with Garden of the Gods. Either heading to or away from RMNP the Peak to Peak Highway is a pleasant drive. State Forest State Park offers all of he scenery of RMNP but none of the crowds. If you're camping I can turn you on to a couple of nifty, out of the way spots.
Best advice I can offer up is to spend as much time figuring out how you get there as where you go. Colorado is a wonderful place to drive around in, and if you plan your routes well you'll be pulling over to take pictures all the time.
-
I keep telling myself to go to Garden of the Gods and always end up saying "next time" even when I am close by eating at Rudys (good BBQ) which is nearby. I'll make it there one day.
-
Garden of the Gods is on the list for sure.
-
Traveling to Spain in 2 weeks. Will be in Barcelona for 5 days and Madrid for 4 days.
-
Traveling to Spain in 2 weeks. Will be in Barcelona for 5 days
Of course you'll have your priorities and expectations, but.... don't miss anything Gaudė! the Sagrada Familia and *especially* its interiors are a wonder of the world, and also the Park Guell (expensive however), Casa Batllō and the Pedreira are awesome.
Avoid whenever possible line 1 (red) of the subway -it's INSANELY HOT and ugly, walk, take a bus, but do yourself a favor and skip the line 1 of the subway.
Also - free boobs at the Barceloneta beach ;D
-
Also - free boobs at the Barceloneta beach ;D
:coolio
Looks like I am officially out of going to Singapore for a work trip in July which I'm actually really happy about. Now I hope my Amsterdam trip in August goes through though.
Atlanta is booked for Progpower in September
and the last week of September I am off from work and currently have nothing scheduled so starting to think about vacation ideas (no DR)
-
and the last week of September I am off from work and currently have nothing scheduled so starting to think about vacation ideas (no DR)
Iron Maiden in Mexico City.
-
and the last week of September I am off from work and currently have nothing scheduled so starting to think about vacation ideas (no DR)
Iron Maiden in Mexico City.
Sounds cool but I guess that Friday date would work, not the Sunday since I need to be back on the 30th. But I'm not sure going Mexico City is on my list of places to go to.
-
and the last week of September I am off from work and currently have nothing scheduled so starting to think about vacation ideas (no DR)
Iron Maiden in Mexico City.
Sounds cool but I guess that Friday date would work, not the Sunday since I need to be back on the 30th. But I'm not sure going Mexico City is on my list of places to go to.
Mexico's coolness is in many ways linked to the value of the peso. For me it's a place I can travel and live high on the hog on a modest income. Appetizer, NY strip, two sides, a couple of beers, coffee and flan sets me back about $40, and it's Dallas steakhouse quality. High-rise apartments overlooking Alameda Park are running about $50-60 right now. Front section for those Maiden shows is about $70, and an event shirt about 20. Public transportation is a snap, and dirt cheep. My proximity certainly has something to do with it, but for me it's a fine way to spend a weekend.
-
and the last week of September I am off from work and currently have nothing scheduled so starting to think about vacation ideas (no DR)
Iron Maiden in Mexico City.
Sounds cool but I guess that Friday date would work, not the Sunday since I need to be back on the 30th. But I'm not sure going Mexico City is on my list of places to go to.
Mexico's coolness is in many ways linked to the value of the peso. For me it's a place I can travel and live high on the hog on a modest income. Appetizer, NY strip, two sides, a couple of beers, coffee and flan sets me back about $40, and it's Dallas steakhouse quality. High-rise apartments overlooking Alameda Park are running about $50-60 right now. Front section for those Maiden shows is about $70, and an event shirt about 20. Public transportation is a snap, and dirt cheep. My proximity certainly has something to do with it, but for me it's a fine way to spend a weekend.
I was looking at the tickets out of curiosity, that is cool that it is all cheap. I am just not sure how comfortable I am going to Mexico City solo. I think you've said before it's very safe and all. I don't know, I know very little other than what most people tell me "Mexico isn't safe" but other than seeing IM there, what else would I be doing?
If anything, right now I am leaning towards not making that a concert trip, but going somewhere nice to relax or potentially Vegas with a road trip to Utah (which was my initial plan for vacation this year before the gf cut ties) but its all up in the air. Maybe I'll look more into Maiden Mexico but my initial thought is, probably not happening for me. Especially since I'll see IM twice already.
Although I have considered catching Kamelot again that week, but also not a high priority band since I will see them locally.
-
and the last week of September I am off from work and currently have nothing scheduled so starting to think about vacation ideas (no DR)
Iron Maiden in Mexico City.
Sounds cool but I guess that Friday date would work, not the Sunday since I need to be back on the 30th. But I'm not sure going Mexico City is on my list of places to go to.
Mexico's coolness is in many ways linked to the value of the peso. For me it's a place I can travel and live high on the hog on a modest income. Appetizer, NY strip, two sides, a couple of beers, coffee and flan sets me back about $40, and it's Dallas steakhouse quality. High-rise apartments overlooking Alameda Park are running about $50-60 right now. Front section for those Maiden shows is about $70, and an event shirt about 20. Public transportation is a snap, and dirt cheep. My proximity certainly has something to do with it, but for me it's a fine way to spend a weekend.
I was looking at the tickets out of curiosity, that is cool that it is all cheap. I am just not sure how comfortable I am going to Mexico City solo. I think you've said before it's very safe and all. I don't know, I know very little other than what most people tell me "Mexico isn't safe" but other than seeing IM there, what else would I be doing?
If anything, right now I am leaning towards not making that a concert trip, but going somewhere nice to relax or potentially Vegas with a road trip to Utah (which was my initial plan for vacation this year before the gf cut ties) but its all up in the air. Maybe I'll look more into Maiden Mexico but my initial thought is, probably not happening for me. Especially since I'll see IM twice already.
Although I have considered catching Kamelot again that week, but also not a high priority band since I will see them locally.
Yeah, the "what else would I be doing" part is the question. DF is kind of a cultural place, so if you're not keen on museums, anthropology, and Frida Fucking Khalo it's not hugely interesting. That's why I generally only do weekend trips there. Though I'm pretty happy just exploring. There are plenty of interesting parks and old churches, so it works alright for me. I'll likely take in some luca libre down there on this trip, just because it seems like something you should do (and I'm not interested in seeing bulls stabbed to death). A seat down close enough that you have to dodge flying chairs is a relatively expensive $15 bucks or something. But for me it's worth it just to pop down and see a great band in an environment you simply can't get up here in the US. It really is a completely different experience down there. I've already decided I'll be seeing Rammstein in Mexico next time they tour this side of the Atlantic. That should be pretty cool.
-
Yea I think that's the coolest part, the environment for Maiden in Mexico is probably unlike anything I have ever seen and maybe will ever see.
Is it easy to get around there without knowing Spanish?
-
Yea I think that's the coolest part, the environment for Maiden in Mexico is probably unlike anything I have ever seen and maybe will ever see.
Is it easy to get around there without knowing Spanish?
Probably not any harder than getting around Amsterdam without speaking Amsterdamese. :lol
The truth is there aren't a ton of English speakers down there, but numbers are the same. Converting dollars to pesos is a cinch. Most places have menus in English. If you've ridden one subway you've ridden them all. For all else it's Google to the rescue. In my experience all of them have google translate on their phones ready to roll, for some reason. I've really never had any problem down there.
Interestingly, at concerts they all speak English. As a white guy with a giant beard I'm a point of huge fascination to those guys. I get chatted up all the time and pose for a lot of pictures with the locals. At the first might of the Metallica gigs they actually started a "Z-Z-TOP" chant in my honor. :lol
-
The hubby and I are going to old school road trip it without any accommodations booked, which makes me a bit nervous - find a hotel or use the tent. Possible spots we may see/drive through - Sedona, Horseshoe bend, Antelope Canyon, North Rim of Grand Canyon, Zion, SLC, Grand Teton, Yellowstone. We'll play it day by day and see what we want. I know several of those things require reservations though and will be pretty packed when we are planning on going.
-
Yea I think that's the coolest part, the environment for Maiden in Mexico is probably unlike anything I have ever seen and maybe will ever see.
Is it easy to get around there without knowing Spanish?
Probably not any harder than getting around Amsterdam without speaking Amsterdamese. :lol
The truth is there aren't a ton of English speakers down there, but numbers are the same. Converting dollars to pesos is a cinch. Most places have menus in English. If you've ridden one subway you've ridden them all. For all else it's Google to the rescue. In my experience all of them have google translate on their phones ready to roll, for some reason. I've really never had any problem down there.
Interestingly, at concerts they all speak English. As a white guy with a giant beard I'm a point of huge fascination to those guys. I get chatted up all the time and pose for a lot of pictures with the locals. At the first might of the Metallica gigs they actually started a "Z-Z-TOP" chant in my honor. :lol
Well like 98% of the dutch know English so getting around there is super easy, although holy heck did I get myself confused on their trains before and needed a local to help me out... twice :lol
The hubby and I are going to old school road trip it without any accommodations booked, which makes me a bit nervous - find a hotel or use the tent. Possible spots we may see/drive through - Sedona, Horseshoe bend, Antelope Canyon, North Rim of Grand Canyon, Zion, SLC, Grand Teton, Yellowstone. We'll play it day by day and see what we want. I know several of those things require reservations though and will be pretty packed when we are planning on going.
How long is this trip? You got a lot of sights listed there, but that sounds cool minus no schedule. I'm a schedule kind of person, I need to know my plans otherwise I get real nervous. Zion is a spot I've been debating about hitting up if I go the Vegas route in September.
-
Zion is awesome. Hit it up if you can.
-
Zion is awesome. Hit it up if you can.
My only worry are crowds. Apparently its a big issue at this park. It wouldn't make me not want to go but it could dampen the experience and chknptpie, you should consider that as well. I remember even Sedona being a PITA because of so many people driving around and finding parking when I went 3 years ago (just quickly, it wasn't a planned day just a drive through a stop).
-
How long is this trip? You got a lot of sights listed there, but that sounds cool minus no schedule. I'm a schedule kind of person, I need to know my plans otherwise I get real nervous. Zion is a spot I've been debating about hitting up if I go the Vegas route in September.
Man you sound like my Fiancee lol I love travelling and knowing where im going, but sometimes I am ok improvising. Her on the other hand, if we don't have a plan (Even if the trip is weeks or months away) she gets stressed and overwhelmed. She wants to know where we will be on what day, what time and how long we will be there for.
-
I'm generally a schedule kind of guy, but I've loosened up a lot over the years. I used to plan just about everything out. Now I'm increasingly leaving things open. Since I usually combine vacations with concerts there are always nights I need to be someplace, so knowing which city and state I'll be in matters. I like to leave my days and off nights completely open, though. If I'm just camping and don't have any gigs scheduled it's pretty easy to just meander. Honestly, there's a lot to be said for not having a schedule. If something goes wrong, who cares? Pull into some town. Find a place to eat and book a hotel on your phone while you're there.
-
How long is this trip? You got a lot of sights listed there, but that sounds cool minus no schedule. I'm a schedule kind of person, I need to know my plans otherwise I get real nervous. Zion is a spot I've been debating about hitting up if I go the Vegas route in September.
Man you sound like my Fiancee lol I love travelling and knowing where im going, but sometimes I am ok improvising. Her on the other hand, if we don't have a plan (Even if the trip is weeks or months away) she gets stressed and overwhelmed. She wants to know where we will be on what day, what time and how long we will be there for.
:lol I can give a pass on the times for the day, I just need to know where I am sleeping each night. With a huge road trip like that, I wouldn't be on a watch making sure I hit each spot at a certain time, but I would like to have a goal on where I want to be before I call it a night. I guess with todays tech though, just booking a room through the many options wouldn't be a big deal and being in the US would make me feel more comfortable than backpacking through Europe solo.
I won't lie though, I'm a bit spoiled. We stayed, and it was planned, at an airbnb little hut in the middle of no where California near Lassen Volcanic National Park. It was planned because we had a lot of city nights and wanted a night out there for the experience, and I ended up hating it so much. Too many bugs, no lights, the drive there was really grueling after a long day of driving already.... I wouldn't want to do that again, nor would I want to risk having to settle for such an experience.
-
How long is this trip? You got a lot of sights listed there, but that sounds cool minus no schedule. I'm a schedule kind of person, I need to know my plans otherwise I get real nervous. Zion is a spot I've been debating about hitting up if I go the Vegas route in September.
Well, I took 2 weeks off work. So I was thinking 10 days, that way we also have time to just do nothing before and after we come back. From where I live to Yellowstone, all those places are along the way-ish and a direct drive to Yellowstone is only ~15hrs. So I figure maybe take 7 days driving up and 3 days driving back down. Maybe spend 1 night in Page, 2 nights around North Rim/Zion, 1 night in SLC, 3 nights in Yellowstone. Maybe we see everything we can/want to see in Zion in 2 and then stay somewhere between there and SLC for a night.
I'm usually super structured with trips, so this will definitely be a test of my control issues. I know that I can always start booking things the day or two before if I start to get overwhelmed. Well unless we are somewhere without any cell service... which is going to be a thing lol
Zion is awesome. Hit it up if you can.
My only worry are crowds. Apparently its a big issue at this park. It wouldn't make me not want to go but it could dampen the experience and chknptpie, you should consider that as well. I remember even Sedona being a PITA because of so many people driving around and finding parking when I went 3 years ago (just quickly, it wasn't a planned day just a drive through a stop).
I'm well aware of the crowds. On a normal weekend it should only take 2.5hrs to drive to Sedona. We made the mistake of going on a holiday weekend and it took us 4. I'm (mentally) prepared lol
-
Well, as some people may have known if they read my posts in the Concert thread, I'm going to Orlando in September 17th - September 19th. I haven't been on a plane in like 19 years, so I don't know what site I go to ensure good deals. I'm contemplating either flying out of LAX or Ontario Airport and I don't think I can leave my car for about three days at the airport parking lot so I have to find a good way to get to the airport as well.
So I guess my questions are what's the best site for me to look up good deals for flights, hotels, and other than Uber or taking a bus, what's the best route of transportation to get the airport from Garden Grove at a decent price (like less than $50.00)?
-
Well, as some people may have known if they read my posts in the Concert thread, I'm going to Orlando in September 17th - September 19th. I haven't been on a plane in like 19 years, so I don't know what site I go to ensure good deals. I'm contemplating either flying out of LAX or Ontario Airport and I don't think I can leave my car for about three days at the airport parking lot so I have to find a good way to get to the airport as well.
So I guess my questions are what's the best site for me to look up good deals for flights, hotels, and other than Uber or taking a bus, what's the best route of transportation to get the airport from Garden Grove at a decent price (like less than $50.00)?
First of all, allow me to suggest looking at Long Beach or Orange County airports. They are infinitely less of a hassle than LAX, and both are much closer to Garden Grove than LAX or Ontario. When I fly for work, I almost always fly out of Long Beach, and Orange County is my second choice. When taking personal trips, LAX is typically the least expensive option (it will also have the most options in terms of time and direct flights), but I'll sometimes pay a little more for the convenience. I haven't ever flown out of Ontario, so I don't have any real opinion about it.
In terms of prices for flights, simply look around. I often start with a site like Expedia but will often book directly through the airlines' sites. Some places like Expedia will allow you to receive an email or other alert if the cost of a particular flight drops below an amount you choose. Usually 6-8 weeks in advance is a good time for finding good prices.
As far as getting to the airport, you certainly CAN leave your car at any airport for three days. At LAX, there are a number of nearby commercial parking garages that I'd recommend over the airport lot (I use The Parking Spot, which has two LAX locations and multiple price options). For only three days, leaving your car in one of those lots will probably be slightly less expensive than an Uber/Lyft and probably about the same as Super Shuttle. Parking at Long Beach and Orange County is about $20 per day. Also, when I flew out of LAX in April, I took a Lyft (from the Los Alamitos area), and it cost me just under $50. Depending on where in GG you are, it would cost you a bit more, but I would expect it'd be under $60.
-
Zion is awesome. Hit it up if you can.
My only worry are crowds.
Yeah, I've heard that can be a problem. We were there in late April last year on a Friday and it wasn't too bad. My suggestion is to get in the parks as early as possible. Things don't usually pick up too much until late morning. We're early risers so we were able to get into the park around 7:30.
-
Well, as some people may have known if they read my posts in the Concert thread, I'm going to Orlando in September 17th - September 19th. I haven't been on a plane in like 19 years, so I don't know what site I go to ensure good deals. I'm contemplating either flying out of LAX or Ontario Airport and I don't think I can leave my car for about three days at the airport parking lot so I have to find a good way to get to the airport as well.
So I guess my questions are what's the best site for me to look up good deals for flights, hotels, and other than Uber or taking a bus, what's the best route of transportation to get the airport from Garden Grove at a decent price (like less than $50.00)?
Go to expedia and search for QLA. It'll show all of the greater LA airports. That'll save you the hassle of searching them independently. Keep in mind that if you're not leaving the car at the airport you can depart/arrive different airports. Though it's probably easiest just to cough up the $20/day to park there.
Also, I have a real keen interest to fly out of SNA (Orange County) at some point, myself. If you haven't flown in 19 years you might not like it very much. Sounds like pg1067 has flown out of there, so maybe he can shed some light on how dramatic it is, but it's legendary for a fairly unique departure that really unnerves a lot of people. :lol
-
Maybe we see everything we can/want to see in Zion in 2 and then stay somewhere between there and SLC for a night.
Unless you're a pretty extreme hiker, and if you arrive at the park gate early enough, you should be able to see Zions by lunch time. Seriously. I'm not really sure why it's our State's most popular park. It's cool and all, but I always feel a sense of wishing for more. It's even worse now with much of the hikes closed due to rock slides and high water. Of course, I'm too old and not in good enough shape to do Angel's Landing anymore, so that's one major attraction gone.
For my money, I'd take Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Dinosaur over it in a heart beat.
-
Maybe we see everything we can/want to see in Zion in 2 and then stay somewhere between there and SLC for a night.
Unless you're a pretty extreme hiker, and if you arrive at the park gate early enough, you should be able to see Zions by lunch time. Seriously. I'm not really sure why it's our State's most popular park. It's cool and all, but I always feel a sense of wishing for more. It's even worse now with much of the hikes closed due to rock slides and high water. Of course, I'm too old and not in good enough shape to do Angel's Landing anymore, so that's one major attraction gone.
For my money, I'd take Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Dinosaur over it in a heart beat.
My guess is because Zion can be a day trip from Vegas so it's gotten really popular as all of the National Parks have lately with this one being accessible and very cool looking (from the pictures).
-
We did Zion in a full day. We got into the park early (7:30) and were done by dinner time. We didn't do any huge hikes, just a few short/medium ones. This was mostly due to having young kids with us. We would have done some more hiking if it was just my wife and me. It's definitely doable in a day if you're only looking to hit up the highlights. Getting out of the more popular areas would require another day probably depending on what you want to do.
-
Also, I have a real keen interest to fly out of SNA (Orange County) at some point, myself. If you haven't flown in 19 years you might not like it very much. Sounds like pg1067 has flown out of there, so maybe he can shed some light on how dramatic it is, but it's legendary for a fairly unique departure that really unnerves a lot of people. :lol
I actually had to think about it before realizing what you were talking about. You can read about it here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wayne_Airport#Runways
And here: https://www.avgeekery.com/whats-rollercoaster-takeoffs-orange-county/
Basically, about 10-20 seconds after takeoff, the pilot noticeably reduces engine power and the angle of ascent such that it feels a little like something has gone wrong. God forbid we should disturb the elite of Newport Beach.... I guess I'm just used to it, but yeah, I can see that it might be a bit unnerving for an infrequent flyer.
-
Huh, interesting tidbits regarding taking off from John Wayne Airport. I guess if I do want to fly off from there and I have to mentally prepare myself for that as well.
-
That's really interesting, I'm sure it's no big deal, but I feel like I've experienced that before although maybe not as bad or as close to ground level, where right after take off you feel your gut sink and it gets super quiet and you think wtf is going on :lol but I am really not a fan of this feeling so maybe it's good to know unless there's a good reason to fly out of there, I'll stick to LAX.
-
Also, aside from the throttle down at 800' there's a hot takeoff where they engines spool to about 50% before they let off the brakes. The whole thing sounds like a hoot to me, but I get off on interesting and/or hairy flights. My understanding is that if* you're using the noise abatement departure the pilot will normally warn you what's going to happen, and while unnerving to some it is perfectly safe. I'm just thinking that if somebody's going to be a nervous-Nelly then it might not be the best flight to take.
Myself, I always enjoyed the LAX departure straight out over the ocean with the lazy turn around Long Beach.
*For most airlines it's no longer mandated. Modern aircraft are a lot quieter than they used to be. Some use it at certain times of the day or with older aircraft. SWA uses it on all flights but mostly just to simplify their ops out of SNA.
-
Even without the sound issue, it's apparently one of the shortest runways so that's going to be a "fun" one regardless.
I really have no issues with LAX, getting in/out, TSA, long lines, no issues really ever from my experience. Food options aren't the greatest in the United Terminal (forget the # but its the last one, I know that from the long drop offs from rental car buses, although quick pick ups). It's the traffic once you are in LA that is more annoying.
-
I can only vaguely recall being "warned" about the takeoff at SNA -- maybe once or twice. It's possible that they do it more often and I'm just tuned out.
At LAX, the horseshoe layout can make it so that it literally takes 20+ minutes from the time a shuttle bus enters the airport until getting to the United terminal (#7). If you're in a private car, there's a shortcut, but shuttle buses won't use that unless everyone is going to terminal 7. Southwest flies out of terminal #1, but that terminal has awful lines at security (most of the other terminals are better).
-
I've used Expedia a couple of times. I haven't had a problem.
I just bought tickets and booked a hotel in Berlin in November. My mom and I are going, since she lived in West Berlin in the early 70s. It's also the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. Hopefully be able to meet some distant relatives when I'm there.
-
All right, update on my traveling plans. I'm going to make a slight change of plans to not spend an extra day in Orlando. Instead, I'm going to fly out of Orlando on September 18th to Raleigh, NC and stay there until September 20th. Also, after looking at flight prices and considering stuff like traveling from home to airport and back and along with the costs of airport to hotel room and back, I'm going to fly out of John Wayne Airport and have my parents drop me off and pick me up when I get back which brings me to my next questions.
While looking at airlines, I'm seeing that Frontier and Spirit have the cheaper ticket prices, but I've been asking around and people tell me to not take those airlines. It looks like Delta Airlines has the cheaper flight tickets among the big name brands that I hear. How are they as airlines? Are they good enough to warrant or should I proceed to shoot a bit higher? Also, I am contemplating renting a car for driving to the airport to the hotel room and back instead of taking an uber/lyft/bus/etc. How's the experiences of doing that? Would I need to refill the tank and how far away from the airport should I refill before returning the car and not get charged more than I need to?
One last question, when I was looking at Expedia for hotel rooms, there's so many options out there and naturally I want to pick a hotel room that's within 20 minutes away from the concert venues I want to go to. I'm not a big spender and I only have like $1,000.00 of a budget that includes flights, hotel room stay, transportation, and food that I want to spend on. What should I look for in a hotel room aside from free Wifi when comparing prices?
-
Delta is a fine airline, I use United since I fly out of Newark but would choose Delta over them if it weren't for EWR being a United hub. As for the car rental, yes, typically you return it filled although you can check the option to pay a surcharge to not do that, but if you do not check that when booking, do not return it without being full or they get your wallet good. I used to use the fuel option at work cause fuck it work is paying and for awhiel that one rental spot was pretty much the same price anyway as filing it so a fun game for me would be to see how empty I could return it. One time I got them really really mad at me since it said there were 0 miles left in the tank :rollin I was proud of myself but they didn't take that kindly at all. Either way, there are gas stations near airports so it's not an issue to just go to one near by and drive the few minutes to the rental drop off from there.
As for the hotel, depends on what you want to do. Personally, if I travel just for a show, I want to be near the venue, and even better if I can walk such as my situation now in Brooklyn, I can walk from my room to the show tonight. I use IHG brand hotels which are usually pretty nice, this one currently is shit but they aren't all winners. It doesn't matter much to me, chilling in the room is not what I plan on doing when I travel.
-
All right, excellent. I think renting the car is probably the way to go for me. Now it comes down to which car I want. I mean as a single adult, it doesn't really matter to me which car as I just want to get to the airport to the hotel room and back. Same goes for hotel. Just cheap and as close to the venue as possible.
-
Not sure what the cost is for a car, but if it ends up only to be to/from the hotel, it may be better to just uber. With budget, I have fast break, and with Hertz I have gold status so I think those are all free to sign up for and it allows you to just walk up to your car and leave, not deal with going inside and dealing wtih the people at the counter. If you don't have those, I almost feel like the hassle of dealing with a rental car isn't worth it unless its cheaper by more than a few bucks over the uber ride or if you plan on using the car more.
Also, go for the camaro if you are renting :lol
-
All right, update on my traveling plans. I'm going to make a slight change of plans to not spend an extra day in Orlando. Instead, I'm going to fly out of Orlando on September 18th to Raleigh, NC and stay there until September 20th. Also, after looking at flight prices and considering stuff like traveling from home to airport and back and along with the costs of airport to hotel room and back, I'm going to fly out of John Wayne Airport and have my parents drop me off and pick me up when I get back which brings me to my next questions.
While looking at airlines, I'm seeing that Frontier and Spirit have the cheaper ticket prices, but I've been asking around and people tell me to not take those airlines. It looks like Delta Airlines has the cheaper flight tickets among the big name brands that I hear. How are they as airlines? Are they good enough to warrant or should I proceed to shoot a bit higher? Also, I am contemplating renting a car for driving to the airport to the hotel room and back instead of taking an uber/lyft/bus/etc. How's the experiences of doing that? Would I need to refill the tank and how far away from the airport should I refill before returning the car and not get charged more than I need to?
One last question, when I was looking at Expedia for hotel rooms, there's so many options out there and naturally I want to pick a hotel room that's within 20 minutes away from the concert venues I want to go to. I'm not a big spender and I only have like $1,000.00 of a budget that includes flights, hotel room stay, transportation, and food that I want to spend on. What should I look for in a hotel room aside from free Wifi when comparing prices?
Frontier and Spirit really aren't much cheaper once you factor in the cost of transporting your bags. I'm pretty sure they both charge you for the carry-on, which is becoming more and more common. Be sure and factor that into whatever airline you choose because Expedia always shows the economy fares. I think of the majors AA is the only one that still gives you a free carry-on. The others either don't allow it or charge you a bundle. Those fares also won't allow you to choose your own seat. It'll be assigned at the gate.* The bigger problem with Frontier and Spirit is that because the fare look cheaper they attract the worst of the riff-raff. You hear about disruptive passengers all the time, but when you hear about a brawl it's always Spirit.
*Letting the gate agent assign your seat isn't necessarily a bad thing. While you might get stuck in a middle seat next to the lav, you might wind up in a preferred, or even business class seat. I've never been upgraded, but I've never gotten a bad seat, either.
-
After you mentioned the whole thing regarding bags, Barto, I'm looking on Expedia and it looks like Delta lets me have one carry-on bag up to 10 KG and a personal item. AA is confirmed to provide us with the option to bring one carry on with no fees which is fine since I don't plan on packing too many clothes or anything. Just clothes, phone charger, and some reading material. If all goes well, I should be able to book my plane tickets and hotel stays this week for around $600-620 on September 16th - September 20th. I'll figure out whether I want to rent a car, take an Uber, or take the bus at a later time. I don't think I want to drive around much and I don't have the greatest grasp of Uber rates to see if it's worth my while to spend it.
-
While looking at airlines, I'm seeing that Frontier and Spirit have the cheaper ticket prices, but I've been asking around and people tell me to not take those airlines. It looks like Delta Airlines has the cheaper flight tickets among the big name brands that I hear. How are they as airlines? Are they good enough to warrant or should I proceed to shoot a bit higher? Also, I am contemplating renting a car for driving to the airport to the hotel room and back instead of taking an uber/lyft/bus/etc. How's the experiences of doing that? Would I need to refill the tank and how far away from the airport should I refill before returning the car and not get charged more than I need to?
One last question, when I was looking at Expedia for hotel rooms, there's so many options out there and naturally I want to pick a hotel room that's within 20 minutes away from the concert venues I want to go to. I'm not a big spender and I only have like $1,000.00 of a budget that includes flights, hotel room stay, transportation, and food that I want to spend on. What should I look for in a hotel room aside from free Wifi when comparing prices?
Delta is good. A couple of my work colleagues swear by it, and it is their regular airline for business travel. I've never flown it myself, but not for any other reason than that United and JetBlue have my my two regular airlines. I've been tempted to go with Spirit or Frontier on occasion, but I usually see something that scares me out of it. Among other things, they seem to have terrible on-time performance, and virtually everything beyond a seatbelt seems to be a paid upgrade.
As far as a rental car for the sole purpose of commuting between airport and hotel, I wouldn't do it. If you're going to stay relatively close to the airport, just make sure the hotel has an airport shuttle. That said, as far as refilling the gas tank goes, you can usually get at least 10-20 miles post-fill up before you'll get dinged for not returning the car with a full tank. When my daughter and I were in NYC/Boston in April, we drove from Brooklyn to Boston. We topped off the tank somewhere well outside of Boston, and I did not get dinged (actually, I got dinged for the full size of the gas tank, but the rental car company dropped the refueling charge altogether when I called and complained about that).
As far as hotel rooms, that's a matter of personal preference. All I really care about is clean and quiet. Pretty much anything above Motel 6 quality has wi-fi and TV, so that's not typically an issue. In terms of quiet, if it's a high rise building, I go for a high floor (typically anything about four and you'll avoid most street noise). If it's only 2-3 floors, then you need to read CURRENT reviews. FWIW, I like hotels.com better than Expedia.
-
Well, guys. I bought my tickets and booked hotel stay. Set me back $600.00 for the flight and stay to Orlando on September 16th, flight and stay to Raleigh on September 18th, and flight home back to the OC on September 20th. Going to two flights via Delta and one flight via AA. Hotel rooms is around 15-20 minute of walking distance to the venue of the concerts I am at.
Should be a fun trip to the east coast. I don't think I have been to anywhere east in like 20+ years (I can't recall everything, but I think I went to Boston with my family when I was 5 to visit my cousins there). As for transportation, Uber rates actually look a bit cheaper per ride than I thought so that's something to look into. Probably will take the bus from airport to hotel in Orlando though. Will have plenty of downtime while waiting there and I'm not much for seeing sights or other stuff like that. That's something I can look more into as I get closer to the date.
Anywho, thanks all for the advice. It all helped me a lot.
-
Well, guys. I bought my tickets and booked hotel stay. Set me back $600.00 for the flight and stay to Orlando on September 16th, flight and stay to Raleigh on September 18th, and flight home back to the OC on September 20th. Going to two flights via Delta and one flight via AA. Hotel rooms is around 15-20 minute of walking distance to the venue of the concerts I am at.
Should be a fun trip to the east coast. I don't think I have been to anywhere east in like 20+ years (I can't recall everything, but I think I went to Boston with my family when I was 5 to visit my cousins there). As for transportation, Uber rates actually look a bit cheaper per ride than I thought so that's something to look into. Probably will take the bus from airport to hotel in Orlando though. Will have plenty of downtime while waiting there and I'm not much for seeing sights or other stuff like that. That's something I can look more into as I get closer to the date.
Anywho, thanks all for the advice. It all helped me a lot.
Don't spend all your time in the hotel room. Find an opportunity to get out and explore. Orlando isn't far from Kennedy Space Center. That's what I'd do. Also keep in mind that Orlando's a cheap place to rent a car. The Mouse probably subsidizes them or something. Renting a car for two days would probably cost ~40 after all the fees, and you can actually drive around and see some of the wang. Not to mention seek out the best food that area has to offer.
-
Just throwing it out there that if anyone ever is going to Scandinavia, the group "Scandinavia and Nordics Travel - Norway, Iceland, and beyond!" is a great repository of useful knowledge, and if you ever wanna swing by Western Norway you can pick my brain any time.
-
Just throwing it out there that if anyone ever is going to Scandinavia, the group "Scandinavia and Nordics Travel - Norway, Iceland, and beyond!" is a great repository of useful knowledge, and if you ever wanna swing by Western Norway you can pick my brain any time.
The day I'll finall visit Norway, it will always be too late :D
-
The day I'll finall visit Norway, it will always be too late :D
It's not going anywhere, but just in case, chop chop! :yarr
-
I'd love to visit Norway, it's just so far and expensive. All my personal travel has been in the US or the carribean and while I would love to go to things like Wacken or the Nordics, I don't see it in my near future.
I've been doing some local traveling I guess you can call it. Two weekends ago I spent the weekend in Philly, last weekend I spent it in Brooklyn, and I am considering spending this weekend in Hartford. While those are all short road trips (Hartford is the furthest at 3.5 hours) I did do at least one unique thing each weekend to make it interesting although going to a lesbian bar in Philly was not by design :lol and I did a nice 90 minute walk through Prospect Park in Brooklyn. I'm not sure what I could do in Hartford to make it unique if I do go tomorrow morning.
-
Someday when the kids are out of the house, we'll travel internationally. For now it's all US stuff and that's expensive enough
We're doing Anaheim, Disneyland and all that stuff in September since my company is sending me there for a work seminar. Should be fun. Looking forward to another vacation.
-
Norway is on my bucket list for the next, say, five years, if nothing drastic happens in my life or on the political scene, so we'll see.
-
Now that I've gotten used to seeing prices for flights and hotels and have a better idea of what is good value and what is not, I do want to consider going to Europe at some point within a year or two. Doesn't matter when although I'm sure prices for hotels will be through the roof in the summertime, but I wouldn't mind wanting to see one big major rock festival there (whether it is Download, Graspop, Hellfest, etc.) in my lifetime even though I'm personally not a huge fan of open air festivals.
-
Now that I've gotten used to seeing prices for flights and hotels and have a better idea of what is good value and what is not, I do want to consider going to Europe at some point within a year or two. Doesn't matter when although I'm sure prices for hotels will be through the roof in the summertime, but I wouldn't mind wanting to see one big major rock festival there (whether it is Download, Graspop, Hellfest, etc.) in my lifetime even though I'm personally not a huge fan of open air festivals.
Europe trips could be expensive or cheap, depending where you go. I went to Spain recently and was kicking myself afterwards because Dream Theater was playing in Barcelona while I was there.
-
Now that I've gotten used to seeing prices for flights and hotels and have a better idea of what is good value and what is not, I do want to consider going to Europe at some point within a year or two. Doesn't matter when although I'm sure prices for hotels will be through the roof in the summertime, but I wouldn't mind wanting to see one big major rock festival there (whether it is Download, Graspop, Hellfest, etc.) in my lifetime even though I'm personally not a huge fan of open air festivals.
I got a targetted ad for Download next year to buy tickets, I clicked and looked :lol I soooo would love to go to one of those festivals, but it's a lot. I was able to do Warped Tour AC festival this summer, it's only 2 days and had 25k people, but that's tiny compared to those in Europe. Plus they camp on site, it's crazy and maybe a bit too much for me which sucks because I feel like it could be great. I think I could only do it if I went with a group of people to share like a big tent or something. I love going to concerts solo, but festivals I feel like might be really difficult and less fun going solo.
-
Two years ago, the high school marching band for the school my daughter now attends (she's just about to start her sophomore year) was invited to play in the London New Years Day Parade (January 1, 2018). Apparently, the band "traveled well," so the company that helped organize the trip has been soliciting the band director to do another international trip, so the band boosters and director recently decided to explore the possibility of playing in a new year's day parade in Rome in 2021. I'm pretty geeked at the possibility, but I'm not looking forward to all the fundraising that will be involved as well as the planning. I'm coordinating the in-state trip for marching band championships this year, so I'll probably get roped into being involved with the international trip as well.
In the more immediate future, I'm thinking that next year will be the year I finally take my son to spring training in Arizona. Anyone here done that and have recommendations?
-
Norway is on my bucket list for the next, say, five years, if nothing drastic happens in my life or on the political scene, so we'll see.
What's your plan? My dream trip is making the round trip from Bergen back and forth from Cape North with the postal boat, the Hurtigruten, and stop in the various towns (top must see on the list: Bergen, Alesund, Trondheim, Tromso). As an alternative just visiting Bergen for a starting point would be nice.
-
I soooo would love to go to one of those festivals, but it's a lot.
If you look at festivals south of Germany, like the ones in Slovenia, Romania and the like, it doesn't cost as much, and the lineups are pretty much the same everywhere.
My problem with metal fests everywhere is the music :lol If you really like or would really like to see every mainstream band across a wide variety of genres you'll have a blast, but... bands I like can get 45 mins tops, and then I'd be stuck watching the Sabatons, Arch Enemies and Dimmu Borgirs of the world as headliners. I know this doesn't sound too bad - and it looks great when you look at it from afar, but when you actually start considering the costs and the travel and the outdoor factor, and then look at one of these lineups, you generally won't feel like it's worth your money, unless you're really into the experience or it's a bucket list item. I'm mildly interested in seeing one at some point, but prog festivals that actually book bands I listen to are more my speed.
-
Norway is on my bucket list for the next, say, five years, if nothing drastic happens in my life or on the political scene, so we'll see.
What's your plan? My dream trip is making the round trip from Bergen back and forth from Cape North with the postal boat, the Hurtigruten, and stop in the various towns (top must see on the list: Bergen, Alesund, Trondheim, Tromso). As an alternative just visiting Bergen for a starting point would be nice.
Haven't even begun developing the plan at this point. Bergen and Trondheim are definitely among the places I'd like to visit.
-
I soooo would love to go to one of those festivals, but it's a lot.
If you look at festivals south of Germany, like the ones in Slovenia, Romania and the like, it doesn't cost as much, and the lineups are pretty much the same everywhere.
My problem with metal fests everywhere is the music :lol If you really like or would really like to see every mainstream band across a wide variety of genres you'll have a blast, but... bands I like can get 45 mins tops, and then I'd be stuck watching the Sabatons, Arch Enemies and Dimmu Borgirs of the world as headliners. I know this doesn't sound too bad - and it looks great when you look at it from afar, but when you actually start considering the costs and the travel and the outdoor factor, and then look at one of these lineups, you generally won't feel like it's worth your money, unless you're really into the experience or it's a bucket list item. I'm mildly interested in seeing one at some point, but prog festivals that actually book bands I listen to are more my speed.
My "it's a lot" wasn't just about cost but the whole experience. I watched a VLOG I think from Donnington about a guy camping and walking to a stage and back and so on and it seemed like a lot of effort. I like most of the big bands and seeing bands I don't know is cool with me too, I watched like 10 different sets at Warped Tour of bands I didn't know and maybe 5 of those sets I became a fan of the band. Plus downtime isn't so bad either to socialize at these events. I don't really see myself traveling to south west Europe by myself either.
-
As far as hotel rooms, that's a matter of personal preference. All I really care about is clean and quiet. Pretty much anything above Motel 6 quality has wi-fi and TV, so that's not typically an issue. In terms of quiet, if it's a high rise building, I go for a high floor (typically anything about four and you'll avoid most street noise). If it's only 2-3 floors, then you need to read CURRENT reviews. FWIW, I like hotels.com better than Expedia.
We always use Hampton Inns.
Norway is on my bucket list for the next, say, five years, if nothing drastic happens in my life or on the political scene, so we'll see.
We looked at Norway and Sweden for a trip last summer. We ended up staying in the US though, albeit across the contry.
I got a targetted ad for Download next year to buy tickets, I clicked and looked :lol I soooo would love to go to one of those festivals, but it's a lot.
We looked at going to see Iron Maiden at Donnington in 1992. My college roommate and I (we graduated in '90) actually sat down with a travel agent. My gf (I was engaged at the time) was like WTF'nF! :lol It didn't happen. :lol
-
Off to see Bruxelles (where I'm staying) and Bruges. See you next week! :metal Belgium here I come!
-
:metal enjoy!
Booked Aruba today for September. My month off is looking very nice starting with Atlanta for ProgPower, Aruba to hit the beach, and party time in Vegas with a mini trip to Death Valley. I may... squeeze a one night trip to Seattle in as well to see Incubus. It's within my budget for the money that I've been saving, but I honestly wonder if my body can handle it all. Not to mention when I get back to work, I have to go to Denver. Also, all my flights were paid for by Chase credit card points saved, and my four nights in the Venetian in Vegas are paid for by IHG points. Thank you work travel for helping fund my vacations.
-
Sounds like you have a fun September planned ahead :metal enjoy
-
Off to see Bruxelles (where I'm staying) and Bruges. See you next week! :metal Belgium here I come!
...and now it's time to leave again, this time for south Italy and the white villages of Apulia - google Rodi Garganico, Peschici or Vieste to get an idea of where I'm going!
Bruxelles was cool, a very nice city with its Grand Place (central square) probably one of the most beautiful squares of all Europe. But Bruges is a jewel of its own, a magical place where every house, every road and every cobblestone is worth alone the visit. Amazing town that made me go "I already like it" 5 minutes after having arrived, "I already love it" after not even having been in the proper center, and that entered my list of favorite places ever after the visit.
I also had the luck of finding an obscenely good weather all the days - which ironically does not look good for south Italy. I spend some days in northern Europe and I sweat all the time, then I go to the south near the Mediterranean, and it looks I'll catch the rain for 2-3 days. Meh....
Still, a holiday it's an holiday so now it's time to leave for the sea and the iconic white harbor villages! :metal
-
Off to see Bruxelles (where I'm staying) and Bruges. See you next week! :metal Belgium here I come!
...and now it's time to leave again, this time for south Italy and the white villages of Apulia - google Rodi Garganico, Peschici or Vieste to get an idea of where I'm going!
Bruxelles was cool, a very nice city with its Grand Place (central square) probably one of the most beautiful squares of all Europe. But Bruges is a jewel of its own, a magical place where every house, every road and every cobblestone is worth alone the visit. Amazing town that made me go "I already like it" 5 minutes after having arrived, "I already love it" after not even having been in the proper center, and that entered my list of favorite places ever after the visit.
I also had the luck of finding an obscenely good weather all the days - which ironically does not look good for south Italy. I spend some days in northern Europe and I sweat all the time, then I go to the south near the Mediterranean, and it looks I'll catch the rain for 2-3 days. Meh....
Still, a holiday it's an holiday so now it's time to leave for the sea and the iconic white harbor villages! :metal
We only got to spend an afternoon in Bruges (around holiday time, so light snow on the ground and the Christmas arket was up), it was adorable, returning to spend 2-3 days there is on our to-do list.
But first...Aruba! Two weeks, leaving on the 7th, we got a little place up by Malmok beach. Should be great and is very badly needed. Too bad the neighborhood will be ruined 10-13th :biggrin:
-
:rollin
-
Hey Cram, got an Aruba story you might appreciate. When I was in college for my Junior year, one of my suitemates was from Aruba. (He also lived a couple rooms down in my freshman dorm.)
Anyway, one day he comes in with a package from back home...a damn cereal box. But it was LOADED with weed, smothered by coffee grounds to throw the dogs off.
Pretty sure I took the next few days off from classes. :lol :hat
-
:rollin its a dutch island, makes sense also a good reason for me to go there. I feel like its the tropical version of amsterdam :hat
Funny fact too, the hotel Im staying at is where my parents had their honeymoon almost 40 years ago :metal :yarr
-
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/welcome-to-san-diego-dont-mind-the-scooters/ar-AAGLLbY?li=BBnbfcN
Having just come from San Diego, these things are fucking EVERYWHERE! :lol
-
I'm heading to Anaheim to Disneyland in a couple weeks for a work conference, which we are also turning into a family vacation and doing the whole Disney thing. Looking forward to it.
Anyone have any suggestions for family activities in the LA area that don't involve Hollywood stuff? I'm planning to do the tar pits because I think my kids will get a kick out of that, also going to the beach one day. Any other suggestions?
-
Well, I traveled somewhere the last couple of days and just got back yesterday.
Tuesday night, as evening falls over Rock Lake:
(https://i.imgur.com/mSFDage.jpg)
Sunrise over Rock Lake yesterday morning:
(https://i.imgur.com/loZvHTd.jpg)
I forget whether this is First Dinkey Lake or Second Dinkey:
(https://i.imgur.com/WpvQ42i.jpg)
Hiking out yesterday morning:
(https://i.imgur.com/0ihaEzm.jpg)
And my dude hiking out with me:
(https://i.imgur.com/DKfSRNY.jpg)
-
Really nice pictures Bosk
-
Anyone have any suggestions for family activities in the LA area that don't involve Hollywood stuff? I'm planning to do the tar pits because I think my kids will get a kick out of that, also going to the beach one day. Any other suggestions?
The Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village in Long Beach would be pretty cool.
-
1h20m till we depart for the airport to head to the Netherlands. :D
-
Awesome pics Bosk
-
Awesome pics Bosk.
I just got back from Paris/London this trip and I'll upload some pictures for you guys to see. I also got a few pics of Fast and Furious 9 filming outside of our hotel.
-
1h20m till we depart for the airport to head to the Netherlands. :D
About 14 hours for me, and damn, I'm excited as hell. Been looking forward to this vacation for a while.
-
Just booked the 2020 Summer TACation!
The TACs are going to Rome!
Now if Indiscipline would answer his damn emails....
MirrorMask, you nearby, bro?
-
That sounds awesome TAC, my parents have been wanting to do a family Italy trip as long as I can remember, but it's expensive and a lot of walking which has never suited my mother's vacation desires, but there's been a lot of talk of trying to make it happen next year. I'd love to go.
I did just get back from Aruba though, WOW did I absolutely love it there and was treated like a king with a free room upgrade. My view from my balcony for 3 nights in paradise:
(https://scontent.fewr1-3.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70318734_10120279234478434_1578462221434880000_o.jpg?_nc_cat=101&_nc_oc=AQkD__K2O1x180O6UfdSJsC87BIXvw_3eZCBeWTrnzaLhxbLvcQ8N4-auW0UuRVdqZc&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-3.fna&oh=7ac2ca77e9fa09e5dc66253672b42363&oe=5E38361E)
Next trip scheduled is Las Vegas on Saturday :yarr
-
That sounds awesome TAC, my parents have been wanting to do a family Italy trip as long as I can remember, but it's expensive and a lot of walking which has never suited my mother's vacation desires, but there's been a lot of talk of trying to make it happen next year. I'd love to go.
If it happens next year, let me know. I'll tell you when we're going.
My oldest (special needs) son is graduating high school next Spring. yes graduating with a DIPLOMA, so we're very proud of him. He wants to see the Colisseum, so we're taking him.
My other son graduates the following year and he wants to go to Spain. :lol
-
That's really awesome gift, and expensive
-
Just booked the 2020 Summer TACation!
The TACs are going to Rome!
Now if Indiscipline would answer his damn emails....
MirrorMask, you nearby, bro?
Nope, since I'm in Milan!
Been to Rome several times, it's a beautiful city and really worth of 3000+ years of history and fame that goes along with it. It's not paradise on earth; you'll find a lot of traffic and on unlucky days the public transport won't live up to the reputation of a big european capital, and keep in mind already from now to always, always, ALWAYS and carefully check the menu and the prices of wherever you'll eat.
The greatest hits are all worthwhile, I can't think of anything that is famous but in reality is a waste of time; there's a lovely zone with "old countryside village" feel, Trastevere, which I absolutely advise, and also the "Quartiere Coppedč" has many beautiful houses that are not famous. For the rest as I said the famous stuff is all worthwhile so you'll have a blast. Depending on your preferences and how many days you'll have I suggest as well the Vatican museums, totally worth a day because basically they'll take most of it.
-
Cool.
We had considered many options for the trip. We were going to book through our timeshare (Disney Vacation Club) but that only got us two hours away from Rome. So we considered renting a car and using that as our base, but in the end, we just decided to book in the city.
We're planning on a day trip or two pout of the city, and I believe we are within walking distance to the Vatican, and we are definitely planning on hitting that.
-
Yeah, even if you don't go to the museums, St. Peter's square itself and the basilica are awe inspiring, plus you get nearby Castel St. Angelo. Totally not to miss, as "well, d'uh, I know" as it sounds, the Coliseum and the nearby Imperial Fora (plus the Capitoline Hill just behind), the Trevi fountain which is really beautiful as it looks, just overcrowded any time of the year, every day, every moment, and one of the most beautiful squares of Europa, Piazza Navona, followed closely behind by the spanish square (Piazza di Spagna), which has a beautiful staircase topped by a nice church.
There's a lot more to see but a couple of days are enough to see all these "greatest hits" which are definitively not to be missed when in Rome!
-
Nice, I'll be in touch as we get closer.
-
So my plane to Orlando leaves tomorrow. I've checked the carry on bag limits where it states that it cannot exceed 45 inches of combined of height, width, and depth or 22 x 14 x 9. Well, my bag that I'm bringing is 22 x 15 x 8 and I might be off by a few sliver like less than .5 inch off of accuracy. This should be fine right? I just don't want to spend an extra $30.00 when unneeded.
-
Don't overstuff it to fluff it up, but you should be fine.
-
Cool.
We had considered many options for the trip. We were going to book through our timeshare (Disney Vacation Club) but that only got us two hours away from Rome. So we considered renting a car and using that as our base, but in the end, we just decided to book in the city.
We're planning on a day trip or two pout of the city, and I believe we are within walking distance to the Vatican, and we are definitely planning on hitting that.
You do not want to drive in Rome. Hell, I'm expertly suited for it and I do not want to drive in Rome.
And Rome is good for 3 or 4 days, tops. I'd had enough after 2. Plan on riding the train to some other interesting cities. A very reasonable high speed rail will take you from Rome all the way to Switzerland if you wanted. You could work your way North and catch Florence and Milan on your way to Lake Como. And the best advice I can give you is to alway try and stay outside of the cities. Spend a day in Florence. Spend the night 20 miles away if you can. You'll eat better and stay with a better class of people.
How long are you going for?
-
We'll be there for a week. We are not renting a car. Our hotel is footsteps from the coliseum. We are planning on probably two day trips out of the city. One of them will be to Pompeii.
-
We'll be there for a week. We are not renting a car. Our hotel is footsteps from the coliseum. We are planning on probably two day trips out of the city. One of them will be to Pompeii.
It's really only a half-day trip, but you should head out to Tivoli and Villa d'Este. Well worth seeing.
And if I were you, I'd ride the metro to the boonies for dinner a few nights. Roman tourist food is kind of on par with Olive Garden. When you get out to where the real Italians live they eat quite well.
-
I've not been to Italy, but my ex and her husband took my daughter there earlier this summer. Now, not the most reliable crew, but The Husband has traveled much of the world and while I don't give him much, I'll give him that he knows hospitality. He (inadvertently) followed El Barto's advice and they all said it was exactly the right thing to do.
-
Spent this morning doing some solo exploration/hiking around the east coast of Abuba. It was pretty wild, just a complete desert at the higher altitudes, and a wasteland of limestone and coral on the Mesa near the water, then heavy surf hitting the rocks. Incredible views throughout.
This afternoon will be the opposite... Snorkeling a shipwreck and a reef from a party boat... With an open bar!
Two weeks here was definitely the right decision, as was renting a little house.
-
:metal :metal nice, Jolly or you go with someone else?
-
:metal :metal nice, Jolly or you go with someone else?
Jolly. I've gotta laugh, where they set up on the reef is literally about 150 yards from the place we're staying :lol
But, the cost of the expedition is about the same as what I'd spend on a good mask and snorkel, so I'll go with it.
-
plus open bar and experience on the boat. I'm sure that will be fun
-
(https://i.redd.it/wjw4mmd8thr01.png)
Alcohol and night-swimming. It's a winning combination!
-
That was me on my last night there :rollin
-
Got to Vegas last night, actually felt pretty crappy and maybe even jetlagged which is odd for me just going across country, but either way, I got up "early" over here and hit up the day of ticket sales booth. Going to a show called "Atomic Saloon" tonight, sounds pretty fun and raunchy. The ticket booth also sold me on a 3 dollar extra food card, its good for 7 days (so my whole trip) and gets you discounts at 12 buffets and like 50 restaurants. Definitely hitting up a buffet for lunch later with that, and probably again tomorrow.
-
Cram, watched your Death Valley video. I left a couple of comments.
That is some great country driving through there. A few years ago we drove from the Grand Canyon to LA, and then back to Vegas. It was amazing. We looked at Death Valley, but we just didn't have the time to stop.
Saw the Aerosmith video last night. Those were great seats. Was that bar right there too? Looked like a cool show.
-
Yea there was a bar on the stage, it was a GA side of the stage VIP ticket. Really cool and totally awesome value, I put a full review in the concerts thread if you want to read more.
Also, Death Valley was one of my favorite national parks, I think because it was so empty. I liked the vast openness and emptiness of it, not just visually but from people and tourists as well, compared to other national parks that are over crowded at times. I felt like I was the only one in the park at times. The sand dunes were probably my favorite spot in the park, just felt surreal walking in them.
also, the music is license free so I don't get copyright claims on it. It's my first original video since I got approved to monetize videos on youtube, so I don't want copyright claims on it making that not possible. I did sneak a bunch of parts where I am singing in the car, music I actually enjoy, but honestly think that techno music fits fine for the driving scenes.
-
I read the Aerosmith review. I was looking for the chick that tongued you in your video. :lol
-
I read the Aerosmith review. I was looking for the chick that tongued you in your video. :lol
The tall blond on the left https://youtu.be/LB_zpn1zoCA?t=859 (https://youtu.be/LB_zpn1zoCA?t=859)
-
I read the Aerosmith review. I was looking for the chick that tongued you in your video. :lol
The tall blond on the left https://youtu.be/LB_zpn1zoCA?t=859 (https://youtu.be/LB_zpn1zoCA?t=859)
Did you have to stand on a milk crate? :lol
-
:rollin
-
Some Death Valley pics I finally uploaded
(https://scontent.fewr1-5.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70975481_10120391240836794_4924190265540870144_o.jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_oc=AQllU0VEOQ2GRs_CXysW2ThDVYgFEbGyhVHp6Pg1kkZZf7Zqirsha5Yc3yiqghSHO6A&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-5.fna&oh=a6c6b3e6f9b1b1e329ff6015f2ec6fc1&oe=5E39285C)
(https://scontent.fewr1-3.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/71763664_10120391242907644_5338582492809003008_o.jpg?_nc_cat=103&_nc_oc=AQlzJd5DjGoXrnTnQIfKyMQZtWebSNDNF0sZQtAuaS0qlKjjeVdPBkVXU6KvBRM8zhA&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-3.fna&oh=4b27023b27a334894923494fd58504a0&oe=5DF09366)
(https://scontent.fewr1-5.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/72278203_10120391243117224_571538934530572288_o.jpg?_nc_cat=106&_nc_oc=AQkp8em72wS28XNKE733D9ZTyTToavqCVapcimSMR00Nou8fKDETisuNdJ3tsJsCj9A&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-5.fna&oh=42ef4b86a3891d499db5ba8c5a3f4cfe&oe=5E3BB8AF)
(https://scontent.fewr1-5.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/72349522_10120391242149164_5890467541028962304_o.jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_oc=AQlz1Yv5a5aQgOeJs3D8zmX3HJKuSWd2s5OSmBwQjq2gr4q0FmF_6c_CTqF0BLwwMMw&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-5.fna&oh=6ebae7c1e46e7ae7c6c14a24703f9a56&oe=5DF43A2C)
(https://scontent.fewr1-3.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/71107635_10120391243157144_7018583891514490880_o.jpg?_nc_cat=109&_nc_oc=AQkbAWNwwYn0ZJRVkc7KmikLtXYW7ksDlQ0ygOj1c8X2x9VZ3YEF5MFg1kSMTXBE_Ig&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-3.fna&oh=a92dc2521dc7b0220cb68f78489640d3&oe=5E31740C)
(https://scontent.fewr1-4.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/71739451_10120391243716024_6089240053416984576_o.jpg?_nc_cat=102&_nc_oc=AQkET4Ul3MUeLH4QoPly3rXuAgHWwneAC3pPXrFh73Hx9Z-WYXBI-efzXaA-mGvqICQ&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-4.fna&oh=050e00874b384bfb830d06693197d527&oe=5DFD0690)
(https://scontent.fewr1-4.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70893421_10120391242308844_3244194377278423040_o.jpg?_nc_cat=102&_nc_oc=AQkDLMzo-IAChUh9WHOQokWxmWHxwfCms9mgT2hGz79uFKYwFfCLcl-DsxwEWf7l9yE&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-4.fna&oh=a2a07515224f7f9024859ac387b138ca&oe=5DF6CB25)
A 1 minute driving montage is here: https://twitter.com/Cramx3/status/1178376702491287556 (https://twitter.com/Cramx3/status/1178376702491287556)
And my full 25 minute video of exploring the park with my dumb ass commentary is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrMYu0Dt7HU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrMYu0Dt7HU)
-
Got back last night from 10 nights at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim with my family. My company had a seminar at the hotel so we got half off the hotel room (which the super awesome front desk person upgraded to a bigger room with a better view for us since we stayed for so long). We had a bunch of credit card points from the credit card churning we've been doing over the six months or so. Plus my company picked up a bunch of my expenses. I had to attend the seminar for two days and give a 45 minute presentation, so it wasn't all fun I guess. Face value would have been more than $10,000, but we'll end up paying about $3,000 out of pocket. Not too shabby. Spent 5 days total in the two parks and had a blast. I enjoy Disney parks/resorts far more than a nearly 40 year old man really should.
-
That's awesome, was going to say as reading damn 10 days at disney is super expensive but having work pay for lots of it is clutch. Work travel paid for a lot of my september vacation.
-
Disney is great!! And expensive..
The Disneyland Hotel is really nice. When we were there this summer, we could see Star Wars Land from our window. It was cool to watch the fireworks over it at night.
In 2015, we stayed at the Grand Californian. That's an awesome hotel as well. We stayed in the vacation club villas, and could see the giant Mickey ferris wheel from out balcony. Watched the night time show from there as well.
-
We had a pool view, so not spectacular, but better than the parking lot view we would have had.
We sat through the Disney Vacation Club deal to get a $100 gift card and some extra special fast passes we can use on any ride at any time, and I gotta say... if we lived within a day's drive if Orlando or Anaheim, we would be seriously considering joining.
-
LOL...I live less than half an hour from Disneyland and avoid it like the plague.
