MUScoop
MUScoop => The Superbar => Topic started by: DegenerateDish on March 23, 2018, 12:57:57 PM
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I know this thread might not be for everyone, and didn’t want to confuse this thread for when people ask questions about specific destinations, which usually leads to really great and detailed info.
I know there’s folks on here that travel a lot, so figured this could be about airports/hotels/reward programs/tips/frustrations, stuff like that.
With that said, I flew in and out of Lambert for the first time (typically I’ll just make the drive from Chicago), but Lambert could use a new coat of paint. Maybe a couple of coats. Albeit a long time ago, for a former hub, I was surprised by how outdated it is.
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I last flew in/out of Lambert in 25 years ago and I recall nothing about it.
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OK, here's a start from someone who's already done 91k miles this year.
Airports that Suck:
Miami
LHR
LAX
Moscow Shermetyevo
Beijing
everything in Australia except Melbourne
Bangkok
Phuket
KLIA
Narita T1
Las Vegas
Dubai
Charles DeGaulle
airports I barely tolerate:
IAH
ORD
Incheon
Melbourne
JNB
Jakarta
Narita T2
PHX
DEN
Abu Dhabi
Newcastle
Denpasar (Bali)
Midway
ATL
good airports:
SIN
HKG
Vienna
Capetown
MKE
Tokyo Haneda
Tucson
Doha
AMS
Manchester
Updated with a few more I've used recently.
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I was just in Lambert this week too. Down there about every 6 weeks or so - it's a dump. I mean it's not LGA hot pile of garbage bad - but it's really bad.
Favorite airports have to be AMS & MUC.
GRU in Sao Paulo isn't bad for a South American airport. AUK isn't too bad either. Narita > Haneda. DUS is a convenient place to directly get Europe from ORD.
Echo the statements above regarding Beijing and Australia being subpar. I would throw the Shanghai airports on their too - nothing special. This goes for a lot travel in mainland China. Mexico City is a pain as well. Rio isn't that great.
As for alliances - what is everyone's choice? I was 1K on United for a few years but a new job doesn't have me going overseas as much anymore so I am now just grinding out Gold. Was thinking about switching to another international star alliance carrier to get gold easier but wasn't sure if I should.
Also, a while back someone mentioned Briggs & Riley luggage. Good lord that person needs a high five. I love my bag. I had to get my wife one so she would stop stealing mine. I won't buy another brand ever again.
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I just bought a piece of luggage .. the $120 model will do just fine. Serious q, Briggs & Riley seems to be $300-600. What makes it 3x better?
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don't know how you guys do it...i get stiff and a little outta wack and constipated enough after a 3-4 hour flight and a 2 hour time change. mke to las or phx via southwest in line anywhere from #1-5 or so, hello exit row window seat with no one in front of me and i'm good to go baby
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IAH Terminal C is the bomb.
Frankfort is the worst. Prefer to connect through Düsseldorf. Narita a close second for dump.
Zurich is prime.
Agree on Hong Kong.
Rome, Paris DeGaule crazy.
Absolute best airport is Dublin.
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IAH Terminal C is the bomb.
Overall this is true. But the best restaurant in the whole place is in Terminal A. Breakfast Klub. The Wings and Waffles will change your life. Wings and Grits not so bad either. The actual location in Houston is better but the airport locations are still top notch airport food.
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I was just in Lambert this week too. Down there about every 6 weeks or so - it's a dump. I mean it's not LGA hot pile of garbage bad - but it's really bad.
Favorite airports have to be AMS & MUC.
GRU in Sao Paulo isn't bad for a South American airport. AUK isn't too bad either. Narita > Haneda. DUS is a convenient place to directly get Europe from ORD.
Echo the statements above regarding Beijing and Australia being subpar. I would throw the Shanghai airports on their too - nothing special. This goes for a lot travel in mainland China. Mexico City is a pain as well. Rio isn't that great.
As for alliances - what is everyone's choice? I was 1K on United for a few years but a new job doesn't have me going overseas as much anymore so I am now just grinding out Gold. Was thinking about switching to another international star alliance carrier to get gold easier but wasn't sure if I should.
Also, a while back someone mentioned Briggs & Riley luggage. Good lord that person needs a high five. I love my bag. I had to get my wife one so she would stop stealing mine. I won't buy another brand ever again.
That’s funny what you said about Lambert and LGA, because that was my immediate thought that Lambert was the LGA of the Midwest.
I too grind out Gold on United each year. I’m on pace for this year to get to 1K (I’ll have 40 segments in by end of next week). I don’t business travel internationally though.
Marriott platinum, and I use the SPG Amex. Converting the SPG points 1:3 to Marriott is one of the best deals out there. I’ll use my Marriott Chase for hotels, but the SPG Amex for everything else.
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LGA is a complete mess right now but should be greatly improved when the major overhaul and rebuild is done.
I missed a flight at LGA in the fall due to the mess. I haven't parked in LongTerm parking since.
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LGA is a complete mess right now but should be greatly improved when the major overhaul and rebuild is done.
I missed a flight at LGA in the fall due to the mess. I haven't parked in LongTerm parking since.
I’m curious, being in CT, what’s your main airport of choice. Obviously would depend if you’re closer to Hartford or not. Plenty of options though in your neck of the woods.
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It's exactly a 1h drive to Bradley-Hartford, 1h15m to LGA (add and hour if rush hour) and 1h35m to JFK. I try to pick flights away from rush hour.
It's all about the points and I fly Delta so I've been using LGA lately. Hartford tends to be slightly more expensive and you usually have to transfer flights somewhere. LGA has more flight choices and also direct flights. I usually price both out. Parking is way cheaper in Hartford so I usually throw that in the equation.
JFK is for international and it has the Air Train connection, so I have the train connection option from home. (I'm stuck on a Metro North train in the Bronx at the moment as trains to/ from Grand Central are delayed for a "police investigation at 125th Street). The Air Train is coming to LGA, construction of it is part if the current LGA mess.
20/25 years ago I would have also considered White Plains, NY but they have less choices than Hartford and they jacked the prices up.
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Haven't been to Lambert since I was a frequent flyer on Ozark and then TWA. Yeah, that's been a few years. Several that stand out within the past 10-15 years:
Just Bad:
LGA, JFK, EWR
Dulles
Honolulu (people tolerate it because they're in paradise)
Rome
London Heathrow
Decent by US Standards
ATL
PHX
JAX
DEN (not counting the awful location)
SEA
DCA (dated, but bonus points for convenience)
Good by US Standards
DTW (which replaced my least favorite airport of all time)
MSP
Decent by International Standards
CDG
London Gatwick
Incheon
NRT
Great
SIN
AMS
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Haven't been to Lambert since I was a frequent flyer on Ozark and then TWA. Yeah, that's been a few years. Several that stand out within the past 10-15 years:
Just Bad:
LGA, JFK, EWR
Dulles
Honolulu (people tolerate it because they're in paradise)
Rome
London Heathrow
Decent by US Standards
ATL
PHX
JAX
DEN (not counting the awful location)
SEA
DCA (dated, but bonus points for convenience)
Good by US Standards
DTW (which replaced my least favorite airport of all time)
MSP
Decent by International Standards
CDG
London Gatwick
Incheon
NRT
Great
SIN
AMS
One interesting aspect is what airline you fly into a specific airport. Sky Harbor is a great example, as Terminal 2 (United) is terrible, but if you go to the Southwest Terminal, it’s great, totally different experience.
I also knock down PHX for the 10 minute drive to the car rental facility.
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One interesting aspect is what airline you fly into a specific airport. Sky Harbor is a great example, as Terminal 2 (United) is terrible, but if you go to the Southwest Terminal, it’s great, totally different experience.
I also knock down PHX for the 10 minute drive to the car rental facility.
Good point - that's just a crazy downgrade from how it used to work. From luggage to car used to be 5 minutes total; now it's about 30.
And the specific airline issue as well. In some airports, the experience is equally good or bad regardless of the airline. In others, the difference can be night and day.
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What's wrong with Heathrow out of curiosity? I flew into Heathrow and Gatwick and much preferred Heathrow.
Reykjavic was my least favorite. Only had one person scanning tickets and it took a hour to board because you needed to take a bus to the plane.
Dublin was my favorite. Easy to navigate, and nice new renovations.
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What's wrong with Heathrow out of curiosity? I flew into Heathrow and Gatwick and much preferred Heathrow.
Reykjavic was my least favorite. Only had one person scanning tickets and it took a hour to board because you needed to take a bus to the plane.
Dublin was my favorite. Easy to navigate, and nice new renovations.
Which terminal in Heathrow? I think this is another good example of which airline/terminal you use at a given airport.
I have flown in and out of T4 several times, and it's crowded, disorganized and immigration takes forever. On one outbound flight, several gates were very close together and it was complete chaos. An overhead announcement was made for our flight to MSP so we got into a long line. We were halfway down the jetbridge when an airport employee told us that the MSP announcement was an error, and that the plane we almost boarded was headed to Accra. So about half of the people (us included) headed back up the jetbridge just in time to make it onto our actual flight out (from an adjacent gate that had been mislabeled). Oh...and some T4 departures require you to take a bus to your plane. ;)
I have heard the newer British Airways T5 is much better.
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The bizarrest thing outside an airport is next to the Cleveland car rental park. There is a "ghost" neighborhood with streets, stop signs, fire hydrants, ornamental trees around where a house used to be. Everything but houses.
I like Amsterdam and Hong Kong also. Like Amsterdam, are there any other airports with casinos in them besides Las Vegas?
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MKE is underated. Peninsula first, Fairmont second, aina?
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One interesting aspect is what airline you fly into a specific airport. Sky Harbor is a great example, as Terminal 2 (United) is terrible, but if you go to the Southwest Terminal, it’s great, totally different experience.
I also knock down PHX for the 10 minute drive to the car rental facility.
absolutely right on! i do anything but terminal 4(s.w.) it's a whole different world for me
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MKE is underated. Peninsula first, Fairmont second, aina?
Always wanted to try a Peninsula (ideally Hong Kong) and get picked up at the airport in a Rolls. Bucket list.
Fairmont is really nice and I like Ritz-Carlton too, but the nicest "chain" hotel I've stayed in is the Mandarin Oriental in Singapore. Probably helped that we booked a club level room so we had lounge access and a special concierge. We also splurged on a Mercedes limo pickup. Was gonna try Raffles, but I would have had to sell a kidney.....
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Always wanted to try a Peninsula (ideally Hong Kong) and get picked up at the airport in a Rolls. Bucket list.
Fairmont is really nice and I like Ritz-Carlton too, but the nicest "chain" hotel I've stayed in is the Mandarin Oriental in Singapore. Probably helped that we booked a club level room so we had lounge access and a special concierge. We also splurged on a Mercedes limo pickup. Was gonna try Raffles, but I would have had to sell a kidney.....
You are supposed to say "Mandarin Asian" now. ;)
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How are you dudes not including MKE in your rankings?
And a shout-out to Rockford International. Flew out of there once, best experience ever. You park about 100 feet from the door, there's like 4 gates and one luggage carousel.
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How are you dudes not including MKE in your rankings?
And a shout-out to Rockford International. Flew out of there once, best experience ever. You park about 100 feet from the door, there's like 4 gates and one luggage carousel.
MKE rocks.
Rarely busy, TSA is always a breeze, and the only airport with a designated Recombobulation area.
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You are supposed to say "Mandarin Asian" now. ;)
;D
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Hotels:
Best chain hotel - especially if you live in Asia - Shangri La. Mandarin Oriental is inconsistent from city to city. Peninsula of course is great, but really too expensive for my budget.
I'm Marriott lifetime Platinum, SPG Platinum and stick to those most of the time. Depends on city and location, but I find that Marriott has something that meets my needs almost everywhere except Australia.
Marriott and SPG platinum upgrades are really nice.
Worst chain: Hyatt. Horrible room design, not friendly.
Honorable Mention: Radisson. Lots of nice new properties, especially outside the USA.
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How are you dudes not including MKE in your rankings?
And a shout-out to Rockford International. Flew out of there once, best experience ever. You park about 100 feet from the door, there's like 4 gates and one luggage carousel.
Expense is one downside of MKE, and flight availability. Great little airport, but airports that are like that usually a result of less flights which means more expensive flights on average. When my wife and I lived in Milwaukee years ago and Midwest Express was there, what a great experience.
Dealing with O'Hare sucks, but cost of flights are better.
Other airports I recommend that sometimes can save you money because multiple options in a city, but also more limited schedules and I have run into more expensive flights, too.
Love Field over DFW in Dallas. Oakland instead of San Francisco. Long Beach over Los Angeles. Ft. Lauderdale over Miami. Colorado Springs instead of Denver. Providence instead of Boston. Hobby instead of Bush in Houston. BMI instead of Dulles. Mesa instead of Sky Harbor in Phoenix.
Marriott Platinum Elite member, never had an issue anywhere in the USA.
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Airlines:
Note that this comes from the perspective of someone who flies only business/first. I've been lucky from a work perspective since about age 25 to fly business except on regional flights when it just isn't available. For leisure, I believe the vacation starts when you leave for the airport, so I fly only business. That being said, I always choose only the cheapest business class and have no loyalty to anything except my wallet. Even with that philosophy, I'm platinum on American (lifetime), S7, and Qatar and gold on SQ, Aeroflot and Delta.
Airlines that Suck:
All USA based airlines
BA
Aeroflot (45 pax to 1 toilet in Business!)
Emirates
Malaysian
Turkish
Air Asia (never had an on time flight)
Air France
All Chinese airlines
Airlines I'll tolerate:
S7
Thai
Korean - Actually good unless the guy next to you orders Kimchi
Qantas
KLM
China Airlines (Taipei)
The good ones:
ANA
JAL
Austrian
Lufthansa
Asiana
The best:
Singapore Air - the best by far.
Qatar
Cathay
Garuda Indonesia
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Which terminal in Heathrow? I think this is another good example of which airline/terminal you use at a given airport.
I have flown in and out of T4 several times, and it's crowded, disorganized and immigration takes forever. On one outbound flight, several gates were very close together and it was complete chaos. An overhead announcement was made for our flight to MSP so we got into a long line. We were halfway down the jetbridge when an airport employee told us that the MSP announcement was an error, and that the plane we almost boarded was headed to Accra. So about half of the people (us included) headed back up the jetbridge just in time to make it onto our actual flight out (from an adjacent gate that had been mislabeled). Oh...and some T4 departures require you to take a bus to your plane. ;)
I have heard the newer British Airways T5 is much better.
Agreed. I fly out of Terminal 2, the Queens Terminal, with United and its rather nice. Clean, modern, the "TSA" is actually helpful and friendly, albeit stricter than most. Probably my favorite United lounge that Ive encountered abroad.
LGA obviously sucks, but the Delta terminal is far nicer.
HKG lives up to all that has been said here.
BOM in India is brand new and quite nice in a lot of ways. No special brand specific lounges, but executive lounges with plenty of space, very nice bathrooms and excellent food.
BRU is fantastically efficient save for one 2-3 international flights land and they only have 1 non EU customs agent on duty. Easily the fastest non-domestic TSA pre check from check in to gate that Ive experienced regularly.
I'm United 1K. Definitely still the carrier of choice if you're traveling long haul international and you're not springing for the Etihad/Emirates/Qatar/Cathay tier. My 6 business class upgrades annually make the status more than worthwhile. I usually eclipse most of my other business travel friends in miles significantly, but they kill me in segments. But I usually only travel once every 5-6 weeks, but thats usually to HK or India, if not Europe, with NY in between.
Any other United regulars flying on routes with the upgraded Polaris business? I looked at the map and see that everything out of ORD for the most part is going to be the last to be upgraded, which pisses me off. But not surprising given 90% of my LHR to ORD flights are on super dated POS planes that don't have in seat power and still have the ancient 4 channel closed circuit TV entertainment.
I sometimes get Lufthansa flights depending on route given the Star Alliance connection. Love it, night and day compared to US airlines even on simple economy.
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Polaris seems to really be hit or miss. I go to SFO about every other month and sometimes will catch the 777 out of ORD to SFO and get the upgrade to Polaris, and it’s not impressive. Granted it’s only 4 hours, but the cabin didn’t have a wow factor. I’d be curious of people taking long hauls on Polaris and thumbs up or thumbs down.
Agreed that HGK is the best airport I’ve ever been to. I don’t know if most people include Hong Kong as a bucket list city, but especially if you love London (my favorite city), the British footprint will forever be a part of Hong Kong, and it’s just an amazing city.
The sole trip I took to HGK was first class on Singapore Air out of SFO, best airline experience I’ve ever had.
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Polaris seems to really be hit or miss. I go to SFO about every other month and sometimes will catch the 777 out of ORD to SFO and get the upgrade to Polaris, and it’s not impressive. Granted it’s only 4 hours, but the cabin didn’t have a wow factor. I’d be curious of people taking long hauls on Polaris and thumbs up or thumbs down.
Agreed that HGK is the best airport I’ve ever been to. I don’t know if most people include Hong Kong as a bucket list city, but especially if you love London (my favorite city), the British footprint will forever be a part of Hong Kong, and it’s just an amazing city.
The sole trip I took to HGK was first class on Singapore Air out of SFO, best airline experience I’ve ever had.
The issue is United calls all business/first "Polaris" when its a fraction of their fleet. So you're likely just riding the old business class cabin, and I'll agree. While its great compared to economy, its really not that impressive of an offering.
As for HK, 10000% agree. First time I went to HK it blew my mind. Its a marvel of a city in a number of ways, but British touches and sensibilities in a tropical setting really make it extra crazy (London is also my fav city). Talking to people like my father who have been traveling there for 25+ years, makes me sad I couldn't have experienced it pre-handover to China. I love it now, but you ask people Westerners or ex-pats who were there prior, and they bemoan all the changes, I imagine it was even more like Europe.
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How are you dudes not including MKE in your rankings?
And a shout-out to Rockford International. Flew out of there once, best experience ever. You park about 100 feet from the door, there's like 4 gates and one luggage carousel.
my question as well, except the more i thought about-mke vs. all the other internationals? that's why mke for the most part will always be fairly stress free to fly in/out of.
i've got to find a different long term parking facility though. the super-saver ain't that anymore. plus they are always the last van to stroll through for pick-ups. anyone do the wally-park or marriot? i mean "super-saver is up to $8.00/day with sshmitty service. i'd gladly pay a little more for better more reliable service
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my question as well, except the more i thought about-mke vs. all the other internationals? that's why mke for the most part will always be fairly stress free to fly in/out of.
i've got to find a different long term parking facility though. the super-saver ain't that anymore. plus they are always the last van to stroll through for pick-ups. anyone do the wally-park or marriot? i mean "super-saver is up to $8.00/day with sshmitty service. i'd gladly pay a little more for better more reliable service
MKE is a fantastic experience in terms of speed. Since I moved back to the MKE area about 3 months ago, Ive flown out 5-6 times and have yet to see more than 1 person in front of me in TSA pre-check. So thats nice. But flight options are pretty limited or pricey, even to somewhere like NY, so that kind of sucks.
I use FastPark, bit closer than WallPark. $7 a day, they now valet on drop off, and have multiple shuttles running so Ive never really waited. Its nice.
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MKE is a fantastic experience in terms of speed. Since I moved back to the MKE area about 3 months ago, Ive flown out 5-6 times and have yet to see more than 1 person in front of me in TSA pre-check. So thats nice. But flight options are pretty limited or pricey, even to somewhere like NY, so that kind of sucks.
I use FastPark, bit closer than WallPark. $7 a day, they now valet on drop off, and have multiple shuttles running so Ive never really waited. Its nice.
thanks wags! i've seen fastpark quite a bit. i like the valet thing and it actually looks closer than super-saver, especially if they move ya all the way down to lot B. i think we give fastpark a try next
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I actually was at a dinner party last night and for some reason the subject of airports came up.
The guy I was talking to most was really talkin' up MSP.
I haven't lived in Minny since 1994, and I haven't flown into the airport there since 2008, so I'm not one to judge. That last time, I remember thinking it was nice that they had the train now, but otherwise it didn't make me go, "Wow, what an airport!"
Sounds like some stuff has been done there in the years since to make it a good one.
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You're good doe, gotta wait 5 years ta judge anyways, hey?
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I feel for you guys that live on the road. I don't think I could have done it.
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I feel for you guys that live on the road. I don't think I could have done it.
I did a lot of it for several years, but haven't had a single biz trip since about 2012.
It was really exciting for the first couple of years (NWA then Delta Platinum Elite, Marriott Rewards status, constant upgrades, etc), but then it got old. After about five years, the only thing I enjoyed anymore was the fact that we got perks even on family vacations. The entire family got upgrades on a several international flights, and we once used Marriott Rewards points for a free week in two adjoining club-level rooms at the JW Marriott in Seoul.
My fav moment was when my daughter (then about 8 or so) went with me when we were called to the ticket counter just before boarding for a flight to Paris. We had all been bumped up to Biz, so my daughter went running back to my wife screaming "mom, we're all going to be in first class!!!"
It was fun for a while, but I don't miss it a bit.
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JWags
HK was a fantastic city and still is a very good one, IMO. I have been traveling there since 1985 and my family had an office there from 1992 to 2001. The handover definitely changed the city, but not so much the flair of the city. Two things have influenced the changes in HK, the influx of local Chinese and the wealth factor. To me, HK changed when they started hiring Chinese, over HK natives, in the service area. HK is service driven city and the hotels, even The Penisula, lost some of the upper end service it was known for.
The local Chinese brought their customs, styles to HK and it really is the exact opposite of what HK folks represent. We have had HK staff working our family from 1992, and still do, and they hate how the local Chinese act and their behavior. Major, major difference between HK folks and those from 50 miles to the north.
As for the wealth factor, the old money HK have a unique style and stems from the Brits influence. New rich Chinese roll into HK on the weekend with paper bags full of cash to hit the LV and jewelry stores and pisses off the locals. HK people are extremely proud of their city and not anything like the new rich Chinese.
All that said, IMO, unless you visited HK often prior to the handover, you would not notice the changes. To me, the veneer of HK remains the same, only the intangibles have changed.
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JWags
HK was a fantastic city and still is a very good one, IMO. I have been traveling there since 1985 and my family had an office there from 1992 to 2001. The handover definitely changed the city, but not so much the flair of the city. Two things have influenced the changes in HK, the influx of local Chinese and the wealth factor. To me, HK changed when they started hiring Chinese, over HK natives, in the service area. HK is service driven city and the hotels, even The Penisula, lost some of the upper end service it was known for.
The local Chinese brought their customs, styles to HK and it really is the exact opposite of what HK folks represent. We have had HK staff working our family from 1992, and still do, and they hate how the local Chinese act and their behavior. Major, major difference between HK folks and those from 50 miles to the north.
As for the wealth factor, the old money HK have a unique style and stems from the Brits influence. New rich Chinese roll into HK on the weekend with paper bags full of cash to hit the LV and jewelry stores and pisses off the locals. HK people are extremely proud of their city and not anything like the new rich Chinese.
All that said, IMO, unless you visited HK often prior to the handover, you would not notice the changes. To me, the veneer of HK remains the same, only the intangibles have changed.
Appreciate the perspective. And it matches a lot of what Ive heard in some ways. The majority of my customers and people I interact with in HK are traditional Hong Kong-ese and def have the unique British influenced style. The Chinese in service industries Ive noticed, especially as I get more and more interactions where either English isn't spoken, or they purposefully don't want to speak English.
One example that multiple people have bemoaned is the change of the waterfront in Kowloon. From all the bars and restaurants along the water that are now gone and replaced by Chinese governmental buildings and a "park" which completely obscure most of that prime area.
All in all, I still love the city, its absolutely bucket list.
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I do about 110,000 miles a year on United and 35,000 assorted other airlines. All domestic. Million miler and at least Gold for the rest of my life. Best part about a million miler on United is that my wife has my 1K status too. Like some others in here, I tend to fly first and business class.
United is like an old suit. Still fits and feels good. But you know it's a bit ragged and those lapels -- geez! Their first class has deteriorated over the years and they tend to forget who pays the bills. Sad thing is once upon a time, United/American/Delta stood for something. Now they're trying to out Southwest Southwest.
I can hardly wait until they try to out-do Spirit or Allegiant!
Some of my favorites and avoidances:
Favorite Airports:
1) Chicago -- What can I say, it's home. I tend not to have problems with O'Hare, unless we land on 10-28 Right and the taxi is longer than the drive home. The United Clubs are OK and the Admirals Club is good. Rarely have trouble finding a place to work. Well organized. One of the few things in Chicago that works.
2) SEA-TAC -- On a clear day, the views from the main terminal to the Olympic Peninsula are to die for. People are friendly. The place works. Rarely are there delays. Walks can be a bit long and I swear the rental cars are in Portland or Vancouver but otherwise a great place to fly into and out of.
3) Houston Interco -- Sorry gang, I like the place. I go through Interco regularly when I fly out of MCO and its just not that bad an airport. A bit of a walk at times, but not unreasonable. Good barbecue too.
4) MKE -- Chick is right on this one. Just wish they had more flights to more places I need to go.
Places I hate:
1) BOS -- Run by Massport. Need I say more?
2) MCO -- 10 gazillion people who have never flown before cramming through security wanting to know why they can take contraband aboard. If you don't have TSA pre (I do), count on at least an hour in security. This is my winter home airport. The airline people are nice, but this place can be a mess. Inadequate parking means you'll often end up in a satellite lot somewhere near Daytona Beach.
3) Twin Cities International -- Security personnel here suck. Like Lambert in St. Louis, look for some goofy TSA agent to come up with a way to harass you so he can justify keeping his job.
4) Denver -- DIA is what happens when you mix bailing out struggling real estate developers with public works experts that have no idea what they're doing. This airport is somewhere just east of the Kansas/Colorado line. It's easier to get to downtown Chicago from O'Hare (or Milwaukee for that matter) than it is to get into Denver from DIA. The Satanic followers who built this place forgot that people come to Denver to go skiiing, not to enjoy the unique characteristics of the Colorado flatlands. The folks that did this went from airports to designing Soldier Field. I swear both are about as goofy. On United, the gate staff are incompetent and unfeeling.
5) LGA -- A hell hole. Will be under construction until after I'm dead and still not have anywhere near enough airside aprons and runways to serve demand. Should have been shut down after 9/11.
I'll lay out some hotels and some stories in future posts.
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One of the things I note is the prevalence of very infrequent flyers when evaluating an airport. I swear, 80% of the passengers on my frequent flight to LAS haven't been on a plane in at least 2 years. I chalk it up to being simply part of the process. MCO suffers from the same issue.
dgies, is it United for you based on your non-stop capability? I fully understand why regular business travelers go with a legacy for things like clubs and first class seats.
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jsglow
That is a big pet peeve of mine. It seems every time I get on a flight to China the person next to me is in frequent flyer and wants to ask a million questions. Unlike here on Scoop, I have ZERO interest in talking to anyone on a 16 hour flight. Only thing that frustrates more, is when people at home want to ask me a million questions regarding Asia.
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One of the things I note is the prevalence of very infrequent flyers when evaluating an airport. I swear, 80% of the passengers on my frequent flight to LAS haven't been on a plane in at least 2 years. I chalk it up to being simply part of the process. MCO suffers from the same issue.
dgies, is it United for you based on your non-stop capability? I fully understand why regular business travelers go with a legacy for things like clubs and first class seats.
Glow:
You have never seen anything until you see the security lines at MCO! Not a regular at Vegas, but I never seen anything as bad as MCO. And there's nothing they can do to fix that.
I've flown United since my honeymoon back in 1980. I've been Mileage Plus since 1984 and elite level since 1987. The loyalty, I can say, has been a two-way street. I've been to Hawaii and Europe more times than I can count because of Mileage Plus!
My loyalty to United stems from a 1997 incident in which the entire airline was mobilized to get me home. My daughter was adopted from Belarus and we had to go during high season to Europe (June to September). Trying to find a seat was virtually impossible. Since I was a 1K and we were bringing home a young girl who had never been out of an orphanage, we were shooting for international first class.
They "found" us three international first class seats from Amsterdam to London and Chicago. I say "found" because they pulled three revenue seats for us to get us home. The people at United could not have been more accommodating, more appreciative of me as a frequent flyer or, frankly, more caring. A month later, I was in Denver coming home when the lead flight attendant pulled me aside and asked, "how's Tracy?" I asked her, "how on earth do you know who Tracy is?" She looked back at me and said, "your wife was in 1C, Tracy was in 1D and you were in 1E, London to Chicago, United 959, a month ago. Some people, we never forget..."
We've had other incredible moments on United over the years. Yeah, sometimes they really suck especially when Commander Jeff was at the controls, but they try hard. They really do
Their non-stops help, but their service from MCO is good too.
Goose:
I make a really concerted effort when I fly to read the person next to me. I'll always say hello and from time to time chat. But the secret is to know when to go about your business. I've sat next to some fascinating people. Gary Fencick of the Super Bowl Chicago Bears and former Governor James Thompson immediately come to mind.
But if they signal they don't want to talk, I'll go about my business. And, if I get a chatterer, I'll take out my Bose noise cancelling headphones and listen to something for an hour.
If I ever sit next to you, I'll say hello and then put my headphones on.
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Worst domestic airports: LGA is truly atrocious. On Thursday it took me an hour to leave the airport - and that doesn't even factor in the 30 minutes I spent eating at the Centurion Lounge. Horrible place. EWR is pretty crappy too if you're not flying out of Terminal C. MCI sucks with their poor design requiring separate security at each gate. MIA is a dump and the A.C. is always cranked too cold.
Favorite domestic airports: DCA (b/c everything is close), SFO, and somehow, Indianapolis! LAS, SEA, and Jackson Hole are up there too.
Favorite int'l business classes: JAL, if you get the SkySuites. Better than int'l first class on 99% of other airlines. Love the service on Thai, even if the product can be outdated. And I've loved every trip on Turkish, especially if you get a few hours in the Turkish Lounge in Istanbul (which is an oasis in a nightmare airport). KLM and Lufthansa for the pretty FAs. U.S.-based airlines, I'll take AA refurbed 777 or Delta One. And I'll admit I'm a total sucker for BA's 747 upper deck, even if the hard product is poop. I feel like I'm on a private jet in another era. I'll even take that over BA first class, which is basically business class on every other airline.
Worst int'l business classes: United 777-200, TAP Portugal (service, dear god), BA non-747 upper deck. And of course any intra-Europe flight on a non-widebody.
Seems like there are some United flyers on here. I switched over from AA to United after moving to Denver. Are people generally pleased with it? I noticed my upgrade % has dropped from AA, likely because Denver is a hub. But otherwise my experience has been that it's totally fine...yet everyone I know complains about it. Is that a non-elite flyer thing? Or have I just not gotten the Real United experience yet?
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MSP has the worst security lines in my experience. I don't fly often but the lines at MSP always seem to take at least 25 minutes
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dgies
The million mile companion is a very nice perk. I am million on both United and Delta, and will two million on United in next couple of years. Unfortunately I almost always fly in economy plus. They do a nice job of blocking out my row on less crowded flights. My biggest regret from flying in back is not hitting Global Services. I guess the fact I am paying $802 for my flight in couple of weeks is great for me, but not Global Service status.
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I feel for you guys that live on the road. I don't think I could have done it.
Been doing it for 27 years and still a happy traveler. I've seen more of China than most Chinese, more of Russia than nearly all Russians, more of India than you can imagine, and so much of Indonesia that I could write a book. Wouldn't trade these experiences for anything.
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Warrior fan
32 years and would not trade for anything!! I am with you 100%.
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DFW sucks
I don't really care that much, infrequent flyer (3-5/year), see airports as means to an end. Don't want to hang out there, but never been stuck, and never travelled a ton for work.
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Agree on MCO, doesn’t matter time of day or time of year, absolute zoo at security every time. I think MCO is way tougher than LAS, because for the most part, LAS is in frequent travelers who are more capable of figuring things out. MCO is almost impossible between families with young kids, older people, and a lot of foreigners not familiar with the process. McCarran also has much more open space, MCO is like shoving a thousand people into a clown car.
I personally fly only United, mainly because that’s what my dad has flown (he’s global services), and we traveled a ton growing up because he traveled so much, I got used to it. It’s fine, never had any issues. I generally like to keep a small stack of $5 Starbucks cards on me to compliment good gate agents or attendants to show appreciation to those folks (who mostly put up with crap).
I too gauge the person next to me. Try to be friendly but my Bose headphones are on about a minute after I settle in.
I never recline.
Best airports in US: SFO, CLT, AUS
Worst: LGA, MIA, EWR
Most Famous People I’ve Met (either in an airport or on a flight): Paris Hilton, Jeff Van Gundy, Dolph Ziggler
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Seems like there are some United flyers on here. I switched over from AA to United after moving to Denver. Are people generally pleased with it? I noticed my upgrade % has dropped from AA, likely because Denver is a hub. But otherwise my experience has been that it's totally fine...yet everyone I know complains about it. Is that a non-elite flyer thing? Or have I just not gotten the Real United experience yet?
As I mentioned, I'm 1K and I don't have many complaints. My gf flies primarily Delta for work, and while she doesn't have great status, her boss is top tier so I can get a relatively fair comparison and United seems to have a significant advantage, especially when it comes to Delta's horrible award redemption.
I can't compare to other carriers, but flying out of Chicago, my upgrade percentage is damn close to 95%. Even regularly flying from Chicago to NY. I think Ive used regional upgrades maybe twice in 3 years.
Are the complaints coming from occasional fliers? Cause I cant think of any United MileagePlus Gold and higher that I know that have complaints. If they are just casual travelers, than I get it. I find it funny when people act like AA/Delta/United are so much better or worse than the others. They are what they are. I do wish United had more highly rated partners in Star Alliance besides Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines, but otherwise no real complaints. I love the people who complain how much United sucks or how great Southwest is (or insert airline of choice) and seek to convince me, when I fly more miles in a year than they will in 7-10.
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Glow:
You have never seen anything until you see the security lines at MCO! Not a regular at Vegas, but I never seen anything as bad as MCO. And there's nothing they can do to fix that.
I've flown United since my honeymoon back in 1980. I've been Mileage Plus since 1984 and elite level since 1987. The loyalty, I can say, has been a two-way street. I've been to Hawaii and Europe more times than I can count because of Mileage Plus!
My loyalty to United stems from a 1997 incident in which the entire airline was mobilized to get me home. My daughter was adopted from Belarus and we had to go during high season to Europe (June to September). Trying to find a seat was virtually impossible. Since I was a 1K and we were bringing home a young girl who had never been out of an orphanage, we were shooting for international first class.
They "found" us three international first class seats from Amsterdam to London and Chicago. I say "found" because they pulled three revenue seats for us to get us home. The people at United could not have been more accommodating, more appreciative of me as a frequent flyer or, frankly, more caring. A month later, I was in Denver coming home when the lead flight attendant pulled me aside and asked, "how's Tracy?" I asked her, "how on earth do you know who Tracy is?" She looked back at me and said, "your wife was in 1C, Tracy was in 1D and you were in 1E, London to Chicago, United 959, a month ago. Some people, we never forget..."
We've had other incredible moments on United over the years. Yeah, sometimes they really suck especially when Commander Jeff was at the controls, but they try hard. They really do
Their non-stops help, but their service from MCO is good too.
Goose:
I make a really concerted effort when I fly to read the person next to me. I'll always say hello and from time to time chat. But the secret is to know when to go about your business. I've sat next to some fascinating people. Gary Fencick of the Super Bowl Chicago Bears and former Governor James Thompson immediately come to mind.
But if they signal they don't want to talk, I'll go about my business. And, if I get a chatterer, I'll take out my Bose noise cancelling headphones and listen to something for an hour.
If I ever sit next to you, I'll say hello and then put my headphones on.
Great story. We've experienced MCO when it's bad. I know. We felt blessed this January when our SJU flight out of there was at 6a; even on like 3 hours sleep following our flight in the night before.
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Part 2: Worst Airline Experiences Ever
A) Air Ukraine -- Kiev Ukraine to Warsaw, Poland, 1998 -- Was on a Soviet-built 727 knock-off (I believe a TU 154 but not sure). Plane was about 35 years old and didn't look a day under 60. Got on the plane with my wife and newly adopted son. When we landed in Warsaw, the pilot acted like he was landing on aircraft carrier. Plane went in nose first, flared at the last minute and ate the entire runway. We were in the "white" on the back side of the runway when the plane stopped and had to turn around and taxi about a quarter mile just to get to a taxiway. I think the plane also had a dump toilet.
B) North Central 575 -- December 22, 1972 -- Showed up for a delayed North Central from Chicago to Duluth, North Central 573. Two hours later, the plane on which we were scheduled, North Central 575, clipped the back end of a Delta jet and pancaked onto an O'Hare runway.
C) Vanguard Airlines -- Early 1990s -- I'm not sure what possessed my wife and I to fly Vanguard one Sunday morning from Chicago to Minneapolis. But we did. Plane got in the air. Flight attendant had boyfriend/significant other in the first row. Flight attendant did boarding announcement and then did boyfriend to Minneapolis.
D) United Express -- Early 1990s -- Denver to Grand Junction -- Prop plane took off in a thunderstorm. Was the early days of regional airlines and the mainline carriers slapped their names on almost anything. This small regional prop left Denver, headed east, in an effort to gain altitude to make it over the mountains. Got really nervous as he turned west and flew into a nasty one as we got to the edge of the mountains. I'm here so it worked out.
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Worst domestic airports: LGA is truly atrocious. On Thursday it took me an hour to leave the airport - and that doesn't even factor in the 30 minutes I spent eating at the Centurion Lounge. Horrible place. EWR is pretty crappy too if you're not flying out of Terminal C. MCI sucks with their poor design requiring separate security at each gate. MIA is a dump and the A.C. is always cranked too cold.
Favorite domestic airports: DCA (b/c everything is close), SFO, and somehow, Indianapolis! LAS, SEA, and Jackson Hole are up there too.
Favorite int'l business classes: JAL, if you get the SkySuites. Better than int'l first class on 99% of other airlines. Love the service on Thai, even if the product can be outdated. And I've loved every trip on Turkish, especially if you get a few hours in the Turkish Lounge in Istanbul (which is an oasis in a nightmare airport). KLM and Lufthansa for the pretty FAs. U.S.-based airlines, I'll take AA refurbed 777 or Delta One. And I'll admit I'm a total sucker for BA's 747 upper deck, even if the hard product is poop. I feel like I'm on a private jet in another era. I'll even take that over BA first class, which is basically business class on every other airline.
Worst int'l business classes: United 777-200, TAP Portugal (service, dear god), BA non-747 upper deck. And of course any intra-Europe flight on a non-widebody.
Seems like there are some United flyers on here. I switched over from AA to United after moving to Denver. Are people generally pleased with it? I noticed my upgrade % has dropped from AA, likely because Denver is a hub. But otherwise my experience has been that it's totally fine...yet everyone I know complains about it. Is that a non-elite flyer thing? Or have I just not gotten the Real United experience yet?
Agreed. Absolutely blows. They should take a wrecking ball to it.
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Agreed. Absolutely blows. They should take a wrecking ball to it.
A wrecking ball is in the works. Voters in Kansas City approved a new airport terminal last November.
http://crankyflier.com/2017/11/09/with-the-new-terminal-approved-southwest-sees-opportunity-in-kansas-city/
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A wrecking ball is in the works. Voters in Kansas City approved a new airport terminal last November.
http://crankyflier.com/2017/11/09/with-the-new-terminal-approved-southwest-sees-opportunity-in-kansas-city/
Flew through MCI for the first time on the way to Denver for Thanksgiving. Had gotten off a 14 hour flight from BOM to EWR, met my gf, and flew from EWR to MCI then had a 3-4 hour layover. Was absolutely stunned by the asinine layout. They also had no TSA precheck in our terminal and looked at me like I was speaking Greek when I asked about it. Ended up riding the shuttle to other terminals in a feeble attempt to kill off the boredom. Felt like I was flying through Montana or Wyoming, not a top 25 metro area.
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I never recline.
God bless you sir.
I'm 6'4 and most of that length is in my legs. Don't make enough scratch to fly anything other than economy. On most airlines, the person reclining in front of me simply isn't an option. Short of attempting to sit cross legged in my seat, it is physically impossible for the seat in front of me to fully recline. Whenever someone tries, I try to politely explain my height and most understand and don't try to recline. I once had a flight from DFW to San Fran and the person said they understood....then he tried to recline every 10 minutes or so as if I had somehow gotten shorter since takeoff. Halfway through he pressed the flight attendant call and angrily explained to her that I was keeping him from reclining. Poor young woman actually knelt down and checked my legs to verify that I was indeed as tall as I said I was. She politely and professionally told him to suck it up.
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God bless you sir.
I'm 6'4 and most of that length is in my legs. Don't make enough scratch to fly anything other than economy. On most airlines, the person reclining in front of me simply isn't an option. Short of attempting to sit cross legged in my seat, it is physically impossible for the seat in front of me to fully recline. Whenever someone tries, I try to politely explain my height and most understand and don't try to recline. I once had a flight from DFW to San Fran and the person said they understood....then he tried to recline every 10 minutes or so as if I had somehow gotten shorter since takeoff. Halfway through he pressed the flight attendant call and angrily explained to her that I was keeping him from reclining. Poor young woman actually knelt down and checked my legs to verify that I was indeed as tall as I said I was. She politely and professionally told him to suck it up.
What a jerk. I do recline literally at the moment of the aircraft 10,000 foot chime but would happily accommodate your request. I also feel really, really bad for the 6' 4" valet that has to get my Miata out of the parking garage.
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Agreed. Absolutely blows. They should take a wrecking ball to it.
MCI was awesome before 9/11. Get off the plane, go down the jet way, and get your bag right there at the gate.
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The issue is United calls all business/first "Polaris" when its a fraction of their fleet. So you're likely just riding the old business class cabin, and I'll agree. While its great compared to economy, its really not that impressive of an offering.
As for HK, 10000% agree. First time I went to HK it blew my mind. Its a marvel of a city in a number of ways, but British touches and sensibilities in a tropical setting really make it extra crazy (London is also my fav city). Talking to people like my father who have been traveling there for 25+ years, makes me sad I couldn't have experienced it pre-handover to China. I love it now, but you ask people Westerners or ex-pats who were there prior, and they bemoan all the changes, I imagine it was even more like Europe.
Hong Kong - Any time I had to go to China for work I always made sure I flew home from Hong Kong, so I would be forced to spend a night in there so I could "decompress" from 2 weeks in China. British Pub beer & food & soccer viewing followed by Temple Street Night Market action for a little "scavenger hunt". The day I'd fly home I'd take a nice run along the Avenue of Stars for the awesome harbor views before heading on a lonnnnggg flight to NYC.
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MUFaninCT
I have spent hundreds of nights in HK and still look at as a treat. Over the past decade I only venture to HK if needed, simply because the cost is crazy and I want to get home more than hang in HK. That said, I highly, highly recommend everyone follow your plan.
I am getting a break and will be staying in HK for two nights next month. In addition, I have two days in Taiwan and have not been there over 15 years. I used to spend more time Taiwan than HK, back in the day, and actually miss it. For first time in while, I am looking for forward to heading to asia.
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Been interesting to read this thread.
I thought I traveled a lot during my working days, but nothing compared to a lot of you.
A lot of friends thought I had a glamorous life because of travel ... I didn't bother telling them that going to Detroit on Saturday night, working Sunday and coming home Monday morning wasn't exactly "glamorous." They wouldn't have wanted to hear it.
Occasionally I did get to go on a cool trip in which I had time to incorporate a little fun. Every once in a blue moon I could bring my wife and kids. Those were always special.
My 2 kinda-interesting flight stories:
1. Coming home from Tokyo in 1998 on United, I wanted to upgrade to business class but my upgrade certificate was only good for a domestic flight. A female in the company who already was booked in business class agreed to pretend to be my "fiancee" and we went to the desk together to plead our case - "please let us sit together on this long flight" - and it actually worked! Not sure if such negotiations are possible any more.
2. I had the "honor" of joining the 1994 US hockey team on its charter flight from Oslo to Gothenburg Sweden for a pre-Olympic exhibition. It was a little prop plane. I was sitting next to Peter Laviolette, who was one of the team captains and now coaches the Nashville Predators. The flight takes off and gets near its cruising altitude but then starts to dive down fairly steeply. Much panic ensued among the players and coaches. Thankfully, they got whatever it was under control and the rest of the flight was uneventful. When it appeared all was OK, Laviolette turned to me and said something like, "Wow, that was scary. I thought we might have a Buddy Holly thing going." And I said, "Hey, at least all you guys would have been memorialized forever as heroes who died tragically in a plane crash. Maybe the big story about the crash would have included one line at the end saying: 'A sportswriter also died.' Maybe. But probably not."
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I actually really like LAS. But I suppose anything that one gets familiar with is easy.
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Hong Kong - Any time I had to go to China for work I always made sure I flew home from Hong Kong, so I would be forced to spend a night in there so I could "decompress" from 2 weeks in China. British Pub beer & food & soccer viewing followed by Temple Street Night Market action for a little "scavenger hunt". The day I'd fly home I'd take a nice run along the Avenue of Stars for the awesome harbor views before heading on a lonnnnggg flight to NYC.
If I go to China, I'm usually in Shenzhen. The first time I was in Shenzhen for more than a day, I spent the last day without our Shenzhen-based rep, and I was staying in Luohu, in Old Shenzhen, so finding anyone speaking English was rare. Heading back to HK the next day for the last 2 days of my trip felt like a comfortable, warm, familiar embrace. Suddenly this place which was crazy and exotic my first few times there was like returning NYC. Kind of amusing.
A lot of friends thought I had a glamorous life because of travel ... I didn't bother telling them that going to Detroit on Saturday night, working Sunday and coming home Monday morning wasn't exactly "glamorous." They wouldn't have wanted to hear it.
People hear that I fly around 120-130K miles a year and see social media updates from abroad and think that I jetset like mad. But in reality, I take about 8 trips abroad a year between Asia and Europe, which works out to about once every 6 weeks. Contrast that with some of my friends, who arent even consultants, who travel almost every other week. Granted one is based in Columbus and goes to Indy, Detroit, Toledo, and Cincinnati and the other's main customers are in Saskatoon, Boise and Sacramento from his LA base, so I guess I get it haha.
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Jwags
First time I was SZ, the population was under 300k. Getting back to HK was the best feeling in the world. My office is in Guangzhou, but not a big fan of southern China.
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Sorry lateto the party, but any discussion of this nature should be predicated on not only the acknowledgement of the five types of travelers, each having their own needs, desires, etc. but also the disclosure of which category your opinion derives... the categories have different names and subcategories depending on the airline, but generally fall into the following:
Commuters: Single destination, constant travel (virtually every week)
Executive: Various destinations, constant travel (on the road >50% of the time)
Business: Various destinations, regular travel (on the road 10-50%)
Leisure: Single destination, single instance
There's also another group that is a hybrid between Leisure and Business... whether it's people who travel for business once or twice a year or people who travel for leisure multiple times a year. Let's just call those the Hybrids.
Personally, I'm a Business traveler. I'm on the road at least once a month (on average) to one of about a half dozen regular destinations and occasionally a new place or two every year. I fly in/out same day when possible, and maintain tight schedules even when over-nighting, so for example, I don't care about what restaurants an airport has... I care about how accessible rental cars are, how many TSA checkpoints they have, how far I have to walk to the gate, etc. because I'm scheduling meetings from how many minutes from touchdown it takes to get to the site until how many minutes prior to the boarding doors closing I need to leave in order to make my flight.
In that regard, DEN is by far the worst of my regular destinations. IAH, SAN and LAX are 2nd, 3rd and 4th, but not necessarily in that order. MCO would also be in that group, but I don't travel there for business, so I couldn't care less about having to take the tram. MSP is at least very predictable, and the AAL gates aren't far from TSA, so that is actually pretty good for me, but not necessarily for someone connecting on DAL or transferring between Lindbergh and HHH.
On that note... very infrequently do I connect unless it's personal travel, so typically, I don't care about how big and/or spaced out the terminals are at DFW, PHX, ATL, etc., and those sites are rarely my final destination, so none of them are going to make the above list.
Favorite Airports (from a business/convenience standpoint):
RNO
BUR
EVV
EGE
MKE
HSV
DSM
BOI
ROC
(Anyone sensing a pattern here?)
Large Airports I Actually Like:
CLT
SLC
YYZ
Favorite Airports (from a leisure/lounging perspective):
Just about anything other than MIA and LHR (bad prior experiences at both) because hey... I'm on vacation. WTF do I care?
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I had to look half those up Benny! Guess I'm a hybrid now.
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For those that complain about MSP security... There is a secret sky way check in that barely anyone uses. It's in back of the parking garage, also near the rentals. Floor 2, I think it's called the skyway check in.
It's only good for carry on luggage and it has limited business hours. But many times I've been caught scrambling to get my phone and ID ready as I literally walk up to the counter with no line. Once in, you may have to walk to the other side of the airport for your flight, but it gets you in fast. If your getting dropped off at the dropoff right by the main entrance it might not make sense to head out to the parking garages... but it's there.
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For those that complain about MSP security... There is a secret sky way check in that barely anyone uses. It's in back of the parking garage, also near the rentals. Floor 2, I think it's called the skyway check in.
It's only good for carry on luggage and it has limited business hours. But many times I've been caught scrambling to get my phone and ID ready as I literally walk up to the counter with no line. Once in, you may have to walk to the other side of the airport for your flight, but it gets you in fast. If your getting dropped off at the dropoff right by the main entrance it might not make sense to head out to the parking garages... but it's there.
Agree on the back door. At some point it is easier, though, to drive to the Twin Cities depending on schedules
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Most Famous People I’ve Met (either in an airport or on a flight): Paris Hilton, Jeff Van Gundy, Dolph Ziggler
* I had a contract engineering job that put me on the JFK to LAX flight once a month. Had Tommy Hilfiger on one flight who gave me a cool finger point, had LaVar Burton on another flight and saw Slash at LAX.
* In the early 90's flying out to Milwaukee for Summer Fest I had Paul Schaffer and the World's Most Dangerous Band on my flight. I sat next to Anton the drummer as only Paul was in First Class. They were all at the luggage carousel later.
* In the 80's and 90's I used to see NHL teams in airports all the time, but they must be doing charter flights in 2000's.
* Like 15 years ago on a flight to Cleveland, I sat next to a polite chatty older gentlemen who ended up engaging me in an interesting philosophical conversation the whole flight. He was on his way to Oberlin College to give a talk. I got on the flight determined to take a nap because it was like a 6:30am flight out of LGA and was charmed otherwise. It turned out to be Noam Chomsky.
* I'm leaving out my celebrity interactions elsewhere including my very funny grocery shopping experience with Matthew Perry on a Sunday night at Stew Leonard's.
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For those that complain about MSP security... There is a secret sky way check in that barely anyone uses. It's in back of the parking garage, also near the rentals. Floor 2, I think it's called the skyway check in.
It's only good for carry on luggage and it has limited business hours. But many times I've been caught scrambling to get my phone and ID ready as I literally walk up to the counter with no line. Once in, you may have to walk to the other side of the airport for your flight, but it gets you in fast. If your getting dropped off at the dropoff right by the main entrance it might not make sense to head out to the parking garages... but it's there.
I use that whenever I fly out of MSP because the shuttles from RST drop you off there. You're right - it's incredibly fast. I don't think there have ever been more than 3 or 4 people in front of me in line.
And FWIW, if you go down 1 floor, they also have a desk where you can check luggage.
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* I had a contract engineering job that put me on the JFK to LAX flight once a month. Had Tommy Hilfiger on one flight who gave me a cool finger point, had LaVar Burton on another flight and saw Slash at LAX.
* In the early 90's flying out to Milwaukee for Summer Fest I had Paul Schaffer and the World's Most Dangerous Band on my flight. I sat next to Anton the drummer as only Paul was in First Class. They were all at the luggage carousel later.
* In the 80's and 90's I used to see NHL teams in airports all the time, but they must be doing charter flights in 2000's.
* Like 15 years ago on a flight to Cleveland, I sat next to a polite chatty older gentlemen who ended up engaging me in an interesting philosophical conversation the whole flight. He was on his way to Oberlin College to give a talk. I got on the flight determined to take a nap because it was like a 6:30am flight out of LGA and was charmed otherwise. It turned out to be Noam Chomsky.
* I'm leaving out my celebrity interactions elsewhere including my very funny grocery shopping experience with Matthew Perry on a Sunday night at Stew Leonard's.
Don't think I've ever had a celebrity interaction on a plane. Vegas, different story.
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Polaris seems to really be hit or miss.
Here's why: There is not much of it. Polaris is one of the worst brand roll-outs imaginable.
When United announced Polaris, it had exactly 2 Polaris equipped airplanes. They now have about 25, compared to more than 200 over water international planes. Of this group, 23 are 777-300s delivered since 2016 and used in Asian services as a replacement for the 747-400s. The rest (about 2) are former three-class 767-400s used between the eastern US and Europe.
By contrast, United has close to 100 777-200s that were legacy Continental and United, plus about 50 787 Dreamliners and an assorted number of 767-300s and 757s that fly internationally. None of these planes have Polaris and it's doubtful any except the Dreamliners will ever get it. The 757s and 767s are approaching the end of their service lives and the legacy 777-200s are scheduled to rotate out of the fleet beginning in 2023. And it will be a cold day in Satanville before the bean counters at United refurbish a relatively new Dreamliner for brand identity.
I doubt the 777-200s will ever get Polaris. They'll be replaced either by the A350-900 or new Dreamliners, which will get Polaris (eventually). So you'll end up with eight-across 777-200 business class seating, which decidedly is NOT Polaris, until these planes are replaced or go into "unprofitable domestic service."
United had another problem with Polaris. No Polaris lounges except for Chicago until fairly recently. And, in Chicago, the lounge was too small for demand so the Polaris receptionist was turning away high-value first and business class passengers. United has fixed that problem (which they also had in the International first class lounge while they were building Polaris) by taking space away from the unprofitable domestic passengers who use the United Club.
Again, I love United people and they make a difference to me. But the bean counters left over from the Commander Jeff era are just a bit much to take.
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dgies, wonder if our good friend has every been your pilot? An old F-14 driver that graduated from United's domestic to international long haul a few years ago. I think (but am not certain) that he drives a triple 7 in addition to other birds. Runs the Asia route regularly in addition to Europe and South America.
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Favorite HKG story:
I was stuck in Palembang Indonesia during 9/11. Actually was sick and in hospital before 9/11 but that's a different story (don't eat road-side tempe). Asian flights were not stopped, so on 9/13 I got to Jakarta and to HKG trying to get home to UK where I was living at the time. In HKG I realized the severity of the overall situation when, upon landing, I saw that one complete runway was closed and was being used for aircraft parking. There must have been 100 x 747s and everything else you can imagine, wing to wing, on the whole runway, taxi-way, and every available hard stand. At that point I realized I might best just go into the city and find a hotel and wait it out. Went to my (at the time) favorite Sheraton Towers in Kowloon. Jogged the avenue of the stars every morning and drinks on the top floor with island view every evening, and the rest of the time watching BBC and CNN and talking with other travelers trying to figure out how to get home. It was a very nervous time but the memories are etched forever.
Lots of drunken Hong Kong 7's stories as well... but not for today.
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Warrior fan
Great HK story. Not a bad place to be stuck for a week. I was in my to Chicago to catch a flight to HK on 9/11. I think your story sounds like a far better experience.
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Favorite Hong Kong story was from the old airport on a 747, pre-handover. A major typhoon was approaching and our United flight was literally the last plane left. The airlines wanted all equipment out.
They announced at the gate we are going. Get on at your own risk but we advise you don't. It was an all glass Terminal on the pre-landfill runway but we all went. They didn't even take tickets. As soon as we were seated, the pilot said "strap them on"and took off straight up like the space shuttle and flew over the monsoon the hell out of there.
Hard to top that. I think the cocktails were free flowing for the 20 of us on the entire plane. Pretty sure there was a sonic boom.
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Staying at the JW in San Antonio (highly recommend) and my wife ordered some lunch at the pool. Bill came and I told the young twenty something waitress that we’re guests of the Underhills. Needless to say she didn’t pick up the reference.
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Staying at the JW in San Antonio (highly recommend) and my wife ordered some lunch at the pool. Bill came and I told the young twenty something waitress that we’re guests of the Underhills. Needless to say she didn’t pick up the reference.
There’s this term called “operator error” that everyone should learn and understand. The simplest of which is don’t give an input to which the expected response is a 404 or BSD.
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I just bought a piece of luggage .. the $120 model will do just fine. Serious q, Briggs & Riley seems to be $300-600. What makes it 3x better?
Lifetime Guarantee and it holds more on the inside because the handle is on the outside . I got one after Delta ruined a great Tumi I had for many years . I recommend the Briggs.
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Lifetime Guarantee and it holds more on the inside because the handle is on the outside . I got one after Delta ruined a great Tumi I had for many years . I recommend the Briggs.
I have had Hartman for years. I go nowhere without it.
Today I have my Hartman road warrior. I began calling it that because it has been rebuilt at least twice and is so scuffed up, it looks like it has been with me for all the miles I've ever flown.
Best buy in the world for Hartman is Lebanon, Tennessee. It's about a half hour east of Metro Airport in Nashville and is Hartman's factory store. Great luggage. Reasonable prices.
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I have had Hartman for years. I go nowhere without it.
Today I have my Hartman road warrior. I began calling it that because it has been rebuilt at least twice and is so scuffed up, it looks like it has been with me for all the miles I've ever flown.
Best buy in the world for Hartman is Lebanon, Tennessee. It's about a half hour east of Metro Airport in Nashville and is Hartman's factory store. Great luggage. Reasonable prices.
Making a note for a future trip down.
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Making a note for a future trip down.
There is also an outlet store in Aurora.
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There is also an outlet store in Aurora.
I need to get out more! :)
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To me, no amount of travel justifies spending more than a couple hundred on luggage, especially if travelling internationally... luggage should be the perfect balance between durable and disposable.
Case in point: The reimbursement limit for lost baggage is $3,300 domestically. That includes your luggage, everything that was inside of it, and anything you may need to purchase to make up for the lost items. If you travel often, chances are you have a nice suit or a few nice outfits in your bag, maybe a couple nice pairs of shoes, etc... if your baggage is lost going to a business meeting or presentation, $3,300 may be enough of a cushion to get you a new suit and a pair of shoes on short notice and still get your luggage reimbursed; however, internationally, the limit is around $1,700.
Another benefit: I'm only on my second set of bags over 13+ years of business travel. I check bags, at most, on 20% of the flights I take, and it was only two years ago that I had a wheel broken off my large roller case (sheered or torn off may be more accurate). In any event, I had a reimbursement check from AAL within 30 days for the full replacement cost (depreciation be damned), and I put that towards a brand new set of bags. So as long as nothing is lost, damaged bags can be the gift that keeps on giving if you play your cards right.
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I have a 5 hour layover in Amsterdam next month. I have heard it from many people, and have seen it a couple times on this list, but what makes this airport so great?
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It has a casino in the airport. It is very clean and very well organized and laid-out. Lots of shops.
That's my experience.
I'll be passing through Schipol-Amsterdam next weekend myself en route to Dusseldorf.
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It has a casino in the airport. It is very clean and very well organized and laid-out. Lots of shops.
That's my experience.
I'll be passing through Schipol-Amsterdam next weekend myself.
I can't believe casinos haven't made their way into more airports (sans free alcohol). It would be like printing money.
Not too mention, throw some small seat movie theaters in airports too. Upon entry you get a little pager or something where you input your flight info and it pages you 15 min before boarding.
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I can't believe casinos haven't made their way into more airports (sans free alcohol). It would be like printing money.
Not too mention, throw some small seat movie theaters in airports too. Upon entry you get a little pager or something where you input your flight info and it pages you 15 min before boarding.
It amazes me too that airports haven’t figured out how to do a better job of maximizing revenue, especially hubs that are more likely to have delays. I sat at United Club at DFW two weeks ago for 6 hours waiting out weather. I honestly said to myself if there was a blackjack table, I’d have gone and killed at least half an hour. I remember the old PGA Tour stores at airports (I think McCarran still has one actually), and I used to go putt there to kill time.
Imagine a Top Golf at Hartsfield, Bush, or LAX? Place would be a goldmine.
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Staying at the JW in San Antonio (highly recommend) and my wife ordered some lunch at the pool. Bill came and I told the young twenty something waitress that we’re guests of the Underhills. Needless to say she didn’t pick up the reference.
Loved the JW when we stayed there a few years ago. Very good food at the onsite restaurants, huge outdoor pools, water park, and great staff.
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I have a 5 hour layover in Amsterdam next month. I have heard it from many people, and have seen it a couple times on this list, but what makes this airport so great?
I believe the casino is closed, there is a small museum that carries rotating exhibits of the Dutch masters and a lot of good duty free shopping.
https://www.amsterdam.info/airport-museum/
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I have a 5 hour layover in Amsterdam next month. I have heard it from many people, and have seen it a couple times on this list, but what makes this airport so great?
Everything works, relatively few delays for a European airport (the Germans and French go on strike every other week, the Brits have no clue), the transit walks aren't too long and it's reasonably well signed (except for non-schengen to schengen, which can catch you if you're not careful). Good restaurants, decent lounges if you are so entitled and quite clean.
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So.. I wouldn't let any of my friends or family fly allegiant after reading this. I knew nothing of the company prior to reading.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/allegiant-air-the-budget-airline-flying-under-the-radar/
FAA switching from enforcement to compliance also seems like a move that may be bad for citizens
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Marriott/SPG program update coming Monday. Don’t know if this is going to be good or bad.
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Hope the Marriott news is good news. Getting screwed for $400usd for a room that is normally $150 tonight. I have no problem with it because I booked on short notice and knew Canton Fair was going on, but only because I like Marriott. Would be disappointed if they have bad news and I jump ship to another group. Have five good years invested in Marriott and do not want to start over.
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So.. I wouldn't let any of my friends or family fly allegiant after reading this. I knew nothing of the company prior to reading.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/allegiant-air-the-budget-airline-flying-under-the-radar/
FAA switching from enforcement to compliance also seems like a move that may be bad for citizens
Had a double segment on 60 minutes last night. Made the old jokes about flying with crates of animals in back and a pilot with goggles, scarf and no teeth sound pretty good
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So.. I wouldn't let any of my friends or family fly allegiant after reading this. I knew nothing of the company prior to reading.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/allegiant-air-the-budget-airline-flying-under-the-radar/
FAA switching from enforcement to compliance also seems like a move that may be bad for citizens
The 60 Minutes report was unbelievable. Now I'm always on the lookout for shaded journalism but I was convinced the story was 'straight up'. I mean, 300% above the average on industry wide mechanical failures? I'd be going nuts as a CEO if we were 15% above the average. What was it, 25 freakin' engine failures when the expert indicated most pilots never experience even one in their career? Or how 'bout the cotter pin coming out of the primary flight control as one barreled down the runway at LAS? That pilot had to slam the breaks and stop just short of The Strip or he might have put her through my bedroom window shortly after takeoff. Um, no thanks.
And all through the segment I'm thinking 'What the hell was that defunct BS airline that dumped one in the Everglades?' And there it was right at the end of the segment. Effin' Valuejet. That's exactly where the CEO came from.
I'd never step foot on an Allegiant aircraft and hope that 60 Minutes just buried their business. Before innocent people die would be nice.
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Never flown Allegiant and never will. I hate rock-bottom airlines. This is what happens when costs are the prevailing reason why a company exists.
Conversely, I fly United for a reason. While I have seen some maintenance problems on United jets from time to time, none were "mission critical." In all my years of flying, I have three aborted landings, all due to air traffic control errors, one aborted take-off and one "near miss" by taking advantage of a scheduling glitch and missing a plane that crashed. Again, air traffic control errors.
What the 60 Minutes report did not address is the "outsourcing" of maintenance and the fact that if a plane breaks down away from the maintenance base, the "local" airline will fix it at the local airline's prevailing costs. Which means that if AAR's maintenance base is in Kansas City and a plane breaks down in Houston, they probably have to pay someone else in Houston who has experience with the MD-80. That gets expensive.
They never touched on who AAR is and whether it was AAR or Allegiant who had the problems. If it is the former, shouldn't Allegiant find a new maintenance provider?
Other airlines do this all the time and maintenance often is done in places like Lake City, FL, Duluth etc. But they also have big in-house maintenance operations and parts inventories around the United States.
Secondly, other airlines fly the MD-80 and its derivatives. Delta and American both have substantial fleets of MD-80s still (though American's is quickly on the way out and Delta's will be gone when it starts getting the CS-100). What separates American and Delta from Allegiant? Probably in-house maintenance and an acknowledgment these planes are old. There's nothing wrong with old planes -- just like there is nothing wrong with old cars. The key is maintenance. You have to know older planes require more frequent maintenance and if you provide it, the planes are fine.
Delta was flying up until about four years ago, DC-9-50 models purchased by North Central Airlines that I swear I flew on in high school and college. The model 50s were purchased in the early 1970s.
I knew it was a North Central jet because the registration was N---NC. Plus, the cockpit was turquoise in color.
I doubt Delta had the kind of aborted take-offs, inflight problems and other issues Allegiant/ValueJet had. Delta and Northwest maintain their airplanes!
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Never flown Allegiant and never will. I hate rock-bottom airlines. This is what happens when costs are the prevailing reason why a company exists.
Conversely, I fly United for a reason. While I have seen some maintenance problems on United jets from time to time, none were "mission critical." In all my years of flying, I have three aborted landings, all due to air traffic control errors, one aborted take-off and one "near miss" by taking advantage of a scheduling glitch and missing a plane that crashed. Again, air traffic control errors.
What the 60 Minutes report did not address is the "outsourcing" of maintenance and the fact that if a plane breaks down away from the maintenance base, the "local" airline will fix it at the local airline's prevailing costs. Which means that if AAR's maintenance base is in Kansas City and a plane breaks down in Houston, they probably have to pay someone else in Houston who has experience with the MD-80. That gets expensive.
They never touched on who AAR is and whether it was AAR or Allegiant who had the problems. If it is the former, shouldn't Allegiant find a new maintenance provider?
Other airlines do this all the time and maintenance often is done in places like Lake City, FL, Duluth etc. But they also have big in-house maintenance operations and parts inventories around the United States.
Secondly, other airlines fly the MD-80 and its derivatives. Delta and American both have substantial fleets of MD-80s still (though American's is quickly on the way out and Delta's will be gone when it starts getting the CS-100). What separates American and Delta from Allegiant? Probably in-house maintenance and an acknowledgment these planes are old. There's nothing wrong with old planes -- just like there is nothing wrong with old cars. The key is maintenance. You have to know older planes require more frequent maintenance and if you provide it, the planes are fine.
Delta was flying up until about four years ago, DC-9-50 models purchased by North Central Airlines that I swear I flew on in high school and college. The model 50s were purchased in the early 1970s.
I knew it was a North Central jet because the registration was N---NC. Plus, the cockpit was turquoise in color.
I doubt Delta had the kind of aborted take-offs, inflight problems and other issues Allegiant/ValueJet had. Delta and Northwest maintain their airplanes!
Exactly. Everyone is for saving costs and I will be the first to acknowledge that some carriers may have found a newer and perhaps more efficient ways to skin the people mover cat for some routes (thinking alternate business models ranging from Jet Blue to SWA to Spirit) but have not heard any of those guys failing to properly maintain their planes.
That was truly frightening last night. We had occasionally looked at RFD-LAS as an alternative for our commute. Not anymore. I harken back to Hooters Airline. Um, I don't think so. Chicken wings and short shorts boys. Leave it at that, mkay.
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https://www.cbsnews.com/news/allegiant-air-60-minutes-defensive-2018-04-16/
Allegiant's response
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What's wrong with Heathrow out of curiosity? I flew into Heathrow and Gatwick and much preferred Heathrow.
Reykjavic was my least favorite. Only had one person scanning tickets and it took a hour to board because you needed to take a bus to the plane.
Dublin was my favorite. Easy to navigate, and nice new renovations.
I actually liked Reykjavik but admittedly it was my first time landing in Europe so there's probably a bit of nostalgia involved. I didn't have to go through security because I was just there for a connection.
I flew out of Luton and Stansted on a couple of separate occasions and at one of them we had to go through basically an entire shopping mall to get to our gate. That was obnoxious.
Munich was weird. Either there was absolutely no security or we somehow bypassed it.
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Anybody check out the Marriott/SPG announcement and changes? One thing I saw and am trying to understand, I will fall into Platinum Premier, and read that any Marriott Platinum’s will get 10 Suite Night Awards this year. I’m not exactly sure what that means.
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Munich was weird. Either there was absolutely no security or we somehow bypassed it.
That happened to me in Colombia. Was going from Bogota to Armenia. Thought I was in the wrong place because I somehow missed security. Terrifying flight, only 30 minutes but pretty much a blind landing in a one runway airport.
Another weird one, I flew from London into ORD (Changed planes in Dublin) about a month ago. We got in a hour early, and I didn't have to go through customs. I'm guessing they changed our gate last minute since we were so early.
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MUDish
I did not have a chance to look too closely at the announcement, but seems to be customer friendly. I hope i am not disappointed after I dig deeper into it. Looks like a smart move grouping it all together. It is easier to lock in frequent travelers, and makes it easy for the travelers. In Asia I stay 90% at Renaissance or JW, but some very nice Westin’s I have wanted to try.
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MUDish
I did not have a chance to look too closely at the announcement, but seems to be customer friendly. I hope i am not disappointed after I dig deeper into it. Looks like a smart move grouping it all together. It is easier to lock in frequent travelers, and makes it easy for the travelers. In Asia I stay 90% at Renaissance or JW, but some very nice Westin’s I have wanted to try.
If they really add the two together I should jump up to Platinum Premier! I also enjoy the starwood properties in Asia - they seem to be ahead of Marriott there.
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The latest chapter of "Why I hate discount airlines."
http://crankyflier.com/2018/04/17/sun-country-earns-the-cranky-jackass-award-for-giving-no-options-to-stranded-customers/
This deserves a state and/or federal investigation. When you issue a ticket, you make a promise. You don't decide it is inconvenient to fly someone home and strand them. I'm suspecting that Sun Country Airlines will be getting a wave of lawsuits in Hennipen County Circuit Court in Minnesota. And, they deserve it.
As I alluded to with Allegiant yesterday, when costs become the primary driver for your existence, you lose a sense of values and ethics. It is one thing to be efficient. We all get that in our personal and business lives. It's another thing to be cheap. This is just plain cheap and unfeeling.
Quite frankly, while I think we would sell our own mothers for an extra 5% off airfare, there are some things that are just not worth being cheap over!
Yes, United dragged people off airplanes. Yes, someone's canine died in an overhead bin. But I dare say, United would never leave me stranded in a foreign country with no way out. Nor would Delta, American or Southwest.
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The latest chapter of "Why I hate discount airlines."
http://crankyflier.com/2018/04/17/sun-country-earns-the-cranky-jackass-award-for-giving-no-options-to-stranded-customers/
This deserves a state and/or federal investigation. When you issue a ticket, you make a promise. You don't decide it is inconvenient to fly someone home and strand them. I'm suspecting that Sun Country Airlines will be getting a wave of lawsuits in Hennipen County Circuit Court in Minnesota. And, they deserve it.
As I alluded to with Allegiant yesterday, when costs become the primary driver for your existence, you lose a sense of values and ethics. It is one thing to be efficient. We all get that in our personal and business lives. It's another thing to be cheap. This is just plain cheap and unfeeling.
Quite frankly, while I think we would sell our own mothers for an extra 5% off airfare, there are some things that are just not worth being cheap over!
Yes, United dragged people off airplanes. Yes, someone's canine died in an overhead bin. But I dare say, United would never leave me stranded in a foreign country with no way out. Nor would Delta, American or Southwest.
Similarly, I was in Europe on business a couple years ago, flying from Basel to London. France did their classic bimonthly "Air Traffic is going on strike" BS, thus shutting down all French airspace. We were flying Ryanair cause it made sense price and timing wise and its usually a perfectly fine option for quick flights there.
Well our flight was cancelled straight away. We approached the counter and the customer service didn't even attempt to be helpful or constructive. Just "too bad, the ticket will be refunded in 7-10 business days, NEXT!" It was laughable. Naturally we called United 1K line and they managed to get us a very good rate on a Lufthansa flight connecting through Munich so we routed around France.
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Similarly, I was in Europe on business a couple years ago, flying from Basel to London. France did their classic bimonthly "Air Traffic is going on strike" BS, thus shutting down all French airspace. We were flying Ryanair cause it made sense price and timing wise and its usually a perfectly fine option for quick flights there.
Well our flight was cancelled straight away. We approached the counter and the customer service didn't even attempt to be helpful or constructive. Just "too bad, the ticket will be refunded in 7-10 business days, NEXT!" It was laughable. Naturally we called United 1K line and they managed to get us a very good rate on a Lufthansa flight connecting through Munich so we routed around France.
Sounds similar to what happened to me last March at Orly in our way to Grenada, Spain. We got to Orly, looked up at the board to find out gate and found our flight canceled by an air traffic control strike. After standing in line for a couple of hours, we were told we could get rebooked two days later on a flight. I listened to others bitch and scream at the people behind the counter and get nowhere, so I took the opposite tact. They got us out the following morning, first to Barcelona, then Madrid, then a 4 hour bus ride to Grenada. 14 hours after we left the airport hotel at Orly, we made it to Grenada.
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That's brutal dgies. I'm a frequent cranky reader and I agree that one of his 3 solutions would have been a reasonable answer. Cross them off the list too.
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WarriorFan
I agree on better option than Marriott. I have to admit, I never took advantage of rewards points until last 5-6 years and regret it. Marriott was my biggest clients chain of choice and I started doing Marriot exclusively. Looking forward to exploring other brands in the group moving forward.
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My favorite airports have many destinations. I'd rather fly nonstop out of a dump than have a layover originating from a palace.
So with that criteria in mind, are some of my favorites, domestic and international:
O'Hare's International Terminal (probably the nicest part of the entire airport)
Portland
Sea-Tac
Denver
Minneapolis
Munich
Vienna
Copenhagen (awesome places to sleep during a layover)
Krakow
Dublin
Don't care for Mitchell. Lambert is definitely a dump.
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https://www.barstoolsports.com/dmv/woah-plane-engine-exploded-and-a-woman-was-sucked-out-of-the-window-and-pulled-back-in-by-passengers
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Nothin' butt a fart in da wind. Happened on Ma and Pa's favorite carrier, no less, hey?
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4ever
Up with jet lag and you had me laughing out loud. Thanks for the laugh,
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My favorite airports have many destinations. I'd rather fly nonstop out of a dump than have a layover originating from a palace.
So with that criteria in mind, are some of my favorites, domestic and international:
O'Hare's International Terminal (probably the nicest part of the entire airport)
Portland
Sea-Tac
Denver
Minneapolis
Munich
Vienna
Copenhagen (awesome places to sleep during a layover)
Krakow
Dublin
Don't care for Mitchell. Lambert is definitely a dump.
I'd second Munich. I often camped at the Hilton between Terminals 1 & 2 and did day trips when I spent a lot of time in Europe. Also great for two leg flight to the Middle East before there were more options direct.
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Terrible what happened to that passenger. Read that the pilot was the first female Navy fighter pilot. Fine job with a crippled airplane.
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That's brutal dgies. I'm a frequent cranky reader and I agree that one of his 3 solutions would have been a reasonable answer. Cross them off the list too.
As a side note, what Glow and I are speaking about is www.crankyflier.com. For those of you who are interested in the airline industry, Cranky is a must read. He's a former airline executive who blogs every weekday except Wednesday.
Cranky knows his stuff. For me, I love his "Cranky Jackass" award. He's given it to Sun Country, United, American and I think even the beloved Delta has received one. He's also awarded the title "World's Worst Airline" to Alitalia.
Quick read. Really good for those of you who are interested.
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Cranky knows his stuff. For me, I love his "Cranky Jackass" award. He's given it to Sun Country, United, American and I think even the beloved Delta has received one. He's also awarded the title "World's Worst Airline" to Alitalia.
I know two different stories of people paying for business/first class on Alitalia for flights to Europe, getting to the gate, and being informed that they had been bumped down to economy and any complaints or questions of refunds were told that they would have to handle it with corporate. I can't even imagine.
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Terrible what happened to that passenger. Read that the pilot was the first female Navy fighter pilot. Fine job with a crippled airplane.
Hat tipped to the pilot who got that plane and those passengers to the ground. If you get a chance, listen to the audio between pilot and the control tower. Remarkably controlled. What any of us would hope our pilot would sound like under those circumstances.
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Hat tipped to the pilot who got that plane and those passengers to the ground. If you get a chance, listen to the audio between pilot and the control tower. Remarkably controlled. What any of us would hope our pilot would sound like under those circumstances.
Naval aviators rock. Our good friend drives for United. Dodging Gulf War missiles has a way of focusing the mind.
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Hat tipped to the pilot who got that plane and those passengers to the ground. If you get a chance, listen to the audio between pilot and the control tower. Remarkably controlled. What any of us would hope our pilot would sound like under those circumstances.
Not surprised. Those men and women who fly commercially have probably faced the same situation or worse at least 100 times -- maybe more -- in a simulator.
By the time they get into an airline cockpit, they've seen and done it all. And if they flew F15s or F22s, they've seen things that even airline simulators can't reproduce.
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Interesting passing through Amsterdam yesterday on my way home.
I had to report to Gate "D1" for my flight. Gate "D1" is a fake gate for all Delta flights headed towards the United States. Basically, everyone has to pass through an extra line of security before they are told their actual gate. The line was super long, so I went and shopped then grabbed something to eat and the line was next to nothing by time I got there. Of course, my actual gate was D57 on the exact opposite side of the terminal.
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My summer travel odyssey begins this week:
Moscow - Zurich - Chicago - Frankfurt - Moscow - Novosibirsk
Novosibirsk - Beijing - Jakarta - Beijing - Novosibirsk
Moscow - Singapore - Jakarta - Doha - JFK
JFK-DOH- Jakarta - NRT - ORD
ORD- PEK - Moscow
All in the next 7 weeks.
Ugh.
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WarriorFan
I sure hope you are being well for that schedule. Safe travels.
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Out of curiosity, am I the only nerd that gets excited when visiting a new state to see what that states Google Maps avatar looks like? I hit Wyoming today, always try to slow down when crossing the border to see it.
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I just bought a piece of luggage .. the $120 model will do just fine. Serious q, Briggs & Riley seems to be $300-600. What makes it 3x better?
If you're not a hardcore road warrior and mostly carry on, I'm sure the $120 model will do just fine. Briggs & Riley is excellent quality, has a lifetime warranty, and Is widely considered to be every bit as good as Rimowa which is more than double the price. Not that Briggs is inexpensive by any means. Those that can afford it swear by Rimowa but it's way over my budget so I have no personal experience with that brand. I did splurge on a Briggs a couple years ago and it's held up very well but I'm not a what most would consider to be a road warrior. I take a two or three day trip every 5 or 6 weeks which is nothing compared to a lot you. In my experience where bags take the worst beating by far is when they're checked in and even one long haul Int'l trip with a connection can break multiple zipper pulls and make a relatively new bag look 10 years old, so for folks that routinely travel internationally for a week at a clip or more and need to check bags, it's worth it to pay significantly more for higher quality. Just be careful and do your homework because many of the luxury brands aren't that high quality. TUMI for example, looks great and while not poor quality by any means, is more expensive than Briggs, but not as durable over the long haul and only has a 5 yr warranty to Briggs's lifetime. The luxury Italian brand Brics is way overpriced for what it is and didn't last for me at all but damn it looked great! In my view the best quality luggage for the price is Victorinox/Swiss Army followed closely by Costco's Kirkland Signature private label line. Neither are as good as Briggs or as sleek and luxe as TUMI and their ilk, but I haven't encountered better quality or value for the price, than Victorinox. Full disclosure: I live very close Victorinox's North American HQ in CT and have bought almost every piece of theirs that I own at their bi annual warehouse sale, where the merch is heavily discounted....usually more than 50% so I've bought it at a substantial discount but it's still better than every other piece of luggage I've ever owned, some for 3x the price.
On another note, there is no airport in the world worse than LGA, nor will there ever be and I say that as a proud NYC area native who's lived in the city or its suburbs my whole life minus the 4 yrs in MKE.
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As a mid-tier road warrior I’m glad to see this thread. Couple questions for the group-
1. I’m a delta guy and hover between gold and platinum status but thinking of making a job change and delta just wouldn’t make sense based on new travel requirements so I’m considering making a change to either American or United. Curious to get the groups preferences between those two carriers and why?
2. Along those lines, I’m also considering platinum Amex for lounge access in either DFW or IAH. I have chase reserve and really like it but would it be worth it to swap it for the platinum AMEX?
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As a mid-tier road warrior I’m glad to see this thread. Couple questions for the group-
1. I’m a delta guy and hover between gold and platinum status but thinking of making a job change and delta just wouldn’t make sense based on new travel requirements so I’m considering making a change to either American or United. Curious to get the groups preferences between those two carriers and why?
2. Along those lines, I’m also considering platinum Amex for lounge access in either DFW or IAH. I have chase reserve and really like it but would it be worth it to swap it for the platinum AMEX?
I only fly United, but maybe ask for a status match with both UA & AA and try them both out? I think it would mainly come down to where you’re based out of and who has more options for you. I will say IAH has maybe the quickest premiere or TSA security lines for any United hub that I’ve seen.
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As a mid-tier road warrior I’m glad to see this thread. Couple questions for the group-
1. I’m a delta guy and hover between gold and platinum status but thinking of making a job change and delta just wouldn’t make sense based on new travel requirements so I’m considering making a change to either American or United. Curious to get the groups preferences between those two carriers and why?
2. Along those lines, I’m also considering platinum Amex for lounge access in either DFW or IAH. I have chase reserve and really like it but would it be worth it to swap it for the platinum AMEX?
Depends on to where you are relocating. If it's DFW, American is the answer. IAH, then United, no questions asked.
I've been high mileage on both in the past. I'm not sure there is a whole lot of difference, though I tend to think you're slightly more likely to see a widebody/overwater airplane on domestic routes on United. One particularly attractive plane that shows up from time to time is the 757-200s, which are equipped with sleeper seats in first class (don't be fooled by the 757-300s though, which are domestic shop hogs and break down regularly). American may have the same overwater thing in some A321s, so I would check.
Ultimately, if you are not in an airline's hub city, I agree with Brother Dish that you should call both airlines and see who gives you the better deal to transition. They both will, if you send them a copy of your Delta card.
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Thanks guys...I’m based in San Antonio so will have to connect via IAH or DFW. DFW is logistically better but my experience with AA jets is that if you don’t get one of their new a321’s you end up with a really old md88 or 737; which is not preferred. From DFW I will be flying to ABQ, MEM, DEN, TUL, OKC, and lovely Lambert...STL
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Thanks guys...I’m based in San Antonio so will have to connect via IAH or DFW. DFW is logistically better but my experience with AA jets is that if you don’t get one of their new a321’s you end up with a really old md88 or 737; which is not preferred. From DFW I will be flying to ABQ, MEM, DEN, TUL, OKC, and lovely Lambert...STL
1) American's 737s generally are not THAT old. Most have been delivered in the past five years or so.
2) From Dallas, ABQ and MEM probably are either A320s, the remaining MD88s (which will not be in the fleet much longer) or the Eagle. STL probably is a real jet but OKC is likely to be the Eagle. TUL is a crapshoot since American has a major maintenance base there and shuttles planes between DFW and Tulsa.
3) If you are in San Antonio, you may want to consider living north of the city and fly out of Austin. Dpeending on where you are going, it may be nonstop.
4) I would weigh driving to another airport against connecting time, especially if it is Austin. In my case, the winter, I generally drive from the Treasure Coast of Florida to MCO. The alternative is Delta via Melbourne, FL, and the connection time in Atlanta or Charlotte is usually longer than the drive up Interstate 95 (which is usually done at 90+ miles per hour).
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1) American's 737s generally are not THAT old. Most have been delivered in the past five years or so.
2) From Dallas, ABQ and MEM probably are either A320s, the remaining MD88s (which will not be in the fleet much longer) or the Eagle. STL probably is a real jet but OKC is likely to be the Eagle. TUL is a crapshoot since American has a major maintenance base there and shuttles planes between DFW and Tulsa.
3) If you are in San Antonio, you may want to consider living north of the city and fly out of Austin. Dpeending on where you are going, it may be nonstop.
4) I would weigh driving to another airport against connecting time, especially if it is Austin. In my case, the winter, I generally drive from the Treasure Coast of Florida to MCO. The alternative is Delta via Melbourne, FL, and the connection time in Atlanta or Charlotte is usually longer than the drive up Interstate 95 (which is usually done at 90+ miles per hour).
I was going to chime in the same thing about Austin. When we went to the Final Four, flew home out of Austin. Have to imagine if there’s a direct flight to/from AUS, it’d be much faster. Good news is with hubs in DFW and IAH, you have at least close options.
FWIW, San Antonio is now my most underrated city in America.
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Again...thanks guys, much appreciated!
yes...we love San Antonio, which is why i'm making a change to stay. I do fly out of Austin as Delta has started adding directs to places I needed to go with my previous job. (Seattle, LAX, JFK) unfortunately, there aren't any Delta directs to my new required places but I have begun scouting out my new routes and the aircraft AA and UA use. I will definitely take your advice and see if I can get any deals from those 2 carriers if I switch.
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Again...thanks guys, much appreciated!
yes...we love San Antonio, which is why i'm making a change to stay. I do fly out of Austin as Delta has started adding directs to places I needed to go with my previous job. (Seattle, LAX, JFK) unfortunately, there aren't any Delta directs to my new required places but I have begun scouting out my new routes and the aircraft AA and UA use. I will definitely take your advice and see if I can get any deals from those 2 carriers if I switch.
If the choice is to fly through IAH and DFW you can expect winter deicing about 20X more in DFW than IAH. When I flew to South America a lot I always tried to go through IAH or Miami not DFW.
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Again...thanks guys, much appreciated!
yes...we love San Antonio, which is why i'm making a change to stay. I do fly out of Austin as Delta has started adding directs to places I needed to go with my previous job. (Seattle, LAX, JFK) unfortunately, there aren't any Delta directs to my new required places but I have begun scouting out my new routes and the aircraft AA and UA use. I will definitely take your advice and see if I can get any deals from those 2 carriers if I switch.
Anytime Brother MUArmy!
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Thanks guys...I’m based in San Antonio so will have to connect via IAH or DFW. DFW is logistically better but my experience with AA jets is that if you don’t get one of their new a321’s you end up with a really old md88 or 737; which is not preferred. From DFW I will be flying to ABQ, MEM, DEN, TUL, OKC, and lovely Lambert...STL
Based on this set of cities you sound like a typical SWA traveller...basing out of SA dont ignore this obvious choice
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Based on this set of cities you sound like a typical SWA traveller...basing out of SA dont ignore this obvious choice
You're right...there are some direct options on SWA but i'm not a fan...
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You're right...there are some direct options on SWA but i'm not a fan...
You either:
Don't like getting sucked out of airplanes; or,
Don't fly coach very often.
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I was able to join the 50 State Club today. I had a customer meeting in Salt Lake get canceled last minute after I was out here, so I drove I-15 North to Idaho and Montana.
The Continental Divide as you enter Montana is amazing. I didn’t necessarily pick Montana or that route on purpose (it was spur of the moment), but I’ll humble brag that I’m proud of this accomplishment. I didn’t cheat either and just drive in and out of any state either or use an airport connection as a visit.
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I was able to join the 50 State Club today. I had a customer meeting in Salt Lake get canceled last minute after I was out here, so I drove I-15 North to Idaho and Montana.
The Continental Divide as you enter Montana is amazing. I didn’t necessarily pick Montana or that route on purpose (it was spur of the moment), but I’ll humble brag that I’m proud of this accomplishment. I didn’t cheat either and just drive in and out of any state either or use an airport connection as a visit.
Favorite state? For people? Nature? Views? Food and drink? Business? Culture?
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Favorite state? For people? Nature? Views? Food and drink? Business? Culture?
Favorite state is really tough. Hawaii is too easy of an answer, and I hate saying it only because it's obvious, but California is just awesome to visit. I'm removing any politics/people/costs here, it just has everything to offer.
Most underrated state to visit: Maine (I'll defer to east coasters if it's underrated, but the Maine coast is spectacular and one of the best national parks in Acadia)
Sneaky good: Tennessee (Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, good weather, very pretty)
I'm too picky of an eater and not a foodie to rate food, I'm sure other's on here would have better views.
What I've learned and tried to take perspective in is how lucky we are to live in the US (remove politics/money/taxes/anything like that). I've had a lot of west coast travel the last two months, and in 8 weeks have driven the Oregon coastline, saw the Continental Divide, been to Lake Tahoe, drove from Denver to Cheyenne, and all were spectacular. I don't say that by any means to brag, but America has crazy great things to see and experience, it really does.
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State would be Hawaii
City New Orleans hands down--Music Food Architecture History
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So many beautiful places it's hard to pick just one, so I'll list a few of my favorites off the top of my head.
For natural beauty: Na Pali Coast and Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii (renewing as we speak), Rocky Mountains in CO & UT, Badlands in SD, Big Sur coastline in CA, Oregon coast, Sonoran Desert when the cacti bloom after a big rainfall.
Most beautiful natural scene/moment I've ever seen: Driving at sunrise in Southern Alabama on a humid summer morning, seeing the fog dissipate in the early morning sun to reveal the Spanish moss hanging from the Oak trees.
For food: Italian in Boston, Chinese and sourdough in San Francisco and most anything in New Orleans...followed by beignets.
For culture: DC museums (National Portrait Gallery and National Archives are my favorites).
Random fun things/cool attractions: San Francisco cable cars, Ruby Falls in TN.
So many amazing and diverse things to see in this great country. I'm sure I will think of many more right after I hit "post."
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Favorite state? For people? Nature? Views? Food and drink? Business? Culture?
State: Washington. The Pacific Northwest is awesome with the green forests, mountains, urban Seattle and the large number of waterfalls. Close runner-up is my old home state of Tennessee.
For People: California. There is no place nuttier than California. Only place I ever have been where they had a safe sex float in an Easter parade where the Easter Bunny was handing out free condoms. Same parade had a float from a funeral home saying, "we put the fun in funerals." Everything about California is just goofy and there is NO runner-up.
For Nature: Agree with Brother Dish, Hawaii. Very pretty and the birds are gorgeous.
For Food and Drink: This is a sleeper, but Texas. The barbecue is to die for. And the Town of Castroville near San Antonio is undiscovered excellence in Alsatian Cuisine.
For Business: Los Angeles. The people there know how to negotiate and get a deal d-o-n-e. And they are not provincial the way many parts of the country are.
For Culture: Don't really travel much for culture but I probably would say New York City. Paris blows everything away, but I am trying to stay domestic.
Places I avoid when possible:
1) New York City -- Getting in from the airport is a disaster, no matter which airport you choose (go to EWR and take the train to MSG). The place smells like garbage most of the time and the crowds are well, yuck. Little here you can't get in Chicago or San Francisco. Just lots more of it.
2) Atlanta -- When you find a city here, let me know. More than 1,000 suburbs looking for that city center. And the freeways are awful.
3) Dallas -- Like Atlanta with less culture.
4) Boston -- Any airport run by Massport is by definition the worst run airport in America. The city has a lot of charm but the airport is a disaster and ruins the trip.
5) Orlando -- Full disclosure, I use MCO a lot in the winter. But Orlando is Duluth on steroids. Never, ever fly into MCO without TSA Pre. The lines in the conventional security line are two hours long. If I hear "OrlandoMayorBuddyDyer" tell me about the "Orlando Experience" one more time, I'm going to gag. Other than plastic mice and people eating alligators, what does Orlando offer?
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For People: California. There is no place nuttier than California. Only place I ever have been where they had a safe sex float in an Easter parade where the Easter Bunny was handing out free condoms. Same parade had a float from a funeral home saying, "we put the fun in funerals." Everything about California is just goofy and there is NO runner-up.
Glow jr. made his first trip to (southern) California at the age of 16. His analysis:
"Like Florida, only with way more douchebags."
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Glow jr. made his first trip to (southern) California at the age of 16. His analysis:
"Like Florida, only with way more douchebags."
And less humidity....
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Glow jr. made his first trip to (southern) California at the age of 16. His analysis:
"Like Florida, only with way more douchebags."
Tell Glow Jr., Floridians aren't all bad.
We're residents of Florida six months of the year and love it down here.
Full Disclosure: Headed back to Chicago tomorrow!!!!!!
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Kant stand da heet, hey?
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California really is such a weird place. My cousin lived in Santa Monica for a few years so I visit him once.
Walking down that stretch of beach from the Santa Monica Pier, through Ocean Park and Venice Beach to Maria del Rey it sure was something.
Just such a laid back atmosphere.
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Kant stand da heet, hey?
Brother 4ever, guess not.
That and I love Chicago and there's so much clean living, clean government I can take in a year!
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Tell Glow Jr., Floridians aren't all bad.
We're residents of Florida six months of the year and love it down here.
Full Disclosure: Headed back to Chicago tomorrow!!!!!!
He was dissing Californians, my friend, not Floridians.
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California really is such a weird place. My cousin lived in Santa Monica for a few years so I visit him once.
Walking down that stretch of beach from the Santa Monica Pier, through Ocean Park and Venice Beach to Maria del Rey it sure was something.
Just such a laid back atmosphere.
Need to separate SoCal from NorCal, hey?
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I was able to join the 50 State Club today. I had a customer meeting in Salt Lake get canceled last minute after I was out here, so I drove I-15 North to Idaho and Montana.
The Continental Divide as you enter Montana is amazing. I didn’t necessarily pick Montana or that route on purpose (it was spur of the moment), but I’ll humble brag that I’m proud of this accomplishment. I didn’t cheat either and just drive in and out of any state either or use an airport connection as a visit.
Well done Dish.
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Favorite state is really tough. Hawaii is too easy of an answer, and I hate saying it only because it's obvious, but California is just awesome to visit. I'm removing any politics/people/costs here, it just has everything to offer.
Most underrated state to visit: Maine (I'll defer to east coasters if it's underrated, but the Maine coast is spectacular and one of the best national parks in Acadia)
Sneaky good: Tennessee (Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, good weather, very pretty)
I'm too picky of an eater and not a foodie to rate food, I'm sure other's on here would have better views.
What I've learned and tried to take perspective in is how lucky we are to live in the US (remove politics/money/taxes/anything like that). I've had a lot of west coast travel the last two months, and in 8 weeks have driven the Oregon coastline, saw the Continental Divide, been to Lake Tahoe, drove from Denver to Cheyenne, and all were spectacular. I don't say that by any means to brag, but America has crazy great things to see and experience, it really does.
Amen Dish! America is a great place and so diverse...
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Don't think I mentioned. Chick and I are hitting #48 for me in two weeks. Alaska. Helluva deal last minute on a one-way SB cruise from Anchorage. Still bucket list to drive the Cassiar and AlCan but that'll have to wait.
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He was dissing Californians, my friend, not Floridians.
I know but I have to give out a bit of a bad time 8-)
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In Denver this weekend. Nothing but good experiences. Train from the airport to the city is reasonably priced and convenient. Location isn't great.
For anyone traveling to Denver, do not Uber or taxi from the airport to downtown. Trains leave every 15 minutes and are $8 tickets. A taxi or uber to the city is 40-50.
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Frankfurt is permanently off my list after this weekend. Transfer from Z66 to B24 was 2.9km walk.
Then the Lufthansa staff took exception with my carry on.
They definitely know how to disappoint customers.
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Frankfurt is permanently off my list after this weekend. Transfer from Z66 to B24 was 2.9km walk.
Then the Lufthansa staff took exception with my carry on.
They definitely know how to disappoint customers.
There are definitely better places to transit in Europe if you have to connect to secondary cities on the continent (connecting in MUC or CPH is a much better experience on Star Alliance, AMS excellent on Skyteam, MAD or even LHR better than FRA on OW).
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There are definitely better places to transit in Europe if you have to connect to secondary cities on the continent (connecting in MUC or CPH is a much better experience on Star Alliance, AMS excellent on Skyteam, MAD or even LHR better than FRA on OW).
Agreed, much prefer MUC. LHR for United is fantastic, but I haven't seen many flights that connect through there, but then again, when I go to Europe, I am normally ending at LHR or BRU and anything else is regional.
Speaking of issues with carry-ons, for the second time in 6 months, I had a TSA agent try to make me measure my bag BEFORE security. First at LGA, then on Friday at EWR. I totally get when it happens at the gate and I'm happy to gate check or even check to baggage claim (though not as happily), but being forced to go to the counter is obnoxious. This PATRIOT physically stood in front of the entrance when I mentioned I would handle it at the gate and insisted I put it in the metal size frame.
My carry-on is standard sized, might have been bulging a bit as I was returning from 2 weeks abroad, but certainly wasn't an exorbitant size. Being forced to measure your bag feels ridiculously demeaning and like you're being scolded, especially when Ive seen MANY appropriately sized roller carry-ons struggle to fit in something thats far less forgiving than an overhead bin.
Not to mention by this point its 40-45 min before my flight, so I need to get special treatment from United to even check my bag, doubt it would have happened if I wasn't 1K as 2 different agents told me I missed my window. Just beyond silly. AND, after all that, when I went back through, he didn't remember me and needed to check for my PreCheck again. What a delight
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Agreed, much prefer MUC. LHR for United is fantastic, but I haven't seen many flights that connect through there, but then again, when I go to Europe, I am normally ending at LHR or BRU and anything else is regional.
Speaking of issues with carry-ons, for the second time in 6 months, I had a TSA agent try to make me measure my bag BEFORE security. First at LGA, then on Friday at EWR. I totally get when it happens at the gate and I'm happy to gate check or even check to baggage claim (though not as happily), but being forced to go to the counter is obnoxious. This PATRIOT physically stood in front of the entrance when I mentioned I would handle it at the gate and insisted I put it in the metal size frame.
My carry-on is standard sized, might have been bulging a bit as I was returning from 2 weeks abroad, but certainly wasn't an exorbitant size. Being forced to measure your bag feels ridiculously demeaning and like you're being scolded, especially when Ive seen MANY appropriately sized roller carry-ons struggle to fit in something thats far less forgiving than an overhead bin.
Not to mention by this point its 40-45 min before my flight, so I need to get special treatment from United to even check my bag, doubt it would have happened if I wasn't 1K as 2 different agents told me I missed my window. Just beyond silly. AND, after all that, when I went back through, he didn't remember me and needed to check for my PreCheck again. What a delight
I've just been checking in my suitcase regardless of the length of the trip. It's no cost anyway with the Delta gold card. People are literally fighting over the overhead bins and I found that it's better avoiding that argument for my sanity and that my luggage arrives on the carousel before I do every time anyway no matter what airport so why bother lugging around.
Last month, my suitcase was way overweight after my week in Dusseldorf and KLM surprising didn't charge me when I gave them my Delta gold card. I believe they were supposed to charge me an overweight fee, but I still have no idea why they did not.
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The latest chapter of "Why I hate discount airlines."
http://crankyflier.com/2018/04/17/sun-country-earns-the-cranky-jackass-award-for-giving-no-options-to-stranded-customers/
This deserves a state and/or federal investigation. When you issue a ticket, you make a promise. You don't decide it is inconvenient to fly someone home and strand them. I'm suspecting that Sun Country Airlines will be getting a wave of lawsuits in Hennipen County Circuit Court in Minnesota. And, they deserve it.
As I alluded to with Allegiant yesterday, when costs become the primary driver for your existence, you lose a sense of values and ethics. It is one thing to be efficient. We all get that in our personal and business lives. It's another thing to be cheap. This is just plain cheap and unfeeling.
Quite frankly, while I think we would sell our own mothers for an extra 5% off airfare, there are some things that are just not worth being cheap over!
Yes, United dragged people off airplanes. Yes, someone's canine died in an overhead bin. But I dare say, United would never leave me stranded in a foreign country with no way out. Nor would Delta, American or Southwest.
Frontier offering golden showers now...
http://denver.cbslocal.com/2018/05/20/passenger-urinates-on-seat-frontier-airlines/
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Dat an ala carte add on fee, hey?
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Several days in Salt Lake coming up. Any suggestions? Be aware that I won’t have a car, so public transportation/Uber is a must.
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Several days in Salt Lake coming up. Any suggestions? Be aware that I won’t have a car, so public transportation/Uber is a must.
Just went to Salt Lake for first time ever a couple weeks ago. Don’t know how to say it otherwise, but safest downtown I’ve ever seen. Downtown is fine, it’s obviously not crazy because of the Mormons, but restaurant selection was good. There’s a mile or so stretch from the Tabernacle (gorgeous, especially at dusk) to downtown with shops/restaurants. That’s pretty much it. Scenery around the city is great, and if you like to hike, I’m sure someone has a specific recommendation.
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Several days in Salt Lake coming up. Any suggestions? Be aware that I won’t have a car, so public transportation/Uber is a must.
Stay somewhere between Temple and 300 S. East of Pioneer park. The Marriott location is perfect. Holiday Inn express also good. I historically have stayed at Residence Inn downtown but it's old and getting pretty bad so after my January stay there I vowed to try something different next time. Red Rock and Squatters are affordable favorites.
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Boring Co. wins bid to build high-speed facility between O'Hare and the Loop, (allegedly) will foot the bill.
https://gizmodo.com/elon-musks-boring-company-wins-bid-to-build-high-speed-1826822962 (https://gizmodo.com/elon-musks-boring-company-wins-bid-to-build-high-speed-1826822962)
I did get a chuckle out of this line:
Musk has previously said that trips in Los Angeles using his new system could cost just $1. It’s not immediately clear why Chicago’s estimates are much higher.
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Just went to Salt Lake for first time ever a couple weeks ago. Don’t know how to say it otherwise, but safest downtown I’ve ever seen. Downtown is fine, it’s obviously not crazy because of the Mormons, but restaurant selection was good. There’s a mile or so stretch from the Tabernacle (gorgeous, especially at dusk) to downtown with shops/restaurants. That’s pretty much it. Scenery around the city is great, and if you like to hike, I’m sure someone has a specific recommendation.
Park City. Looks just like the commercials.
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Boring Co. wins bid to build high-speed facility between O'Hare and the Loop, (allegedly) will foot the bill.
https://gizmodo.com/elon-musks-boring-company-wins-bid-to-build-high-speed-1826822962 (https://gizmodo.com/elon-musks-boring-company-wins-bid-to-build-high-speed-1826822962)
I did get a chuckle out of this line:
The first reactions I was seeing on Twitter and online were "why is this necessary, we already have a train, just make some express." "Why not just have the CTA update the route and system"...which tells me those people live in the suburbs and never take the CTA, much less to Ohare.
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The first reactions I was seeing on Twitter and online were "why is this necessary, we already have a train, just make some express." "Why not just have the CTA update the route and system"...which tells me those people live in the suburbs and never take the CTA, much less to Ohare.
I'm more excited about the Elgin/ORD finally going to ORD after 30 years (or however long it's been). Given I live in Elgin (and the Elgin/ORD doesn't go to Elgin), but hopefully this makes getting out of ORD a lot easier. That I-190 route absolutely sucks leaving the airport.
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I'm more excited about the Elgin/ORD finally going to ORD after 30 years (or however long it's been). Given I live in Elgin (and the Elgin/ORD doesn't go to Elgin), but hopefully this makes getting out of ORD a lot easier. That I-190 route absolutely sucks leaving the airport.
It doesn't go to ORD either.
They need to change the name to the Hanover Park/Itasca expressway.
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It doesn't go to ORD either.
They need to change the name to the Hanover Park/Itasca expressway.
You’re correct, but it was announced today the ORD western access route will be completed by 2025. The litigation between the railroads and IDOT was settled or dropped (if I read the Trib correctly).
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You’re correct, but it was announced today the ORD western access route will be completed by 2025. The litigation between the railroads and IDOT was settled or dropped (if I read the Trib correctly).
Funny, chick and I hope to be long gone by then relocating to greener pastures. We'll have waited a lifetime for nothing!
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Funny, chick and I hope to be long gone by then relocating to greener pastures. We'll have waited a lifetime for nothing!
It’s funny because for 10 years, I drove the Elgin/ORD from Elgin to the office park next to the Westin off of 355/Thorndale. When I changed jobs 4 years ago, they started the Elgin/ORD expansion to what it is today. I never used it for work after it got significantly better, but also happily missed having to pay all those tolls.
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It’s funny because for 10 years, I drove the Elgin/ORD from Elgin to the office park next to the Westin off of 355/Thorndale. When I changed jobs 4 years ago, they started the Elgin/ORD expansion to what it is today. I never used it for work after it got significantly better, but also happily missed having to pay all those tolls.
Cool, in 7 years I can save 10 minutes heading to ORD...
Of course at that point, the 355 will no longer be the emptiest highway around Chicago, and you probably won't be able to go 85 consistently from Schaumburg to Joliet...
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It’s funny because for 10 years, I drove the Elgin/ORD from Elgin to the office park next to the Westin off of 355/Thorndale. When I changed jobs 4 years ago, they started the Elgin/ORD expansion to what it is today. I never used it for work after it got significantly better, but also happily missed having to pay all those tolls.
You and me both. I called it 'Glow's house to Glow's work' expressway. Those tolls still piss me off although these days I'm usually heading up to MKE.
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It’s funny because for 10 years, I drove the Elgin/ORD from Elgin to the office park next to the Westin off of 355/Thorndale. When I changed jobs 4 years ago, they started the Elgin/ORD expansion to what it is today. I never used it for work after it got significantly better, but also happily missed having to pay all those tolls.
Hmmmm...Glow worked in one of those buildings for almost 20 years.
We are so old we were living where we live before both the Elgin OHare and I355.
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Hmmmm...Glow worked in one of those buildings for almost 20 years.
We are so old we were living where we live before both the Elgin OHare and I355.
Same here, I grew up wondering why the Elgin/ORD was going to be built when it didn’t actually go to either destination.
I worked at 500 Park Blvd for 10 years. I walked around the Hamilton Lakes walking path almost every day, pretty good amenities and location for a suburban office park.
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Traveling to Spain/Portugal in September. Barcelona, Sevilla, Lisbon, Porto. Four days in each city. Any recommendations?
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Traveling to Spain/Portugal in September. Barcelona, Sevilla, Lisbon, Porto. Four days in each city. Any recommendations?
Learn Spanish. Then Portuguese. Not to fluency... just enough to show you’re putting in an effort.
Seriously.
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Learn Spanish. Then Portuguese. Not to fluency... just enough to show you’re putting in an effort.
Seriously.
Catalan > Spanish if you're in Catalonia.
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Barcelona
Picasso museum...who knew that already as a young man he was a highly skilled classic painter...think Velasquez/Zubaran
Evening walk down Las Ramblas (main drag) toward the sea then left up along the beach Columbus ship replicas, great eats leftover improvements from 92 Olympics
Head up to the hills to site of 32 worlds fair recreation of multiple habitats with Gaudi works too....and of course Sagrada Familia
Of your cities this is the best for an evening tapas crawl. Start in the old section near the main cathederal
Sevilla
Cathedral...biggest in Europe...lots of gold
La Giralda and El Alcazar...remember the Moors ruled much of Spain for almost 500 years and this was one of their capitals
The river...take a tour boat....great views and very relaxing
Great food here try to sample Andalusian specialties every region of Spain prides itself on its local fare
Plaza de Espana best location of art tile work in Spain ...great for a relaxing siesta
As you'll miss Madrid where the best art is grab a little at the Museo de Bellas arte
If you can read spanish the General Archive of the Indies has all the documents of Columbus and of 300 years of spanish control of South America
We try to get over annually also. This year its a few weeks in Madrid and Galicia in late August early September
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Learn Spanish. Then Portuguese. Not to fluency... just enough to show you’re putting in an effort.
Seriously.
I actually very much agree with this. Spain and Portugal are the two countries I’ve been to where it was striking how much of a difference in the travel experience was based on a willingness to try to speak the language.
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Anybody have Edinburgh recommendations?
Huge scotch lover but primarily stick to Highland and Islay scotches so I'm not too familiar with the local distilleries if anyone could advise. Anything that is a must do, must try restaurant/pub, or must skip attraction?
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Anybody have Edinburgh recommendations?
Huge scotch lover but primarily stick to Highland and Islay scotches so I'm not too familiar with the local distilleries if anyone could advise. Anything that is a must do, must try restaurant/pub, or must skip attraction?
Never been but a quick google search and I'd try to hit this place in Edinburgh: https://www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk/
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Never been but a quick google search and I'd try to hit this place in Edinburgh: https://www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk/
Yeah that's the one thing that keeps coming up. Was hoping for a legit distillery but looks like that's going to be the spot
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Most of the distilleries are up in the highlands or islands. Not much in Edinburgh/Glasgow areas.
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I actually very much agree with this. Spain and Portugal are the two countries I’ve been to where it was striking how much of a difference in the travel experience was based on a willingness to try to speak the language.
Can't speak to Portugese, but Spaniards 1000%. Ive spoke more or less fluent Spanish since I was in college. Ordering in Spanish at Mexican or Latin restaurant in the US usually gets a smile and they will return in kind and usually be a bit more friendly. But Spaniards are a different level.
Beyond Spain, in Spanish restaurants in NY and London, multiple times, speaking/ordering in Spanish took service from polite but efficient/brief to conversational, jovial, and recommendations. My GF when we went in NYC was stunned to the point she thought I was flirting initially. Its a very warm and friendly culture that they are happy to share when you connect on that level.
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Learn Spanish. Then Portuguese. Not to fluency... just enough to show you’re putting in an effort.
Seriously.
I know enough Spanish to get by but will brush up on it over the next few months. My girlfriend is nearly fluent so hopefully that'll be enough to get by.
I'm hopeless in Portuguese, though.
Thanks for the suggestions!
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Barcelona
Picasso museum...who knew that already as a young man he was a highly skilled classic painter...think Velasquez/Zubaran
Evening walk down Las Ramblas (main drag) toward the sea then left up along the beach Columbus ship replicas, great eats leftover improvements from 92 Olympics
Head up to the hills to site of 32 worlds fair recreation of multiple habitats with Gaudi works too....and of course Sagrada Familia
Of your cities this is the best for an evening tapas crawl. Start in the old section near the main cathederal
Sevilla
Cathedral...biggest in Europe...lots of gold
La Giralda and El Alcazar...remember the Moors ruled much of Spain for almost 500 years and this was one of their capitals
The river...take a tour boat....great views and very relaxing
Great food here try to sample Andalusian specialties every region of Spain prides itself on its local fare
Plaza de Espana best location of art tile work in Spain ...great for a relaxing siesta
As you'll miss Madrid where the best art is grab a little at the Museo de Bellas arte
If you can read spanish the General Archive of the Indies has all the documents of Columbus and of 300 years of spanish control of South America
We try to get over annually also. This year its a few weeks in Madrid and Galicia in late August early September
A few more tips for Sevilla:
Barrio Santa Cruz-wander around going from bar to bar experiencing each bar's best tapas.
If you can, stay at the Hotel Dona Maria-right in the heart of the city, with a rooftop bar and pool overlooking the Cathedral. Surprisingly inexpensive
Attend a bullfight
If you like spanish plates/tiles-please do so. Beautiful
Parqu de Maria Luisa-Plaza de America
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Anybody have Edinburgh recommendations?
Huge scotch lover but primarily stick to Highland and Islay scotches so I'm not too familiar with the local distilleries if anyone could advise. Anything that is a must do, must try restaurant/pub, or must skip attraction?
Highly recommend Scran and Scallie pub for dinner
Good GIN distillery/tasting bar across from Waldorf Astoria - Caledonian
We hired a driver for a day who took us (among other places) to Aberfeldy (Highlands)
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Highly recommend Scran and Scallie pub for dinner
Good GIN distillery/tasting bar across from Waldorf Astoria - Caledonian
We hired a driver for a day who took us (among other places) to Aberfeldy (Highlands)
Thanks Legs. Not must of a Gin drinker and neither is my mom, did it give you an appreciation that wasn't there? or were you already a Gin guy?
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The Spaniards speak English but won't. In Portugal, they really don't speak English.
My Spanish is good enough to order. The Portuguese people are some of the warmest around. Your Spanish can make do in Portugal.
Btw, La Rambla is overrated. All Russian hookers and street thiefs. I would add Montserrat if you are in Barca for four days.
Sevilla: Four days is a long time. Consider a day trip to Gibraltar and/or Morocco.
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The Spaniards speak English but won't. In Portugal, they really don't speak English.
My Spanish is good enough to order. The Portuguese people are some of the warmest around. Your Spanish can make do in Portugal.
Btw, La Rambla is overrated. All Russian hookers and street thiefs. I would add Montserrat if you are in Barca for four days.
Sevilla: Four days is a long time. Consider a day trip to Gibraltar and/or Morocco.
I once worked at a factory full of Portuguese and Brazilian immigrants. They all told me they can understand Spanish, but Spanish speakers can't understand them.
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I once worked at a factory full of Portuguese and Brazilian immigrants. They all told me they can understand Spanish, but Spanish speakers can't understand them.
Were they cardiologists back in Portugal?
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Has anyone flown in "real" United Polaris in recent months. Being a United UDP ("Unprofitable Domestic Passenger"), I never see "real" Polaris, so when I booked a flight to Paris last month for last week, I was really intrigued.