-
I live like 10 minutes away from Disneyland. I too want to avoid it like the plague when driving around that area. I wouldn't mind spending the day at the Anaheim Gardenwalk though if there's a show at the House of Blues I like to see. Has all kinds of shops, restaurants, a bowling alley, an escape room, etc.
-
We had a pool view, so not spectacular, but better than the parking lot view we would have had.
We sat through the Disney Vacation Club deal to get a $100 gift card and some extra special fast passes we can use on any ride at any time, and I gotta say... if we lived within a day's drive if Orlando or Anaheim, we would be seriously considering joining.
We bought two 150 point memberships 20 years ago. Bought them through a resale, so it was a lot cheaper. We went a ton of times to Disney World when my kids were growing up. But while we haven't been going all that much lately, they partner with RCI timeshares, and we've booked out accommodations in California (SF & SD) the last two summers through them. This past year, we literally had the best accommodations we have ever had in our life, just north of San Diego.
-
We had a pool view, so not spectacular, but better than the parking lot view we would have had.
We sat through the Disney Vacation Club deal to get a $100 gift card and some extra special fast passes we can use on any ride at any time, and I gotta say... if we lived within a day's drive if Orlando or Anaheim, we would be seriously considering joining.
We bought two 150 point memberships 20 years ago. Bought them through a resale, so it was a lot cheaper. We went a ton of times to Disney World when my kids were growing up. But while we haven't been going all that much lately, they partner with RCI timeshares, and we've booked out accommodations in California (SF & SD) the last two summers through them. This past year, we literally had the best accommodations we have ever had in our life, just north of San Diego.
20 years ago they were probably reasonable. 150 points today would cost nearly $30k plus $1500 a year in maintenance fees. I found some DVC point rental sites where you can rent other DVC members unused points for about $17 a point. Much cheaper than booking directly through Disney, but without the long term commitment. I will consider using that the next time we go. As much fun as I've had going to Disney World last year and Disneyland this year, I don't think I want to commit to 30ish years of annual Disney vacations. The RCI exchange thing makes it more appealing, but not enough to make me buy in. Tempting though.
-
I almost feel like going to Disney so often takes away from the "magic" of it. I went last year and told myself that even though I had a ton of fun, I don't want to return for another 10 years so that it all feels fresh like it did last time. Now I understand there's more to Disney than just the theme parks, but in terms of making a vacation out of it, I do kind of feel like I don't want to return anytime soon.
-
I almost feel like going to Disney so often takes away from the "magic" of it. I went last year and told myself that even though I had a ton of fun, I don't want to return for another 10 years so that it all feels fresh like it did last time. Now I understand there's more to Disney than just the theme parks, but in terms of making a vacation out of it, I do kind of feel like I don't want to return anytime soon.
10 years seems like a but much, but I could see waiting a few year in between visits so that it feels more fresh each time. Give them enough time to add a couple new rides and refurbish some as well in between visits. We really want to the Disney World again since we didn't get a ton of time there last year, but realistically with the cost it will be 2+ years unless my company does their seminar there again at some point. Hard to pass up half price hotel and my company picking up a large part of the cost.
-
Also different if you have kids and as they age they can experience different things, but for a single male, things don't change quite enough every few years to make the price worth it, but yea, if you get discounts and whatnot, why not? It is an awesome place and I had a blast every single time I went.
-
We bought in before we had kids, but my stepson was 7 or 8, and we were planning on having kids. Yes, it does commit you to going to Disney, and it is not cheap. We found value in it, as the kids were growing up, we were going 3 to 4 times a year. But that was our vacations.
For about 10 years, we bought Annual Passes to the parks.
-
Well my work trip to Denver was a disaster, actually ended up getting everything we had scheduled completed by working all weekend, but I left a lot of work on the table there and therefore it's looking likely I'll be back in Denver soon (maybe next week or the week after). Then I have to go to LA in November to cover for my coworker who will be on vacation. I also still have 9 days of vacation I have to use this year. I may actually get Gold status with United if this all happens.
-
Seems like I'll be booking these real soon for work:
October 20-25th in Denver
November 4-8 in LA
and went over my vacation time this morning... 8 days I NEED to use, also we have winter break of PTO not part of our vacation time from December 21st-January 1st. So I should have a good amount of time off to end the year and I'd be lying if I didn't have Aruba on my mind still. My wallet is kind of hurting though after my month off. I think the amount of miles I'll need to get Gold status will determine where I go for any personal travel. Aruba is a good miles trip though...
Anyway, I have nothing booked yet but my current plan is for a weekend road trip to Washington DC this weekend for back to back nights of Incubus and some site seeing. But as I mentioned, my wallet has been hurting and its a big reason why I am passing on seeing DT this Friday night and a DC trip is looking expensive right now. I'm very positive for going Sunday since I took Monday off from work (not included in my 8 days I need to take off) but I may back out on going Saturday if prices don't go down a bit for a room.
-
Jesus Christ. I wish I had more than 5 days of vacation + 6 holidays off a year :(
-
I hit 6 years in March and get 3 more vacation days, I actually just found that out this morning as I was looking at PTO schedules and information which is a nice motivation to stick around longer.
That would put me at 20 vacation days a year, plus we got 4 summer fridays off (this perk is on the table for being removed though), the Friday after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas and New Years. This job is definitely good on PTO, but they work us like mules which is why. I suffered from some pretty bad burn out earlier this year and am kind of worried about getting it again before the end of the year. There's just so much work and not enough of us.
-
All booked for Washington DC (all weekend, got a great deal today), one week of work in Denver, and one week of work in LA. Lots of travel spending on my credit card the last two days. I started pricing out a December trip back to Aruba and it's 100% doable. I kind of wish I could rollover more vacation days and go to 3/11 day in Vegas or to one of the Metallica festivals next year, but since I can't and counting my United miles earned from work, I'll be 2,500 miles short of getting gold status so I'm 110% sure I am going to fly somewhere to get those miles and use my vacation time I need to. Aruba is high on my list to return to and very much within my budget.
-
All booked for Washington DC (all weekend, got a great deal today), one week of work in Denver, and one week of work in LA. Lots of travel spending on my credit card the last two days. I started pricing out a December trip back to Aruba and it's 100% doable. I kind of wish I could rollover more vacation days and go to 3/11 day in Vegas or to one of the Metallica festivals next year, but since I can't and counting my United miles earned from work, I'll be 2,500 miles short of getting gold status so I'm 110% sure I am going to fly somewhere to get those miles and use my vacation time I need to. Aruba is high on my list to return to and very much within my budget.
I really dug DC. No matter how long you spend there's always more to do and see, and I love that all of the stuff is essentially free. That's one of the few places in this country I'd like to spend an extended period of time. Probably the best light rail I've seen in the US with some pretty cool stations. If you plan on seeing how those lying, cheating, douchebag, pieces of degenerate filth congress actually works, email your representative and see if they'll mail you a gallery pass before you go. It'll save you some time when you get there.
-
Thanks for the suggestion, I literally just found this free event at Georgetown that I think I'm going to check out (I had just shared this in the Punk thread too)
Upcoming Events
Celebrate 5 years of the DC Punk Archive!
5th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, October 12, 2:30 p.m. at Georgetown Library.
Open House 2:30-4 p.m.
Selected materials from the DC Punk Archive collections will be on display in the Peabody Room, the punk archive's temporary home during the renovation of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. Read zines, view rare concert footage, and learn about how the collections have been used by researchers over the years.
Outdoor Celebration 2:30-5 p.m.
Exhibition of photographs by Antonia Tricarico, author of Frame of Mind: Punk Photos and Essays 1997-2017
DIY merch: Make a button and stencil your own posters and t-shirts! Paper will be provided, but you must bring your own t-shirt
Music by Les the DJ at 2:30 p.m. and CORIKY (Amy Farina - Ian MacKaye - Joe Lally) at 4 p.m.
So I think I'll do that tomorrow before the show, and Sunday afternoon I've got to find something to do.
-
I know it's like the most obvious statement ever, but vacation is so much better than regular life. We've been back for two weeks now from our big Disneyland vacation and all I want to do is plan our next vacation. I've felt like this after each of our four major vacations over the last couple years. I wasn't planning on taking a huge vacation next year, just smaller camping trips and maybe a short road trip, but I'm really feeling like I need to do something big again next year, maybe Disney World again. I love that we have so much fun on vacation, but also wish that I could find more joy in everyday life so that I wouldn't feel the need to escape so much.
-
Tell me about it
-
I know it's like the most obvious statement ever, but vacation is so much better than regular life
Yeah, no shit :biggrin: My two one-week vacations abroad are the absolute highlights of this year.
-
Yeah, combining it with a good dose of E-W jetlage makes it all the worse. After a wonderful 3 week vacation the reality of returning to real life and a good seven hour jetlagging left me pert-near suicidal. :lol
-
I know it's like the most obvious statement ever, but vacation is so much better than regular life. We've been back for two weeks now from our big Disneyland vacation and all I want to do is plan our next vacation. I've felt like this after each of our four major vacations over the last couple years. I wasn't planning on taking a huge vacation next year, just smaller camping trips and maybe a short road trip, but I'm really feeling like I need to do something big again next year, maybe Disney World again. I love that we have so much fun on vacation, but also wish that I could find more joy in everyday life so that I wouldn't feel the need to escape so much.
It's obvious, but I agree. After a vacation is successfully planned, you just can't help but want to focus on the next one. Right now, I'm already contemplating wanting to travel more Northwest (San Francisco, Seattle, and Spokane). Not much for sight-seeing, but to see Alter Bridge a few more times on their current tour when the time comes for them to announce their shows in the states in 2020. This time in the West Coast rather than the East Coast. Maybe this time I can actually commit to doing something that only can be done in those cities, but that depends on how the schedule would be laid out.
-
I'm actually on the initial stages of planning a west coast road trip for June. I'm planning to flight into Seattle but stay at Port Townsend. After that I want to make my way down to LA over 10 days or so.
Besides LA, the further west I've been in is Ohio and there is a lot of things I want to see in the west. I know 10 day trip is not enough, but it will cover the pacific-bound states in the main land. I also want to spend some time stargazing and doing astrophotography.
-
I'm actually on the initial stages of planning a west coast road trip for June. I'm planning to flight into Seattle but stay at Port Townsend. After that I want to make my way down to LA over 10 days or so.
Besides LA, the further west I've been in is Ohio and there is a lot of things I want to see in the west. I know 10 day trip is not enough, but it will cover the pacific-bound states in the main land. I also want to spend some time stargazing and doing astrophotography.
Dark Skies are kind of hard to find out there. I'd suggest checking a lunar calendar and trying to be in the Northernmost part of Cali on the optimal night. Ideally some place with elevation.
Also, continue through LA onto San Diego. It's a very different sort of place and pretty cool in its own right.
-
The journey from Seattle to San Fran is beautiful, my favorite spot was the Redwoods National Park in northern Cali. Id totally go back there. Never did the drive down to LA, but I'm sure that's very scenic as well. 10 days is a good amount of time though, not enough to see everything (always got to save a little for "next time") but enough to stay consistently busy and put the time into the things you want to do the most.
-
The journey from Seattle to San Fran is beautiful, my favorite spot was the Redwoods National Park in northern Cali. Id totally go back there. Never did the drive down to LA, but I'm sure that's very scenic as well. 10 days is a good amount of time though, not enough to see everything (always got to save a little for "next time") but enough to stay consistently busy and put the time into the things you want to do the most.
The problem with the SF to LA drive is that the scenic route is so damned long, and the second half isn't very scenic at all. The first 4 hours or so are magnificent. The next five, not so much.
-
Oh it isn't? I guess I just assumed it was, my family went from San Fran to Carmel for a day trip and that was nice from what I recall and just heard other nice things about the drive. Next time I'm driving out in Cali though I want to be driving through Yosemite
-
Not sure whether this is just semantics or not, but I'll chime in anyway. I wouldn't just plan to "drive through" Yosemite. It is a LONG drive, and Yosemite Valley, which most people consider to be the heart of Yosemite, actually isn't that big. But there is a ton of stuff to see. My advice is to not just do a drive-through. Plan to do some long hikes, and see stuff on the eastern side, up out of the main valley. It is considerably less crowded and arguably more scenic than the "big ticket" attractions. And if your route happens to take you that way, it's actually nicer in a lot of ways to come in from the eastern side, descending the Sierras, rather than the more common western entrances.
-
Oh yea that comment was not meant to be literal, I haven't actually looked at "what to do" in Yosemite, but as with any National Park, you'll want to try and find things to do besides just the scenic drive. It's not on my list of things to do in the near future (hence why little to no research being done), but I do think my next cali vacation will want to include that park in some way.
-
Dark Skies are kind of hard to find out there. I'd suggest checking a lunar calendar and trying to be in the Northernmost part of Cali on the optimal night. Ideally some place with elevation.
It's nearly impossible to find "good" dark sky on the east coast. From NYC (where I am) it's a 5 hour drive to either Cherry Spring, PA or 4 hour drive to Adirondacks, NY, both of which offer OK-ish dark skies.
(https://i.imgur.com/gi98cbV.jpg)
and Yosemite is also on my list of places to visit on this trip.
-
I'd imagine Yosemite would give you a good glipmse of the stars?
I did have an amazing view and best I've seen personally of the stars when I was in Death Valley, made me feel very tiny looking up to that and also sad to know that it's always there just not possible to see from our own doing.
-
Oh it isn't? I guess I just assumed it was, my family went from San Fran to Carmel for a day trip and that was nice from what I recall and just heard other nice things about the drive. Next time I'm driving out in Cali though I want to be driving through Yosemite
SF to Carmel is a pleasant drive, particularly if you go through the forest. After Carmel is where it really turns good, though. The problem is that once you get around San Luis Obispo it starts to look like mile after mile of farmland, and there's no place to go except backward or forward for hours. It's also not a drive you want to do in one day, so you have to crash somewhere along the way in one of the less scenic parts. Things don't turn pretty again until around Malibu, by which point you're damn near in LA anyway. At least that's been my experience. I guess my advice would be to spend a day exploring Big Sur before heading back North and crashing in Carmel. Then just take the interstate on to LA.
Dark Skies are kind of hard to find out there. I'd suggest checking a lunar calendar and trying to be in the Northernmost part of Cali on the optimal night. Ideally some place with elevation.
It's nearly impossible to find "good" dark sky on the east coast. From NYC (where I am) it's a 5 hour drive to either Cherry Spring, PA or 4 hour drive to Adirondacks, NY, both of which offer OK-ish dark skies.
Yeah, I'm kind of a night sky enthusiast, myself. Those maps don't really work so well in practice. They're a good starting point, but it's all very hard to predict. Light pollution is certainly part of it, but haze and reflected sun/moonlight are both big factors, too. Plus, in my experience the gaps you find in those maps are still kind of polluted. Don't get me wrong, if you find some elevation in Nor-Cal you're likely to find a much better sky than you would out East. Absolutely worth it, but it will take a little effort, and the Gods might spoil your plan.
Oh, and unrelated tip. If you haven't been there before, the Pacific is fucking cold. It's not like the Atlantic. I've been there in early Summer before and seen people wearing heavy coats out on the piers. SF is famously chilly. LA is perfectly pleasant until you get to the beaches. Then you've got cold air blowing in.
-
I'd imagine Yosemite would give you a good glipmse of the stars?
I did have an amazing view and best I've seen personally of the stars when I was in Death Valley, made me feel very tiny looking up to that and also sad to know that it's always there just not possible to see from our own doing.
It's wonderful when you get to see an entire sky FULL of stars. We really miss a lot living in or around cities. Both nights I was in the Rockies last month I had pretty good skies. Lots of stars, but not quite dark enough to really see the Milky Way. It was there but it was pale and gray. I've seen it before when it was bright enough to show some color and it's an amazing thing to see. It's pretty hard to get to, though. We're talking very high and very remote.
When I was a kid my old man had some friends out on a farm in SE Texas. Nowadays it's probably pretty bright down there, but back in the 70s you'd get inky black sky with stars that would light up the ground. Really wonderful. Aside from the drive and the smell I loved going down there.
-
The journey from Seattle to San Fran is beautiful, my favorite spot was the Redwoods National Park in northern Cali. Id totally go back there. Never did the drive down to LA, but I'm sure that's very scenic as well. 10 days is a good amount of time though, not enough to see everything (always got to save a little for "next time") but enough to stay consistently busy and put the time into the things you want to do the most.
The problem with the SF to LA drive is that the scenic route is so damned long, and the second half isn't very scenic at all. The first 4 hours or so are magnificent. The next five, not so much.
Yup (although my perspective is on the drive north from LA). North of Morro Bay (just east of San Louis Obispo), you're literally right on the coast, and the drive through Big Sur from Monterey down to Morro Bay is awesome. South of Morrow bay down to Santa Barbara, there's only a small stretch when you're actually on the coast. Otherwise, you're in some relatively boring territory. The area around Santa Barbara is nice, and SB is a nice place for a lunch stop. Once you get to Ventura, you're in urban territory, although the drive on PCH through Malibu is pretty nice, but with some pretty heavy traffic depending on the day. The drive south to San Diego is relatively uninteresting (the San Onofre nuclear boobies being about the most interesting thing once you get south of Newport Beach).
Oh, and unrelated tip. If you haven't been there before, the Pacific is fucking cold. It's not like the Atlantic. I've been there in early Summer before and seen people wearing heavy coats out on the piers. SF is famously chilly. LA is perfectly pleasant until you get to the beaches. Then you've got cold air blowing in.
Wuss! I believe I've put feet in the Atlantic thrice. Once was in Florida, and it was warm. The other times were in/near Boston and in Bar Harbor, Maine. Those were hardly balmy.
As far as people in jackets (we don't wear "coats" in SocCal), most SoCal folks are pansies when it comes to being cold (folks dress like they're going on an Antarctic expedition when getting on a plane in the summer!). Between about May and October, the beaches are rarely cold (except after dark), and you'll see way more folks in shorts, tank tops and flip flops as in jackets. The water won't get much above 70, but the last thing most folks want when it's 90 degrees out is 85 degree water. San Francisco, however....
-
I froze my nuts off on a beach in Ventura, and saw plenty of people dressed for a polar expedition. That would have been late June. And I've been to LA and SD beaches when it's 75 in the sun come midday. And I'm not suggesting that it's the Scott of the Antarctic territory. Just that if you go there looking for lots of people frolicking and sunning on the beaches you might be surprised by the reality.
-
True, LA has great weather and the beaches are fairly nice looking, but it's not really a beach vacation spot. Santa Monica pier is very nice to walk around and check out and there will be tons of people, but you won't be seeing a beach resort type of situation since it's just not hot enough. That would be a good spot to roller blade through (thinking about them from the hobbies thread).
-
nuclear boobies
I may have just stumbled upon the name for my new '80s hair metal cover band.
-
I'm with Bart. The pacific is cold. That wind whips off the water. We cruised in SF Bay last year, and it was like sailing in the Arctic.
-
The water is always cold. In terms of the weather, Spring and Fall are, by and large, the warmest times on the Northern California coast. Part of the reason is the fog, which intensifies in June and July and coincides with weird air currents that make things colder than you would think they would be. But that's just the coast. If you come inland just a little bit, the summers are anywhere from pretty hot to VERY hot. And on the coast, you WILL still get some hot summer days. But the coast is just known for those "June gloom" days during the summer where the sky is overcast and it feels like anything but summer.
-
Yeah, we were shocked at how cold it was there. And we were in San Diego in August and it was still hotter in Boston.
-
The water is always cold. In terms of the weather, Spring and Fall are, by and large, the warmest times on the Northern California coast. Part of the reason is the fog, which intensifies in June and July and coincides with weird air currents that make things colder than you would think they would be. But that's just the coast. If you come inland just a little bit, the summers are anywhere from pretty hot to VERY hot. And on the coast, you WILL still get some hot summer days. But the coast is just known for those "June gloom" days during the summer where the sky is overcast and it feels like anything but summer.
Keep in mind that this is just the Bay Area (which is the southernmost part of Northern California, but I don't know a darn thing about what it's like north of Marin). While we get "June gloom" down here too, it's usually very much gone by the end of the month. The last decade or so, the warmest months here have been August through October, although this year has been relatively mild (notwithstanding what all of the radio commercials for solar power would have you believe!). And yeah, going inland -- even a few miles -- can get you a fairly significant temperature jump.
Yeah, we were shocked at how cold it was there. And we were in San Diego in August and it was still hotter in Boston.
San Diego is famously consistent -- rarely does it go below 60 or too much above 80. And I'd say that, for nine months out of the year, the high is between 65-75.
-
Booked a New Years trip to Toronto. Going to try an catch a NHL and NBA game (Dec 28 and 29), maybe Trans-siberian Orchestra as well.
-
All right, I'm rolling to the Pacific Northwest and San Francisco to see Alter Bridge for three concerts in San Francisco, Seattle, and Spokane in late February. Haven't booked any flight or hotels yet. Trying to see if I can hit a certain price for me to spend on those bundles. Will be making my flights to leave in the morning so that I can have the afternoons and maybe an additional day to actually do something in those cities other than be there for the show. Don't know what, but I want to do something.
-
All right, following up on my trip planning. Looks like the only hotel rooms that looks affordable to me (like under $50 a night) near the venues the shows are at are in hostels. Has anyone stayed at a hostel before? What's it look in comparison to a regular hotel room? Are the people bunking generally friendly and will not cause problems?
Also, I may contemplate taking an overnight bus or train from San Francisco back to Anaheim, but I highly doubt if those actually exist and if it is a quality service or price.
-
Slow day at work...
so here my and my one coworkers hotel room cards the last four years (left being the oldest and the right being this year so far)
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EKUts8FX0AADds9?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)
Only one more trip to Denver for me in two weeks. But I'm starting to think about vacation ideas for next year. I kind of messed up by leaving all my vacation days to the end of this year and having nothing planned so now I'm burning them with random days off. I'd rather take some time earlier in the year to do something more interesting. 311 day in Vegas is super attractive but the pricing for that week is kind of ridiculous. I'm already thinking a road trip to Boston for Devin Townsend/Haken is going to happen as well. Definitely want to return to Aruba so that's a possibility too. And of course checking off another National Park would be cool too.
-
Have you been to glacier national park cram?
-
Have you been to glacier national park cram?
One of my favorite places on earth! I need to go back soon. It's been over 10 years since I was last there!
-
Nope, I'd love to
-
I'm going to try and make it out again this coming years, one of the best vacations I've ever taken.
-
Heading to Palm Springs Cali on Saturday.
-
Well, I think I've done well this Black Friday. I got my flight and hotel to San Francisco, Seattle, and Spokane. Set me back $715.00 for six nights in hotels (everything except Spokane are in hostels) and will be taking Alaska Airlines for all but one flight (that one will be Delta). Could have set me back $800.00 had I made the reservations last week. I made sure I save one day per city to do or see something that the city are well known for and that I may take a trip to Coeur D'Alene, Idaho and see that nice lake. As for being in San Francisco and Seattle, I'll think about what I want to do there the day before seeing Alter Bridge.
-
Heading to Palm Springs Cali on Saturday.
Lovely time of year to be there. It's pleasant out and the streets are nicely lit.
-
Heading to Palm Springs Cali on Saturday.
Lovely time of year to be there. It's pleasant out and the streets are nicely lit.
Its unseasonably cool here but compared to the freezing temperatures in Utah, Ill take it. I was able to get in a round of golf yesterday so its all good.
-
So I took a quick / short trip to Tokyo a couple weeks ago. I also spent one night in Kawaguchiko among the 4 days I spent in Japan. Kawaguchiko is a famous onsen town right at the foothills of Mount Fuji. Hope you enjoy this video as I visited a famous park / shrine where Mt. Fuji is in full view. :)
https://youtu.be/--55ETEmQJQ
For those who interested, I used some brand new gear for this video; as it was shot exclusively on a GoPro Hero 8. I also color graded it on DaVinci Resolve, but made a mistake by not editing on it. Rather I did the editing on the older PowerDirector, hence some video noise. :facepalm:
-
The link doesnt work :-\
And GoPro is up to 8 already? I thought they stopped at 6 lol. I have a GoPro 4 Silver that I never use anymore.
-
The link doesnt work :-\
And GoPro is up to 8 already? I thought they stopped at 6 lol. I have a GoPro 4 Silver that I never use anymore.
Strange... fixed it and it should work now. :hefdaddy
-
That looked very cool!
After my last business trip I have hit United Gold Status (50k miles) and retained my IHG Spire Elite status (61 nights at their hotels). They've made it harder and harder every year to keep that IHG status, and United is changing their miles program next year (unsure if it's better or worse for me), but I've been United silver for 4 years now, finally hit Gold with my biggest travel year ever. So far, nothing booked for 2020 though, but I can expect to be back in Denver for sure and likely Europe for work.
Been thinking about vacation time next year, I fucked up and didn't use any days until September and ended up having to burn the rest of my days in December instead of spreading them out and maybe doing a vacation earlier in the year. I've still got my eyes on going to Zion. We'll see though.
-
That looked very cool!
After my last business trip I have hit United Gold Status (50k miles) and retained my IHG Spire Elite status (61 nights at their hotels). They've made it harder and harder every year to keep that IHG status, and United is changing their miles program next year (unsure if it's better or worse for me), but I've been United silver for 4 years now, finally hit Gold with my biggest travel year ever. So far, nothing booked for 2020 though, but I can expect to be back in Denver for sure and likely Europe for work.
Been thinking about vacation time next year, I fucked up and didn't use any days until September and ended up having to burn the rest of my days in December instead of spreading them out and maybe doing a vacation earlier in the year. I've still got my eyes on going to Zion. We'll see though.
Looking to burn a bunch of miles, myself. Wanting to hit Europe next Spring and maybe catch a couple of shows. Man, they sure make it hard to use those miles, though. You try to fly to Europe for the advertised 57k miles (business class) and they will go out of their way to make sure it takes 32 hours and involves sleeping at some bumfuck airport. If you want a bearable flight that 57 jumps up to 180k or so. On top of that AA actually punts you off to British Airways, which will tack on $500 worth of fuel charges to any award flight. That's actually why I'm looking to get rid of them. Honestly, trying to use the damn things just pisses me off.
Best case scenario is seeing Rammstein in some Kraut soccer stadium. I think that's probably the pinnacle of traveling to see a show. Those tickets sold out instantly, though, and scalpers don't seem to be an option as the tickets are personalized now.
-
My united miles are sitting just under 200K, my plan is not to use them yet though. I'm saving those miles for when work stops paying to send me places and I stop accumulating them so I can burn them for personal travel and then leave my United loyalty and just start flying whatever is cheapest. As of now, I usually use my chase credit card points to pay for travel. I find those rewards WAY more valuable than miles.
At least with IHG points (I'm just under 600k) it's super easy to use and stay for free pretty much anywhere. I burn those all the time on free nights but with their multiplier programs, I can earn those points back very quickly for example I burned about 200k points staying at the Venetian in Vegas, got that all back within three months thanks to their end of year 4x multipliers.
-
My united miles are sitting just under 200K, my plan is not to use them yet though. I'm saving those miles for when work stops paying to send me places and I stop accumulating them so I can burn them for personal travel and then leave my United loyalty and just start flying whatever is cheapest. As of now, I usually use my chase credit card points to pay for travel. I find those rewards WAY more valuable than miles.
At least with IHG points (I'm just under 600k) it's super easy to use and stay for free pretty much anywhere. I burn those all the time on free nights but with their multiplier programs, I can earn those points back very quickly for example I burned about 200k points staying at the Venetian in Vegas, got that all back within three months thanks to their end of year 4x multipliers.
Yeah, I dumped my Aadvantage card a couple of years ago for the Chase card simply because it's so much more flexible. It covers all three alliances. And it's a damn shame, as AA hubs out of DFW so 9/10 it's the best, cheapest option. Their rewards just suck. I did pick up a new Aadvantage card earlier in the year, though, as the signup bonuses had gotten really good. I'll cancel it in the next month or two and start the clock on the next signup bonus. I suppose the clever thing to do would be to sign up for an airline specific card each year when cancelling the last. Three of them would be a steady rotation of 40-50k each year for essentially nothing.
For hotels I went with Choice, as it's one of Chase's travel partners. Plus, they have 10+ properties in any city you go to, and there's always one that's pretty good (most are pretty squalid). As a rule I'm partial to Marriott, but not so much as to pay a 66% premium. Plus, I almost never eat hotel breakfasts, which is where moving up from Choice makes the biggest difference.
-
My upcoming trips:
I'll be in NYC the last week of the year for work, but I'll be staying an extra day for the Islanders game against Vancouver on 2/1. I have a love/hate relationship with this particular work event. It's basically a convention and is fairly boring. I get CLE hours, so that's a big positive (along with the paid trip to NYC). I also have to fend off the myriad invites for dinners and cocktail hours with our outside counsel and consultants.
Finally making a spring training trip with my son at the end of February. I was told by someone who has done this many times that it's best to go toward the beginning of spring training before it gets TOO hot in the Phoenix area. We're only going out for an extended weekend. We're going to see the Dodgers at the Brewers on Friday afternoon, the Rockies at the Giants on Friday evening, and the Diamondbacks at the Dodgers on Saturday afternoon. I was more than a little surprised about the variation in ticket prices. The tickets for the Rockies v. Giants game were more than twice as expensive (for worse seats) than the tickets for the Dodgers v. Brewers game (the prices for third game were somewhere in the middle).
The big trip will be with my daughter's high school marching band, which will be playing in next year's day parade in Rome, Italy. I looked at the "sample" itinerary last week, and it looks awesome! We're going to get our passports renewed later this month (and I'll be writing checks all year long for this...oh boy!).
-
Bought semi-last minute plane tickets to Phoenix for myself and my family. $86 round trip. Can't really beat that. Now we have only 11 days to figure out what the heck we're going to do with ourselves there. Planning to go to Sedona and maybe the Grand Canyon for some of the trip, though it's not the best time of year for that. Any other suggestions?
-
Sedona is awesome, I wish I had planned more than an afternoon there during my drive from the Grand Canyon to phoenix.
-
Well, the trip up north along the West Coast is in about two weeks and as per usual, I have no clue I want to do. I have a day slotted in each city where I want to do something in San Francisco, Seattle, and Spokane. The only thing I am sure of is that I want to drive to Coeur D'Alene, ID when I'm in Spokane. Looks like a nice city to see. Don't know what to do in terms of activities that I can do only in those cities.
-
There's an awesome marijuana shop in Seattle I'd totally recommend, then you'd be fine the rest of the day :hat
I only spent one day in Seattle and we did the Space Needle which was cool. If you had more time and a rental car, I'd say go check out Mt. Rainier for a full day.
San Fran, not sure. THere's the tourist trap of Fisherman's Wharf which is nice if you've never been, get some chowder and watch the seals.
-
Bought semi-last minute plane tickets to Phoenix for myself and my family. $86 round trip. Can't really beat that. Now we have only 11 days to figure out what the heck we're going to do with ourselves there. Planning to go to Sedona and maybe the Grand Canyon for some of the trip, though it's not the best time of year for that. Any other suggestions?
Last time I did the Grand Canyon, we rented bikes at a place near the visitor center. It was the best way I have ever seen the Grand Canyon. We didn't have to wait for buses or wait in any lines to see things. Granted I couldn't walk right to dinner, it was so cool. Brakes were a bit shaky on those hills though. I think got up to 30mph per my husbands Garmin.
Are you coming during spring training? Going to a baseball game when its 75 with a nice breeze is amazing.
Hiking? Mountain biking? Pink Jeep tours? I think it depends on what you're into. Best stuff to enjoy right now is outdoors, as its in the 60s and 70s.
-
This week I booked a couple flights for personal travel:
Going to Jacksonville to visit my parents with my siblings over a long Easter weekend in Apri
Going to Atlanta for ProgPower in September :metal
and a few road trips scheduled:
Road trip to Philly in March for Devin Townsend
Road trip to Hershey in May for Volbeat/Gojira
Road trip to Philly in August for Motley Crue/Def Leppard
Road trip to Boston in September for Aerosmith
-
This week I booked a couple flights for personal travel:
Going to Jacksonville to visit my parents with my siblings over a long Easter weekend in Apri
Going to Atlanta for ProgPower in September :metal
and a few road trips scheduled:
Road trip to Philly in March for Devin Townsend
Road trip to Hershey in May for Volbeat/Gojira
Road trip to Philly in August for Motley Crue/Def Leppard
Road trip to Boston in September for Aerosmith
I thought about going to that show, but I just gonna wait for their August show with Deftones. You have a good list so far though :metal
-
I'm not into the Deftones at all plus that local show in NJ is at my most disliked venue. The Hershey show is a Saturday and I do enjoy Volbeat so it makes for a nice little weekend getaway. Haven't been to Hershey since I was a kid, might go to the park or do a the Hershey tour too, something to make the weekend more interesting.
-
Heading out to Boston for the rest of the week tomorrow. Looking forward to it, my wife has been working up there for the past two months so I'm looking forward to spending time with her and eating some good food.
-
Well, my week-long trip to San Francisco to LA to Seattle to Spokane to Coeur D'Alene starts tomorrow. I got nothing planned other than my Alter Bridge concerts and going to the nearby church for the weekly mass and Ash Wednesday, but I got a lot of great ideas thanks to you guys and another forum. Now I just need to research on bus fares and BART fares and stuff like that to get around.
-
Got back late last night from Sedona AZ and the Grand Canyon. Gorgeous place, weather was awesome. Fun little last minute trip for the family.
Planning a trip to New Orleans for the wife and me in early May. Dirt cheap flights from Minneapolis and I loved it there when I went 4 years ago. We'll see if it happens. Need to find someone to take the kids for a few days, which is the trick. God knows we need some time away. We've literally never traveled without them, only dropped them at Grandparent's and stayed at home by ourselves for a few days.
-
This is lovely. Taking the BART to a station near my hotel room. Only going to set me back $11 for the 30 min ride from the airport.
-
Heading off to an extended weekend in the Phoenix area for some spring training games.
Anyone done this before and have any tips? We'll be going to see the Dodgers at the Brewers Friday afternoon, the Rockies at the Giants Friday evening, and the D-Backs at the Dodgers on Saturday afternoon.
-
Heading off to an extended weekend in the Phoenix area for some spring training games.
Anyone done this before and have any tips? We'll be going to see the Dodgers at the Brewers Friday afternoon, the Rockies at the Giants Friday evening, and the D-Backs at the Dodgers on Saturday afternoon.
Don't forget sun screen and a hat! I love sitting out in the grass, rather than a seat. Plan for a ton of traffic. Spring training makes the traffic 4X worse.
-
Got back late last night from Sedona AZ and the Grand Canyon. Gorgeous place, weather was awesome. Fun little last minute trip for the family.
Awesome. We did Sedona back in '98 and the Grand Canyon a few years ago.
-
In Puerto Rico right now. Playa Flamenco was awesome as expected.
-
Heading off to an extended weekend in the Phoenix area for some spring training games.
Anyone done this before and have any tips? We'll be going to see the Dodgers at the Brewers Friday afternoon, the Rockies at the Giants Friday evening, and the D-Backs at the Dodgers on Saturday afternoon.
Don't forget sun screen and a hat! I love sitting out in the grass, rather than a seat. Plan for a ton of traffic. Spring training makes the traffic 4X worse.
Thanks! Got the sunscreen and bought seats. I'm definitely NOT a sit on the grass kind of guy.
-
Not really "I'm traveling somewhere" but Mrs. Cool Chris and 8 year old daughter are going to Dublin for a week in April to visit wife's sister who is working there for a couple weeks. I am staying home because 1) we didn't want to take our 2 year old and 2) I would rather stay home anyway.
-
That's cool. My wife and I want go to Ireland soon.
-
While I'm sure Dublin is a pretty town to visit, my ideal trip to Ireland would be all around the country. Rent a car and drive to all the iconic town and places - Galway, Cork, Rock of Cashel, Cliffs of Moher, maybe Skellig islands... there are nations whose capital is not representative of the whole country, or at least so breathtakingly beautiful that it makes up for not seeing anything else, and I believe Ireland is one of those cases. Same as Norway, I'm sure Oslo is kinda pretty, but you really have to see the fjords.
-
While I'm sure Dublin is a pretty town to visit, my ideal trip to Ireland would be all around the country. Rent a car and drive to all the iconic town and places - Galway, Cork, Rock of Cashel, Cliffs of Moher,
We did exactly this 3 years ago. I can post about it tomorrow night.
-
I was hoping to take my husband to London and Paris this summer, but I'm concerned about purchasing such expensive plane tickets with the Covid concerns going around the globe.
-
I was hoping to take my husband to London and Paris this summer, but I'm concerned about purchasing such expensive plane tickets with the Covid concerns going around the globe.
I'm in a similar situation, but I think Covid will either have moved on by then, or turned us all into zombies. Either way I'm not too worried. At the same time, those concerns might actually make travel more affordable. I wouldn't be surprised if a global downtick, which were certainly likely to see, creates a need for travel incentives. And best of all, Europe with a smaller number of American gawkers would be wonderful.
-
I was hoping to take my husband to London and Paris this summer, but I'm concerned about purchasing such expensive plane tickets with the Covid concerns going around the globe.
I'm in a similar situation, but I think Covid will either have moved on by then, or turned us all into zombies. Either way I'm not too worried. At the same time, those concerns might actually make travel more affordable. I wouldn't be surprised if a global downtick, which were certainly likely to see, creates a need for travel incentives. And best of all, Europe with a smaller number of American gawkers would be wonderful.
I checked flight prices a few days ago and didn't see a difference. However, several large corporations are now cancelling all international travel for employees. So I can see this making a big impact.
-
Yup, all international travel for my job is cancelled and all domestic flights need to be approved by C level people or is otherwise cancelled
-
We have a trip to Italy planned for this summer. :facepalm:
-
We have a trip to Italy planned for this summer. :facepalm:
We had a trip to South Korea planned for this summer. :lol Luckily we didn't buy any tickets yet as I'm fairly sure I'm not going there.
-
I think it's probably best for everyone to not plan any major travel over the next few months. We've got some camping trips planned for the summer which I'm not too concerned about, but I'm waiting to book the bigger road trip I was planning for the summer to see how things shake out. Though on the other hand, some touristy destinations may be less busy than normal.
-
Mrs. P and I have a Mediterranean cruise planned (and paid) for 26 days in May. Yesterday we got an email from Viking Cruise Lines that they have temporarily changed their cancellation policy to allow guests to cancel their trips within 24 hours of departure. The company will provide vouchers of equal value on any of their products that are good for 24 months from cancellation. Wow, what a company!
-
Mrs. P and I have a Mediterranean cruise planned (and paid) for 26 days in May. Yesterday we got an email from Viking Cruise Lines that they have temporarily changed their cancellation policy to allow guests to cancel their trips within 24 hours of departure. The company will provide vouchers of equal value on any of their products that are good for 24 months from cancellation. Wow, what a company!
I emailed Alitalia last Thursday and still haven't gotten a response.
-
Whenever Alitalia is in the local news, it's because of the problems it has and how (if / when / somehow) it could be saved from disappearing. I never even flew with Alitalia myself. Good luck getting answers.
-
I have a west coast trip plan for June, landing in Seattle and driving down to LA. A little worried about Seattle but will see how things play out, June is still 3 months away.
Also, I'm going to a conference in 2 weeks (in Baltimore), not too worry about it but will take precaution.
-
Anyone making any travel plans for the summer? I'd love to have a long weekend getaway with my wife toward the end of summer before our baby comes, but obviously I have no idea if it will be feasible given the state of things. I suppose I can always book something and cancel if necessary. Anyone else being optimistic and planning travel?
-
I was still being hopeful about my June Trip, but I will need to cancel or reschedule soon.
I also have plans for July 4th weekend. Not sure what will happen with that.
-
I do have a long weekend booked the first weekend of June just a couple hours from home in a cool little tiny home with my wife. I'm not terribly optimistic on that one, maybe I'll just reschedule that until August. I was planning to wait until May to make the call on that. I also have about 5 camping trips planned over the course of the summer and was planning on booking a couple more. I worry this is going to be a lost summer where we can't do much at all.
-
My flight to Jacksonville for a long Easter weekend was officially cancelled last weekend. They don't give a cash refund, just a travel credit which pisses me off but then again I guess the airlines have no money. I'm very hesitant to book anything right now, just too much uncertainty. I still have my Atlanta flight and PTO scheduled for early September and maybe that will be my first travel of the year.
-
I've had plans that I'm slowly cancelling as the dates get near. I just had to cancel my trip to Toronto May 1. I called American and shockingly they gave me a refund and the entire call took less than 10 minutes.
-
We were supposed to fly to Cozumel for 3 weeks of diving on April 25. We've rescheduled for Mid July and hoping for the best. If it doesn't happen then we probably won't have a vacation this year due to hurricane season and Cozumel weather in general.
-
We would have landed in Vegas today and spending my first night of my week long Utah trip in Zion park. Sigh :sad:
-
Last post in April? I'd swear I've read travelling discussions much later! probably it was something about Austria in the pictures thread...
Anyway, I'm going very close to Austria!!! it's holidays time for me, so for the next two weeks I phuck off :metal
First I'm gonna reach my beloved mountains nearby Austria, you wanna use Val Pusteria or Pustertal for images search, and then I'm gonna head down in north / east of Italy to the town of Grado, basically an island connected to the land by a long and narrow strip, which is nearby Trieste (again, google images is your friend).
So for the next two weeks mountains, nature, good and fresh air, a bit of sea and a great town await me! :metal
-
That sounds awesome, have a great time :metal
-
Just got back from a summer in Alaska. 'Twas the greatest. I've spent a decent bit of time in Paris, and would be happy to give some recs. I think I saw some posts about that.
-
Heading to Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario in about 2 hours. Backcountry camping for the next week. Canoeing, fishing, fire, relax. No phones, no humans. Just me and the girlfriend. (4L of vodka and some nice green coming along for the ride) :yarr
-
That sounds like a good time Spiritus. I hope the weather treats you well.
My wife and I just booked a week long stay at Sandal Grand St. Lucian resort. We've never done an all-inclusive before but prices are cheap so figured we'd give it a shot.
-
Aaaand I'm back! a little too much rain and clouds in the mountains for my taste but hey, that's what folk metal is there for, Wardruna didn't compose their music for sunny days ;D
At the sea I was more lucky, sunny days on an "island" in the middle of a lagoon (I mean, there's a bridge and it takes just several KMs to get there but technically it's an island) which was very nice to tour through a bike.
For your Google Images searches:
Val Pusteria (the valley I was staying) (it mainly shows lakes I see)
Grado, Italy (to not confuse with other stuff because "grado" in italian means "degree", as in 360 degrees, least you find circles or something :lol) - this is the town in the lagoon facing the Adriatic sea
Trieste (historical port on the Adriatic with mittleuropean influences, one of the most wonderful squares of Italy)
Caorle (saw on my way back, a little colored Venice not far from the actual Venice)
-
Sounds like a fantastic trip (minus the rain)
I've got a ton of vacation to burn still this year. I'm thinking of doing a road trip to Maine. Maybe do a loop type of drive along the eastern border up to Acadia National Park and then a drive down more western through Vermont and into Scranton PA to hit up a drive in concert on my way back. Just toying with this idea now, but there's not a whole lot else to do these days since I'm not really looking to fly. If anyone's got any tips or advice let me know
-
I just spent a couple of days at the Cape. It felt great to get out of my house for a few days and do absolutely nothing of value.
-
I'm going on a 1157 mile road trip the week of Thanksgiving :hat
-
I'm going on a 1157 mile road trip the week of Thanksgiving :hat
Enjoy.
Some stats from my road trip a couple weeks ago:
1372.7 miles driven, with 38.1mpg average while listening to 27 different albums (and occasionally just shuffling my library)
I also finished my video of "One Day in Acadia National Park" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkCsC9NI91c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkCsC9NI91c)
The top of the highest mountain along the US eastern seaboard: :rollin no view, thanks weather!
(https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/121039223_10123817604761024_6700234621374217580_o.jpg?_nc_cat=106&_nc_sid=0debeb&_nc_ohc=3_A5YQ6pLGQAX80sAVF&_nc_oc=AQk1U0Wj8_4wg9xgTJeT2ObxJp4GG_zNwm3luHJ496iEWUzakczITtMOT5VmtEHHMm8&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=07c81a5f862955f8dd7b12b12dd6eace&oe=5FAB8808)
-
The wife and I will be driving from Boston, MA to Atlanta, GA the week of Thanksgiving. My son and grandkids live down there so we're doing it via car because I ain't going near any airports until this whole covid-19 bullshit is over.
-
Has anyone done an all-inclusive resort before? What was your experience? My wife and I booked a trip to Sandals in Jamaica a week before Christmas and I'm curious what the experience will be like. I get the impression that's it's like a cruise ship, except on the beach.
-
Has anyone done an all-inclusive resort before? What was your experience? My wife and I booked a trip to Sandals in Jamaica a week before Christmas and I'm curious what the experience will be like. I get the impression that's it's like a cruise ship, except on the beach.
Probably a fair comparison. We did a Couples resort in Jamaica, so probably very similar to what you'll experience. There is an event coordinator like on a cruise ship, so you can find things to do. We took a tennis lesson. Or go on excursions, just like a cruise ship. We went to the James Bond/White Bikini hike which was pretty fun. Make sure you bring water shoes. At Couples there is "naked island" which we didn't partake in. The people on the boat going to naked island were all double our age lol Then there are a handful of "restaurants" to choose from on the property. Then of course there is a gym, pools, and obviously the beach.
-
I've never done a cruise ship, but have been to plenty All-Inclusive resorts around the Caribbean.
I personally like them for the convenience of having everything you need in one place, and not have to worry about cash. I have yet to stay at a Sandals resort, but the other places I've went to, the buffet food is descent, plenty of options for everyone. The A La carte restaurants are better, but you will need to do reservation ahead of time (Usually the morning of or the day before). The drinks (If you do drink) are great if they are included. They might try to give you watered down drinks but you can always ask for more.
Make sure to look into activities and what's included. A lot of times you get Snorkeling, Kayak, and some other water activities included. There might be a few that are not included and you need to pay extra (parasailing, Jet skiing, etc). There are usually entertainment at night as well, like live concerts and what not.
The one thing for me, is that after day 4-5 I start to get bored, so I usually try to do it for 3-4 nights max.
Edit: Depending where you will be in Jamaica, the water could be very active, so I recommend snorkeling.
-
We are doing a Sandals in Jamaica for 5 days. I'm looking forward to some water activities, I grew up and spent most of my life in florida paddle boarding, snorkeling, etc.
We actually have some neighbors that go to a clothing option all-inclusive, I can't remember the name but they are older and they always seem to have a great time :lol
-
We took our go pro with the waterproof case and took some fun video with fish. They love to hang out by your feet for the stuff you kick up.
-
I don't think Sandals falls into this catagory but if you do a cheaper all inclusive the food and drinks most likely suck from my experience, but a nice one and you'll be happy. Either way, the convenience is super nice especially on an island like Jamaica where you may not want to be out exploring the local area for food.
... I seriously need to start considering a vacation for myself. I keep saying I want to go back to Aruba
-
I've never been to Aruba but the few people that I know rave about it. Wasn't a wedding the last time you went?
-
I'm not ready to get on a plane yet, but I am driving to Cape Cod next week. Will be there for a few days.
Lucky for me, MA is lifting Covid restrictions on the day I get there.
-
I'm not ready to get on a plane yet, but I am driving to Cape Cod next week. Will be there for a few days.
Lucky for me, MA is lifting Covid restrictions on the day I get there.
Where are you staying in the Cape? I'm a big fan of the South Yarmouth area myself.
-
I'm not ready to get on a plane yet, but I am driving to Cape Cod next week. Will be there for a few days.
Lucky for me, MA is lifting Covid restrictions on the day I get there.
Where are you staying in the Cape? I'm a big fan of the South Yarmouth area myself.
I'll be staying in Falmouth, but planning to explore different areas there.
-
I've never been to Aruba but the few people that I know rave about it. Wasn't a wedding the last time you went?
I went for my own leisure fall of 2019 and absolutely loved it. It's been my favorite of the islands in the Caribbean so far.
-
I'm not ready to get on a plane yet, but I am driving to Cape Cod next week. Will be there for a few days.
Lucky for me, MA is lifting Covid restrictions on the day I get there.
V, I just saw this. Are you still down the Cape? Where are you coming from?
And after Covid wiped out our trip to Italy last year, the Annual Summer Family TACation is officially on for 2021.
Just booked our trip to Arizona!!
-
I'm not ready to get on a plane yet, but I am driving to Cape Cod next week. Will be there for a few days.
Lucky for me, MA is lifting Covid restrictions on the day I get there.
V, I just saw this. Are you still down the Cape? Where are you coming from?
And I just saw this :lol I was there until June 3rd. Drove there from NYC. Explored some areas nearby, had some really good food in the immediate area.
I'm going to Philadelphia this Sunday for work training. I'll be there for the entire week. I don't know the city all that much. I spent a night there a few years ago for a DT concert, so any food recommendations is much appreciated :smiley:
-
I'm not ready to get on a plane yet, but I am driving to Cape Cod next week. Will be there for a few days.
Lucky for me, MA is lifting Covid restrictions on the day I get there.
V, I just saw this. Are you still down the Cape? Where are you coming from?
And I just saw this :lol I was there until June 3rd. Drove there from NYC. Explored some areas nearby, had some really good food in the immediate area.
OK. :lol
Yeah if you drove from NYC you probably went 95 and picked up 195 in Providence. You likely drove through my hometown on 195 very close to the Cape.
Where I live now, I'm like 30 miles to the bridge.
-
I've got my first business trip in like 20 months next week when I go to LA for 9 days. I've got slight travel anxiety thinking about it, not so much from covid but just from not traveling for so long.
-
On a houseboat for 5 days on Lake Powell. First time in 3 days I've had cell service. Hope all is well here and in the world. Is that Covid thing still going around?
-
My two weeks of holidays are starting! :metal
First the mountains, my beloved Dolomites, and then the sea in a Venice-like quaint and colored town. Wanna stalk me? google images for Moena, Siusi and Caorle!
See you in a couple of weeks folks, I'll be. back alongside Maiden's new album :metal
-
Anybody got any experience with ONT? It's either that, LAX, or paying out the ass for other SoCal options. I figure it can't really be any more obnoxious than LAX, and may actually be pleasant, for a change. Drive time isn't really a huge concern, as I'll be going and coming from pretty far away regardless. Unfortunately, flights into SNA are hugely expensive, for some reason, as that would be my first choice.
-
Anybody got any experience with ONT? It's either that, LAX, or paying out the ass for other SoCal options. I figure it can't really be any more obnoxious than LAX, and may actually be pleasant, for a change. Drive time isn't really a huge concern, as I'll be going and coming from pretty far away regardless. Unfortunately, flights into SNA are hugely expensive, for some reason, as that would be my first choice.
I've never flown out of ONT and only flew into it once, and that was more than 20 years ago. You can look on the map and see where it is in relationship to the other Socal airports. If that's not an issue for you, then I can think of no good reason not to use it. It's just not geographically convenient for me (it's about twice as far as LAX and about thrice as far as SNA).
-
Anybody got any experience with ONT? It's either that, LAX, or paying out the ass for other SoCal options. I figure it can't really be any more obnoxious than LAX, and may actually be pleasant, for a change. Drive time isn't really a huge concern, as I'll be going and coming from pretty far away regardless. Unfortunately, flights into SNA are hugely expensive, for some reason, as that would be my first choice.
I've never flown out of ONT and only flew into it once, and that was more than 20 years ago. You can look on the map and see where it is in relationship to the other Socal airports. If that's not an issue for you, then I can think of no good reason not to use it. It's just not geographically convenient for me (it's about twice as far as LAX and about thrice as far as SNA).
Yeah, location isn't really an issue. For me it's more an issue of how hard it is to get in and out, and rental cars, and so forth. Rental cars add easily 45 minutes to each leg at LAX. BUR is probably even more annoying.
-
Anybody got any experience with ONT? It's either that, LAX, or paying out the ass for other SoCal options. I figure it can't really be any more obnoxious than LAX, and may actually be pleasant, for a change. Drive time isn't really a huge concern, as I'll be going and coming from pretty far away regardless. Unfortunately, flights into SNA are hugely expensive, for some reason, as that would be my first choice.
I've never flown out of ONT and only flew into it once, and that was more than 20 years ago. You can look on the map and see where it is in relationship to the other Socal airports. If that's not an issue for you, then I can think of no good reason not to use it. It's just not geographically convenient for me (it's about twice as far as LAX and about thrice as far as SNA).
Yeah, location isn't really an issue. For me it's more an issue of how hard it is to get in and out, and rental cars, and so forth. Rental cars add easily 45 minutes to each leg at LAX. BUR is probably even more annoying.
For the rentals, do you sign up for the fast pass or whatever it is called for the rental company? I have hertz gold and I was out of LAX1 very quickly a couple weeks ago and historically that's always the case from my experience (with Hertz or Budget). I signed up for Avis' version of this but ended up using Hertz.
-
Anybody got any experience with ONT? It's either that, LAX, or paying out the ass for other SoCal options. I figure it can't really be any more obnoxious than LAX, and may actually be pleasant, for a change. Drive time isn't really a huge concern, as I'll be going and coming from pretty far away regardless. Unfortunately, flights into SNA are hugely expensive, for some reason, as that would be my first choice.
I've never flown out of ONT and only flew into it once, and that was more than 20 years ago. You can look on the map and see where it is in relationship to the other Socal airports. If that's not an issue for you, then I can think of no good reason not to use it. It's just not geographically convenient for me (it's about twice as far as LAX and about thrice as far as SNA).
Yeah, location isn't really an issue. For me it's more an issue of how hard it is to get in and out, and rental cars, and so forth. Rental cars add easily 45 minutes to each leg at LAX. BUR is probably even more annoying.
For the rentals, do you sign up for the fast pass or whatever it is called for the rental company? I have hertz gold and I was out of LAX1 very quickly a couple weeks ago and historically that's always the case from my experience (with Hertz or Budget). I signed up for Avis' version of this but ended up using Hertz.
The one time I flew into LAX, I used Avis and from the point I left the airport to the point I got the car it was about 20 minutes (including the shuttle to the rental office). Returning with Avis took less than 5 minutes.
-
I see they've moved all of the rental agencies quite a bit closer from the last time I was there. That will certainly help. They're also no longer tucked away on tiny side streets. That'll help more. Still, aside from the departure I've just always found LAX annoying (save for the white zone, red zone couple--they crack me up).
-
it looked like a few of the rental companies were all in the same lot. Hertz and 2 others (maybe avis and budget) but it didn't seem any further or closer than before. Maybe it was and I didn't realize. I took more time figuring out which car I wanted from the lot than actually getting out.
-
All right, as some may know, I'm heading to San Francisco the week before Christmas to see Metallica's 40th anniversary shows. Given that it's during the holiday season, should I go ahead and buy the tickets for flight/hotel now, wait until Black Friday, or when should I buy it at a price most reasonable?
-
All right, as some may know, I'm heading to San Francisco the week before Christmas to see Metallica's 40th anniversary shows. Given that it's during the holiday season, should I go ahead and buy the tickets for flight/hotel now, wait until Black Friday, or when should I buy it at a price most reasonable?
I'd check deals on Black Friday. That might be at the ideal time pricing wise, as well. Still, given the current circumstances, I'm highly inclined to wait until the last possible moment. Too much can change between now and Christmas.
Airfare is what you need to book a few weeks in advance. Hotels you can wait until pretty close to the date. Rental cars are really subject to availability. Just keep an eye on who's got what and for how much. Like hotels, they price generally doesn't go up as you get closer to the date, though it occasionally goes down. You just don't want them to sell out.
For what it's worth, I booked hotels the day before I left for SoCal last week. Car was a few days before that. Also, depending on where you're flying from, airfare may well be a disposable purchase. I paid $107 R/T from DFW to LAX on AA. If the show had been canceled it wouldn't have killed me to eat that.
I've purchased airfare and hotels on Black Friday in the past. Given the climate right now I doubt you'll get much cheaper airfare. Base fares are just so cheap right now as it is. As for hotels, what you'll typically find on BF-CM are better quality hotels steeply discounted. If your MO is to crash in a Ramada on the side of the highway BF won't make much difference. If you want to stay someplace posh, then BF is often times a great score. That's where you'll find 4* hotels discounted down to 2* prices.
-
I like to use apps like Hopper to see price ranges and shifts in flights and such. I haven't used it in over 2 years, but you could set up an alert for certain travel dates to watch for price drops. Pretty awesome.
-
I used to ski alot when I was a kid with my family and I absolutely loved it. I often think it would be so much fun going on a ski trip but non of my friends are skiing or have done it. Someday though and while I probably go on a resort I can't help of dreaming of doing something like this:
The FIFTY - Ep. 27 - Mt. Moran, WY - The Best Line Yet?!?! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgM2YLFtKKY&ab_channel=CodyTownsend)
Those shots of when they climb the mountain with the view in background is just breathtaking and the skiing down looks like soo much fun although the journey to the summit is no joke.
-
I'll be heading to Nashville in a couple weeks for a work conference.
Any suggestions for good BBQ places (or otherwise)? I'll be in the downtown/arts district area of the city.
-
I'll be heading to Nashville in a couple weeks for a work conference.
Any suggestions for good BBQ places (or otherwise)? I'll be in the downtown/arts district area of the city.
Papa Turney's, out on a marina at Lake Shores. Dude that owns it is a super nice guy, and he smokes a damn fine brisket (even if he does chop it all up).
That's assuming you've got car, of course.
https://www.yelp.com/biz/papa-turneys-hermitage-3
-
So we had a trip booked to Texas this morning. I'm against booking anything in the winter, but it's my son's freshman year of college, and my wife wanted to do something this year.
We are Disney Vacation Club members, so we use our points to go elsewhere now, and we found a nice place between Austin and San Antonio. Had tix to the Spurs game Wednesday night too.
So the one day we book a flight out of Boston is the one fucking day of snow. We were notified yesterday at 3:30 that our flight was cancelled and they put us on a flight Sunday morning. OK, not ideal, but whatever. We were still going to go. My wife called the resort last night and said that we'd be coming in two days late. The guy told her they couldn't hold the room and we'd forfeit the points. WTF?? He gave us a number to call (not Disney, but the time share company). DVC partners with a company called RCI.
Well, if we won't have our accommodations, fuck it, we'll cancel. I called Jetblue, and they couldn't have been nicer. They refunded our flights, no penalty, no problem.
We called DVC this morning to get our points back. This ended up being a three hour call, mostly on hold throughout. DVC said there was nothing they could do, that's the cancellation policy within 7 days. They called the resort and the resort told them that they'd save our room. That was completely the opposite of what we were told last night. Seems they wanted to try and resell it and tell us we were screwed. But when Disney calls them on it they change their tune.
Anyway, DVC still says we're SOL. We went fucking crazy. That was unacceptable. The lady said she'd call back the resort and see if they'd give us back half of the points. We said anything less than a full refund was completely unacceptable. She puts us back on hold. After an hour and twenty minutes, she comes back and says RCI will refund our points in total.
-
So we had a trip booked to Texas this morning. I'm against booking anything in the winter, but it's my son's freshman year of college, and my wife wanted to do something this year.
We are Disney Vacation Club members, so we use our points to go elsewhere now, and we found a nice place between Austin and San Antonio. Had tix to the Spurs game Wednesday night too.
So the one day we book a flight out of Boston is the one fucking day of snow. We were notified yesterday at 3:30 that our flight was cancelled and they put us on a flight Sunday morning. OK, not ideal, but whatever. We were still going to go. My wife called the resort last night and said that we'd be coming in two days late. The guy told her they couldn't hold the room and we'd forfeit the points. WTF?? He gave us a number to call (not Disney, but the time share company). DVC partners with a company called RCI.
Well, if we won't have our accommodations, fuck it, we'll cancel. I called Jetblue, and they couldn't have been nicer. They refunded our flights, no penalty, no problem.
We called DVC this morning to get our points back. This ended up being a three hour call, mostly on hold throughout. DVC said there was nothing they could do, that's the cancellation policy within 7 days. They called the resort and the resort told them that they'd save our room. That was completely the opposite of what we were told last night. Seems they wanted to try and resell it and tell us we were screwed. But when Disney calls them on it they change their tune.
Anyway, DVC still says we're SOL. We went fucking crazy. That was unacceptable. The lady said she'd call back the resort and see if they'd give us back half of the points. We said anything less than a full refund was completely unacceptable. She puts us back on hold. After an hour and twenty minutes, she comes back and says RCI will refund our points in total.
Sorry to see that. That sucks.
Out of curiosity, couldn't you have just eaten the first two days of the reservation? It was paid for, so they wouldn't have needed to hold it vacant. All they'd have to do is not cancel the reservation.
-
Yes Bart, we were willing to lose the two days worth of points, but the guy at the resort told my wife that because we were coming in two days late, they wouldn't be able to hold it for us and we'd be SOL. Yes, that sounds fucked, but that's what the guy told us. He even gave us another number to see if someone else could help us.
It was just funny when DVC called them, they changed their tune. Fucking smarmy.
So at that point, there was no point taking the Sunday flight if they weren't going to hold our room. So I cancelled Jetblue last night.
At the end of the day, we were made whole, so that's fine. Just going to lose money on the B-ball tix, but I put them back up for Ticketmaster resale for try and recoup some money, which wasn't a lot to begin with. Seems we can buy four upper arena seats in San Antonio for HALF the price of ONE ticket in Boston. :lol
My wife was talking to her sister today, and we may reschedule our Texas trip to coincide with the Sox down there in May, so for that trip, we might be up your way.
-
I hate companies like that that think they can fuck you but when the pressure is put on, change their tune. Proves they are being dicks for no reason.
That sucks though mate.
-
Going against the proper form of the title, I'm not traveling, I already did travel.... took the chance in the early days of the year to visit my own capital, Rome, for the fourth time (or fifth? I truly don't remember).
Rome is kinda a mess to live in, but seen as a tourist for several days, it's drop dead gorgeous. Had lot of luck with the weather and I even saw the Pope, Francis got the "honor" of being the first head of state, and the first pope obviously, I have seen in person, even if from afar :D
-
Yes Bart, we were willing to lose the two days worth of points, but the guy at the resort told my wife that because we were coming in two days late, they wouldn't be able to hold it for us and we'd be SOL. Yes, that sounds fucked, but that's what the guy told us. He even gave us another number to see if someone else could help us.
It was just funny when DVC called them, they changed their tune. Fucking smarmy.
So at that point, there was no point taking the Sunday flight if they weren't going to hold our room. So I cancelled Jetblue last night.
At the end of the day, we were made whole, so that's fine. Just going to lose money on the B-ball tix, but I put them back up for Ticketmaster resale for try and recoup some money, which wasn't a lot to begin with. Seems we can buy four upper arena seats in San Antonio for HALF the price of ONE ticket in Boston. :lol
My wife was talking to her sister today, and we may reschedule our Texas trip to coincide with the Sox down there in May, so for that trip, we might be up your way.
We have Wyndham, which we like a lot, but have RCI as the "bank" for points we don't use in the calendar year. My wife brought that to the marriage, so I've been going through Wyndham for going on eight years or so, and I don't think I've used RCI ONCE. Every time I try to use them, the resorts are full, or there's some bullshit to go through (they have a property on Block Island I would LOVE to go to, and in eight years haven't been able to find one fucking week - or even a partial week - to book. A-holes (RCI).
Sorry your trip was screwed up. I know I use Wyndham to stay in New York frequently, and the place is a two night minimum, and they're pretty good at letting me come and go within that two days, even if I only stay one night.
-
Going against the proper form of the title, I'm not traveling, I already did travel.... took the chance in the early days of the year to visit my own capital, Rome, for the fourth time (or fifth? I truly don't remember).
Rome is kinda a mess to live in, but seen as a tourist for several days, it's drop dead gorgeous. Had lot of luck with the weather and I even saw the Pope, Francis got the "honor" of being the first head of state, and the first pope obviously, I have seen in person, even if from afar :D
I wanted to like Rome a lot more than I did. It'd be awesome if not for all of the damn tourists. :lol
-
Going against the proper form of the title, I'm not traveling, I already did travel.... took the chance in the early days of the year to visit my own capital, Rome, for the fourth time (or fifth? I truly don't remember).
Rome is kinda a mess to live in, but seen as a tourist for several days, it's drop dead gorgeous. Had lot of luck with the weather and I even saw the Pope, Francis got the "honor" of being the first head of state, and the first pope obviously, I have seen in person, even if from afar :D
I wanted to like Rome a lot more than I did. It'd be awesome if not for all of the damn tourists. :lol
I want to go. Of all the cool places I've been - including driving across Turkey - I've never been to Rome. My parents have, and despite my mom being petrified of leaving the country ("it's EUROPE!" as if we should all know what that means; turns out she meant flying over the ocean which scared her) she had the best time.
-
We had a trip to Italy booked for the summer of 2020 as a graduation present for my oldest son, who wanted to see the Coliseum. Even had a hotel with a Coliseum view. Thanks Covid!
-
We had a trip to Italy booked for the summer of 2020 as a graduation present for my oldest son, who wanted to see the Coliseum. Even had a hotel with a Coliseum view. Thanks Covid!
A view of the Coliseum actually means a view of 2000 American tourists in cargo shorts, 40 gelatto carts, 100 African hawkers selling trinkets, and a handful of guys dressed as gladiators posing for pictures with people for 10e a pop. If you decide to try again, do yourself a favor and book a room far away from the historical stuff. It's a 10 minute ride to Termini which will take you pretty much anywhere, and you'll have a much more pleasant experience. You'll be with actual Italians and you'll eat actual Italian food rather than the Olive Garden stuff the tourists are eating.
-
Will definitely keep that in mind. Nothing worse than the Olive Garden.
-
Unlimited bread sticks!!!!
-
Not worth it. I'm not going out to dinner for bread. What kind of meal is that? :lol
Although If I ever find myself at an Olive Garden again, I'm going to ask them to serve me my bread sticks french toast style.
-
Seriously I am watching the desolation of smaug right this minute where Thorin and Gandalf are talking at the beginning in prancing pony and they are ripping into delicious bread and cheese. I had to go get myself bread. Bread butter and cheese. Mmmmm.
Anyways continue.
-
Ugh, when I was in Amsterdam last month, I checked into my hotel and the toilet wouldn't stop running (it was already prefilled with piss when I got into the room, so flushed and it just didnt stop). I complained and got a new room and the same thing happened. I told them I wouldn't be able to sleep in such a room so I told them to cancel my reservation and I will stay somewhere else. They obliged after going to my room with me and then checking a third room and finding the same problem. Well, doing my expense report from that business trip and low and behold, they charged me for the entire stay >:( Seems like I will have to deal with long phone calls to get that refunded come monday, I didn't have the patience to do that before I left work today.
-
What hotel was that?
-
That sucks Cram, back when I was traveling for work our company would handle discrepancies. Last time I was in houston I got charged for someone's bar bill, almost $300.
-
That sucks Cram, back when I was traveling for work our company would handle discrepancies. Last time I was in houston I got charged for someone's bar bill, almost $300.
I may have to call up my travel agent, I put in an issue request online with the IHG and I'll see on Monday who I may need to get on the phone.
What hotel was that?
Holiday Inn Express Schipol
-
I'll be heading to Nashville in a couple weeks for a work conference.
Any suggestions for good BBQ places (or otherwise)? I'll be in the downtown/arts district area of the city.
Well...my conference in Nashville got cancelled. We were planning on going to the Predators game on Thursday and, if the Titans played on Saturday, we were going to stay an extra day and go to the game. Supposedly going to be rescheduled in August.
-
Holiday Inn Express Schipol
Thanks, I know where I'm not staying next time I'm in Amsterdam. :)
-
I'm trying to book a camping trip to Glacier national park this summer. I'm finding it incredibly annoying that the vast majority of campsites are first come first serve and are not reservable. I'm not driving 18 hours without a reservation and the available sites book up every day instantly. I get on, set up my reservation, and click reserve at the earliest time of day to the second and they're already booked. So frustrating!
-
Not exactly traveling, but my wife secured a job in Barcelona with her current company and we will be moving there around March. So yeah, I'm starting a new life in a different country which I expect will be far better than my current one. My brother is already living there and one of our best friends is also moving there in a couple of days.
I expect that I will be doing a lot more traveling once I'm there since I will be able to afford it :smiley:
-
Wow!
-
Yeah, it's both super exciting and frightening at the same time. We've been preparing for this for months, but there are still quite a few things we need to resolve before we can pack our things and go.
-
Not exactly traveling, but my wife secured a job in Barcelona with her current company and we will be moving there around March. So yeah, I'm starting a new life in a different country which I expect will be far better than my current one. My brother is already living there and one of our best friends is also moving there in a couple of days.
I expect that I will be doing a lot more traveling once I'm there since I will be able to afford it :smiley:
Barcelona is lovely!
I was skeptical about visiting it, everyone was loving it and I was afraid that it was a glorified sea town where people was going just to party and have fun, with maybe the occasional nice building here and there.
I was wrong. Barcelona is beautiful, elegant, captivating and you could take away the sea from it, and it'd still be an amazing town. Enjoy your stay there!
-
Ugh, when I was in Amsterdam last month, I checked into my hotel and the toilet wouldn't stop running (it was already prefilled with piss when I got into the room, so flushed and it just didnt stop). I complained and got a new room and the same thing happened. I told them I wouldn't be able to sleep in such a room so I told them to cancel my reservation and I will stay somewhere else. They obliged after going to my room with me and then checking a third room and finding the same problem. Well, doing my expense report from that business trip and low and behold, they charged me for the entire stay >:( Seems like I will have to deal with long phone calls to get that refunded come monday, I didn't have the patience to do that before I left work today.
This has been a headache, I'm using my travel agency from work as the in between of myself and the hotel partly to make them do the work (since we pay for the service) and partly because I can't make international phone calls with my work phone. So they kept saying that I did in fact stay there since they had a room number associated with my stay... which is true because I did check into two different rooms before saying fuck this hotel and their running water in the bathrooms. So they asked me to send an email with all my details to the hotel and the manager will review and get back to me. No word after a few days since I sent the email, so the agency got back in touch with the hotel. They said they received the email but the manger hasn't been back in to give me the refund. What a shit experience. It's becoming a huge waste of time, but I guess the positive is I'm not stuck on the phone with them for hours.
-
We're going to be in Monte Carlo for two days this year during the Grand Prix, and are trying to decide if we want to watch the qualifying rounds on Friday. Has anyone from the forum been? Is it worth the (nearly) thousand dollars to hang out in the grandstands all day? Thoughts?
-
We're going to be in Monte Carlo for two days this year during the Grand Prix, and are trying to decide if we want to watch the qualifying rounds on Friday. Has anyone from the forum been? Is it worth the (nearly) thousand dollars to hang out in the grandstands all day? Thoughts?
I don't think it's worth it to be honest. Saturday and Sunday are the fun ones.
-
Thanks for the input, Nekov. I can see your point, but we went ahead a booked it anyway. Figured it's likely we won't be back that way ever and it might be kinda fun way to spend the day. Hopefully, we'll be able to walk around town a bit if we get bored.
-
Random question:
Has anyone flown domestically in the US recently? And if so, do you have to show proof of vaccination?
I'm am, but would rather leave the card safely at home if I don't need to bring it.
-
Random question:
Has anyone flown domestically in the US recently? And if so, do you have to show proof of vaccination?
I'm am, but would rather leave the card safely at home if I don't need to bring it.
There are no proof of vaccination requirements for domestic travel within the US. Check your airline to be sure though, maybe it's different, but I've flown a bunch since the pandemic began and only needed to show proof when entering another country (or returning to the US) but never within the US.
As for traveling, heading to Las Vegas Friday morning :metal :metal so excited, first "real" vacation in awhile.
-
Random question:
Has anyone flown domestically in the US recently? And if so, do you have to show proof of vaccination?
I last flew last June. My wife flew within the last couple weeks. Neither time was any vaccination-related info required. In fact, the only vaccination/testing requirement I've heard of was for Hawaii. My boss was supposed to go to Hawaii sometime in fall 2020. He had to have a negative test result within X days before the flight, but he didn't get his results in time, so he missed his flight. He did the same trip the following year around the same time, and the requirement was still in place (even though he is vaxed).
Do a google search for "[name of state] travel vaccination or testing requirement" and you'll get what you need.
-
I'm heading to Ireland for a week in early April for work and will have a couple days for sightseeing. Any must see or do things that anyone would recommend? I think I'll be flying into and out of Dublin and the work related stuff will be in Galway.
-
Random question:
Has anyone flown domestically in the US recently? And if so, do you have to show proof of vaccination?
I'm am, but would rather leave the card safely at home if I don't need to bring it.
Depending on where you go you might want to tote it along anyway. If nothing else be sure and have a picture of it on your phone.
-
We managed to do two road trips during the pandemic, first in fall of 2019 to Salem/several points in Massachusetts, and then post-vaccine we did a tour to see some sights and friends through Virginia, Western PA, and New York.
Now on the seemingly immediate horizon are the first two "back to normal" trips. Flying down to Florida for RoSfest in a few weeks, and then not long after getting back from that is the big one. Fly to Nashville, have a day and a half there leading into MorseFest just North of that, which then leads to Cruise to the Edge. If all goes well then I will get off the ship Saturday morning, fly home, and catch Thank You Scientist in Harrisburg that night. Then Sunday, if I feel up to it, will be John 5 near home. Then that coming Tuesday is Haken/Symphony X. After so much time at home that stretch is going to be... something.
-
I arrived at Barcelona a week ago and have been working on getting used to the city and looking for furniture and home appliances for the new appartment. My brother is unemployed at the time so he has been spending a lot of time with me which is helping me quite a bit.
I'm also looking for a job but that will take some time since I haven't finished my paperwork yet. But I'm enjoying the unemployed life to be honest. I tried to get my wife to support us both but she was not very keen on the idea :lol
-
Question for the LA peeps: Is there any way that parking isn't a nightmare for a big show at Staples and a bigger show at the Coliseum? I recall from the super bowl thread that it was going to be godawful. Any way to make it less so?
-
Question for the LA peeps: Is there any way that parking isn't a nightmare for a big show at Staples and a bigger show at the Coliseum? I recall from the super bowl thread that it was going to be godawful. Any way to make it less so?
Anguyen usually talks about the parking situation for LA concerts in the concerts thread, I'd bet he would be able to answer your questions. I drove to Staples once for an event and I was able to find parking a a garage nearby that wasn't an issue. Traffic getting to the venue was a PITA though.
-
Question for the LA peeps: Is there any way that parking isn't a nightmare for a big show at Staples and a bigger show at the Coliseum? I recall from the super bowl thread that it was going to be godawful. Any way to make it less so?
Anguyen usually talks about the parking situation for LA concerts in the concerts thread, I'd bet he would be able to answer your questions. I drove to Staples once for an event and I was able to find parking a a garage nearby that wasn't an issue. Traffic getting to the venue was a PITA though.
We talkin twenty bucks or 50 bucks? Trying to budget for this.
-
Question for the LA peeps: Is there any way that parking isn't a nightmare for a big show at Staples and a bigger show at the Coliseum? I recall from the super bowl thread that it was going to be godawful. Any way to make it less so?
Anguyen usually talks about the parking situation for LA concerts in the concerts thread, I'd bet he would be able to answer your questions. I drove to Staples once for an event and I was able to find parking a a garage nearby that wasn't an issue. Traffic getting to the venue was a PITA though.
We talkin twenty bucks or 50 bucks? Trying to budget for this.
I don't remember but thinking it was less than or around 20 back then, maybe 4 years ago. I don't think I would have paid 50, at that point just uber. I was coming from work only like 10 miles away.
-
Question for the LA peeps: Is there any way that parking isn't a nightmare for a big show at Staples and a bigger show at the Coliseum? I recall from the super bowl thread that it was going to be godawful. Any way to make it less so?
The Super Bowl was in Inglewood. I haven't been anywhere near SoFi since it was built, but it was built on property that made overflow parking at the neighboring Foum easy. Thus, unless they built a bunch of nearby parking, I imagine it's an expensive nightmare.
The Arena formerly known as Staples Center is in downtown. Parking has never been a problem. In my opinion, the best lot that won't cost more than $20 (unless it's the NBA Finals or something like that) is at 888 S. Figueroa, which is less than a half mile walk north of Staples (and has the added benefit of having both a Denny's and a Fatburger in the building). The other option is to park at Union Station and take the Metro. I believe parking at Union Station is free, and the Metro will cost less than any parking lot.
I haven't been to anything at or near the Coliseum in a LONG time. It's downtown adjacent, two miles south of Staples. Parking always used to be AWFUL (I once parked in someone's backyard), and I would absolutely take the Metro.
-
Question for the LA peeps: Is there any way that parking isn't a nightmare for a big show at Staples and a bigger show at the Coliseum? I recall from the super bowl thread that it was going to be godawful. Any way to make it less so?
Well, for me, I have connections where I get validated parking at the lots near the Crypt House and LA Live, so that hasn't been as big as an issue for me in comparison to other places (like parking near the Forum and SoFi Stadium). As for going to shows at the Coliseum or Banc of California Stadium, I would go with what PG said. I don't know what it was like to park at the lot near the Fatburger and Denny's, but if you have the time to spend, it's probably more cost-efficient to take the Metro and head south there. I did that for the Iron Maiden show in 2019. Didn't take the Metro on the way back since for some odd reason, I had massive cramps as I got to my seat and couldn't stand at all during the show and had to resort to taking a Lyft (walking from the nearby station to the USC area was a pretty lengthy walk).
-
Thanks for the info, guys. :tup
-
I'm hitting Austin for a long weekend next weekend. Had to use a flight credit from March 2020 before the end of this month and Leprous and DT are both playing Austin within a 3 day span. I'll fly in Saturday afternoon, catch Leprous Saturday night, spend Sunday and Monday eating meat and drinking beer, Monday night is the DT show, and then fly home on Tuesday.
-
I'm hitting Austin for a long weekend next weekend. Had to use a flight credit from March 2020 before the end of this month and Leprous and DT are both playing Austin within a 3 day span. I'll fly in Saturday afternoon, catch Leprous Saturday night, spend Sunday and Monday eating meat and drinking beer, Monday night is the DT show, and then fly home on Tuesday.
Funny how in your home state DT/Leprous also played within a 3 night span :lol I can't imagine there being less people at Leprous than there were in Asbury Park though, felt like a private show.
-
I'm hitting Austin for a long weekend next weekend. Had to use a flight credit from March 2020 before the end of this month and Leprous and DT are both playing Austin within a 3 day span. I'll fly in Saturday afternoon, catch Leprous Saturday night, spend Sunday and Monday eating meat and drinking beer, Monday night is the DT show, and then fly home on Tuesday.
You should take the time to drive out to Taylor, Tx to hit up Louie Meuller's. I think it's about a half hour, and most of it is rural Texas which is an interesting thing. Quite different from the rural parts up in your neck of the woods. As far as Hill Country BBQ goes, it's been a top 3 place for over 50 years, and deservedly so.
-
I'm hitting Austin for a long weekend next weekend. Had to use a flight credit from March 2020 before the end of this month and Leprous and DT are both playing Austin within a 3 day span. I'll fly in Saturday afternoon, catch Leprous Saturday night, spend Sunday and Monday eating meat and drinking beer, Monday night is the DT show, and then fly home on Tuesday.
You should take the time to drive out to Taylor, Tx to hit up Louie Meuller's. I think it's about a half hour, and most of it is rural Texas which is an interesting thing. Quite different from the rural parts up in your neck of the woods. As far as Hill Country BBQ goes, it's been a top 3 place for over 50 years, and deservedly so.
And, if you happen to be a Friends fan, there's another reason to visit Taylor, TX: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Yemen+Rd,+Taylor,+TX+76574/@30.5896906,-97.4401429,17.25z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x8644ddfe5076ef75:0x94d9ff7e03b58c85!8m2!3d30.5897009!4d-97.4418167?hl=en
-
I'm hitting Austin for a long weekend next weekend. Had to use a flight credit from March 2020 before the end of this month and Leprous and DT are both playing Austin within a 3 day span. I'll fly in Saturday afternoon, catch Leprous Saturday night, spend Sunday and Monday eating meat and drinking beer, Monday night is the DT show, and then fly home on Tuesday.
You should take the time to drive out to Taylor, Tx to hit up Louie Meuller's. I think it's about a half hour, and most of it is rural Texas which is an interesting thing. Quite different from the rural parts up in your neck of the woods. As far as Hill Country BBQ goes, it's been a top 3 place for over 50 years, and deservedly so.
And, if you happen to be a Friends fan, there's another reason to visit Taylor, TX: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Yemen+Rd,+Taylor,+TX+76574/@30.5896906,-97.4401429,17.25z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x8644ddfe5076ef75:0x94d9ff7e03b58c85!8m2!3d30.5897009!4d-97.4418167?hl=en
Holy crap, look at the names of the surrounding streets.
-
I'm hitting Austin for a long weekend next weekend. Had to use a flight credit from March 2020 before the end of this month and Leprous and DT are both playing Austin within a 3 day span. I'll fly in Saturday afternoon, catch Leprous Saturday night, spend Sunday and Monday eating meat and drinking beer, Monday night is the DT show, and then fly home on Tuesday.
You should take the time to drive out to Taylor, Tx to hit up Louie Meuller's. I think it's about a half hour, and most of it is rural Texas which is an interesting thing. Quite different from the rural parts up in your neck of the woods. As far as Hill Country BBQ goes, it's been a top 3 place for over 50 years, and deservedly so.
And, if you happen to be a Friends fan, there's another reason to visit Taylor, TX: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Yemen+Rd,+Taylor,+TX+76574/@30.5896906,-97.4401429,17.25z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x8644ddfe5076ef75:0x94d9ff7e03b58c85!8m2!3d30.5897009!4d-97.4418167?hl=en
Holy crap, look at the names of the surrounding streets.
Exactly!
(https://y.yarn.co/efe398b2-4058-4ce9-ac33-bd32565743a8_text.gif)
-
What are the forum travelers thoughts on dinner jackets and or tuxedos for modern cruises?
Mrs. P and I are going on 3 week Mediterranean cruise at the end of May through early June that has been postponed three times during the pandemic. Now, we've gone on several European river cruises and I've always gotten by with a comfy sport coat and slacks for dinner, but I understand ocean going vessels typically have more formal dinners. My original plan was to wear a grey summer suit and tie (or perhaps a black shirt with no tie). It's a nice tailored suit, with good fabric, but it's not what you'd call formal.
I have a tuxedo but unless I'm able to lose a couple of inches around my belly by then, I'll need to get a new jacket made. Still, if it's not something that folks do on modern cruises anymore, I'd prefer to save the money and/or room in my luggage by not bringing one.
Thoughts?
-
Is there anyone that travels internationally (such as from the US to Europe and back) and could possibly explain something to me?
On the return trip back to the US from London, all the flight sites have a travel time of like 8 hours, but they have have departing time of 9:15am and arrival of 12:05pm, which is not 8 hours?? :huh:
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/26/f1/49/26f149e04294448caee1fe8687c4e2f5.jpg)
Is this a time zone thing, or am I missing something? This will be my first time going across the ocean, so this is all new to me.
-
It's a time zone thing. You leave London at 9am, which is really 4am Philly time. So when you land in Philly at noon, yes, you've been flying for 8 hours.
-
Yeah flight times are always written at the local time of the location.
-
That makes more sense. Thanks guys.
-
That makes more sense. Thanks guys.
What they didn't mention is that after 8 hours of E to W travel the jetlag will make you want to die.
-
Planning to go to Poland for the first time in Summer.
-
That makes more sense. Thanks guys.
What they didn't mention is that after 8 hours of E to W travel the jetlag will make you want to die.
It can be rough, but London to EST time zone isn't too terrible. I've always had it rougher going to Europe from EST zone for some reason, but I think it's more to do with those flights often being over night but coming back to the US it's usually a morning/afternoon thing.
-
That makes more sense. Thanks guys.
What they didn't mention is that after 8 hours of E to W travel the jetlag will make you want to die.
It can be rough, but London to EST time zone isn't too terrible. I've always had it rougher going to Europe from EST zone for some reason, but I think it's more to do with those flights often being over night but coming back to the US it's usually a morning/afternoon thing.
Oh yeah, the overnight is a killer, especially if you don't sleep, which is hard for me on a plane.
-
I once went on a 16-hour flight straight from Dubai to Orlando. I had just done a 4 hour plane ride as so my entire travel from airport to airport was something like 30 hours. I thought it would be better to fly without a break in my journey and get it over with. Worst fucking idea. Once I got home I think I slept for like 13 hours straight. Couldn't catch a wink in the plane, I can never sleep on planes.
-
Yeah, I remember when I was flying to Italy for a trip one summer and I knew that a) I had an overnight flight and b) I usually had a hard time sleeping on planes. My plan was to basically stay up almost the whole night before my flight so I'd be good and tired for the plane. We boarded, we took off, and I was sitting there with my eyes closed and I could feel myself drifting off to sleep. The stewardess then roused me to take my dinner order and that was that, I was wide awake for the whole trip :lol
-
The overnight trips East to West are a piece of cake. If you can sleep on the plane that's great. If you can't it doesn't much matter. I managed about an hour for 0400-0500, but I'm fine on an hour of sleep. We've all pulled all-nighters before. You land in Europe, spend the day doing touristy stuff while being tired, and then crash in the evening like you normally would. So long as you don't sleep when you arrive, but wait until that night, it's pretty easy to reset the clock. It took days to get things squared away for me coming back, though. And that jetlag comes on top of the disappointment of being back after a great adventure. You just spent two weeks having a great time and now you've got a whole year back at the coalmine, and your brain's still screwed up because of the time travel thing.
-
So I'm thinking about going to Chicago to watch a live show of a podcast I listen to weekly. They announced it two months in advance this week. Will be in August. Man, flight and hotel is pretty steep in that period (and that if you fly in Spirit, and I'm not going to do that obviously). Wouldn't mind going to Chicago and do some stuff there.
-
So I'm thinking about going to Chicago to watch a live show of a podcast I listen to weekly. They announced it two months in advance this week. Will be in August. Man, flight and hotel is pretty steep in that period (and that if you fly in Spirit, and I'm not going to do that obviously). Wouldn't mind going to Chicago and do some stuff there.
I've still got that trip in my plans somewhere. What I can tell you from my research is that if you're only looking to go for a weekend or something it's cost prohibitive. However, if you've got the time to spend a week exploring the whole area you can make it cost effective. My recollection is that car rentals at DET were pretty reasonable. Other airports in the area are also better priced. There are things to do in Cincinnati and Columbus, as well as Chicago. I was looking at it as a roller coaster trip, myself, but whatever your interests are, you'll probably be able to find some interesting options up there. Strange as it may seem, it's also possible that you can save money by renting a car in one city and returning it to a different one. That saved me a bundle a couple of weeks ago. If you don't have the time the it doesn't matter--just a thought.
-
Chicago is still a city I have not visited but would like to. Just haven't found the right reason to go yet. In Philadelphia today for the Stadium Tour. :metal
-
My summer holidays will be spent in Santorini, Greece.
It's a itch I wanted to scratch and I will finally get it done! it will be both the easternmost and southernmost place I will ever have been to...... so far ;)
-
Speaking of Chicago...
I'm going to Chicago in a few weeks for a work conference. I've flown through Chicago previously but have never been in the city.
I just got tickets to the Cubs game on July 14, so that night is spoken for, but I'll have the evening of July 13 (after arriving at O'Hare and making my way to the hotel) and most of the afternoon and evening on July 15. The conference and my hotel are near the intersection of Wabash Av. and Monroe St. I'm basically planning on going straight from the conference to Wrigley Field and partaking of some Chicago dogs. So...here are my questions:
- Anywhere in particular I should go for a dog at or near Wrigley? Or is it a "you can't go wrong wherever you go" kind of thing?
- Anything I should know about Wrigley Field itself?
- It looks like I can take the L (El?) from the Monroe station to Wrigley Field and back. I'm pretty comfortable with trains/subways and generally prefer those when traveling to places like NY, Boston and DC. Any reason I shouldn't take the L?
- Places to eat near my hotel? I'm mostly looking for burgers, steak and/or BBQ, and it needs to be a place I can go solo since I almost certainly will be. A place called Smoque was recommended for BBQ, and it looks like that's pretty near the hotel.
- Any must see places nearby? Looks like the Sears Tower is really close. I won't have a car and don't want to stray too far since I'll only have one afternoon/evening for this sort of thing.
-
The TACs spent a great afternoon in Chicago back in 2010. We spent the day down at Navy Pier. There's a great atmosphere there and we had a nice lunch. Took a boat ride too.
The Bean is within walking distance.
-
The TACs spent a great afternoon in Chicago back in 2010. We spent the day down at Navy Pier. There's a great atmosphere there and we had a nice lunch. Took a boat ride too.
The Bean is within walking distance.
The Bean?
-
Well, it turns out that I got two weekend trips to potentially organize this summer. Going to go to Orlando in late September/early October. Didn't actually get a chance to do things in Orlando the last time I went in 2019. Maybe it will be different this time around.
-
Well, it turns out that I got two weekend trips to potentially organize this summer. Going to go to Orlando in late September/early October. Didn't actually get a chance to do things in Orlando the last time I went in 2019. Maybe it will be different this time around.
You'll be missing out on a few good shows in So-Cal, including Porcupine Tree.
-
The TACs spent a great afternoon in Chicago back in 2010. We spent the day down at Navy Pier. There's a great atmosphere there and we had a nice lunch. Took a boat ride too.
The Bean is within walking distance.
The Bean?
(https://cdn.choosechicago.com/uploads/2019/07/first-time-bean-1.jpg)
-
Well, it turns out that I got two weekend trips to potentially organize this summer. Going to go to Orlando in late September/early October. Didn't actually get a chance to do things in Orlando the last time I went in 2019. Maybe it will be different this time around.
You'll be missing out on a few good shows in So-Cal, including Porcupine Tree.
Oh snaps. That's true. I mean I'm going to Orlando for Alter Bridge's new album listening party and they are doing a small set as well. As a long-time fan, I can't miss that. Probably would be the only show in the states that they will do in 2022 before headlining to Europe.
-
Well, it turns out that I got two weekend trips to potentially organize this summer. Going to go to Orlando in late September/early October. Didn't actually get a chance to do things in Orlando the last time I went in 2019. Maybe it will be different this time around.
You'll be missing out on a few good shows in So-Cal, including Porcupine Tree.
Oh snaps. That's true. I mean I'm going to Orlando for Alter Bridge's new album listening party and they are doing a small set as well. As a long-time fan, I can't miss that. Probably would be the only show in the states that they will do in 2022 before headlining to Europe.
Well, if you hadn't already bought a ticket you were going to be SOL anyway. It sold out quickly and those things are going for big money right now.
-
My summer holidays will be spent in Santorini, Greece.
It's a itch I wanted to scratch and I will finally get it done! it will be both the easternmost and southernmost place I will ever have been to...... so far ;)
I want to go back there so badly! Of all the trips I've done, Greece is my favorite one and Santorini was the best part of it.
Enjoy it, If you do the volcano hike make sure to bring plenty of water and breathable clothes because it gets really hot :) Also, if you like wine, do one of their wine tours, its an interesting way of exploring the non-touristic parts of the island.
-
Me and the missus are hitting NY finger lake country, Niagara Falls and Toronto this week. We have never been to any of these so it should be fun. We have a cool segway ride planned in St. Catherines which goes through Lakeside Park which will be really cool! Any dining recommendations in Toronto??
-
The TACs spent a great afternoon in Chicago back in 2010. We spent the day down at Navy Pier. There's a great atmosphere there and we had a nice lunch. Took a boat ride too.
The Bean is within walking distance.
The Bean?
(https://cdn.choosechicago.com/uploads/2019/07/first-time-bean-1.jpg)
Well...that's not something I'd go out of my way to see, but it does appear to be fairly close to where I'm staying.
-
Me and the missus are hitting NY finger lake country, Niagara Falls and Toronto this week. We have never been to any of these so it should be fun. We have a cool segway ride planned in St. Catherines which goes through Lakeside Park which will be really cool! Any dining recommendations in Toronto??
Little I can recommend about Toronto. Didn't much care for it. You'll find plenty of shwarma, if that's your thing. Ate a fine meal at such a place. And I do miss Tim Horton's coffee. That's about it.
The Finger Lakes region is awesome. Look out for a state park called Fillmore Glenn (birthplace of Millard). Lovely hike to see some nice waterfalls, and the swimming hole is probably opened by now. Watkins Glen is pleasant enough, but I was a little underwhelmed given the crowd. Letchworth is absolutely worth hitting. That's one where you should take some food and hang out for a while. Not certain, but I believe I posted some pictures of my Finger Lakes trip back in this thread somewhere.
edit: Looks like I didn't post pictures here. I'll try and find some time to up them later.
-
Me and the missus are hitting NY finger lake country, Niagara Falls and Toronto this week. We have never been to any of these so it should be fun. We have a cool segway ride planned in St. Catherines which goes through Lakeside Park which will be really cool! Any dining recommendations in Toronto??
Assuming you're going to be in downtown Toronto? Head up the CN Tower for sure. Ripley's Aquarium is kinda fun, and right at the base of the Tower. The waterfront is fun, but really nothin terribly spectacular tourist wise. The Rec Room (again, same general area, right across the street) has some great pub food (get the fried chicken sammich), and is like a higher-end Dave&Busters. The Distillery district is just a few blocks east of that. St. Lawrence market might be something to take in as well if you're there for a few days. You'll have to venture a little further than walking distance to hit the cultural centres - Chinatown, Little Italy/Portugal, Greek town. Though, if the latter is your kinda thing, head out there and definitely get yourself a picture at the corner of Danforth and Pape (considering you're also doing Lakeside Park).
Also, Tim Horton's coffee sucks nowadays. Many better options.
-
Me and the missus are hitting NY finger lake country, Niagara Falls and Toronto this week. We have never been to any of these so it should be fun. We have a cool segway ride planned in St. Catherines which goes through Lakeside Park which will be really cool! Any dining recommendations in Toronto??
Assuming you're going to be in downtown Toronto? Head up the CN Tower for sure. Ripley's Aquarium is kinda fun, and right at the base of the Tower. The waterfront is fun, but really nothin terribly spectacular tourist wise. The Rec Room (again, same general area, right across the street) has some great pub food (get the fried chicken sammich), and is like a higher-end Dave&Busters. The Distillery district is just a few blocks east of that. St. Lawrence market might be something to take in as well if you're there for a few days. You'll have to venture a little further than walking distance to hit the cultural centres - Chinatown, Little Italy/Portugal, Greek town. Though, if the latter is your kinda thing, head out there and definitely get yourself a picture at the corner of Danforth and Pape (considering you're also doing Lakeside Park).
Also, Tim Horton's coffee sucks nowadays. Many better options.
Our chain coffee places are Starbucks and Dunkin. TH blows them both away.
I'm kind of an aquarium aficionado, and from a gee-wiz standpoint Ripley's is alright. The gee-wiz factor is really all it has going for it, though. It struck me as more of a funhouse kind of thing, where sharks swim around you and over your head. More importantly, a place that'll distract your kids for $40 a head. :lol
-
Me and the missus are hitting NY finger lake country, Niagara Falls and Toronto this week. We have never been to any of these so it should be fun. We have a cool segway ride planned in St. Catherines which goes through Lakeside Park which will be really cool! Any dining recommendations in Toronto??
Little I can recommend about Toronto. Didn't much care for it. You'll find plenty of shwarma, if that's your thing. Ate a fine meal at such a place. And I do miss Tim Horton's coffee. That's about it.
The Finger Lakes region is awesome. Look out for a state park called Fillmore Glenn (birthplace of Millard). Lovely hike to see some nice waterfalls, and the swimming hole is probably opened by now. Watkins Glen is pleasant enough, but I was a little underwhelmed given the crowd. Letchworth is absolutely worth hitting. That's one where you should take some food and hang out for a while. Not certain, but I believe I posted some pictures of my Finger Lakes trip back in this thread somewhere.
edit: Looks like I didn't post pictures here. I'll try and find some time to up them later.
I remember thinking how dirty the finger lakes were when we went to Watkins Glen for our conference a few years back. Those driving on the raceway was so much fun.
-
Thanks for the suggestions!
-
Two from Fillmore Glen State Park and Two from Letchworth.
(https://i.imgur.com/CnVfB3K.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mmBcmjV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jJYGzp6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/J57hZ6D.jpg)
-
EB those are great shots! You took those? Wow.
Beautiful places. Very zen. I can almost imagine the sound.
-
Gorgeous shots!
-
Those are Seriously Cool Pictures El Barto!
-
Great pics Bart. My parents took us up there when we were kids. Busted out the Triptiks.
-
I see the lines in the rocks and think about how many centuries span to those rocks.
-
Thanks, guys, but seriously the scenery and the camera did all the work. When you find places that beautiful it's hard to not take good pictures.
Fillmore Glen really was awesome. It's one of those places that nobody knows about, and I actually blundered into it completely by accident. It's a nice hiking trail that's pretty much a mile and a half of those pictures. At one point I was taking a picture of a different waterfall and when I turned around it was pouring down leaves. It looked like a snowstorm, but with yellow leaves instead of white snow. Sadly, pictures couldn't really capture it.
-
I hope if you haven't already that you get them printed and framed for your abode. As a fellow amateur photographer (who was definitely better at film than digital because I'm old) there are few things more satisfying than to see your work displayed.
-
Speaking of Chicago...
I'm going to Chicago in a few weeks for a work conference. I've flown through Chicago previously but have never been in the city.
I just got tickets to the Cubs game on July 14, so that night is spoken for, but I'll have the evening of July 13 (after arriving at O'Hare and making my way to the hotel) and most of the afternoon and evening on July 15. The conference and my hotel are near the intersection of Wabash Av. and Monroe St. I'm basically planning on going straight from the conference to Wrigley Field and partaking of some Chicago dogs. So...here are my questions:
- Anywhere in particular I should go for a dog at or near Wrigley? Or is it a "you can't go wrong wherever you go" kind of thing?
- Anything I should know about Wrigley Field itself?
- It looks like I can take the L (El?) from the Monroe station to Wrigley Field and back. I'm pretty comfortable with trains/subways and generally prefer those when traveling to places like NY, Boston and DC. Any reason I shouldn't take the L?
- Places to eat near my hotel? I'm mostly looking for burgers, steak and/or BBQ, and it needs to be a place I can go solo since I almost certainly will be. A place called Smoque was recommended for BBQ, and it looks like that's pretty near the hotel.
- Any must see places nearby? Looks like the Sears Tower is really close. I won't have a car and don't want to stray too far since I'll only have one afternoon/evening for this sort of thing.
You're not far from the Palmer House; there's a restaurant right next door/around the corner - I'll try to find the name - that is something you'd picture Sinatra eating at in 1964. I LOVE it, and go there whenever I'm in town, though I haven't been there since 2015 or so. I'm looking on the map now and I don't see it, but it was under the Loop.
As for Wrigley, it's like Fenway, in that it's right in the neighborhood. There's a bar - I think it's called "Murphy's", don't quote me - that is literally through a garage door in the stadium. There are also a number of placed right across the street in the area. Getting a good Chicago dog should not be a major endeavor at all.
-
I hope if you haven't already that you get them printed and framed for your abode. As a fellow amateur photographer (who was definitely better at film than digital because I'm old) there are few things more satisfying than to see your work displayed.
I learned with film, but I wouldn't go back to change my life. When you only had 24 exposures, and you had to pay $12 to see how they turned out, every one needed to be perfect (and I certainly nailed a few). The pictures I posted were 4 of 400, fired in 3-shot bursts with an endless array of tweaks between them. I apply the exact same adjustments to my DLSR that I would with my old Olympus. It's the ability to experiment and pick the best of the lot makes all the difference.
And scenic pictures aren't really my thing when it comes to home decor. :lol
-
I hope if you haven't already that you get them printed and framed for your abode. As a fellow amateur photographer (who was definitely better at film than digital because I'm old) there are few things more satisfying than to see your work displayed.
I learned with film, but I wouldn't go back to change my life. When you only had 24 exposures, and you had to pay $12 to see how they turned out, every one needed to be perfect (and I certainly nailed a few). The pictures I posted were 4 of 400, fired in 3-shot bursts with an endless array of tweaks between them. I apply the exact same adjustments to my DLSR that I would with my old Olympus. It's the ability to experiment and pick the best of the lot makes all the difference.
And scenic pictures aren't really my thing when it comes to home decor. :lol
Back in the day, I had access to a dark room, so it was less expensive. I totally get the ease of digital, I just haven't taken the time to learn all the ways to use it when it comes to photo editing. Maybe after I retire...
There is a joke in here somewhere about a preference for black velvet art or dogs playing poker but I can't quite get it right. :lol
-
Those are some cool pics. I've never gotten into photography before. I'm usually content with the phone pictures these days, but a DSLR camera and a good eye can do wonders for taking an amazing photograph. Maybe one day I will dive in.
-
Speaking of Chicago...
I'm going to Chicago in a few weeks for a work conference. I've flown through Chicago previously but have never been in the city.
I just got tickets to the Cubs game on July 14, so that night is spoken for, but I'll have the evening of July 13 (after arriving at O'Hare and making my way to the hotel) and most of the afternoon and evening on July 15. The conference and my hotel are near the intersection of Wabash Av. and Monroe St. I'm basically planning on going straight from the conference to Wrigley Field and partaking of some Chicago dogs. So...here are my questions:
- Anywhere in particular I should go for a dog at or near Wrigley? Or is it a "you can't go wrong wherever you go" kind of thing?
- Anything I should know about Wrigley Field itself?
- It looks like I can take the L (El?) from the Monroe station to Wrigley Field and back. I'm pretty comfortable with trains/subways and generally prefer those when traveling to places like NY, Boston and DC. Any reason I shouldn't take the L?
- Places to eat near my hotel? I'm mostly looking for burgers, steak and/or BBQ, and it needs to be a place I can go solo since I almost certainly will be. A place called Smoque was recommended for BBQ, and it looks like that's pretty near the hotel.
- Any must see places nearby? Looks like the Sears Tower is really close. I won't have a car and don't want to stray too far since I'll only have one afternoon/evening for this sort of thing.
You're not far from the Palmer House; there's a restaurant right next door/around the corner - I'll try to find the name - that is something you'd picture Sinatra eating at in 1964. I LOVE it, and go there whenever I'm in town, though I haven't been there since 2015 or so. I'm looking on the map now and I don't see it, but it was under the Loop.
As for Wrigley, it's like Fenway, in that it's right in the neighborhood. There's a bar - I think it's called "Murphy's", don't quote me - that is literally through a garage door in the stadium. There are also a number of placed right across the street in the area. Getting a good Chicago dog should not be a major endeavor at all.
May I add from Spence, that his go to for deep dish is Lou Malnottis.
-
Speaking of Chicago...
I'm going to Chicago in a few weeks for a work conference. I've flown through Chicago previously but have never been in the city.
I just got tickets to the Cubs game on July 14, so that night is spoken for, but I'll have the evening of July 13 (after arriving at O'Hare and making my way to the hotel) and most of the afternoon and evening on July 15. The conference and my hotel are near the intersection of Wabash Av. and Monroe St. I'm basically planning on going straight from the conference to Wrigley Field and partaking of some Chicago dogs. So...here are my questions:
- Anywhere in particular I should go for a dog at or near Wrigley? Or is it a "you can't go wrong wherever you go" kind of thing?
- Anything I should know about Wrigley Field itself?
- It looks like I can take the L (El?) from the Monroe station to Wrigley Field and back. I'm pretty comfortable with trains/subways and generally prefer those when traveling to places like NY, Boston and DC. Any reason I shouldn't take the L?
- Places to eat near my hotel? I'm mostly looking for burgers, steak and/or BBQ, and it needs to be a place I can go solo since I almost certainly will be. A place called Smoque was recommended for BBQ, and it looks like that's pretty near the hotel.
- Any must see places nearby? Looks like the Sears Tower is really close. I won't have a car and don't want to stray too far since I'll only have one afternoon/evening for this sort of thing.
You're not far from the Palmer House; there's a restaurant right next door/around the corner - I'll try to find the name - that is something you'd picture Sinatra eating at in 1964. I LOVE it, and go there whenever I'm in town, though I haven't been there since 2015 or so. I'm looking on the map now and I don't see it, but it was under the Loop.
As for Wrigley, it's like Fenway, in that it's right in the neighborhood. There's a bar - I think it's called "Murphy's", don't quote me - that is literally through a garage door in the stadium. There are also a number of placed right across the street in the area. Getting a good Chicago dog should not be a major endeavor at all.
Indeed, I won't be far at all. I'm staying at Palmer House (which appears to be in "The Loop"). Looks like there are a bunch of places very close by, so I probably can't go wrong with that either.
May I add from Spence, that his go to for deep dish is Lou Malnottis.
Well...don't kill me, but I think Chicago style pizza is pretty foul.
-
Hey, to each his or her own. My gut tells all that I like all pizzas. :lol
-
Hey, to each his or her own. My gut tells all that I like all pizzas. :lol
This.
-
Speaking of Chicago...
I'm going to Chicago in a few weeks for a work conference. I've flown through Chicago previously but have never been in the city.
I just got tickets to the Cubs game on July 14, so that night is spoken for, but I'll have the evening of July 13 (after arriving at O'Hare and making my way to the hotel) and most of the afternoon and evening on July 15. The conference and my hotel are near the intersection of Wabash Av. and Monroe St. I'm basically planning on going straight from the conference to Wrigley Field and partaking of some Chicago dogs. So...here are my questions:
- Anywhere in particular I should go for a dog at or near Wrigley? Or is it a "you can't go wrong wherever you go" kind of thing?
- Anything I should know about Wrigley Field itself?
- It looks like I can take the L (El?) from the Monroe station to Wrigley Field and back. I'm pretty comfortable with trains/subways and generally prefer those when traveling to places like NY, Boston and DC. Any reason I shouldn't take the L?
- Places to eat near my hotel? I'm mostly looking for burgers, steak and/or BBQ, and it needs to be a place I can go solo since I almost certainly will be. A place called Smoque was recommended for BBQ, and it looks like that's pretty near the hotel.
- Any must see places nearby? Looks like the Sears Tower is really close. I won't have a car and don't want to stray too far since I'll only have one afternoon/evening for this sort of thing.
You're not far from the Palmer House; there's a restaurant right next door/around the corner - I'll try to find the name - that is something you'd picture Sinatra eating at in 1964. I LOVE it, and go there whenever I'm in town, though I haven't been there since 2015 or so. I'm looking on the map now and I don't see it, but it was under the Loop.
As for Wrigley, it's like Fenway, in that it's right in the neighborhood. There's a bar - I think it's called "Murphy's", don't quote me - that is literally through a garage door in the stadium. There are also a number of placed right across the street in the area. Getting a good Chicago dog should not be a major endeavor at all.
Indeed, I won't be far at all. I'm staying at Palmer House (which appears to be in "The Loop"). Looks like there are a bunch of places very close by, so I probably can't go wrong with that either.
May I add from Spence, that his go to for deep dish is Lou Malnottis.
Well...don't kill me, but I think Chicago style pizza is pretty foul.
So if memory serves, if you're standing at the reception desk, looking across at the bar in the lobby, go out the doors to your right, and take a right. The restaurant I'm thinking of is down on the right, on that block. I can't remember if you cross any streets, or if you take another right at the corner. The consierge ought to help you.
-
Hey, to each his or her own. My gut tells all that I like all pizzas. :lol
This.
For me Pizza is Pizza, and I love it all (almost) but I definitely think deep dish is overrated. I won't mind eating it but if I'm starving, I'm not waiting 30 mins for a deep dish pizza to be made.
-
Deep dish pizza, or casserole as I see it, is crap. And at the same time tavern style pizza goes completely under the radar there. I'm not a huge fan of that, either, but at least it qualifies as pizza rather than soup.
-
I've only had deep dish a few times (funny enough never while visiting family in Chicago) but it was awful. It was really heavy on the sauce and tasted what a casserole tastes like
-
Are we just labelling Chicago pizza as deep dish? The typical deep dish pizza here is nothing like chicago style pizza. I've actually never had a true Chicago pizza, but judging by the looks of it, I'd probably rank it fairly low. I would love to try it one day. I'd probably still like it though because generally i just like all pizzas. The local deep dish style here is really good too, but it's not my usual choice more of a switch things up type of pizza.
-
I have. It's great. I wouldn't have it all the time but I definitely like it
-
So if memory serves, if you're standing at the reception desk, looking across at the bar in the lobby, go out the doors to your right, and take a right. The restaurant I'm thinking of is down on the right, on that block. I can't remember if you cross any streets, or if you take another right at the corner. The consierge ought to help you.
Judging from Google Maps, that could be Miller's Pub or Exchequer.
-
Are we just labelling Chicago pizza as deep dish? The typical deep dish pizza here is nothing like chicago style pizza. I've actually never had a true Chicago pizza, but judging by the looks of it, I'd probably rank it fairly low. I would love to try it one day. I'd probably still like it though because generally i just like all pizzas. The local deep dish style here is really good too, but it's not my usual choice more of a switch things up type of pizza.
As I see it, Chicago is known for two styles of pizza. Deep dish and tavern style (super thin crust). Beyond that, Chicago has its own style of deep dish pizza, aside from the deep dish seen elsewhere. From what I've seen, and had down here, their style kind of sucks ass.
-
What's the city that's known for the sauce on top of the pizza? I saw it on TV but I can't remember where.
-
What's the city that's known for the sauce on top of the pizza? I saw it on TV but I can't remember where.
Chicago deep dish has sauce on top.
Love Chicago. Lived there for two years. Hate their pizza. Glad I live in NYC now.
-
What Detroit has is basically fancy cheesy bread.
Come to CT if you want the best pizza.
(https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Byuv_9j9nqhZXnVjJGkg9lu3QF0=/0x0:800x533/1200x900/filters:focal(336x203:464x331):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62565014/bar_new_haven_pizza_3.0.0.0.jpg)
(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58e705a1ebbd1a4ffd5b30c7/1496892466759-J05F47YCQVURL0E679A6/pizza.jpg?format=2500w)
(https://s.hdnux.com/photos/01/20/40/23/21103833/5/rawImage.jpg)
(https://www.montgomerymag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Pepe-Pizza-2.jpg)
I will die on this hill!
-
Chino - only a couple of those delicious looking pies appears to have sauce. Is that typical for your area.
Also, where is the Homer drooling emoticon? :P
-
Chino - only a couple of those delicious looking pies appears to have sauce. Is that typical for your area.
Also, where is the Homer drooling emoticon? :P
They all have sauce. Only two and a half of them appear to have tomato sauce, though, thus disqualifying the others in my book.
-
Those pizzas all look good, but brick oven pizzas are not the best over a typical NYC slice IMO. I don't think CT pizza generally is as good as NYC or even NJ. It's a big reason why I don't care for Dave Portnoy's pizza reviews.
-
What's the city that's known for the sauce on top of the pizza? I saw it on TV but I can't remember where.
Chicago deep dish has sauce on top.
Love Chicago. Lived there for two years. Hate their pizza. Glad I live in NYC now.
It's Detroit style pizza. I just figured it out.
-
Chino - only a couple of those delicious looking pies appears to have sauce. Is that typical for your area.
Also, where is the Homer drooling emoticon? :P
Obvious emote is obvious - just not Homer.
:drool:
-
Chino - only a couple of those delicious looking pies appears to have sauce. Is that typical for your area.
Also, where is the Homer drooling emoticon? :P
Obvious emote is obvious - just not Homer.
:drool:
Hey - that emoji isn't available in the group of emojis I see on my screen. What level do I need to achieve to have access to the secret DT emoji list? :hat
But that ain't Homer. :laugh:
-
Chino - only a couple of those delicious looking pies appears to have sauce. Is that typical for your area.
Also, where is the Homer drooling emoticon? :P
Obvious emote is obvious - just not Homer.
:drool:
Hey - that emoji isn't available in the group of emojis I see on my screen. What level do I need to achieve to have access to the secret DT emoji list? :hat
But that ain't Homer. :laugh:
You just need the right code... :RJ:
-
Chino - only a couple of those delicious looking pies appears to have sauce. Is that typical for your area.
Also, where is the Homer drooling emoticon? :P
Obvious emote is obvious - just not Homer.
:drool:
Hey - that emoji isn't available in the group of emojis I see on my screen. What level do I need to achieve to have access to the secret DT emoji list? :hat
But that ain't Homer. :laugh:
You just need the right code... :RJ:
@ Harmony ... You're right, there's only a few dozen in the reply screen. However, there's rumoured to be about 800 "hidden" emots. You get to learn them - or if one is anal like me, keep a spreadsheet of them once discovered. I seem to recall there's a thread somewhere that lists a bunch of them that people have found.
And RJ... use the right one :cheffypoo:
-
is....is that eggs on a Pizza? :|
-
Chino - only a couple of those delicious looking pies appears to have sauce. Is that typical for your area.
Also, where is the Homer drooling emoticon? :P
They all have sauce. Only two and a half of them appear to have tomato sauce, though, thus disqualifying the others in my book.
White sauce has become very popular in the region, but I'd say the vast majority of pies are still tomato based.
Barto, I see eye-to-eye to you on most things, but I have to respectfully disagree with you there.
Buffalo Chicken pizza doesn't have a red sauce, but is still very much a pizza.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6F1435Fskvw/X3Mu5gLTAFI/AAAAAAABN-I/561MGZKKlmE31Wv-_D7WJj7UFgJy3aW1ACPcBGAsYHg/w640-h312/20200926_193051.jpg)
-
Yeah, I don't think it needs a tomato based sauce to be a pizza. Any sauce will do in my eyes. Buffalo pizzas are fantastic. I just generally love white pizzas too, even better if added with spinach or brocoli.
-
As much of a traditionalist I am with pizzas, I do enjoy the various sauce bases, pesto, white sauce, etc have all been good when done right. I've even had *gasp* cheese-less pizza and that wasn't as bad either.
-
I think there's a place for sauces other than tomatoes. Down here it's often BBQ sauce. I'm sure some of them are pretty good. I just lump them in a different category of pizza-like products. You gotta draw a line somewhere.
-
I think there's a place for sauces other than tomatoes. Down here it's often BBQ sauce. I'm sure some of them are pretty good. I just lump them in a different category of pizza-like products. You gotta draw a line somewhere.
For me, that line is whatever constitutes Greek pizza.
-
@ Harmony ... You're right, there's only a few dozen in the reply screen. However, there's rumoured to be about 800 "hidden" emots. You get to learn them - or if one is anal like me, keep a spreadsheet of them once discovered. I seem to recall there's a thread somewhere that lists a bunch of them that people have found.
And RJ... use the right one :cheffypoo:
I want that list.... :'(
-
@ Harmony ... You're right, there's only a few dozen in the reply screen. However, there's rumoured to be about 800 "hidden" emots. You get to learn them - or if one is anal like me, keep a spreadsheet of them once discovered. I seem to recall there's a thread somewhere that lists a bunch of them that people have found.
And RJ... use the right one :cheffypoo:
I want that list.... :'(
AFAIC, they're like Pokemon for DTFrs.
As for eggs on pizza.... I did that once. Gotta have the oven at a very high temp though. IIRC, I think I did that one on the BBQ at about 650F
Also ... :symphonyx:
:smoothcriminal:
-
@ Harmony ... You're right, there's only a few dozen in the reply screen. However, there's rumoured to be about 800 "hidden" emots. You get to learn them - or if one is anal like me, keep a spreadsheet of them once discovered. I seem to recall there's a thread somewhere that lists a bunch of them that people have found.
For god's sake, please don't give me any ideas!
-
@ Harmony ... You're right, there's only a few dozen in the reply screen. However, there's rumoured to be about 800 "hidden" emots. You get to learn them - or if one is anal like me, keep a spreadsheet of them once discovered. I seem to recall there's a thread somewhere that lists a bunch of them that people have found.
And RJ... use the right one :cheffypoo:
I want that list.... :'(
I feel like this was brought up a few months back in a different thread, I'll have to search
-
There's a thread for them, I look it up from time to time, but it's honestly a massive pain in the ass to use. More often than not if I know there's one I want I just guess.