I was incredibly disappointed. In fact, I had trouble fathoming the big deal about Polaris. The product is marginally better than United's non-Polaris equipped planes and the service, candidly, is typically United -- spotty to indifferent where the flight attendants are "there" but seem generally disinterested in going the extra mile, or even doing their job.
Full disclosure: the service on the return flight has been exponentially better than on the outbound. The pulsar is the same hard worker but the rest of the flight attendants on this trip are outstanding. United needs to bottle and sell this service quality. The seats are still indifferent, though.
The Polaris Lounge in Chicago is great, but the lounges are only in Chicago, Houston, San Francisco and Newark. Pity the poor sucker that flies through, say, Dulles (America's worst hub) or Los Angeles.
The fivefour-across seats solve the problem of crawling across your neighbor, but trying to sleep is like trying to sleep in an MRI tube -- or a coffin. The area around the seat where you place your head is inadequately wide for the human shoulder -- an ergonomic sacrifice on the altar of efficiency. It's easier to move in an MRI tube than it is to move in one of these seats. And getting in and out, well, yuck.
I'll admit it's better than the eight-across coach masquerading as first class in the 777-200s. But damn, if your competition is the foreign airlines, I suspect United has a long way to go. I suspect this makes their premium economy product attractive.
Am I too harsh????????
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I flew a 787-9 from LAX to IAH the other day, while it didn't have full Polaris service, I definitely see your point. I'm 1K and got upgraded to 6L. The lay flat leaves alot to be desired, it is fairly narrow, and the arm rest doesn't move which makes laying fairly uncomfortable. I had a short flight relatively speaking for a 787, but I can see flying overseas and trying to be comfortable for an extended period of time being not worth the cash/points (if you don't get an auto upgrade).
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I flew a 787-9 from LAX to IAH the other day, while it didn't have full Polaris service, I definitely see your point. I'm 1K and got upgraded to 6L. The lay flat leaves alot to be desired, it is fairly narrow, and the arm rest doesn't move which makes laying fairly uncomfortable. I had a short flight relatively speaking for a 787, but I can see flying overseas and trying to be comfortable for an extended period of time being not worth the cash/points (if you don't get an auto upgrade).
Keep in mind... you're not paying a premium for Polaris. You're paying the premium to not be in coach.
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Keep in mind... you're not paying a premium for Polaris. You're paying the premium to not be in coach.
I’m not paying anything, I wasn’t going to take that particular route unless I knew I would get upgraded at no charge. I’d have been fine in Economy Plus or Premier Plus.
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Keep in mind... you're not paying a premium for Polaris. You're paying the premium to not be in coach.
NO. Many of us are paying for Polaris. We’re paying for a level of service appropriate to an international flight of eight to 10 hours.
Brother Gyros, I also took a walk back into United Premium Economy (also known as “Coach with more leg room). It’s on international flights and is distinguished from Economy Plus by eight across seating (current United 777-200 protocol is a cramped 10 across in standard economy) and about 34-36 inches of seat pitch. I actually think that looks like a great deal given the comparative cramped position of United Polaris.
It seems like United just can’t shed the bean counters attitude toward its most loyal customers.
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Has anyone flown in "real" United Polaris in recent months. Being a United UDP ("Unprofitable Domestic Passenger"), I never see "real" Polaris, so when I booked a flight to Paris last month for last week, I was really intrigued.
I was incredibly disappointed. In fact, I had trouble fathoming the big deal about Polaris. The product is marginally better than United's non-Polaris equipped planes and the service, candidly, is typically United -- spotty to indifferent where the flight attendants are "there" but seem generally disinterested in going the extra mile, or even doing their job.
Full disclosure: the service on the return flight has been exponentially better than on the outbound. The pulsar is the same hard worker but the rest of the flight attendants on this trip are outstanding. United needs to bottle and sell this service quality. The seats are still indifferent, though.
The Polaris Lounge in Chicago is great, but the lounges are only in Chicago, Houston, San Francisco and Newark. Pity the poor sucker that flies through, say, Dulles (America's worst hub) or Los Angeles.
The five-across seats solve the problem of crawling across your neighbor, but trying to sleep is like trying to sleep in an MRI tube -- or a coffin. The area around the seat where you place your head is inadequately wide for the human shoulder -- an ergonomic sacrifice on the altar of efficiency. It's easier to move in an MRI tube than it is to move in one of these seats. And getting in and out, well, yuck.
I'll admit it's better than the eight-across coach masquerading as first class in the 777-200s. But damn, if your competition is the foreign airlines, I suspect United has a long way to go. I suspect this makes their premium economy product attractive.
Am I too harsh????????
What route did you fly? ORD to CDG? They don't have any routes with the new Polaris seating out of Chicago yet, save for random unplanned planes that get moved around. Not sure what you mean by 5 across? The new layout is 1-2-1 and every seat has aisle access.
As someone has flown the majority of my 1K business class upgrades on the terrible 777-200s, its a HUGE upgrade. They finally started flying it on the EWR to BOM routes, so I finally flew it in Jan, and then again on a HKG to EWR flight in March. I had no issues with the new seat and love the privacy/direct aisle access. I have no clue what you expect if 4 across business is "cramped". Literally no other airline has less.
United can't compete with the foreign carriers, name the Asian and Middle Eastern, but their seats have been reviewed very favorably across the internet. Service is spotty, I agree. You'll have great FAs and some that don't care, its not consistent. But the bedding/pillows are fantastic. The new seats are a huge improvement.
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What route did you fly? ORD to CDG? They don't have any routes with the new Polaris seating out of Chicago yet, save for random unplanned planes that get moved around. Not sure what you mean by 5 across? The new layout is 1-2-1 and every seat has aisle access.
As someone has flown the majority of my 1K business class upgrades on the terrible 777-200s, its a HUGE upgrade. They finally started flying it on the EWR to BOM routes, so I finally flew it in Jan, and then again on a HKG to EWR flight in March. I had no issues with the new seat and love the privacy/direct aisle access. I have no clue what you expect if 4 across business is "cramped". Literally no other airline has less.
United can't compete with the foreign carriers, name the Asian and Middle Eastern, but their seats have been reviewed very favorably across the internet. Service is spotty, I agree. You'll have great FAs and some that don't care, its not consistent. But the bedding/pillows are fantastic. The new seats are a huge improvement.
Brother Wags:
IAD-CDG.
My son and I flew to France to celebrate his 21st birthday. We had “real” Polaris on the 5:25 p.m., CDG Departure and again on the 12:25 p.m., IAD departure today. I don’t disagree that the Polaris is a huge upgrade from the 777-200 Business cattle cars, which probably should be called Waygu Class. And, you are right — my oversight on the 4 across. I’m just not a big fan of sleeping/resting in a coffin or an MRI tube. Neither engender warmth!
I have compared it to United International First, which I’ve flown quite a few times to Europe (most recently 1.5 years ago to LHR). Not even close! The amenities on Global First, which is a thing of the past not just with United but with many other European and Asian airlines, were far superior to what we experienced in Polaris.
Given the hype with which United rolled Polaris out, it’s a dud.
Full disclosure: I’m sitting on United 914 4A from CDG to IAD as I write this.
P.S. — The SFA amenities were an improvement, to the extent we received them, but I suspect there are more than what we received. Something about limited quantities. If United can’t have enough of what they offer for each passenger, then, well, yikes.
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Traveling to Spain/Portugal in September. Barcelona, Sevilla, Lisbon, Porto. Four days in each city. Any recommendations?
I’d add a. Day to Barcelona and take one away from Sevilla.
There are some great beer bars in Barcelona. Will get you a list if interested.
Take tuk-tuk tour in Lisbon. Great way to see the city. Do it on the first day. Eat in the a Time Out market. Eat peri peri chicken. Go to Belen. And Sinatra. Make a day of it.
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When my first daughter turned 10, I took her to Washington DC. I really just wanted to see the Cubs play the Nats, but it turned into a birthday present and, I guess, a tradition I will now do with the other kids.
On June 9 I'm taking my 10 year-old daughter to New York to see a Harry Potter play on Broadway. We're staying in Times Square and flying into LaGuardia. Does anyone have a good recommendation for getting to the airport to our hotel?
(I'm not trying to start another debate), but I should probably mention I don't have a unnatural carnal knowledgeing smartphone.
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Taxi. No other good way without Uber or lyft.
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When my first daughter turned 10, I took her to Washington DC. I really just wanted to see the Cubs play the Nats, but it turned into a birthday present and, I guess, a tradition I will now do with the other kids.
On June 9 I'm taking my 10 year-old daughter to New York to see a Harry Potter play on Broadway. We're staying in Times Square and flying into LaGuardia. Does anyone have a good recommendation for getting to the airport to our hotel?
(I'm not trying to start another debate), but I should probably mention I don't have a unnatural carnal knowledgeing smartphone.
Take da furst horse and buggy ya cee, hey?
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When my first daughter turned 10, I took her to Washington DC. I really just wanted to see the Cubs play the Nats, but it turned into a birthday present and, I guess, a tradition I will now do with the other kids.
On June 9 I'm taking my 10 year-old daughter to New York to see a Harry Potter play on Broadway. We're staying in Times Square and flying into LaGuardia. Does anyone have a good recommendation for getting to the airport to our hotel?
(I'm not trying to start another debate), but I should probably mention I don't have a unnatural carnal knowledgeing smartphone.
Its hard to tell because LGA seems to change week to week because of construction but I arrived there a couple weeks ago and found their Uber set-up to be excellent. They have an Uber "lounge" in the arrival area with a couple helpful employees to help you know where to go to find the cars but it's also well signed. You book your car and actually walk into the parking garage into a designated ride share pickup area. Once your car confirms you text back to the driver and tell them what pillar you are standing at (4F, 4E, etc.) and the car pulls up to where you are standing. Pretty easy.
There are bus links to manhattan from LGA if you really want to do it on the cheap, but the Uber thing is so easy I wouldn't try anything else.
On ground level there is a queue for smelly yellow taxi for those who are not smartphone enabled.
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I was at LGA last week, taxi is really your only option without Uber/Lyft.
I’m actually fighting with the Renaissance in Midtown right now over their valet service to the airport that was supposed to be $54, and then my credit card got dinged at $85.
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I’d add a. Day to Barcelona and take one away from Sevilla.
There are some great beer bars in Barcelona. Will get you a list if interested.
Take tuk-tuk tour in Lisbon. Great way to see the city. Do it on the first day. Eat in the a Time Out market. Eat peri peri chicken. Go to Belen. And Sinatra. Make a day of it.
Would love a list. Thanks for the suggestions!
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Traveling to Spain/Portugal in September. Barcelona, Sevilla, Lisbon, Porto. Four days in each city. Any recommendations?
Sagrada Familia (in Barcelona). For me, I think really the most beautiful man made structure I have ever seen. Spend the time to go inside. The outside is cool as heck, but the inside, with all the stained glass, lights up like crazy. Red, yellow and orange on one side, and blues and greens on the other. It is immensely beautiful. You can also go up to the top and have great views of the city.
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Would love a list. Thanks for the suggestions!
When do you go?
Barcelona
Bars:
Red Fish Barcelona - great beach bar - https://www.facebook.com/redfishbarcelona
Biercab - Beers from around the world - https://www.facebook.com/biercab
Garage Beer Co - Local microbrew, they did a collaboration with our local brewery - https://www.facebook.com/Garage-Beer-Co-228690754358087
Kælderkold - great beer selection in the Gothic quarter - https://www.instagram.com/olgodcraftbeer/
Cocovail - https://www.facebook.com/cocovailbeerhall
Tapa Tapa Maremagnum - touristy, but a great location on the marina if you can get an outdoor seat. good cheap tapas and wine. https://www.facebook.com/Tapatapabar-306968553174204/
Lisbon:
Bars:
Crafty Corner - good local beers, good wings - https://www.craftycornerbeer.com/
Castro Beer - https://www.craftycornerbeer.com/
Walk along the river, ton of little outdoor stands. Go to the main square on the water, hang a right, start walking. Sit, have a drink, watch the world go by.
Stop at any hole in the wall that has Ginja, a cherry liquor that is a tradition. Have a shot.
Food:
Time Out Market (good local beers too): https://www.timeoutmarket.com/lisboa/
Piri Piri Chicken - It is just grill chicken with piri piri sauce, a national favorite
Two places that had good ones:
Piri Piri - R. do Arco do Marquês de Alegrete 9, 1100-034 Lisboa
Bonjardim - a bit more touristy, but good - Tv. de Santo Antão 12, 1150-265 Lisboa
Get out to Belem and see the Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Go to the top of both.
As I said, do a tuk tuk tour when you get there, gives you a great overview of the very hilly city. We used these guys, but there are a ton out there - https://www.lisbon-tuk-tours.com/tuktukbestsellers
Sintra is cool if you have the time. Could be combined with Belem
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Oh, and in Sevilla, find a park, square, plaza where there is a stand that sells fresh squeezed orange juice, sit and have a glass and watch the world go by. You will never be happy with store bought OJ again. And have a second glass and ask them to add vodka. Repeat.
Looking back at my posts, I think I may have a drinking problem. ;D
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When my first daughter turned 10, I took her to Washington DC. I really just wanted to see the Cubs play the Nats, but it turned into a birthday present and, I guess, a tradition I will now do with the other kids.
On June 9 I'm taking my 10 year-old daughter to New York to see a Harry Potter play on Broadway. We're staying in Times Square and flying into LaGuardia. Does anyone have a good recommendation for getting to the airport to our hotel?
(I'm not trying to start another debate), but I should probably mention I don't have a unnatural carnal knowledgeing smartphone.
LGA is a mess right now with the major construction. As suggested taxi or Uber are really the only choices. (JFK has a train option.). Just allow yourself a few extra minutes getting to LGA.
I fly out of there frequently. 2 weeks ago I forgot to reserve the parking for Terminal D and had to park in B and it added 30-40 getting in & out of the terminal waiting for shuttle busses then going around the LGA loop. Thank goodness for Pre-Check and Silver Medallion status.
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Oh, and in Sevilla, find a park, square, plaza where there is a stand that sells fresh squeezed orange juice, sit and have a glass and watch the world go by. You will never be happy with store bought OJ again. And have a second glass and ask them to add vodka. Repeat.
Looking back at my posts, I think I may have a drinking problem. ;D
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I can confirm.
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I can confirm.
Thanks for confirming that my Sevilla suggestion was a good one. ;)
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When do you go?
Barcelona
Bars:
Red Fish Barcelona - great beach bar - https://www.facebook.com/redfishbarcelona
Biercab - Beers from around the world - https://www.facebook.com/biercab
Garage Beer Co - Local microbrew, they did a collaboration with our local brewery - https://www.facebook.com/Garage-Beer-Co-228690754358087
Kælderkold - great beer selection in the Gothic quarter - https://www.instagram.com/olgodcraftbeer/
Cocovail - https://www.facebook.com/cocovailbeerhall
Tapa Tapa Maremagnum - touristy, but a great location on the marina if you can get an outdoor seat. good cheap tapas and wine. https://www.facebook.com/Tapatapabar-306968553174204/
Lisbon:
Bars:
Crafty Corner - good local beers, good wings - https://www.craftycornerbeer.com/
Castro Beer - https://www.craftycornerbeer.com/
Walk along the river, ton of little outdoor stands. Go to the main square on the water, hang a right, start walking. Sit, have a drink, watch the world go by.
Stop at any hole in the wall that has Ginja, a cherry liquor that is a tradition. Have a shot.
Food:
Time Out Market (good local beers too): https://www.timeoutmarket.com/lisboa/
Piri Piri Chicken - It is just grill chicken with piri piri sauce, a national favorite
Two places that had good ones:
Piri Piri - R. do Arco do Marquês de Alegrete 9, 1100-034 Lisboa
Bonjardim - a bit more touristy, but good - Tv. de Santo Antão 12, 1150-265 Lisboa
Get out to Belem and see the Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Go to the top of both.
As I said, do a tuk tuk tour when you get there, gives you a great overview of the very hilly city. We used these guys, but there are a ton out there - https://www.lisbon-tuk-tours.com/tuktukbestsellers
Sintra is cool if you have the time. Could be combined with Belem
Sincere thank you for all the suggestions. We'll make sure to check some (or all) of these places out in each city. We're already planning on Sintra and Belem.
We go the first few weeks of September.
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LGA is a mess right now with the major construction. As suggested taxi or Uber are really the only choices. (JFK has a train option.). Just allow yourself a few extra minutes getting to LGA.
I fly out of there frequently. 2 weeks ago I forgot to reserve the parking for Terminal D and had to park in B and it added 30-40 getting in & out of the terminal waiting for shuttle busses then going around the LGA loop. Thank goodness for Pre-Check and Silver Medallion status.
Flew in and out of LGA last week. Construction is a mess. On arrival, instead of getting in taxi line outside of terminal, all taxi pickups are a 5 minute shuttle bus ride away. Not a big deal, but if used to looking for cabs at terminal it was a little odd.
Give yourself plenty of time when you leave. I would also suggest to look at JFK and Newark both have trains that take you right to Penn Station and Times Square is just a few blocks north of Penn Station. Cab from Grand Central area to LGA was close to $50 (probably more with tip). Train is just a few dollars.
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Sincere thank you for all the suggestions. We'll make sure to check some (or all) of these places out in each city. We're already planning on Sintra and Belem.
We go the first few weeks of September.
Not sure I would go far out of my way for any of them. But you will likely be on the beach and the Gothic Quarter, so two for sure. If you are in the neighborhood of the others and need a break, good palces to stop. Mrs pbflyer really liked Garage.
Not sure who you are going with, but if you need to buy gifts for females, the cork jewelry in Lisbon goes over really well. Buy them at a market in a square. Cheap and popular. One of my wife's favorite pieces of jewelry.
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Doing a Brewers road trip and hitting Great American Ball Park and PNC the first week of July. Would welcome Cincy and Pittsburgh restaurant/bar suggestions as well as any must sees while in the cities for a few days.
I've been to Cincinnati a few times and done everything there except the Newport Aquarium. Looking mostly for nightlife, bars and restaurants.
It will be our first time in Pittsburgh so all suggestions welcome.
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Just a quick heads up.
Came back from Normandy a little over a week ago. The tour of the beaches is moving, especially given the sacrifices that many made on the day of the invasion. It was special to be able to tour the area and to realize what type of country we and our allies are.
Stayed in Bayeaux, France, about 20 minutes away. Bayeaux is a fascinating little town that was untouched by World War II. Good food and very friendly people. Scenery is very pretty in the area. Also went to St. Lo, where we saw an 11th century cathedral that had been badly damaged in WWII but reconstructed. Damage from artillery was still there in the walls. Most interesting piece: seeing the new and legacy stain glass.
How do I know it's new: It had a drawing of a farmer on a Ford tractor in it and another had etchings of St. John XXIII and Maximillian Kolb in it.
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Just a quick heads up.
Came back from Normandy a little over a week ago. The tour of the beaches is moving, especially given the sacrifices that many made on the day of the invasion. It was special to be able to tour the area and to realize what type of country we and our allies are.
Stayed in Bayeaux, France, about 20 minutes away. Bayeaux is a fascinating little town that was untouched by World War II. Good food and very friendly people. Scenery is very pretty in the area. Also went to St. Lo, where we saw an 11th century cathedral that had been badly damaged in WWII but reconstructed. Damage from artillery was still there in the walls. Most interesting piece: seeing the new and legacy stain glass.
How do I know it's new: It had a drawing of a farmer on a Ford tractor in it and another had etchings of St. John XXIII and Maximillian Kolb in it.
Last night, I just took photos of my photos from my Normandy visit in February 1986. (The good ole Kodak Disc Camera.) I planned to share on Facebook for the 75th anniversary of D-Day. As a high school exchange student in LeMans a trip to Normandy was included. I visited Bayeux too and saw the Bayeux Tapestry with Haley's Comet on it which was cool to see because the comet was passing Earth in 1986. I remember hanging out on the church steps in St. Lo in the evening as our hotel was there.
I was very moved too looking at Omaha Beach knowing my Great Uncle and his twin brother landed on it on Day 1. I also vividly recall visiting Pont-du-Hoc, the Mulberry Harbor at Arromanche and the American Cemetery in COLLEVILLE-SUR-MER.
Le Mont St Michel is the area as is St. Malo where all the French explorers departed from on there way to the New World.
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I love Normandy.
My ancestors came from Dieppe and settled in Trois Rivieres in Quebec in the late 1600s, before making their way to Southern New France (Ste. Genevieve and later St. Louis, where I was born).
Visted the Normandy Beaches in 2013, but was unable to go to the cemeteries as our government was shut down (infuriating). Pont du Hoc was by far the most memorable experience of that day.
Mont St Michel was worthwhile, although incredibly touristy nowadays.
The food in Normandy is incredible. I've never had anything like the fresh seafood from there.
Nantes is also a cool nearby city worth checking out (in Brittany, not Normandy, but still close). It is not touristy at all, you get a great sense of the local culture and cuisine. There is a beautiful castle in the town center, which you can tour. It is also worth seeing the Machines of the Isle of Nantes: https://www.lesmachines-nantes.fr/en/
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Mont St Michel was worthwhile, although incredibly touristy nowadays.
The food in Normandy is incredible. I've never had anything like the fresh seafood from there.
I did Mont St. Michel on the Sunday I was there. What was amazing about it was that they built this massive abbey on top of a rock in the Atlantic Ocean. They did so by moving massive stones to a large rock outcropping and then lifting them to the final location. In the 10th Century!
No steel. No iron and no other supporting structures. Just stone. Amazing.
Think about it. The work was done without cranes, without hydraulics and without bulldozers and dynamite. The notion of being able to do this with, what by today's standards, is primitive and almost primordial construction techniques is beyond fathoming.
P.S. -- The tapestry was a hoot as well. There were some scenes of everyday life in the first few panels that were, to say the least, amusing.
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I did Mont St. Michel on the Sunday I was there. What was amazing about it was that they built this massive abbey on top of a rock in the Atlantic Ocean. They did so by moving massive stones to a large rock outcropping and then lifting them to the final location. In the 10th Century!
No steel. No iron and no other supporting structures. Just stone. Amazing.
Think about it. The work was done without cranes, without hydraulics and without bulldozers and dynamite. The notion of being able to do this with, what by today's standards, is primitive and almost primordial construction techniques is beyond fathoming.
P.S. -- The tapestry was a hoot as well. There were some scenes of everyday life in the first few panels that were, to say the least, amusing.
The abbey was very cool indeed. Didn't mean to knock Mt St Michel, just wish there wasn't so much touristy stuff at the bottom of the Mount.
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https://instagram.com/passengershaming?igshid=n8lzp8grzuqc
Any Scoopers in here?
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Damn, there are a lot of messed up people on a plane. WTF?
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Grand Rapids recommendations anyone?
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Founders Brewing?
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Founders Brewing?
Yeah that's about all I know about the place
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Grand Rapids recommendations anyone?
Recommendations for what? When will you be here and for how long? Business or pleasure? I am your GRR huckleberry.
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Recommendations for what? When will you be here and for how long? Business or pleasure? I am your GRR huckleberry.
Thursday mid day to Friday afternoon for pleasure. Ideally two restaurants, a cool bar and if there's a more unique brewery than founders you'd suggest. Also at least one cheap dive food spot.
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This week? Where are you staying? What is your favorite kind of diner dive food?
https://harmonybeer.com/
http://www.mittenbrewing.com/
https://www.perrinbrewing.com/
http://newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker/
https://www.atwaterbeer.com/locations/atwater-grand-rapids/
If you are staying downtown, New Holland and Atwater are within walking distance, a little less than 1/2 mile apart, crossing the river.
Mitten is a mile and a half from downtown, has phenomenal pizza and good homemade beer. If you are really feeling adventurous, try the Westerdog pizza.
Harmony has two locations, in opposite directions from downtown. I recommend the Eastown location.
Perrin is about 6 miles from downtown, but has a good menu and my personal favorite, Perrin Black Ale.
If you are downtown and just want to eat stupid, I recommend Stella's https://www.stellasgr.com/
Or the original Hopcat. http://www.hopcat.com/
If you are staying out by the airport, honestly, it feels like any other generic upscale suburb.
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Things that bother me about air travel...and safety.
Getting banged on the head in my aisle seat by clueless dorks with backpacks who can’t carry them at waist level as they enter the plane.
The up and downers to the overhead bins.
Families who let their young kids take over the luggage carousel (Hint: They cannot carry your overstuffed 60 pound luggage bag and the carousel isn’t a playground).
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Alright looking at a winter vacation resorts, criteria:
1. Non-stop from ORD. MKE would be a plus if possible.
2. All-inclusive. Don’t care what your opinion is.
3. Within 60 minutes from destination airport, we’ll have a private transfer, but prefer not to spend a lot of time in transit.
4. Golf nearby or included.
Adults only preferred, butler service is nice. Prefer to be on the ocean, but not a dealbreaker. Good food is a priority, but the all inclusive part understands the quality may be lacking.
I’m going to get 4ever’s suggestion of Hedo out of the way, we’re not looking at getting into that. I’d have to grow a mustache and get all kinds of robes and lotions and I'd need a new bedspread and new curtains I'd have to get thick carpeting and weirdo lighting.
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Cabo San Lucas. Best beaches. Wonderful restaurants and great people.
More than a few all-inclusive resorts if that's your gig.
Non-stop from ORD on AA and UA.
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Grand Rapids recommendations anyone?
It’s been more than a few years since I was a regular visitor in GR, but if you have the means, I highly suggest the JW Marriott.
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This week? Where are you staying? What is your favorite kind of diner dive food?
https://harmonybeer.com/
http://www.mittenbrewing.com/
https://www.perrinbrewing.com/
http://newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker/
https://www.atwaterbeer.com/locations/atwater-grand-rapids/
If you are staying downtown, New Holland and Atwater are within walking distance, a little less than 1/2 mile apart, crossing the river.
Mitten is a mile and a half from downtown, has phenomenal pizza and good homemade beer. If you are really feeling adventurous, try the Westerdog pizza.
Harmony has two locations, in opposite directions from downtown. I recommend the Eastown location.
Perrin is about 6 miles from downtown, but has a good menu and my personal favorite, Perrin Black Ale.
If you are downtown and just want to eat stupid, I recommend Stella's https://www.stellasgr.com/
Or the original Hopcat. http://www.hopcat.com/
If you are staying out by the airport, honestly, it feels like any other generic upscale suburb.
Love GR. Great recommendations above.
Really +1 to Harmony Brewing, and +1 for the Eastown recommendation. Outstanding pizza & good beer options.
The JW is probably nicest to stay; the Homewood Suites is better than what the brand usually offers, although $30+ overnight for parking is BS in GR.
Others:
- Brewery Vivant - great Belgian beer; go for lunch or dinner as the food is outstanding.
- The Chop House is your local flagship steakhouse; was impressed late last year.
- Madcap Coffee makes a mean cortado & was one of the first 3rd wave coffeeshops in the country. Rowster on Wealthy also gets the job done.
- Craft Beer Cellar to bring home bottles/cans from 40+ local breweries - all from one place.
In Holland - about a half-hour away - huge fan of almost everything on tap at Big Lake Brewing.
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30 years in GR for me. Agreed on everything. Except I don't drink coffee.
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Galway Eagle, where did you end up going? Or did you just stay in?
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Galway Eagle, where did you end up going? Or did you just stay in?
Thought I PM'd you letting you know and thanking you for all the recommendations.
Ended up doing Perrin, Founders, and Atwater when we arrived. The B.O.B that night. New Holand and Mitten the next day for lunch.
Also checked out the Meijer Japanese Garden and a cool coffee truck called outdoor coffee. We were staying on 28th and Buchanon which I would not do again though.
It's a much bigger city than I expected and I would 100% go back. Only bust was Atwater, didn't care for the beer and it was abandoned save a little league baseball team having dinner in the back room. Every other spot was fantastic.
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Yeah, don't do 28th and Buchanan. Glad you had fun.
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One interesting aspect is what airline you fly into a specific airport. Sky Harbor is a great example, as Terminal 2 (United) is terrible, but if you go to the Southwest Terminal, it’s great, totally different experience.
I also knock down PHX for the 10 minute drive to the car rental facility.
This. In some of the older posts on here people mentioned Lambert. Were/Are those people flying in and out of the Southwest terminal? That’s the only way to do it there. Locals all fly Southwest, which has its own terminal there whenever possible. It’s been that way there for many years. It’s way better. American was the big airline there prior to that, as it had a big hub there. And of course TWA was there. Different terminals matter sometimes in different airports.
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I’d add a. Day to Barcelona and take one away from Sevilla.
There are some great beer bars in Barcelona. Will get you a list if interested.
Take tuk-tuk tour in Lisbon. Great way to see the city. Do it on the first day. Eat in the a Time Out market. Eat peri peri chicken. Go to Belen. And Sinatra. Make a day of it.
Where you staying (specific area or property)? Porto is the bomb too.
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Where you staying (specific area or property)? Porto is the bomb too.
Gothic Quarter in Barcelona. Calle Lanza near Casa de Pilatos in Sevilla.
Airbnb near Masa Hotel Almirante in Lisbon. On R. De Tomas Gonzaga near Cometa restaurant in Porto
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This. In some of the older posts on here people mentioned Lambert. Were/Are those people flying in and out of the Southwest terminal? That’s the only way to do it there. Locals all fly Southwest, which has its own terminal there whenever possible. It’s been that way there for many years. It’s way better. American was the big airline there prior to that, as it had a big hub there. And of course TWA was there. Different terminals matter sometimes in different airports.
American and TWA were one in the same. American acquired TWA just about the time TWA was on its last legs. Much of what TWA had in St. Louis came from TWA's acquisition of Ozark.
St. Louisians fly Southwest because its about the only way you can get anywhere from St. Louis non-stop without passing through a hub somewhere else. Southwest also offers the opportunity to fly on real jets (no matter how cramped) rather than third-rate flying partners on crapjets.
The TWA acquisition and addition of the St. Louis hub was one of the dumber things American ever did. While they may have picked up some slots into London, they acquired a hub in St. Louis that was duplicative of Chicago and Dallas (and about an hour's flying time from either). And, with the years-later acquisition of US Air (aka US Scare), the hub American acquired from TWA at JFK was redundant with US Scare's principal hub at Philadelphia.
Not quite as bad as Pan Am's acquisition of National but up there.
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American and TWA were one in the same. American acquired TWA just about the time TWA was on its last legs. Much of what TWA had in St. Louis came from TWA's acquisition of Ozark.
St. Louisians fly Southwest because its about the only way you can get anywhere from St. Louis non-stop without passing through a hub somewhere else. Southwest also offers the opportunity to fly on real jets (no matter how cramped) rather than third-rate flying partners on crapjets.
The TWA acquisition and addition of the St. Louis hub was one of the dumber things American ever did. While they may have picked up some slots into London, they acquired a hub in St. Louis that was duplicative of Chicago and Dallas (and about an hour's flying time from either). And, with the years-later acquisition of US Air (aka US Scare), the hub American acquired from TWA at JFK was redundant with US Scare's principal hub at Philadelphia.
Not quite as bad as Pan Am's acquisition of National but up there.
St. Louis was the largest hub for TWA. Ozark bought it's airplanes from McDonnell and Douglas which later merged and headquartered there. Later bought by Boeing. Just 20 years ago Lambert had the 8th most flights per day. Airline deregulation hurt St. Louis as did antitrust anti-monopoly legislation in the 70's and 80's. It went from mid 20's fortune 500 companies to half of that amount. This also hurt other mid sized cities/metros.
Yep. Fun fact. TWA was the original football dome sponsor there. The seats were even red and never changed color.
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It just shows me how time flies. I remember flying TWA when our kids were young and changing planes in SLU on the way to Tampa.
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JFK Airport just opened the TWA Hotel in the old Eero Saarinen designed TWA Terminal. It is TWA themed.
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JFK Airport just opened the TWA Hotel in the old Eero Saarinen designed TWA Terminal. It is TWA themed.
I saw that featured on some TV show. Seems like a nostalgic waste of money to me.
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I saw that featured on some TV show. Seems like a nostalgic waste of money to me.
Been quite open that they're looking to attract plane nerds with cash to burn.
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Been quite open that they're looking to attract plane nerds with cash to burn.
All 100 of 'em, huh?
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It just shows me how time flies. I remember flying TWA when our kids were young and changing planes in SLU on the way to Tampa.
I flew Ozark from Nashville to St. Louis and then to Milwaukee back from Christmas and Spring Break in the 1970s. When my Dad did not all but toss me onto the Amtrak that ran through town at the time.
Or, as it was known at the time, "Nozark"
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JFK Airport just opened the TWA Hotel in the old Eero Saarinen designed TWA Terminal. It is TWA themed.
What a great memory for me. On a return from Spain in the late 70s I sat in that terminal for many hours enjoying the parade of landings out the window of that incredible view ...what a great design!!!
I have kind of stupid/silly memory of TWA. It had posters up all over Madrid promoting TWA flights to the USA. The photo was of a very pretty Stewardess...with the caption !Venga, Vuele Conmigo! ....this was the ad agency loosely translating TWAs "Come fly with me" ad slogan.
The girl in the photo, however,... also had a prominent name tag that said JODI .....Spaniards loved and laughed at the inadvertent double meaning which jumped out at them....ya seeee
Joder is the castillian spanish verb for "to f#ck" ....Jodi is the personal past tense ..... yo Jodi means ...I F#cked!!!......SO....
...This TWA poster and her name tag accidentally said to Madrid locals....Come fly with me and ( BTW, by this tag...JODI) I f#ck!!!!!
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Ah, da origin of da mile hi club. Eye sea, hey?
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I saw that featured on some TV show. Seems like a nostalgic waste of money to me.
Reviews for it have actually been very good. Bit pricey for an airport hotel, but the dining is supposedly fantastic and it was a pool/pool bar overlooking the airport and its runways. There is some nostalgia and the cocktail bar in the old TWA plane is a bit corny, but its not a dumpy Disney style tourist trap. What else should they have done with an iconic historical building?
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Just got back from 2+ weeks in the Pacific Northwest -- 5 nights in Bend, 2 nights in Redwoods Natl Park area, 5 nights along Oregon coast, 4 nights in Seattle.
Had a great time at every stop, saw and did a lot of interesting, fun things. Stayed at airbnbs our first four stays. Our first time ever doing the airbnb thing -- each very different, each with positives (mostly) and negatives.
Loved Bend; could definitely live there. Enjoyed it all, though. Time with family, friends, Mrs. 82, some incredible scenery, lots of outdoorsy stuff, more than a little beer.
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Just got back from 2+ weeks in the Pacific Northwest -- 5 nights in Bend, 2 nights in Redwoods Natl Park area, 5 nights along Oregon coast, 4 nights in Seattle.
Had a great time at every stop, saw and did a lot of interesting, fun things. Stayed at airbnbs our first four stays. Our first time ever doing the airbnb thing -- each very different, each with positives (mostly) and negatives.
Loved Bend; could definitely live there. Enjoyed it all, though. Time with family, friends, Mrs. 82, some incredible scenery, lots of outdoorsy stuff, more than a little beer.
Any conifer ale summits with Crash to report on?
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Any conifer ale summits with Crash to report on?
Not this time. We have met in the past and solved most of the world's problems.
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Not this time. We have met in the past and solved most of the world's problems.
Apparently we are still waiting on implementation. ::)
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Apparently we are still waiting on implementation. ::)
I know ... It's hard to believe the House and Senate didn't agree that Hazy Mosaic IPAs For All would be a game-changer.
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Love Seattle, haven’t been here in about 5 years. Sea-Tac great airport...except for the continued brutally bad rental car transportation. I’m here at 11pm and rental car bus line is 150 people deep. Bad, bad, bad.
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Love Seattle, haven’t been here in about 5 years. Sea-Tac great airport...except for the continued brutally bad rental car transportation. I’m here at 11pm and rental car bus line is 150 people deep. Bad, bad, bad.
Not a fan. What do you love? I have friends who travel there on business and love it. I have friends who live there a long and love it in doses but need to get out of there every other weekend.
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Not a fan. What do you love? I have friends who travel there on business and love it. I have friends who live there a long and love it in doses but need to get out of there every other weekend.
Glow Jr. is living there now. He loves it, especially because he is a skier and hiker, but doesn't love the cost of living there. He doesn't have one of those super highly paid tech jobs. I am not sure he intends to be there long term.
Fortunately, he has the type of job where it is relatively easy to transfer to another office in just about any region in the country.
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He should ring up keefe. Certain heel bee happy ta show him'round, hey?
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He should ring up keefe. Certain heel bee happy ta show him'round, hey?
Glow jr. reads Scoop. He knows how to get ahold of Keefe if he is so inclined.
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Glow Jr. is living there now. He loves it, especially because he is a skier and hiker, but doesn't love the cost of living there. He doesn't have one of those super highly paid tech jobs. I am not sure he intends to be there long term.
Fortunately, he has the type of job where it is relatively easy to transfer to another office in just about any region in the country.
My daughter and her husband live there. They love Seattle and it's hard to imagine them leaving. They both have pretty good jobs, though. You certainly are right about it being expensive.
My son lives in Chicago, so both kids live in high-priced places.
Kids ... whattayagonna do?
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Glow jr. reads Scoop. He knows how to get ahold of Keefe if he is so inclined.
So safe bet Keefe's inbox ain't filling up anytime soon?
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Not a fan. What do you love? I have friends who travel there on business and love it. I have friends who live there a long and love it in doses but need to get out of there every other weekend.
I almost moved there to work for Amazon about 5 years ago and in my current job, get there about twice a year. As a Midwest lifer across 3-4 states in the region, I LOVE the geographic diversity. You have the ocean/bay but also mountains right behind you. For all the talk of gloomy weather, I'm just fine with the milder winter, and Ive been there multiple times during summer months where it is perfect.
There is also just kind of a different vibe to it. Lots has changed with the tech invasion and expansion, but my Dad has been traveling there since the late 80s and said there is still a uniqueness to Seattle that hasn't changed.
Cons: Its become and continues to be wildly expensive. And the Northwest Freeze. Even my friend who lives there that showed me around during my interview visit warned me I'd likely be mostly hanging with "ex pats" cause PNW lifers weren't super keen on outsiders. They are nice, but it wouldn't move much past surface level.
And Keefe is a fantastic source for recos. For all the varied opinions of him here, he's generous and very helpful when it comes to Seattle.
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I can understand the NW freeze JWags. Outsiders have overwhelmed the city and that has assuredly changed the culture somewhat. And we're not even talking about what it has done to the affordability factor.
It's funny. For decades I lamented that Milwaukee was unbelievably insular because ZERO new blood ever arrived. That's changed in the last decade or so and I personally believe it has dramatically enhanced the city. A little new blood is great for a city. Too much, maybe not so much.
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Just spent a week in Cooperstown at the Cooperstown dream park. I was one of the coaches for my son's team and as such got to spend a week in an un-airconditioned barrack with a dozen smelly 12 year olds. However, if you ever have an opportunity to go watch one of their tournaments, do so. 13 weeks, a different set of 104 teams every week. All U-12 teams. Fascinating to see the difference in sizes among 12 and young 13 year olds. Shortest around 4'4, the tallest 6'4. If you have children or grandchildren who play travel baseball and they get the chance to go, spend the money for them to do it and then go with them. You will not regret it.
edit: Clearly, my typing skills have atrophied. An embarrassing amount of typos.
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Just spent a week in Cooperstown at the Cooperstown dream park. I was one of the coaches for my son's team and as such got to spend a week in an un-airconditioned barrack with a dozen smelly 12 year olds. However, if you ever have an opportunity to go watch one of their tournaments, do so. 13 weeks, a different set of 104 teams every weeks. All U-12 teams. Fascinating to see the difference in sizes among 12 and yound 12 year olds. Shortest around 4'4, the tallest 6'4. If you have children or grandchildren who play travel baseball and they get the chance to go, spend the money for them to do it and then go with them. You will not regret it.
I umpired there for a week in mid-June. First time for me. I shared a barracks with smelly old guys ... but at least it was an unseasonably cool week temp-wise. We had one day that was just about lost to rain, but otherwise weather was nice. The top 20 teams or so were very, very good but there also was some bad baseball -- teams that were just there for the experience, which I certainly can see why.
It was fun to make friends with umps from all over the country, and the kids were almost all great. A few coaches and parents were jags, but that happens anywhere at any level. I probably would do it again if they ask.
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I talked to an ump who will spend all 13 weeks there and is currently working on a streak of 100 straight weeks. Talk about not having a life. I saw mostly good baseball. However, the big kids who can launch are in a category by themselves. 300' homers on 200' fences. I never met a jerk on the sidewalks between games. Yes, during games, some of the participants, coaches, fans get intense. But in the down time, I came in contact with only one person who really ticked me off, and that was a mom with a two pack a day voice berating the service staff for the amount of chips in her nachos and the lack of lids for her soft drink. The coaches had great talks about the 12 year old thought process and hygiene practices and lack thereof. It is apparently universal.
And good for you for working one. I am glad you enjoyed it. (For the most part)
I had a team that was there mostly for the experience. 1-6, but only one blowout. An extra inning loss, 2 one run losses, 2 two run losses, and a 9-2 loss in the elimination round that was 3-2 in the 4th. One sloppy inning later and pfffft. Our hitters didn't hit enough for the week. But it was a hoot.
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Glow jr. reads Scoop.
I thought you would have raised him better than that! ;D
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I thought you would have raised him better than that! ;D
Yeah, he is an adult now. We have to let him make his own decisions.
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I talked to an ump who will spend all 13 weeks there and is currently working on a streak of 100 straight weeks. Talk about not having a life. I saw mostly good baseball. However, the big kids who can launch are in a category by themselves. 300' homers on 200' fences. I never met a jerk on the sidewalks between games. Yes, during games, some of the participants, coaches, fans get intense. But in the down time, I came in contact with only one person who really ticked me off, and that was a mom with a two pack a day voice berating the service staff for the amount of chips in her nachos and the lack of lids for her soft drink. The coaches had great talks about the 12 year old thought process and hygiene practices and lack thereof. It is apparently universal.
And good for you for working one. I am glad you enjoyed it. (For the most part)
I had a team that was there mostly for the experience. 1-6, but only one blowout. An extra inning loss, 2 one run losses, 2 two run losses, and a 9-2 loss in the elimination round that was 3-2 in the 4th. One sloppy inning later and pfffft. Our hitters didn't hit enough for the week. But it was a hoot.
I ran across a few of those "permanent umpires." They've got quite a gig. I might go back, but never for more than 1 week in a summer. That's more than enough. Glad you, your son and the rest of the kids had such a great time.
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I've been on the road way too much this last month, and one thing I've noticed now more than in the past is how many airports have major construction projects going on. My home base of ORD has the never ending runway project and the upcoming Terminal 2 re-design. LGA is going through it's major rehaul, I was at Sky Harbor last week and saw the rental car tram finally under construction. In Nashville now and they're under major construction as well.
It'll be interesting to see these changes come mid 2020's, US airports lag far behind their Asian/European counterparts.
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I've been on the road way too much this last month, and one thing I've noticed now more than in the past is how many airports have major construction projects going on. My home base of ORD has the never ending runway project and the upcoming Terminal 2 re-design. LGA is going through it's major rehaul, I was at Sky Harbor last week and saw the rental car tram finally under construction. In Nashville now and they're under major construction as well.
It'll be interesting to see these changes come mid 2020's, US airports lag far behind their Asian/European counterparts.
SFO is in the midst of a redesign. Just partially opened a new Terminal 1 for ValuJet and SWA.
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It'll be interesting to see these changes come mid 2020's, US airports lag far behind their Asian/European counterparts.
I think it all depends. I don’t think Euro airports necessarily outpace most of the US ones unless you compare those that are recently remodeled against US ones that have not been. Frankfort and Munich are two of the best and I don’t find them to be all that special other than being modern and efficient. Zurich is nice but I just flew Geneva and it’s...fine. There is a heavier focus on duty free in Europe because of VAT, but other than funneling people through a flashy duty free area and some variety in lounges (due to more “international” carriers) I don’t view it as significantly different than somewhere like LGA’s remodeled terminals or what I assume new ORD will look like.
Asia is a different story. From the airlines to the airports and their lounges, its all elevated service and customer experience. And the airports themselves serve as tourist attractions in and of themselves. I’m flying through Changi Airport in Singapore next week and it’s a spectacle. Designed and focused in a way that just wouldn’t happen in the US or Europe. Between US cost cutting and Europe fundamental changes to air travel on the national carriers to match the ultra low cost carriers, it’s just a different mindset to air travel. Just my thoughts as someone who sees a fair amount of airports
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SFO is in the midst of a redesign. Just partially opened a new Terminal 1 for ValuJet and SWA.
MSY will open a whole new airport. KC in building a new one.
Getting out of LGA is a nightmare at least C and D terminals.
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I've been on the road way too much this last month, and one thing I've noticed now more than in the past is how many airports have major construction projects going on. My home base of ORD has the never ending runway project and the upcoming Terminal 2 re-design. LGA is going through it's major rehaul, I was at Sky Harbor last week and saw the rental car tram finally under construction. In Nashville now and they're under major construction as well.
It'll be interesting to see these changes come mid 2020's, US airports lag far behind their Asian/European counterparts.
Was just flying in and out of LGA a few weeks ago and got see the completed 1st phase for Terminal B (United). Good Lord it's miracle. It wasn't a terrible experience like the past - in fact, it was fairly enjoyable. The new way they do RideShare works well - similar to the Seattle method of going to a specifically marked zone (and they have multiple) in the parking garage. As for flying out, they still haven't finished the reno for security so that still is crap for PreCheck. Once thu security the terminal is open, airy, lots of plugs, way better layout and finally has decent options for food. No Auntie Anne's pretzel dogs for dinner when your flight is delayed. Have a Shake Shack in the terminal it's great. Bathrooms are actually able to handle people and luggage too.
I don't think you can just say Asian airports are great - it really depends on the country. I'll be flying into Beijing in a few weeks and the airports is really great looking, has well organized immigration but the Air China lounge is garbage! A lot of Chinese airports are lipstick on pigs - very superficial. Bangkok is so so. Incheon is nice but Gimpo is meh - though most of the "city" airports are older and therefore more dated.
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Closer to home. Does this really get legs?
https://www.jsonline.com/story/money/2019/08/06/midwest-express-airline-takes-next-step-toward-flying-again/1931377001/
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Closer to home. Does this really get legs?
https://www.jsonline.com/story/money/2019/08/06/midwest-express-airline-takes-next-step-toward-flying-again/1931377001/
Big question is if the naming rights of the convention center come full circle. And the cookies.
Sounds like it will be limited and a long ways out. I grew up flying Midwest, so from a nostalgia perspective it would be cool.
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I'm getting old, I forgot how miserable the car rental shuttle experience is at LAX, especially if you fly United and you're last to get on, and last to get off going back to the airport.
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Was just flying in and out of LGA a few weeks ago and got see the completed 1st phase for Terminal B (United). Good Lord it's miracle. It wasn't a terrible experience like the past - in fact, it was fairly enjoyable. The new way they do RideShare works well - similar to the Seattle method of going to a specifically marked zone (and they have multiple) in the parking garage. As for flying out, they still haven't finished the reno for security so that still is crap for PreCheck. Once thu security the terminal is open, airy, lots of plugs, way better layout and finally has decent options for food. No Auntie Anne's pretzel dogs for dinner when your flight is delayed. Have a Shake Shack in the terminal it's great. Bathrooms are actually able to handle people and luggage too.
Security is a work in progress, but going to the numbered gates instead of the C gates for United flights is like heaven. C gates felt like you were in a set for a TV period piece, now its modern, clean and airy. I don't spend a ton of time, I'm a 45 min before my flight kind of guy with PreCheck, but its appreciated if I catch a delay. Agree about the Rideshare too. Its smooth, its efficient. Usually in and out in about 5 min if I order when I'm walking over. Slowly cleansing the nightmares of the rideshare shuttle I put up with for a year plus.
I'm getting old, I forgot how miserable the car rental shuttle experience is at LAX, especially if you fly United and you're last to get on, and last to get off going back to the airport.
LAX at best is fine, at worst it can be the 7th level of hell. Between that, between times where the Uber/Lyft pickup is a disaster. I almost missed a flight last year when I was ON LAX PROPERTY, 90 min before my flight. Came in on the North side, per usual, but he missed the turn in front of the old restaurant to cross over to the United terminal. Then to go to the next cross over and merge and the merge again took the better part of 45 min. I thought I was in a SAW film. It was insanity.
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Closer to home. Does this really get legs?
https://www.jsonline.com/story/money/2019/08/06/midwest-express-airline-takes-next-step-toward-flying-again/1931377001/
No.
Next question.
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We went to LGA recently from ORD on Delta. Delayed over 2 hours before we took off. On the flight home, we were delayed 4 hours before we got on the plane (they claimed it was because a flight attendant didn’t show), then after we boarded, we sat on the tarmac for 3.5 hours. Like the recent stories, little to no communication about what was going on and when we’d leave, finally got a tiny bottle of water and peanuts about 2.5 hours after being on the tarmac and at one point, the pilot came on to say we were about to pull away when the ground crew just left for some unknown reason.
It doesn’t surprise me to read about the recent delays involving Delta. By far, they have to be the worst airline around.
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We went to LGA recently from ORD on Delta. Delayed over 2 hours before we took off. On the flight home, we were delayed 4 hours before we got on the plane (they claimed it was because a flight attendant didn’t show), then after we boarded, we sat on the tarmac for 3.5 hours. Like the recent stories, little to no communication about what was going on and when we’d leave, finally got a tiny bottle of water and peanuts about 2.5 hours after being on the tarmac and at one point, the pilot came on to say we were about to pull away when the ground crew just left for some unknown reason.
It doesn’t surprise me to read about the recent delays involving Delta. By far, they have to be the worst airline around.
I'm curious as to what the delay/cancellation numbers look like at hub vs non-hub airports. I suppose LGA is technically a DL hub, but what's their ability to cover equipment and personnel delays compared to ATL, MSP, DTW, etc.?
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Sorry gang, I still think LGA is a hellhole to be avoided at all costs.
New York has a funny way of making good ideas bad. They can make a nice airport but an adequacy of seating on the new United/American concourse is still lacking. And, they'll never fix the air side or air space problem at LGA unless the Port Authority is able to demolish nearby homes and build another runway.
I tend to use EWR, taking a train from Midtown Manhattan. EWR is a dump in its own right but it is better run and better organized than LGA. By a long-shot.
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Sorry gang, I still think LGA is a hellhole to be avoided at all costs.
New York has a funny way of making good ideas bad. They can make a nice airport but an adequacy of seating on the new United/American concourse is still lacking. And, they'll never fix the air side or air space problem at LGA unless the Port Authority is able to demolish nearby homes and build another runway.
I tend to use EWR, taking a train from Midtown Manhattan. EWR is a dump in its own right but it is better run and better organized than LGA. By a long-shot.
I don't disagree that LGA is a mess. I still think all construction and renovation needs to be completed before a full assessment is made. They improved the B gates tremendously. The rideshare set up for Terminal B is excellent. It went from a dated logistical mess overall to a mid tier airport in terms of overall experience. The delay issues are always going to be a problem, that wont change, I agree there.
I object to EWR being a dump. Depends what you fly I guess. Terminal C is excellent. Its bright, its airy, its open. Makes LGA seem claustrophobic. They are sorting out the security a bit still, but I have no issues. Very simple and easy to get a car or taxi after.
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I don't disagree that LGA is a mess. I still think all construction and renovation needs to be completed before a full assessment is made. They improved the B gates tremendously. The rideshare set up for Terminal B is excellent. It went from a dated logistical mess overall to a mid tier airport in terms of overall experience. The delay issues are always going to be a problem, that wont change, I agree there.
I object to EWR being a dump. Depends what you fly I guess. Terminal C is excellent. Its bright, its airy, its open. Makes LGA seem claustrophobic. They are sorting out the security a bit still, but I have no issues. Very simple and easy to get a car or taxi after.
Flying DL in and out of LGA is a nightmare. Waited 2 hours for an Uber, would have been longer to get a shuttle to get a taxi.
But even after the renovation is completed, it will still be a challenge to get in/out of there. Why they didn't include something other than a bus route in a multi billion dollar renovation is beyond me.
People call NY a world class city, but it really isn't. They haven't figured out a way to collect garbage other than dumping it on the sidewalks, leaving a feast for rats and roaches. Airports are dismal at best. Traffic is horrific.
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I don't disagree that LGA is a mess. I still think all construction and renovation needs to be completed before a full assessment is made. They improved the B gates tremendously. The rideshare set up for Terminal B is excellent. It went from a dated logistical mess overall to a mid tier airport in terms of overall experience. The delay issues are always going to be a problem, that wont change, I agree there.
I object to EWR being a dump. Depends what you fly I guess. Terminal C is excellent. Its bright, its airy, its open. Makes LGA seem claustrophobic. They are sorting out the security a bit still, but I have no issues. Very simple and easy to get a car or taxi after.
This. I fly out of LGA regularly and it's getting there. I always got to Terminals C & D (Delta).
The AirTrain is coming too. Looks likely construction is set to begin in 2020.
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I object to EWR being a dump. Depends what you fly I guess. Terminal C is excellent.
Terminal C? United?
Are we talking Newark, NJ or Newark, DE?
The United Club is C is a joke. Horribly bad. Overcrowded. Impossible do any work. The Polaris Lounge is a poor excuse for a United Club, much less the premium amenity United promises. My wife went in the Polaris lounge on her way to Greece and almost screamed. It was crowded, dirty and had used dishes laying around everywhere. Any chance for a proper dinner went out the window.
The terminal itself is a food mall with airport crammed around the edges. I'll agree that around C130, its nice. Dump is generally descriptive for the rest of it. And, the old United "A" concourse, where all the Distress flights depart, is downright nasty.
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Terminal C? United?
Are we talking Newark, NJ or Newark, DE?
The United Club is C is a joke. Horribly bad. Overcrowded. Impossible do any work. The Polaris Lounge is a poor excuse for a United Club, much less the premium amenity United promises. My wife went in the Polaris lounge on her way to Greece and almost screamed. It was crowded, dirty and had used dishes laying around everywhere. Any chance for a proper dinner went out the window.
The terminal itself is a food mall with airport crammed around the edges. I'll agree that around C130, its nice. Dump is generally descriptive for the rest of it. And, the old United "A" concourse, where all the Distress flights depart, is downright nasty.
The Polaris Lounge is a poor excuse for a United Club? GTFO. Maybe your wife had a bad experience, but its a large step up from the normal United Clubs. Your first mistake is expecting a "proper dinner" in an airline lounge. Try to swing a meal at Classified if you want that at EWR. Sorry the US doesn't do bourgeois "First Class" lounges with 15 people in them.
Of course the airport is focused around dining and retail, what else should it be? A nice cinema and a spa down the middle of the concourse? The bar/dining in the middle with touch screen ordering is efficient and clean and keeps things open and moving, reduces clutter. The A terminal is dated and in need of a facelift but calling it "downright nasty" makes you sound like you fly twice a year. I just flew through Nashville, if you want to talk about a major city's airport that is a dump.
Really curious what airports really blow your hair back. And preferably not small regional ones.
People call NY a world class city, but it really isn't. They haven't figured out a way to collect garbage other than dumping it on the sidewalks, leaving a feast for rats and roaches. Airports are dismal at best. Traffic is horrific.
LOL. Name a world class city then? Bad traffic disqualifies? See ya to every large city in the US and Asia. The airports are a mess, agreed but again, so are plenty.
The garbage is a problem but thats because they didn't plan for the population and growth 250 years ago. They aren't alone in that. Chicago is really the only historically old city in the country planned with them. But again, name me world class cities that don't have issues with tons of population and the trash they produce. Sound awfully sheltered or like you have a bad experience in Times Square and have it out for the Big Apple
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The Polaris Lounge is a poor excuse for a United Club? GTFO. Maybe your wife had a bad experience, but its a large step up from the normal United Clubs. Your first mistake is expecting a "proper dinner" in an airline lounge. Try to swing a meal at Classified if you want that at EWR. Sorry the US doesn't do bourgeois "First Class" lounges with 15 people in them.
Of course the airport is focused around dining and retail, what else should it be? A nice cinema and a spa down the middle of the concourse?
1) In Chicago, we did have a "proper meal" when my son and I went to Paris. It was incredibly pleasant, calming and frankly, what I expected from United. Newark was a dump, pure and simple. United just changed the United Club's name on the door, as best we can tell.
2) Actually, until recently most US carriers did a first class lounge. At Heathrow, United had one of the best airline experiences in its first class lounge I've ever had. It was quiet. Service was attentive and unbelievable. Likewise, the first class lounge at O'Hare and Houston was really great when it existed. The only time it went bad was when United was building Polaris in Chicago and they opened a bus station for a first class lounge. Quite simply, bean counting met luxury head on and customer service lost.
3) How about an airport. How about having enough seats for people to sit. How about having a concourse where we don't have to dodge diners to get to a gate. Is that too much to ask? Probably!
The airports I like, in no particular order, are Seattle, Orlando McCoy, Houtson InterCo and even O'Hare.
Places I hate are Washington Dulles, Newark, LaGuardia, LAX and Atlanta. DTW is good is you are not flying Delta. Awful if you are! Ditto for MSP.
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1) In Chicago, we did have a "proper meal" when my son and I went to Paris. It was incredibly pleasant, calming and frankly, what I expected from United. Newark was a dump, pure and simple. United just changed the United Club's name on the door, as best we can tell.
2) Actually, until recently most US carriers did a first class lounge. At Heathrow, United had one of the best airline experiences in its first class lounge I've ever had. It was quiet. Service was attentive and unbelievable. Likewise, the first class lounge at O'Hare and Houston was really great when it existed. The only time it went bad was when United was building Polaris in Chicago and they opened a bus station for a first class lounge. Quite simply, bean counting met luxury head on and customer service lost.
3) How about an airport. How about having enough seats for people to sit. How about having a concourse where we don't have to dodge diners to get to a gate. Is that too much to ask? Probably!
The airports I like, in no particular order, are Seattle, Orlando McCoy, Houtson InterCo and even O'Hare.
Places I hate are Washington Dulles, Newark, LaGuardia, LAX and Atlanta. DTW is good is you are not flying Delta. Awful if you are! Ditto for MSP.
Fair enough. I was more speaking to the fact that with US carriers (save American...for now) merging International First and Business, those lounges don't really exist. So comparing that as the standard is unrealistic. Same as comparing to Midwest Express or how PanAm/TWA was years and years ago. Your experiences are surprising. Ive spent a decent amount of time in both the ORD and EWR Polaris lounges, and it really must be time dependent. Ive seen both packed and both sparsely populated I didn't see much of a difference and frankly like EWR's runway views better. If you've been in a standard UC bathroom versus the individual cubicles at the Polaris lounge, also no comparison.
Your complaints about the dining areas near gates, I won't even deal with further. There are ample walkways on both sides, you're don't walking through a mall food court :o
Funny you say ORD. I have no issue, its my home base airport, and its perfectly fine, but you get people who act like its the 7th level of hell cause they got delayed on the way to Vegas one time. I personally hate MCO, the whole place feels tacky. I do love that there is usually approx 2 people in the Pre-Check line cause everyone else flies once every 2 years. Heathrow is a lightning rod as well for people, but I absolutely enjoy flying in and out. Spacious, airy, efficient, love the Heathrow Express, and the best "standard" United Club ive been to.
IAD and LAX are the pits. CVG, KCI, BNA, and MSY round out my domestic hated list.
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Everytime I fly in and out of BNA, I want to steal one of the retro posters up on the wall during the long walk from the United gates to the rest of the terminal.
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I agree that MSY and KCI are terrible. I always thought the variation in mid market airports throughout the US varied wildly. MSY is just bleak, for such a vibrant city, it isn’t the most welcoming place. PDX, DSM, CLT, CMH all seem to do a good job of cleanliness, well laid out, feels like you’re “in” that city, ample space and food options spread out to not be clustered.
Of major cities, ORD actually does a decent job, I don’t understand people that hate on it. The people mover fiasco though...
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KCI is the absolute worst, with MSY (just flew out of there today) and MEM also pretty terrible.
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I agree that MSY and KCI are terrible. I always thought the variation in mid market airports throughout the US varied wildly. MSY is just bleak, for such a vibrant city, it isn’t the most welcoming place. PDX, DSM, CLT, CMH all seem to do a good job of cleanliness, well laid out, feels like you’re “in” that city, ample space and food options spread out to not be clustered.
Of major cities, ORD actually does a decent job, I don’t understand people that hate on it. The people mover fiasco though...
MSY is getting a new airport. If they ever fix the issues with the piping, it may even open. From what I have seen, it looks really nice. Getting to and from will be even more of a challenge though with the limited access from I-10. And for people like me that rent cars, it will be a pain, as they are leaving the car rental facility at the old terminal.
I like the refurbishment in place in Austin, plus the added perk of being able to take your drink and stroll around the airport. It did startle me the first time I saw someone board the plane with a beer in their hand.
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I agree that MSY and KCI are terrible. I always thought the variation in mid market airports throughout the US varied wildly. MSY is just bleak, for such a vibrant city, it isn’t the most welcoming place. PDX, DSM, CLT, CMH all seem to do a good job of cleanliness, well laid out, feels like you’re “in” that city, ample space and food options spread out to not be clustered.
Of major cities, ORD actually does a decent job, I don’t understand people that hate on it. The people mover fiasco though...
We were just in MSY last night. They are opening up a completely new airport in a couple of months. Looks cool from the outside, and we saw on TV that the woman who was named "Chef of the Year" in NOLA is opening up a restaurant there.
ETA: Jinx, Flyer!
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Everytime I fly in and out of BNA, I want to steal one of the retro posters up on the wall during the long walk from the United gates to the rest of the terminal.
Dish, the next time you are in town, check this place out (if you haven't already).
https://hatchshowprint.com/
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LOL. Name a world class city then? Bad traffic disqualifies? See ya to every large city in the US and Asia. The airports are a mess, agreed but again, so are plenty.
The garbage is a problem but thats because they didn't plan for the population and growth 250 years ago. They aren't alone in that. Chicago is really the only historically old city in the country planned with them. But again, name me world class cities that don't have issues with tons of population and the trash they produce. Sound awfully sheltered or like you have a bad experience in Times Square and have it out for the Big Apple
Yeah, sheltered. I ate at the Red Lobster in Time Square on my only visit. ::) In the past 12 months, I've only been to NYC 10 times, which is actually a bit of a down year for me. And I stray well beyond Time Square, as I work and stay in Brooklyn and Queens, as well as Manhattan. I am by no means an expert in the Big Apple.
Let me clarify for you. As far as the garbage, no other major city that I have been in piles their garbage on the sidewalks each and every night. Now, I haven't been to Kabul or other garden spots you may be saying also have the same problem.
And for traffic, the infrastructure in NYC is god awful. All the expressways are strewn with potholes and generally in awful conditions, as are the surface streets. And they have no real plans to address any of their traffic issues, unlike many world class cities. It will only get worse.
The cabs are nasty. Use a taxi in Berlin, London, or Rome and they are far better. (Although the ones in Rome are much like Mr Toad's Wild Ride)
The whole city seems to be in constant constructions. You can't walk more than a few blocks without having to duck through scaffolding or detour around closed sidewalks.
Bars are closing by the hundreds, as rent prices have drove them out of business.
Look there are some amazing things about NYC, but there are major flaws to what people proclaim as the greatest city in the world.
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We were just in MSY last night. They are opening up a completely new airport in a couple of months. Looks cool from the outside, and we saw on TV that the woman who was named "Chef of the Year" in NOLA is opening up a restaurant there.
ETA: Jinx, Flyer!
And kudos to your choices of venues in the Big Easy. Some excellent places!
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We were just in MSY last night. They are opening up a completely new airport in a couple of months. Looks cool from the outside, and we saw on TV that the woman who was named "Chef of the Year" in NOLA is opening up a restaurant there.
ETA: Jinx, Flyer!
Was told much the same by one of the people I met with there who is a 5th generation New Orleansian. She was not quite as optimistic about the timing although she did mention you had to drive through a neighborhood to get there as well as the chef/restaurant. It does look nice from the outside.
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And kudos to your choices of venues in the Big Easy. Some excellent places!
The most fun place was a neighborhood joint in Central City that we stopped in on Sunday afternoon after touring the Garden District. We were the only people in the place except for the bartender and a local guy, and we all watched a Marvel movie on the TV and cracked jokes about it. Local Guy was a stitch. Typical comment:
"Mmm, that Black Widow is fine! You KNOW The Hulk hit that!"
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Yeah, sheltered. I ate at the Red Lobster in Time Square on my only visit. ::) In the past 12 months, I've only been to NYC 10 times, which is actually a bit of a down year for me. And I stray well beyond Time Square, as I work and stay in Brooklyn and Queens, as well as Manhattan. I am by no means an expert in the Big Apple.
Let me clarify for you. As far as the garbage, no other major city that I have been in piles their garbage on the sidewalks each and every night. Now, I haven't been to Kabul or other garden spots you may be saying also have the same problem.
And for traffic, the infrastructure in NYC is god awful. All the expressways are strewn with potholes and generally in awful conditions, as are the surface streets. And they have no real plans to address any of their traffic issues, unlike many world class cities. It will only get worse.
The cabs are nasty. Use a taxi in Berlin, London, or Rome and they are far better. (Although the ones in Rome are much like Mr Toad's Wild Ride)
The whole city seems to be in constant constructions. You can't walk more than a few blocks without having to duck through scaffolding or detour around closed sidewalks.
Bars are closing by the hundreds, as rent prices have drove them out of business.
Look there are some amazing things about NYC, but there are major flaws to what people proclaim as the greatest city in the world.
I didn't say you were sheltered, I said your argument sounded sheltered 8-) like it was an exception. First off, Ive never called it the greatest city in the world, and those that do either have a romanticized version of it, or default by virtue of it being the premiere city in what they consider the best country in the world. But not saying its the greatest city in the world, doesn't mean its not "world class" which is all I pushed back on.
Tokyo leaves garbage out on the streets for collection. HK, Beijing, and Shanghai all have trash problems. Rome may not have garbage bags sitting out, rather they have trash everywhere. Easily the dirtiest city Ive ever been to. I adore London more than anything, but there is a growing rubbish problems in the streets there as well. Massive cities with high density have trash problems. Many are looking at ways to solve it, but NYC isn't unique with those struggles.
Cabs, agree to disagree, London is the only place where cabs are clearly superior for me, and you pay for it. There is a reason rideshare apps have taken over the world in all varieties. And NY is hardly the only city under "constant construction". Chicago has the most cranes going in the Western Hemisphere, Asia is constantly growing and changing, London is constantly revitalizing. One of the amusing things about my world travels is noticing the different scaffolding types and layouts from country to country, continent to continent.
Again, NY has it warts, no denying it. But deeming it some uniquely flawed place that isn't "world class" just smacks of bias.
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Funny you say ORD. I have no issue, its my home base airport, and its perfectly fine, but you get people who act like its the 7th level of hell cause they got delayed on the way to Vegas one time. I personally hate MCO, the whole place feels tacky. I do love that there is usually approx 2 people in the Pre-Check line cause everyone else flies once every 2 years. Heathrow is a lightning rod as well for people, but I absolutely enjoy flying in and out. Spacious, airy, efficient, love the Heathrow Express, and the best "standard" United Club ive been to.
IAD and LAX are the pits. CVG, KCI, BNA, and MSY round out my domestic hated list.
I like MCO. It is my home airport six months out of the year. Quick security clearance because i have pre-check. The people mover with the recording of OrlandoMayorBuddyDyer I could do without but it's efficient and the United club staff are wonderful. The club is a bit small but the folks more than make up for it. Car to security to gate is about nine minutes on average.
BNA? I don't get that one. I remember the old BNA and that WAS a dump. It has been gone for years. I get that BNA is like a six level chess set sometimes and that the walks are long, but it's a mid-sized airport and fine. Parking and rental cars are easy to get to (though a bit more silly since they moved the cars to the end of the garage). Close to downtown Nashville and the freeways aren't bad.
IAD needs to be blown up and tried again. At the very least, tear down the United Terminal and start over. What a hellhole.
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I didn't say you were sheltered, I said your argument sounded sheltered 8-) like it was an exception. First off, Ive never called it the greatest city in the world, and those that do either have a romanticized version of it, or default by virtue of it being the premiere city in what they consider the best country in the world. But not saying its the greatest city in the world, doesn't mean its not "world class" which is all I pushed back on.
Tokyo leaves garbage out on the streets for collection. HK, Beijing, and Shanghai all have trash problems. Rome may not have garbage bags sitting out, rather they have trash everywhere. Easily the dirtiest city Ive ever been to. I adore London more than anything, but there is a growing rubbish problems in the streets there as well. Massive cities with high density have trash problems. Many are looking at ways to solve it, but NYC isn't unique with those struggles.
Cabs, agree to disagree, London is the only place where cabs are clearly superior for me, and you pay for it. There is a reason rideshare apps have taken over the world in all varieties. And NY is hardly the only city under "constant construction". Chicago has the most cranes going in the Western Hemisphere, Asia is constantly growing and changing, London is constantly revitalizing. One of the amusing things about my world travels is noticing the different scaffolding types and layouts from country to country, continent to continent.
Again, NY has it warts, no denying it. But deeming it some uniquely flawed place that isn't "world class" just smacks of bias.
I second this post. Pbiflyer's complaints re NYC are applicable to every city regarding traffic and trash. Cabs are gross? Easy don't take one, a world class city offers great public transport and in most countries Uber and Lyft.
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I second this post. Pbiflyer's complaints re NYC are applicable to every city regarding traffic and trash. Cabs are gross? Easy don't take one, a world class city offers great public transport and in most countries Uber and Lyft.
Living in Connecticut, I'm in NYC all the time. I've taken a cab maybe once? I either drive in and subway & walk or Metro North Train and subway & walk.
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No.
Next question.
Do you prefer Grand Rapids, Omaha or Cincinnati?
https://www.jsonline.com/story/money/2019/08/28/new-midwest-express-fly-between-mke-and-grand-rapids-omaha-and-cincinnati/2131665001/
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I dig the United gate signage at ORD that is now in Bears script with the old B in B concourse and the helmet C in C concourse. I also travel too much.
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I dig the United gate signage at ORD that is now in Bears script with the old B in B concourse and the helmet C in C concourse. I also travel too much.
Had a Dodge Challenger rental yesterday and today in Denver....what a powerful production car. Loved it. Would never buy one, but loved it
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Do you prefer Grand Rapids, Omaha or Cincinnati?
https://www.jsonline.com/story/money/2019/08/28/new-midwest-express-fly-between-mke-and-grand-rapids-omaha-and-cincinnati/2131665001/
No.
And they're leasing service from Elite Airways. Let's see how long it lasts.
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No.
And they're leasing service from Elite Airways. Let's see how long it lasts.
And there's plenty of discussions going on all excited about the return of real dinners and china and 2 across leather seating. Fools.
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Flew business class to Europe from ORD on Lufthansa. Got to use the Polaris Club. Was blown away. Super nice.
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Flew business class to Europe from ORD on Lufthansa. Got to use the Polaris Club. Was blown away. Super nice.
In Chicago, yes it is.
In Newark, forget it (please see conversation/debate with Brother JWags)
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No.
And they're leasing service from Elite Airways. Let's see how long it lasts.
I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it works out. A direct OMA/MKE flight would be very nice.
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I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it works out. A direct OMA/MKE flight would be very nice.
How many people do you think fly daily between Omaha and Milwaukee?
Without a connecting hub and spokes, this service is doomed.
Even with CRJ 200s, probably the most cramped jet in the sky, I don't see how this works.
Go back a few years. When Midwest Airlines started as Midwest Express, it came out of a need to fly Kimberly Clark executives and staff from Appleton to Atlanta. It later grew into a premium airline out of Milwaukee. The problem Midwest had was there was not enough O/D traffic from Milwaukee and not enough spokes flying into the city to make the hub there competitive against Fortress Chicago with United and American.
With Southwest in the Milwaukee market, I don't understand the opportunity for a contract airline to fly spoke service between Milwaukee, Grand Rapids (23 minutes flying time), Omaha and any other regional sub-market. The only thing that might make sense is Milwaukee to Dallas, Denver, Seattle, New York or Florida.
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Yeah, again, keeping my fingers crossed. I understand why it doesn’t exist now. I remember all the flights I used to take when it was Midwest and AirTran. I consistently had my group of three seats to myself, sometimes full rows, sometimes sections of the plane. I knew it wasn’t going to last. But damn, it was convenient.
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I'm really stumped how Midwest Express can grow .. let alone survive .. with Omaha, Grand Rapids, and Cincy as their routes.
Gotta have some money makers, like southbound tourism flights in the winter-spring months.
I know how hard it is to get a gate at an major airport. I wonder if any have ever tried going to minor airports. Like .. (random Florida search..) Sarasota, Florida. It's a legit airport with a few gates and 17 regular flights. It's within 2.5 hours drive of Tampa, Orlando, Ft. Myers, Naples and dozens of tourist islands.
Link MKE to Sarasota, and market it as a way to get to Florida's beaches. Same story for something like Pensacola. Zillions of Wisconsinites make that awful drive to Florida's panhandle.
I'm sure there's a reason this doesn't happen.. ?
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Yeah, again, keeping my fingers crossed. I understand why it doesn’t exist now. I remember all the flights I used to take when it was Midwest and AirTran. I consistently had my group of three seats to myself, sometimes full rows, sometimes sections of the plane. I knew it wasn’t going to last. But damn, it was convenient.
My father used to fly AirTran for his domestic business travel and United abroad. AirTran basically gave you status if you flew 5 round trips in a 3 month period. Which lead to alot of upgrades, status benefits, etc... It was pretty great for a frequent traveler. SWA has its benefits, but didn't compete with that, so when SWA acquired AirTran, he and many others were pretty ticked. Started flying United for everything then.
I know how hard it is to get a gate at an major airport. I wonder if any have ever tried going to minor airports. Like .. (random Florida search..) Sarasota, Florida. It's a legit airport with a few gates and 17 regular flights. It's within 2.5 hours drive of Tampa, Orlando, Ft. Myers, Naples and dozens of tourist islands.
Link MKE to Sarasota, and market it as a way to get to Florida's beaches. Same story for something like Pensacola. Zillions of Wisconsinites make that awful drive to Florida's panhandle.
I'm sure there's a reason this doesn't happen.. ?
All about price. Sarasota is a great smaller airport. During my time at PepsiCo, I worked on Tropicana. The former HQ and still base of operations was the plant in Bradenton. Sarasota was the preferred airport but only about 1 out of 3 trips would I fly into there because it was a substantially higher cost than heading to Tampa and renting a car.
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I'm really stumped how Midwest Express can grow .. let alone survive .. with Omaha, Grand Rapids, and Cincy as their routes.
Gotta have some money makers, like southbound tourism flights in the winter-spring months.
I know how hard it is to get a gate at an major airport. I wonder if any have ever tried going to minor airports. Like .. (random Florida search..) Sarasota, Florida. It's a legit airport with a few gates and 17 regular flights. It's within 2.5 hours drive of Tampa, Orlando, Ft. Myers, Naples and dozens of tourist islands.
Link MKE to Sarasota, and market it as a way to get to Florida's beaches. Same story for something like Pensacola. Zillions of Wisconsinites make that awful drive to Florida's panhandle.
I'm sure there's a reason this doesn't happen.. ?
supposedly they asked local business for what routes they would use that are underserved
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Eye wuzant axed, hey?
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All about price. Sarasota is a great smaller airport. During my time at PepsiCo, I worked on Tropicana. The former HQ and still base of operations was the plant in Bradenton. Sarasota was the preferred airport but only about 1 out of 3 trips would I fly into there because it was a substantially higher cost than heading to Tampa and renting a car.
Elite Airways, which is leasing crews and planes for the Midwest Express venture, already flies to "off-the-beaten-path" airports in Florida in the winter. They have regular service to Melbourne from cities on the east coast and from Vero Beach to Newark and Asheville.
Melbourne is a city with a boatload of defense contractors serving the Cape and Vero is a city desperate for commercial air service to anywhere. The Elite service to Newark and, more recently, Asheville, NC, has done well.
None of these places are Omaha, Grand Rapids and Cincinnati.
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Benny is flying into San Diego on Thursday evening for a Friday morning meeting.
Benny flies AAL and is looking at return flight options on Friday afternoon that connect through LAX.
Benny is a Brewer fan and knows there's a possibility that the Brewers will be playing in LA on Friday evening.
Ideally, Benny would like to take an afternoon flight into LAX, throw his duffel bag in a locker, Uber over to Dodger Stadium for a few hours, Uber back to LAX, and take the red-eye back to ORD in time for his daughter's volleyball game on Saturday.
However, if the Brewers don't advance to the NLDS (or they do but it's an afternoon game), Benny would like to take an earlier flight in order to get into ORD Friday evening.
Benny has status with AAL so can standby for earlier flights or do a same-day flight change (based on availability) for $75.
Benny knows that AAL allows a maximum connection time of 4 hours.
Accordingly, Benny the following options:
1) Book SAN-LAX and LAX-ORD as separate tickets. Pros: Pricing is roughly the same, flexibility to move one flight without having to adjust the other. Cons: If the first flight is delayed, AAL has no liability if the second flight is missed (likely only a problem if there's no Brewer game in LA); while not explicitly prohibited, may be a violation of the Carriage Rules which says: "Reservations made to exploit or circumvent fare and ticket rules are strictly prohibited."
2) Book return LAX-ORD. Rent car in SAN and drive to LA Friday afternoon. Pros: No rules violations. Maximum flexibility on LAX-ORD flight. Could leave San Diego a little later afternoon (and minimize downtime in LA). Cons: Driving from San Diego to LA; could miss earlier flight out of LAX (i.e. if no Brewer game that evening) if traffic is bad.
3) Book one ticket through SAN-LAX-ORD. Pros: Easiest to book. A little cheaper. Peace of mind if first flight is delayed. Cons: Can you standby or change just one leg of connecting flights?
4) Don't book anything until tomorrow night. This is actually what I'm going to do, but just out of curiosity has anyone ever done a "same-day flight change" on AAL only on the second leg of a connecting flight -or- fly standby on the first leg of that arrives >4 hours before the second flight
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If you're flying for work then just fly into San Diego and fly home from LAX. Pick up car rental in San Diego and return it at LAX. I do all the time. You have to fit your schedule.
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I don’t know AAL’s change process, but on United I can change any leg all the time for $0 (I’m 1K though on United). As an example, to get segments to keep my status, I’ll go to Austin from ORD. 24 hours before my return flight home, instead of going AUS-ORD, I’ll go AUS-HOU-ORD. If I want to keep AUS-ORD, and there’s availability, I can go later if I want. I’d imagine since LAX has more availability than an SAN flight, you’d be fine.
That being said, I’d go with #3 as my first option and #1 as my second option. I’d see how things shake out with the Brew Crew, and then if needed, adjust the LAX-ORD leg to the red eye. I can’t imagine AA disallowing that. You also should have 24 hours after booking to change as needed.
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Benny is flying into San Diego on Thursday evening for a Friday morning meeting.
Benny flies AAL and is looking at return flight options on Friday afternoon that connect through LAX.
Benny is a Brewer fan and knows there's a possibility that the Brewers will be playing in LA on Friday evening.
Ideally, Benny would like to take an afternoon flight into LAX, throw his duffel bag in a locker, Uber over to Dodger Stadium for a few hours, Uber back to LAX, and take the red-eye back to ORD in time for his daughter's volleyball game on Saturday.
However, if the Brewers don't advance to the NLDS (or they do but it's an afternoon game), Benny would like to take an earlier flight in order to get into ORD Friday evening.
Benny has status with AAL so can standby for earlier flights or do a same-day flight change (based on availability) for $75.
Benny knows that AAL allows a maximum connection time of 4 hours.
Accordingly, Benny the following options:
1) Book SAN-LAX and LAX-ORD as separate tickets. Pros: Pricing is roughly the same, flexibility to move one flight without having to adjust the other. Cons: If the first flight is delayed, AAL has no liability if the second flight is missed (likely only a problem if there's no Brewer game in LA); while not explicitly prohibited, may be a violation of the Carriage Rules which says: "Reservations made to exploit or circumvent fare and ticket rules are strictly prohibited."
2) Book return LAX-ORD. Rent car in SAN and drive to LA Friday afternoon. Pros: No rules violations. Maximum flexibility on LAX-ORD flight. Could leave San Diego a little later afternoon (and minimize downtime in LA). Cons: Driving from San Diego to LA; could miss earlier flight out of LAX (i.e. if no Brewer game that evening) if traffic is bad.
3) Book one ticket through SAN-LAX-ORD. Pros: Easiest to book. A little cheaper. Peace of mind if first flight is delayed. Cons: Can you standby or change just one leg of connecting flights?
4) Don't book anything until tomorrow night. This is actually what I'm going to do, but just out of curiosity has anyone ever done a "same-day flight change" on AAL only on the second leg of a connecting flight -or- fly standby on the first leg of that arrives >4 hours before the second flight
Has Brother Benny ever driven in Los Angeles traffic? The 405 at that time of day is a nightmare only surpassed by the 5.
Assuming Brother Benny is in Downtown San Diego, the trip to Dodger Stadium should take between 90 and 120 minutes sans traffic. But, that's a fantasy except after 10:00 p.m. Plan up to six hours to get to Dodger Stadium depending on time of day. And, there is NO mass transit!
If the Benster is planning on a 7:00 p.m. start, the game will be over by 10:30 p.m., assuming no extra innings. The bank of flights from LAX to ORD that would get Brother Benny to the volleyball game would leave around midnight. Assuming 2.5 hours to get from Dodger Stadium (Pasadena Freeway -- Cal 110 at Elysian Fields) down to the Harbor Freeway to the 105, return a rental car and clear security at LAX Terminal 5 and Brother Benny is pushing it in the extreme. More likely, Brother Benny is sleeping in chairs at LAX.
Uber probably takes 45 minutes less, but you lose that benefit at Dodger Stadium when you are competing late at night for the Ubers operating in LA at that time.
The morning bank leaves beginning between 5:30 a.m., and 6:00 a.m., and would arrive in Chicago around noon. Assuming an hour connecting time for a flight to Milwaukee and a 30 minutes actual flight, Brother Benny better hope the volleyball game does not start before 2:30 p.m.
P.S.— Benny, I travel to LA quite a bit on business and have entertained various versions of your great adventure — even when the Cardinals were in town. The logistics are a nightmare in SoCal. Also, have you priced Dodger tickets?
You are better off waiting until they return to Milwaukee!
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Has Brother Benny ever driven in Los Angeles traffic? The 405 at that time of day is a nightmare only surpassed by the 5.
Assuming Brother Benny is in Downtown San Diego, the trip to Dodger Stadium should take between 90 and 120 minutes sans traffic. But, that's a fantasy except after 10:00 p.m. Plan up to six hours to get to Dodger Stadium depending on time of day. And, there is NO mass transit!
If the Benster is planning on a 7:00 p.m. start, the game will be over by 10:30 p.m., assuming no extra innings. The bank of flights from LAX to ORD that would get Brother Benny to the volleyball game would leave around midnight. Assuming 2.5 hours to get from Dodger Stadium (Pasadena Freeway -- Cal 110 at Elysian Fields) down to the Harbor Freeway to the 105, return a rental car and clear security at LAX Terminal 5 and Brother Benny is pushing it in the extreme. More likely, Brother Benny is sleeping in chairs at LAX.
Uber probably takes 45 minutes less, but you lose that benefit at Dodger Stadium when you are competing late at night for the Ubers operating in LA at that time.
The morning bank leaves beginning between 5:30 a.m., and 6:00 a.m., and would arrive in Chicago around noon. Assuming an hour connecting time for a flight to Milwaukee and a 30 minutes actual flight, Brother Benny better hope the volleyball game does not start before 2:30 p.m.
P.S.— Benny, I travel to LA quite a bit on business and have entertained various versions of your great adventure — even when the Cardinals were in town. The logistics are a nightmare in SoCal. Also, have you priced Dodger tickets?
You are better off waiting until they return to Milwaukee!
Despite the facade, rest assured that Benny's no idiot (although, Benny is asking Scoop for travel advice, so maybe Benny is a few french fries short of a Happy Meal).
Yes, I have driven in SoCal. Twice. Once involved a late-morning drive from LAX to Ventura and back home that afternoon via Hope International. The other time was landing SNA at 9:15a, driving to Carlsbad, and having my 4:45 SAN-PHX-ORD flight (via PHX) cancelled while I was at lunch... so I calmly finished my meal and headed for LAX; I drove by the San Pechugas nuke station at 2:30 (which I know from the timestamp, because of course I took a picture), which means I left Carlsbad around 2:00, and still made it in plenty of time for my 6:15 flight back to ORD (incidentally, arriving at roughly the same time as my original PHX-ORD would have).
Yes, I've already priced tickets... a little over $200 gets me 20 rows from the Visitor's dugout. But I would hope that a combination of my a) needing just a single ticket and b) willingness to wait until last minute to buy will provide an opportunity to get into the stadium at a bargain price... at least by LA standards, which roughly translates to "not-sure-if-I-did-or-didn't-get-ripped-off" in Milwaukee.
But it occurred to me that it's not flight schedules or ticket prices that are going to make/break my plans.... Are there even lockers at LAX? I know some airports have done away with them, and Dodger Stadium most assuredly isn't going to let me inside the stadium with a duffel bag, especially after that debacle their counterpart across town had several years ago with the Queen.
You are better off waiting until they return to Milwaukee!
Of course I already have tickets for Game 3 back home... I figured I'd try to catch 2 NLDS games this year since after Sunday's game, there won't be baseball in Milwaukee for another 8 days.
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I've never seen lockers at LAX, and I did a quick google search to confirm and looks like there are not any. My two cents advice would be to find a hotel at LAX and ask if you can store your bags, I'm sure for a sawbuck someone would take your bags, and you'd be good to go. I think for one ticket, you'll end up getting a good deal.
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Despite the facade, rest assured that Benny's no idiot (although, Benny is asking Scoop for travel advice, so maybe Benny is a few french fries short of a Happy Meal).
Yes, I have driven in SoCal. Twice. Once involved a late-morning drive from LAX to Ventura and back home that afternoon via Hope International. The other time was landing SNA at 9:15a, driving to Carlsbad, and having my 4:45 SAN-PHX-ORD flight (via PHX) cancelled while I was at lunch... so I calmly finished my meal and headed for LAX; I drove by the San Pechugas nuke station at 2:30 (which I know from the timestamp, because of course I took a picture), which means I left Carlsbad around 2:00, and still made it in plenty of time for my 6:15 flight back to ORD (incidentally, arriving at roughly the same time as my original PHX-ORD would have).
Yes, I've already priced tickets... a little over $200 gets me 20 rows from the Visitor's dugout. But I would hope that a combination of my a) needing just a single ticket and b) willingness to wait until last minute to buy will provide an opportunity to get into the stadium at a bargain price... at least by LA standards, which roughly translates to "not-sure-if-I-did-or-didn't-get-ripped-off" in Milwaukee.
But it occurred to me that it's not flight schedules or ticket prices that are going to make/break my plans.... Are there even lockers at LAX? I know some airports have done away with them, and Dodger Stadium most assuredly isn't going to let me inside the stadium with a duffel bag, especially after that debacle their counterpart across town had several years ago with the Queen.
Of course I already have tickets for Game 3 back home... I figured I'd try to catch 2 NLDS games this year since after Sunday's game, there won't be baseball in Milwaukee for another 8 days.
Why not just check your bag Brother B?
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Brother Benjamin
Assuming the Brewers play Friday, here is you solution. You can pay me later!
1) When you finish your meeting, go to the Amtrak station and catch a San Diegan from SD to LAUPT. That’s about 3 miles from Dodger Stadium and no traffic worries.
2) there should be lockers at LAUPT.
3) Assuming the game is timed for the east coast, it should start by 5 pm so be in LA by 3, check your bag and enjoy the game.
4) After the game, get an Uber and pick your bag up at LAUPT on the way to the airport.
5) In case if no locker, see Dish’s idea. Smart one and the Westin, Marriott and several other hotels are nearby
Go Brewers!
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The obligatory pining of Scoop for travel info. I literally have a round the world business trip coming up the end of the month to visit several customers and a sister manufacturing plant.
- 12 hour layover in Seoul where I've already booked a Transit Tour. Special tours from Incheon to nearby places and you supposedly get to skip security on the return to airport.
- Kuala Lumpur - Just overnight on my way to......
- Penang, Malaysia
- Singapore
- Bangalore, India
I've got flights and hotels booked and most of the transportation worked out.
I'm vaccinated up.
I will bring my running shoes.
I was reading that Uber is big in Banagalore. I booked hotels walking distance to downtown sites or near metro stops.
Any thoughts on how much cash to bring for each country for gift shopping, cabs, dinners?
Good gift shopping location for wife and kids?
Typical gift types? I read orchid jewelry from Singapore for example.
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The obligatory pining of Scoop for travel info. I literally have a round the world business trip coming up the end of the month to visit several customers and a sister manufacturing plant.
- 12 hour layover in Seoul where I've already booked a Transit Tour. Special tours from Incheon to nearby places and you supposedly get to skip security on the return to airport.
- Kuala Lumpur - Just overnight on my way to......
- Penang, Malaysia
- Singapore
- Bangalore, India
I've got flights and hotels booked and most of the transportation worked out.
I'm vaccinated up.
I will bring my running shoes.
I was reading that Uber is big in Banagalore. I booked hotels walking distance to downtown sites or near metro stops.
Any thoughts on how much cash to bring for each country for gift shopping, cabs, dinners?
Good gift shopping location for wife and kids?
Typical gift types? I read orchid jewelry from Singapore for example.
I don’t have any good advice for you other than have a great time and be safe, even though it’s a work trip, that’s an awesome itinerary. Very impressed.
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The obligatory pining of Scoop for travel info. I literally have a round the world business trip coming up the end of the month to visit several customers and a sister manufacturing plant.
- 12 hour layover in Seoul where I've already booked a Transit Tour. Special tours from Incheon to nearby places and you supposedly get to skip security on the return to airport.
- Kuala Lumpur - Just overnight on my way to......
- Penang, Malaysia
- Singapore
- Bangalore, India
I've got flights and hotels booked and most of the transportation worked out.
I'm vaccinated up.
I will bring my running shoes.
I was reading that Uber is big in Banagalore. I booked hotels walking distance to downtown sites or near metro stops.
Any thoughts on how much cash to bring for each country for gift shopping, cabs, dinners?
Good gift shopping location for wife and kids?
Typical gift types? I read orchid jewelry from Singapore for example.
Get a Schwab Investment Checking Account. Comes with a global ATM card which pays you back for all your fees. Best way to get cash. Seoul has great food. Not quite the sites of say Tokyo, Beijing or Shanghai. But a great city. you could always go to the Goose Island Brewhouse. They have an in house steak aging program. It's pretty sweet.
That's all I got. Have fun. Trust your business associates on places to go eat. If you see a long line of locals it's probably good. Bring Cipro just in case you get some stomach uh ohs.
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Get a Schwab Investment Checking Account. Comes with a global ATM card which pays you back for all your fees. Best way to get cash.
Beat me to it. Best advice there is for international travel.
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Benny -- feel bad for you tonight. Thought the Brewers played well and was sad to Washington come up big late.
Fortunately, our season is just around the corner to soothe any wounds.
Love the Brewers effort. Team reflects the best of baseball. Craig Counsell is Manager of the Year.
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I don't understand the opportunity for a contract airline to fly spoke service between Milwaukee, Grand Rapids (23 minutes flying time), Omaha and any other regional sub-market. The only thing that might make sense is Milwaukee to Dallas, Denver, Seattle, New York or Florida.
Keep in mind that MKE is a different airport with different service than 10-20+ years ago when Midwest Express filled that gap. All of these markets now see mainline service from major carriers with decent FF programs — which means the only thing the new airline could compete on in these markets would be price.
The CVG/GRR/OMA plan is pretty strategic. There’s some business demand each way, and anyone in MKE heading to those markets is either looking at an ugly, expensive connection, a drive to ORD to catch a United Express flight, or in the case of CVG or GRR, a drive through Chicago traffic hell — and there is a premium to be commanded for nonstop service.
So initially promising. If there’s a critique I just don’t see the endgame. You can only pick and choose your way through so many markets that don’t have nonstop competition and can drive enough demand. What’s left? IND? PIT? AUS? Expansion gets tough pursuing this approach for the long term.
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The obligatory pining of Scoop for travel info. I literally have a round the world business trip coming up the end of the month to visit several customers and a sister manufacturing plant.
- 12 hour layover in Seoul where I've already booked a Transit Tour. Special tours from Incheon to nearby places and you supposedly get to skip security on the return to airport.
- Kuala Lumpur - Just overnight on my way to......
- Penang, Malaysia
- Singapore
- Bangalore, India
I've got flights and hotels booked and most of the transportation worked out.
I'm vaccinated up.
I will bring my running shoes.
I was reading that Uber is big in Banagalore. I booked hotels walking distance to downtown sites or near metro stops.
Any thoughts on how much cash to bring for each country for gift shopping, cabs, dinners?
Good gift shopping location for wife and kids?
Typical gift types? I read orchid jewelry from Singapore for example.
Thats an awesome route, unfortunately you're ending in Bangalore instead of Seoul or Singapore.
Uber in India is a game changer. Extremely inexpensive, cuts through a lot of the BS. As someone who has traveled to India a dozen times, Id caution against the Metro. Just unpleasant, uncomfortably crowded and unhygienic, and will add nothing to your visit. You can use Ubers all day for practically nothing. Ill take 2-3 Ubers a day in Mumbai, stuck in traffic on 45-1 hour long trips...and still combine multiple days into a single expense line item under $25.
Singapore is incredible. Make sure you go up to the Marina Bay Sands, get a drink at either Spago or Lavo. Views are absolutely stunning and surreal. Also walk around the Marina Bay mall. Gorgeous and upscale. Speaking of malls, the Jewel I can't recommend highly enough. Beautiful from the outside, inside its a combination upscale mall and botanical garden. Absolutely stunning interior with tons of amazing vegetation. Felt like the best zoo exhibit I'd see...without the animals.
KL is supposed to be great too. Enjoy!
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Thats an awesome route, unfortunately you're ending in Bangalore instead of Seoul or Singapore.
Uber in India is a game changer. Extremely inexpensive, cuts through a lot of the BS. As someone who has traveled to India a dozen times, Id caution against the Metro. Just unpleasant, uncomfortably crowded and unhygienic, and will add nothing to your visit. You can use Ubers all day for practically nothing. Ill take 2-3 Ubers a day in Mumbai, stuck in traffic on 45-1 hour long trips...and still combine multiple days into a single expense line item under $25.
Singapore is incredible. Make sure you go up to the Marina Bay Sands, get a drink at either Spago or Lavo. Views are absolutely stunning and surreal. Also walk around the Marina Bay mall. Gorgeous and upscale. Speaking of malls, the Jewel I can't recommend highly enough. Beautiful from the outside, inside its a combination upscale mall and botanical garden. Absolutely stunning interior with tons of amazing vegetation. Felt like the best zoo exhibit I'd see...without the animals.
KL is supposed to be great too. Enjoy!
Thanks for the feedback.
Most of my recent travel has been domestic or Europe and I have not been to Asia in over 10+ years and a I figured some things have changed.
I will look into the Schwab Investment Checking Account. I've been ordering cash online through Travelex before trips and they take back your surplus after your trip.
Bangalore was my planned first stop (because I wanted to knock it out first) and my customer informed me the preceding Monday & Tuesday was a national holiday and the factory would be closed so I had to put on the tail end else I would have an extra day in Singapore.
Reading up on Bangalore it said it's the best first place to visit in India because it's cleaner, less hot, and less congested than most of India. Don't know if it's true. Same article mentioned the metro was clean and just opened like 2 years ago. But cheap Uber works for me.
And there is nothing like staying at a Conrad Hotel for the same price as the Hampton Inn in Downtown Milwaukee. (It's all about the points.)
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A good flight crew makes such a big difference, especially when travelling with wife/kids. I'm on a flight to Denver right now on a 777 from ORD, gave my wife the upgrade to the lie flat, and myself and 3 kids are in the middle 4 seats in economy plus. A + crew on this flight, they made sure my kids felt welcomed and were happy (we sat on the tarmac for an hour this morning). When it came time for bistro on board, my 1K took care of my meal, and they comped my kids snacks (multiple Pringles/M&M's/gummy bears...we look like we looted a 7-11). Travelling with kids can be really stressful, and this particular crew has made a gigantic difference. Often overlooked how that can impact the travel experience.
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This mainly relates to Madrid so rather than create a new narrow topic I will plug this post in here, under travel.....
Thank you MU, Sam Sauceda and the MU in Madrid program.
An early basketball/football star at MU, Hispanic pioneer, former MU AD (1969 to 73) and very kind man named Sam Sauceda was a Spanish professor at MU who also founded the Marquette program at University of Madrid. He passed a few years ago, and for those who never heard of him, here is a partial obituary:
Samuel Paul Sauceda, age 89, died peacefully in his home on April 4, 2016. Sauceda, the oldest of six siblings, was a star athlete at Elgin High School and earned all state honors in football and basketball. He was inducted into the Elgin Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Sauceda was the first Hispanic to earn an athletic scholarship to Marquette University and played the 1944 football season before enlisting in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Germany at the end of World War II. Upon returning from the war, he played four years of basketball at Marquette University (1947-1950) and an additional year of football in 1948. Sauceda, a six-time letter winner, was one of only four freshmen in Marquette history to letter in both football and basketball. After his senior year, he was the school's all-time leader in steals and second leading scorer in basketball. Following the 1949-50 season, he represented Marquette in the College Basketball All-Star game at Chicago Stadium. Sauceda served as Marquette's Athletic Director from 1969-73 and was also Chairman of the Athletic Board. A Spanish professor, Sauceda received his B.A. from Marquette University, a Master Degree of Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Spanish) and a Doctorate from the University of Madrid (Spanish). He was a faculty member of the Foreign Language Department at Marquette University where he taught for 43 years and retired in 1997. He established the Marquette in Madrid Junior Year Abroad program in 1965 and served as its resident director. He also taught in Guadalajara, Mexico for eight years with the University of San Diego Summer Program. Sauceda cherished being a teacher and was an avid sports fan - proudly one of Marquette University's biggest supporters.
Anyway... for me the best thing I got out my MU time was August 77-September 78, including attending the Univ of Madrid. Immersed in life, art, the love of a spanish girl, music partying and tons of European travel...it was great. I owe MU and Sam S many thanks. Returning often ...sharing this city with others has been a lifelong joy.
The last half of this October my wife and I are heading to Madrid, for three weeks (I have clients there) and our highlight will be bringing our 10 year old granddaughter for the first time. I am so excited to have her see the Art at the Prado, the Royal Palace, Toledo, the Alcazar and Aqueduct in Segovia, etc...her first exposure to another world will impact her life...forever .
Thanks Sammy and MU, for my love of Madrid....and those of you with kids going now or soon to MU...if you can work it out I heartily recommend junior year in the MU program at Univ of Madrid...it will change their life.
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Sam Sauceda also spearheaded getting rid of Willie Wampum. Just sayin', hey?
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Bangalore was my planned first stop (because I wanted to knock it out first) and my customer informed me the preceding Monday & Tuesday was a national holiday and the factory would be closed so I had to put on the tail end else I would have an extra day in Singapore.
Reading up on Bangalore it said it's the best first place to visit in India because it's cleaner, less hot, and less congested than most of India. Don't know if it's true. Same article mentioned the metro was clean and just opened like 2 years ago. But cheap Uber works for me.
And there is nothing like staying at a Conrad Hotel for the same price as the Hampton Inn in Downtown Milwaukee. (It's all about the points.)
Valid points, but...its still India ::) I have my issues with China and other heavily populated areas with transportation, but India takes the cake. Heck, when I was in Singapore, I managed to find myself amidst an Indian tour group of 200+ when taking the monorail. Beautiful sparkling modern monorail, but it was a disaster with pushing and shoving and no personal space and rudeness, etc... Take that times x10 and you have the scenario on even the best public transit in India.
And the climate is a bit more moderate, but you're still gonna be catching the end of raining season and looking at upper 70s/low 80s with big humidity.
But you nailed it with the Conrad. One of the silver linings on my trips to the country. I personally stay at a Sofitel near the business park where my customers are. Over the top service, scented air in the hallways, random cleaning staff call me by name, breakfast and happy hour in a rooftop lounge included, and a room near the size of my 1BR in Chicago...for $150. It makes the trip perfectly palatable when I have an oasis to return to.
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Sam Sauceda also spearheaded getting rid of Willie Wampum. Just sayin', hey?
Well yeah....duh....He was Hispanic with N American indian blood lines (common to many latinos)
....maybe you wanna be reasonable and concede he shouldve been allowed to take a little offense at the cartoonish Willie
Remember too as a lifelong MU Sports guy... Sam had nothing, zero to do with Dilulio's elimination of the "Warriors".
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A good flight crew makes such a big difference, especially when travelling with wife/kids. I'm on a flight to Denver right now on a 777 from ORD, gave my wife the upgrade to the lie flat, and myself and 3 kids are in the middle 4 seats in economy plus. A + crew on this flight, they made sure my kids felt welcomed and were happy (we sat on the tarmac for an hour this morning). When it came time for bistro on board, my 1K took care of my meal, and they comped my kids snacks (multiple Pringles/M&M's/gummy bears...we look like we looted a 7-11). Travelling with kids can be really stressful, and this particular crew has made a gigantic difference. Often overlooked how that can impact the travel experience.
United is pretty good with families, especially with families of high mileage frequent fliers. Had one time where someone figured out my wife and I were in first and my junior high children were in coach, so they upgraded both of them as we boarded the plane.
A couple of things I learned about flying with my children when they were in middle school and beyond:
1) Threaten them with death. They respond to that and usually works.
2) Make sure there are video games available to them. That keeps them happy no matter how long the trip is.
3) My children were fascinated with the wonder of flight. We made sure they acted fascinated and like adults. The result was they were always good until we got off the plane.
4) See if you can get them in the cockpit before or after. The pilots love it unless they are busy and love to show kids around. United will do this on widebodies and on smaller jets if they have time.
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I always marvel at you road warriors. I'm sure it's wonderful to see the world. I'm sure it's more wonderful when you get to attend your kid's soccer game. I never had to travel much for business. And then only very early and late in my career and only domestically.
Our kid has traveled a ton in his first few years out of college, again only domestically. Has now earned Bonvoy 'lounge access' just based on travel this year. Don't think he has enough airline miles to get the airport clubs yet though. Soon, I'm sure. I'm hanging with him!
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Our kid has traveled a ton in his first few years out of college, again only domestically. Has now earned Bonvoy 'lounge access' just based on travel this year. Don't think he has enough airline miles to get the airport clubs yet though. Soon, I'm sure. I'm hanging with him!
When it comes to perks, hotel status like with Marriott usually is more useful, IMO. My airline status is great for business travel perks and flexibility, but minimal benefit for personal travel with a SO unless we’re using miles. My GF is Titanium with Marriott and I get way more benefit from that then she does from my 1K.
As for clubs, unfortunately he won’t. Those are usually tied to either ticket class purchased or if you have the right CC (United Club Card or one with Priority Pass). As I mentioned, I’m 1K, and I only get into lounges if I’m flying international. I never have United Club access for domestic travel
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When it comes to perks, hotel status like with Marriott usually is more useful, IMO. My airline status is great for business travel perks and flexibility, but minimal benefit for personal travel with a SO unless we’re using miles. My GF is Titanium with Marriott and I get way more benefit from that then she does from my 1K.
As for clubs, unfortunately he won’t. Those are usually tied to either ticket class purchased or if you have the right CC (United Club Card or one with Priority Pass). As I mentioned, I’m 1K, and I only get into lounges if I’m flying international. I never have United Club access for domestic travel
JWags hit the nail on the head. I’m 1K with United and haven’t been in a United Club in a couple years. All my work travel is domestic and I always plan to spend as little time as possible at the airport. My 1K status for my family is nice when they travel with me (all checked bags free, and I use my Regional/Global premier upgrades to try to get some combo of us upgraded), but as JWags said, my Marriott Titanium status is far more handy for the family. We’ve stayed in suites at some really nice places. My tip to people, if you’re staying at a resort with your family on an upcoming trip and you have status, always email the hotel manager a month ahead, let them know what your family is celebrating on that trip, and you should get something nice when you get there.
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I think he's Marriott Platinum now thus earning the lounge. I never got past Silver. Fine by me. He also flies Alaska Air almost exclusively. Seattle, Alaska, Pacific NW with occasional business trips and training exercises elsewhere. Just spent 4 weeks at headquarters in DC.
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I agree... hotel loyalty is still worth something. I'm Marriott lifetime titanium and I haven't stayed in a standard room in ages. Always suites, always lounge access, free very fast internet, and check in/out pretty much whenever I need to. I really think twice before booking another brand, although I still end up 20+ nights a year in non-Marriott due to conferences or company bookings or cities where it's just not convenient.
Airline loyalty programs are pretty useless. I'm spending the last of my AA miles (it got up over 2,000,000 for a while) but can't get much for them any more, and really must book ahead. What I do to make travel simple is just fly on the cheapest business class there is. That means I've used nearly every airline you can imagine. In the last 18 months I've done trans-atlantic on BA, AA, Lufthansa, Swiss, Finn, Austrian, Qatar, and Lot and trans-pacific on Qatar, SQ, JAL, ANA, and Asiana. Some are great... none are bad. By doing this I get some very interesting layovers in new cities.
In the USA you can fly almost any route in first class for about $400. It's worth it. Even when you're on a little CRJ, the pointy end is always better. When it's more expensive than that, I use my miles.
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Airline loyalty programs are pretty useless. I'm spending the last of my AA miles (it got up over 2,000,000 for a while) but can't get much for them any more, and really must book ahead. What I do to make travel simple is just fly on the cheapest business class there is. That means I've used nearly every airline you can imagine. In the last 18 months I've done trans-atlantic on BA, AA, Lufthansa, Swiss, Finn, Austrian, Qatar, and Lot and trans-pacific on Qatar, SQ, JAL, ANA, and Asiana. Some are great... none are bad. By doing this I get some very interesting layovers in new cities.
In the USA you can fly almost any route in first class for about $400. It's worth it. Even when you're on a little CRJ, the pointy end is always better. When it's more expensive than that, I use my miles.
It really depends. If you can have 7-10 years of heavy travel and get million mile status on an airline, then it doesn't matter much. My father is lifetime Gold on United as a 1MM and that gets him lounges for any Star Alliance lounge on international travel, free bags, and economy plus. You don't need much more as a casual flier. If you're just a domestic flier, status is eh these days, especially if you're not checking bags.
I still gun for 1K cause the Global Upgrades are vital. I fly to Asia/India 4-5 a year, and its the difference between flying business for $1000-1500 round trip or $5000+. Unfortunately, I don't work for a consulting firm or Fortune100 company that would pay for the business fares, so the upgrades are vital.
And fully aware Im sounding douchey as someone who gets upgraded on 80% of domestic flights to 1st (im actually surprised when im not top 3 on the upgrade list, Dish I'm sure can relate), its usually not worth it. Flights longer than 3 hours, then it is, but point to point anywhere east of the Mississippi and north of Florida, nah. You might get a drink and a mediocre meal. The leg room isn't meaningfully different than EconomyPlus (unless you're 6'3+).
I think Delta's actual in air product domestically is better, but United I get fed in first from NYC to Chicago. I flew Delta first from Dallas to NYC with my gf and got to pick from a snack box and they had a limited drink selection. Id never pay $250+ for that.
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Delta flier. I have Silver Medallion status and it is worth it. I always book a seat in Main Cabin and the half-dozen round trips I've flown this year I've been bumped up on every leg of every flight to either Comfort Plus or First Class.
I have Hilton Honors, Marriot Bonvoy & use Hotels.com. I usually go for a Hilton brand for a first choice, Marriott second, then an 8.0 or higher customer rated place on Hotels.com. The problem is there isn't always a Hilton or Marriott branded hotel in the right location and if there is it may be too expensive (whether personal or business travel) or missing breakfast.
I have Gold Status for Hilton & Hotels.com. I get free breakfast at Hiltons that don't include breakfast and late check-out / early check-in. My last Hotels.com stay was the Brewhouse Inn & Suites and I got upgraded to the top floor room with an outdoor patio.
I don't recall ever missing any of my kids events. I've always got to pick my travel schedule so I scheduled travel around their activities. My upcoming Asia trip is a good example. Squeezing in between Family Weekend at Xavier for the older daughter and an Open House for UVM for the younger daughter. Plus I'm back on Election Day in time to vote in my town municipal election. I miss Halloween, but I'm not missing because the younger daughter said "she's done with it" this year.
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JWags hit the nail on the head. I’m 1K with United and haven’t been in a United Club in a couple years. All my work travel is domestic and I always plan to spend as little time as possible at the airport. My 1K status for my family is nice when they travel with me (all checked bags free, and I use my Regional/Global premier upgrades to try to get some combo of us upgraded), but as JWags said, my Marriott Titanium status is far more handy for the family. We’ve stayed in suites at some really nice places. My tip to people, if you’re staying at a resort with your family on an upcoming trip and you have status, always email the hotel manager a month ahead, let them know what your family is celebrating on that trip, and you should get something nice when you get there.
Been 1K for a long time and am legacy United Premier Executive and 1K. I fly them an awful lot (million mile flyer) and generally don't fly coach (am 6'5"). They're good about upgrading my family or traveling companions to Economy Plus. With Million Mile Status, I get Gold for life, which means I have automatic placement in Economy Plus if I fly Coach. That's about it. My wife also gets my status for the rest of her life.
I find that as a 1K, they care for me. They are concerned about me and they'll make sure they can do what they can for me.
I have a United Club membership, which is really great or downright awful depending on the city. Newark, Dulles and SFO 60s concourse is awful. ORD "B" is great, C is a craphole. Orlando is magnificent, the people are incredible and the service as good as anywhere. United Club in Minneapolis is small but nice. The new Los Angeles is club is fantastic and Houston isn't bad either.
The Globals and Regionals are worthless. United just rolled out a new program to replace them because too many of us have found these programs to be unusable.
I go to so many different places that a hotel loyalty is harder. I tend to prefer Starwood/Marriott and have to admit I stay at Westins when I can. The interesting thing about hotels is I can tell the quality within 5 seconds of walking in a room. How does it smell? Are there scuffs and scratches on the furniture and walls? What's the bathroom like? Are the windows clean? Does the furniture look like something made in the 21st century? And, how firm is the bed?
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As a watch-out, my Hilton Rewards account of about 2 million points was wiped out in a day and used on AMZ to buy products. Crooks are smart as they are looking for easy holes as these hotels are obviously not cyber security savvy. No alerts whatsoever. When called, they restored them no problem and they said it was the fifth case recently. Hello...sounds like an inside job.
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I have a United Club membership, which is really great or downright awful depending on the city. Newark, Dulles and SFO 60s concourse is awful. ORD "B" is great, C is a craphole. Orlando is magnificent, the people are incredible and the service as good as anywhere. United Club in Minneapolis is small but nice. The new Los Angeles is club is fantastic and Houston isn't bad either.
The Globals and Regionals are worthless. United just rolled out a new program to replace them because too many of us have found these programs to be unusable.
I go to so many different places that a hotel loyalty is harder. I tend to prefer Starwood/Marriott and have to admit I stay at Westins when I can. The interesting thing about hotels is I can tell the quality within 5 seconds of walking in a room. How does it smell? Are there scuffs and scratches on the furniture and walls? What's the bathroom like? Are the windows clean? Does the furniture look like something made in the 21st century? And, how firm is the bed?
United Club inconsistency is part of the reason why I'd never get the club card. So many of them are cramped, outdated, no decent food options.
HARD disagree on Global's being worthless. Again though, if you're a domestic flier who flies to Europe once a year in summer or around the holidays, then yes, probably worthless cause availability will be hard to find. If you take 1 or more international trips a year, especially with a spouse, they are fantastic, provided you're not in a peak period. I know 1Ks that have done mini-vacations in Asia, Europe, and S America cause they found good fares as demand wasn't high, and auto upgraded with the Globals.
But the new program will do little to fix that IMO. While I still haven't figured out how 1Ks will be inconvenienced by the new program (cause I'm under no circumstances naive enough to believe its being done for passenger benefit and not a financial benefit for United), it seems like a response to Regionals. If you're 1K like us, you rarely use them cause you're often upgraded, and when you're not, having a regional wouldn't have done much anyways. Additionally, I have a hunch that bumping up the annual spend for 1K qualification from $12K to $15K (which factoring taxes that don't get included in qualifying spend, means more like $4000-4500 additional instead of $3K) sheared off a bunch of 1K fliers down to Platinum. Now this new system removes Regionals, and gives Platinum an "ability" to get 1 Global while also allowing 1Ks to not waste Regionals and convert those to a Global. They still likely wont open them up any earlier. Thats my biggest gripe with United right now. Put in an upgrade request, 50% of business class is open 3-4 days before the flight, and they wont clear it until day of. I'm pretty sure they are sending messages or alerts with discounted upgrade fees to Global Services members or the like, cause its amazing how no B class seats are selling and then they jump up an additional $5000 each in the days leading up to the flight and they start disappearing in waves.
I'm a pretty ardent Hotels.com user. My travel is 60% international trips every 6-8 weeks or so, 30% NYC (where my company has an apt), and 10% domestic. So I don't load up on decent priced domestic nights like a lot of business travelers. Staying at a US brand in places like London, Belgium, or HK is $300+ a night which often falls outside of budget, and without great status is a mediocre experience. So I split between Hotels.com and Accor (as I have decent status from about 20 Sofitel nights a year). Not great, but I get free nights on both a few times a year.