-
There's a thread for them, I look it up from time to time, but it's honestly a massive pain in the ass to use. More often than not if I know there's one I want I just guess.
That's a good point ... many of them are blatantly obvious.
-
:flower:
:water:
:fire:
:bird:
:person:
:woman:
:man:
:camera:
:tv:
FFS!
-
:king:
:kingshmeg:
-
SHOW OFF!! :P
-
:king:
:kingshmeg:
:adami:
Yay!
Do I have a second one?
-
SHOW OFF!! :P
The only 2 of 3 I know. LOL
:king:
:kingshmeg:
:adami:
Yay!
Do I have a second one?
Blob made me the second one. we need to get him back. I still talk to him on Twitter.
-
I know 1!!!
:icy:
By the way Harmony, if you ever see one you want to use, you can "quote" the post and see what the code is.
-
:cramx3:
:sadpanda:
BLOBBB!!!!!
-
I know 1!!!
:icy:
By the way Harmony, if you ever see one you want to use, you can "quote" the post and see what the code is.
That's what I tried with my post based on what I saw from others. But looks like I'll have to just keep a list of the ones I like for future reference.
Thx for the assist though. I'm hoping someone will direct me to a long list of usable emoticons but every one that is posted here will be added to mine as we go along. Though, I'm sorry to be using this thread for non-travel related subjects. :blush
Anyone have any travel emoticons?
-
Here's the repository thread, but like I said, it's a pain in the ass to figure them out.
https://www.dreamtheaterforums.org/boards/index.php?topic=44889.msg2030823#msg2030823
-
The motherlode! :metal
My absolute favorite and one I'm sure can be used often:
:trainwreck:
Thanks EB. :-*
-
Anyone have any travel emoticons?
:imonahorse:
-
I'm going to save this one for the PR thread
:2hammer:
Anyways, travelling to the foreign land of Pennsylvania this weekend.
-
You mean Pennsyltucky :biggrin:
-
All right, an update on my searching for a good deal. Well, after looking into some deals with Hopper and Booking.com, it looks like a decent package for my Chicago weekend trip on 08/12 comes out to $760.00. Flying with Alaska Airlines. I honestly don't think I can find any better in a month's time, but I don't know if I haven't looked at all of the details. There's a live show I want to watch on 08/12 that I want to be in line by 5:00 PM CST as well, but after landing and getting to the hotel, I should be in the area by 2:00 PM so not an issue. $760.00 looks like the best I've seen with these parameters.
-
All right, got my flight locked up at $575.00 to Chicago. Flying out Thursday evening, will get there on Friday morning (8/12) after enduring a 2.5 hour layover in Atlanta. No worries, I've been through that before when I had the trip to Orlando back in 2019. Should not miss that at all, hopefully. Also, got a direct flight back on the Sunday. Got myself about two days to do something outside of the Live show of a podcast I listen to on a regular basis.
-
Chicago is a beautiful city during the summer. Enjoy the lake!
On my side, I'll be in London this weekend with my wife, brother and cousin and I am planning a trip to Greece for my wife's birthday. I'm looking into visiting Athens and Santorini
-
One week from now I will be on a business trip in Amsterdam. Not going to be fun.
-
One week from now I will be on a business trip in Amsterdam. Not going to be fun.
Man... 3 years ago, you loved these (didn't you?)
-
One week from now I will be on a business trip in Amsterdam. Not going to be fun.
Man... 3 years ago, you loved these (didn't you?)
I dont think I ever loved my Euro business trips. They are always grueling, but I used to be more excited to just get to travel. I'm getting close to 10 trips to Amsterdam, it's not a place I look forward to traveling to anymore. BUT, I am going with my coworker so I think it will be more enjoyable since we can experience the pain together instead of me just being in solo work misery. We never get to travel together because one of us needs to man the home base, but this project is too big and time sensitive.
-
All right, got my flight locked up at $575.00 to Chicago. Flying out Thursday evening, will get there on Friday morning (8/12) after enduring a 2.5 hour layover in Atlanta. No worries, I've been through that before when I had the trip to Orlando back in 2019. Should not miss that at all, hopefully. Also, got a direct flight back on the Sunday. Got myself about two days to do something outside of the Live show of a podcast I listen to on a regular basis.
I just got back from Chicago. I was only there 2 1/2 days (and much of that was spent indoors), but I really enjoyed it. I flew in on Wednesday and got to my hotel around 7pm. I went to dinner at a pub next to the hotel. Really good ribs and a couple local beers. Most of Thursday was at a work conference. I then got on the train (the "L" or "el") and went to Wrigley Field for a Cubs game. Great atmosphere that I can only compare to Fenway Park. One of the streets that runs past Wrigley is called Clark, and there are TONS of bars and music clubs that I wish I'd had more time to explore. If you're at all a baseball fan and the Cubs are in town, you NEED to take in a game. The Cubs stink, but the place was full. Wrigley may have replaced Fenway as my favorite MLB stadium. The only problem is that the L was JAM PACKED after the game. It seemed like it would've taken about hour to actually get on a train, so I walked to one of the designated ride share pick up points. If you want to save money and take the L, just set up shop at one of the nearby bars after the game until the crowd dies down. Friday morning was more conference in the morning, and I had planned to do a river/lake cruise that highlights Chicago architecture during the afternoon. However, it rained most of the day, so I passed and did a couple short walks around the hotel and to dinner at another nearby pub. Definitely want to go back.
-
Bahhh, I looked at the schedule, the Cubs are away at the time I'm in the area. Seems like sports teams near the region I'm taking a trip to are always away. I've been in San Francisco twice and I kinda wanted to take a detour to San Jose to see a Sharks game, but they were away both times. Another reason why I hate that team so much.
-
All right, got my flight locked up at $575.00 to Chicago. Flying out Thursday evening, will get there on Friday morning (8/12) after enduring a 2.5 hour layover in Atlanta. No worries, I've been through that before when I had the trip to Orlando back in 2019. Should not miss that at all, hopefully. Also, got a direct flight back on the Sunday. Got myself about two days to do something outside of the Live show of a podcast I listen to on a regular basis.
I just got back from Chicago. I was only there 2 1/2 days (and much of that was spent indoors), but I really enjoyed it. I flew in on Wednesday and got to my hotel around 7pm. I went to dinner at a pub next to the hotel. Really good ribs and a couple local beers. Most of Thursday was at a work conference. I then got on the train (the "L" or "el") and went to Wrigley Field for a Cubs game. Great atmosphere that I can only compare to Fenway Park. One of the streets that runs past Wrigley is called Clark, and there are TONS of bars and music clubs that I wish I'd had more time to explore. If you're at all a baseball fan and the Cubs are in town, you NEED to take in a game. The Cubs stink, but the place was full. Wrigley may have replaced Fenway as my favorite MLB stadium. The only problem is that the L was JAM PACKED after the game. It seemed like it would've taken about hour to actually get on a train, so I walked to one of the designated ride share pick up points. If you want to save money and take the L, just set up shop at one of the nearby bars after the game until the crowd dies down. Friday morning was more conference in the morning, and I had planned to do a river/lake cruise that highlights Chicago architecture during the afternoon. However, it rained most of the day, so I passed and did a couple short walks around the hotel and to dinner at another nearby pub. Definitely want to go back.
Glad to hear you had a great time in our city :)
The river architecture cruises are really fun and give you a great view of the buildings situated on the various branches of the Chicago river. My wife and I did one 3 years ago for our anniversary and we loved it. I had only gone on one as a kid for a Cub Scout event.
I will say that I have been spoiled by going to Cubs rooftop events, which I prefer to sitting in the stadium. There is so much free food and beer (inclusive of the ticket price) to enjoy, you have a great view over the outfield bleachers and into the stadium, and the bathrooms are much less crowded.
-
Bahhh, I looked at the schedule, the Cubs are away at the time I'm in the area. Seems like sports teams near the region I'm taking a trip to are always away. I've been in San Francisco twice and I kinda wanted to take a detour to San Jose to see a Sharks game, but they were away both times. Another reason why I hate that team so much.
As you know, there are virtually infinite reasons to hate the Sharks.
As for baseball, if the Cubs are on the road, the White Sox probably will be at home. Obviously, new Comiskey (or whatever it's called) is a far cry from Wrigley, but it's something.
Glad to hear you had a great time in our city :)
Always leave 'em wanting more. I'll be back. I want to plan a trip for the end of a White Sox homestand/beginning of a Cubs homestand (or vice versa), followed by a drive up to Milwaukee for a Brewers game, and then over to St. Paul for a Twins game. I had a tentative itinerary for that in 2018, but my kid decided he wanted to do NYC instead.
-
Well, this Thursday evening is when I'm taking off to Chicago. As always, I have no idea what to do in the area outside of the live show I'm seeing. Definitely going to walk around Lincoln Park and I've listed some restaurants that I'm looking forward to eating at.
As for my trip planning to Orlando in late September, things are starting to come together. The flight/hotel prices are getting near the range I want to pay. It comes to a matter of either flying out of John Wayne Airport or LAX. I discovered that I can take a train from the ARTIC in Anaheim to Union Station in LA and then take a bus shuttle directly from Union Station to LAX and the entire trip would take up to 90 minutes. Thus get rid of the need to park at a hotel parking lot near LAX for three nights. It's all coming together now.
-
Well, this Thursday evening is when I'm taking off to Chicago. As always, I have no idea what to do in the area outside of the live show I'm seeing. Definitely going to walk around Lincoln Park and I've listed some restaurants that I'm looking forward to eating at.
As for my trip planning to Orlando in late September, things are starting to come together. The flight/hotel prices are getting near the range I want to pay. It comes to a matter of either flying out of John Wayne Airport or LAX. I discovered that I can take a train from the ARTIC in Anaheim to Union Station in LA and then take a bus shuttle directly from Union Station to LAX and the entire trip would take up to 90 minutes. Thus get rid of the need to park at a hotel parking lot near LAX for three nights. It's all coming together now.
Fly out of John Wayne! :lol
Myself, it's time for me to figure out what my So-Cal travel is going to be. Right now I only know I'm seeing a show Friday night, and heading to MEX Saturday morning (and SNA is not an option). It might be a very quick jaunt. I might spend a week catching shows and checking out some lesser traveled bits of California.
-
I should have posted saturday to say "in 2 weeks I'll be in Santorini" (Greece).
It will be three records for me at once:
- Farthest east I've ever been
- Farthest south I've ever been
- Farthest I've ever been from home
Yeah, I've travelled, but all around Europe so going in the southern islands of Greece is a record breaker for me, surpassing Copenhagen.
-
Sooo...
We're heading east in six days to move my kid into college. We're taking a red eye to Boston on Sunday night (land Monday morning). We'll be driving out to western Massachusetts to pick up some stuff we had shipped to my wife's aunt, and then driving up to Keene, NH. Move-in day is next Wednesday, and my wife and I fly back on Saturday.
Any of you who have (or have had) kids in college have any tips for this? Or anyone who knows Keene have any suggestions for cool things to see/do while we're there?
-
Again for the California peeps. I could have sworn there was some discussion here about the Greek Theater, but damned if I can find it. Better to park at the venue or use that Pony Shuttle thing? I'll have an early flight the next morning, so I'd kinda like to get out of there and pretty far South after the show. Sometimes shuttles work great, and sometimes they're miserable (looking up towards Boston :sadpanda:).
-
Again for the California peeps. I could have sworn there was some discussion here about the Greek Theater, but damned if I can find it. Better to park at the venue or use that Pony Shuttle thing? I'll have an early flight the next morning, so I'd kinda like to get out of there and pretty far South after the show. Sometimes shuttles work great, and sometimes they're miserable (looking up towards Boston :sadpanda:).
I've only ever been to two shows there: ABWH in 1989 and Dream Theater in 2009 (Prog Nation 2009). I have no experience with the shuttle and don't recall any issues with parking or getting out of there (compared to some of the horror stories I've heard about the Hollywood Bowl). However, just looking at where you catch the shuttle in comparison to where the Greek Theatre is, it's NOT something I'd do if a quick exit was a concern.
-
Again for the California peeps. I could have sworn there was some discussion here about the Greek Theater, but damned if I can find it. Better to park at the venue or use that Pony Shuttle thing? I'll have an early flight the next morning, so I'd kinda like to get out of there and pretty far South after the show. Sometimes shuttles work great, and sometimes they're miserable (looking up towards Boston :sadpanda:).
As a guy that went to the Greek Theater recently, three times, two times using the shuttle and one time parking closer to the Theater, I say go park at the lot where you take the Pony Shuttle. It's $15.00 cheaper and closer to the 5 freeway. I don't think it's worth the hassle of being the driver trying to navigate driving to that area near the theater and getting to the parking lot and you end up being in a dirt lot anyway where you are going to feel crammed. At least, you get decent air conditioning in the shuttle on the way from the lot to the theater and back.
Also, if you want to park at the lot where you take the Pony Shuttle, book it as soon as possible. I've learned that mistake the hard way when I went to see Alice Cooper last April. It was a last minute ticket and since I got the ticket the day of, there were no spots left for the lot near the shuttle, so I ended up parking closer to the theater for $30.00. I got out pretty ok, but I rather take the shuttle.
-
Sooo...
We're heading east in six days to move my kid into college. We're taking a red eye to Boston on Sunday night (land Monday morning). We'll be driving out to western Massachusetts to pick up some stuff we had shipped to my wife's aunt, and then driving up to Keene, NH. Move-in day is next Wednesday, and my wife and I fly back on Saturday.
Any of you who have (or have had) kids in college have any tips for this? Or anyone who knows Keene have any suggestions for cool things to see/do while we're there?
I lived and worked in Keene a decade ago. Its a cute little town. We had little kids at the time, so our activities tended to be family oriented outdoor stuff. Probably not the same stuff a college kid would want to do. Plus it's been a long time. I hope your kid enjoys college there!
-
I should have posted saturday to say "in 2 weeks I'll be in Santorini" (Greece).
It will be three records for me at once:
- Farthest east I've ever been
- Farthest south I've ever been
- Farthest I've ever been from home
Yeah, I've travelled, but all around Europe so going in the southern islands of Greece is a record breaker for me, surpassing Copenhagen.
Adrenaline is rushing! tomorrow at dawn, for the first time in three years, I'll be on a plane again :metal
I plan to listen to my compilation of songs about flying (or flying disasters ;D), liftoff as usual will be accompanied by Aces High ;D I have a fear of heights but, more specifically, what annoys me is the *realization* I'm actually going up and leaving the ground, once I'm above (say, on top of a skyscraper when you're fully protected) I don't mind the heights. But I want to exorcise the fear of leaving ground and what better way than "Run, live to fly, fly to live, do or die"? :metal
-
I should have posted saturday to say "in 2 weeks I'll be in Santorini" (Greece).
It will be three records for me at once:
- Farthest east I've ever been
- Farthest south I've ever been
- Farthest I've ever been from home
Yeah, I've travelled, but all around Europe so going in the southern islands of Greece is a record breaker for me, surpassing Copenhagen.
Adrenaline is rushing! tomorrow at dawn, for the first time in three years, I'll be on a plane again :metal
I plan to listen to my compilation of songs about flying (or flying disasters ;D), liftoff as usual will be accompanied by Aces High ;D I have a fear of heights but, more specifically, what annoys me is the *realization* I'm actually going up and leaving the ground, once I'm above (say, on top of a skyscraper when you're fully protected) I don't mind the heights. But I want to exorcise the fear of leaving ground and what better way than "Run, live to fly, fly to live, do or die"? :metal
A View From the Top of the World was one of the songs I would play on a plane for my first few trips after DT released the album, usually when the pilot says "we'll be landing in 20 minutes"
-
Just stay away from songs like About To Crash or Fatal Tragedy :P
-
Just stay away from songs like About To Crash or Fatal Tragedy :P
I will, on the other hand I'm totally gonna hear Higher than the Sky by Rage which is about a plane crashing ;D
-
I'm heading to Colorado for a bit in October and will be spending 4 nights in Denver while I'm there. What's a good area to stay in with decent nightlife?
-
So I'm now planning a trip to Toronto in mid-February. I haven't got my passport sorted out. Haven't traveled outside of the US since a long while before, when I was 9 I think, when I was in Vancouver before taking a cruise to Alaska. Is the process to getting a passport excruciating these days? How long would it take from booking the appointment at the USPS to getting it in the mail?
-
So I'm now planning a trip to Toronto in mid-February. I haven't got my passport sorted out. Haven't traveled outside of the US since a long while before, when I was 9 I think, when I was in Vancouver before taking a cruise to Alaska. Is the process to getting a passport excruciating these days? How long would it take from booking the appointment at the USPS to getting it in the mail?
You've got plenty of time. I think it's like six weeks, and 3 months would be extraordinarily long. You've got five or six. No point in dilly-dallying, though. Get it done early. Also, is the post office even still involved? I know for a renewals they don't have anything to do with it, and they certainly won't take your picture anymore. You just submit everything online. Also, I recall there's an option to give them a few bucks to stop dragging their ass and get it done quicker. That shouldn't be necessary in your case, though.
-
Back from Santorini. And tomorrow I'm leaving for the dolomites, some mountains to console myself after having seen such a beautiful archipelago! :metal
Santorini is really worth a visit. Yeah, it's full of tourists, but you feel that problem only in Oia, the most famous town, where it's massively overcrowded, for the rest, the island is quite enjoyable, food is great and cheap, and the white towns are really THAT beautiful like you see in the photos. And the caldera views, especially at sunset, is really something to behold.
I'm gonna miss all that white and all that blue....
-
So I'm now planning a trip to Toronto in mid-February. I haven't got my passport sorted out. Haven't traveled outside of the US since a long while before, when I was 9 I think, when I was in Vancouver before taking a cruise to Alaska. Is the process to getting a passport excruciating these days? How long would it take from booking the appointment at the USPS to getting it in the mail?
In anticipation of a trip to Rome for the new year in 2021, we renewed our passports shortly before COVID hit (I think it was February 2020). It couldn't have been simpler. We completed the applications online and printed them. Took us about 20 minutes at the post office on Lincoln in Cypress (we had to make an appointment). I can't remember how my wife and I got our pictures done, but my daughter got hers done at the post office. If I recall correctly, we received them in the mail within a couple weeks (maybe three weeks at the outside).
-
^^ All right, I got my picture taken today at Walmart. Only costed $8.00 and I think it turned out ok to be put on a passport. Got my appointment set for this Friday at a post office somewhere in Anaheim. The timing can't get be any better to take time off work that day. I got tickets for Goo Goo Dolls (that I've been holding on Groupon since 2020) at the Greek Theater that day. So might as well, get the passport appointment out of the way, eat lunch somewhere, and it's off to the Greek Theater.
Now I'm looking at how you pay the fees and I read this as the following,
"NOTE: You CANNOT pay State Department fees with credit or debit cards.
Pay your application processing fee and any additional services fees with
▪ Personal, certified, cashier's, or traveler's check payable to "U.S. Department of State"
▪ Money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" (You can purchase a money order at the Post Office™ with a debit card.)
Pay the $35 application acceptance fee separately to "Postmaster" with
▪ Money order, personal check, credit or debit card at U.S. postal facilities"
Man, do I have to go through the hassle with my bank to get a check book, just to pay the whatever $150+ amount to the post office to get this thing done?
-
^^ All right, I got my picture taken today at Walmart. Only costed $8.00 and I think it turned out ok to be put on a passport. Got my appointment set for this Friday at a post office somewhere in Anaheim. The timing can't get be any better to take time off work that day. I got tickets for Goo Goo Dolls (that I've been holding on Groupon since 2020) at the Greek Theater that day. So might as well, get the passport appointment out of the way, eat lunch somewhere, and it's off to the Greek Theater.
Now I'm looking at how you pay the fees and I read this as the following,
"NOTE: You CANNOT pay State Department fees with credit or debit cards.
Pay your application processing fee and any additional services fees with
▪ Personal, certified, cashier's, or traveler's check payable to "U.S. Department of State"
▪ Money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" (You can purchase a money order at the Post Office with a debit card.)
Pay the $35 application acceptance fee separately to "Postmaster" with
▪ Money order, personal check, credit or debit card at U.S. postal facilities"
Man, do I have to go through the hassle with my bank to get a check book, just to pay the whatever $150+ amount to the post office to get this thing done?
Since you've already got a bank account it'll be easy. Print out what you need and show it to one of your bank tellers. They'll print cashier's cheques for you in a couple of minutes and off you go.
And be sure and let me know about your parking experiences at the Greek!
-
Man, do I have to go through the hassle with my bank to get a check book, just to pay the whatever $150+ amount to the post office to get this thing done?
As Barto mentioned, go to your teller and tell them you want a certified check. I think there's like a $10 fee but it avoids you getting a checkbook. You can also go to your post office and buy a money order.
-
Why don't you have a check book? It's probably worth it to get one for situations that call for it. Which aren't as many as there used to be with online payments and cash transfer apps, but I still write checks for certain utility companies and services that don't have other options. Plus for gifts like going to a wedding this past weekend (although I actually happened to have cash on me so I didn't write a check).
-
I didn't get a checkbook until I was 31 or so :lol Up until then, I needed checks so infrequently, I just got a certified one from the bank when needed
-
When I was young I accidentally ordered like 10 check books, still no where close to using them all, but it's good to have and I won't need more maybe for the rest of my life :lol
-
When I was young I accidentally ordered like 10 check books, still no where close to using them all, but it's good to have and I won't need more maybe for the rest of my life :lol
Wait, so you can still write checks for the present even though the checkbook is old? I may still have some blank checks somewhere when my bank gave me a few when I opened my account years ago.
-
When I was young I accidentally ordered like 10 check books, still no where close to using them all, but it's good to have and I won't need more maybe for the rest of my life :lol
Wait, so you can still write checks for the present even though the checkbook is old? I may still have some blank checks somewhere when my bank gave me a few when I opened my account years ago.
An unissued check doesn't expire. If you wrote it out and signed it, I think the bank has to honor it only in the six months since the date of the check (banks themselves might have a shorter policy).
-
That said, if they're the checks they gave you for free when you signed up they might just be temporaries, so your name wouldn't be on them. That shouldn't matter, though. Routing and account number are all that matters.
For my part, I've got 5 checking accounts and zero checks. Online bill pay covers checks that need to be mailed, and if I need one in person I just hit my bank and ask them for a bank check, which is either free or a buck or something.
-
I remember getting those temp checks when I opened my first bank account nearly 20 years ago. I remember getting 1 book of 10, and the reason for getting them was because it would take a while for the debit card to be issued.
-
Online bill pay covers checks that need to be mailed
I wish this were the case for me.
-
Interesting thing; legally, there is nothing magic about a "check". You COULD, if you thought the person would accept it and the bank would cash it, write out what you need on a piece of paper. A check need only have the routing number, account number, name, date, amount, and some indicator of authority to enter into the transaction. It can be handwritten; the pre-printedness isn't binding per se, but it is a tacit acknowledgement that someone - that bank, specifically - thought you worthy enough to have checks, and is sort of their imprimatur that they will honor it (in spirit, if the funds are there). This is why you can do "e-checks" on line without any hassle; that's essentially a check transaction.
-
All right, an update on my passport application appointment earlier today. Went in, gave my paperwork, and paid around $167.00 via card (apparently, they allow you to use a card, but they have to charge around a $2.00 money order fee since it does need to be sent to the US Department of State) and that was that.
El Barto, as for parking at the Greek Theater after I saw Goo Goo Dolls today, here's how parking at the shuttle area work. There are two parking lots. One that serves as a regular parking lot for a Pony Ride service for children by day and a dirt lot next to the other lot. You can park at the non-dirt lot after around 4 PM and it's better to park there than the dirt lot. The first shuttle comes around after 5:00 PM (or roughly 2.5 hours before the first band starts). You give the printed parking pass you buy for $10.00 to someone that can scan it. They will give you a wristband so that you can get in the shuttle after the show ends and they give you a slip to put in the car in so that it will be in plain sight. Afterwards, it will be a 15 minute ride from the lot to theater (of course, it varies due to being in a LA area on an afternoon). Then, the driver will tell you where the shuttle to go back to the parking lot will be at when you get to the theater. They told me the last shuttle goes out at 11:15. I got into one at 10:45 and it took 10 minutes to go from theater to back to the parking lot (could be more, since I left after the band finish their main set and not after the encore. The drive could take more time as people are leaving). Afterwards, you exit out right and the 5 South Freeway entrance should be nearby on your right.
I will suggest parking and taking the shuttle as driving down a hill at night in a park area that's pretty darn pitch black is pretty risky, but that's just me.
-
I've got a few flights coming up the rest of this year (home in 2 weeks for PT, Austin in Nov for a wedding, home for Thanksgiving, home for Christmas) so I decided to try out TSA pre-check. Figured I should get my money's worth for the first year and see if it's worth keeping.
-
^
Pre Covid, 2-4 trips a year, one last year, one this year. Im sure that those who fly more will also attest that it is absolutely worth it.
Just make sure its listed on your boarding pass. It wasnt for my first departure last month
-
I'm booked for another work Euro trip. 7 days in Amsterdam, 3 in Frankfurt to end September. I don't really want to go, but so be it. I thought my trip last month was going to be my last for a long time.
-
Starting my vacation season next week. I took hardly any pto this year because of a few large projects I've been working on at work. Going to Seattle on the 9th and doing a 7 day Alaskan cruise.
-
I'm booked for another work Euro trip. 7 days in Amsterdam, 3 in Frankfurt to end September. I don't really want to go, but so be it. I thought my trip last month was going to be my last for a long time.
Have you been to Frankfurt before?
-
I guess I should add I'm also on vacation next week. Doing a road trip to Boston for the Aerosmith concert at Fenway. It's also my gf's birthday (who I didnt even know when I bought that Aerosmith ticket in 2020) so she's going to come and I booked up a very nice hotel and staying a bit longer than just the concert for her birthday (and we will celebrate mine as well next week since I'll be in Europe for my actual date).
I'm booked for another work Euro trip. 7 days in Amsterdam, 3 in Frankfurt to end September. I don't really want to go, but so be it. I thought my trip last month was going to be my last for a long time.
Have you been to Frankfurt before?
Yup, many times. My job sends me to same spots, so often if I go to Europe it's both Amsterdam and Frankfurt.
-
I'm heading to New Orleans for a few days in October for a work conference. Hopefully I'll find some time to explore in the evenings. I'm staying right near the French quarter, so I suspect I'll be able to walk everywhere I need to go.
-
^
and stagger back afterwards ;)
-
All right, an update on my passport application appointment earlier today. Went in, gave my paperwork, and paid around $167.00 via card (apparently, they allow you to use a card, but they have to charge around a $2.00 money order fee since it does need to be sent to the US Department of State) and that was that.
El Barto, as for parking at the Greek Theater after I saw Goo Goo Dolls today, here's how parking at the shuttle area work. There are two parking lots. One that serves as a regular parking lot for a Pony Ride service for children by day and a dirt lot next to the other lot. You can park at the non-dirt lot after around 4 PM and it's better to park there than the dirt lot. The first shuttle comes around after 5:00 PM (or roughly 2.5 hours before the first band starts). You give the printed parking pass you buy for $10.00 to someone that can scan it. They will give you a wristband so that you can get in the shuttle after the show ends and they give you a slip to put in the car in so that it will be in plain sight. Afterwards, it will be a 15 minute ride from the lot to theater (of course, it varies due to being in a LA area on an afternoon). Then, the driver will tell you where the shuttle to go back to the parking lot will be at when you get to the theater. They told me the last shuttle goes out at 11:15. I got into one at 10:45 and it took 10 minutes to go from theater to back to the parking lot (could be more, since I left after the band finish their main set and not after the encore. The drive could take more time as people are leaving). Afterwards, you exit out right and the 5 South Freeway entrance should be nearby on your right.
I will suggest parking and taking the shuttle as driving down a hill at night in a park area that's pretty darn pitch black is pretty risky, but that's just me.
Thanks for the intel. Driving a rental car down a pitch black hill in a park is my kind of good time. However, the idea of stacking cars up in those parking lots doesn't work for me at all. Sounds like normal parking may or may not be quicker, but it stands of the chance of being majorly uncool. I'm kinda wanting to be at the Admirals Club at 0700 before my flight, and wasting an hour the night before would suck. Definitely leaning towards that Pony train thing. :tup
-
I guess I should add I'm also on vacation next week. Doing a road trip to Boston for the Aerosmith concert at Fenway. It's also my gf's birthday (who I didnt even know when I bought that Aerosmith ticket in 2020) so she's going to come and I booked up a very nice hotel and staying a bit longer than just the concert for her birthday (and we will celebrate mine as well next week since I'll be in Europe for my actual date).
I'm booked for another work Euro trip. 7 days in Amsterdam, 3 in Frankfurt to end September. I don't really want to go, but so be it. I thought my trip last month was going to be my last for a long time.
Have you been to Frankfurt before?
Yup, many times. My job sends me to same spots, so often if I go to Europe it's both Amsterdam and Frankfurt.
Oh nice man that sounds like a good time at the concert and hotel, going anywhere nice to eat?
I know you mentioned Amsterdam a lot but I couldn't remember if you've been to Frankfurt before. I've been twice and that's enough for me.
-
I'm heading out for an Alaskan cruise this weekend but I'm spending a day and a half in Seattle. We're staying near Pikes Place and plan on visiting The Wharf and Kerry park, doesn't anyone have any other places I should hit up?
-
As someone who commuted to Seattle for work for a decade, I tend to avoid it like the plague these days :)
Are you with kids? If so, how old? And who are you sailing with?
-
No kids, just the wife and I. We are doing this cruise with Princess: https://www.princess.com/learn/cruise-destinations/alaska-cruises/inside-passage-from-seattle/
-
Just curious. I worked for Holland America for years.
I probably should be the guy to ask about Seattle, but I rarely go there these days. I had to look up Kerry Park. Funny, that is a walk's distance from the Holland America office.
-
No kids, just the wife and I. We are doing this cruise with Princess: https://www.princess.com/learn/cruise-destinations/alaska-cruises/inside-passage-from-seattle/
I can't help you out in Seattle, but I can give you a head's up as to the Inside Passage part of the trip.
We cruised up to Alaska via the Inside Passage eight years ago, made the same stops, and departed the ship for a trip through Anchorage for a tour of Denali the following day.
Anyhoo.....you will be so close to the shores that if someone was out in their yard with a dark blue tshirt, you'd be able to read whether it said 'Seahawks' or 'Mariners' on the front.
And...if it is night time, there was a point where we might have been moving 2MPH, made a couple of 45 to 90 degree turns, and went under some power lines that looked like they were less than a couple of feet above the smoke stacks. And to see the stars above spinning during those turns in the pitch black was an unexpected highlight.
Enjoy
-
I have sour feelings about cruising based on my employment experience, and even prior to that never had much of a desire to go on one. But should I ever do so, I'd go on an Alaska cruise. Not having to fly anywhere sways my opinion quite a bit.
-
When I was 15 or so we did some sort of underground city tour in Seattle and I remember thinking it was cool.
-
So I am going to be going outside the US for the first time to Europe. Anybody know what the deal is with with cellphone service (texting and data specifically)
I have a cheap carrier (Boost mobile) and I don't think it works in Europe. Anyone know how to get service? Do I get a sim card when I get there?
Thanks
-
Check to see what their roaming service is. Boost uses AT&T network, which is available is all of Europe (If I'm not mistaken).
When I had Sprint (and even recently after T-Mobile merge), I was able to get data internationally at no additional cost in select countries/areas. It could be that Boost has a similar system or, cheap roaming options. Worst case, you can get a cheap phone when you get there and just do prepaid service.
Where in Europe are you going to?
-
So I am going to be going outside the US for the first time to Europe. Anybody know what the deal is with with cellphone service (texting and data specifically)
I have a cheap carrier (Boost mobile) and I don't think it works in Europe. Anyone know how to get service? Do I get a sim card when I get there?
Thanks
You really need to talk with your mobile provider. I've found them all to have wildly different rates and services that change unexpectedly. Nail down a plan that will cover your needs for the length of the visit. Sometimes monthly rates are better than weekly, too.
-
When I travel to Mexico I just order up a Mexican SIM. In my experience the MVNOs don't generally offer their provider's roaming services, so even though T-Mobil might offer Mexican service Red Pocket does not. Downside is that you'll pay a bit more because they're tailoring the service to tourists. That way it's preconfigured, and all you have to do is plug it when your plane lands and you're good to go. I think I pay $30 for the SIM and a gig or so of data.
-
Thanks guys.
I did just check with Boost. They don't have Roaming currently, so I am going to get a local prepaid sim card and that do the trick.
Barto, do you buy them online before hand?
-
Thanks guys.
I did just check with Boost. They don't have Roaming currently, so I am going to get a local prepaid sim card and that do the trick.
Barto, do you buy them online before hand?
Absolutely. Presumably you can just buy them at the airport when you arrive, but I'll pay a bit more to have it all setup and configured. I don't want to run into trouble getting the thing provisioned in a place I don't speak the language.
-
Thanks
How is the configuration? Just pop it in and good? Or a little more?
-
Thanks
How is the configuration? Just pop it in and good? Or a little more?
In my case (Mexico) you activate it before you leave, and my recollection is that you install it once you arrive and it's good to go. You might need to setup APM info, but I'm not sure.
Just check Amazon for European SIMs and you'll find a gazillion of them. Pick the one that best suits your needs and has thousands of good reviews. They should list the instructions on the product page, or else others have probably explained them. Something to keep in mind is that you're paying for data, and might not get voice/SMS. I consider that a bonus, and it's not like anybody will have your new number anyway.
-
Perfect.
thanks again for the info
-
Perfect.
thanks again for the info
Where are you heading?
Also, re-read your post, and if texting is important to you you'll want to look into that. It might be possible and people will just see your new European phone number +55, or it might not be. Something like What's App will solve that for you, though.
-
Warsaw, Poland
Mainly need data for Uber and navigating around the city. I'll try and add texting as well.
-
I currently have ATT and they charge $10 a day for international roaming. Honestly, I don't have too much of an issue. I turn data off and live off wifi when I go out there. But I have turned on the data for a day for various reasons (usually stuck somewhere without wifi and bored). I'm seriously considering changing to Google Fi because it's very similar pricing and includes international service. Also downloading a google offline map of where you will be is clutch so you can still rely on GPS services without data.
-
Also downloading a google offline map of where you will be is clutch so you can still rely on GPS services without data.
Genius. I will be doing that
-
Have been loving reading where you guys have been holidaying to....
Coming back to the United States in November-December this year (last trip was 2018)
This is my first overseas holiday since Covid, and lucky for me I have been able to throw in a couple of stays in Atlanta, Nashville and Chicago to see Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. (It was meant to be New Orleans, Savannah and New York only)
And now John Petrucci in Chicago. (Hopefully the venue is seated, I forked out a bundle for front row on the floor to now find out that it may not matter if security can't find your seat. They just put you anywhere. (Not sure if this is true, again reliant on reviews) Jeez Louise!
Also arriving from Australia on November 5, where I was going to fly straight to Atlanta, but I am thinking, of seeing John Petrucci in Anaheim, just trying to work out if it is worth the hassle of getting luggage held, getting to Anaheim, going to concert at House of Blues, then getting back to LAX, getting luggage returned for a 12.50am flight to Atlanta. This could be changed to a 6 or 7am flight, but then it means less time in Atlanta.
Has anyone (on this forum) done this before LAX - Transfer - Anaheim concert - Transfer - LAX flight all in the space of about 12 hours?
-
Man, that's pretty rough. Assuming that you are renting a car for the day (or rack up the Uber/Lyft fees), I wouldn't want to risk it driving from HOB to LAX after the show possibly ends around 11 PM. For one thing, unless you want to leave early, you could end up getting stuck in line for around 10-15 minutes trying to get out of the parking lot at the Anaheim Gardenwalk (where the HOB is at). Also, it's still a 30-50 minute drive from HOB to LAX and then you got to clear TSA (and who knows how long that will take).
-
Im in Kentucky this week visiting children and grandchildren. Also going to the Bourbon and Beyond Festival on Saturday.
-
Have been loving reading where you guys have been holidaying to....
Coming back to the United States in November-December this year (last trip was 2018)
This is my first overseas holiday since Covid, and lucky for me I have been able to throw in a couple of stays in Atlanta, Nashville and Chicago to see Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. (It was meant to be New Orleans, Savannah and New York only)
And now John Petrucci in Chicago. (Hopefully the venue is seated, I forked out a bundle for front row on the floor to now find out that it may not matter if security can't find your seat. They just put you anywhere. (Not sure if this is true, again reliant on reviews) Jeez Louise!
Also arriving from Australia on November 5, where I was going to fly straight to Atlanta, but I am thinking, of seeing John Petrucci in Anaheim, just trying to work out if it is worth the hassle of getting luggage held, getting to Anaheim, going to concert at House of Blues, then getting back to LAX, getting luggage returned for a 12.50am flight to Atlanta. This could be changed to a 6 or 7am flight, but then it means less time in Atlanta.
Has anyone (on this forum) done this before LAX - Transfer - Anaheim concert - Transfer - LAX flight all in the space of about 12 hours?
The LAX-Anaheim-LAX thing is doable, but definitely sub-optimal. Part of it depends on ground transportation. If you're renting a car it'd be advisable to prepay for your gas. You'll get ripped off, but you're not going to want to burn 10 extra minutes during your run back to the airport. If all the pieces line up you're at the airport by midnight for a 0050 flight. If they don't you miss your flight by 30 minutes and they just rebook you on the early AM flight and you sleep on an LAX bench.
If you're hellbent to do this, look at flights in and out of SNA. It's a busy airport, so you should find decent flights, and it's much, much closer to Anaheim. Flying to ATL from SNA after the show would certainly be doable, though again sub-optimal.
Re Chicago, just get there before the show starts and you won't have any trouble with your seat.
-
Man, that's pretty rough. Assuming that you are renting a car for the day (or rack up the Uber/Lyft fees), I wouldn't want to risk it driving from HOB to LAX after the show possibly ends around 11 PM. For one thing, unless you want to leave early, you could end up getting stuck in line for around 10-15 minutes trying to get out of the parking lot at the Anaheim Gardenwalk (where the HOB is at). Also, it's still a 30-50 minute drive from HOB to LAX and then you got to clear TSA (and who knows how long that will take).
No car rental, (don't want my first LA drive to be this one), so it would be a car service. But thank you for the information.
It does sound terrible, it would have been fine it JP was going on at 8pm with no support, but not knowing how long he will play, and I wouldn't want to miss the end if he went longer.
I guess I have to weigh up either changing the flight to 6am or not going to Anaheim at all and get to Atlanta on the 5th which was the original plan.
What works in Anaheim's favour is that there are still good seats available, front row went late last week, but there is second and third, and a lot of other good ones.....I always go for up front as I am vertically challenged. I have spent many a concert behind tall guys.... DT 2017 in Sydney when JLB asked everyone on the flat floor to stand for the I&W album, that was the end of my viewing for about half an hour until some sat back down. At least for that concert, I knew I was seeing them in Melbourne the next night, so it wasn't the end of the world. (Sorry I am a chronic oversharer :blush)
-
Have been loving reading where you guys have been holidaying to....
Coming back to the United States in November-December this year (last trip was 2018)
This is my first overseas holiday since Covid, and lucky for me I have been able to throw in a couple of stays in Atlanta, Nashville and Chicago to see Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. (It was meant to be New Orleans, Savannah and New York only)
And now John Petrucci in Chicago. (Hopefully the venue is seated, I forked out a bundle for front row on the floor to now find out that it may not matter if security can't find your seat. They just put you anywhere. (Not sure if this is true, again reliant on reviews) Jeez Louise!
Also arriving from Australia on November 5, where I was going to fly straight to Atlanta, but I am thinking, of seeing John Petrucci in Anaheim, just trying to work out if it is worth the hassle of getting luggage held, getting to Anaheim, going to concert at House of Blues, then getting back to LAX, getting luggage returned for a 12.50am flight to Atlanta. This could be changed to a 6 or 7am flight, but then it means less time in Atlanta.
Has anyone (on this forum) done this before LAX - Transfer - Anaheim concert - Transfer - LAX flight all in the space of about 12 hours?
The LAX-Anaheim-LAX thing is doable, but definitely sub-optimal. Part of it depends on ground transportation. If you're renting a car it'd be advisable to prepay for your gas. You'll get ripped off, but you're not going to want to burn 10 extra minutes during your run back to the airport. If all the pieces line up you're at the airport by midnight for a 0050 flight. If they don't you miss your flight by 30 minutes and they just rebook you on the early AM flight and you sleep on an LAX bench.
If you're hellbent to do this, look at flights in and out of SNA. It's a busy airport, so you should find decent flights, and it's much, much closer to Anaheim. Flying to ATL from SNA after the show would certainly be doable, though again sub-optimal.
Re Chicago, just get there before the show starts and you won't have any trouble with your seat.
Thanks for the reply El Barto as I just told Anguyen92 no car hire, it will be a booked car service of some description. (I have driven in America but mainly in the South on the 10 heading from New Orleans towards Georgia etc. I have been told LA roads are pretty crazy at the best of times)
I assume SNA is another airport? ... Unfortunately I have booked the flight on a multi city ticket, so I can change it, within a day either side, just not cancel it, Delta are pretty good with the changing to a later time should I need it. I may just do that, that way I don't have to rush out of the venue after the concert.
Thank you for the info regarding Chicago concert. I will be picking up my ticket at the box office earlier that day so I will see how many people are lining up early.
Regarding Chicago where have you stayed there in the past, (you or anyone else) I saw a few pages back someone mentioned I think The Bradley, I will have to look that up. First time going there, I am there for four nights doing some touristy things, but have booked JP at the Vic Theater and Steve Vai at the Copernicus Center, which I will have to catch the train to. Have currently booked Hotel Julian, but open to any suggestions. :smiley:
-
Im traveling from Florida to NY to see Porcupine Tree at Radio City , the final band on my Mt Rushmore
that I havent seen live
cant wait !!!
-
Im traveling from Florida to NY to see Porcupine Tree at Radio City , the final band on my Mt Rushmore
that I havent seen live
cant wait !!!
Safe Travels and enjoy!
I'll be at the show as well :metal
-
Im traveling from Florida to NY to see Porcupine Tree at Radio City , the final band on my Mt Rushmore
that I havent seen live
cant wait !!!
Safe Travels and enjoy!
I'll be at the show as well :metal
:metal :metal
I think Axeman and Nick will be there too. Probably even more DTF folks as well.
-
You sure were right , but it was DT folks !!!Jordan was there !! In the Orchestra section on Floor on the right side about 5 rows back !!
The show was phenomenal!!! Steven Wilson is AMAZING !!!
-
JR was there? I had no idea and yeah, the show was awesome.
I just checked into my flight to Amsterdam tomorrow for work while on the train into NYC to see Eric Clapton tonight. Will also be driving to Frankfurt next week before flying home from there.
-
Have been loving reading where you guys have been holidaying to....
Coming back to the United States in November-December this year (last trip was 2018)
This is my first overseas holiday since Covid, and lucky for me I have been able to throw in a couple of stays in Atlanta, Nashville and Chicago to see Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. (It was meant to be New Orleans, Savannah and New York only)
And now John Petrucci in Chicago. (Hopefully the venue is seated, I forked out a bundle for front row on the floor to now find out that it may not matter if security can't find your seat. They just put you anywhere. (Not sure if this is true, again reliant on reviews) Jeez Louise!
Also arriving from Australia on November 5, where I was going to fly straight to Atlanta, but I am thinking, of seeing John Petrucci in Anaheim, just trying to work out if it is worth the hassle of getting luggage held, getting to Anaheim, going to concert at House of Blues, then getting back to LAX, getting luggage returned for a 12.50am flight to Atlanta. This could be changed to a 6 or 7am flight, but then it means less time in Atlanta.
Has anyone (on this forum) done this before LAX - Transfer - Anaheim concert - Transfer - LAX flight all in the space of about 12 hours?
The LAX-Anaheim-LAX thing is doable, but definitely sub-optimal. Part of it depends on ground transportation. If you're renting a car it'd be advisable to prepay for your gas. You'll get ripped off, but you're not going to want to burn 10 extra minutes during your run back to the airport. If all the pieces line up you're at the airport by midnight for a 0050 flight. If they don't you miss your flight by 30 minutes and they just rebook you on the early AM flight and you sleep on an LAX bench.
If you're hellbent to do this, look at flights in and out of SNA. It's a busy airport, so you should find decent flights, and it's much, much closer to Anaheim. Flying to ATL from SNA after the show would certainly be doable, though again sub-optimal.
Re Chicago, just get there before the show starts and you won't have any trouble with your seat.
Thanks for the reply El Barto as I just told Anguyen92 no car hire, it will be a booked car service of some description. (I have driven in America but mainly in the South on the 10 heading from New Orleans towards Georgia etc. I have been told LA roads are pretty crazy at the best of times)
I assume SNA is another airport? ... Unfortunately I have booked the flight on a multi city ticket, so I can change it, within a day either side, just not cancel it, Delta are pretty good with the changing to a later time should I need it. I may just do that, that way I don't have to rush out of the venue after the concert.
Going back to this. SNA is John Wayne Airport and it is a lot closer to Anaheim than LAX is. Unfortunately, there are no later late night flights to Atlanta out of Santa Ana after 9:30 PM (which I have taken a few times in route to either Chicago or Orlando in previous trips eastbound). If you are that keen on wanting to see JP in Anaheim and have time to kill and you are able to fit out the logistics of heading out of SoCal the next morning, you can't go wrong than being in Anaheim for a day. Lots of things to do and eat at the Anaheim Gardenwalk and, if you are into this stuff, Disneyland is a brief walk away nearby.
-
I just checked into my flight to Amsterdam tomorrow for work while on the train into NYC to see Eric Clapton tonight. Will also be driving to Frankfurt next week before flying home from there.
Welp, on the train ride home last night there was a power failure and my train was stuck on a bridge for an hour at 1am and now my plane has a technical issue that requires the maintenance team so we are delayed an hour at the moment (likely more). The woes of travel.
-
Alright...next trip has been booked.
They're having "Family Day" at my kid's college (Keene State in NH) on Saturday, Oct. 22. Because of a death in her family, my wife won't be joining me, so I'm going solo. I'm flying out to Boston on Tuesday the 18th and have booked two nights at a little beachfront place in Belfast, Maine. My tentative plan is to spend a the day on Wednesday exploring Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park and Mt. Desert Island, and then to do a slow drive on small roads across Maine and New Hampshire and arrive in Keene in the evening on Thursday. I kind of have a thing for hitting state capitals, so I'm intending to drive through Augusta and Concord, and I was also thinking of taking the road up to the top of Mt. Washington. Then I'll be in Keene from Friday through Sunday and heading back to Boston for the flight home the following Monday.
Any of our resident New Englanders have any thoughts on any of this...sights I shouldn't miss, etc.?
-
Alright...next trip has been booked.
They're having "Family Day" at my kid's college (Keene State in NH) on Saturday, Oct. 22. Because of a death in her family, my wife won't be joining me, so I'm going solo. I'm flying out to Boston on Tuesday the 18th and have booked two nights at a little beachfront place in Belfast, Maine. My tentative plan is to spend a the day on Wednesday exploring Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park and Mt. Desert Island, and then to do a slow drive on small roads across Maine and New Hampshire and arrive in Keene in the evening on Thursday. I kind of have a thing for hitting state capitals, so I'm intending to drive through Augusta and Concord, and I was also thinking of taking the road up to the top of Mt. Washington. Then I'll be in Keene from Friday through Sunday and heading back to Boston for the flight home the following Monday.
Any of our resident New Englanders have any thoughts on any of this...sights I shouldn't miss, etc.?
That sounds like a great plan. Those are all great spots to hit up. My only suggestion would be to stop at Franconia Notch state park in NH on your way from the Mt Washington area to Keene. Hike the "notch" if you can. It's really cool. I'd also say to drive over to Vermont from Keene if you have a free afternoon just to say you've been there (if you havent already). Brattleboro is a cute little town to wander around and the Vermont Country Store in Bellows Falls is fun too.
-
Alright...next trip has been booked.
They're having "Family Day" at my kid's college (Keene State in NH) on Saturday, Oct. 22. Because of a death in her family, my wife won't be joining me, so I'm going solo. I'm flying out to Boston on Tuesday the 18th and have booked two nights at a little beachfront place in Belfast, Maine. My tentative plan is to spend a the day on Wednesday exploring Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park and Mt. Desert Island, and then to do a slow drive on small roads across Maine and New Hampshire and arrive in Keene in the evening on Thursday. I kind of have a thing for hitting state capitals, so I'm intending to drive through Augusta and Concord, and I was also thinking of taking the road up to the top of Mt. Washington. Then I'll be in Keene from Friday through Sunday and heading back to Boston for the flight home the following Monday.
Any of our resident New Englanders have any thoughts on any of this...sights I shouldn't miss, etc.?
That sounds like a great plan. Those are all great spots to hit up. My only suggestion would be to stop at Franconia Notch state park in NH on your way from the Mt Washington area to Keene. Hike the "notch" if you can. It's really cool. I'd also say to drive over to Vermont from Keene if you have a free afternoon just to say you've been there (if you havent already). Brattleboro is a cute little town to wander around and the Vermont Country Store in Bellows Falls is fun too.
Thanks! I'll definitely look into Franconia Notch.
My first time on a plane as an adult was in 1990. My sister had a bunch of frequent flyer miles because of her work, so, for my birthday that year, she got me a ticket wherever I wanted to go. I chose Boston and spent Thanksgiving week driving around New England. I spent time in Boston and Bar Harbor but mostly just drove around checking out the scenery. I hit all six states and spent the night in Montpelier. That said, three days in Keene is probably more than I'll need, so I likely will drive over. I just wish I could bring home a nice big bottle of syrup, but I won't be checking a bag....
-
Going back to this. SNA is John Wayne Airport and it is a lot closer to Anaheim than LAX is. Unfortunately, there are no later late night flights to Atlanta out of Santa Ana after 9:30 PM (which I have taken a few times in route to either Chicago or Orlando in previous trips eastbound). If you are that keen on wanting to see JP in Anaheim and have time to kill and you are able to fit out the logistics of heading out of SoCal the next morning, you can't go wrong than being in Anaheim for a day. Lots of things to do and eat at the Anaheim Gardenwalk and, if you are into this stuff, Disneyland is a brief walk away nearby.
[/quote]
Thanks El Barto, since I was last on here some new developments.
Qantas Airlines called me and was going to change my flight Melbourne to LAX on November 5, to a domestic to Sydney then Sydney to LAX, was not happy with this so at no extra charge they changed me to Melbourne to LAX on November 3, which means I won't go to Anaheim, but instead see JP at The Ace Hotel in Los Angeles on the 4th, same price for ticket and I got second row, so I will skip Anaheim and just do some touristy LA things on the 3rd and day 4th and then I can fly to Atlanta during the day on the 5th. Not long now :)
-
Well, I got a huge dilemma now. Because of the Hurricane that's about to hit Florida this week, I need to reschedule my trip in Orlando that would start this Friday by one week. Of course, because I am too naīve in thinking this is going to go as planned, when I book the trip on Expedia, I did not check the option where you pay a little extra to protect your trip. Has anyone have any experiences in rescheduling flight/hotels by a week this close to the actual trip?
-
Well, I got a huge dilemma now. Because of the Hurricane that's about to hit Florida this week, I need to reschedule my trip in Orlando that would start this Friday by one week. Of course, because I am too naīve in thinking this is going to go as planned, when I book the trip on Expedia, I did not check the option where you pay a little extra to protect your trip. Has anyone have any experiences in rescheduling flight/hotels by a week this close to the actual trip?
Flights: Depends on the airline and the fare class you bought. When I flew to Boston in August, I pushed back my outbound flight by one day only a one day before I was originally scheduled to depart. The difference in fare was $19, and I also had to pay a $50 fee because I had originally booked with Expedia but made the change directly with the airline.
Hotels: Have you paid for your stay already? If you merely booked the room but haven't paid, you should have no problem canceling the reservation and re-booking. It may be more or less expensive or the same price depending on a lot of factors. If you already paid, then it will depend on the terms of your agreement at the time of booking. When I book through Hotels.com, I sometimes will choose the "pay now" option because it can sometimes save a lot of money. Even with that, if you cancel before a specified date, you can get a full or nearly full refund. Also, since you're postponing instead of canceling, it may not be an issue. Check the terms from when you booked the trip and then start making phone calls.
-
I'll be heading to Trieste Italy for work tomorrow.
-
Well, I got a huge dilemma now. Because of the Hurricane that's about to hit Florida this week, I need to reschedule my trip in Orlando that would start this Friday by one week. Of course, because I am too naīve in thinking this is going to go as planned, when I book the trip on Expedia, I did not check the option where you pay a little extra to protect your trip. Has anyone have any experiences in rescheduling flight/hotels by a week this close to the actual trip?
In my case I had used my airline points, so cancelling was a snap and they just refunded my points to me. I know that Expedia typically offers up the lowest class of fares, often fares the airlines won't even pawn off on you, and you might be stuck with it. Also, at least insofar as AA goes, cancelling and changing are different things. I wasn't allowed to change my flight, but could get my points back no questions asked and use them to book a different flight (which I'll be doing very soon). You'll need to explore both options. Also, check with the airline about how they're handling it. Airlines don't typically fly into huricanes, so it's possible they're more than happy to cut you some slack.
As for hotels, typically I've seen pretty reasonable terms with those. Never had to cancel one, but it always seems like you can cancel up to a certain point and only pay a fee--far less than the actual rate.
On the bright side, you won't have to miss Porcupine Tree after all.
-
All right, for flight. It looks like I am able to reschedule with the charge fee being waived off. It looks like all I need to do is pay the difference in flight. It looks like it may set me back around $275.00 for the round trip. Not sure yet for hotel, since I did pay in advance, but that's something I need to call them about to see what my options are.
Edit: I'm thinking something devious and I don't know if this is allowed. Since my flight home is with United and my flight to Orlando is with Delta, what if I switched airlines? Go to Orlando via United and go Delta to home. If I go via LAX, it would only cost me $130.00 extra (including the two-hour trip from the OC to LAX via train and bus).
Edit: All right, even better news. I was able to get my hotel stay from 09/30 - 10/03 refunded. I wanted a reschedule but the hotel there says its booked on the days I wanted. No worries, that's $370.00 that I did not expect to get refunded, so I take the little victories.
Edit x 2: Man, what an evening. I was able to push my flight to 10/06 - 10/10. It costed me $133.00 overall to do the switch where now the Delta flight is from MCO to LAX and the United Flight is from LAX to MCO. Plus, I will pay roughly around $50.00 to travel from the OC to LAX and back via rail and bus. That's perfectly ok. It was better than what Expedia was giving me as an option which would have costed me $300.00. Now to find a new hotel room. I may need to lower my standards and book a room at a Best Western, Quality Inn, or Budget Inn. I don't need to sleep that much, so I'm good.
-
Drove from Amsterdam to Frankfurt this morning. This drive used to be a lot more fun, but with all the speed traps and construction on the autobahn, it was quite boring and tiring. I'm so ready to be done with this work Euro trip.
What was cool though, on Sunday night, I got to see a national football game between Netherlands and Belgium. That was a cool experience and something that should make all the work pain a little better.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Fdhp9qxXkAM4Uwz?format=jpg&name=large)
-
Ok, so to recap, on my end of the scheduling. It turned out that I need to be in Orlando on 10/06, not 10/07. I was able to move my United flight one day back (and they gave me $87.00 in e-credit, as a result, for a future flight). I wasn't able to move my Delta flight but since I made the change within 24 hours, apparently, I had the option to cancel it, per their 24 hour policy, and get a full refund even though I booked the initial flight back in August? I'm not sure if that refund contains the difference I paid or the full amount of the flight I've paid. Something I will need to clear up with Delta today is to confirm the amount of the refund.
Edit: All right, so I dug deeper and yep, Delta will refund the difference when I made the change yesterday and put the rest as an e-credit. Fair enough, I'm probably bound to use that e-credit for both Delta and United at some point next year. As long as the money spent is not going to waste, I'm cool with it.
-
Scaled back my trip even further. Pretty much just flying into LA for the show, and heading off to CDMX. I was going to get in a day early to hit SFMM, but it's fucking hot over there right now, I'm not sure how "up to it" I'll be, and honestly, I'm kind of getting a bad vibe about SF in general. I think I'd rather just hit town, spend a few hours in Santa Monica or something, eat a nice meal, and head to the Greek. Also, it doesn't help that my favorite coaster out there is "temporarily closed," and a couple others are questionable. This is basically just a long weekend now, with a couple of killer shows thrown in.
-
So I'm traveling internationally for first time and don't really get when the passport comes into play.
Leaving an American airport, do I just go through TSA and then I can get on the international flight? Or what's the process?
I'm assuming the passport gets scanned before departing, and where does that happen? Is there just one TSA or an international specific one?
-
Your passport will most likely be checked at both borders (which implies during or after security on the US side of things depending on where the border control section is, and whether the entire terminal is geared up for international travel or just a fraction of the gates), and possibly at check in and/or boarding the flight. On landing you will go through border security before you reach the luggage belts and the airport exit. Your airline will also probably ask you to pre-verify your passport by submitting details prior to or during check in.
-
So I'm traveling internationally for first time and don't really get when the passport comes into play.
Leaving an American airport, do I just go through TSA and then I can get on the international flight? Or what's the process?
I'm assuming the passport gets scanned before departing, and where does that happen? Is there just one TSA or an international specific one?
Like XJ said, typically you go to the airline counter, they'll make sure you have your documents ready, check if a visa is needed and that you have it. Some airlines I believe follow up with you to make sure you have all the documents needed prior to your flight. Once you check in your luggage and get your boarding card/pass you'll go through TSA and then head to the terminal/gate to your plane. Once you land in the destination you typically have to go through customs/immigration checkpoint where they check your documents again and then allow you to exit the airport. That's the gist of it.
-
Customs will usually come after the baggage collection, so that people can declare goods or have their bags checked "randomly".
-
Makes sense. Thanks guys
-
I find it so odd how some countries do customs. Going into the US is annoying. Going into Netherlands? No problem! I had not a single question asked this time. (of course they did check my passport though) but usually you get some questions "where are you going? why are you here? How long are you here?"