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Airline loyalty programs are pretty useless. I'm spending the last of my AA miles (it got up over 2,000,000 for a while) but can't get much for them any more, and really must book ahead. What I do to make travel simple is just fly on the cheapest business class there is. That means I've used nearly every airline you can imagine. In the last 18 months I've done trans-atlantic on BA, AA, Lufthansa, Swiss, Finn, Austrian, Qatar, and Lot and trans-pacific on Qatar, SQ, JAL, ANA, and Asiana. Some are great... none are bad. By doing this I get some very interesting layovers in new cities.
In the USA you can fly almost any route in first class for about $400. It's worth it. Even when you're on a little CRJ, the pointy end is always better. When it's more expensive than that, I use my miles.
I don't entirely agree. I fly Southwest and Delta exclusively and always end up with enough points for status on both. For domestic travel Southwest has hands down the best frequent flyer program for domestic travelers. If you get the credit card and fly enough the companion pass is well worth it if you can get there. It gives you the ability to pick a person that will fly with you for free for the year and the ability to change who that person is up to 6 times per year. We have the credit card and put everything on it and pay it off at the end of the month. That coupled with the amount I fly (~75,000 points worth of flights per year) has had me there for the last 4 years or so. Their point redemption seems to be the most fair to me as well.
I do Delta for everything west of the Mississippi and for my international flights to Europe for work. I've found them to be the most reliable (knock on wood) and accommodating when things do go wrong out of the other major airlines that go international.
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HARD disagree on Global's being worthless. Again though, if you're a domestic flier who flies to Europe once a year in summer or around the holidays, then yes, probably worthless cause availability will be hard to find. If you take 1 or more international trips a year, especially with a spouse, they are fantastic, provided you're not in a peak period. I know 1Ks that have done mini-vacations in Asia, Europe, and S America cause they found good fares as demand wasn't high, and auto upgraded with the Globals.
I am a UPD, as in Unprofitable Domestic Passenger, on United. All of my travel is domestic, so I got 1K the hard way. I tend to purchase a discounted first class fare most of the time.
You perspective otherwise is right on. The problem with United Clubs has been access. They went from being an amenity to almost being given away. I like them for work, but the problem is the work environment in most now sucks. What's worse, my wife went into the new Polaris Lounge at EWR on her way to Greece last summer and found it downright disgusting. She was a Polaris passenger and 1K and could not find a seat at the bar, a table or anyone who would help her. To top it all off, it was dirty.
She walked in, spent less than five minutes and said anything beat that.
By contrast, my son and I flew to France and visited the Polaris Lounge in Chicago. Absolutely fantastic! United needs to get its act together in first class passenger amenities in the worst way.
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As for airport clubs, my bank gave me priority pass for free and I use it pretty regularly when my airline doesn't have a lounge or when the location is more convenient. The lounges aren't great, but better than sitting (often on the floor) in the concourse. I think I'd even pay the $450 per year for it if I didn't get it for free. It has also worked in some very bizarre places like Balikpapan, Victoria Falls, Yakutsk and others. If I have a bunch of American flights coming up, I use miles to pay for another year of Admirals club. I'd never pay real money for Admirals club.
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I love this thread, I realize it’s not for everyone, and I honestly find joy in every perspective from all you guys/gals on travel.
I agree with JWags on the new Upgrades program has me trying to figure out how it’s getting downgraded. The Regional/Global upgrade process ticks me off more than anything else. I totally get United wants to wait as long as possible to sell that inventory rather than give it away. My beef was we went to Maui on March 1st this year on a Friday from LAX. I requested upgrades for all 5 of my family, and there was a ton of open inventory all the way up to the day of. I knew there was no business traveler competition on this leg either. I called United the morning of the flight asking why none of us had cleared yet. Long story short, 3 of the 5 ended up cleared, but even that didn’t happen until minutes before boarding. I’d rather know 24 hours before if I have multiple people on an itinerary that I’m trying to clear. 1K desk never has any idea, it’s frustrating (#firstworldproblem).
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I wanted to mention too, to me the best part of having higher levels of elite status is for when stuff goes wrong (and at some point it will). As an example, back in May I had a team meeting to go to in Atlanta. I got to my hotel in midtown around midnight and got walked. I was tired and had never been walked before (I’m Titanium with Marriott) and walking a Titanium is very costly. I ended up with 90k in points for the incident and cash compensation. Deep down I really didn’t care, the other hotel was across the street, but was able to rack up a ton of easy points.
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I love this thread, I realize it’s not for everyone, and I honestly find joy in every perspective from all you guys/gals on travel.
I agree with JWags on the new Upgrades program has me trying to figure out how it’s getting downgraded. The Regional/Global upgrade process ticks me off more than anything else. I totally get United wants to wait as long as possible to sell that inventory rather than give it away. My beef was we went to Maui on March 1st this year on a Friday from LAX. I requested upgrades for all 5 of my family, and there was a ton of open inventory all the way up to the day of. I knew there was no business traveler competition on this leg either. I called United the morning of the flight asking why none of us had cleared yet. Long story short, 3 of the 5 ended up cleared, but even that didn’t happen until minutes before boarding. I’d rather know 24 hours before if I have multiple people on an itinerary that I’m trying to clear. 1K desk never has any idea, it’s frustrating (#firstworldproblem).
This is why I just suck it up and book biz/first.
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This is why I just suck it up and book biz/first.
Yeup, the airlines figured this out, finally.
When I first started traveling regularly in the 1980s, there was no discounting first class. No yield management either. The airlines ended up with eight or nine unsold first class seats because the fares were absurd. They would sell "upgrades" to elite frequent flyers for pennies on the dollar.
The games we played with the upgrade rules were ridiculous, as was the thought that for $25 or $50 and some silly coupon, you rode first class.
There was one trip my wife and I took to San Francisco, where she flew for one cent (yeup a one cent companion fare) and was in first class both ways ORD-SFO. I laughed my backside off when United called me one night and offered to refund the one cent. They really did. They knew what was coming.
About a decade ago, someone woke up and asked why the airlines were creating an unrealistic expectation of a first class seat for coach passengers. The result was yield management in domestic and international first class and people like me and Brother WarriorFan who just buy the domestic seats because the price is not much greater than coach.
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I bode no ill will towards the airlines. They are (almost all) horrible companies, run by idiots, staffed by drones and they don't care at all about customers. ONE MUST ACCEPT THIS and find a way to get what one wants regardless of loyalty and points and miles and all of that.
Anyone who thinks that airline "status" will get you anything in 5-10 years is kidding themselves.
Hotels - some chains at least - are headed the same way, but you can still play it while there's a game to play. Probably 10-15 more years before the same scenario exists as exists now with air travel. By then I'll be done traveling and won't care anymore anyway.
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I love this thread, I realize it’s not for everyone, and I honestly find joy in every perspective from all you guys/gals on travel.
I agree with JWags on the new Upgrades program has me trying to figure out how it’s getting downgraded. The Regional/Global upgrade process ticks me off more than anything else. I totally get United wants to wait as long as possible to sell that inventory rather than give it away. My beef was we went to Maui on March 1st this year on a Friday from LAX. I requested upgrades for all 5 of my family, and there was a ton of open inventory all the way up to the day of. I knew there was no business traveler competition on this leg either. I called United the morning of the flight asking why none of us had cleared yet. Long story short, 3 of the 5 ended up cleared, but even that didn’t happen until minutes before boarding. I’d rather know 24 hours before if I have multiple people on an itinerary that I’m trying to clear. 1K desk never has any idea, it’s frustrating (#firstworldproblem).
Same here.
I find it interesting where people live kind of determines their airline of choice.
Chicago area people seem to be United fliers. Elsewhere is usually another carrier.
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Same here.
I find it interesting where people live kind of determines their airline of choice.
Chicago area people seem to be United fliers. Elsewhere is usually another carrier.
Yeah, it's so crazy that people tend to fly the airline that has a hub at the airport closest to their house.... ;)
However, I am one of those moron SWA flyers, so what do I know?
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Same here.
I find it interesting where people live kind of determines their airline of choice.
Chicago area people seem to be United fliers. Elsewhere is usually another carrier.
Cause when you stick to your airline for status and perks, and that airline isn't hubbed near you, every trip is a connection nightmare. One of my friends was United 1MM by his late 20s. Very loyal, raved about them, almost aggressively pro-United. He moved to Charlotte for work about 5 years ago. He lasted 2.5, once he realized the job was long term, before switching begrudgingly to American cause he missed direct flights and ease of travel on a regular basis, instead of flying to IAD/EWR/ORD for basically every flight.
And oh the sensitive SWA fliers, yay! Again, its a fantastic airline for the kind of traveler it caters to. If you fly enough to have decent status and have any international travel needs (or just enjoy getting to the airport late as possible for varieties of reason), its just not an ideal option. But yet, SWA loyalists still call you a snob and a slave to legacy carriers.
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And oh the sensitive SWA fliers, yay! Again, its a fantastic airline for the kind of traveler it caters to. If you fly enough to have decent status and have any international travel needs (or just enjoy getting to the airport late as possible for varieties of reason), its just not an ideal option. But yet, SWA loyalists still call you a snob and a slave to legacy carriers.
I think that's the key. It serves a particular niche very well. Others, not so much. For us relocating on flexible schedules back and forth between our two domestic homes it is absolutely perfect.
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And oh the sensitive SWA fliers, yay! Again, its a fantastic airline for the kind of traveler it caters to. If you fly enough to have decent status and have any international travel needs (or just enjoy getting to the airport late as possible for varieties of reason), its just not an ideal option. But yet, SWA loyalists still call you a snob and a slave to legacy carriers.
Goodness, I didn't realize I would need teal.
I have never called people who don't fly SWA snobs. It's a choice, just like anything else. Who I do take issue with (and I have run into a number of them) are people who have never flown SWA and denigrate it based on Jay Leno jokes. I know Chicago-area natives (mostly North Short types) who have not been to Midway in decades, and wouldn't fly out of that "filthy old place", and were surprised to learn from me that it has been completely renovated since the '80's. It's significantly nicer than many parts of O'Hare.
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Cause when you stick to your airline for status and perks, and that airline isn't hubbed near you, every trip is a connection nightmare. One of my friends was United 1MM by his late 20s. Very loyal, raved about them, almost aggressively pro-United. He moved to Charlotte for work about 5 years ago. He lasted 2.5, once he realized the job was long term, before switching begrudgingly to American cause he missed direct flights and ease of travel on a regular basis, instead of flying to IAD/EWR/ORD for basically every flight.
And oh the sensitive SWA fliers, yay! Again, its a fantastic airline for the kind of traveler it caters to. If you fly enough to have decent status and have any international travel needs (or just enjoy getting to the airport late as possible for varieties of reason), its just not an ideal option. But yet, SWA loyalists still call you a snob and a slave to legacy carriers.
That's why I don't fly out of Hartford often. LaGuardia as big of a construction mess as it is, is only another 15 minutes more drive from my home than Hartford and always has multiple daily direct flights to where I'm going.
Other than when I have to visit my company's big customer in Lincoln, NE which you just can't get there from anywhere not named Minneapolis or Chicago?
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I bode no ill will towards the airlines. They are (almost all) horrible companies, run by idiots, staffed by drones and they don't care at all about customers. ONE MUST ACCEPT THIS and find a way to get what one wants regardless of loyalty and points and miles and all of that.
Anyone who thinks that airline "status" will get you anything in 5-10 years is kidding themselves.
Hotels - some chains at least - are headed the same way, but you can still play it while there's a game to play. Probably 10-15 more years before the same scenario exists as exists now with air travel. By then I'll be done traveling and won't care anymore anyway.
Brother Fan, I beg to differ. There is nothing that you want from an airline that you can't get by paying for it. Or bringing it on if it is a food matter.
The problem we have -- especially those of us who traveled in the days before the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 -- is that we have a romanticized notion of what air travel is. We oldsters remember the days when flight attendants waited on a cabin of 100 people head-to-toe in 1.5 hours between Chicago and New York. Hell, United used to have a Sud Aviation Caravelle (an early French plane similar to a DC9-10) that was all first class and all male. The flight attendants absolutely hated that flight. You can guess why!
Back in the mid-1970s, Douglas Souter, who was then an aide to Senator Kennedy, got roundly berated for spending time on airline matters. "Well never be able to afford to fly," a woman said. "That's the problem we're trying to fix," said Souter.
Before 1978, air travel was highly regulated and extremely expensive. Relatively few people could afford it and too often, it was a once in a lifetime experience. The airlines had both the revenue and the desire to make it special which, for the most part, they did.
Today, the airlines are giving people what they want. The cheap fares we cherish come with a very high price -- customer discomfort, expensive amenities (i.e., baggage fees and snack boxes) and lack of ground support due to automation. Planes are fuller because to get profit margins, airlines have to jam every possible ounce of passenger and freight on to a plane. That's what we said we wanted and the geniuses at the airlines business are giving it to us. It's how markets work!
As a side not, one of my favorite stories was a 1960s United Airlines "take me along" promotion, in which the airline did a reduced fare (with CAB approval) for husbands to take their wives on business trips. It was so rare for wives to fly that this was thought to be critical to building awareness. As a side benefit, "take me along" cut down on customer misbehavior with flight attendants on the planes.
After the trip, United sent roses to the "take me along" wives, thanking them for flying United. Not long afterward, there was a surge in divorces among United Airlines "take me along" men. True story.. want to guess why... LOL!!@!
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Goodness, I didn't realize I would need teal.
I have never called people who don't fly SWA snobs. It's a choice, just like anything else. Who I do take issue with (and I have run into a number of them) are people who have never flown SWA and denigrate it based on Jay Leno jokes. I know Chicago-area natives (mostly North Short types) who have not been to Midway in decades, and wouldn't fly out of that "filthy old place", and were surprised to learn from me that it has been completely renovated since the '80's. It's significantly nicer than many parts of O'Hare.
I have your back...totally.
SWA is the legend. Back when airlines and rates remained high due to post WW2 interstate regulation schemes....lil ol SWA flew INTRAstate within Texas only....no interstate regulation or rate problems. It was a revolution
Mainly....They were able to reduce fares so very dramatically to the point where the entire US domestic industry eventually conceded to the Reagan era airline deregulation. A key reason all air fares dropped since the 70s is the pioneering of the rate busting intrastate carrier SWA.
Admittedly, ...Other changes like SWA open seating, bags fly free, no classes, no lounges, etc have been less adopted...the rest still sell these as differentiators. Apparently even claiming a snob appeal to keeping these vintage features.
Non SWA flyers owe much to SWA for their comparatively cheap commonly used air travel today...few remember the 50s to 70s when air travel was controlled, restricted,expensive and used by a relative few....those were actually the days when all air travel was for snobs
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Brother Fan, I beg to differ. There is nothing that you want from an airline that you can't get by paying for it. Or bringing it on if it is a food matter.
The problem we have -- especially those of us who traveled in the days before the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 -- is that we have a romanticized notion of what air travel is. We oldsters remember the days when flight attendants waited on a cabin of 100 people head-to-toe in 1.5 hours between Chicago and New York. Hell, United used to have a Sud Aviation Caravelle (an early French plane similar to a DC9-10) that was all first class and all male. The flight attendants absolutely hated that flight. You can guess why!
Back in the mid-1970s, Douglas Souter, who was then an aide to Senator Kennedy, got roundly berated for spending time on airline matters. "Well never be able to afford to fly," a woman said. "That's the problem we're trying to fix," said Souter.
Before 1978, air travel was highly regulated and extremely expensive. Relatively few people could afford it and too often, it was a once in a lifetime experience. The airlines had both the revenue and the desire to make it special which, for the most part, they did.
Today, the airlines are giving people what they want. The cheap fares we cherish come with a very high price -- customer discomfort, expensive amenities (i.e., baggage fees and snack boxes) and lack of ground support due to automation. Planes are fuller because to get profit margins, airlines have to jam every possible ounce of passenger and freight on to a plane. That's what we said we wanted and the geniuses at the airlines business are giving it to us. It's how markets work!
As a side not, one of my favorite stories was a 1960s United Airlines "take me along" promotion, in which the airline did a reduced fare (with CAB approval) for husbands to take their wives on business trips. It was so rare for wives to fly that this was thought to be critical to building awareness. As a side benefit, "take me along" cut down on customer misbehavior with flight attendants on the planes.
After the trip, United sent roses to the "take me along" wives, thanking them for flying United. Not long afterward, there was a surge in divorces among United Airlines "take me along" men. True story.. want to guess why... LOL!!@!
Thanks for this. I was typing my prior post at the same time as you....two old farts remembering air travel before deregulation.
The early years after 1978 saw it share of upheavals, too....many airlines with multiple bankruptcies, union and pension busting, route and hub battles, etc
Its good that all now can fly...but boy it was a journey reaching this point.
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Brother Fan, I beg to differ. There is nothing that you want from an airline that you can't get by paying for it. Or bringing it on if it is a food matter.
The problem we have -- especially those of us who traveled in the days before the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 -- is that we have a romanticized notion of what air travel is. We oldsters remember the days when flight attendants waited on a cabin of 100 people head-to-toe in 1.5 hours between Chicago and New York. Hell, United used to have a Sud Aviation Caravelle (an early French plane similar to a DC9-10) that was all first class and all male. The flight attendants absolutely hated that flight. You can guess why!
Back in the mid-1970s, Douglas Souter, who was then an aide to Senator Kennedy, got roundly berated for spending time on airline matters. "Well never be able to afford to fly," a woman said. "That's the problem we're trying to fix," said Souter.
Before 1978, air travel was highly regulated and extremely expensive. Relatively few people could afford it and too often, it was a once in a lifetime experience. The airlines had both the revenue and the desire to make it special which, for the most part, they did.
Today, the airlines are giving people what they want. The cheap fares we cherish come with a very high price -- customer discomfort, expensive amenities (i.e., baggage fees and snack boxes) and lack of ground support due to automation. Planes are fuller because to get profit margins, airlines have to jam every possible ounce of passenger and freight on to a plane. That's what we said we wanted and the geniuses at the airlines business are giving it to us. It's how markets work!
As a side not, one of my favorite stories was a 1960s United Airlines "take me along" promotion, in which the airline did a reduced fare (with CAB approval) for husbands to take their wives on business trips. It was so rare for wives to fly that this was thought to be critical to building awareness. As a side benefit, "take me along" cut down on customer misbehavior with flight attendants on the planes.
After the trip, United sent roses to the "take me along" wives, thanking them for flying United. Not long afterward, there was a surge in divorces among United Airlines "take me along" men. True story.. want to guess why... LOL!!@!
Inquisitive on my birth year, I just finished reading this book.
1969: The Year Everything Changed
by Rob Kirkpatrick
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6139711-1969
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/1969-rob-kirkpatrick/1101009335#/
One of the many 1969 firsts was the first flight of the Boeing 747 which completely changed air travel going forward.
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Brother Fan, I beg to differ. There is nothing that you want from an airline that you can't get by paying for it. Or bringing it on if it is a food matter.
The problem we have -- especially those of us who traveled in the days before the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 -- is that we have a romanticized notion of what air travel is. We oldsters remember the days when flight attendants waited on a cabin of 100 people head-to-toe in 1.5 hours between Chicago and New York. Hell, United used to have a Sud Aviation Caravelle (an early French plane similar to a DC9-10) that was all first class and all male. The flight attendants absolutely hated that flight. You can guess why!
Back in the mid-1970s, Douglas Souter, who was then an aide to Senator Kennedy, got roundly berated for spending time on airline matters. "Well never be able to afford to fly," a woman said. "That's the problem we're trying to fix," said Souter.
Before 1978, air travel was highly regulated and extremely expensive. Relatively few people could afford it and too often, it was a once in a lifetime experience. The airlines had both the revenue and the desire to make it special which, for the most part, they did.
Today, the airlines are giving people what they want. The cheap fares we cherish come with a very high price -- customer discomfort, expensive amenities (i.e., baggage fees and snack boxes) and lack of ground support due to automation. Planes are fuller because to get profit margins, airlines have to jam every possible ounce of passenger and freight on to a plane. That's what we said we wanted and the geniuses at the airlines business are giving it to us. It's how markets work!
As a side not, one of my favorite stories was a 1960s United Airlines "take me along" promotion, in which the airline did a reduced fare (with CAB approval) for husbands to take their wives on business trips. It was so rare for wives to fly that this was thought to be critical to building awareness. As a side benefit, "take me along" cut down on customer misbehavior with flight attendants on the planes.
After the trip, United sent roses to the "take me along" wives, thanking them for flying United. Not long afterward, there was a surge in divorces among United Airlines "take me along" men. True story.. want to guess why... LOL!!@!
Man, I'm not THAT old!. I only flew once before 1978, and it was from CWA to GRR on Midwest Air Commuter to go see grandma... and I will say the stewardesses doted on me, BECAUSE I WAS 6 YEARS OLD and flying alone!
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Going to Puerto Viarta in a couple weeks for a wedding, have a couple days to kill and would like to do something other than standard resort stuff. Anybody been before and have suggestions?
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Going to Puerto Viarta in a couple weeks for a wedding, have a couple days to kill and would like to do something other than standard resort stuff. Anybody been before and have suggestions?
Puerto Vallarta. Rent a boat to take you whale watching or snorkeling or both. You won’t have trouble finding one at the main beach. Negotiate the price. Ask the operator to take you to Los Arcos.
There’s also a pretty cool zip line establishment south of Puerto Vallarta, set in the “jungle.”
Enjoy the weather. Eternal summer.
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Portland (OR)/Vancouver (WA)
Anyone?
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Portland (OR)/Vancouver (WA)
Anyone?
The airport in Portland is great. Solid food options. You can buy packaged beer past security. Solid coffee.
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Anybody have Bronx Little Italy suggestions? Looking for a sunday brunch / great lunch for this weekend.
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Portland (OR)/Vancouver (WA)
Anyone?
Fly there a lot. Airport is relatively close to the city. It is small and generally well done.
Unless you are in a rush, take the TriMet Maxx into the city. 25 minutes and $2.00
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Anybody have Bronx Little Italy suggestions? Looking for a sunday brunch / great lunch for this weekend.
Google Arthur Avenue Restaurants. You'll get a list of good choices
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Portland (OR)/Vancouver (WA)
Anyone?
If you have not gone, try a restaurant called Andina. Absolutely wonderful South American crusine. Jake's near downtown is a great steak place.
The Nines Hotel is really different. Like the restaurant and rooftop bar. Rooms are tiny and very expensive.
Lots of little nook and cranny places that are great. Try Russell Street BBQ. Really good.
Also, Powell's Books is a must-see.
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Thats an awesome route, unfortunately you're ending in Bangalore instead of Seoul or Singapore.
Uber in India is a game changer. Extremely inexpensive, cuts through a lot of the BS. As someone who has traveled to India a dozen times, Id caution against the Metro. Just unpleasant, uncomfortably crowded and unhygienic, and will add nothing to your visit. You can use Ubers all day for practically nothing. Ill take 2-3 Ubers a day in Mumbai, stuck in traffic on 45-1 hour long trips...and still combine multiple days into a single expense line item under $25.
Singapore is incredible. Make sure you go up to the Marina Bay Sands, get a drink at either Spago or Lavo. Views are absolutely stunning and surreal. Also walk around the Marina Bay mall. Gorgeous and upscale. Speaking of malls, the Jewel I can't recommend highly enough. Beautiful from the outside, inside its a combination upscale mall and botanical garden. Absolutely stunning interior with tons of amazing vegetation. Felt like the best zoo exhibit I'd see...without the animals.
KL is supposed to be great too. Enjoy!
Sunday afternoon and I essentially have one more day on the trip (in Bangalore) so I figured I'd give a little recap.
The Transit Tours they offer are fantastic. $2 for a 1-hr tour, $10 for the 5-hr and some more in-between. I took the 5-hr tour of the Royal Palace and shopping and lunch in the old town section of Insadong. If I understood them better I could have gone on an additional 1-hr tour of a temple. I was supposed to be on an 8 am tour but was put on the 10 am and still had plenty of time to make my flight. The website says to report 1/2 hour to the kiosk in the airport before and I later learned you should report 1-hr+ where they walk you past immigration with a special voucher that says "Transit Tour". You then pay at a desk that is past immigration AND customs. Jack the tour guide was very funny. They call the lunch into a restaurant where you have only two choices, beef stew or vegetarian lunch and it's waiting when you get there so you have about 30-40 minutes left to market shop. I met and chatted with people from Cincinnati (my daughter's Xavier connection), Twin Cities (my brother & sister-in-law's home), Atlanta and NYC. I was the only one coming, everyone else going home.
I was here only one night. I arrived at 10:30pm and the speed train to DT Sentral Station was 25 minutes and easy, because oh yeah it's the only stop. I booked a room at a Hilton right in the train station complex. I went for my morning run where I thought I'd see something in KL, but found out it was all contained. I could not literally find a way out of the train/hotel/office building & hospital complex. Everything lead to a dead end even though I could see a Botanical Garden or other hotels out of windows. In hindsight I should have thrown on Google Maps for directions out but this was a first. Train did make it easy getting back to the airport.
- George Town, Penang, Malaysia
I don't know how to describe the very interesting mix of this town. It's like Saint Augustine, FL as the old British fort, Fort Cornwallis and colonial buildings are at the center of town and it's surrounded by the old town neighborhood that is like 35% Malay, 30% Chinese & 30% Indian & 5% European & other SE Asian as well as Muslim, Hindu, Chinese religion, Catholic, & Protestant. There was a few block stretch downtown where all were represented. I recall seeing a Jewish temple also. The city was decorated for the Indian holiday of Deepevalli on Monday. All three food types were available. Everyone was super friendly and the Muslim Malay taxi driver and Indian taxi driver told me the same that everything is laid back here, everyone gets along. Taxi's were not cheap but I spoke a few times with a guy from California who comes here for work 2-3 times a year and he told me another Uber-like service called GRAB that's available in several Asian countries. He swears by GRAB so I downloaded the App for future use.
My customer grilled me on price (as every customer does) so I was thankful for the friendliness of everyone around me to not be bothered by it.
I honestly would like to come back here on vacation. It was super cheap. Friendly as mentioned plus I got to see none of the other stuff the town is know for: the train up the peak for the experience and view similar to Hong Kong, the rain forest-like national park with monkeys and good swimming beaches (both the other side of peaks and hills that separate the island).
Wow! What a modern, clean super-efficient, orderly, friendly place with the most idiot-proof MRT system I've ridden anywhere. At times I felt it was too orderly and lacked a little chaos that makes places interesting, but everything else made up for it. Everything from designated yellow lined smoking boxes to the queue line arrows painted on the floor of the MRT stations. I loved that they highly emphasized unique architecture.
My morning runs and Saturday excursion, got me to see all the highlighted touristy stuff in the DT Core area. The National Museum showcased how Singapore was a trading hub since the 1200's.
I planned to visit the Marina Sands observation deck for a beer on Friday night but I ended up going to dinner with the President & his wife of our Distributor instead. Work called.
Can't wait to revisit here.
Only weird story - I went back to Malaysia on Thursday for a 1/2 day which is just over the Causeway to get a tour of my sister-companies' plant. The Malays showed their graciousness once again. On the way back, Jr.-Border-Guard-in training broke my stones because I couldn't remember my flight number out on Saturday to write on the entry card and the Singapore Air App wasn't working. I was told by others later they were very surprised because I was an American and they never say anything against American businessman.
Holy Snikes, sweet mother of God! As advised on Scoop, nothing can prepare you for India. I'm still not sure if I'm glad this is the last stop or would have been better at the beginning.
My morning run was around Lake Ulsoor. The first half was dodging cars, broken sidewalks, construction, people, cess pool smells and trash. The second half was easier as there are paths in the lake front park and were loaded with walkers and runners. I'm still laughing at the 50-something year old guys power-walking with polo shirts and dress pants wearing matching baseball hats that read "CROSS-FIT".
I tried to go for a walk to Cubbon Park. I stepped around dirt poor people on the sidewalk and it turned out to be farther than I thought and I kept getting accosted by guys driving Tuk Tuks. I finally got tired by the walk, the rising heat and me actually wanting to go for a ride in one for the experience. I got dragged to shops instead of where he said he would take me and I ended up with souvenirs I actually had on my list (scarves, jewelry, sandalwood anything). But there is so so many people here and continually pushing that my high tolerance and dick-ness that I often employ when traveling got over whelmed that even I gave up. I found the Hard Rock Cafe for a breather to get my traditional classic white Tee and figured I'd just eat and go back to the hotel pool and overlook for beer and work. I saw the HRC manager be a little arrogant yelling at two new workers, try to show off for me and when I went to get my tee, that had no classic white. Manager said, because "he didn't order any." Man I was disappointed. No Bengaluru for my 50 shirt collection.
I called Uber for the ride back to the hotel. Ride was great, but I had to get out 80% way to the Conrad as there was some religious festival parade going on and they said it might otherwise be another hour for the remaining 5 minutes.
I'm not looking forward to the ride to see my customer tomorrow. Would be 35 minutes with Sunday traffic, but I'm told it might be 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hr ride on Monday.
[/list]
Sorry so wordy, but what an adventure. If there's anything weird and interesting to add from tomorrow I will including involving my 1:50 am departure Tuesday morning. I'm told the long international flights are all at this time because the traffic is better.
Home in time for Marquette opening game!
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Anyone been around Butler in Indianapolis? Going to the game this weekend and looking for breweries, local
favorite food.
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I bode no ill will towards the airlines. They are (almost all) horrible companies, run by idiots, staffed by drones and they don't care at all about customers. ONE MUST ACCEPT THIS and find a way to get what one wants regardless of loyalty and points and miles and all of that.
Anyone who thinks that airline "status" will get you anything in 5-10 years is kidding themselves.
Hotels - some chains at least - are headed the same way, but you can still play it while there's a game to play. Probably 10-15 more years before the same scenario exists as exists now with air travel. By then I'll be done traveling and won't care anymore anyway.
Depends how you achieve statuses. Hundreds of nights at hotels and dozens of flights? Yeah not worth it to be loyal. Get the status through Churning a credit card, it absolutely is worth the perks.
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Anyone been around Butler in Indianapolis? Going to the game this weekend and looking for breweries, local
favorite food.
The Broad Ripple neighborhood has brew pubs, restaurants. About five miles from Hinkle.
There are some good spots in Broad Ripple, Or follow College Avenue 10 blocks south to South Broad Ripple. Places all along that road. OR there is a new bar/restaurant that just opened that is a 30 second walk to Hinkle called Chatham Tap. Locally owned. 3rd one they've opened in Indy. Get there early. Solid beer selection, breaded tenderloin and fish and chips.
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The Broad Ripple neighborhood has brew pubs, restaurants. About five miles from Hinkle.
There are some good spots in Broad Ripple, Or follow College Avenue 10 blocks south to South Broad Ripple. Places all along that road. OR there is a new bar/restaurant that just opened that is a 30 second walk to Hinkle called Chatham Tap. Locally owned. 3rd one they've opened in Indy. Get there early. Solid beer selection, breaded tenderloin and fish and chips.
Broad Ripple is my favorite Ben and Jerry's flavor.
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The Broad Ripple neighborhood has brew pubs, restaurants. About five miles from Hinkle.
There are some good spots in Broad Ripple, Or follow College Avenue 10 blocks south to South Broad Ripple. Places all along that road. OR there is a new bar/restaurant that just opened that is a 30 second walk to Hinkle called Chatham Tap. Locally owned. 3rd one they've opened in Indy. Get there early. Solid beer selection, breaded tenderloin and fish and chips.
Thanks only been out downtown both times I went to Indy wanted to see more
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My last time in Indy, I went to Brugge Brasserie in Broad Ripple. Excellent mussels, and a great Belgian Style beers. The owner of the place went to high school with Abe Benrubi, the actor, who is from Indy.. Random fact.
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Do people still leave porn mags under the mattress in hotel rooms?
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Looking for a long weekend with the wife, probably June-ish. Preferably within 6 hours of Kenosha.
House rental preferred, but not necessary. Stuff to do is a positive, winery, breweries, light hiking. Possibly golf, but might be frowned upon playing a solo round.
What ya got?
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Looking for a long weekend with the wife, probably June-ish. Preferably within 6 hours of Kenosha.
House rental preferred, but not necessary. Stuff to do is a positive, winery, breweries, light hiking. Possibly golf, but might be frowned upon playing a solo round.
What ya got?
Go to Canada. There are a ton of wineries in Canada on Lake Erie. Right around a 6 hour drive. One of the breweries in the area has something fun as well
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Looking for a long weekend with the wife, probably June-ish. Preferably within 6 hours of Kenosha.
House rental preferred, but not necessary. Stuff to do is a positive, winery, breweries, light hiking. Possibly golf, but might be frowned upon playing a solo round.
What ya got?
Have you ever been to Galena? Has everything you mention above (plus a really cool distillery) and a lot of historical stuff . It was in the house rental business decades before AirBnB was a thing.
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Have you ever been to Galena? Has everything you mention above (plus a really cool distillery) and a lot of historical stuff . It was in the house rental business decades before AirBnB was a thing.
I've stayed at Eagle Ridge before, but that's a good idea. Thank you.
I've actually never done Door County either, we've always been Michigan people. Continue to not to Door County?
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I've stayed at Eagle Ridge before, but that's a good idea. Thank you.
I've actually never done Door County either, we've always been Michigan people. Continue to not to Door County?
Door County is way cool as well.
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I've stayed at Eagle Ridge before, but that's a good idea. Thank you.
I've actually never done Door County either, we've always been Michigan people. Continue to not to Door County?
I was going to say Grand Haven/Saugatuk but it sounds like you have done that area. Door County is good.
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What's recommended in Door County?
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Leelanau peninsula.
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Leelanau peninsula.
Yeah, awesome place. Grew up there in the summers. Was thinking about going back, haven't been in 4-5 years now. Trying to figure out if I want to do nostalgia or be adventurous. Never been as an adult without kids, so there's that angle now.
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Looking for a long weekend with the wife, probably June-ish. Preferably within 6 hours of Kenosha.
House rental preferred, but not necessary. Stuff to do is a positive, winery, breweries, light hiking. Possibly golf, but might be frowned upon playing a solo round.
What ya got?
1) Sister Chick is right about Galena. But I'd add that Dubuque, 11 miles away, makes this especially appealing. Dubuque is finally embracing its architectural heritage. The restaurant scene has improved vastly. Still has a ways to go but an interesting city. Has gaming, which Galena lacks, in addition to water parks, boating and scenery. Full disclosure: Ms. Dgies is a Dubuque native and I've been going to both Galena and Dubuque since the 19..s (long time ago).
2) North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota -- Fits everything you want except, I suspect, wineries. This is the most beautiful scenery in the Midwest and it's relatively unknown outside Minnesota. The area looks like Maine's coast. Restaurant and dining scene has improved dramatically in recent years. Houses are everywhere. Also, don't ignore Duluth. In the summer, it's a hopping place. Real Chili knows the area well, as do I since it is my family's homeland.
3) Stillwater, MN -- Kind of a rustic place along the Dalles of the St. Croix River on the Wisconsin/Minnesota border. Boating is fantastic, scenery is beautiful and its very Minnesota/Wisconsin/Northswoodsy rural. Close to Minneapolis-St. Paul (45 mins) if you're bored or want that special spa.
4) Bayfield -- Very rustic, extremely woodsy but gorgeous. Should be able to play golf, canoe, enjoy wonderful scenery including the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Inns are wonderful and there's a very nice hotel in Ashland, nearby. Drive along Lake Superior's South Shore is very nice and it's right at six hours. Again not likely to find wineries but dining is good.
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I think early June, I'd go to Galena, late June, Door County. Galena is going to be warmer, being 200 miles further south.
Galena is often overlooked .. but its landscape is really spectacular, in the Mississippi river basin. I remember driving there a few years ago and asked my wife, if I'd popped her down right here, without knowing .. where would you think you were? Answer: Ireland. (which was my guess too.)
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Aside from Wis. Dells and Lake Geneva, does anyone know of a place in Wisconsin that would minimally resemble the setting in "Great Outdoors," specifically: i) a lake suitable for boating and fishing, ii) a decent selection of nearby restaurants/supper clubs, iii) supply of modest rental cabins/cottages/vacation homes, and iv) a tolerable drive from Chicago with kids. (Ferris wheel, go-karts and bare-assed bear not necessary.) If not Wisconsin, what about Michigan?
Closest I could come up with was Waupaca/King area in Wisconsin and Shelbyville/Gun Lake in Michigan.
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Aside from Wis. Dells and Lake Geneva, does anyone know of a place in Wisconsin that would minimally resemble the setting in "Great Outdoors," specifically: i) a lake suitable for boating and fishing, ii) a decent selection of nearby restaurants/supper clubs, iii) supply of modest rental cabins/cottages/vacation homes, and iv) a tolerable drive from Chicago with kids. (Ferris wheel, go-karts and bare-assed bear not necessary.) If not Wisconsin, what about Michigan?
Closest I could come up with was Waupaca/King area in Wisconsin and Shelbyville/Gun Lake in Michigan.
Leelanau County. It’s fantastic.
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Aside from Wis. Dells and Lake Geneva, does anyone know of a place in Wisconsin that would minimally resemble the setting in "Great Outdoors," specifically: i) a lake suitable for boating and fishing, ii) a decent selection of nearby restaurants/supper clubs, iii) supply of modest rental cabins/cottages/vacation homes, and iv) a tolerable drive from Chicago with kids. (Ferris wheel, go-karts and bare-assed bear not necessary.) If not Wisconsin, what about Michigan?
Closest I could come up with was Waupaca/King area in Wisconsin and Shelbyville/Gun Lake in Michigan.
Phantom Lake or Lake Buelah in Mukwonago?
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Aside from Wis. Dells and Lake Geneva, does anyone know of a place in Wisconsin that would minimally resemble the setting in "Great Outdoors," specifically: i) a lake suitable for boating and fishing, ii) a decent selection of nearby restaurants/supper clubs, iii) supply of modest rental cabins/cottages/vacation homes, and iv) a tolerable drive from Chicago with kids. (Ferris wheel, go-karts and bare-assed bear not necessary.) If not Wisconsin, what about Michigan?
Closest I could come up with was Waupaca/King area in Wisconsin and Shelbyville/Gun Lake in Michigan.
Landerdale Lakes off 12.
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Boyne properties. Shanty Creek, Schuss Mountain, Bellaire. Petoskey area.
Honestly, anywhere west of I-75 in Northern Michigan neets your criteria.
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Delavan lake, beaver dam lake, big cedar lake.
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I have heard Pentenwell Lake/Castle Rock Lake may fit your requirements. Some of the others listed are too small and crowded. Can hit the Dells for a day or at night.
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I have heard Pentenwell Lake/Castle Rock Lake may fit your requirements. Some of the others listed are too small and crowded. Can hit the Dells for a day or at night.
Beautiful area. 45 minutes from the dells. Has a great golf course, northern bay at castle rock in ark dale wi. Has 7 rendition holes including tpc island hole, Augusta, oakmont church pews, bayhill, Firestone, very fun and well managed.
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Anybody got Kuala Lampur, Pnom Phenh, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi recommendations/things to avoid?
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Coronavirus, hey?
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Coronavirus, hey?
(https://media.giphy.com/media/zTi44nspCwdJC/giphy.gif)
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Anybody got Kuala Lampur, Pnom Phenh, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi recommendations/things to avoid?
Avoid chewing gum and illegal drugs in Singapore.
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Anybody got Kuala Lampur, Pnom Phenh, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi recommendations/things to avoid?
Great spots. Send me a PM about Singapore if you want. Incredible place with some really cool stuff
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Anybody got Kuala Lampur, Pnom Phenh, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi recommendations/things to avoid?
Was just in KL & Singapore.
KL - I got in late, took the speed train from the airport to DT KL and my Hilton was at the Sentral Station. I had an 11:00am flight out of KL, so did not have time to go see anything like the Petronas Towers. I did my morning run where I generally see something, but the area around the train station is truly a maze and ended up confined and saw nothing of significance. What I can say is the train service is very good and I wanted to ride the metro like the movie Entrapment and everything in Malaysia is super inexpensive.
Singapore - There are other alums here who have spent more time in a Singapore than me. I would definitely say to stay in the Downtown Core area with the Garden's by the Bay, Sands Casino, waterfront walking/running trails, Fort Canning, museums all near by. The entire city-state is a shopping mall. Architecture is incredible in the city. Excellent Chinese food.
Was less expensive than the USA. Found it amusing my hotel overlooked the Fountain of Wealth. Only in Singapore.
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Anybody got Kuala Lampur, Pnom Phenh, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi recommendations/things to avoid?
PM me... I have lived in Singapore (twice) and know KL pretty well.
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Looking for a long weekend with the wife, probably June-ish. Preferably within 6 hours of Kenosha.
House rental preferred, but not necessary. Stuff to do is a positive, winery, breweries, light hiking. Possibly golf, but might be frowned upon playing a solo round.
What ya got?
Stay at Lake Arrowhead in Nekoosa. There are several options there- all house rentals. Arrowhead has 2 great courses, Sand Valley is 1 mile away. You can walk/hike there (arrowhead lets non-players join you and you can walk the course in the evening - and I'm hearing Sand Valley does the same), or you can go to nearby Roch-a-cri, lake delevan, etc. You can just walk the snowmobile trails as well... but they are so sandy in the summer it's like walking on a beach. If you have a boat, Petenwell is 15 minutes to a good landing at devil's elbow, and arrowhead landing is right there. You can fish or waterski on both. Be careful on petenwell, parts are shallow... you need to know the lake or have a good map. If the water is low, you can lose a prop on a couple of old brick silos. PM me for some specifics if you are interested.
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Italy in October gang.
Any special thoughts. Never there so all ears
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Italy in October gang.
Any special thoughts. Never there so all ears
What part?
My girlfriend lived in Florence and we have spent significant amounts of time in both Florence and Positano on the Amalfi Coast. If either of those are your destinations I have plenty of restaurant/hotel/sightseeing recommendations.
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Italy in October gang.
Any special thoughts. Never there so all ears
Yeah, where are you flying in out of? What do you like to do?
Great time to go though. Missing the crowds and still good weather.
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Italy in October gang.
Any special thoughts. Never there so all ears
Only been to Rome, so if you end up there my advice is that the inside of the coleseum was underwhelming especially given the line, they've cemented so much of it that it's sort of meh. Outside of it was awesome
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Italy in October gang.
Any special thoughts. Never there so all ears
Sent you a PM. We went October a few years ago, and it was great. Happy to share some tips with you depending on what you’re looking to do.
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Italy in October gang.
Any special thoughts. Never there so all ears
Oh, I was just there in Dec/Jan.
Venice, Milan, Florence, Cinque Terra, Rome, Naples
I can make plenty of recommendations. Just need to know where you're going.
Also, I've been to several of those places twice.
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Italy in October gang.
Any special thoughts. Never there so all ears
While there are lots of travel guides, my go to place for vacation info is a forum called Flyer Talk. They have boards for everything and one dedicated to Italy. Ask a question or search previous posts for a wealth of info. People that live there or are frequent visitors often will answer questions in minutes for you.
Link to Italy forum: https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/italy-634/
My 2 cents as a multi time visitor. There are no wrong places to go (well maybe Pisa for more than 15 minutes). Pay to skip lines, especially in Rome. Pay to get a guide. Makes everything so much more interesting. Usually a guide and skipping lines go hand in hand.
And since this is a Marquette board, if you are in Rome, there is a great beer bar in Trastevere (just across the Tiber river (literally that is what Tastevere means). called Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà. Means "what am I doing here" but more commonly known as the Football Pub. As a Marquette person, you will feel at home in this place. https://www.football-pub.com/
A general tip. You're going to too many cities. Almost everyone (myself included the first time) try to cram too many stops in one trip. Pick a place or two and relax and enjoy just being there.
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While there are lots of travel guides, my go to place for vacation info is a forum called Flyer Talk. They have boards for everything and one dedicated to Italy. Ask a question or search previous posts for a wealth of info. People that live there or are frequent visitors often will answer questions in minutes for you.
Link to Italy forum: https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/italy-634/
My 2 cents as a multi time visitor. There are no wrong places to go (well maybe Pisa for more than 15 minutes). Pay to skip lines, especially in Rome. Pay to get a guide. Makes everything so much more interesting. Usually a guide and skipping lines go hand in hand.
And since this is a Marquette board, if you are in Rome, there is a great beer bar in Trastevere (just across the Tiber river (literally that is what Tastevere means). called Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà. Means "what am I doing here" but more commonly known as the Football Pub. As a Marquette person, you will feel at home in this place. https://www.football-pub.com/
A general tip. You're going to too many cities. Almost everyone (myself included the first time) try to cram too many stops in one trip. Pick a place or two and relax and enjoy just being there.
pbi,
chick and I are heading to a Med Cruise in 9/2021 embarking from Rome. We'll fly in at least a couple days before. We'll talk (outside scoop) as we get to the planning stage later this year.
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pbi,
chick and I are heading to a Med Cruise in 9/2021 embarking from Rome. We'll fly in at least a couple days before. We'll talk (outside scoop) as we get to the planning stage later this year.
We can chat Saturday!
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While there are lots of travel guides, my go to place for vacation info is a forum called Flyer Talk. They have boards for everything and one dedicated to Italy. Ask a question or search previous posts for a wealth of info. People that live there or are frequent visitors often will answer questions in minutes for you.
Link to Italy forum: https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/italy-634/
My 2 cents as a multi time visitor. There are no wrong places to go (well maybe Pisa for more than 15 minutes). Pay to skip lines, especially in Rome. Pay to get a guide. Makes everything so much more interesting. Usually a guide and skipping lines go hand in hand.
And since this is a Marquette board, if you are in Rome, there is a great beer bar in Trastevere (just across the Tiber river (literally that is what Tastevere means). called Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà. Means "what am I doing here" but more commonly known as the Football Pub. As a Marquette person, you will feel at home in this place. https://www.football-pub.com/
A general tip. You're going to too many cities. Almost everyone (myself included the first time) try to cram too many stops in one trip. Pick a place or two and relax and enjoy just being there.
Generally, I disagree. You may have been more than a few times, but most people take trips like these once in a lifetime. Three to Four days in most of these cities is more than enough.
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Generally, I disagree. You may have been more than a few times, but most people take trips like these once in a lifetime. Three to Four days in most of these cities is more than enough.
Fair enough. I was really thinking of those folks that try and do 4 cities in a week. They spend way too much time traveling between cities checking in and out of hotels. 2 places per week is a nice pace, I agree.
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Fair enough. I was really thinking of those folks that try and do 4 cities in a week. They spend way too much time traveling between cities checking in and out of hotels. 2 places per week is a nice pace, I agree.
I guess I was making assumptions as well. I don't know how long he is going to be there.
FWIW, I'd skip Milan because overall, it is kind of a boring city. Cathedral is cool, couple of nice pieces of art... but then what? Spend all day at the Sforzesco Castle? Check out the massive Cimitero Monumentale? We sort of ran out of things to do. One thing I did like was that it was a large diverse modern city... but that isn't why I would go visit... that is more a QoL thing for me. Great metro and aperitivo culture were great too.
Personally, I liked Naples the best of the places we went in Dec/Jan. With Naples, you get the city (not a ton to do in fairness, and it is very dirty... but great pizza!), Capri, Herculaneum and Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius, PLUS Sorrento and the Amalfi coast are a short car/boat ride away.
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There are no wrong places to go (well maybe Pisa for more than 15 minutes).
Cant emphasize this enough. Went to Italy a number of years ago for the eldest of my younger sisters' college graduations. Were in Florence but for some reason, flights to London (our hub for getting back to the US) were insane, so we found good fares out of Pisa which was a quick 50 min train ride away. Thought we could check off another "famous" Italian spot as we did so we planned a full day there. Talk about disappointment. City was basically a dump, the Tower was tremendously underhwelming, and the Duomo was under heavy restoration so it was covered in scaffolding. Was pleasantly surprised by the cuisine and we had a nice lunch and a fantastic early dinner, but otherwise, my feelings on Pisa are not kind.
Oh, don't get me started on Galileo Galilei Airport. The airport design and operations may have been designed by Galileo himself, lack of knowledge about the invention of flight 250 years after his death included.
I guess I was making assumptions as well. I don't know how long he is going to be there.
FWIW, I'd skip Milan because overall, it is kind of a boring city. Cathedral is cool, couple of nice pieces of art... but then what? Spend all day at the Sforzesco Castle? Check out the massive Cimitero Monumentale? We sort of ran out of things to do. One thing I did like was that it was a large diverse modern city... but that isn't why I would go visit... that is more a QoL thing for me. Great metro and aperitivo culture were great too.
Personally, I liked Naples the best of the places we went in Dec/Jan. With Naples, you get the city (not a ton to do in fairness, and it is very dirty... but great pizza!), Capri, Herculaneum and Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius, PLUS Sorrento and the Amalfi coast are a short car/boat ride away.
Milan is a cool cosmipolitan city, but for sight seeing/history, I agree. It feels more like NYC compared to the other great Italian cities that have modern and historical seamlessly blended.
Did you like Naples or Naples as a central point for those other places? Cause its so dirty it makes Rome look clean and everyone I spoke to, locals in Amalfi or otherwise, didn't downplay its reputation for pickpocketing and other petty crime. I saw a purse snatched at the train station at 2 in the afternoon on a Saturday that was so blatant I thought it was a movie being filmed.
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Cant emphasize this enough. Went to Italy a number of years ago for the eldest of my younger sisters' college graduations. Were in Florence but for some reason, flights to London (our hub for getting back to the US) were insane, so we found good fares out of Pisa which was a quick 50 min train ride away. Thought we could check off another "famous" Italian spot as we did so we planned a full day there. Talk about disappointment. City was basically a dump, the Tower was tremendously underhwelming, and the Duomo was under heavy restoration so it was covered in scaffolding. Was pleasantly surprised by the cuisine and we had a nice lunch and a fantastic early dinner, but otherwise, my feelings on Pisa are not kind.
Oh, don't get me started on Galileo Galilei Airport. The airport design and operations may have been designed by Galileo himself, lack of knowledge about the invention of flight 250 years after his death included.
Milan is a cool cosmipolitan city, but for sight seeing/history, I agree. It feels more like NYC compared to the other great Italian cities that have modern and historical seamlessly blended.
Did you like Naples or Naples as a central point for those other places? Cause its so dirty it makes Rome look clean and everyone I spoke to, locals in Amalfi or otherwise, didn't downplay its reputation for pickpocketing and other petty crime. I saw a purse snatched at the train station at 2 in the afternoon on a Saturday that was so blatant I thought it was a movie being filmed.
More as a central point, but I did enjoy the city. If they can figure out their litter problem it could be a much better place to visit on its own. FWIW, I saw zero crime, but we stayed down by the Caste dell'Ovo right along the water. Having said that, we comfortably walked around the entire central city, even at night through some questionable neighborhoods, and we were never bothered. Walking with purpose and confidence is usually the key... not stopping and checking your phone every half block, and not looking all over the place like a lost child will keep you safe almost anywhere. If you have to stop, duck into a store and have a look around and then check your phone before you leave.
One interesting story was that My FIL did get hit by a car while we waited for pizza at L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele... luckily just the side mirror caught his side, and he was fine.. but the locals around us FLIPPED OUT at the car driver. One flaw while we were there was that the Metro wasn't functional, and being massively expanded. So we had to taxi... which was harrowing. They drive like absolute maniacs, and traffic signs, and lanes are mere suggestions. Having driven in France, Netherlands, Germany, I would NEVER consider driving in Italy.
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New Orleans for a Bachelor Party. Suggestions?
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More as a central point, but I did enjoy the city. If they can figure out their litter problem it could be a much better place to visit on its own. FWIW, I saw zero crime, but we stayed down by the Caste dell'Ovo right along the water. Having said that, we comfortably walked around the entire central city, even at night through some questionable neighborhoods, and we were never bothered. Walking with purpose and confidence is usually the key... not stopping and checking your phone every half block, and not looking all over the place like a lost child will keep you safe almost anywhere. If you have to stop, duck into a store and have a look around and then check your phone before you leave.
Makes sense. And I didn't personally feel worried. Ive traveled enough, in far dicier places in Asia or Mexico or Athens, to always keep my head on a swivel and actively avoid looking like a tourist. Hell, years ago, before I travelled 100K+ miles a year for work, I remember visiting London for the first time and taking pictures of maps on my phone because I knew I wouldn't have to look at a physical map. That was as much for pride as it was for safety. Its just something I keep in mind when I recommend places for less experienced travelers.
New Orleans for a Bachelor Party. Suggestions?
Abso-fricken-lutely. By happenstance, I had 2 BPs there within a year and change. One we rented a house in Marigny, which is the neighborhood just east of the French Quarter, and the other we stayed near the casino. Both were walking distance which was key.
Biggest reco for me, rent a balcony on Bourbon St. Variety of companies and ways to do it. We got one for 3-4 hours one night. Its basically a big open space with a bar and your own private balcony. Ours was combo BYOB and stocked, with a bartender. Amazing way to drink, hang out, observe the street, etc... We had 10 guys, space for probably 40 people up there, so we ended up inviting people we met up and having a mini party. Great time.
One of the trips, we did a airboat bayou tour. That was awesome, saw a bunch of gators, heard some cool stories from a great Cajun tour guide, beat the summer heat in NO and got away from the hustle and bustle for a few hours.
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Anyone have any input on Sandals resorts in the Caribbean? We are currently shopping for our honeymoon in September and am curious to see some firsthand reviews.
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New Orleans for a Bachelor Party. Suggestions?
Don’t answer any questions without counsel.
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Anyone have any input on Sandals resorts in the Caribbean? We are currently shopping for our honeymoon in September and am curious to see some firsthand reviews.
Don't?
But for real, where are you looking?
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Anyone have any input on Sandals resorts in the Caribbean? We are currently shopping for our honeymoon in September and am curious to see some firsthand reviews.
Check out Hedonism II. Can pack light.
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Anyone have any input on Sandals resorts in the Caribbean? We are currently shopping for our honeymoon in September and am curious to see some firsthand reviews.
The only one I can recommend is Sandals Whitehouse Jamaica (it’s been renamed something else by now, I’m sure). It was spectacular as far as all-inclusives go, but the bus ride from MB is about 2-3 hours. Also, we were there in 2008, i.e. one year after its grand opening. So YMMV.
Sandals - in general - isn’t horrible. People give them a bad rap for being greedy and overcharging the customer, but guess what... that’s also true if THE ENTIRE TOURISM INDUSTRY. Most people who enjoy all-inclusives will enjoy Sandals. Anything can go wrong at any time while you’re on vacation... if you’re worried about a bad experience, the question to ask yourself is which operator is more likely to help you out of a disaster should it arise... the awesome boutique place ran by the hot lady with big tits, or the multi-million dollar corporation with resources and connections around the world?
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Thanks for the info. We’re looking at Caribbean for honeymoon in September. We’ve never traveled there. Budget about $5k for 5 nights. A lower range sandals room is right there but doesn’t leave much room for other activities so I’ve been looking elsewhere. Curious what other places people have been there for all-inclusive.
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Thanks for the info. We’re looking at Caribbean for honeymoon in September. We’ve never traveled there. Budget about $5k for 5 nights. A lower range sandals room is right there but doesn’t leave much room for other activities so I’ve been looking elsewhere. Curious what other places people have been there for all-inclusive.
For five days, keep it easy. Direct flight into Cancun, stay at one of the newer all-inclusive a north of the city.
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Thanks for the info. We’re looking at Caribbean for honeymoon in September. We’ve never traveled there. Budget about $5k for 5 nights. A lower range sandals room is right there but doesn’t leave much room for other activities so I’ve been looking elsewhere. Curious what other places people have been there for all-inclusive.
Checkout Iberostar Grand properties, they are top tier, adults only, generally a bit smaller with better food and drinks, butler service in your room...many include golf too. We stayed at the Grand Bavaro in Punta Cana, and it was fantastic.
PM for details.
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Checkout Iberostar Grand properties, they are top tier, adults only, generally a bit smaller with better food and drinks, butler service in your room...many include golf too. We stayed at the Grand Bavaro in Punta Cana, and it was fantastic.
PM for details.
Second this. My wife and I did our honeymoon at Iberostar Grand Bavaro in Punta Cana. Great resort, great amenities. Highly recommend.
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Big fan of the Excellence Resorts.
https://www.excellenceresorts.com/
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For five days, keep it easy. Direct flight into Cancun, stay at one of the newer all-inclusive a north of the city.
Or you can stay anywhere else in the world and not have your drink diluted with methanol.
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We did sandals in st lucia years ago. It was nice. Food was average but not bad for being on a small island. The local beer was good.
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thanks for the suggestions
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Or you can stay anywhere else in the world and not have your drink diluted with methanol.
Uhh, that's the good stuff.
For a shorter trip, why spend more than half a day traveling? Direct 3.5-4 hours into Cancun or Cabo, on the beach in 45 minutes.
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Congratulations on your upcoming wedding. Chick and I are well traveled throughout the Caribbean although it's been years since we did all-inclusive. Make sure that's what you want to do and research the various AI brands. Personally, we went to Cancun for our honeymoon many years ago. I remember thinking it was so exotic because it was my first time outside the country with the exception of Canada.
Agree that for 5 days you want air travel to be efficient, which means US based jet only service. But I'm going to encourage you to dig just a bit deeper than the standard Mexico or Jamaica all-inclusive if you are a touch more adventurous. Two easy access air destinations I'll point to are St. Thomas via STT and St. Maarten via SXM. If a little research of those places and something slightly more exotic like that floats your boat after some reading let me know. I can make some suggestions.
You may also consider a 5-6 day cruise on a variety of lines. It's wonderful to hop a beautiful ship in Florida and sail away to some really nice cruiseport destinations. And you'd be hard pressed to spend your budget even on a very nice line with a beautiful cabin even including your excursion and bar bill. Plus it would give you a sampling of places to visit on future land based vacations.
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Makes sense. And I didn't personally feel worried. Ive traveled enough, in far dicier places in Asia or Mexico or Athens, to always keep my head on a swivel and actively avoid looking like a tourist. Hell, years ago, before I travelled 100K+ miles a year for work, I remember visiting London for the first time and taking pictures of maps on my phone because I knew I wouldn't have to look at a physical map. That was as much for pride as it was for safety. Its just something I keep in mind when I recommend places for less experienced travelers.
Abso-fricken-lutely. By happenstance, I had 2 BPs there within a year and change. One we rented a house in Marigny, which is the neighborhood just east of the French Quarter, and the other we stayed near the casino. Both were walking distance which was key.
Biggest reco for me, rent a balcony on Bourbon St. Variety of companies and ways to do it. We got one for 3-4 hours one night. Its basically a big open space with a bar and your own private balcony. Ours was combo BYOB and stocked, with a bartender. Amazing way to drink, hang out, observe the street, etc... We had 10 guys, space for probably 40 people up there, so we ended up inviting people we met up and having a mini party. Great time.
One of the trips, we did a airboat bayou tour. That was awesome, saw a bunch of gators, heard some cool stories from a great Cajun tour guide, beat the summer heat in NO and got away from the hustle and bustle for a few hours.
Chick and I stay in Marigny nearly every year. Love it.
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Chick and I stay in Marigny nearly every year. Love it.
Uber to Vaughan's in the Bywater District for a true New Orleans dive bar experience.
They are cracking down on AirBnB type places in the Marigny district. May be harder soon.
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Uber to Vaughan's in the Bywater District for a true New Orleans dive bar experience.
They are cracking down on AirBnB type places in the Marigny district. May be harder soon.
Yep. Our proprietor ended up having to sell one of her two places. It's a shame.
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Congratulations on your upcoming wedding. Chick and I are well traveled throughout the Caribbean although it's been years since we did all-inclusive. Make sure that's what you want to do and research the various AI brands. Personally, we went to Cancun for our honeymoon many years ago. I remember thinking it was so exotic because it was my first time outside the country with the exception of Canada.
Agree that for 5 days you want air travel to be efficient, which means US based jet only service. But I'm going to encourage you to dig just a bit deeper than the standard Mexico or Jamaica all-inclusive if you are a touch more adventurous. Two easy access air destinations I'll point to are St. Thomas via STT and St. Maarten via SXM. If a little research of those places and something slightly more exotic like that floats your boat after some reading let me know. I can make some suggestions.
You may also consider a 5-6 day cruise on a variety of lines. It's wonderful to hop a beautiful ship in Florida and sail away to some really nice cruiseport destinations. And you'd be hard pressed to spend your budget even on a very nice line with a beautiful cabin even including your excursion and bar bill. Plus it would give you a sampling of places to visit on future land based vacations.
Glow, I'm not a big fan of St. Thomas. Had some really bad experiences there. The USVI is way too touristy and it has its problems. If you're going that way, I'd do the BVI instead.
I'm also not a big fan of AI. When I go to someplace like Cabo San Lucas (which I love), I want to get into the community and find neat little bars, restaurants and artistic shops. We've done that in Mexico a lot (before we settled on a second home in Florida). AI takes away some of the incentive for going to local spots.
And for the Italy discussion, we're going to be there for 12 days. My wife and I done the "do all you can do" tours of Europe in our lives before and I agree that they can be exhausting and you tend to miss things that are just under the surface. Our current thought is, land in Rome and recover from jet lag there. Go to Florence and Tuscany and, if time permits, the Amalfi Coast. We acknowledge that's an awful lot and we probably will cut back somewhat. We'll fly back via Rome, her to Florida and me to Chicago.
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Glow, I'm not a big fan of St. Thomas. Had some really bad experiences there. The USVI is way too touristy and it has its problems. If you're going that way, I'd do the BVI instead.
I'm also not a big fan of AI. When I go to someplace like Cabo San Lucas (which I love), I want to get into the community and find neat little bars, restaurants and artistic shops. We've done that in Mexico a lot (before we settled on a second home in Florida). AI takes away some of the incentive for going to local spots.
And for the Italy discussion, we're going to be there for 12 days. My wife and I done the "do all you can do" tours of Europe in our lives before and I agree that they can be exhausting and you tend to miss things that are just under the surface. Our current thought is, land in Rome and recover from jet lag there. Go to Florence and Tuscany and, if time permits, the Amalfi Coast. We acknowledge that's an awful lot and we probably will cut back somewhat. We'll fly back via Rome, her to Florida and me to Chicago.
I 100% agree. But I'm trying to give CW some 'easy' choices for a 5 dayer. Flying into EIS is a little trickier and for that short a trip I'd hate to fly, then ferry.
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Glow, I'm not a big fan of St. Thomas. Had some really bad experiences there. The USVI is way too touristy and it has its problems. If you're going that way, I'd do the BVI instead.
All else equal, don't underestimate the benefit of having the American justice system at your back. Obviously, it doesn't immunize you to crime and/or getting screwed over, but realistically, the prospect of recourse is a lot stronger for a US citizen in a US territory than it is elsewhere.
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On many of the islands, you can get a really beautiful AirBnB for a fraction of the price of a resort. There's more planning involved as far as where you are going to eat, what beach you are going to hang out on, etc. but IMO that is part of the fun. You are also not paying for activities or amenities that you don't plan on using.
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All else equal, don't underestimate the benefit of having the American justice system at your back. Obviously, it doesn't immunize you to crime and/or getting screwed over, but realistically, the prospect of recourse is a lot stronger for a US citizen in a US territory than it is elsewhere.
Brother Benny:
What exactly do you do on vacation that you have to worry about this stuff?
LOL!!!!!
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Brother Benny:
What exactly do you do on vacation that you have to worry about this stuff?
LOL!!!!!
You have apparently never been to the BVIs during their famous "Full Moon" parties.
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Here's the other thing CW. For the top dozen Caribbean destinations they are TOTALLY used to dealing with Americans. So stuff like currency, language, etc. aren't a barrier at all. It's not quite 'just like going to Wisconsin' as they say in Stripes but honestly it's no problem at all. Culturally they are not all the same and chick and I definitely have our favorites and our not so favorites. Broadly speaking we probably enjoy those with a French affiliation and culture most. But dgies is correct that the BVIs are simply spectacular. On our very short bucket list are the Grenadines. That's a tougher get to, especially to the archipelago islands and cays away from Grenada itself.
I guess what I'm saying is be comfortable if you choose to expand your horizons a little beyond the AIs.
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Great suggestions. Travel Agent has been recommending a few couples resorts on 7 mile beach in Negril, Jamaica. Fits the budget perfectly and gives us a free day for an extended honeymoon. Definitely favoring all-inclusive as we have a little bit of travel for the actual wedding (where we live v where family lives) so we don't want to plan on anything. Any input on 7 mile beach?
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Negril is by far the nicest place on the island.
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Last minute, anyone have recommendations for Lima or Cusco/Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu? My time is basically filled short of some evenings but can't miss a chance to call on the Scoop hive mind.
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Great suggestions. Travel Agent has been recommending a few couples resorts on 7 mile beach in Negril, Jamaica. Fits the budget perfectly and gives us a free day for an extended honeymoon. Definitely favoring all-inclusive as we have a little bit of travel for the actual wedding (where we live v where family lives) so we don't want to plan on anything. Any input on 7 mile beach?
Stunning, but the drive from MoBay is no bueno. Only like like 45 miles, but can take over two hours. Spring for private transportation.
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Somewhat off topic, but on topic...
With the coronavirius impact, I wonder how the airlines/hotels are going to respond. Obviously the stock market has been pummeled, but travel and leisure stocks especially have been taken to the woodshed.
I'm curious if companies will make 2020 an exception for elite status, I realize that's probably the least of anyone's concerns right now (rightfully so), but I can see all types of unintended consequences happening here for the travel industry. I know there's a lot of folks on here who travel internationally regularly for their jobs, and I'd be curious if you can't fly for a quarter/half the year to those destinations, you're probably going to have a tough time hitting certain status levels.
I understand this post isn't for everyone here looking for travel advice, but I think it's going to be interesting to see how travel companies respond.
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Brother Benny:
What exactly do you do on vacation that you have to worry about this stuff?
LOL!!!!!
It's not what I do, it's what I don't do..... and that is I don't get screwed over by the locals.
Trust me, it doesn't matter where you are, in every tourist area in the entire world, the #1, #2, #3, #4, and #5 goal of the locals is to extract maximum value from every tourist, and the more "foreign" you are, the greater the probability they will resort to illegal/unethical means to do so.
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Somewhat off topic, but on topic...
With the coronavirius impact, I wonder how the airlines/hotels are going to respond. Obviously the stock market has been pummeled, but travel and leisure stocks especially have been taken to the woodshed.
I'm curious if companies will make 2020 an exception for elite status, I realize that's probably the least of anyone's concerns right now (rightfully so), but I can see all types of unintended consequences happening here for the travel industry. I know there's a lot of folks on here who travel internationally regularly for their jobs, and I'd be curious if you can't fly for a quarter/half the year to those destinations, you're probably going to have a tough time hitting certain status levels.
I understand this post isn't for everyone here looking for travel advice, but I think it's going to be interesting to see how travel companies respond.
I'd be shocked to be honest. I'm a bit jaded, but I think airlines are actively trying to rid themselves of the burden of status'd fliers, that aren't the Global Services types. You used to be able to get the status based on miles, then they factored in spend, and now its more spend dependent than anything. They would rather have the Apple Executive who flies business class to China 2-3x a year at $8-10K a pop round trip, than someone who flies 125K miles in economy. This slowdown is hurting the latter. I fly close to 120K miles a year and this year, 2 months in, I've flown only back and forth to NY a few times and I don't see March being any different.
I already had pretty much given up on reaching 1K for next year with United as the threshold rising to $18K, a full 50% increase over 2 years, puts it pretty much out of reach when I STRAINED to get $15K last year. But if I'm not going back and forth to Asia much, its likely a moot point.
I think the hotels are a different story. I read something about Marriott making concessions for Chinese customers when it initially broke out. But I never have elite status with the hotel chains, so I can't speak to that.
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Great suggestions. Travel Agent has been recommending a few couples resorts on 7 mile beach in Negril, Jamaica. Fits the budget perfectly and gives us a free day for an extended honeymoon. Definitely favoring all-inclusive as we have a little bit of travel for the actual wedding (where we live v where family lives) so we don't want to plan on anything. Any input on 7 mile beach?
I knew you'd come around to Hedo. Well done, lad.
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Somewhat off topic, but on topic...
With the coronavirius impact, I wonder how the airlines/hotels are going to respond. Obviously the stock market has been pummeled, but travel and leisure stocks especially have been taken to the woodshed.
I'm curious if companies will make 2020 an exception for elite status, I realize that's probably the least of anyone's concerns right now (rightfully so), but I can see all types of unintended consequences happening here for the travel industry. I know there's a lot of folks on here who travel internationally regularly for their jobs, and I'd be curious if you can't fly for a quarter/half the year to those destinations, you're probably going to have a tough time hitting certain status levels.
I understand this post isn't for everyone here looking for travel advice, but I think it's going to be interesting to see how travel companies respond.
I'll just do a different twist on this Dish. I'm expecting vacation companies (let's take cruise lines as an example) to have to discount their product. I, for one, can't wait to take my $39 737 MAX flight to my $299 week-long cruise.
I mean seriously. Princess is going to have to take the Diamond out to the middle of the Pacific and scuttle it.
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Gonna be a rough go for Tom Wamsgans for awhile.
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I'll just do a different twist on this Dish. I'm expecting vacation companies (let's take cruise lines as an example) to have to discount their product. I, for one, can't wait to take my $39 737 MAX flight to my $299 week-long cruise.
I mean seriously. Princess is going to have to take the Diamond out to the middle of the Pacific and scuttle it.
This I can agree with. Cruise lines, travel/charter groups, I would expect to see a lot of mailers from Vegas offering cheap options.
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My wife's high school where she teaches, April break trip to Japan was cancelled this week.
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I'd be shocked to be honest. I'm a bit jaded, but I think airlines are actively trying to rid themselves of the burden of status'd fliers, that aren't the Global Services types. You used to be able to get the status based on miles, then they factored in spend, and now its more spend dependent than anything. They would rather have the Apple Executive who flies business class to China 2-3x a year at $8-10K a pop round trip, than someone who flies 125K miles in economy.
Brother Wags:
I read somewhere that there are something like 500,000 1Ks worldwide on United. It seems ridiculous but very possible. When I first made 1K, it was a very elite status and there were comparatively few people who made that level. The perks for being a 1K at the time were huge. Now, anything they offer will dilute the brand.
I've done four trips this year and I'm about a third of the way there. All domestic but, at my level in my firm, I am guaranteed first class. That's where the points come in.
United is catching a lot of flack from 1Ks who make it on miles but low spends. But there are two things to note. First, I'm not sure I care if I have 1K status anymore, as long as I can still fly first. There's just not that many perks to 1K as it exists today, which is why Global Services was created. Second, I suspect that the real reason United is getting tougher is to put more value back in the 1K status.
Ultimately, too many of us are UDPs -- Unprofitable Domestic Passengers. United reminds us of that status with its often crappy service.
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Somewhat off topic, but on topic...
With the coronavirius impact, I wonder how the airlines/hotels are going to respond. Obviously the stock market has been pummeled, but travel and leisure stocks especially have been taken to the woodshed.
I'm curious if companies will make 2020 an exception for elite status, I realize that's probably the least of anyone's concerns right now (rightfully so), but I can see all types of unintended consequences happening here for the travel industry. I know there's a lot of folks on here who travel internationally regularly for their jobs, and I'd be curious if you can't fly for a quarter/half the year to those destinations, you're probably going to have a tough time hitting certain status levels.
I understand this post isn't for everyone here looking for travel advice, but I think it's going to be interesting to see how travel companies respond.
I have spent nearly every day since Feb 6th in hotels in Russia, Dubai and Indonesia. Occupancy is down and prices are going down. Flights have been less full than normal, but I expect capacity to be reduced rapidly so the remaining flights will be full. I don't expect any airline or hotel chain to offer any charity... they see this as an opportunity for long term cost reduction.
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United is catching a lot of flack from 1Ks who make it on miles but low spends. But there are two things to note. First, I'm not sure I care if I have 1K status anymore, as long as I can still fly first. There's just not that many perks to 1K as it exists today, which is why Global Services was created. Second, I suspect that the real reason United is getting tougher is to put more value back in the 1K status.
Ultimately, too many of us are UDPs -- Unprofitable Domestic Passengers. United reminds us of that status with its often crappy service.
Cant disagree with you. Honestly, the only value left, for me, in 1K is my global upgrades, given the long haul trips I take fairly often to India and SE Asia where I don’t have a paid business class seat. Even with that, they are getting notoriously crappy with that. I flew to Frankfurt late last year and put in an upgrade knowing I’d have a surplus come EOY. At time of boarding, there was 2 open Premium Plus seats, and 4 open business class seats. I was 2nd on the upgrade list. I was boarded and in my seat and they came to pull me out and upgrade me. Great I got the seat, but what a joke, clearly trying to squeeze every last penny out without respect for service.
Save for that, having Gold is just fine as it gets you the Star Alliance perks and lounge access when traveling abroad. Otherwise you can get a checked bag with the CC and most other perks are negligible, and their new mileage devaluation further de-incentivizes loyalty.
Heck, it’s not even UDP, the last few years you could regularly get RT economy fares to Hong Kong/Shanghai/Beijing for $800-$1000. Could easily rack up a lot of miles with not a ton of meaningful spend by their standards. The game has changed.
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Vegas tomorrow, haven’t been in five years, anything new?
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Vegas tomorrow, haven’t been in five years, anything new?
Legal weed.
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Take a can of Lysol and spray down da bed reel well. Viruses 🦠 are a bitch, hey?
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Vegas tomorrow, haven’t been in five years, anything new?
East Fremont. Lots of cool bars and music venues.
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Vegas tomorrow, haven’t been in five years, anything new?
https://www.muscoop.com/index.php?topic=47811.msg735721#msg735721
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Vegas tomorrow, haven’t been in five years, anything new?
WCC Championship, Orleans Arena.
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On my way to DC tomorrow. Last time I checked, I'm tougher and meaner than the CoronaVirus.
Not letting a little bug get in the way of making money!!!
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WCC Championship, Orleans Arena.
Yeah leaning toward that.
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Left Vegas a day early. Wasn't dead, but a noticeable drop off in crowds no doubt.
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Left Vegas a day early. Wasn't dead, but a noticeable drop off in crowds no doubt.
Just curious, were the casinos dead? I can see either scenario...people being scared to go and be at a blackjack table next to other people, or people bored out of their mind and hitting the casinos more.
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Likely going to be in LA in two weeks. Anyone have any good ideas of things to do outside?
Not really sure how to spend 3-4 days. Going to do a lot of hiking, maybe Santa Monica Pier, beaches, etc.
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Just curious, were the casinos dead? I can see either scenario...people being scared to go and be at a blackjack table next to other people, or people bored out of their mind and hitting the casinos more.
Not dead, not empty seats everywhere. I went to the Sportsbook at Caesars to bet some Wednesday action, there were 6 dudes in there.
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Likely going to be in LA in two weeks. Anyone have any good ideas of things to do outside?
Not really sure how to spend 3-4 days. Going to do a lot of hiking, maybe Santa Monica Pier, beaches, etc.
Hang out on Wilshire and Rodeo. Watch da young ladies and grab a Go Greek, hey?
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My parents got on a cruise last Friday in Buenos Aires against all of my warnings... It was supposed to be a month long, and it has been cancelled after going 1/4 the trip. They have now been told they can't dock in Argentina at all. So they're hoping for Chile. Who knows when they'll be able to go ashore.
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My parents got on a cruise last Friday in Buenos Aires against all of my warnings... It was supposed to be a month long, and it has been cancelled after going 1/4 the trip. They have now been told they can't dock in Argentina at all. So they're hoping for Chile. Who knows when they'll be able to go ashore.
If there are no cases on board, maybe chillin' on the cruise ship is actually safer. Isolated from the rest of the world.
If there is a case on board, it is one of the worst places to be.
Hope all works out best for your parents.
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If there are no cases on board, maybe chillin' on the cruise ship is actually safer. Isolated from the rest of the world.
If there is a case on board, it is one of the worst places to be.
Hope all works out best for your parents.
Can't dock in Chile either, they're anchored a mile off shore near Punta Arenas... so the end of the world. So far, no one appears to be sick.
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I contemplated putting this in the Investing thread, but the airlines can eff off in asking for a bailout. For the amount they’ve collectively spent on stock buy backs, eff them.
I totally get that the airline business is fragile, more so than other industries. But spending all that cash on stock buy backs, while delivering a mediocre at best product, with record profits...eff em, let them go to bankruptcy and figure it out.
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I contemplated putting this in the Investing thread, but the airlines can eff off in asking for a bailout. For the amount they’ve collectively spent on stock buy backs, eff them.
I totally get that the airline business is fragile, more so than other industries. But spending all that cash on stock buy backs, while delivering a mediocre at best product, with record profits...eff em, let them go to bankruptcy and figure it out.
Amen Dish, could not agree more. F##k them
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I contemplated putting this in the Investing thread, but the airlines can eff off in asking for a bailout. For the amount they’ve collectively spent on stock buy backs, eff them.
I totally get that the airline business is fragile, more so than other industries. But spending all that cash on stock buy backs, while delivering a mediocre at best product, with record profits...eff em, let them go to bankruptcy and figure it out.
I'm with you. The products are continually declining, service has been abysmal for years, I too find it hard to sympathize. Ive griped many times on here recently about United's degradation of their FF program. And that's not even company specific, as we've seen MANY times over the years that the Big 3 US airlines just follow each other. One tests a new charge or devaluation, it sticks, and the others adopt it posthaste. They all race to the bottom in lockstep and are happy to each have their hubs and routes they dominate, no need for meaningful differentiation.
On United, I flew last Wed, my plane boarded about 30% full in 10 min. If I wanted to same day change, I could have switched to ANY flight. They were ALL wide open. However, if you looked to book a flight later in the week, nothing had changed. The "regular" price for MKE to EWR is $194-203ish. But it jumps to around $400-425 if its within the magical 1 week window. When I looked, flights with 60%+ seats open were still at that level due to the threshold. If you're that rigid, you deserve what you get. (Since then, I looked today and it was the same $200 price, 2 days from now, but it took long enough).
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I contemplated putting this in the Investing thread, but the airlines can eff off in asking for a bailout. For the amount they’ve collectively spent on stock buy backs, eff them.
I totally get that the airline business is fragile, more so than other industries. But spending all that cash on stock buy backs, while delivering a mediocre at best product, with record profits...eff em, let them go to bankruptcy and figure it out.
Vegas hotels will be next
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I'm with you. The products are continually declining, service has been abysmal for years, I too find it hard to sympathize. Ive griped many times on here recently about United's degradation of their FF program. And that's not even company specific, as we've seen MANY times over the years that the Big 3 US airlines just follow each other. One tests a new charge or devaluation, it sticks, and the others adopt it posthaste. They all race to the bottom in lockstep and are happy to each have their hubs and routes they dominate, no need for meaningful differentiation.
On United, I flew last Wed, my plane boarded about 30% full in 10 min. If I wanted to same day change, I could have switched to ANY flight. They were ALL wide open. However, if you looked to book a flight later in the week, nothing had changed. The "regular" price for MKE to EWR is $194-203ish. But it jumps to around $400-425 if its within the magical 1 week window. When I looked, flights with 60%+ seats open were still at that level due to the threshold. If you're that rigid, you deserve what you get. (Since then, I looked today and it was the same $200 price, 2 days from now, but it took long enough).
Brother Wags and Brother Dish:
Sorry dudes but I REALLY don't agree with you. The product quality has nothing to do with the situation the Big 3 are in right now. They could have been Emirates Light or Singapore Air Midwest and it would not have mattered. These lines are critical components of the USA economy and they did nothing to cause this problem.
What needs to be done is a situation similar to what the country did with the auto industry in 2008. Issue convertible preferred securities with a 0.02 percent coupon rate. The convertibility occurs at the average price the airlines traded one month before the market tumbled. Sell at $1,000 a unit and give 'em as much as they need. When the market recovers, the government converts the preferred to common and sells it. The risk is the government pumps billions into an enterprise that fails anyway. The government agrees if it converts and owns the securities not to vote them except on M&A issues.
Sure beats giving a blank check away.
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Brother Wags and Brother Dish:
Sorry dudes but I REALLY don't agree with you. The product quality has nothing to do with the situation the Big 3 are in right now. They could have been Emirates Light or Singapore Air Midwest and it would not have mattered. These lines are critical components of the USA economy and they did nothing to cause this problem.
What needs to be done is a situation similar to what the country did with the auto industry in 2008. Issue convertible preferred securities with a 0.02 percent coupon rate. The convertibility occurs at the average price the airlines traded one month before the market tumbled. Sell at $1,000 a unit and give 'em as much as they need. When the market recovers, the government converts the preferred to common and sells it. The risk is the government pumps billions into an enterprise that fails anyway. The government agrees if it converts and owns the securities not to vote them except on M&A issues.
Sure beats giving a blank check away.
My issue is the airlines have made billions in profit for years, and rather than knowing the volatility that can quickly exist in their industry, the airlines were buying back stock like drunk sailors.
How does an industry like the airlines not have cash reserves set aside for "Act of God"?
The quality of the product pisses me off, and if this crisis means all airlines have to re-examine things, I'm good with it. To me, I'd rather this be a watershed moment where the domestic airline industry resets.
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My issue is the airlines have made billions in profit for years, and rather than knowing the volatility that can quickly exist in their industry, the airlines were buying back stock like drunk sailors.
How does an industry like the airlines not have cash reserves set aside for "Act of God"?
The quality of the product pisses me off, and if this crisis means all airlines have to re-examine things, I'm good with it. To me, I'd rather this be a watershed moment where the domestic airline industry resets.
Because the stock market punishes them when they carry large reserves, and everyone knows they'll get bailed out anyway.
Maybe as a condition of any loan or grant they would have to commit to a certain level of cash?
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Because the stock market punishes them when they carry large reserves, and everyone knows they'll get bailed out anyway.
Maybe as a condition of any loan or grant they would have to commit to a certain level of cash?
You're certainly not wrong. If there's an industry that "should" have to (by law) carry a certain level of cash, it should be the airlines. Maybe that's opening up a huge can of worms, there's certainly much smarter people here than me about these things. Somebody can probably better eloquently explain why that's a good or bad idea.
I'm just overall jaded by the flying experience and seeing it with those glasses on, and want to stick it back to the airlines for it.
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Because the stock market punishes them when they carry large reserves, and everyone knows they'll get bailed out anyway.
Maybe as a condition of any loan or grant they would have to commit to a certain level of cash?
Maybe there's a deeper problem than the airlines?
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Also, bailout ideas:
Mark Cuban on Corona bailouts:
https://twitter.com/mcuban/status/1239901248167522304?s=19
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Maybe there's a deeper problem than the airlines?
There is on many levels. I'm not going to "go political" here, but this stuff starting with the NBA and the conference tournaments cancelling was LESS THAN A WEEK AGO! The fact that the economy can apparently be brought to its knees enough, people are getting laid off, corporations needing bailouts, Congress considering doling out over a trillion $$$ in stimulus, etc. shows there are huge problems in the economy / society to begin with.
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Also, bailout ideas:
Cuban often acts like a jagoff, but he also seems to have some fundamental sense of fairness.
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Because the stock market punishes them when they carry large reserves, and everyone knows they'll get bailed out anyway.
Maybe as a condition of any loan or grant they would have to commit to a certain level of cash?
Ah, you're suggesting regulation. If these companies can't be trusted to do the right thing, we have no other choice. Unless we nationalize it... which would be wildly unpopular.
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There is on many levels. I'm not going to "go political" here, but this stuff starting with the NBA and the conference tournaments cancelling was LESS THAN A WEEK AGO! The fact that the economy can apparently be brought to its knees enough, people are getting laid off, corporations needing bailouts, Congress considering doling out over a trillion $$$ in stimulus, etc. shows there are huge problems in the economy / society to begin with.
The problem is that we all want a market economy when things are going well, but then don't want to deal with the consequences of a downturn.
The human race is extremely reactive. We've designed our government this way as well. We don't do long term projects because they don't win votes, and we are short term focused.
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Privatize profits, socialize losses
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Privatize profits, socialize losses
Right. And this is exactly what happened in 2008 - and here we go again 12 years later. At some point society should demand certain safeguards so we don't have to do this again in 2032. I'm not smart enough to know what that is.
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Cuban often acts like a jagoff, but he also seems to have some fundamental sense of fairness.
He's cocky and arrogant in some ways, but I think he honestly retains a pretty decent level of self awareness and perspective due to the myriad of stuff he's involved in. My sister's BF has interacted with him a decent amount through golf related networking stuff in the Dallas area and said he's pretty much "what you see is what you get" and pretty likable. And thats from someone who has had interactions with ALOT of rich douchebags.
I used to read Cuban's blog a lot and appreciate his perspective cause he has the success across a variety of business endeavors to justify his expertise and he comes off pretty reasonable and wide perspective based.
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Privatize profits, socialize losses
Yep. I’m a bit in the “screw em” camp, especially after quotes like Doug Parker’s below.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/todayinthesky/2017/09/28/american-airlines-ceo-well-never-lose-money-again/715467001/
Never lose money again, huh? Maybe take it easy on profit sharing and stock buybacks as not to stick it to the taxpayer when a global pandemic hits. I get that the industry is effectively a utility and critical commercial engine for the country, but it seems like airline leadership has us in a “heads I win, tails you lose” scenario.
More aggravating are proposed bailouts for the cruise industry — these organizations do absolutely everything to avoid paying taxes, paying decent salaries to American citizens, etc. and they want a government bailout? Let it burn...
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Yep. I’m a bit in the “screw em” camp, especially after quotes like Doug Parker’s below.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/todayinthesky/2017/09/28/american-airlines-ceo-well-never-lose-money-again/715467001/
Never lose money again, huh? Maybe take it easy on profit sharing and stock buybacks as not to stick it to the taxpayer when a global pandemic hits. I get that the industry is effectively a utility and critical commercial engine for the country, but it seems like airline leadership has us in a “heads I win, tails you lose” scenario.
More aggravating are proposed bailouts for the cruise industry — these organizations do absolutely everything to avoid paying taxes, paying decent salaries to American citizens, etc. and they want a government bailout? Let it burn...
Let the flag countries bail out the ships under their registry.
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Right. And this is exactly what happened in 2008 - and here we go again 12 years later. At some point society should demand certain safeguards so we don't have to do this again in 2032. I'm not smart enough to know what that is.
Understanding that the immediate bailouts only significantly helped the wealthy after 2008, worse yet is to look at the difference in benefit long-term between the wealthy and the rest of us.
But here we are.
And we keep voting for it.
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There is on many levels. I'm not going to "go political" here, but this stuff starting with the NBA and the conference tournaments cancelling was LESS THAN A WEEK AGO! The fact that the economy can apparently be brought to its knees enough, people are getting laid off, corporations needing bailouts, Congress considering doling out over a trillion $$$ in stimulus, etc. shows there are huge problems in the economy / society to begin with.
It wasn't that strong. Construction & Manufacturing were both down or at best flat when you look at jobs numbers. Since construction is usually the leading indicator and that was down it was only a matter of time. The only sector that was growing was the service industry. And when something comes that cripples that sector you're in for a world of suck.
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Let the flag countries bail out the ships under their registry.
HA! YES!
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It wasn't that strong. Construction & Manufacturing were both down or at best flat when you look at jobs numbers. Since construction is usually the leading indicator and that was down it was only a matter of time. The only sector that was growing was the service industry. And when something comes that cripples that sector you're in for a world of suck.
I've been talking with a lot of manufacturers and the consensus is manufacturing started to slow / became flat around May 2019.
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South east Asia and Nola got pushed back a year 😭
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South east Asia and Nola got pushed back a year 😭
Cancelled my LA trip as well. we have a couple other ones planned for late May and July. Everything is kind of up in the air at the moment.
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I have a HUGE trade show in HK that is typically the last week in Feb into first week in March. It was delayed till May. Not sure if that will hold. The second largest such show in my industry, the largest for the US market, is in Vegas in early June. I just was notified last night that its been postponed without a new date yet.
I fly an average of 120K miles a year. I average 2 trips to India, 2-3 to Europe, and 2-3 to SE Asia a year. Thus far in 2020, Ive travelled 6K miles and don't anticipate leaving the country till at least May at this point. Its WILD to be honest.
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My trade show in Germany that was supposed to be two weeks from now was rescheduled to Dec 7-11.
A trade show in mid-May in Boston I planned to attend was moved to late September.
A trade show in Milwaukee also in Mid-May has been postponed to a date sometime in the fall that is TBD.
I was planning another trip to India either in late April or mid-June but not sure when now? Mid-June is still possible I suppose.
I had a Southern California trip and two more Midwest trips that I need to make but are all TBD at his point.
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If an airline takes a dime of bailout money, they should be prohibited from ever charging a seat fee, bag fee, check-in fee, printed ticket fee, or any other bullsht fee for the rest of their existence.
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If an airline takes a dime of bailout money, they should be prohibited from ever charging a seat fee, bag fee, check-in fee, printed ticket fee, or any other bullsht fee for the rest of their existence.
And better snacks. Any flight over 2 hours should be a meal! Better magazines!
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Ah, you're suggesting regulation. If these companies can't be trusted to do the right thing, we have no other choice. Unless we nationalize it... which would be wildly unpopular.
Federal Air... I can hardly wait!
As bad as air travel can be today, just imagine what would happen with Federal Air.
In case you think I'm full of it, just look at Amtrak. That one has been screwed up beyond hope. All because the government has dictated everything about what it can and can't do.
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Federal Air... I can hardly wait!
As bad as air travel can be today, just imagine what would happen with Federal Air.
In case you think I'm full of it, just look at Amtrak. That one has been screwed up beyond hope. All because the government has dictated everything about what it can and can't do.
I mean, the problems are not all Amtrak's fault. Its bad rail, on bad tracks, and its pricey. Its Amtrak or nothing. But that is because no one else can be competitive on rail.
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Not sure anyone really cares, but my parents cruise in SA has been routed from Valparaiso, Chile to Ft. Lauderdale via the Panama Canal. Basically, they are back to their original itinerary without any of the stops. No one on the ship appears sick. Plan is to arrive 4/1.
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Not sure anyone really cares, but my parents cruise in SA has been routed from Valparaiso, Chile to Ft. Lauderdale via the Panama Canal. Basically, they are back to their original itinerary without any of the stops. No one on the ship appears sick. Plan is to arrive 4/1.
All things considered, not a bad way to spend a lockdown. Hope they are in good spirits
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I mean, the problems are not all Amtrak's fault. Its bad rail, on bad tracks, and its pricey. Its Amtrak or nothing. But that is because no one else can be competitive on rail.
Other than the price, Amtrak is actually pretty good here in the Northeast.
Wether good or bad I read an article that the former Delta CEO had been running Amtrak and turning some stuff around.
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All things considered, not a bad way to spend a lockdown. Hope they are in good spirits
Well now their ship has quarantined the passengers to their rooms. Food delivered to them.
So that isn't exciting.
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Recommendations for vacations in South America?
Looking at Peru, Chile or Argentina.
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Recommendations for vacations in South America?
Looking at Peru, Chile or Argentina.
Just got back from Peru. Lima was fascinating. Cusco/Sacred Valley was breathtaking.
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Other than the price, Amtrak is actually pretty good here in the Northeast.
Wether good or bad I read an article that the former Delta CEO had been running Amtrak and turning some stuff around.
In the NEC, Amtrak is the best way to travel. Outside the NEC, it is a joke.
Richard Anderson, Amtrak's CEO, was at the forefront of reviving Amtrak and probably was the best leader the railroad ever had. He went after the long-distance train group the way any corporate executive would go after a money losing, poorly operated and horribly inefficient division. He wanted reform and had proposed eliminating much of it in favor of the kind of corridor service you have in the Northeast.
For that, he was chased off the ranch. Not sure if he was fired or quit and frankly it doesn't matter. He spoke the truth and for that, he no longer runs Amtrak.
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In the NEC, Amtrak is the best way to travel. Outside the NEC, it is a joke.
Richard Anderson, Amtrak's CEO, was at the forefront of reviving Amtrak and probably was the best leader the railroad ever had. He went after the long-distance train group the way any corporate executive would go after a money losing, poorly operated and horribly inefficient division. He wanted reform and had proposed eliminating much of it in favor of the kind of corridor service you have in the Northeast.
For that, he was chased off the ranch. Not sure if he was fired or quit and frankly it doesn't matter. He spoke the truth and for that, he no longer runs Amtrak.
One of the issues with Amtrak is unprofitable routes. These are seen as government service to communities and keep getting protected at the expense of profitability. I personally don't know who is taking an Amtrak train as a necessity since it is pretty expensive and very inefficient, but its still seen that way. Many people who have run this railroad have gotten to that issue and failed/move on when they see the political will is not there to eliminate these.
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One of the issues with Amtrak is unprofitable routes. These are seen as government service to communities and keep getting protected at the expense of profitability. I personally don't know who is taking an Amtrak train as a necessity since it is pretty expensive and very inefficient, but its still seen that way. Many people who have run this railroad have gotten to that issue and failed/move on when they see the political will is not there to eliminate these.
Count me among them.
I was brought in back in 1999 because the CEO of Amtrak, the late George Warrington, demanded that we be on a glidepath to self-sufficiency. I ran financial analysis for the long-distance train group and for a promising but later ill-fated Mail & Express group.
I loved the job. It was challenging and we were doing things that heretofore had not been done.
But politics intervened. We tried to streamline dining services and were told "there was no political appetite for it." We found fraud only to find that the product line admitted they knew about it for some time. We tried to reduce station services in places where the ticket revenue from passengers who boarded and detrained at the station was insufficient to even cover the salary of the agent.
You can guess what happened. The agent was in West Virginia and a government affairs person called me angrily and asked if I wanted to tell Senator Byrd I was eliminating the job of one of his constituents. I said, "No ____, that's your job!"
Two trains that operate make absolutely no economic or social sense whatsoever. The Cardinal, which ran from Chicago to Washington, DC and New York via West Virginia and the Sunset Limited, which ran from Los Angeles to New Orleans and didn't cross a city of 100,000 people between El Paso and Tucson. Trains work when you have population density, which is why the NEC works and most of the long distance system does not.
The Cardinal and Sunset Limited are political trains. Amtrak won't be ready for reform until both are killed and their equipment put into corridor service.
Probably the worst Amtrak pork muncher is a former Vice President who is running for President. When he was a U.S. Senator from Delaware, he was brought in to speak to our Management meeting. He smiled and said some nice words about our work and then wagged his finger at us and warned us not to touch any staff in Delaware (Amtrak has a major maintenance center at Bare and a crew base in Wilmington). "They're nice people," he said, failing to mention then that we were one of Delaware's largest employers and if we shuttered Bare, or laid off significant numbers of our team there, his re-election chances would be mortally wounded.
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When Glow jr. was stationed in Mississippi for FEMA Corps, he took the City of New Orleans (yes, like the song) to and from Jackson, because airfares were insane (apparently, no one really wants to fly to Jackson).
His train was always several hours late arriving at its destination, with no decent excuse like weather. If you can't even predict when your transportation will get there within a half-day window, you've got problems.
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When Glow jr. was stationed in Mississippi for FEMA Corps, he took the City of New Orleans (yes, like the song) to and from Jackson, because airfares were insane (apparently, no one really wants to fly to Jackson).
His train was always several hours late arriving at its destination, with no decent excuse like weather. If you can't even predict when your transportation will get there within a half-day window, you've got problems.
Part of that problem is that Amtrak rents space on the rails and gets put behind freight (commerce). So they are at the mercy of the company that owns the line, with some parameters.
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Pardon the ignorance... Are rail stations/tracks more expensive to build than airports?
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Part of that problem is that Amtrak rents space on the rails and gets put behind freight (commerce). So they are at the mercy of the company that owns the line, with some parameters.
Half right.
Amtrak has slots on which it operates passenger trains. Just like a landing slot at ORD or LGA. The slots are between freight trains that operate on the same line.
While many miles of rail are double tracked mainline, most of America's rails are single track. Trains are cleared across a block, where they have exclusive access. The block clearances are dependent on everything from how fast trains are moving, whether you have a breakdown or accident in the block or how long the sidings are. Hint: Short sidings cannot be used by long trains.
Another problem not generally known is that the General Freight Speed in the United States is 52 miles per hour. The speed at which passenger trains outside the NEC operate generally is 79 miles per hour. Except for all you journalists, you passed math. One of the questions in seventh grade math was the weeding-out calculation for train dispatchers. If one train leaves Stuart at 79 miles an hour and the other leaves Jacksonville at 52 miles an hour, where will they meet? If you want to make it real life: There's a 3,000 foot passing siding at Daytona Beach and a 3,500 foot passing siding at Cocoa. Which train gets the siding and how long will it wait for the other to pass?
We have not built any new rail, except for Virgin Trains from Cocoa to Orlando (which is under construction now). In fact, more than a few lines of rail were torn up in the 1970s and 1980s because of lost business.
That's why Amtrak has problems!
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Pardon the ignorance... Are rail stations/tracks more expensive to build than airports?
Depends on how long, what you want them to do and how much right of way you have to acquire.
If you want high-speed passenger rail, you have to electrify it. You probably need grade separation (i.e., bridges, tunnels and fencing). Electrification on intercity rail means elevated power lines and towers to hold the line.
You also will need tons and tons of concrete ties, ballast to hold it down and quarter-mile or more segments of welded rail.
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Depends on how long, what you want them to do and how much right of way you have to acquire.
If you want high-speed passenger rail, you have to electrify it. You probably need grade separation (i.e., bridges, tunnels and fencing). Electrification on intercity rail means elevated power lines and towers to hold the line.
You also will need tons and tons of concrete ties, ballast to hold it down and quarter-mile or more segments of welded rail.
This ignores the most expensive part. Buying the land to run the track on.
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This ignores the most expensive part. Buying the land to run the track on.
Depends on how long, what you want them to do and how much right of way you have to acquire.
Don't think so LOL!
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In the NEC, Amtrak is the best way to travel. Outside the NEC, it is a joke.
Richard Anderson, Amtrak's CEO, was at the forefront of reviving Amtrak and probably was the best leader the railroad ever had. He went after the long-distance train group the way any corporate executive would go after a money losing, poorly operated and horribly inefficient division. He wanted reform and had proposed eliminating much of it in favor of the kind of corridor service you have in the Northeast.
For that, he was chased off the ranch. Not sure if he was fired or quit and frankly it doesn't matter. He spoke the truth and for that, he no longer runs Amtrak.
Hiawatha is definitely not a joke. It is a comfortable ride and faster than driving between MKE and Chicago in rush hour.
I agree with Chick that cross-country trips on Amtrak are not dependable and hardly ever on time. But for trips like Hiawatha or Chicago to St. Louis they can make a lot of sense.
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Half right.
Amtrak has slots on which it operates passenger trains. Just like a landing slot at ORD or LGA. The slots are between freight trains that operate on the same line.
While many miles of rail are double tracked mainline, most of America's rails are single track. Trains are cleared across a block, where they have exclusive access. The block clearances are dependent on everything from how fast trains are moving, whether you have a breakdown or accident in the block or how long the sidings are. Hint: Short sidings cannot be used by long trains.
Another problem not generally known is that the General Freight Speed in the United States is 52 miles per hour. The speed at which passenger trains outside the NEC operate generally is 79 miles per hour. Except for all you journalists, you passed math. One of the questions in seventh grade math was the weeding-out calculation for train dispatchers. If one train leaves Stuart at 79 miles an hour and the other leaves Jacksonville at 52 miles an hour, where will they meet? If you want to make it real life: There's a 3,000 foot passing siding at Daytona Beach and a 3,500 foot passing siding at Cocoa. Which train gets the siding and how long will it wait for the other to pass?
We have not built any new rail, except for Virgin Trains from Cocoa to Orlando (which is under construction now). In fact, more than a few lines of rail were torn up in the 1970s and 1980s because of lost business.
That's why Amtrak has problems!
Connecticut double tracked the line between New Haven & Springfield, Mass, so it could exponentially expand commuter rail service. The state worked in conjunction with Amtrak.
(Coincidentally, I believe it was paid for by the federal government with funds originally allocated for the train line from Milwaukee to Madison.)
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Depends on how long, what you want them to do and how much right of way you have to acquire.
Don't think so LOL!
Right, which is why its expensive.
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Hiawatha is definitely not a joke. It is a comfortable ride and faster than driving between MKE and Chicago in rush hour.
I agree with Chick that cross-country trips on Amtrak are not dependable and hardly ever on time. But for trips like Hiawatha or Chicago to St. Louis they can make a lot of sense.
Brother Coleman:
That's called corridor service. That's the type of service Mr. Anderson was trying to play up. I absolutely agree with you (having used it more than a few times).
The best thing Amtrak could do would be to ditch Denver and add more, faster trains over short distances to places like Milwaukee, St. Louis, Detroit, Cleveland and Minneapolis.
But the foamers (people who foam at the mouth at the sight of a train) want the long-distance train service. Period. They are archaic. And, for some strange reason, they have a magical hold on Congress generally reserved for real estate agents, credit unions and large moneyed contributors.
Until they build a statue of Richard Anderson as father of the Contemporary Rail System at Union Station in Washington, we'll be stuck with a slow-moving, crappy system that few ride but Congress loves.
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Connecticut double tracked the line between New Haven & Springfield, Mass, so it could exponentially expand commuter rail service. The state worked in conjunction with Amtrak.
(Coincidentally, I believe it was paid for by the federal government with funds originally allocated for the train line from Milwaukee to Madison.)
the Amtrak stop in Dane Co is right in downtown Madison near UW, crap near the airport, crap, right off the interstate, crap, next to the central bus station, crap, in Columbus -a town of 4900 people a half hour's drive from downtown Madison on a good day. No worries, you can take a Madison Metro bus to Columbus to get to the Amtrak station. It's only a 2 hour 45 minute bike ride.
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the Amtrak stop in Dane Co is right in downtown Madison near UW, crap near the airport, crap, right off the interstate, crap, next to the central bus station, crap, in Columbus -a town of 4900 people a half hour's drive from downtown Madison on a good day. No worries, you can take a Madison Metro bus to Columbus to get to the Amtrak station. It's only a 2 hour 45 minute bike ride.
Wow, never knew that. That's extremely poor and sad.
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Brother Coleman:
That's called corridor service. That's the type of service Mr. Anderson was trying to play up. I absolutely agree with you (having used it more than a few times).
The best thing Amtrak could do would be to ditch Denver and add more, faster trains over short distances to places like Milwaukee, St. Louis, Detroit, Cleveland and Minneapolis.
But the foamers (people who foam at the mouth at the sight of a train) want the long-distance train service. Period. They are archaic. And, for some strange reason, they have a magical hold on Congress generally reserved for real estate agents, credit unions and large moneyed contributors.
Until they build a statue of Richard Anderson as father of the Contemporary Rail System at Union Station in Washington, we'll be stuck with a slow-moving, crappy system that few ride but Congress loves.
Then we agree more than we disagree.
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the Amtrak stop in Dane Co is right in downtown Madison near UW, crap near the airport, crap, right off the interstate, crap, next to the central bus station, crap, in Columbus -a town of 4900 people a half hour's drive from downtown Madison on a good day. No worries, you can take a Madison Metro bus to Columbus to get to the Amtrak station. It's only a 2 hour 45 minute bike ride.
This is a perfect example of why I became concerned at an earlier comment about federalizing air service. The second largest population center in Wisconsin, a university community and the center of government can't get railroad service.
What do you think will happen when the federal government gets control of air service? And the corollary is that once you serve a community, what do you think the chances ever will be that if the service does not work, you'll get rid of it?
Fed Air -- No where thank you very much!
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This is a perfect example of why I became concerned at an earlier comment about federalizing air service. The second largest population center in Wisconsin, a university community and the center of government can't get railroad service.
What do you think will happen when the federal government gets control of air service? And the corollary is that once you serve a community, what do you think the chances ever will be that if the service does not work, you'll get rid of it?
Fed Air -- No where thank you very much!
There is a middle ground between nationalizing airline(s) and status quo...regulation, which is what we had for most of the 20th century.
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This is a perfect example of why I became concerned at an earlier comment about federalizing air service. The second largest population center in Wisconsin, a university community and the center of government can't get railroad service.
What do you think will happen when the federal government gets control of air service? And the corollary is that once you serve a community, what do you think the chances ever will be that if the service does not work, you'll get rid of it?
Fed Air -- No where thank you very much!
I hope I'm not stepping into politics, but wasn't that a Scott Walker special canceling the project?
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I hope I'm not stepping into politics, but wasn't that a Scott Walker special canceling the project?
Walker killed the Cow Speed rail.
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Thanks for the train info, fam.
Airline/rail discussion furthers my belief that "politician" should not be a career. I dunno how long to limit it, but when your election success is predicated on doing something bad for the majority, that seems a bit wrong.
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There is a middle ground between nationalizing airline(s) and status quo...regulation, which is what we had for most of the 20th century.
Brother Coleman:
The Civil Aeronautics Board ("CAB") had degenerated into a club of airline executives that was anti-consumer, anti-growth. The regulation of the airline industry was predicated on technology and service that was well-surpassed by the 1960s. It was put down in 1978 by Congress and Jimmy Carter in a landmark piece of domestic legislation.
It's an example of what happens when government sets all the rules and controls everything. Since the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978, air travel is nearly universal, far less expensive and service much better than anyone would have imagined before 1978. Sure, we all like to think of wide leather seats, wonderful hostesses and food on board that existed before deregulation. The reality was that the airlines were a very few times in a lifetime experience for most.
Killing the CAB and deregulated the airline industry was a huge gift from President Carter to the nation.
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We've talked on here about the airline bailouts, and I previously had brought up that I think that this pandemic will have to be a turning point in the airline industry. I was just reading an article on how sports/entertainment venues are going to have to drastically change (no more buffets, redesign of bathrooms, no more stainless steel at concession areas, no more open condiments).
Once things return to whatever the new normal is, will anyone ever want to sit in a middle seat? Not that anyone ever wants to sit in a middle seat, but with social distancing becoming more the norm, people having to share armrests, I can't imagine a good scenario coming up here if airlines stay "business as usual". Travelling a lot for work, I could easily foresee scenarios on planes soon where if someone coughs/sneezes, the people sitting next to that person asking (loudly) to switch seats. It's going to be a tense experience to say the least.
To be clear, I don't think the airlines will do anything like rip out rows of seats and drastically change their business models. I also think as a result of that line of thinking, in the next 24 months, you'll see at least one of Delta/American/United collapse.
Companies are going to get used to Zoom/WebEx/Teams virtual meetings, discretionary income is going to fall dramatically for families, and if the airlines think people are going to want to be crammed like sardines going forward in a world where space and cleanliness are the new norm, it's going to be a rough go for the airlines.
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We've talked on here about the airline bailouts, and I previously had brought up that I think that this pandemic will have to be a turning point in the airline industry. I was just reading an article on how sports/entertainment venues are going to have to drastically change (no more buffets, redesign of bathrooms, no more stainless steel at concession areas, no more open condiments).
Once things return to whatever the new normal is, will anyone ever want to sit in a middle seat? Not that anyone ever wants to sit in a middle seat, but with social distancing becoming more the norm, people having to share armrests, I can't imagine a good scenario coming up here if airlines stay "business as usual". Travelling a lot for work, I could easily foresee scenarios on planes soon where if someone coughs/sneezes, the people sitting next to that person asking (loudly) to switch seats. It's going to be a tense experience to say the least.
To be clear, I don't think the airlines will do anything like rip out rows of seats and drastically change their business models. I also think as a result of that line of thinking, in the next 24 months, you'll see at least one of Delta/American/United collapse.
Companies are going to get used to Zoom/WebEx/Teams virtual meetings, discretionary income is going to fall dramatically for families, and if the airlines think people are going to want to be crammed like sardines going forward in a world where space and cleanliness are the new norm, it's going to be a rough go for the airlines.
I struggle to see how this brings about a complete and utter change in some of those things across the board, especially long term. I'm not trying to say this is just like the flu, but once they have a vaccine and treatments for this, it will largely get treated like influenza and people will move on with their lives. People aren't going to be terrified to be in close spaces or middle seats or communal food come, say, 2022. No more than they do with cold and flu season now. Especially if these measures are successful and the total deaths in the US stay in the mid 5, maybe low 6 figures.
The work from home piece is interesting, as it will likely display the capacity for that sort of set up in more and more industries and roles.
But I believe that this will largely be looked back on as a surreal period of time that lead to changes in pandemic approach and response, hopefully the curbing of wet markets, and hastening more developments in how we work and approach office life, but wont bring sea change in public transit, airline protocol, or public dining. IMO
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Companies are going to get used to Zoom/WebEx/Teams virtual meetings, discretionary income is going to fall dramatically for families, and if the airlines think people are going to want to be crammed like sardines going forward in a world where space and cleanliness are the new norm, it's going to be a rough go for the airlines.
Maybe I'm old fashioned, but at some point a fax, text message, video conference etc., can never make-up for personal contact and personal meetings. I know we're most successful when we're face to face with our clients talking about what we do and about their problems.
This says it all. Change fax and phone call to email and textmessage!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pa6Id-7SdRQ
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Fax huh?
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Maybe I'm old fashioned, but at some point a fax, text message, video conference etc., can never make-up for personal contact and personal meetings. I know we're most successful when we're face to face with our clients talking about what we do and about their problems.
This says it all. Change fax and phone call to email and textmessage!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pa6Id-7SdRQ
My company has pushed me for more face-to-face time with customers and suppliers which I've been doing the last 6 months. The market intelligence I've gathered in these meetings I would never have gotten anywhere close to getting via emai or other means.
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Fax huh?
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And yet I have business dealings with large companies that still insist on using fax even after I practically beg them to use email. Optum is one.
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And yet I have business dealings with large companies that still insist on using fax even after I practically beg them to use email. Optum is one.
We disconnected our fax machine.
I heard people still use for security reasons because fax machines are not hackable.
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And yet I have business dealings with large companies that still insist on using fax even after I practically beg them to use email. Optum is one.
We ask people to use fax if they are sending over PII. Still trying to get my IT department to get us a secure dropbox for electronic documents.
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We disconnected our fax machine.
I heard people still use for security reasons because fax machines are not hackable.
Insist on getting wire instructions by fax rather than e-mail for this very reason. Too many e-mail accounts have gotten hacked and wire instructions changed, causing people to lose their life savings.
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United (following Delta’s lead) announces just now they will extend current status through Jan 2022.
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Cancelled our Florida trip on March 16th, currently hold vouchers that are good for 90 days. That puts us in the middle of June to book a flight, chances that Frontier has to revisit this?
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United (following Delta’s lead) announces just now they will extend current status through Jan 2022.
First good news Ive gotten on the travel front in a LONG time. And the lowered thresholds for re-qualifying is fantastic.
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Cancelled our Florida trip on March 16th, currently hold vouchers that are good for 90 days. That puts us in the middle of June to book a flight, chances that Frontier has to revisit this?
99.9%. My concern would be that Frontier will no longer exist and my money is gone.
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99.9%. My concern would be that Frontier will no longer exist and my money is gone.
Yeah, that's actually my gut feeling.
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99.9%. My concern would be that Frontier will no longer exist and my money is gone.
Then call your credit card and say you never got the service.
As a Floridian, would rather have you come in June, but I'll acknowledge what you get then may not be worthy of the effort you make.
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Then call your credit card and say you never got the service.
Yep. Depending on the CC/bank, they can be pretty good with travel related reimbursement. Last summer, my GF and I went to Greece, specifically Crete. Huge island so naturally needed a rental car. Found a great rate through Kayak, got all the "documentation" needed. Arrived at the rental agency at 11PM after plenty of flight delays from Mykonos...cause Greece. Had to walk a KM cause we couldn't find their van. Get there, they inform me that they won't give me a car cause I don't have an International Drivers License. "Firm Greek law, no exceptions, you will go to jail, and so will we". I knew this wasn't true as I had rented on Corfu a few summers back without IDL and without issue. They wouldn't refund and said I needed to contact the 3rd party provider.
Contacted Holiday Autos, or whatever it was, they informed me it was CLEARLY stated. I looked through their emails, their forms, the website. Nothing was listed other than passport, CC, travel itinerary, etc... I was told it was in the rental agreement...on the last page in tiny print on a final paragraph. As a result, it was my fault, they would not refund a dime. And better yet, they curtly told me "you received a lesson and some knowledge so you won't make this mistake again!"
I logged into my Sapphire account on Chase, submitted a claim and that I never received services. It was removed and cleared less than 3 days later without even a followup email or phone call.
Oh, and after we left the agency, a nice British couple who heard our plight in the office drove us back to airport. We walked over to Hertz...and rented a car without a single issue, got an upgrade, and when I asked about the IDL the woman assisting us looked right at me and bluntly said "no, why would you?". Lesson learned 8-)
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Yep. Depending on the CC/bank, they can be pretty good with travel related reimbursement. Last summer, my GF and I went to Greece, specifically Crete. Huge island so naturally needed a rental car. Found a great rate through Kayak, got all the "documentation" needed. Arrived at the rental agency at 11PM after plenty of flight delays from Mykonos...cause Greece. Had to walk a KM cause we couldn't find their van. Get there, they inform me that they won't give me a car cause I don't have an International Drivers License. "Firm Greek law, no exceptions, you will go to jail, and so will we". I knew this wasn't true as I had rented on Corfu a few summers back without IDL and without issue. They wouldn't refund and said I needed to contact the 3rd party provider.
Contacted Holiday Autos, or whatever it was, they informed me it was CLEARLY stated. I looked through their emails, their forms, the website. Nothing was listed other than passport, CC, travel itinerary, etc... I was told it was in the rental agreement...on the last page in tiny print on a final paragraph. As a result, it was my fault, they would not refund a dime. And better yet, they curtly told me "you received a lesson and some knowledge so you won't make this mistake again!"
I logged into my Sapphire account on Chase, submitted a claim and that I never received services. It was removed and cleared less than 3 days later without even a followup email or phone call.
Oh, and after we left the agency, a nice British couple who heard our plight in the office drove us back to airport. We walked over to Hertz...and rented a car without a single issue, got an upgrade, and when I asked about the IDL the woman assisting us looked right at me and bluntly said "no, why would you?". Lesson learned 8-)
A IDL at AAA is just $20.
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A IDL at AAA is just $20.
Not a AAA member, but understood. That would have done nothing for me at the time, and again, driven and rented in half a dozen European countries, including the epicenter of bureaucracy, Belgium, and this was the only issue Id had.
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Then call your credit card and say you never got the service.
As a Floridian, would rather have you come in June, but I'll acknowledge what you get then may not be worthy of the effort you make.
I have never filed a claim with my credit card company, but thinking about it for our entire vacation now.
What’s the downside?
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I have never filed a claim with my credit card company, but thinking about it for our entire vacation now.
What’s the downside?
You literally have nothing to lose by calling. The worst thing they can do is deny your request.
Also, for next time, I recommend trip insurance. It's worth the money for peace of mind alone. We had it on the big trip that got cancelled. Fortunately, all of our vendors refunded our money (even Hotwire, which is supposed to be strictly non-refundable), and our trip insurance company even refunded our premium without even us having to ask.
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You literally have nothing to lose by calling. The worst thing they can do is deny your request.
Also, for next time, I recommend trip insurance. It's worth the money for peace of mind alone. We had it on the big trip that got cancelled. Fortunately, all of our vendors refunded our money (even Hotwire, which is supposed to be strictly non-refundable), and our trip insurance company even refunded our premium without even us having to ask.
It’s a usual pass for me on the insurance, we never cancel trips. But yeah...
We’ve got vouchers for everything. Car is good for two years, so I won’t dispute that.
Frontier flights from MKE to RSW are seasonal. I’ve got until June to book a flight that probably will not happen until March 2021 and there’s no clue what the 20-21 academic schedule will be.
Our rental through VRBO is a voucher, totally dependent on rebooking the same house. The house has been completely wiped from all the rental sites.
Screw it, filing claims tonight.
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It’s a usual pass for me on the insurance, we never cancel trips. But yeah...
Yep. You never cancel trips until you do. It's something you don't plan. That's why it is called insurance.
:)
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Our rental through VRBO is a voucher, totally dependent on rebooking the same house. The house has been completely wiped from all the rental sites.
Fascinating how competitors handle the same situation so differently. AirBNB has been fairly good, giving blanket refunds. They had left certain date ranges up to the owner/renter (obviously most were not giving unless forced to), but then went over the top and made it right. My buddy's bachelor party was supposed to be this upcoming weekend in Denver, the renter was initially annoying about it, but AirBNB broadened the date ranges and it was all good.
Meanwhile, I have a friend who had a VRBO rental in Austin for SXSW, basically got told "too bad so sad" and is out a bunch.
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Fascinating how competitors handle the same situation so differently. AirBNB has been fairly good, giving blanket refunds. They had left certain date ranges up to the owner/renter (obviously most were not giving unless forced to), but then went over the top and made it right. My buddy's bachelor party was supposed to be this upcoming weekend in Denver, the renter was initially annoying about it, but AirBNB broadened the date ranges and it was all good.
Meanwhile, I have a friend who had a VRBO rental in Austin for SXSW, basically got told "too bad so sad" and is out a bunch.
I am pretty sure refund policies are driven by the property owners themselves and not AirBnB vs. VRBO.
Just like cleaning fees, deposit requirements, etc.
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I am pretty sure refund policies are driven by the property owners themselves and not AirBnB vs. VRBO.
Just like cleaning fees, deposit requirements, etc.
AirBNB has pivoted to covering more changes during this - for good reason.
Good to hear about VRBO.
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We canceled our apartment in Rome through Air BNB with 2 clicks. This was just as Northern Italy was getting bad, Rome was still unaffected and there were no travel restrictions to Rome in place.
Good to know that VBRO isn't as customer friendly.
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Swissair wouldn't do a thing for me for an april trip. Wouldn't even respond to phone, email, twitter, etc. So I went on to the Chase website for the card I used to purchase the tix, selected the option for service not received, and was refunded the money within minutes.
Swiss - 100
Chase +1000
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Yep. You never cancel trips until you do. It's something you don't plan. That's why it is called insurance.
:)
To be clear, though, travel insurance offered by the airlines/travel booking websites are almost uniformly a horrible deal and require submitting to Kaftka-esque claims processes.
If you’re going to do it, go with vetted independent vendors. Berkshire Hathaway is solid and transparent, and I’ve heard Allianz and Amex Assurance are good too.
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You definitely want to read the fine print. Before the companies started offering refunds, many of the trip insurances people purchased were deemed ineligible, as they themselves weren't sick.
Be aware of what is and what isn't covered and the reasons to be able to claim for a cancelled trip.
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To be clear, though, travel insurance offered by the airlines/travel booking websites are almost uniformly a horrible deal and require submitting to Kaftka-esque claims processes.
If you’re going to do it, go with vetted independent vendors. Berkshire Hathaway is solid and transparent, and I’ve heard Allianz and Amex Assurance are good too.
Agreed.
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Cancelled our Florida trip on March 16th, currently hold vouchers that are good for 90 days. That puts us in the middle of June to book a flight, chances that Frontier has to revisit this?
DOT warns airlines to issue refunds instead of vouchers for flights cancelled due to coronavirus
https://www.dontwasteyourmoney.com/dot-warns-airlines-issue-refunds-instead-vouchers/
Maybe you want to try and ask for a refund. Cite the DOT directive.
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DOT warns airlines to issue refunds instead of vouchers for flights cancelled due to coronavirus
https://www.dontwasteyourmoney.com/dot-warns-airlines-issue-refunds-instead-vouchers/
Maybe you want to try and ask for a refund. Cite the DOT directive.
Yeeeeessssssss. Thanks man.
I’ll probably wait another month anyway, if they will guarantee the voucher longer than 90 days I’m cool. Let’s get the world figured out before making people’s vouchers expire.
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https://twitter.com/petemuntean/status/1286618600091131904?s=19
737 problems possibly linked to inactivity.
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Green Lake the second weekend in September, any recommendations for food?
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Green Lake the second weekend in September, any recommendations for food?
Norton's. Its on the water, generally good food. Otherwise the Southwest terrace has Riley's... which was Linda's Tap from back in the day. Decent food as well.
If you hate yourself enough, you can always check out the Gooseblind or Adam's Rib.
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Norton's. Its on the water, generally good food. Otherwise the Southwest terrace has Riley's... which was Linda's Tap from back in the day. Decent food as well.
If you hate yourself enough, you can always check out the Gooseblind or Adam's Rib.
Definition of hating myself? Because, uh, yeah.
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Norton's. Its on the water, generally good food. Otherwise the Southwest terrace has Riley's... which was Linda's Tap from back in the day. Decent food as well.
If you hate yourself enough, you can always check out the Gooseblind or Adam's Rib.
Norton's has changed hands within the past few years and is now horribly overpriced.
If you want decent pub food, go to Reilly's
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Definition of hating myself? Because, uh, yeah.
Old school townie dive.
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Old school townie dive.
Yeah, I don't want COVID. Just need some food after golf.
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Denver recommendations? All that's planned is my 30th at El Five, beyond that I'm looking for breweries, good food, bars, hikes, maybe a spot with music.
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Denver recommendations? All that's planned is my 30th at El Five, beyond that I'm looking for breweries, good food, bars, hikes, maybe a spot with music.
A few years ago I went to a wedding there and stayed at the Brown Palace. I think the hip bars are in LOdi and Cherry Creek. The Brown P had an awesome bar with live music and Chimay Red on draft.
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A few years ago I went to a wedding there and stayed at the Brown Palace. I think the hip bars are in LOdi and Cherry Creek. The Brown P had an awesome bar with live music and Chimay Red on draft.
Nice, thanks for the heads up! Any chance you remember any spots with good patios/beer gardens?
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I was in Denver summer of 2019 and enjoyed a few breweries that had solid outdoor patios. I believe two of them were in the River North Arts District or very nearby: Our Mutual Friend & Ratio Beerworks. The other was over by the Denver Zoo and Botanic Gardens - Cerebral Brewing. All three had great beers
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Denver recommendations? All that's planned is my 30th at El Five, beyond that I'm looking for breweries, good food, bars, hikes, maybe a spot with music.
Where you staying, how much/far do you want to drive?
Hikes will all be a pretty good drive. Best bet close-ish is head up to Chautauqua park in boulder. Very scenic and lots of hike options. The Table Mountain area around Golden also has some decent hikes. Father travel into the mtns will get you better hikes.
El Five is fun. Unless you're opposed to going out for steak, Guard & Grace is one of my favorite steakhouses. The food scene is really pretty good these days - and don't miss some of the great food trucks.
Not breweries, but staying downtown....Falling Rock Tap House always has a great beer selection, not view. After you've had one or two there, head across the street to Tap Fourteen's rooftop patio for some still decent beers, and good views. In the same area Rino Beer Garden is actually pretty fun. If you want a dive bar with GREAT beers, try Star Bar - it will surprise you!
Not sure when you're going, but if the Rockies have a home game at the time and if they are allowing fans, get some "Rooftop" tickets to drink, catch the views, and maybe see a game if you like.
If you do go up to Boulder to hike, head a little farther north up to Avery Brewing for an apre-hike beer - they keep a ton of taps of their hard to find and not-distributed stuff flowing. They built a big new complex a few years ago, but it's a cool environment.
Tons of breweries otherwise. You'd be hard pressed not to stumble into a few. If you have any in mind that you've mapped out, and want any of my opinions feel free to throw them out here.
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Where you staying, how much/far do you want to drive?
Hikes will all be a pretty good drive. Best bet close-ish is head up to Chautauqua park in boulder. Very scenic and lots of hike options. The Table Mountain area around Golden also has some decent hikes. Father travel into the mtns will get you better hikes.
El Five is fun. Unless you're opposed to going out for steak, Guard & Grace is one of my favorite steakhouses. The food scene is really pretty good these days - and don't miss some of the great food trucks.
Not breweries, but staying downtown....Falling Rock Tap House always has a great beer selection, not view. After you've had one or two there, head across the street to Tap Fourteen's rooftop patio for some still decent beers, and good views. In the same area Rino Beer Garden is actually pretty fun. If you want a dive bar with GREAT beers, try Star Bar - it will surprise you!
Not sure when you're going, but if the Rockies have a home game at the time and if they are allowing fans, get some "Rooftop" tickets to drink, catch the views, and maybe see a game if you like.
If you do go up to Boulder to hike, head a little farther north up to Avery Brewing for an apre-hike beer - they keep a ton of taps of their hard to find and not-distributed stuff flowing. They built a big new complex a few years ago, but it's a cool environment.
Tons of breweries otherwise. You'd be hard pressed not to stumble into a few. If you have any in mind that you've mapped out, and want any of my opinions feel free to throw them out here.
Staying at the Hilton on 14th & Welton.
My cousin just moved there and I know we're driving to Outer Range Brewery in Frisco (no idea if that's near by?) but I don't really want to drive more than 30min for a hike or anything.
Usually I'd be all about steak but I did a Costco run and have pretty much lived off steak for the past month. But I'll take that recommendation for next time!
Thanks for the rooftop recommendations definitely will check those out!
Here's my Brewery list so far that Beer Advocate people recommended:
TRVE
Cerebral
New Image
River North
dry Dock
O'dell
Comrade
While I trust their beer recommendations I'd prefer a solid atmosphere to. Ideally with a beer garden since my cousin and his GF aren't vaccinated yet.
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Where you staying, how much/far do you want to drive?
Hikes will all be a pretty good drive. Best bet close-ish is head up to Chautauqua park in boulder. Very scenic and lots of hike options. The Table Mountain area around Golden also has some decent hikes. Father travel into the mtns will get you better hikes.
El Five is fun. Unless you're opposed to going out for steak, Guard & Grace is one of my favorite steakhouses. The food scene is really pretty good these days - and don't miss some of the great food trucks.
Not breweries, but staying downtown....Falling Rock Tap House always has a great beer selection, not view. After you've had one or two there, head across the street to Tap Fourteen's rooftop patio for some still decent beers, and good views. In the same area Rino Beer Garden is actually pretty fun. If you want a dive bar with GREAT beers, try Star Bar - it will surprise you!
Not sure when you're going, but if the Rockies have a home game at the time and if they are allowing fans, get some "Rooftop" tickets to drink, catch the views, and maybe see a game if you like.
If you do go up to Boulder to hike, head a little farther north up to Avery Brewing for an apre-hike beer - they keep a ton of taps of their hard to find and not-distributed stuff flowing. They built a big new complex a few years ago, but it's a cool environment.
Tons of breweries otherwise. You'd be hard pressed not to stumble into a few. If you have any in mind that you've mapped out, and want any of my opinions feel free to throw them out here.
This. Falling Rock has Pliney the Elder as well as a ton of other beers. The bar in the train station is fun.
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Whoa -
Outer Range is at least a 2:30 round trip from Denver (more like 3hr). Nice place - but at that point you're 15 min from Breckenridge and might as well get some skiing in! But on your way up (or down) stop by Westbound & Down in Idaho Springs.
I'll precede this with - I haven't been to any of these places since sometime in early 2020 (likely earlier) so can't speak to covid protocols seating (other than what I quickly find on the internet):
TRVE - their beers don't really interest me, but the heavy metal vibe is interesting. Never been there for outside seating.
Cerebral - Like their beer, cool place, I know they've set up tents / can use their parking lot.
New Image - Like their beer - they have setup outdoor seating
River North - Good beer, haven't been since they were forced out and moved into new locations, but if you stop by consider the other places below.
Dry Dock - meh
Odell - meh
Comrade - Good beer, not sure they have anything outdoor
Near River North / RiNo Beer garden / ODell (I don't think there's an apostrophe) (walking distance):
Black Shirt brewing - good beer, outdoor patio (across from Rino Beer Garden)
Epic Brewing - interesting selection, outdoor seating (I think)
Out Mutual Friend - some patio seating
Ratio Brewing - courtyard
Some others I'd throw on the list (for vibe/seating):
Joyride - Some good beer, amazing rooftop patio
--- further north - just hitting your 30 min rule:
Odd13 - One of my personal beer favorites (a little north, in Lafayette) but patio seating
Cellar West - if you make it to Lafayette, a few blocks away, cool farmhouse ales
But your best bet for easy waling / lots of breweries is to stay in the RiNo area.
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Whoa -
Outer Range is at least a 2:30 round trip from Denver (more like 3hr). Nice place - but at that point you're 15 min from Breckenridge and might as well get some skiing in! But on your way up (or down) stop by Westbound & Down in Idaho Springs.
I'll precede this with - I haven't been to any of these places since sometime in early 2020 (likely earlier) so can't speak to covid protocols seating (other than what I quickly find on the internet):
TRVE - their beers don't really interest me, but the heavy metal vibe is interesting. Never been there for outside seating.
Cerebral - Like their beer, cool place, I know they've set up tents / can use their parking lot.
New Image - Like their beer - they have setup outdoor seating
River North - Good beer, haven't been since they were forced out and moved into new locations, but if you stop by consider the other places below.
Dry Dock - meh
Odell - meh
Comrade - Good beer, not sure they have anything outdoor
Near River North / RiNo Beer garden / ODell (I don't think there's an apostrophe) (walking distance):
Black Shirt brewing - good beer, outdoor patio (across from Rino Beer Garden)
Epic Brewing - interesting selection, outdoor seating (I think)
Out Mutual Friend - some patio seating
Ratio Brewing - courtyard
Some others I'd throw on the list (for vibe/seating):
Joyride - Some good beer, amazing rooftop patio
--- further north
Odd13 - One of my personal beer favorites (a little north, in Lafayette) but patio seating
Cellar West - if you make it to Lafayette, a few blocks away, cool farmhouse ales
But your best bet for easy waling / lots of breweries is to stay in the RiNo area.
Wow I did not realize it was that far. Well he's determined to go so I guess I'll just get a nice afternoon nap in while he drives.
Thanks for the recommendations! Any local dive food joints you'd recommend? I know green chili is a staple but anything else?
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Wow I did not realize it was that far. Well he's determined to go so I guess I'll just get a nice afternoon nap in while he drives.
Thanks for the recommendations! Any local dive food joints you'd recommend? I know green chili is a staple but anything else?
Sticking near where you're staying:
You're walking distance to Sam's #3 (there's several of them, and they're all #3). Classic breakfast brunch place. Their pork green chili is decent (I usually get something smothered with it)
Not far from Steuben's - American / retro cool place.
La Loma is ok for Mexican (not the best, but it's nearby)
Jax fish house is great seafood for a a land-locked place (used to have good happy hour deals too).
The Kitchen is trendy and people like it, not my style
Syrup - breakfast, but again mostly trendy IMO
As pbiflyer mentioned, the who Union station area is "fun" these days, several restaurants there now. Stop by Wynkoop brewing across the street while you're there "Colorado's first brewpub". (they have a green chili beer)
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Nice, thanks for the heads up! Any chance you remember any spots with good patios/beer gardens?
I don't remember any patios but there was a great bar called Pony Up in LoDo somewhere. They have great craft beer places and Mexican food there.
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Everything is secondary to Casa Bonita
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Everything is secondary to Casa Bonita
Yup, I was surprised to find out it is a real place.
(https://media.tenor.com/images/124218379eb3a4096ac94f47a634aec5/tenor.gif)
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Everything is secondary to Casa Bonita
If they were open (they aren't) I would absolutely recommend it. It is very entertaining! no kidding.
I've been twice, the second time maybe a little too close to the cliff divers (splash!). But whatever, you're not there for the food anyway.
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Lol I'll save that spot for bringing my kids out to meet his kids in a few years
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Denver recommendations? All that's planned is my 30th at El Five, beyond that I'm looking for breweries, good food, bars, hikes, maybe a spot with music.
I live in downtown Denver and am in the same age bracket. El Five is great -- make sure to ask for a table outside (views are KILLER). Breweries are easy: you can do a serious brewery crawl walking around RiNo. There are at least a dozen of them all within walking distance. Eat at Finn's Manor (food trucks and a bar in an Austin-style circle) while you're doing that.
Bars: rooftop at Linger, patio at Avanti, Star Bar if you go to a Rockies game, 715 club for hipster drinking/dancing, the hipster bars along South Broadway (Sputnik is the best), the many dives along East Colfax (PS Lounge and Lost Lake)
Food: My Brother's Bar for both an old school dive and the best burgers in Denver, Tacos/Tequila/Whiskey (for hip Mexican, there are two of them, either works), Tavernetta for a nice lunch or dinner, Bar Dough, Uncle (if you like Ramen)
Music: Go to Red Rocks. Doesn't matter who's playing. Just go. Otherwise, lots of breweries have bluegrass bands playing during the day and there are endless numbers of cool venues for live music in Denver at night.
Feel free to DM me for more specific stuff if you'd like.
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Anyone have any thoughts about Italy in October 2021? Should I even bother? Should I drive or take trains? What do you think of Tuscany and the area north of Rome.
Any ideas on where to stay?
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Anyone have any thoughts about Italy in October 2021? Should I even bother? Should I drive or take trains? What do you think of Tuscany and the area north of Rome.
Any ideas on where to stay?
Get trip insurance.
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Get trip insurance.
The only thing we spend money on so far will be airline tickets. The total fare will be be about 4200 and I’ll burn through that in two months once travel starts again.
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Anyone have any thoughts about Italy in October 2021? Should I even bother? Should I drive or take trains? What do you think of Tuscany and the area north of Rome.
Any ideas on where to stay?
Tuscany is incredible. Florence was a city I wasn’t lusting after as a destination that I left feeling super impressed.
Definitely avoid Pisa, wildly underwhelming and one of the worst airports I’ve had the misfortune of flying through.
Trains are the way to go. I’ve take trains from Naples to Rome. Rome to Florence. Florence to Pisa. Venice to Milan. Easy breezy
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Get trip insurance.
Probably won't cover another covid outbreak. Didn't last year when we were scheduled to go to Italy. Just a heads up.
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Tuscany is incredible. Florence was a city I wasn’t lusting after as a destination that I left feeling super impressed.
Definitely avoid Pisa, wildly underwhelming and one of the worst airports I’ve had the misfortune of flying through.
Trains are the way to go. I’ve take trains from Naples to Rome. Rome to Florence. Florence to Pisa. Venice to Milan. Easy breezy
Second all of this. Florence was incredible. Train ride from Florence to Roma Termini was a breeze.
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Going on first work trip next week in over a year. Feels both weird and good. I wasn’t going to travel until I got at least one shot in the arm first. I know that’s not foolproof, but feel less anxious.
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Going on first work trip next week in over a year. Feels both weird and good. I wasn’t going to travel until I got at least one shot in the arm first. I know that’s not foolproof, but feel less anxious.
Don't take United.
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Probably won't cover another covid outbreak. Didn't last year when we were scheduled to go to Italy. Just a heads up.
You can get trip insurance that specifically covers Covid. We got some for our upcoming trip to Maui.
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You can get trip insurance that specifically covers Covid. We got some for our upcoming trip to Maui.
No chit.
How much?
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Anyone have any thoughts about Italy in October 2021? Should I even bother? Should I drive or take trains? What do you think of Tuscany and the area north of Rome.
Any ideas on where to stay?
Trains 100% Driving in Italy is a terrible experience. Milan is boring, especially if you like history.
Florence is 10/10
Rome is 9/10
Venice is 9/10
Naples/Capri/Amalfi/Sorrento is my personal favorite, but it's not for everyone
Cinque Terra is also 9/10
Drink wine, eat off the main streets!
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No chit.
How much?
Just like any other insurance, it depends on a lot of factors. It didn't seem to be much more than what I have paid in the past.
I went with a very popular travel insurance company and bought a plan with a Covid Rider.
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I live in downtown Denver and am in the same age bracket. El Five is great -- make sure to ask for a table outside (views are KILLER). Breweries are easy: you can do a serious brewery crawl walking around RiNo. There are at least a dozen of them all within walking distance. Eat at Finn's Manor (food trucks and a bar in an Austin-style circle) while you're doing that.
Bars: rooftop at Linger, patio at Avanti, Star Bar if you go to a Rockies game, 715 club for hipster drinking/dancing, the hipster bars along South Broadway (Sputnik is the best), the many dives along East Colfax (PS Lounge and Lost Lake)
Food: My Brother's Bar for both an old school dive and the best burgers in Denver, Tacos/Tequila/Whiskey (for hip Mexican, there are two of them, either works), Tavernetta for a nice lunch or dinner, Bar Dough, Uncle (if you like Ramen)
Music: Go to Red Rocks. Doesn't matter who's playing. Just go. Otherwise, lots of breweries have bluegrass bands playing during the day and there are endless numbers of cool venues for live music in Denver at night.
Feel free to DM me for more specific stuff if you'd like.
Thanks a bunch for all these recommendations!
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You can get trip insurance that specifically covers Covid. We got some for our upcoming trip to Maui.
Was in Maui in late Feb, was fantastic - especially with less crowds. Heard it's picked up a bit since then (good for them). Just make sure to carry your negative covid test printout everywhere (though mostly only lodging asks for it), take a screenshot of your Hawaii travel exempt status once you're processed at the airport (one place asked for that instead), and have fun!
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Trains 100% Driving in Italy is a terrible experience. Milan is boring, especially if you like history.
Florence is 10/10
Rome is 9/10
Venice is 9/10
Naples/Capri/Amalfi/Sorrento is my personal favorite, but it's not for everyone
Cinque Terra is also 9/10
Drink wine, eat off the main streets!
In 1997 my wife and I went to Naples/Capri/Pompei as part of our honeymoon. We went to Poland first to have a second reception for the large group of my wife's friends and family who could not make the wedding. I don't know why we picked, but it was tied into my desire to visit the ancestral place of my grandmother.
Here's where the fun with Italian trains come in. The guidebook said 1 hour train ride from Rome to Naples. Our train ride ended up taking just over 3 hours. We did not realize there was the speed train and then there was the commuter train just like Metro North to NYC back home. Was not spelled out very well in Rome.
(Visiting Naples sure did explain a lot of personality things in the extended family.)
For the train back we made sure we were catching the speed train and it would give us time for a quick visit to Rome for like 5-6 hours. We figured we could check in at the airport, drop off our luggage and train back to Rome. That all ended before leaving Naples. We got on on speed train. It did not move. We had to move to another train which turned out to be a commuter train. A passenger on the train showed us the newspaper and explained there had been a train derailment and major accident in Rome the night before and all trains were stopping at the station before and busing people to the train terminal in Rome. We ended up taking the last taxi from that station direct to the airport where we got stuck in a highway accident backup and our taxi driver ended up pulling in the emergency breakdown lane and driving 60 MPH in reverse to reach the previous exit ramp. We did make our flight on time.
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In 1997 my wife and I went to Naples/Capri/Pompei as part of our honeymoon. We went to Poland first to have a second reception for the large group of my wife's friends and family who could not make the wedding. I don't know why we picked, but it was tied into my desire to visit the ancestral place of my grandmother.
Here's where the fun with Italian trains come in. The guidebook said 1 hour train ride from Rome to Naples. Our train ride ended up taking just over 3 hours. We did not realize there was the speed train and then there was the commuter train just like Metro North to NYC back home. Was not spelled out very well in Rome.
(Visiting Naples sure did explain a lot of personality things in the extended family.)
For the train back we made sure we were catching the speed train and it would give us time for a quick visit to Rome for like 5-6 hours. We figured we could check in at the airport, drop off our luggage and train back to Rome. That all ended before leaving Naples. We got on on speed train. It did not move. We had to move to another train which turned out to be a commuter train. A passenger on the train showed us the newspaper and explained there had been a train derailment and major accident in Rome the night before and all trains were stopping at the station before and busing people to the train terminal in Rome. We ended up taking the last taxi from that station direct to the airport where we got stuck in a highway accident backup and our taxi driver ended up pulling in the emergency breakdown lane and driving 60 MPH in reverse to reach the previous exit ramp. We did make our flight on time.
This is very near my experience. All signs are suggestions
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Anyone have any thoughts about Italy in October 2021? Should I even bother? Should I drive or take trains? What do you think of Tuscany and the area north of Rome.
Any ideas on where to stay?
I have been to Italy several times. Latest was a couple years ago. Some thoughts:
October is a great time for Italy. Shoulder season. Less crowds, pleasant weather.
If you are going to do Tuscany, I would recommend a car. Lots of beautiful places to see and explore that aren't accessible by train. We ran across a small village where the cook at the only restaurant was playing soccer in the courtyard with kids. A scene I will never forget.
Siena is an amazing medieval town worth a day or two exploring and a good base for Tuscany.
Do not even think about driving in Rome or other major Italian cities. And the taxi rides can be downright terrifying, especially to/from Rome airport.
But, if you are headed for Italy for what I assume is the first time, I would spend time in Rome and Florence. Amazing cities. Seeing history up close and personal.
Some tips - arrange things in advance - restaurant reservations in the evenings, tickets for things, especially the Vatican museum. It also is worth the money these days to pay to skip the lines to enter the Vatican, Coliseum. A great restaurant in Rome for Carbonara https://www.facebook.com/RoscioliRistoranteSalumeria/
My wife loves Sorrento and the Amalfi coast. If you go there, a couple off the beaten paths suggestions - Herculaneum over Pompeii, less crowded and almost as spectacular ruins.
Also, a free trip to Greece - go to Paestum. It is an hour south of Naples and has three spectacular Greek temples. (I know, who knew?) https://www.museopaestum.beniculturali.it/
But basically, unless you go to Pisa for an extended amount of time, there is no wrong choice in Italy.
A great travel board resource here: https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/italy-634/
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Doing a four day trip to Galena IL. Debating whether to do mid-week or a weekend. Mid-week obviously cheaper but was wondering if there are more things to do over the weekend?
Anybody who has been to Galena have any suggestions?
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Doing a four day trip to Galena IL. Debating whether to do mid-week or a weekend. Mid-week obviously cheaper but was wondering if there are more things to do over the weekend?
Anybody who has been to Galena have any suggestions?
Most of the events are over the weekend, but nearly everything else that you can do - eating, shopping, golfing, hiking, museums - can be done mid-week.
Also check out Dubuque across the river.
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Most of the events are over the weekend, but nearly everything else that you can do - eating, shopping, golfing, hiking, museums - can be done mid-week.
Also check out Dubuque across the river.
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is worth a stop in Dubuque... if you're into that sort of thign.
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Also check out Dubuque across the river.
My wife’s hometown. A sleepy manufacturing town that has transformed itself. Dining is much better than it once was. The gambling along the River can be fun on weekends. The architecture can be cool.
Best line: How do you know you are in Iowa? The line at the nickel slots is eight deep!
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Doing a four day trip to Galena IL. Debating whether to do mid-week or a weekend. Mid-week obviously cheaper but was wondering if there are more things to do over the weekend?
Anybody who has been to Galena have any suggestions?
Make sure you avoid Scout week. There is a huge boy scout camp somewhere near there and downtown is overrun by kids. I think it's in June. My parents live there and say it's the worst week of the year.
Eagle Ridge had 4 golf courses, plus a spa and a brand new restaurant at the General.
Downtown is the touristy shops, but there sure some fun places. Galena Garlic company, the popcorn store(forgot the name), Poopsies is a toy store. Lots of bars and restaurants. We like Gobbies and Fried Green Tomatoes.
The Irish Cottage is fun for live music.
Chestnut mountain has skiing in the winter, obv, but also zip lines and alpine slides in summer.
**this is all pre-covid. Not sure what is still open there, I'm sure their economy has been hammered.
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So, Glow and I are doing our first trip ever to Hawaii. Going to Maui, assuming we pass the Covid test. Have one Moderna shot down: getting the next one the day after we return.
Amy recommendations regarding restaurants or excursions? We have a Luau booked, but not much else. Taking advantage of some crazy cheap airfares.
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So, Glow and I are doing our first trip ever to Hawaii. Going to Maui, assuming we pass the Covid test. Have one Moderna shot down: getting the next one the day after we return.
Amy recommendations regarding restaurants or excursions? We have a Luau booked, but not much else. Taking advantage of some crazy cheap airfares.
I’ve got a buddy who lives there. Give me a day.
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So, Glow and I are doing our first trip ever to Hawaii. Going to Maui, assuming we pass the Covid test. Have one Moderna shot down: getting the next one the day after we return.
Amy recommendations regarding restaurants or excursions? We have a Luau booked, but not much else. Taking advantage of some crazy cheap airfares.
Mamma's Fish House is overpriced but quite popular and very good.
Merriman's in Kapalua is solid.
Every restaurant I have been to in Paia has been excellent.
There is a little cafe in Kula called La Provence that is outstanding for breakfast.
In general there are number of good restaurants in Maui, definitely the best of all the islands. Their food trucks are really good too. I forgot the great Japanese place there....hmmmmm.
Miso Phat in Kihei was superb. :)
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So, Glow and I are doing our first trip ever to Hawaii. Going to Maui, assuming we pass the Covid test. Have one Moderna shot down: getting the next one the day after we return.
Amy recommendations regarding restaurants or excursions? We have a Luau booked, but not much else. Taking advantage of some crazy cheap airfares.
I recommend the Kapua suit at Turtle Bay Resort. They have gorgeous luaus as well. Also, be sure to talk to the best surf instructor I have ever met, Kunu. He has a ton of life lessons to teach. And if you're lucky, you might just run into a famous TV personality or Rock star while they're on vacation. One place I can't recommend is Keoki's bar.
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I recommend the Kapua suit at Turtle Bay Resort. They have gorgeous luaus as well. Also, be sure to talk to the best surf instructor I have ever met, Kunu. He has a ton of life lessons to teach. And if you're lucky, you might just run into a famous TV personality or Rock star while they're on vacation. One place I can't recommend is Keoki's bar.
Wrong island.
Where you staying in Maui, Chick?
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Obviously you have to do Haleakalā. If you do the sunrise, it is freezing at the top. The bike ride down is fun. However you do it, note the silversword plants. They are no where else in the world. I don’t think you guys dive, but don’t do what I did and plan on doing Haleakala after diving. Altitude is too high. I missed out because of that.
Somewhere, have a plate lunch, preferably from a food truck. Meat, gravy, scoop rice, scoop macaroni salad. Best thing you will ever eat. Also, if someone is selling huli huli chicken, get it. Usually it is road side or a fund raiser.
I think the road to Hana has had issues with the flooding, so check before you go.
Have shave ice. No, it’s not shaved ice. But real Hawaiian shave ice is delicious.
I’ll look for good hiking trails. Kauai has amazing ones, but don’t remember the Maui ones as well.
One of the day trips to Lanai was fun on a catamaran, but not sure if they do them or are the same.
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Monkeypod, there’s a location in Wailea and one in Kaanapali. Just trust me, get a meal there.
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Little beach or Red Sand beach for sunbathing? ;D
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Monkeypod, there’s a location in Wailea and one in Kaanapali. Just trust me, get a meal there.
+1. By Merriman
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Doing a four day trip to Galena IL. Debating whether to do mid-week or a weekend. Mid-week obviously cheaper but was wondering if there are more things to do over the weekend?
Anybody who has been to Galena have any suggestions?
Mid-week definitely better if you want fewer tourists.
If you golf, Eagle Ridge has 4 courses. The General is the signature course, but it's quite difficult - a lot of target golf - and it's a little overrated IMHO. Priciest, too. Both the North and South courses are nice, and the 9-hole East course is sporty, challenging and underrated.
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http://www.cuatro808.com/
Kihei gem. Buy wine next store.
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Looking for a recommendation from anyone - but maybe especially Glow and Chick - for a restaurant in Vegas.
A little background to help understand what we are looking for. We’re stopping in Vegas for a 24-hour pit stop on the drive from Phoenix to SLC. It’ll be the whole family including our kids (24, 22, 20 and 18). The three youngest have never been to Vegas. My wife and I haven’t need for 25 years.
We’re staying on the strip. We want to have a “nice” dinner to celebrate. I realize that “nice” is relative. Looking at some menus, I don’t think we really want to be in the $50-60 entree range, but I could do $30-40 range (which would probably make this the most expensive dinner we’ve had as a family). It’s a special occasion and I’m hoping to do something nice.
I’m somewhat interested in some of the celebrity chefs, but that’s not a deal breaker for me if it’s not. I’m interested in good food, but also a cool room/experience. Any recommendations would be appreciated. And any suggestions to reduce cost also appreciated. If it matters, it will be a Thursday, and I’m definitely willing to make it a lunch. And if there’s something in that higher price range that you think is absolutely worth it - let me know. Not sure I can swing it, but I’d consider it.
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Looking for a recommendation from anyone - but maybe especially Glow and Chick - for a restaurant in Vegas.
A little background to help understand what we are looking for. We’re stopping in Vegas for a 24-hour pit stop on the drive from Phoenix to SLC. It’ll be the whole family including our kids (24, 22, 20 and 18). The three youngest have never been to Vegas. My wife and I haven’t need for 25 years.
We’re staying on the strip. We want to have a “nice” dinner to celebrate. I realize that “nice” is relative. Looking at some menus, I don’t think we really want to be in the $50-60 entree range, but I could do $30-40 range (which would probably make this the most expensive dinner we’ve had as a family). It’s a special occasion and I’m hoping to do something nice.
I’m somewhat interested in some of the celebrity chefs, but that’s not a deal breaker for me if it’s not. I’m interested in good food, but also a cool room/experience. Any recommendations would be appreciated. And any suggestions to reduce cost also appreciated. If it matters, it will be a Thursday, and I’m definitely willing to make it a lunch. And if there’s something in that higher price range that you think is absolutely worth it - let me know. Not sure I can swing it, but I’d consider it.
I have to say, one of the best meals I’ve EVER had was at Emerils. But 4 of us got out of there for about $750-$800. That was in 2000.
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Delmonico is fantastic, but definitely a bit on the pricy side.
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Looking for a recommendation from anyone - but maybe especially Glow and Chick - for a restaurant in Vegas.
A little background to help understand what we are looking for. We’re stopping in Vegas for a 24-hour pit stop on the drive from Phoenix to SLC. It’ll be the whole family including our kids (24, 22, 20 and 18). The three youngest have never been to Vegas. My wife and I haven’t need for 25 years.
We’re staying on the strip. We want to have a “nice” dinner to celebrate. I realize that “nice” is relative. Looking at some menus, I don’t think we really want to be in the $50-60 entree range, but I could do $30-40 range (which would probably make this the most expensive dinner we’ve had as a family). It’s a special occasion and I’m hoping to do something nice.
I’m somewhat interested in some of the celebrity chefs, but that’s not a deal breaker for me if it’s not. I’m interested in good food, but also a cool room/experience. Any recommendations would be appreciated. And any suggestions to reduce cost also appreciated. If it matters, it will be a Thursday, and I’m definitely willing to make it a lunch. And if there’s something in that higher price range that you think is absolutely worth it - let me know. Not sure I can swing it, but I’d consider it.
To be honest, we don't go out to eat much on the Strip. I don't think we have been there at all since we got here in January. There are a lot of great options off-strip and you aren't paying tourist prices. But I understand wanting to go there if it's only 24 hours.
What type of food are you interested in (steak, italian,etc.)? What hotel are you staying at?
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Looking for a recommendation from anyone - but maybe especially Glow and Chick - for a restaurant in Vegas.
A little background to help understand what we are looking for. We’re stopping in Vegas for a 24-hour pit stop on the drive from Phoenix to SLC. It’ll be the whole family including our kids (24, 22, 20 and 18). The three youngest have never been to Vegas. My wife and I haven’t need for 25 years.
We’re staying on the strip. We want to have a “nice” dinner to celebrate. I realize that “nice” is relative. Looking at some menus, I don’t think we really want to be in the $50-60 entree range, but I could do $30-40 range (which would probably make this the most expensive dinner we’ve had as a family). It’s a special occasion and I’m hoping to do something nice.
I’m somewhat interested in some of the celebrity chefs, but that’s not a deal breaker for me if it’s not. I’m interested in good food, but also a cool room/experience. Any recommendations would be appreciated. And any suggestions to reduce cost also appreciated. If it matters, it will be a Thursday, and I’m definitely willing to make it a lunch. And if there’s something in that higher price range that you think is absolutely worth it - let me know. Not sure I can swing it, but I’d consider it.
Warriorchick is right. The best restaurants are off the strip. There are several good Steakhouses, Mexican, Japanese, and Bulgarian places. The place I would recommend would be Marrakesh if you like Morrocan/Mediterranean cuisine. It's not too far from the strip.
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Which is the best food city in the country that has under 100,000 people? Just a little trivia, I'm going there next month.
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Which is the best food city in the country that has under 100,000 people? Just a little trivia, I'm going there next month.
Asheville
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Asheville
Nope. But good guess.
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Obviously you have to do Haleakalā. If you do the sunrise, it is freezing at the top. The bike ride down is fun. However you do it, note the silversword plants. They are no where else in the world. I don’t think you guys dive, but don’t do what I did and plan on doing Haleakala after diving. Altitude is too high. I missed out because of that.
Somewhere, have a plate lunch, preferably from a food truck. Meat, gravy, scoop rice, scoop macaroni salad. Best thing you will ever eat. Also, if someone is selling huli huli chicken, get it. Usually it is road side or a fund raiser.
I think the road to Hana has had issues with the flooding, so check before you go.
Have shave ice. No, it’s not shaved ice. But real Hawaiian shave ice is delicious.
I’ll look for good hiking trails. Kauai has amazing ones, but don’t remember the Maui ones as well.
One of the day trips to Lanai was fun on a catamaran, but not sure if they do them or are the same.
Haleakala was the most spiritually inspiring moment in my life thus far. It is indescribable. It gets very cold and windy, and it is at altitude. I did not bike down.
Road to Hana was also incredible. I took my time, stopped at the black sand beach, hiked to waterfalls, had exotic fruits from a roadside stand. I also drove back around the backside of the island. Bring food and drink, the “store” in Hana is small and a bit random.
Took a helicopter ride, it had recently rained so many beautiful waterfalls.
Took a boat, snorkeled/snuba’d in Molokini, whale watching was incredible, they came right up to the boat.
Surf. I was AWFUL, but it was fun.
Eat a loco moco, shave ice, spam, poke. I also liked Star Noodle for a restaurant experience.
Maui is forever in my soul, only and handful of places have left this impression on me. Remember to stop and take in the beauty.
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Which is the best food city in the country that has under 100,000 people? Just a little trivia, I'm going there next month.
Napa?
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Napa?
Nope. But another good effort.
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Nope. But another good effort.
You realize that this is a matter of opinion, right?
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You realize that this is a matter of opinion, right?
Yes, to a degree.
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Portland, ME is way up there....but that's not it. And the overall seafood in Nova Scotia and PEI is better than Maine btw. :)
But to your points yes, some people prefer certain cuisines or are allergic to seafood.
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You realize that this is a matter of opinion, right?
I’m still trying to figure out which countries have under 100,000 people. Vatican City? But not known for restaurants.
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I’m still trying to figure out which countries have under 100,000 people. Vatican City? But not known for restaurants.
Monaco, no brainer
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I have to say, one of the best meals I’ve EVER had was at Emerils. But 4 of us got out of there for about $750-$800. That was in 2000.
Coincidentally, the last time we did this it was at Emeril’s in New Orleans. It was outstanding. He had a very reasonably priced prix fixe lunch menu. It was only like $30 each. It was a lot of fun and the kids really enjoyed it.
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To be honest, we don't go out to eat much on the Strip. I don't think we have been there at all since we got here in January. There are a lot of great options off-strip and you aren't paying tourist prices. But I understand wanting to go there if it's only 24 hours.
What type of food are you interested in (steak, italian,etc.)? What hotel are you staying at?
Yeah, I’m really struggling with the huge premium that we’ll pay if we eat on the strip. We may venture out, but it’s probably not likely. We’re staying at Paris. My daughters really wanted to and the rooms were very reasonable. I know there are a lot of better places — a lot — but it should be good. It’s certainly very centrally located. We’re just planning on mostly walking around, shopping, people watching and very little gambling. So, with so little time, I’m reluctant to leave the strip.
We like pretty much anything with the possible exception of fancy French-type with all the foam and stuff like that. Other than that, though, pretty much anything goes. And it doesn’t have to be too fancy. If there’s a great burger or pizza place, that’s cool too.
Thanks.
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Monaco, no brainer
I'm talking in the USA. Yes, Monoco would be way up there worldwide.
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Warriorchick is right. The best restaurants are off the strip. There are several good Steakhouses, Mexican, Japanese, and Bulgarian places. The place I would recommend would be Marrakesh if you like Morrocan/Mediterranean cuisine. It's not too far from the strip.
That is intriguing. I’ll look it up. Thank you. We love trying different types of places and food.
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That is intriguing. I%u2019ll look it up. Thank you. We love trying different types of places and food.
That place was excellent and a really good value. Very close to the strip, like a 5 min uber/cab. They do a 6 course price-fixe for like $50. They also have a number of Bulgarian restaurants that aren't extraordinary or flashy but kind of interesting. Good beer and often live music....at least they did before covid.
marrakechvegas.com
bgbistro.com
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Yeah, I’m really struggling with the huge premium that we’ll pay if we eat on the strip. We may venture out, but it’s probably not likely. We’re staying at Paris. My daughters really wanted to and the rooms were very reasonable. I know there are a lot of better places — a lot — but it should be good. It’s certainly very centrally located. We’re just planning on mostly walking around, shopping, people watching and very little gambling. So, with so little time, I’m reluctant to leave the strip.
Honestly, you’ll enjoy it. Paris is among the newer of those mid strip hotels, besides the City Center set with Cosmo/Aria/etc. And while it’s a bit “dated” compared to some of the glitzier names, the old school French/Parisian style and decor of the hotel and the rooms helps. The location on the Strip is fantastic.
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Yeah, I’m really struggling with the huge premium that we’ll pay if we eat on the strip. We may venture out, but it’s probably not likely. We’re staying at Paris. My daughters really wanted to and the rooms were very reasonable. I know there are a lot of better places — a lot — but it should be good. It’s certainly very centrally located. We’re just planning on mostly walking around, shopping, people watching and very little gambling. So, with so little time, I’m reluctant to leave the strip.
We like pretty much anything with the possible exception of fancy French-type with all the foam and stuff like that. Other than that, though, pretty much anything goes. And it doesn’t have to be too fancy. If there’s a great burger or pizza place, that’s cool too.
Thanks.
I actually like Mon Ami Gabi at Paris. Yes, it's a Melman restaurant, but the food is decent and reasonably priced. If you can get a table that has views of the Bellagio fountain (indoors or outdoors), it's totally worth it.
A few off-strip suggestions:
For an old-school Vegas steak experience, I like Herbs and Rye. Classic cocktails, red naugahyde booths, good food. And during happy hour, the steaks are half-price.
http://www.herbsandrye.com/
My favorite Italian place for the price is Capo's. It's got an old-school mobster vibe. You enter the restaurant through a secret door. They usually have live piano music with a guy singing Sinatra songs. Your party is big enough that you may be able to score the VIP table, which is on a raised platform in a corner (but with a clear view of the front door, natch).
http://www.caposrestaurant.com/specials.html
My favorite farm-to-table place is a place called Honey Salt. Not super fancy, but the food is great.
https://www.honeysalt.com/
All these places are 5-15 minutes from the strip. Wherever you go, be sure to get a reservation, especially if you want to request the special seating.
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Best Mexican in town and actually quite close by car/Uber from Paris.
http://www.bonitomichoacan.com/
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I'm talking in the USA. Yes, Monoco would be way up there worldwide.
I was just poking fun at the way the question was written. ;D City in a country with less than 100k.
And D’oh, of course Monaco. Steph would be so disappointed I forgot her country.
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I was just poking fun at the way the question was written. ;D City in a country with less than 100k.
And D%u2019oh, of course Monaco. Steph would be so disappointed I forgot her country.
I would think Bernuda could be up there?
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I'm talking in the USA. Yes, Monoco would be way up there worldwide.
Naperville?
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I'm talking in the USA. Yes, Monoco would be way up there worldwide.
Whitefish, Montana, or maybe Aspen?
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Whitefish, Montana, or maybe Aspen?
Aspen is the best guess yet. I am just stunned Goooo no one has gotten it. I can't even give a hint, it would give it away.
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Aspen is the best guess yet. I am just stunned Goooo no one has gotten it. I can't even give a hint, it would give it away.
Franklin TN or Decatur GA?
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Franklin TN or Decatur GA?
Nope. These are the only mini hints I can give:
It is not a suburb of a major city.
It's conceivable people think it's larger than 100K.
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Are you implying Charleston is less than 100K?
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Are you implying Charleston is less than 100K?
No, but that's a great guess and a fabulous food city.
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Aspen is the best guess yet. I am just stunned Goooo no one has gotten it. I can't even give a hint, it would give it away.
Rochester?
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Rochester?
Nope.
It appears you all are really struggling.
I guess I will just give it away.
Per capita there are an enormous amount of artists and restaurants.
So people vacation in the area. It's popular enough to have Four Seasons type resorts.
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Are you implying Charleston is less than 100K?
This was my thought as well but slightly too large. Really though, one of the best small cities in the U.S. Savannah is up there too but has a fun nasty streak.
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This was my thought as well but slightly too large. Really though, one of the best small cities in the U.S. Savannah is up there too but has a fun nasty streak.
I agree on both counts. My Aunt and Uncle are retired in Hilton Head, SC. I really enjoy both Charleston and Savannah and have been fortunate to spend some time in both places. They looked seriously at Charleston but prime-time property there I guess was too much.
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Aspen is the best guess yet. I am just stunned Goooo no one has gotten it. I can't even give a hint, it would give it away.
I said Rochester because you typed Goooo in your sentence.
A serious guess is Santa Fe.
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Funny, I was going to say SantaFe, when you said you might think it is larger.
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I said Rochester because you typed Goooo in your sentence.
A serious guess is Santa Fe.
Bam!!! You got it Ziggy!!
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Funny, I was going to say SantaFe, when you said you might think it is larger.
Only 88k population. I had to look it up.
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Bam!!! You got it Ziggy!!
Swing by GRRM's theater and tell him to finish the Goddamn book.
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Swing by GRRM's theater and tell him to finish the Goddamn book.
I'll give him a call because the theater is still closed. :)
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I'll give him a call because the theater is still closed. :)
might have to head to the hills.
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might have to head to the hills.
My primary focus will be Sopapillas so remind me closer to May 15th. :)
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Funny, I was going to say SantaFe, when you said you might think it is larger.
ZFB said what now?
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I went to Vegas in November... was going to Florida in December but had to cancel last minute due to getting sick (no covid, it turns out)... and went to San Diego in January. After I get through this current fight with covid, I'm down to travel anywhere. Big believer in VRBO's now. Had a great condo right on the beach in San Diego.. went there and worked for a week... with a few breaks to hang out with friends and go out on the Pacific.
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I agree on both counts. My Aunt and Uncle are retired in Hilton Head, SC. I really enjoy both Charleston and Savannah and have been fortunate to spend some time in both places. They looked seriously at Charleston but prime-time property there I guess was too much.
Both are fun places. I've been multiple times to each. Nothing like grabbing a beer in Savannah and walking around town. Just like in "Garden" as long as it's in a plastic cup. We love eating at the Pirate House Restaurantf or traditional Georgia fare. It is the actual house where Chapter 1 of Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island takes place.
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I said Rochester because you typed Goooo in your sentence.
We got our first Chick-Fil-A a couple years back....
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We got our first Chick-Fil-A a couple years back....
And Chick-Fil-A is average at best. It's no Bojangles.
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And Chick-Fil-A is average at best. It's no Bojangles.
Agree. I've only been to Chick-Fil-A a couple of times, when connecting flights in ATL. Meh. Haven't had any desire to go to the local one...but folks here seem to think it's the bomb. Probably will change when the novelty wears off.
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Agree. I've only been to Chick-Fil-A a couple of times, when connecting flights in ATL. Meh. Haven't had any desire to go to the local one...but folks here seem to think it's the bomb. Probably will change when the novelty wears off.
Without fail, whenever I am jonesing for Chik-Fil-A, it's Sunday.
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My go to lunches when I am on the road and don't give AF:
1. Big Mac, fries, Diet Coke. (Value meal #1)
2. Chick-Fil-A, waffle fries, Diet Dr. Pepper
3. Some burger, tots and chocolate (or strawberry) shake from Sonic.
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My favorite fast food chicken is Raising Cane's.
The bread that comes with it is amazing.
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Wrong island.
Where you staying in Maui, Chick?
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/mEahVAkKjt0VL2o5Jk/giphy.gif)
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My favorite fast food chicken is Raising Cane's.
The bread that comes with it is amazing.
Not a big fan of the chicken itself but the bread and the sauce are great.
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Without fail, whenever I am jonesing for Chik-Fil-A, it's Sunday.
I’ve always thought Chick-fil-A could make a fortune if they set up ‘Sunday’ vending machines across the country that they filled with leftovers from Saturday. They could charge the regular price even though they are cold and a day old.
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I’ve always thought Chick-fil-A could make a fortune if they set up ‘Sunday’ vending machines across the country that they filled with leftovers from Saturday. They could charge the regular price even though they are cold and a day old.
Certainly not as dumb as their decision to open up a location in the Mercedes Benz Arena in Atlanta - a venue where most of the events (Falcons games) are held on Sunday.
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My go to on the road lunch is, in order:
1) Culver’s — ain’t none better. Good, tasty lunch is a double butterburger, onion rings and cole slaw. Wished they did beer to finish it.
2) Skyline Chili — Lunch hits about Cincinnati when I go to Florida via the mountains. Unique, not really chili, but tasty.
3) Burger King — Whopper without cheese is the best mass produced burger.
4) Subway — Tuna with salad and yellow peppers and a bag of bbq chips.
5) Panera Bread — wife loves it. Soup is OK. Can eat outside, which is nice when traveling with a very very spoiled cocker spaniel.
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My go to on the road lunch is, in order:
1) Culver’s — ain’t none better. Good, tasty lunch is a double butterburger, onion rings and cole slaw. Wished they did beer to finish it.
2) Skyline Chili — Lunch hits about Cincinnati when I go to Florida via the mountains. Unique, not really chili, but tasty.
3) Burger King — Whopper without cheese is the best mass produced burger.
4) Subway — Tuna with salad and yellow peppers and a bag of bbq chips.
5) Panera Bread — wife loves it. Soup is OK. Can eat outside, which is nice when traveling with a very very spoiled cocker spaniel.
Cardinal fan rot gut
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My go to on the road lunch is, in order:
1) Culver’s — ain’t none better. Good, tasty lunch is a double butterburger, onion rings and cole slaw. Wished they did beer to finish it.
2) Skyline Chili — Lunch hits about Cincinnati when I go to Florida via the mountains. Unique, not really chili, but tasty.
3) Burger King — Whopper without cheese is the best mass produced burger.
4) Subway — Tuna with salad and yellow peppers and a bag of bbq chips.
5) Panera Bread — wife loves it. Soup is OK. Can eat outside, which is nice when traveling with a very very spoiled cocker spaniel.
Chili is dangerous on the road, hey? Where's your favorite poop stop?
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DGies, now I see how you maintain that 28-inch waist! ;D
My roadfood faves in no particular order (depends on the meal and what part of the country we are passing through)
Culvers - 'nuff said
Waffle House - a family breakfast tradition for our family on the way to visit my folks
Cracker Barrel - don't @ me - I grew up a few miles from the original restaurant and the food is pretty damn authentic, given it's a chain - right down to the salty cornbread muffins and the sweet tea. Also - you can get Goo Goo Clusters in the gift shop.
A&W - good root beer, decent burgers
Captain D's - another childhood memory - 100X better than Long John Silver's - best fast food fish I have had besides Culver's
I know I don't have many healthy options here, but that's why it's called vacation.
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Arby's.
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Arby's.
The topic is quick eats. Not fine dining.
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Recently spent a 2 week holiday in Dubai. It's one of the few places that's "open". It was never one of my desired holiday places after many business trips there's so I went with low expectations. Had to do some "medical tourism" and decided to make a holiday of it.
Result:
- very tight COVID controls. Masks mandatory everywhere, even walking outside
- PCR test on arrival at airport
- JBR area is really nice and walking with a mask is not the end of the world
- Restaurants were also strict
- all attractions were open. Nothing crowded.
- Within the resort was more relaxed - no masks required in pool and beach areas
Overall it was nice. Much better than expected.
Also, it has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world.
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Recently spent a 2 week holiday in Dubai. It's one of the few places that's "open". It was never one of my desired holiday places after many business trips there's so I went with low expectations. Had to do some "medical tourism" and decided to make a holiday of it.
Result:
- very tight COVID controls. Masks mandatory everywhere, even walking outside
- PCR test on arrival at airport
- JBR area is really nice and walking with a mask is not the end of the world
- Restaurants were also strict
- all attractions were open. Nothing crowded.
- Within the resort was more relaxed - no masks required in pool and beach areas
Overall it was nice. Much better than expected.
Also, it has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world.
I have a couple work associates that live there and for all the annoyances that come with strict rule, it is beneficial in a time like this. Less than 10MM in population, tons of money, tons of oversight, basically a template for how to be well resourced to deal with something like this.
Related, the first time I was ever in the UAE, I went through customs in Abu Dhabi. They are very easy and once you’ve been to Dubai or AD or Sharjah, you’re in the system and you can use E-Gates without further registration. Well I hadn’t and I went to the counter. The agent was so surprised and seemingly exasperated that He actually needed to manually clear someone that he made me feel like a massive inconvenience. Fortunately he was very nice and quick
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Maui:
Mama's Fish House was the best fish I've ever eaten in my life. Be sure to book your reservation early.
Second the rec of Star Noodle.
People raved to us about Monkeypod. It was good, I'd go back, but seemed like I was missing something--it was just a solid restaurant.
Paia Fish Market is great for a casual meal.
We did about 2/3 of the Road to Hana and turned around. Seemed sufficient to me. Best advice is go early early--can't imagine if we were stuck in a parade that whole drive.
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Heading to Savannah with my fiancé for 3 days at the end of May. I've never been. Any recommendations?
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Heading to Savannah with my fiancé for 3 days at the end of May. I've never been. Any recommendations?
Mrs. Wilkes
Alligator Soul
Planter's Tavern
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Heading to Savannah with my fiancé for 3 days at the end of May. I've never been. Any recommendations?
My family likes:
The Pirates House Restaurant (Chapter 1 of RL Stevenson's Treasure Island takes place in this house.)
Moon River Brewing Company
Visit Chippewa Square to see the famous Forrest Gump film spot. There is no bus stop bench there. It was added for the movie.
We've taken a Savannah Ghost Tours which was a lot of fun.
Savannah offers those trolley tours that take will cover all the key points of the city.
I like morning runs, so I can visit all the squares around town and Forsyth Park.
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My family likes:
The Pirates House Restaurant (Chapter 1 of RL Stevenson's Treasure Island takes place in this house.)
Not to call you out, but I don't think this is true. I know the restaurant has pages from an early version of the book in the restaurant (maybe on the walls I think) but RLS was Scottish and the start of Treasure Island is near the Bristol Channel in England
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Heading to Savannah with my fiancé for 3 days at the end of May. I've never been. Any recommendations?
The haunted bar tour is fun. Pro tip. Do not pre-game. You get a drink at each bar. ;D
The Old Pink House is a great restaurant, especially if you can get a window seat up stairs.
https://static1.squarespace.com/static/59a7470e6f4ca3ff9e4ef513/t/5f25d45244abb10a175a9d98/1596314707755/Screen+Shot+2020-08-01+at+4.44.22+PM.png
Tour the cemetery. Timely, in that tons of Spanish Flu epidemic victims are buried there.
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Not to call you out, but I don't think this is true. I know the restaurant has pages from an early version of the book in the restaurant (maybe on the walls I think) but RLS was Scottish and the start of Treasure Island is near the Bristol Channel in England
https://thepirateshouse.com/history/
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Mrs. Wilkes
Alligator Soul
Planter's Tavern
The Olde Pink House blows away Planter's Tavern! ;D
Nice choices!
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The Olde Pink House blows away Planter's Tavern! ;D
Nice choices!
The Olde Pink is excellent as well. I had a really good meal at PT but my apologies.
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https://thepirateshouse.com/history/
Yea, seems like some creative liberties by them :D All the "connections" or references to Savannah pertaining to RLS or TI come from Savannah tourism sources haha.
Regardless, its a cool spot and Savannah is a very very cool town
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Other than Paula Deen's joints, are there any bad restaurants or bars in Savannah?
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Other than Paula Deen's joints, are there any bad restaurants or bars in Savannah?
No.
Is her place still even open?
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Going to the Big Island in May. 2 years of Chase Point Hoarding means vacation time.
Anyone ever been with recommendations?
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The Olde Pink is excellent as well. I had a really good meal at PT but my apologies.
I was just kidding, because iirc, they have the same menu, share the same kitchen, don't they?
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I was just kidding, because iirc, they have the same menu, share the same kitchen, don't they?
Oh....you're right!! I guess my memory is failing.
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DGies, now I see how you maintain that 28-inch waist! ;D
My roadfood faves in no particular order (depends on the meal and what part of the country we are passing through)
Waffle House - a family breakfast tradition for our family on the way to visit my folks
Cracker Barrel - don't @ me - I grew up a few miles from the original restaurant and the food is pretty damn authentic, given it's a chain - right down to the salty cornbread muffins and the sweet tea. Also - you can get Goo Goo Clusters
First of all, I’m flattered you noticed ;D
Sorry, any chain restaurant that has two locations at every freeway interchange in the Southeast leaves me wondering. Not to mention that Waffle House fare scares me.
Cracker Barrel is a Nashville institution the way Minnie Pearl’s fried chicken is. Better known for how fast it comes out rather than how slow it goes in.
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First of all, I’m flattered you noticed ;D
Sorry, any chain restaurant that has two locations at every freeway interchange in the Southeast leaves me wondering. Not to mention that Waffle House fare scares me.
Cracker Barrel is a Nashville institution the way Minnie Pearl’s fried chicken is. Better known for how fast it comes out rather than how slow it goes in.
You can get a togo styrofoam cup of grits from Waffle House. At least you could 20 years ago. Grab a spoon, a pad of butter, and a packet of sugar and you're good to go!
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You can get a togo styrofoam cup of grits from Waffle House. At least you could 20 years ago. Grab a spoon, a pad of butter, and a packet of sugar and you're good to go!
I lived in the southeast a long time, but not that long!
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Going to the Big Island in May. 2 years of Chase Point Hoarding means vacation time.
Anyone ever been with recommendations?
The Big Island is absolutely amazing. You should have a blast.
Our whole family enjoyed a tour of a coffee plantation. There are several just a short drive south of the main resort area in Kona. We did the free tour of Greenwell Farms (https://www.greenwellfarms.com/big-island-kona-coffee-tours/), and had a great time.
Volcanos National Park is definitely worth a visit. Lots of excellent sights and walking areas. If you have a chance, take a walking tour into the Thurston Lava Tube. I believe we found out about that at the ranger station in the park.
Finally, if you enjoy horseback riding, there are many great places north of the Kona area. We did Painolo Adventures (https://www.panioloadventures.com/index.php) with our kids. I have also heard that Waipi’o on Horseback (https://waipioonhorseback.com/) is phenomenal (great trails into the lush Waipi’o Valley), but was afraid that the three-hour excursions might be a little long for our kids.
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Going to the Big Island in May. 2 years of Chase Point Hoarding means vacation time.
Anyone ever been with recommendations?
I have a close friend who has a house on the Big Island and I have been lucky enough to go almost every year the past decade. There are wide ranges of activities and quite a bit to cover if you want to see everything. Because some of these attractions are far apart you sort of have to pick and choose if you have limited time. I could give you a number of suggestions but perhaps it would be best to send me a personal message. I will just say point blank that while they are not close to the major resorts seeing the stars on top of Mauna Kea, the green sand beach, and the Waipio Valley are absolute must sees along with the Volcanoes National Park. Sadly you will not be there during whale season but you'll still have a blast.
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Great suggestions Muggs.
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How about Sanibel/Captiva? Heading down in a few weeks. Bonus points for great fish tacos, local breweries, decent espresso, places that have solid menus while accommodating my somewhat picky-eating kindergartner, & day to day activities (though I’m good on the beach the full week).
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How about Sanibel/Captiva? Heading down in a few weeks. Bonus points for great fish tacos, local breweries, decent espresso, places that have solid menus while accommodating my somewhat picky-eating kindergartner, & day to day activities (though I’m good on the beach the full week).
It's been years and years but cheeburger cheeburger is a must hit.
Bring water shoes, the beaches are all shells.
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Great suggestions Muggs.
Ty. The easiest thing to remember about the Big Island is that the two most popular areas, Waikoloa/Kailua-Kona, are the least interesting. Unless you want to just lay on the beaches or golf.
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Ty. The easiest thing to remember about the Big Island is that the two most popular areas, Waikoloa/Kailua-Kona, are the least interesting. Unless you want to just lay on the beaches or golf.
Thanks for the tips everyone.
Muggs - sent you a pm.
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Ty. The easiest thing to remember about the Big Island is that the two most popular areas, Waikoloa/Kailua-Kona, are the least interesting. Unless you want to just lay on the beaches or golf.
This. Visit the town of Hilo or the little towns north of it. Hike through the nearby rainforest.
Not sure if the volcano is active, but seeing it at night if it is is spectacular.
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It's been years and years but cheeburger cheeburger is a must hit.
Bring water shoes, the beaches are all shells.
The Mucky Duck on Captiva is a long standing tradition. Gets crowded though. Spectacular views.
Renting a kayak and paddling through Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is nice if you like that.
Doc Ford’s restaurants, one on Sanibel, one on Captiva are good. Owner is local author Randy Wayne White, who writes novels similar to John MacDonald. About a former CIA turned marine biologist living in the area. Good and appropriate beach reading material for your visit.
Order a blackened fish sandwich somewhere and try fish dip (Florida version of chips and salsa)
One last suggestion for a Floridian must do. Lunch at Cabbage Key. It is accessible only by boat. Family owned small resort. So you need to hitch a ride. I think there are still a bunch of places that will shuttle you out there.
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This. Visit the town of Hilo or the little towns north of it. Hike through the nearby rainforest.
Not sure if the volcano is active, but seeing it at night if it is is spectacular.
We're flying into Hilo and spending the first 3 days on that side of the island and the volcano park. We'll head to the northwest side then for 5 days and fly out of Kona.
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We're flying into Hilo and spending the first 3 days on that side of the island and the volcano park. We'll head to the northwest side then for 5 days and fly out of Kona.
I just sent you a message, hope you got it.
Great job flying into Hilo but returning from Kona.
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We're flying into Hilo and spending the first 3 days on that side of the island and the volcano park. We'll head to the northwest side then for 5 days and fly out of Kona.
If you are at all into botanical gardens, the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden just north of Hilo is amazing.
https://htbg.com/
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If you are at all into botanical gardens, the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden just north of Hilo is amazing.
https://htbg.com/
Great spot. The Hamakua coast is beautiful and often ignored by travelers.
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The Mucky Duck on Captiva is a long standing tradition. Gets crowded though. Spectacular views.
Renting a kayak and paddling through Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is nice if you like that.
Doc Ford’s restaurants, one on Sanibel, one on Captiva are good. Owner is local author Randy Wayne White, who writes novels similar to John MacDonald. About a former CIA turned marine biologist living in the area. Good and appropriate beach reading material for your visit.
Order a blackened fish sandwich somewhere and try fish dip (Florida version of chips and salsa)
One last suggestion for a Floridian must do. Lunch at Cabbage Key. It is accessible only by boat. Family owned small resort. So you need to hitch a ride. I think there are still a bunch of places that will shuttle you out there.
Thanks for the Sanibel Scoop!
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Any must dos or restaurant recommendations in Louisville? Headed there this weekend. Only two full days.
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Any must dos or restaurant recommendations in Louisville? Headed there this weekend. Only two full days.
KFC
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Any must dos or restaurant recommendations in Louisville? Headed there this weekend. Only two full days.
Porcini's back room is delish.
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Any must dos or restaurant recommendations in Louisville? Headed there this weekend. Only two full days.
Papa John's.
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Eating fettucine at Vincenzos
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Any must dos or restaurant recommendations in Louisville? Headed there this weekend. Only two full days.
My one and visit to Louisville about 5 years ago I took a tour of Churchill Downs. Very cool.
It was closed, but I stopped anyway at the Muhammad Ali Center. It's right on the riverfront and has a viewing platform of the river.
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Any must dos or restaurant recommendations in Louisville? Headed there this weekend. Only two full days.
Momma's Mustard, Pickles & BBQ (https://mommasbbq.com/) -- I love that place. Great KC-style BBQ (the owner is a transplant).
Also, we really enjoyed our tour of the Louisville Slugger factory.
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Also, we really enjoyed our tour of the Louisville Slugger factory.
James Breeding, longtime BE official, was the COO of Louisville Slugger. He is now with Northwestern Mutual.
His officiating in MU games has improved for some reason.
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KFC
The first KFC was actually in Corbin, KY, southeast part of the state.
Doc Crows is really good. For all of the jokes, Porcini's has really good food. The Library Bar in the Omni hotel has a great bourbon selection.
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Thanks to all.
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Friends just did the Buffalo Trace tour and raved about it (even for kids). It fills up tho so make a ressy.
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Anticipating attending the BET next March and locked in a room for under $100 a night—able to cancel. Never seen hotel rooms there so cheap.
Lock something in now and cancel if plans change.
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Have not been there is a while but used to stay at the Brown Hotel. Great little bar with huge bourbon selection. Very historic.
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I've got travel issues right now because a certain Jesuit institution went from telling us that there would be a virtual commencement on "commencement weekend" to telling us that there might be an in-person commencement to telling us yesterday that there will, in fact, be an in-person commencement. That's fantastic! Just one thing -- the in-person commencement will be on Monday, May 24 -- the day after "commencement weekend." Unfortunately, we had planned our family vacation beginning with flights in the early morning on May 24. We're scrambling. A lot.
While I am genuinely thrilled that my daughter will have an in-person commencement, I find it remarkable that they would schedule it for the Monday after "commencement weekend" without so much as a single word acknowledging that this likely significantly affects the travel plans of many attending (if not most).
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Have not been there is a while but used to stay at the Brown Hotel. Great little bar with huge bourbon selection. Very historic.
I said Omni previously but PBR is right, the Brown has the Library, a great bourbon bar and a speakeasy with a bowling alley.
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So today, Glow and I were hiking down from the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, and a fortyish woman going the other direction saw my hoodie and said, "Go, Marquette!" When we asked her what her connection was, she said, "Al McGuire was my grandpa".
Turns out that she is the daughter of Al's middle child. She doesn't live in the area anymore and doesn't get back much. But she was there for the Al's dedication and was very happy to hear how much he is still revered.
She was born after Al retired from coaching, so she remembers him mostly as a TV commentator, career-wise. She said he would do special signals on-air to say "hello" to her.
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So today, Glow and I were hiking down from the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, and a fortyish woman going the other direction saw my hoodie and said, "Go, Marquette!" When we asked her what her connection was, she said, "Al McGuire was my grandpa".
Turns out that she is the daughter of Al's middle child. She doesn't live in the area anymore and doesn't get back much. But she was there for the Al's dedication and was very happy to hear how much he is still revered.
She was born after Al retired from coaching, so she remembers him mostly as a TV commentator, career-wise. She said he would do special signals on-air to say "hello" to her.
That's a real cool story, chick ... and even better if "hiking down from the Delicate Arch" is you and glow's version of Mark Sanford's "hiking the Appalachian Trail."
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That's a real cool story, chick ... and even better if "hiking down from the Delicate Arch" is you and glow's version of Mark Sanford's "hiking the Appalachian Trail."
Ha, no.
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So today, Glow and I were hiking down from the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, and a fortyish woman going the other direction saw my hoodie and said, "Go, Marquette!" When we asked her what her connection was, she said, "Al McGuire was my grandpa".
Turns out that she is the daughter of Al's middle child. She doesn't live in the area anymore and doesn't get back much. But she was there for the Al's dedication and was very happy to hear how much he is still revered.
She was born after Al retired from coaching, so she remembers him mostly as a TV commentator, career-wise. She said he would do special signals on-air to say "hello" to her.
Hope you took a selfie with her.
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Anybody have a good recommendation for a day trip from Chicago? a cute suburb that's unique (local business outnumbering chains) or a small town that's close enough I could still get back home at the end of the day?
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Anybody have a good recommendation for a day trip from Chicago? a cute suburb that's unique (local business outnumbering chains) or a small town that's close enough I could still get back home at the end of the day?
Saugatuck is only like 2 hours from Chicago. We escaped up to there during last summer and rented a house for a bit. Lots of local restaurants. Really recommend The Southerner. Not sure how unique it all is, but it is quaint and charming. Holland, MI is another decent bet for walking around and hitting a few local spots (and only a few miles north of Saugatuck).
Not sure if that's what you're looking for in terms of distance.
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Anybody have a good recommendation for a day trip from Chicago? a cute suburb that's unique (local business outnumbering chains) or a small town that's close enough I could still get back home at the end of the day?
A couple of ideas:
1) Lake Geneva -- The ultimate Chicago local road trip. Lots of interesting stores, quaint and a nice lake to boot. Lots of tourists on a summer weekend.
2) Galena -- Have to get up early and be back late, but this is the outer limits of a day trip. Ultra quaint downtown and decent restaurants. If you want more, a much improving Dubuque is 12 miles away.
3) Milwaukee -- Beside stopping at MU, there's kayaking on the Milwaukee River, the beach is less crowded and the shops can be fun.
4) Indiana Dunes -- Nice beaches. No quaint towns (unless Gary qualifies).
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Saugatuck is only like 2 hours from Chicago. We escaped up to there during last summer and rented a house for a bit. Lots of local restaurants. Really recommend The Southerner. Not sure how unique it all is, but it is quaint and charming. Holland, MI is another decent bet for walking around and hitting a few local spots (and only a few miles north of Saugatuck).
Not sure if that's what you're looking for in terms of distance.
That's pushing it for just a day trip but something I'd certainly consider for the future!
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A couple of ideas:
1) Lake Geneva -- The ultimate Chicago local road trip. Lots of interesting stores, quaint and a nice lake to boot. Lots of tourists on a summer weekend.
2) Galena -- Have to get up early and be back late, but this is the outer limits of a day trip. Ultra quaint downtown and decent restaurants. If you want more, a much improving Dubuque is 12 miles away.
3) Milwaukee -- Beside stopping at MU, there's kayaking on the Milwaukee River, the beach is less crowded and the shops can be fun.
4) Indiana Dunes -- Nice beaches. No quaint towns (unless Gary qualifies).
1) My uncle had a house on Lilly lake, 10min from Lake Geneva. So many a memory in lake Geneva but I haven't been back since I could check out a bar or two!
2) same with Galena, we used to stay at that Irish pub/hotel and go skiing but haven't been since I could check out a brewery or really appreciate the local food.
3) My fiancé moved back to MKE b/c schools are in person so that ones happening either way!
4) I have actually never done the dunes, never even occurred to me.
Thanks!!! These are definitely within the "day trip" radius I was looking for.
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Anybody have a good recommendation for a day trip from Chicago? a cute suburb that's unique (local business outnumbering chains) or a small town that's close enough I could still get back home at the end of the day?
Fennville / Saugatuck, MI.
Virtue Cider. Wineries. A few breweries. Great restaurants. 2 hours each way from Chicago.
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Saugatuck is only like 2 hours from Chicago. We escaped up to there during last summer and rented a house for a bit. Lots of local restaurants. Really recommend The Southerner. Not sure how unique it all is, but it is quaint and charming. Holland, MI is another decent bet for walking around and hitting a few local spots (and only a few miles north of Saugatuck).
Not sure if that's what you're looking for in terms of distance.
Southerner is fantastic!
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Southerner is fantastic!
It really is. I ate there way too much because the house we were at was walking distance from it.
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Anybody have a good recommendation for a day trip from Chicago? a cute suburb that's unique (local business outnumbering chains) or a small town that's close enough I could still get back home at the end of the day?
Is Long Grove still a cute little town or is that all overgrown now?
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Geneva (not Lake Geneva) has a great restaurant scene. It's on the Fox River so there is some nice outdoor opportunities. It has a great flea market the first weekend of every month if you are into that sort of thing.
It's straight out route 38 from Chicago.
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Hope you took a selfie with her.
Why would I do that?
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1) My uncle had a house on Lilly lake, 10min from Lake Geneva. So many a memory in lake Geneva but I haven't been back since I could check out a bar or two!
2) same with Galena, we used to stay at that Irish pub/hotel and go skiing but haven't been since I could check out a brewery or really appreciate the local food.
3) My fiancé moved back to MKE b/c schools are in person so that ones happening either way!
4) I have actually never done the dunes, never even occurred to me.
Thanks!!! These are definitely within the "day trip" radius I was looking for.
Don't forget to go to Leon's during your Milwaukee trip. Far superior to Kopps or Gilles. The butter pecan is indescribably delicious. Don't get the chocolate, for whatever reason it's a little bitter. All other flavors excel though.
Lots of nice forest preserves to hike through if you're into that. I remember going to the one in (or near) Hinsdale a couple of times - very relaxing, shaded, can hike as long or short as you want.
The Graue Mill near Oak Brook is cool. A real working mill, where they grind cornmeal, etc. Feels like you're in yesteryear, and it's impossible to not take a bag of something home with you.
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Geneva (not Lake Geneva) has a great restaurant scene. It's on the Fox River so there is some nice outdoor opportunities. It has a great flea market the first weekend of every month if you are into that sort of thing.
It's straight out route 38 from Chicago.
Score. Plus St. Charles and Batavia are walkable along the River path. Can take the Metra if in the city.
Long Grove? No. Cedarburg? Yes.
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So today, Glow and I were hiking down from the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, and a fortyish woman going the other direction saw my hoodie and said, "Go, Marquette!" When we asked her what her connection was, she said, "Al McGuire was my grandpa".
Cool story.
My (former) boss .. one day he tells me, oh, yeah, Al McGuire is my godfather. -- Crazy that he was a Badger.
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Is Long Grove still a cute little town or is that all overgrown now?
It should be a tollway by now.
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Geneva (not Lake Geneva) has a great restaurant scene. It's on the Fox River so there is some nice outdoor opportunities. It has a great flea market the first weekend of every month if you are into that sort of thing.
It's straight out route 38 from Chicago.
I'd heard that about Geneva before, will definitely have to give it a shot now that's it's been verified!
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I'd heard that about Geneva before, will definitely have to give it a shot now that's it's been verified!
I used to live reasonably close to it, so PM me if you would like some specific recommendations.
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Anyone arrived in the USA on an international flight recently? Care to share the experience? Were there extra COVID-related hassles upon arrival?
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Anyone arrived in the USA on an international flight recently? Care to share the experience? Were there extra COVID-related hassles upon arrival?
Fiance returned from India in March. Had to submit a negative test within 48 hours of her flight before boarding. No other hassles.
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Anyone arrived in the USA on an international flight recently? Care to share the experience? Were there extra COVID-related hassles upon arrival?
Wife and I went to Costa Rica a couple weeks ago. We stopped by a local clinic to get a rapid test the day before our flight and got results via email in an hour. Airline employee checked documentation at check-in and that was the extent of it.
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I just downed some Sopapillas at Tomasita's in Santa Fe. There are just big square puffy pillows of bliss with a little honey and butter. Whoever invented these things should get some version of the medal of honor. :)
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I just downed some Sopapillas at Tomasita's in Santa Fe. There are just big square puffy pillows of bliss with a little honey and butter. Whoever invented these things should get some version of the medal of honor. :)
Didn't they have those at Chi-Chi's?
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It should be a tollway by now.
Think again, Kimosabe.
After about 40 years of debate, discussion and all around nonsense, the Toll Highway Authority gave up on the North Central Tollway. It's off the maps.
In Illinois, that doesn't mean its dead. But the chance it will happen in our lifetime is zero.
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Didn't they have those at Chi-Chi's?
I dunno what they had at chi-chi but Sopapillas and Navajo Fry Bread are both outstanding.
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I just downed some Sopapillas at Tomasita's in Santa Fe. There are just big square puffy pillows of bliss with a little honey and butter. Whoever invented these things should get some version of the medal of honor. :)
Sopapillas are a staple of New Mexican style/variation of Mexican food. Growing up in SW Colorado, that is the variation of Mexican food that I grew up with and still reminds me of home. Green chile and green chile sauce are another main feature of that style food. I'll be in Phoenix in a week...can't wait to have some green chile and sopapillas.
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What about fried ice cream?
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What about fried ice cream?
My favorite authentic Mexican food is nachos.
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Sopapillas are a staple of New Mexican style/variation of Mexican food. Growing up in SW Colorado, that is the variation of Mexican food that I grew up with and still reminds me of home. Green chile and green chile sauce are another main feature of that style food. I'll be in Phoenix in a week...can't wait to have some green chile and sopapillas.
I like the Green Chile sauce as well. The Red is good too but the Green puts me in a better mood. I think I'll start my morning off with some Huevos Rancheros before heading up to the Bandelier monument.
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Think again, Kimosabe.
After about 40 years of debate, discussion and all around nonsense, the Toll Highway Authority gave up on the North Central Tollway. It's off the maps.
In Illinois, that doesn't mean its dead. But the chance it will happen in our lifetime is zero.
Well aware on a personal level, thank you.
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New Zealand thoughts? What's your itinerary if you had a week? Ty.
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New Zealand thoughts? What's your itinerary if you h ad a week? Ty.
Double it.
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New Zealand thoughts? What's your itinerary if you had a week? Ty.
Just a week?!?! I spent 3+ on the south island, can't give any advice on the north (other than flying through). Highlights were Franz Josef/Fox Glacier, Queenstown, Fjordland (Te Anau), Dunedin, Akaroa. It's hard to go wrong there.
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Ty Ziggy and Rocky. Ya... I'm hearing a week is nowhere near enough time. I thought maybe I could hop over there from Canberra later this year but I guess I wasn't thinking too clearly. Maybe I'll look into Tasmania if I go to the conference.
I would imagine the best time to be in NZ is Dec-March.?
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Double it.
This.
Also, do adventure stuff, they are experts at it.
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I would imagine the best time to be in NZ is Dec-March.?
Depends on how you define "best". That's probably the best weather, but you'll have to fight the crowds to see things. We went in late September/early October (their spring). And while we had a few rainy cold days, it felt we had the island to ourselves, but most tourist things were open (but most of it is just nature). Plus, fjordland during the rain is amazing with the spontaneous waterfalls.
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Depends on how you define "best". That's probably the best weather, but you'll have to fight the crowds to see things. We went in late September/early October (their spring). And while we had a few rainy cold days, it felt we had the island to ourselves, but most tourist things were open (but most of it is just nature). Plus, fjordland during the rain is amazing with the spontaneous waterfalls.
Good point Rocky. I would like the entire country to myself if possible. :)
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New Zealand thoughts? What's your itinerary if you had a week? Ty.
Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit stuff. They were all filmed there and the tie-in to Marquette.
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New Zealand thoughts? What's your itinerary if you had a week? Ty.
Went in August several years ago. South Island. Stayed in Queenstown and skiied all the local resorts. It was great. Did some touristy stuff on the lake as well. Lots of good vineyards not too far to drive as well.
It's like USA in 70's... nothing open on Sunday, most shops close at 5... many towns have one night per week of "late" shopping until 6 or 7 so if you plan to rent a house or apartment or even just drive around you do need to plan your provision stops. I'd definitely go back.
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One of our favorite beaches -- Hapuna, on The Big Island -- is named No. 1 by "Dr. Beach."
https://apnews.com/article/hawaii-science-travel-health-coronavirus-pandemic-80008cba38897a7706029251a8d26d9b?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=May26_Morning_Wire&utm_term=Morning%20Wire%20Subscribers
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One of our favorite beaches -- Hapuna, on The Big Island -- is named No. 1 by "Dr. Beach."
https://apnews.com/article/hawaii-science-travel-health-coronavirus-pandemic-80008cba38897a7706029251a8d26d9b?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=May26_Morning_Wire&utm_term=Morning%20Wire%20Subscribers
I love Hapuna. I probably mentioned I have a good friend who lives 10 mins north of there in Kawaihae. When you go back be sure to stop at the Hale Da Fish shack which is about 8 mins from Hapuna towards Kawaihae and Hawi. Phenomenal poke and a great assortment of fresh fish and seafood. You can see them bring in the fish if you go early. It's a little bitty place but well worth your time.
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I love Hapuna. I probably mentioned I have a good friend who lives 10 mins north of there in Kawaihae. When you go back be sure to stop at the Hale Da Fish shack which is about 8 mins from Hapuna towards Kawaihae and Hawi. Phenomenal poke and a great assortment of fresh fish and seafood. You can see them bring in the fish if you go early. It's a little bitty place but well worth your time.
Good stuff, Muggs.
We go to Hawaii every 3-4 years and kind of rotate our islands. Most recently went to TBI (in 2017), so probably won't get back there for awhile. Our next trip figures to be Maui in 2023, when our Warrior/Eagles play in the tourney there. Plus, we like Kauai best, so we try to spend a few days there on every trip.
We went to TBI the very first time we went to Hawaii, in 1993, to celebrate my parents' 50th anniversary. Hapuna was sensational but, as the writer of that article notes, more than a little dangerous. Our first day there was apparently perfect conditions. We boogie-boarded for hours and had a blast. We had such a good time that we went back the next day, and it was quite treacherous. The waves would sweep us up on our boogie-boards, and then send us crashing down. I landed on my shoulders and back repeatedly, and we later were told that it's quite common for boogie-boarders to suffer concussions there. We went back one more time and were more careful not to ride the waves too high, but my brother and I weren't paying attention to exactly where we were and all of a sudden we looked up and we were way out away from shore. We are both strong swimmers, but we were like, "Uh-oh, this isn't good." Thankfully, a guy came by on a surfboard and asked if we wanted to be towed in. We weren't too proud - we accepted his help.
Back then, Hapuna was totally undeveloped. Now there are resorts around it. Still beautiful, though.
Damn, I love effen Hawaii!
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Recommendations for Minneapolis?
Been more than a couple times but figure I'd see if there's anything people could suggest to peak my interest :)
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Good stuff, Muggs.
We go to Hawaii every 3-4 years and kind of rotate our islands. Most recently went to TBI (in 2017), so probably won't get back there for awhile. Our next trip figures to be Maui in 2023, when our Warrior/Eagles play in the tourney there. Plus, we like Kauai best, so we try to spend a few days there on every trip.
We went to TBI the very first time we went to Hawaii, in 1993, to celebrate my parents' 50th anniversary. Hapuna was sensational but, as the writer of that article notes, more than a little dangerous. Our first day there was apparently perfect conditions. We boogie-boarded for hours and had a blast. We had such a good time that we went back the next day, and it was quite treacherous. The waves would sweep us up on our boogie-boards, and then send us crashing down. I landed on my shoulders and back repeatedly, and we later were told that it's quite common for boogie-boarders to suffer concussions there. We went back one more time and were more careful not to ride the waves too high, but my brother and I weren't paying attention to exactly where we were and all of a sudden we looked up and we were way out away from shore. We are both strong swimmers, but we were like, "Uh-oh, this isn't good." Thankfully, a guy came by on a surfboard and asked if we wanted to be towed in. We weren't too proud - we accepted his help.
Back then, Hapuna was totally undeveloped. Now there are resorts around it. Still beautiful, though.
Damn, I love effen Hawaii!
I'm very fortunate to have spent a lot of time in Hawaii and all of the islands because my friend is there. If you need any recommendations let me know. I'm partial to the Big Island but Kauai is without question the most attractive and easiest to cover. Personally, I like to stay in Kekaha just West of Poipu. The North Shore is absolutely gorgeous but it can pour up there. Kekaha is probably the least touristy spot, has the best weather on the island, and has a superb beach along with Polahalie which is further West towards Waimea Canyon. Kekaha Beach, if you're looking for boogie boarding, surfing, or swimming is better than Poipu. It's never crowded and a lot larger than people realize. The sunsets there are spectacular. Because the Island is so small you can still get all the way to the North from there in 1.5 hrs. Again, Kekaha is the place with the best grocery store on the island in Waimea 5 mins away.
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Recommendations for Minneapolis?
Been more than a couple times but figure I'd see if there's anything people could suggest to peak my interest :)
Hit up beejay's crib.
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I'm very fortunate to have spent a lot of time in Hawaii and all of the islands because my friend is there. If you need any recommendations let me know. I'm partial to the Big Island but Kauai is without question the most attractive and easiest to cover. Personally, I like to stay in Kekaha just West of Poipu. The North Shore is absolutely gorgeous but it can pour up there. Kekaha is probably the least touristy spot, has the best weather on the island, and has a superb beach along with Polahalie which is further West towards Waimea Canyon. Kekaha Beach, if you're looking for boogie boarding, surfing, or swimming is better than Poipu. It's never crowded and a lot larger than people realize. The sunsets there are spectacular. Because the Island is so small you can still get all the way to the North from there in 1.5 hrs. Again, Kekaha is the place with the best grocery store on the island in Waimea 5 mins away.
I was fortunate enough to live in Hawaii for three years back in the 90s. Big island is by far my favorite. Much laxer rules back then. We walked on ground that didn’t exist just days before. Somewhere I have a picture standing on ground where you could still see red hot glowing earth through a crack in the rock.
Kauai is gorgeous beyond words. Napali coast is quite rainy. Don’t go hiking if it’s raining. Same is true for many parts of the islands.
One time we went over to Kauai for the day just to hike the Napali coast, raining on the flight over, sprinkling as we headed that way. Saw an amazing waterfalls the way in the distance , wondered if we’d see it up close. Debated about the go no go decision to hike as we drove to the trail head. As we turned the corner of the only road to the trailhead, we saw the decision was made for us, as the outflow of the earlier waterfall was pouring across the road making it impassable. Sucked for us, but not nearly as much as it did for the people trapped on the other side as there was no other way out. Wonder how long they ended up stuck there.
We did an amazing hike in the center of the island, drinks and food on a beach front bar, then home to Oahu.
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I was fortunate enough to live in Hawaii for three years back in the 90s. Big island is by far my favorite. Much laxer rules back then. We walked on ground that didn’t exist just days before. Somewhere I have a picture standing on ground where you could still see red hot glowing earth through a crack in the rock.
Kauai is gorgeous beyond words. Napali coast is quite rainy. Don’t go hiking if it’s raining. Same is true for many parts of the islands.
One time we went over to Kauai for the day just to hike the Napali coast, raining on the flight over, sprinkling as we headed that way. Saw an amazing waterfalls the way in the distance , wondered if we’d see it up close. Debated about the go no go decision to hike as we drove to the trail head. As we turned the corner of the only road to the trailhead, we saw the decision was made for us, as the outflow of the earlier waterfall was pouring across the road making it impassable. Sucked for us, but not nearly as much as it did for the people trapped on the other side as there was no other way out. Wonder how long they ended up stuck there.
We did an amazing hike in the center of the island, drinks and food on a beach front bar, then home to Oahu.
I'm totally with you and that's awesome that you got to live there for three years. Your description is exactly right. To witness the earth changing in front of you ,and walk on beaches, that didn't exist a day before is indescribably amazing. Truthfully, despite my bias, I just think the Big Island has by far the most to see and do. And for vastly different interest levels. There are really beautiful spots but they're generally not in touristy areas at all. That's probably what Iike the most: outside of Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa, and the Volcanoes Park, the Big Island actually isn't touristy at all. Personally I like Maui the least despite the beauty of the island.
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Big Island is my favorite.
I agree with you on Maui. My least favorite. That being said, it’s like which is your least favorite car between a Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari and Bentley. All are amazing.
If you have one shot at Hawaii and just want to experience “Hawaii” Maui is a good choice, it’s like a sample platter. Volcano, check, beautiful beaches, check, amazing golf, check, waterfalls, check.
Everyone that says Oahu is too crowded, touristy, hasn’t gone off the beaten track or gone to locals places. Hike through bamboo forests, have Haunama bay all to yourself by going at the end of the day, plate lunches, real shave ice in Kailua, gorgeous local beaches in Waimanalo, the original Roy’s restaurant in Hawaii Kai far from tourists, malasada donuts at Leonard’s.
And yes, I did spend way too much money for a couple trips down the mountain, but I can say I’ve snow skied Hawaii. ;D
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Big Island is my favorite.
I agree with you on Maui. My least favorite. That being said, it’s like which is your least favorite car between a Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari and Bentley. All are amazing.
If you have one shot at Hawaii and just want to experience “Hawaii” Maui is a good choice, it’s like a sample platter. Volcano, check, beautiful beaches, check, amazing golf, check, waterfalls, check.
Everyone that says Oahu is too crowded, touristy, hasn’t gone off the beaten track or gone to locals places. Hike through bamboo forests, have Haunama bay all to yourself by going at the end of the day, plate lunches, real shave ice in Kailua, gorgeous local beaches in Waimanalo, the original Roy’s restaurant in Hawaii Kai far from tourists, malasada donuts at Leonard’s.
And yes, I did spend way too much money for a couple trips down the mountain, but I can say I’ve snow skied Hawaii. ;D
No doubt. Your sports car analogy is spot-on. Molokai is absolutely gorgeous as well. Highest sea cliffs in the world I believe. I just think the Big I is by far the most interesting. I even like Hilo despite the rain. But most of all the humpback whales are beyond words. If I could just get off the ground like they can from the water. :)
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I appreciate the conversation, Muggs and pbi. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
One of the many things I love about the islands is that you can be touristy if you want to, or you can get away from it all if you want to ... and either choice is beautiful.
Thanks Muggs for the info on Kekaha. We’ll definitely check it out next time on Kauai.
My favorite spot is Queen’s Bath - I told my family that’s where I want my ashes spread after I’m gone.
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I hadn’t read this thread in a while, just booked a two week trip with the family back to the islands for February.
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I appreciate the conversation, Muggs and pbi. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
One of the many things I love about the islands is that you can be touristy if you want to, or you can get away from it all if you want to ... and either choice is beautiful.
Thanks Muggs for the info on Kekaha. We’ll definitely check it out next time on Kauai.
My favorite spot is Queen’s Bath - I told my family that’s where I want my ashes spread after I’m gone.
Queen's Bath is a phenomenal spot. Love that place. Part of my fondness for Kekaha may be personal preference but it's absolutely the best weather location on the Island. It's certainly isolated but yet you have everything you need there and it's so peaceful. All I can tell you is I would wake up, cross the street, and paddleboard off a pristine beach every day. The six of us rented a 4 bedroom house, across from this beach, about 4000 square feet, 2017, for $450 a night. The Hyatt in Poipu was like $850 a night.
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I hadn’t read this thread in a while, just booked a two week trip with the family back to the islands for February.
Which parts of which islands, Dish?
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Queen's Bath is a phenomenal spot. Love that place. Part of my fondness for Kekaha may be personal preference but it's absolutely the best weather location on the Island. It's certainly isolated but yet you have everything you need there and it's so peaceful. All I can tell you is I would wake up, cross the street, and paddleboard off a pristine beach every day. The six of us rented a 4 bedroom house, across from this beach, about 4000 square feet, 2017, for $450 a night. The Hyatt in Poipu was like $850 a night.
Someday, I'll tell you about my near demise at Queen's Bath.
We've stayed at the Marriott timeshare on Poipu a couple times (Waiohai Beach Club). Also have stayed up in Princeville and near Kalapaki Beach. In addition to Queen's Bath, we really love Waimea Canyon State Park. Once upon a time, we wanted to do the hike to Napali, but I think that kind of rugged hike is out of our wheelhouse now.
Can't wait to get back in 2023 ... though this conversation is making me think we need to do an interim trip before then!
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Someday, I'll tell you about my near demise at Queen's Bath.
We've stayed at the Marriott timeshare on Poipu a couple times (Waiohai Beach Club). Also have stayed up in Princeville and near Kalapaki Beach. In addition to Queen's Bath, we really love Waimea Canyon State Park. Once upon a time, we wanted to do the hike to Napali, but I think that kind of rugged hike is out of our wheelhouse now.
Can't wait to get back in 2023 ... though this conversation is making me think we need to do an interim trip before then!
The Napali Coast hike has it's challenges. It's best to be safe if you have some trepidation. The 4 mile isn't all that difficult so I'm sure you can manage. It would be a breeze if you were an Ibex. :)
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Which parts of which islands, Dish?
I have a soft spot for Wailea, as do my parents and siblings. 14 of us headed there for a week. My wife/kids have always wanted to go to Disney’s Aulani, so we’re spending a week there as well.
PS - I’ll be broke for a while.
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I have a soft spot for Wailea, as do my parents and siblings. 14 of us headed there for a week. My wife/kids have always wanted to go to Disney’s Aulani, so we’re spending a week there as well.
PS - I’ll be broke for a while.
Eh ... it's only money. As I get (only a little) older, I am realizing that experiences matter a whole lot more than "stuff," and experiences with our families matter most of all.
What's not to love about Wailea? Great beaches and all the pampering one can afford!
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I have a soft spot for Wailea, as do my parents and siblings. 14 of us headed there for a week. My wife/kids have always wanted to go to Disney’s Aulani, so we’re spending a week there as well.
PS - I’ll be broke for a while.
Have a buddy whose at Aulani right now. He’s absolutely loving life.
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Eh ... it's only money. As I get (only a little) older, I am realizing that experiences matter a whole lot more than "stuff," and experiences with our families matter most of all.
What's not to love about Wailea? Great beaches and all the pampering one can afford!
Oh totally agree with you. I should have added some context. I’ve got 3 kids, and when we went to Wailea in 2019, we got a decent sized suite and made it work with 5 of us. My twins will be almost 12 on next year’s trip and add a 7 year old, and from a comfort level, we’ve reached the point of needing two rooms now on trips.
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Oh totally agree with you. I should have added some context. I’ve got 3 kids, and when we went to Wailea in 2019, we got a decent sized suite and made it work with 5 of us. My twins will be almost 12 on next year’s trip and add a 7 year old, and from a comfort level, we’ve reached the point of needing two rooms now on trips.
Sounds like fun. Expensive fun, but fun nonetheless!
My son is father to twin boys who will turn 2 in August, and man that's a lot of work!! So my hat is off to you!
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Eh ... it's only money. As I get (only a little) older, I am realizing that experiences matter a whole lot more than "stuff," and experiences with our families matter most of all.
That was one of the most illuminating tidbits of advice my Dad ever gave me in my young adulthood. Obviously its not based in "accumulate debt/be reckless", but when it comes to money you have, when looking at trips or memories on those trips. Spend the extra $100 for the room upgrade, spend $$ on an excursion you're not sure about, splurge for that dinner at the restaurant all the locals rave about...you'll remember it far more than anything you'll gain from taking that extra cash home with you.
I remember a trip to Disney as a kid. We had never stayed near the parks, for good reason, cause it was absurdly expensive and we stayed an entire long weekend for the cost of a night at one hotel. But for one of my younger sister's first trip, my Dad booked us at the Contemporary (with the monorail running through it) and I thought my head was gonna explode as we pulled up. Its a vivid memory 25 years later.
Later we went on a trip to Amalfi as a family. Were gonna take a ferry to Capri for the day. My sisters convinced my Dad to charter a boat with a captain for the day to cruise us all around, including stopping on Capri. I could see my Dad wince as he handed the credit card to run it, but it was an incredible day, incredible memories, and I know he never regretted it for a minute.
Memories & Experiences>>>>
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Oh totally agree with you. I should have added some context. I’ve got 3 kids, and when we went to Wailea in 2019, we got a decent sized suite and made it work with 5 of us. My twins will be almost 12 on next year’s trip and add a 7 year old, and from a comfort level, we’ve reached the point of needing two rooms now on trips.
When my kids were young and I had a ton of hotel points, our VP said enjoy it, soon you will have to get multiple rooms or do air b&b. At the time, vrbo and air b&b were somewhat new. I dismissed it.
Now, we hardly ever do hotels, but mostly air b&b, vrbos, etc. Much more comfortable. Hotels are always two rooms now and my points total have dwindled considerably. >:(
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Confirmed my wife's and mine's trip to Italy. Going in October for 12 days. Positives are that neither of us expects much in the way of crowds for most of the trip (Rome probably will be an exception). Negatives are that we sure hope the Covid-19 hangover is gone and that stores etc., are open.
Probably will spend time in Rome, Tuscany and Venice. Rome is marginal while Tuscany is a big draw for us as is Venice.
Side note -- scheduled myself on a Lufthansa 747-800 in what probably will be my last ever ride in a passenger Boeing 747. Lufthansa is still flying the Queen of the Skies and it will be kinda nice to be in one.
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Confirmed my wife's and mine's trip to Italy. Going in October for 12 days. Positives are that neither of us expects much in the way of crowds for most of the trip (Rome probably will be an exception). Negatives are that we sure hope the Covid-19 hangover is gone and that stores etc., are open.
Probably will spend time in Rome, Tuscany and Venice. Rome is marginal while Tuscany is a big draw for us as is Venice.
Side note -- scheduled myself on a Lufthansa 747-800 in what probably will be my last ever ride in a passenger Boeing 747. Lufthansa is still flying the Queen of the Skies and it will be kinda nice to be in one.
If you've never been to Tuscany, you'll love it. Its my favorite place in Italy Ive been by far. And Venice with limited to sparse tourism sounds DIVINE. If only cutting out the cruise traffic, it could become a radically different trip.
As for the 747, enjoy! Its crazy the shift. Flying roughly 75 international legs in the last 5 years pre-Covid, I think I was on a single 747 flight, maybe 2. And both were accidental, a Lufthansa rebook and a trip through Tokyo due to delays messing up a direct to HK. One of my goals leading into 2020 was trying to find a way into an upper deck business class seat on a 747 given their rapid retirement. My Dad's trips, usually to Narita, in that class are highlights in his extensive world travel. Now I'm realizing Im probably gonna be SOL. Ive actually never flown an A380 either come to think of it. Neither my ANA or Lufthansa flights have been on one and an Etihad flight had an equipment change due to low volume when I flew Shanghai to Abu Dhabi a few years back.
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That was one of the most illuminating tidbits of advice my Dad ever gave me in my young adulthood. Obviously its not based in "accumulate debt/be reckless", but when it comes to money you have, when looking at trips or memories on those trips. Spend the extra $100 for the room upgrade, spend $$ on an excursion you're not sure about, splurge for that dinner at the restaurant all the locals rave about...you'll remember it far more than anything you'll gain from taking that extra cash home with you.
I remember a trip to Disney as a kid. We had never stayed near the parks, for good reason, cause it was absurdly expensive and we stayed an entire long weekend for the cost of a night at one hotel. But for one of my younger sister's first trip, my Dad booked us at the Contemporary (with the monorail running through it) and I thought my head was gonna explode as we pulled up. Its a vivid memory 25 years later.
Later we went on a trip to Amalfi as a family. Were gonna take a ferry to Capri for the day. My sisters convinced my Dad to charter a boat with a captain for the day to cruise us all around, including stopping on Capri. I could see my Dad wince as he handed the credit card to run it, but it was an incredible day, incredible memories, and I know he never regretted it for a minute.
Memories & Experiences>>>>
Agree with every word. Glad you and your family had those great experiences.
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Eh ... it's only money.
Yeah, but too many people take that farther than they probably should.
I read somewhere that the typical family spends more on vacations in a given year than they put into the kids' college funds.
No Bueno.
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About 15 years ago, flew from SFO to Singapore (Singapore Air) on the top deck of a 747. Best flight experience I’ve ever had, not even close.
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About 15 years ago, flew from SFO to Singapore (Singapore Air) on the top deck of a 747. Best flight experience I’ve ever had, not even close.
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Singapore Airlines is the absolute best. Did you get their pajamas? I have yet to be lucky enough to get a first cabin which is basically a bedroom. :)
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Yeah, but too many people take that farther than they probably should.
I read somewhere that the typical family spends more on vacations in a given year than they put into the kids' college funds.
No Bueno.
I didn’t think that applied to Dish, so I had no problem saying what I did.
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I didn’t think that applied to Dish, so I had no problem saying what I did.
I am not saying it did apply to Dish.
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If you've never been to Tuscany, you'll love it. Its my favorite place in Italy Ive been by far. And Venice with limited to sparse tourism sounds DIVINE. If only cutting out the cruise traffic, it could become a radically different trip.
As for the 747, enjoy! Its crazy the shift. Flying roughly 75 international legs in the last 5 years pre-Covid, I think I was on a single 747 flight, maybe 2. And both were accidental, a Lufthansa rebook and a trip through Tokyo due to delays messing up a direct to HK. One of my goals leading into 2020 was trying to find a way into an upper deck business class seat on a 747 given their rapid retirement. My Dad's trips, usually to Narita, in that class are highlights in his extensive world travel. Now I'm realizing Im probably gonna be SOL. Ive actually never flown an A380 either come to think of it. Neither my ANA or Lufthansa flights have been on one and an Etihad flight had an equipment change due to low volume when I flew Shanghai to Abu Dhabi a few years back.
Smiling... am looking forward to it.
By the way, our seat assignments are in business class on the upper deck of the 747-8. Assuming, of course, no equipment change.
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One of our favorite 747 stories ever happened about 27 years ago in Hawaii. We were out there for two weeks on vacation at the same time as a high school cheerleader convocation. The cheerleaders were in downtown Honolulu and made big news when they turned on their hairdryers, curlers and curling irons kinda simultaneously and blew out power to a six block section of downtown.
Anyway, these cheerleaders had to get home. We were on a 747-200 of United Airlines and waiting in the Red Carpet Club (aka, United Club) when 250 cheerleaders showed up, noisily, at the gate. They all checked in for the trip back to Chicago on United 2 when a stream of frequent flyers, many of whom were 1Ks, raced for the podium and asked for upgrades. As one of the cheerleaders yelled out, "Slumber Party," the gate agent said "I'm sorry, we are sold out... over and over again."
As I watched this scene unfold, I looked at Ms. Dgies and simply said, "you know, we would make an awful lot of money tonight!" Ms. Dgies had the "if looks could kill" look on her face and simply said, "NO... AND I MEAN NO!!!!!!"
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Too funny!
If you haven’t been to Tuscany before, you are in for a treat. Make sure at some point you find a outdoor cafe with a view, have a glass of wine and enjoy the view, watch life go by.
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Yeah, but too many people take that farther than they probably should.
I read somewhere that the typical family spends more on vacations in a given year than they put into the kids' college funds.
No Bueno.
My European colleagues would think the above statement is insane. They think travel and experience is an education all on its own. But then again, their college costs are a trifle. Sadly, not at all the case in the US.
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My European colleagues would think the above statement is insane. They think travel and experience is an education all on its own. But then again, their college costs are a trifle. Sadly, not at all the case in the US.
Vacation and travel aren't necessarily the same thing. I would hardly call a week at Disney World or laying on the beach in the Florida Panhandle educational.
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Vacation and travel aren't necessarily the same thing. I would hardly call a week at Disney World or laying on the beach in the Florida Panhandle educational.
Good point. I do think though that many would argue a college education today, especially when you consider the costs, isn't worth the investment.
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Vacation and travel aren't necessarily the same thing. I would hardly call a week at Disney World or laying on the beach in the Florida Panhandle educational.
That I wholeheartedly agree with!
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I didn’t think anything of the cost statement I made. For our family, we try to take as many trips as possible, in part to get our kids exposed to the world. In my job I travel often, so it helps with miles/points. I have my kids keep track of how many states they’ve been to (they’re 11 and 7 and have hit 25 states already). But within that, we’ve tried teaching them about geography/history/etc of where they are at.
Just two weeks ago, we were in the Quad Cities for my son’s travel tournament. It was arguably the most fun we’ve had as a family on a trip, ever.
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I didn’t think anything of the cost statement I made. For our family, we try to take as many trips as possible, in part to get our kids exposed to the world. In my job I travel often, so it helps with miles/points. I have my kids keep track of how many states they’ve been to (they’re 11 and 7 and have hit 25 states already). But within that, we’ve tried teaching them about geography/history/etc of where they are at.
Just two weeks ago, we were in the Quad Cities for my son’s travel tournament. It was arguably the most fun we’ve had as a family on a trip, ever.
Great stuff, Dish. I also traveled a lot for work. When I could, I brought the family along; even though I couldn't spend much time with them, my wife and kids got to explore while I worked. Or we'd all go a few days before I had to start working and spend that time together; then they'd go home and I'd stay. It was a valuable part of their learning experience. Plus, as you said, I built up significant FF miles and Marriott points, which were very useful for "real" family vacations to Europe, Cali, Arizona, etc.
I especially love your last paragraph.
We once went on a great driving vacation from Chicago to Toronto to Montreal to Quebec City to Maine to Boston to Easton, Pa. On our last two stops, we stayed a few days each with friends who had kids roughly the same age as ours. On our way back home from Easton, we asked the kids what their favorite parts of the trip were, expecting them to say Montreal or Quebec, but both said that while they loved those spots it was Boston and Easton because they got to have fun sightseeing, playing basketball, going out to eat, etc, with the other kids.
A couple years earlier, we went to Disney World for a few days and then went to the Boca Raton area to stay a week with my parents; again, the kids loved Disney, obviously, but they said they loved being with grandma and grandpa even more.
So it's both experiences and, perhaps even more importantly, the people you get to share them with.
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Just two weeks ago, we were in the Quad Cities for my son’s travel tournament. It was arguably the most fun we’ve had as a family on a trip, ever.
Must have been the family experience. I spent the first four years of my career in the Quad Cities and I can vouch for the fact that I wouldn’t go out of my way to go back. But with a family together, even the Quad Cities looks good.
That said, I’ve had wonderful family experiences with our children in off the beaten path places as well. My daughter, wife and I went to Solon Springs, WI (near Superior) to close up my late parents home before we sold it. For my family, it was a nice way to say goodbye to an important part of our lives.
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I didn’t think anything of the cost statement I made. For our family, we try to take as many trips as possible, in part to get our kids exposed to the world. In my job I travel often, so it helps with miles/points. I have my kids keep track of how many states they’ve been to (they’re 11 and 7 and have hit 25 states already). But within that, we’ve tried teaching them about geography/history/etc of where they are at.
Just two weeks ago, we were in the Quad Cities for my son’s travel tournament. It was arguably the most fun we’ve had as a family on a trip, ever.
This. If you do vacations right, they can be great educational experiences. While my kids have only been to 14 states, they have been to 14 countries. My daughter’s history teacher throws up pictures of places throughout the world and often it’s been places she’s been to. When she was 13 and we were visiting London, she wanted to visit the deli associated with Sherlock Holmes series at the time. I said fine, but you have to figure out how to get us there from our AirBnB on the other side of the city and navigate it. She did with a route that took us through Kings Cross, so that she could check off the Harry Potter thing as well.
The amount of confidence that gave her was amazing. Though now, she is lobbying to visit her friend in London on her own.
The experiences, both large and small, are the things they talk about. They have friends around the world that they met during travels that they talk to regularly.
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Vacation and travel aren't necessarily the same thing. I would hardly call a week at Disney World or laying on the beach in the Florida Panhandle educational.
My European colleagues think only a week anywhere isn’t a real vacation. They are confused why we would spend such a short time in a place. They tend to spend three to four weeks in a place. Sadly not a realistic option for most Americans. I remember the grief I got for a three+ week vacation a few years ago.
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My European colleagues think only a week anywhere isn’t a real vacation. They are confused why we would spend such a short time in a place. They tend to spend three to four weeks in a place. Sadly not a realistic option for most Americans. I remember the grief I got for a three+ week vacation a few years ago.
Funny you say that. Went to a wedding this weekend, was in the actual wedding party, gave two months notice that I wasn’t going to be at work this weekend, and still got flack/had a hard time taking days off because it was a busy weekend at work.
Absolutely silly.
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Vacation and travel aren't necessarily the same thing. I would hardly call a week at Disney World or laying on the beach in the Florida Panhandle educational.
I'd hardly call a week at Disney a vacation either.
Maybe a week of penance to lessen time in purgatory, but not a vacation.
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I'd hardly call a week at Disney a vacation either.
Maybe a week of penance to lessen time in purgatory, but not a vacation.
Brother Coleman, I'd go a step further. A week at Disney amounts to as Get Out of Hell Free card.
I reside in Florida. While I appreciate the impact Disney has on our state, the thought of actually going there is about as appealing as eight hours of back surgery followed by a week flat on my back, all the while undergoing a simultaneous root canal and colonoscopy, neither with anesthesia.
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Disney would be great if not for the people at Disney :D I appreciate different parts of it returning their as an adult, but good lord the crowds are awful. Not just in number, but in many other ways.
Tangentially related, Epcot. Does anyone actually know what all the space above and around the buildings and villages in the various country setups in the World Showcase contain? Is it just storage? Offices? I thought of it looking above the shops and pubs in the UK section, but then also all the space in France and Japan as well. So many of the buildings are multiple stories yet only the first floor is exhibit use
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Disney would be great if not for the people at Disney :D I appreciate different parts of it returning their as an adult, but good lord the crowds are awful. Not just in number, but in many other ways.
Tangentially related, Epcot. Does anyone actually know what all the space above and around the buildings and villages in the various country setups in the World Showcase contain? Is it just storage? Offices? I thought of it looking above the shops and pubs in the UK section, but then also all the space in France and Japan as well. So many of the buildings are multiple stories yet only the first floor is exhibit use
Disney is a lot of fun if you go while school is in session. I think the upper portions of the buildings are for show only. They're designed with perspective in mind to look bigger than they are... but I think they are empty/storage. My guess is they are empty now considering how much storage exists at Disney.
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Disney is a lot of fun if you go while school is in session.
I think that this is the key. Years ago, we took our kids out of school for a week and went to Disney World. It was not crowded and it was a lot of fun. I think another thing that can make it much more enjoyable is to have enough time so you don't feel the need to cram everything into your day. We had a full week so we'd get up and go to a park in the morning; return to the hotel for pool/nap time in the early afternoon; and then spend a couple hours in a park in the evening. It really was a great and memorable trip. Several years later when we happened to be in Orlando for a volleyball tournament we crammed Universal into a single day. Even though certain aspects of it were fun, it was kind of miserable. In an effort to see/try/ride everything we kind of ruined the experience.
Another thing about our Disney vacation...we surprised the kids. We woke them up in the morning and told them we were going...they had no idea.
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Disney would be great if not for the people at Disney :D I appreciate different parts of it returning their as an adult, but good lord the crowds are awful. Not just in number, but in many other ways.
Tangentially related, Epcot. Does anyone actually know what all the space above and around the buildings and villages in the various country setups in the World Showcase contain? Is it just storage? Offices? I thought of it looking above the shops and pubs in the UK section, but then also all the space in France and Japan as well. So many of the buildings are multiple stories yet only the first floor is exhibit use
A lot of those multi story building in Disney are just for show and the top floors are unusable.
Disney uses perspective tricks to make the buildings seem taller than they are. A lot of those upper floors aren’t actually normal height, but the design makes it seem taller than they actually are.