-
Well, trip to Orlando (if the weather calms down and all goes smoothly) starts on 10/06. I'm flying out of LAX and decided to take a train from Anaheim to Union Station and take a Flyaway bus from Union Station to LAX on 10/05. Would cost around $50.00 for the roundtrip, which, honestly, is much better than leaving my car in a hotel parking lot nearby LAX for a few days. On 10/07, I will most likely check at the Little Saigon district and see how it is in comparison to the Little Saigon area in Westminster (a few miles away from where I live). It seems odd traveling 2,500 miles east and eat a cuisine that I grew up on and can get nearby on a regular basis, but here we are.
-
The Boston Logan airport looks like a dump compared to the Tampa airport. Had no idea a restaurant called Wahlberger existed. Would have liked to try it but apparently 8 pm is too late for it to be open.
-
I went to a Wahlburger once, in Orlando oddly enough. It was all right.
-
I've had Wahlburgers a few times and I've been disappointed every time. There are way better burger places all over the place, including several quick service restaurants that are significantly cheaper.
-
My son and I went to Wahlburger in NYC on our way to the Yankee game. It was solid but nothing special.
(https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/35686927_10212789777199833_7660266363612561408_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=0debeb&_nc_ohc=bjMXeylBPCIAX8FoKWe&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.xx&oh=00_AT9bquAuJD6FLReNyPhIOqmqDyTM0sAW3bEQEB0tqp1MTA&oe=635EFA11)
-
I've had Wahlburgers a few times and I've been disappointed every time. There are way better burger places all over the place, including several quick service restaurants that are significantly cheaper.
I have never been there, but out of curiosity what made you think their burgers are rather disappointing? Or what would make you happy?
-
I've had Wahlburgers a few times and I've been disappointed every time. There are way better burger places all over the place, including several quick service restaurants that are significantly cheaper.
I have never been there, but out of curiosity what made you think their burgers are rather disappointing? Or what would make you happy?
The texture is not enjoyable for me. The burger patty is too soft for me and there's no sear on the outside. Soft bun, soft patty, other soft toppings leads to a boring texture experience. Could potentially be remedied by having more firm or crunchy toppings I guess. I like a good sear on my patty and that is definitely not the case here.
There is a distinct lack of seasoning and flavor in the patty. I have needed to add salt to every burger I've gotten there and even then it seems to be lacking is flavor. Again, the lack of sear on the patty really hurts them here as that adds nice flavor.
IMO Freddie's, Culver's, and Smash Burger are all significantly better and they're quick service restaurants that are faster and a few bucks cheaper, plus no need to tip since there is no table service. The common theme there is that all three of those really smash the burger into the grill for a good sear, so apparently that's what makes a good burger for me. :lol
I'll add that I am not a big topping guy and generally don't care for sauces and condiments. Just a basic bacon cheeseburger is what I go for most of the time. So maybe Walburger's sauce is what people enjoy there, but that's not my thing.
-
The texture is not enjoyable for me. The burger patty is too soft for me and there's no sear on the outside. Soft bun, soft patty, other soft toppings leads to a boring texture experience. Could potentially be remedied by having more firm or crunchy toppings I guess. I like a good sear on my patty and that is definitely not the case here.
There is a distinct lack of seasoning and flavor in the patty. I have needed to add salt to every burger I've gotten there and even then it seems to be lacking is flavor. Again, the lack of sear on the patty really hurts them here as that adds nice flavor.
IMO Freddie's, Culver's, and Smash Burger are all significantly better and they're quick service restaurants that are faster and a few bucks cheaper, plus no need to tip since there is no table service. The common theme there is that all three of those really smash the burger into the grill for a good sear, so apparently that's what makes a good burger for me. :lol
Geez, sorry you have to suffer through those. For me, the lack of flavor is a major turn off. No one should need to add further seasoning on their burgers if they are seasoned and cooked right the first time.
-
I don't think I ever even heard of Wahlburger until now
-
I never had Wahlburgers before, but I know when it opened it was all over the news because of Mark Walhberg, who I think owns the chain (maybe?).
-
Wahburgers is owned by Paul Wahberg (a chef) and his more famous brothers Donnie and Mark.
The term "boring texture experience" weirded me out for some reason (probably because I'm not entirely sure what it means). :lol I can tell you that, if you're eating a burger that doesn't have onions and a stray onion happens to show up, that sudden crunch can pretty much ruin the burger. I'm also not a topping/sauce guy, and I love Smashburger. Never been to Freddie's or Culver's (my son told me his friend thinks Culver's sucks, but I've also heard far more positive opinions).
-
Bald & Bankrupt is my favourite travel vlogger and i'm amazed he's still alive. His latest adventure in Afghanistan is something else. He's so good at capturing how friendly people are no matter the reputation. He probably has a few screwes loose given he's walking around asking "are you a taliban?" to anybody. :lol
Visiting The World's Most Dangerous Country 🇦🇫 ( Afghanistan 2022 ) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2Nba4MMBAU&t=1993s&ab_channel=baldandbankrupt)
-
Has anyone here ever been to the Azores? My wife and son have been talking about going. I looked at a map and it's like 5 big rocks in the middle of the fucking ocean!!
-
Has anyone here ever been to the Azores? My wife and son have been talking about going. I looked at a map and it's like 5 big rocks in the middle of the fucking ocean!!
Never been there, but recently found out that a guy has been studying the place because he believes it to be the original location of atlantis
-
Back home after leaving the US for the first time ever.
Went to Warsaw, Poland and it was truly incredible. And in addition, I've been studying the language for a year and half and for the most part was able to speak only Polish while there and it was one of the greatest experiences of my life.
(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/72/da/bf/72dabf7accaec78b9d690e5e60d17ae0.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/05/d9/81/05d9817a55be491118dc79f9daab8fca.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/63/53/3c/63533c88086831fbbdc2d1b5a922b158.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/00/21/97/002197ebc6e89cb9809a9ccc77201de5.jpg)
My only regret was I didn't do it sooner.
-
Looks amazing! Was Poland your only stop? I've been to Poland once and very briefly when visiting Lithuania.
-
Thanks Reaper
The only other place was at Frankfurt Germany for a transfer flight, but Poland was the main stop.
I can't wait to go back. And I also have a whole list of other countries I would like to visit as well.
And to save people from having to click back a page here is the post again
Back home after leaving the US for the first time ever.
Went to Warsaw, Poland and it was truly incredible. And in addition, I've been studying the language for a year and half and for the most part was able to speak only Polish while there and it was one of the greatest experiences of my life.
(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/72/da/bf/72dabf7accaec78b9d690e5e60d17ae0.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/05/d9/81/05d9817a55be491118dc79f9daab8fca.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/63/53/3c/63533c88086831fbbdc2d1b5a922b158.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/00/21/97/002197ebc6e89cb9809a9ccc77201de5.jpg)
My only regret was I didn't do it sooner.
-
Have you guys thought about taking a nice hike and visit Kjeragbolten in Norway?
-
Has anyone here ever been to the Azores? My wife and son have been talking about going. I looked at a map and it's like 5 big rocks in the middle of the fucking ocean!!
Never been there, but I was researching it a few years back. Since like a nice place honestly. That and Canary Islands are on my list of places to visit in the near future.
-
Went to Venice for about a day last weekend. Few of the shots I took.
(https://i.imgur.com/BG1DIRa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/S38HCz6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2Gd5AHS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/w80LmxG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uTCfCIU.jpg)
-
(https://i.imgur.com/uTCfCIU.jpg)
This one is awesome!
-
One of the few benefits of waking up for a flight at 06:00, sunrise shots! :P
-
The Venice pics look great.
Anybody do Global entry? Is it worth it?
-
Nice pics XJ
The Venice pics look great.
Anybody do Global entry? Is it worth it?
I had it for a bit. It comes with TSA pre-check (or did, I haven't followed lately). I guess if you travel in/out of the country enough it may be worth it. In EWR they redid the customs area to make it more digital and it's fairly quick. I'm usually through before my bags arrive at the carousel and I'm traveling outside the US maybe twice a year. I don't think it's worth it. I also don't really have an issue waiting for TSA so I don't care for paying for these extras like TSA-pre check either. It's nice, and it usually is quicker, but I can wait 15 minutes.
I actually just reached United Premiere 1k status which has a perk of free Clear. I need to figure out how to claim that and see if that's a huge time saver.
I should also add, your home airport may be a bigger mess to get through security than my experiences flying United out of EWR. (I almost never use their Premiere security line either, it's often slower than the main line).
-
Yeah, I was going to say it probably depends on your home airport more than anything else. DFW is quick as hell letting you back in. I'm not sure how something like global entry could make it much quicker. There might be a time when 8 fully loaded A380s arrive simultaneously, but I've never seen such a thing.
-
Yeah, I think its really a Philly airport issue more than anything. They were recently voted worst airport in the country and I may have to agree.
They had 50 customs checkout counters and they had maybe 8 open. And even though I'm a citizen, I waited in line for almost an hour. All for one very checked out, indifferent guy to ask me 3 questions: where I was coming from, how long and if I bought anything :P
After a 9 hour flight, it just broke my brain a little.
-
As cramx said, global entry is a boon for those who travel a lot and use multiple airports in the US. I have family that use it and some find it useful and other not so much. Like everyone else said a lot depends on the airport. I've used different airports for re-entry to the US, I think the immigration has been mostly an ok experience esp after long flights (between 8-16 hrs) I'm heading back to the US in a week or two and entry point will be Logan airport. I have no idea how long the wait will be, I am just loathing the 6 hour layover I have at that airport.
-
There might be a time when 8 fully loaded A380s arrive simultaneously, but I've never seen such a thing.
I guess I should add that one bad experience could change my opinion :lol
-
Those pictures are just amazing.
-
If you're traveling with coworkers, would you check with them to see if they want to join you for tourist stuff after work hours, or would you just go do your own thing?
-
If you're traveling with coworkers, would you check with them to see if they want to join you for tourist stuff after work hours, or would you just go do your own thing?
Depends if you would like their company or not. I kind of felt like a dick when I was in Denver with a coworker and went to a concert at Red Rocks without telling him, but I honestly wouldn't of wanted to go with him. But when I was with my other coworker in Amsterdam, we spent one of our days off doing touristy stuff together and one day doing our own things. It really depends on your relationships.
-
If you're traveling with coworkers, would you check with them to see if they want to join you for tourist stuff after work hours, or would you just go do your own thing?
There are a couple guys I work with whose company I enjoy. I've had occasion to travel on business with one of them. I might go grab a beer with him, but for the most part, once the work function is done, my time is mine.
-
All right, got my passport in the mail today. I am pleased. Now I can go ahead and book a trip to Toronto, Ontario, Canada in February as I please. Maybe go to Europe in the Summer. If I'm really ambitious now that I have the passport, I may contemplate going to London in mid-December. We'll see.
-
Booked a couple trips.... Thanksgiving in Jacksonville to see my parents and 10 days in LA for work in December.
-
All right, got my passport in the mail today. I am pleased. Now I can go ahead and book a trip to Toronto, Ontario, Canada in February as I please. Maybe go to Europe in the Summer. If I'm really ambitious now that I have the passport, I may contemplate going to London in mid-December. We'll see.
A bit of unsolicited advice based on my experience. Going overseas isn't like going to NY. Crossing 8 time zones kind of fucks with your head. It's something that's really only worth doing if you're planning a decent sized trip. Even a week isn't really enough, as you'll as much time traveling and getting squared away as you will touristing. I kind of decided that 10 days is the minimum for for me for it to be worth while. As with all things, YMMV, but if you haven't done it before you might want to be prepared for that.
-
All right, got my passport in the mail today. I am pleased. Now I can go ahead and book a trip to Toronto, Ontario, Canada in February as I please. Maybe go to Europe in the Summer. If I'm really ambitious now that I have the passport, I may contemplate going to London in mid-December. We'll see.
Don't bother, other than the British Museum there isn't much worth seeing in London, lol :lol
-
This time tomorrow I begin the dreadful 30hours plane journey back to the US. Longest leg is a 15 hour flight.
Blergh.
-
All right, got my passport in the mail today. I am pleased. Now I can go ahead and book a trip to Toronto, Ontario, Canada in February as I please. Maybe go to Europe in the Summer. If I'm really ambitious now that I have the passport, I may contemplate going to London in mid-December. We'll see.
Don't bother, other than the British Museum there isn't much worth seeing in London, lol :lol
U avin' a laugh mate?
-
This time tomorrow I begin the dreadful 30hours plane journey back to the US. Longest leg is a 15 hour flight.
Blergh.
Where did you go?
-
Well this trip has been a disaster, but were trying to laugh through it. (At some point, you almost have to)
As some of you might have seen in the coronavirus thread, we flew into Orlando on Friday Oct 28th with plans of spending one whole week with my sons family and my new baby granddaughter, followed by a week at Disney World and Universal.
The first Monday, I woke up feeling like death and tested positive for Covid. Ive been vaccinated along with 3 boosters, so symptoms were pretty mild (like a head cold) and only lasted about 48 hrs. But the CDC and hotel policy required we quarantine for 5 days, so that was our first week.
The following Saturday, I was still testing positive. However
.again
.the CDC guidelines were pretty specific that the omicron variant was showing a peak contagious window of 1-2 days before and 2-3 days after symptoms. So based on that, they say to quarantine 5 days, and then proceed about your business wearing a mask. We called Disney Theme parks to confirm this, and they reiterated that as long as we were following that guidance, we were welcome in the park. (So everyone keep that in mind if youre going to a theme park or anywhere else)
So this last Monday, we masked up and headed to the park. Monday was great. YESTERDAY OTOH :facepalm: We got a monsoon ahead of the upcoming storm. We were soaked to the bone by the time we got back to the hotel.
Now today weve got Hurricane Nichole just offshore, and were thinking Universal Studios will most likely be closed tomorrow.
My son still wont see me because hes worried about the baby.
At this point I just want to go home.
-
Well this trip has been a disaster, but were trying to laugh through it. (At some point, you almost have to)
As some of you might have seen in the coronavirus thread, we flew into Orlando on Friday Oct 28th with plans of spending one whole week with my sons family and my new baby granddaughter, followed by a week at Disney World and Universal.
The first Monday, I woke up feeling like death and tested positive for Covid. Ive been vaccinated along with 3 boosters, so symptoms were pretty mild (like a head cold) and only lasted about 48 hrs. But the CDC and hotel policy required we quarantine for 5 days, so that was our first week.
The following Saturday, I was still testing positive. However
.again
.the CDC guidelines were pretty specific that the omicron variant was showing a peak contagious window of 1-2 days before and 2-3 days after symptoms. So based on that, they say to quarantine 5 days, and then proceed about your business wearing a mask. We called Disney Theme parks to confirm this, and they reiterated that as long as we were following that guidance, we were welcome in the park. (So everyone keep that in mind if youre going to a theme park or anywhere else)
So this last Monday, we masked up and headed to the park. Monday was great. YESTERDAY OTOH :facepalm: We got a monsoon ahead of the upcoming storm. We were soaked to the bone by the time we got back to the hotel.
Now today weve got Hurricane Nichole just offshore, and were thinking Universal Studios will most likely be closed tomorrow.
My son still wont see me because hes worried about the baby.
At this point I just want to go home.
Dang, that all really sucks. I'll be in Orlando next week for a work seminar and some Disney time with the wife and my youngest son. We are pretty much skipping all planned event this week just to stay healthy before we go. So much illness going around right now.
-
How are you feeling though? And yeah, sounds like a nightmare vacation and that's just very unfortunate. Maybe you should just go home if possible?
-
Well this trip has been a disaster, but were trying to laugh through it. (At some point, you almost have to)
As some of you might have seen in the coronavirus thread, we flew into Orlando on Friday Oct 28th with plans of spending one whole week with my sons family and my new baby granddaughter, followed by a week at Disney World and Universal.
The first Monday, I woke up feeling like death and tested positive for Covid. Ive been vaccinated along with 3 boosters, so symptoms were pretty mild (like a head cold) and only lasted about 48 hrs. But the CDC and hotel policy required we quarantine for 5 days, so that was our first week.
The following Saturday, I was still testing positive. However
.again
.the CDC guidelines were pretty specific that the omicron variant was showing a peak contagious window of 1-2 days before and 2-3 days after symptoms. So based on that, they say to quarantine 5 days, and then proceed about your business wearing a mask. We called Disney Theme parks to confirm this, and they reiterated that as long as we were following that guidance, we were welcome in the park. (So everyone keep that in mind if youre going to a theme park or anywhere else)
So this last Monday, we masked up and headed to the park. Monday was great. YESTERDAY OTOH :facepalm: We got a monsoon ahead of the upcoming storm. We were soaked to the bone by the time we got back to the hotel.
Now today weve got Hurricane Nichole just offshore, and were thinking Universal Studios will most likely be closed tomorrow.
My son still wont see me because hes worried about the baby.
At this point I just want to go home.
That really sucks, Dude. At least in my case I was able to cancel most of my travel plans.
-
As someone who had COVID while on vacation I empathize with the dude, it blows chunks. Hope you're feeling ok.
-
This time tomorrow I begin the dreadful 30hours plane journey back to the US. Longest leg is a 15 hour flight.
Blergh.
Where did you go?
Flew from India to the US via Qatar. super long ass flights that I dread every single time.
-
As someone who had COVID while on vacation I empathize with the dude, it blows chunks. Hope you're feeling ok.
I feel fine. I was a little surprised when everyone involved including the hotel, the CDC and Disney parks told me to go ahead and proceed with my life as long as I wear a mask even though Im still technically testing positive.
Just kind of made me realize that apparently a lot of public places no longer care. so everyone else just keep that in mind when youre the one thats out traveling.
EDIT FOR DISCLAIMER- I havent actually tested since last Saturday and today is Wednesday. So I suppose things could have changed. But at this point, I dont think Im going to bother testing again until after I get home. That will be this Saturday.
-
Got lost on the way home from work and found this big hole in the ground.
(https://i.imgur.com/F8BaI8c.jpg)
-
How grand!
-
So I'm planning my trip to Toronto in February and looking at hotel prices, I'm contemplating getting an AirBnB instead. I'm seeing some spots at good prices with some good enough reviews that's cheaper than the hotel I am thinking about booking. The issue is that I have never reserved an AirBnB before. Are they an ok thing to book and have a safe sleep in?
-
So I'm planning my trip to Toronto in February and looking at hotel prices, I'm contemplating getting an AirBnB instead. I'm seeing some spots at good prices with some good enough reviews that's cheaper than the hotel I am thinking about booking. The issue is that I have never reserved an AirBnB before. Are they an ok thing to book and have a safe sleep in?
AirBnB is fine. I've stayed in plenty. You can often times do quite a bit better, so long as you don't care about the hotel amenities (and I sure don't). Just make sure you're booking the entire place, and be mindful of the fees. I haven't been using ABB on my last few trips because the idea of a $70 cleaning fee for one night offends me to my very core.
-
So I'm planning my trip to Toronto in February and looking at hotel prices, I'm contemplating getting an AirBnB instead. I'm seeing some spots at good prices with some good enough reviews that's cheaper than the hotel I am thinking about booking. The issue is that I have never reserved an AirBnB before. Are they an ok thing to book and have a safe sleep in?
I've never used AirBnB, but I've used VRBO, which is basically the same thing. In fact, my 20yo is coming back today from a trip to New York, and he stayed at a VRBO in Jersey City. No problems at all, but a couple of cautions when booking:
1. Some listings are better than others about location. Some will only give you a radius, while others will be more exact. I try to look the places up on Google Maps/Earth so you can get an idea of the neighborhood.
2. There are all different types of places on VRBO, including single rooms or just the upstairs of someone's house. Sometimes hotels will list on VRBO. Make sure you understand what you're getting.
3. As Bart noted, you're going to get charged a cleaning fee at most places, and there are other fees and lodging taxes (just like you'll pay at a hotel). Sometimes you'll think you're getting a great place for $100 per night for five nights, but it jumps up $150-200 when you go to reserve. Also, we ran into something really unusual when we booked the place my kid just stayed at. They had a mandatory damage deposit - either a refundable $5,000 cash deposit (charge on a credit card) or buy a $99 damage insurance policy. My kid really wanted a place with a kitchen so he could cook for himself and his friends, so he went with it (it was also still less per night than any hotel he might get).
-
I've only had good experiences with AirBnb stays. I prefer to get the entire place/apartment whatever. I've never done just a room. Hosts have always been super accommodating and respectful of privacy.
-
I've had good experiences with AriBNB and VRBO as well. The only thing that I would caution is to look at the full cost of the AirBNB compared to a hotel before you make the decision. AirBNBs look artificially low in cost if you just look at the nightly rate. There are fees galore on AirBNB and it's incredibly annoying. But it can still be much cheaper for more space.
-
As a rule I've never found the ABB fees to be anything that obnoxious. And they show them to you when you look at the actual listing. Since the cleaning fees are per stay, rather than per day, they'll be alright for most travelers. Where I run into a problem is that it's highly unusual for me to spend more than two nights in any given location. I'm always on the move when I travel, and mostly it's one night per town. That's when the cleaning fees become a big problem. If I were staying five days somewhere the cleaning fees would be a drop in the bucket. Paying the full fee each night is a dealbreaker.
Side note, those cleaning fees are ridiculous in Mexico City. Seems the Mexicans have started charging US rates for cleaning, while the pads themselves are still priced relative to the peso. It's not unusual to see a nice apartment for ~$45, with a $50 cleaning fee. They used to be $45+5 or so. It's unfortunate.
-
I honestly couldn't ever envision myself using an AB&B.
-
I honestly couldn't ever envision myself using an AB&B.
Where we've enjoyed them is on longer trips as a family where we want to have the option to cook our own meals. Having multiple bedrooms and a living room is nice rather than piling into a small hotel room. Having the ability to cook meals is a huge money saver. But if those aren't issues or priorities, having a regular hotel room is great. I prefer that when traveling by myself.
-
I honestly couldn't ever envision myself using an AB&B.
Where we've enjoyed them is on longer trips as a family where we want to have the option to cook our own meals. Having multiple bedrooms and a living room is nice rather than piling into a small hotel room. Having the ability to cook meals is a huge money saver. But if those aren't issues or priorities, having a regular hotel room is great. I prefer that when traveling by myself.
I totally get the cooking angle. My wife prefers to have a kitchen type setup too. It's much cheaper and healthier. We just can't eat out breakfast/lunch/dinner everyday in vacation. We just book a hotel room that accommodates this. We are Disney Vacation Club members, so when we travel, the DVC points can be used with a third party (timeshare company) so we'll use that wherever possible, and we've had some great accommodations.
-
I honestly couldn't ever envision myself using an AB&B.
Where we've enjoyed them is on longer trips as a family where we want to have the option to cook our own meals. Having multiple bedrooms and a living room is nice rather than piling into a small hotel room. Having the ability to cook meals is a huge money saver. But if those aren't issues or priorities, having a regular hotel room is great. I prefer that when traveling by myself.
I totally get the cooking angle. My wife prefers to have a kitchen type setup too. It's much cheaper and healthier. We just can't eat out breakfast/lunch/dinner everyday in vacation. We just book a hotel room that accommodates this. We are Disney Vacation Club members, so when we travel, the DVC points can be used with a third party (timeshare company) so we'll use that wherever possible, and we've had some great accommodations.
That makes sense if you have the DVC points pre-paid for. We've found that AirBNBs are better for us than hotel suites with kitchenettes in general.
On a side note, how do you like being a DVC member? We tossed out the idea a while back of joining, but we live in Minnesota and travel to the DVC locations is too costly for us to go enough to make it worth it. If we were within a days' drive of Orlando, we probably would have talked ourselves into it. We love Disney parks (were just there last week actually).
-
Yeah, whatever works, but we do have the cooking in common. Basically, load up at a local Walmart of grocery store. So much better for the family.
On a side note, how do you like being a DVC member? We tossed out the idea a while back of joining, but we live in Minnesota and travel to the DVC locations is too costly for us to go enough to make it worth it. If we were within a days' drive of Orlando, we probably would have talked ourselves into it. We love Disney parks (were just there last week actually).
We loved it. Of course we bought in about 20 years ago. We bought two 150 point memberships through a resale and I think it was like $65-$70 per point. Plus, there's a yearly "Maintenance Fee" which has basically doubled over the last 10 years.
There's a ton of rules around banking and borrowing your points, but my wife is the expert on it.
It wasn't necessarily a cheap or bargain thing. I mean, we did buy in at a good price. My youngest son turns 20 in two months, but my kids basically grew up there.
I'd be fine selling the thing. The yearly fee, basically locks you into using it just because. The timeshare isn't always in a convenient location to where we are travelling. But we have had great accommodations.
Honestly, unless you can get a good deal on a membership, I'd pass. It's way more expensive to purchase, and like I said, the yearly fee is a killer.
Plus the Disney Experience has not grown commensurate with the cost.
-
Yeah, whatever works, but we do have the cooking in common. Basically, load up at a local Walmart of grocery store. So much better for the family.
On a side note, how do you like being a DVC member? We tossed out the idea a while back of joining, but we live in Minnesota and travel to the DVC locations is too costly for us to go enough to make it worth it. If we were within a days' drive of Orlando, we probably would have talked ourselves into it. We love Disney parks (were just there last week actually).
We loved it. Of course we bought in about 20 years ago. We bought two 150 point memberships through a resale and I think it was like $65-$70 per point. Plus, there's a yearly "Maintenance Fee" which has basically doubled over the last 10 years.
There's a ton of rules around banking and borrowing your points, but my wife is the expert on it.
It wasn't necessarily a cheap or bargain thing. I mean, we did buy in at a good price. My youngest son turns 20 in two months, but my kids basically grew up there.
I'd be fine selling the thing. The yearly fee, basically locks you into using it just because. The timeshare isn't always in a convenient location to where we are travelling. But we have had great accommodations.
Honestly, unless you can get a good deal on a membership, I'd pass. It's way more expensive to purchase, and like I said, the yearly fee is a killer.
Plus the Disney Experience has not grown commensurate with the cost.
The main reason I wouldn't bother at this point is because my company likes to hold seminars at events at Disneyland and Disney World. So I've gotten highly discounted and subsidized trips through work. We just stayed at the Grand Floridian for 5 nights (work covered 3) for $329 a night and got discounts on park tickets. This kind of thing happens at least once a year, so we wouldn't really have a chance to use DVC points anyway. The cost has gotten a little out of hand in recent years I think for the DVC, but it can still make sense if you're set on going once every year or two and staying on Disney property.
-
I honestly couldn't ever envision myself using an AB&B.
There are advantages and disadvantages, as will all things. Something I like is that you get to stay in a neighborhood, or a small town, away from where hotels tend to be. Sometimes you want to be in the busiest part of the city, and sometimes you want to be among the locals. Since I eat out exclusively when traveling, being around the locals and eating where they eat is much better than eating in the touristy part of town.
And honestly, things tend to even out. I've had great beds and crappy beds in both. I've had peace and quiet and noisy neighbors in both (though ABnB typically wins that one). I've been in good neighborhoods and crappy neighborhoods in both. Same with plumbing, TV, HVAC, etc. Overall I've probably done a bit better in ABBs, and definitely saved a ton of money.
Really, it's the neighborhood thing that makes it for me, though.
-
I get that.
-
I honestly couldn't ever envision myself using an AB&B.
Where we've enjoyed them is on longer trips as a family where we want to have the option to cook our own meals. Having multiple bedrooms and a living room is nice rather than piling into a small hotel room. Having the ability to cook meals is a huge money saver.
Absolutely. We don't typically travel as a family anymore, but nowadays, I don't want to subject my kids to my snoring, and my daughter is now 18, so it's a little more comfortable for her. Our best experiences with VRBO places were when we went to England back in '09 and Boston in '12.
The only thing that I would caution is to look at the full cost of the AirBNB compared to a hotel before you make the decision. AirBNBs look artificially low in cost if you just look at the nightly rate. There are fees galore on AirBNB and it's incredibly annoying. But it can still be much cheaper for more space.
After I posted yesterday, I looked at the confirmation email for my kid's trip to NY/NJ: $120 per night (for five nights); $100 cleaning fee; $94 service fee; $99 damage insurance; $116.38 lodging tax. Ended up a hair over $200 per night, but it was still better than a hotel in Manhattan - especially when you factor in the saved food cost.
-
All right, thanks for the insight everyone. I booked my reservation at an AirBnB in Toronto and I'm pretty pleased with the price. After fees, the prices is about $55.00 a night. It's a bit of a travel coming from YYZ in public transportation, but it's pretty darn close to History (the music venue that I'm going to be at for a concert). Going to be a good one.
-
Has anyone here taken a 4-day trip from London to Paris via the EuroStar train? And, what are some of the must-sees or do in Paris for such a short trip? I am thinking about doing that sometime in January.
-
Has anyone here taken a 4-day trip from London to Paris via the EuroStar train? And, what are some of the must-sees or do in Paris for such a short trip? I am thinking about doing that sometime in January.
So we did a weeklong trip to Paris/London back in 2014, flying in to CDG and home from Heathrow. We took the Eurostar from Paris to London through the Chunnel. It was awesome to take the train through the countryside. We actually stayed at Disney Paris for 3 or 4 nights. There's a train station right there that we took right into Paris. I think it's about 40 minutes by train south of Paris.
In our one day in Paris...
We took the train and got out at The Arc (which was amazing). I think in the 20 years since we have had kids, it's one of my favorite family photos.
From there we walked to the Eiffel Tower.
At the Eiffel Tower, we took a river cruise up the Seine and back, which was really nice.
We then walked to Notre Dame, and had a nice lunch at an outdoor cafe in that area.
From there, we walked to the Louvre. We got there too late to get into the actual museum, but the large lobby was still open, as was the gift shop.
We then walked to the nearest train station and went back to Disney.
We did that all in one day. Walking the whole time, we got a really nice look at some of the different parts of the city. Obviously, we missed a lot, but we hit the touristy points and got our family photos.
One thing I'd love to do if we go back is to actually go into The Arc.
-
Has anyone here taken a 4-day trip from London to Paris via the EuroStar train? And, what are some of the must-sees or do in Paris for such a short trip? I am thinking about doing that sometime in January.
This is going to sound stupid, but when we (wife + 7yo and 5yo) were in London in '09, we took a day trip to Paris on the TGV. Left one afternoon. Spent the night across from the Louvre. Visited the Louvre (about 3-4 hours), walked around to the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, got back on the train and went back to London. In retrospect, it seems ridiculous to stay such a short time, but the kids enjoyed the train ride and the Louvre, and we had a great time. With more time, we'd probably have visited Notre Dame and Versailles.
(https://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.18169-9/3261_1047795955713_5862777_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=cdbe9c&_nc_ohc=Tyr65pXwJlMAX8w6csU&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBQNzmLRNrUbrrbrsDQjqclzGhVzg6oS4ltaQdSXpgjtQ&oe=63A7601A) (https://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.18169-9/3261_1047796275721_6393260_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=cdbe9c&_nc_ohc=BsaDMiCsBTQAX8t_DgX&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRzkyrVhuAOCWSwo_XpJrAPzx4J5wOj-gKKQ6djtvOqw&oe=63A77478)
-
Has anyone here taken a 4-day trip from London to Paris via the EuroStar train? And, what are some of the must-sees or do in Paris for such a short trip? I am thinking about doing that sometime in January.
Did one recently and one a long time ago. The Eiffel Tower, Arc de Tripmph are a must. The Louvre has some great stuff, specially the Egypt and middle east wings.
If you like impressionism (monet, maner, van gogh) then Musee d'orsay is a must.
Then there is the museum of weapons which is where napoleons grave is which is also really nice.
Versailles is great, but much more enjoyable in spring or summer when the garden is in full bloom.
And whatever you do, don't leave without eating racklette. It is a one of a kind experience.
-
Awesome pics Paul!
Some pics of the TACation 2014..
Inside the Louvre
(https://i.imgur.com/ENu35eW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EuhYQUy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NmrMk7p.jpg)
Oh, and this is us after flying all night with no sleep. We couldn't check into our hotel (the New York Hotel), so we walked over to the park..
(https://i.imgur.com/BTdc7wc.jpg)
-
It's obvious from our meeting a couple of months ago that your youngest has grown just a tad, Mrs. TAC is as lovely as ever, and... that those reading glasses of yours are permanently attached ;) :D
-
Very nice, Tim!
-
Last Saturday night was spent in Atlantic City, Sunday I went to a concert in New York City, and yesterday morning I flew out to Los Angeles. Needless to say, I was wiped yesterday when I made it to work out here. What a busy 3 days of traveling around.
The Hertz in LAX ran out of cars in the lot they assigned to me yesterday. After a 15 minute wait, out came a mustang for me. I'll take that wait for the upgrade. Also going to try to hit up the Amon Amarth concert at the Forum on Saturday :metal
-
^^ If you are still around in the area at the time, the USA and Canada women's hockey teams are going to be playing a game at the building formerly known as Staples Center next Monday if that interests you. I'll be there.
-
^^ If you are still around in the area at the time, the USA and Canada women's hockey teams are going to be playing a game at the building formerly known as Staples Center next Monday if that interests you. I'll be there.
I probably could go, work seems to be pretty light for this trip, but honestly, not sure that interests me. I'm still going to try and find a somewhat affordable ticket for Metallica / Greta Van Fleet on Friday. I noticed some drop in prices, but it's still too much.
-
Last Saturday night was spent in Atlantic City, Sunday I went to a concert in New York City, and yesterday morning I flew out to Los Angeles. Needless to say, I was wiped yesterday when I made it to work out here. What a busy 3 days of traveling around.
The Hertz in LAX ran out of cars in the lot they assigned to me yesterday. After a 15 minute wait, out came a mustang for me. I'll take that wait for the upgrade. Also going to try to hit up the Amon Amarth concert at the Forum on Saturday :metal
My free Avis upgrades have been great. I had a brand new Mustang for the last NJ/PA trip, <400 miles, and a Jaguar SUV from LAX. I've started renting the cheapest car I can get from them since they're always upgrading me to something nice.
-
Technically I got a free upgrade from intermediate to Presidents Circle, but the cars that were in that lot before being taken were not muscle cars. The guy in front of me waiting got a charger. When I told my boss about the wait, he said he had a better experience at Avis, but I've always been solid with Hertz from experience so I never thought to try somewhere else. I think Hertz is the only consistent spot though for all my work locations which is why I opted for it initially.
-
Technically I got a free upgrade from intermediate to Presidents Circle, but the cars that were in that lot before being taken were not muscle cars. The guy in front of me waiting got a charger. When I told my boss about the wait, he said he had a better experience at Avis, but I've always been solid with Hertz from experience so I never thought to try somewhere else. I think Hertz is the only consistent spot though for all my work locations which is why I opted for it initially.
I'd hated Avis until I signed up for their loyalty program. It certainly paid off for them, as it's my go-to. The skip the line part is awesome, too. Once I turn my phone on at landing they'll offer up an upgrade. If you decline it they'll offer something else, assuming they're available. Walk straight to "D-47," get in and drive off. I doubt I'll ever get enough points or status to get other perks, but I'm happy with what I've got.
-
Technically I got a free upgrade from intermediate to Presidents Circle, but the cars that were in that lot before being taken were not muscle cars. The guy in front of me waiting got a charger. When I told my boss about the wait, he said he had a better experience at Avis, but I've always been solid with Hertz from experience so I never thought to try somewhere else. I think Hertz is the only consistent spot though for all my work locations which is why I opted for it initially.
I'd hated Avis until I signed up for their loyalty program. It certainly paid off for them, as it's my go-to. The skip the line part is awesome, too. Once I turn my phone on at landing they'll offer up an upgrade. If you decline it they'll offer something else, assuming they're available. Walk straight to "D-47," get in and drive off. I doubt I'll ever get enough points or status to get other perks, but I'm happy with what I've got.
I can't remember the last time I waited in line for a rental. From what I could tell, all these places have free programs so you can just go to your car. For Hertz, they don't assign you a specific spot in the lot, but they assign you a specific lot and you can pick your car from what's available in that lot which is kind of nice because you can get an idea of the condition of the car before you take it. My issue was there was two bus drops off of people at the same time to the lot resulting in a rush of people grabbing all the cars. Honestly, still not a bad experience though.
-
In early January I will have my first business trip ever!
I never had a job that required to travel, this is gonna be an absolute first for me. I'm working in tech support for a multinational company, and since the german division is not doing so well performances wise, they asked me and my other coworker to go there and share the way we train newcomers in Italy, to streamline and improve their training process.
So from the 8th to the 13th of January I will be in Dusseldorf, Germany, which I never visited so far even though I've been many times in Germany, for festivals and for travelling around with friends met there. My return to Germany has been long overdue and it's gonna happen for work this time! bit scared but also excited, I already know there won't be time for sightseeing but at least I'll see a bit of Dusseldorf. Pity I won't have time to go to the nearby Koln and see the majestic black gothic cathedral, would have been a cool occasion to do that!
-
Could you take an additional day or two of annual leaves while you are there?
Business trips, at least back then when I was with another job; are usually half business and half networking. Things usually get done easier remotely down the road, if you have established a pretty friendly relationship with the local teams.
-
My business trips, historically, are all work and no play, but as time has gone on, I've found my ways to have some fun. Having said that, this business trip in LA has been cake walk. I've been bored out here actually, but I did have my fun this weekend checking out some concerts. I fly home today, a day early since there's no work left here, and I actually don't think I need to work until January 2nd.
-
Could you take an additional day or two of annual leaves while you are there?
Business trips, at least back then when I was with another job; are usually half business and half networking. Things usually get done easier remotely down the road, if you have established a pretty friendly relationship with the local teams.
Never really got back on this, sorry.
This is the first of a kind for me and my coworker so we'll just do the minimal stay for now. We'll see next times. The german division of the company gave us a nice modern 4 stars hotel, they definitively weren't cheap! flight is confirmed for this sunday, I'm kinda excited to see how it goes, and as I said, I will finally be back to Germany, yay!
-
Anyway, you were right on the "half business, half networking" part! remember how I wrote I didn't have time to go to the nearby Koln? actually I did! even better, it was two people from their office who offered to bring me and my other coworker there, and that was on top of having another work dinner all together in a fancy part of Dusseldorf a couple of days before! those people are gonna visit us in Italy (always for working reasons) in a month or two so we're gonna return the favor any way we can :coolio
-
Anyway, you were right on the "half business, half networking" part! remember how I wrote I didn't have time to go to the nearby Koln? actually I did!
Please Odin, tell me you went Kolsch hopping while you were there!
-
Anyway, you were right on the "half business, half networking" part! remember how I wrote I didn't have time to go to the nearby Koln? actually I did!
Please Odin, tell me you went Kolsch hopping while you were there!
First of all, I don't drink beer and I basically don't drink any kind of alcohol.
Having said that, when you're on a business trip and a hot german woman asks you to drink Kolsch, can you say no....? ;D I trusted her when she said it was somehow sweet and light for a beer and she was right, so I almost enjoyed drinking that in the honor of someone who decided me to bring me to Koln just because I mentioned that I loved the city, she (and the other guy that came along with us) didn't really have to do it, they were so kind in bringing me and my coworker along!
-
I forgot to post the update on my short Paris trip. A while back I asked for recommendations on what to do or see in Paris. So my wife and I will be spending 4 days there by the end of this month via Eurostar from London. I will take this opportunity to make a ride report video for my little YouTube channel (link below) We will be visiting the Palace of Versailles and the Louvre Museum over this short city trip. I am not sure if we will have the time for a riverboat ride or not, but we can always save it for next time. ;)
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0n3ng7HMKnPOJqVz87AkzA
-
I forgot to post the update on my short Paris trip. A while back I asked for recommendations on what to do or see in Paris. So my wife and I will be spending 4 days there by the end of this month via Eurostar from London. I will take this opportunity to make a ride report video for my little YouTube channel (link below) We will be visiting the Palace of Versailles and the Louvre Museum over this short city trip. I am not sure if we will have the time for a riverboat ride or not, but we can always save it for next time. ;)
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0n3ng7HMKnPOJqVz87AkzA
Be sure and research Versailles to see when/if they'll be turning the fountains on. They operate pretty infrequently. The giant one (Neptune, I believe) isn't particularly impressive, but the rest of them are quite nice. When I was there it was like twice each weekend day for like 30 minutes.
And plan for a ton of walking. Louis got to ride a horse. You have to walk.
-
It looks like I need to go to Singapore for work in 5 or 6 weeks.
-
It looks like I need to go to Singapore for work in 5 or 6 weeks.
Singapore is a very good place to visit. Be sure to set aside a day to visit the Singapore Zoo or the Garden by the Bay.
Today is day one of my trip to Paris. Everything has gone very smoothly thus far, except for a minor hiccup with the Metro ticket machine not working at the Gare du Nord.
-
It looks like I need to go to Singapore for work in 5 or 6 weeks.
Singapore is a very good place to visit. Be sure to set aside a day to visit the Singapore Zoo or the Garden by the Bay.
I may not have time off on the trip, maybe a morning to explore before I leave. It'll be too busy. The timing of the trip may mean I'm going to want to get back for some plans I have here so extending it for personal is not likely. I honestly don't want to go, not at all in part due to the city or anything. I'm just extremely uncomfortable flying for more than 7 hours. My understanding is the food is great though.
-
It looks like I need to go to Singapore for work in 5 or 6 weeks.
Singapore is a very good place to visit. Be sure to set aside a day to visit the Singapore Zoo or the Garden by the Bay.
I may not have time off on the trip, maybe a morning to explore before I leave. It'll be too busy. The timing of the trip may mean I'm going to want to get back for some plans I have here so extending it for personal is not likely. I honestly don't want to go, not at all in part due to the city or anything. I'm just extremely uncomfortable flying for more than 7 hours. My understanding is the food is great though.
They putting you in business class? I don't really want any part of an 18 hour flight, but being in my on little space with access to food and liquor (I don't typically drink on planes, but I'd make an exception for that) would make it alright. If not, can you use your [presumably] gazillions of miles to upgrade yourself?
-
It looks like I need to go to Singapore for work in 5 or 6 weeks.
Singapore is a very good place to visit. Be sure to set aside a day to visit the Singapore Zoo or the Garden by the Bay.
I may not have time off on the trip, maybe a morning to explore before I leave. It'll be too busy. The timing of the trip may mean I'm going to want to get back for some plans I have here so extending it for personal is not likely. I honestly don't want to go, not at all in part due to the city or anything. I'm just extremely uncomfortable flying for more than 7 hours. My understanding is the food is great though.
They putting you in business class? I don't really want any part of an 18 hour flight, but being in my on little space with access to food and liquor (I don't typically drink on planes, but I'd make an exception for that) would make it alright. If not, can you use your [presumably] gazillions of miles to upgrade yourself?
I'll be in business class. You are right, it's not the worst, but honestly, the business class flights from Frankfurt that clock in close to 8 hours on plane are miserable for me even in business class. It could be WAY worse for sure. It's an antsy thing for me. I get bad restless legs. I really shouldn't be complaining about the flight, I'll be "on the clock" the entire time too. It's just something I don't really have much interest in doing even if it's quite a crazy adventure on company dime. I'll try to make the best of it, but I'm basically expecting 10 days of misery including the jet lag going there and coming back.
-
Anybody have experience vacationing in Antigua?
-
Anybody have experience vacationing in Antigua?
If anybody does my money would be on Crimson Sunrise.
-
Anybody have experience vacationing in Antigua?
I had a 24 hr layover on that island several years ago. Nice hotel and food and beach area. If you've been to any of those Caribbean islands, to me the experience is pretty much the same across the board. I've been to Nevis and St. Kitts. again this was almost 15 years ago so I'm sure some stuff has changed.
If you're into resorts they all have 5 star services right on the beach. Nevis has a dormant Volcano and I wanted to hike up to it but didn't have time.
Stayed at the Marriott on St.Kitts that has a casino if you're into those sort of things, breakfast was nice there.
-
I'm planning a Caribbean vacation myself this year, more likely Aruba or Jamaica at the moment, but my gf and I seriously need to book it this weekend because we keep procrastinating and I actually need to take time off sooner than later.
-
Thanks for the replies. Its been a few years but we have been to St. Kitts and Nevis and most of the surrounding islands, however they have been cruise stops so you only get to see a small bit of the islands. We just booked at the Royalton, which seems to be a great resort.(hope so, for what they are charging!) Accommodations are the wife's responsibility and I am tasked with excursions. So far I have our usual Segway tour, horseback riding and a sunset sail. Swimming with stingrays and a zip line excursion are also on the short list as well as some of the historical sights.
Its been 5 or 6 years since I have flown and that's the part I don't like. The recent airline problems have not made me feel better about it and I always have major ear /sinus problems which generally linger into the vacation. I'm sure the fabulous beaches will make it all worthwhile!
-
So my trip to Toronto is coming up a week from Friday. A few questions I got. A. Would shops/restaurants accept my credit card from Chase? B. If not, where do I go to convert USD cash to CAD? C. Would they accept Apple Pay?
-
So my trip to Toronto is coming up a week from Friday. A few questions I got. A. Would shops/restaurants accept my credit card from Chase? B. If not, where do I go to convert USD cash to CAD? C. Would they accept Apple Pay?
It's been a while since I've been to Canada, but there's no reason any merchant (except cash only places) wouldn't accept any Visa or MasterCard, and Chase has a presence in Canada.
As for currency exchanges, your best bet will be to go to a bank. EDIT: Really no reason to exchange currency; if you want CAD, just use an ATM as you would here.
In both cases, look up your bank/credit card issuers' policies on foreign transactions. Lots of banks/card issuers will charge a foreign transaction fee (sometimes on top of ATM use charges).
I know virtually nothing about Apple Pay, but I imagine it will be as hit or miss as it is in the U.S.
-
My trip to Paris last week went on relatively smoothly for the most part. That being said, got "robbed" at the Palace of Versailles, and almost got "robbed" at the gate of the Louvre Museum.
Long story short, I got my eTickets and vouchers for TWO audio guides for the Palace of Versailles weeks prior to my trip. We got into the museum without any issue, but the guy at the audio guide counter insisted I pay 4 euros to get the second audio guide player; despite the fact that I had vouchers for TWO. The whole time he was speaking French, and I was not sure if he even understand what I was telling him in English. Or he just ignored what I told him and showed him? We were stuck there for a couple of minutes trying to explain the situation with no avail, and in the end, I decided to just pay the damn 4 euros and get on with it.
Then I almost got "robbed" when someone politely stopped me to sign a petition for the deaf. From the corner of my eyes right before I signed anything, I saw those who signed before me had to donate money. They were donating like 10 or 20 or even 30 euros a pop. I just knew something was fishy, nor did I recognize that supposed organization at all. Right at that moment, literally THREE other people jumped out and wanted to corner me, and attempted to "persuade" me to stay and sign. So this time I was the one who don't know any English at all, lol. I just grabbed my wife and quickly walked toward the main gate.
-
Well, I think I'm going to try my first real "car camping" road trip come May. No hotels (unless you count King's house) (also, King, I may be coming to your house), lots of travel, and good times. Along with the concerts and driving I want to spend some time reading, which I haven't done since my last trip, as well as some Switch games which often get neglected next to my PS5 and PC.
May 4: Travel to Montreal
May 5: Likely find a good Museum for daytime, then Coheed and Cambria
May 6: Find the next best Museum, then Haken
May 7: Haken in Quebec City
May 8: Day off, sneak into King's house
May 9: Haken in Boston
May 10: Haken in Philly
May 11: Haken in NYC
May 12: Extra day off at home, because that's 1,500 miles.
-
So outside of staying at King's house, where the heck are you going to sleep and how much is it going to cost?
-
So outside of staying at King's house, where the heck are you going to sleep and how much is it going to cost?
I can put the passenger seat in my car all the way up and put the back seats down to essentially give myself room to lay out a sleeping mat and pillow comfortably. My car is electric, so if I don't get hotels and just use the odd truck station shower I can probably do the travel bit of things for $200 or less.
-
We did a 10 day roadie with camping. Loved the KOAs along our way to 5 different national parks. We actually took a tent and sleeping bags though. Doesn't sound like you're doing that lol but at least at a KOA you have showers and a place to park without someone coming up to your car and bothering you.
-
I'm too pampered to do anything like that beyond a night or a no choice situation. I'd likely not sleep too well so after a few days I'd probably be a miserable prick. Otherwise the concert road trip sounds pretty awesome.
My gf and I officially booked out 5 nights in Aruba for May. Burned about 1/3rd of my IHG points for the hotel and used about half of my credit card points for our flight so no money out of my wallet for this vacation. Of course right after doing so, one of the bands that we both really enjoy together announced a NYC show the night we return >:( so I think we are both extending our vacation to go to Philly after we get back to see them.
-
I'm too pampered to do anything like that beyond a night or a no choice situation. I'd likely not sleep too well so after a few days I'd probably be a miserable prick. Otherwise the concert road trip sounds pretty awesome.
It can be a real blast. If you like to party at concerts, and who doesn't, it's a lot of fun to return to the boonies after the show and carry on around a fire in the great outdoors.
-
I'm too pampered to do anything like that beyond a night or a no choice situation. I'd likely not sleep too well so after a few days I'd probably be a miserable prick. Otherwise the concert road trip sounds pretty awesome.
It can be a real blast. If you like to party at concerts, and who doesn't, it's a lot of fun to return to the boonies after the show and carry on around a fire in the great outdoors.
Maybe with a group of people, but even then, from my camping experiences, I still feel the same. After a night or two, I'm absolutely miserable. I'm not built for that life style :lol
-
We did a 10 day roadie with camping. Loved the KOAs along our way to 5 different national parks. We actually took a tent and sleeping bags though. Doesn't sound like you're doing that lol but at least at a KOA you have showers and a place to park without someone coming up to your car and bothering you.
Which national parks did you do? I'm planning a 2 week, 7 park road trip later this year.
-
We did a 10 day roadie with camping. Loved the KOAs along our way to 5 different national parks. We actually took a tent and sleeping bags though. Doesn't sound like you're doing that lol but at least at a KOA you have showers and a place to park without someone coming up to your car and bothering you.
Which national parks did you do? I'm planning a 2 week, 7 park road trip later this year.
We started in Phoeninx, up to Monument Valley (not a NP), then Arches, Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, then back down through Zion and Grand Canyon. Even did a little side trip to Horseshoe Bend - also not a NP. It was such a blast and I could spend a whole week just in Grand Tetons and Yellowstone alone.
-
We did a 10 day roadie with camping. Loved the KOAs along our way to 5 different national parks. We actually took a tent and sleeping bags though. Doesn't sound like you're doing that lol but at least at a KOA you have showers and a place to park without someone coming up to your car and bothering you.
Which national parks did you do? I'm planning a 2 week, 7 park road trip later this year.
We started in Phoeninx, up to Monument Valley (not a NP), then Arches, Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, then back down through Zion and Grand Canyon. Even did a little side trip to Horseshoe Bend - also not a NP. It was such a blast and I could spend a whole week just in Grand Tetons and Yellowstone alone.
That sounds awesome. I love all those parks.
-
It's been awhile since I did a national park trip. Would love to again (albeit in a hotel or similar). Next trip like that is more likely to go to Iceland though. My gf and I were actually planning on doing Iceland but I requested the beach trip instead because my last few "vacations" which were all long weekends, ahve been extremely busy type of trips with concerts and city hopping. Iceland would be another busy type of trip of being on the move and being very active. I just need a break and a trip to do nothing but relax. Iceland isn't completely off the table for later in 2023 though.
-
We did a 10 day roadie with camping. Loved the KOAs along our way to 5 different national parks. We actually took a tent and sleeping bags though. Doesn't sound like you're doing that lol but at least at a KOA you have showers and a place to park without someone coming up to your car and bothering you.
If I was doing this with another person it would be a no brainer to look at things like that. It would still be *possible* in the car, but a lot more difficult. But my car has the ability to set temperature overnight, has the plugs and such to keep everything charged and functioning, and so I think I'll be alright just catching showers where I can and keeping my base of operations in the vehicle otherwise. But since I'll be in Quebec City for the extra time, maybe I'll look for something around there to try that out.
-
Not really "I'm traveling somewhere" but Mrs. Cool Chris and 8 year old daughter are going to Dublin for a week in April to visit wife's sister who is working there for a couple weeks. I am staying home because 1) we didn't want to take our 2 year old and 2) I would rather stay home anyway.
Well... that was cancelled. Fortunately Aer Lingus gave us a voucher, which we just used to book them a trip to Ireland, England, and France with the MiL and SiL for this April. I am going to take the 5 year old to Disneyland. She and I don't want to go to Europe (especially, for me anyway, with the MiL and SiL, and the Missus and 11 year old don't want to go to Disneyland. So we all win.
-
Not really "I'm traveling somewhere" but Mrs. Cool Chris and 8 year old daughter are going to Dublin for a week in April to visit wife's sister who is working there for a couple weeks. I am staying home because 1) we didn't want to take our 2 year old and 2) I would rather stay home anyway.
Well... that was cancelled. Fortunately Aer Lingus gave us a voucher, which we just used to book them a trip to Ireland, England, and France with the MiL and SiL for this April. I am going to take the 5 year old to Disneyland. She and I don't want to go to Europe (especially, for me anyway, with the MiL and SiL, and the Missus and 11 year old don't want to go to Disneyland. So we all win.
Wow, that's quite a game plan!
-
The MiL and SiL are seasoned international travelers, so happily, and thankfully, handling all the logistics for that trip.
-
Well, I'm flying out to Toronto on Thursday night. I just want to make sure I get this right when it comes to passport stuff. When I land into Toronto, that's when I need to show my passport? Also, when I come back to the states, I can have the option of filling stuff out through an app called Mobile Passport Control, get a QR code, and then show it to Customs at the airport along with my passport for them to stamp it?
-
I expect you'll have to show the passport to get on the plane and when you get to YYZ. No idea about the app. Sadly, my last international trip got COVIDed.
-
When I've got it with me I use my passport for any ID check as it's the single most universally accepted ID there is. I do it because it's easier for everybody, but consequently I have no idea when it's necessary and when it's not. The only time I know for sure that it's required is when you arrive in another country because they'll stamp it with a visa. Something I can say is that AA has my passport number, so as long as my ID is verified they already know my passport is valid.
My advice is to just leave your license in your wallet and show everybody your passport when they need ID.
-
Yeah not bad advice to just have it on you and show it when ever you need to show ID, I'm not familiar with an app for passport control. I usually haven't had any issues coming into EWR from outside the country. It's always been quick and easy for me. You'll notice when you are in customs area in the airport and that's the usual spot to have your passport checked (and maybe multiple times).
-
All right, I'm back from Toronto. Was a good trip. The only time I felt the cold weather was really a problem was when I was standing outside a venue for about four hours waiting in line to get in. It was worth it to get 2nd row and center at the concert I went to. Good food. Helps when the CAD is worth slightly less than USD.
Now regarding customs. I was ready to enter LAX and do something on an app to get a QR code where I need to get it scanned at customs. Turns out, I already cleared customs before I got onto the plane in Toronto. I got to the airport at 5 AM. Long line. There was even security talking in the background saying that if their flight was at 6 AM and they are just getting in line now, they are not going to make it. My flight was at 8 AM, so I'm cool. Anywho, after you go through the usual metal detectors and bag scans, you get into another line where that's where you do the customs stuff. They ask you the typical questions (why are you going to the states, are you carrying $10k or more in value etc.), look at your passport, and take a picture of you and off you go to the gates. Took 75 minutes to get the gates. Apparently, once I landed in LAX, I didn't need to go to the customs area again. Just grab my bag and get out.
-
Damn, even at LAX I've never waited more than a half hour or so to clear TSA. Same with LGA. DFW is typically all of 15 minutes. An hour before takeoff is usually about what I shoot for.
-
It was pretty packed in the morning. I compared that with when I went to the Chicago airport in the morning back in August. It was just as packed but without the process of needing to clear customs.
-
Officially booked to go to Singapore in a couple weeks for work
-
Took 30 hours from leaving my house to getting to the hotel in Singapore today, since its 11:30pm here too, i need to get to sleep to wake up for work at 8am tomorrow. This is rough
-
Got a jump on the trip back east to move my daughter into her dorm in late August. We're going to take a red-eye on Wednesday (booked) and arrive Thursday morning. I booked a VRBO, and she moves in on Sunday.
I took the entire next week off, so my tentative plan is to drive to Cooperstown and visit the baseball HOF, then I'm going to drive to Rochester and Buffalo for AAA ball games. I'm then going to drive across the border to St. Catharine's, Ontario for a visit to Lakeside Park and the Neil Peart Pavilion. Finally, I'm going to drive to Cleveland and take in the RRHOF and possibly a Guardians game before flying home the Saturday before Labor Day.
-
Took 30 hours from leaving my house to getting to the hotel in Singapore today, since its 11:30pm here too, i need to get to sleep to wake up for work at 8am tomorrow. This is rough
IIRC, this is your first overseas business trip and you said you will be busy the whole time there. Still, take a couple of hours in the evening and see the city a little bit when you are there!
-
Took 30 hours from leaving my house to getting to the hotel in Singapore today, since its 11:30pm here too, i need to get to sleep to wake up for work at 8am tomorrow. This is rough
IIRC, this is your first overseas business trip and you said you will be busy the whole time there. Still, take a couple of hours in the evening and see the city a little bit when you are there!
Yup, our work actually got put on the back burner a bit after something came up while we were in transit here. So since the urgency isn't as high now, we can take it easy a bit and not go all out. So my first day here was only half day or work and we got to get out a bit. It's just soooo damn humid which makes it mostly miserable to walk around outside. (it has also been raining a lot).
Did get to check out this mall with this really awesome center:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FqcP3xwXwAMwQ_D?format=jpg&name=large)
I'm pretty sure we will also take a full day off next weekend, but I'm honestly not sure what to do besides eat.
-
Yup, our work actually got put on the back burner a bit after something came up while we were in transit here. So since the urgency isn't as high now, we can take it easy a bit and not go all out. So my first day here was only half day or work and we got to get out a bit. It's just soooo damn humid which makes it mostly miserable to walk around outside. (it has also been raining a lot).
Did get to check out this mall with this really awesome center:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FqcP3xwXwAMwQ_D?format=jpg&name=large)
I'm pretty sure we will also take a full day off next weekend, but I'm honestly not sure what to do besides eat.