Kinda a Disney Park nerd so send all Disney Park questions this way.
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So just gonna ask again before I head up there.
Any brewery or dive food suggestions for Minneapolis?
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A lot of those multi story building in Disney are just for show and the top floors are unusable.
Disney uses perspective tricks to make the buildings seem taller than they are. A lot of those upper floors aren’t actually normal height, but the design makes it seem taller than they actually are.
Kinda a Disney Park nerd so send all Disney Park questions this way.
Makes sense. I always figured that (besides maybe the second floors in some places). It was always more whimsical thinking it would be cool/amusing for some park operations manager having their above the British pub or on the second floor of one of the Japanese pagodas.
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So just gonna ask again before I head up there.
Any brewery or dive food suggestions for Minneapolis?
Here, I'll be controversial and get some of the MN guys fired up.
Go to Surly, get good beer, have a good time.
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Here, I'll be controversial and get some of the MN guys fired up.
Go to Surly, get good beer, have a good time.
I expect there to be some surly responses to this.
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I say this with perspective that hopefully none of you are ever in this position. When my son was sick, he got a Make A Wish, and he used it on a Disney cruise. After the cruise, we stayed near Disney for a week. We were given passes to Disney/Universal/Sea World by some other charitable organizations. Each day we went to a park, we wore our Make A Wish shirts, and we got immediately to the front of the line of every ride. Not even Fast Pass front of line, like “you’re next” front of the line. Luckily my son is fine, and at the time I told my wife “we’ll never ever get a better Disney experience than this.”
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Here, I'll be controversial and get some of the MN guys fired up.
Go to Surly, get good beer, have a good time.
Might as well swing by New Glarus too.
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Might as well swing by New Glarus too.
Closed till October.
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Might as well swing by New Glarus too.
No food, unfortunately.
Wait, do you not like NG?
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...and we got immediately to the front of the line of every ride. Not even Fast Pass front of line, like “you’re next” front of the line...
When we went to Universal we made the calculated decision to stay in their over-priced hotel because it included fast passes for all of us - a $500 value (and also allowed us into the park an hourly early). It was the first time I ever had a fast pass. Honestly, it probably ruined amusement parks for me for life. I don't think I could ever go without a fast pass, and I'm not sure I'd be willing to pay for one.
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No food, unfortunately.
Wait, do you not like NG?
So overrated.
WI Brewing, Capitol, Karben 4 all much better options. Haven't been to Ale Asylum but like their beers too.
I thought Deb would follow the science and reopen??
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So overrated.
WI Brewing, Capitol, Karben 4 all much better options. Haven't been to Ale Asylum but like their beers too.
I thought Deb would follow the science and reopen??
I really like New Glarus beers. I think Spotted Cow is overrated. Still good, but definitely not their best. The location is really cool, but I agree, if you have easy access to New Glarus beers, it’s a little underwhelming. They really only have on tap the widely available beers.
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So overrated.
WI Brewing, Capitol, Karben 4 all much better options. Haven't been to Ale Asylum but like their beers too.
I thought Deb would follow the science and reopen??
None of those are in the twin cities, I could tell stories about Capitol that would ruin any good impressions you have.
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None of those are in the twin cities, I could tell stories about Capitol that would ruin any good impressions you have.
Not in Mpls? No chit.
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So overrated.
WI Brewing, Capitol, Karben 4 all much better options. Haven't been to Ale Asylum but like their beers too.
I thought Deb would follow the science and reopen??
Hard disagree on all accounts. WI Brewing and Captal make the most boring average beers in the entire area. K4 and AA are running into the opposite problem. They're bored and makings 10000 different types of beer and not deciding if the beer they're brewing is actually good. IMO, if you want a good brewery in Madison check out Delta Beer Labs (off of Rimrock Rd) or Young Blood Brewing (Downtown).
New Glarus is widely considered the best brewery in the state. Now, I will disagree that it is, and I think they're getting a tad lazy. Best brewery (IMO) is Central Waters.
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I really like New Glarus beers. I think Spotted Cow is overrated. Still good, but definitely not their best. The location is really cool, but I agree, if you have easy access to New Glarus beers, it’s a little underwhelming. They really only have on tap the widely available beers.
Hmmmm not my experience at all. A couple of years ago, they had thumbprint stuff and some anniversary stuff on tap outside. Gorgeous day with my extended family that ended with two of the less experienced beer drinkers tossing their malted barley at Sugar River pizza.
If you're in that area again, be sure to hit up Bailey's Run winery up the hill to the West of town.
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Hard disagree on all accounts. WI Brewing and Captal make the most boring average beers in the entire area. K4 and AA are running into the opposite problem. They're bored and makings 10000 different types of beer and not deciding if the beer they're brewing is actually good. IMO, if you want a good brewery in Madison check out Delta Beer Labs (off of Rimrock Rd) or Young Blood Brewing (Downtown).
New Glarus is widely considered the best brewery in the state. Now, I will disagree that it is, and I think they're getting a tad lazy. Best brewery (IMO) is Central Waters.
Agreed on Central Waters. 3 Sheep's fresh coast pale is good too.
Just don't like any New Glarus beers. Different strokes, aina.
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So overrated.
WI Brewing
Not a great example. Corporate, generic recipe following and not interesting. Unless something has changed in the last couple years.
New Glarus is overrated.
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Hmmmm not my experience at all. A couple of years ago, they had thumbprint stuff and some anniversary stuff on tap outside. Gorgeous day with my extended family that ended with two of the less experienced beer drinkers tossing their malted barley at Sugar River pizza.
If you're in that area again, be sure to hit up Bailey's Run winery up the hill to the West of town.
Interesting. Maybe I went at unlucky times. Their facilities were incredibly nice.
We did do Baileys Run and it was a lot of fun. I would echo the recommendation. Having a Golden Doodle ourselves just added to it.
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Cool so the recommendation is stop in Madison on the way back but not WI brewery got it
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Hard disagree on all accounts. WI Brewing and Captal make the most boring average beers in the entire area. K4 and AA are running into the opposite problem. They're bored and makings 10000 different types of beer and not deciding if the beer they're brewing is actually good. IMO, if you want a good brewery in Madison check out Delta Beer Labs (off of Rimrock Rd) or Young Blood Brewing (Downtown).
New Glarus is widely considered the best brewery in the state. Now, I will disagree that it is, and I think they're getting a tad lazy. Best brewery (IMO) is Central Waters.
We agree here. I used to enjoy the bocks Capital made but those declined when Kirby left. AA still makes a couple decent beer, but nothing special. Yet to have anything from K4 that I loved.
Young Blood is fun... they have their hits and misses but I've liked most of what I've had from them.
I appreciate what NG does. Yes, Spotted Cow is overrated. But they brew to style and do it well. And the fruit/thumbprint beers are always worth a buy.
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Hot take here and Sconnies will probably burn me alive for it...
Most Wisconsin breweries are overrated. There are better breweries in the city of Chicago alone than the entire state of Wisconsin. Some of the best....
Dovetail
Half Acre
Metropolitan
Alarmist
Argus
Begyle
Maplewood
Old Irving
Pipeworks
And that's not even counting the big boys like Revolution, Lagunitas and Goose Island which are overrated.
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Hot take here and Sconnies will probably burn me alive for it...
Most Wisconsin breweries are overrated. There are better breweries in the city of Chicago alone than the entire state of Wisconsin. Some of the best....
Dovetail
Half Acre
Metropolitan
Alarmist
Argus
Begyle
Maplewood
Old Irving
Pipeworks
And that's not even counting the big boys like Revolution, Lagunitas and Goose Island which are overrated.
Lagunitas is Petaluma, CA... they just ran out of water!
Also, hard disagree.
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Cool so the recommendation is stop in Madison on the way back but not WI brewery got it
Ale Asylum, Karben 4 and One Barrell are the best in Madison.
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If you are up that way, Some Nerve Brewing in Manitowish Waters has some very tasty beers with great names (Including Cream Abdul Jabar Cream Ale) . The owners are fun people, too.
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On Hards' word earlier I decided to stop with my fiancé at Youngblood
Beer was great! Food was not...
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Hot take here and Sconnies will probably burn me alive for it...
Most Wisconsin breweries are overrated. There are better breweries in the city of Chicago alone than the entire state of Wisconsin. Some of the best....
Dovetail
Half Acre
Metropolitan
Alarmist
Argus
Begyle
Maplewood
Old Irving
Pipeworks
And that's not even counting the big boys like Revolution, Lagunitas and Goose Island which are overrated.
Cant speak for alarmist or Argus, and I think old Irving is overrated but every other one I agree and would add Whiner to that list before we even consider the suburbs
Also Begyle does a colab with Galway Bay Brewery that's phenomenal
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Cool so the recommendation is stop in Madison on the way back but not WI brewery got it
Can't beat WI Brewing outside on a summer weekend night. Tons of people, food service (usually a non profit), live music, and a great environment (at least until Costco goes in across the street. )
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Can't beat WI Brewing outside on a summer weekend night. Tons of people, food service (usually a non profit), live music, and a great environment (at least until Costco goes in across the street. )
Well unless you like beer. ;)
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When we went to Universal we made the calculated decision to stay in their over-priced hotel because it included fast passes for all of us - a $500 value (and also allowed us into the park an hourly early). It was the first time I ever had a fast pass. Honestly, it probably ruined amusement parks for me for life. I don't think I could ever go without a fast pass, and I'm not sure I'd be willing to pay for one.
A few years ago, we evacuated the east coast due to approaching cat 5 hurricane. Went to the Tampa area. The hurricane slowed, so great weather, school was still in for the Tampa area kids. Ours went to Busch Gardens. Basically had the place to themselves. Less than 1000 people entered the park that day. It got to the point they just rode some coasters repeatedly without getting off. Talk about being spoiled.
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Can't beat WI Brewing outside on a summer weekend night. Tons of people, food service (usually a non profit), live music, and a great environment (at least until Costco goes in across the street. )
Big +1. WI Brewing definitely has the best venue to just hang out. And if you're a dog person, all the more. Most dog friendly place in the city.
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I was at Disney World with my Florida friends the December after 9/11. I played at every exhibit and rode every ride at Epcot with no wait anywhere on the extra day I stayed after they left.
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Big +1. WI Brewing definitely has the best venue to just hang out. And if you're a dog person, all the more. Most dog friendly place in the city.
City of Verona, maybe. I don't know Verona that well. ;D
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Lagunitas is Petaluma, CA... they just ran out of water!
Everything east of the Rockies is brewed in Chicago. One of the best tap rooms I've ever visted as well.
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I agree it is a great tap room. I was at a retirement party there several years ago as well.
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Everything east of the Rockies is brewed in Chicago. One of the best tap rooms I've ever visted as well.
I'm aware... it was a joke.
The Petaluma brewery is also really cool if you make it out that way.
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Pryes Brewery was solid today. Never had a nitro sour if anyone wants to try one in Minneapolis
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Not a great example. Corporate, generic recipe following and not interesting. Unless something has changed in the last couple years.
New Glarus is overrated.
They were one of the first so they're held in high regard due to history. Like Pliney the Elder, one is supposed to like it because of history.
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I seem to remember a lot of valuable info surrounding Hawaii but can't seem to locate it. We may be switching our honeymoon from Bali to Hawaii just for peace of mind since Indonesia hasn't yet opened their borders. Flights from Chicago into Kauai seem to be cheapest and the shortest. Is that normal? Is that a good route to go?
Any recommendations, even if it's just a link to a prior post?
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I seem to remember a lot of valuable info surrounding Hawaii but can't seem to locate it. We may be switching our honeymoon from Bali to Hawaii just for peace of mind since Indonesia hasn't yet opened their borders. Flights from Chicago into Kauai seem to be cheapest and the shortest. Is that normal? Is that a good route to go?
Any recommendations, even if it's just a link to a prior post?
Just like any other flights, fares to the different islands can change. When we went a couple of months ago, Maui was the cheapest. Make sure when you are looking at flights that you look at Southwest. They aren't on the regular travel agency sites.
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I seem to remember a lot of valuable info surrounding Hawaii but can't seem to locate it. We may be switching our honeymoon from Bali to Hawaii just for peace of mind since Indonesia hasn't yet opened their borders. Flights from Chicago into Kauai seem to be cheapest and the shortest. Is that normal? Is that a good route to go?
Any recommendations, even if it's just a link to a prior post?
There are no direct flights into Kauai from Chicago to my experience. Kauai is the most northern tourist island so it's furthest (not by much in mileage but by time as it requires a 2nd flight). So, the question is where you do your transfer to Lihue? In Oakland, Oahu or Maui.
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I seem to remember a lot of valuable info surrounding Hawaii but can't seem to locate it. We may be switching our honeymoon from Bali to Hawaii just for peace of mind since Indonesia hasn't yet opened their borders. Flights from Chicago into Kauai seem to be cheapest and the shortest. Is that normal? Is that a good route to go?
Any recommendations, even if it's just a link to a prior post?
Can’t go wrong with Kauai. I’m jealous!
My 3 must-sees there:
1. Waimea Canyon - the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Truly spectacular. Easily can spend a whole day there.
2. Na Pali Coast - see it by boat unless you really are very strong hikers.
3. Queen’s Bath - probably my favorite place on Mother Earth.
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So overrated.
WI Brewing, Capitol, Karben 4 all much better options. Haven't been to Ale Asylum but like their beers too.
I thought Deb would follow the science and reopen??
Karben 4 was started by a group of guys from Appleton (Xavier HS), one of which went to MU...also, great beers. Spotted Cow is totally overrated. Give me Two Women or Moon Man over Spotted Cow all day, every day.
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Karben 4 was started by a group of guys from Appleton (Xavier HS), one of which went to MU...also, great beers. Spotted Cow is totally overrated. Give me Two Women or Moon Man over Spotted Cow all day, every day.
Moon man for sure, depends on the mood for two women vs spotted
New Glarus should really market its sours better that's where they excel
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Moon man for sure, depends on the mood for two women vs spotted
Black Top was my favorite. RIP.
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I seem to remember a lot of valuable info surrounding Hawaii but can't seem to locate it. We may be switching our honeymoon from Bali to Hawaii just for peace of mind since Indonesia hasn't yet opened their borders. Flights from Chicago into Kauai seem to be cheapest and the shortest. Is that normal? Is that a good route to go?
Any recommendations, even if it's just a link to a prior post?
Kauai is the least developed of the tourist islands. I loved it, but it's a little more of a "make your own fun" island. Amazing hiking if you're into that kind of thing. Maui was a little more resort-y and had fancier restaurants and the like. Loved it too, but it was a slightly different vibe.
I'd absolutely go back to Hawaii, so you can't go wrong. Just up to what you want out of the vacation, tbh.
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Spotted Cow may be a bit overrated at this point due to its "only in Wisconsin; Smokey & the Bandit" schtick, but the thing I love about NG is how drinkable everything is. I also think that Totally Naked is a great beer though, so if that disqualifies my opinion I want to throw it out there for full disclosure. ;)
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Kauai is the least developed of the tourist islands. I loved it, but it's a little more of a "make your own fun" island. Amazing hiking if you're into that kind of thing. Maui was a little more resort-y and had fancier restaurants and the like. Loved it too, but it was a slightly different vibe.
I'd absolutely go back to Hawaii, so you can't go wrong. Just up to what you want out of the vacation, tbh.
Appreciate all the responses. Right now it seems like we're down to Hawai vs. Dubai/Abu Dhabi. Two completely different trips/experiences. If anyone has been to Dubai I'd gladly hear some feedback and recommendations.
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Appreciate all the responses. Right now it seems like we're down to Hawai vs. Dubai/Abu Dhabi. Two completely different trips/experiences. If anyone has been to Dubai I'd gladly hear some feedback and recommendations.
Are you guys looking for a more sight-seeing trip? More relaxing by pool/beach? Or outdoorsy/hiking/exploring?
I would think if you switched from Bali, you'd be looking for mostly the middle, with a bit of the latter.
Dubai and AD are extremely cool, especially if you've never been. But unless you're fine hanging out at a luxury hotel, its gonna be a pretty active trip. Tons of absolute spectacles to see. Ive been to Dubai a few times before, but Abu Dhabi, I had an impromptu long layover. So I anticipated hanging out, going to the pool for a bit, having a nice meal. But there was a bunch of cool stuff to see, especially when I didn't know when I'd be back, that I ended up having a super busy day.
Other than both being warm, you might as well ask "Hawaii or London" or "Hawaii or HK" cause the draws are drastically different.
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Are you guys looking for a more sight-seeing trip? More relaxing by pool/beach? Or outdoorsy/hiking/exploring?
I would think if you switched from Bali, you'd be looking for mostly the middle, with a bit of the latter.
Dubai and AD are extremely cool, especially if you've never been. But unless you're fine hanging out at a luxury hotel, its gonna be a pretty active trip. Tons of absolute spectacles to see. Ive been to Dubai a few times before, but Abu Dhabi, I had an impromptu long layover. So I anticipated hanging out, going to the pool for a bit, having a nice meal. But there was a bunch of cool stuff to see, especially when I didn't know when I'd be back, that I ended up having a super busy day.
Other than both being warm, you might as well ask "Hawaii or London" or "Hawaii or HK" cause the draws are drastically different.
We're going for 9 nights. Probably want to spend most of our time sightseeing, hiking and exploring with 1 or 2 pool/relaxing days.
I think we're leaning towards Dubai. We'll probably stay at a nice hotel but most time will be spent outside the resort. We don't mind trekking around.
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We're going for 9 nights. Probably want to spend most of our time sightseeing, hiking and exploring with 1 or 2 pool/relaxing days.
I think we're leaning towards Dubai. We'll probably stay at a nice hotel but most time will be spent outside the resort. We don't mind trekking around.
Maldives maybe?
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We're going for 9 nights. Probably want to spend most of our time sightseeing, hiking and exploring with 1 or 2 pool/relaxing days.
I think we're leaning towards Dubai. We'll probably stay at a nice hotel but most time will be spent outside the resort. We don't mind trekking around.
Have you looked at Thailand?
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Have you looked at Thailand?
Yes. Strongly considered it but decided that's somewhere we would like to go once the region has COVID more under control.
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Yes. Strongly considered it but decided that's somewhere we would like to go once the region has COVID more under control.
Fair enough. PM me if you're interested in going there in the future. I've been fortunate to have visited many times and covered most of the country.
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Appreciate all the responses. Right now it seems like we're down to Hawai vs. Dubai/Abu Dhabi. Two completely different trips/experiences. If anyone has been to Dubai I'd gladly hear some feedback and recommendations.
Recently did 2 weeks in Dubai because it's one of the few places "open". Spilled for 5 star hotel in JBR and never regretted a second of it. PM for details.
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So I just re-checked the Hawaii travel site for fun. Now it appears you can go without the 3 day Covid test by uploading your vaccination card. Progress.
(You all may recall chick and I went in April when a negative test was absolutely required.)
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Everything east of the Rockies is brewed in Chicago. One of the best tap rooms I've ever visted as well.
Not anymore unless it's New Castle. It's more a Heineken brewery now than Lagunitas.
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One of the interesting things about traveling is the whole being a tourist versus living there discussion.
About 15 years ago, I had to spend significant time actually working in Hawaii and dealing with their bureaucracy, traffic, local work ethic etc . It was far different from the times I spent there as a tourist. Going out two weeks out of month really wore me out.
Manhattan is the same way. Fun to visit, but living there is much different, even in the best locations.
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I know the Scoop community is hanging on every word so....we decided against Dubai or Hawaii and settled on Croatia. Flying into Dubrovnik and planning on a couple nights in Split and Hvar. The hotel points worked well and seems like a nice mix of hiking, national parks, sightseeing and relaxation.
Has anyone been? We have 10 nights and are debating whether it's worth spending a day or two in Zagreb. Leaning no right now but could be convinced.
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I know the Scoop community is hanging on every word so....we decided against Dubai or Hawaii and settled on Croatia. Flying into Dubrovnik and planning on a couple nights in Split and Hvar. The hotel points worked well and seems like a nice mix of hiking, national parks, sightseeing and relaxation.
Has anyone been? We have 10 nights and are debating whether it's worth spending a day or two in Zagreb. Leaning no right now but could be convinced.
Never been, but I've heard it's awesome, so enjoy!
And while you're in Split, say hi to the Kukoc family! (All I know about the place is that before every Bulls game he started, Toni would be introduced, "From Split, Croatia, number 7 ... ")
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I know the Scoop community is hanging on every word so....we decided against Dubai or Hawaii and settled on Croatia. Flying into Dubrovnik and planning on a couple nights in Split and Hvar. The hotel points worked well and seems like a nice mix of hiking, national parks, sightseeing and relaxation.
Has anyone been? We have 10 nights and are debating whether it's worth spending a day or two in Zagreb. Leaning no right now but could be convinced.
Croatia has inched its way up my bucket list. Honestly, it's probably tops at this point. It looks spectacular.
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+3 on Croatia interest. We'll be expecting a full report!
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I know the Scoop community is hanging on every word so....we decided against Dubai or Hawaii and settled on Croatia. Flying into Dubrovnik and planning on a couple nights in Split and Hvar. The hotel points worked well and seems like a nice mix of hiking, national parks, sightseeing and relaxation.
Has anyone been? We have 10 nights and are debating whether it's worth spending a day or two in Zagreb. Leaning no right now but could be convinced.
There is an MU alum working remotely there now. He used to be in the travel industry and says Dubrovnik is his favorite place in the world.
Let me know if you have specific questions and I will pass them along.
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I know the Scoop community is hanging on every word so....we decided against Dubai or Hawaii and settled on Croatia. Flying into Dubrovnik and planning on a couple nights in Split and Hvar. The hotel points worked well and seems like a nice mix of hiking, national parks, sightseeing and relaxation.
Has anyone been? We have 10 nights and are debating whether it's worth spending a day or two in Zagreb. Leaning no right now but could be convinced.
Unless you’re REALLY craving a visit to an urban center, then don’t worry about Zagreb. Dubrovnik is surreal (it would be a must visit and disigistingly picturesque place even without the GoT fame), Split is cool, and Hvar is amazing. You’ll be thrilled with all of those.
Croatians are awesome people, the Dalmatian Coast is fantastic, and it’s still relatively inexpensive.
It’s funny, while it’s still inexpensive, the “cheap” stories about Croatia I get from my European colleagues are nuts. My associates in Belgium vacation there in August 3 out of 4 years, more or less. Drive down and bring their boat. In the mid-late 90s, before the Euro took hold, they used to go to islands near Hvar and buy out the bar for the night for what they would pay for a normal round of drinks back in Antwerp. They would joke that would pay more in gas driving down and for the boat than they would on food and drink for almost a month.
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I know the Scoop community is hanging on every word so....we decided against Dubai or Hawaii and settled on Croatia. Flying into Dubrovnik and planning on a couple nights in Split and Hvar. The hotel points worked well and seems like a nice mix of hiking, national parks, sightseeing and relaxation.
Has anyone been? We have 10 nights and are debating whether it's worth spending a day or two in Zagreb. Leaning no right now but could be convinced.
Go to Plitvice Lakes National Park. In the north of Croatia. It's spectacular.
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/98/ (https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/98/)
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Go to Plitvice Lakes National Park. In the north of Croatia. It's spectacular.
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/98/ (https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/98/)
We definitely intend to take a full day trip to Plitvice from Split.
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We definitely intend to take a full day trip to Plitvice from Split.
A tip I can offer is to head up one evening and stay the night at hotel in the area so you can get up early and get to the park. This way you can avoid all heavy bus traffic that shows up late morning. We did this and got to enjoy a lot of the park before it got slammed. This is of course if travel tours are a thing when you.
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Been to Croatia a few times. I like Split a lot. History, art, cafes, living again. Outside is a bit Soviet Industrial.
Dubrovnik is awesome but very touristic in normal times. I suggest staying overnight as it's two different cities day and night (tourists and non). I equate it to an analogy from my daughter who lived in Assisi. Two different towns with and without tourists. Guess which one was more interesting?
I'll also note: There are a lot of great adjoining countries to see within miles of each other so just don't think Croatia.
Adriatic is crystal clear although rocky like most of Med.
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Thanks for all of the feedback and advice. We're planning 3 nights in Dubrovnik, 3 nights in Split, one night near Plitvice Lakes, and 2-3 in Hvar. For those who have been....any places you'd recommend that may be slightly off the tourist radar? It seems like you can get by with English, was that your experience? I'm going to learn some Croatian before the trip, but is it necessary or more of a courtesy?
Dr. B
Any recommendations for surrounding countries? What did you enjoy most? We're sticking to Croatia for this trip but planning on doing a more thorough tour of the Balkin Peninsula in the next few years.
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Thanks for all of the feedback and advice. We're planning 3 nights in Dubrovnik, 3 nights in Split, one night near Plitvice Lakes, and 2-3 in Hvar. For those who have been....any places you'd recommend that may be slightly off the tourist radar? It seems like you can get by with English, was that your experience? I'm going to learn some Croatian before the trip, but is it necessary or more of a courtesy?
Dr. B
Any recommendations for surrounding countries? What did you enjoy most? We're sticking to Croatia for this trip but planning on doing a more thorough tour of the Balkin Peninsula in the next few years.
I had a co-worker who grew up in Serbia that always talked about Montenegro as a great vacation spot.
It looks beautiful.
(https://www.goldenvisas.com/images/montenegro-cbi-closing-december-2021..jpg)
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I am 50% Serbian and my trip to Serbia in the 1990's is still in my top five all time trips. I was there for work, but had an awesome trip for the entire trip.
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Going to be spending a few nights in South Haven and Traverse City, and wondering if anyone had any recommendations. We have a 10 month old, so that may limit options. I’ve already looked up some good breweries in the area.
I’ll have to double check BLM’s (I think) day trip post as I think these might have been mentioned.
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Going to be spending a few nights in South Haven and Traverse City, and wondering if anyone had any recommendations. We have a 10 month old, so that may limit options. I’ve already looked up some good breweries in the area.
I’ll have to double check BLM’s (I think) day trip post as I think these might have been mentioned.
Virtue Farm & Cider in Fennville.
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Going to be spending a few nights in South Haven and Traverse City, and wondering if anyone had any recommendations. We have a 10 month old, so that may limit options. I’ve already looked up some good breweries in the area.
I’ll have to double check BLM’s (I think) day trip post as I think these might have been mentioned.
I spent a summer interning in TC but it was close to 15 years ago (SHEEESH) and I looked at Google Maps recently and a number of places I really enjoyed appear to no longer be there.
However, I highly recommend driving up to the Mission Point Lighthouse. There are a number of wineries on the way along the Penisula, but at the very least its a cool drive that takes about 30 min each way and is very scenic, both wooded and lake views.
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Anybody back to pre-Covid levels of business travel again? I will be firing up on a limited basis (compared to pre-Covid) in August. Full-bore in October.
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Anybody back to pre-Covid levels of business travel again? I will be firing up on a limited basis (compared to pre-Covid) in August. Full-bore in October.
My domestic is pretty close to back. I have a full on trade show in late August in Vegas that normally takes place in June, but otherwise it’s normal. I’ve flown to NYC twice and have a West Coast trip planned for the fall. I normally travel extensively abroad, but that’s still not back. However, I may be headed to Paris in the next 2 months, depending on the progress of a project.
My colleagues in India are clamoring for me to come, but I’m not remotely cool with that yet
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Anybody back to pre-Covid levels of business travel again? I will be firing up on a limited basis (compared to pre-Covid) in August. Full-bore in October.
Our company just announced no in person corporate meetings through end of 2021. Business trips are on an as needed, pre approved basis.
That said, I am off to a conference in August. My first business trip since end of February 2020.
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Anybody back to pre-Covid levels of business travel again? I will be firing up on a limited basis (compared to pre-Covid) in August. Full-bore in October.
I’m back to pre-Covid levels. By the end of July, I’ll have been to California 3 times, AZ once, Portland once, and NYC once, all since last week of March.
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Thanks Wags and Chili! Both look like great recommendations.
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Business for my company has been above pre-COVID levels since the first of the year.
I'm attending a trade show in Detroit in September and another in Atlanta in October. I will probably try to visit some customers in both locations while there. I don't see any international travel for me until 2022. My industry's major trade show is in May 2022 in Dusseldorf. The 2020 one was obviously canceled. I have customers in Europe, India and Singapore to see but we'll play all those by ear come 2022.
FWIW, my wife flew to Poland last week to see her parents. JFK was not letting non-passengers into the terminal, but apparently they are loose on the rule as the security officer "said, OK, use the bathroom, help your wife with the luggage to check-in and then get out!"
My wife was only asked to see her vaccine card when she checked in. They were telling her she was supposed to fill out some health check paperwork that they would need to see when she landed in Schiphol. We found something and she had digitally, but no one ever requested to see it. As a matter fact no one asked to see her vaccine card the remainder of the trip. In Warsaw, they just asked if you were vaccinated and did not need to see the card. Yes, off to baggage - no, off to a COVID test line.
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If she is still in Poland and is near Germany, they will turn her CDC card into a EU vaccine passport as of today.
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Finally set our Italy trip. Going October 4 to 16. Two days in Rome, three in Florence, three in Tuscany two in Naples, a day back to Rome and home.
Back just in time for Packers vs.Bears.
The countryside looks incredible. Has anyone driven a car in Italy.
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Finally set our Italy trip. Going October 4 to 16. Two days in Rome, three in Florence, three in Tuscany two in Naples, a day back to Rome and home.
Back just in time for Packers vs.Bears.
The countryside looks incredible. Has anyone driven a car in Italy.
Plenty of time to sneak in a bbq summit.
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Finally set our Italy trip. Going October 4 to 16. Two days in Rome, three in Florence, three in Tuscany two in Naples, a day back to Rome and home.
Back just in time for Packers vs.Bears.
The countryside looks incredible. Has anyone driven a car in Italy.
Amazing. My sister is actually in Italy right now. One of her college roommates is marrying an Italian guy from Lake Como. They live in Milan and their wedding got delayed by COVID. A group of them met near Turin and worked their way south to Portofino before they head back north to Como for the wedding this weekend. They said it’s been relatively normal and nice.
Florence and Tuscany are so incredible. Driving in Italy is fine, my experience is limited but it’s like Greece…the locals are prone to driving a bit wild. What are you planning on using the car for? We saw plenty of the countryside in Tuscany via various winery related shuttles and tour vans and then used the excellent train system for city to city
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Typically you probably can’t and don’t want to drive in Rome. Parking in Florence is pricey.
https://romevacationtips.com/12-reasons-shouldnt-hire-car-rome/
But driving through the Tuscan countryside is amazing. Take back roads, you will be amazed at what you find.
Any chance of training between Florence and Rome?
Great time to go. If you do Pompeii, get a guide or join a tour. Herculaneum is less crowded but as impressive. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herculaneum
We actually opted to spend more time in Rome instead of Naples. Rome has so much to explore.
My advice to almost everyone going to Europe is "You are going to too many places". And I speak from experience. We did a similar itinerary of yours, except replace Naples with Venice and a return out of Milan. We were exhausted by the end.
Oh and since good beer is in short supply in Italy, visit "Ma che siete venuti a fà" for some great beers. https://www.football-pub.com/
As an ale drinker, we like ReAle made in Italy.
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Suggestions for St Louis? Hitting up side project but that's it so food, breweries, etc please!
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Suggestions for St Louis? Hitting up side project but that's it so food, breweries, etc please!
How many days? Time of year? Interests? What parts of town? Types of food you like etc…you can ask here or message me.
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How many days? Time of year? Interests? What parts of town? Types of food you like etc…you can ask here or message me.
4 days, next weekend, I like food, beer, diver bars and history. I can get around on public transit or Uber so not held by a part of town, have been out by SLU a few times and done the AB tour before.
Apparently getting dragged to a Cardinals game but would prefer a cool by the park bar not some St. Louis equivalent of Wrigleyville.
I literally eat anything that isn't eggplant or dessert so any great food that's off the beaten path would be appreciated.
Thanks!
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4 days, next weekend, I like food, beer, diver bars and history. I can get around on public transit or Uber so not held by a part of town, have been out by SLU a few times and done the AB tour before.
Apparently getting dragged to a Cardinals game but would prefer a cool by the park bar not some St. Louis equivalent of Wrigleyville.
I literally eat anything that isn't eggplant or dessert so any great food that's off the beaten path would be appreciated.
Thanks!
I know very little about STL, but did eat at a burger place called Bailey's Range when I was there several years go. I still recall it as one of the better burger places I've been (as does my daughter). I just checked and it's still there.
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4 days, next weekend, I like food, beer, diver bars and history. I can get around on public transit or Uber so not held by a part of town, have been out by SLU a few times and done the AB tour before.
Apparently getting dragged to a Cardinals game but would prefer a cool by the park bar not some St. Louis equivalent of Wrigleyville.
I literally eat anything that isn't eggplant or dessert so any great food that's off the beaten path would be appreciated.
Thanks!
I'll leave for the St. Louis alums to answer in detail, but I've been there a few times recently the last being 2019 when the daughter visited SLU.
They just completely redid the Gateway Arch Riverfront Park. One visit, I stayed on the riverfront by Laclede's Landing Neighborhood and I recall a bunch of restaurants in the stone streets there. It's walking distance to the Cardinals stadium.
For the SLU visit I was walking distance to Forrest Park which was impressive. Only thing close to my hotel was hospitals and the Urban Chestnut Brewery.
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4 days, next weekend, I like food, beer, diver bars and history. I can get around on public transit or Uber so not held by a part of town, have been out by SLU a few times and done the AB tour before.
Apparently getting dragged to a Cardinals game but would prefer a cool by the park bar not some St. Louis equivalent of Wrigleyville.
I literally eat anything that isn't eggplant or dessert so any great food that's off the beaten path would be appreciated.
Thanks!
I like to say, “if it were me” when giving suggestions, as well as ask what someone likes or wants because it isn’t me or my trip.
In my opinion, Forest Park is one of St. Louis’ best things. It has something for everyone. It’s over 1300 acres, larger than Central Park in NYC. They have free trolleys once you get there. In it is the zoo (free) art museum (free) outdoor touring broadway show amphitheater (not free but affordable) connection to the science center, multiple 9 hole golf courses, 2 tennis centers clay and hard court, including my favorite one Dwight Davis, (18 courts hard court and stadium) which happens to be next to the nice air conditioned visitor’s center. (staff there can give you tips etc…) There’s a brand new several acre area for children if there will be some on your trip. Literally just opened. A Play escape. This is where I would go on a nice weather day. There’s a boathouse restaurant too. It’s pretty good BBQ. Sugarfire Smokehouse runs it. It will likely be crowded. You can take canoes and paddle boats out into the water if you wish. Art Hill is popular for relaxing in the summer or sledding in the winter.
The Missouri History Museum is free, and it's located in the park next to the visitor's center and Dwight Davis, on the North Side of the park near the metro stop. It's a nice museum. They have many exhibits. The Old Courthouse downtown is also worth exploring for a history buff.
The other nice thing about Forest Park is that it has a Metro link stop, and, it’s centrally located, close to several other neighborhoods, Delmar Loop, Central West End, Cortex, Midtown, Tower Grove, downtown, etc….if it were me, at the very least I would spend some time in the Central West End next to the park. The East end of the park is Central West, towards Midtown and SLU. The West end of the park is Washington University’s campus, Wydown neighborhood which is nice, etc... Lots of biking, running, walking, paths in there. Check their event schedule.There are often seasonal special events such as free Shakespeare in the Park like NYC, or a hot air balloon festival or whatever is going on that weekend.
It’s a rare down season for the Cards but they will still get a crowd and many out of town visitors for their weekend summer games. There are a lot of newer places in the neighborhood, not unlike several other cities including what the Cubs have done with Wrigleyville. It’s worth walking past the few blocks, just to see the development, but, if you want a dive place or something more local, you will move it along a bit. But there is a lot going on in Ball Park Village and Cardinal Nation areas. Paddy O’s immediately South of the Stadium would be a better fit for that. Also, near there, Broadway Oyster Bar is popular. You could to to or from Soulard before or after. Lots of free shuttles back and forth to Busch. If you need quick walking distance food place with beer only, try Sauce on the Side.
City Museum downtown is popular, kids and adults who are young at heart, It isn’t for the faint of heart or non able bodied. Wear sneakers or fomrortable shoes there.
Combining activities/locations with the ball park, Arch Grounds are walkable from there, and they had a huge $380 million renovation recently. Washington Ave is a loft district near there, walkable of bars and restaurants not far from Busch. Also, The Soulard neighborhood to the South has lots of walkable bars, restaurants, farmer’s market, and it’s one worth visiting. Benton Park is just past it.
There are many local breweries depending on your neighborhood. 4 Hands is near Soulard. I am partial to their “City Wide” Pale Ale. Urban Chestnut is near SLU. Center Ice and Rockwell are near the Grove. Schlafly’s is near the new MLS Stadium in Downtown West.
Burger? Bailey’s is still there. Hi Pointe Drive in is near there. Schlafly’s could get you a brew pub and a decent burger close to there. Soulard has some good burger spots and it has 4 Hands nearby. And just beyond is Benton Park which is known for Mexican food and many Mexican restaurants bakeries and groceries, but it also has a popular local burger place called Mac’s Local Eats. If you are near SLU, Retreat Gastro Pub is a good upscale casual place that I like for both.
If you have young kids, Union Station has an aquarium, ferris wheel, mini golf and all of those types of things after it was redone a few years back. Schlafly’s is walking distance from there. Rooster is a good brunch spot downtown and serves a pretty good burger. Near there is Lafayette Square, lots of cool 1800’s Victorian buildings and homes, variety of colors, with a park and bars and restaurants.
Also if near SLU, they are building a new $300 Million Food Hall, Cinema, grocery, all kinds of things. It’s called City Foundry. It still has a ways to go. It’s in the Prospect Yards District.
Missouri Botanical Gardens is popular, worth a visit and it’s immediately next to (North) of Tower Grove Park, which is more of a local’s Forest Park. It isn't free but it's very affordable. It's one of the bigger ones nationally and has a lot to see in there. There are several good restaurants nearby.
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4 days, next weekend, I like food, beer, diver bars and history. I can get around on public transit or Uber so not held by a part of town, have been out by SLU a few times and done the AB tour before.
Apparently getting dragged to a Cardinals game but would prefer a cool by the park bar not some St. Louis equivalent of Wrigleyville.
I literally eat anything that isn't eggplant or dessert so any great food that's off the beaten path would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Avoid the "pizza".
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Avoid the "pizza".
St. Louis has a wide variety of types of pizza. Many people in Chicago don’t either eat deep dish pizza, or eat it only once in a while, as opposed to frequently or all the time. Chicago of course has several other types of pizza as well. St. Louis isn’t any different.
Although it was pretty fun during the recent U.S. Olympic Trials held in St. Louis, when Simone Biles lavished her praise not only for Stl style pizza, but also for the provel version of it.
https://twitter.com/simone_biles/status/1409915138640072705?s=21
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I like to say, “if it were me” when giving suggestions, as well as ask what someone likes or wants because it isn’t me or my trip.
In my opinion, Forest Park is one of St. Louis’ best things. It has something for everyone. It’s over 1300 acres, larger than Central Park in NYC. They have free trolleys once you get there. In it is the zoo (free) art museum (free) outdoor touring broadway show amphitheater (not free but affordable) connection to the science center, multiple 9 hole golf courses, 2 tennis centers clay and hard court, including my favorite one Dwight Davis, (18 courts hard court and stadium) which happens to be next to the nice air conditioned visitor’s center. (staff there can give you tips etc…) There’s a brand new several acre area for children if there will be some on your trip. Literally just opened. A Play escape. This is where I would go on a nice weather day. There’s a boathouse restaurant too. It’s pretty good BBQ. Sugarfire Smokehouse runs it. It will likely be crowded. You can take canoes and paddle boats out into the water if you wish. Art Hill is popular for relaxing in the summer or sledding in the winter.
The Missouri History Museum is free, and it's located in the park next to the visitor's center and Dwight Davis, on the North Side of the park near the metro stop. It's a nice museum. They have many exhibits. The Old Courthouse downtown is also worth exploring for a history buff.
The other nice thing about Forest Park is that it has a Metro link stop, and, it’s centrally located, close to several other neighborhoods, Delmar Loop, Central West End, Cortex, Midtown, Tower Grove, downtown, etc….if it were me, at the very least I would spend some time in the Central West End next to the park. The East end of the park is Central West, towards Midtown and SLU. The West end of the park is Washington University’s campus, Wydown neighborhood which is nice, etc... Lots of biking, running, walking, paths in there. Check their event schedule.There are often seasonal special events such as free Shakespeare in the Park like NYC, or a hot air balloon festival or whatever is going on that weekend.
It’s a rare down season for the Cards but they will still get a crowd and many out of town visitors for their weekend summer games. There are a lot of newer places in the neighborhood, not unlike several other cities including what the Cubs have done with Wrigleyville. It’s worth walking past the few blocks, just to see the development, but, if you want a dive place or something more local, you will move it along a bit. But there is a lot going on in Ball Park Village and Cardinal Nation areas. Paddy O’s immediately South of the Stadium would be a better fit for that. Also, near there, Broadway Oyster Bar is popular. You could to to or from Soulard before or after. Lots of free shuttles back and forth to Busch. If you need quick walking distance food place with beer only, try Sauce on the Side.
City Museum downtown is popular, kids and adults who are young at heart, It isn’t for the faint of heart or non able bodied. Wear sneakers or fomrortable shoes there.
Combining activities/locations with the ball park, Arch Grounds are walkable from there, and they had a huge $380 million renovation recently. Washington Ave is a loft district near there, walkable of bars and restaurants not far from Busch. Also, The Soulard neighborhood to the South has lots of walkable bars, restaurants, farmer’s market, and it’s one worth visiting. Benton Park is just past it.
There are many local breweries depending on your neighborhood. 4 Hands is near Soulard. I am partial to their “City Wide” Pale Ale. Urban Chestnut is near SLU. Center Ice and Rockwell are near the Grove. Schlafly’s is near the new MLS Stadium in Downtown West.
Burger? Bailey’s is still there. Hi Pointe Drive in is near there. Schlafly’s could get you a brew pub and a decent burger close to there. Soulard has some good burger spots and it has 4 Hands nearby. And just beyond is Benton Park which is known for Mexican food and many Mexican restaurants bakeries and groceries, but it also has a popular local burger place called Mac’s Local Eats. If you are near SLU, Retreat Gastro Pub is a good upscale casual place that I like for both.
If you have young kids, Union Station has an aquarium, ferris wheel, mini golf and all of those types of things after it was redone a few years back. Schlafly’s is walking distance from there. Rooster is a good brunch spot downtown and serves a pretty good burger. Near there is Lafayette Square, lots of cool 1800’s Victorian buildings and homes, variety of colors, with a park and bars and restaurants.
Also if near SLU, they are building a new $300 Million Food Hall, Cinema, grocery, all kinds of things. It’s called City Foundry. It still has a ways to go. It’s in the Prospect Yards District.
Missouri Botanical Gardens is popular, worth a visit and it’s immediately next to (North) of Tower Grove Park, which is more of a local’s Forest Park. It isn't free but it's very affordable. It's one of the bigger ones nationally and has a lot to see in there. There are several good restaurants nearby.
Thanks! Last time I was in town we tried to hit up Pappys Smokehouse but the wait was absurd. Worth a second attempt or forgo it for a better BBQ spot?
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I like to say, “if it were me” when giving suggestions, as well as ask what someone likes or wants because it isn’t me or my trip.
In my opinion, Forest Park is one of St. Louis’ best things. It has something for everyone. It’s over 1300 acres, larger than Central Park in NYC. They have free trolleys once you get there. In it is the zoo (free) art museum (free) outdoor touring broadway show amphitheater (not free but affordable) connection to the science center, multiple 9 hole golf courses, 2 tennis centers clay and hard court, including my favorite one Dwight Davis, (18 courts hard court and stadium) which happens to be next to the nice air conditioned visitor’s center. (staff there can give you tips etc…) There’s a brand new several acre area for children if there will be some on your trip. Literally just opened. A Play escape. This is where I would go on a nice weather day. There’s a boathouse restaurant too. It’s pretty good BBQ. Sugarfire Smokehouse runs it. It will likely be crowded. You can take canoes and paddle boats out into the water if you wish. Art Hill is popular for relaxing in the summer or sledding in the winter.
The Missouri History Museum is free, and it's located in the park next to the visitor's center and Dwight Davis, on the North Side of the park near the metro stop. It's a nice museum. They have many exhibits. The Old Courthouse downtown is also worth exploring for a history buff.
The other nice thing about Forest Park is that it has a Metro link stop, and, it’s centrally located, close to several other neighborhoods, Delmar Loop, Central West End, Cortex, Midtown, Tower Grove, downtown, etc….if it were me, at the very least I would spend some time in the Central West End next to the park. The East end of the park is Central West, towards Midtown and SLU. The West end of the park is Washington University’s campus, Wydown neighborhood which is nice, etc... Lots of biking, running, walking, paths in there. Check their event schedule.There are often seasonal special events such as free Shakespeare in the Park like NYC, or a hot air balloon festival or whatever is going on that weekend.
It’s a rare down season for the Cards but they will still get a crowd and many out of town visitors for their weekend summer games. There are a lot of newer places in the neighborhood, not unlike several other cities including what the Cubs have done with Wrigleyville. It’s worth walking past the few blocks, just to see the development, but, if you want a dive place or something more local, you will move it along a bit. But there is a lot going on in Ball Park Village and Cardinal Nation areas. Paddy O’s immediately South of the Stadium would be a better fit for that. Also, near there, Broadway Oyster Bar is popular. You could to to or from Soulard before or after. Lots of free shuttles back and forth to Busch. If you need quick walking distance food place with beer only, try Sauce on the Side.
City Museum downtown is popular, kids and adults who are young at heart, It isn’t for the faint of heart or non able bodied. Wear sneakers or fomrortable shoes there.
Combining activities/locations with the ball park, Arch Grounds are walkable from there, and they had a huge $380 million renovation recently. Washington Ave is a loft district near there, walkable of bars and restaurants not far from Busch. Also, The Soulard neighborhood to the South has lots of walkable bars, restaurants, farmer’s market, and it’s one worth visiting. Benton Park is just past it.
There are many local breweries depending on your neighborhood. 4 Hands is near Soulard. I am partial to their “City Wide” Pale Ale. Urban Chestnut is near SLU. Center Ice and Rockwell are near the Grove. Schlafly’s is near the new MLS Stadium in Downtown West.
Burger? Bailey’s is still there. Hi Pointe Drive in is near there. Schlafly’s could get you a brew pub and a decent burger close to there. Soulard has some good burger spots and it has 4 Hands nearby. And just beyond is Benton Park which is known for Mexican food and many Mexican restaurants bakeries and groceries, but it also has a popular local burger place called Mac’s Local Eats. If you are near SLU, Retreat Gastro Pub is a good upscale casual place that I like for both.
If you have young kids, Union Station has an aquarium, ferris wheel, mini golf and all of those types of things after it was redone a few years back. Schlafly’s is walking distance from there. Rooster is a good brunch spot downtown and serves a pretty good burger. Near there is Lafayette Square, lots of cool 1800’s Victorian buildings and homes, variety of colors, with a park and bars and restaurants.
Also if near SLU, they are building a new $300 Million Food Hall, Cinema, grocery, all kinds of things. It’s called City Foundry. It still has a ways to go. It’s in the Prospect Yards District.
Missouri Botanical Gardens is popular, worth a visit and it’s immediately next to (North) of Tower Grove Park, which is more of a local’s Forest Park. It isn't free but it's very affordable. It's one of the bigger ones nationally and has a lot to see in there. There are several good restaurants nearby.
shoothoops - This is a great list and I think I'm ready for another visit and a Cards game (on my to do list).
City Museum is different and interesting. I forgot about that.
Galway - One more thing if you like history. I visited Cahokia Mounds, the earthen Pyramids. It's a 15 minute drive from DT St. Louis. Everything is extremely flat and it's very weird to walk to the top of the main mound and be able to see the St. Louis skyline.
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Thanks! Last time I was in town we tried to hit up Pappys Smokehouse but the wait was absurd. Worth a second attempt or forgo it for a better BBQ spot?
Short answer is yes worth another try. Longer answer is there are now many other very good alternatives to Pappy’s if you can’t get in there.
Pappy’s also owns Bogart’s in the Soulard. It’s also very good. They have two other locations with other names as they are often a Pappy’s person opening their own offshoot of Pappy’s. Pappy’s is popular with locals, as well as out of towners and celebrity types etc so it is always busy. Line moves with good pace. They did expand a while back so not sure when you tried it last. I personally like Pappy’s. (I’m a bit of a Memphis style BBQ person, which is more of a Pappy’s style). Some say a late weekday lunch is a good time to try. I would either do that or get there when they open. Don’t bother late in the day. They serve until they run out.
If waiting in line was an issue, you could have someone wait in line and have someone else run over to do something else. The Fountain on Locust is the next street over from Pappy’s, good food for lunch or dinner, also known for its ice cream. Diagonally across the street is Vito’s for pizza and pasta. And up around the corner is the theater/arts district. And of course SLU’s campus is next to Pappy’s on the South and West sides. But make Pappy’s a lunch spot not dinner. Save dinner for those other ones or Retreat Gastro Pub if you are near that area.
So, Bogart’s is the closest to it in style and ownership, in the Soulard. Soulard is one of the better walkable Irish Pub meets French Quarter neighborhoods in town. You can park and walk to many restaurants and bars, big farmer’s market. McGurk’s has long been a local favorite (and one of mine) for their huge outdoor beer garden with lots of scenery and greenery. Inside is red brick and pretty cool too but make sure you go out back outside. Tucker’s is popular for casual dress steak and potato or a burger immediately next door to McGurk’s. It’s more of a dinner spot. Good place to have a drink outside. Soulard is one of my favorite neighborhoods. McGurk’s has an Irish menu so that is hit or miss for some. You may want to just drink and sit outside there and eat at one of the other many nearby places. That’s probably what I would do.
The Wood Shack and Jack Nolen’s are also popular pub burger spots in Soulard.
If you venture just beyond Soulard to Benton Park, as mentioned, lots of Mexican restaurants. It’s like the Milwaukee Mexican restaurant area on the Southside a little bit. That same neighborhood has a really good pizza place called Melo’s. And, immediately next to it is a great lunch sandwich spot called Blues City Deli. They play live music, and there will be a swift moving line, but, it will have a line. It will be crowded. Lunch only. The rest are night spots. Peacemaker Lobster is a casual but expensive seafood place. You are after all flying in fresh stuff from the coasts. It’s a $20+ Lobster roll type of spot that may not fill you up without adding something else. But the quality is high end. You’ll have to spend a few bucks there or skip it.
Salt + Smoke is good, different than Pappy’s, and, it has a brand new location across the street from Busch Stadium behind center field. Very convenient for your ball game. Nice views and people watching there. It has multiple floors indoor/outdoor and is a big space. You’d be able to get in there as a pre or post game meal. You can’t miss it. It’s located inside the brand new high rise apartment tower that looks into the stadium from center field. Speaking of the game, it’s a bit of a summer time thing to go to Ted Drewe’s Frozen Custard after, in South City.
Sugarfire Smoke House has a Washington Ave location. That’s the loft district over by the dome but walkable from Busch. It’s also good. And if the wait is the issue, either here or Salt+Smoke should be easier than Pappy’s or Bogart’s.
Beast Butcher & Block is a good BBQ spot in Forest Park Southeast/near the Grove.If you are near the Botanical Gardens that would be a good try over there.
But I wouldn’t let the line deter you for Pappy’s. Go either first thing or an off hour mid afternoon weekday as more of a sweet spot. It is pretty good bbq. Closest thing to it would be Bogart’s in Soulard. The others are all good but different from each other. The Sugarfire people also own Hi Pointe Drive In down by Wash Ave as well. They offer burgers on their menu in addition to their bbq as the others don’t.
Just remember, Pappy’s and Bogart’s are lunch only recs up until mid later afternoon. The others are lunch or dinner, day or night. All of them are pretty popular.
And there are many other types of cuisine recs based on type of cuisine and location. I have a favorite quick, fast casual grab and go Mediterranean place called Medina which is on Washington Ave. etc…
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shoothoops - This is a great list and I think I'm ready for another visit and a Cards game (on my to do list).
City Museum is different and interesting. I forgot about that.
Galway - One more thing if you like history. I visited Cahokia Mounds, the earthen Pyramids. It's a 15 minute drive from DT St. Louis. Everything is extremely flat and it's very weird to walk to the top of the main mound and be able to see the St. Louis skyline.
Thanks. The Mounds are a really good tip for history buffs and really anyone. Very unique. That may be a must stop for him. 1,000 years before European contact. One of the largest prehistoric site in America North of Mexico. National Historic Landmark. Museum, exhibits, theater, galleries. You will want to drive here as the mix of public transit is a bit more of a pain. But it isn’t too far.
I was actually hoping the new MLS soccer team would name their team Mound City Stars after the Native American people in Cahokia and the Negro League and former NASL outdoor soccer league St. Louis Stars. But they wanted St. Louis and City in the name for marketing purposes and to emphasize the city of St. Louis.
It is as you say a short highway drive. I focused mostly on things in the city. There are other good side excursions as well, Meramec Cave Caverns, or Augusta MO wineries. (There’s a guy who is currently spending over ) $100 million adding to everything that already exists there.
I also forgot about the National Blues Museum downtown as well.
I don’t even know how to describe City Museum to someone who hasn’t been. You will probably love it or hate it but many love it.
The Museum underground under the Arch has a Lewis and Clark Expedition, Westward Expansion type of feel but other things too.
By the way, I forgot he has Galway in his name. He really needs to hit up McGurk’s in Soulard for an outdoor beverage if he has Galway in his name. Beer garden is in the back. (I’ve spent a bit of time of at The Quays and the like in Galway, Ireland.)
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Thanks again for the recommendations Chili and Wags. They were both great.
It was our first time exploring western Michigan and it is a very beautiful place.
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Typically you probably can’t and don’t want to drive in Rome. Parking in Florence is pricey.
https://romevacationtips.com/12-reasons-shouldnt-hire-car-rome/
But driving through the Tuscan countryside is amazing. Take back roads, you will be amazed at what you find.
Any chance of training between Florence and Rome?
Great time to go. If you do Pompeii, get a guide or join a tour. Herculaneum is less crowded but as impressive. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herculaneum
We actually opted to spend more time in Rome instead of Naples. Rome has so much to explore.
My advice to almost everyone going to Europe is "You are going to too many places". And I speak from experience. We did a similar itinerary of yours, except replace Naples with Venice and a return out of Milan. We were exhausted by the end.
Oh and since good beer is in short supply in Italy, visit "Ma che siete venuti a fà" for some great beers. https://www.football-pub.com/
As an ale drinker, we like ReAle made in Italy.
We are training between Rome and Florence. We will not get a car until we're in the countryside. Want to poke
I misspoke -- we are going to Venice this trip.
Probably will drive to Venice and then drop the car there. Train will waste an etnire day.
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We are training between Rome and Florence. We will not get a car until we're in the countryside. Want to poke
I misspoke -- we are going to Venice this trip.
Probably will drive to Naples and then drop the car there. Train will waste an etire day.
At the risk of sounding stereotypical, this is probably a great time to go to Venice as I imagine the huge tourist ships dumping heaps of Asian tourists every day won't be operating as usual. The uniqueness and history of Venice is ruined by the tourist trap nature of so much of it these days, but that is exponentially exacerbated by the huge tour groups that come off the cruise ships and roam around like lemmings.
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shoothoops - This is a great list and I think I'm ready for another visit and a Cards game (on my to do list).
Does anything else in St. Louis really matter?
Cardinal games always have been worth the trip, this year somewhat less than other years. It's the best thing about St. Louis, by far!
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Probably will drive to Venice and then drop the car there. Train will waste an etnire day.
Pro trip: Driving in Venice will end up being catastrophic. About as bad as laboring through a horrible Cardinals game in 100% St. Louis summer humidity.
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Does anything else in St. Louis really matter?
Cardinal games always have been worth the trip, this year somewhat less than other years. It's the best thing about St. Louis, by far!
Sports? Well, that depends on your interests.
The Stanley Cup Parade mattered enough to a million people two years ago at the parade.
https://twitter.com/pdpj/status/1140598047816265728?s=21
But if you are just talking about sports this week or this summer…
The new MLS soccer team broke a season ticket deposit record within 24 hours of going on sale. Here’s how that is going the past few weeks:
https://twitter.com/stlcitysc/status/1407698835401580545?s=21
https://twitter.com/soccermadeinstl/status/1306641790171217920?s=21
The U.S. Gymnastics Trials last month at the dome broke the previous attendance record.
https://twitter.com/ackerman1120/status/1409304361055010817?s=21
The USYS U13-U19 boys and girls regionals last month were pretty popular with people from 14 states. Next week’s U14-U17 boys ECNL National Championships at WWT Park will be pretty popular.
If you need a Big East fix, Dikembo Mutombo is in town there this week visiting Jahidi White selling his new coffee line:
https://twitter.com/earlaustinjr/status/1414618079548559365?s=21
If 4 year multi-billion dollar NFL lawsuits are your thing, maybe swing by the courts building this week:
https://twitter.com/ben_fred/status/1414807238095552513?s=21
But yes, with regards to sports, the Cardinals are always a popular good choice, fun, with lots going on in the neighborhood(s). He’ll have a good time there.
Looks like 80’s and sunny much of his visit. That’s a good opportunity for those many outdoor activities previously mentioned such as Forest Park, Missouri Botanical Gardens, Cahokia Mounds, Soulard, Wash Ave, Central West End, Midtown, etc…check for concert listing at The Pageant, Delmar Hall, and the like. I think Thomas Rhett is the outdoor amphitheater headliner there this weekend. Kevin C Johnson would good to hit up for info regarding various venue shows. https://twitter.com/kevincjohnson/status/1412835147028783104?s=21
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Pro trip: Driving in Venice will end up being catastrophic. About as bad as laboring through a horrible Cardinals game in 100% St. Louis summer humidity.
Since the Cardinals have had one losing record season in over twenty years, I’ll guess you’re a Cubs fan.
While I personally prefer 365 days of sunny, 80 degree weather with low humidity weather myself, (it can rain overnight to keep everything green) I’ll take sunny, hot, humid weather over cold weather any day.
It looks like he’ll get the former on much of his trip.
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Suggestions for St Louis? Hitting up side project but that's it so food, breweries, etc please!
Duck in certain neighborhoods. Do not go north of Delmar.
I noticed you mentioned burgers. O'Connell's is an institution. Check it out. https://www.oconnells-pub.com/
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St. Louis has a wide variety of types of pizza. Many people in Chicago don’t either eat deep dish pizza, or eat it only once in a while, as opposed to frequently or all the time. Chicago of course has several other types of pizza as well. St. Louis isn’t any different.
Although it was pretty fun during the recent U.S. Olympic Trials held in St. Louis, when Simone Biles lavished her praise not only for Stl style pizza, but also for the provel version of it.
https://twitter.com/simone_biles/status/1409915138640072705?s=21
The provel "pizza" they sell in St. Louis is disgusting. Just my opinion. Some solid rib joints down there though
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At the risk of sounding stereotypical, this is probably a great time to go to Venice as I imagine the huge tourist ships dumping heaps of Asian tourists every day won't be operating as usual. The uniqueness and history of Venice is ruined by the tourist trap nature of so much of it these days, but that is exponentially exacerbated by the huge tour groups that come off the cruise ships and roam around like lemmings.
And the cruise ships won't be back at all starting 8/1
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The U.S. Gymnastics Trials last month at the dome broke the previous attendance record.
https://twitter.com/ackerman1120/status/1409304361055010817?s=21
Chick jr. and I had tickets and an AirBnB lined up to see this, but when they switched it from the hockey arena to the Football stadium, we took a pass. We watched it on TV instead of being 50 yards away from the action. Got seats for when the post-Olympic tour hits
Milwaukee instead.
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The provel "pizza" they sell in St. Louis is disgusting. Just my opinion. Some solid rib joints down there though
There are Chicagoans that don’t eat deep dish or tavern style pizza daily. (I prefer tavern style, maybe Pequod’s for a version of the other) You can find other types of pizza besides NYC style in Manhattan, and so on.
In St. Louis, or in many other places, the question would be what type of pizza do you like, and/or what type do you want to try. I’m partial to a few friends places there but I like a wide variety of pizza and places. One, St. Louis people by way of Queen’s NYC and Puerto Rico, “La Pizza” in U. City. Another place(s) is “Cafe Piazza” in Benton Park/Brewery by way of Sicily, Italy. (They also own Vito’s by SLU). So, when I’m in town eating pizza, I am probably at one of these places.
Melo’s, (Benton Park) Pizza-a-go-go,(Lindenwood Park) Pie Guy, (Grove) Anthonino’s, Union Loafers if you are near the Botanical Gardens, PW (Lafayette Square), many others.
It’s all subjective. Pi Pizza (Central West End, Wash Ave locations) is good, very popular and recommended. But it often isn’t one of my first choices. I would recommend it on his trip based on location and popularity. They serve corn meal crust deep dish, and thin. Many of their pizzas are named after places in both St. Louis and Chicago. Obama liked it so much when he was President that they now have DC locations too.
Provel, which is white cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheese, is fine. (all of those are fine with me) It’s more of a take out or bar option that can also be found in stores. Some people love it, some don’t, some like it, and have it once in a while. For his trip it would either be a take out/delivery option or a bar option most likely.
If in Milwaukee, and near downtown for a concert or game or show, I’ve had Calderone Club many times. If I’m on the East side it’s been Zaffiro’s. If it’s deliver anywhere any time it’s probably been Pizza Shuttle. It all depends.
But I often prefer NYC pizza first, New Haven 2nd if someone asked or gave me a choice.
In Chicago a relative of mine loved the Oven and Pizza Grinder. It wasn’t my thing but I’d go with once in a while and it’s fine. Piece is still cranking out CT pies in Wicker Park. Brooklyn NY’s Paulie Gee’s has a Neapolitan spot in Logan Square. And so on.
It’s not as though people in these cities eat these things every day all the time. Gooey Butter Cake, Pork Steaks, Toasted Ravioli, etc..are other food items that can be found there. They’re all fine.
And yes, there are many good BBQ places there these days as previously mentioned.
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Between you guys, Reddit and beer advocate here's my list. Additions or Subtractions? (Not pictured are Blues city deli for a sandwich and Broadway oyster bar for Cajun)
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Chick jr. and I had tickets and an AirBnB lined up to see this, but when they switched it from the hockey arena to the Football stadium, we took a pass. We watched it on TV instead of being 50 yards away from the action. Got seats for when the post-Olympic tour hits
Milwaukee instead.
Yep. That wasn’t their choice unfortunately. COVID-19 attendance capacity limits forced it to go to the Dome. The St. Louis Sports Commission didn’t really have a say in the move from Enterprise Center to the Dome. It was combined with a convention event next door. The gymnastics also used all of the convention space available as well.
Enterprise Center would have been a good spot for it. It had a $150 Million renovation the past few years. Union Station next door recently finished a $200 Million dollar renovation. And the new outdoor soccer stadium (25k) is going up diagonally down the street on Market. They have a lot going on in that Downtown West neighborhood.
One you would have probably liked would have been a few years ago, the Women’s U.S. Gymnastic Championships were combined with Men’s Olympic Trials at SLU’s Chaifetz Arena. Not a bad spot to see Simone Biles etc in action. (That’s like going to Xavier’s Cintas Center for those that haven’t been there.)
The St. Louis Sports Commission is very good at getting these events and, knowing which venue to use for maxim results and impact. They will probably get the gymnastics again as well as something similar. They also hosted the SEC Gymnastics championships recently. As for Olympics, I know they are close to getting the U.S. Olympic Swimming trials for 2024.
It’s also worth checking every few years to see if they are hosting NCAA basketball first rounds or regionals. I believe the only time Marquette played there that I can remember is the unfortunate 2 point upset loss to Tulsa in the first round in the Wade/Diener days. That was one to forget.
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Like clockwork. ::) ::)
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Between you guys, Reddit and beer advocate here's my list. Additions or Subtractions? (Not pictured are Blues city deli for a sandwich and Broadway oyster bar for Cajun)
That’s a pretty food food and beverage list. And don’t be afraid to try things not on your list as they present themselves. I would break it down like this:
A) Sites to see, things to do
B) Neighborhoods to explore
C) Food beverage list
D) Transportation, metro link, drive, shuttle, walk, Uber, etc…
E) Time of day
The more you combine these three together effectively, the easier, and more enjoyable it will be.
Some neighborhoods to explore in no order:
Central West End/Forest Park/Wydown
Soulard
Benton Park
Lafayette Square
Tower Grove, which includes a subset of neighborhoods.
Washington Ave
The Hill
The Grove
Dogtown
Midtown/Cortex
Downtown West
Ballpark Village
Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others, some are connected/strung together better than others.
Soulard is walkable French 1800’s red brick Federal style walkable pub crawl, farmer’s market, breweries, etc…while Benton Park/Cherokee Street (cast iron) (and Lafayette Square (1800’s multi colored French Victorians) are very close, it’s easier for a very short drive.
Washington Ave is walkable 1800’s Garment District, Loft Warehouse Brick.
Central West End is tree lined streets walkable, mix of architectural styles, old and more recently modern, much of it turn of century tree lined cobble stone street mansions.
and so on…
BBQ, besides the listed ones, which are all good choices, Sugarfire Smokehouse if you are on Washington Ave, Adam’s if in Clifton Heights (a Pappy’s offshoot), Hogtown if in Dogtown, Shaved Duck if in Tower Grove East, Soulfood meets BBQ. David Sandusky owns the various BEAST BBQ locations, some in Metro East but there is one in Forest Park Southeast called Beast Butcher & Block. I haven’t seen it yet but he is on some show on food network each week called BBQ Brawl (I think that’s the name) with other celebrity Chefs. He’s getting a lot of buzz there.
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Pro trip: Driving in Venice will end up being catastrophic. About as bad as laboring through a horrible Cardinals game in 100% St. Louis summer humidity.
Well, driving in Venice would be quite wet. ;D
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Have a co-worker whose daughter is touring Marquette next week and looking for restaurant recommendations in the area. Haven't been down there in quite some time as I only come back to Milwaukee once a year. Can you guys throw out some recs on some good restaurants in the area for burgers, Mexican, steak, etc.?
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Have a co-worker whose daughter is touring Marquette next week and looking for restaurant recommendations in the area. Haven't been down there in quite some time as I only come back to Milwaukee once a year. Can you guys throw out some recs on some good restaurants in the area for burgers, Mexican, steak, etc.?
Best Mexican I've had in Milwaukee and possibly ever is Tavo's Signature on blue mound road. Seriously their red mole is on another level.
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Have a co-worker whose daughter is touring Marquette next week and looking for restaurant recommendations in the area. Haven't been down there in quite some time as I only come back to Milwaukee once a year. Can you guys throw out some recs on some good restaurants in the area for burgers, Mexican, steak, etc.?
Real chili
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Have a co-worker whose daughter is touring Marquette next week and looking for restaurant recommendations in the area. Haven't been down there in quite some time as I only come back to Milwaukee once a year. Can you guys throw out some recs on some good restaurants in the area for burgers, Mexican, steak, etc.?
For a casual meal, steer them down to the Third Ward. Plenty of choices, and shows them a cool part of Milwaukee.
And for steak, you can't go wrong with Five O'Clock .
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For a casual meal, steer them down to the Third Ward. Plenty of choices, and shows them a cool part of Milwaukee.
And for steak, you can't go wrong with Five O'Clock .
Agreed. We really like Sweet Diner in that area for Brunch and lunch options. There’s a lot of cool options there or going through the Public Market.
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Have a co-worker whose daughter is touring Marquette next week and looking for restaurant recommendations in the area. Haven't been down there in quite some time as I only come back to Milwaukee once a year. Can you guys throw out some recs on some good restaurants in the area for burgers, Mexican, steak, etc.?
Personally, take her to somewhere downtown. She will get to see the downtown area which is memorable. Spend the rest of the time at a campus spot like Sobelman's. Something where the other kids hang out. Going to 5 O'clock would be alright, if not a bit stuffy. Definitely showcases the 'supper club' dining that is home to Wisconsin... but is it fun for an 18 year old? nahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
I'd aim for the Ale Asylum Riverhouse, the Safe House, or Cafe Benelux for something that would appeal to more young people/downtown vibe.
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Thanks for the recommendations
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Personally, take her to somewhere downtown. She will get to see the downtown area which is memorable. Spend the rest of the time at a campus spot like Sobelman's. Something where the other kids hang out. Going to 5 O'clock would be alright, if not a bit stuffy. Definitely showcases the 'supper club' dining that is home to Wisconsin... but is it fun for an 18 year old? nahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
I'd aim for the Ale Asylum Riverhouse, the Safe House, or Cafe Benelux for something that would appeal to more young people/downtown vibe.
Safe house seemed cheesey when I visited my sister in MKE at 16yrs old. Now it's older and even more cheesey. Benelux especially the rooftop is a solid option. Ale asylum is no longer there it's the third street tavern.
Loaded slate roof top would be cool as would the good city in the deer district. Here's a list to check out since rooftops are in right now:
https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/rooftop-patios
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Safe house seemed cheesey when I visited my sister in MKE at 16yrs old. Now it's older and even more cheesey. Benelux especially the rooftop is a solid option. Ale asylum is no longer there it's the third street tavern.
Loaded slate roof top would be cool as would the good city in the deer district. Here's a list to check out since rooftops are in right now:
https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/rooftop-patios
I thought Third Street Tavern took over for the Mexican Restaurant/Tequilla Bar.
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I thought Third Street Tavern took over for the Mexican Restaurant/Tequilla Bar.
Idk maybe they split the address? It's all the same building/address, could be Whitail is in the specific unit Ale Asylum was.
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Jake's Deli iz a kant miss fore dat authentic MKE realism, hey?
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Docs
Jakes should be on any shortlist, IMO. Your post reminding me that I have not been there for awhile and inked it in for lunch tomorrow.
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Idk maybe they split the address? It's all the same building/address, could be Whitail is in the specific unit Ale Asylum was.
Ah. Makes sense. I know Ale Asylum has been rumored to close for the last 3 years. Didn’t realize it finally happened. I think there’s much better breweries in Milwaukee area, but a cool location.
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Safe house seemed cheesey when I visited my sister in MKE at 16yrs old. Now it's older and even more cheesey. Benelux especially the rooftop is a solid option. Ale asylum is no longer there it's the third street tavern.
Loaded slate roof top would be cool as would the good city in the deer district. Here's a list to check out since rooftops are in right now:
https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/rooftop-patios
Totally agree about SafeHouse. It was a bit corny when I was there more than a decade ago. I get that its a "legendary" Milwaukee spot, but its far from hip or cool for someone in their early 20s.
If you're talking rooftops, the Journeyman's roof is as good as it gets in Milwaukee IMO. Great space, good views, great atmosphere. And there is tons of good restaurants nearby.
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Personally, take her to somewhere downtown. She will get to see the downtown area which is memorable. Spend the rest of the time at a campus spot like Sobelman's. Something where the other kids hang out. Going to 5 O'clock would be alright, if not a bit stuffy. Definitely showcases the 'supper club' dining that is home to Wisconsin... but is it fun for an 18 year old? nahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
I'd aim for the Ale Asylum Riverhouse, the Safe House, or Cafe Benelux for something that would appeal to more young people/downtown vibe.
The Safe House?
"Hello, fellow kids."
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The Safe House?
"Hello, fellow kids."
Lmao that is the epitome of buscemi
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The Safe House?
"Hello, fellow kids."
I mean, it's entertaining for what it is. I didn't imply it was cool or whatever. Just something more memorable than going to somewhere way off campus in Brookfield or West Allis.
I clearly haven't spent enough time dining out in downtown Milwaukee in the last yea.r 8-)
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I mean, it's entertaining for what it is. I didn't imply it was cool or whatever. Just something more memorable than going to somewhere way off campus in Brookfield or West Allis.
I clearly haven't spent enough time dining out in downtown Milwaukee in the last yea.r 8-)
Year? I thought the safe house was lame 25 years ago on my one and only visit.
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Year? I thought the safe house was lame 25 years ago on my one and only visit.
I haven't been in 5 years since my buddy that had a lifetime membership at the Safe House passed. I think it improved quite a bite since 25 years ago. The secret entrance from the News Room pub, secret entrance from Wells Street with fake elevator ride etc. besides the normal spy crap, Sneaky Pete etc. they've always had make it a unique stop albeit not for more than a drink or 2.
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Have a co-worker whose daughter is touring Marquette next week and looking for restaurant recommendations in the area. Haven't been down there in quite some time as I only come back to Milwaukee once a year. Can you guys throw out some recs on some good restaurants in the area for burgers, Mexican, steak, etc.?
If your friend and his daughter don't mind walking a bit, I'd recommend:
1. Start at van Buren amd Brady. Walk east on Brady. She will get to see a different side of Milwaukee than the campus area. Walk all the way to the walkway down to the lakefront (so cross Prospect Ave.) and then walk north along Lincoln Memorial Drive to Collectivo. Grab coffee or a smoothy or lunch. They will enjoy the contrast of city v lakefront.
2. Uber back to their starting point. Now grab the pedestrian walkway on the northside of Brady street and van Buren and walk across the river on the marsupial bridge and then cross down to Lakefront Brewery. Stop for a tour, or something to eat. Or not. Walk on the west side of the river as far as they can tolerate, but at least up to Juneau and then just walk a couple of blocks to see the Fiserv and Deer District. Uber back to starting point (assuming they are driving).
Each of those strolls is just a little over a mile. And she will see a big chunk of Milwaukee's best sites: the lakefront and the river.
3. Another nice walk (as other's have mentioned) is the Third Ward area. Start at the Milwaukee Market, corner of Water and St. Paul, take in the Market, then grab the riverwalk on the east side of the river, and walk it all the way to the mouth of the harbor. That's almost exactly one mile, and they will pass by several restaurants, including the Milwaukee Ale House, and Riverfront Pizza. Or if in the evening, shorten the walk along the river, by heading east on Chicago street to the Journeyman Hotel where they should grab an appetizer and a drink on the rooftop.
Summertime in Milwaukee is very nice.
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St. Louis is the Applebee's of American cities.
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Well, driving in Venice would be quite wet. ;D
At least someone on here gets my dry jokes.
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St. Louis is the Applebee's of American cities.
Haha This'll be my third adult try, 7th visit overall. once in college with ex, once with college friends, now with fiancé. So I like to think I'll have given it a fair shake as a city
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Haha This'll be my third adult try, 7th visit overall. once in college with ex, once with college friends, now with fiancé. So I like to think I'll have given it a fair shake as a city
Whether it’s NYC, L.A., D.C., Nashville, Chicago, Milwaukee, or anywhere else I’ve lived or visited, there are many great places if you know where to go, what to do and see and whom with to do it.
Even I know that Kenosha and the Il/WI border is about more than Applebee’s, Mars Cheese Castle and speeding tickets. Or, despite those people rarely getting to the city, fun can be had in Chicagoland too.
Fun U23 Women’s UWS playoff game at The MAC in Crystal Lake last night. 👍
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Portland voted best pizza city :-\
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/best-pizza-city-us-modernist-authors/index.html
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Portland voted best pizza city :-\
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/best-pizza-city-us-modernist-authors/index.html
I voted for St Louis. ;D
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By the way, I forgot he has Galway in his name. He really needs to hit up McGurk’s in Soulard for an outdoor beverage if he has Galway in his name. Beer garden is in the back. (I’ve spent a bit of time of at The Quays and the like in Galway, Ireland.)
Thanks for the recommendation it's some good craic as the fiancé and her family are all KO'd at the Airbnb. Wish it was as social as a brewery but it's a Sunday so can't expect any better
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Thanks for the recommendation it's some good craic as the fiancé and her family are all KO'd at the Airbnb. Wish it was as social as a brewery but it's a Sunday so can't expect any better
👍
You can walk to a lot of good bars and restaurants from there.
4 Hands Brewery is a mile from there on 8th street.
Bluewood and Square One are also close to there. Ask the staff.
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👍
You can walk to a lot of good bars and restaurants from there.
4 Hands Brewery is a mile from there on 8th street.
Bluewood and Square One are also close to there. Ask the staff.
Tried to go to Bluewood (forgot my mask figuring I wouldn't need it b/c Missouri), 4 hands is right by my Airbnb, probably hit that tomorrow as I want to stay here for the music. Snagging dinner at Broadway oyster bar
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Tried to go to Bluewood (forgot my mask figuring I wouldn't need it b/c Missouri), 4 hands is right by my Airbnb, probably hit that tomorrow as I want to stay here for the music. Snagging dinner at Broadway oyster bar
Those are good choices. There will probably be music at Broadway Oyster Bar as well.
(And, Stl, KC, CoMo, are different from the rest of the state when it comes to masks etc…)
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Totally agree about SafeHouse. It was a bit corny when I was there more than a decade ago. I get that its a "legendary" Milwaukee spot, but its far from hip or cool for someone in their early 20s.
If you're talking rooftops, the Journeyman's roof is as good as it gets in Milwaukee IMO. Great space, good views, great atmosphere. And there is tons of good restaurants nearby.
Seconded.
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Has anyone been to Copenhagen? May be part of a trip next June.
Is it really as outrageously expensive as people say?
For context, we were in Switzerland in 2019. Yes it was pricey. But food and beverage, while expensive, wasn’t staggering. If it weren’t for the train/cable cars, it wasn’t a nightmare of costs.
Looking at staying at the AC hotel by their convention center. Quick 12 minute trip into city center on the metro. Good/bad choice? Can stay there on points.
Any other pointers?
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Has anyone been to Copenhagen? May be part of a trip next June.
Is it really as outrageously expensive as people say?
For context, we were in Switzerland in 2019. Yes it was pricey. But food and beverage, while expensive, wasn’t staggering. If it weren’t for the train/cable cars, it wasn’t a nightmare of costs.
Looking at staying at the AC hotel by their convention center. Quick 12 minute trip into city center on the metro. Good/bad choice? Can stay there on points.
Any other pointers?
In my experience, Scandinavia in general is shockingly expensive, Copenhagen is no different. Oslo is the only place i remember being as ridic expensive. Switzerland is pricey but not Nordic pricey.
But its a really fricken cool city. Fantastic food scene, nice people, great English proficiency which helps. Also feels small and not sprawling.
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Thanks. I’ve heard Norway horror stories. From what I’ve checked, Copenhagen isn’t in that ballpark.
If it were the only destination, I wouldn’t worry, but we are also going to Paris and a place in Germany where the lodging is pricey. And with a kid headed to college a couple months later, price becomes a concern.
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Pbi,
I agree with Wags' comments.
The family and I spent about 4-5 days in Copenhagen in the summer of 2018 after visiting family in Poland and a stop in Krakow. (OK, well sort of ) We stayed in Malmo, Sweden because the hotels were like 60-65% cheaper. Hotels in Malmo may have been even cheaper if Malmofestavalen wasn't going on. (A Scandinavian Lollapalooza music fest.) Granted tickets on the 30 minute train ride over the Oresund bridge gave back a lot of the savings.
Malmo was like staying in Alexandria to visit DC. We went Icelandic horseback riding in south Copenhagen one day. Visited Roskilde where all the Danish Kings are buried and home to the awesome Viking Ship Museum. We visited Kronborg Castle in Helsingbor, the home of Hamlet one day where the play was acted out all day in the actual rooms Shakespeare wrote the scenes.
Copenhagen was great. The parks we're wonderful, Nyhavn (New Haven) as colorful and picturesque as described. We saw the crown jewels of Denmark and the little mermaid statue. Ate smorrebrod, traditional Danish open face sandwiches in Hojbro Plads. Hojbro Plads is the fictional home of character Cotton Malone from the Steve Berry novels. It was cool to see in person. My wife liked shopping at Ilums Bolighus. Everyone rides bikes and the metro worked well. Very walkable city
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We are taking a family trip to the Croatian Islands, but due to COVID have not been through international security lines for some time now, and not sure if with additional protocols it might take longer to get through. Should I prep for similar times to get through or are there additional protocols that might take longer than pre-COVID?
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We are taking a family trip to the Croatian Islands, but due to COVID have not been through international security lines for some time now, and not sure if with additional protocols it might take longer to get through. Should I prep for similar times to get through or are there additional protocols that might take longer than pre-COVID?
Departing the US? Depending on where you're departing from and what airline, the domestic and international security are one and the same, aka any major US carrier from major US airports.
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We are taking a family trip to the Croatian Islands, but due to COVID have not been through international security lines for some time now, and not sure if with additional protocols it might take longer to get through. Should I prep for similar times to get through or are there additional protocols that might take longer than pre-COVID?
My wife just flew internationally. Despite being vaccinated, you have to show a negative COVID test coming back. Delta/KLM wouldn't let her on the plane in Warsaw without it and they were following US state department rules. It cost her $100 for the test. Some friends of ours left for Poland last week and it will cost them $400 in testing to fly home. She said at Schipol Airport you would not know there was a pandemic and interestingly everywhere got very lazy stamping passports.
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Departing the US? Depending on where you're departing from and what airline, the domestic and international security are one and the same, aka any major US carrier from major US airports.
Leaving ORD and it is at 6 pm taking United (Lufthansa). Based on average wait times when looking at the TSA website does not seem like it would be too bad, but wanted to see if anybody had any experience first hand.
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My wife just flew internationally. Despite being vaccinated, you have to show a negative COVID test coming back. Delta/KLM wouldn't let her on the plane in Warsaw without it and they were following US state department rules. It cost her $100 for the test. Some friends of ours left for Poland last week and it will cost them $400 in testing to fly home. She said at Schipol Airport you would not know there was a pandemic and interestingly everywhere got very lazy stamping passports.
Yeah, saw that and already have some rapid tests that are approved from Abbott labs that we can do ourselves via video conference to verify the person who is taking it is who they say they are. Tested one out and it works pretty seamlessly. Was a bit more expensive but worth the convenience in my opinion.
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Leaving ORD and it is at 6 pm taking United (Lufthansa). Based on average wait times when looking at the TSA website does not seem like it would be too bad, but wanted to see if anybody had any experience first hand.
My wife said security wait times were pretty normal but baggage drop off / check-in took longer than usual both at JFK & international locations because they are checking all the COVID stuff. May want to give yourself a little extra time for check-in.
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Leaving ORD and it is at 6 pm taking United (Lufthansa). Based on average wait times when looking at the TSA website does not seem like it would be too bad, but wanted to see if anybody had any experience first hand.
Well is it United or Lufthansa? Not trying to be difficult but it is important. Cause if you're out of Terminal 1 on United, it would be the same as flying to Orlando (with maybe a bit more of an issue with checking bags). Security lines are the same. If you have pre-check, you'd buzz right through.
If its Lufthansa, out of Terminal 5, then it may be longer cause they don't have Pre-Check there to my knowledge. At least they don't in the international terminal at Newark. All my international flights at ORD are on United out of T1 so I dont know for sure.
Depending on how much time you have before you leave, I'd highly recommend Global Entry if you don't already have it. Ive heard NIGHTMARE stories about the delays on people coming back into the US. It was the best travel related perk I ever spent on (besides pre-check obviously)
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Well is it United or Lufthansa? Not trying to be difficult but it is important. Cause if you're out of Terminal 1 on United, it would be the same as flying to Orlando (with maybe a bit more of an issue with checking bags). Security lines are the same. If you have pre-check, you'd buzz right through.
If its Lufthansa, out of Terminal 5, then it may be longer cause they don't have Pre-Check there to my knowledge. At least they don't in the international terminal at Newark. All my international flights at ORD are on United out of T1 so I dont know for sure.
Depending on how much time you have before you leave, I'd highly recommend Global Entry if you don't already have it. Ive heard NIGHTMARE stories about the delays on people coming back into the US. It was the best travel related perk I ever spent on (besides pre-check obviously)
Great clarifying question, as I had to double check and it is a UA flight. We had another flight that was cancelled and it was Lufthansa which is why I put both. I guess I had not realized it would not all be out of the ORD international terminal because I always had flown with a European plane when flying over there. Definitely doing the pre-check and great call on Global Entry!! Thanks!
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Well is it United or Lufthansa? Not trying to be difficult but it is important. Cause if you're out of Terminal 1 on United, it would be the same as flying to Orlando (with maybe a bit more of an issue with checking bags). Security lines are the same. If you have pre-check, you'd buzz right through.
If its Lufthansa, out of Terminal 5, then it may be longer cause they don't have Pre-Check there to my knowledge. At least they don't in the international terminal at Newark. All my international flights at ORD are on United out of T1 so I dont know for sure.
Depending on how much time you have before you leave, I'd highly recommend Global Entry if you don't already have it. Ive heard NIGHTMARE stories about the delays on people coming back into the US. It was the best travel related perk I ever spent on (besides pre-check obviously)
LH leaves ORD out of T1 / UA gates.
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Has anyone been to Copenhagen? May be part of a trip next June.
Is it really as outrageously expensive as people say?
For context, we were in Switzerland in 2019. Yes it was pricey. But food and beverage, while expensive, wasn’t staggering. If it weren’t for the train/cable cars, it wasn’t a nightmare of costs.
Looking at staying at the AC hotel by their convention center. Quick 12 minute trip into city center on the metro. Good/bad choice? Can stay there on points.
Any other pointers?
Hahah, I’ve stayed at this AC (Bella Sky) on points. Stunning architecture but certainly away from the action. Doing it over I’d throw down the money to stay centrally. Driverless trams are free, frequent and easy but count on 20+ minutes to where you’re heading, minimum.
If you’re traveling with kids the zoo is insanely good; the animals appear happy and untranquilized unlike their American peers. If you’re not, make your reservations for Noma or Geranium now.
Enjoy the Mikkeler, the snegls and the god damn excellent coffee.
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Thanks everyone for the great Copenhagen insight. Appreciate it. Some great tips. Was waffling on Roskilde, but sounds like it’s worth it.
Right now the AC is too cheap on points to pass up, but we are looking at AirBnBs as well. So a plan B insurance policy.
Is Malmo worth a day trip? Kind of tempting just to add a new country.
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Thanks everyone for the great Copenhagen insight. Appreciate it. Some great tips. Was waffling on Roskilde, but sounds like it’s worth it.
Right now the AC is too cheap on points to pass up, but we are looking at AirBnBs as well. So a plan B insurance policy.
Is Malmo worth a day trip? Kind of tempting just to add a new country.
PBI - Yes, on Roskilde. You won't be disappointed on the Vikingeskibsmuseet. Most importantly, make sure you book a reservation on the 1 hour plus boat ride on a handmade Viking ship. The passengers have to help oar out of the dock and help raise the sail. The living museum has been featured on a zillion US TV shows.
https://www.facebook.com/Vikingeskibsmuseet/
Malmo you can probably do in a 1/2 day and it has it's own medieval square as well as palace behind a moat as well as a Frank Gehry Building (Twisting Torso). My wife and kids just wanted to visit a Fjallraven store. The other cool part is you get to go over the Oresund Bridge, an architectural marvel in it's own as well as interesting water views. Sweden is definitely different than Denmark and you'll see.
https://visitsweden.com/where-to-go/southern-sweden/malmo/
My daughter found a TV show after our visit and we watched the first two seasons. The Bridge (Bron/Broen) staring Kim Bodnia from Killing Eve. A murder is found on the Oresund Bridge and the body is half in Denmark and half in Sweden and involves joint detective team from Copenhagen & Malmo.
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No Göteborg love?
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Hahah, I’ve stayed at this AC (Bella Sky) on points. Stunning architecture but certainly away from the action. Doing it over I’d throw down the money to stay centrally. Driverless trams are free, frequent and easy but count on 20+ minutes to where you’re heading, minimum.
If you’re traveling with kids the zoo is insanely good; the animals appear happy and untranquilized unlike their American peers. If you’re not, make your reservations for Noma or Geranium now.
Enjoy the Mikkeler, the snegls and the god damn excellent coffee.
Kids in two, so Noma is out. But I did find a pizza place by a michelin star chef.
I've had Mikkeller twice, once in Switzerland, once at a local bar here (thanks untappd!) . Tasty. Went to their website. It is god awful. Looks like there are several locations for them. Any particular one to visit? Looks like the Meatpacking district one is interesting, as does the waterfront Baghaven location.
Looking forward to the coffee. Everyone seems to rave about it. Enjoyed the experience in Vienna, but they are a bit pretentious about it to say the least.
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Has anyone been to Copenhagen? May be part of a trip next June.
Is it really as outrageously expensive as people say?
For context, we were in Switzerland in 2019. Yes it was pricey. But food and beverage, while expensive, wasn’t staggering. If it weren’t for the train/cable cars, it wasn’t a nightmare of costs.
Looking at staying at the AC hotel by their convention center. Quick 12 minute trip into city center on the metro. Good/bad choice? Can stay there on points.
Any other pointers?
I was only there two days but I would highly recommend the Louisiana Art Museum outside of Copenhagen. I believe "Hamlet's castle" is in the same town. Their outdoor sculpture garden is phenomenal with several of the GOATS including Calder and Miro. It's a gorgeous setting overlooking the water and well worth the visit.
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Has anyone traveled to the EU lately? Was your vaccination card sufficient proof of vaccination? Did you get a test within 72 hours to be safe?
Honeymoon is the first week of September. Based on what I've read, it seems Croatia is accepting vaccinated travelers from the USA without proof of a negative test. But I'm slightly worried that my paper vaccination card won't be sufficient.
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Has anyone traveled to the EU lately? Was your vaccination card sufficient proof of vaccination? Did you get a test within 72 hours to be safe?
Honeymoon is the first week of September. Based on what I've read, it seems Croatia is accepting vaccinated travelers from the USA without proof of a negative test. But I'm slightly worried that my paper vaccination card won't be sufficient.
Whatever you do, don't rely on some mope from some Interwebs sports site for your information. Get an answer from an official source.
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Whatever you do, don't rely on some mope from some Interwebs sports site for your information. Get an answer from an official source.
The official source says vaccination cards are accepted, but I've heard of people who have had trouble with them.
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Whatever you do, don't rely on some mope from some Interwebs sports site for your information. Get an answer from an official source.
Too bad you don’t know a former travel industry expert whose currently in Croatia! ;)
But yeah, what she said. And check not only your final destination, but any connecting airports not in the US.
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According to chick’s travel industry guy currently in Croatia, a CDC vaccine card was sufficient for entry.
But that was a month ago. As the very wise chick said, check with officials.
Entry requirements can and do change .
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Has anyone traveled to the EU lately? Was your vaccination card sufficient proof of vaccination? Did you get a test within 72 hours to be safe?
Honeymoon is the first week of September. Based on what I've read, it seems Croatia is accepting vaccinated travelers from the USA without proof of a negative test. But I'm slightly worried that my paper vaccination card won't be sufficient.
One of my good friends is with his wife in France right now. Their vaccination cards were acceptable. They took tests 48 hours ahead of departure but said they didn't end up needing them. Biggest issue was that the customs line at CDG was 2 hours long.
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Has anyone traveled to the EU lately? Was your vaccination card sufficient proof of vaccination? Did you get a test within 72 hours to be safe?
Honeymoon is the first week of September. Based on what I've read, it seems Croatia is accepting vaccinated travelers from the USA without proof of a negative test. But I'm slightly worried that my paper vaccination card won't be sufficient.
See my various posts a few pages back on my wife's visit to Poland to see her parents earlier this month.
And on Amazon, you can buy little hard plastic zip close pouches that fit the vaccine card perfectly.
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I know we have more than a few NYC scoopers out there.
What is your best bagel place? I've been to more than a few, but I need a new one for this weekend.
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I know we have more than a few NYC scoopers out there.
What is your best bagel place? I've been to more than a few, but I need a new one for this weekend.
What part of town? It would be easier to recommend based on that. I’m partial to Brooklyn Bagel (Chelsea, Astoria etc..) but it you aren’t near those locations, there are many others to choose from.
If you are near Chelsea Piers for sports, or Chelsea Market, or the High Line or MSG, etc…hit the one in Chelsea.
But you can find good ones in different neighborhoods.
Also, my recs may or may not vary based on your order. Bagel vs Bagel sandwich vs cream cheese vs bacon/egf/cheese etc…coffee etc…I may like certain aspects of one place vs another.
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Speaking of bagels, if you go to Montreal, you have to have St Viateur bagels. Some consider it better than any place in New York.
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What part of town? It would be easier to recommend based on that. I’m partial to Brooklyn Bagel (Chelsea, Astoria etc..) but it you aren’t near those locations, there are many others to choose from.
If you are near Chelsea Piers for sports, or Chelsea Market, or the High Line or etc…hit the one in Chelsea.
But you can find good ones in different neighborhoods.
Also, my recs may or may not vary based on your order. Bagel vs Bagel sandwich vs cream cheese vs bacon/egf/cheese etc…coffee etc…I may like certain aspects of one place vs another.
Anywhere south of the park (I know, big area). Personally, I prefer bagel sandwiches, but my friend prefers just a bagel. We've dipped into places all over the city... here are some I can remember
Zuckers
Murrays
Kossars
probably a couple of others that I can't remember... Have you had Heavenly? We will for sure check out Brooklyn Bagel.
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Speaking of bagels, if you go to Montreal, you have to have St Viateur bagels. Some consider it better than any place in New York.
Had it, and it is damn good. Montreal is an awesome city.
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Dude ya gotta hit Zabar's for hand cut lox. You'll immediately sign up for a circumcision right there, hey?
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Anywhere south of the park (I know, big area). Personally, I prefer bagel sandwiches, but my friend prefers just a bagel. We've dipped into places all over the city... here are some I can remember
Zuckers
Murrays
Kossars
probably a couple of others that I can't remember... Have you had Heavenly? We will for sure check out Brooklyn Bagel.
Brooklyn Bagel is known for their light and airy bagels and their massive selection of both bagels and cream cheese. Coffee is decent and solid but you can get better coffee other places in the neighborhood. (I’m friendly with the people at Joe’s Coffee not too far from there, but you don’t need to go out of your way for it) On a nice day, wait in line, grab your bagels etc and walk over to the Piers or High Line from there.
If you are a bit closer to MSG in Midtown, Best Bagel and Liberty may be good choices that satisfy the variety of interests of your group. They aren’t too far from BBCC. They are good.
I think you can do better at say an Ess-a-Bagel vs a Zossars if in similar neighborhoods of each. Heavenly is fine. It’s probably known more for its sandwiches than bagels, and stick to Greenwich Village and Lower East Side locations.
I would focus on what neighborhood you are in that day or are planning to go to that day, and work around that and combine things. There’s no need to go way out of your way for one thing and way out of your way for another thing. Too many choices for that.
And pay attention to quality vs name recognition, especially older places. Sometimes those things match up and sometimes they don’t. (like pizza). And some places keep up better over time than others. Nothing like a bacon, egg, and cheese bagel to start your day in the city.
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Dude ya gotta hit Zabar's for hand cut lox. You'll immediately sign up for a circumcision right there, hey?
I'll probably check er out on another time, but thanks for the rec.
Brooklyn Bagel is known for their light and airy bagels and their massive selection of both bagels and cream cheese. Coffee is decent and solid but you can get better coffee other places in the neighborhood. (I’m friendly with the people at Joe’s Coffee not too far from there, but you don’t need to go out of your way for it) On a nice day, wait in line, grab your bagels etc and walk over to the Piers or High Line from there.
If you are a bit closer to MSG in Midtown, Best Bagel and Liberty may be good choices that satisfy the variety of interests of your group. They aren’t too far from BBCC. They are good.
I think you can do better at say an Ess-a-Bagel vs a Zossars if in similar neighborhoods of each. Heavenly is fine. It’s probably known more for its sandwiches than bagels, and stick to Greenwich Village and Lower East Side locations.
I would focus on what neighborhood you are in that day or are planning to go to that day, and work around that and combine things. There’s no need to go way out of your way for one thing and way out of your way for another thing. Too many choices for that.
And pay attention to quality vs name recognition, especially older places. Sometimes those things match up and sometimes they don’t. (like pizza). And some places keep up better over time than others. Nothing like a bacon, egg, and cheese bagel to start your day in the city.
The friend that my wife and I are traveling with is obsessed with bagels, so we will probably have one every morning despite my protests.
At least now I have a couple of places to steer towards instead of trying to google things in the morning. Appreciate the info!
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Anybody back to pre-Covid levels of business travel again? I will be firing up on a limited basis (compared to pre-Covid) in August. Full-bore in October.
Well that didn’t work out so well. Work travel suspended indefinitely before we ever even got started.
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I'll probably check er out on another time, but thanks for the rec.
The friend that my wife and I are traveling with is obsessed with bagels, so we will probably have one every morning despite my protests.
At least now I have a couple of places to steer towards instead of trying to google things in the morning. Appreciate the info!
Yep. Sure. Those are some good ones. And, there are some good neighborhood bagel alternative places, depending on where you are and type of food you are seeking.
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Well that didn’t work out so well. Work travel suspended indefinitely before we ever even got started.
I have a big convention in Vegas in two weeks. While there is no chance it gets cancelled, the attendance list seems to be dwindling. To be fair, a lot of the big retailers and buyers don't like going cause it can be an exhausting few days of constantly being pawed at and pitched, so they can often use any excuse to back out or cut the trip short. Delta is as good a reason as any.
Amusingly, my Indian associates and customers are CLAMORING for me to make a trip there claiming COVID isn't much an issue there anymore. But I don't trust ANYTHING data wise coming from there. And wearing a mask constantly in the humid and heat there sounds like a nightmare. But then again, I'm so starved for long haul travel, I'd go almost anywhere.
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Anyone done high speed trains in Italy?
They look like they are really something. And, are strikes a real threat nowadays?
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Anyone done high speed trains in Italy?
They look like they are really something. And, are strikes a real threat nowadays?
They are nice. I'd recommend them.
As for strikes, yes, but with the trains, its not always terrible. The random WTF air traffic controller strikes in France and Spain over the last decade are far worse and far more spontaneous. Don't even get me started on how much that has cost me. A $100 EasyJet flight from Basel to London turned into a $750 Lufthansa flight through Munich cause France had a fun little strike one day and the entire country's airspace was out of commission.
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Have even more respect for United Airlines today as a result of their consideration.
As other posts have shown, my wife and I are headed to Italy in early October. We paid for two business class seats, round-trip via Frankfurt. The fare was $3,325 each when we booked last May.
In the past few days, United lowered the posted business class fair on United.Com to $2,200 round-trip. I saw it and immediately called the 1K desk trying to figure out how to take advantage of the lower fare. The agent looked and within a couple of seconds, acknowledged that the fare was quite a bit less expensive and issued us a flight credit for the difference.
I was pleasantly stunned. With no change penalty, we received over $2,200 in flight credits good until next May.
Hats off to United! It's why I fly United!
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Have even more respect for United Airlines today as a result of their consideration.
As other posts have shown, my wife and I are headed to Italy in early October. We paid for two business class seats, round-trip via Frankfurt. The fare was $3,325 each when we booked last May.
In the past few days, United lowered the posted business class fair on United.Com to $2,200 round-trip. I saw it and immediately called the 1K desk trying to figure out how to take advantage of the lower fare. The agent looked and within a couple of seconds, acknowledged that the fare was quite a bit less expensive and issued us a flight credit for the difference.
I was pleasantly stunned. With no change penalty, we received over $2,200 in flight credits good until next May.
Hats off to United! It's why I fly United!
I'm a fellow 1K as you know, so its not like I'm anti-United, however, they have no change fees for any flights originating in the US, and have been that way since COVID got rolling. So good on the agent for doing it herself and being upfront about it, but you could have booked to a different flight or moved around and taken advantage of the lower fare given no change fees anymore 8-)
That being said, Ive been pleasantly surprised by the Scott Kirby-led United as of late. They've been proactive and customer focused which is a nice change. Being the first US airline to require employee vaccination is a good PR as well.
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I'm a fellow 1K as you know, so its not like I'm anti-United, however, they have no change fees for any flights originating in the US, and have been that way since COVID got rolling. So good on the agent for doing it herself and being upfront about it, but you could have booked to a different flight or moved around and taken advantage of the lower fare given no change fees anymore 8-)
That being said, Ive been pleasantly surprised by the Scott Kirby-led United as of late. They've been proactive and customer focused which is a nice change. Being the first US airline to require employee vaccination is a good PR as well.
I probably could have done it myself and it's theoretically easy to do. But, geez, ya never know how it will sort out digitally.
The agent was really nice about it.
I have mixed feelings about the Kirby-led United. I really appreciate the vaccination mandate and I see some of what you're saying. But, I also think they have used Covid-19 to get cheap at times. Not opening the United Clubs until recently and not opening Polaris lounges is kinda dumb.
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I probably could have done it myself and it's theoretically easy to do. But, geez, ya never know how it will sort out digitally.
The agent was really nice about it.
I have mixed feelings about the Kirby-led United. I really appreciate the vaccination mandate and I see some of what you're saying. But, I also think they have used Covid-19 to get cheap at times. Not opening the United Clubs until recently and not opening Polaris lounges is kinda dumb.
I think all major US airlines are doing this for non basic economy airfares. I know Delta is.
As for doing it via agent rather than electronically, I am right there with you. So many times I have had them make changes where it should be straight forward, yet isn't.
Enjoy your trip, it is a great time of year to see Italy.
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Anyone done high speed trains in Italy?
They look like they are really something. And, are strikes a real threat nowadays?
The trains are great. Used them in Nov 2019 to crisscross the country. On time, clean, simple.
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Has anyone been to Easter Island? Can you get MU games there?
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Has anyone spent much time in Atlanta? I've been there but it's been awhile. Restaurants? Any recommendations besides the Aquarium?
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Has anyone spent much time in Atlanta? I've been there but it's been awhile. Restaurants? Any recommendations besides the Aquarium?
If you don't have a car, just bum around downtown. The city is a sprawling mess.
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Anyone done high speed trains in Italy?
They look like they are really something. And, are strikes a real threat nowadays?
I've done the high speed trains, and they're great. But I question how Italian they are, since they always seem to be on time...
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If you don't have a car, just bum around downtown. The city is a sprawling mess.
Okay. Ty HA.
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Has anyone spent much time in Atlanta? I've been there but it's been awhile. Restaurants? Any recommendations besides the Aquarium?
Where are you staying and do you have a car?
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Where are you staying and do you have a car?
Loews Atlanta. I think it's in Midtown? I can get a car if neccessary.
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Loews Atlanta. I think it's in Midtown? I can get a car if neccessary.
Take the train from the airport to the Midtown station (unless you need a car otherwise). I always hit up The Varsity, but I’m a sucker for those kinds of places.
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Loews Atlanta. I think it's in Midtown? I can get a car if neccessary.
Yes that’s midtown which is good. Lot’s of restaurants and cool neighborhoods around there. I will throw out a few types of places/locations. Wouldn’t hurt to have a car but all of the below are walkable or a short Uber ride away.
CAVEAT: I haven’t been down to that area since pre-COVID so I think these all of these places are all still around but not really sure tbh.
JCT Kitchen - great restaurant and rooftop bar with city view
Piedmont Park / Park Tavern - well-known park with good spot to drink outside if weather is nice (and you like dogs)
South City Kitchen
Nan Thai
The Vortex - Atlanta institution for burgers
College football hall of fame
World of Coke
Ponce City Market- converted Sears warehouse building with multiple restaurants/drinking spots both outside and in. Rooftop bar/mini golf is pretty cool. Also located on the BeltLine which is a 20+ mile system of former railways which are now walking trails. Lots of cool restaurants and a good brewery are right there.
Rathbun’s Steak
Virginia highlands neighborhood
Inman Park neighborhood
Without knowing how much time you are spending and interests, the above is a good starting point to get out and explore and have some good eats. If I had to pick two of the above it would be Piedmont Park and Ponce City Market/beltline for good Atlanta experiences.
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Take the train from the airport to the Midtown station (unless you need a car otherwise). I always hit up The Varsity, but I’m a sucker for those kinds of places.
No bueno
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Yes that’s midtown which is good. Lot’s of restaurants and cool neighborhoods around there. I will throw out a few types of places/locations. Wouldn’t hurt to have a car but all of the below are walkable or a short Uber ride away.
CAVEAT: I haven’t been down to that area since pre-COVID so I think these all of these places are all still around but not really sure tbh.
JCT Kitchen - great restaurant and rooftop bar with city view
Piedmont Park / Park Tavern - well-known park with good spot to drink outside if weather is nice (and you like dogs)
South City Kitchen
Nan Thai
The Vortex - Atlanta institution for burgers
College football hall of fame
World of Coke
Ponce City Market- converted Sears warehouse building with multiple restaurants/drinking spots both outside and in. Rooftop bar/mini golf is pretty cool. Also located on the BeltLine which is a 20+ mile system of former railways which are now walking trails. Lots of cool restaurants and a good brewery are right there.
Rathbun’s Steak
Virginia highlands neighborhood
Inman Park neighborhood
Without knowing how much time you are spending and interests, the above is a good starting point to get out and explore and have some good eats. If I had to pick two of the above it would be Piedmont Park and Ponce City Market/beltline for good Atlanta experiences.
Tyvm!! I will have about 1.5 or 2 days where I'm free. Are the restaurants in Buckhead any better than Midtown? I noticed a Greek place that looked good. That Ponce City Market sounds very cool.
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Was it Kyma? Was there once but we’ll over ten years ago. Was fantastic then.
Honestly, Atlanta is known for having TONS of good and mostly affordable restaurants. It is hard to go wrong.
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Was it Kyma? Was there once but we’ll over ten years ago. Was fantastic then.
Honestly, Atlanta is known for having TONS of good and mostly affordable restaurants. It is hard to go wrong.
Yes! Kyma! I thought the menu was impressive.
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Yes. There appear to be a ton of excellent dining options. Brunch thoughts on a Sat? Ty.
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Einsteins
Flying biscuit
South city kitchen
All are very good
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Einsteins
Flying biscuit
South city kitchen
All are very good
Sounds great. I may have to do double workouts when I get home!
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Tyvm!! I will have about 1.5 or 2 days where I'm free. Are the restaurants in Buckhead any better than Midtown? I noticed a Greek place that looked good. That Ponce City Market sounds very cool.
Ponce is worth it for sure. Check out Biltong Bar there, a South African jerky place.
Also, if you are comfortable with MARTa, there are some great restaurants and bars in Decatur. Brick Store Pub is a legendary beer bar.
I spend a ton of time in Atlanta. When I get in front of a computer, I’ll throw out more suggestions.
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No bueno
Es la verdad!
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Es la verdad!
It is an Atlanta institution…but gross IMO
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Ponce is worth it for sure. Check out Biltong Bar there, a South African jerky place.
Also, if you are comfortable with MARTa, there are some great restaurants and bars in Decatur. Brick Store Pub is a legendary beer bar.
I spend a ton of time in Atlanta. When I get in front of a computer, I’ll throw out more suggestions.
Ty, pbiflyer. I will be near Decatur at Emory so will definitely check out that area.
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Take the train from the airport to the Midtown station (unless you need a car otherwise). I always hit up The Varsity, but I’m a sucker for those kinds of places.
Ditto for me.
My industry has an every-other trade show in Atlanta and I always take the train and never rent a car. (I'm bummed because they just decided to go virtual this week for the October show.)
I've stayed DT and Midtown. Piedmont Park is pretty cool for a morning run or walk.
I also always visit the Varsity, as I'm a sucker for local food like this too.
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Go to the Vortex instead. Much better food and a local favorite
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ATL,
Have you ever been to Gunshow? Its a bit east of Downtown. Kevin Gillispe has always been my fav Top Chef alum. I went to Woodfire Grill when he was still head chef and it was one of the best meals ive ever had. Also best restaurant Ive ever been to thats a stones throw away from a legendary strip club, shout out to Onyx and Chesire Bridge Rd!
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Heading to Columbus for the USA-CRC WCQ next month. I don't know anything about the city other than it's where tOSU is located.
We'll probably be there for two nights. Any suggestions on hotels, restaurants, things to do that were worth your time, areas to avoid, etc?
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Heading to Columbus for the USA-CRC WCQ next month. I don't know anything about the city other than it's where tOSU is located.
We'll probably be there for two nights. Any suggestions on hotels, restaurants, things to do that were worth your time, areas to avoid, etc?
Id stay in Short North for sure. Great lively area, tons of bars and restaurants. Also very close to the new Crew stadium. tOSU is directly North. Lots of cool stuff there and into Grandview Heights to the West. Also relatively close to Downtown (not that there is much Downtown in Cbus). I don't know tons on hotel specifics cause Ive always stayed with a few of my close friends in the city.
Fantastic zoo if the weather is nice. German Village south of downtown is a really cool area with a bunch of breweries and restaurants.
Feel free to shoot me a PM if you have more questions or more direct recos.
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ATL,
Have you ever been to Gunshow? Its a bit east of Downtown. Kevin Gillispe has always been my fav Top Chef alum. I went to Woodfire Grill when he was still head chef and it was one of the best meals ive ever had. Also best restaurant Ive ever been to thats a stones throw away from a legendary strip club, shout out to Onyx and Chesire Bridge Rd!
I have not. It does come up as highly ranked in rankings of best restaurants in the city though.
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ATL,
Have you ever been to Gunshow? Its a bit east of Downtown. Kevin Gillispe has always been my fav Top Chef alum. I went to Woodfire Grill when he was still head chef and it was one of the best meals ive ever had. Also best restaurant Ive ever been to thats a stones throw away from a legendary strip club, shout out to Onyx and Chesire Bridge Rd!
Prime Quarter and Visions!
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German Village south of downtown is a really cool area with a bunch of breweries and restaurants.
I don't really know Columbus,like Wags but my company has a sister location in north Columbus. I had to go there for training about 5 months before COVID hell broke loose.
I had 2-3 hours to kill on a late Sunday afternoon on my way there so I walked around DT a little bit (they tore down a mall and made it into a New England style Green.). I went to dinner in German Village which was very cool with the original brick streets and sidewalks. I had good schnitzel. It had much more character them I imagined.
I tried to find the lead singer of 21 Pilots house in Worthington to take a picture for my kids.
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Go to the Vortex instead. Much better food and a local favorite
That looks cool if I want a burger. Ty.
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Loews Atlanta. I think it's in Midtown? I can get a car if neccessary.
What do you like? What kinds of things do you want to experience?
High end, the STK nears the Lowe’s for food is great. If you like a bit of nature, the Piedmont Park near your hotel is a great stroll and the Park Tavern in the park is a good place for food and/or a drink.
Little Five Points is great for dive bars and a short walk to the Wrecking Bar for good food and beers.
Oh and there is a Taco Mac within walking distance of the hotel, and good food but a heckuva beer selection.
As mentioned by ATL above, this is all pre Covid experience.
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What do you like? What kinds of things do you want to experience?
High end, the STK nears the Lowe’s for food is great. If you like a bit of nature, the Piedmont Park near your hotel is a great stroll and the Park Tavern in the park is a good place for food and/or a drink.
Little Five Points is great for dive bars and a short walk to the Wrecking Bar for good food and beers.
Oh and there is a Taco Mac within walking distance of the hotel, and good food but a heckuva beer selection.
As mentioned by ATL above, this is all pre Covid experience.
I like all sorts of things. If I have time I hope to hit various areas of a city and Piedmont Park sounds totally up my alley. I enjoy good food and good beer but am not particularly high maintenance. Dive bars are great, I always like to chat with the locals. Tyvm for the suggestions. It doesn't seem like a car is neccessary unless there's something I'm missing miles outside of the city.
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I like all sorts of things. If I have time I hope to hit various areas of a city and Piedmont Park sounds totally up my alley. I enjoy good food and good beer but am not particularly high maintenance. Dive bars are great, I always like to chat with the locals. Tyvm for the suggestions. It doesn't seem like a car is neccessary unless there's something I'm missing miles outside of the city.
If you like dive bars with character and live music, checkout the Northside Tavern.
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One other Atlanta thing, I took the train and then it was like 10 minute walk to MLK national park. It was just after closure so I did not go into the house or national park building but it was cool to walk down his street and on the front porch of his house, see Ebenezer church, and see his memorial tomb and fountain.
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Ty Reiko and MU Fan in CT.
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Iz Bones still 'round in Buckhead, hey?
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I like all sorts of things. If I have time I hope to hit various areas of a city and Piedmont Park sounds totally up my alley. I enjoy good food and good beer but am not particularly high maintenance. Dive bars are great, I always like to chat with the locals. Tyvm for the suggestions. It doesn't seem like a car is neccessary unless there's something I'm missing miles outside of the city.
One last off the wall suggestion. Oakland cemetery. Final resting place of Bobby Jones. Plus it has some civil war era graves and monuments. Across the street is a good dive bar “Six Feet Under”
If you find yourself in the area.
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Headed to NYC Oct 7-10th with the kids (13, 11 & 9). Looking for a place to stay. Would prefer Bonvoy as we have F&F with Marriott. I originally thought Marriott Marquis (which I would never stay at solo or as couple) bc I kind of want to show my kids the most ridiculous New York imagery possible and thought staying 30 floors above Times Square would do that.
A few friends (and Marriott execs) have talked me out of that idea. Regardless I want to be in a high energy part of town.
Our considerations:
5 of us...My wife & I + 3 kids
Bonvoy members
Connecting rooms would be nice
Club lounge with free breakfast / happy hour drinks would be nice
Pool would be huge but that seems few and far between in NYC.
Any thoughts? Favorite places to stay in Manhattan? Thanks!
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Headed to NYC Oct 7-10th with the kids (13, 11 & 9). Looking for a place to stay. Would prefer Bonvoy as we have F&F with Marriott. I originally thought Marriott Marquis (which I would never stay at solo or as couple) bc I kind of want to show my kids the most ridiculous New York imagery possible and thought staying 30 floors above Times Square would do that.
A few friends (and Marriott execs) have talked me out of that idea. Regardless I want to be in a high energy part of town.
Our considerations:
5 of us...My wife & I + 3 kids
Bonvoy members
Connecting rooms would be nice
Club lounge with free breakfast / happy hour drinks would be nice
Pool would be huge but that seems few and far between in NYC.
Any thoughts? Favorite places to stay in Manhattan? Thanks!
I stayed at the Westin Times Square with my three kids for a week in July (wife had to work and couldn’t go). There’s no concierge club access there right now (or at any Marriott I’ve stayed at this year). I’m Titanium, and we got upgraded to a suite. Having stayed in NYC a lot in my life, I told my kids to expect a small room (even though it was a suite). I’ve stayed at the Marquis, and at the Renaissance in Midtown, and by far the Westin was the biggest/nicest room I’ve had in the City. No pool there, but location is great. You’re right next to Times Square without being in Times Square. While we were there, all the NBA draft prospects/agents/league personnel were staying at the hotel, it was awesome timing on our part.
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Headed to NYC Oct 7-10th with the kids (13, 11 & 9). Looking for a place to stay. Would prefer Bonvoy as we have F&F with Marriott. I originally thought Marriott Marquis (which I would never stay at solo or as couple) bc I kind of want to show my kids the most ridiculous New York imagery possible and thought staying 30 floors above Times Square would do that.
A few friends (and Marriott execs) have talked me out of that idea. Regardless I want to be in a high energy part of town.
Our considerations:
5 of us...My wife & I + 3 kids
Bonvoy members
Connecting rooms would be nice
Club lounge with free breakfast / happy hour drinks would be nice
Pool would be huge but that seems few and far between in NYC.
Any thoughts? Favorite places to stay in Manhattan? Thanks!
Lens,
Whenever the wife and I spend a weekend in NYC we stay at a Hilton property roughly at 57th & 6th.
Being two blocks from Central Park is great, a 10 minute walk to Times Square & about 4 different subway stations in very close proximity. Plenty of restaurants in the area also.
I see a Meriden on 57th & 6th, a Residence Inn on 54th & Broadway, a Courtyard also on 54th & Broadway and a Sheraton on 53rd & 7th. (I assume the Ritz Carlton on Central Park on 59th is not the nightly price you are seeking.)
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One last off the wall suggestion. Oakland cemetery. Final resting place of Bobby Jones. Plus it has some civil war era graves and monuments. Across the street is a good dive bar “Six Feet Under”
If you find yourself in the area.
Ha! Thx again pbiflyer! I'm just wondering if "Six Feet Under" will cause me stress over my Napoleonic complex or have me worrying about the obvious thoughts of death?
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One last off the wall suggestion. Oakland cemetery. Final resting place of Bobby Jones. Plus it has some civil war era graves and monuments. Across the street is a good dive bar “Six Feet Under”
If you find yourself in the area.
This is a good call
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I have a "where not to go" story for Atlanta that I found really funny. Many years ago -- the early 90s -- I worked with someone who was from Atlanta. She told me lots of stories about a really cool place called Underground Atlanta. I filed that information away assuming that some day I might be in ATL.
Fast forward to spring 2015 and I'm going to be spending a a day in ATL with my wife and kids and am looking for things that we might enjoy. I remember hearing about Underground Atlanta so I look it up. Suffice it to say that the reviews on Yelp and Trip Advisor helped us make a pretty quick decision that UA would not be on our agenda. However, reading the reviews actually did provide more than an hour of laughs for all of us. Some highlights from around that time:
- If you love filth and the smell of urine then this is the place for you.
- So here we are In the mall area thinking that we would have felt safer in a crack house. Don't go there.
- I repeat do not go here it is done and very unsafe!...Back in the day about 20yrs ago it was the place to be. Not anymore!
- Don't do it.
- I think it is the most overrated attraction I've been to in the city of Atlanta and has to be one of the top 10 overrated experiences of my lifetime.
- It is a hole.
- Please do not go to underground Atlanta. It's filthy and dangerous.
- It is eerily run down, filthy. Walk down the urine baptized steps if you are outside and you will wonder why you weren't wearing a HAZMAT suit.
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I thought I actually heard that they were revamping Underground Atlanta a year or two ago. Don't know if that actually went through but the renderings looked cool
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To be fair about underground Atlanta if someone visited Milwaukee a couple years ago and went to the grand avenue mall they'd probably say it's disgusting, abandon, etc. Now it's looks like it's going to be an awesome lively part of downtown. Not saying that's what's happened but it's at least worth a search to see if Wags is right about it being revamped
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To be fair about underground Atlanta if someone visited Milwaukee a couple years ago and went to the grand avenue mall they'd probably say it's disgusting, abandon, etc. Now it's looks like it's going to be an awesome lively part of downtown. Not saying that's what's happened but it's at least worth a search to see if Wags is right about it being revamped
It sounds like maybe it's finally starting to happen (https://urbanize.city/atlanta/post/underground-atlanta-photo-downtown-construction-development).
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Underground Atlanta was just fine when we went in 1974.
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Underground Atlanta was just fine when we went in 1974.
Same year I was there — my only trip there.
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Ok, in 1977 also, hey?
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Headed to NYC Oct 7-10th with the kids (13, 11 & 9). Looking for a place to stay. Would prefer Bonvoy as we have F&F with Marriott. I originally thought Marriott Marquis (which I would never stay at solo or as couple) bc I kind of want to show my kids the most ridiculous New York imagery possible and thought staying 30 floors above Times Square would do that.
A few friends (and Marriott execs) have talked me out of that idea. Regardless I want to be in a high energy part of town.
Our considerations:
5 of us...My wife & I + 3 kids
Bonvoy members
Connecting rooms would be nice
Club lounge with free breakfast / happy hour drinks would be nice
Pool would be huge but that seems few and far between in NYC.
Any thoughts? Favorite places to stay in Manhattan? Thanks!
Right before Covid, we stayed at the Sheraton Times Square. They have a club lounge that isn't insanely packed like the Marriott Marquis is. Nice place, good location to theatre district and subways. Oh, and around the corner from the most amazing milkshakes - https://blacktap.com/
But it really depends on what you want. The Sheraton rooms are decent sized, as stated above, Westin are downright large for NYC. Off the wall suggestion would be the Brooklyn Marriott. Close to the subway. Large rooms, club lounge.
The two Renessaince that I stayed at had tiny rooms.
I'd go with location to what you want to spend the most time around. But I like to walk around.
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Speaking of traveling can we talk about how amazing this Warlus is? I had a lot of concern "Wally" would not get back to Greenlandic waters but after missing for 22 days he was spotted in Hofn, Iceland recently. So basically this portly pinniped since April has covered: Ireland, France, England, Wales, Spain, perhaps Majorca, came back to Ireland, and is now in Iceland? This guy awesome! Props to everyone who has tried to help in the midst of him sinking small boats!
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Right before Covid, we stayed at the Sheraton Times Square. They have a club lounge that isn't insanely packed like the Marriott Marquis is. Nice place, good location to theatre district and subways. Oh, and around the corner from the most amazing milkshakes - https://blacktap.com/
But it really depends on what you want. The Sheraton rooms are decent sized, as stated above, Westin are downright large for NYC. Off the wall suggestion would be the Brooklyn Marriott. Close to the subway. Large rooms, club lounge.
The two Renessaince that I stayed at had tiny rooms.
I'd go with location to what you want to spend the most time around. But I like to walk around.
Dammit, we walked right past BlackTap. I wanted to stop, but we skipped it.
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Heading down to Phoenix/Scottsdale for the weekend and bored of the same things I do every time. Any suggestions for a solid brewery to check out (that I haven't been to before), off the beaten path food, best burger, speakeasy style bars, or the like please recommend.
Will also take recommendations for breweries in Atlanta as that wasn't covered yet and I'm heading there in three weeks.
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Headed to NYC Oct 7-10th with the kids (13, 11 & 9). Looking for a place to stay. Would prefer Bonvoy as we have F&F with Marriott. I originally thought Marriott Marquis (which I would never stay at solo or as couple) bc I kind of want to show my kids the most ridiculous New York imagery possible and thought staying 30 floors above Times Square would do that.
A few friends (and Marriott execs) have talked me out of that idea. Regardless I want to be in a high energy part of town.
Our considerations:
5 of us...My wife & I + 3 kids
Bonvoy members
Connecting rooms would be nice
Club lounge with free breakfast / happy hour drinks would be nice
Pool would be huge but that seems few and far between in NYC.
Any thoughts? Favorite places to stay in Manhattan? Thanks!
As a marriott Titanium lifer who spent a lot of time traveling to NYC pre-covid I found the Residence Inns to be best value because breakfast is included, rooms are pretty large, they are pretty new, and have good locations. ALL USA marriott's I've tried recently still have exec lounge closed or very limited so paying for the top brand is useless because they are not delivering on the value proposition. My recommendations:
Residence Inn New York Manhattan Central Park - great location for walking everywhere
Residence Inn new York Manhattan Midtown East
Good luck!
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Heading down to Phoenix/Scottsdale for the weekend and bored of the same things I do every time. Any suggestions for a solid brewery to check out (that I haven't been to before), off the beaten path food, best burger, speakeasy style bars, or the like please recommend.
Will also take recommendations for breweries in Atlanta as that wasn't covered yet and I'm heading there in three weeks.
When in PHX always Wren House and Little Miss BBQ.
But I'm sure you've done both. ;D
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When in PHX always Wren House and Little Miss BBQ.
But I'm sure you've done both. ;D
Done wren house, but only just read about Little Miss about a week ago does it live up to the hype?
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Best suggestion for Phoenix is, don’t go.
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Best suggestion for Phoenix is, don’t go.
Overall it's not my cup of tea, but I've found some (few and far between) unique great things. The issue is that I've done said unique things three weekends a year since college... outside of Arizona wilderness opening the spot in town there's not much that's been added to my list.
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Done wren house, but only just read about Little Miss about a week ago does it live up to the hype?
Oh, 100%. At least the original location. My friends and I visited their 'new' location and they weren't as impressed. Though it was still damn good.
As always, get the brisket and whatever the special of the day is. Hopefully its pastrami.
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Oh, 100%. At least the original location. My friends and I visited their 'new' location and they weren't as impressed. Though it was still damn good.
As always, get the brisket and whatever the special of the day is. Hopefully its pastrami.
No pastrami but that was some damn good bbq, thanks for the tip.
great: Brisket, ribs pulled pork, beef rib, and sauces.
Not great but still good: sausage
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Id stay in Short North for sure. Great lively area, tons of bars and restaurants. Also very close to the new Crew stadium. tOSU is directly North. Lots of cool stuff there and into Grandview Heights to the West. Also relatively close to Downtown (not that there is much Downtown in Cbus). I don't know tons on hotel specifics cause Ive always stayed with a few of my close friends in the city.
Fantastic zoo if the weather is nice. German Village south of downtown is a really cool area with a bunch of breweries and restaurants.
Feel free to shoot me a PM if you have more questions or more direct recos.
Thank you. Booked an Airbnb in Short North on High Street. Will check out German Village as well.
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No pastrami but that was some damn good bbq, thanks for the tip.
great: Brisket, ribs pulled pork, beef rib, and sauces.
Not great but still good: sausage
Hell yeah, good to hear.
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Atlanta?
“Agave,” for Southwestern, New Mexican cuisine. It’s about a mile and a half SE of downtown, and about 3 miles from Georgia Tech.
Decatur, GA?
The aunt of the owners of La Merenda in Milwaukee and Engine Co. No 3. has a restaurant and deli there.
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Atlanta?
“Agave,” for Southwestern, New Mexican cuisine. It’s about a mile and a half SE of downtown, and about 3 miles from Georgia Tech.
Decatur, GA?
The aunt of the owners of La Merenda in Milwaukee and Engine Co. No 3. has a restaurant and deli there.
Agave is near the cemetery and 6 feet under bar. I will have to check it out next time.
What's the name of the restaurant in Decatur with the MKE connection?
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Agave is near the cemetery and 6 feet under bar. I will have to check it out next time.
What's the name of the restaurant in Decatur with the MKE connection?
Yep. “Agave” is on Boulevard. You can walk from those reference points.
I had too many D’s on my brain, Decatur, Dekalb etc…it’s Dunwoody, GA which is in DeKalb County…so a couple of miles or so from Sandy Springs and about less than 10 miles North of Buckhead.
It’s called “E. 48th Street Market.” (just tell them a friend of Peter Sandroni suggested it) It’s very good. Very nice people.
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Hmmm...ty. I would have never thought of SW food in the SE.
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Hmmm...ty. I would have never thought of SW food in the SE.
There is actually a true southern restaurant that’s very good in Atlanta. 10 Degrees South. It’s South African. ;D
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There is actually a true southern restaurant that’s very good in Atlanta. 10 Degrees South. It’s South African. ;D
It is a sign of how boring my life is that I have lived in this area for 16 years and know less about restaurants in the city than someone who doesn’t live here at all.
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Just got back from weekend in NYC. Thanks to Dish on his Westin Times Square recommendation, that worked out well.
NYC was fantastic. My biggest takeaway is they are very serious on Vaxx requirement, every restaurant / bar asks for it from high end to dives BUT after that it's wide open. Places are filled to capacity plus new parklets outside. They don't seem to have any of the labor issues that Wisconsin is facing. It was great to be out in packed & bustling spots again.
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Just got back from weekend in NYC. Thanks to Dish on his Westin Times Square recommendation, that worked out well.
NYC was fantastic. My biggest takeaway is they are very serious on Vaxx requirement, every restaurant / bar asks for it from high end to dives BUT after that it's wide open. Places are filled to capacity plus new parklets outside. They don't seem to have any of the labor issues that Wisconsin is facing. It was great to be out in packed & bustling spots again.
Great to hear Lens!
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Just got back from weekend in NYC. Thanks to Dish on his Westin Times Square recommendation, that worked out well.
NYC was fantastic. My biggest takeaway is they are very serious on Vaxx requirement, every restaurant / bar asks for it from high end to dives BUT after that it's wide open. Places are filled to capacity plus new parklets outside. They don't seem to have any of the labor issues that Wisconsin is facing. It was great to be out in packed & bustling spots again.
Awesome to hear!
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Anyone been hit with a "staff shortage" delay while traveling recently? I had not, hadn't even heard of it short of some nearly empty flights being cancelled, but returned to MKE from a short trip on Sat, and my flight from ORD literally sat at the gate for 45 min cause they didn't have ground staff to man the gate/deplane. Not waiting for a gate to be ready, not a log jam in the terminal area, but we had to wait for the gate next to us to finish boarding and be pushed out before my plane could be connected by groundcrew and disembarked.
Ive had myriad delays due to gate congestion, but this was flat out not having normal amounts of ground crew like it was 1AM or something.
Of course we "landed" on time so the flight wasnt marked delayed :o
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Just got back from weekend in NYC. Thanks to Dish on his Westin Times Square recommendation, that worked out well.
NYC was fantastic. My biggest takeaway is they are very serious on Vaxx requirement, every restaurant / bar asks for it from high end to dives BUT after that it's wide open. Places are filled to capacity plus new parklets outside. They don't seem to have any of the labor issues that Wisconsin is facing. It was great to be out in packed & bustling spots again.
Thanks, we are headed that way this weekend. More for college tours, but will be nice to be able to relax a bit.
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Anyone been hit with a "staff shortage" delay while traveling recently? I had not, hadn't even heard of it short of some nearly empty flights being cancelled, but returned to MKE from a short trip on Sat, and my flight from ORD literally sat at the gate for 45 min cause they didn't have ground staff to man the gate/deplane. Not waiting for a gate to be ready, not a log jam in the terminal area, but we had to wait for the gate next to us to finish boarding and be pushed out before my plane could be connected by groundcrew and disembarked.
Ive had myriad delays due to gate congestion, but this was flat out not having normal amounts of ground crew like it was 1AM or something.
Of course we "landed" on time so the flight wasnt marked delayed :o
We were scheduled to fly on a Southwest flight last week that was cancelled. We ended up getting on an earlier flight and with the change of planes, arriving at our destination at about the same time as our original flight.
A couple of days ago, we got an "We're sorry" email from Southwest letting us know they were giving us $100 in credit for each of us. Seeing as we only paid $49 apiece for the tickets, we were cool with everything.
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We were scheduled to fly on a Southwest flight last week that was cancelled. We ended up getting on an earlier flight and with the change of planes, arriving at our destination at about the same time as our original flight.
A couple of days ago, we got an "We're sorry" email from Southwest letting us know they were giving us $100 in credit for each of us. Seeing as we only paid $49 apiece for the tickets, we were cool with everything.
They must like you warriorchick because there are many nightmare stories out there over canceled SW flights the last few days.
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They must like you warriorchick because there are many nightmare stories out there over canceled SW flights the last few days.
We were definitely on the leading edge of the big wave of cancellations.
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We were definitely on the leading edge of the big wave of cancellations.
They've got big probs. The speculation is a pilot shortage but my guess is it's an overall employee shortage. I think they were hit much harder that the bigger airlines the first 8 mos or more of COVID.
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I have a southwest flight to Oakland tomorrow for a napa trip that I’m very worried about.
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I have a southwest flight to Oakland tomorrow for a napa trip that I’m very worried about.
Check your emails as soon as you wake up, and get on the phone to Southwest ASAP to get on another flight. We got our email about the cancellation at 4:00 in the morning.
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Check your emails as soon as you wake up, and get on the phone to Southwest ASAP to get on another flight. We got our email about the cancellation at 4:00 in the morning.
appreciate the tip. Have a 6:15 out of omaha with a connection in Denver. Fingers crossed. Will southwest survive this?
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I’ve had a ton of issues this year with short staffing, but have just become used to it as all hospitality recovers from the pandemic. Pre Covid I’d have been pissed, but now I just shrug and either wait (lack of hotel staff/Hertz closing 4 hours early, random stuff).
I did stay at the Westin on Michigan Ave this weekend, and first full service Marriott branded hotel I stayed at since Covid that had full lounge access/service. Honestly, it was great to have it back.
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My parents are supposed to be flying in on Southwest tonight. We'll see how that goes. :-\
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My daughter is supposed to fly in Friday for a wedding. Fingers crossed. I told her yesterday to work on a back up plan.
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My parents are supposed to be flying in on Southwest tonight. We'll see how that goes. :-\
Rent them a private jet
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Heading to DC on Thursday via Southwest. Fingers crossed.
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First leg on time, second leg only delayed 35 minutes. Bullet dodged
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Check your emails as soon as you wake up, and get on the phone to Southwest ASAP to get on another flight. We got our email about the cancellation at 4:00 in the morning.
I had a friend that was scheduled to fly from MKE to Dallas Sunday. She checked her emails before heading to the airport at 5am, flight was still scheduled. The flight was canceled by the time she got to Mitchel Field a half hour later.
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I had a friend that was scheduled to fly from MKE to Dallas Sunday. She checked her emails before heading to the airport at 5am, flight was still scheduled. The flight was canceled by the time she got to Mitchel Field a half hour later.
I love the fact that people still call it Mitchell Field.
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I’ve had a ton of issues this year with short staffing, but have just become used to it as all hospitality recovers from the pandemic. Pre Covid I’d have been pissed, but now I just shrug and either wait (lack of hotel staff/Hertz closing 4 hours early, random stuff).
Yea, I mean hotels Ive come to expect. Rental cars have been a disaster. Flew into EWR on a Friday afternoon over the summer, prime summer rush time...and Hertz had a single counter open. There was honestly 30-40 people in line. It was shocking. Same with multiple times renting cars at ORD cause my flight to MKE was cancelled and someone from another car company (not even the same rental family) had come over and was helping cause the lines were insane.
But this was a first for me with ground crew staffing.
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Anyone been hit with a "staff shortage" delay while traveling recently? I had not, hadn't even heard of it short of some nearly empty flights being cancelled, but returned to MKE from a short trip on Sat, and my flight from ORD literally sat at the gate for 45 min cause they didn't have ground staff to man the gate/deplane. Not waiting for a gate to be ready, not a log jam in the terminal area, but we had to wait for the gate next to us to finish boarding and be pushed out before my plane could be connected by groundcrew and disembarked.
Ive had myriad delays due to gate congestion, but this was flat out not having normal amounts of ground crew like it was 1AM or something.
Of course we "landed" on time so the flight wasnt marked delayed :o
American just ended their flights to/from Tweed New Haven airport. The reason was "pilot & staff shortage" as the airline was doing good with filling flights. They plan to resume at an undisclosed time in the future.
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Anyone been hit with a "staff shortage" delay while traveling recently? I had not, hadn't even heard of it short of some nearly empty flights being cancelled, but returned to MKE from a short trip on Sat, and my flight from ORD literally sat at the gate for 45 min cause they didn't have ground staff to man the gate/deplane. Not waiting for a gate to be ready, not a log jam in the terminal area, but we had to wait for the gate next to us to finish boarding and be pushed out before my plane could be connected by groundcrew and disembarked.
Ive had myriad delays due to gate congestion, but this was flat out not having normal amounts of ground crew like it was 1AM or something.
Of course we "landed" on time so the flight wasnt marked delayed :o
a buddy was supposed to visit from Denver last week and he was delayed an hour before they canceled it because they couldn't find a pilot. I'm meant to be in Atlanta this weekend and I'm fully expecting it to be canceled.
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I have a southwest flight to Oakland tomorrow for a napa trip that I’m very worried about.
We're a day behind you, to SFO, for a Sonoma trip. Finally switched to United for the trip out after SW twice rebooked us, but that was in the summer as they cut back their schedules. Still SW coming back so we'll see how that goes.
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a buddy was supposed to visit from Denver last week and he was delayed an hour before they canceled it because they couldn't find a pilot. I'm meant to be in Atlanta this weekend and I'm fully expecting it to be canceled.
Good luck Galway. I'm gonna be in Atlanta next Tues. Would you like my pilot to pick you up? :)
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Good luck Galway. I'm gonna be in Atlanta next Tues. Would you like my pilot to pick you up? :)
Yeah send them my way!
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They've got big probs. The speculation is a pilot shortage but my guess is it's an overall employee shortage. I think they were hit much harder that the bigger airlines the first 8 mos or more of COVID.
You do realize that Southwest is the largest US Domestic airline. Yes, others are bigger globally, but when it come to shuttling people around this tiny little country of ours, there is none bigger.
We were scheduled to fly on a Southwest flight last week that was cancelled. We ended up getting on an earlier flight and with the change of planes, arriving at our destination at about the same time as our original flight.
A couple of days ago, we got an "We're sorry" email from Southwest letting us know they were giving us $100 in credit for each of us. Seeing as we only paid $49 apiece for the tickets, we were cool with everything.
Similar boat a couple months ago, except my flight was only about 4 hours late. $100 credit within a week.
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Yeah send them my way!
Does Aer Lingus still fly from Atlanta to Shannon? :)
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Does Aer Lingus still fly from Atlanta to Shannon? :)
Looks like it. I'm bumping my December trip up to next week and staying through the new year.
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You do realize that Southwest is the largest US Domestic airline. Yes, others are bigger globally, but when it come to shuttling people around this tiny little country of ours, there is none bigger.
There was a time when Pan Am and TWA were even more dominant than SWA is today. SWA might ultimately survive this, but it is far from a given....
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Looks like it. I'm bumping my December trip up to next week and staying through the new year.
Do you have a property in Ireland? It's something I've considered down the road.
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There was a time when Pan Am and TWA were even more dominant than SWA is today. SWA might ultimately survive this, but it is far from a given....
Well, I don't think there's a chance Southwest doesn't "survive" this. But that wasn't my point, I just laugh when someone thinks Southwest is too small to compete with the "big" carriers. Only American and Delta, if you're counting passengers are bigger, United basically the same size.
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Do you have a property in Ireland? It's something I've considered down the road.
Nope, my mom and her siblings technically share a farm but I don't think that'll be inherited down my way given only one runs it.
Housing costs are insane there currently and are half the reason I moved back. If youre looking for property expect to be in the middle of nowhere (certainly nowhere near a Dublin, Cork or Galway) and that's the reason I likely won't be getting a condo there.
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Well, I don't think there's a chance Southwest doesn't "survive" this. But that wasn't my point, I just laugh when someone thinks Southwest is too small to compete with the "big" carriers. Only American and Delta, if you're counting passengers are bigger, United basically the same size.
The government will 100% bail out the remaining major US airlines if there is a hint of them going under.
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Excuse the obvious political slant to this article, but .. I'm sure it has more than a kernel of truth:
https://amgreatness.com/2021/10/11/a-southwest-pilot-explains-what-happened-over-the-weekend/
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Excuse the obvious political slant to this article, but .. I'm sure it has more than a kernel of truth:
https://amgreatness.com/2021/10/11/a-southwest-pilot-explains-what-happened-over-the-weekend/
Reported for politics.
(I kid)
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The guy who wasn't going to stay home to help potty train his two year old until there was a vaccine mandate with a tremendous self-own.
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Excuse the obvious political slant to this article, but .. I'm sure it has more than a kernel of truth:
https://amgreatness.com/2021/10/11/a-southwest-pilot-explains-what-happened-over-the-weekend/
Except it's not a mandate to get vaccinated. You can opt for testing instead.
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Nope, my mom and her siblings technically share a farm but I don't think that'll be inherited down my way given only one runs it.
Housing costs are insane there currently and are half the reason I moved back. If youre looking for property expect to be in the middle of nowhere (certainly nowhere near a Dublin, Cork or Galway) and that's the reason I likely won't be getting a condo there.
Ya.....I've heard it's crazy expensive. You have dual citizenship, correct?
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About six weeks ago I was considering a flight to ATL to visit grandkids as they were on "fall break" this past weekend. At the time FB was touting SWA $59 fares. I've flown MKE to ATL many, many times due to free checked bag and low cost. But the comments on FB were overwhelmingly negative about cancellations and flight changes. Last November I flew that same rout on SWA and had to go through Orlando to get to ATL in both directions. But again, that was last November and I dealt with it. This time I checked out Delta, since ATL is their hub, and booked with them.
No proof of vaccine or negative test required. Masks required at the airports and on both flights. Flew our last Wed evening and flew back last night. No delays.
One thing I found to be strange was that in ATL last night TSA asked for my DL, but didn't even check my boarding pass to get through security. I can't recall tha last time that happened - probably pre-911.
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One thing I found to be strange was that in ATL last night TSA asked for my DL, but didn't even check my boarding pass to get through security. I can't recall tha last time that happened - probably pre-911.
It's their new system, the can verify your itinerary via your ID - the airlines already give all that info to them.
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/credential-authentication-technology
CAT is linked electronically to the Secure Flight database, which confirms travelers’ flight details, ensuring they are ticketed for travel that day. CAT also displays the pre-screening status (such as TSA PreCheck®) the traveler is eligible for, all without a boarding pass. However, CAT does not eliminate the requirement for passengers to check-in with their airline. Passengers still need their boarding pass to show the airline representative at their gate before boarding their flight.
About 80% of my TSA precheck flights in the past year have just been an ID scan.
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OK, a couple of thoughts:
1) The Wall Street Journal had a great explanation of SWA's problems. Essentially, it ramped up fast and had the planes, staffing and support to work if everything worked perfectly. But when God's wrath came down, SWA had crews that went "illegal," planes parked at the wrong airports and staff that somehow didn't show up. In better times with normal operation, things would have worked. Add to this that the airlines are loathe to put their passengers on another airline and that most airplanes for the past decade have been nearly full and SWA has a problem.
2) I know there are a lot of SWA fans on this board, but comparing SWA to United is comparing a cowchip to a diamond. While I know United is painful in basic economy, I also know that as a regular on United, I get cared for. Same for elite frequent fliers on American and Delta. Plus, the hub and spoke system the airlines operate (except for SWA) allows for more options to get someone to their destination. It may take long and that middle seat in Row 30 may not be much different than the Middle in Row 30 on SWA, but the difference in operation makes the first possible over the second.
3) If you want better service, then pay for it. We complain because SWA or whatever airline doesn't deliver, but we go on buying the $59 coast-to-coast fares. To be profitable with $59 fares, there's no leg room, no food, no any kinda service and your planes have to have a load factor of 95 percent. So guess what happens when weather intervenes or any airline has a computer malfunction or, heck whatever? Crap happens. Adjusted for inflation, airfares are a third to a half of what they were in 1978, the last year before deregulation. The comfort our parents and grandparents had is reserved for first and business class. But even that is comparatively cheap. Keep that in mind when you book on El Cheapo Global Airlines with its vintage 1989 MD-80s or leased 767-200s with more cycles than good sense.
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No proof of vaccine or negative test required.
Nobody is doing that - except international and Hawaii.
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Ya.....I've heard it's crazy expensive. You have dual citizenship, correct?
Yessir
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OK, a couple of thoughts:
1) The Wall Street Journal had a great explanation of SWA's problems. Essentially, it ramped up fast and had the planes, staffing and support to work if everything worked perfectly. But when God's wrath came down, SWA had crews that went "illegal," planes parked at the wrong airports and staff that somehow didn't show up. In better times with normal operation, things would have worked. Add to this that the airlines are loathe to put their passengers on another airline and that most airplanes for the past decade have been nearly full and SWA has a problem.
2) I know there are a lot of SWA fans on this board, but comparing SWA to United is comparing a cowchip to a diamond. While I know United is painful in basic economy, I also know that as a regular on United, I get cared for. Same for elite frequent fliers on American and Delta. Plus, the hub and spoke system the airlines operate (except for SWA) allows for more options to get someone to their destination. It may take long and that middle seat in Row 30 may not be much different than the Middle in Row 30 on SWA, but the difference in operation makes the first possible over the second.
3) If you want better service, then pay for it. We complain because SWA or whatever airline doesn't deliver, but we go on buying the $59 coast-to-coast fares. To be profitable with $59 fares, there's no leg room, no food, no any kinda service and your planes have to have a load factor of 95 percent. So guess what happens when weather intervenes or any airline has a computer malfunction or, heck whatever? Crap happens. Adjusted for inflation, airfares are a third to a half of what they were in 1978, the last year before deregulation. The comfort our parents and grandparents had is reserved for first and business class. But even that is comparatively cheap. Keep that in mind when you book on El Cheapo Global Airlines with its vintage 1989 MD-80s or leased 767-200s with more cycles than good sense.
I have been on hundreds of SWA flights in my lifetime, and other than two times my flight was cancelled for reasons other than weather (which were quickly rectified in both cases), I cannot think of any unpleasant experiences I have had with the airline. By my estimation, I have saved at least $10,000 over the best deals I could have gotten from legacy airlines, not even counting how the legacies nickel and dime you to death for things like checked bags or seat selection.
I have never flown often enough to qualify for some of the perks that some legacy carriers offer their best customers. But to be fair, the legacies have to have fancy airport lounges because their flights are delayed so much. There has been more than one instance where I flew back from a business trip in which I flew SWA and my co-workers flew legacy, and even though our flights were scheduled to leave at the same time, I was home before their delayed flights had even left the airport. They stopped giving me grief about my airline choices.
With all due respect, Brother DG, if you want to crap all over a low-cost airline, do it to Spirit. I would literally rather walk to my destination then fly with them again.
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But to be fair, the legacies have to have fancy airport lounges because their flights are delayed so much. There has been more than one instance where I flew back from a business trip in which I flew SWA and my co-workers flew legacy, and even though our flights were scheduled to leave at the same time, I was home before their delayed flights had even left the airport. They stopped giving me grief about my airline choices.
With all due respect, Brother DG, if you want to crap all over a low-cost airline, do it to Spirit. I would literally rather walk to my destination then fly with them again.
This is commonly relayed by friends of mine who like SWA, but its based in no actual truth. Southwest, for the last 5-10 years, has varied between 75-80% on time rates. Most of the "legacy carriers" are all in the mid-high 70s, sometimes higher, sometimes a bit lower. Unless you are flying Alaskan or Hawaiian Airlines, there is no real statistical difference in US carriers to crow about. Certainly not remarkable on time percentage to rub in others faces. Funny enough, Spirit's on time rates are actually pretty good and comparable to SWA/Delta. But then again I imagine most Greyhound buses depart on time as well.
Southwest is a fantastic airline for infrequent fliers. But as bad as some travel experiences I have had are, the last thing I want to do after a business trip or the end of a vacation is not know where I'm going to be sitting until I board the plane.
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This is commonly relayed by friends of mine who like SWA, but its based in no actual truth. Southwest, for the last 5-10 years, has varied between 75-80% on time rates. Most of the "legacy carriers" are all in the mid-high 70s, sometimes higher, sometimes a bit lower. Unless you are flying Alaskan or Hawaiian Airlines, there is no real statistical difference in US carriers to crow about. Certainly not remarkable on time percentage to rub in others faces. Funny enough, Spirit's on time rates are actually pretty good and comparable to SWA/Delta. But then again I imagine most Greyhound buses depart on time as well.
Southwest is a fantastic airline for infrequent fliers. But as bad as some travel experiences I have had are, the last thing I want to do after a business trip or the end of a vacation is not know where I'm going to be sitting until I board the plane.
My on-time experience is SWA at Midway vs. Everyone Else at O'Hare, where DGies flies out of.
And I am not sure what the big deal is about knowing exactly where your seat is going to be. As long as you are in A or B boarding group, you can be in either the aisle or window - whichever you prefer. For free.
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My on-time experience is SWA at Midway vs. Everyone Else at O'Hare, where DGies flies out of.
So totally empirical and likely rooted in confirmation bias. Got it!
And for added fun, ORD and MDW have basically been near identical in terms of delays/on time arrival there, despite what people like to commonly say.
But kudos on your travel related luck. I had a near flawless 2017 and 2018, no delays more than maybe 30-45 min, good weather, no bag issues...then 2019 all hell broke loose. Thats the "fun" of a sample set of even 50-60 flights a year for a frequent business traveler versus the thousands of flights a day for most carriers.
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My on-time experience is SWA at Midway vs. Everyone Else at O'Hare, where DGies flies out of.
And I am not sure what the big deal is about knowing exactly where your seat is going to be. As long as you are in A or B boarding group, you can be in either the aisle or window - whichever you prefer. For free.
I have stays on Delta. But lately I’ve been flying SWA when it’s my dime, especially when the entire fam flies. We are headed to the Charleston Classic. Tickets on SWA for fam of 4, $464, bump that to $544 if we want early boarding. Same trip on Delta? $1424. That difference is paying for a very nice AirBnB in the historic district.
Flown Spirit once to St Thomas for the Paradise tournament, because it was literally the last seat available to St Thomas those dates. Should have swum. ;D ;D
Customer service was god awful.
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[quote author=warriorchick link=topic=56125.msg1376492#msg1376492 date=1634158047
With all due respect, Brother DG, if you want to crap all over a low-cost airline, do it to Spirit. I would literally rather walk to my destination then fly with them again.
[/quote]
The problem with crapping all over Spirit is it's like fishing in a barrel. Sister Chick, it's too easy. I'd rather flap my arms to fly then get on a Spirit airplane. You will never see this human being on a Spirit flight unless I'm a corpse in the cargo hold being brought back to Chicago for burial.
Even then, my estate instructs my funeral director to put my body on United (preferably in the front of the airplane).
Southwest runs a more complex schedule caused by the fact they are not a hub and spoke system. I think this week is an aberration but we shall see.
You are right in that for me, Midway is not a real option. I'm closer to Milwaukee than I am to Midway. United has treated me well over the years (bending over backward to help us get our adopted children back to America way back when) and their loyalty has been well earned.
For the record, the United Clubs we frequent fliers use have become crapholes in too many places. The "C" Concourse Club at O'Hare is an embarrassment to United. Ditto for everything in Newark, Washington-Dulles and the Club on the 60s concourse in San Francisco. The LAX club is worth the price of admission and Houston (Intercontinental) is very nice. I know most of the folks in MCO and have come to like them an awful lot.
What bothers me the most about United -- and I suspect they are not alone -- is they are using Covid-19 as an excuse to cut costs and provide crappy service.
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[quote author=warriorchick link=topic=56125.msg1376492#msg1376492 date=1634158047
For the record, the United Clubs we frequent fliers use have become crapholes in too many places. The "C" Concourse Club at O'Hare is an embarrassment to United. Ditto for everything in Newark, Washington-Dulles and the Club on the 60s concourse in San Francisco. The LAX club is worth the price of admission and Houston (Intercontinental) is very nice. I know most of the folks in MCO and have come to like them an awful lot.
Been awhile since passing through SFO, hey? Those gate numbers no longer exist. That Club is still crappy, though.
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OK, a couple of thoughts:
1) The Wall Street Journal had a great explanation of SWA's problems. Essentially, it ramped up fast and had the planes, staffing and support to work if everything worked perfectly. But when God's wrath came down, SWA had crews that went "illegal," planes parked at the wrong airports and staff that somehow didn't show up. In better times with normal operation, things would have worked. Add to this that the airlines are loathe to put their passengers on another airline and that most airplanes for the past decade have been nearly full and SWA has a problem.
2) I know there are a lot of SWA fans on this board, but comparing SWA to United is comparing a cowchip to a diamond. While I know United is painful in basic economy, I also know that as a regular on United, I get cared for. Same for elite frequent fliers on American and Delta. Plus, the hub and spoke system the airlines operate (except for SWA) allows for more options to get someone to their destination. It may take long and that middle seat in Row 30 may not be much different than the Middle in Row 30 on SWA, but the difference in operation makes the first possible over the second.
3) If you want better service, then pay for it. We complain because SWA or whatever airline doesn't deliver, but we go on buying the $59 coast-to-coast fares. To be profitable with $59 fares, there's no leg room, no food, no any kinda service and your planes have to have a load factor of 95 percent. So guess what happens when weather intervenes or any airline has a computer malfunction or, heck whatever? Crap happens. Adjusted for inflation, airfares are a third to a half of what they were in 1978, the last year before deregulation. The comfort our parents and grandparents had is reserved for first and business class. But even that is comparatively cheap. Keep that in mind when you book on El Cheapo Global Airlines with its vintage 1989 MD-80s or leased 767-200s with more cycles than good sense.
It sounds like you're trying to compare first/business/preferred with SWA economy. You even said basic economy on United is "painful."
I fly 2-3 times per year domestic/Mexico. In almost every case, my experience is way better on SWA than any legacy when flying economy.
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It sounds like you're trying to compare first/business/preferred with SWA economy. You even said basic economy on United is "painful."
I fly 2-3 times per year domestic/Mexico. In almost every case, my experience is way better on SWA than any legacy when flying economy.
People have also compared SWA to basic economy instead of economy. If you buy a normal economy ticket you're not paying to select a seat. People who don't fly often also seem to assume you need to check a bag when full sized carry ons fit just fine in the overhead and cost nothing. I flew a business trip not too long ago where 2 other people instinctively went to check bags despite their suitcases being small than my standard carryon.
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People have also compared SWA to basic economy instead of economy. If you buy a normal economy ticket you're not paying to select a seat. People who don't fly often also seem to assume you need to check a bag when full sized carry ons fit just fine in the overhead and cost nothing. I flew a business trip not too long ago where 2 other people instinctively went to check bags despite their suitcases being small than my standard carryon.
I have flown all the way to Hawaii on Southwest and its "basic economy" was perfectly fine.
And about $100 each way from Las Vegas. If other people want to pay hundreds of dollars more to be slightly more comfortable for a few hours, that's fine by me.
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Not specifically related to any travel I have done, but it's fascinating to see how quickly the A380 went from revolutionary to nearly obsolete. Lots of factors, but wow.
https://www.businessinsider.com/airbus-a380-superjumbo-history-boeing-747-emirates-2017-11
They will obviously be flying for a while given the long life of airplanes. Still, gotta be a gut punch to Airbus.
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If other people want to pay hundreds of dollars more to be slightly more comfortable for a few hours, that's fine by me.
Welcome to a market economy. You're why the industry was deregulated back in 1978.
I'm a bit taller than you are, Sister Chick, and probably a bit wider as well. In fact, I'm probably a lot taller than you are. The idea of sitting in a coach set for more than an insignificant amount of time is not on my list of approved activities.
I tend to fly in business class when I travel -- and am willing to pay for it. Probably the second most significant reason why I'm not on SWA.
That said, I have no problem with anyone who wants to sit in an economy seat. Go for it. The only problem I have is folks who buy $100 trips to Hawaii on legacy carriers and carp because they were not "upgraded."
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Welcome to a market economy. You're why the industry was deregulated back in 1978.
I'm a bit taller than you are, Sister Chick, and probably a bit wider as well. In fact, I'm probably a lot taller than you are. The idea of sitting in a coach set for more than an insignificant amount of time is not on my list of approved activities.
I tend to fly in business class when I travel -- and am willing to pay for it. Probably the second most significant reason why I'm not on SWA.
That said, I have no problem with anyone who wants to sit in an economy seat. Go for it. The only problem I have is folks who buy $100 trips to Hawaii on legacy carriers and carp because they were not "upgraded."
I think we are in agreement here on all points. ;D
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Welcome to a market economy. You're why the industry was deregulated back in 1978.
I'm a bit taller than you are, Sister Chick, and probably a bit wider as well. In fact, I'm probably a lot taller than you are. The idea of sitting in a coach set for more than an insignificant amount of time is not on my list of approved activities.
I tend to fly in business class when I travel -- and am willing to pay for it. Probably the second most significant reason why I'm not on SWA.
That said, I have no problem with anyone who wants to sit in an economy seat. Go for it. The only problem I have is folks who buy $100 trips to Hawaii on legacy carriers and carp because they were not "upgraded."
DYKWIA? :D
That being said, I am upgraded on a FLL-JFK flight today that was less than $100. ;D
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My son moved from the city to the northern burbs, so we won't be flying SWA to MDW too often any more because ORD is so much more convenient. And SWA doesn't fly non-stop from Charlotte to Seattle, where my daughter lives; American's the only one that does, and the time-of-travel difference is usually hours because of SWA's stops.
So my wife and I have gone from pretty frequent SWA flyers to very infrequent ones. And that's unfortunate because I've liked SWA for their service and their value. And I like to reward them with my business because they're the only airline that didn't go for the baggage-fee cash grab.
I also agree with chick that not getting a seat assignment in advance is no hassle at all. It's been years and years since I haven't gotten an aisle seat on a SWA flight.
We do have some points to use, so I'll find excuses to go somewhere on SWA eventually.
I do hate hearing about their current problems, and I hope they get solved.
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My son moved from the city to the northern burbs, so we won't be flying SWA to MDW too often any more because ORD is so much more convenient.
Back when we lived in Illinois, we actually lived significantly closer to O'Hare than Midway in terms of driving miles. But in terms of time from our driveway to the terminal gate, Midway was quicker. Way quicker if the O'Hare gate was past the Disco Tunnel.
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Back when we lived in Illinois, we actually lived significantly closer to O'Hare than Midway in terms of driving miles. But in terms of time from our driveway to the terminal gate, Midway was quicker. Way quicker if the O'Hare gate was past the Disco Tunnel.
For my son, it's definitely closer to ORD. And by quite a bit.
If we're flying home on a Sunday, I might book SWA because traffic won't be too bad to MDW. So I'm certainly not saying we'll never fly SWA to MDW again.
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6.5mi 31min to MDW 9mi 29 min to O'Hare...
You can't beat that convenience to pick and choose 8-)
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6.5mi 31min to MDW 9mi 29 min to O'Hare...
You can't beat that convenience to pick and choose 8-)
Nice, you're lucky. When we lived in the city, we could just jump on the Blue Line to ORD and, with only a little more hassle, the Orange Line to MDW.
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Atlanta breweries and a local cuisine staple I gotta try? Maybe include a place that makes it well?
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I think we are in agreement here on all points. ;D
What would you expect from two ex-patriot Tennesseans educated at Father Ryan and Marquette?
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6.5mi 31min to MDW 9mi 29 min to O'Hare...
You can't beat that convenience to pick and choose 8-)
I said "to the gate". Not counting getting through TSA (and I bet it's usually longer at O'Hare - it's taken me 20 minutes at 5 a.m. before), I can get to any gate at Midway from the curb in 3 minutes. O'Hare - not so much
Add more time if you are driving and parking.
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I said "to the gate". Not counting getting through TSA (and I bet it's usually longer at O'Hare - it's taken me 20 minutes at 5 a.m. before), I can get to any gate at Midway from the curb in 3 minutes. O'Hare - not so much
Add more time if you are driving and parking.
I made it in about 10min from blue line stop to gate at the international terminal a couple weeks ago heading to PHX.
But point well taken
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I made it in about 10min from blue line stop to gate at the international terminal a couple weeks ago heading to PHX.
But point well taken
I said "to the gate". Not counting getting through TSA (and I bet it's usually longer at O'Hare - it's taken me 20 minutes at 5 a.m. before), I can get to any gate at Midway from the curb in 3 minutes. O'Hare - not so much
Add more time if you are driving and parking.
The walk from the Orange Line stop at MDW to the lobby is pretty darn long.
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The walk from the Orange Line stop at MDW to the lobby is pretty darn long.
So is the walk from the Blue Line stop in O'Hare if you aren't flying out of Terminal 2.
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I said "to the gate". Not counting getting through TSA (and I bet it's usually longer at O'Hare - it's taken me 20 minutes at 5 a.m. before), I can get to any gate at Midway from the curb in 3 minutes. O'Hare - not so much
Add more time if you are driving and parking.
Can't believe people that fly more than once a year still don't have pre-check.
Funny enough I first got precheck cause I nearly missed a flight and then did miss a flight in consecutive trips out of MDW in which security was past the entrance and took over an hour.
This relentless biased championing of MDW as the best airport in America and O'Hare as a disaster unparalleled by any in the world, as well as the rosiest tinted SWA glasses is the best PR either could buy.
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Atlanta breweries and a local cuisine staple I gotta try? Maybe include a place that makes it well?
Where are you staying?
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Where are you staying?
I have no idea. A friends wife booked the Airbnb. I know the party I'm supposed to be at Saturday night is
810 Huff Rd NW
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I have no idea. A friends wife booked the Airbnb. I know the party I'm supposed to be at Saturday night is
810 Huff Rd NW
That's on the west side near GA Tech and close to midtown.
IMO, the absolute best restaurant over there is JCT Kitchen, which also has a great rooftop bar with good views of the city. Midtown has a plethora of places, South City Kitchen for fancier southern food.
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I found Naked Juice Green Machine at ATL at The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf near gate A 12 . Been searching for Naked Juice at that airport for a long time.
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So is the walk from the Blue Line stop in O'Hare if you aren't flying out of Terminal 2.
I flew out of T1 for years and years and years, and I don't remember it being an excruciatingly long walk. But maybe I'm misremembering it. I haven't lived there in a long time.
Bottom line for me: Neither walk is bad for a healthy adult human, but it's moot for me now because I'm not taking the train anymore. And ORD is much easier for my son to get to.
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Headed to Vegas in January, while not an ideal time of the year I know, can’t control my buddies b-day.
Is the Venetian still a solid option for a great stay? Happy to take Sportsbook recs, brunch recs…
Lastly, anyone ever use SnapTravel before? It’s an AI-based messaging travel service, looks like look like can save some pretty significant cash on hotel rooms.
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That's on the west side near GA Tech and close to midtown.
IMO, the absolute best restaurant over there is JCT Kitchen, which also has a great rooftop bar with good views of the city. Midtown has a plethora of places, South City Kitchen for fancier southern food.
Thanks!
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Just finishing up a trip to Italy for Ms. Dgies' mine delayed big anniversary. Trip has gone extremely smoothly with limited Covid-19 concerns. A few thoughts:
1) Until the US government lifts a pre-return Covid-19 test requirement, make sure you have scoped out where you will have your test done. We were in Venice yesterday and scrambling to get the test completed. Out hotel (AC Marriott Venice) was essentially worthless. If you are staying at a hotel with a good concierge, work through them to get it.
2) A CDC vaccination card works like magic to get you into public places.
3) For now, expect to wear masks on trains, other public transit and airplanes as well as everywhere inside. It's the law in Italy as well.
4) I've lived in the USA too long. The train service here is excellent. Inefficient, but excellent. But good God, don't ever give Amtrak this kind of money. They'll blow it worse than an Illinois politician.
5) The museums were spectacular. Got in more than a little trouble with Ms. Dgies when I pointed out that the five day old Baby Jesus didn't weigh 30 pounds and He didn't bless magi. Also noticed one depiction of the Magi and Jesus where one of the Magi was painted with an African face and arms but Norwegian legs. I guess the artist ran out of black paint and figured no one would notice.
6) Didn't do anything special for meals but everything was really good.
7) A special call-out to La Cortosa di Maggiano in Siena. It's a small resort just out of town managed by Michelle from Philadelphia. Michelle is one of the warmest, most focused hotel managers I've ever met. The resort is a converted 13th century monastery and it was the most comfortable, pleasant place we stayed in Europe. Would very highly recommend it. Michelle also arranged three winery tours, including a winery lunch at a family owned winery. She loves Americans to get views from "back home."
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Just finishing up a trip to Italy for Ms. Dgies' mine delayed big anniversary. Trip has gone extremely smoothly with limited Covid-19 concerns. A few thoughts:
1) Until the US government lifts a pre-return Covid-19 test requirement, make sure you have scoped out where you will have your test done. We were in Venice yesterday and scrambling to get the test completed. Out hotel (AC Marriott Venice) was essentially worthless. If you are staying at a hotel with a good concierge, work through them to get it.
2) A CDC vaccination card works like magic to get you into public places.
3) For now, expect to wear masks on trains, other public transit and airplanes as well as everywhere inside. It's the law in Italy as well.
4) I've lived in the USA too long. The train service here is excellent. Inefficient, but excellent. But good God, don't ever give Amtrak this kind of money. They'll blow it worse than an Illinois politician.
5) The museums were spectacular. Got in more than a little trouble with Ms. Dgies when I pointed out that the five day old Baby Jesus didn't weigh 30 pounds and He didn't bless magi. Also noticed one depiction of the Magi and Jesus where one of the Magi was painted with an African face and arms but Norwegian legs. I guess the artist ran out of black paint and figured no one would notice.
6) Didn't do anything special for meals but everything was really good.
7) A special call-out to La Cortosa di Maggiano in Siena. It's a small resort just out of town managed by Michelle from Philadelphia. Michelle is one of the warmest, most focused hotel managers I've ever met. The resort is a converted 13th century monastery and it was the most comfortable, pleasant place we stayed in Europe. Would very highly recommend it. Michelle also arranged three winery tours, including a winery lunch at a family owned winery. She loves Americans to get views from "back home."
Glad you enjoyed yourself sounds like a wonderful trip.
Can you elaborate on CDC card? That's the same as the horrible sized paper card they've been giving out right?
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Headed to Vegas in January, while not an ideal time of the year I know, can’t control my buddies b-day.
Is the Venetian still a solid option for a great stay? Happy to take Sportsbook recs, brunch recs…
Yep its still solid. The fact that every room is a suite is nice, especially since they are fairly proactive about sending out discounted rooms if you sign up. Stayed there for a few nights last month and it was consistent as always. Its not my favorite in terms of casino or restaurants but its close to everything. That being said, Palazzo has a great stadium seating/theater style sportsbook. The new sportsbook at Circa is also supposed to be amazing
Brunch...Wynn's brunch buffet across the street is STELLAR.
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Glad you enjoyed yourself sounds like a wonderful trip.
Can you elaborate on CDC card? That's the same as the horrible sized paper card they've been giving out right?
Yeup, the CDC card is what you get when you are vaccinated.
A very important piece of paper. Guard it like a Social Security card or a Passport.
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Yeup, the CDC card is what you get when you are vaccinated.
A very important piece of paper. Guard it like a Social Security card or a Passport.
Mines not in great condition... fml hopefully enough time to replace it before I leave in December. Thanks!
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Mines not in great condition... fml hopefully enough time to replace it before I leave in December. Thanks!
It’s free, it’s digital. They provide a QR code to scan and validate. I just linked mine to Advocate Aurora and my records appeared. Or you can scan your card.
https://www.clearme.com/vaccine-validation
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Headed to Vegas in January, while not an ideal time of the year I know, can’t control my buddies b-day.
Is the Venetian still a solid option for a great stay? Happy to take Sportsbook recs, brunch recs…
Lastly, anyone ever use SnapTravel before? It’s an AI-based messaging travel service, looks like look like can save some pretty significant cash on hotel rooms.
Venetian still good. Don't know if you have done any pricing; rates are through the roof right now, especially on the weekends. Everyone who has want to go to Las Vegas in the past year and a half is trying to make up for lost time, and not all of the hotels are fully open yet.
If you are planning to do sports betting, you have to check out the new Circa hotel downtown. It's sportsbook is amazing, and even their pool has a ginormous Jumbotron dedicated to sports betting.
(https://s.yimg.com/hd/cp-video-transcode/prod/2020-10/27/5f982e4e3b6d0e09c78f5179/5f982e4e3b6d0e09c78f517a_o_U_v2.jpg)
(https://www.circalasvegas.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/RyanGobuty_StadiumSwim_030jpg_1440x651_72dpi.jpeg)
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It’s free, it’s digital. They provide a QR code to scan and validate. I just linked mine to Advocate Aurora and my records appeared. Or you can scan your card.
https://www.clearme.com/vaccine-validation
Neat thanks! My booster won't link since I got it at a sketchy polish clinic in the city but my first two linked fine.
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Mines not in great condition... fml hopefully enough time to replace it before I leave in December. Thanks!
Vaccination Card Protector
https://www.amazon.com/Pack-Vaccination-Immunization-Waterproof-Resealable/dp/B08YNJRD8G?th=1
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Neat thanks! My booster won't link since I got it at a sketchy polish clinic in the city but my first two linked fine.
Freedom!
https://www.yahoo.com/news/exclusive-u-partly-lift-international-123538136.html
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I'm coming up on 2 years without being on an airplane. I can't say I miss it though I could use a good vacation.
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Freedom!
https://www.yahoo.com/news/exclusive-u-partly-lift-international-123538136.html
So, if I'm reading correctly, this doesn't change anything for US citizens.
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Sitting in Rome waiting to get a plane home tomorrow. Tuned in the TV and found Romania's Got Talent!
For those of you who remember Lavergne and Shirley, it's the equivalent of Lenny & Squiggy have talent. The best performer of the night even dressed like Lenny.
Was followed by the Romanian version of Conan. Andy is dressed in plaid pants, plaid vest and a riding hat. Brown tie and velvet shirt. Only thing missing is a riding crop.
Conan looks like a well-dressed Ray Romano on this show.
Who says my horizons have not been expanded?
Time to come home!!!!!
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Spending a night in Lexington next month, anyone got any recommendations?
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Don't. But if you must, bourbon.
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Don't. But if you must, bourbon.
Far NW Chicago suburbs to Charleston. Lexington is about the perfect halfway stop, figured drop into Buffalo Trace then Lexington.
Any other locales on that path that are recommended?
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Far NW Chicago suburbs to Charleston. Lexington is about the perfect halfway stop, figured drop into Buffalo Trace then Lexington.
Any other locales on that path that are recommended?
We loved going to Woodford Reserve. One of the tour guides gave us bourbon balls with the insides scraped out and refilled with bourbon.
(https://i.gifer.com/origin/e7/e77792169b8788a253dfa9b5ad59e440_w200.gif)
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Spending a night in Lexington next month, anyone got any recommendations?
Just 1 night? Where are you staying?
Keeneland runs in October, so you'll miss the ponies, unfortunately.
Can go see the bomb shelter that is Rupp Arena.
Otherwise bourbon.
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Far NW Chicago suburbs to Charleston. Lexington is about the perfect halfway stop, figured drop into Buffalo Trace then Lexington.
Any other locales on that path that are recommended?
If you need a Dulcimer stop in Berea, KY.
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Spending a night in Lexington next month, anyone got any recommendations?
And Concord.
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Just 1 night? Where are you staying?
Keeneland runs in October, so you'll miss the ponies, unfortunately.
Can go see the bomb shelter that is Rupp Arena.
Otherwise bourbon.
No idea on lodging, just passing though.
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Don't. But if you must, bourbon.
This.
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Atlanta breweries and a local cuisine staple I gotta try? Maybe include a place that makes it well?
Skip this Atlanta area establishment.
Waffle House waitress allegedly pulled gun on customer
https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/man-says-waffle-house-waitress-pulled-gun-on-him
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Skip this Atlanta area establishment.
Waffle House waitress allegedly pulled gun on customer
https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/man-says-waffle-house-waitress-pulled-gun-on-him
I expect a gun to be pulled on me at a Waffle House
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I expect a gun to be pulled on me at a Waffle House
I’ve always said Waffle House is fine if you just don’t look around too much.
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Skip this Atlanta area establishment.
Waffle House waitress allegedly pulled gun on customer
https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/man-says-waffle-house-waitress-pulled-gun-on-him
That waffle house has a Michelin star.
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I expect a gun to be pulled on me at a Waffle House
Valid point. But from the waitress is down on the list….but not too far down.
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Has anyone been to London recently? I see that if vaccinated you need only to have a negative test within 2 days. But Ive heard the tests are expensive/not super simple and easy for foreigners.
Likely headed to Belgium later this month, trying to figure out if flying into and spending a couple of days in London is feasible or not.
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Has anyone been to London recently? I see that if vaccinated you need only to have a negative test within 2 days. But Ive heard the tests are expensive/not super simple and easy for foreigners.
Likely headed to Belgium later this month, trying to figure out if flying into and spending a couple of days in London is feasible or not.
As I reported this summer my wife had to spend $100 in Poland to get tested to return to the USA. I have a friend who said similar after going to see family in Portugal.
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Mad props to the couple drinking double vodka & cokes on my 6am flight from Madison today.
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Mad props to the couple drinking double vodka & cokes on my 6am flight from Madison today.
Alexa: What is the best way to miss my connecting flight?
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Mad props to the couple drinking double vodka & cokes on my 6am flight from Madison today.
Where were you going?
Also, what airline lets you drink onboard right now? I thought that was suspended because of Covid.
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Where were you going?
Also, what airline lets you drink onboard right now? I thought that was suspended because of Covid.
The few times Ive gotten complementary United upgrades during the pandemic, I got mini bottles without issue.
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The few times Ive gotten complementary United upgrades during the pandemic, I got mini bottles without issue.
On the plane?? I thought they couldn't do that until a few days ago.
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Where were you going?
Also, what airline lets you drink onboard right now? I thought that was suspended because of Covid.
Flew United in September and drinks were offered to the entire flight.
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Delta, steerage.
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Delta has been doing drinks for months.
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I generally fly American and they have only served alcohol in FC.
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On the plane?? I thought they couldn't do that until a few days ago.
Yep.
Actually, now that I think about it, I was given mini bottles in economy back in June as well heading to Denver
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Yep.
Actually, now that I think about it, I was given mini bottles in economy back in June as well heading to Denver
Just be safe JWags. I can't drink on planes.
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Drinking on plane
Pros: time goes by faster, gets you drunk quicker
Cons: extra jet lag, pee a bunch, overly expensive
I only do it on the way to bachelor parties, and weddings.
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Has anyone been to London recently? I see that if vaccinated you need only to have a negative test within 2 days. But Ive heard the tests are expensive/not super simple and easy for foreigners.
Likely headed to Belgium later this month, trying to figure out if flying into and spending a couple of days in London is feasible or not.
Just back from Belgium. Flemish area is under more constraints. Masks required inside in Wallonia. To return to the States you only need the less expensive antigen test. we passed on London because of rules at the time
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Where were you going?
Also, what airline lets you drink onboard right now? I thought that was suspended because of Covid.
Delta , American , United and Southwest serve alcohol
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Delta , American , United and Southwest serve alcohol
I was on 3 Southwest flights on Monday and they did not serve alcohol.
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I was on 3 Southwest flights on Monday and they did not serve alcohol.
Mke ain't direct to las?
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I was on 3 Southwest flights on Monday and they did not serve alcohol.
Was on 2 today. No alcohol. Since I am going to a Marquette event, my liver sent a thank you to LUV for the calm before the storm.
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Mke ain't direct to las?
It does, but I wasn't flying that route. And it was a fraction of the price of the nonstop flight.
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Was on 2 today. No alcohol. Since I am going to a Marquette event, my liver sent a thank you to LUV for the calm before the storm.
Does your new healthy lifestyle allow for 2 bags of the Southwest Chex mix?
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United never stopped serving alcohol aboard their planes.
The reality however is that most of the wine is 10 buck chuck at any reputable wine store. I'm on a UA flight to MCO now and the food was inedible. The coach snack box was far superior to any prepared meals they are serving domestically.
The international service these days sucks. On our way back to ORD from Rome, we had our entire meal slapped down on our tray (literally) by a flight attendant more interested in gossiping about other flight attendants and the company than she was in serving the cabin. Couldn't believe they served ice cream with the appetizer but United does a lot of stupid things lately using Covid-19 as an excuse.
On the outbound, on a United/Lufthansa codeshare on LH metal, the service was not great but the people were caring and the menu mildly edible. About the same quality as a coach meal 30 years ago, or something in a frozen dinner in a Publix, but at least it was edible. The flight attendants, all German, were pleasant and precise. Also surprisingly friendly.
There is a lot of crap out there being thrown at people in the name of Covid-19. It's cost-cutting under a different banner.
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United never stopped serving alcohol aboard their planes.
The reality however is that most of the wine is 10 buck chuck at any reputable wine store. I'm on a UA flight to MCO now and the food was inedible. The coach snack box was far superior to any prepared meals they are serving domestically.
The international service these days sucks. On our way back to ORD from Rome, we had our entire meal slapped down on our tray (literally) by a flight attendant more interested in gossiping about other flight attendants and the company than she was in serving the cabin. Couldn't believe they served ice cream with the appetizer but United does a lot of stupid things lately using Covid-19 as an excuse.
On the outbound, on a United/Lufthansa codeshare on LH metal, the service was not great but the people were caring and the menu mildly edible. About the same quality as a coach meal 30 years ago, or something in a frozen dinner in a Publix, but at least it was edible. The flight attendants, all German, were pleasant and precise. Also surprisingly friendly.
There is a lot of crap out there being thrown at people in the name of Covid-19. It's cost-cutting under a different banner.
Had the complete opposite experience on our United International flight in September. Service was excellent, there were a few good food options, and they were all prepared well.
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Had the complete opposite experience on our United International flight in September. Service was excellent, there were a few good food options, and they were all prepared well.
Was that an Asia/Pacific flight or Europe?
I find United's on-board experience inconsistent. Sometimes, as you note, staff is good and they really care. Everything is wonderful and you get the service you pay for. Other times, like this flight to MCO from EWR, the service is crappy and the flight crew inattentive.
It's interesting that Scott Kirby is committing United to having an onboard experience exceeding Delta's. I hope he pulls it off, but they have a long, long way to go.
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Planning on going to the West Indies in March.
Planning on sending a week in either Barbados, Antigua, or Grenada and don’t plan on island hopping (going to watch a cricket match).
Any preferences from the board on which island is the best to spend a week at?
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Was that an Asia/Pacific flight or Europe?
I find United's on-board experience inconsistent. Sometimes, as you note, staff is good and they really care. Everything is wonderful and you get the service you pay for. Other times, like this flight to MCO from EWR, the service is crappy and the flight crew inattentive.
It's interesting that Scott Kirby is committing United to having an onboard experience exceeding Delta's. I hope he pulls it off, but they have a long, long way to go.
Europe. Chicago to Dubrovnik with a connection in Munich.
Flew SW yesterday. No alcohol served as noted earlier
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Planning on going to the West Indies in March.
Planning on sending a week in either Barbados, Antigua, or Grenada and don’t plan on island hopping (going to watch a cricket match).
Any preferences from the board on which island is the best to spend a week at?
I’ve been to Antigua a couple times (work trips) and to me, it’s one of my least favorite Carribean islands.
Loved Barbados, had a different feel to it from other islands, felt more authentic than touristy.
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I’ve been to Antigua a couple times (work trips) and to me, it’s one of my least favorite Carribean islands.
Loved Barbados, had a different feel to it from other islands, felt more authentic than touristy.
I agree. Haven't been to Grenada, but it's definitely on my list.
I have a feeling that airfares to Barbados are going to be more reasonable than Grenada.
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Planning on going to the West Indies in March.
Planning on sending a week in either Barbados, Antigua, or Grenada and don’t plan on island hopping (going to watch a cricket match).
Any preferences from the board on which island is the best to spend a week at?
I can help you with Barbados. Good experiences. Haven't been to the other two.
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Does your new healthy lifestyle allow for 2 bags of the Southwest Chex mix?
Just 1! ;D
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Planning on going to the West Indies in March.
Planning on sending a week in either Barbados, Antigua, or Grenada and don’t plan on island hopping (going to watch a cricket match).
Any preferences from the board on which island is the best to spend a week at?
Maui, hey?
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Anybody have any distillery (not Jameson/Middleton) or brewery (non Guinness) recommendations for Ireland? Anybody been there since Covid hit?
Heading there with one of my best friends and weirdly he isn't interested in spending a week with my family in rural mayo nor spending a week with my grad school friends so it's the first time I've had to actually plan for going there since I was 18 and finally able to head to pubs.
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If you're heading north along the Great Atlantic Way in Donegal near the entrance of Sleive League (which is far more exciting than the Cliffs of Mohr) there is a tiny,ancient pub called the Rusty Mackerel . Worth having a pint after hiking along cliffs taller than 3 Empire State Buildings. Lough Eske is worth a night's stay if you are do go there. Great staff , good food and a neat pub in the castle.
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If you're heading north along the Great Atlantic Way in Donegal near the entrance of Sleive League (which is far more exciting than the Cliffs of Mohr) there is a tiny,ancient pub called the Rusty Mackerel . Worth having a pint after hiking along cliffs taller than 3 Empire State Buildings. Lough Eske is worth a night's stay if you are do go there. Great staff , good food and a neat pub in the castle.
Great recommendation, never been up there. Only northern area I have been to Belfast.
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If you're heading north along the Great Atlantic Way in Donegal near the entrance of Sleive League (which is far more exciting than the Cliffs of Mohr) there is a tiny,ancient pub called the Rusty Mackerel . Worth having a pint after hiking along cliffs taller than 3 Empire State Buildings. Lough Eske is worth a night's stay if you are do go there. Great staff , good food and a neat pub in the castle.
This is supposed to be a secret!!!
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OOPS!
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OOPS!
No worries WsW.....as long as it doesn't become like those Ciffs in Clare. :)
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If you're heading north along the Great Atlantic Way in Donegal near the entrance of Sleive League (which is far more exciting than the Cliffs of Mohr) there is a tiny,ancient pub called the Rusty Mackerel . Worth having a pint after hiking along cliffs taller than 3 Empire State Buildings. Lough Eske is worth a night's stay if you are do go there. Great staff , good food and a neat pub in the castle.
Holy crap is that remote. Trying to decide if I should just rent a car at that point.
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So I just got back from Europe on Tuesday afternoon. While some things they have around COVID are great, there are so many obnoxious bureaucratic nightmares.
So we flew into Brussels. Belgium requires arrival testing and against 7th day, but you don't need to quarantine during that time if you have a negative test on arrival. However, this is not necessary if you will be in the country less than 48 hours. We were heading to Paris so I clearly called that out on our PLF forms we filled out online before departing, no issues with customs or security. Get on our train and all of a sudden both my wife and I get bombared with poorly formatted texts, in Dutch no less, demanding tests and giving us codes to use when scheduling. We disregarded them and carried on.
Get to France, and pay 35 Euros each for the "Passe Sanitaire" basically inputting our vaccination records into the system and getting us the QR codes and access to the French Covid Safe app which we needed to scan in everywhere, including even Starbucks in a train station. There were also small white tents throughout the city, sometimes multiple within a block or two, with nurse practitioners administering rapid anti-gen tests. I'll give the French police credit, they were scanning QR codes (in our case looking at our Vax cards as we didn't have them yet) as people disembarked trains from other countries. We didn't encounter any of that in Belgium.
We headed back to Brussels over the weekend where they had a different Covid app (this one was free) but after loading everything in, we realized the French one we had scanned at the hotel would have been fine.
Given that its 3 days before our flight, we thought best to get our return tests from travel back to the US out of the way. The Belgian government strongarmed the SEM/SEO so the first 10 results were some form of government structured testing. But it was all PCR testing with 48 hour result windows. Eventually I find out that a pharmacy chain will administer them. We go, find out they only do 50-100 a day, and they are closed on weekends. WTF?! Finally our concierge tells us there is a mobile testing center in a trailer in central Brussels near the courthouse. So we go, wait in a queue for 20-30 min, pay 20 Euros and get a rapid test and our negatives. Would have killed for one of the Parisian tents. This is all in their system (the verification and results came via text from the same number as before but in English :o). We're assured we're all good.
No issues with United and our materials but Ive still gotten about 4 messages from Belgium asking about my day 7 test and sending me codes. The 3 biggest exports of Belgium...Beer, Chocolate, and Bureaucracy!
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Holy crap is that remote. Trying to decide if I should just rent a car at that point.
Of course you should rent a car if you decide to go there. Off the subject if you haven't seen the film Hear My Song I would highly recommend it. It's a real gem and I think came out around the same time as Crying Game.... like '91. The guy who wrote and starred in it is Adrian Dunbar who coincidentally was also in the Crying Gane but in a vastly different role. What's your top 5 Irish films Galway ? Excluding those with D-D-L because that's just not fair.
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What's your top 5 Irish films Galway ?
Grabbers obviously ;D
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Of course you should rent a car if you decide to go there. Off the subject if you haven't seen the film Hear My Song I would highly recommend it. It's a real gem and I think came out around the same time as Crying Game.... like '91. The guy who wrote and starred in it is Adrian Dunbar who coincidentally was also in the Crying Gane but in a vastly different role. What's your top 5 Irish films Galway ? Excluding those with D-D-L because that's just not fair.
Ugh, I was hoping to avoid renting a car. Got a wedding and a new bathroom to pay for.
Boondock Saints
The Departed
Irish Jam
1. Waking Ned Devine
2. Wind that shakes the barley
3. Young offenders
4. Michael Collins
5. Secret of Roan Inish
(Extended answer Angela's Christmas 2 makes me cry if I'm drunk enough)
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Ugh, I was hoping to avoid renting a car. Got a wedding and a new bathroom to pay for.
Boondock Saints
The Departed
Irish Jam
1. Waking Ned Devine
2. Wind that shakes the barley
3. Young offenders
4. Michael Collins
5. Secret of Roan Inish
(Extended answer Angela's Christmas 2 makes me cry if I'm drunk enough)
No love for Once?! WTF.
Fun fact, Waking Ned Devine wasn’t actually filmed in Ireland
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Ugh, I was hoping to avoid renting a car. Got a wedding and a new bathroom to pay for.
Boondock Saints
The Departed
Irish Jam
1. Waking Ned Devine
2. Wind that shakes the barley
3. Young offenders
4. Michael Collins
5. Secret of Roan Inish
(Extended answer Angela's Christmas 2 makes me cry if I'm drunk enough)
I probably mentioned the Secret of Roan Inish was shot primarily in Donegal. Beautiful film. Great call on Wind that Shakes the Barley. No love for Joyce's The Dead ? The Butcher Boy? Bloody Sunday (2002)? If you haven't read the Butcher Boy you should Galway. The film was well done but the novel is absolutely brilliant. I'm surprised none of Colum McCann's novels have been made into movies.
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I'm not sure if you can count In America?
But clearly you can if you're throwing in The Departed.
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Rudy?
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Rudy?
Sweet Jesus. You cannot base a film on a "true story" and then put out that garbage.
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Sweet Jesus. You cannot base a film on a "true story" and then put out that garbage.
I was going to suggest "Knute Rockne - All American"
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/xT4uQsCs8bnBLY7BRK/200.gif)
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So anyways about Ireland tips... assume I've done everything in Galway, Mayo Cork, and Dublin.
I'm not sure if you can count In America?
But clearly you can if you're throwing in The Departed.
Teal means sarcasm on this board
Rudy?
Would've been a great one to add to my sarcasm list.
No love for Once?! WTF.
Fun fact, Waking Ned Devine wasn’t actually filmed in Ireland
Now that damn song is stuck in my head again thanks for that.
I did not know that, where was it filmed?
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Rudy?
Is that a prison story?
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The Commitments.
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I did not know that, where was it filmed?
Isle of Man I believe. So still Ireland adjacent
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I’m on a brand new 737 Max 8 on United, and it’s ridiculously nice. I haven’t been this impressed by a domestic plane in a while (I have very low expectations though).
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I’m on a brand new 737 Max 8 on United, and it’s ridiculously nice. I haven’t been this impressed by a domestic plane in a while (I have very low expectations though).
What about it by chance? I’ve tried to avoid them for obvious reasons out of vague superstition. But United has done a very nice job with their domestic redesigns
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What about it by chance? I’ve tried to avoid them for obvious reasons out of vague superstition. But United has done a very nice job with their domestic redesigns
Full size screen in the seat back, with hundreds of options. Finally Bluetooth capable entertainment as well. Maybe because it’s such a new plane, but seat itself (economy plus) is quite comfortable and feels like it has extra inch or two of legroom.
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Full size screen in the seat back, with hundreds of options. Finally Bluetooth capable entertainment as well. Maybe because it’s such a new plane, but seat itself (economy plus) is quite comfortable and feels like it has extra inch or two of legroom.
Is it the nice new touch screen? Cause thats a game changer. So annoying to use the bad seatback TVs and then take a flight on Lufthansa or ANA or another foreign carrier and see new touch screens even in normal economy.
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Is it the nice new touch screen? Cause thats a game changer. So annoying to use the bad seatback TVs and then take a flight on Lufthansa or ANA or another foreign carrier and see new touch screens even in normal economy.
Yes, it’s the new one’s. Screen takes up 80% of the seat back, very intuitive. I was surprised at the amount of quality content too. I only flew from DFW to IAH (getting segments in to keep Gold), but even the flight itself was smooth, and cabin noise was nil.
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I’m on a brand new 737 Max 8 on United, and it’s ridiculously nice. I haven’t been this impressed by a domestic plane in a while (I have very low expectations though).
What was the route? I am about to start at least monthly trips to NYC from ORD. Want to know if I should be picking LGA or EWR.
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What was the route? I am about to start at least monthly trips to NYC from ORD. Want to know if I should be picking LGA or EWR.
Off the top of my head, I'd probably say LGA cause ORD-EWR is more bigger plane positioning from hub to hub where I assume they are using the MAXs for domestic focused routes
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What was the route? I am about to start at least monthly trips to NYC from ORD. Want to know if I should be picking LGA or EWR.
It was DFW to IAH.
I’d lean LGA (since the renovation). But the train from EWR to Manhattan is convenient.
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It was DFW to IAH.
I’d lean LGA (since the renovation). But the train from EWR to Manhattan is convenient.
EWR is fine if you’re flying into/out of Terminal C. A is just a mess.
But the train is great. I have multiple friends and associates who are black car all the time kind of people who take the train cause of how quick and efficient it is, especially if you’re going to Midtown for work
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Off the top of my head, I'd probably say LGA cause ORD-EWR is more bigger plane positioning from hub to hub where I assume they are using the MAXs for domestic focused routes
LGA renovation is great and most of the renovation is wayyyyy ahead of schedule and supposed to open Spring 2022. No train. There is a bus to Grand Central Terminal that I've taken before to catch a train back to Connecticut.
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I’m on a brand new 737 Max 8 on United, and it’s ridiculously nice. I haven’t been this impressed by a domestic plane in a while (I have very low expectations though).
The only problem is you basically need to stand in the hallway to pee, the toilets are so small.
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Dat's bin dunn befour, hey?
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Anyone with previous United status get auto-renewed for 2022 without actually qualifying? I saw a few blog posts in the last few days that they selectively re-upped a bunch of people, across different status levels (Gold back to Gold, 1K to 1K, etc...)
I actually re-qualified for 1K as of 11/30, but I'm not salty. They ran a promotion that was basically spend $3K between July-Nov and I'd re qualify for my 1K, which is a steal. I had to take a $250 flight from MKE to ORD to meet my wife who concurrently drove down for our flight to Europe, but I'll take it!
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Driving to Lexington KY this weekend with the family. Our son is running in a USA TRack & Field event so we won't have a great amount of time to sightsee but we will have late Friday afternoon & evening + Saturday afternoon & Saturday night.
Would love any suggestions on:
- Good Italian (Carbo load myth is fun)[/li][/list]
- Place to watch MU-UCLA
- Place to watch Kentucky-Notre Dame & eat
- Good restaurants in general
- Liquor store that sells Weller, Col Taylor or even Buffalo Trace (we're driving from Milwaukee so any tips along the way welcome, as well)
TIA!
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Driving to Lexington KY this weekend with the family. Our son is running in a USA TRack & Field event so we won't have a great amount of time to sightsee but we will have late Friday afternoon & evening + Saturday afternoon & Saturday night.
Would love any suggestions on:
- Good Italian (Carbo load myth is fun)[/li][/list]
- Place to watch MU-UCLA
- Place to watch Kentucky-Notre Dame & eat
- Good restaurants in general
- Liquor store that sells Weller, Col Taylor or even Buffalo Trace (we're driving from Milwaukee so any tips along the way welcome, as well)
TIA!
Whatever morning you have time, be at Buffalo Trace around 9:45am. It's less than 40 minutes from Lexington. You'll be able to snag one of ETH/ER/Weller/Blantons per person at MSRP. Then you can buy as much Buffalo Trace or Bourbon Cream as you like.
Goodwood Brewing in Frankfort was a good spot for food and sports on televisions if you want to hit that up after Buffalo Trace.
Lexington, the distillery district is cool. Lots of food and booze options. Joe Bologna's in Lexington will have the pasta, along with every other Eye-talian specialty.
If Kentucky Native Cafe is still open for the season, check it out.
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LGA renovation is great and most of the renovation is wayyyyy ahead of schedule and supposed to open Spring 2022. No train. There is a bus to Grand Central Terminal that I've taken before to catch a train back to Connecticut.
Or you can take the bus to the subway or LIRR in Queens, and, then take one of those into Manhattan as well.
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Whatever morning you have time, be at Buffalo Trace around 9:45am. It's less than 40 minutes from Lexington. You'll be able to snag one of ETH/ER/Weller/Blantons per person at MSRP. Then you can buy as much Buffalo Trace or Bourbon Cream as you like.
Goodwood Brewing in Frankfort was a good spot for food and sports on televisions if you want to hit that up after Buffalo Trace.
Lexington, the distillery district is cool. Lots of food and booze options. Joe Bologna's in Lexington will have the pasta, along with every other Eye-talian specialty.
If Kentucky Native Cafe is still open for the season, check it out.
Thank you! I think we'll swing by BT on the way home Sunday. Gift shop opens at 11:30am on Sundays, so 11:15am arrival should work?[/list]
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Anyone with previous United status get auto-renewed for 2022 without actually qualifying? I saw a few blog posts in the last few days that they selectively re-upped a bunch of people, across different status levels (Gold back to Gold, 1K to 1K, etc...)
I actually re-qualified for 1K as of 11/30, but I'm not salty. They ran a promotion that was basically spend $3K between July-Nov and I'd re qualify for my 1K, which is a steal. I had to take a $250 flight from MKE to ORD to meet my wife who concurrently drove down for our flight to Europe, but I'll take it!
✋. Silver. 2 segments in 2021, haha.
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Thank you! I think we'll swing by BT on the way home Sunday. Gift shop opens at 11:30am on Sundays, so 11:15am arrival should work?[/list]
Should be fine.
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✋. Silver. 2 segments in 2021, haha.
1K. Met the segment requirement.
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Wedding in Ireland this summer. Looking for flight info. Options out of Indy:
- American
- Delta
- United
- Aer Lingus
- Air Canada
Any suggestions? Really looking into comfort, amenities, quality. These all have prices about the same. Planning economy/economy plus
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Wedding in Ireland this summer. Looking for flight info. Options out of Indy:
- American
- Delta
- United
- Aer Lingus
- Air Canada
Any suggestions? Really looking into comfort, amenities, quality. These all have prices about the same. Planning economy/economy plus
Check out SeatGuru.com to compare seat sizes on specific flights.
All things being equal, the plane itself might matter. 787s are pretty sweet, better air gives you less jet lag. We flew an Air Canada one and was far better off the following day.
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Wedding in Ireland this summer. Looking for flight info. Options out of Indy:
- American
- Delta
- United
- Aer Lingus
- Air Canada
Any suggestions? Really looking into comfort, amenities, quality. These all have prices about the same. Planning economy/economy plus
Don't fly Aer lingus quality has dropped in a huge way. I've always enjoyed American over here
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We flew American from O'Hare to Dublin and it was a nice experience.
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I’d echo the quality drop in Aer Lingus, they seem to have positioned themselves as a discount TATL carrier like IcelandAir or Norwegian.
Surprised to see the American love. They are fine but I’d consider them a clear 3rd behind United and Delta, especially internationally
I’ve had some nice experiences with Air Canada through Toronto as well
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Wedding in Ireland this summer. Looking for flight info. Options out of Indy:
- American
- Delta
- United
- Aer Lingus
- Air Canada
Any suggestions? Really looking into comfort, amenities, quality. These all have prices about the same. Planning economy/economy plus
Don't be afraid to look for business class. I always check the cheapest business class and often find it's not that much more than economy. And it's just so much more comfy for longer flights.
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I’d echo the quality drop in Aer Lingus, they seem to have positioned themselves as a discount TATL carrier like IcelandAir or Norwegian.
Surprised to see the American love. They are fine but I’d consider them a clear 3rd behind United and Delta, especially internationally
I’ve had some nice experiences with Air Canada through Toronto as well
Never flown Delta. I didn't care for my last United flight over here. But it was back in 2015
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Don't be afraid to look for business class. I always check the cheapest business class and often find it's not that much more than economy. And it's just so much more comfy for longer flights.
We did Business Class on Lufthansa last October to Rome for $2,200 per person. Unbelievably reasonable. It was a United code share.
Of the group from Indy, I'd probably do United first, depending on the aircraft. If you are in a 10 across 777-200, look for something else.
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Wedding in Ireland this summer. Looking for flight info. Options out of Indy:
- American
- Delta
- United
- Aer Lingus
- Air Canada
Any suggestions? Really looking into comfort, amenities, quality. These all have prices about the same. Planning economy/economy plus
I always fly Delta or Skyteam because it's all about the points.
Plug in your fly dates into Kayak just to see the different options. Then dig deeper from there.
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Wedding in Ireland this summer. Looking for flight info. Options out of Indy:
- American
- Delta
- United
- Aer Lingus
- Air Canada
Any suggestions? Really looking into comfort, amenities, quality. These all have prices about the same. Planning economy/economy plus
Thought Aeroflot would be more your speed, eh comrade?
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Usually go to Vegas for March Madness but this year flights are $600 RT. A couple friends and I are considering heading to an Illinois Sportsbook for sweet 16/elite 8 weekend.
I can't find a ton of information online but it looks like BetRivers in Des Plaines might be the best option. Walking distance from some decent hotels and the book looks nice in pictures. Has anyone been? If so, how was your experience? Any sportsbooks you'd recommend instead?
The MGM property in Biloxi, MS looks pretty cool but factoring in hotel prices it would be more expensive than Vegas.
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Usually go to Vegas for March Madness but this year flights are $600 RT. A couple friends and I are considering heading to an Illinois Sportsbook for sweet 16/elite 8 weekend.
I can't find a ton of information online but it looks like BetRivers in Des Plaines might be the best option. Walking distance from some decent hotels and the book looks nice in pictures. Has anyone been? If so, how was your experience? Any sportsbooks you'd recommend instead?
The MGM property in Biloxi, MS looks pretty cool but factoring in hotel prices it would be more expensive than Vegas.
Where are you coming from?
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Usually go to Vegas for March Madness but this year flights are $600 RT. A couple friends and I are considering heading to an Illinois Sportsbook for sweet 16/elite 8 weekend.
I can't find a ton of information online but it looks like BetRivers in Des Plaines might be the best option. Walking distance from some decent hotels and the book looks nice in pictures. Has anyone been? If so, how was your experience? Any sportsbooks you'd recommend instead?
The MGM property in Biloxi, MS looks pretty cool but factoring in hotel prices it would be more expensive than Vegas.
.
Rivers is one of the nicest casinos I have been to outside of Las Vegas.. I have not stayed at the hotel.
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Where are you coming from?
Milwaukee area, but my friends are located elsewhere.
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Rivers is one of the nicest casinos I have been to outside of Las Vegas.. I have not stayed at the hotel.
That's great to hear. It looks nice in pictures but I've definitely been tricked by photos before. We'll spend most of our time in the bars/casino so I'm not all that concerned about hotel quality.
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That's great to hear. It looks nice in pictures but I've definitely been tricked by photos before. We'll spend most of our time in the bars/casino so I'm not all that concerned about hotel quality.
Rivers is arguably the nicest Chicago area casino/book. The other nice thing is you have all of Rosemont just a couple miles down the road (literally like 2 miles), and all that it has to offer.
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Milwaukee area, but my friends are located elsewhere.
As long as you are driving to Chicago, have you checked the airfares out of OHare and Midway?
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Heading to the states tomorrow can't believe I paid 99 euro for a test
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Heading to the states tomorrow can't believe I paid 99 euro for a test
PCR or antigen?
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As long as you are driving to Chicago, have you checked the airfares out of OHare and Midway?
I did. Not as expensive. Still not cheap. But not everyone in my group is able to drive to Chicago. Some will fly into Ohare.
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PCR or antigen?
PCR
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Whatever morning you have time, be at Buffalo Trace around 9:45am. It's less than 40 minutes from Lexington. You'll be able to snag one of ETH/ER/Weller/Blantons per person at MSRP. Then you can buy as much Buffalo Trace or Bourbon Cream as you like.
Goodwood Brewing in Frankfort was a good spot for food and sports on televisions if you want to hit that up after Buffalo Trace.
Lexington, the distillery district is cool. Lots of food and booze options. Joe Bologna's in Lexington will have the pasta, along with every other Eye-talian specialty.
If Kentucky Native Cafe is still open for the season, check it out.
Thanks for all your help. I hit Buffalo Trace on Sunday. I ended up with 2 bottles of ER, 2 bottles of BT and 2 bottles of Bourbon Cream. Great recommendation![/list]
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I may go to the Keys for 10 days in Jan now that my conf in Australia was canceled. Is it worth the money to dive there as opposed to snorkeling? I'm not much of a fisherman but that seems like more of a sure thing.
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Thanks for all your help. I hit Buffalo Trace on Sunday. I ended up with 2 bottles of ER, 2 bottles of BT and 2 bottles of Bourbon Cream. Great recommendation![/list]
Nice haul. Bourbon Cream is underrated, mix that up 70/30 with root beer for a great dessert drink.
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I may go to the Keys for 10 days in Jan now that my conf in Australia was canceled. Is it worth the money to dive there as opposed to snorkeling? I'm not much of a fisherman but that seems like more of a sure thing.
Depending on where you are talking about. Pennekamp? Snorkeling is fine.
Islamorada or other places further down? Diving is better.
Plus personal preference. Snorkeling easier, cheaper, You can obviously observe better diving. Turtles and nurse sharks tuck under ledges and are easier to see on air.
Plus there are a couple wrecks you can only get to diving. I’m not a big wreck diver fan, but most are.
Let me know where and I’ll see what insight I can provide. I’ve never dove near Key West so no knowledge about that area.
If you are in Islamorada, go to Lorelei’s for sunset dinner and drinks. Have a bushwhacker.
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Depending on where you are talking about. Pennekamp? Snorkeling is fine.
Islamorada or other places further down? Diving is better.
Plus personal preference. Snorkeling easier, cheaper, You can obviously observe better diving. Turtles and nurse sharks tuck under ledges and are easier to see on air.
Plus there are a couple wrecks you can only get to diving. I’m not a big wreck diver fan, but most are.
Let me know where and I’ll see what insight I can provide. I’ve never dove near Key West so no knowledge about that area.
If you are in Islamorada, go to Lorelei’s for sunset dinner and drinks. Have a bushwhacker.
Thank you very much. My buddy rented a house in Big Pine Key so I guess it's in between Key West and Islamorada. I'm undecided....maybe if I go down spending money on Stone Crab is the best option? :)
Believe it or not there is this insane new resort (adults only) close to my friend's rental in Littke Torch Key called Palm Island. Their lowest room rate is $3300 a night, I'm not S-ing you. What do you get for that? Daily yacht orgies with SI swimsuit models?? Freaking crazy.
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Keys vacation housing pricing has gotten insanely outrageous. Not sure why. We looked at off season and couldn't find anything under a grand a night. There was a lovely waterfront for only $6k a night. Since mrs pbiflyer was over my shoulder, I did not inquire about the SI swimsuit model orgies. ;D
ETA: Since you are on Big Pine, drop into the NoName Pub. Good dive bar. Better before the internet and became popular, but still a Big Pine tradition.
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Depending on where you are talking about. Pennekamp? Snorkeling is fine.
Islamorada or other places further down? Diving is better.
Plus personal preference. Snorkeling easier, cheaper, You can obviously observe better diving. Turtles and nurse sharks tuck under ledges and are easier to see on air.
Plus there are a couple wrecks you can only get to diving. I’m not a big wreck diver fan, but most are.
Let me know where and I’ll see what insight I can provide. I’ve never dove near Key West so no knowledge about that area.
If you are in Islamorada, go to Lorelei’s for sunset dinner and drinks. Have a bushwhacker.
Yeah, yeah bushwackers ar a good thang, hey?
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Yeah, yeah bushwackers ar a good thang, hey?
Ya gotta see what Lorelei has to whack, hey.
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Keys vacation housing pricing has gotten insanely outrageous. Not sure why. We looked at off season and couldn't find anything under a grand a night. There was a lovely waterfront for only $6k a night. Since mrs pbiflyer was over my shoulder, I did not inquire about the SI swimsuit model orgies. ;D
ETA: Since you are on Big Pine, drop into the NoName Pub. Good dive bar. Better before the internet and became popular, but still a Big Pine tradition.
My friend can work from home so he rented a small house for a month. If you do it that way it's pretty reasonable but everything is generally expensive. They also try to rob you if attempt to use Hilton or Marriott points. The Curio/Hilton resort in Key Largo is like 200000 pts a night in Jan. WTF? It seems like Big Pine is just fine but I dunno.
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Depending on where you are talking about. Pennekamp? Snorkeling is fine.
Islamorada or other places further down? Diving is better.
Plus personal preference. Snorkeling easier, cheaper, You can obviously observe better diving. Turtles and nurse sharks tuck under ledges and are easier to see on air.
Plus there are a couple wrecks you can only get to diving. I’m not a big wreck diver fan, but most are.
Let me know where and I’ll see what insight I can provide. I’ve never dove near Key West so no knowledge about that area.
If you are in Islamorada, go to Lorelei’s for sunset dinner and drinks. Have a bushwhacker.
Second Lorelei's.
Last winter we did a party boat to go fishing. Extremely reasonable, especially compared to chartering a boat. This is the one we took:
https://www.budnmarys.com/find-a-charter/party-fishing-boat/
Best part is that you can take your catch next door to this place and they will cook it for you and serve it with all the sides:
https://www.lazydaysislamorada.com/lazy-days-will-cook-your-catch/
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Second Lorelei's.
Last winter we did a party boat to go fishing. Extremely reasonable, especially compared to chartering a boat. This is the one we took:
https://www.budnmarys.com/find-a-charter/party-fishing-boat/
Best part is that you can take your catch next door to this place and they will cook it for you and serve it with all the sides:
https://www.lazydaysislamorada.com/lazy-days-will-cook-your-catch/
Thank you for the suggestions! The party-fishing boat sounds like an excellent idea What's the prime eating fish down there? Grouper? Yellowtail? I have no interest in paying a fortune to go and catch a mammoth fish.. Although sailfish are cool as hell.
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Thank you for the suggestions! The party-fishing boat sounds like an excellent idea What's the prime eating fish down there? Grouper? Yellowtail? I have no interest in paying a fortune to go and catch a mammoth fish.. Although sailfish are cool as hell.
There are all types of fish, including yellowtail, grunts and grouper. Glow even caught a remora (it got thrown back).
But yeah, you aren't going to catch a marlin on one of these trips. It's more like the ocean equivalent of pan fishing.
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Thank you for the suggestions! The party-fishing boat sounds like an excellent idea What's the prime eating fish down there? Grouper? Yellowtail? I have no interest in paying a fortune to go and catch a mammoth fish.. Although sailfish are cool as hell.
Fresh. Whatever they catch that day, but grouper and yellowtail are the most common and both tasty. Dolphin (mahi, not flipper) is also popular and good.
Order fish dip (smoked fish) somewhere. It is a Florida version of chips and salsa.
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Fresh. Whatever they catch that day, but grouper and yellowtail are the most common and both tasty. Dolphin (mahi, not flipper) is also popular and good.
Order fish dip (smoked fish) somewhere. It is a Florida version of chips and salsa.
Tyvm. I will also have to buy some stone crab claws.
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Tyvm. I will also have to buy some stone crab claws.
This place is great for both stone crab claws and fish dip. Good craft beer selection as well.
Glow and I found it when we got to our VRBO late and this was the only place open near where we were staying.
https://www.facebook.com/marbartavernier/
Most of the patrons we met were boat owners at the marina where this place is located. We met a guy from Seattle who was using his vacation paddleboard from Miami to Key West. Fun place.
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This place is great for both stone crab claws and fish dip. Good craft beer selection as well.
Glow and I found it when we got to our VRBO late and this was the only place open near where we were staying.
https://www.facebook.com/marbartavernier/
Most of the patrons we met were boat owners at the marina where this place is located. We met a guy from Seattle who was using his vacation paddleboard from Miami to Key West. Fun place.
Sweet! I was seeing if I could find a seafood market to get a lb or 2 of claws. Stone crab is no joke. Plus they regenerate their claws. :) I think you can only get them in Florida or the Caribbean.
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Okay, decided on Barbados in March (Just bought my cricket tickets).
Recommendations on places to stay in Bridgetown, preferably closer to the stadium and non-cricket activities to do.
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Okay, decided on Barbados in March (Just bought my cricket tickets).
Recommendations on places to stay in Bridgetown, preferably closer to the stadium and non-cricket activities to do.
1) Oistins Fish Fry on a Friday night. (you can go any night, but it’s the thing on Fridays) South Coast. This is a must stop for any visitor. Dover Beach is near here.
2) Tiki Bar, Rockley Beach. (My friends own this bar) It’s a casual beach bar. Great people.
3) Earthworks Pottery. It’s a little bit off of the beaten path and random, in St. Thomas. But, it’s worth your time.
4) Catamarans for half a day, snorkeling, etc..popular. There are several to choose from.
5) Walk the Barbados Boardwalk. This is a few miles South of Bridgetown towards Accra.
6) St. Lawrenece Gap or “The Gap.” Some nightlife with bars and restaurants. Saturdays at McBride’s. It’s in between Oistins and Hastings. Cafe Sol (Mexican) is a long time favorite and a good place to eat in that area.
7) Casual lunch “Just Grillin”
8) Harbour Lights is a night in itself, BBQ, entertainment. (Mondays and Wednesdays.) St. Michael.
I’d stay in either St. James Parish (probably most convenient for your trip) (Bridgetown) or Christ Church Parish. (probably my favorite Parish) There are lots of choices. Do you prefer a local place or a big chain, points, etc…? Many of the places above are in these areas.
Holetown has some good places for dining and night life as well. St. James. This is also where some of the 5 star resorts are located, Sandy Lane etc…
All beaches in Barbados are public.
Some of the East side of Barbados is more rugged nature cave and rock formations, rougher water, and less developed. Bigger wave surfing etc..
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Planning a Trip to Qatar for the World Cup in November. Any tips?
Flights are close to $2K per person round trip Chicago to Doha. Should we expect that to drop?
We’re pretty experienced travelers but never have ventured to an event quite this big.
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Planning a Trip to Qatar for the World Cup in November. Any tips?
Flights are close to $2K per person round trip Chicago to Doha. Should we expect that to drop?
We’re pretty experienced travelers but never have ventured to an event quite this big.
Tip: They won't have enough beer.
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Planning a Trip to Qatar for the World Cup in November. Any tips?
Flights are close to $2K per person round trip Chicago to Doha. Should we expect that to drop?
We’re pretty experienced travelers but never have ventured to an event quite this big.
If ur plannin' on gettin' covid, get it in da U.S.A., hey?
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Tip: They won't have enough beer.
I saw that they are permitting alcohol for tourists and setting up pop up bars, but yes it won’t be a trip that includes heavy drinking.
Thinking about maybe a week in Doha with a few days in Dubai/Abu Dhabi.
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Qatar is a pretty cool place but has limited hotels so make sure you do the hotel booking right away. My favorite is the oldest one... the Sheraton right on the bay. Great gym and great service. Do one of the 4WD dunes trips... they are great. Don't watch any youtube videos of same beforehand!
One thing to remember... in November, the evening temperature can get down to 19-21C, and it seems like there's always a breeze. Make sure you take a sweater to evening matches.
As for booze, even some 5 star hotels don't have liquor licenses! I went to a great Indian restaurant in a 5 star hotel and got some great authentic spicy stuff and wanted a cold Kingfisher to wash it down... nada, nichts, nyet, no! sparkling water just doesn't cut it!
Similar to Dubai, being drunk is a crime. Drinking is not. So mind your P's and Q's and you'll have a great time.
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Qatar is a pretty cool place but has limited hotels so make sure you do the hotel booking right away. My favorite is the oldest one... the Sheraton right on the bay. Great gym and great service. Do one of the 4WD dunes trips... they are great. Don't watch any youtube videos of same beforehand!
One thing to remember... in November, the evening temperature can get down to 19-21C, and it seems like there's always a breeze. Make sure you take a sweater to evening matches.
As for booze, even some 5 star hotels don't have liquor licenses! I went to a great Indian restaurant in a 5 star hotel and got some great authentic spicy stuff and wanted a cold Kingfisher to wash it down... nada, nichts, nyet, no! sparkling water just doesn't cut it!
Similar to Dubai, being drunk is a crime. Drinking is not. So mind your P's and Q's and you'll have a great time.
Hard pass
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Anyone ever sold a hotel reservation using a reputable site/app?
Going to Maui next month for a week with most of my extended family. My brother & his wife are probably not going because their daughter is 4 and can’t get vaccinated yet.
The rooms we have booked have doubled in price since we booked. Figured rather than canceling my brother’s room, might be able to make money off it.
Thanks in advance!
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Scoop Friends,
I find myself in Belgrade, Serbia for the next 4 days. Any advice on good restaurants or things to do from the scoop travel world?
Thanks
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Unfortunately Red Star Belgrade doesn’t have a home match otherwise that would be my reco. Just an unreal environment
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WarriorFan
Had one of my best weeks of my life in Belgrade. Was there 25 years ago and wish I could offer some insight, but thoroughly loved it.
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Dey must have strips joints, aina?
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Unfortunately Red Star Belgrade doesn’t have a home match otherwise that would be my reco. Just an unreal environment
Actually their basketball team does play Friday night and that's a strong possibility if we can figure out how to get tickets. Can't find anything on the web so far.
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WarriorFan
Had one of my best weeks of my life in Belgrade. Was there 25 years ago and wish I could offer some insight, but thoroughly loved it.
I think probably in both of our cases what was interesting 25 years ago is not on the priority list now. (at least not on the wife's list)
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Actually their basketball team does play Friday night and that's a strong possibility if we can figure out how to get tickets. Can't find anything on the web so far.
I went to a hockey game in Prague. Was very fun. Belgrade hoops would be a trip I bet. Might have to get tickets there. That’s what I had to do in Prague.
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Bummer, Red Star was supposed to play Fenerbache on Friday but it's cancelled because Red Star has more players/coaches with COVID than without.
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Bummer, Red Star was supposed to play Fenerbache on Friday but it's cancelled because Red Star has more players/coaches with COVID than without.
You might run into Novak Djokovic. Hear he has some free time.
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Where would you all say is the best drivable skiing from Chicago? Devils Head, Alpine Valley and Willmot is all I've done around here.
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Where would you all say is the best drivable skiing from Chicago? Devils Head, Alpine Valley and Willmot is all I've done around here.
Cascade is about the same drive as Devil's Head and I prefer it.
If you are willing to make it an overnight, I recommend Brule in the UP.
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Cascade is about the same drive as Devil's Head and I prefer it.
If you are willing to make it an overnight, I recommend Brule in the UP.
Thanks! Hows the snow situation up there? Icy or decent for skiing?
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Where would you all say is the best drivable skiing from Chicago? Devils Head, Alpine Valley and Willmot is all I've done around here.
Alpine valley and Wilmer are bunny hills.
Chicago to devils head or cascade mountain about 3 hours? Not bad
Indian head, black jack, powder horn or ski brule about 5-6 hours? Best thing short of the real deal
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Thanks! Hows the snow situation up there? Icy or decent for skiing?
Brule is the best in WI, but it's a drive. I second trying out Cascade. Been there a ton, always well maintained.
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Thanks! Hows the snow situation up there? Icy or decent for skiing?
Generally, it's not bad. Lots of snowmaking, but quite a bit of natural snow as well.
I like Brule because the runs are pretty good and they have a cool lodge on the backside that is a converted cabin from the 19th century.
I have skied at Granite Peak in Wausau (formerly Rib Mountain) and did not care for it at all. Super icy, and all the runs are basically black for the top quarter of the mountain and green the rest of the way down.
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Depending on where you are talking about. Pennekamp? Snorkeling is fine.
Islamorada or other places further down? Diving is better.
Plus personal preference. Snorkeling easier, cheaper, You can obviously observe better diving. Turtles and nurse sharks tuck under ledges and are easier to see on air.
Plus there are a couple wrecks you can only get to diving. I’m not a big wreck diver fan, but most are.
Let me know where and I’ll see what insight I can provide. I’ve never dove near Key West so no knowledge about that area.
If you are in Islamorada, go to Lorelei’s for sunset dinner and drinks. Have a bushwhacker.
Tyvm for the "bushwacker" and various other recommendations! I'm diving today in Looe Key before heading home tomorrow. Big Pine is a great little area. Far less touristy than Key West or Islamorada/Key Largo. And surprisingly very good food choices close by. I'm not much of a fisherman but it doesn't suck when you can catch Yellowtail and Grouper and local joints cook your catch. Anyway I would recommend the area for those more comfortable with fewer tourists. Also, $2 happy hour draft beer is never a bad thing. Thx again and to all the scoopers for their suggestions.
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Glad you are enjoying yourself! Thanks for the feedback.
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Cascade is about the same drive as Devil's Head and I prefer it.
If you are willing to make it an overnight, I recommend Brule in the UP.
Yeah I'll probably make it an overnight but was hoping I'd still get some runs in Friday night as well. Don't think that's possible with going to the UP. Leaning Cascade right now.
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Alpine valley and Wilmer are bunny hills.
Chicago to devils head or cascade mountain about 3 hours? Not bad
Indian head, black jack, powder horn or ski brule about 5-6 hours? Best thing short of the real deal
Don't forget Granite Peak (formerly Rib Mountain) in Wausau. IMHO as good as Indianhead/Blackjack, etc and much closer than the UP. Easy drive up 39 and they have extensive snow making. Go there during the week and it's like you own the place.
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I hear Grand Geneva is lovely this time of year
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You may want to consider Sundown, just west of Dubuque on Asbury Road. Not a bad drive from Chicago and Dubuque's hills are not insignificant.
Dubuque: Iowa's skiing capital
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I hear Grand Geneva is lovely this time of year
Villa Olivia too.
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Villa Olivia too.
Ha! That reminds me of the time Glow Jr. (a middle-schooler at the time) came back from our spring break trip to Utah with lift tickets from Alta, Brighton, and Snowbird attached to his jacket. One of his classmates saw them and said, "I have never heard of those places, but I bet they aren't as cool as Villa Olivia!"
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Alpine valley and Wilmer are bunny hills.
Chicago to devils head or cascade mountain about 3 hours? Not bad
Indian head, black jack, powder horn or ski brule about 5-6 hours? Best thing short of the real deal
I am in Chicago, so the UP is 7-8 hours in a car. Since the drive is north-south, getting stuck in an storm makes that drive hellacious since the storm intensity is with you the mostly whole drive. I learned it's quicker and safer to jump on a plane to hit the western slopes...and of course much superior.
Also, with Midwest skiing, there are usually no board parks and the slopes get clogged with novice boarders sitting on their arses sliding down the mountain.
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I am in Chicago, so the UP is 7-8 hours in a car. Since the drive is north-south, getting stuck in an storm makes that drive hellacious since the storm intensity is with you the mostly whole drive. I learned it's quicker and safer to jump on a plane to hit the western slopes...and of course much superior.
Also, with Midwest skiing, there are usually no board parks and the slopes get clogged with novice boarders sitting on their arses sliding down the mountain.
There is board stuff at Cascade and Rib... at least the last two times I was at either.
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Moving this from the Fargo thread I hijacked.
I really prefer anywhere in Belgium. Antwerp is such a great cultural center with so much history. Ive been there so many times there for work it took going with my wife last month to re-appreciate it as a city. Bruges, Ghent, Leuven, and Liege is actually quite cool too.
Brussels just feels kind of one note. I know the palace and such is there, and the EU is there so its quite multicultural, but it really is otherwise unremarkable IMO.
Okay we pulled the trigger and booked a place in Antwerp. I like places with water.
My only regret moving from Brussels to Antwerp is it is further from Lueven. We had planned to abandon the kids one evening and visit “the world’s longest bar” collection of bars in Lueven. Still might do it (kids will be 18 & 17, so no child endangerment) but will cut down on drinking time.
Now thanks to the suggestions here other cities to visit come into play.
Found a near by restaurant called Meat Factory. But any other Belgium suggestions are welcome.
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Moving this from the Fargo thread I hijacked.
Okay we pulled the trigger and booked a place in Antwerp. I like places with water.
My only regret moving from Brussels to Antwerp is it is further from Lueven. We had planned to abandon the kids one evening and visit “the world’s longest bar” collection of bars in Lueven. Still might do it (kids will be 18 & 17, so no child endangerment) but will cut down on drinking time.
Now thanks to the suggestions here other cities to visit come into play.
Found a near by restaurant called Meat Factory. But any other Belgium suggestions are welcome.
Meat Factory!! Right off the Grote Market by the Antwerp city government buildings and in the shadow of the cathedral. Actually a pretty solid spot. My first place ever having horse which was actually pretty dang good.
Bonaparte around the corner is a fun karaoke bar
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Moving this from the Fargo thread I hijacked.
Okay we pulled the trigger and booked a place in Antwerp. I like places with water.
My only regret moving from Brussels to Antwerp is it is further from Lueven. We had planned to abandon the kids one evening and visit “the world’s longest bar” collection of bars in Lueven. Still might do it (kids will be 18 & 17, so no child endangerment) but will cut down on drinking time.
Now thanks to the suggestions here other cities to visit come into play.
Found a near by restaurant called Meat Factory. But any other Belgium suggestions are welcome.
I haven't been to Antwerp in 5 yrs but Troubadour was excellent. It may be a bit pricey but perhaps check out the menu. You honest can't go wrong with that one mussels street about a stone's throw from the Hilton. Belgium is of course beer heaven. Remember to be safe. :)
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Heading to Playa Del Carmen tomorrow, anyone got a recommendation? Food? Bar? Brewery? Hikes? Boxing gym?
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Heading to Maldives and then the UAE for my honeymoon starting next weekend.
We moved our reservation in the Maldives to accommodate a resort stay we were able to find an opening for in Dubai. In doing so, my wife mistakenly planned a 2 day date change on our flight there from Chicago instead of just 1 (leaving the wee hours of the morning of the 19th, arriving the morning of the 20th in Male). So our reservation begins the 21st.
So arranging our seaplane, I tell the hotel whoops, we messed up our dates so we will be spending a night at a beachfront hotel in Male and then proceeding as planned on the morning of the 21st. Well, come to find out, they will ONLY receive guests directly from the airport due to COVID, nowhere else, not even other Marriott properties in the country. You need a negative test to even board a flight to the Maldives, and Marriott does all their own testing and whatnot when you arrive, but I guess its their way of completely negating any additional risk.
Thank GOD they had another "reasonable" (only in the Maldives would I consider the price reasonable and only since the rest of the stay is on points) room at the property for the 20th otherwise I'm not sure what we would have done as they casually suggested we just "change your flight to a day later" as if thats a simple easy solution ::) At the end of the day, it was our mistake, I have to respect rules even if it seems a bit much, but could be worse...though they definitely tried to double charge us for seaplane flights and then continued to argue as I had 2 reservations which means 2 round trips per person :o
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Congratulations.
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Heading to Maldives and then the UAE for my honeymoon starting next weekend.
We moved our reservation in the Maldives to accommodate a resort stay we were able to find an opening for in Dubai. In doing so, my wife mistakenly planned a 2 day date change on our flight there from Chicago instead of just 1 (leaving the wee hours of the morning of the 19th, arriving the morning of the 20th in Male). So our reservation begins the 21st.
So arranging our seaplane, I tell the hotel whoops, we messed up our dates so we will be spending a night at a beachfront hotel in Male and then proceeding as planned on the morning of the 21st. Well, come to find out, they will ONLY receive guests directly from the airport due to COVID, nowhere else, not even other Marriott properties in the country. You need a negative test to even board a flight to the Maldives, and Marriott does all their own testing and whatnot when you arrive, but I guess its their way of completely negating any additional risk.
Thank GOD they had another "reasonable" (only in the Maldives would I consider the price reasonable and only since the rest of the stay is on points) room at the property for the 20th otherwise I'm not sure what we would have done as they casually suggested we just "change your flight to a day later" as if thats a simple easy solution ::) At the end of the day, it was our mistake, I have to respect rules even if it seems a bit much, but could be worse...though they definitely tried to double charge us for seaplane flights and then continued to argue as I had 2 reservations which means 2 round trips per person :o
AY PAPI QUE RICO ES
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AY PAPI QUE RICO ES
Miles and points, miles and points. Get to pretend to be a big shot on a grinder's budget
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I just hope you won't be missing any Marquette games, young man!
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Congrats on the nuptials Wags!
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Congrats on the nuptials Wags!
Thank you! Happened back in July but we put the honeymoon on ice for worse weather and hopefully less COVID chaos risk 8-)
I just hope you won't be missing any Marquette games, young man!
10-11 hour time difference? Pssh. The internet is a beautiful thing. All my years of traveling to Asia have primed me for off hours Marquette enjoyment, no sweat
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Currently traveling back from the Middle East. Just stumbled into the biggest COVID travel contrast.
Spent the last weekend in the UAE. Literally days before we arrived the last week of Feb they dropped their mask mandate, oh wait, their OUTDOOR mask mandate. So we still saw a decent amount of outdoor mask wearing, and not just being in transit, like strolling around outside and along the water. Felt like NYC circa May 2020.
Now we had a 4 hour layover in Zurich and Switzerland has dropped masks everywhere but public transportation and hospitals, basically. So the entire airport is maskless, including employees. It’s been delightful. I mean Wisconsin is pretty mask free but it’s kind of wild seeing everyone from passengers to employees to TSA/police all without masks. Here’s to hoping this is the trend over the next month or two
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Covid was over March 1, aina?
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Covid was over March 1, aina?
Someone please tell them to drop the public transport mandate then.
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Currently traveling back from the Middle East. Just stumbled into the biggest COVID travel contrast.
Spent the last weekend in the UAE. Literally days before we arrived the last week of Feb they dropped their mask mandate, oh wait, their OUTDOOR mask mandate. So we still saw a decent amount of outdoor mask wearing, and not just being in transit, like strolling around outside and along the water. Felt like NYC circa May 2020.
Now we had a 4 hour layover in Zurich and Switzerland has dropped masks everywhere but public transportation and hospitals, basically. So the entire airport is maskless, including employees. It’s been delightful. I mean Wisconsin is pretty mask free but it’s kind of wild seeing everyone from passengers to employees to TSA/police all without masks. Here’s to hoping this is the trend over the next month or two
I was just in Maui for a week and Oahu for a week. Maui was the first week, and masks were totally optional, no restaurants checked any vaccine record. Oahu, complete opposite, mandatory masks, Covid vaccine enforcement at restaurants was strong. It was like two totally different vacations.
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Due to some commitments by my daughter, we had to rearrange our summer trip and will be in Cologne for Mrs pbiflyer’s birthday. I’ve been to Cologne exactly one day and just saw the highlights, so not well versed in the area, though I can tell you where to find the worst Irish pub in Bonn is. ;D
Any wow type things we can do for her birthday? Great restaurants? We can actually head anywhere in the area by train, so suggestions a bit away are good as well.
Oh, and skip the beer suggestions, she like me, hates Kolsch beer.
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Traveling to NYC next month for a conference, first time ever seeing the city. Have about 1.5 days ahead of the conference to do tourist things. Want to check out 9/11 memorial, probably Statue of Liberty. What’s the best way to visit Statue of Liberty. Any other tourist things I must experience (insert subway joke here)?
Also Yankees aren’t in town but Mets are. Worth going to a game?
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Traveling to NYC next month for a conference, first time ever seeing the city. Have about 1.5 days ahead of the conference to do tourist things. Want to check out 9/11 memorial, probably Statue of Liberty. What’s the best way to visit Statue of Liberty. Any other tourist things I must experience (insert subway joke here)?
Also Yankees aren’t in town but Mets are. Worth going to a game?