That's Changi Jewel, the centerpiece of Changi Airport. Did you stay long enough to see the water vortex turns into topical mist?
If you like animals and have the time, even in the evening hours; do consider checking out the Singapore Zoo or their Night Safari tour. That zoo is very well run and well organized. Or if you want to be near the city, go visit Gardens by the Bay.
-
Garden by the Bay is fairly close to my hotel, my coworker mentioned it multiple times as something we will do.
And while I was at the Changi Jewel for quite some time, I didn't see it change into myst.
Not surprised the zoo is well organized, seems like everything out here is. Even at work here, the people I'm working with are very organized and on point. It's actually great.
-
Got a jump on the trip back east to move my daughter into her dorm in late August. We're going to take a red-eye on Wednesday (booked) and arrive Thursday morning. I booked a VRBO, and she moves in on Sunday.
I took the entire next week off, so my tentative plan is to drive to Cooperstown and visit the baseball HOF, then I'm going to drive to Rochester and Buffalo for AAA ball games. I'm then going to drive across the border to St. Catharine's, Ontario for a visit to Lakeside Park and the Neil Peart Pavilion. Finally, I'm going to drive to Cleveland and take in the RRHOF and possibly a Guardians game before flying home the Saturday before Labor Day.
OK...so I've changed my plans with this a bit. I booked my return flight from Boston and am now planning on tooling about New England for the last week of August (before labor day weekend). Tentatively, I'm looking at going to the Red Sox v. Astros game on August 30 and maybe/possibly/probably also going to see the Portland Sea Dogs, the Hartford Yard Goats (such a great name) and the WooSox. Also, the week before, I'm planning to drive from Keene to Manchester to see the Fisher Cats (it's hockey night and will be themed around the Kings former AHL affiliate Manchester Monarchs).
Anyone have any intel about the minor league stadiums in Portland, Manchester, Hartford and Worcester? Tips for parking near Fenway or some other location where I can grab the T to Fenway?
Most importantly, any forum members in the area potentially want to grab a beer with me while I'm out there?
-
At the airport now headed to Disneyland with my 5 year old. A bit strange to be on a trip with just her, with my wife and other daughter on another vacation.* My wife (over)plans all our other trips so it was fun to handle this one all by myself, with my daughter helping plan out our days at Disneyland.
*Yes this all makes sense, I think I talked about it earlier in this thread.
-
At the airport now headed to Disneyland with my 5 year old. A bit strange to be on a trip with just her, with my wife and other daughter on another vacation.* My wife (over)plans all our other trips so it was fun to handle this one all by myself, with my daughter helping plan out our days at Disneyland.
*Yes this all makes sense, I think I talked about it earlier in this thread.
Love Disneyland. Have a great time! I would love to have one on one trips with my kids.
-
I went to Disneyland when I was 12/13, and really dont remember anything at all, other than being there with my 7 year old sister, and begging my mom to go on the big rides with me and not the stupid kiddie rides. Embarrassed a bit to say I might have been looking forward to this as a 46 year old as much as I was as a dad of a 5 year old.
I wont get in to our family dynamics but this was the first trip I planned start to finish, and it was just me and the 5 year old, and I honestly cannot say which one of us had more fun.
Cool Daughter says the highlights were:
* Royal Hall Disney Princess Meet & Greet
* Royal Theater - a humorous theatrical take on Disney movies. I would pay to see these if it was a local production. Heck Id buy them if they were on DVD. They were that entertaining.
* Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway ride
* Mad Tea Party (spinning tea cups)
* All Star Wars rides and she knows nothing about Star Wars, which is just a testament to how amazing the Star Wars rides are.
Here is Cool Daughter piloting the Millennium Falcon. I gotta say, pulling on the levers that send the Falcon in to Hyperspace is just about the most boss thing ever.
(https://imgpile.com/images/hi9NLc.jpg)
Things Cool Daughter disapproved of:
* Rides that are dark or have steep drops. Sorry Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean (but thank you Cool Daughter for going on them with your dad!)
(https://imgpile.com/images/hi9rOM.md.jpg)
-
Looks like you had a great time. :tup
-
Cute! I loved the Millenium Falcon ride, it was so much fun. Didn't realize how interactive it would be. When I went to Hollywood studios, the Rise of Resistance ride was so hard to get into. It had some stupid system where you had to be by the entrance at opening and click on reserve ride for the day. That was the only shot to get in at the time. We are due to go to the park again sometime this year. Hopefully it won't be that crazy.
-
My in-laws are in town, and I am taking them to Manchester for a couple of days next week. In the first week of May, we are flying to Iceland for a week. That is going to be my second trip there. This time I wish to visit the southern coast, such as the black sand beach and the waterfall. My day tour was cancelled the last time I was there due to severe weather.
-
I went to Disneyland when I was 12/13, and really dont remember anything at all, other than being there with my 7 year old sister, and begging my mom to go on the big rides with me and not the stupid kiddie rides. Embarrassed a bit to say I might have been looking forward to this as a 46 year old as much as I was as a dad of a 5 year old.
I wont get in to our family dynamics but this was the first trip I planned start to finish, and it was just me and the 5 year old, and I honestly cannot say which one of us had more fun.
Cool Daughter says the highlights were:
* Royal Hall Disney Princess Meet & Greet
* Royal Theater - a humorous theatrical take on Disney movies. I would pay to see these if it was a local production. Heck Id buy them if they were on DVD. They were that entertaining.
* Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway ride
* Mad Tea Party (spinning tea cups)
* All Star Wars rides and she knows nothing about Star Wars, which is just a testament to how amazing the Star Wars rides are.
Here is Cool Daughter piloting the Millennium Falcon. I gotta say, pulling on the levers that send the Falcon in to Hyperspace is just about the most boss thing ever.
(https://imgpile.com/images/hi9NLc.jpg)
Things Cool Daughter disapproved of:
* Rides that are dark or have steep drops. Sorry Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean (but thank you Cool Daughter for going on them with your dad!)
(https://imgpile.com/images/hi9rOM.md.jpg)
Awesome trip! The Royal Theater is indeed very good. We got lots of laughs out of it when we were there 4 years ago.
-
Sounds like you had a great Daddy Daughter trip, and honestly, I don't think there's anything to be ashamed of as an adult wanting to go to Disney. I think they do a great job catering to not only the children, but the adults as well. It really can be a great time for any age and while I can't relate since I don't have kids, I've got to think that time together with your daughter is something you'll both cherish forever. I know I can still think back to my childhood family trip to Disney and how much fun that was.
My in-laws are in town, and I am taking them to Manchester for a couple of days next week. In the first week of May, we are flying to Iceland for a week. That is going to be my second trip there. This time I wish to visit the southern coast, such as the black sand beach and the waterfall. My day tour was cancelled the last time I was there due to severe weather.
Iceland is maybe my next vacation, maybe next March, that sounds awesome so hoepfully the weather allows you to get to that beach/waterfall.
I'm less than a month away from my vacation...
Starts Friday April 28th with a concert locally, then another concert that Sunday in NYC, then leave for Aruba from Monday to Saturday, then go to Philly on Sunday for another concert and I took that Monday off from work to recover.
-
I went to Disneyland...
So...this is the first time you've been in over 3 decades? Looks like you had/are having an awesome time with the kid, and that's AWESOME!
I grew up going to Disneyland multiple times every year. I started in the days of ticket books. You'd buy a ticket book for...IDK...$15 or so. It would have an admission ticket and A through E tickets (1 A, 2 Bs, etc.). I remember virtually never using the A and B tickets (things like riding the fire engine on main street). I remember Autopia was a C ticket. E ticket rides were Matterhorn and Space Mountain (the latter of which was brand new). Every year, Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm had Catholic school day, and we'd get out of school, and they'd just turn us loose at the park. I don't recall having chaperones. Can you imagine that now?! When I hit 6th - 8th grade, they stopped giving us ticket books, and we'd get something called a "Passport," which got us on any ride as often as we wanted. By the time I was in high school, the "Passport" became the standard, and the ticket books were gone. Also by the time I got to high school, I didn't want to go anymore because they only rides that interested me were Matterhorn and Space Mountain, and you could only do those so many times before getting bored (I'd basically spend all the cash I had playing video games at the Starcade). I probably went for a decade without going until my now wife moved out here and we went a couple times. It was amazing to see how it had changed. Much more crowded and not as clean. We did the usual trips with the kids in the 2000s, but I'm pretty sure I haven't been in a good 15 years.
-
I lived close to Disneyland for 6 years now and not once have I considered wanting to go there. For a person like me, I would rather spend hours chilling at the Anaheim Gardenwalk next door waiting for a show at the House of Blues and I did just that last week.
As for future trips this year, no idea. I guess I'm just hoping to go to Chicago again for another live show of a podcast I listen to or if Alter Bridge has any shows in Fall that lands on a weekend that I can make a weekend trip out of.
-
I went to Disneyland...
So...this is the first time you've been in over 3 decades?
Correct. That trip we also went to Knott's Berry Farm, which my mom said we all enjoyed more than Disneyland. This type of vacation just never came up when we had our first kid, and really only came up this year as the Mrs. and older kid were vacationing in Europe and we decided the younger one and I should do something. I doubt it will turn in to an annual trip, but I can now see why the experience becomes something you want to do over and over again.
Meanwhile, My wife and 11 year old went to the Louvre and saw the Eiffel Tower this week. I believe I enjoyed Rise of the Resistance more than I would have enjoyed seeing the Mona Lisa by a country mile.
The Royal Theater is indeed very good. We got lots of laughs out of it when we were there 4 years ago.
At some point in the Beauty and the Beast show, Smythe or Jones says something to the effect of "
Its Belle, in the library, with the candlestick (meaning Lumiere)... otherwise I dont have a clue" which no kid is going to appreciate, but I thought was hilarious.
I grew up going to Disneyland multiple times every year. I started in the days of ticket books.
Didn't know this was ever a thing.
I saw this video years ago, but came back to it today. Bennett says Disneyland is the most wonderful place for kids and adults, and that's in 1956. Plus įa change, plus c'est la męme chose.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56ymPoPBNT8&
-
I grew up going to Disneyland multiple times every year. I started in the days of ticket books.
Didn't know this was ever a thing.
It's the origin of the term "E ticket ride" ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E_ticket ). There are a bunch of (partially used) Disneyland ticket books available on eBay. I've occasionally thought about buying one just for some nostalgia.
I saw this video years ago, but came back to it today. Bennett says Disneyland is the most wonderful place for kids and adults, and that's in 1956. Plus įa change, plus c'est la męme chose.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56ymPoPBNT8&
Interesting. And wild to see Jerry Lewis looking so young. It looked like he wrote his name as "Walp Disney." Hard to imagine Disneyland without even Tom Sawyer Island.
Out of curiosity, how were the lines/crowds?
-
Out of curiosity, how were the lines/crowds?
With no real frame of reference or expectation, I thought the lines and crowds were very reasonable. I do not mind crowds but they can make me weary when I am with my kids. I told my kid my only rule at Disneyland was to always be within arm's length of me, but I quickly decided that was overkill and unnecessary. I never felt crowded, except for exiting after the fireworks show.
I never kept track of how long we were in each line, but the posted times for the kid rides were in the 20-30 minute range, and 60-80 minutes for the top tier rides, and that seemed in line with reality, though I doubt we ever spent more than 60 minutes in line for anything. I checked the app periodically but couldn't attest to how accurate those times were but it usually seemed in line with what I was seeing on the ground.
The Main Street Parade was our only big problem. I did not anticipate people camping out for that hours beforehand, and we were lucky to get a decent spot. I planned things out better for Fantasmic and the Castle Fireworks shows. The Castle fireworks were cancelled due to high winds but they still did the rest of the show.
Two rides had temporary closures while we were in line waiting, but we came back later and they were up and running. I saw two other rides that we hadn't planned on riding were shut down too at some point. My sister said on their trip Indiana Jones crapped out for a minute while they were on the ride.
-
I'm hoping someone here can advise me on this.
Hubby and I are traveling first class to Hawaii. As a perk of first class, we are allowed 2 checked bags each.
My adult daughter and her friend are flying the same flight but coach.
Hubby and I only have one bag to check each, so we'd like to check our daughter and her friend's one bag each as our second bag. This would save them some money.
I've tried looking at rules for Hawaiian air and I'm not seeing anything that addresses this.
Thoughts?
-
Are you booked on the same ticket?
-
I'm hoping someone here can advise me on this.
Hubby and I are traveling first class to Hawaii. As a perk of first class, we are allowed 2 checked bags each.
My adult daughter and her friend are flying the same flight but coach.
Hubby and I only have one bag to check each, so we'd like to check our daughter and her friend's one bag each as our second bag. This would save them some money.
I've tried looking at rules for Hawaiian air and I'm not seeing anything that addresses this.
Thoughts?
While not in first class, I have done this during air travel. Have my bags checked with another relative and vice versa. I'm not sure it's a big deal, just tell the airlines you're checking two bags each.
-
Are you booked on the same ticket?
No - but we are on the same plane.
My daughter actually found the rule on Hawaiian airlines that this is not allowed. I'm sure it is some TSA thing. Meh
-
Actually I believe it is an airline thing, as different tickets allow for different rules, such as baggage limits.
-
If you're checking their bags, just check them under your name. The airline, nor TSA, will give a shit if the stuff in the bag isn't yours. I guarantee no one is going to ask you if you checking another person's bag.
On the other hand, getting daughters to pack under the 50 lb restriction is nearly impossible.
-
How would the airline even know whose bag it is?
edit: Although, you should use this as an opportunity to teach her how to live out of one bag. It's an important life skill.
-
If you're checking their bags, just check them under your name. The airline, nor TSA, will give a shit if the stuff in the bag isn't yours. I guarantee no one is going to ask you if you checking another person's bag.
On the other hand, getting daughters to pack under the 50 lb restriction is nearly impossible.
They often do ask for international travel "did you pack this bag?" but not domestically and either way, it's for security, not because of an airlines rule. Harmony should have no issue checking in the two bags as her own. If for whatever reason they do ask, just lie.
-
I'm hoping someone here can advise me on this.
Hubby and I are traveling first class to Hawaii. As a perk of first class, we are allowed 2 checked bags each.
My adult daughter and her friend are flying the same flight but coach.
Hubby and I only have one bag to check each, so we'd like to check our daughter and her friend's one bag each as our second bag. This would save them some money.
I've tried looking at rules for Hawaiian air and I'm not seeing anything that addresses this.
Thoughts?
As long as you check the bags under your name, you'll be fine.
edit: Although, you should use this as an opportunity to teach her how to live out of one bag. It's an important life skill.
I think you missed something here. Harmony, hubby, daughter, and daughter's friend all have one bag each.
-
Not as glamorous as the places y'all are traveling to, but I'm going to the lake I grew up vacationing to as a child this weekend. I'm gonna be van camping at an RV site on a public campsite, and we've got a pontoon rental for four hours on Saturday.
This is a small portion of the lake and where I'll be staying.
(https://www.tourtahlequah.com/uploads/3/9/4/1/39413933/dji-0079_orig.jpg)
-
edit: Although, you should use this as an opportunity to teach her how to live out of one bag. It's an important life skill.
I think you missed something here. Harmony, hubby, daughter, and daughter's friend all have one bag each.
Yep, sure did. My bad. Kind of assumed that flying to HI the first bag would be free.
-
Not as glamorous as the places y'all are traveling to, but I'm going to the lake I grew up vacationing to as a child this weekend. I'm gonna be van camping at an RV site on a public campsite, and we've got a pontoon rental for four hours on Saturday.
This is a small portion of the lake and where I'll be staying.
(https://www.tourtahlequah.com/uploads/3/9/4/1/39413933/dji-0079_orig.jpg)
Nice! Where is that?
-
Thanks for all the feedback. And I lol'd at the hardest part being getting your daughter to keep it under 50 lbs. True story...
So since I've waited for 3 years for this dream vacation, I've decided not to take chances and play by the rules. I feel like it probably wouldn't be a thing to check their bags for them, but I'm not willing to take a chance and it feels kind of like a bad karma way to start the trip. I'm sure we will be treating them to some meals and some other nice things so they can pay for their bags like everyone else in coach.
The other thing is while I know my daughter's friend pretty well, she can be kind of a ding bat and if she put something in her bag she shouldn't, I don't really want to be on the line for that.
-
And I lol'd at the hardest part being getting your daughter to keep it under 50 lbs. True story...
It's kind of a long story, so I won't bother y'all with it...but I once found myself in a situation at the Copenhagen airport (with less than 45 minutes left to board for a flight to Heathrow) having a conversation with my youngest daughter where I was forced to say, "Just dump half the contents of your bag in the donation bin, and I'll buy you some new outfits when we get to London." :lol
-
We went to Bruges for a few nights this week. Loved the ubiquitous medieval buildings, great food and amazing beer. Hope to go back in the not too distant future!
-
Not as glamorous as the places y'all are traveling to, but I'm going to the lake I grew up vacationing to as a child this weekend. I'm gonna be van camping at an RV site on a public campsite, and we've got a pontoon rental for four hours on Saturday.
This is a small portion of the lake and where I'll be staying.
(https://www.tourtahlequah.com/uploads/3/9/4/1/39413933/dji-0079_orig.jpg)
Nice! Where is that?
Lake Tenkiller in Oklahoma.
-
This year we decided to switch it up from visiting my hometown of St. Pete FL and went to do the tourist thing in Orlando. We got a deal at the Sheraton resort in Orlando and it is one of the cleanest places I've ever stayed at, it's striking how clean it is. Hitting up Islands of Adventure tomorrow
-
My quick 3 days 2 nights road trip to Manchester turned out to be quite nice. The weather was great, sort of warm and sunny most of the time which is a slight surprise. I think the biggest surprise was how nice the roads are compared to London's. The motorway gets smoother and quieter soon after we drove past Birmingham leading into Manchester. And, believe it or not, there were barely any potholes in or around the town centre area.
Anyway, the highlight of the trip has to be the National Trust Dunham Massey, an English country house with a formal garden and a deer park. Watching the deer feeding or lazying on the grass on a warm sunny spring day just feels peaceful and relaxing.
-
I get to go to Vegas for a few days later this year for a work conference. Any suggestions on things to do given that I'll only have a few hours in the evening free? I'm not in to gambling or adult only entertainment.
-
I get to go to Vegas for a few days later this year for a work conference. Any suggestions on things to do given that I'll only have a few hours in the evening free? I'm not in to gambling or adult only entertainment.
They're certainly proud of it, but Penn and Teller put on a fine show. If you can swing it for a weeknight you should be able to get seats right up front. Teller's 75 now, so the opportunities to see them won't be around forever.
-
I get to go to Vegas for a few days later this year for a work conference. Any suggestions on things to do given that I'll only have a few hours in the evening free? I'm not in to gambling or adult only entertainment.
They're certainly proud of it, but Penn and Teller put on a fine show. If you can swing it for a weeknight you should be able to get seats right up front. Teller's 75 now, so the opportunities to see them won't be around forever.
Saw them in Boston way back in...it was the day Dale Earnhardt was killed. Anyway it was a great show, and they were in the lobby signing the playbills for people on the way out.
-
I get to go to Vegas for a few days later this year for a work conference. Any suggestions on things to do given that I'll only have a few hours in the evening free? I'm not in to gambling or adult only entertainment.
They're certainly proud of it, but Penn and Teller put on a fine show. If you can swing it for a weeknight you should be able to get seats right up front. Teller's 75 now, so the opportunities to see them won't be around forever.
Saw them in Boston way back in...it was the day Dale Earnhardt was killed. Anyway it was a great show, and they were in the lobby signing the playbills for people on the way out.
I first read that as "singing" and thought, "hmmm...that's odd," but not, "that wouldn't happen!" :lol
-
(https://i.imgur.com/MnUwp5B.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PUDAHye.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/v0x6Lq4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/45WGi9a.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VVDOTL8.jpg)
-
Looks so peaceful
-
Looks nice. Haven't been camping in ages.
-
Looks nice. Haven't been camping in ages.
Since moving up to NC I've wanted to go camping a few times but I have zero gear, I gave it all away when I moved up from FL. I don't think I want to spend the money on something I'll do once or twice a year at most.
MJ's post did remind me of dream I've always had which was to get a 4runner, set up a bed in the back with some storage and leisurely drive from key west to Alaska.
-
Looks nice. Haven't been camping in ages.
I have to do "glamping" because 1. I'll be damn near immobile in the morning if I don't sleep on a mattress, and 2. I need a powered RV site so I can sleep with my CPAP.
-
I just returned from three days in Venice, first time I've been there since 2009. Was very lucky with the weather, three sunny spring days. Always a pleasure to see one of the most unique cities in the world!
-
That sounds really nice Mirror. I've always wanted to go to Venice, hopefully in the next couple of years.
-
That sounds really nice Mirror. I've always wanted to go to Venice, hopefully in the next couple of years.
It is really beautiful as it seems so you won't be let down, just as with most famous touristic places it can be very crowded and a bit tourist-batey, but if you go in spring or very late summer (avoiding the summer crowds and the scorching heat) and, if possible, avoid weekends, you should be able to enjoy it even more!
-
I'm thinking about spending a weekend in one of the following locations for a concert in August: West Virginia, Milwaukee, or San Antonio. Is there anything interesting to look for in these areas?
-
I'm thinking about spending a weekend in one of the following locations for a concert in August: West Virginia, Milwaukee, or San Antonio. Is there anything interesting to look for in these areas?
I know you have your reasons, but just such a random three locations :lol I don't have any experience, but I can't imagine West Virginia to be better spot than Milwakee or San Antonio to travel to.
-
Well, for West Virginia, I'm thinking to see if I can meet up, at the Alter Bridge show there, with this guy from another forum that we have a huge similar interest in bands.
I guess I'm adding Mashantucket, Connecticut as a possibility since they have the Foxwoods casino and maybe dabble into a small stakes poker game.
-
Well, for West Virginia, I'm thinking to see if I can meet up, at the Alter Bridge show there, with this guy from another forum that we have a huge similar interest in bands.
I guess I'm adding Mashantucket, Connecticut as a possibility since they have the Foxwoods casino and maybe dabble into a small stakes poker game.
Meeting a friend may be more fun / important than site seeing so I get that. Never been to Foxwoods so can't help you there either. No desire to hit up the Jersey Shore to see Alter Bridge?
-
The show needs to be on a weekend. I don't think I have the flexibility to travel out during the middle of the weekdays. Otherwise, I would contemplate either NJ or Buffalo.
-
San Antonio can be a little warm in August.
-
I'm thinking about spending a weekend in one of the following locations for a concert in August: West Virginia, Milwaukee, or San Antonio. Is there anything interesting to look for in these areas?
I would love to spend some time driving around West Virginia. Gotta be a beautiful place. I'd also be a little fascinated to eat at some "hillbilly" diner somewhere remote. Not sure what there is to do if you're just there for a brief visit.
T-Ski is from Milwaukee (or thereabouts). What little I know makes me think it would be much better for a relatively short visit (more to do in the city).
I wouldn't want to go to Texas in August, but you'll get some damn fine BBQ!
Coastal Connecticut is (IMO) the best part of the state (which, IMO, and with apologies to forumers who live there, is the least interesting of the New England states). The closest major airport to Mashantucket is Hartford, and I've never found very good fares to Hartford.
If it were me and I had limited time, I'd probably go with Milwaukee.
-
I just returned from three days in Venice, first time I've been there since 2009. Was very lucky with the weather, three sunny spring days. Always a pleasure to see one of the most unique cities in the world!
Definitely my favorite stop when I visited Italy. May have partially been because it was the place where we had the most downtime on the tour we were on, but just a lovely city.
-
T minus 30 minutes until my vacation begins....
Tomorrow is a 5 band rock concert (Breaking Benjamin, Pretty Reckless, Sevendust, Beartooth, Dorothy)
Saturday chill day at home
Sunday Spiritbox concert in NYC
Monday - Saturday going to ARUBA!!
Sunday Set It Off concert in Philly
Monday chill day at home
-
Sound like an awesome vacation, keep us posted.
-
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FvIKyySXsAMzS2s?format=jpg&name=large)
-
I know I'm zooming in here after a good time away from the thread, but I am... somewhat ready for my trip that starts tonight.
To recap, 2500 miles, 7 days, Allentown>Montreal>Quebec City>Boston>Philadelphia>New York>Allentown. I currently have no hotels booked.
Bought an Xped mat for the back of my car and a small cooler that plugs into my 12v plug. Got a crate with bathroom items and shower alternatives, a crate with stuff to keep me entertained, and my main bag full of clothes. I have a frunk that almost never gets used that will be my hamper so dirty clothes aren't in the car with me.
The sleeping pad has been tested and is very comfortable. Cooler has been running since yesterday and been great. The car's camp mode has been tested so that while I'm sleeping I have power to all USB outlets (which means my stuff can still charge) and the car stays at whatever temperature I want while sleeping.
Leaving tonight around 7pm and making it at least halfway to Montreal.
This is easily one of the boldest and dumbest things I've ever done, wish me luck.
-
I'm going to be intrigued on where you are going to park and how safe you are going to feel sleeping in a car at night.
-
I'm going to intrigued on where you are going to park and how safe you are going to feel sleeping in a car at night.
Thankfully Tesla cars have a reputation for being very secure and packed with cameras. Generally speaking I'll be charging outside the cities after a show and sleeping somewhere a little more out of the way.
-
Sounds like a good time, Nick. Be safe and have fun! :tup :tup
A friend and I leave early for Nashville tomorrow morning to see Ms. Swift (in the rain, apparently). :coolio :coolio
-
Send some pics Kev. We'll take care of Nick in Boston.
-
Nick I'd be curious to see a video tour of your set up for overnights. Maybe after the first couple nights once you've got all the kinks out lol
We've booked a week trip to Cali - 3 days of Disneyland and then 2 at Universal. 1 day in between for a rest day and transfer hotels from Anaheim to Burbank. Any tips/tricks from anyone? We haven't been to disney in at least 10 years and going peak time end of June.
-
Send some pics Kev. We'll take care of Nick in Boston.
I'm not much of a picture taker anymore, but I am sure I will get a handful. I may be too busy shaking it off. :eek :eek :lol :lol
-
What do you have to shake off?
-
Stress.
-
Well, then it'll do you good to get away.
-
Yep, should be good to get away from it all for a day or two before it all comes back. :lol :rollin
-
Don't I know it.
-
Tricia, here's things after night 1
https://youtu.be/MVTS3_cIgFk
-
Tricia, here's things after night 1
https://youtu.be/MVTS3_cIgFk
Invading Chad's country :rollin
How much juice did you use overnight? Curious if you started at like 90% did you wake up to 70%? I love that your bag is hidden so when your car is parked somewhere it isn't low hanging fruit for something to smash and grab. Did you bring anything to cook or are you living purely off processed foods? lol
-
I used about 8% to keep at 60 degrees and keep all the cameras running.
I brought some food/drink with me and am stopping occasionally for meals, definitely not cooking anything. Cashews have been the main snack thus far.
-
Night 2 is behind me and should be the toughest of the trip. Both shows in Montréal were at the same venue, so I parked in a residential area not far from the venue. Not ideal, but I put a hoodie up between the front seats (blocking view from front), and all the other windows are tinted, so pretty happy with that.
-
Tricia, here's things after night 1
https://youtu.be/MVTS3_cIgFk
That's actually really sick. I think I mentioned back when you first said this idea, that I don't think I personally could live in a car, but after seeing your set up, it definitely looks possible. I guess I didn't realize how slick the Tesla features were to do such a thing (like temp control all night).
-
Good stuff Nick. I do find the word "frunk" to be... unsettling for some reason :lol
-
Yeah, I still don't fully accept that word. :lol
Last night was perfect, stopped at the first truck stop on the way to Montreal. Not only a great place to park for the night, but was able to pay $10 for a much appreciated shower in the morning.
-
I'm thinking about spending a weekend in one of the following locations for a concert in August: West Virginia, Milwaukee, or San Antonio. Is there anything interesting to look for in these areas?
Change of plans in this one. A podcast I regularly listen to has announced a live show in Chicago on 08/26. Alter Bridge is playing in Grand Rapids on 08/25 (which is a Friday). So my weekend trip will be fly to Grand Rapids on Thursday evening that week, watch Alter Bridge in Grand Rapids on the Friday, take a Amtrak train to Chicago early Saturday morning and enjoy the live show podcast thing that evening and spend the Sunday in Chicago. I think I should be happy with that. Now to find the prices of flight and hotels.
-
Random situation.
I got an email from Delta regarding my return flight from Boston in September. I had booked a one-way flight from Boston to Orange County (via Atlanta) that was supposed to leave Boston shortly after 4pm, connect in ATL for a little over an hour and get into SNA just before 10pm. I paid for an exit row, so it was about $450. The email informed me that the flight was changing to leave BOS just after 1:30pm and arrive in SNA just after 7:30. No big deal, right. I randomly checked to see what this new flight would cost if I were to book it today, and it was just over $300. Fortunately, I was able to cancel my original booking, get a refund on my card, and book the new itinerary for $150 less (with the exact same seats).
Yay for me, but I kinda think it's BS that they did such a drastic flight change, but it was up to me to figure out the cost difference and take steps to take advantage of it.
-
So, after a few days of looking through hotel prices in Grand Rapids and given I'm only going to be there for one day and off I go to take a early morning train from Grand Rapids to Chicago, I feel like it's not feasible (cost wise) to get a hotel room or AirBnB, etc. in Grand Rapids. I checked around and I think I can store my luggage somewhere in the area for $15.00 until 5 AM and then I can walk from the storage place to the train station and take the 6 AM train.
My question now becomes what could one do in the late night between 11 PM - 5 AM if one have no interest in buying a room to stay in? I found a 24 hour diner in the area, but I think I'm going to get only two hours chilling in there.
-
So, after a few days of looking through hotel prices in Grand Rapids and given I'm only going to be there for one day and off I go to take a early morning train from Grand Rapids to Chicago, I feel like it's not feasible (cost wise) to get a hotel room or AirBnB, etc. in Grand Rapids. I checked around and I think I can store my luggage somewhere in the area for $15.00 until 5 AM and then I can walk from the storage place to the train station and take the 6 AM train.
My question now becomes what could one do in the late night between 11 PM - 5 AM if one have no interest in buying a room to stay in? I found a 24 hour diner in the area, but I think I'm going to get only two hours chilling in there.
Adult bookstore.
Honestly, I have no idea why one would do that. The cheapest fleabag motel in GR is probably going to be better than any place you might wind up killing time at 0400.
-
So, after a few days of looking through hotel prices in Grand Rapids and given I'm only going to be there for one day and off I go to take a early morning train from Grand Rapids to Chicago, I feel like it's not feasible (cost wise) to get a hotel room or AirBnB, etc. in Grand Rapids. I checked around and I think I can store my luggage somewhere in the area for $15.00 until 5 AM and then I can walk from the storage place to the train station and take the 6 AM train.
My question now becomes what could one do in the late night between 11 PM - 5 AM if one have no interest in buying a room to stay in? I found a 24 hour diner in the area, but I think I'm going to get only two hours chilling in there.
Adult bookstore.
Honestly, I have no idea why one would do that. The cheapest fleabag motel in GR is probably going to be better than any place you might wind up killing time at 0400.
Agree. Red Roof Inn Grand Rapids Airport is $61 (including taxes/fees) on hotels.com. That's only an extra $46 on top of the $15 to stow the luggage (and you'd be saving whatever you'd otherwise spend sitting at the diner).
-
Yeah, saving money is one thing, but hanging around for six hours in the middle of the night in a public place just to save 60 bucks isn't a good idea, IMO.
-
All right, all right. I was hoping maybe there was something that I'm missing when it comes to planning this out that didn't require spending money for a place to stay. Not going to stay at the Inn near the airport since that's way too far away from the train station. I found an AirBnB about 1.5 miles away from the train station for $70.00. I'll just do that and take an Uber/Lyft for $15.00 to get to the station.
-
Chicago has now become my most hated of all cities. The surrounding areas are fine, but Chicago proper is just miserable. It's the only place I've ever been where the closer you get to some place the further away you are.
Your destination is 31 miles away. You will arrive in 1 hour, 27 minutes.
Your destination is 26 miles away. You will arrive in 1 hour, 31 minutes.
Your destination is 22 miles away. You will arrive in 1 hour, 33 minutes.
And I defy any Chicaggers to say I'm exaggerating.
-
It's easily the worst traffic that I have ever personally witnessed.
-
I've never been to Chicago, but I hadn't really heard too much about the bad traffic there. Typically you hear about LA and NYC. But I just quickly googled and yup, Chicago is rated the worst here for 2022: https://www.thestreet.com/money/30-cities-with-the-worst-traffic-in-the-us#gid=ci02b61a41f000253a&pid=san-francisco-sh (https://www.thestreet.com/money/30-cities-with-the-worst-traffic-in-the-us#gid=ci02b61a41f000253a&pid=san-francisco-sh)
-
Yay Boston :lol
-
Will be flying to Tokyo in about 3 weeks with my son on the 26th.
We will be spending 2 weeks in Japan before travelling back home again.
So far we have only booked the first four nights in Tokyo. We plan on going to Osaka / Kyoto and Himeiji and then probably back to Tokyo again.
Anyone have any suggstions for things to do, places to stay or anything else you want to suggest?
-
I'm finalizing now the details about my summer vacation, and one week will be spent in Lisbon! first time in Portugal, and I'm gonna break my record of being the westernmost I've ever been, after last year I achieved the double feature of stretching at the same time my east and south limits by going to Santorini in Greece.
If I eventually go to Lisbon and then to Cabo de Roca to see, for the first time ever in my life, an ocean (Atlantic of course), that will be as well the westernmost point of continental Europe, so that will be it - if I would want eventually to go even more westwards, there's no Europe anymore, it'd have to be the Azores or the Canaries (technically "Europe") or, the Americas.
-
Chicago has now become my most hated of all cities. The surrounding areas are fine, but Chicago proper is just miserable. It's the only place I've ever been where the closer you get to some place the further away you are.
Your destination is 31 miles away. You will arrive in 1 hour, 27 minutes.
Your destination is 26 miles away. You will arrive in 1 hour, 31 minutes.
Your destination is 22 miles away. You will arrive in 1 hour, 33 minutes.
And I defy any Chicaggers to say I'm exaggerating.
Completely agree. I have extended family that lives outside of Chicago but the city itself sucks, incredibly difficult to get around.
-
All right, I got my flights booked. So on 08/24, I'm going to travel from San Diego to Grand Rapids (going to take an Amtrak train from Anaheim to get to San Diego). Go see Alter Bridge and Sevendust on 08/25 in Grand Rapids, and then on 08/26 take an early train from Grand Rapids to Chicago to watch a live show of a podcast I frequently listen to. Spend a day on 08/27 in Chicago to relax and then head back to the OC on 08/28. Will cost $373.00 in flight and train expenses. I am perfectly ok with that. Now to find some good AirBnBs to stay in.
-
Ok, well, the train ride idea from Anaheim to San Diego has hit a bit of a snag. Apparently, a few days ago, Amtrak is closing the Pacific Surfliner in certain parts on the way there because there was a landslide near tracks and they got to look into that. I guess an alternative for me is to take another train as far south as I can go. Apparently, the further south via train I can go will be in Oceanside and I'll just have to take a Lyft/Uber to the Airport. Maybe this whole thing can get itself sorted out by August, but I doubt it given the poor state of rail transportation in these parts.
-
I leave tomorrow for Niagara Falls for a few days (the Canadian side). I've never been!
-
Just a couple days now until I fly out to San Diego for week for a much-needed vacation.
-
We head to disney and universal on Tuessday! :caffeine:
-
I leave tomorrow for Niagara Falls for a few days (the Canadian side). I've never been!
I've only been to the Canadian side and I really enjoyed it! Hope you have fun!
-
Im off to Boston on Monday for a work confernece. Not much time to sightsee but the hotel is right in the thick of things, so hopefully I have time to at least wander around a bit.
We head to disney and universal on Tuessday! :caffeine:
Say hi to Mickey for us!
-
Im off to Boston on Monday for a work confernece. Not much time to sightsee but the hotel is right in the thick of things, so hopefully I have time to at least wander around a bit.
Where are you staying? Not stalking lol.
-
Im off to Boston on Monday for a work confernece. Not much time to sightsee but the hotel is right in the thick of things, so hopefully I have time to at least wander around a bit.
Where are you staying? Not stalking lol.
Intercontinental Boston
-
Im off to Boston on Monday for a work confernece. Not much time to sightsee but the hotel is right in the thick of things, so hopefully I have time to at least wander around a bit.
Where are you staying? Not stalking lol.
Intercontinental Boston
Nice, right down by the water. It's awesome there. Yeah, lots to get to in walking distance.
-
7 minute walk to the Trillium brewery/Restaurant if you are into beer.
-
7 minute walk to the Trillium brewery/Restaurant if you are into beer.
I am, but most of my meals are accounted for already. The last night I'm on my own and could check that out.
-
You won't be disappointed.
-
7 minute walk to the Trillium brewery/Restaurant if you are into beer.
Well...how 'bout that. It's right next door to where I'll be in August! Adding it to my list.
-
Im off to Boston on Monday for a work confernece. Not much time to sightsee but the hotel is right in the thick of things, so hopefully I have time to at least wander around a bit.
Where are you staying? Not stalking lol.
Intercontinental Boston
Awesome hotel. I stayed there on my last Boston trip to see Aerosmith at Fenway.
-
Heading to Florida tomorrow to visit my brother and catch the Clearwater Dreamsonic show. While not a big trip I always love going back home and eating at all my favorite spots.
-
7 minute walk to the Trillium brewery/Restaurant if you are into beer.
Well...how 'bout that. It's right next door to where I'll be in August! Adding it to my list.
Nice!! I want reports if you two go. I haven't had a beer in 6 months. August I can't have a little. Not like I used too.
-
After almost 13 hours of travel, I made it to San Diego last night. I was immediately rewarded with maybe the best tacos of my life :lol
-
San Diego has some killer food, amazing weather too.
-
Sitting at Trillium now sipping on a nice IPA and waiting for my dinner. Thanks for the suggestion!
-
Awesome! Cool place too. The have a rooftop lounge but it's too cold right now, I'd bet.
-
Not sure if a work travel post counts but I went from lower Hudson Valley New York to Providence Rhode Island today and I must say I really like how pleasant the highways in Connecticut are. A three hour ride down through New York City in Long Island or through New Jersey? There's something a bit depressing about it but heading down through I84, I691, Route 3, Route 2, and I395 there's just something pleasant and cozy for lack of a better word where I don't mind the long travel. Of all the neighboring states CT is definitely my favorite as far as work travel goes.
Also I hope no one was hurt in the absolute inferno of a car fire I saw this morning near the I84/I691 exit this morning.
-
I'll be going to Korea and Japan for work/holidays in a couple of weeks. Should be good!
-
Not sure if a work travel post counts but I went from lower Hudson Valley New York to Providence Rhode Island today and I must say I really like how pleasant the highways in Connecticut are. A three hour ride down through New York City in Long Island or through New Jersey? There's something a bit depressing about it but heading down through I84, I691, Route 3, Route 2, and I395 there's just something pleasant and cozy for lack of a better word where I don't mind the long travel. Of all the neighboring states CT is definitely my favorite as far as work travel goes.
Also I hope no one was hurt in the absolute inferno of a car fire I saw this morning near the I84/I691 exit this morning.
I must live in an alternate universe. Driving through CT is an absolute nightmare :lol (this is not in defense of NJ)
-
Not sure if a work travel post counts but I went from lower Hudson Valley New York to Providence Rhode Island today and I must say I really like how pleasant the highways in Connecticut are. A three hour ride down through New York City in Long Island or through New Jersey? There's something a bit depressing about it but heading down through I84, I691, Route 3, Route 2, and I395 there's just something pleasant and cozy for lack of a better word where I don't mind the long travel. Of all the neighboring states CT is definitely my favorite as far as work travel goes.
Also I hope no one was hurt in the absolute inferno of a car fire I saw this morning near the I84/I691 exit this morning.
I must live in an alternate universe. Driving through CT is an absolute nightmare :lol (this is not in defense of NJ)
Outside of Hartford and away from the water I've generally enjoyed driving around CT. Down by the coast it's kind of awful, and my limited experience with Hartford was simply typical city traffic. Everywhere else I've driven has been quite pleasant. Even driving through smallish towns was alright.
-
Not sure if a work travel post counts but I went from lower Hudson Valley New York to Providence Rhode Island today and I must say I really like how pleasant the highways in Connecticut are. A three hour ride down through New York City in Long Island or through New Jersey? There's something a bit depressing about it but heading down through I84, I691, Route 3, Route 2, and I395 there's just something pleasant and cozy for lack of a better word where I don't mind the long travel. Of all the neighboring states CT is definitely my favorite as far as work travel goes.
Also I hope no one was hurt in the absolute inferno of a car fire I saw this morning near the I84/I691 exit this morning.
I must live in an alternate universe. Driving through CT is an absolute nightmare :lol (this is not in defense of NJ)
Outside of Hartford and away from the water I've generally enjoyed driving around CT. Down by the coast it's kind of awful, and my limited experience with Hartford was simply typical city traffic. Everywhere else I've driven has been quite pleasant. Even driving through smallish towns was alright.
The roads in the state are terrible. The traffic is terrible. Yeah, I've had some nice drives and it can be scenic with the rolling hills and the coast, but no one from this part of the world speaks well of driving in CT from my experience until this morning
-
lol I actually don't mind driving through CT as long as I stay away from I95 (which from NYC is hard to avoid).
-
I like CT highways because the cops don't seem to give a shit about anything until you crack 90mph or so. Whenever I have to drive on highways anywhere else, I find myself going ballistic over how 'slow' everyone is going.
That being said, I did out the math the other day and calculated I've spent over 6 WAKING MONTHS of my professional life (this isn't counting my childhood) sitting in traffic on 84. The construction and highway projects are never ending. The bulk of 84 is 60ish years old, and I don't think any of the engineers or city planners factored in its inevitable maintenance. They certainly didn't factor in modern traffic. 84 was designed to handle 55K cars a day and it sees about 140K (that was pre-covid numbers).
-
Going to Hawaii with the family this weekend. BiL's parents got some coin, so they are renting two rooms at the Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club for everyone. My wife's family is from rural big Island Hawaii, and we usually stay at this same old VRBO there. Much more rustic, and making the same trip nearly every summer has gotten old. It will be a nice change to stay in someplace upscale and resort-y.
-
I'm one month away from my trip to Lisbon! first time in Portugal, first time so far west!
-
I'm one month away from my trip to Lisbon! first time in Portugal, first time so far west!
Literally sitting in the Lisbon airport. Just spent two weeks in Portugal for my honeymoon. Loved it.
-
I'm one month away from my trip to Lisbon! first time in Portugal, first time so far west!
Literally sitting in the Lisbon airport. Just spent two weeks in Portugal for my honeymoon. Loved it.
Wow, great! did you tour a lot of Portugal? I'm going specifically to Lisbon so that's where I'll be staying, but I plan to visit also nearby places - most definitively I'm NOT gonna miss the ocean at Cabo de Roca, then also Sintra and Cascais are in the plans.
-
Going to Hawaii with the family this weekend. BiL's parents got some coin, so they are renting two rooms at the Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club for everyone. My wife's family is from rural big Island Hawaii, and we usually stay at this same old VRBO there. Much more rustic, and making the same trip nearly every summer has gotten old. It will be a nice change to stay in someplace upscale and resort-y.
I swear I saw a headline a day or two ago about a big storm coming towards hawaii? Hope I'm misremembering.
-
Going to Hawaii with the family this weekend. BiL's parents got some coin, so they are renting two rooms at the Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club for everyone. My wife's family is from rural big Island Hawaii, and we usually stay at this same old VRBO there. Much more rustic, and making the same trip nearly every summer has gotten old. It will be a nice change to stay in someplace upscale and resort-y.
I swear I saw a headline a day or two ago about a big storm coming towards hawaii? Hope I'm misremembering.
Hurricane Chris.
-
I'm flying into Zurich on 10/9 and flying home from Rome on 10/21. Other than a ride on the Bernina Express to get from one country to another, we have nothing else planned.
The closest I've been to either of these places is Ireland. I'm excited.
-
Off to Disney World on Saturday - we haven't taken a family vacation for over two years. I'm excited, and haven't been to Disney since 2001. The advances in technology that they have incorporated are really neat (bracelets/mobile apps that open your hotel room door, check you into the parks or rides, order food, etc.). Our kids are also getting really excited for their first time flying on an airplane and first time going to Disney.
I know it will be long, crazy, busy and exhausting, but I can't wait to spend 5 days with my kids and just have fun and make memories with them.
-
I'm flying into Zurich on 10/9 and flying home from Rome on 10/21. Other than a ride on the Bernina Express to get from one country to another, we have nothing else planned.
The closest I've been to either of these places is Ireland. I'm excited.
I assume you're riding from Chur to Tirano? I rode the opposite direction and it was spectacular. Leaving Tirano the gradual change in climate as you climbed the mountain was fascinating. It was all so lush and green down low, gradually becoming brown as you switch back and forth up the mountain, and then eventually white as you reached the top. It was also cool that I had the entire back car to myself to run around and take pictures from all directions. That train ride was one of the highlights of my trip. I also road the glacier express and it was nowhere near as interesting.
If you haven't already planned it all out, consider crashing a night in Kandersteg. It's about 30 clicks S of Interlaken, and one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Interlaken honestly sucked. Kandersteg was amazing and close enough to be a solid alternative.
For what it's worth, my approach to Italy was to spend days in the big cities and nights in places outside of town. You'll get better hotels for cheaper, and you'll damn sure eat better dining with the locals rather than with your fellow tourists.
-
I'm flying into Zurich on 10/9 and flying home from Rome on 10/21. Other than a ride on the Bernina Express to get from one country to another, we have nothing else planned.
The closest I've been to either of these places is Ireland. I'm excited.
I assume you're riding from Chur to Tirano? I rode the opposite direction and it was spectacular. Leaving Tirano the gradual change in climate as you climbed the mountain was fascinating. It was all so lush and green down low, gradually becoming brown as you switch back and forth up the mountain, and then eventually white as you reached the top. It was also cool that I had the entire back car to myself to run around and take pictures from all directions. That train ride was one of the highlights of my trip. I also road the glacier express and it was nowhere near as interesting.
If you haven't already planned it all out, consider crashing a night in Kandersteg. It's about 30 clicks S of Interlaken, and one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Interlaken honestly sucked. Kandersteg was amazing and close enough to be a solid alternative.
For what it's worth, my approach to Italy was to spend days in the big cities and nights in places outside of town. You'll get better hotels for cheaper, and you'll damn sure eat better dining with the locals rather than with your fellow tourists.
Thanks for the tips. I'm going to look into those.
We're torn about how to do Italy. I would love to not have to rent a car as we move through it, but that'll handicap us a bit in terms of where we can go. I love driving and happily did over 1000 miles in Ireland with a 5spd Peugeot, but driving around the cities of Italy looks like nightmare fuel to me. It's like Boston during rush hour except I have the added stresses of being in a rental overseas.
-
Off to Disney World on Saturday - we haven't taken a family vacation for over two years. I'm excited, and haven't been to Disney since 2001. The advances in technology that they have incorporated are really neat (bracelets/mobile apps that open your hotel room door, check you into the parks or rides, order food, etc.). Our kids are also getting really excited for their first time flying on an airplane and first time going to Disney.
I know it will be long, crazy, busy and exhausting, but I can't wait to spend 5 days with my kids and just have fun and make memories with them.
Have fun!
Plan for the heat, it's super hot here now and it will drain your soul away. I would really have a semi-structured plan of all the rides you plan to hit for sure on each day. The app is really good for planning plus ordering food ahead of time to skip the lines. I don't like how they switched it now to the Genie plus model, the previous FastPass was excellent and a well oiled machine. Now even if you pay for the extra perks, it's a pain to schedule ride you want to skip the lines for. That's how it was last year, haven't gone this year yet. Waiting for the heat to die down to go. If you're staying at the resorts or hotels attached to the parks that's super advantageous as you can go back and forth and you'll have the extended hours.
Enjoy the trip!
-
Off to Disney World on Saturday - we haven't taken a family vacation for over two years. I'm excited, and haven't been to Disney since 2001. The advances in technology that they have incorporated are really neat (bracelets/mobile apps that open your hotel room door, check you into the parks or rides, order food, etc.). Our kids are also getting really excited for their first time flying on an airplane and first time going to Disney.
I know it will be long, crazy, busy and exhausting, but I can't wait to spend 5 days with my kids and just have fun and make memories with them.
Have fun!
Plan for the heat, it's super hot here now and it will drain your soul away. I would really have a semi-structured plan of all the rides you plan to hit for sure on each day. The app is really good for planning plus ordering food ahead of time to skip the lines. I don't like how they switched it now to the Genie plus model, the previous FastPass was excellent and a well oiled machine. Now even if you pay for the extra perks, it's a pain to schedule ride you want to skip the lines for. That's how it was last year, haven't gone this year yet. Waiting for the heat to die down to go. If you're staying at the resorts or hotels attached to the parks that's super advantageous as you can go back and forth and you'll have the extended hours.
Enjoy the trip!
Thanks!
We won't be doing too many big rides. My wife isn't a fan of rollercoasters, and she and my daughter don't do well with heights. I'm not paying extra for the Genie/Lightning pass - it's only good for certain big rides. We're skipping Hollywood Studios, but doing the other 3 parks. So we'll just play it by ear, walk around and hit the rides we want to hit.
-
Plan for the heat, it's super hot here now and it will drain your soul away. I would really have a semi-structured plan of all the rides you plan to hit for sure on each day.
We used to go every August, and yes it was hot. But honestly, in August, it's just as hot here.
-
I'm flying into Zurich on 10/9 and flying home from Rome on 10/21. Other than a ride on the Bernina Express to get from one country to another, we have nothing else planned.
The closest I've been to either of these places is Ireland. I'm excited.
I assume you're riding from Chur to Tirano? I rode the opposite direction and it was spectacular. Leaving Tirano the gradual change in climate as you climbed the mountain was fascinating. It was all so lush and green down low, gradually becoming brown as you switch back and forth up the mountain, and then eventually white as you reached the top. It was also cool that I had the entire back car to myself to run around and take pictures from all directions. That train ride was one of the highlights of my trip. I also road the glacier express and it was nowhere near as interesting.
If you haven't already planned it all out, consider crashing a night in Kandersteg. It's about 30 clicks S of Interlaken, and one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Interlaken honestly sucked. Kandersteg was amazing and close enough to be a solid alternative.
For what it's worth, my approach to Italy was to spend days in the big cities and nights in places outside of town. You'll get better hotels for cheaper, and you'll damn sure eat better dining with the locals rather than with your fellow tourists.
Thanks for the tips. I'm going to look into those.
I was in Kandersteg in the Spring, so it had a natural advantage. I suspect Fall would still be pretty cool, and since it's a ski town, it'll be pretty low-key in October. I was just looking for a place to crash after a long train ride, and somebody recommended it. Once I looked more into it I wound up spending a couple of days before moving on to Interlaken. It became one of my most anticipated destinations. When you walk in from the bahnhof you pop out in this giant glade between the mountains, and the cliff face to your right is covered with waterfalls (again, it was Spring, no telling about Fall). That notch between the mountains is a 30 minute hike up to one of those crystal blue lakes (https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&q=kandersteg+lake+oeschinen&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiRh5H-tZuAAxUPJ0QIHdmIB7oQ0pQJegQIDBAB&biw=1920&bih=928) nestled in a crook 1200' above the town.
(https://i.imgur.com/inOksRi.jpg)
Everybody wants to visit Interlaken, but unless you're backpacking and looking for hostels and titty-bars, little towns like this are where it's at.
We're torn about how to do Italy. I would love to not have to rent a car as we move through it, but that'll handicap us a bit in terms of where we can go. I love driving and happily did over 1000 miles in Ireland with a 5spd Peugeot, but driving around the cities of Italy looks like nightmare fuel to me. It's like Boston during rush hour except I have the added stresses of being in a rental overseas.
I can tell you that the roads in Rome and Milan were absolute insanity. I remember thinking that I'd have a ball driving my E30 there, but only if it were incredibly well insured. The thing is, the parts of Italy that you really want to drive around in are the parts that everybody wants to drive around in. Places like the Amalfi Coast, which will be bumper to bumper traffic with tourists. Since you're already hep to the Burnina Express you've presumably already looked into rail passes. Italy's a great place to get around by rail, at least insofar as my interests were concerned. High speed trains will get you between big cities cheap and easily (and you can hop off in small places to eat or look around). Smaller trains will get you to the other places.
Prepare to be disappointed with Rome. :lol
-
Hey, Rome - lived as a tourist for 4-5 days - is actually awesome. But visiting it in the middle of summer? good luck not falling on the floor from heat exhaustion.
The fame it has is absolutely deserved, the "greatest hits" are really cool. What bring the atmosphere down is transportation (not worth of a capital) and tourists traps (restaurants mostly). Also the main train station isn't exactly super safe.
-
Hey, Rome - lived as a tourist for 4-5 days - is actually awesome. But visiting it in the middle of summer? good luck not falling on the floor from heat exhaustion.
The fame it has is absolutely deserved, the "greatest hits" are really cool. What bring the atmosphere down is transportation (not worth of a capital) and tourists traps (restaurants mostly). Also the main train station isn't exactly super safe.
That fame is actually its undoing, though. It's just too crowded, and not with Romans. I stayed in a neighborhood far away from the sights and actually enjoyed that part quite a bit. The "greatest hits" are absolutely worth seeing, but they're really hard to appreciate with so many gawkers and people looking to exploit them. You want to take in and comprehend the antiquity of it all, but all you can see are fat people in Bermuda shorts, gelato stands every 10 feet, and African hawkers selling Colosseum key chains. You go to see this (https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/63f37dae89f51.jpeg/145.jpg) and what you get is this (https://www.google.com/maps/@41.8909371,12.4913987,3a,75y,207.42h,80.41t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sDlwqpo57_FZ0pAWIMeNdPg!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en&entry=ttu).
That said, I suggested to prepare for disappointment, but I'd never tell somebody not to go. Everybody should see Rome. Just keep your expectations realistic.
-
....and go off season. Late September or October, or even winter. It's a warm city in the middle of Italy and temperatures are rising everywhere, even March is already a good and decent temperature to visit it.
I have visited Rome enough times and while I would gladly come back there, I can afford to never ever go there in July or August. I understand that foreign people don't have this luxury, I do and I take advantage of it. No more Rome in summer, unless it's a life or death situation ;D
-
Prepare to be disappointed with Rome. :lol
Thanks for that writeup.
We're going to be spending the least amount of time in Rome, maybe just one night if not just the last day. I've always wanted to see the colosseum in person, and I'd probably regret being so close to it and not taking a look. But that's literally the only thing on the agenda there... See the building and then fly home.
-
That fame is actually its undoing, though. It's just too crowded, and not with Romans. I stayed in a neighborhood far away from the sights and actually enjoyed that part quite a bit. The "greatest hits" are absolutely worth seeing, but they're really hard to appreciate with so many gawkers and people looking to exploit them. You want to take in and comprehend the antiquity of it all, but all you can see are fat people in Bermuda shorts, gelato stands every 10 feet, and African hawkers selling Colosseum key chains. You go to see this (https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/63f37dae89f51.jpeg/145.jpg) and what you get is this (https://www.google.com/maps/@41.8909371,12.4913987,3a,75y,207.42h,80.41t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sDlwqpo57_FZ0pAWIMeNdPg!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en&entry=ttu).
That reminds me of visiting The Acropolis in Athens. I stayed at an Airbnb, in a random neighborhood and while visiting Acropolis was nice, I enjoyed running around the local area much more (The food from the local restaurants was sooo good).
-
Prepare to be disappointed with Rome. :lol
Thanks for that writeup.
We're going to be spending the least amount of time in Rome, maybe just one night if not just the last day. I've always wanted to see the colosseum in person, and I'd probably regret being so close to it and not taking a look. But that's literally the only thing on the agenda there... See the building and then fly home.
Yeah, there are a few other things you really need to see, honestly. St. Michael's is absolutely worth checking out. I'd regret it if I were in Rome and didn't take it in. Piazza Navona is probably also a must-see, if for no other reason than Saint'Agnese.
-
Off to Disney World on Saturday - we haven't taken a family vacation for over two years. I'm excited, and haven't been to Disney since 2001. The advances in technology that they have incorporated are really neat (bracelets/mobile apps that open your hotel room door, check you into the parks or rides, order food, etc.). Our kids are also getting really excited for their first time flying on an airplane and first time going to Disney.
I know it will be long, crazy, busy and exhausting, but I can't wait to spend 5 days with my kids and just have fun and make memories with them.
Have fun!
Plan for the heat, it's super hot here now and it will drain your soul away. I would really have a semi-structured plan of all the rides you plan to hit for sure on each day. The app is really good for planning plus ordering food ahead of time to skip the lines. I don't like how they switched it now to the Genie plus model, the previous FastPass was excellent and a well oiled machine. Now even if you pay for the extra perks, it's a pain to schedule ride you want to skip the lines for. That's how it was last year, haven't gone this year yet. Waiting for the heat to die down to go. If you're staying at the resorts or hotels attached to the parks that's super advantageous as you can go back and forth and you'll have the extended hours.
Enjoy the trip!
We went to Disneyland in April. I thought I would use the App more than I did. I only used it to check line wait times. I never really tried to assess how accurate it was, but it seemed like it was usually in the ballpark, so we found it helpful. I didn't sign up for any Genie Plus or Lightning whatever, and we had plenty of time to do and see everything on our list. We did spent a lot of time planning out each day and prioritizing activities, which I found greatly beneficial.
Regarding the bolded, we take at least one if not two plane trips a year, so our kids are seasoned travelers, but it is usually to visit family. Which, while fun for the kids, is a totally different vibe from going to Disneyland. Our trip was in April, and just the other day my 5 year old and I were in line for something, and we started talking about how it was like being in line at Disneyland, and it brought back the fun memories we made there.
-
Plan for the heat, it's super hot here now and it will drain your soul away. I would really have a semi-structured plan of all the rides you plan to hit for sure on each day.