1.5 days isn’t a lot of time to do a lot of things. If those are your interests, you may want to go to 9/11 Memorial. Then, while in Lower Manhattan, take the free Staten Island Ferry which goes past the Statue of Liberty to Staten Island. (Don’t get off of the Ferry) and then ride the Ferry back to Manhattan.
You can also walk the High Line near there and see Chelsea Piers and Food Hall. Or you can go on the East Side and walk the Brooklyn Bridge from there. If you go early morning, grab your bacon egg and cheese bagel and coffee and go. If if later on, grab your pizza slice and head to the next thing. With limited time, I’d be more inclined to eat on the go.
The idea is to pick a neighborhood and geography and do and build on multiple things in that area. Or, if there is an event, game or show at a certain time in a certain geography, you plan around that by building out from that area.
This will give you more time to do and see other things on your list.
You can either take the 7 train to the Mets game. Or for a few bucks more with more comfort/relaxation, you can take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from the Penn Station location as well.
Seeing a game and experiencing a game is always a fun experience. Neither stadium is what I would consider among the league’s best. But that doesn’t matter much.
Do you know the exact dates? If so, attending a local event, activity, show, game, or festival etc…at the time is recommended. There’s always something going on.
The list of things to see and do is pretty long based on individual interests. If you have a nice weather day, I’d at least see Central Park during the day for a little while. While there or near, you can stop by the Rockefeller Center area and consider going to the Top of The Rock for some views. ($40 I believe) unlimited time. They don’t care if you stay up there a little while.
Your time is limited. So just pick something or a few things and build out from there. You will have many choices.
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1.5 days isn’t a lot of time to do a lot of things. If those are your interests, you may want to go to 9/11 Memorial. Then, while in Lower Manhattan, take the free Staten Island Ferry which goes past the Statue of Liberty to Staten Island. (Don’t get off of the Ferry) and then ride the Ferry back to Manhattan.
You can also walk the High Line near there and see Chelsea Piers and Food Hall. Or you can go on the East Side and walk the Brooklyn Bridge from there. If you go early morning, grab your bacon egg and cheese bagel and coffee and go. If if later on, grab your pizza slice and head to the next thing. With limited time, I’d be more inclined to eat on the go.
The idea is to pick a neighborhood and geography and do and build on multiple things in that area. Or, if there is an event, game or show at a certain time in a certain geography, you plan around that by building out from that area.
This will give you more time to do and see other things on your list.
You can either take the 7 train to the Mets game. Or for a few bucks more with more comfort/relaxation, you can take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from the Penn Station location as well.
Seeing a game and experiencing a game is always a fun experience. Neither stadium is what I would consider among the league’s best. But that doesn’t matter much.
Do you know the exact dates? If so, attending a local event, activity, show, game, or festival etc…at the time is recommended. There’s always something going on.
The list of things to see and do is pretty long based on individual interests. If you have a nice weather day, I’d at least see Central Park during the day for a little while. While there or near, you can stop by the Rockefeller Center area and consider going to the Top of The Rock for some views. ($40 I believe) unlimited time. They don’t care if you stay up there a little while.
Your time is limited. So just pick something or a few things and build out from there. You will have many choices.
I'll second most of this... Except skip the Mets game (not that hoops was endorsing it). It'll take up way too much of your time to get there and then you're stuck watching the freaking METS instead of enjoying the city.
If you don't know which part of the city to check out primarily (to avoid wasted time on the subway) I recommend Chelsea, Greenwich Village, "Little Italy" Chinatown, and LES, in that order. Times Square might sound enticing... but the food choices are abysmal, and the area is just ads. The park should be fully in bloom when you're there, and I highly recommend walking around it.
If you need to catch a bite off the high line walk in Chelsea, grab some tacos in the Chelsea market at Los Tacos No 1.
If you're going to stop at one tavern in the city make it McSorely's. Bring cash and enjoy the history. Be sure to ask about the wishbones over the bar.
If you have time and want to check out a museum, I've always enjoyed the Tenement Museum in the LES... plus there are a TON of great food options in the area... even Katz's if you want to visit the famous deli (the portions are gigantic, and it's very expensive).
I've never done the museum at ground zero because I don't particularly want to revisit the emotional horror of that day. I've visited the outdoor memorial twice and that was enough for me.
Bring your vax card, just in case.
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Yep. Any game or show etc will take up most of that night. Maybe go back Labor Day Weekend and double dip the U.S. Open Tennis and a Mets game by walking back and forth. (They are home this year). That way you make a day of it in Queens and grab some good ethnic food etc…in the neighborhood as well.
Then in the same weekend you could do Brasilian Day in Midtown combined with things near there that day on a separate day of the same weekend. West Indian Labor Day Parade on that weekend too etc…or hit a flea market on the Upper West Side or event near Washington Square Park etc..and all of a sudden you have a pretty good weekend going.
I usually just cater to someone else’s interests even if they aren’t mine, unless specifically asked about a thing to see or do, or a place, which is much easier to answer.
But with limited time, you will want to make smart choices. Example, I would see the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the 80’s off of the Park. But you won’t have time to go inside because it is more of an all day thing and you don’t have that kind of time.
I do recommend getting and staying outside as much as possible during good weather days and good weather parts of the year as much as possible.
Wear comfortable shoes.
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1.5 days isn’t a lot of time to do a lot of things. If those are your interests, you may want to go to 9/11 Memorial. Then, while in Lower Manhattan, take the free Staten Island Ferry which goes past the Statue of Liberty to Staten Island. (Don’t get off of the Ferry) and then ride the Ferry back to Manhattan.
You can also walk the High Line near there and see Chelsea Piers and Food Hall. Or you can go on the East Side and walk the Brooklyn Bridge from there. If you go early morning, grab your bacon egg and cheese bagel and coffee and go. If if later on, grab your pizza slice and head to the next thing. With limited time, I’d be more inclined to eat on the go.
The idea is to pick a neighborhood and geography and do and build on multiple things in that area. Or, if there is an event, game or show at a certain time in a certain geography, you plan around that by building out from that area.
I'll second most of this... Except skip the Mets game (not that hoops was endorsing it). It'll take up way too much of your time to get there and then you're stuck watching the freaking METS instead of enjoying the city.
If you don't know which part of the city to check out primarily (to avoid wasted time on the subway) I recommend Chelsea, Greenwich Village, "Little Italy" Chinatown, and LES, in that order. Times Square might sound enticing... but the food choices are abysmal, and the area is just ads. The park should be fully in bloom when you're there, and I highly recommend walking around it.
If you need to catch a bite off the high line walk in Chelsea, grab some tacos in the Chelsea market at Los Tacos No 1.
If you're going to stop at one tavern in the city make it McSorely's. Bring cash and enjoy the history. Be sure to ask about the wishbones over the bar.
If you have time and want to check out a museum, I've always enjoyed the Tenement Museum in the LES... plus there are a TON of great food options in the area... even Katz's if you want to visit the famous deli (the portions are gigantic, and it's very expensive).
I've never done the museum at ground zero because I don't particularly want to revisit the emotional horror of that day. I've visited the outdoor memorial twice and that was enough for me.
Bring your vax card, just in case.
These are all spot on suggestions. I don't think you will get better advice. Though McSorleys can get packed and have a wait to get in.
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So, wife and I recently signed up for global entry. Got approved about 48 hours after application submission. But it's been nearly impossible to get the interview scheduled. Seems like there's nothing available in the entire Midwest until the fall.
Any advice?
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So, wife and I recently signed up for global entry. Got approved about 48 hours after application submission. But it's been nearly impossible to get the interview scheduled. Seems like there's nothing available in the entire Midwest until the fall.
Any advice?
Do you have an flights scheduled? Cause you can do it at some of the airports with more availability.
Thats interesting to hear cause both my initial interview and my renewal interviews were easy breazy whenever I wanted. I did the renewal in MKE in the fall even.
Unfortunate that its initial and not a renewal cause the grace period for renewal, due to staffing, is literally like 2 years. So when I renewed and paid my fee, I had something like 500 days before I had to do the interview while my status was still active and working.
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I'll zig where others might zag here, but definitely go to Times Square. It's NYC, and if it's your first time there, you should at least walk through it. It doesn't take long, it's an interesting spectacle that no other city in the US has. It's also a quick walk to Rockefeller Center/Radio City from there. The MLB flagship store is right across from NBC, it's actually pretty cool.
As far as the Statue of Liberty, you can go to Battery Park and take the ferry that will take you to the island to walk around the grounds.
Definitely skip the Mets game, going into Queens is worthless, and that ballpark is nothing special.
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Do you have an flights scheduled? Cause you can do it at some of the airports with more availability.
Thats interesting to hear cause both my initial interview and my renewal interviews were easy breazy whenever I wanted. I did the renewal in MKE in the fall even.
Unfortunate that its initial and not a renewal cause the grace period for renewal, due to staffing, is literally like 2 years. So when I renewed and paid my fee, I had something like 500 days before I had to do the interview while my status was still active and working.
We are going to Ireland in June. So, I think we can do the interview when we come back? Is that right? And it doesn't need scheduled?
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I’m hoping to watch the Brewers play in Boston at the end of July. Does anyone have an itinerary from a trip they’ve taken (7/8 days) that includes 2 days or so in Boston plus visits to other NE areas (Cape, MV, Newport, Maine, etc)? Would love suggestions for hotels/lodging and restaurants in those places as well.
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Definitely skip the Mets game, going into Queens is worthless, and that ballpark is nothing special.
Hard disagree, my favorite food borough in NYC by a mile....HOWEVA, for the purposes of a first time visitor, I very much agree.
I'm a pretty big Top of the Rock hater. Its just WAYYY too much of a tourist mess. I always recommend going to the Rainbow Room in 30 Rock as an alternative. Otherwise, 2 of the newer observation decks are great. One at Hudson Yards (which works well if you do the Highline and Chelsea Market...which is fantastic. The Market is brilliant on all levels.) and then One Vanderbilt, which is a brand new supertall near Grand Central. It has a very cool observation deck called Summit.
If you go to Chelsea Market, you MUST go to Miznon. Upscale Israeli street food. Its arguably one of my top 3 food spots, all genres included, in NYC...seriously.
We are going to Ireland in June. So, I think we can do the interview when we come back? Is that right? And it doesn't need scheduled?
Don't quote me on the scheduling part, but otherwise yep, thats how you can do it.
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I'll zig where others might zag here, but definitely go to Times Square. It's NYC, and if it's your first time there, you should at least walk through it. It doesn't take long, it's an interesting spectacle that no other city in the US has. It's also a quick walk to Rockefeller Center/Radio City from there. The MLB flagship store is right across from NBC, it's actually pretty cool.
As far as the Statue of Liberty, you can go to Battery Park and take the ferry that will take you to the island to walk around the grounds.
Definitely skip the Mets game, going into Queens is worthless, and that ballpark is nothing special.
Agree. In my international travels to a new city, I'd sign up for the touristic tours with the concierge my first visit. You get to see most of the sites, they can get you there the most efficiently.
They are cheesy, but you hit the check marks, get a feel for the geography, get an idea of places you want to really spend time at, gain some history so you can talk the culture and get tips. On this visit and future visits, you then know what you really want to spend quality time on (for example, Ellis Island is far more interesting than climbing the Statue of Liberty).
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I’m hoping to watch the Brewers play in Boston at the end of July. Does anyone have an itinerary from a trip they’ve taken (7/8 days) that includes 2 days or so in Boston plus visits to other NE areas (Cape, MV, Newport, Maine, etc)? Would love suggestions for hotels/lodging and restaurants in those places as well.
Boston eats, drinks and dos: Row 34 (get some Aunt Dotty Oysters... trust me), Harpoon Brewery (great tour and beer), Freedom Trail (Historical walk)
Haven't been to the Cape or MV, so I'm no help there.
Newport we only went to the Breakers, and it was amazing. We did go to an Oyster/seafood place about 30 min away called Matunuck Oysters... they farm them 10ft away from the restaurant... can you tell I like oysters?
Maine... is a big state. I've driven everywhere up the coast from Portland to Bar Harbor... but that is a longish drive (3h with no stops). Portland is a cool city. Did a tasting menu... which was great, but that was 8 years ago... Bar Harbor is neat and very close to Acadia National Park... But if you do the drive, be SURE to stop at Red's Eats for a Lobster roll. You think you want to share one, but I promise you'll want your own.
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I’m hoping to watch the Brewers play in Boston at the end of July. Does anyone have an itinerary from a trip they’ve taken (7/8 days) that includes 2 days or so in Boston plus visits to other NE areas (Cape, MV, Newport, Maine, etc)? Would love suggestions for hotels/lodging and restaurants in those places as well.
Most MLB away teams in Boston stay at the Westin at Copley. I love that hotel and have made it my go to in Boston. Location is great, walkable to great shops/restaurants/some historic things. I don’t claim to know Boston well, but it offers so much, it’s one city I always wish I had more time in.
I very much like the Wentworth (Portsmouth, NH) as a hotel stop when going between Boston and beaches in southern Maine. I do say this as a Marriott snob with points to burn regarding the Wentworth, fwiw.
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These are all spot on suggestions. I don't think you will get better advice. Though McSorleys can get packed and have a wait to get in.
If you're missing home, there's always Kettle of Fish in the Village.
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In Boston, we did a historical bar crawl which was a lot of fun. We also did a guided Freedom Trail walking tour which helped us knock out most of the main sites pretty quickly with a guide. Harpoon Brewery was pretty cool.
We took the ferry to Provincetown and did a sand dune tour which was definitely worth it. We then walked around and just soaked in the surroundings before taking the ferry back.
For Newport, we did a mansion tour that wasn’t Breakers which was really cool. I’ve heard Breakers is the one to do though. We also went to the Tennis Hall of Fame. I grew up playing tennis so found it interesting. I’m not sure if the pro tournament would be going on at that time. We also did Sunday mass at the church JFK and Jackie got married. We did a sunset boat tour which was beautiful and got to see some beautiful homes.
Feel free to PM me with any specifics.
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If you're missing home, there's always Kettle of Fish in the Village.
Something tells me that Creighton warrior might not be interested in a Wisconsin stylized bar...
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Has anyone ever stayed at a "Canopy by Hilton"? If so what would you compare it to chain wise? It seems pretty decent but I'm surprised it's cheaper than the Hampton Inn in D.C by the Du Pont Circle area.
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So, wife and I recently signed up for global entry. Got approved about 48 hours after application submission. But it's been nearly impossible to get the interview scheduled. Seems like there's nothing available in the entire Midwest until the fall.
Any advice?
Plenty of availability for interviews in Milwaukee in May. I just signed up for one. It took almost a year for my application to get conditionally approved after Glow's was approved in a couple of days. I am not sure why I would be different except that I was born in Germany (but I have an American passport).
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Plenty of availability for interviews in Milwaukee in May. I just signed up for one. It took almost a year for my application to get conditionally approved after Glow's was approved in a couple of days. I am not sure why I would be different except that I was born in Germany (but I have an American passport).
For global entry?
When I go to the interview site and plug in needing an appointment by June 20 for 2 of us, I don't see Milwaukee availability.
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For global entry?
When I go to the interview site and plug in needing an appointment by June 20 for 2 of us, I don't see Milwaukee availability.
Yep. I made it about two weeks ago and there seemed to be plenty of appointments. I came up empty when I tried to filter the search, but if I ran the search for next available nationwide, it came right up.
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Yep. I made it about two weeks ago and there seemed to be plenty of appointments. I came up empty when I tried to filter the search, but if I ran the search for next available nationwide, it came right up.
Ah
Guess I shouldn't be surprised if the website is 100% functional or accurate
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Ah
Guess I shouldn't be surprised if the website is 100% functional or accurate
What can I say? It's brought to you by the people who developed Healthcare.gov.
Also, six months in, I inquired as to the status of my application. It took them two months to respond that some applications take longer than others.
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Something tells me that Creighton warrior might not be interested in a Wisconsin stylized bar...
I did grow up in Milwaukee (MUHS grad) so it could be intriguing. Appreciate everyone’s suggestions. Staying in Times Square as the conference is there so will be soaking that in. Billy Joel is at MSG while I’m there, don’t love his music so will probably skip that, as well as Mets game.
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Has anyone ever stayed at a "Canopy by Hilton"? If so what would you compare it to chain wise? It seems pretty decent but I'm surprised it's cheaper than the Hampton Inn in D.C by the Du Pont Circle area.
Promotional price. I almost stayed in a new one in Atlanta because of the price. I was supposed to head to Atlanta this past fall for a trade show before it got cancelled, and the Canopy price was significantly more expensive.
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In France right now. My wife and I decided one of us had to visit the daughter studying at UGA (Universite Grenoble Alpes) for her April break.
Travel from JFK to Lyon through Paris felt very normal (pre-pandemic) other than passengers wearing masks.
Lyon yesterday, Grenoble today and off to Florence, Pisa and Rome tomorrow.
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In France right now. My wife and I decided one of us had to visit the daughter studying at UGA (Universite Grenoble Alpes) for her April break.
Travel from JFK to Lyon through Paris felt very normal (pre-pandemic) other than passengers wearing masks.
Lyon yesterday, Grenoble today and off to Florence, Pisa and Rome tomorrow.
Try to be as diligent as possible regarding Covid precautions. You don't want to test positive the day before you are scheduled to come back. Take it from someone who knows.
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Yeah, be extra cautious. Remember, do not breathe, hey?
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So, wife and I recently signed up for global entry. Got approved about 48 hours after application submission. But it's been nearly impossible to get the interview scheduled. Seems like there's nothing available in the entire Midwest until the fall.
Any advice?
2 suggestions...
1. Did this for my son when I enrolled him. We live overseas and couldn't get a reasonable appointment, so we just went to the office in IAH upon arrival and plead our case... they did the interview after about 1 hour of waiting and everything was fine.
2. New rules. You can do it on arrival for renewals... maybe it can also be done that way for new applicants. Suggest you check. it's slow, but still better than an inconvenient appointment. I also did this at IAH. I was 3rd in the queue and waited over an hour. The US government at it finest had about 20 people standing around watching while 1 person worked.
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So, wife and I recently signed up for global entry. Got approved about 48 hours after application submission. But it's been nearly impossible to get the interview scheduled. Seems like there's nothing available in the entire Midwest until the fall.
Any advice?
Make it a part of your morning routine to spend 60 seconds checking for new slots. Cancellations happen all the time.
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Definitely skip the Mets game, going into Queens is worthless, and that ballpark is nothing special.
Worst thing you've ever posted, Dish!
I adore Queens. Has everybody, and they all brought their food with them.
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Worst thing you've ever posted, Dish!
I adore Queens. Has everybody, and they all brought their food with them.
For a first time visitor to NYC, he's not wrong. Its a hike from Manhattan and all the traditional sights and destinations, and when talking about Citi Field, you're not going to get a great Queens experience from Willets Point.
Its a neighborhood every regular traveler to NYC should do at some point, and the food scene is INCREDIBLE, but I'd never recommend it to first time or relatively inexperienced NYC guests who want to do "NYC stuff".
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Not trying to make it too COVID specific, but has anyone flown last night or today? Curious what mask/no mask numbers are like.
I'm seeing stuff all over the place, but it sort of feels like the anecdotal evidence is slanted to what that person favors. People who are over masks are saying "80% maskless and the FAs are all maskless and happy" but people who don't like how or why or that the mandate was overturned are stated stuff like "most people are still wearing masks, including employees"
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Not trying to make it too COVID specific, but has anyone flown last night or today? Curious what mask/no mask numbers are like.
I'm seeing stuff all over the place, but it sort of feels like the anecdotal evidence is slanted to what that person favors. People who are over masks are saying "80% maskless and the FAs are all maskless and happy" but people who don't like how or why or that the mandate was overturned are stated stuff like "most people are still wearing masks, including employees"
Gotta agree with ol' Joe on this one when asked today if people should continue to wear masks on airplanes. He said, "That's up to them."
Same is true for the three different people I saw today in three different cars, each wearing masks while driving alone in their cars. "That's up to them."
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Not trying to make it too COVID specific, but has anyone flown last night or today? Curious what mask/no mask numbers are like.
I'm seeing stuff all over the place, but it sort of feels like the anecdotal evidence is slanted to what that person favors. People who are over masks are saying "80% maskless and the FAs are all maskless and happy" but people who don't like how or why or that the mandate was overturned are stated stuff like "most people are still wearing masks, including employees"
Flying to Napa from Omaha tomorrow, will be interesting. I’m middle of the road masker (don’t choose to wear but will put one on without fuss where required). Wife and I are still going to mask up, mainly because I always used to get sick after flying and traveling but haven’t gotten sick once when traveling during Covid. Co-worker on a flight to AZ today said only a few had them on.
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Flying to Napa from Omaha tomorrow, will be interesting. I’m middle of the road masker (don’t choose to wear but will put one on without fuss where required). Wife and I are still going to mask up, mainly because I always used to get sick after flying and traveling but haven’t gotten sick once when traveling during Covid. Co-worker on a flight to AZ today said only a few had them on.
Thanks. Makes sense. Thats sort of how I am. I'm not a fan and don't "choose" but Ive always done when asked or required. Its gotten better when I switched to surgical but cloth masks, while fine for shopping or whatnot, sucked in an airport carry/pulling luggage, moving in and out of people, up steps. Felt weird to be in shape but out of breath regularly as a result. Or felt more prone to being overheated on a plane wearing one.
Look forward to flying maskless to NYC in a few weeks
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Yeah, be extra cautious. Remember, do not breathe, hey?
Extra cautious because judge was appointed by what’s his name who had gas at $2/ gal and inflation at 1%…but what the hell does he know
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Gotta agree with ol' Joe on this one when asked today if people should continue to wear masks on airplanes. He said, "That's up to them."
Same is true for the three different people I saw today in three different cars, each wearing masks while driving alone in their cars. "That's up to them."
Yeah it’s time. People aren’t wearing masks in many places right now. The fact that some cities are returning to these rules (Philadelphia) or keeping them on subways (NYC) is just nonsensical at this point.
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Yeah it’s time. People aren’t wearing masks in many places right now. The fact that some cities are returning to these rules (Philadelphia) or keeping them on subways (NYC) is just nonsensical at this point.
The ruling will be appealed.
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For a first time visitor to NYC, he's not wrong. Its a hike from Manhattan and all the traditional sights and destinations, and when talking about Citi Field, you're not going to get a great Queens experience from Willets Point.
Its a neighborhood every regular traveler to NYC should do at some point, and the food scene is INCREDIBLE, but I'd never recommend it to first time or relatively inexperienced NYC guests who want to do "NYC stuff".
I didn't mean Citi Field specifically. Still think there's plenty of Queens convenient enough though
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Not trying to make it too COVID specific, but has anyone flown last night or today? Curious what mask/no mask numbers are like.
I'm seeing stuff all over the place, but it sort of feels like the anecdotal evidence is slanted to what that person favors. People who are over masks are saying "80% maskless and the FAs are all maskless and happy" but people who don't like how or why or that the mandate was overturned are stated stuff like "most people are still wearing masks, including employees"
We were on a flight last night. Pilot announced it as we were beginning initial descent. Came off as more or less neutral. Some scattered applause. Flight attendants all ditched them but I couldn't really see many passengers beyond our immediate vicinity who all seemed to keep them on. Airport was about 50% masked vs about 90% when we left last week.
Personally, I think it was dumb for the airlines to make an immediate change. Really puts people in a tough position when they got on a plane under one situation only to have it switched mid air. Don't see the harm in announcing that policy would change the next day or day after to give staff and passengers a heads up.
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Gotta agree with ol' Joe on this one when asked today if people should continue to wear masks on airplanes. He said, "That's up to them."
Same is true for the three different people I saw today in three different cars, each wearing masks while driving alone in their cars. "That's up to them."
They're just so comfortable I don't realize I have mine on.
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I didn't mean Citi Field specifically. Still think there's plenty of Queens convenient enough though
Sure but I wouldn't recommend any of the other boroughs for a first time visitor, regardless, unless they wanted to go to a Mets or Yankees game, or Brooklyn Heights if they were headed to Barclays.
When I lived in Chicago it was the same thing, I always had to catch myself. Neighborhoods that weren't that "out of the way" for me on a normal weekend or whatnot weren't necessarily the right move for a first time visitor expecting to see the typical sights.
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I’m hoping to watch the Brewers play in Boston at the end of July. Does anyone have an itinerary from a trip they’ve taken (7/8 days) that includes 2 days or so in Boston plus visits to other NE areas (Cape, MV, Newport, Maine, etc)? Would love suggestions for hotels/lodging and restaurants in those places as well.
For my money, Boston is the most walkable city in the country. If you enjoy checking out cool new neighborhoods, I would suggest:
1. Easy "T" ride (subway) from anywhere in Boston to Fenway for Brewers/Sox game. Soooo many bars, restaurants, etc to check out.
2. Immediately adjacent (East) to the Fenway neighborhood is Back Bay Boston---very ecclectic, very historical, very cool. If the plethora of bars and streetside cafes don't interest you, simply stroll down Boylston Street, Newberry Street, Beacon Street or Commonwealth Avenue and take in the architecture of 200+ year old buildings.
3. If you walk the Freedom Trail (and I would highly recommend it) it will take you into the Old North End, probably the most extensive Italian neighborhood in the country. The eating and drinking possibilities are endless.
All of these things are very close together and can be easily walked.
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Sure but I wouldn't recommend any of the other boroughs for a first time visitor, regardless, unless they wanted to go to a Mets or Yankees game, or Brooklyn Heights if they were headed to Barclays.
When I lived in Chicago it was the same thing, I always had to catch myself. Neighborhoods that weren't that "out of the way" for me on a normal weekend or whatnot weren't necessarily the right move for a first time visitor expecting to see the typical sights.
Fair enough on a first visit, but I think it comes down to how much someone wants the most famous tourist sites vs. the real feel of a place. Can't really go wrong with either when it's NYC though.
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Dish said, “Going into Queens is worthless.”
And several people strongly disagreed with that statement. What he didn’t say was don’t go there on your first visit because you don’t have time in 1.5 days. That would have been a different statement. And it would have had more agreement/understanding.
1.5 day visit to NYC isn’t much time. 4 to 5 days would be much easier to hit up more things and places.
Every visitor has different interests, approach to travel, even widely varied physical capabilities etc…
If Dish doesn’t like Queens, that’s fine. I like it. Some others like it. And, we said as much. If he had said Queens is challenging to do with only 1.5 days. That would be understandable.
Walking through Times Square on your first visit is part of the first time experience. Just make sure you do it at night. That seems to go without saying but you never know. Wrapping up your night walking through it or before doing other things is certainly a recommended part of a first time NYC visitor’s experience.
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The ruling will be appealed.
What's the point? It should be let go, it expires on 5/2 anyway.
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For my money, Boston is the most walkable city in the country. If you enjoy checking out cool new neighborhoods, I would suggest:
1. Easy "T" ride (subway) from anywhere in Boston to Fenway for Brewers/Sox game. Soooo many bars, restaurants, etc to check out.
2. Immediately adjacent (East) to the Fenway neighborhood is Back Bay Boston---very ecclectic, very historical, very cool. If the plethora of bars and streetside cafes don't interest you, simply stroll down Boylston Street, Newberry Street, Beacon Street or Commonwealth Avenue and take in the architecture of 200+ year old buildings.
3. If you walk the Freedom Trail (and I would highly recommend it) it will take you into the Old North End, probably the most extensive Italian neighborhood in the country. The eating and drinking possibilities are endless.
All of these things are very close together and can be easily walked.
Agreed. Visit. Don't move there. They are called Mpretty boys for a reason.
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What's the point? It should be let go, it expires on 5/2 anyway.
I agree with you completely but as I suspected the CDC is appealing the ruling. Why? We live in a polarized and troubled society for starters.
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I agree with you completely but as I suspected the CDC is appealing the ruling. Why? We live in a polarized and troubled society for starters.
Yeah I'm guessing they're appealing to maintain their power over future mandates.
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I had a quick trip to Denver Tuesday-this morning. Flight out maybe 10% of people on board had masks on. I developed a sinus infection sometime over the last few days, so I wore a mask on the flight home.
My Queens comment was in reference to a first time visitor, I’m not going to pretend this is an apples/apples comp, but it’d be like going to Chicago for the first time, and spending half a day in Rosemont (based on location to the city/traffic). I should have worded my initial comment differently.
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My Queens comment was in reference to a first time visitor, I’m not going to pretend this is an apples/apples comp, but it’d be like going to Chicago for the first time, and spending half a day in Rosemont (based on location to the city/traffic). I should have worded my initial comment differently.
Totally fair, Dish. I think shoothoops' response made mine sound more argumentative, which was not the intent.
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Totally fair, Dish. I think shoothoops' response made mine sound more argumentative, which was not the intent.
All good! I actually didn't take it as argumentative, it made me realize I should have added context to my initial comment. I should have said going to a Mets game for a first time visitor is worthless (I'd say the same thing if someone came to Chicago for the first time and was thinking of going to a Sox game). I wish my work trips to NYC allowed me more time to explore.
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Totally fair, Dish. I think shoothoops' response made mine sound more argumentative, which was not the intent.
Various people responded, including myself, because he didn’t elaborate, and, we can only go by what we read. He has since clarified.
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Yeah I'm guessing they're appealing to maintain their power over future mandates.
That's accurate.
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Was at ORD and MCO yesterday.
At ORD, 75 percent of the people we saw were unmasked. At the B Concourse United Club, it was about 90 percent
There were slightly more masked people at MCO yesterday -- maybe 70 percent of the people we saw were unmasked.
We aint getting that toothpaste back in the tube. Period.
I agree with the previous poster who contended the Justice Department appeal was to preserve the regulatory authority of the CDC. There's absolutely no way you're getting masks again. There would be open revolt.
As to the surveys that say the majority of people in the USA want mask mandates, yeah right! I know what I saw yesterday and I believe actions speak a hell of a lot louder than words.
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Was at ORD and MCO yesterday.
At ORD, 75 percent of the people we saw were unmasked. At the B Concourse United Club, it was about 90 percent
There were slightly more masked people at MCO yesterday -- maybe 70 percent of the people we saw were unmasked.
We aint getting that toothpaste back in the tube. Period.
I agree with the previous poster who contended the Justice Department appeal was to preserve the regulatory authority of the CDC. There's absolutely no way you're getting masks again. There would be open revolt.
As to the surveys that say the majority of people in the USA want mask mandates, yeah right! I know what I saw yesterday and I believe actions speak a hell of a lot louder than words.
Anecdotes are not data, right?
My nephew just told me the same thing last night (75% no masks) when I picked him up at O'hare.
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Anecdotes are not data, right?
My nephew just told me the same thing last night (75% no masks) when I picked him up at O'hare.
I dropped my mother off at the airport yesterday morning in Cleveland. I waited with her for about 30 minutes in pre-security area. I'd estimate that it was 75-80% maskless.
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As to the surveys that say the majority of people in the USA want mask mandates, yeah right! I know what I saw yesterday and I believe actions speak a hell of a lot louder than words.
Just flew yesterday, and agree it's *maybe* 30% still masking. But I'm not sure that is a true tell on preferences. I think I'd prefer everyone (including myself) were wearing masks for sanitary reasons, but if the majority aren't I figured it wasn't going to do me any good.
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Omaha to Denver and then Denver to Oakland…few had masks in terminal but more out masks on once boarding and on plane (us included). Probably 33% participation on way to Denver but probably 50% Denver to Oakland. Didn’t see a single airline employee with mask on, which was more interesting.
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Omaha to Denver and then Denver to Oakland…few had masks in terminal but more out masks on once boarding and on plane (us included). Probably 33% participation on way to Denver but probably 50% Denver to Oakland. Didn’t see a single airline employee with mask on, which was more interesting.
Funny you say that, I thought the same thing about the airline employees. I saw only one (flight attendant out of Denver) with a mask on during my travels this week.
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Omaha to Denver and then Denver to Oakland…few had masks in terminal but more out masks on once boarding and on plane (us included). Probably 33% participation on way to Denver but probably 50% Denver to Oakland. Didn’t see a single airline employee with mask on, which was more interesting.
To be fair, the barrier to entry to work for an airline is that you can pass a background check... that's it.
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To be fair, the barrier to entry to work for an airline is that you can pass a background check... that's it.
I work pretty closely with a major airline. For each FA job opening they have, they get about 1000 applications. They can afford to be very picky about who they hire.
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To be fair, the barrier to entry to work for an airline is that you can pass a background check... that's it.
Why do you assume they are idiots instead of the fact that they are all vaccinated, have had masks on all of their working hours for 2 years, unlike most people, and are just happy to have them off?
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I work pretty closely with a major airline. For each FA job opening they have, they get about 1000 applications. They can afford to be very picky about who they hire.
Hardz got reckt. 🤣🤣
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I work pretty closely with a major airline. For each FA job opening they have, they get about 1000 applications. They can afford to be very picky about who they hire.
It was a joke, relax.
Why do you assume they are idiots instead of the fact that they are all vaccinated, have had masks on all of their working hours for 2 years, unlike most people, and are just happy to have them off?
It was a joke, relax.
My employees are around half and half continuing to wear their masks. And I assure you, most have little education beyond high school.
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Anyone ever been to Rome? Might do the 2023 Ryder Cup
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It was a joke, relax.
My employees are around half and half continuing to wear their masks. And I assure you, most have little education beyond high school.
Fair enough, hard to tell these days. If you had said TSA, then I would have got it.
Anyone ever been to Rome? Might do the 2023 Ryder Cup
Love hate relationship with Rome. Incredible, beautiful city. But extremely dirty and annoying at times. The Ryder Cup is in a town northeast of the city, which is a hike from the airport, but otherwise should be pretty cool. Given my experience spending a few days outside the city on an accidental extended layover, the surrounding area is more chill than Rome proper, which is cool. If you don't act like an obnoxious/entitled American tourist, like many do in Rome, the surrounding towns can be pretty great.
The time of year will be perfect. Rome absolutely BAKES in the summer, but autumn should be gorgeous.
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Anyone ever been to Rome? Might do the 2023 Ryder Cup
Ha! I'm typing this from Rome although l'm flying home tomorrow. My daughter had spring break this week as she is studying abroad this semester in Grenoble, France. Flew to Lyon a week and half go, spend a few hours there to see the old town, then off to Grenoble, then Florence, then a side trip to Pisa on the way to Rome. Everything is an historic site in Firenze and Rome. Food and wine is great. My surgically repaired knee is exhausted. The kid has a Garmin counting steps and we're averaging 9+ miles a day.
COVID -
France is like the US. Masks required on public transportation only.
Italy requires KN95 masks on public transportation, museums, churches, and businesses seem to decide for themselves. Info said I would need a vaccine pass but I only had to show my US vax card on trains (one or two restaurants requested.). Had to get a COVID Test this morning to return to the US. All Italian pharmacies offer. Walked down the street from the hotel and literally had my results in less than 10 minutes. 22 Euro
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It was a joke, relax.
https://youtu.be/Gc8o8JURER0
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Anyone ever been to Rome? Might do the 2023 Ryder Cup
I am sure you will get a ton of advice on Rome.
My two cents, not related to the sites.
Make dinner reservations, anywhere that have space available on the fly is probably not the best place to eat. Will throw some restaurant suggestions later.
Best place for a beer is in Trastevere, Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà, aka The Football Pub. https://www.football-pub.com/
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When I returned from Italy last month it was really easy to visit any pharmacy in Rome and get a rapid COVID Test so I can return to the USA Will be in Stuttgart, Germany very end of June and it does not seem as easy as in Rome and German pharmacies don't seem to be rapid testing. I'm planning a back-up by setting up video conference self test. I got free iHealth tests from the government and it looks like in April (per online articles) you could book a video but in May they are not accepted for some reason. (I can't book and found a "not approved for entry".) Anyone have a recommended way for video test? I found Quidel tests I got from the State of Connecticut that seem like I can set up a video approved test. Thanks.
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Came back from Italy with a friend and didn’t need any covid test or any proof of anything, airline didn’t care. Delta partner.
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When I returned from Italy last month it was really easy to visit any pharmacy in Rome and get a rapid COVID Test so I can return to the USA Will be in Stuttgart, Germany very end of June and it does not seem as easy as in Rome and German pharmacies don't seem to be rapid testing. I'm planning a back-up by setting up video conference self test. I got free iHealth tests from the government and it looks like in April (per online articles) you could book a video but in May they are not accepted for some reason. (I can't book and found a "not approved for entry".) Anyone have a recommended way for video test? I found Quidel tests I got from the State of Connecticut that seem like I can set up a video approved test. Thanks.
I had no problem at all getting Covid tests in Germany a month ago, and I was in Fussen, a much smaller town than Stuttgart. Unfortunately, I tested positive and had to quarantine.
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Yeah, yeah bushwackers ar a good thang, hey?
I prefer Tumbleweed
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I had no problem at all getting Covid tests in Germany a month ago, and I was in Fussen, a much smaller town than Stuttgart. Unfortunately, I tested positive and had to quarantine.
Pharmacies or other?
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Best Ramen or Pho in DC near Dupont-Circle/Adams-Moragan?
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I had no problem at all getting Covid tests in Germany a month ago, and I was in Fussen, a much smaller town than Stuttgart. Unfortunately, I tested positive and had to quarantine.
OMG! What did you do? Hang in a hotel room for two weeks?
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Pharmacies or other?
One was a pharmacy. One was a stand-alone kiosk in the center of town.
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OMG! What did you do? Hang in a hotel room for two weeks?
I only had to hang out until I could produce a negative test, which in my case was 5 days. It could have been worse. I was staying in a lovely little hotel and I remained there for my quarantine. The innkeeper was a personal friend of our tour guide and took really good care of me. I was allowed to leave and do a little hiking by myself.
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I only had to hang out until I could produce a negative test, which in my case was 5 days. It could have been worse. I was staying in a lovely little hotel and I remained there for my quarantine. The innkeeper was a personal friend of our tour guide and took really good care of me. I was allowed to leave and do a little hiking by myself.
Good to hear that all is well that ends well.
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One was a pharmacy. One was a stand-alone kiosk in the center of town.
I actually changed my Google search and found a pharmacy a 5 minute walk from my Stuttgart hotel that offers so it simplifies all. Thanks.
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DC continues to impress me as a food city. I think it's sort of a semi-recent phenomenon (last ten years) but there are an insane amount of good restaurants in like a 2 mile radius. Just a rule of thumb: If you go to a city with Nepalese restaurants they are better than the Indian options. I've never been disappointed in at least 7 major cities after doing a bit of research or getting suggestions. And of course the Ethiopian restaurants are superb in DC.
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DC continues to impress me as a food city. I think it's sort of a semi-recent phenomenon (last ten years) but there are an insane amount of good restaurants in like a 2 mile radius. Just a rule of thumb: If you go to a city with Nepalese restaurants they are better than the Indian options. I've never been disappointed in at least 7 major cities after doing a bit of research or getting suggestions. And of course the Ethiopian restaurants are superb in DC.
Agree. I think a lot of Indian food has been somewhat Americanized or tailored towards take out. I LOVE Nepalese food. There are a couple of them in Madison that are some of the best food in the city. Himal Chuli and Little Tibet.
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Agree. I think a lot of Indian food has been somewhat Americanized or tailored towards take out. I LOVE Nepalese food. There are a couple of them in Madison that are some of the best food in the city. Himal Chuli and Little Tibet.
There is a Nepalese restaurant in Mequon, The Cheel, that is absolutely fantastic. They do their own version of Taco Tuesday with roti and various achaar, so dang good. A testament to it was that it was in a building/location that had been a restaurant graveyard for 20 years. Nothing succeeded or lasted more than a year or two, then they came in and killed it. Restaurant burned in a freak electrical fire during COVID and its been a hole in my life since. Can't wait till they rebuild bigger and better finally.
Indian food's neutralization I completely agree with as well.
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Hards won't come to da Quon. Says its a jungle and everyone needs ta stay bunkered in, hey?
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Hards won't come to da Quon. Says its a jungle and everyone needs ta stay bunkered in, hey?
He's too busy trying to save Madison, a'ina?
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Ziggy
Should he be involved with anything Madison related since he lives in a suburb of the city? I get confused on who can do things and those who cannot.
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Ziggy
Should he be involved with anything Madison related since he lives in a suburb of the city? I get confused on who can do things and those who cannot.
Don't know Goose. I only rely on pakuni and sultan to tell me how things work.
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Hards won't come to da Quon. Says its a jungle and everyone needs ta stay bunkered in, hey?
In fact, I used to work at the country club back when I was at MU. So I'm familiar with the population.
You know, as familiar as you are with the population of Milwaukee.
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Guys, I'm sorry the joke went over your heads.
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Guys, I'm sorry the joke went over your heads.
Narrator: but it didn't.
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Narrator: but it didn't.
The evidence in your and Goose's replies is evidence that it did.
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The evidence in your and Goose's replies is evidence that it did.
We are mocking you and sultan. It's called sarcasm and parody.
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We are mocking you and sultan. It's called sarcasm and parody.
Cool, you didn't get my joke, still.
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Hards
I am confident you know the pulse of Madison, regardless of your zip code.
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Agree. I think a lot of Indian food has been somewhat Americanized or tailored towards take out. I LOVE Nepalese food. Theire are a couple of them in Madison that are some of the best food in the city. Himal Chuli and Little Tibet.
I'm a fan of Himal Chuli but never hit Little Tibet. I will say that Himalayan Heritage in DC has a much more extensive menu and their Goat curry is prime-time. Their momos also kick ass. The chicken is marinated inside the dumpling. :)
Now, onto tonight's meal. We are debating between Hank's Oyster House and a Jose Andres Greek/Lebanese joint Zaytania. :)
God bless all people in every culture that invented kinds of dumplings. Momo me every day. :)
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In fact, I used to work at the country club back when I was at MU. So I'm familiar with the population.
You know, as familiar as you are with the population of Milwaukee.
Witch country club? Last tyme eye kounted, der were 3, hey?
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Witch country club? Last tyme eye kounted, der were 3, hey?
Mequon Country Club... Looks like it's now called River Club of Mequon. I served your buddy Tom Crean and Joanie and the fam. Tom was a dick head.
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Shoulda pissed in his Diet Coke. Crean sucks, aina?
BTW, that place hardly qualifies as a country club...chitty course, food, and clubhouse, hey?
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Shoulda pissed in his Diet Coke. Crean sucks, aina?
BTW, that place hardly qualifies as a country club...chitty course, food, and clubhouse, hey?
Yeah, it never felt 'nice' to me.
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All of us who travel frequently, especially internationally, have myriad stories about terrible boarding behavior.
Some standouts include a flight from Dubai to Mumbai where people were up and in the aisles and removing their bags from the overhead LITERALLY 30 seconds after landing. I saw a man get drilled in the head by a carry on sliding out of the compartment as the plane jerked in taxiing as FAs screamed frantically to sit down. Or the flight I took in Asia where the first 3-4 overheads after first class, on both sides of the plane, were filled when there were only 2 people in the first 5 rows, cause a bunch of people in the back just threw their chit in the first overhead proving Americans dont have a monopoly on self entitled behavior.
But most of that is just annoying and rude. Not super dangerous. But the following takes the cake. That flight in Miami that skidded off the runway yesterday and burst into flames lead to a frantic evacuation. Today I saw a video of a passenger on board as people fled. Not only were they filming during their evacuation of a burning aircraft while holding their damn water bottle...they and others got their f-ing carryons and dragged them off the plane.
https://twitter.com/JanineStanwood/status/1539419268902789121?s=20&t=1fE2YxoHObxIn7uxxES2Lw
What absolute pretty boys.
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Need advice on Male (Maldives) airport.
I'm headed on a long business trip for 3-4 weeks so my wife advised that she will be spending that time in the Maldives with her mother and our two year old. The outcome was the same as all spousal arguments...
Anyway, it seems like a fair plan and she can fly in/out through Dubai which she knows well. The only thing I'm nervous about his the transfer from international arrival to seaplane/boat transfer to the resorts. Anyone done this recently and who can give some advice?
Thanks.
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Witch country club? Last tyme eye kounted, der were 3, hey?
I worked at Ozaukee Country Club my senior year at Marquette. Think I drank away their profits.
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Need advice on Male (Maldives) airport.
I'm headed on a long business trip for 3-4 weeks so my wife advised that she will be spending that time in the Maldives with her mother and our two year old. The outcome was the same as all spousal arguments...
Anyway, it seems like a fair plan and she can fly in/out through Dubai which she knows well. The only thing I'm nervous about his the transfer from international arrival to seaplane/boat transfer to the resorts. Anyone done this recently and who can give some advice?
Thanks.
I just did it back in March. Know it well. Depending on the resort its super easy. Drop me a PM.
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My wife and I are planning a trip to Portugal this fall and would like to add 2, maybe 3 days to our trip and visit Spain. Suggestions for what to see, where to go for such a short trip? Alhambra is all we have in mind for now.
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My wife and I are planning a trip to Portugal this fall and would like to add 2, maybe 3 days to our trip and visit Spain. Suggestions for what to see, where to go for such a short trip? Alhambra is all we have in mind for now.
If it's a really short stay in Portugal maybe the best bet is to stay in Lisbon and hit Sintra one day. I haven't been there in 15 yrs so maybe others would have a better idea. Sintra is an absolute must Scoop Snoop imo.
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If it's a really short stay in Portugal maybe the best bet is to stay in Lisbon and hit Sintra one day. I haven't been there in 15 yrs so maybe others would have a better idea. Sintra is an absolute must Scoop Snoop imo.
We are going to be in Portugal for 11 days and Sintra is included in our itinerary. The 2-3 additional days will be in Spain.
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My wife and I are planning a trip to Portugal this fall and would like to add 2, maybe 3 days to our trip and visit Spain. Suggestions for what to see, where to go for such a short trip? Alhambra is all we have in mind for now.
We will more than likely also be in Spain in late autumn. I think we are aiming for Alhambra, Grenada... in that area. We are looking at Ronda... but getting there may be prohibitive. Also, I'd really like to go to Cadiz, but I may get outvoted for similar reasons as Ronda.
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We will more than likely also be in Spain in late autumn. I think we are aiming for Alhambra, Grenada... in that area. We are looking at Ronda... but getting there may be prohibitive. Also, I'd really like to go to Cadiz, but I may get outvoted for similar reasons as Ronda.
Thanks. I was hoping that there would be routes available to cities/areas via Spain's vaunted high speed rail system but that has not been the case so far in my searches. The travel times via rail are apparently by conventional trains as they take much too long from Portugal so we will have to go via plane. I was really hoping to travel on one of those wickedly fast trains.
Grenada and Seville are the two areas that I am exploring right now. Either seems ideal for our short time frame. I think my wife really wants to see Alhambra. We know someone who was visited Alhambra and he was almost in a trance talking about it. I would be happy with just a couple of days in Madrid but I doubt that is how it will play out.
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We are going to be in Portugal for 11 days and Sintra is included in our itinerary. The 2-3 additional days will be in Spain.
Oh....my bad s-snoop. I enjoyed Segovia if you're in that area.
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Thanks. I was hoping that there would be routes available to cities/areas via Spain's vaunted high speed rail system but that has not been the case so far in my searches. The travel times via rail are apparently by conventional trains as they take much too long from Portugal so we will have to go via plane. I was really hoping to travel on one of those wickedly fast trains.
Grenada and Seville are the two areas that I am exploring right now. Either seems ideal for our short time frame. I think my wife really wants to see Alhambra. We know someone who was visited Alhambra and he was almost in a trance talking about it. I would be happy with just a couple of days in Madrid but I doubt that is how it will play out.
I highly recommend Seville. The Cathedral is amazing (Columbus' remains are allegedly there), Barrio Santa Cruz, bullfighting, flamenco dancing (not the super touristy stuff), Pretty quick train ride to the Alhambra.
A very inexpensive hotel, right in the center of Seville (right next to the Cathedral) is the Hotel Dona Maria.
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I highly recommend Seville. The Cathedral is amazing (Columbus' remains are allegedly there), Barrio Santa Cruz, bullfighting, flamenco dancing (not the super touristy stuff), Pretty quick train ride to the Alhambra.
A very inexpensive hotel, right in the center of Seville (right next to the Cathedral) is the Hotel Dona Maria.
Mucho Gracias. This is valuable info, and we are budget conscious by nature. We are always happy with accommodations that are simply clean and comfortable, nothing fancy. With Alhambra a "pretty quick train ride" away, this sounds like a winner. I'm going to read up more about what already looks like the best place for a short trip. We'll skip the bullfighting but authentic flamenco (we've saw some in Charlottesville once) is absolutely amazing. As you correctly mentioned, Columbus' remains are allegedly there. Other sites include some in South America. Not only did the guy not know where he was sailing, he's not sure where he is.
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We were in Colorado last week and the thin air really kicked my Arby's-ass.
They should really think about lowering the altitude a few thousand feet.
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Mucho Gracias. This is valuable info, and we are budget conscious by nature. We are always happy with accommodations that are simply clean and comfortable, nothing fancy. With Alhambra a "pretty quick train ride" away, this sounds like a winner. I'm going to read up more about what already looks like the best place for a short trip. We'll skip the bullfighting but authentic flamenco (we've saw some in Charlottesville once) is absolutely amazing. As you correctly mentioned, Columbus' remains are allegedly there. Other sites include some in South America. Not only did the guy not know where he was sailing, he's not sure where he is.
For the short stay, I would second Sevilla. And if you are there on a Sunday, it is the day families stroll about and enjoy the outdoors. Have a fresh squeezed OJ (and maybe a shot of vodka ;) )
The Alhambra is amazing.
And yes, there is no easy way to get from Lisbon to Spain by train.
I would also check out Barcelona, great place just to hang out and there are some affordable hotels that aren't on the water.
Lisbon is awesome and while they are in other cities as well these days, the Time Out market is a pretty cool place to eat and drink (albeit, expensive compared to the rest of the city). Also a ferry ride across the river to Cacilhas to grab a bite gives you another aspect of the city and life.
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Leelanau peninsula for a week. Hiking, biking, golfing, swimming, dune climbing, kayaking, winery/brewery tours, sunsets over Lake Michigan......
aaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh
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I highly recommend Seville. The Cathedral is amazing (Columbus' remains are allegedly there), Barrio Santa Cruz, bullfighting, flamenco dancing (not the super touristy stuff), Pretty quick train ride to the Alhambra.
A very inexpensive hotel, right in the center of Seville (right next to the Cathedral) is the Hotel Dona Maria.
Depends what you're interested in, but I second Seville if you're looking for a nice city to wind down at the end of the trip. There's not a ton to do, but enough for 2-3 days. The locals were incredibly friendly.
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Yeah, da folks in CO ar hi 'nough already, aina?
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Yeah, da folks in CO ar hi 'nough already, aina?
Pot is a gateway drug
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Pot is a gateway drug
A gateway to a great time!
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Leelanau peninsula for a week. Hiking, biking, golfing, swimming, dune climbing, kayaking, winery/brewery tours, sunsets over Lake Michigan......
aaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh
Sugarfoot Saloon still dishing out those burritos?
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Not there yet. A week away.
Though it looks like a 'no'.
https://www.leelanauticker.com/news/sugarfoot-saloon-long-loved-local-hangout-in-cedar-has-sold/
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Not there yet. A week away.
Though it looks like a 'no'.
https://www.leelanauticker.com/news/sugarfoot-saloon-long-loved-local-hangout-in-cedar-has-sold/
Bummer. Karen was a gem too.
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We are going to be in Portugal for 11 days and Sintra is included in our itinerary. The 2-3 additional days will be in Spain.
I just did almost this identical itin a few weeks ago. Except flew into Madrid, did a quick hop from Madrid to Faro, then drove around Portugal. Highly suggest flying between Spain and Portugal.
As for where to go in Spain, this is the perfect time of year to go to San Sebastián in the Basque country. Think of a mini-Paris on the beach, sprinkled with Spanish culture and some of the best meals you’ll ever eat. And/or go run with the bulls in Pamplona—did that a few years ago and it was spectacular.
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Thanks Muggsy, Lawdog, Hards Alumni and Babybluejeans for your suggestions. I appreciate your taking the time to respond.
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Thanks Muggsy, Lawdog, Hards Alumni and Babybluejeans for your suggestions. I appreciate your taking the time to respond.
Have a great trip Scoop Snoop! I'm sure I don't have to remind you to snag some Paella.
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Have a great trip Scoop Snoop! I'm sure I don't have to remind you to snag some Paella.
Socarrat!!! Possibly the best thing in the world to eat. A side order of pata negra. Try to make it to La hosteria del Laurel for some orange wine. Don Juan's hangout.
https://www.hosteriadellaurel.com/ (https://www.hosteriadellaurel.com/)
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Socarrat!!! Possibly the best thing in the world to eat. A side order of pata negra. Try to make it to La hosteria del Laurel for some orange wine. Don Juan's hangout.
https://www.hosteriadellaurel.com/ (https://www.hosteriadellaurel.com/)
That crust on their rice is beyond words. Superb food overall in Spain. I was young when I was there and didn't have much coin but still felt I was eating prime-time cuisine at every meal. They have some garlic soup that was absolutely out of this world. I know it's made with smoked paprika and some egg yolk. The basket of homemade croutons they served with this soup (at some joint in Madrid) were absolutely ridiculous. I could live on that soup. Need to figure out what it was and find a recipe. :)
I think it's Sopa de Ajo.
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That crust on their rice is beyond words. Superb food overall in Spain. I was young when I was there and didn't have much coin but still felt I was eating prime-time cuisine at every meal. They have some garlic soup that was absolutely out of this world. I know it's made with smoked paprika and some egg yolk. The basket of homemade croutons they served with this soup (at some joint in Madrid) were absolutely ridiculous. I could live on that soup. Need to figure out what it was and find a recipe. :)
Some people think the French are the star chefs in Europe. They are sorely mistaken. Viva Espana!
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Muggsy, I have that Authentic Spanish Garlic soup recipe. Ill have to dig it up for you... ;) I got when my wife and I were in Spain. She was in the MU Madrid Program, and spent 1 year there. We go back and see her "sponsor" family. Ill let u know when i find it ! ! ! 8-)
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Some people think the French are the star chefs in Europe. They are sorely mistaken. Viva Espana!
I've been very fortunate to travel quite a bit. Nothing against the French but I'm with you. I didn't have a single meal that wasn't excellent in Spain. Now, I have since gone to Italy and Greece and had more money to splurge. I had a number of insanely good food experiences in both of these countries . Nothing crazy fancy but the local cuisine in various spots was spectacular, especially seafood based courses. All that said? My greatest food experiences have been in Asia but part of that is personal preference and that I've been there more often. :)
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Muggsy, I have that Authentic Spanish Garlic soup recipe. Ill have to dig it up for you... ;) I got when my wife and I were in Spain. She was in the MU Madrid Program, and spent 1 year there. We go back and see her "sponsor" family. Ill let u know when i find it ! ! ! 8-)
Ty!! I remember it's honestly very simple ingredients. I appreciate any recipe you might have!
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I've been very fortunate to travel quite a bit. Nothing against the French but I'm with you. I didn't have a single meal that wasn't excellent in Spain. Now, I have since gone to Italy and Greece and had more money to splurge. I had a number of insanely good food experiences in both of these countries . Nothing crazy fancy but the local cuisine in various spots was spectacular, especially seafood based courses. All that said? My greatest food experiences have been in Asia but part of that is personal preference and that I've been there more often. :)
We just got back from a trip that included 9 days in Paris. I like the food in Spain better as well.
While in Portugal, have some peri peri chicken, the cherry liquor and of course, pasteis de belem. And while in Belem, visit all the museums. Worth the time. Also, lots of places to sit and drink by the river.
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We just got back from a trip that included 9 days in Paris. I like the food in Spain better as well.
While in Portugal, have some peri peri chicken, the cherry liquor and of course, pasteis de belem. And while in Belem, visit all the museums. Worth the time. Also, lots of places to sit and drink by the river.
Ahhh.....yes. The piri-piri chicken. Great call pbiflyer. MIstakenly people think Nando's and South Africa invented the dish. I'm not a big Sardine guy but they supped to be fantastic in Portugal.
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We just got back from a trip that included 9 days in Paris. I like the food in Spain better as well.
While in Portugal, have some peri peri chicken, the cherry liquor and of course, pasteis de belem. And while in Belem, visit all the museums. Worth the time. Also, lots of places to sit and drink by the river.
Thanks! I will definitely try the peri peri chicken.
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Ahhh.....yes. The piri-piri chicken. Great call pbiflyer. MIstakenly people think Nando's and South Africa invented the dish. I'm not a big Sardine guy but they supped to be fantastic in Portugal.
DO NOT MISS THE SARDINES. So salty, so good. And a stop by A Ginjinha, a little stand in Lisbon helmed by an old Portuguese man, for a taste of the cherry liquor is a must. Get it with the cherry in it.
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DO NOT MISS THE SARDINES. So salty, so good. And a stop by A Ginjinha, a little stand in Lisbon helmed by an old Portuguese man, for a taste of the cherry liquor is a must. Get it with the cherry in it.
Yep, you can get the drink almost anywhere, but that little place is a must!
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Returned from Europe on Saturday. Flight was only 30 minutes late leaving Amsterdam.
But JFK- quickly deboarded and through immigration in 5-10 minutes. Jeez, then had to wait 1h 45m for my luggage to come out. Crazy
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Grand Rapids for golf next week.
What does anyone have for everything else? Dinner, breakfast, Detroit style, breweries etc
Thanks for the recs.
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I'm your huckleberry. I will be gone next week or I would be your tour guide.
Breweries: Founders. Perrin. ( Try the Perrin Black). New Holland. The Bridge Street Corridor.
Breakfast: Sundance Grill, Real Food Cafe, Anna's house, Wolfgang's, Cherie Inn.
Dinner: Mitten brewing. River North Public House. The Green Well. Honey Creek Inn
Golf course you should play that is probably not on your itinerary: Cedar Chase. Ask the owner about going to high school with Brad Galli.
Enjoy. I don't know your specific tastes, but this is a good start.
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Let’s go! That’s what I needed.
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Where are you already playing?
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Where are you already playing?
Pilgrims, Mines and Diamond Spring
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Worthy choices. Not a huge fan of The Mines. The location is a unicorn. Building a course 2 miles from downtown in 2000 is amazing. I shot my personal best on a good course at Diamond. A pleasant course through 13. Hold on to your ass from there. Pilgrims is fun. It feels like it could be 100 miles further north. Very wooded.
I had to check. All 3 designed by the same guy.
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Worthy choices. Not a huge fan of The Mines. The location is a unicorn. Building a course 2 miles from downtown in 2000 is amazing. I shot my personal best on a good course at Diamond. A pleasant course through 13. Hold on to your ass from there. Pilgrims is fun. It feels like it could be 100 miles further north. Very wooded.
I had to check. All 3 designed by the same guy.
Yep, it’s a DeVries trip pretty much. That and beer.
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After Pilgrim's Run, stop at Cedar Springs brewery. In the style of a Bavarian Bierhaus, in atmosphere, menu, and brewing style.
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After Pilgrim's Run, stop at Cedar Springs brewery. In the style of a Bavarian Bierhaus, in atmosphere, menu, and brewing style.
Second time this has been said to me now. On the list.
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Ty!! I remember it's honestly very simple ingredients. I appreciate any recipe you might have!
Following up with this. Found a recipe for garlic soup in one of my cookbooks (The Family Meal by Ferran Adria). Ingredients for 2:
1/3 cup olive oil
4 slices country bread
2 garlic cloves
2 tsp mild paprika
1 3/4 cup chicken stock
It has pictures: Fry the bread in half the oil, remove
Coarsley crush the garlic, fry in the other half of the oil, until golden, then add the paprika
Add the fried bread and chicken stock
Season with salt and pepper
Simmer for 20 minutes, then blend with a hand mixer
Top with a poached egg
(http://www.foodologist.com/pics/bread_and_garlic_soup.jpg)
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Anyone been to an all-inclusive they'd recommend in the last couple of years?
Looking at no more than 4-5 hour non-stopper flight out of ORD/MKE/MDW. DR, Cancun, Cabo, etc.
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Anyone been to an all-inclusive they'd recommend in the last couple of years?
Looking at no more than 4-5 hour non-stopper flight out of ORD/MKE/MDW. DR, Cancun, Cabo, etc.
Wife and I honeymooned at Excellence Punta Cana. It was fantastic.
https://www.excellenceresorts.com/punta-cana/excellence-punta-cana/?gclid=CjwKCAjwq5-WBhB7EiwAl-HEkgNHstWJlxXVHE1aGxK4e0Vbnp-gpD5cIk-5Yb3MKpfl744Cg9qSxRoCq5wQAvD_BwE
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When you were at GVSU, did you play the Meadows very often?
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When you were at GVSU, did you play the Meadows very often?
I was paid in tuition, room, and board. Does that answer your question?
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Indeed.
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Indeed.
Fun story though about the Meadows. One of my coworkers ended up getting himself fired for something he did at the Meadows. There's a clubhouse that serves well, not good food, but good for grad students food. Part of my compensation was an allocation of dining dollars and they actually worked at the Meadows clubhouse. Whenever my coworkers and I wanted an upgrade from dorm food (though GVSU's dining is one of the better ones that I've experienced) we'd head over to the Meadows for steaks. One of my coworkers got the bright idea of using his dining dollars to give the waiter at the Meadows a massive (4 digit) tip. The waiter than gave him the majority of the tip back in cash and pocketed a few hundred for himself as way to turn dining dollars into cash. I have no idea how he got caught but they bounced him from the program.
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Fun story though about the Meadows. One of my coworkers ended up getting himself fired for something he did at the Meadows. There's a clubhouse that serves well, not good food, but good for grad students food. Part of my compensation was an allocation of dining dollars and they actually worked at the Meadows clubhouse. Whenever my coworkers and I wanted an upgrade from dorm food (though GVSU's dining is one of the better ones that I've experienced) we'd head over to the Meadows for steaks. One of my coworkers got the bright idea of using his dining dollars to give the waiter at the Meadows a massive (4 digit) tip. The waiter than gave him the majority of the tip back in cash and pocketed a few hundred for himself as way to turn dining dollars into cash. I have no idea how he got caught but they bounced him from the program.
Big numbers get caught, should have just gone more slowly. ;D
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Anybody with good restaurant recommendations for Indianapolis (Carmel) and Louisville? Going for work next week and other than one trip to Indianapolis around 20 years ago, have only ever driven through.
Thanks
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Anybody with good restaurant recommendations for Indianapolis (Carmel) and Louisville? Going for work next week and other than one trip to Indianapolis around 20 years ago, have only ever driven through.
Thanks
The obvious-St Elmo's for steak/shrimp cocktail
Pizza-Diavola
Aside from that, what type of food?
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The obvious-St Elmo's for steak/shrimp cocktail
Pizza-Diavola
Aside from that, what type of food?
Yeah, did St. Elmo last time I was there many years ago. Would go again but curious about any other options closer to where I am staying.
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Fun story though about the Meadows. One of my coworkers ended up getting himself fired for something he did at the Meadows. There's a clubhouse that serves well, not good food, but good for grad students food. Part of my compensation was an allocation of dining dollars and they actually worked at the Meadows clubhouse. Whenever my coworkers and I wanted an upgrade from dorm food (though GVSU's dining is one of the better ones that I've experienced) we'd head over to the Meadows for steaks. One of my coworkers got the bright idea of using his dining dollars to give the waiter at the Meadows a massive (4 digit) tip. The waiter than gave him the majority of the tip back in cash and pocketed a few hundred for himself as way to turn dining dollars into cash. I have no idea how he got caught but they bounced him from the program.
Bwahahaha. Kids.
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Following up with this. Found a recipe for garlic soup in one of my cookbooks (The Family Meal by Ferran Adria). Ingredients for 2:
1/3 cup olive oil
4 slices country bread
2 garlic cloves
2 tsp mild paprika
1 3/4 cup chicken stock
It has pictures: Fry the bread in half the oil, remove
Coarsley crush the garlic, fry in the other half of the oil, until golden, then add the paprika
Add the fried bread and chicken stock
Season with salt and pepper
Simmer for 20 minutes, then blend with a hand mixer
Top with a poached egg
(http://www.foodologist.com/pics/bread_and_garlic_soup.jpg)
Ty lawdog. I like the idea of using the immersion blender. I peeked at a few other recipes and they seem to generally have white wine in them. I think I'll double the paprika and triple the garlic portion. Also one recipe I saw baked the croutons in the oven with olive oil and paprika. I think this makes the most sense. I also think it has to be smoked paprika. I'll figure it out. Tyvm. :)
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Ty lawdog. I like the idea of using the immersion blender. I peeked at a few other recipes and they seem to generally have white wine in them. I think I'll double the paprika and triple the garlic portion. Also one recipe I saw baked the croutons in the oven with olive oil and paprika. I think this makes the most sense. I also think it has to be smoked paprika. I'll figure it out. Tyvm. :)
My unsolicited advice. Try it how Ferran Adria makes it before messing with the recipe. I think he knows what he is talking about.
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My unsolicited advice. Try it how Ferran Adria makes it before messing with the recipe. I think he knows what he is talking about.
Okay....fair enough. I'll give it a whirl.
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My unsolicited advice. Try it how Ferran Adria makes it before messing with the recipe. I think he knows what he is talking about.
Does he though? I guess El Bulli was ok.
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Anybody with good restaurant recommendations for Indianapolis (Carmel) and Louisville? Going for work next week and other than one trip to Indianapolis around 20 years ago, have only ever driven through.
Thanks
I just got back from a week in Louisville for my son’s travel baseball tournament. Surprisingly had a great meal at Against The Grain at Louisville Slugger Field. The restaurant is apart of the baseball stadium, but you can eat there at anytime (and don’t ever have to actually go in the stadium). We went to a Bats/Cubs game, and ate at Against The Grain afterwards. Fantastic beers and BBQ.
Also recommend Nord’s Bakery, Yelp recently came out with top 100 donut places in the US, and Nord’s was like 13th. It was really good.
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Louisville or Elizabethtown?
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I just got back from a week in Louisville for my son’s travel baseball tournament. Surprisingly had a great meal at Against The Grain at Louisville Slugger Field. The restaurant is apart of the baseball stadium, but you can eat there at anytime (and don’t ever have to actually go in the stadium). We went to a Bats/Cubs game, and ate at Against The Grain afterwards. Fantastic beers and BBQ.
Also recommend Nord’s Bakery, Yelp recently came out with top 100 donut places in the US, and Nord’s was like 13th. It was really good.
Thanks DD.
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Louisville or Elizabethtown?
Tournament was in Elizabethtown, but we spent more than half the time in Louisville.
We played Hitz Fox (Chesterfield, MI). Very good team, they beat us up pretty good.
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We were there last summer. I hope you hit Dewsters.
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Anyone been to an all-inclusive they'd recommend in the last couple of years?
Looking at no more than 4-5 hour non-stopper flight out of ORD/MKE/MDW. DR, Cancun, Cabo, etc.
It was 10 years ago, but I'd recommend looking at a chartered cruise. We chartered a sailboat through the Virgin Islands for a week. All inclusive, the captain & his wife were the crew, they tailored meals and drinks to our tastes, and based excursions on what we wanted to do. We did mostly beaches and snorkeling, but fishing, SCUBA, and other options were available. It cost about $1,000 more than a Cancun all inclusive, but it was well worth it for a far more unique experience. There are a ton of companies that intermediate those trips, so I'd recommend doing research and reading reviews, but by far the best trip we've taken.
As far as trip details, we flew into Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, stayed at a B&B for one night, then boarded for our cruise. We did spend one night at a hotel on Virgin Gorda in the BVI.
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We were there last summer. I hope you hit Dewsters.
Drove by it a million times, but it was always closed (we had ALOT of 8am EST games though). Nice facility there.
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It was 10 years ago, but I'd recommend looking at a chartered cruise. We chartered a sailboat through the Virgin Islands for a week. All inclusive, the captain & his wife were the crew, they tailored meals and drinks to our tastes, and based excursions on what we wanted to do. We did mostly beaches and snorkeling, but fishing, SCUBA, and other options were available. It cost about $1,000 more than a Cancun all inclusive, but it was well worth it for a far more unique experience. There are a ton of companies that intermediate those trips, so I'd recommend doing research and reading reviews, but by far the best trip we've taken.
As far as trip details, we flew into Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, stayed at a B&B for one night, then boarded for our cruise. We did spend one night at a hotel on Virgin Gorda in the BVI.
Interesting. Will save this idea, but this trip will be entirely an American pig at an all-inclusive trip.
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Drove by it a million times, but it was always closed (we had ALOT of 8am EST games though). Nice facility there.
You missed out. Phenomenal home made baked goods and home made ice cream.
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Retire0, did you have fun?
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Heading to Louisville in a couple of weeks for the Bourbon Trail. Spending a day in the city and a day driving around to the various distilleries. Any recommendations for the places outside the city?
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Heading to Louisville in a couple of weeks for the Bourbon Trail. Spending a day in the city and a day driving around to the various distilleries. Any recommendations for the places outside the city?
Was just in the area and visited Michters in downtown Louisville (right across from Louisville Slugger) and Buffalo Trace in Frankfort, which is ~50 minutes east of Louisville. There is a bar in the Michters Distillery (an elevator is the access point) but I didn’t get a chance to check it out. Have heard it is worth seeing.
If you are interested in BT, I learned a few useful tidbits while we were there:
They will always have BT available to purchase (1 bottle max) but the higher end stuff (Eagle Rare, Weller, Blantons, EH Taylor) is available only on a rotating basis and sells out in an hour or two after they open so get there early. Also, can only buy one bottle of any of those. They don’t know in advance what they will have each day or how much of it they will get. I was there on an Eagle Rare day but not until later in afternoon (stupid work) and that day’s allotment was long gone.
We had limited time driving from Louisville to Nashville (indirectly with the detour to Frankfort) but would have loved to visit Four Roses and Heaven Hill as well, both of which we drove by after leaving BT.
Enjoy.
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Heading to Louisville in a couple of weeks for the Bourbon Trail. Spending a day in the city and a day driving around to the various distilleries. Any recommendations for the places outside the city?
Take a tour of Churchill Downs. Was very cool to get the guided tour.
Would prefer to see races live there. Off to Saratoga now......
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Take a tour of Churchill Downs. Was very cool to get the guided tour.
Would prefer to see races live there. Off to Saratoga now......
Really good suggestion. My wife and I took the tour and enjoyed it very much.
I know this is about Louisville but if anyone reading this is in or near Lexington, I highly recommend going to the Kentucky Horse Park. It is extremely well done and they cover a wide range of equine subjects. I remember a demo of a teamster backing up his wagon with maybe 10 horses to a loading dock. Then he had to make them pivot out of the way to keep the (imaginary) road clear for other traffic. There were other demos such as dressage and carriages. There was a retired race horse who was quite a character. With a food bowl in his mouth, he would wait patiently in his stable for a human to get within range and then hurl the bowl at the unsuspecting human. Equine frisbee!
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Heading to Louisville in a couple of weeks for the Bourbon Trail. Spending a day in the city and a day driving around to the various distilleries. Any recommendations for the places outside the city?
Second Churchill Downs.
Our favorite bourbon tour was Woodford Reserve. You only get one official free shot, but a lady in the gift shop showed us how to make bourbon balls even better by scooping out the creme in the middle and filling up the chocolate shell with bourbon. Those were tasty.
Pairing that with the tournament where we played Davidson/Butler, that was a great trip.
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Retire0, did you have fun?
GR is a great time. Still licking some wounds and rehydrating.
We stopped at Perrin on the way up for lunch, the Black was tasty. Had an Upside Down Pineapple that was incredible. Food was very good as well. Headed over to Pilgrim's. Criminally underpriced at $60. Great land movement, DeVries had a great piece of land to work with and designed many memorable holes. Clientele was less than desirable, had some Trumpers try to tee off in front of us and then got chippy when we took our tee time back. Groups in front of us were blaring two different kinds of music from each cart. Really ruined the secluded setting. Staff wasn't great either, a bit too high-horsed. Common theme was lack of beverage cart frequency, got really thirsty on all the courses.
At dinner at the Mitten, best pizza I've had outside of Chicago. Great staff, pretty good beer.
Played The Mines the next day after a nice breakfast at Real Food Cafe. It's rough, but man there's some fun to be had out there. Pace of play wasn't great, but it's a muni. Great vibe at the place though, very friendly people. That tee shot on 6 while you're looking at 7 green, 8 tee, 5 fairway very cool.
Stopped at Founders after The Mines for a couple of beers. Seems like they really love themselves there, nothing special, cool place. Was going to eat at Butcher Union that night, but couldn't get a table until 9:30. Ate at a huge open taco place across the street, queso flights were ridiculously good. Bar hopped back to the AirBNB that night with a bunch of stops, Stella's and the Tiki Bar stood out.
Diamond Springs was yesterday morning, love the one length mowing. It's so freeing for some reason, really loosened up my game. Some great greens, but the flattest of the three courses. Couple of memorable holes, and the easiest course of the three. Tour DeVries is a solid golf trip with Grand Rapids being the hub of it all.
Only complaint at all the courses was the lack of decent hospitality. More beverage carts, and I rarely drink on the course. I need water, Gatorade and a snack. Want to support the golf course, but wish I would've carried it all on. Also, neither of the three courses are a great walk. Pilgrim's would be impossible, they wouldn't even let us. Mines layout makes it difficult, but doable. Same with Diamond, lot of far green to tee walks.
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Anyone been to an all-inclusive they'd recommend in the last couple of years?
Looking at no more than 4-5 hour non-stopper flight out of ORD/MKE/MDW. DR, Cancun, Cabo, etc.
Secrets Maroma Beach or Secrets Akumal have been 2 of our favorites over the years. 30-60 min taxi ride south of Cancun.
Generally, you'll get the best bang for your buck going to Mexico vs Jamaica/DR/other island.
Cabo is much prettier, but I haven't found a solid resort out that way.
Don't forget that with Cabo, you can't really get into the ocean, so the beaches aren't a focus.
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GR is a great time. Still licking some wounds and rehydrating.
We stopped at Perrin on the way up for lunch, the Black was tasty. Had an Upside Down Pineapple that was incredible. Food was very good as well. Headed over to Pilgrim's. Criminally underpriced at $60. Great land movement, DeVries had a great piece of land to work with and designed many memorable holes. Clientele was less than desirable, had some Trumpers try to tee off in front of us and then got chippy when we took our tee time back. Groups in front of us were blaring two different kinds of music from each cart. Really ruined the secluded setting. Staff wasn't great either, a bit too high-horsed. Common theme was lack of beverage cart frequency, got really thirsty on all the courses.
At dinner at the Mitten, best pizza I've had outside of Chicago. Great staff, pretty good beer.
Played The Mines the next day after a nice breakfast at Real Food Cafe. It's rough, but man there's some fun to be had out there. Pace of play wasn't great, but it's a muni. Great vibe at the place though, very friendly people. That tee shot on 6 while you're looking at 7 green, 8 tee, 5 fairway very cool.
Stopped at Founders after The Mines for a couple of beers. Seems like they really love themselves there, nothing special, cool place. Was going to eat at Butcher Union that night, but couldn't get a table until 9:30. Ate at a huge open taco place across the street, queso flights were ridiculously good. Bar hopped back to the AirBNB that night with a bunch of stops, Stella's and the Tiki Bar stood out.
Diamond Springs was yesterday morning, love the one length mowing. It's so freeing for some reason, really loosened up my game. Some great greens, but the flattest of the three courses. Couple of memorable holes, and the easiest course of the three. Tour DeVries is a solid golf trip with Grand Rapids being the hub of it all.
Only complaint at all the courses was the lack of decent hospitality. More beverage carts, and I rarely drink on the course. I need water, Gatorade and a snack. Want to support the golf course, but wish I would've carried it all on. Also, neither of the three courses are a great walk. Pilgrim's would be impossible, they wouldn't even let us. Mines layout makes it difficult, but doable. Same with Diamond, lot of far green to tee walks.
Yeah, they don't really do beverage carts around here. I have walked all 3. The Mines is the worst, due to some very steep slopes and lengthy treks between holes. Diamond Springs is the easiest. Flat and pleasant until the last 5 holes. 15 may be the toughest short par 4 I have played.
At Pilgrim's, did you hit a second off of 18 just to see if you could do it?
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Moving this from the Fargo thread I hijacked.
Okay we pulled the trigger and booked a place in Antwerp. I like places with water.
My only regret moving from Brussels to Antwerp is it is further from Lueven. We had planned to abandon the kids one evening and visit “the world’s longest bar” collection of bars in Lueven. Still might do it (kids will be 18 & 17, so no child endangerment) but will cut down on drinking time.
Now thanks to the suggestions here other cities to visit come into play.
Found a near by restaurant called Meat Factory. But any other Belgium suggestions are welcome.
So just a follow up. We spent a week in Belgium based In Antwerp. Day trips to Bruges, Brussels and Ghent.
If I had to do it all again, would probably base in Brussels. Just liked the vibe better. No complaints about Antwerp, a ton to do. The kids liked that chocolate museum over the one in Cologne. Meat Factory was nice but the family actually liked Elfde Gebod (11th Commandment) better. Good music and beer. They liked the ambiance as well. Staff really liked us, so that helped.
Would have liked more time in Ghent. Bruges was beautiful but soooo touristy.
All in all, worth a second trip for sure.
Thanks for all the tips.
On a couple other notes, since it is Marquette. My daughter found every statue of Joan of Arc in every French church (and there were a lot). Couldn’t have been more proud.
Also, if you go to Paris and opt for an amusement park not named Disney (Parc Asterix) when you see a bar 200 ft in the sky and think, wow that is way cool, it’s not, it’s terrifying. And this comes from a guy not afraid of heights.
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Yeah, they don't really do beverage carts around here. I have walked all 3. The Mines is the worst, due to some very steep slopes and lengthy treks between holes. Diamond Springs is the easiest. Flat and pleasant until the last 5 holes. 15 may be the toughest short par 4 I have played.
At Pilgrim's, did you hit a second off of 18 just to see if you could do it?
Well, yeah. I needed a dry ball too.
15th at DS is a hole. I went for it and barely got over the ravine left of the green. Literal one bounce save there.
Really liked 5 and 18 as well. Helped that I birdied both.
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So just a follow up. We spent a week in Belgium based In Antwerp. Day trips to Bruges, Brussels and Ghent.
If I had to do it all again, would probably base in Brussels. Just liked the vibe better. No complaints about Antwerp, a ton to do. The kids liked that chocolate museum over the one in Cologne. Meat Factory was nice but the family actually liked Elfde Gebod (11th Commandment) better. Good music and beer. They liked the ambiance as well. Staff really liked us, so that helped.
Would have liked more time in Ghent. Bruges was beautiful but soooo touristy.
All in all, worth a second trip for sure.
Thanks for all the tips.
Glad you enjoyed! As a hub to travel to other places, I can see Brussels working better. It certainly has beautiful parts, it just seems a bit one note. My wife was also SUPER uncomfortable with the number of homeless immigrant families with children. Not from a "eww gross" perspective, but just that it was really sad and unsettling to see and was far more prevalent in Brussels than anywhere else we'd traveled on the continent prior.
Elfde Gebod is very good. Went there one time after we went to Das Boot, a few doors down, for a laugh
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Glad you enjoyed! As a hub to travel to other places, I can see Brussels working better. It certainly has beautiful parts, it just seems a bit one note. My wife was also SUPER uncomfortable with the number of homeless immigrant families with children. Not from a "eww gross" perspective, but just that it was really sad and unsettling to see and was far more prevalent in Brussels than anywhere else we'd traveled on the continent prior.
Elfde Gebod is very good. Went there one time after we went to Das Boot, a few doors down, for a laugh
We also enjoyed Das Boot, great beer selection.
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Heading to the Osthoff Resort for a family vacation next week.
Anyone been? Experience? Any advice/tips? Do they have any policy against outside alcohol being kept in the rooms or being carried around the resort?
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Heading to the Osthoff Resort for a family vacation next week.
Anyone been? Experience? Any advice/tips? Do they have any policy against outside alcohol being kept in the rooms or being carried around the resort?
Its been quite awhile, but its a very nice resort. A bit dated, but not uncomfortably so. I don't know about carried around, but it was never an issue to have outside alcohol in the room.
There were some mean ass geese when my family went last, but I imagine they are all burning in waterfowl hell by now
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Its been quite awhile, but its a very nice resort. A bit dated, but not uncomfortably so. I don't know about carried around, but it was never an issue to have outside alcohol in the room.
There were some mean ass geese when my family went last, but I imagine they are all burning in waterfowl hell by now
Appreciate the info.
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A new ownership group bought the Osthoff a few year ago. It has undertaken some renovations in recent years so it's a little less dated than it used to be. Apparently the on-site restaurants are good, though I have never been.
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What recommendations do you guys have for the greater Minocqua area?
Leaving tomorrow with the kids, have a rental.
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What recommendations do you guys have for the greater Minocqua area?
Leaving tomorrow with the kids, have a rental.
Booze. Lots of it
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Booze. Lots of it
Of course.
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What recommendations do you guys have for the greater Minocqua area?
Leaving tomorrow with the kids, have a rental.
How old are the kids?
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How old are the kids?
5 and almost 9.
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5 and almost 9.
We have been going up to that area for 30 years.
The kids may enjoy the lumberjack show.
http://www.scheerslumberjackshow.com/woodruff-wi-lumberjack-show.html
Also, this is a pretty decent petting zoo
https://wildwoodwildlifepark.com/
This place has good go-karts. I don't believe we have done horseback riding or minigolf there.
https://www.holidayacresminocqua.com/
Supper Clubs I like: Marty's Place North, Norwood Pines
Minocqua Brewing has good beer and food.
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We have been going up to that area for 30 years.
The kids may enjoy the lumberjack show.
http://www.scheerslumberjackshow.com/woodruff-wi-lumberjack-show.html
Also, this is a pretty decent petting zoo
https://wildwoodwildlifepark.com/
This place has good go-karts. I don't believe we have done horseback riding or minigolf there.
https://www.holidayacresminocqua.com/
Supper Clubs I like: Marty's Place North, Norwood Pines
Minocqua Brewing has good beer and food.
Awesome, thanks!
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I see that St. Pierre and Miquelon on the CDC Covid 3 warning places. I've never heard of this archipelago but it looks pretty damn cool. I guess it's the last bastion of French territory in Canada? I wonder if you can plan a Newfoundland/St. Pierre itinerary?
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I see that St. Pierre and Miquelon on the CDC Covid 3 warning places. I've never heard of this archipelago but it looks pretty damn cool. I guess it's the last bastion of French territory in Canada? I wonder if you can plan a Newfoundland/St. Pierre itinerary?
I mean there is nothing really there. Miquelon just got some shine during the last season of Peaky Blinders as a bit of it took place there. Its just an old fishing colony with terrible weather. I think PEI and Nova Scotia would be much cooler. Quebec probably has more French culture and influence.
If you want a French Overseas Collective worth visting, might as well go to Martinique or Reunion
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I mean there is nothing really there. Miquelon just got some shine during the last season of Peaky Blinders as a bit of it took place there. Its just an old fishing colony with terrible weather. I think PEI and Nova Scotia would be much cooler. Quebec probably has more French culture and influence.
If you want a French Overseas Collective worth visting, might as well go to Martinique or Reunion
Ya..I suppose. I've been to Nova Scotia quite a bit. It's one of my favorite places. I'd like to find time to explore PEI more and Newfoundland.
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I mean there is nothing really there. Miquelon just got some shine during the last season of Peaky Blinders as a bit of it took place there. Its just an old fishing colony with terrible weather. I think PEI and Nova Scotia would be much cooler. Quebec probably has more French culture and influence.
If you want a French Overseas Collective worth visting, might as well go to Martinique or Reunion
I'm halfway through the last season. Had no idea the history of those islands until I looked it up after the first episode
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I mean there is nothing really there. Miquelon just got some shine during the last season of Peaky Blinders as a bit of it took place there. Its just an old fishing colony with terrible weather. I think PEI and Nova Scotia would be much cooler. Quebec probably has more French culture and influence.
If you want a French Overseas Collective worth visting, might as well go to Martinique or Reunion
I've been to the Canadian Maritimes before. Was supposed to make a return trip in 2020 because our kids really wanted to visit.
New/Nouveau Brunswick is really Canada's only bilingual province. Loaded with French Acadians and Royalists who left the American colonies during the revolution.
PEI is the best. Kind of like a Martha's Vineyard and pock marked with French settlements. The red cliffs and soil like Utah contrasted with the green and ocean is a beautiful site. Anne of Green Gables takes place here as is the authors house. The island is overrun with Japanese tourists who are enamored with the books. Potatoes are grown everywhere and go great with the lobster. And you get to drive 30 minutes over the Confederation Bridge to get there. Or a ferry.
Nova Scotia (Nouvelle Ecosse) is great too. Halifax is a gem. Oak Island was on the visit agenda. The far end of Nova Scotia the mammoth French fort that fell during the French and Indian War. We took a boat tour that took us around the Bird Islands that contain one of the few puffin colonies in North America. You can go fossil digging in NS too.
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I'm halfway through the last season. Had no idea the history of those islands until I looked it up after the first episode
Yea, thats what sort of colored my post. Was like "oh interesting", id only briefly heard of St Pierre as they randomly have a small airline (Air St Pierre) that actually flies to Paris in the summer, looked it up, read a bit, and was like oh...there is nothing there.
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I've been to the Canadian Maritimes before. Was supposed to make a return trip in 2020 because our kids really wanted to visit.
New/Nouveau Brunswick is really Canada's only bilingual province. Loaded with French Acadians and Royalists who left the American colonies during the revolution.
PEI is the best. Kind of like a Martha's Vineyard and pock marked with French settlements. The red cliffs and soil like Utah contrasted with the green and ocean is a beautiful site. Anne of Green Gables takes place here as is the authors house. The island is overrun with Japanese tourists who are enamored with the books. Potatoes are grown everywhere and go great with the lobster. And you get to drive 30 minutes over the Confederation Bridge to get there. Or a ferry.
Nova Scotia (Nouvelle Ecosse) is great too. Halifax is a gem. Oak Island was on the visit agenda. The far end of Nova Scotia the mammoth French fort that fell during the French and Indian War. We took a boat tour that took us around the Bird Islands that contain one of the few puffin colonies in North America. You can go fossil digging in NS too.
How is the golf in PEI? Maybe I'll take a mussels vacation there and then golf in Caoe Breton.
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How is the golf in PEI? Maybe I'll take a mussels vacation there and then golf in Caoe Breton.
Unsure but there are plenty of courses in both
At the time, my wife bought me a t-shirt with potato people (a PEI thing) playing golf!
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Unsure but there are plenty of courses in both
At the time, my wife bought me a t-shirt with potato people (a PEI thing) playing golf!
I wonder why the mussels are so much better there??
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Have any of you scoopesr been to Cyprus? I'm reading a novel which partly takes place there. Fascinating history.
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Have any of you scoopesr been to Cyprus? I'm reading a novel which partly takes place there. Fascinating history.
In other words, do we have any Russian Oligarch scoopers who go there to visit their money??
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My daughter who did study abroad in France this past semester in conjunction with some of her new friends decided on Malta over Cyprus. Cyprus has nicer beaches Malta doesn't really have them but it was deemed safer for college kids per the British woman who ran my kids program and my wife's friend in Poland who frequently travels somewhere beachy.
FWIW
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What recommendations do you guys have for the greater Minocqua area?
Leaving tomorrow with the kids, have a rental.
An extremely good mosquito repellant.
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Have any of you scoopesr been to Cyprus? I'm reading a novel which partly takes place there. Fascinating history.
Its a cool island with some interesting cultural history. I mean its an island a bit bigger than Delaware that is essentially split in half, Greek and Turkish. But its a very pretty resort island with great climate.
My daughter who did study abroad in France this past semester in conjunction with some of her new friends decided on Malta over Cyprus. Cyprus has nicer beaches Malta doesn't really have them but it was deemed safer for college kids per the British woman who ran my kids program and my wife's friend in Poland who frequently travels somewhere beachy.
FWIW
Malta on the other hand is INCREDIBLE. If you want a chill, resort vacation, go to Cyprus. If you want an island with a fascinating history and so much stuff to see and read about, Malta all the way. I spent my entire transit back from the Med a few years ago just reading endless Wiki articles after spending a few days in Malta.
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Its a cool island with some interesting cultural history. I mean its an island a bit bigger than Delaware that is essentially split in half, Greek and Turkish. But its a very pretty resort island with great climate.
Malta on the other hand is INCREDIBLE. If you want a chill, resort vacation, go to Cyprus. If you want an island with a fascinating history and so much stuff to see and read about, Malta all the way. I spent my entire transit back from the Med a few years ago just reading endless Wiki articles after spending a few days in Malta.
Tyvm JWags.
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The new LGA…OMG. I honestly thought I flew to the wrong airport this morning.
Excited to see what Queens has to offer over next two days.
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The new LGA…OMG. I honestly thought I flew to the wrong airport this morning.
Excited to see what Queens has to offer over next two days.
Is that good or bad?
I regularly fly from LGA and it's vastly improved getting in and out despite ongoing terminal construction.
You may not have this issue, since you flew into LGA and your return flight may involve a car rental drop-off and not use of the parking garage.
I parked in the parking garage on the same floor (5th?) as the new pedestrian entrance ramp. The ramp dumps you into the security line entrance, then using escalators you have go awkwardly around it and down another flight for check-in/luggage drop-off then back up a flight for security.
Because the terminals are still under construction my gate happened to be in the mostly closed old section, so I had walk across an old and very long temporarily spruced up hallway that dumps you into an area with about 16 gates. You can see the original entrance ramp closed off.
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The new LGA…OMG. I honestly thought I flew to the wrong airport this morning.
Excited to see what Queens has to offer over next two days.
Main problem I have with LGA is how difficult it is to get to Manhattan. $50 for a cab ride into downtown through traffic sucks donkey balls. Which is why I usually fly into EWR for this reason and take the train into Penn Station.
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Is that good or bad?
I regularly fly from LGA and it's vastly improved getting in and out despite ongoing terminal construction.
You may not have this issue, since you flew into LGA and your return flight may involve a car rental drop-off and not use of the parking garage.
I parked in the parking garage on the same floor (5th?) as the new pedestrian entrance ramp. The ramp dumps you into the security line entrance, then using escalators you have go awkwardly around it and down another flight for check-in/luggage drop-off then back up a flight for security.
Because the terminals are still under construction my gate happened to be in the mostly closed old section, so I had walk across an old and very long temporarily spruced up hallway that dumps you into an area with about 16 gates. You can see the original entrance ramp closed off.
It was an OMG good. I can't believe the makeover, it's incredible what that place used to be, to what it is now (at least in Terminal B). There's good signage everywhere too (which was not the case previously). I'd argue it went from the worst airport in the US to maybe one of the top five.
I'm hosting a suite at Citi Field tonight for Mets/Rockies, so for me it's a piece of cake to Uber from LGA to my hotel, then to the game. But agreed with Hards, if I was going to Manhattan, I'd have flown into EWR and done the same thing and train it to Penn.
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Damn.....Malta looks spectacular. Who recommended that to me... was it you JWags?
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Damn.....Malta looks spectacular. Who recommended that to me... was it you JWags?
Yep! One of the most unique places Ive ever been. Incredible history, a crazy blend of cultural influences, and some gorgeous scenery.
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Yep! One of the most unique places Ive ever been. Incredible history, a crazy blend of cultural influences, and some gorgeous scenery.
Tyvm JWags. I think I will go in May 2023.
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Damn.....Malta looks spectacular. Who recommended that to me... was it you JWags?
I did as well. My daughter was just there in June.
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I did as well. My daughter was just there in June.
Ty as well. Did you combine it with a stay in Sicily or Naples/Positano/Capri? I was thinking 10 days in Malta.
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Ty as well. Did you combine it with a stay in Sicily or Naples/Positano/Capri? I was thinking 10 days in Malta.
10 days is an awfully long time there, IMO. But add a couple days on Gozo, and it could play. But if you're a diver, there is great diving there.
We linked it with some time in Greece, which actually ended up being a bit of a travel nightmare, but Naples/Amalfi Coast would be a nice link with it.
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10 days is an awfully long time there, IMO. But add a couple days on Gozo, and it could play. But if you're a diver, there is great diving there.
We linked it with some time in Greece, which actually ended up being a bit of a travel nightmare, but Naples/Amalfi Coast would be a nice link with it.
Well won't I need more than 7 days to learn Maltese? What a fascinating language, both spoken and written.
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Ty as well. Did you combine it with a stay in Sicily or Naples/Positano/Capri? I was thinking 10 days in Malta.
My kid was there 3-4 days.
She said it was beautiful and after a semester in France she said it was surprising incredibly very inexpensive. I think Malta uses the Euro
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Thinking of taking a family trip to Atlantis, have heard both good & bad. Anyone have hot takes on the resort? I did gamble there a few years ago while our cruise ship was docked in Nassau.
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Thinking of taking a family trip to Atlantis, have heard both good & bad. Anyone have hot takes on the resort? I did gamble there a few years ago while our cruise ship was docked in Nassau.
The aquarium is very disappointing. We didn't do the Waterpark so that's all I can comment on
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Thinking of taking a family trip to Atlantis, have heard both good & bad. Anyone have hot takes on the resort? I did gamble there a few years ago while our cruise ship was docked in Nassau.
Heard bad things. Basically it's a dump unless you're in the newest section. The older parts of the resort are left to slowly rot.
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Thinking of taking a family trip to Atlantis, have heard both good & bad. Anyone have hot takes on the resort? I did gamble there a few years ago while our cruise ship was docked in Nassau.
MUWBB plays there in a few weeks
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Main problem I have with LGA is how difficult it is to get to Manhattan. $50 for a cab ride into downtown through traffic sucks donkey balls. Which is why I usually fly into EWR for this reason and take the train into Penn Station.
If you don’t want to pay the $$$…
Take the Q70 bus (free) non-stop to 74th/Roosevelt to the 7 or four other lines. Or take it to 61st to the LIRR.
If you don’t want to wait for that one, you can do the same thing paying with a MetroCard taking the Q47.
Or you could take the Q48 with a MetroCard to the tennis/baseball facilities at 111st/Roosevelt and take the 7. (or take the LIRR from the BJK Center)
(There are a few more as well)
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If you don’t want to pay the $$$…
Take the Q70 bus (free) non-stop to 74th/Roosevelt to the 7 or four other lines. Or take it to 61st to the LIRR.
If you don’t want to wait for that one, you can do the same thing paying with a MetroCard taking the Q47.
Or you could take the Q48 with a MetroCard to the tennis/baseball facilities at 111st/Roosevelt and take the 7. (or take the LIRR from the BJK Center)
(There are a few more as well)
Yeah, I've considered that route as well. I prefer the EWR route because I don't really have to think, and it just works.
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Yeah, I've considered that route as well. I prefer the EWR route because I don't really have to think, and it just works.
It's pretty easy. You literally walk outside at Laguardia, and one of those buses will be there to take to the train.
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It's pretty easy. You literally walk outside at Laguardia, and one of those buses will be there to take to the train.
Yeah, but then I gotta ride a bus, and swap to a train.
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It's pretty easy. You literally walk outside at Laguardia, and one of those buses will be there to take to the train.
Yea but you're still leaving the airport and taking a bus, a city bus at that, to then transfer to a train. Its not unreasonable to think that non-NYC residents don't want to think about buses once they arrive off a flight. Especially compared to an escalator up to the SkyTrain and then walk out to the train platform to get on the NJT right into Penn Station.
Ive been to NYC 50+ times. Was a part time resident for a number of years. Taken every form of public transit in the 5 boroughs and flown into every airport in the area, including Islip and Westchester. In no way would I ever consider public transit from LGA remotely as "easy" or painless as the other 2 major airports. JFK is a hike, but its much smoother than LGA (in a non Uber/taxi transit)
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Yeah, I've considered that route as well. I prefer the EWR route because I don't really have to think, and it just works.
You and me both.
I'm a 1K on United and Newark is non-stop from Florida. I admit I'm partial to United (though the recent first class food selections are worse than anything I would feed my canine) but I also like getting the Airlink to the train station and 20-30 minutes to Midtown.
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Yeah, but then I gotta ride a bus, and swap to a train.
Yes, you do have to take a short bus ride to the train from a bus waiting for you as you take the few steps outside. But it is certainly a viable option from Laguardia to Manhattan, that may take on a daily basis. It is far less expensive, and not much more time consuming.
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Trying to plan my honeymoon to match our year anniversary. Thinking a treck along the Mediterranean from nice to Milan maybe a brief stop in Monaco just to say we did it.
Anyone familiar with this area? Recommended villages/towns? Recommended Michelin restaurants to a local dive spot?
Is it possible to include Barcelona or would I be stretching us too thin?
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I know there has been a ton of Hawaii discussion but I couldn't find it.
Going to Maui and Kauai in late March. Any recommendations beyond Haleakala and Hana? Has anyone done a guided excursions that they enjoyed? Maybe one that included snorkeling?
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Trying to plan my honeymoon to match our year anniversary. Thinking a treck along the Mediterranean from nice to Milan maybe a brief stop in Monaco just to say we did it.
Anyone familiar with this area? Recommended villages/towns? Recommended Michelin restaurants to a local dive spot?
Is it possible to include Barcelona or would I be stretching us too thin?
My daughter studied at UGA in Grenoble this past spring semester.
(That missing kid from New York that has been in the news this week is at the same university.)
She spent a long weekend in Nice in March (and there are next to no tourists at time and she said it was quite enjoyable.)
She did a day trip to Monaco.
She also did a day trip to Menton. It's a very scenic village on the coast between Monaco & the Italian border. It's known for it's limoncello.
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Trying to plan my honeymoon to match our year anniversary. Thinking a treck along the Mediterranean from nice to Milan maybe a brief stop in Monaco just to say we did it.
Anyone familiar with this area? Recommended villages/towns? Recommended Michelin restaurants to a local dive spot?
Is it possible to include Barcelona or would I be stretching us too thin?
Barcelona is incredible, but 400+ miles the opposite direction. 7+ hours driving or multiple trains. If your final destination is Milan, thats just not convenient. If anything, Marseille isn't terribly far, maybe 90 min west of Nice, and its a very cool city on the water.
I don't recall restaurants of note, but Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is incredible and worth spending some time in. I don't know a ton about the Italian Med coast there, but ive only heard raves about its beauty. Sanremo stands out from someone's stories from what I recall. You can't go wrong really.
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Barcelona is incredible, but 400+ miles the opposite direction. 7+ hours driving or multiple trains. If your final destination is Milan, thats just not convenient. If anything, Marseille isn't terribly far, maybe 90 min west of Nice, and its a very cool city on the water.
I don't recall restaurants of note, but Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is incredible and worth spending some time in. I don't know a ton about the Italian Med coast there, but ive only heard raves about its beauty. Sanremo stands out from someone's stories from what I recall. You can't go wrong really.
Yeah I mean Barcelona would be stop no 1 then we'd head east if it was included.
Thanks a lot, Milan's not necessarily locked in stone we may just take the drive down the west coast of Italy.
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Yeah I mean Barcelona would be stop no 1 then we'd head east if it was included.
Thanks a lot, Milan's not necessarily locked in stone we may just take the drive down the west coast of Italy.
If the choice is Milan or Portifino and/or Cinque Terre, I highly suggest the latter. Unless you're very interested in fashion and its history, Milan is a pretty nondescript, fairly dirty big city. Rome is dirty...but its Rome. Milan is a dirtier NYC without the cache of NYC.
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If the choice is Milan or Portifino and/or Cinque Terre, I highly suggest the latter. Unless you're very interested in fashion and its history, Milan is a pretty nondescript, fairly dirty big city. Rome is dirty...but its Rome. Milan is a dirtier NYC without the cache of NYC.
Gotcha then maybe we'll lean that route. I've done Rome before, she hasn't but we were gonna skip it.
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Gotcha then maybe we'll lean that route. I've done Rome before, she hasn't but we were gonna skip it.
We did our honeymoon in Italy after my wife had already studied abroad there. We skipped Milan due to similar reasons above. Her favorite place was Cinque Terre which was awesome.
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Trying to plan my honeymoon to match our year anniversary. Thinking a treck along the Mediterranean from nice to Milan maybe a brief stop in Monaco just to say we did it.
Anyone familiar with this area? Recommended villages/towns? Recommended Michelin restaurants to a local dive spot?
Is it possible to include Barcelona or would I be stretching us too thin?
That's a very aggressive itinerary, and likely stressful and tiring. Honestly, that's three or four trips.
That said, you can see most of that and more on a cruise from Marseille to Venice. I am not a cruise guy typically but that is a great way to discover the Mediterranean the first time (to decide what you want to see the next trip). Your cabin is your luggage and transport. It's touristic for sure but after the stress of a wedding, it might find it the most rewarding, especially on an aggressive agenda.
Milan is the gate to Lake Como, that's about it. Marseille is mostly a dump, btw. Aux en Provence is the place to stay.
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That's a very aggressive itinerary, and likely stressful and tiring. Honestly, that's three or four trips.
That said, you can see most of that and more on a cruise from Marseille to Venice. I am not a cruise guy typically but that is a great way to discover the Mediterranean the first time (to decide what you want to see the next trip). Your cabin is your luggage and transport. It's touristic for sure but after the stress of a wedding, it might find it the most rewarding, especially on an aggressive agenda.
Milan is the gate to Lake Como, that's about it. Marseille is mostly a dump, btw. Aux en Provence is the place to stay.
While I appreciate the advice I really really hate cruises, plus we got married Memorial Day weekend last year so no recent wedding stress.
We both work remote so are probably going to just work there for about a month.
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While I appreciate the advice I really really hate cruises, plus we got married Memorial Day weekend last year so no recent wedding stress.
We both work remote so are probably going to just work there for about a month.
Awesome! Cinque Terra. Florence. Sorrento. Barca.
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If the choice is Milan or Portifino and/or Cinque Terre, I highly suggest the latter. Unless you're very interested in fashion and its history, Milan is a pretty nondescript, fairly dirty big city. Rome is dirty...but its Rome. Milan is a dirtier NYC without the cache of NYC.
I second this, Milan was a wasted stop for me years ago, it was just boring as heck, relative to the rest of the Mediterranean and Italy for sure.
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I know there has been a ton of Hawaii discussion but I couldn't find it.
Going to Maui and Kauai in late March. Any recommendations beyond Haleakala and Hana? Has anyone done a guided excursions that they enjoyed? Maybe one that included snorkeling?
Where are you staying in Maui?
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I know there has been a ton of Hawaii discussion but I couldn't find it.
Going to Maui and Kauai in late March. Any recommendations beyond Haleakala and Hana? Has anyone done a guided excursions that they enjoyed? Maybe one that included snorkeling?
You are going to miss the whales but just about any tour will be good. Maui is about food and drink which there are many choices.
That said, when in Maui I hike. Big fan of the Waihee Ridge Trail when it's not wet. First 30 minutes straight up are tough, then it's bliss.
https://www.prideofmaui.com/blog/activities/top-10-hikes-in-maui
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I know there has been a ton of Hawaii discussion but I couldn't find it.
Going to Maui and Kauai in late March. Any recommendations beyond Haleakala and Hana? Has anyone done a guided excursions that they enjoyed? Maybe one that included snorkeling?
.
My advice is to consider a cruise that hits both of these ports. If you dont mind spending only 6 or 8 hours in those ports that would be the way to go
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Mrs pbiflyer loved the amalfi coast. My standard Europe travel advice is almost always you are visiting too many places. Wastes too much time in transit. You don’t get to see other than the highlights. And this is from the voice of experience. We did Rome, Siena, Florence, and Venice is a week. Flew out of Milan. We were exhausted. This year, we did a week each in Cologne, Antwerp, and Paris. Much more relaxing. Milan was just a place to fly out of and that didn't even work out so well, as the airport is a good hour outside of Milan.
BTW, we lived in Hawaii, albeit long ago. Hiking in the Na Pali coast in Kauai is amazing. On Haleakala, the silversword plants exist nowhere else in the world, make sure you check them out.
If you see huli huli chicken somewhere, especially on a roadside stand, get it, it’s delicious.
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I haven’t flown in/out of TPA in a long time until this morning. I forgot this is a top 5 US airport, so nice.
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Trying to plan my honeymoon to match our year anniversary. Thinking a treck along the Mediterranean from nice to Milan maybe a brief stop in Monaco just to say we did it.
Anyone familiar with this area? Recommended villages/towns? Recommended Michelin restaurants to a local dive spot?
Is it possible to include Barcelona or would I be stretching us too thin?
Milan sucks, don't go. It's probably a nice city to live, but there just isn't that much to DO.
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Where are you staying in Maui?
Lahaina.
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You are going to miss the whales but just about any tour will be good. Maui is about food and drink which there are many choices.
That said, when in Maui I hike. Big fan of the Waihee Ridge Trail when it's not wet. First 30 minutes straight up are tough, then it's bliss.
https://www.prideofmaui.com/blog/activities/top-10-hikes-in-maui
This list is great, thanks. Hiking is a priority for the week we'll be there. We were already going to Iao Valley and Sliding Sands. I'll add Waihee Ridge Trail to the list.
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I know there has been a ton of Hawaii discussion but I couldn't find it.
Going to Maui and Kauai in late March. Any recommendations beyond Haleakala and Hana? Has anyone done a guided excursions that they enjoyed? Maybe one that included snorkeling?
Mama's Fish House
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Kauai is my and Mrs. 82's favorite vacation spot.
You'll want to spend an entire day at Waimea Canyon -- it's spectacular, like the Grand Canyon. Lots of great hiking.
The Poipu Beach area is the most sunny part of the island; if the rest is cloudy, very possible Poipu is sunny and warm. Occasionally sea mammals are on the sand sunning themselves; they'll be roped off by wildlife officials.
Gillen's Beach is right near Poipu. It's an awesome beach and much quieter; you can hike the shoreline going east for a couple miles.
Up north by Princeville is beautiful. Craggy cliffs and some amazing shoreline. Secret Beach is up that way -- it's nice but there usually are more people there than one would think for a place called Secret Beach!
Up that way is one of my favorite spots on earth, Queen's Bath. It's a bit of an effort to find, and takes a little courage (lunacy?) to jump into the lava pool, but I've only half-jokingly said I want my ashes spread there after I die.
A day or early-evening cruise to see the Napali Coast is pretty amazing.
So much more. Just a beautiful island, a nature-lovers paradise, and one could spend a month on Kauai and not run out of things to do even though it's less developed than Maui (which we also love). There are busier areas, too, with nice restaurants and more touristy things if folks want to spend some time that way.
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UK announces by 2024 no more liquid limitations for security. Up to 2L is fine. Also won't need to remove laptops or electronics. Supposedly Ireland already has the liquid rules at some aiports?
Technology has definitely got to the point where the liquid limits are antiquated and unneeded, for sure. Amusing its the UK, cause Ive always found them to be amongst the most stingy and meticulous. If your liquid plastic bag isn't sealed, you have an issue. They will notice even an eye drop bottle in a random pocket you forgot to put in the plastic bag.
Meanwhile, in the US with precheck, I haven't put a liquid in a special bag for years, just put it all in my dopp kit. Pretty sure Ive taken 4-5 oz multiples times, intentionally or otherwise.
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UK announces by 2024 no more liquid limitations for security. Up to 2L is fine. Also won't need to remove laptops or electronics. Supposedly Ireland already has the liquid rules at some aiports?
Technology has definitely got to the point where the liquid limits are antiquated and unneeded, for sure. Amusing its the UK, cause Ive always found them to be amongst the most stingy and meticulous. If your liquid plastic bag isn't sealed, you have an issue. They will notice even an eye drop bottle in a random pocket you forgot to put in the plastic bag.
Meanwhile, in the US with precheck, I haven't put a liquid in a special bag for years, just put it all in my dopp kit. Pretty sure Ive taken 4-5 oz multiples times, intentionally or otherwise.
For me, the rules seem to be all over the place and change depending on who is working. I had to trash an almost new tube of toothpaste because it was 3.4oz or something ridiculous. Before they threw it out they asked if I wanted to go run it out to my car. I guess they weren't worried about it that much since at that point if it were an explosive, it would have been a car bomb in their lot. ::)
Sometimes remove shoes, sometimes remove electronics, sometimes remove liquids. Great federal agency we have here, huh?
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Dude, if ya kneed a shiny knew tube of toothpaste, eye kan gift ya won. Consitter it my holiday offerin' two ya. Kinda a Scoop brotherhood thang, aina?
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For me, the rules seem to be all over the place and change depending on who is working. I had to trash an almost new tube of toothpaste because it was 3.4oz or something ridiculous. Before they threw it out they asked if I wanted to go run it out to my car. I guess they weren't worried about it that much since at that point if it were an explosive, it would have been a car bomb in their lot. ::)
Sometimes remove shoes, sometimes remove electronics, sometimes remove liquids. Great federal agency we have here, huh?
Entitled much? When was the last terrorist attack on a plane? I think they are doing a pretty good job.
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Entitled much? When was the last terrorist attack on a plane? I think they are doing a pretty good job.
I've got a cheetah repelling rock to sell you if you think the TSA is an effective terrorist deterrent.
I'll cost ya tho.
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Dude, if ya kneed a shiny knew tube of toothpaste, eye kan gift ya won. Consitter it my holiday offerin' two ya. Kinda a Scoop brotherhood thang, aina?
I'll take a 4-pack of the Arm and Hammer Advanced Care. That or a bag of sand and glue will do.
I ain't picky
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I've got a cheetah repelling rock to sell you if you think the TSA is an effective terrorist deterrent.
I'll cost ya tho.
You cant prove otherwise. No terrorist attacks since 9/11?I think they do a good job, along with the ALA's the FBI uses.
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You cant prove otherwise. No terrorist attacks since 9/11?I think they do a good job, along with the ALA's the FBI uses.
And you can't prove that they've been effective. Terrorists, like all people and animals, adapt.
TSA is theater. Securing the doors on the cockpits of airplanes, and the public's willingness to fight back has stopped hijacking of American flights since 9/11.
Prior to 9/11 it wasn't as if flights were being constantly blown up either... so uhhhhhhhhhhh yeah. Great job, good effort TSA.
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You cant prove otherwise. No terrorist attacks since 9/11?I think they do a good job, along with the ALA's the FBI uses.
some studies found that TSA has cost more lives than it has saved
https://www.vox.com/2016/5/17/11687014/tsa-against-airport-security
One paper by economists Garrick Blalock, Vrinda Kadiyali, and Daniel Simon (http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00036840601069757?journalCode=raec20) found that, controlling for other factors like weather and traffic, 9/11 provoked such a large decrease in air traffic and increase in driving that 327 more people died every month from road accidents. The effect dissipated over time, but the total death toll (up to 2,300) rivals that of the attacks themselves.
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And you can't prove that they've been effective. Terrorists, like all people and animals, adapt.
TSA is theater. Securing the doors on the cockpits of airplanes, and the public's willingness to fight back has stopped hijacking of American flights since 9/11.
Prior to 9/11 it wasn't as if flights were being constantly blown up either... so uhhhhhhhhhhh yeah. Great job, good effort TSA.
You sound like a bad stand up comedian when you complain about your toothpaste. There have been thousands of arrests as the result of TSA screenings. You don't know if one of those was a potential terrorist. The FBI does.
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I'll take a 4-pack of the Arm and Hammer Advanced Care. That or a bag of sand and glue will do.
I ain't picky
Your British teeth resemble that remark.
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Hey all!
Thinking about heading to Napa/Sonoma next summer/fall. Any recommendations on places to stay, taste, and eat?
A must for me is going to Seghesio which is on the Sonoma side. Appreciate it!
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Hey all!
Thinking about heading to Napa/Sonoma next summer/fall. Any recommendations on places to stay, taste, and eat?
A must for me is going to Seghesio which is on the Sonoma side. Appreciate it!
Everything as far as accommodations will be too much. Avoid the hotel in downtown Napa unless you really don’t care where you stay. I’d recommend staying in Sonoma, tbh, though I like Napa better overall as a place to explore
There really aren’t any bad food places but two places in Napa you should go to. Go to Jax’s White Mule Diner for breakfast. The food is great and you get a lot of it. For lunch or casual dinner, go to Gott’s Roadside in downtown or in St. Helena. The mahi mahi tacos or Baja fish tacos are wildly delicious.
Mumm Napa on the Rutherford Trail is an underrated gem as far as views and experience and guest dinners/tastings
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You sound like a bad stand up comedian when you complain about your toothpaste. There have been thousands of arrests as the result of TSA screenings. You don't know if one of those was a potential terrorist. The FBI does.
Ah, so you agree, you don't know if the TSA and its $10 billion annual budget have actually caught any terrorists.
You just *think* that it's possible. The TSA is there to make you feel safe, and it exists because of an attack that worked once, and cannot possibly work again. It exists to solve a problem that does not exist.
I wasn't trying to be funny about my toothpaste, it was an honest story about how stupid of an organization the TSA is.
If you really want to cry about how much terrorism they prevent, consider that leaving a backpack with an explosive in the lengthy TSA line is just as effective an attack as putting the bomb on an airplane. Jesus Christ, it's as if you haven't even given this a moment of thought until today.
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Ah, so you agree, you don't know if the TSA and its $10 billion annual budget have actually caught any terrorists.
You just *think* that it's possible. The TSA is there to make you feel safe, and it exists because of an attack that worked once, and cannot possibly work again. It exists to solve a problem that does not exist.
I wasn't trying to be funny about my toothpaste, it was an honest story about how stupid of an organization the TSA is.