We used to go every August, and yes it was hot. But honestly, in August, it's just as hot here.
Yeah, that's what I've found since moving down here. People were talking about how hot it was going to be, but it wasn't much hotter than peak summer in the northeast. The difference is just that as hot as it gets up there for maybe 2 months, it's that hot down here for like 4-5 months :lol
-
Off to Disney World on Saturday - we haven't taken a family vacation for over two years. I'm excited, and haven't been to Disney since 2001. The advances in technology that they have incorporated are really neat (bracelets/mobile apps that open your hotel room door, check you into the parks or rides, order food, etc.). Our kids are also getting really excited for their first time flying on an airplane and first time going to Disney.
I know it will be long, crazy, busy and exhausting, but I can't wait to spend 5 days with my kids and just have fun and make memories with them.
Have fun!
Plan for the heat, it's super hot here now and it will drain your soul away. I would really have a semi-structured plan of all the rides you plan to hit for sure on each day. The app is really good for planning plus ordering food ahead of time to skip the lines. I don't like how they switched it now to the Genie plus model, the previous FastPass was excellent and a well oiled machine. Now even if you pay for the extra perks, it's a pain to schedule ride you want to skip the lines for. That's how it was last year, haven't gone this year yet. Waiting for the heat to die down to go. If you're staying at the resorts or hotels attached to the parks that's super advantageous as you can go back and forth and you'll have the extended hours.
Enjoy the trip!
We went to Disneyland in April. I thought I would use the App more than I did. I only used it to check line wait times. I never really tried to assess how accurate it was, but it seemed like it was usually in the ballpark, so we found it helpful. I didn't sign up for any Genie Plus or Lightning whatever, and we had plenty of time to do and see everything on our list. We did spent a lot of time planning out each day and prioritizing activities, which I found greatly beneficial.
Regarding the bolded, we take at least one if not two plane trips a year, so our kids are seasoned travelers, but it is usually to visit family. Which, while fun for the kids, is a totally different vibe from going to Disneyland. Our trip was in April, and just the other day my 5 year old and I were in line for something, and we started talking about how it was like being in line at Disneyland, and it brought back the fun memories we made there.
We've already planned for the heat and bought a couple of battery operated fans/misters and if the kids are tired or hot, we can duck into a less popular ride or attraction to get inside and in some AC. That's basically what the Hall of Presidents is for. I think we'll use the app for wait-times and maybe for ordering food while we're in line. We do have one sit-down lunch reservation at the Magic Kingdom and can cancel that two hours ahead of time, if needed.
-
I'm one month away from my trip to Lisbon! first time in Portugal, first time so far west!
Literally sitting in the Lisbon airport. Just spent two weeks in Portugal for my honeymoon. Loved it.
Wow, great! did you tour a lot of Portugal? I'm going specifically to Lisbon so that's where I'll be staying, but I plan to visit also nearby places - most definitively I'm NOT gonna miss the ocean at Cabo de Roca, then also Sintra and Cascais are in the plans.
We did 3 days in Lisbon at the beginning, including a day trip to Sintra. Also spent time in the Azores, specifically Sao Miguel and Pico before heading off to Porto for a few days and the last few days in Lisbon before coming home.
Lisbon was our favorite, even if it's touristy, it's easy to not feel the way El Barto is describing Rome. Plus the tourism tends to be very wordly, so while you do get some of the annoying big dumb Americans, you also get plenty of big dumb French and German people too. Even heard a good amount of Hebrew.
If you want some chill time in nature, I'd suggest going to the Azores islands. They're not hard to get to by plane and they're just filled with beauty. A place like Pico is also not very touristy yet, so it's easy to get a small island feel. Granted, that means a small island that is dying, but still.
Porto is also really cool but quite toursity as well. Over all, the tourist stuff didn't both me until the last day or two when a Disney cruise docked and the streets were filled with those people during the day.
Portugal is an odd one. It's got such a rich history and beauty, but much of the country is being kept alive almost entirely by tourism. So as much as we might want that authentic experience without tourists, it might be of a dying country.
-
Envious for the Azores! one day I'd like to go there, for now I'll just be happy to visit Lisbon and the nearby places. Glad you had a good time :tup
-
We've already planned for the heat and bought a couple of battery operated fans/misters and if the kids are tired or hot, we can duck into a less popular ride or attraction to get inside and in some AC. That's basically what the Hall of Presidents is for. I think we'll use the app for wait-times and maybe for ordering food while we're in line. We do have one sit-down lunch reservation at the Magic Kingdom and can cancel that two hours ahead of time, if needed.
We went to Disneyland in early April, so weather was great, except we didn't plan on how much it cooled down at nighttime for the fireworks shows.
Regarding food, we were so amped up for everything, it got to be around 2p when I realized we hadn't eaten anything since breakfast. Of course my kid insisted she wasn't hungry because food was the last thing on her mind. I said earlier in this thread my best investment was a bubble wand we bought on the first day. She toted that thing around the entire time, and it kept her busy while we were in line for anything. I only had to tell her to not shoot bubbles right at other people maybe 206 times. That and some gifts for the rest of the family was all the money we spent at the park. I was amazed (and impressed); I had anticipated spending much more money there.
-
7 minute walk to the Trillium brewery/Restaurant if you are into beer.
Hey Kinger...I'm going to go to a Manchester Fisher Cats game next month and was thinking about hitting the Thirsty Moose Taphouse for some pregame grub and beer. Is that a good choice, or would you recommend somewhere else?
-
I'm going to Vegas in September for a work expo thing. I am taking a couple days after to go to Zion National Park in Utah. I'm debating inviting my dad to come with me. I'm on the fence for a couple reasons. First being that I like being 100% in control of what I do and not have to take into account anyone else's desires. With a wife and 5 kids I rarely have this luxury. Second, I would stay in a better hotel with him than I would if I went by myself and even splitting the cost would likely end up costing me more.
In the grand scheme of thing spending quality time with my aging father while he's still in good health doing something we both love will be priceless memories. So I think I should just invite him. But selfishly I just want to spend a week alone doing what I want.
-
I'm going to Vegas in September for a work expo thing. I am taking a couple days after to go to Zion National Park in Utah. I'm debating inviting my dad to come with me. I'm on the fence for a couple reasons. First being that I like being 100% in control of what I do and not have to take into account anyone else's desires. With a wife and 5 kids I rarely have this luxury. Second, I would stay in a better hotel with him than I would if I went by myself and even splitting the cost would likely end up costing me more.
In the grand scheme of thing spending quality time with my aging father while he's still in good health doing something we both love will be priceless memories. So I think I should just invite him. But selfishly I just want to spend a week alone doing what I want.
Can't you split the difference? Have him join you while you're already into the trip for the expo thing? That's how I'd probably try to angle it.
-
I'm going to Vegas in September for a work expo thing. I am taking a couple days after to go to Zion National Park in Utah. I'm debating inviting my dad to come with me. I'm on the fence for a couple reasons. First being that I like being 100% in control of what I do and not have to take into account anyone else's desires. With a wife and 5 kids I rarely have this luxury. Second, I would stay in a better hotel with him than I would if I went by myself and even splitting the cost would likely end up costing me more.
In the grand scheme of thing spending quality time with my aging father while he's still in good health doing something we both love will be priceless memories. So I think I should just invite him. But selfishly I just want to spend a week alone doing what I want.
Can't you split the difference? Have him join you while you're already into the trip for the expo thing? That's how I'd probably try to angle it.
I was planning to give him the option. I'll be pretty tied up Monday through mid-day Wednesday. So if he wanted to fly out Wednesday morning and join me for the rest of the week, that would work. Or if he wants to do his own thing in Vegas during the time I'm busy, he can do that too.
-
Looks like I'll be back in Germany next month for work. This has been on my plate for months, so I'm glad it seems dates are being finalized.
-
How long are you going for?
-
How long are you going for?
Likely two weeks / 12 days or something. Looking like the last two weeks before Labor Day weekend.
-
Rome is on the list for my wife and I; as is Athens. Off-season for sure. Would love to visit Turkey & Romania as well; the Carpathian Mountains have always attracted me.
The talk of missing places/attractions while on holiday always makes me think of missing the Giza Pyramids when I was in Israel & Jordan; I regret being that close and not seeing them. Being a big Lovecraft fan, especially of his short story Under the Pyramids, I do long to see them. I know that it's very tourist oriented and built-up in a way that photos normally don't capture, but I still have a draw to see them and climb them (if you can still climb them). I was thinking of the Pyramids while wondering around inside Petra and climbing those huge staircases.
I'm one month away from my trip to Lisbon! first time in Portugal, first time so far west!
Literally sitting in the Lisbon airport. Just spent two weeks in Portugal for my honeymoon. Loved it.
Wow, great! did you tour a lot of Portugal? I'm going specifically to Lisbon so that's where I'll be staying, but I plan to visit also nearby places - most definitively I'm NOT gonna miss the ocean at Cabo de Roca, then also Sintra and Cascais are in the plans.
We did 3 days in Lisbon at the beginning, including a day trip to Sintra. Also spent time in the Azores, specifically Sao Miguel and Pico before heading off to Porto for a few days and the last few days in Lisbon before coming home.
Lisbon was our favorite, even if it's touristy, it's easy to not feel the way El Barto is describing Rome. Plus the tourism tends to be very wordly, so while you do get some of the annoying big dumb Americans, you also get plenty of big dumb French and German people too. Even heard a good amount of Hebrew.
If you want some chill time in nature, I'd suggest going to the Azores islands. They're not hard to get to by plane and they're just filled with beauty. A place like Pico is also not very touristy yet, so it's easy to get a small island feel. Granted, that means a small island that is dying, but still.
Porto is also really cool but quite toursity as well. Over all, the tourist stuff didn't both me until the last day or two when a Disney cruise docked and the streets were filled with those people during the day.
Portugal is an odd one. It's got such a rich history and beauty, but much of the country is being kept alive almost entirely by tourism. So as much as we might want that authentic experience without tourists, it might be of a dying country.
Did you visit Nazare while you were there? I would love to see the big waves up close...
-
It's my brother's bachelor party weekend... heading up to Lake George in NY. About a 4 hour drive straight north for me, I've never been but my brother's best friend's family (who is very rich) has a huge house on the lake that we are staying at. Should be wild. :yarr
-
It's my brother's bachelor party weekend... heading up to Lake George in NY. About a 4 hour drive straight north for me, I've never been but my brother's best friend's family (who is very rich) has a huge house on the lake that we are staying at. Should be wild. :yarr
My wife grew up in and around Albany, and she told me they used to go to Lake George for vacations when she was a kid. Somewhere out there is a photo of me standing on the ice at the lake when we made a quick stop there one time when we flew out to visit family. Have fun!
-
It's my brother's bachelor party weekend... heading up to Lake George in NY. About a 4 hour drive straight north for me, I've never been but my brother's best friend's family (who is very rich) has a huge house on the lake that we are staying at. Should be wild. :yarr
My wife grew up in and around Albany, and she told me they used to go to Lake George for vacations when she was a kid. Somewhere out there is a photo of me standing on the ice at the lake when we made a quick stop there one time when we flew out to visit family. Have fun!
I was told stories over the weekend about how the lake freezes and you can literally walk across it. Lake was beautiful. The lake house was beautiful. I shared a couple pics in the picture thread of me riding a waverunner.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F3M6zX9XEAAfgSH?format=jpg&name=large)
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F3XdY9cXcAIcX-v?format=jpg&name=large)
-
The view on that second picture looks nice. I visited Lake George a few years ago, very nice area (and it was peak Fall Foliage :hefdaddy).
I'm getting on a plane on Friday to spend a few days at a resort. Much needed break after the last couple of months.
-
I just mostly thought the drive there SUCKed. Just a lot of traffic both ways and it should be under 4 hours for me, but took over 4.5. I had a lot of fun and the area is a nice getaway, but I don't have much desire to go back in the near future.
Going to Frankfurt on Sunday now for work. Not at all excited about that. But it's a good miles trip since work pays for business class and I'll get a lot of OT that is hard to get these days.
-
I only passed by Frankfurt with trains, and I barely stepped outside the station due to a strict time table.
Enjoy the free time you'll have there!
-
I will be spending 5 days in Copenhagen in late September. I will also be doing a day trip across the Öresund Bridge toward Malmö, Sweden. This will be my first trip to both countries.
-
I will be spending 5 days in Copenhagen in late September. I will also be doing a day trip across the Öresund Bridge toward Malmö, Sweden. This will be my first trip to both countries.
Did both those (and both as first and so far only times) in 2017! have a great time, I loved every moment of Copenhagen :tup
-
I just spent 5 weeks in Korea/Japan. Flight back yesterday was 14.5 hours long, which meant 28 hours with no good sleep. Too long.
-
I only passed by Frankfurt with trains, and I barely stepped outside the station due to a strict time table.
Enjoy the free time you'll have there!
I've been like 8 or so times. Staying at a different hotel outside the city which should shake things up a bit, but honestly, you didn't miss much passing by Frankfurt. It's more of a business city than tourist from my understanding and experience. Not that there's nothing to do or see, but I'd imagine there's a few other cities in Germany much more worth checking out. If I get a day off next weekened I may go explore a bit more than I had in the past. I'm honestly not looking forward to this trip at all. Did not want to end my summer this way. Oh well.
-
You're only an hour or so from Heidelburg/Mannheim which are a fair bit more interesting touristicly, if you have the time.
-
You're only an hour or so from Heidelburg/Mannheim which are a fair bit more interesting touristicly, if you have the time.
Yeah, I'm thinking Sunday or Saturday I'll take the day off and maybe explore so that's an option. I've been around there before, but just driving through. I haven't done my research, but was also hoping maybe I can find a concert to attend.
-
As I previously announced, in two days I'll depart for Lisbon! from the 19th to the 25th, I've spent last week "studying" as much as possible in order to maximize my time there :hat I'm pumped and excited and after breaking last year, by going to Santorni, my record for how far east (and even south) I've been, now I'm gonna break the westward record!
I know a lot of you flew all over the world and someone moving around Europe looks like a small thing, but at least I've travelled a lot in my own nation, and in my continent. I've never been outside Europe so far (shame on me), but I did make the most out of being born here!
-
Ok...folks...particularly those of you in and around Boston:
After moving my kid back into her dorm later this week, I'll be taking the following week to myself, culminating in three days in Boston. I'll be arriving in Boston on Wednesday the 30th and going to the Red Sox game that evening, but Thursday and Friday are wide open.
I was thinking of doing the Sam Adams brewery tour, but I saw some stuff that made it sound like there are other, better breweries in Boston. I also saw one place that does sort of a tour of the city that only goes to local breweries. So...what'd'ya think? Suggestions? Should I do something else altogether?
P.S. I've been to Boston a bunch of times, so I'll have no problem occupying my time while I'm there, but I'm always looking for suggestions for things that I might overlook as an outsider.
-
I did the Sam Adams brewery tour many years ago and enjoyed it. I can't compare it to other tours in Boston, but I can say I thought the experience was pretty cool and they do a tasting at the end which included tasting unreleased products they were testing (I don't know if they always do that) which I thought was the coolest part of the tour. It was also free.
-
Sam Adams probably isn't the best brewery in Boston but it might well be the best brewery tour in Boston.
-
Ok...folks...particularly those of you in and around Boston:
After moving my kid back into her dorm later this week, I'll be taking the following week to myself, culminating in three days in Boston. I'll be arriving in Boston on Wednesday the 30th and going to the Red Sox game that evening, but Thursday and Friday are wide open.
I was thinking of doing the Sam Adams brewery tour, but I saw some stuff that made it sound like there are other, better breweries in Boston. I also saw one place that does sort of a tour of the city that only goes to local breweries. So...what'd'ya think? Suggestions? Should I do something else altogether?
P.S. I've been to Boston a bunch of times, so I'll have no problem occupying my time while I'm there, but I'm always looking for suggestions for things that I might overlook as an outsider.
I did the Sam Adams brewery tour many years ago and enjoyed it. I can't compare it to other tours in Boston, but I can say I thought the experience was pretty cool and they do a tasting at the end which included tasting unreleased products they were testing (I don't know if they always do that) which I thought was the coolest part of the tour. It was also free.
Sam Adams probably isn't the best brewery in Boston but it might well be the best brewery tour in Boston.
Thanks, guys.
The tour isn't free anymore, but the cost is so low that it isn't a factor.
-
So this is interesting. I've went onto the Delta website to check in and I see I got this message and I'm not able to check in online. "Unfortunately, government regulations require you check in at the airport, either at the kiosk or with an agent, for this flight." Is this common? Will it take a lot of time? I only have roughly around 1 hour 45 minutes - 2 hours when I get to the airport in San Diego to when the flight departs.
-
I've seen those messages usually for international trips when they need to validate your visa. I'm sure there are a couple more scenarios which Im not remembering right now.
-
What about if this is a domestic trip?
-
Honestly not sure what further info they would need if it's just a domestic flight. I remember I couldn't check in online once for a domestic flight when I first traveled with my kid. It's random situations.
-
It could be some random check.
Perhaps there's some sort of...concern (threat) on the flight.
No idea really. I don't do online checkins anyway. ;D
-
Not sure the reason why you can't check in online but checking in at a kiosk normally is pretty quick. However, maybe you've been flagged for some reason and giving yourself some extra time might be wise if possible.
-
This could be something similar to getting the quad S's on your boarding pass (I don't think they do this anymore) and is probably an enhanced security thing.
-
So this is interesting. I've went onto the Delta website to check in and I see I got this message and I'm not able to check in online. "Unfortunately, government regulations require you check in at the airport, either at the kiosk or with an agent, for this flight." Is this common? Will it take a lot of time? I only have roughly around 1 hour 45 minutes - 2 hours when I get to the airport in San Diego to when the flight departs.
Never had that happen. My kid and I flew Delta yesterday and checked in online.
-
So I got flagged for the long screening where they went through all of my stuff and touch me in places I would not want things to be touched. At least I did not miss my flight.
-
So I got flagged for the long screening where they went through all of my stuff and touch me in places I would not want things to be touched. At least I did not miss my flight.
:lol did they say how or why you got flagged? I've never experienced such a thing. At least you made it though, that's what's important.
-
Well, when I printed my boarding pass at the kiosk, my ticket had the SSSS thing and that’s what gives them the go ahead and do the extra thing. They didn’t give me a specific reason why other than it’s just a random process, but the paranoid side of me thinks my previous trip to Toronto may have something to do with me getting the extra check even though I know everything was fine in clearing everything.
At least, Delta gave me and everyone free Wi-Fi during the plane ride.
-
Guess that answers my question about them doing the SSSS thing :lol
-
Back from Lisbon and it was absolutely fantastic!!!
Loved the town, its elegeance, its beauty, its quaint atmosphere. The air was fresh and clean, now I'm having a shock back in hot-humid, smog-infested Milan.
I also visited nearby places - I tipped my feet in the Atlantic Ocean at Carcavelos, visited the marvelous and straight out of a fairytale Sintra palace, and I've been to Cabo da Roca - Europe's most westernmost point!!! :metal
I know a lot of you flew all around the world so someone not even going out of his continent is hardly news, but I did travel a lot, at least, around my nation and my continent, and reaching one of its extreme points feels great.
It was an awesome experience and I'd gladly go back to Portugal sometime.
-
Two weeks until I fly out for Berlin. I've been a few times already, but I'm going with my mom. She lived in W Berlin in the 70s so it'll be cool to go with her and take her to some places she couldn't go because of the Wall
-
Two weeks until I fly out for Berlin. I've been a few times already, but I'm going with my mom. She lived in W Berlin in the 70s so it'll be cool to go with her and take her to some places she couldn't go because of the Wall
That's cool AF. :tup
-
I've lost count, but I've come to Frankfurt at least 8 times over the last 10 years and probably spent about 8 weeks here (usually 5-6 days per trip) but this trip is 11 nights so much longer than usual and for the first time, I took a full day off (I did work 81 hours last week, so well deserved to take the day yesterday).
I made this itinerary on google maps to check out some local castle in a loop:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F4kzoNbXQAEFpNa?format=jpg&name=large)
Had an awesome day exploring.
First "castle" was more like a town square, very active with a flea market kind of happening, this is in Bad Homburg:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F4jmtxvWQAA0cst?format=jpg&name=large)
Next was the best castle of them all, basically legit ruins from the 1100s. (actually a lot of these castles date back to then) You had to pay 3 euro to enter, well worth it. In Konigstein:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F4j87fmXMAAvJDU?format=jpg&name=large)
Next was Eppstein castle which had a party going on! A live jazz band and food/drink. I guess something for the locals on a sunday:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F4kLfq6XwAA2MeF?format=jpg&name=large)
Sadly, the following castle was closed. Sonnenberg:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F4kdVlXWYAAXIXb?format=jpg&name=large)
And last stop was to an old palace along the Rhine river, Biebrich Palace:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F4kng4UXcAEjQVz?format=jpg&name=large)
There was one castle on my itinerary that I didn't see. Drove near it and as soon as I parked it just started to downpour and I had a a bit of a walk to get there so I passed on actually getting out and checking it out. Oh well. Awesome day and I'm glad I made something out of it because there was a big part of me that just wanted to stay in bed and recuperate from the past week.
-
Amazing pics, thanks for sharing! The castle/ruins in Konigstein look amazing. I can't wait to get out to Germany myself, always wanted to spend some time out there exploring
-
I didn't want to spam too much with pictures, but I took a ton at Konigstein, just so cool. The rest of the ones I posted are on my twitter here: https://twitter.com/Cramx3/status/1695883361355469131 (https://twitter.com/Cramx3/status/1695883361355469131)
I also made a video of konigstein, but it's just on my instagram stories for now, I'll put it into a youtube short at some point soon which I can easily share.
I also found a nice spot through one of the underground tunnels to have a smoke :hat I can officially say I've gotten stoned in a medieval castle :lol
-
So I managed to get back from my trip to Grand Rapids and Chicago, yesterday. I say it went very well although I didn't think that was the case for the first 5 hours of the trip. My train from Anaheim to San Diego got delayed by like 10 minutes and I didn't get to San Diego until 30 minutes after the scheduled arrival time. It took forever for the shuttle to get from the train station to the airport since the airport was pretty loaded in traffic. I only had like 75 minutes to clear TSA and board the plane and, of course, TSA gave me the full scan and screening process. Surprisingly, the boarding process did not start when I finally was able to get to the gate. Thankfully, the plane rides went off without a hitch, although there was a delay on the ride from Detroit to Grand Rapids, which did lead me to pay an extra $10.00 in the Lyft ride rather than save that money had I got to the bus stops in time. No matter.
Leaving my AirBnB in Chicago at 8:30 AM was way better than leaving at 3:30 AM to catch the light rail trains to the airport (since I really wanted to save money that way paying $5.00 for the day bus/rail pass rather than pay $50 for an Uber or Lyft). The first time I was in Chicago, I made a mistake in taking public transportation at 3:30 AM and I think someone tried to offer me drugs. There were delays, etc. It was pretty scary for me at the time. This time around. I had none of those issues since there was more people that was going to the airport at around 9-10 AM so they were taking the rails there.
As for now, I'm done with taking trips. I need to rest my feet and just need to take some home stay time off at some point.
-
Early morning flight to Istanbul tomorrow. Basically a short vacation, flying back Wednesday. My plan is to try the hell out of the local cuisine, see Soen on Sunday, visit a couple of famous mosques and vistas, and beyond that just wander around the city petting cats and browsing random shops.
As I posted elsewhere, the main question is if I'll even be allowed to leave Russia :lol but hopefully I will be.
-
Just curious what other people do.
Say for instance your flight lands at noon, but the hotel check in isn't until 3pm. I have bags which I really don't feel like lugging around and its like 85 degrees out.
Do you just wait in the airport? Like that's exactly what I am doing right this moment. I have bathrooms and food and chill areas and its air conditioned.
Do you guys do different things?
-
Can't you just go to the hotel and see if the room is already available? or call up in advance to know that?
-
Most hotels have bell service that will hold the bags until check-in and/or the room is ready. It's probably way more comfortable to hang out at the hotel restaurant or bar.
-
Yeah, here you can usually just drop your bags at the hotel even if the room isn't available yet. Same with checking out, I often check out at midday, leave the bags and return for them later if I've got an evening flight.
-
Same with checking out, I often check out at midday, leave the bags and return for them later if I've got an evening flight.
Been doing that all over Europe.
-
Just curious what other people do.
Say for instance your flight lands at noon, but the hotel check in isn't until 3pm. I have bags which I really don't feel like lugging around and its like 85 degrees out.
Do you just wait in the airport? Like that's exactly what I am doing right this moment. I have bathrooms and food and chill areas and its air conditioned.
Do you guys do different things?
Just leave the bags at the hotel. Every hotel has been accommodating. When I went to Paris a few years back I landed at 8am and couldn't check in till 3. Left the bags and hit the cafes.
Just cleared security and I'm on my way to Quebec!
-
Either at the hotel or lockers at the nearest rail or metro station if they have them.
-
Just curious what other people do.
Say for instance your flight lands at noon, but the hotel check in isn't until 3pm. I have bags which I really don't feel like lugging around and its like 85 degrees out.
Do you just wait in the airport? Like that's exactly what I am doing right this moment. I have bathrooms and food and chill areas and its air conditioned.
Do you guys do different things?
If you're on foot then it's the hotel, like others have suggested. I'm always in a car, so I've never had any problem finding something to explore for a couple of hours until check-in. Also, for the most part check-in time is based on when the rooms get cleaned. If there wasn't a full house last night they'll typically be pretty accommodating to early arrivals.
-
As others have mentioned, I usually just leave the bags at the hotel and then explore the area a little.
-
Just curious what other people do.
Say for instance your flight lands at noon, but the hotel check in isn't until 3pm. I have bags which I really don't feel like lugging around and its like 85 degrees out.
Do you just wait in the airport? Like that's exactly what I am doing right this moment. I have bathrooms and food and chill areas and its air conditioned.
Do you guys do different things?
Echoing others:
Go to the hotel and...
1. Ask to check in early.
2. Sit in the lobby or the hotel bar.
3. Stow the bags with hotel until check-in time and go eat or explore the area.
Regarding #3, I do this more commonly when I have a lot of time between check-out and my return flight.
-
I was shockingly allowed to check in at 10:30am yesterday, advertised as 3pm. Usually you can get in a bit early, but how early really depends on the hotel. So it's hit or miss, but if you can't get in, like others have said, drop the bags off at least and go explore or chill locally. When I flew into Atlanta to see Metallica two years ago, they wouldn't let me check in so I went for a long 2 hour walk around the town and through a cemetary :lol I was so annoyed though, they had rooms available and the lady was just being an ass. One of the other people were about to check me in at 2pm but she stopped him. The hotel was literally empty that day. It may not make sense to let me check in at noon, but to literally make me wait till exactly 3pm was pretty dick IMO.
-
I'm not super expert on how hotel policies, and hotel cleanings, work, but whenever I'm around in Italy and Europe, you run into people doing rooms quite early. Well, not EARLY early, but if you have a late breakfast, you go back to your room and you see rooms already being cleaned. Case in point: I've spent the last weekend in the mountains, I returned from breakfast and my room was ALREADY cleaned.
So if there are people on the clock doing the rooms, why would they wait until 15 to finish? maybe they clean all the rooms of staying guest as soon as possible, and leave for last the rooms of newcomers - what's the hurry in doing a room of someone who checked out for good at 11 in the morning? but still I think that once they start the cleaning of rooms, they finish it, I don't think they stay on the clock until 15, so potentially they might have already a room done way earlier.
-
I'm not super expert on how hotel policies, and hotel cleanings, work, but whenever I'm around in Italy and Europe, you run into people doing rooms quite early. Well, not EARLY early, but if you have a late breakfast, you go back to your room and you see rooms already being cleaned. Case in point: I've spent the last weekend in the mountains, I returned from breakfast and my room was ALREADY cleaned.
So if there are people on the clock doing the rooms, why would they wait until 15 to finish? maybe they clean all the rooms of staying guest as soon as possible, and leave for last the rooms of newcomers - what's the hurry in doing a room of someone who checked out for good at 11 in the morning? but still I think that once they start the cleaning of rooms, they finish it, I don't think they stay on the clock until 15, so potentially they might have already a room done way earlier.
From my experience, Europe cleans the rooms early. They were knocking on my door at 9am in Germany a couple weeks ago (with my do not disturb sign on too, multiple times! :lol >:( )
But like in some southern places like Miami and the Caribean, I've seen them not come until like 4pm to clean which also kind of sucks. These also seem to be the spots I can never early check in.
They came around 10am here in Atlanta today (I forgot to put the sign up, I won't be using the service at all this weekend with me sleeping in).
-
Putting out the DND sign on my door is pretty much the first thing I do when I get to a hotel room, and it doesn't come off until I check out. I'm sure there have been exceptions, but they're few and far between.
-
I was shockingly allowed to check in at 10:30am yesterday, advertised as 3pm. Usually you can get in a bit early, but how early really depends on the hotel. So it's hit or miss, but if you can't get in, like others have said, drop the bags off at least and go explore or chill locally. When I flew into Atlanta to see Metallica two years ago, they wouldn't let me check in so I went for a long 2 hour walk around the town and through a cemetary :lol I was so annoyed though, they had rooms available and the lady was just being an ass. One of the other people were about to check me in at 2pm but she stopped him. The hotel was literally empty that day. It may not make sense to let me check in at noon, but to literally make me wait till exactly 3pm was pretty dick IMO.
When I ran a hotel if you showed up and I had a room available you're checking in, I didn't care if it's 7am :lol. Getting people checked in early really helped when 3 rolled around and I have a ton of people waiting to check in at once.
The worst was holiday weekends, people were always trying to check out as late as possible and other folks are trying to check in as early as possible.
-
Second day in Quebec City and I'm really digging it. I like the vibe and strolling around the cafe's. The food I had for dinner last night fantastic, including the poutine. Today we board our cruise ship but we still have today and tomorrow in Quebec.
I did get stuck in the elevator this morning on the hunt for coffee. Last night when I got into the elevator I thought "wow look at how nice these dual touch screens are for floors". This morning I get in and start going down when both screens bluescreened. I was there for about 10 minutes.
-
On a ship heading to Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island. I'm curious how things with hurricane Lee will pan out because we are supposed to meet Lee in Nova Scotia the same day Lee arrives :lol
-
After years of really great trips I think our cruise was kind of a bust. Due to hurricane Lee we had to skip 3 ports and are heading straight to Boston where we'll spend 3 days instead of 1. We also had some pretty rough seas today and the coast guard did a medical evacuation from our ship today.
Any of you guys have some good food recommendations for Boston?
-
Sitting at the airport ready to fly home from a few days at a conference in Vegas followed by a few days at Zion national park in Utah. Vegas, as I suspected, wasn't really my thing. But it was fun to go once. Zion is breathtaking. I could have stayed there forever. Ready to get home though. Traveling without the family is nice in some ways, but I miss them all a ton.
-
After years of really great trips I think our cruise was kind of a bust. Due to hurricane Lee we had to skip 3 ports and are heading straight to Boston where we'll spend 3 days instead of 1. We also had some pretty rough seas today and the coast guard did a medical evacuation from our ship today.
Any of you guys have some good food recommendations for Boston?
When are you coming to Boston?
-
After years of really great trips I think our cruise was kind of a bust. Due to hurricane Lee we had to skip 3 ports and are heading straight to Boston where we'll spend 3 days instead of 1. We also had some pretty rough seas today and the coast guard did a medical evacuation from our ship today.
Any of you guys have some good food recommendations for Boston?
When are you coming to Boston?
Lost occasion to ask "when are you shipping up to Boston" ;D :D
-
After years of really great trips I think our cruise was kind of a bust. Due to hurricane Lee we had to skip 3 ports and are heading straight to Boston where we'll spend 3 days instead of 1. We also had some pretty rough seas today and the coast guard did a medical evacuation from our ship today.
Any of you guys have some good food recommendations for Boston?
When are you coming to Boston?
Hey Tim, just saw this! We left yesterday after spending three days there. Easily one of my favorite cities to visit. My wife and I were joking that when we retire we want a place in Boston and one in Florida.
-
So, I'm going to Italy for the first time!
My parents in law are visiting us and we decided to take a trip with them. We'll be doing 4 days in Rome, 2 days in Naples and then 3 days in the Amalfi coast. I'm really looking forward to the coliseum and the Vesuvius, two places I've wanted to visit for a very long time
-
I'm italian but I've never been to Naples and the Amalfi coast. You're gonna beat me to it :lol
Four days in Rome should be enough for the "greatest hits". If you want to enter the Coliseum, tickets can be bought only online, you won't find any there at the place. Don't miss highlights such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and avoid tourist-traps restaurants :D and if you have time, try and get lost wandering around the Trastevere neighbourhood, it's basically a small village within the city!
-
I'm italian but I've never been to Naples and the Amalfi coast. You're gonna beat me to it :lol
Four days in Rome should be enough for the "greatest hits". If you want to enter the Coliseum, tickets can be bought only online, you won't find any there at the place. Don't miss highlights such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and avoid tourist-traps restaurants :D and if you have time, try and get lost wandering around the Trastevere neighbourhood, it's basically a small village within the city!
We had a Rome trip in 2020 cancelled by Covid.
-
I'm 2 weeks away from my Scotland trip! :metal
-
I'm italian but I've never been to Naples and the Amalfi coast. You're gonna beat me to it :lol
Four days in Rome should be enough for the "greatest hits". If you want to enter the Coliseum, tickets can be bought only online, you won't find any there at the place. Don't miss highlights such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and avoid tourist-traps restaurants :D and if you have time, try and get lost wandering around the Trastevere neighbourhood, it's basically a small village within the city!
We had a Rome trip in 2020 cancelled by Covid.
Same. I agreed to take over as president of my daughter's HS marching band boosters about a month before COVID hit. We were smack in the middle of planning a trip for the band to go to Rome and play in a new years day parade (along with a couple other performances). Dealing with the chaos and headache of canceling that trip and refunding money that parents had already paid was an absolute nightmare. We'll eventually make it over there on our own, but the trip with the band was an opportunity of a lifetime that the kids will never get back.
-
I'm italian but I've never been to Naples and the Amalfi coast. You're gonna beat me to it :lol
Four days in Rome should be enough for the "greatest hits". If you want to enter the Coliseum, tickets can be bought only online, you won't find any there at the place. Don't miss highlights such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and avoid tourist-traps restaurants :D and if you have time, try and get lost wandering around the Trastevere neighbourhood, it's basically a small village within the city!
Thanks for the recommendations. I already purchased the Coliseum ticket, it just took me about 5 hours of attempting to beat the bots :lol. Still better than trying to get tickets to the Vatican...
Anyways, I'll try to hit those places that you mentioned. I had never heard of Piazza Navona :)
-
It's just one of the most beautiful squares of Rome :hat and it's a couple of walking minutes away from the Pantheon so don't miss it!
-
I'm italian but I've never been to Naples and the Amalfi coast. You're gonna beat me to it :lol
Four days in Rome should be enough for the "greatest hits". If you want to enter the Coliseum, tickets can be bought only online, you won't find any there at the place. Don't miss highlights such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and avoid tourist-traps restaurants :D and if you have time, try and get lost wandering around the Trastevere neighbourhood, it's basically a small village within the city!
Thanks for the recommendations. I already purchased the Coliseum ticket, it just took me about 5 hours of attempting to beat the bots :lol. Still better than trying to get tickets to the Vatican...
Anyways, I'll try to hit those places that you mentioned. I had never heard of Piazza Navona :)
Tickets to the Vatican? Is that a new thing? When I was there you just walked right up, and waiting in a very short line.
The fountains at Piazza Navona are nice enough, but the highlight is the Church of SantAgnese in Agone. As beautiful as St. Peters but without the crowd.
-
Maybe he means the Vatican Museums. True, you can enter in the St. Peter's Basilica by just queuing up, but to visit the Museums (and pass, among other things, through the Sistine Chapel) you need a ticket (and at the very least half a day of your time. Totally worth it however).
-
So, in early October, the Queen and I are heading to New Jersey for Progstock. We get home on a Monday, and I fly out Tuesday to see a new process for work in Columbus, OH. Fly back the next day. Then the week of the 17th, we have our conference in Pittsburgh, PA. Then finally at the end of the month, in Vermont, we staying at a treehouse for our 29th anniversary.
-
So... politics aside, it looks like this gov shutdown is likely to happen. I've got air travel and cruise end of October. Anyone know what kind of impact I should expect? Wondering about dealing with TSA, customs, etc.
-
When I traveled to San Fran 10 years ago, the government shut down during the middle of the trip. All essential services will still operate, others like parks, national monuments etc will be closed. It was a bummer for us because we had tickets to Alcatraz and were in line to board the ship when word came out it would be closed down. I think one boat that already took people had to come back. Couldn't also see the Redwood forest which I was super disappointed by.
Not sure how it plays out now, I'd imagine TSA and all those places will operate largely the same.
Funny coincidence, just checked that it was today 10 years ago we left for San Fran for our trip.
-
Maybe he means the Vatican Museums. True, you can enter in the St. Peter's Basilica by just queuing up, but to visit the Museums (and pass, among other things, through the Sistine Chapel) you need a ticket (and at the very least half a day of your time. Totally worth it however).
Yeah, this is what I meant. I came back a couple of days ago and I must say I have mixed feelings about my experience. Rome was mostly great. I enjoyed the tours and visiting all the awesome monuments and churches, and the amazing food of course. Napoli and the Amalfi coast on the other hand were a bummer. Napoli is way too chaotic, even for someone coming from Argentina. The Amalfi coast is nice, but everything is overpriced, it's overcrowded and getting to and from there is a real nightmare.
The highlight for me was Ostia, a little coastal town we went to on our last day since we had some hours to spare before returning. Really nice a quite place with some nice beaches.
-
Anyone have any suggestions for places to each lunch and dinner in New York city?
-
Or perhaps in Queens?
-
Good food in Queens (I like to stay in Astoria when I'm there) is abundant. Hard to go wrong. In Manhattan I've found it to be more hit or miss. If you're near Times Square around lunch time I had a great meal at Tasty Hand Pulled Noodles on 9th. Not a place I'd go for dinner, it's typical NY diner decor, but nice for lunch. Good dumplings.
-
We're staying just south of Queens, so we'll probably just go there. We are only in town for today before we catch out flight to Scotland in the morning.
-
We're staying just south of Queens, so we'll probably just go there. We are only in town for today before we catch out flight to Scotland in the morning.
If you look for Indian or Thai you should do pretty well. Those are usually my go-tos in NY, and it's served me very well.
-
We're staying just south of Queens, so we'll probably just go there. We are only in town for today before we catch out flight to Scotland in the morning.
If you look for Indian or Thai you should do pretty well. Those are usually my go-tos in NY, and it's served me very well.
Ended up eating at this little ramen shop for lunch, which I can't remember the name of now.... Then we ate at a burger place called The Local Press.
-
Driving to LA tomorrow to see Coheed NWFT Neverender :caffeine:
-
Driving to LA tomorrow to see Coheed NWFT Neverender :caffeine:
Enjoy :metal
-
In about a month I am going to be travelling to Perth for my cousin's Wedding, and since I am flying via Singapore I'm going to stop by for a few days on the way back. Anyone have any recommendations for either place?
-
Flying to Miami for the SS NEVERENDER COHEED CRUISE wooooooo fuck off tropical storm tammy!
-
Goodluck with the cruise! Hopefully the storm doesn't make it too bad, I was just on a cruise that had to skirt a storm.
Jealous of AAL on the bill.
-
Goodluck with the cruise! Hopefully the storm doesn't make it too bad, I was just on a cruise that had to skirt a storm.
Jealous of AAL on the bill.
I am prepared with prescription patches, sea bands, and Dramamine lol I may be over prepared but better than suffering! Im looking forward to AAL and HTS, husband excited for Mac Sabbath.
-
Just checked the lineup.
Other than C&C, AAL, and Mac Sabbath, I've never heard of a single other band. :D
-
Just checked the lineup.
Other than C&C, AAL, and Mac Sabbath, I've never heard of a single other band. :D
Most I hadn't heard of either. I've listened to them all and some definitely sound cool and I'm hoping to check them out!
-
I'm italian but I've never been to Naples and the Amalfi coast. You're gonna beat me to it :lol
Four days in Rome should be enough for the "greatest hits". If you want to enter the Coliseum, tickets can be bought only online, you won't find any there at the place. Don't miss highlights such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and avoid tourist-traps restaurants :D and if you have time, try and get lost wandering around the Trastevere neighbourhood, it's basically a small village within the city!
I just got back from Switzerland and Italy. I spent two nights in Rome and had this for a view. We were in the dead center of the space. It was pretty cool.
(https://preview.redd.it/2xmztto1cyvb1.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=5d3a425c6a50a4a82ed56ca939959460277e57af)
-
I'm italian but I've never been to Naples and the Amalfi coast. You're gonna beat me to it :lol
Four days in Rome should be enough for the "greatest hits". If you want to enter the Coliseum, tickets can be bought only online, you won't find any there at the place. Don't miss highlights such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and avoid tourist-traps restaurants :D and if you have time, try and get lost wandering around the Trastevere neighbourhood, it's basically a small village within the city!
I just got back from Switzerland and Italy. I spent two nights in Rome and had this for a view. We were in the dead center of the space. It was pretty cool.
(https://preview.redd.it/2xmztto1cyvb1.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=5d3a425c6a50a4a82ed56ca939959460277e57af)
That's awesome! Similar view to the place we stayed in Paris last year.
-
In about a month I am going to be travelling to Perth for my cousin's Wedding, and since I am flying via Singapore I'm going to stop by for a few days on the way back. Anyone have any recommendations for either place?
In Singapore, there are a couple of gardens that are really nice. The botanical garden has a orchid section that is gorgeous, and then close to Jurong lake there is a Chinese garden that has a bonsai section which is stunning. The gardens by the bay are a must for me and I recommend going at night and watching the lights show. There are several Buddhist temples and mosques (the sultan mosque in particular) that are really beautiful and are worth visiting.
As for Perth, my only recommendation is that you try to not get killed my the many dangers in Australia.
-
In Singapore, there are a couple of gardens that are really nice. The botanical garden has a orchid section that is gorgeous, and then close to Jurong lake there is a Chinese garden that has a bonsai section which is stunning. The gardens by the bay are a must for me and I recommend going at night and watching the lights show. There are several Buddhist temples and mosques (the sultan mosque in particular) that are really beautiful and are worth visiting.
As for Perth, my only recommendation is that you try to not get killed my the many dangers in Australia.
It's okay, I'll be bringing my own beer to Australia. :P
Thanks for the recs!
-
In about a month I am going to be travelling to Perth for my cousin's Wedding, and since I am flying via Singapore I'm going to stop by for a few days on the way back. Anyone have any recommendations for either place?
I am from Melbourne and off to Perth next month to see Steve Vai in concert (he is playing on November 11)
You may be interested in taking a ferry from Perth to Rottnest Island to see some Quokkas (Very cute animal)
Have a great trip!
-
*googles Quokkas*
...yes. Yes I may.
-
Oh a cute version of an opossum :lol an australian creature that isn't going to kill you
-
Fun fact: Death due to wildlife in Australia is about 25 people a year. Conversely, about 1000 Americans a year die by suffocating in or being strangled by their bedsheets.
-
Fun fact: Death due to wildlife in Australia is about 25 people a year.
But how many WISH they were dead after an encounter? :biggrin:
-
Fun fact: Death due to wildlife in Australia is about 25 people a year. Conversely, about 1000 Americans a year die by suffocating in or being strangled by their bedsheets.
But that's because Americans are dumb...........I can say that because I am a dumb American....
-
Conversely, about 1000 Americans a year die by suffocating in or being strangled by their bedsheets.
That's kind of a blanket statement.
-
Conversely, about 1000 Americans a year die by suffocating in or being strangled by their bedsheets.
That's kind of a blanket statement.
:jamaritard:
-
Conversely, about 1000 Americans a year die by suffocating in or being strangled by their bedsheets.
That's kind of a blanket statement.
I'll allow it.
-
Fun fact: Death due to wildlife in Australia is about 25 people a year. Conversely, about 1000 Americans a year die by suffocating in or being strangled by their bedsheets.
The problem with these kind of comparisons, (other than setting up TAC with a slow pitch) is how many wildlife deaths would Australia have if there were nearly 400 million people living on the continent? Every statistic will go up with larger sample sizes.
-
*googles Quokkas*
...yes. Yes I may.
Wow that thing is cute. I wouldn't mind being killed by it.
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/54/8f/4e/548f4e9fbf03ab75733deb486ab96ed9.png)
-
Fun fact: Death due to wildlife in Australia is about 25 people a year. Conversely, about 1000 Americans a year die by suffocating in or being strangled by their bedsheets.
The problem with these kind of comparisons, (other than setting up TAC with a slow pitch) is how many wildlife deaths would Australia have if there were nearly 400 million people living on the continent? Every statistic will go up with larger sample sizes.
The bigger problem with it is that the bedsheet related fatalities (and it's 800 not 1000) are almost entirely infants, and they don't really count. A few really old invalids thrown in, to boot. Steve Irwin wasn't going to be killed by his sheets (unless it was some kind of sex thing).
-
Back to travel, amongst the regular travelers here, what hotel loyalty programs are people using? I've been using Wyndham for a while, but I might be switching over to Marriott for a variety of reasons. People use branded CCs, or just get the points from stays? Anbyody here get all The Points Guy and collect a variety of branded cards? The fact that BonVoy is a Chase travel partner certainly makes a difference for me.
-
So are Aussie sheets safer than American sheets?
-
Back to travel, amongst the regular travelers here, what hotel loyalty programs are people using? I've been using Wyndham for a while, but I might be switching over to Marriott for a variety of reasons. People use branded CCs, or just get the points from stays? Anbyody here get all The Points Guy and collect a variety of branded cards? The fact that BonVoy is a Chase travel partner certainly makes a difference for me.
We've been Marriott owners for 20 years. We have an automatic 2 weeks every year at the Marriott Mountainside in Park City Utah. That being said, we've only ever stayed at that property a handful of times. Most years we bank the weeks for points that we've used all over the world either through Marriott directly for for a transfer fee of about $75.00 through Interval International. The merger with Bon Voy has opened up even more opportunities for good accomodations.
Marriott properties aren't for everyone, but we've always enjoyed the large rooms and kitchens since we prefer to cook for ourselves.
-
Back to travel, amongst the regular travelers here, what hotel loyalty programs are people using? I've been using Wyndham for a while, but I might be switching over to Marriott for a variety of reasons. People use branded CCs, or just get the points from stays? Anbyody here get all The Points Guy and collect a variety of branded cards? The fact that BonVoy is a Chase travel partner certainly makes a difference for me.
We've been Marriott owners for 20 years. We have an automatic 2 weeks every year at the Marriott Mountainside in Park City Utah. That being said, we've only ever stayed at that property a handful of times. Most years we bank the weeks for points that we've used all over the world either through Marriott directly for for a transfer fee of about $75.00 through Interval International. The merger with Bon Voy has opened up even more opportunities for good accomodations.
Marriott properties aren't for everyone, but we've always enjoyed the large rooms and kitchens since we prefer to cook for ourselves.
You have their card, or do you just stay enough to earn mucho points?
As for their properties, it seems they actually apply standards to all of them. There's a consistency there that you don't get with Wyndham. My guess is that they do inspections and will yank somebody's branding if their hotel doesn't cut it, which keeps people in line. They do cost a bit more, but not by a lot, and the rewards program is pretty typical.
-
The bigger problem with it is that the bedsheet related fatalities (and it's 800 not 1000) are almost entirely infants, and they don't really count. A few really old invalids thrown in, to boot. Steve Irwin wasn't going to be killed by his sheets (unless it was some kind of sex thing).
Well he did end up dying from being penetrated.
In any case, the point was that as far as cause of deaths go, Australian wildlife still a pretty minor one compared to a lot of other more mundane causes.
-
I'm the highest tier of status (Diamond) with IHG. Mostly due to work trips staying at holiday inns / holiday inn expresses. I've had this status for almost 9 years in a row now :lol I have no experience with the other brands to compare. I think IHG generally are viewed as lower tier, but they have grown a lot by purchasing high end hotel brands over the 9 years. So there's a lot of really nice hotels if you want that experience with the brand now. I've always enjoyed IHG though. You can find their hotels almost anywhere and the rewards have mostly been pretty good. I'm sitting at 660k points with them, but I'd have a whole lot more if I hadn't started burning my points the last two years and work travel has slowed down. They keep devauling the points (I don't think that's IHG specific) so I'm less inclined to hold onto these points long term. I used to be able to stay at the Venetian in Vegas for example for a fraction of the points needed today.
I did end up getting a low level IHG credit card for one reason. I get a free night every year with the card and the yearly cost is only $50 so I see that as a highly discounted night each year basically. I also do get points and whatnot for that card, but other than using it to book IHG hotels, there's no special value to it over my chase credit cards. I do enjoy the chase rewards system quite a lot with their %20 off travel using them. I've gone on many "free" trips by using my chase points for a flight (and still get United miles by doing that) and burning IHG points on a room. But then again, now I'm sitting on 500k United miles so I need to start burning those as they've also been devauled so much.
-
Points from everybody are constantly being devalued. I rarely use them but need to start making a concerted effort to do so for that reason. And if our government does intervene to "protect" us by "unburdening" Home Depot and Best Buy from their transaction fees, they'll be devalued to pretty much nil.
That Chase thing is partly why I'm knocking around Marriott. In truth I've never found their 20% off marketplace to be much of a value, mostly due to AA being king in Dallas. United and Delta are afterthoughts here. And, I can do better going straight through Avis Preferred. Being able to kick those points to SWA or Marriott would be helpful, though.
Also, the Marriott card is $90/yr, but comes with an anniversary bonus that's good for two nights at respectable hotels. And of course the multiplier for booking with it.
-
Going here for our 29th anniversary tomorrow.
https://images.app.goo.gl/LgbcARyToBsQXpcq9
-
Going here for our 29th anniversary tomorrow.
https://images.app.goo.gl/LgbcARyToBsQXpcq9
Wow that's awesome,
-
Points from everybody are constantly being devalued. I rarely use them but need to start making a concerted effort to do so for that reason. And if our government does intervene to "protect" us by "unburdening" Home Depot and Best Buy from their transaction fees, they'll be devalued to pretty much nil.
That Chase thing is partly why I'm knocking around Marriott. In truth I've never found their 20% off marketplace to be much of a value, mostly due to AA being king in Dallas. United and Delta are afterthoughts here. And, I can do better going straight through Avis Preferred. Being able to kick those points to SWA or Marriott would be helpful, though.
Also, the Marriott card is $90/yr, but comes with an anniversary bonus that's good for two nights at respectable hotels. And of course the multiplier for booking with it.
Oh that's pretty good (considering I thought one night at 50 was good). As for the 20% off via chase, it's great for United flights because it allows me not to pay my own money, get a cheaper rate, AND (most importantly) still earn United miles as they treat it the same as a cash purchase unlike if I were to use miles on a trip. Using some booking sites for hotels and other airlines may find better deals than the 20% otherwise.
Having said all this, my work travel is slowing down. I don't expect to keep my status after next year so it will allow me to try different options going forward. In many ways, I'm very cool with that. Keeping myself tied down to one family of brands has it's draw backs too.
-
Going here for our 29th anniversary tomorrow.
https://images.app.goo.gl/LgbcARyToBsQXpcq9
Really cool! Congrats on the anniversary and have fun
-
Sorry, Barto, I must have misunderstood the question. We have a Marriott timeshare.
As for cards with points, we only have Delta Amex, which we use for travel expenses. The points for our regular travels usually add up to free 1.5 - 2 hour round trip flights per year. Nothing special, but better than nothing.
-
Points from everybody are constantly being devalued. I rarely use them but need to start making a concerted effort to do so for that reason. And if our government does intervene to "protect" us by "unburdening" Home Depot and Best Buy from their transaction fees, they'll be devalued to pretty much nil.
That Chase thing is partly why I'm knocking around Marriott. In truth I've never found their 20% off marketplace to be much of a value, mostly due to AA being king in Dallas. United and Delta are afterthoughts here. And, I can do better going straight through Avis Preferred. Being able to kick those points to SWA or Marriott would be helpful, though.
Also, the Marriott card is $90/yr, but comes with an anniversary bonus that's good for two nights at respectable hotels. And of course the multiplier for booking with it.
Oh that's pretty good (considering I thought one night at 50 was good). As for the 20% off via chase, it's great for United flights because it allows me not to pay my own money, get a cheaper rate, AND (most importantly) still earn United miles as they treat it the same as a cash purchase unlike if I were to use miles on a trip. Using some booking sites for hotels and other airlines may find better deals than the 20% otherwise.
Having said all this, my work travel is slowing down. I don't expect to keep my status after next year so it will allow me to try different options going forward. In many ways, I'm very cool with that. Keeping myself tied down to one family of brands has it's draw backs too.
Oof, looks like I misunderstood. It's actually one free night up to 35k points, rather than 35k points. Also, the signup bonus is 3 nights up to 50k rather than 150k. No point making things simple for people. Bastards. :lol
-
Back to travel, amongst the regular travelers here, what hotel loyalty programs are people using? I've been using Wyndham for a while, but I might be switching over to Marriott for a variety of reasons. People use branded CCs, or just get the points from stays? Anbyody here get all The Points Guy and collect a variety of branded cards? The fact that BonVoy is a Chase travel partner certainly makes a difference for me.
My wife travels 40 weeks a year and is the highest status for both mariott and hilton and her opinion is that Hilton points are easier to earn and you get more nights for your points but on the whole marriott is nicer.
She is also executive platnium with American Airlaines and when I fly with her I feel like flying with a celebrity :lol. I'm often left in the back while she is bumped to first class.
-
So, I'm toying with the idea of spending my birthday in Iceland (late February) to try my luck to see the Northern Lights. I don't really know if I want to be in a remote area or just stick to Reykjavik.
Just hoping someone can give some suggestions on where to stay. Is it worth renting a car or should I just stick to the city?
-
My gf and I were talking about doing Iceland in 2024, but with the volcano apparently about to erupt, we both said this week that Iceland doesn't seem likely for us in 2024.
-
Volcanos erupting in Iceland are like earthquakes in Japan. They call it Tuesday over there.
-
My gf and I were talking about doing Iceland in 2024, but with the volcano apparently about to erupt, we both said this week that Iceland doesn't seem likely for us in 2024.
My wife and I had the exact same conversation :lol.
We had already started planning our trip.
-
Volcanos erupting in Iceland are like earthquakes in Japan. They call it Tuesday over there.
...and speaking of Japan, I am spending a week there between Tokyo and Kyoto in the first week of December. This is my first trip there since early 2020, or literally right before the COVID outbreak. Everything was locked down the week after I left Japan last time.
-
Chaotic days distracted me from announcing it, so here I am after the fact: I've just returned from Naples!
Naples is the third italian town by population, and by visiting it, I topped out the list of biggest italian towns I visited - now I've seen all the 9 most populous ones, and watching the top 20 there are only few spots missing. Italy has 20 regions, now having been to Naples (first time) I can say I visited 18.
The city is beautiful, the view from the hills from where you see the town and Mount Vesuvius are fantastic. It's a bit chaotic at times, but the food is splendid and the people there are nice. Sadly, people from that region suffer a negative stereotype, in a sense they're considered the hillibillies of Italy, but as a tourist I met just nice, friendly and easy going people. Lovely town absolutely worth a visit.
Also, I visited the beautiful island of Procida, a little colorful gem in the gulf of Naples (absolutely adorable, it's fantastic, it was 3 years at least that I longed to go there) and the Royal Palace of Caserta, which is basically the italian Versailles, a gargantuan royal palace with a huuuuuuge garden. Imagine a royal place, how it must be, all the elegance, all the riches.... well, in reality, it's even richer and more grandiose. Just stunning.
-
Hmmm, I think I may have my next trip planned out. I've bought a ticket to see Avenged Sevenfold in Cleveland in March and I do note that there is an Amtrak train that goes from Cleveland to Pittsburgh at around 1:45 AM. I may go see the concert on the Saturday and travel to Pittsburgh on the early Sunday morning and go watch the Pittsburgh Penguins play against the Edmonton Oilers. It's something of intrigue. I haven't gotten everything sorted out yet in terms of flight and stay, but I do know is that I'm seeing A7X in Cleveland for now.
-
Mrs.jingle and I have booked a transatlantic cruise in May for our 25th Anniversary. Leaves Fort Lauderdale, 6 days at sea, then stops in the Azores, and Portugal/Spain. Disembarkation is in Barcelona and we plan to spend 3 days there before flying home.
Any suggestions as to some 'must do's' or 'must stay'? Current plan is to stay near the Gothic Quarter, and then plan from there.
-
Your Barcelona plan is solid, so I guess I don't need to suggest visiting the Sagrada Familia and the ramblas, since you're basically staying there.
One bit of advice though: never speak of Spain there, you're in Cataluna.
-
Mrs.jingle and I have booked a transatlantic cruise in May for our 25th Anniversary. Leaves Fort Lauderdale, 6 days at sea, then stops in the Azores, and Portugal/Spain. Disembarkation is in Barcelona and we plan to spend 3 days there before flying home.
We weren't taking a cruise, but that was very close to what we were planning for our 2024 TACation. My family wanted to go to the Azores and Portugal. That's funny. We ended up deciding to not travel internationally, although we basically are.
-
Park Guell, Chad. Find a way to get a tour of Park Guell and then stay an extra hour or two strolling it.
-
Park Guell, Chad. Find a way to get a tour of Park Guell and then stay an extra hour or two strolling it.
This and Sagrada Familia are the two main things I would suggest.
The Picasso museum was ton of fun as well, and within the gothic quarter. If you are feeling adventurous (though you don't have a ton of time) take the train to Figures and visit the Salvador Dali museum. But as I said, being there only for 3 days is not a ton of time, not sure if it's worth it to take a whole day to visit another town.
-
Mrs.jingle and I have booked a transatlantic cruise in May for our 25th Anniversary. Leaves Fort Lauderdale, 6 days at sea, then stops in the Azores, and Portugal/Spain. Disembarkation is in Barcelona and we plan to spend 3 days there before flying home.
Any suggestions as to some 'must do's' or 'must stay'? Current plan is to stay near the Gothic Quarter, and then plan from there.
That sounds cool, are the seas expected to be rough when crossing? That would be my fear of doing such a thing. I've never been on a cruise because I fear sea sickness and disease in general, but stuff like this sounds like such a cool experience.
-
I can't tell you when my last vacation was. My coworkers have never seen me take one. A lot of this has to do with finances and my wife's health. Well, she asked for a little getaway for our 25th in June so I have booked it with the caveat of knowing it may get canceled for whatever reason. We are going to Pigeon Forge, TN. I have already looked into an ATV trip we can take into the mountains, which is on my wish list. It's guided and I can get a 2-seater ATV so I can drive and she can just tag along. Few other things I have checked out as well. Definitely going to go to Great Smokey Mountains National Park.
Today is her birthday and I am letting her know I booked the hotel. We're driving. It's about 10 hours without stops. I am toying with breaking the drive down up so we can get there earlier on the day of check in. Sitting in a car for that long is not great for either of us. I have time to think about it.
-
I can't tell you when my last vacation was. My coworkers have never seen me take one. A lot of this has to do with finances and my wife's health. Well, she asked for a little getaway for out 25th in June so I have booked it with the caveat of knowing it may get canceled for whatever reason. We are going to Pigeon Forge, TN. I have already looked into an ATV trip we can take into the mountains, which is on my wish list. It's guided and I can get a 2-seater ATV so I can drive and she can just tag along. Few other things I have checked out as well. Definitely going to go to Great Smokey Mountains National Park.
Today is her birthday and I am letting her know I booked the hotel. We're driving. It's about 10 hours without stops. I am toying with breaking the drive down up so we can get there earlier on the day of check in. Sitting in a car for that long is not great for either of us. I have time to think about it.
I've done that area twice, most recently last October. Try and spend some time on the Carolina side of the GSM, too. I find it more scenic and [slightly] less touristy.
-
If you are feeling adventurous (though you don't have a ton of time) take the train to Figures and visit the Salvador Dali museum.
I hear it's brutally offensive, but never a bore.
-
I can't tell you when my last vacation was. My coworkers have never seen me take one. A lot of this has to do with finances and my wife's health. Well, she asked for a little getaway for out 25th in June so I have booked it with the caveat of knowing it may get canceled for whatever reason. We are going to Pigeon Forge, TN. I have already looked into an ATV trip we can take into the mountains, which is on my wish list. It's guided and I can get a 2-seater ATV so I can drive and she can just tag along. Few other things I have checked out as well. Definitely going to go to Great Smokey Mountains National Park.
Today is her birthday and I am letting her know I booked the hotel. We're driving. It's about 10 hours without stops. I am toying with breaking the drive down up so we can get there earlier on the day of check in. Sitting in a car for that long is not great for either of us. I have time to think about it.
I've done that area twice, most recently last October. Try and spend some time on the Carolina side of the GSM, too. I find it more scenic and [slightly] less touristy.
Good to know. I'll start really planning eventually. We have 3 full days there, not including check-in and checkout. Like I said, thinking about maybe adding a pit stop on the way there and maybe even on the way back to give us just a bit more time there.
-
RE: Barcelona: I agree that the works of Gaudė are a must see. Sagrada Familia first and foremost (book tickets to get inside!!! outside it's wonderful but inside it's a once in a lifetime experience), Park Guell, Casa Batllō are all great.
Then the Gothic Quarter and the nearby Ramblas. If you're into touristic busses, the Barcelona one is by far the best I've ever taken, the three lines are very thorough and you see everything.
-
Ok, so my planning for my next trip is in full swing. I'm going to Cleveland, OH in March 9th to see A7X. Then I'm going to take an Amtrak Train at 1:50 AM after the concert to go to Pittsburgh and maybe see the Penguins play against the Oilers if tickets are reasonable. I'm only staying at an AirBnb for one night in Cleveland and I'm thinking about where would I store my luggage from 2 PM - 12 AM on the Saturday of the concert. Am I able to ask a nearby hotel to store it for a reasonable fee? Could I store it at an Amtrak station?
-
Ok, so my planning for my next trip is in full swing. I'm going to Cleveland, OH in March 9th to see A7X. Then I'm going to take an Amtrak Train at 1:50 AM after the concert to go to Pittsburgh and maybe see the Penguins play against the Oilers if tickets are reasonable. I'm only staying at an AirBnb for one night in Cleveland and I'm thinking about where would I store my luggage from 2 PM - 12 AM on the Saturday of the concert. Am I able to ask a nearby hotel to store it for a reasonable fee? Could I store it at an Amtrak station?
What you're looking for is "left luggage." The problem is that it's not Amtrak's station but rather the City of Pittsburgh's station, and they may or may not allow it. 911 nonsense, and all that. Amtrak says you have to look at the actual station to find out, but if it is allowed Amtrak will take care of it. Cost varies depending on whether or not you have a ticket.
-
For those talking about Iceland on the last page; I ventured to Iceland back in 2011, and it was an experience that still resonates with me. Reykjavik is charming in its own right, though really there's not much to it. But what really left an indelible mark was the sheer wildness and beauty of the Icelandic nature. From the majestic waterfalls to the surreal landscapes of the geothermal areas, every day was a new adventure. The vastness and the raw, almost mystical quality of the scenery is something that photos just can't capture. I've seen the northern lights a few times in my life now but never as vivid as in Iceland. I'd jump at the chance to go back - definitely go!
-
Back to travel, amongst the regular travelers here, what hotel loyalty programs are people using? I've been using Wyndham for a while, but I might be switching over to Marriott for a variety of reasons. People use branded CCs, or just get the points from stays? Anbyody here get all The Points Guy and collect a variety of branded cards? The fact that BonVoy is a Chase travel partner certainly makes a difference for me.
Not a big traveler here, but I have an Alaska VISA, and just realized Alaska has a hotel program too, but doing research for my latest trip didn't show me any significant hotel discounts for my criteria. I also have USAA which offers some travel discounts. I've never used USAA for hotels but always do for rental cars.
We are going to Disneyland for spring break again, but this time with the whole family. It's not going to be an annual thing, but I want the older kid to experience it while she is still somewhat a kid. In our family I am really the only Theme Park person, so it's never something that comes up as an option unless I bring it up. We are also a bit isolated up here when it comes to those.
-
Husband and I are celebrating our 10 year anniversary with a Disneyland trip 3/11-3/13!
-
Husband and I are celebrating our 10 year anniversary with a Disneyland trip 3/11-3/13!
Cool! Have you ever been? I've only been as a kid and with a kid. Never been as an adult trip.
-
Husband and I are celebrating our 10 year anniversary with a Disneyland trip 3/11-3/13!
10 years!?!? Holy crap, where does the time go?
Oh, and congratulations, obviously!
-
I'll be in Disneyland in a few weeks as well with the family. Going for a work seminar and bringing along the family for a week of Mickey. We had a blast when we were there 4 years ago.
-
Cool! Have you ever been? I've only been as a kid and with a kid. Never been as an adult trip.
We were there for 3 days last year lol So fun and we don't have kids to deal with.
10 years!?!? Holy crap, where does the time go?
Oh, and congratulations, obviously!
So crazy right!!! Thanks :)
-
This is an "I travelled" post more than "I'm travelling," but what the heck.
I went to Las Vegas this past weekend to see Styx at the Venetian Theatre on Saturday (the last of, I think, 5 shows in 7 nights). They were fantastic, but that's not what this is about.
With Vegas being only about a 45-50 flight from southern California, I decided to book cheap and took a risk with Frontier Airlines. I booked a flight from Orange County Airport (a 5 minute drive from my office) leaving around 3:45 in the afternoon. The return flight was supposed to be around noon on Sunday. For those who don't know, Frontier is an a la carte airline. Your basic ticket price doesn't include any baggage (other than a "personal item") or a seat assignment. Both of those things cost extra. Since I was only there two nights, I packed a backpack with my laptop (I don't travel without it), a couple t-shirts, socks, etc., and a bath bag. As the trip approached, I decided to pay $30 for a seat assignment, but then they dinged me for my backpack as a "carry-on" instead of a "personal item." Are you kidding me?
But the worst part was that they moved my noon return flight to 8am. I'll be damned if I'm getting up that early the morning after a concert. Frontier had no other direct flight to OC, so I booked an entirely different return flight on Spirit Airlines. Spirit is basically the same deal as Frontier, but they were far more professional than Frontier in every aspect of the trip. The most interesting thing about both airlines was that none of the seats reclined, which I thought was great since I never recline my seat unless the person in front of me does. Suffice to say that I won't be flying Frontier again, but I would consider Spirit for short flights.
Last time I was in Vegas was for the last Frozen Fury (2016), so I'd forgotten just how GROSS Vegas is. It's freakin' smokers central, and now the disgusting cigarettes and cigars are paired with vapes and weed. What I found amusing was the proliferation of girls (young women) dressed as showgirls, just standing around on the sidewalks trying to get folks to stop and take pictures with them (I didn't bother to check the prices). As a parent of a 20yo daughter, I felt bad for them, but anything for a buck, I guess.
I stayed at the Flamingo, which for anyone's future reference, clearly lacks the capacity to provide hot water to all of its rooms in the morning. I had no hot water until after 11am on Saturday and barely enough on Sunday before I had to check out. They gave me a $20 per day credit against the scam "resort fee," but the guy at the front desk couldn't even be bothered to apologize for the inconvenience. So...no Frontier Airlines and no Flamingo if I go to Vegas in the future.
-
This is an "I travelled" post more than "I'm travelling," but what the heck.
I went to Las Vegas this past weekend to see Styx at the Venetian Theatre on Saturday (the last of, I think, 5 shows in 7 nights). They were fantastic, but that's not what this is about.
With Vegas being only about a 45-50 flight from southern California, I decided to book cheap and took a risk with Frontier Airlines. I booked a flight from Orange County Airport (a 5 minute drive from my office) leaving around 3:45 in the afternoon. The return flight was supposed to be around noon on Sunday. For those who don't know, Frontier is an a la carte airline. Your basic ticket price doesn't include any baggage (other than a "personal item") or a seat assignment. Both of those things cost extra. Since I was only there two nights, I packed a backpack with my laptop (I don't travel without it), a couple t-shirts, socks, etc., and a bath bag. As the trip approached, I decided to pay $30 for a seat assignment, but then they dinged me for my backpack as a "carry-on" instead of a "personal item." Are you kidding me?
But the worst part was that they moved my noon return flight to 8am. I'll be damned if I'm getting up that early the morning after a concert. Frontier had no other direct flight to OC, so I booked an entirely different return flight on Spirit Airlines. Spirit is basically the same deal as Frontier, but they were far more professional than Frontier in every aspect of the trip. The most interesting thing about both airlines was that none of the seats reclined, which I thought was great since I never recline my seat unless the person in front of me does. Suffice to say that I won't be flying Frontier again, but I would consider Spirit for short flights.
Last time I was in Vegas was for the last Frozen Fury (2016), so I'd forgotten just how GROSS Vegas is. It's freakin' smokers central, and now the disgusting cigarettes and cigars are paired with vapes and weed. What I found amusing was the proliferation of girls (young women) dressed as showgirls, just standing around on the sidewalks trying to get folks to stop and take pictures with them (I didn't bother to check the prices). As a parent of a 20yo daughter, I felt bad for them, but anything for a buck, I guess.
I stayed at the Flamingo, which for anyone's future reference, clearly lacks the capacity to provide hot water to all of its rooms in the morning. I had no hot water until after 11am on Saturday and barely enough on Sunday before I had to check out. They gave me a $20 per day credit against the scam "resort fee," but the guy at the front desk couldn't even be bothered to apologize for the inconvenience. So...no Frontier Airlines and no Flamingo if I go to Vegas in the future.
I always mull over budget airlines, mostly because Expedia won't allow you to block them, and every time I do I decide that if it saves me money it won't be enough to deal with the sorts of people who fly Spirit (no offense to you).
Since DFW is an AA hub their fares are always competitive, and I know what I'm getting. Plus, the dings you get for booking their cheapest fare sometimes work to your advantage. If a flight is pretty full you'll often get bumped to a better seat if you wait for them to assign it to you. I've had them assign me main cabin extra a few times, which comes with lots of legroom and a complimentary adult beverage. And if not, just buy the upgrade then (or deal with it). Likewise, they'll almost always gate-check your bag if you don't want to deal with taking it on the plane. The only other downside is last group boarding, and I'll often wait until then anyway.
Side note: I believe you and I have discussed this before, but I'm still wanting to get an outbound flight out of SNA sometime. It's just never doable. I'm flying in and out of ONT this weekend, as getting a return out of SNA would have cost me a bundle (including drop fees for the car). Sure tried, though. I think their gate and landing fees must be pretty high, because it always seems like the most expensive option.
-
Flying out of Santa Ana can be pretty expensive at times. I think the last time I flew a few time zones from and back out of Santa Ana was back in August 2022. Since then, I've flown out of LAX since I can take a train to Union Station from Anaheim and take a bus flyer straight to LAX. Sure, it takes me roughly 2 hours or so more traveling to an airport, but it's cheaper and I don't mind the extra time spent traveling this way. Heck, on my last trip to Grand Rapids and Chicago, I've taken the Pacific Surfliner train to San Diego to fly out there since it was cheaper that way than it is if I go fly out via Santa Ana.
This trip in March to Cleveland, I'm doing the same thing I did in the Toronto trip last year. Taking a train to Union Station and taking a bus to LAX.
-
LAX has consistently been the cheapest in my experience. Just like DFW is typically cheaper than DAL (Love Field), despite the fact that it's SWA's hub. I think in this case LAX had the cheaper airfare, but the cars were expensive enough to offset it. Plus I'm heading to the Desert Cities once I land, anyway. I just have a an interest in interesting takeoffs and landings, and SNA certainly qualifies.
-
I always mull over budget airlines, mostly because Expedia won't allow you to block them, and every time I do I decide that if it saves me money it won't be enough to deal with the sorts of people who fly Spirit (no offense to you).
Yeah...I was a little worried about that - especially flying to Vegas on a Friday afternoon and out of Vegas on a Sunday evening - but it turned out to be really tame. The worst part was the crying baby across the aisle.
Side note: I believe you and I have discussed this before, but I'm still wanting to get an outbound flight out of SNA sometime. It's just never doable. I'm flying in and out of ONT this weekend, as getting a return out of SNA would have cost me a bundle (including drop fees for the car). Sure tried, though. I think their gate and landing fees must be pretty high, because it always seems like the most expensive option.
The only time I've ever been to Ontario was a good 25 years ago when my wife and I got redirected while returning to Socal from a trip to visit her family back east. I've never really looked at the prices in and out of ONT since LAX is much closer to my house and always has the lowest fares (when my kids returned to school after winter break, she flew Southwest from LAX to BOS for $88!). Getting in and out is a nightmare, though, so there's a balance. SNA is super easy for me since I can leave my car in the parking garage at my office and get someone to drive me over there. LGB is the easiest airport and closest to my house, but it's rarely the cheapest option and is now dominated by Southwest.
-
Yeah, LGB definitely had the best prices on SWA. American was pretty competitive there, too. I suspect that's part of why SNA was not a viable option. I've never even seen LGB, but it's gotta be close enough that they can take business from SNA; business that the good townsfolk of Santa Ana would no doubt love to see gone. For my part, since I'm heading to the desert anyway, and my return will be from Santa Clarita, ONT was actually super convenient. Far more-so than LAX.
-
Yeah, LGB definitely had the best prices on SWA. American was pretty competitive there, too. I suspect that's part of why SNA was not a viable option. I've never even seen LGB, but it's gotta be close enough that they can take business from SNA; business that the good townsfolk of Santa Ana would no doubt love to see gone. For my part, since I'm heading to the desert anyway, and my return will be from Santa Clarita, ONT was actually super convenient. Far more-so than LAX.
FWIW, SNA isn't in Santa Ana and very little of the air traffic goes over Santa Ana. The airport is in unincorporated Orange County and is bordered by Santa Ana, Irvine, Costa Mesa and Newport Beach. Since most of the takeoffs go south, Newport Beach is the most vocal about noise, and those folks have $$$. The landing path goes mostly over Tustin and industrial/business areas of Irvine.
-
There are plenty of SEA-SNA flights daily on AS, which is nice since I have a mileage account with them. I don't know how airline pricing works (if anyone does) but it is always costs way more money to fly SEA-SNA than SNA-SEA.
-
Planning a trip to London first week of July. I have a list of sights we would like to see but would appreciate any suggestions. We also have not nailed down where we will be staying yet. We will be in the city 4 nights so any location for a hotel that is convenient would be helpful also!
Thanks!
-
Planning a trip to London first week of July. I have a list of sights we would like to see but would appreciate any suggestions. We also have not nailed down where we will be staying yet. We will be in the city 4 nights so any location for a hotel that is convenient would be helpful also!
Thanks!
The one thing I always recommend (and which generally isn't on the list of major attractions) are the Cabinet/Churchill War Rooms: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms
-
It's on my list already!
-
Planning a trip to London first week of July. I have a list of sights we would like to see but would appreciate any suggestions. We also have not nailed down where we will be staying yet. We will be in the city 4 nights so any location for a hotel that is convenient would be helpful also!
Thanks!
"Hello, Dolly!" starring Imelda Staunton opens on the 6th of July at the London Palladium.
-
going to montreal in may for work
-
Planning a trip to London first week of July. I have a list of sights we would like to see but would appreciate any suggestions. We also have not nailed down where we will be staying yet. We will be in the city 4 nights so any location for a hotel that is convenient would be helpful also!
Thanks!
What I loved the most about London, a giant metropolis and, along with New York, the de facto "capital of the world", were the little village atmosphere of some of its neighbourhoods. Covent Garden in the city centre where you can also find the delicious cute Neal's Yard (google it!), Notthing Hill, Camden, all very lovely places.
-
Well, got another Chicago trip as a possible plan. The live show of the podcasts that I've been going to for the last two years has another one this July. Can't tell this far out if I'm going to be doing something in another city around that time. We'll see.
-
Finishing up a week and a half in Anaheim with one last day at Disneyland tomorrow. I had a work conference for a couple days and cashed in some hotel rewards to spend a long vacation with the family. I find myself being really depressed today at the thought of flying home on Monday. I love Disney far more than a middle aged man should. And it's been a blast with my family.
-
Finishing up a week and a half in Anaheim with one last day at Disneyland tomorrow. I had a work conference for a couple days and cashed in some hotel rewards to spend a long vacation with the family. I find myself being really depressed today at the thought of flying home on Monday. I love Disney far more than a middle aged man should. And it's been a blast with my family.
Disney with your family is amazing. We've been to D-Land in California twice, but we've been to D-World a number of times. So many good times as my kids were growing up.
-
Finishing up a week and a half in Anaheim with one last day at Disneyland tomorrow. I had a work conference for a couple days and cashed in some hotel rewards to spend a long vacation with the family. I find myself being really depressed today at the thought of flying home on Monday. I love Disney far more than a middle aged man should. And it's been a blast with my family.
Disney with your family is amazing. We've been to D-Land in California twice, but we've been to D-World a number of times. So many good times as my kids were growing up.
Twice each for us over the last 6 years. My company likes to put on seminars at Disney hotels, so I get my flight, 3 nights of hotel, and my meals for a few days all covered. Plus we get discounted hotel and park tickets. It's a sweet deal and we all have a blast.
-
I love Disney far more than a middle aged man should. And it's been a blast with my family.
Nothing wrong with that. I think the park does a good job for adults and family. I don't even have kids and had a blast last time I went like 5 or so years ago.
-
Between the money and the crowds Disney isn't in my future, but I really do dig theme parks in general. More for the coasters, but the overall experience is always something I dig, and more often than not I'll stay long enough to close the place down. Just over the last year I've hit:
Cedar Point
King's Island
SF Great America
SF Fiesta Texas
SF Georgia (Surprisingly good and riot-free on the night I was there)
Dollywood
SF Magic Mountain
Knotts Berry Farm
-
Between the money and the crowds Disney isn't in my future, but I really do dig theme parks in general. More for the coasters, but the overall experience is always something I dig...
I love theme parks but we are pretty isolated up here where I am. And I am the only one in my family who likes them, really. No one but my likes roller coasters. We are going to Disneyland next month because me and the younger one had such a good time last year and the older kid missed out on it. I was trying to explain to her it isn't like the county fair. There is something about the experience that you just have to... experience.
-
Between the money and the crowds Disney isn't in my future, but I really do dig theme parks in general. More for the coasters, but the overall experience is always something I dig...
I love theme parks but we are pretty isolated up here where I am. And I am the only one in my family who likes them, really. No one but my likes roller coasters. We are going to Disneyland next month because me and the younger one had such a good time last year and the older kid missed out on it. I was trying to explain to her it isn't like the county fair. There is something about the experience that you just have to... experience.
And I'd like to experience that experience. Just not so much that I'd put up with the time and the expense. From what I've gathered you'd be hard pressed to get on three rides in a day out there, and you'd be paying extra for it. That'd really hack me off. Not to mention the upfront cost of it all. They've really boxed me out of it.
-
Last year we went on several rides each day, without any Lightning Lane or whatever they call it. And we didn't even spend the whole day doing rides. We watched the parade and fireworks show, saw the Royal Theater show, and left the park for dinner both days. Our longest wait time might have been to get in to Royal Hall to meet the princesses. Which I wholly expect you to do if you ever make it here.
-
Last year we went on several rides each day, without any Lightning Lane or whatever they call it. And we didn't even spend the whole day doing rides. We watched the parade and fireworks show, saw the Royal Theater show, and left the park for dinner both days. Our longest wait time might have been to get in to Royal Hall to meet the princesses. Which I wholly expect you to do if you ever make it here.
Fair enough. Sounds like it's not always so rough.
And I'll absolutely wait for the princess. I'll spend the wait time figuring out the most vulgar thing I can think of to say to her so-as to really, really earn my lifetime ban. :lol
-
Booked a trip to London, and since I have no desire to dedicate an entire trip to France, I'm doing a day trip to Paris while I'm there.
-
Booked a trip to London, and since I have no desire to dedicate an entire trip to France, I'm doing a day trip to Paris while I'm there.
My kid lives in London now, and she's daytripping all over the goddamn place.
-
I agree about not wanting to spend an entire trip in France, but I'd definitely want more than a day. Two days one night seems about right for me. Maybe even a second night in some place other than Paris. My regret from when I was there was that I never got outside of Paris. Next time I'll skip it altogether and just hit the nether regions of France.
-
I've got a big trip to Europe in the fall starting to fall into shape. The centerpiece/reason for going is that my cousin is getting married in Fasano, Italy in October. My dad, my sister, and I are all in agreement that if we're going to be over there anyway, we should take some time to see other parts of Europe before/after given how easy it is to get around Europe once you're actually there. Of course my dad and my sister are happy to just pick a city and start planning, but I'm holding out for fall European tours to be announced :lol This is what I have so far:
October 3rd- Depart from JFK airport
October 4th- Land in Prague
October 4th and 5th- Spend time in Prague. The Devils are opening their 2024-2025 season with two games against Buffalo in Prague, so this was an easy call for me.
October 6th- Depart Prague (early) and fly to Paris to meet up with my dad and my sister (who will already be there)
October 6th- Spend time in Paris
October 7th- Depart Paris, fly to Bari Italy.
October 7th to 11th- Wedding festivities in Italy
October 12th- Fly to ???. I'm hoping a tour gets announced that lines up with this, but I think absent a specific draw somewhere we're going to go to London for a few days.
-
I agree about not wanting to spend an entire trip in France, but I'd definitely want more than a day. Two days one night seems about right for me. Maybe even a second night in some place other than Paris. My regret from when I was there was that I never got outside of Paris. Next time I'll skip it altogether and just hit the nether regions of France.
Yeah, I think eventually I'll end up in France for more than a day, just not now. Would love to visit the French alps.
-
I've got a big trip to Europe in the fall starting to fall into shape. The centerpiece/reason for going is that my cousin is getting married in Fasano, Italy in October. My dad, my sister, and I are all in agreement that if we're going to be over there anyway, we should take some time to see other parts of Europe before/after given how easy it is to get around Europe once you're actually there. Of course my dad and my sister are happy to just pick a city and start planning, but I'm holding out for fall European tours to be announced :lol This is what I have so far:
October 3rd- Depart from JFK airport
October 4th- Land in Prague
October 4th and 5th- Spend time in Prague. The Devils are opening their 2024-2025 season with two games against Buffalo in Prague, so this was an easy call for me.
October 6th- Depart Prague (early) and fly to Paris to meet up with my dad and my sister (who will already be there)
October 6th- Spend time in Paris
October 7th- Depart Paris, fly to Bari Italy.
October 7th to 11th- Wedding festivities in Italy
October 12th- Fly to ???. I'm hoping a tour gets announced that lines up with this, but I think absent a specific draw somewhere we're going to go to London for a few days.
I'm afraid October 12th is a bit optimistic, on account of recovery from Italian wedding food and drinks (and possibly other pleasures).
-
I've got a big trip to Europe in the fall starting to fall into shape. The centerpiece/reason for going is that my cousin is getting married in Fasano, Italy in October. My dad, my sister, and I are all in agreement that if we're going to be over there anyway, we should take some time to see other parts of Europe before/after given how easy it is to get around Europe once you're actually there. Of course my dad and my sister are happy to just pick a city and start planning, but I'm holding out for fall European tours to be announced :lol This is what I have so far:
October 3rd- Depart from JFK airport
October 4th- Land in Prague
October 4th and 5th- Spend time in Prague. The Devils are opening their 2024-2025 season with two games against Buffalo in Prague, so this was an easy call for me.
October 6th- Depart Prague (early) and fly to Paris to meet up with my dad and my sister (who will already be there)
October 6th- Spend time in Paris
October 7th- Depart Paris, fly to Bari Italy.
October 7th to 11th- Wedding festivities in Italy
October 12th- Fly to ???. I'm hoping a tour gets announced that lines up with this, but I think absent a specific draw somewhere we're going to go to London for a few days.
I know you're gonna be busy with the wedding and the family so it's kinda a moot point, but just so you know, being in Fasano puts you very near (30 minutes by car) to many iconic Apulia places:
- Alberobello, worldwide famous for the cute tiny cone houses, "trulli";
- Ostuni, called "the white city" which is weird since many Apulia towns are white but it's one of the best;
- Polignano a Mare, iconic and stunning with cliffs over the sea;
- Cute and small Locorotondo, you visit it in a couple of hours.
Also, you're within day-trip distance from Matera and its magnificent "sassi", old houses built in caves and rocks.
Again, I know you're gonna be super busy those days, but since you're already there anyway, try and see what the neighbourhood has to offer!
-
Booked a trip to London, and since I have no desire to dedicate an entire trip to France, I'm doing a day trip to Paris while I'm there.
When we went to London in 2009, we took a day trip to Paris. Caught the train sometime in the afternoon, went through the Chunnel, and arrived in Paris in the early evening. The next day, we spent a few hours in the Louvre, walked through the Jardin des Tuileries, walked past the Eiffel Tower and over to the Arc de Triomphe. Then back to the train station and back to London. Definitely not enough time, but it was a bit of a last minute thing, so it was kinda cool. Definitely could've spent three days in Paris alone, and I could easily see doing at least a week for the rest of France. One of these days....
-
I've got a big trip to Europe in the fall starting to fall into shape. The centerpiece/reason for going is that my cousin is getting married in Fasano, Italy in October. My dad, my sister, and I are all in agreement that if we're going to be over there anyway, we should take some time to see other parts of Europe before/after given how easy it is to get around Europe once you're actually there. Of course my dad and my sister are happy to just pick a city and start planning, but I'm holding out for fall European tours to be announced :lol This is what I have so far:
October 3rd- Depart from JFK airport
October 4th- Land in Prague
October 4th and 5th- Spend time in Prague. The Devils are opening their 2024-2025 season with two games against Buffalo in Prague, so this was an easy call for me.
October 6th- Depart Prague (early) and fly to Paris to meet up with my dad and my sister (who will already be there)
October 6th- Spend time in Paris
October 7th- Depart Paris, fly to Bari Italy.
October 7th to 11th- Wedding festivities in Italy
October 12th- Fly to ???. I'm hoping a tour gets announced that lines up with this, but I think absent a specific draw somewhere we're going to go to London for a few days.
I'm afraid October 12th is a bit optimistic, on account of recovery from Italian wedding food and drinks (and possibly other pleasures).
Haha, I'm looking forward to it :lol the wedding is on the 10th, so I did build in one recovery day at least.
I've got a big trip to Europe in the fall starting to fall into shape. The centerpiece/reason for going is that my cousin is getting married in Fasano, Italy in October. My dad, my sister, and I are all in agreement that if we're going to be over there anyway, we should take some time to see other parts of Europe before/after given how easy it is to get around Europe once you're actually there. Of course my dad and my sister are happy to just pick a city and start planning, but I'm holding out for fall European tours to be announced :lol This is what I have so far:
October 3rd- Depart from JFK airport
October 4th- Land in Prague
October 4th and 5th- Spend time in Prague. The Devils are opening their 2024-2025 season with two games against Buffalo in Prague, so this was an easy call for me.
October 6th- Depart Prague (early) and fly to Paris to meet up with my dad and my sister (who will already be there)
October 6th- Spend time in Paris
October 7th- Depart Paris, fly to Bari Italy.
October 7th to 11th- Wedding festivities in Italy
October 12th- Fly to ???. I'm hoping a tour gets announced that lines up with this, but I think absent a specific draw somewhere we're going to go to London for a few days.
I know you're gonna be busy with the wedding and the family so it's kinda a moot point, but just so you know, being in Fasano puts you very near (30 minutes by car) to many iconic Apulia places:
- Alberobello, worldwide famous for the cute tiny cone houses, "trulli";
- Ostuni, called "the white city" which is weird since many Apulia towns are white but it's one of the best;
- Polignano a Mare, iconic and stunning with cliffs over the sea;
- Cute and small Locorotondo, you visit it in a couple of hours.
Also, you're within day-trip distance from Matera and its magnificent "sassi", old houses built in caves and rocks.
Again, I know you're gonna be super busy those days, but since you're already there anyway, try and see what the neighbourhood has to offer!
Appreciate the recommendations. We have a couple days before the wedding so may get to do some sightseeing.
-
Planning a trip to London first week of July. I have a list of sights we would like to see but would appreciate any suggestions. We also have not nailed down where we will be staying yet. We will be in the city 4 nights so any location for a hotel that is convenient would be helpful also!
Thanks!
What I loved the most about London, a giant metropolis and, along with New York, the de facto "capital of the world", were the little village atmosphere of some of its neighbourhoods. Covent Garden in the city centre where you can also find the delicious cute Neal's Yard (google it!), Notthing Hill, Camden, all very lovely places.
This are wise words here. One can easily get lost with all the grandiose things there are in the city, but it's these quieter parts of town that really give London that special touch.
As far as where to stay, I've always chosen to stay a bit north of Hyde Park (the Paddington Area). It's a nice quiet area, it has metro and train stations nearby and, if you are an early bird and enjoy walking, a stroll trhough the park every morning will lighten up your day. It's also conveniently closed to the Royal Albert Hall if you are planning to visit that.
-
Booked a trip to London, and since I have no desire to dedicate an entire trip to France, I'm doing a day trip to Paris while I'm there.
Paris is my least favorite place in France so far so I get why you don't want to be there. To be fair, there are some reasons to spend a couple of days there, mostly the museums, but I'm not sure what I would recommend you to do if you're going to be there and out so quickly. Probably the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame (though it's still under construction), champes elysees and Arc de triomphe. You can easily see all of those in one day if you take the metro or a taxi.
-
Planning a trip to London first week of July. I have a list of sights we would like to see but would appreciate any suggestions. We also have not nailed down where we will be staying yet. We will be in the city 4 nights so any location for a hotel that is convenient would be helpful also!
Thanks!
What I loved the most about London, a giant metropolis and, along with New York, the de facto "capital of the world", were the little village atmosphere of some of its neighbourhoods. Covent Garden in the city centre where you can also find the delicious cute Neal's Yard (google it!), Notthing Hill, Camden, all very lovely places.
This are wise words here. One can easily get lost with all the grandiose things there are in the city, but it's these quieter parts of town that really give London that special touch.
As far as where to stay, I've always chosen to stay a bit north of Hyde Park (the Paddington Area). It's a nice quiet area, it has metro and train stations nearby and, if you are an early bird and enjoy walking, a stroll trhough the park every morning will lighten up your day. It's also conveniently closed to the Royal Albert Hall if you are planning to visit that.
Paddington is where I had my hotel when I visited London! yeah, good call, should I return to London I'd definitively make camp there again.
-
Booked a trip to London, and since I have no desire to dedicate an entire trip to France, I'm doing a day trip to Paris while I'm there.
Paris is my least favorite place in France so far so I get why you don't want to be there. To be fair, there are some reasons to spend a couple of days there, mostly the museums, but I'm not sure what I would recommend you to do if you're going to be there and out so quickly. Probably the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame (though it's still under construction), champes elysees and Arc de triomphe. You can easily see all of those in one day if you take the metro or a taxi.
I appreciate the information :tup
Yeah, my plan as of right now is to take an early train from London, make it to Paris for breakfast, then do at least 1 museum (Probably Piccaso) and the Eiffel tower. If there is time for more, then I'll consider other places.
-
Booked a trip to London, and since I have no desire to dedicate an entire trip to France, I'm doing a day trip to Paris while I'm there.
Paris is my least favorite place in France so far so I get why you don't want to be there. To be fair, there are some reasons to spend a couple of days there, mostly the museums, but I'm not sure what I would recommend you to do if you're going to be there and out so quickly. Probably the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame (though it's still under construction), champes elysees and Arc de triomphe. You can easily see all of those in one day if you take the metro or a taxi.
I appreciate the information :tup
Yeah, my plan as of right now is to take an early train from London, make it to Paris for breakfast, then do at least 1 museum (Probably Piccaso) and the Eiffel tower. If there is time for more, then I'll consider other places.
If you are planning to do Museums my recommendation would be the Musee D'Orsai. If you like impressionism (Monet, Rembrandt, Manet,etc) that place is an absolute goldmine.
-
Revisiting my old stomping grounds in Edinburgh in a couple of weeks. Going to be my first time in Scotland since I left almost six years ago, looking forward to it. Though my far forecast, unsurprisingly, is calling for low 50s (fahrenheit obviously) and rain pretty much the entire time I'll be there :-\
-
I'll be visiting the south of France next week. Will spend some days in Toulouse and then some in Bourdeaux. I also plan to visit some smaller towns close by while I'm there.
-
I've got a big trip to Europe in the fall starting to fall into shape. The centerpiece/reason for going is that my cousin is getting married in Fasano, Italy in October. My dad, my sister, and I are all in agreement that if we're going to be over there anyway, we should take some time to see other parts of Europe before/after given how easy it is to get around Europe once you're actually there. Of course my dad and my sister are happy to just pick a city and start planning, but I'm holding out for fall European tours to be announced :lol This is what I have so far:
October 3rd- Depart from JFK airport
October 4th- Land in Prague
October 4th and 5th- Spend time in Prague. The Devils are opening their 2024-2025 season with two games against Buffalo in Prague, so this was an easy call for me.
October 6th- Depart Prague (early) and fly to Paris to meet up with my dad and my sister (who will already be there)
October 6th- Spend time in Paris
October 7th- Depart Paris, fly to Bari Italy.
October 7th to 11th- Wedding festivities in Italy
October 12th- Fly to ???. I'm hoping a tour gets announced that lines up with this, but I think absent a specific draw somewhere we're going to go to London for a few days.
May be extending this on the front end to squeeze in a day in Copenhagen. A flight from JFK to Prague is ~$1k, whereas a flight from Newark (much more convenient for me) to Copenhagen is $500 and if I fly out on the 1st I can catch the last night of the Big Big Train European tour and then take a $75 flight from Copenhagen to Prague.
-
Copenhagen is lovely, you can't visit it in a day but a day is enough for the "greatest hits" and soak in a bit of nordic atmosphere. Wonderful town, I'd be back there tomorrow if I could.
-
May be extending this on the front end to squeeze in a day in Copenhagen. A flight from JFK to Prague is ~$1k, whereas a flight from Newark (much more convenient for me) to Copenhagen is $500 and if I fly out on the 1st I can catch the last night of the Big Big Train European tour and then take a $75 flight from Copenhagen to Prague.
I visited Copenhagen last September. I absolutely love that city. It is clean, and the locals are nice and not as snotty as other Europeans, lol. If you can spare one day, I highly recommend you take the train (45 mins) from the Central station to visit Kronborg Slot (aka Hamlet Castle). The surrounding area is peaceful and beautiful. The town itself is very walkable too.
-
Can confirm that the danes are a bunch of lovely kind and nice people.
-
I'm going to be in Orlando for a few days in May. Instead of flying out early on Friday, I'm debating flying home late and hitting up a Disney park for the day. Possibly with some coworkers, but maybe by myself. Given that I was just in Disneyland a few weeks ago, I can't decide which park I would prefer to do. My initial inclination is Magic Kingdom, but there isn't much there that wasn't in Dinseyland. I've never done most of Epcot (ive only been there for a few hours), so I'm thinking about that. It would obviously depend on what my coworkers would want if some of them come. Any strong opinions on which park would make the most sense?
-
I'm going to be in Orlando for a few days in May. Instead of flying out early on Friday, I'm debating flying home late and hitting up a Disney park for the day. Possibly with some coworkers, but maybe by myself. Given that I was just in Disneyland a few weeks ago, I can't decide which park I would prefer to do. My initial inclination is Magic Kingdom, but there isn't much there that wasn't in Dinseyland. I've never done most of Epcot (ive only been there for a few hours), so I'm thinking about that. It would obviously depend on what my coworkers would want if some of them come. Any strong opinions on which park would make the most sense?
If the choices are between Hollywood Studios and the Animal Kingdom, I'd go with the Animal Kingdom. Definitely a lot more interesting. The safari is actually pretty cool.
-
If the choices are between Hollywood Studios and the Animal Kingdom, I'd go with the Animal Kingdom. Definitely a lot more interesting. The safari is actually pretty cool.
I'm open to any of the four parks. I do quite enjoy Animal Kingdom. Not a lot of rides there though
-
I'm open to any of the four parks. I do quite enjoy Animal Kingdom. Not a lot of rides there though
As a coaster guy, the only one in Orlando that appeals to me is Universal. The one time I get to the Wang I'll be doing that, maybe Sea World, and heading straight to Tampa.
-
Animal Kingdom was my favorite when I last went like 6 or so years ago. Since then, they ahve the new Star Wars park? Whenever I go again, I feel like that's where I'll want to check out.
Haven't been to Universal since I was a kid and know much about it currently, but I'd like to go back there next time as well.
-
Rise Of The Resistance is a really cool experience.
-
Rise Of The Resistance is a really cool experience.
It is indeed. That's at Hollywood Studios.
I'm not a big thrill ride person which is one of the reason I love Disney parks. There are very few rides too extreme for me.
-
Am I the only one that still looks forward to the monorail ride at Disney? I feel like like seven again, when it pulls up (I went in '74 and it's one of the very few enduring memories of that visit, so there's that).
-
Am I the only one that still looks forward to the monorail ride at Disney? I feel like like seven again, when it pulls up (I went in '74 and it's one of the very few enduring memories of that visit, so there's that).
I enjoy the monorail. Everything about Diney turns me into a little kid and I didn't even go there until I was an adult.
-
Am I the only one that still looks forward to the monorail ride at Disney? I feel like like seven again, when it pulls up (I went in '74 and it's one of the very few enduring memories of that visit, so there's that).
Yeah for sure. Like lord stated, it's part of the experience.
My gf and I have started trying to figure things out for our vacation this year. Disney World came up as an idea, but seems unlikely that we do it this year. I feel like I need a few more years to get to about 10 years between visits to make it worth it for me. They just announced a 311 Red Rocks show and two days later, Dirty Heads play Red Rocks. Last year we wanted to see those two bands back to back at Red ROcks and it didn't work out, but crazy enough, it looks like we have an opportunity to try and do it again this year. I'm going to seriously look into it this weekend.
-
Am I the only one that still looks forward to the monorail ride at Disney? I feel like like seven again, when it pulls up (I went in '74 and it's one of the very few enduring memories of that visit, so there's that).
I don't think I've been on the monorail since the days of separate admission and ride tickets. For some unfathomable reason, the monorail was an "E" ticket ride, so riding the monorail meant one less ride on Space Mountain or the Matterhorn. And by the time they had done away with the ticket books, I had no interest in riding the monorail.
-
For Magic Kingdom you can either take the monorail or the boat to get to the main gate once you pass the ticket booth.
I like how each park is now somewhat reconfigured to have something appealing for each demograph. Magic Kingdom is still mostly aimed at the kids with a few things in there for adults. I like the revamp to Hollywood studios and all the Star Wars stuff. That whole area is great to just walk around. I couldn't go on the Resistance ride when I last went 4 years ago as it was a reservation system on a first come first serve basis. If we go to Disney again, that's the park I would prefer to go.
-
For Magic Kingdom you can either take the monorail or the boat to get to the main gate once you pass the ticket booth.
I like how each park is now somewhat reconfigured to have something appealing for each demograph. Magic Kingdom is still mostly aimed at the kids with a few things in there for adults. I like the revamp to Hollywood studios and all the Star Wars stuff. That whole area is great to just walk around. I couldn't go on the Resistance ride when I last went 4 years ago as it was a reservation system on a first come first serve basis. If we go to Disney again, that's the park I would prefer to go.
The Star Wars stuff is awesome. I had a thrill walking through the Millennium Falcon, not going to lie.
-
We just spent 3 days at Disney in Cali. Really need to plan a Florida trip.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4hMpkSLmfNh3bBDAnm9seEs6_jbAT4LLhf3fg0/?igsh=aTE2NHBiMHZrc2Q3 (https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4hMpkSLmfNh3bBDAnm9seEs6_jbAT4LLhf3fg0/?igsh=aTE2NHBiMHZrc2Q3)
-
I'm going to be in Orlando for a few days in May. Instead of flying out early on Friday, I'm debating flying home late and hitting up a Disney park for the day. Possibly with some coworkers, but maybe by myself. Given that I was just in Disneyland a few weeks ago, I can't decide which park I would prefer to do. My initial inclination is Magic Kingdom, but there isn't much there that wasn't in Dinseyland. I've never done most of Epcot (ive only been there for a few hours), so I'm thinking about that. It would obviously depend on what my coworkers would want if some of them come. Any strong opinions on which park would make the most sense?
I haven't spent a ton of time in the parks since I moved down here, but I've been to all of them at least once. Magic Kingdom to me wouldn't hold much appeal either solo or in an adults-only group. Hollywood Studios has the Star Wars area plus probably the best assortment of thrill rides. Animal Kingdom is great if you'd be into the safari and seeing some of the habitats they have set up and whatnot. Epcot is usually my first choice just for eating and drinking around the world, plus the Guardians of the Galaxy rollercoaster there is sick. If you really want to get rides in though, as Barto alluded to, Universal is probably your best bet.
-
Rise Of The Resistance is a really cool experience.
Yea it's an amazing ride although I hear it's problematic.
-
I haven't spent a ton of time in the parks since I moved down here, but I've been to all of them at least once. Magic Kingdom to me wouldn't hold much appeal either solo or in an adults-only group. Hollywood Studios has the Star Wars area plus probably the best assortment of thrill rides. Animal Kingdom is great if you'd be into the safari and seeing some of the habitats they have set up and whatnot. Epcot is usually my first choice just for eating and drinking around the world, plus the Guardians of the Galaxy rollercoaster there is sick. If you really want to get rides in though, as Barto alluded to, Universal is probably your best bet.
Thanks for the insights. I'm not a thrill ride person, so I'm not really interested in Universal. While I'm sure there are plenty of rides I would go on, there would also be a significant portion I wouldn't. There are about 4 rides in all 4 Disney parks combined I won't go on. Eating and drinking around Epcot sounds fun to me. I suggested that to the one coworker I know for sure will join me, but he hasn't commented back. I love Magic Kingdom, but agree it's probably not the best for an adults only crowd.
-
Last year we went on several rides each day, without any Lightning Lane or whatever they call it. And we didn't even spend the whole day doing rides. We watched the parade and fireworks show, saw the Royal Theater show, and left the park for dinner both days. Our longest wait time might have been to get in to Royal Hall to meet the princesses. Which I wholly expect you to do if you ever make it here.
Fair enough. Sounds like it's not always so rough.
And I'll absolutely wait for the princess. I'll spend the wait time figuring out the most vulgar thing I can think of to say to her so-as to really, really earn my lifetime ban. :lol
Having just got back from a 2 day trip to Disneyland, I did a count and we did 9 attractions on Sunday and 7 on Monday. This does not include watching the parade and fireworks, and meeting princesses, one day, and watching the Royal Theater play both days. We didn't wait more than 30 minutes for anything on Sunday. There was a significant increase in numbers Monday, likely due to it being Spring Break, and lines we so much longer.
A funny story from Rise of the Resistance: For those who have not been, you assume the role of resistance fighters. Once you go past the entry gates, the Disney staff are in character as First Order troops, and they address you with a touch of menace as they would the resistance. The gal instructing us on where to stand and where to go was so good. After she directed us to move from her part of the ride to the next, I smiled at her and held out my fist for a fist bump. She looked me dead in the eye without missing a beat and said "Absolutely not!" She played that brilliantly, I would have tipped her if there was a method to tip ride staff.
-
i'm goin' to Vegas next week!
-
Having just got back from a 2 day trip to Disneyland, I did a count and we did 9 attractions on Sunday and 7 on Monday. This does not include watching the parade and fireworks, and meeting princesses, one day, and watching the Royal Theater play both days. We didn't wait more than 30 minutes for anything on Sunday. There was a significant increase in numbers Monday, likely due to it being Spring Break, and lines we so much longer.
A funny story from Rise of the Resistance: For those who have not been, you assume the role of resistance fighters. Once you go past the entry gates, the Disney staff are in character as First Order troops, and they address you with a touch of menace as they would the resistance. The gal instructing us on where to stand and where to go was so good. After she directed us to move from her part of the ride to the next, I smiled at her and held out my fist for a fist bump. She looked me dead in the eye without missing a beat and said "Absolutely not!" She played that brilliantly, I would have tipped her if there was a method to tip ride staff.
I love how in character the people at Disney are - specifically the star wars area. My husband went with his Han shirt and vest, I wore the whole sith black get up with hood/cloak and all. We got so much attention from the staff, it was amazing. We got pulled aside by many groups of troopers, I told them Han was my prisoner. He then called Kylo "Emo Darth Vader" and that didn't go over very well.... I told Rey I was undercover and she played along, talking with her back to me in the open air restaurant. Chewy gave my man a point on his way somewhere. So great. What I want to know is how many preprogrammed statements people in masks have and how they activate them. It looked like Mando was doing different hand movements for phrases.
-
There's a reason why Disney calls their employees "cast members"
-
I'm going to be in Philadelphia next week for a few days for work. I'll be at the downtown Marriott. Any suggestions on must see or must eat/drink things within walking distance? Any insights as to whether this is a safe place to wander around in the late afternoon/evening?
-
I'm going to be in Philadelphia next week for a few days for work. I'll be at the downtown Marriott. Any suggestions on must see or must eat/drink things within walking distance? Any insights as to whether this is a safe place to wander around in the late afternoon/evening?
Maybe this is within running distance?
https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/the-rocky-statue-and-the-rocky-steps/
-
I'm going to be in Philadelphia next week for a few days for work. I'll be at the downtown Marriott. Any suggestions on must see or must eat/drink things within walking distance? Any insights as to whether this is a safe place to wander around in the late afternoon/evening?
For one thing you're a block away from Reading Terminal Market, so if you like food you're in luck. As for walking, you're pretty well situated to most the historical stuff. I've found central Phili to be pleasant to walk when I've been there.
-
Any locals have any good tips for getting to the Hollywood Bowl to make it less sucky? Is the walk from Hollywood Blvd obnoxious? That seems to be one of the recommendations, aside from just taking the bus, which honestly doesn't sound all that appealing.
-
Any locals have any good tips for getting to the Hollywood Bowl to make it less sucky? Is the walk from Hollywood Blvd obnoxious? That seems to be one of the recommendations, aside from just taking the bus, which honestly doesn't sound all that appealing.
Walking from the corner of Hollywood Blvd and Highland Av to the Bowl is about a mile, and it's mostly uphill. Depending on your pace, it'll take about 30 minutes. If you start from Franklin and Highland, you'll almost cut that in half. If you're cool with that, I'd say it's absolutely the best way to go. The next best option is the shuttle (not the same as taking the bus).
https://www.hollywoodbowl.com/visit/getting-here/park-ride-and-bowl-shuttle/park-and-ride-and-shuttle-lot-locations
-
I'm going to be in Philadelphia next week for a few days for work. I'll be at the downtown Marriott. Any suggestions on must see or must eat/drink things within walking distance? Any insights as to whether this is a safe place to wander around in the late afternoon/evening?
I'd second Reading Terminal. Also, if you like beer, Monk's Cafe is a legendary beer bar with a good mix of European imports and American craft options. Their food is also very good.
-
Walking from the corner of Hollywood Blvd and Highland Av to the Bowl is about a mile, and it's mostly uphill. Depending on your pace, it'll take about 30 minutes. If you start from Franklin and Highland, you'll almost cut that in half. If you're cool with that, I'd say it's absolutely the best way to go. The next best option is the shuttle (not the same as taking the bus).
https://www.hollywoodbowl.com/visit/getting-here/park-ride-and-bowl-shuttle/park-and-ride-and-shuttle-lot-locations
Thanks. The only parking up at Franklin is $125, but I gather people ride the metro to that and then walk. One of the shuttles certainly seems like the best option.
-
I'd second Reading Terminal. Also, if you like beer, Monk's Cafe is a legendary beer bar with a good mix of European imports and American craft options. Their food is also very good.
Wow Monks! Haven't heard of that in awhile, only went there once with my friends but it was a legendary night for us that we still occassionally bring up when we're all together. The mussels are amazing, must get one of their buckets and then find something on that book of a beer menu. I was drinking "Gift of the Magi" that night, and well, had more than enough to be the first one to pass out and have everyone take pictures of me sleeping on the couch early that night :lol
Also +1 on Reading Terminal since it seems like you'll be close. Plenty of options there. Also, got to recommend hitting up the south street area for some cheesesteaks. Not too far from centrum area, but it may be a far walk and it's honestly not the best area either.
-
I'm going to be in Philadelphia next week for a few days for work. I'll be at the downtown Marriott. Any suggestions on must see or must eat/drink things within walking distance? Any insights as to whether this is a safe place to wander around in the late afternoon/evening?
Last time I went to Philly, the day after Nick's wedding, I got a parking ticket as I was trying to pay for the parking spot at the kiosk 40' or so from my car. Apparently there was no parking at all during those hours, and I didn't see the sign. I was literally yelling to the person giving me the ticket while at the kiosk, unable to figure out why it wasn't accepting my payment, but they gave zero fucks. Having already gotten a ticket, I said "fuck it", and carried on with trying to get my Philly Cheesesteak. The parking authority lady called in a tow truck on me. I had to ditch Victoria in the shop while I got away from the truck and she waited for the food. The truck followed me around the city back to the sandwich shop and tried to get in front of me while I was stopped so my wife could get in the car. The two sandwiches cost me $130 that day.
Be mindful of where you park!
-
Last time I went to Philly, I got a parking ticket as I was trying to pay for the parking spot at the kiosk 40' or so from my car. Apparently there was no parking at all during those hours, and I didn't see the sign. I was literally yelling to the person giving me the ticket while at the kiosk, unable to figure out why it wasn't accepting my payment, but they gave zero fucks. Having already gotten a ticket, I said "fuck it", and carried on with trying to get my Philly Cheesesteak. The parking authority lady called in a tow truck on me. I had to ditch Victoria in the shop while I got away from the truck, and she waited for the food. The truck followed me around the city back to the sandwich shop and tried to get in front of me while I was stopped so my wife could get in the car. The two sandwiches cost me $130 that day.
Be mindful of where you park!
WTH, that's ridiculous
-
Last time I went to Philly, I got a parking ticket as I was trying to pay for the parking spot at the kiosk 40' or so from my car. Apparently there was no parking at all during those hours, and I didn't see the sign. I was literally yelling to the person giving me the ticket while at the kiosk, unable to figure out why it wasn't accepting my payment, but they gave zero fucks. Having already gotten a ticket, I said "fuck it", and carried on with trying to get my Philly Cheesesteak. The parking authority lady called in a tow truck on me. I had to ditch Victoria in the shop while I got away from the truck, and she waited for the food. The truck followed me around the city back to the sandwich shop and tried to get in front of me while I was stopped so my wife could get in the car. The two sandwiches cost me $130 that day.
Be mindful of where you park!
WOW, but none of this surprises me. THere was literally a TV show called parking wars that was about Philly parking police. My xgf used to live near 5th st so Id deal with street parking over weekends normally and it was ALWAYS a nightmare.
-
Imagine crawling out of bed every morning knowing that your job is to make everybody you encounter miserable. An acquaintance recommended a YT channel about a wrecker driver in Gatlinburg, and he couldn't understand why I'd just as soon see that guy drop dead. I don't have a problem with people who haul your broken down car to the shop, and I've got a begrudging respect for repo-men. People who impound cars can all fucking die, AFAIC.
-
Chino that is brutal man, I would've been sent into a blind rage.
In college I got a chipped windshield which insurance replaces for free in FL. I never pealed off the parking pass from my windshield so when the new one was put on I went to the leasing office to get a new parking sticker, they didn't have any but they had a temp one I could put on my dashboard so I did that. Next morning I wake up and the car is gone, it was towed. I got a ride to the tow yard and they wanted something like $300 to get my car back. I told him I had a temp badge on the windshield (it was still there in my towed car) and he said sorry it needed a permanent sticker. I explained whole new windshield/unable to get a new sticker and he just didn't give a fuck, it was as if he was getting off on just fucking me over. I had to ask my mom to wire me money to pay to get my car back (no zelle or venmo back then, and I was completely broke in college). Almost 20 years later my blood still boils thinking about it.
-
Flying to St. Pete FL for the night for a friend's baby shower. Got bumped up to first class so the trip is off to a good start.
-
I'm not the one traveling, but my gf's college friend and husband are spending the weekend with us and they've never been to NYC so it seems tomorrow, we are doing the tourist type of day in NYC. I'm not really looking forward to this :lol but if the couple is cool, it can be fun.
-
Sunday night, I'm taking a red eye to New York. Flying into Laguardia for the first time. When Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO consolidated, I ended up with enough whoopie points for the flight out there to be paid for, although I learned that you can't use those points for flights on United, Delta or American. So...LAX to LGA (via Orlando) on JetBlue.
I'll just be dicking around in Manhattan and/or Brooklyn on Monday, so if any of y'all want to meet for a drink, I'll be available.
On Tuesday, I'll be going out to Amityville to visit with cousins I haven't seen in more than 24 years (one of them lives about a mile from the Horror house). On Wednesday, I'll be going to the Mets/Pirates game (afternoon game). On Thursday, I'll be driving up to New Hampshire to see the kiddo play a concert for the first time since high school. Back home out of Boston on Saturday. Short trip (and slightly more busy than I'd like), but I'm really looking forward to it.
-
Sunday night, I'm taking a red eye to New York. Flying into Laguardia for the first time. When Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO consolidated, I ended up with enough whoopie points for the flight out there to be paid for, although I learned that you can't use those points for flights on United, Delta or American. So...LAX to LGA (via Orlando) on JetBlue.
I'll just be dicking around in Manhattan and/or Brooklyn on Monday, so if any of y'all want to meet for a drink, I'll be available.
On Tuesday, I'll be going out to Amityville to visit with cousins I haven't seen in more than 24 years (one of them lives about a mile from the Horror house). On Wednesday, I'll be going to the Mets/Pirates game (afternoon game). On Thursday, I'll be driving up to New Hampshire to see the kiddo play a concert for the first time since high school. Back home out of Boston on Saturday. Short trip (and slightly more busy than I'd like), but I'm really looking forward to it.
Flying into LGA sit on the left side of the aircraft. If you get the expressway visual approach you'll be glad you did.
-
I'm not the one traveling, but my gf's college friend and husband are spending the weekend with us and they've never been to NYC so it seems tomorrow, we are doing the tourist type of day in NYC. I'm not really looking forward to this :lol but if the couple is cool, it can be fun.
I'm guessing that this was you by the end of the day:
(https://media3.giphy.com/media/Vef9tjGuPU3zafDaxy/giphy.gif?cid=6c09b95285ccx3sm3eb1vkxzyz8yqtr1loa5w3r940aueg0r&ep=v1_internal_gif_by_id&rid=giphy.gif&ct=g) :lol
-
My legs were dead and sore all Sunday from the walking :lol but I did get that Lego set I shared in the general discussion thread. Also, lunch in Little Italy was better than expected. Otherwise I was mostly miserable.
-
Flying into LGA sit on the left side of the aircraft. If you get the expressway visual approach you'll be glad you did.
I'm on the left side, but it's an aisle seat.
-
Made it back from my trip to Scotland, no thanks to the pricks at Heathrow security. Everytime I go to London I hope to be proved wrong, and every single time I'm vindicated about how much of a cesspool nightmare that place is.
-
Made it back from my trip to Scotland, no thanks to the pricks at Heathrow security. Everytime I go to London I hope to be proved wrong, and every single time I'm vindicated about how much of a cesspool nightmare that place is.
I hope my experience is better for my upcoming trip, though I am going in through a different airport.
-
Sunday night, I'm taking a red eye to New York. Flying into Laguardia for the first time. When Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO consolidated, I ended up with enough whoopie points for the flight out there to be paid for, although I learned that you can't use those points for flights on United, Delta or American. So...LAX to LGA (via Orlando) on JetBlue.
I upgraded to exit row seats for my red eye flights. For the LAX to MCO leg, I had the entire row to myself (as did the guy across the aisle). For the MCO to LGA leg, there was no one in the middle seat. AND after landing around 9am, I was able to check into my hotel in Brooklyn at 10:30! I didn't even have to ask for early check-in.
I just hope something doesn't go horribly wrong to offset how it's gone so far.