If you really want to cry about how much terrorism they prevent, consider that leaving a backpack with an explosive in the lengthy TSA line is just as effective an attack as putting the bomb on an airplane. Jesus Christ, it's as if you haven't even given this a moment of thought until today.
I have thought about it, and I wont go full blown Chicos about what I know. Just, that TSA has assisted ALA's in more cases than you know. You just sound like a whiny little bitch having to spend an extra 15 minutes in a line.If you don't like it, don't fly.
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Hey all!
Thinking about heading to Napa/Sonoma next summer/fall. Any recommendations on places to stay, taste, and eat?
A must for me is going to Seghesio which is on the Sonoma side. Appreciate it!
We stayed at the Geyserville Inn and thought it was exceptional.
Breweries: Lagunitas and Russian River (Do not miss)
Wineries: Sterling and Castello de Amorosa are cool spots... Personally, I like Vincent Arroyo.
Also, watch out for Black Porsches
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I have thought about it, and I wont go full blown Chicos about what I know. Just, that TSA has assisted ALA's in more cases than you know. You just sound like a whiny little bitch having to spend an extra 15 minutes in a line.If you don't like it, don't fly.
Damn, who shat in your cheerios today? Or is does your kid work for the TSA?
The TSA isn't worth its budget. Period.
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Hey all!
Thinking about heading to Napa/Sonoma next summer/fall. Any recommendations on places to stay, taste, and eat?
A must for me is going to Seghesio which is on the Sonoma side. Appreciate it!
Yountville is great for food and wine
Breakfast
Model bakery
Bouchon bakery
RH (lunch and dinner)
Lunch
Oakville Grocery
Gotts Roadside
Dinner
bouchon
Rutherford Grill
R&D kitchen
French Laundry
Anything else Thomas Keller
Wineries
We also try to do boutique wineries (no distribution) but there’s millions and most are good. I can send recommendations if needed
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Anyone been to Fredericksburg in Texas outside Austin? Recommendations?
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Anyone been to Fredericksburg in Texas outside Austin? Recommendations?
I’d probably avoid Chris Beard.
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Hey all!
Thinking about heading to Napa/Sonoma next summer/fall. Any recommendations on places to stay, taste, and eat?
A must for me is going to Seghesio which is on the Sonoma side. Appreciate it!
Applewood Inn in Guerneville in the Russian River Valley
Harvest Inn in St. Helena
The Lodge at Sonoma Resort
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Yountville is great for food and wine
Breakfast
Model bakery
Bouchon bakery
RH (lunch and dinner)
Lunch
Oakville Grocery
Gotts Roadside
Dinner
bouchon
Rutherford Grill
R&D kitchen
French Laundry
Anything else Thomas Keller
Wineries
We also try to do boutique wineries (no distribution) but there’s millions and most are good. I can send recommendations if needed
I was going to suggest Taylor’s Refresher until I googled it and saw they changed their name to Gotts
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Hey all!
Thinking about heading to Napa/Sonoma next summer/fall. Any recommendations on places to stay, taste, and eat?
A must for me is going to Seghesio which is on the Sonoma side. Appreciate it!
I also recommend flying into Oakland instead of San Francisco
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Hey all!
Thinking about heading to Napa/Sonoma next summer/fall. Any recommendations on places to stay, taste, and eat?
A must for me is going to Seghesio which is on the Sonoma side. Appreciate it!
Let's start with what type of wines you like? I see Mumm's and Rutherford mention here, if that's the case, go to Binny's instead.
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I also recommend flying into Oakland instead of San Francisco
I heard the complete opposite from a few others. Reasoning?
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I heard the complete opposite from a few others. Reasoning?
Smaller, less traveled airport that I've found a lot easier to get out of.
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I heard the complete opposite from a few others. Reasoning?
And closer to Napa. Less traffic. But I would pick flight times over airports. If Oakland lines up with the times, a better choice.
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And closer to Napa. Less traffic. But I would pick flight times over airports. If Oakland lines up with the times, a better choice.
You also may want to look at Sacramento, which is further away but going to generally have a lot less traffic.
If you do fly into San Francisco, and you have time and not been there prior, its kind of fun to drive through the city and across the Golden Gate. Depending on traffic, may add a half-hour or so?
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And closer to Napa. Less traffic. But I would pick flight times over airports. If Oakland lines up with the times, a better choice.
Great point...SW into OAK works great for us and the free checked bags allow us to bring more wine back.
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While I appreciate the advice I really really hate cruises, plus we got married Memorial Day weekend last year so no recent wedding stress.
We both work remote so are probably going to just work there for about a month.
Cool a month in Italy!
I would skip Milan, unless the flights are just so great versus other options.
The Amalfi coast is great, very romantic, lots to do. Blue grotto is amazing. Portofino was mrs pbiflyer's favorite city.
If you are in that area and choose to do Pompeii, get a guide to show you around. Also Herculaneum is a less visited, great alternative. https://www.visitpompeiivesuvius.com/en/herculaneum
Almost anywhere in the Tuscany area is great. Maybe a farmhouse/vineyard (with wifi to work remotely).
An off the wall idea if you do fly into Milan - Switzerland? Stunningly beautiful. Train ride is stunning.
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You also may want to look at Sacramento, which is further away but going to generally have a lot less traffic.
If you do fly into San Francisco, and you have time and not been there prior, its kind of fun to drive through the city and across the Golden Gate. Depending on traffic, may add a half-hour or so?
I did that once and it was great, flying into Sacramento.
San Francisco is a fun drive, imo, too.
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The Amalfi coast is great, very romantic, lots to do. Blue grotto is amazing. Portofino was mrs pbiflyer's favorite city.
If you are in that area and choose to do Pompeii, get a guide to show you around. Also Herculaneum is a less visited, great alternative. https://www.visitpompeiivesuvius.com/en/herculaneum
Almost anywhere in the Tuscany area is great. Maybe a farmhouse/vineyard (with wifi to work remotely).
Co-sign. Capri is also a very cool day trip. Rent a boat, see the grotto, stop off at Capri and roam around.
Herculaneum is also an awesome trip, a little less touristy.
Can't co-sign Tuscany enough. Florence is beyond incredible, obviously, but that whole region is sublime.
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You also may want to look at Sacramento, which is further away but going to generally have a lot less traffic.
If you do fly into San Francisco, and you have time and not been there prior, its kind of fun to drive through the city and across the Golden Gate. Depending on traffic, may add a half-hour or so?
When we did our trip, we flew into SF and then out of Sacramento. Sacramento was far easier.
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Co-sign. Capri is also a very cool day trip. Rent a boat, see the grotto, stop off at Capri and roam around.
Herculaneum is also an awesome trip, a little less touristy.
Can't co-sign Tuscany enough. Florence is beyond incredible, obviously, but that whole region is sublime.
Capri is great if he's there in season. In my experience the island is super cool but a total ghost town in November. :P
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Capri is great if he's there in season. In my experience the island is super cool but a total ghost town in November. :P
He said end of may, so should be good. But yeah.
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Hey all!
Thinking about heading to Napa/Sonoma next summer/fall. Any recommendations on places to stay, taste, and eat?
A must for me is going to Seghesio which is on the Sonoma side. Appreciate it!
If you make it out to Sebastapol, Small Vines was a lovely little spot. Very small, family-run, and you may need to be in their club to get a tasting? Not sure. Their wine is amazing.
Benziger does an interesting tour if you're interested in learning about biodynamic farming.
I met Dwyane Wade at El Molina Central, but YMMV. (Food is good, too.)
Bouchon Bakery is fantastic.
La Calenda is a nice spot for lunch in Yountville.
Valley Bar & Bottle in Sonoma Square was a different vibe than most restaurants out there, including most of their wine being non-Californian.
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If you make it out to Sebastapol, Small Vines was a lovely little spot. Very small, family-run, and you may need to be in their club to get a tasting? Not sure. Their wine is amazing.
Benziger does an interesting tour if you're interested in learning about biodynamic farming.
I met Dwyane Wade at El Molina Central, but YMMV. (Food is good, too.)
Bouchon Bakery is fantastic.
La Calenda is a nice spot for lunch in Yountville.
Valley Bar & Bottle in Sonoma Square was a different vibe than most restaurants out there, including most of their wine being non-Californian.
Thank you & everyone else!
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Rhode Island man arrested after TSA detects disassembled gun concealed in two peanut butter jars at JFK Airport (https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2022/12/23/rhode-island-man-arrested-after-tsa-detects-disassembled-gun)
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https://twitter.com/WilliamJMcGee/status/1607896829038891020?t=nsMJUm6bYBRq_FrJQb1K3w&s=19
Should the federal (or state) govt be doing more regarding the airlines?
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Nah, keep government outta it, hey?
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Nah, keep government outta it, hey?
"It hasn't affected me yet, so I don't care"
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Limited shuttles from Grand Central to Jamaica Queens (F train still available) are up and running. Full service Grand Central LIRR still not there yet but getting closer. It will cut down on travel times with more direct routes, and it will alleviate some traffic from Penn Station.
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Random question, those of you that travel overseas, do you use Wi-Fi on the plane? And further, if traveling for business, would your company reimburse that?
I was in a conversation with a friend's husband and he was INSISTENT that, and i quote, "very few people use Wi-Fi on a long haul flight" and furthermore said hardly any company would reimburse it. I can't think of a long flight Ive been on in the last 5-6 years that I didn't purchase Wi-Fi on, and I regularly see plenty of computers and phones out, even in economy, and they certainly aren't all in bricked airplane mode or working solely in offline spreadsheets or the like. And Ive traveled abroad for 3 different companies and inflight Wi-Fi was never questioned. I asked 3 different friends, one in PE, one in CPG, and another in tech and all said the same.
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Wags
I always do the Wi-Fi on international flights and could not handle the flight without the Wi-Fi. Granted, I am self-employed but would pay out of my own pocket if it came to that. Pre-pandemic I flew 6-8 roundtrips a year to Asia and 95% of the time in economy premier and would say it appeared I was in the minority in using the pay Wi-Fi on the flight. That said, I never checked all that closely on other people using it or not.
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I don’t travel internationally, but I do buy in-flight wifi almost every time.
I expense it 100% of the time, and have never had an issue.
(Now that I say that out loud, when I head out west next week, I’m sure I’ll get asked about it.)
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I don’t travel internationally, but I do buy in-flight wifi almost every time.
I expense it 100% of the time, and have never had an issue.
(Now that I say that out loud, when I head out west next week, I’m sure I’ll get asked about it.)
Your HR department has likely been notified by now.
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Your HR department has likely been notified by now.
Only if Keefe is still here
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Random question, those of you that travel overseas, do you use Wi-Fi on the plane? And further, if traveling for business, would your company reimburse that?
I was in a conversation with a friend's husband and he was INSISTENT that, and i quote, "very few people use Wi-Fi on a long haul flight" and furthermore said hardly any company would reimburse it. I can't think of a long flight Ive been on in the last 5-6 years that I didn't purchase Wi-Fi on, and I regularly see plenty of computers and phones out, even in economy, and they certainly aren't all in bricked airplane mode or working solely in offline spreadsheets or the like. And Ive traveled abroad for 3 different companies and inflight Wi-Fi was never questioned. I asked 3 different friends, one in PE, one in CPG, and another in tech and all said the same.
I usually don't use Wi-Fi on the plane, but my organization would definitely allow it to be expensed if I were traveling for business.
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Public employee here. I would be tarred, feathered, and fired (okay I would just be asked to remove it from my expense report and pay out of pocket) if I tried to expense in-flight wifi.
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God yes I use wifi all the time on planes. Most of my overseas trips are for leisure and I always get it.
Can't be 8+ hours without access to scoop. I might miss something important about Marquette, or Arby's, or dental crime.
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I'm super stingy about my days off so I work from the plane on travel days which means I always purchase the Wi-Fi.
To me it's logical to bank an extra day for the future when I'd just be sitting there twiddling my thumbs anyways.
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Your HR department has likely been notified by now.
This is most likely true.
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I put my phone on Airplane Mode and don't look at it the entire flight.
An international flight is great way to unplug for a lengthy duration.
My employer would pay the Wi-Fi expense. I believe Delta is going to Free Wi-Fi on flights. I just got the email this week.
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This is most likely true.
I am pretty sure HR already knows about your gambling problem, so wifi is pretty minor.
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I am pretty sure HR already knows about your gambling problem, so wifi is pretty minor.
This is also most likely true.
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Only if Keefe is still here
Sat there on a tee, and you did a nice job knocking it out of the park!
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I believe Delta is going to Free Wi-Fi on flights. I just got the email this week.
Yes, Delta will have free WiFi. I would think the others will follow suit as this is a nice perk that would give them an advantage on competitive routes.
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Random question, those of you that travel overseas, do you use Wi-Fi on the plane? And further, if traveling for business, would your company reimburse that?
I was in a conversation with a friend's husband and he was INSISTENT that, and i quote, "very few people use Wi-Fi on a long haul flight" and furthermore said hardly any company would reimburse it. I can't think of a long flight Ive been on in the last 5-6 years that I didn't purchase Wi-Fi on, and I regularly see plenty of computers and phones out, even in economy, and they certainly aren't all in bricked airplane mode or working solely in offline spreadsheets or the like. And Ive traveled abroad for 3 different companies and inflight Wi-Fi was never questioned. I asked 3 different friends, one in PE, one in CPG, and another in tech and all said the same.
I'm somehow doing 1-2 international round trips per month recently from my new base in Dubai. Emirates gives Wifi for free when you hit gold status. Etihad charges an arm and a leg for full wifi but have a text only service that lets one use WhatsApp to stay in touch. I like that and use it for like $5/flight. I only recently started using Wifi on flights because I previously used flying time as total "downtime". Mostly, though, I use it to communicate with family and friends and to keep up with sports scores. Very rarely do I work on a flight, so I never even try to claim it - even if I do a little work.
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Our HR/Travel Policy explicitly permits expensing WiFi when traveling on business.
It also allows leaders to fly first class wherever they go and it allows staff to fly first class if the trip is three hours or more.
I don't see what the big deal is. It's $8.00 domestically and $20.00 internationally. Because of it, I can monitor emails, review projects and offer advice while in a plane. It allows our firm to be more productive.
Delta's new free for all plan does bother me. They pass on data to authorized providers and we the user have no control over what happens once the data is passed on. Of course, you can opt out and pay for wifi or not use it, but dadgummit, those trips get long without it.
https://crankyflier.com/2023/01/10/delta-sync-turns-free-wifi-into-a-marketing-machine/
I've been traveling for 40 years and onboard wifi sure does make a difference.
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On Executive Jet, da flight is free and mandatory WI-FI is $8k ta Des Moines, hey?
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Hopefully Scoopers are not traveling this morning. Good freaking grief.
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Naturally, I’m flying today. Airport is packed
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Naturally, I’m flying today. Airport is packed
Be safe. The FAA knew about this at apparently 3pm Eatern yesterday. What a complete and utter meltdown.
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Appreciate all the responses about WiFi, sort of tracks with what I thought. I certainly get the "unplugged" aspect, but being able to keep up to date with my wife/friends, breaking news, travel delays/changes, etc... is totally worth it for me.
As for this big FAA SNAFU, Royal Mail is reporting issues and disruptions with their international delivery, so this may be a bigger cyber attack issue.
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I assume hackers.
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Naturally, I’m flying today. Airport is packed
Eh, was supposed to be on a flight during the Marquette game tonight. Extra meal in New Orleans and got to watch Marquette kick UConn’s butt!
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Any Tampa recommendations? I’ll be there for three nights in February.
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Any Tampa recommendations? I’ll be there for three nights in February.
Where are you staying?
For restaurants:
- Bern’s (ask your waiter for tour of wine cellar) for the experience. Get dessert so you can experience the dessert part of the restaurant which is separate from main dining room. Try to get someone else to pay.
- Ulele
- Columbia (Cuban)
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Where are you staying?
For restaurants:
- Bern’s (ask your waiter for tour of wine cellar) for the experience. Get dessert so you can experience the dessert part of the restaurant which is separate from main dining room. Try to get someone else to pay.
- Ulele
- Columbia (Cuban)
I’ll be at the Hilton downtown.
Thank you for the suggestions! Columbia restaurant on 7th?
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That’s the one.
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Where are you staying?
For restaurants:
- Bern’s (ask your waiter for tour of wine cellar) for the experience. Get dessert so you can experience the dessert part of the restaurant which is separate from main dining room. Try to get someone else to pay.
- Ulele
- Columbia (Cuban)
Columbia restaurant is Spanish, with some Cuban. Still worth going. Bern's definitely. One day I would head over to Clearwater Beach and eat at Frenchy's, grouper sandwich and she-crab soup.
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Columbia restaurant is Spanish, with some Cuban. Still worth going. Bern's definitely. One day I would head over to Clearwater Beach and eat at Frenchy's, grouper sandwich and she-crab soup.
Lol. I’ve never actually been. It’s is my chief client’s favorite restaurant in Tampa and he’s a restaurant snob who lived there for several years so I am going purely on his recommendation.
I have been to both Bern’s and Ulele with him and can vouch for those from personal experience.
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I’m a huge fan of Spanish and Cuban food, so either way we’ll check it out.
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I’m a huge fan of Spanish and Cuban food, so either way we’ll check it out.
It is the only restaurant I know of that has significantly expanded, yet kept its quality. Definitely not to be missed. Since you are staying at the Hilton, you could take the trolley car there, well at least close and walk down the strip at Ybor City. Carmine's in Ybor is a solid lunch choice for Cuban.
Downtown, Hattricks is a good lunch choice or stop for a beer. Scenery is nice. https://hattrickstavern.com/
The new Sparkman's Wharf, replacing the old Channelside, outdoor waterside venue has a nice outdoor beer garden and shipping container places to eat. https://sparkmanwharf.com/ Also accessible by that same trolley. Parks & Rec across the street is one of those multi purpose bars with games.
Downtown St Pete is very walkable, a ton of restaurants, bars and microbreweries.
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St. Pete is awesome. My cousin and his wife moved there a few years ago, and they live within an easy walk of downtown. We've been to visit a few times and have really enjoyed the food/beverage scene there. I didn't expect it to be that vibrant.
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I’ll be at the Hilton downtown.
Thank you for the suggestions! Columbia restaurant on 7th?
La Segunda Central Bakery on 15th.
Columbia on 7th is good too.
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I’ll be at the Hilton downtown.
Thank you for the suggestions! Columbia restaurant on 7th?
Also keep in mind that its roughly 20 miles not including traffic to Clearwater Beach, Downtown St. Petersburg, and St. Pete Beach. Several locations are these short side trips from Tampa, that take a little longer than you may think. All are worth seeing and each area has its own vibe.
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La Segunda Central Bakery on 15th.
Columbia on 7th is good too.
La Segunda looks worth checking out too.
For those who are local or have visited, are there any specific areas/neighborhoods that you'd recommend? Ybor and Downtown Tampa are on the list. We're probably able to get to one more area.
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La Segunda looks worth checking out too.
For those who are local or have visited, are there any specific areas/neighborhoods that you'd recommend? Ybor and Downtown Tampa are on the list. We're probably able to get to one more area.
Downtown St Pete is actually quite cool and very walkable.
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Downtown St Pete is actually quite cool and very walkable.
This would be my vote.
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It's looking like we're heading to the Northeast in late May for a family vacation with our adult kids. We're beginning to make more specific plans including Acadia National Park in Maine and exploring a bit up in that direction; a day or two in Boston; and some time in Cape Cod (fishing and whale watching). We have some family near Exeter, so at least one or two nights will be spent there as a home base but we're also planning on staying up near Acadia for at least one night and down near Cape Cod for at least one night.
If anyone has recommendations in those general areas, I'd be happy to listen.
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It's looking like we're heading to the Northeast in late May for a family vacation with our adult kids. We're beginning to make more specific plans including Acadia National Park in Maine and exploring a bit up in that direction; a day or two in Boston; and some time in Cape Cod (fishing and whale watching). We have some family near Exeter, so at least one or two nights will be spent there as a home base but we're also planning on staying up near Acadia for at least one night and down near Cape Cod for at least one night.
If anyone has recommendations in those general areas, I'd be happy to listen.
If you can afford it (about $400/night) Salt Cottages is about a mile from Acadia Park's Hull Visitors Center and 3 miles from downtown Bar Harbor. Old school resort.
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It's looking like we're heading to the Northeast in late May for a family vacation with our adult kids. We're beginning to make more specific plans including Acadia National Park in Maine and exploring a bit up in that direction; a day or two in Boston; and some time in Cape Cod (fishing and whale watching). We have some family near Exeter, so at least one or two nights will be spent there as a home base but we're also planning on staying up near Acadia for at least one night and down near Cape Cod for at least one night.
If anyone has recommendations in those general areas, I'd be happy to listen.
Bar Harbor is neat unless there is a cruise ship around. Portland is a great city with some good restaurants and breweries. If you're driving up 1 from Boston and you don't stop at Red's Eats in Wiscasset and get a Lobster roll you will live to regret it. Also, before arriving in Bar Harbor, stop in Brewing, ME at Mason's Brewing Company. Choice.
I love Burlington, VT, but that's kind of out of the way for your plans. Also, Newport, RI is pretty awesome too... but a little out of the way as well.
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If you can afford it (about $400/night) Salt Cottages is about a mile from Acadia Park's Hull Visitors Center and 3 miles from downtown Bar Harbor. Old school resort.
Thank you for the recommendation. For our group, it looks like it would be at least $550 (and that's assuming they'd let all of us share a cottage). I'm not sure that will be in our budget. It looks beautiful, though.
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Bar Harbor is neat unless there is a cruise ship around. Portland is a great city with some good restaurants and breweries. If you're driving up 1 from Boston and you don't stop at Red's Eats in Wiscasset and get a Lobster roll you will live to regret it. Also, before arriving in Bar Harbor, stop in Brewing, ME at Mason's Brewing Company. Choice.
I love Burlington, VT, but that's kind of out of the way for your plans. Also, Newport, RI is pretty awesome too... but a little out of the way as well.
I second Portland, ME. Very cool. To be honest, Cape Cod is kind of far drive if only going for one day. You may want to try the Maine shore instead somewhere between Old Orchard Beach and York Beach instead. I haven't been in Bar Harbor in 40 years so I can't really speak for it. Others have already addressed well. I do know a lot of people like to walk to the top of Cadillac Mountain in Acadia to see the first light of day in the the continental USA.
I also second Burlington, VT on Lake Champlain is very cool. My younger daughter goes to UVM and I'm staring at a UVM coffee cup while I type this. However Burlington is much too far for your trip centered on Boston & Acadia.
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I second Portland, ME. Very cool.
We will definitely be spending time in Portland, so thank you for that. My wife also really enjoyed Portsmouth, NH when visiting family in the area.
To be honest, Cape Cod is kind of far drive if only going for one day. You may want to try the Maine shore instead somewhere between Old Orchard Beach and York Beach instead.
I think we may end up doing both, but thank you. We'd like to see Cape Cod and there are a couple of things we'd like to do there (fishing and whale watching). If I can find something comparable in ME or NH, maybewe'd skip the Cape and just spend out time north of Boston.
I do know a lot of people like to walk to the top of Cadillac Mountain in Acadia to see the first light of day in the the continental USA.
That sounds fantastic and I wasn't aware of that. We'd already talked about wanting to see a sun rise on one of the days, so this sounds perfect. We've been going to the beach in Delaware for years and we always watch the sun rise over the Atlantic once or twice. This will be a really cool improvement on that.
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Bar Harbor is neat unless there is a cruise ship around. Portland is a great city with some good restaurants and breweries. If you're driving up 1 from Boston and you don't stop at Red's Eats in Wiscasset and get a Lobster roll you will live to regret it. Also, before arriving in Bar Harbor, stop in Brewing, ME at Mason's Brewing Company. Choice.
Every single one of those recommendations sound great, and I'll make note of them. I know that my sister in law who lives in NH has a favorite place to get lobster rolls that she recommended, but I'm sure I'll be down to try another and compare. And we were already wanting to scout some breweries, so thank you for that.
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I really liked Portsmouth, NH, but I am a huge craft beer fan (well before it was cool and now passe).
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I love Portsmouth, have stayed at the Wentworth a couple of times.
I’ve been to all 50 states, and when it comes up and people ask me what the most underrated state is, I always say Maine. So many great spots along the coastline, great food, very nice people.
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Will echo MU CT about Cape Cod. I love it, but either make more time for it or skip it. And be strategic about when you're going there and back as traffic can be brutal, especially as you get further out into the lower Cape.
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Every single one of those recommendations sound great, and I'll make note of them. I know that my sister in law who lives in NH has a favorite place to get lobster rolls that she recommended, but I'm sure I'll be down to try another and compare. And we were already wanting to scout some breweries, so thank you for that.
Ah, well in that case, Maine Beer Company is great too. Super green place, great beer, and home made pizzas! Also, Flight Deck is a good stop. It is in an old airport hanger and aviation themed... Both of these are also only a couple of blocks off of Hwy 1.
If you have time in Boston please skip Sam Adams, and hit up Harpoon instead. The tour is miles better, and the beer selection is the best in the area.
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I love Portsmouth, have stayed at the Wentworth a couple of times.
I’ve been to all 50 states, and when it comes up and people ask me what the most underrated state is, I always say Maine. So many great spots along the coastline, great food, very nice people.
Is Maine underrated? I feel like, in my experience, people either rave about Maine...or haven't been.
If you have time in Boston please skip Sam Adams, and hit up Harpoon instead. The tour is miles better, and the beer selection is the best in the area.
Speaking of, not sure if you're a cider fan, but Downeast is right near the airport, literally on the other side of the highway in Jeffries Point. Its a relatively quick tour but incredible tasting and their growlers are basically free and very cool. The only downside was I left annoyed cause they had about 8 cool unique varietals and outside of New England you were lucky to find their seasonal, in addition to the classic. Even in NYC we never got more than 2-3.
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Is Maine underrated? I feel like, in my experience, people either rave about Maine...or haven't been.
Speaking of, not sure if you're a cider fan, but Downeast is right near the airport, literally on the other side of the highway in Jeffries Point. Its a relatively quick tour but incredible tasting and their growlers are basically free and very cool. The only downside was I left annoyed cause they had about 8 cool unique varietals and outside of New England you were lucky to find their seasonal, in addition to the classic. Even in NYC we never got more than 2-3.
Downeast cider is the best cider in the US that is mass produced. Their website has a locator and I can easily find it in Dane County.
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Is Maine underrated? I feel like, in my experience, people either rave about Maine...or haven't been.
You’re right, I worded that poorly.
I should have said people act surprised when I say Maine is near the top of places they should visit. It is rated properly, I don’t think I’ve heard anyone who has been there say anything negative about it.
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Will echo MU CT about Cape Cod. I love it, but either make more time for it or skip it. And be strategic about when you're going there and back as traffic can be brutal, especially as you get further out into the lower Cape.
Good call. I forgot about this in addition to being a long drive, there literally is only one road to get onto Cape Cod and will be brutal even if just headed for the lower Cape.
There most definitely is whale watch trips available from Portland, ME and also near Portsmouth, NH.
I give thumbs up also to Portsmouth, NH also although I like Portland better.
My Maine relatives are an 1.5 hrs north of Bangor in Greenville, ME on Moosehead Lake although I haven't been through there in 35 years.
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You’re right, I worded that poorly.
I should have said people act surprised when I say Maine is near the top of places they should visit. It is rated properly, I don’t think I’ve heard anyone who has been there say anything negative about it.
Northern Minnesota along Lake Superior is every bit as nice.
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Downeast cider is the best cider in the US that is mass produced. Their website has a locator and I can easily find it in Dane County.
Couldn't agree more. I know of a couple spots in the Milwaukee area to get it, but thats usually just original, Double blend, and whatever the seasonal is. I think I also saw Strawberry recently.
When I was at the cidery, they had like 5-6 more at a time, I saw pallets of the can, not being able to find those is what I meant as disappointing.
Northern Minnesota along Lake Superior is every bit as nice.
I flew into Duluth last month on a United status run. Maybe in the summer/fall. On a clear partially sunny winter day, flying in, the view was a frozen hellscape
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Any input/advice on a March ski trip to the SLC area?
Couple things:
1. Son (17) wants to snowboard, so I know at least one place doesn't allow snowboards.
2. He's only snowboarded once, so we don't need awesome places, but good snow would be nice.
3. Other things to do in the area? We'll have a vehicle so can travel.
4. Current plans include snowmobiling, so any suggestions?
5. We want to have him do the bobsled course. Pricey, but looks fun. Any feedback?
And no, I am not stopping in to see Wojo, so no suggestions around him. :P
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Any input/advice on a March ski trip to the SLC area?
Couple things:
1. Son (17) wants to snowboard, so I know at least one place doesn't allow snowboards.
2. He's only snowboarded once, so we don't need awesome places, but good snow would be nice.
3. Other things to do in the area? We'll have a vehicle so can travel.
4. Current plans include snowmobiling, so any suggestions?
5. We want to have him do the bobsled course. Pricey, but looks fun. Any feedback?
And no, I am not stopping in to see Wojo, so no suggestions around him. :P
Hey, I’ll be in Park City in mid-March and don’t do any of those things but I’ll be passed out somewhere
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Any input/advice on a March ski trip to the SLC area?
Couple things:
1. Son (17) wants to snowboard, so I know at least one place doesn't allow snowboards.
2. He's only snowboarded once, so we don't need awesome places, but good snow would be nice.
3. Other things to do in the area? We'll have a vehicle so can travel.
4. Current plans include snowmobiling, so any suggestions?
5. We want to have him do the bobsled course. Pricey, but looks fun. Any feedback?
And no, I am not stopping in to see Wojo, so no suggestions around him. :P
I assume you're referring to Alta in #1. Unfortunate, cause thats my favorite mountain in the area, but its also a big more rugged so not even a beginner ski mountain. Actually I think Deer Valley doesn't either, unfortunate cause thats the best snow and spot for a beginner.
Either Snowbird or Park City are great choices. Park City is a very cool area to just go around in as well.
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I flew into Duluth last month on a United status run. Maybe in the summer/fall. On a clear partially sunny winter day, flying in, the view was a frozen hellscape
You do United status runs?
I missed 1K by $150.00 in 2023 and asked them to reconsider. They did.
As to Duluth, that's my parents hometown (thankfully, not mine). It's actually beautiful up there in the winter and the signs of life are everywhere. Until my Dad died a few years ago, my family had a home in rural Douglas County, WI. The beauty, the quiet and the freshness makes that part of the world wonderful in winter. As long as you have someplace to go after about five days.
We were at the family home once when it was -30F and a 50 mile an hour northwest wind. It was the late 1980s and our car was, we thought, winterized. We lived in Chicago at the time. It took us three days of leaving our car on a battery charger, putting a heat gun to the radiator and a second heating device on the oil, to get the car started. Cabin fever set in and I think we would have walked to the nearest bar (four miles away) had our car not FINALLY started!
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I assume you're referring to Alta in #1. Unfortunate, cause thats my favorite mountain in the area, but its also a big more rugged so not even a beginner ski mountain. Actually I think Deer Valley doesn't either, unfortunate cause thats the best snow and spot for a beginner.
Either Snowbird or Park City are great choices. Park City is a very cool area to just go around in as well.
When the kids were younger, we stayed in the actual city so we could ski in a different area every day if we wanted. Otherwise you basically have to choose between Little Cottonwood Canyon (Alta/Snowbird/Deer Valley) Big Cottonwood Canyon (Brighton/Solitude) or the Park City area.
Park City is a real town and has more charm than than the other areas. Vail Corp bought and consolidated several ski resorts a few years back, so it's all one lift ticket. The last time Glow and I skied there, we stayed at a condo in town and took the town lift straight onto the mountain.
Can't really go wrong in any of the places as far as the quality of the skiing. It's the best snow in the world.
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You do United status runs?
I missed 1K by $150.00 in 2023 and asked them to reconsider. They did.
Very rarely. I usually just take a random flight if I'm short on spend (I flew from Chicago to Milwaukee back in 2017 for Christmas. My sister flew into Chicago from Dallas the night before. Dropped me off at ORD and then picked me up at MKE about 90 min later ;D)
This year was a random situation where I had ample spend from a few trips but didn't travel for work for a lot of 2022 due to lingering COVID business delays and a heavily pregnant wife then newborn. So I needed segments. Thus I flew MKE to Duluth and back, via ORD. And also MKE to Green Bay, via ORD, in the week before Christmas. It was an odd couple days.
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Any non ski suggestions for the SLC area?
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Any non ski suggestions for the SLC area?
Visit the Olympic Park. It is very cool.
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Any non ski suggestions for the SLC area?
Chat up some ex-Mormons at bars. Always entertaining.
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When the kids were younger, we stayed in the actual city so we could ski in a different area every day if we wanted. Otherwise you basically have to choose between Little Cottonwood Canyon (Alta/Snowbird/Deer Valley) Big Cottonwood Canyon (Brighton/Solitude) or the Park City area.
Park City is a real town and has more charm than than the other areas. Vail Corp bought and consolidated several ski resorts a few years back, so it's all one lift ticket. The last time Glow and I skied there, we stayed at a condo in town and took the town lift straight onto the mountain.
Can't really go wrong in any of the places as far as the quality of the skiing. It's the best snow in the world.
I agree with Chick, it's nice to stay in SLC and then try the different ski areas. Now that I'm old, my favorite is Deer Valley specifically because they don't allow snowboarders (and because they groom well, and they limit lift ticket sales so you almost never wait in a line). When I was young I liked snowbird best for long steep groomers, Alta best on a powder day, park city is a place you go there when it's an average snow day and you can't decide what you really want. It can have massive lift lines. Brighton and Solitude are both lots of fun as well. For beginners probably park city is the best. Several good brewpubs in SLC these days, and it's usually easy to get Jazz tickets and while their arena is pretty basic, there's not a bad seat in the place.
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I agree with Chick, it's nice to stay in SLC and then try the different ski areas. Now that I'm old, my favorite is Deer Valley specifically because they don't allow snowboarders (and because they groom well, and they limit lift ticket sales so you almost never wait in a line).
When I was in my late teens, my Mom picked up skiing again for the first time in 20ish years. So my ski trips with my family went from me, my dad, and my younger sister staying in in SLC and hitting a bunch of mountains, or Vail/Dillon and doing the same, to spending 90% of our time at a nicer mountain where we stayed. So we’ve done a lot of the nicer (Beaver Creek, Deer Valley, Snowmass, Heavenly) places. And I can say without a shadow of a doubt that Deer Valley is the nicest grooming I’ve ever seen. It’s like snow carpet.
I remember getting to the bottom of a run and a gentleman was telling a lift operator that his wife fell on an uneven patch. We kind of rolled our eyes, it was a blue, not some bunny hill green. But the operator immediately gets on his radio. As we take the chairlift up, we see a snowcat going out to groom. It was wild
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If you guys are looking at going to SLC do it soon. With the quickly drying Great Salt Lake the city is going to be ruined.
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Any non ski suggestions for the SLC area?
Red Iguana. Ask for samples of all the moles (they have like 9.)
Skip the Copper Onion. Came highly recommended and was a letdown in food and service.
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Finally making my way to New Orleans at the end of March for the very first time.
Staying near the convention center and will be busy most days, but after 5 want to see as much as I can.
Gimmie the recs
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Finally making my way to New Orleans at the end of March for the very first time.
Staying near the convention center and will be busy most days, but after 5 want to see as much as I can.
Gimmie the recs
My favorite bar in NOLA
https://hotelmonteleone.com/entertainment/carousel-bar/ (https://hotelmonteleone.com/entertainment/carousel-bar/)
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https://youtu.be/1-m_Jjse-cs
Should airlines be regulated as public utilities in the context of their impact on the country's economy?
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Finally making my way to New Orleans at the end of March for the very first time.
Staying near the convention center and will be busy most days, but after 5 want to see as much as I can.
Gimmie the recs
You won't be too far from the National WWII Museum. You should definitely check it out if you get the chance. It's one of the best museums in the country.
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+1 on the WWII museum and the Carousel bar, we stayed @ the Monteleone on our wedding night 32 years ago today. Maybe take a walking tour of haunted locations in the 1/4 or the St. Louis #1 cemetery. Check out the art galleries/stores on Royal St. Hurricanes at Pat O'Briens (tricky not having to buy the glass). Lattes at Cafe du Monde
We always loved dining at Mr. B's, Commander's Palace, Antoine's, Brennan's, The Gumbo Shop, brunch @ the Court of 2 Sisters.
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Finally making my way to New Orleans at the end of March for the very first time.
Staying near the convention center and will be busy most days, but after 5 want to see as much as I can.
Gimmie the recs
Lot of good recos so far.
My main one...there is a po'boy spot in the back of a dive bar just north of Bourbon on Conti St. Its called Killer Po'boys and the bar its in is called the Erin Rose.
Cool spot, fantastic po'boys, and going through a bar into a shop in the back is awesome. They have a stand alone restaurant now, from what I've heard, but you gotta go to the original.
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Our favorite joint is Coop's Place. A dive bar with really great cajun food. And the price is right.
Also check out LaFitte's Blacksmith Shop - Built in the 1700's, it's one of the oldest bars in the country. Still lit by candles. Try the Voodoo Daquiri. You can hit it on the way to Frenchmen Street. Great live music - you really can't go wrong at any of the venues. Most of them do not have cover charges. It's amazing the quality of the bands there that are playing for tips.
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Finally making my way to New Orleans at the end of March for the very first time.
Staying near the convention center and will be busy most days, but after 5 want to see as much as I can.
Gimmie the recs
Last time I was in New Orleans was 2015 IIRC so take these recommendations with a grain of salt. We stayed in the Lakeview neighborhood north of downtown. There was a ton of good food options in that neighborhood along with a lot of little galleries that were fun to walk through. I remember District Donuts being a really good meal, they serve sliders, donuts, and beer. You can get fantastic cajun food anywhere. The only meal we didn't like was at Emeril's restaurant which was disappointing (my wife was a huge fan of his show growing up). The most fun we had while we were there was at this little bar at the end of Bourbon St. called the Funky Pirate Blues Club. The singer in resident at the time (no idea if he's still there) was "Big Al" who lived up to his moniker but had an amazing voice. Knew how to work the crowd too.
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Lot of good recos so far.
My main one...there is a po'boy spot in the back of a dive bar just north of Bourbon on Conti St. Its called Killer Po'boys and the bar its in is called the Erin Rose.
Cool spot, fantastic po'boys, and going through a bar into a shop in the back is awesome. They have a stand alone restaurant now, from what I've heard, but you gotta go to the original.
Po'boys are OK but I live for a great muffaletta when in NOLA.
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Lot of good recos so far.
My main one...there is a po'boy spot in the back of a dive bar just north of Bourbon on Conti St. Its called Killer Po'boys and the bar its in is called the Erin Rose.
Cool spot, fantastic po'boys, and going through a bar into a shop in the back is awesome. They have a stand alone restaurant now, from what I've heard, but you gotta go to the original.
One word of warning, Killer closes earlier than the bar,pretty early IIRC. But yeah great recommendation!
If you are near the Hilton, have chargrilled oysters at Drago’s. The original is in Metairie but the one in the Hilton is good.
The suggestion of a haunted tour, while a bit cheesy is good for first timers. Gives good historical background.
Don’t engage the folks on Bourbon street that are trying to scam you. I can tell you where you got your shoes at for half the price. ;D
The street car ride is worth the time, just to see St Charles St and say you’ve done it.
Second the Frenchmen street suggestion and there is a craft market many of the nights.
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Our favorite joint is Coop's Place. A dive bar with really great cajun food. And the price is right.
Also check out LaFitte's Blacksmith Shop - Built in the 1700's, it's one of the oldest bars in the country. Still lit by candles. Try the Voodoo Daquiri. You can hit it on the way to Frenchmen Street. Great live music - you really can't go wrong at any of the venues. Most of them do not have cover charges. It's amazing the quality of the bands there that are playing for tips.
Watch out there. I’ve heard shady characters hang out there, one even as recent as a couple weeks ago. ;D ;D ;D
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Po'boys are OK but I live for a great muffaletta when in NOLA.
And for great sandwiches of all sorts many of the small grocers have amazing delis. Central Market is known for their muffulettas and Verti Mart for their po boys. Great later night munchie options.
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Watch out there. I’ve heard shady characters hang out there, one even as recent as a couple weeks ago. ;D ;D ;D
(https://media.tenor.com/k2ANtU5NzGEAAAAC/space-jam-remark.gif)
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One word of warning, Killer closes earlier than the bar,pretty early IIRC. But yeah great recommendation!
Good call.
And Lafitte’s is great. One of a number of places that is a “have to go” touristy sort of spot…that is also incredibly cool and not at all corny. There is a number of spots like that in NOLA.
For any ABNB goers, my new favorite spot to stay for that is Marigny. East of the French Quarter. Lot of really nice remodeled homes, clean streets, and a quick walk into Bourbon St and it’s surroundings. Also a great transition from 90% nicer homes to the mishmash of mansions and shacks that make up the FQ and it’s direct adjacent blocks
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For any ABNB goers, my new favorite spot to stay for that is Marigny. East of the French Quarter. Lot of really nice remodeled homes, clean streets, and a quick walk into Bourbon St and it’s surroundings. Also a great transition from 90% nicer homes to the mishmash of mansions and shacks that make up the FQ and it’s direct adjacent blocks
Yes, this! My favorite place is in Marigny a couple of blocks from Frenchman Street. PM me and I can send you a link to their AirBnB listing.
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Lower garden district is nice as well. Lots of great places to eat along Magazine street including District Donut.
Oh, and Stiffler’s mom lives in that district. And I know which house! ;)
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So it's time to spotlight Columbus. What recommendations do people have? Recommendations for a solid Irish pub, good restaurants, a couple breweries, etc
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So it's time to spotlight Columbus. What recommendations do people have? Recommendations for a solid Irish pub, good restaurants, a couple breweries, etc
Columbus conveniently has it's German Village with brick streets next to the appropriately named Brewery District.
(You can even get New Haven style pizza at the Columbus location of the Cincinnati brewer, Taft's.)
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Posted this in the other thread, but just in case:
The above mentioned area German Village is nice.
Also wander north of the arena down - High St and surrounding streets is great to wander around. A ton of bars and restaurants in the area.
Parlay Sports club has lots of TVs, but becomes a nightclub at night. Staff is nice....https://parlaycolumbus.com
North Market is a decent choice for grabbing a bite near the arena. Typical market with several stands. https://northmarket.org/
The area between downtown and German Village has some interesting places.
For a brewery, I like Wolf's Ridge (but don't think they have TVs, so maybe out for this weekend). https://www.wolfsridgebrewing.com/ Holy Trinity Brewery is nearby and has TVs. Decent beer IIRC.
Pins is an upscale Koz's. https://www.pinsbar.com/columbus
Oh, and if you want a bit more privacy and have a grand to drop, you can join the members only private club "No Soliciting" https://www.nosolicitingbar.com/#about
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Posted this in the other thread, but just in case:
The above mentioned area German Village is nice.
Also wander north of the arena down - High St and surrounding streets is great to wander around. A ton of bars and restaurants in the area.
Parlay Sports club has lots of TVs, but becomes a nightclub at night. Staff is nice....https://parlaycolumbus.com
North Market is a decent choice for grabbing a bite near the arena. Typical market with several stands. https://northmarket.org/
The area between downtown and German Village has some interesting places.
For a brewery, I like Wolf's Ridge (but don't think they have TVs, so maybe out for this weekend). https://www.wolfsridgebrewing.com/ Holy Trinity Brewery is nearby and has TVs. Decent beer IIRC.
Pins is an upscale Koz's. https://www.pinsbar.com/columbus
Oh, and if you want a bit more privacy and have a grand to drop, you can join the members only private club "No Soliciting" https://www.nosolicitingbar.com/#about
Area north of the arena is called Short North, and agreed, High Street is a great stretch.
Town Hall is a solid restaurant.
North Star Cafe is a great brunch/lunch spot.
BrewDogs is kind of a funky modern bar my Cbus friends randomly love.
Despite having a bunch of friends there and visiting 1-2 times a year, I don't LOVE Cbus, its a bit devoid of personality (excepting German Village) for me compared to some other Midwest cities...however, I love the High St stretch, especially for this given the proximity to Nationwide.
You start in German Village, which is an upscale historical neighborhood. Unique in both its makeup and the sort of commerical offerings.
Head North and you have the Brewery District adjacent just before Downtown. And the Scioto Metro Park just to the West is pretty nice.
Then you have Downtown/Flytown and its assorted offerings.
Then you get to the aforementioned Short North.
And then if you continue another mile or so, you end up at OSU and the full campus and surrounding setting.
Really don't need to stray anywhere else more than a few blocks East or West of High St for the duration if you're there for a long weekend.
Also, if you have kids and need a few hour diversion, COSI (the Cbus science museum) is just across the Scioto River from downtown, literally a 6-7 min walk from High St, and its pretty cool.
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I agree with this assessment.
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Esteemed Scoop Travelers:
I have one night in Taipei coming up due to a long layover. Recommendations for area to stay, hotel, and 1-2 sights to see would be most appreciated.
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Don't order da chicken. Its pigeon, hey?
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After doing the North Market, East Market (the speakeasy below there), Columbus Brewing, Antique on High Brewing, Zaftig brewing, Pretentious Brewing, Wolfs ridge brewing, a cute coffee shop, two fantastic restaurants in Plas & El Lugar, one mediocre Irish pub to celebrate the Six Nations, and a very meh old world fine dining restaurant in Lindeys... I would 100% come back to Columbus. Super impressed by the food, beer, atmosphere, friendly people, etc not so much the scenic views but whatever.
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Ugh - one hour traffic ride in Uber from airport to hotel. Driver lost 10 mins and there is zero traffic. Cars honking at him for going too slow. He is anticipating yellow lights and stopping before they turn yellow.
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Any restaurant suggestions in Paris? I’m there now and keep returning to my old haunts, but would like to explore something new.
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Any restaurant suggestions in Paris? I’m there now and keep returning to my old haunts, but would like to explore something new.
Where are you staying?
Unfortunately my favorite European restaurant, Balagan in Hotel Vendome, has recently closed. But their sister restaurant Shabour in the 2nd Arr is excellent, if you could can get in.
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If you are in the 17th arrondissement, Jacques Faussat is a must go.
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Two recommendations.
Frenchie’s To Go. A take away with a few tables from a Michelin star chef. Great lunch. http://www.frenchie-ftg.com/
Paname brewery on Canal St Martin. Locals place with a great view and good beer. The stroll down the canal is cool. https://www.panamebrewingcompany.com/
And Amorino Valmy for ice cream in the area. https://www.amorino.com/en-us
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One more off the wall suggestion in the Canal St Martin area. Right near the brewery.
Le Pavillon des Canaux. A funky house on the canal with some unusual seating.
https://www.pavillondescanaux.com/
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If you guys are looking at going to SLC do it soon. With the quickly drying Great Salt Lake the city is going to be ruined.
So the lake level has risen two feet of late. Hopefully the extensive snow this year helps too. But yeah we visited and it was sad how much is ruined.
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So the lake level has risen two feet of late. Hopefully the extensive snow this year helps too. But yeah we visited and it was sad how much is ruined.
Record high snowfall in the mountains this year. Alta with over 800 inches and the area in total at 195% of average for the season.
I'm optimistic. :)
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Yeah Brighton hit their record while we were there. Thankfully we opted not to go the next day, as it took 5 hours to get out of Big Cottonwood Canyon.
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Kudos to whomever recommended the Smithsonian Air and Space museum out by Dulles. A very enjoyable day.
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Have been in Alaska for the last few days. Very beautiful place and surprisingly a lot of great restaurants.
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Kudos to whomever recommended the Smithsonian Air and Space museum out by Dulles. A very enjoyable day.
That was me.
Standing so close to a space shuttle is an experience that I will never forget. Also, walking underneath the Concorde. Wow! And seeing the stealthy Blackbird-holy crap! The entire museum was absolutely great- just pointing out a few highlights.
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For me, the rules seem to be all over the place and change depending on who is working. I had to trash an almost new tube of toothpaste because it was 3.4oz or something ridiculous. Before they threw it out they asked if I wanted to go run it out to my car. I guess they weren't worried about it that much since at that point if it were an explosive, it would have been a car bomb in their lot. ::)
Sometimes remove shoes, sometimes remove electronics, sometimes remove liquids. Great federal agency we have here, huh?
This may be the most small baller complaint of all time
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This may be the most small baller complaint of all time
Sweating me now? Five months later?
God, you're a strange one. Used to be kind of normal, but maybe it's time to get back on the meds, homie.
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Sweating me now? Five months later?
God, you're a strange one. Used to be kind of normal, but maybe it's time to get back on the meds, homie.
Yet another small baller response
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LaGuardia is probably me new favorite airport. Beautiful airport, super easy to navigate.
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Just rebooked my Asian trip from before Covid. Doing Kuala Lampur for the wedding, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, & Tokyo. Anybody want to resuggest restaurants?
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Don't eat da "chicken," hey?
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Don't eat da "chicken," hey?
casual racism
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Nah, go ahead and eat da fookin' pigeon, hey?
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Just rebooked my Asian trip from before Covid. Doing Kuala Lampur for the wedding, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, & Tokyo. Anybody want to resuggest restaurants?
Sorry this is rambling a bit, I'm sick. Lmk if anything is unclear.
Singapore
Visiting singapore is like visting NYC. Everything is at your fingertips if you have money and everyone speaks pretty good english. We usually start our trips to asia in Singapore because it's such an easy place to begin.
In Singapore I had better food at the hawker centers (food courts) than I did at high end restos. Singapore is a melting pot as far as cuisine goes, so their food is often fusion. Seek out specific foods like chicken rice (no joke, sounds boring but it's a staple at our house), laksa, satay, and chili crab. Congee for breakfast is great.
Singapore resto recs -
Lau Pa Sat - https://laupasat.sg/ - Wonderful hawker center. Buy a pack of kleenex from someone walking around to save your seat (nobody will take it), and either pay someone to source you food or go find your own food. Watch a youtube video of how hawker centers work they're a bit chaotic
Zam Zam (required to visit, imo) - https://zamzamsingapore.has.restaurant/ - their Murtabak is crazy good and so is their Mee Goreng
Candlenut - https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/singapore-region/singapore/restaurant/candlenut - coursed menu, the only Peranakan resto I've ever eaten at, wonderful service and culturally important food
Consider spending 1 night at the Marina Bay Sands so that you can chill by the pool, it's worth it to say you did it.
HCMC
Challenging city tourism-wise due to the lack of english speakers.
We popped into HCMC for 1 day at the end of our trip to VN because we had wedding obligations in the south of the country. Didn't have the opp to visit any restaurants that were memorable, but the Niko Saigon hotel was spectacular... especially after living in rural vietnam for 2 weeks. Here is some general travel advice:
Get in the mindset of having hot, spicy soup for breakfast. Mien ga is great.
I started seeking out bun bo hue at restaurants with little plastic chairs. Any place that was busy, we went to.
The water is not safe to drink so bring pepto, imodium, and go to a travel clinic to get a z-pack before you leave the USA. You will get food poisoning, it's inevitable. Take the pepto every morning prophylactically, once you bust through that you know it's time for imodium.
Because the water isn't safe to drink, Vietnam has an alcoholic problem. Join in, imo. We drank mostly Tiger beer (owned by Heineken) or 333 (ba ba ba) which is locally brewed. If you want to let everyone know you're rich, then drink Heineken. Seriously lol.
The seafood in vietnam is out of this world. Their shrimp and tiger shrimp are a huge export so hunt down shrimp dishes and be prepared to shuck them by hand when they're delivered to you whole (a sign that the resto isn't using bs fake shrimp for your dish).
Speaking of shucking shrimp, if you order crab there's a 90% chance you'll have to dismantle it by hand and suck all of the meat out. The Vietnamese are really fast at this and I am not. It's really messy and it took forever to eat enough meat to get full. I had a friend help me, but if you're not travelling with vietnamese people I don't know what to recommend here.
Really good fruit. The pineapple dipped in their chili/garlic/salt mixture is wonderful.
Keep an eye out for birds eye chili, they'll sneak them onto your table thinly sliced. 1 or 2 opaque slices is enough to turn your bowl of soup into something really spicy.
Bo luc lac is also something worth seeking out. Shaking beef in english. They serve beef over a bed of lettuce, onions, and tomatoes. A little dish next to your plate with salt and pepper in it, into which you squeeze a lime to make a slurry for dipping the beef. Super super good.
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Singapore
Visiting singapore is like visting NYC. Everything is at your fingertips if you have money and everyone speaks pretty good english. We usually start our trips to asia in Singapore because it's such an easy place to begin.
In Singapore I had better food at the hawker centers (food courts) than I did at high end restos. Singapore is a melting pot as far as cuisine goes, so their food is often fusion. Seek out specific foods like chicken rice (no joke, sounds boring but it's a staple at our house), laksa, satay, and chili crab. Congee for breakfast is great.
Singapore resto recs -
Lau Pa Sat - https://laupasat.sg/ - Wonderful hawker center. Buy a pack of kleenex from someone walking around to save your seat (nobody will take it), and either pay someone to source you food or go find your own food. Watch a youtube video of how hawker centers work they're a bit chaotic
Zam Zam (required to visit, imo) - https://zamzamsingapore.has.restaurant/ - their Murtabak is crazy good and so is their Mee Goreng
Candlenut - https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/singapore-region/singapore/restaurant/candlenut - coursed menu, the only Peranakan resto I've ever eaten at, wonderful service and culturally important food
Consider spending 1 night at the Marina Bay Sands so that you can chill by the pool, it's worth it to say you did it.
This is pretty spot on. Singapore is one of the few places in Asia where you can eat any sort of street food with zero worry and repercussions...and it is other worldly. Such an amazing combination.
Sentosa is a cool little spot for a few hours. There is a great aquarium and a few theme parks, but also an incredible food court. There is a shuttle that takes you there from the main island that is a nice air conditioned break.
But as for Marina Bay, as scene-y and well known as it is, is absolutely a must do. If you're there on a weeknight, the restaurants upstairs are usually fairly open to go up and grab a drink. Absolutely unreal 360 degree views. The pool is as incredible in person as it looks in pictures.
HCMC
The water is not safe to drink so bring pepto, imodium, and go to a travel clinic to get a z-pack before you leave the USA. You will get food poisoning, it's inevitable. Take the pepto every morning prophylactically, once you bust through that you know it's time for imodium.
Can't recommend Cipro (Ciprofloxacin) enough. Most GPs will prescribe it if you're traveling somewhere with lots of waterborne bacteria. Its remarkably effective. Knocks stuff dead. Ive been really lucky with stomach issues, but my Dad has had lingering stomach issues from an India trip in the past and Cipro is a lifesaver. I recommended it to a few friends who did their first trips there and it helped immensely.
Also, everyone knows about water, but BEWARE BEWARE BEWARE of ice. You can drink bottled water all day long but then have a soda or cocktail with ice and you're hunched over in no time. Chilled glasses are your friend if possible.
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This is pretty spot on. Singapore is one of the few places in Asia where you can eat any sort of street food with zero worry and repercussions...and it is other worldly. Such an amazing combination.
Sentosa is a cool little spot for a few hours. There is a great aquarium and a few theme parks, but also an incredible food court. There is a shuttle that takes you there from the main island that is a nice air conditioned break.
But as for Marina Bay, as scene-y and well known as it is, is absolutely a must do. If you're there on a weeknight, the restaurants upstairs are usually fairly open to go up and grab a drink. Absolutely unreal 360 degree views. The pool is as incredible in person as it looks in pictures.
Can't recommend Cipro (Ciprofloxacin) enough. Most GPs will prescribe it if you're traveling somewhere with lots of waterborne bacteria. Its remarkably effective. Knocks stuff dead. Ive been really lucky with stomach issues, but my Dad has had lingering stomach issues from an India trip in the past and Cipro is a lifesaver. I recommended it to a few friends who did their first trips there and it helped immensely.
Also, everyone knows about water, but BEWARE BEWARE BEWARE of ice. You can drink bottled water all day long but then have a soda or cocktail with ice and you're hunched over in no time. Chilled glasses are your friend if possible.
Wags,
Same here. I've got stomach sick twice on travel and one was stupidly self-inflicted.
I was exhausted from two days of late arrival early rise travel and ate "dinner" at the Manager's Reception at a Embassy Suites in Mexico City. Should have never eaten several mini sandwiches with shredded lettuce. I knew it. I broke my rule of "no fresh vegetables or fruits" and "no tap water" and "no ice". Yikes!
The ESPN Zone in Anaheim gave me food sickness of all places.
My travel clinic where I go for shots before Asia trips gave me shots for Japanese Encephalitis & Typhoid and some cocktail for Cholera.
The same travel clinic also referenced a CDC phone App called "Can I Eat This?" I recommend it. You choose the country and it breaks down things from restaurants, street vendor, food types etc. as well as drinks and goes into details for each country.
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Just rebooked my Asian trip from before Covid. Doing Kuala Lampur for the wedding, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, & Tokyo. Anybody want to resuggest restaurants?
Singapore... lived there twice... Don't go for the posh places, they can drain the wallet and easily disappoint. Bar Bar Black Sheep / Lewi Thai at 887/889 Bukit Timah road is a small food stall that caters to the local expat population and probably the cheapest place in the city to get a few beers and a good feed. Like all the good places in Singapore, doesn't look like much. My favorite thai place was closed last time I was there... I prefer to stay at the JW marriott on Beach road. Sentosa - as mentioned above - is good for a few hours. If you're at a hotel with a good concierge and have $$$, charter a boat and tour the islands... St. Johns, Sisters, Bukom, Hantu. Lots have piers that you're not really supposed to use, but you can drop off and hike around a bit. Next, one must go for Indian food and choose between Banana Leaf Apolo or Muthu's - and you MUST go to the race course road location, not the "new" ones. Since this is not a political board I'll not say that I prefer Banana Leaf. If you like a good Rock cover band and a good party, find out where Shirlyn Tan & the UnXpected are playing... Finally, Muddy Murphys has, forever, flown in a dozen fresh barrels of Guinness every day. When they run out, they stop serving it for the day... won't serve the local stuff. Good place to get "below the G". Don't bother going across the street... not worth it. (only a few will know to what I refer, the 4 floors etc. etc.)
KL: My least favorite Asian city. All about shopping. Average in every way.
HCMC: too long since my last visit
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Seattle reccommendations?
I have 24 hours in Seattle before going fly fishing in Montana. Never been, so any must sees/must easts?
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Seattle reccommendations?
I have 24 hours in Seattle before going fly fishing in Montana. Never been, so any must sees/must easts?
Museum of Pop Culture
Chihuly Museum
Make sure you go to a good seafood restaurant (there are many) and east some wild caught salmon. Salty's is the go-to if you are willing to spend the money.
If you are a beer lover, visit the Ballard neighborhood. Over a dozen microbreweries within a few blocks of each other.
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Glow and I are visiting London soon.
Which sites are overrated? Which are underrated?
Any restaurant/pub recommendations? Not looking for anything fancy. We especially like historic places. Also maybe a good Indian restaurant.
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Glow and I are visiting London soon.
Which sites are overrated? Which are underrated?
Any restaurant/pub recommendations? Not looking for anything fancy. We especially like historic places. Also maybe a good Indian restaurant.
Dishoom
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Glow and I are visiting London soon.
Which sites are overrated? Which are underrated?
Any restaurant/pub recommendations? Not looking for anything fancy. We especially like historic places. Also maybe a good Indian restaurant.
Personally my favorite area was off the Hackney Wick stop, breweries was Hhowling Hops & Crate brewery & pizzeria. It's in an old industrial area covered in graffiti right off an old channel where some of the old channel boats are now coffee shops. Really cool.
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I really liked the tour of the Tower of London by the guards. Interesting. Looking at all the folks buried at Westminster abbey is cool. British museum, home to the largest collection of stolen antiquities in the world is amazing. The inside building of the natural history museum is cool.
I used to like Camden lock area, but seems touristy last time I was there.
Check with your neighbor on places to drink.
I thought globe theatre was overrated. Seeing a play in west end is cool. We did the Mischief theatre last visit.
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I really liked the tour of the Tower of London by the guards. Interesting. Looking at all the folks buried at Westminster abbey is cool. British museum, home to the largest collection of stolen antiquities in the world is amazing. The inside building of the natural history museum is cool.
I used to like Camden lock area, but seems touristy last time I was there.
Check with your neighbor on places to drink.
I thought globe theatre was overrated. Seeing a play in west end is cool. We did the Mischief theatre last visit.
So far we have scheduld a play in the West End, trips to the British Museum and the British Library. and a Hop oN Hop Off bus. Figured we'd drive by everything and decide where to return later.
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So far we have scheduld a play in the West End, trips to the British Museum and the British Library. and a Hop oN Hop Off bus. Figured we'd drive by everything and decide where to return later.
Near the British Museum is a Sam Smith's pub called The Princess Louise. Victorian-era pub with booths that you sit in at the bar, my wife and I had a wonderful time there one afternoon/evening.
https://goo.gl/maps/pDcmeWWsCpBL89vB7
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princess_Louise,_Holborn
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Churchill's underground WW2 HQ was awesome.
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Glow and I are visiting London soon.
Which sites are overrated? Which are underrated?
Any restaurant/pub recommendations? Not looking for anything fancy. We especially like historic places. Also maybe a good Indian restaurant.
Jealous. August/Sept is my favorite time to be in London for sure.
Dishoom is great, but I don't consider it proper Indian. For Indian, I always tell people to go off of Bayswater Rd, north of Hyde Park, and go down Queensway. There are a ton of great spots, pick one that looks fun and just enjoy. A city with incredible Indian food like London, its more fun to just explore and find something random than needing a specific spot.
I really liked the tour of the Tower of London by the guards. Interesting. Looking at all the folks buried at Westminster abbey is cool. British museum, home to the largest collection of stolen antiquities in the world is amazing. The inside building of the natural history museum is cool.
I used to like Camden lock area, but seems touristy last time I was there.
Check with your neighbor on places to drink.
I thought globe theatre was overrated. Seeing a play in west end is cool. We did the Mischief theatre last visit.
+1 to a lot of this. One of my favorite things about London is that so much of the well known stuff lives up to expectations. Tower of London is awesome and oozes history. British Museum is fascinating. The interior of the Natural History museum is BREATHTAKING. Ive been there half a dozen times and still stop and stare every time I go in.
Camden can be touristy but its still worth a stop. I have a number of paintings, prints, and assorted art that Ive gotten in my trips there, so maybe I have a bias towards it as a result. Its another spot with amazing history but equally cool shopping if you pick your spots.
Its INSANELY touristy and the wait can be annoying, but honestly, I love the London Eye. If you get a clear day, the views are absolutely unbeatable. Especially in a city like London that is so relatively flat.
If you have time and the weather/energy, I have a walk I love. You start at Trafalgar and just walk down the mall along St James Park up to Buckingham Palace. Beautiful views in both directions, the park is gorgeous, and its incredibly scenic as your approach the palace. Then along the north side on Constitution Hill to Hyde Park Corner. The walk the length of Hyde Park, from East to West, along the Serpentine and approaching Kensington Palace. Its just so quintessentially London.
Where are you staying? Cause there is always good neighborhood centric stuff.
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Jealous. August/Sept is my favorite time to be in London for sure.
Dishoom is great, but I don't consider it proper Indian. For Indian, I always tell people to go off of Bayswater Rd, north of Hyde Park, and go down Queensway. There are a ton of great spots, pick one that looks fun and just enjoy. A city with incredible Indian food like London, its more fun to just explore and find something random than needing a specific spot.
+1 to a lot of this. One of my favorite things about London is that so much of the well known stuff lives up to expectations. Tower of London is awesome and oozes history. British Museum is fascinating. The interior of the Natural History museum is BREATHTAKING. Ive been there half a dozen times and still stop and stare every time I go in.
Camden can be touristy but its still worth a stop. I have a number of paintings, prints, and assorted art that Ive gotten in my trips there, so maybe I have a bias towards it as a result. Its another spot with amazing history but equally cool shopping if you pick your spots.
Its INSANELY touristy and the wait can be annoying, but honestly, I love the London Eye. If you get a clear day, the views are absolutely unbeatable. Especially in a city like London that is so relatively flat.
If you have time and the weather/energy, I have a walk I love. You start at Trafalgar and just walk down the mall along St James Park up to Buckingham Palace. Beautiful views in both directions, the park is gorgeous, and its incredibly scenic as your approach the palace. Then along the north side on Constitution Hill to Hyde Park Corner. The walk the length of Hyde Park, from East to West, along the Serpentine and approaching Kensington Palace. Its just so quintessentially London.
Where are you staying? Cause there is always good neighborhood centric stuff.
We are staying up near the St. Pacras train station.
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We are staying up near the St. Pacras train station.
Ahh great. Good spot. Kings Cross is cool to see, but don't waste time with any Harry Potter stuff, cause that portion is really dumb and stupid overrated (coming from a huge HP fan).
Regents Park is an amazing walk that is very close. The inner circle has a couple insane mansions that are owned by wealthy Middle East royalty now, but are gorgeous. But then making your way north towards Primrose Hill and the Zoo, its just another really nice peaceful walk. Again, biased by my love of London, but Regents Park and Hyde Park feel far more quiet and removed from the bustle than Central Park does for me. Regents Park specifically you can walk for a good clip and not see a soul depending on the time of day. Both Madame Tussads and the Sherlock Holmes Museum are right by Regents, but I would say both of those are very overrated schlock. The Dickens Museum just south of that area is cool though.
Definitely go to Camden given how close you are.
Also you'll be quite close to Shoreditch which is a really hip revitalized area (think Brooklyn 10 years ago). Tons of great shops, microbreweries, distilleries, and the like. Spitalfields Market is also fun to walk through.
Feel free to PM if you have any questions or are looking to narrow anything down.
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Seattle reccommendations?
I have 24 hours in Seattle before going fly fishing in Montana. Never been, so any must sees/must easts?
Museum of Flight near Boeing Field south of the city is really neat if you are into that stuff.
Likewise, the 777 plant in Everett is a great tour.
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Jealous. August/Sept is my favorite time to be in London for sure.
Dishoom is great, but I don't consider it proper Indian. For Indian, I always tell people to go off of Bayswater Rd, north of Hyde Park, and go down Queensway. There are a ton of great spots, pick one that looks fun and just enjoy. A city with incredible Indian food like London, its more fun to just explore and find something random than needing a specific spot.
+1 to a lot of this. One of my favorite things about London is that so much of the well known stuff lives up to expectations. Tower of London is awesome and oozes history. British Museum is fascinating. The interior of the Natural History museum is BREATHTAKING. Ive been there half a dozen times and still stop and stare every time I go in.
Camden can be touristy but its still worth a stop. I have a number of paintings, prints, and assorted art that Ive gotten in my trips there, so maybe I have a bias towards it as a result. Its another spot with amazing history but equally cool shopping if you pick your spots.
Its INSANELY touristy and the wait can be annoying, but honestly, I love the London Eye. If you get a clear day, the views are absolutely unbeatable. Especially in a city like London that is so relatively flat.
If you have time and the weather/energy, I have a walk I love. You start at Trafalgar and just walk down the mall along St James Park up to Buckingham Palace. Beautiful views in both directions, the park is gorgeous, and its incredibly scenic as your approach the palace. Then along the north side on Constitution Hill to Hyde Park Corner. The walk the length of Hyde Park, from East to West, along the Serpentine and approaching Kensington Palace. Its just so quintessentially London.
Where are you staying? Cause there is always good neighborhood centric stuff.
I totally agree with this list with the exception of the London Eye... When we did it, it was hopelessly disorganized. We had one of the 5 sunny days of the year, and the ticket was not a time to get on the Eye, it was a time to enter the 1.5 hour queue - all in the sun - to then get on the un-airconditioned eye which by mid day was a toaster oven.
I have done the walk Wags mentions... completely agree, it's fantastic.
To the list I would add 2 things:
a) go to a football match. Chelsea or Arsenal would be preferred but they are all safe these days. Amazing environment and a great view of the culture around these clubs.
b) Harrods. Just because.
And a warning... don't trust the underground. Londoners know that it breaks down regularly and for long periods. Sometimes stops are closed on the weekends without information. If it's less than 3 stops... just walk. If you do use it, take water and plan for 45 minute to 1.5 hour breakdown/stoppages. I've had this happen on 5 of my last 10 times on the tube... including to Wimbledon, during the open!
Taxis are OK but expensive for long distance - especially airport. Always a great pleasure talking with London cab drivers. Uber there is pretty bad. Mostly drivers who don't know the city at all and just follow the GPS, for better or worse.
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Agree on musts of the British Museum and Tower of London. If you get lucky maybe you see the Beefeaters feed the ravens.
Harrods because you have too. (I bought a tea pot.)
Just walking as everyone said for the views of famous places.
I thought Saint Paul's Cathedral was cool and I remember walking around the dome and views of London.
There seemed to be local pubs in any neighborhood and they were all cool. Each carries only one brewery if I recall. (I funly got stuck in one as a the police closed the road and made everyone stay inside buildings as a Lifestar helicopter landed in the middle of a London street intersection, so they could airlift a person for some emergency medical situation.)
If you want something different, I also visited The London Dungeon. It's a recreated middle ages dungeon with original torture devices and some interactive thing on Jack the Ripper.
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Going to be in Vegas for a work conference next week. Staying at MGM Grand. Not my first time there, but still open to any suggestions for fun things to do at night. It will be early in the week (Monday through Wednesday) so there aren't a lot of shows besides the standard Carrot Top/Cirque du Soliel stuff, which I'm not particularly interested in. I plan on gambling a little bit but I'd like to get out of the casinos too. I'm not a huge Vegas person but its a free trip on my employer so I'd like to make the most of it.
I've never been to Fremont Street, is that worth checking out?
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Going to be in Vegas for a work conference next week. Staying at MGM Grand. Not my first time there, but still open to any suggestions for fun things to do at night. It will be early in the week (Monday through Wednesday) so there aren't a lot of shows besides the standard Carrot Top/Cirque du Soliel stuff, which I'm not particularly interested in. I plan on gambling a little bit but I'd like to get out of the casinos too. I'm not a huge Vegas person but its a free trip on my employer so I'd like to make the most of it.
I've never been to Fremont Street, is that worth checking out?
The Mob Museum. There is a cool underground speakeasy there as well. Open till 9PM. Hit Fremont Street after.
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And a warning... don't trust the underground. Londoners know that it breaks down regularly and for long periods. Sometimes stops are closed on the weekends without information. If it's less than 3 stops... just walk. If you do use it, take water and plan for 45 minute to 1.5 hour breakdown/stoppages. I've had this happen on 5 of my last 10 times on the tube... including to Wimbledon, during the open!
Obviously YMMV, but 50% of the time riding the Tube you've had hour long breakdowns? Thats just shockingly bad luck and nowhere near representative. Ive been to London by last count a dozen times, I think, ridden the Tube for 90% of my intra-city travel and Ive gotten stuck on the Tube just once, for approximately 10 min. You make it seem like its a coin flip if you get stuck in a sweltering carriage like its 1915. The station closures bit is truer though, especially on weekends. Though now with apps its quite easy to be apprised of that and avoid it.
The Tube is fantastic in terms of access, there is really nowhere in Central London that you can't easily get to. Also, unlike somewhere like NYC, there are often multiple lines that will get you close, which is very helpful.
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The Mob Museum. There is a cool underground speakeasy there as well. Open till 9PM. Hit Fremont Street after.
Agreed. As many of you know, Las Vegas is where Glow and I live in the winter.
Fremont street is definitely worth checking out, especially the new casino down there, Circa. Check out their amazing sportsbook. That's were we had our NMD party, and I am going to go out on a limb and say we had the best venue of all the alumni cities.
Fremont has really high-quality cover bands playing every night. They start around 8 pm.
The downtown casinos, as a general rule, have lower betting minimums, looser video poker, and quicker drink service. My favorites are the D - they have one of the few remaining Sigma Derby mechanical horse racing machines, the Grand - a block north of Fremont, and the Golden Gate, with its go-go dancing dealers.
If you go to the beer bar at the Golden Nugget, tell Dave that Glow and I said "hi".
Also, if you like old-school pinball and arcade games, the Pinball Hall of Fame is on the south end of the strip, and I consider it a must-do. Dozens of old pinball and arcade games that you can play for the original cost (usually a quarter). As young teens, my kids were fascinated by Pong and the mechanical baseball game.
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Agreed. As many of you know, Las Vegas is where Glow and I live in the winter.
Fremont street is definitely worth checking out, especially the new casino down there, Circa. Check out their amazing sportsbook. That's were we had our NMD party, and I am going to go out on a limb and say we had the best venue of all the alumni cities.
Fremont has really high-quality cover bands playing every night. They start around 8 pm.
The downtown casinos, as a general rule, have lower betting minimums, looser video poker, and quicker drink service. My favorites are the D - they have one of the few remaining Sigma Derby mechanical horse racing machines, the Grand - a block north of Fremont, and the Golden Gate, with its go-go dancing dealers.
If you go to the beer bar at the Golden Nugget, tell Dave that Glow and I said "hi".
Also, if you like old-school pinball and arcade games, the Pinball Hall of Fame is on the south end of the strip, and I consider it a must-do. Dozens of old pinball and arcade games that you can play for the original cost (usually a quarter). As young teens, my kids were fascinated by Pong and the mechanical baseball game.
Good stuff. Thanks Chick
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As to London, for first timers, the on and off bus is a great way to see all the sites in a day (especially since all the tourists will be gone).
I would add Kensington as a place to explore, very Boujee but a very happening neighborhood with bars and restaurants (also the castle and Royal Albert Hall).
As to the Tower, take a little walk past along the Thames and hit St. Catherine's Dock, a nice enclave with bars and restaurants ;my favorite Indian restaurant in there closed during C19). Also, between the Tower and Millennium bridges across the river from the Tower is the Borough Market neighborhood which has a few nice restaurants and bars on the river (again a nice break from too many tourists).
Some of the movie stops are also cool like Leadenhall Market and the Temple Church.
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Glow and I are visiting London soon.
Which sites are overrated? Which are underrated?
Any restaurant/pub recommendations? Not looking for anything fancy. We especially like historic places. Also maybe a good Indian restaurant.
Ate at a Michelin started place I believe was called Tamarind. Really good Indian food. Also Nobu at the Metropolitan, also Michelin starred. In my notes, I have a couple pubs The Only Running Footman and Lamb & Flag.
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Museum of Pop Culture
Chihuly Museum
Make sure you go to a good seafood restaurant (there are many) and east some wild caught salmon. Salty's is the go-to if you are willing to spend the money.
If you are a beer lover, visit the Ballard neighborhood. Over a dozen microbreweries within a few blocks of each other.
Great museum choices and the Pinball Museum is kinda fun. Hit the market, Piroshky Piroshky, Rachel’s Ginger Beer, Biscuit Bitch, Mee Sum Pastry. Ballard and Fremont neighborhoods are great among others. Sunday market in Ballard is awesome. We walked everywhere, so many great pockets in the city. Enjoy!
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Going to be in Vegas for a work conference next week. Staying at MGM Grand. Not my first time there, but still open to any suggestions for fun things to do at night. It will be early in the week (Monday through Wednesday) so there aren't a lot of shows besides the standard Carrot Top/Cirque du Soliel stuff, which I'm not particularly interested in. I plan on gambling a little bit but I'd like to get out of the casinos too. I'm not a huge Vegas person but its a free trip on my employer so I'd like to make the most of it.
I've never been to Fremont Street, is that worth checking out?
Used to go to Vegas 1 or 2 times a year since the 1990s. Almost always stayed downtown ( Fremont Street). Haven't been post-covid, although I doubt little has changed other than the opening of Circa.
In terms of what's cool on Fremont Street I would say Fremont Street itself------aptly named The Fremont Street Experience. A 4 block long overhead light show set to different types or music themes. It goes I believe every hour all night long. If you're just strolling around down and you've never seen it, by all means.
You mentioned gambling and that you like to dabble a little. Fremont Street very recently was the haven for the $5 player. Sit at a $5 blackjack table all afternoon, drink free beer and watch the world go by. I have heard that since covid, most casinos have raised table minimums day and night.
In any event, downtown is a welcome alternative to the Strip, and if you have time I would go down there and check it out. Fremont Street is EXTREMELY walkable.
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Any recs for Costa Rica? We'll be on the Pacific coast flying into/out of Liberia
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Recs for Jamaica? Staying in Lucea at the Grand Palladium.
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Going to be in Vegas for a work conference next week. Staying at MGM Grand. Not my first time there, but still open to any suggestions for fun things to do at night. It will be early in the week (Monday through Wednesday) so there aren't a lot of shows besides the standard Carrot Top/Cirque du Soliel stuff, which I'm not particularly interested in. I plan on gambling a little bit but I'd like to get out of the casinos too. I'm not a huge Vegas person but its a free trip on my employer so I'd like to make the most of it.
I've never been to Fremont Street, is that worth checking out?
I think Downtown Vegas/Fremont/Arts District is totally worth it. I recently at at Esther’s Kitchen in the arts district, delish. There are a ton of great spots to eat down there. On the strip, I’m a Cosmopolitan food guy, can’t go wrong really.
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Any recs for Costa Rica? We'll be on the Pacific coast flying into/out of Liberia
We like Ginger restaurant in Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste. If you can get in a zip line, jungle horseback ride, Arenal volcano hikes/trails, Coco Beach and Tamarindo towns. My brother and his wife stay further south along the coast, I’ll pass on his thoughts, too.
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Recs for Jamaica? Staying in Lucea at the Grand Palladium.
Day pass at Hedo.
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Any recs for Costa Rica? We'll be on the Pacific coast flying into/out of Liberia
From my brother:
We’ve been and stayed in the following areas for at least 3-4 days. Some places almost 2 weeks.
-Samara (laid back beach town, yoga, lots of European expats, not much in way of excursions or stuff to do IMO)
-Manuel Antonio (wildlife, incredible beaches, excursions galore: rafting, zip lining, jungle night hikes, Manuel Antonio National Park, catamarans, deep sea fishing, waterfalls, rappelling, agritourism aka farms)
-Fortuna (self proclaimed adventure capital, luxury hot spring resorts, rafting, zip lining, hiking, Arenal Volcano, day trip to Rio Celeste is a MUST)
-Monteverde (cooler temperatures in the mountains, smaller town, this is where you wanna go if hiking is your MO, wildlife especially birds, zip lining, rafting, lots to see and do)
My favorite spot for a vacation was Manuel Antonio hands down. It offers the best of jungle, wildlife and beaches. We went in November, which is the end of the rainy season. It rained every afternoon so we did all our excursions in the morning.
This year we are staying 1 month in Jaco and 1 month is Puerto Viejo.
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Any recs for Costa Rica? We'll be on the Pacific coast flying into/out of Liberia
From my sister in law:
I would say top 5 for me:
1. Rio Celeste waterfall and hiking
2. Private guided tour Manuel Antonio National Park
3. Hiking in Monteverde
4. Zip Lining in Monteverde
5. Rafting (class 3/4, I do NOT recommend a class 5 trip)
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Recs for Jamaica? Staying in Lucea at the Grand Palladium.
All depends on what you want. Some like to swim with the dolphins nearby, some have to go to Rick's cafe although I'd pass on both of those. Since you are at an AI I doubt many restaurant ideas are necessary BUT if you do stop at Rick's for a couple to check it out, go just down the road to the LTU Pub for dinner (chicken lola rec.).
You might want to check into booking Club Mobay for arrival/departures. https://booking.vacationpriorities.com/ (https://booking.vacationpriorities.com/)
Any day but Mondays go to Raggabones (aka Red Dragon) in the Redground neighborhood at about 7 pm for their incredible jerk pork which is only available until sold out that day. For the extremely adventurous many retail places are now selling psilocybin products as there are no laws against them in Jamaica.
As for side/road trips the Appleton Estates tour is good but it is a drive best combined with another attraction(s) be it YS Falls, Black River tour or the Pelican Bar (Google it).
YS Falls is cool but we enjoy Mayfield Falls more.
I already mentioned LTU Pub, if you do dine outside your AI: Kuyaba (Treetop table is really cool), Firefly, Quality's Seabreeze offers free pick-up/drop-off and the food/hosts are great, 3 Dives is known for great jerk chicken and grilled lobster.
Favorite bars: Peewee's, Ixtabi (check out the caves), Tony's Hut, the Canoe Bar (killer rum punches), Alfred's Ocean Palace, Rondel Village and Negril Treehouse..
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From my brother:
We’ve been and stayed in the following areas for at least 3-4 days. Some places almost 2 weeks.
-Samara (laid back beach town, yoga, lots of European expats, not much in way of excursions or stuff to do IMO)
-Manuel Antonio (wildlife, incredible beaches, excursions galore: rafting, zip lining, jungle night hikes, Manuel Antonio National Park, catamarans, deep sea fishing, waterfalls, rappelling, agritourism aka farms)
-Fortuna (self proclaimed adventure capital, luxury hot spring resorts, rafting, zip lining, hiking, Arenal Volcano, day trip to Rio Celeste is a MUST)
-Monteverde (cooler temperatures in the mountains, smaller town, this is where you wanna go if hiking is your MO, wildlife especially birds, zip lining, rafting, lots to see and do)
My favorite spot for a vacation was Manuel Antonio hands down. It offers the best of jungle, wildlife and beaches. We went in November, which is the end of the rainy season. It rained every afternoon so we did all our excursions in the morning.
This year we are staying 1 month in Jaco and 1 month is Puerto Viejo.
But what if you’re looming to establish an online poker startup?
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Thanks 21!
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Going to be in Vegas for a work conference next week. Staying at MGM Grand. Not my first time there, but still open to any suggestions for fun things to do at night. It will be early in the week (Monday through Wednesday) so there aren't a lot of shows besides the standard Carrot Top/Cirque du Soliel stuff, which I'm not particularly interested in. I plan on gambling a little bit but I'd like to get out of the casinos too. I'm not a huge Vegas person but its a free trip on my employer so I'd like to make the most of it.
I've never been to Fremont Street, is that worth checking out?
Wicked Spoon is still one of the top 5 meals I've ever had. Highly recommend
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Glow and I are visiting London soon.
Which sites are overrated? Which are underrated?
Any restaurant/pub recommendations? Not looking for anything fancy. We especially like historic places. Also maybe a good Indian restaurant.
[/quote
I think for one night You and The Mr should go to The Ritz . Back in the day (about 30 years ago when I last went)used to be great for people watching. Food is good .
https://www.theritzlondon.com/dine-with-us/the-ritz-restaurant/
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I think for one night You and The Mr should go to The Ritz . Back in the day (about 30 years ago when I last went)used to be great for people watching. Food is good .
https://www.theritzlondon.com/dine-with-us/the-ritz-restaurant/
I guess you missed the part about "not looking for anything fancy". :)
Dinner for 2 there costs about the same as my airfare. We're not even bringing any clothes nice enough to wear to a place like this. I guess I am not much of a gourmand, but for the same price, I could have ten meals at fun, funky joints, which I prefer as an experience.
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I guess you missed the part about "not looking for anything fancy". :)
Dinner for 2 there costs about the same as my airfare. We're not even bringing any clothes nice enough to wear to a place like this. I guess I am not much of a gourmand, but for the same price, I could have ten meals at fun, funky joints, which I prefer as an experience.
But how are you going to do "people watching" at those fun, funky joints that you prefer? Or, more to the point, how are you going be watched yourself and impress people that you're willing to blow $1000 on dinner. And did you not see that Herman said the food is "good." It's hard to imagine a more compelling review. You simply must try it. I mean who wouldn't take $1000 dollars worth of "good" over fun and funky?!
Edited to add: in case it wasn't entirely clear -- and I think it was -- I'm a big fan of fun and funky. Especially when traveling. I'm not averse to fancy from time to time on a special occasion, but I'll pick fun and funky 99 times out of 100.
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But how are you going to do "people watching" at those fun, funky joints that you prefer? Or, more to the point, how are you going be watched yourself and impress people that you're willing to blow $1000 on dinner. And did you not see that Herman said the food is "good." It's hard to imagine a more compelling review. You simply must try it. I mean who wouldn't take $1000 dollars worth of "good" over fun and funky?!
Edited to add: in case it wasn't entirely clear -- and I think it was -- I'm a big fan of fun and funky. Especially when traveling. I'm not averse to fancy from time to time on a special occasion, but I'll pick fun and funky 99 times out of 100.
Exactly.
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Exactly.
Approachable luxury— cocktail at the American Bar at the savoy or tea service at the hotel.
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Any recs for Costa Rica? We'll be on the Pacific coast flying into/out of Liberia
Been there a couple times, including honeymoon. Definitely get out and do some excursions...we saw a coffee plantation, did a wildlife river cruise, and ziplining. If you are into surfing or beach town scenes, check out Tamarindo.
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Approachable luxury— cocktail at the American Bar at the savoy or tea service at the hotel.
Getting drinks at the Sky Garden on Friday night. Fancy enough for me.
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Which Scoopers are in Paris?
https://www.yahoo.com/news/american-tourists-found-sleeping-off-104430138.html
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Which Scoopers are in Paris?
https://www.yahoo.com/news/american-tourists-found-sleeping-off-104430138.html
If the headline read “American takes a wee on a building on the rive gauche at 4am” well it might have been me.
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If the headline read “American takes a wee on a building on the rive gauche at 4am” well it might have been me.
I can think of a few suspect" nocturnal infiltrators"
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I mean, who hasn't gotten a disorderly ticket for public urination?
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I mean, who hasn't gotten a disorderly ticket for public urination?
Michigan Street alley.
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I mean, who hasn't gotten a disorderly ticket for public urination?
If you get caught you're doing it wrong
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I mean, who hasn't gotten a disorderly ticket for public urination?
James Schoemperlen
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James Schoemperlen
You have an EXTREMELY long memory, Billy.
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I'm that old is all.
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I'm that old is all.
Me too.
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Longshot, any Bend, OR recs?
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Longshot, any Bend, OR recs?
One word. Breweries.
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Longshot, any Bend, OR recs?
One word. Breweries.
Go to the Bend Ale Trail website. They've got info and locations for all the area's breweries, wineries, distilleries, etc. Plus some goodies from the visitor center if you record visits to all the breweries in their various "regions". My personal favorite is Boneyard. Make sure you do the Lake Place taproom rather than the Division Street pub if you want the original "bone yard" charm of an old auto shop. Only other brewery recommendation I'd make is to skip Deschutes. They may be the Godfather of the Bend beer scene, but you can get their beer in the Midwest and their tour/tasting room are pretty sterile. (The downtown public house has never had particularly good food, either.)
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Longshot, any Bend, OR recs?
We went in the summer of 2019 and really enjoyed ourselves. Had 7 people and stayed in a great airbnb.
For breweries, we liked Crux and Monkless best.
Monkless has outstanding Belgians, good brewery food and nice views. Crux has an awesome beergarden with great views and darn good brews.
I remember liking Sunriver, too.
We spent most of one day in downtown Bend going to several bars and shops and restaurants. Ate, drank and played pool, darts, table shuffleboard, etc. A few places were crowded but most were real chill.
We also liked floating down the Deschutes, but since you're just asking now I'm guessing your trip might be after it's a little too chilly to do that?
My wife and daughter and I were just talking about our trip; we all agreed we'd go back to Bend in a heartbeat!
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If your stuck in ATL, Cat Cora by gate A25 has quality food.
Also saw some older gals in the airport wearing MU gear and called out Go Warriors and they got a kick out of that
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If your stuck in ATL, Cat Cora by gate A25 has quality food.
Also saw some older gals in the airport wearing MU gear and called out Go Warriors and they got a kick out of that
Good to know. I like the Japanese place on C, Umaizushi. ATL has solid choices, including the fine dining place in E, One Flew South.
I’ve spent waaaaay too much time in that airport. We have a saying in Florida, even when you die and go to heaven, you have to connect in ATL.
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Would any of the world travelers in the group be able to share any information about Dakar? Probably no MU alumni club there...
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Would any of the world travelers in the group be able to share any information about Dakar? Probably no MU alumni club there...
I don't know but are there any good Senegalese ballers on our radar?
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Would any of the world travelers in the group be able to share any information about Dakar? Probably no MU alumni club there...
Horrible 80s cologne for trendy boys.
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Would any of the world travelers in the group be able to share any information about Dakar? Probably no MU alumni club there...
Cason.
Email ousman barro, hey.
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Would any of the world travelers in the group be able to share any information about Dakar? Probably no MU alumni club there...
Sadio Mane once responded to a congratulatory DM I drunkenly sent on IG like 5/6 years ago. I'll hit him up for some recs ;D
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But how are you going to do "people watching" at those fun, funky joints that you prefer? Or, more to the point, how are you going be watched yourself and impress people that you're willing to blow $1000 on dinner.
The closest thing I ever had to a $1,000 dinner was actually in Nuits Sainte George, outside Dijon, Burgundy. Ms. Dgies and I were driving back from the vineyards and wineries when we decided to have dinner in the town. We saw a quaint little restaurant and thought, why not?
It was 1994, mind you, and we walked in, ugly Americans that we were, at 7:00 p.m., and not speaking French. We ended up being served by the owner and had the most incredible dinner we've ever had. The lobster appetizer my wife had was lobster meat and sauce drawn on the plate in the shape of a lobster. The lamb was to die for and everything was just perfect. We ended up having two bottles of wine and a totally complete dinner. Total bill, with gratuity -- $675.00 US.
It was funny in that we were shocked at the bill but thought, what the hell, this aint something we'll do again for a long, long time. The fact that 30 years later I'm still talking about it as one of the best dining experiences ever made it really worth it!
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dgies
Sounds like it was worth the money and that is what it is all about. Not the most expensive meal I have ever had, but last month a friend and I ate a steakhouse in Chicago and the stiff was over $600 for the two of us. That was not worth the money.
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dgies
Sounds like it was worth the money and that is what it is all about. Not the most expensive meal I have ever had, but last month a friend and I ate a steakhouse in Chicago and the stiff was over $600 for the two of us. That was not worth the money.
For $600.00, they better have served you a Kobe Beef tomahawk steak, in the Waygu Tradition. That beef better have smelled of beer before it went on the grill!
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Chicago area scoopers...
I'm going to a show at The Riviera Theatre this coming weekend. I'm not too familiar with that area of Chicago. Any recommendations for pregame spots?
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Chicago area scoopers...
I'm going to a show at The Riviera Theatre this coming weekend. I'm not too familiar with that area of Chicago. Any recommendations for pregame spots?
You want a pub? A bar? Food? A cool 80yr old jazz bar?
Also depends on how far you're willing to walk. I'd probably do hopleaf good food, beer and general atmosphere. I was looking for a pub I'd do o'shaughneseys but that's a bit of a hike for a walk.
Green mill is iconic and right there.
There's a cool art deco apartment building near there with a neat bar in its main floor I can try to remember the name if curious. Edit: it's called Larry's
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I was in France last week moving the daughter and the Rugby World Cup is going on. Games we're on TV every night. Friday I made it to Paris and the Fan Zone was crowded and loud. No USA team or ghosts of Chris Farley spotted.
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The closest thing I ever had to a $1,000 dinner was actually in Nuits Sainte George, outside Dijon, Burgundy. Ms. Dgies and I were driving back from the vineyards and wineries when we decided to have dinner in the town. We saw a quaint little restaurant and thought, why not?
It was 1994, mind you, and we walked in, ugly Americans that we were, at 7:00 p.m., and not speaking French. We ended up being served by the owner and had the most incredible dinner we've ever had. The lobster appetizer my wife had was lobster meat and sauce drawn on the plate in the shape of a lobster. The lamb was to die for and everything was just perfect. We ended up having two bottles of wine and a totally complete dinner. Total bill, with gratuity -- $675.00 US.
It was funny in that we were shocked at the bill but thought, what the hell, this aint something we'll do again for a long, long time. The fact that 30 years later I'm still talking about it as one of the best dining experiences ever made it really worth it!
Called 3 months ahead for reservations at La Pergula in Rome. We were seated and handed a water menu to select from. A bread cart was wheeled up to pick from a couple dozen loafs and rolls. The sommelier picked the wine a Tuscan white to compliment the 6 courses and a muscat for dessert. After dessert a small multi-drawered cabinet was placed on the table with a truffle in each compartment. The tab was @$800 but the experience and the view of Rome was worth a one time shot. As we left the chef presented each with a personalized menu of what we ate and drank. You only go round once
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Any tips for India? I am making my first trip next month and somewhat nervous. Have traveled internationally my life, but always avoided India. Work calls now and Ihave no choice. Not really looking for sightseeing info, more what to expect.
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Called 3 months ahead for reservations at La Pergula in Rome. We were seated and handed a water menu to select from. A bread cart was wheeled up to pick from a couple dozen loafs and rolls. The sommelier picked the wine a Tuscan white to compliment the 6 courses and a muscat for dessert. After dessert a small multi-drawered cabinet was placed on the table with a truffle in each compartment. The tab was @$800 but the experience and the view of Rome was worth a one time shot. As we left the chef presented each with a personalized menu of what we ate and drank. You only go round once
I'm in Rome from 4/28-4/30. Just went to their website, closed for enovations from November 21 to April 30, 2024.
I guess I just "saved" $800 and missed out on the meal of a lifetime. You win some, you lose some.
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I'm in Rome from 4/28-4/30. Just went to their website, closed for enovations from November 21 to April 30, 2024.
I guess I just "saved" $800 and missed out on the meal of a lifetime. You win some, you lose some.
Checked their menu, https://cdn.qr-code-generator.com/account9042567/8292105_73.pdf?Expires=1695219126&Signature=Ja2U1XcUF3I2VyJs1OUNAPxykzVDNqrBso5ucfJZzoB9aQ0z~-xZM5ZcM1nm1c6hfH8jsjkvktb030m2FkG9mqvGAL0FOr0ujqXHEuxnsL5B3PPHNzd95NvpbeAvRwd4vDTrT-RGig0s4n~QBL-b2q7OS7rHsEarBmR-u~j5o1W~7mB-CAo~9D1Mx0pPlKpwyDkVVckjLHLMdef6Rz6ZKfljizsIf2WdYTnei61zgp3xH2Zy9leNZXza6khvsKcYtoxWbtVeAziuCIlNP-8onIeOxvUdgOZg6p4u4MMGYW6Iyor8Pnv9elukJyn6vJn73o0QdhtLueVv328fxpU-LQ__&Key-Pair-Id=KKMPOJU8AYATR (https://cdn.qr-code-generator.com/account9042567/8292105_73.pdf?Expires=1695219126&Signature=Ja2U1XcUF3I2VyJs1OUNAPxykzVDNqrBso5ucfJZzoB9aQ0z~-xZM5ZcM1nm1c6hfH8jsjkvktb030m2FkG9mqvGAL0FOr0ujqXHEuxnsL5B3PPHNzd95NvpbeAvRwd4vDTrT-RGig0s4n~QBL-b2q7OS7rHsEarBmR-u~j5o1W~7mB-CAo~9D1Mx0pPlKpwyDkVVckjLHLMdef6Rz6ZKfljizsIf2WdYTnei61zgp3xH2Zy9leNZXza6khvsKcYtoxWbtVeAziuCIlNP-8onIeOxvUdgOZg6p4u4MMGYW6Iyor8Pnv9elukJyn6vJn73o0QdhtLueVv328fxpU-LQ__&Key-Pair-Id=KKMPOJU8AYATR)
some things souns amazing. This does not:
Humus, humble, human
€ 59,00
Definitiion of humus:
humus is the dark organic matter in soil that is formed by the decomposition of plant and animal matter.
Other appetizers list their ingredients. I hope this isn't the case
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Sorry to hear that. More money for pizza. Aina?
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Any tips for India? I am making my first trip next month and somewhat nervous. Have traveled internationally my life, but always avoided India. Work calls now and Ihave no choice. Not really looking for sightseeing info, more what to expect.
Goose
I'm making my second trip there. I'm going November 5 through 9. Bangalore & Delhi I'm headed there after seeing customers in Singapore and Malaysia the week before.
I can tell you Uber is great in India. I'm off to Boston for a trade show but can share more in an IM.
I think JWags has indicated he's spent a lot of time in India?
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MU Fan
Any info would be appreciated.
Wags
I know you have discussed India in the past, but any tips would be appreciated. I am going to be in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Rajkot.
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Get shots and malaria meds. There should be a Passport Health Travel Clinic.
Don't forget you need a visa. You just apply online.
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MU Fan
Any info would be appreciated.
Wags
I know you have discussed India in the past, but any tips would be appreciated. I am going to be in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Rajkot.
Stay in the nicest hotels, but don’t let your guard down. Don’t use ice or the tap water even at the places that say the water is treated-even for brushing teeth. Stick to cooked food. Don’t take milk in coffee unless it’s at a nice hotel. Also get the antibiotic pill in case you slip up. It’s bound to happen. Finally work with someone locally to plan logistics. What you can accomplish in a day is limited since it takes a long time to get around these cities.
I love India but it takes a lot of diligence and having someone experienced in traveling there is a huge positive.
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Stay in the nicest hotels, but don’t let your guard down. Don’t use ice or the tap water even at the places that say the water is treated-even for brushing teeth. Stick to cooked food. Don’t take milk in coffee unless it’s at a nice hotel. Also get the antibiotic pill in case you slip up. It’s bound to happen. Finally work with someone locally to plan logistics. What you can accomplish in a day is limited since it takes a long time to get around these cities.
I love India but it takes a lot of diligence and having someone experienced in traveling there is a huge positive.
Get travel insurance that covers your med-vac
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Chicago area scoopers...
I'm going to a show at The Riviera Theatre this coming weekend. I'm not too familiar with that area of Chicago. Any recommendations for pregame spots?
"1634 Racine....you know I used to have a friend that lived there."
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You want a pub? A bar? Food? A cool 80yr old jazz bar?
Also depends on how far you're willing to walk. I'd probably do hopleaf good food, beer and general atmosphere. I was looking for a pub I'd do o'shaughneseys but that's a bit of a hike for a walk.
Green mill is iconic and right there.
There's a cool art deco apartment building near there with a neat bar in its main floor I can try to remember the name if curious. Edit: it's called Larry's
All of the above. Thank you. I'll check out Hopeleaf and then Green Mill.
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I'm in Rome from 4/28-4/30. Just went to their website, closed for enovations from November 21 to April 30, 2024.
I guess I just "saved" $800 and missed out on the meal of a lifetime. You win some, you lose some.
Since you are only there for a short time, you may not have time. But if you want a good beer, in Trastevere, the more interesting neighborhood, there is a place called: Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà, aka The Football Pub. Chick can attest to the beer selection. https://www.football-pub.com/
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Since you are only there for a short time, you may not have time. But if you want a good beer, in Trastevere, the more interesting neighborhood, there is a place called: Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà, aka The Football Pub. Chick can attest to the beer selection. https://www.football-pub.com/
Thanks for the tip. I was invited by Luke Donald to be part of the Team Europe entourage at the Ryder Cup next week. Can’t wait!
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Nice, enjoy!
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Any tips for India? I am making my first trip next month and somewhat nervous. Have traveled internationally my life, but always avoided India. Work calls now and Ihave no choice. Not really looking for sightseeing info, more what to expect.
Don't eat da chicken, hey?
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Any tips for India? I am making my first trip next month and somewhat nervous. Have traveled internationally my life, but always avoided India. Work calls now and Ihave no choice. Not really looking for sightseeing info, more what to expect.
My brother used to travel there frequently. He love the place but said a) don’t drink the water and b) never trust a fart.
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Don't bother packin' deodorant, hey?
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All of the above. Thank you. I'll check out Hopeleaf and then Green Mill.
Happy to help. Enjoy the show.
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Stay in the nicest hotels, but don’t let your guard down. Don’t use ice or the tap water even at the places that say the water is treated-even for brushing teeth. Stick to cooked food. Don’t take milk in coffee unless it’s at a nice hotel. Also get the antibiotic pill in case you slip up. It’s bound to happen. Finally work with someone locally to plan logistics. What you can accomplish in a day is limited since it takes a long time to get around these cities.
I love India but it takes a lot of diligence and having someone experienced in traveling there is a huge positive.
I'm in the Le Meriden in Delhi and some upscale Marriott in Bangalore. The hotels will book transportation for you.
I was in the Conrad last time I was in Bangalore. With the exchange rate they end up cheaper than a Hampton Inn in Milwaukee.
The travel clinic in New Haven sold me a pack with all the anti-diarrhea and antibiotic pill stuff. There's malaria in India so they gave me something to have my doctor write a prescription you start taking before you go and a few days after.
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MU Fan
Any info would be appreciated.
Wags
I know you have discussed India in the past, but any tips would be appreciated. I am going to be in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Rajkot.
Ahh yes, it will be quite an experience regardless! Even for someone as well traveled as yourself, India is unlike many others IMO.
As others have said, stay in an upscale Western brand hotel, as they often cater to business travel, they all have their own onsite water purification systems. So you can at least feel at ease about water in the showers, brushing your teeth, ice at the bar/restaurant etc. As well stuff like fresh fruits and veggies. When I stay in a hotel I RARELY eat at a hotel restaurant. When I’m in India, it’s usually my default in the evening and certainly for breakfast.
Bottled water is easy to find and the go to everywhere. Most business meetings I attend has the staff bringing me a cup of water as is customary before the colleagues im meeting quickly say “ no no, bottle please”
No ice outside the hotel. NO ICE NO ICE. I’ve thankfully, touch wood, never got truly sick outside of a few hour stomach issue in India, but the only times those stomach issues occurred was due to ice. Once at an upscale restaurant and the other at super fancy nightclub that a friend of a friend owned that my table was near 2 different groups of Bollywood stars that had the crowds in awe. It felt like I was in Vegas or NYC so I relaxed, had a number of mixed drinks with ice…and paid the price the next day. They still make the ice with local water
I don’t often travel with medication cause I’ve got my routine pretty down, but Cipro is my recommendation for anyone. If you tell your doctor you are traveling to India, they should prescribe it no issue. I’ve known people that were doubled over with stomach pain, worse than they had experienced, took Cipro, and felt mostly normal within a few hours.
Hotels will handle airport transport if you ask, but while the prices for rooms are great value, the transport is usually insane. For example, the Sofitel in Mumbai I normally stay is PLUSH. Super fancy, incredible service, truly an oasis. I usually pay no more than $150 a night and that is a club room with a private area upstairs with happy hour and whatnot. But if you want them to book you a car to the airport? They charge like $60. It’s wild. Uber is widespread and easy to use there and incredibly cheap. It’s safe, usually clean, and always air conditioned.
Ive never had malaria cautions when I have visited, but if it’s something you worry about, with everything in India, better safe than sorry.
I’ve only been to Delhi, Bangalore, and Calcutta once each. But Mumbai I think I hit visit number 15 back in April. So feel free to shoot me a PM with any questions you may have there
Funny enough, I’m posting from HK. My first time back since Feb 2019. Feels like I never left. But man things have gotten pricier
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Wags
Thanks for all the info. I likely will PM additonal questions. Where are you staying in HK and how crazy expensive is it? As you know, I had an office there for almost decade, but seldom venture into HK the last few years pre pandemic. It was crazy expense then.
Forgot to mention, have a great time HK. It is a special place.
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Wags
Thanks for all the info. I likely will PM additonal questions. Where are you staying in HK and how crazy expensive is it? As you know, I had an office there for almost decade, but seldom venture into HK the last few years pre pandemic. It was crazy expense then.
Forgot to mention, have a great time HK. It is a special place.
Real estate was and always will be crazy expensive here, I can only imagine.
We're in Causeway Bay at a fairly solid hotel for like $150 a night. But we used to stay near Happy Valley and the 2 hotels we rotated between are anywhere from $75-100 more expensive than back in 2019. And it seems like all of a sudden anything nicer is minimum $250 a night and escalating quickly. For a city that used to have tons of hidden gems in terms of hotel value. If I was just here for a few days its one thing, but when we have a team of 6 for a week long show, it escalates quickly. Especially since the value of the show post-COVID is unknown at this point. However, first day was excellent, seems a lot of enthusiasm for things to be coming back.
We found 2 of our favorite restaurants, one near Wan Chai and another in Central are no longer around, which is sad, as they were places my Father had been going to for close to 10 years, even before I started coming.
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Wags
Best of luck at the show. I am guessing Jewelry Show? You are right on the cost of show, especially in HK, and you have to watch every penny.
When I was HK in 2019 with my son there were several places that I frequented many times over the years that were no longer open. I can only imagine post covid.
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Just back from an 18 day trip with my bride that took us from Rome to Munich. One of the best meals we had was at a small trattoria just up the alley from our Airbnb near the Trevi Fountain. I had ravioli in an orange sauce (€13) and my wife had what might have been the best mussels she’s ever had. The only reason we ate there was we were tired and it was close to where we were staying.
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Just back from an 18 day trip with my bride that took us from Rome to Munich. One of the best meals we had was at a small trattoria just up the alley from our Airbnb near the Trevi Fountain. I had ravioli in an orange sauce (€13) and my wife had what might have been the best mussels she’s ever had. The only reason we ate there was we were tired and it was close to where we were staying.
Remember the name of the spot?
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Happy to help. Enjoy the show.
Ended up at Hopleaf and Fat Cat, enjoyed both of them. Thanks for the suggestions!
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The Bend, OR recs were amazing, thanks y'all.
Let's do the same for Austin, TX. Wish I was going longer, but BBQ, bars, texmex, breakfast tacos recs will be welcomed. (Staying in East Austin)
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Lens - the name of the trattoria is Piccolo Arancio. Also, there is a pizza place, Piccolo Buco, where we saw people lining up in our alley to get into sometimes for over an hour. With all the pizza places in Rome we figured we had to try it to see if it was worth the wait. It was, although we got there early and only waited around 20 minutes.
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The Bend, OR recs were amazing, thanks y'all.
Let's do the same for Austin, TX. Wish I was going longer, but BBQ, bars, texmex, breakfast tacos recs will be welcomed. (Staying in East Austin)
I usually go to Austin for music and eat my way through the food trucks. Great town.
Music:
Elephant Room
Continental Club
Antone’s
Saxon Pub (Monday Bob Schneider)
Stubbs (Outside show)
New World Theater (incredible sound)
Food (no idea if any are still open)
Uchi
Uchiko
Wink
South Congress Cafe
Perla’s
Gourdough’s (late night donuts)
La Barbecue
The Salt Lick
Never had Franklin’s
Of course hit up 6th St., Rainey St, and 12th St. Asked someone about East Austin, check out Justine’s and Launderette.
I haven’t been in several years, so I’m guessing the food scene has gotten even better. Looking forward to adding to my notes with all the suggestions. Have fun!
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The Bend, OR recs were amazing, thanks y'all.
Let's do the same for Austin, TX. Wish I was going longer, but BBQ, bars, texmex, breakfast tacos recs will be welcomed. (Staying in East Austin)
I assume by East Austin, you mean east of i-35. There are a ton of places on 6th and 7th streets there. Music and funky bars. Wander til you see one that strikes your interest. Hotel Vegas seems interesting, but have not been. Food trucks around there are also worth trying.
This is not to be confused with the touristy 6th street area, aka the dirty 6th.
As much of a fan of Oregon beers as I am, I am not a huge fan of Austin beers. That being said, there are a few breweries in East Austin that I haven't tried. Lazurus and Zilker are right there.
I think Franklin's BBQ is not worth the wait. There I said it, fight me. Iron Works is good, so is Stubbs and Salt Lick.
Central Austin - Sholz Garden is the oldest bar in Texas (1866) and good German food. The Driskill Bar in the Driskill Hotel for ambiance. Roaring Fork is good food in the Royal Sonesta hotel. Happy hour food - KETTLE OF GREEN CHILI PORK STEW is to die for. QUESO CON PUERCO and SKILLET CORNBREAD round out a tasty appetizer trio.
5+ years ago, I would have said Rainey Stree is a must go to, but now with all the development, much of its quaint ambiance is gone. Sure, there are some interesting bars still, Bangers Biergarten has a great beer selection and god awful food. The other houses converted to bars seem to change hands and get "enhanced" so often. Not a big fan anymore.
If you are into hidden craft bars, Garage, located in a parking...garage is pretty cool little place. https://garagetx.com/
If you go to the more grown up side of 6th street, west of San Antonio st, I like Little Woodrow's for a causal beer. Nearby Devil May Care is a good upscale dining and drink experience. Dogwood West is a good place for a drink as well.
I am sure I am missing a ton.
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PBI you are absolutely right. Franklin's is not worth the wait. It's good, but not nearly worth the wait or the hype it gets, especially with so many great places around. Salt Lick is my go to Austin bbq joint but it is a trek.
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PBI you are absolutely right. Franklin's is not worth the wait. It's good, but not nearly worth the wait or the hype it gets, especially with so many great places around. Salt Lick is my go to Austin bbq joint but it is a trek.
The Salt Lick in the airport is good and does to go packing!
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Lens - the name of the trattoria is Piccolo Arancio. Also, there is a pizza place, Piccolo Buco, where we saw people lining up in our alley to get into sometimes for over an hour. With all the pizza places in Rome we figured we had to try it to see if it was worth the wait. It was, although we got there early and only waited around 20 minutes.
I stayed in that neighborhood when I was there in April 2022 and I probably walked by those restaurants.
In Italy I found it best to make reservations for dinner before lunch time the day of. The One Table App was my friend. Every place had a line and a wait otherwise.
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I stayed in that neighborhood when I was there in April 2022 and I probably walked by those restaurants.
In Italy I found it best to make reservations for dinner before lunch time the day of. The One Table App was my friend. Every place had a line and a wait otherwise.
Go across the river to Trastevere. A lot less crazy than the main part of Rome. A super charming neighborhood with tons of great locals restaurants that you can just walk in.
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Go across the river to Trastevere. A lot less crazy than the main part of Rome. A super charming neighborhood with tons of great locals restaurants that you can just walk in.
Chick - we booked a tour of the Vatican one morning then took a cab to the Trastevere area for a late lunch. It’s a great area and we walked through the Jewish district on our way back to the Airbnb.
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Getting sent to Philadelphia for work for a week in October. Never been before. Any must sees or must eats? I'm staying pretty much in the heart of downtown.
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Getting sent to Philadelphia for work for a week in October. Never been before. Any must sees or must eats? I'm staying pretty much in the heart of downtown.
Reading Terminal Market
https://readingterminalmarket.org/
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Getting sent to Philadelphia for work for a week in October. Never been before. Any must sees or must eats? I'm staying pretty much in the heart of downtown.
Middle Child Clubhouse is my go to a handful of times a year. Food and cocktails are awesome, never had breakfast there but hear that’s how they got their start. Finish dinner with a delicious amaro.
I’m a fan of Sonny’s for a cheesesteak, we go there a handful of times a year, it’s near Penn’s Landing, and Angelo’s in South Philly is widely regarded as a classic. Depending on when you’re there, Old City has First Fridays, which is fun. I second Reading Market, get a roast pork from Tommy Dinic’s, mmm mmm I love broccoli rabe and provolone. Eat at Zahav or Laser Wolf if you can get a reservation. Otherwise, go to Franklin’s Table Food Hall at UPenn and hit up Goldie’s. Philly pizza and bagels are oft overlooked in the shadow of the big city that is NYC.
Of course, hit all the historical sites you can take, stroll through Rittenhouse Square, run the steps at the Art Museum, sit by the river, check out University City specifically Locust Walk at UPenn, go to Fishtown, South Philly, all the neighborhoods. There is a great Ethiopian place in West Philly if you care to venture out that way.
Enjoy!
Edit: And how could I forget, I grew up eating this with my grandfather. Have a warm, soft pretzel smothered in good, brown mustard. And, grab a Federal Donut, you won’t be disappointed.
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Reading Terminal Market
https://readingterminalmarket.org/
The market is fantastic. People obviously talk a lot about the various cheesesteak places, but I had a brisket sandwich at Herschel's Deli in the Reading Market that I still think about to this day. Much better and more memorable than Pat's or Geno's (I honestly don't remember which of them we went to).
Also, we had some great hand-pulled noodles in China Town which is also very close.
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The market is fantastic. People obviously talk a lot about the various cheesesteak places, but I had a brisket sandwich at Herschel's Deli in the Reading Market that I still think about to this day. Much better and more memorable than Pat's or Geno's (I honestly don't remember which of them we went to).
Also, we had some great hand-pulled noodles in China Town which is also very close.
Similar feeling with Tommy Dinic’s and John’s Roast Pork. Gotta have a cheesesteak, but there are some other killer sandwiches in Philly. Second China Town, and also had decent Japanese ish at Izakaya in Fishtown.
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Getting sent to Philadelphia for work for a week in October. Never been before. Any must sees or must eats? I'm staying pretty much in the heart of downtown.
May wanna partake in a little lootin'. Seems like dat's a popular activity in Philly, hey?
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Getting sent to Philadelphia for work for a week in October. Never been before. Any must sees or must eats? I'm staying pretty much in the heart of downtown.
Like others have said, a cheesesteak. Lots of good ones. You can benchmark all others by your Philly experience.
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Middle Child Clubhouse is my go to a handful of times a year. Food and cocktails are awesome, never had breakfast there but hear that’s how they got their start. Finish dinner with a delicious amaro.
I’m a fan of Sonny’s for a cheesesteak, we go there a handful of times a year, it’s near Penn’s Landing, and Angelo’s in South Philly is widely regarded as a classic. Depending on when you’re there, Old City has First Fridays, which is fun. I second Reading Market, get a roast pork from Tommy Dinic’s, mmm mmm I love broccoli rabe and provolone. Eat at Zahav or Laser Wolf if you can get a reservation. Otherwise, go to Franklin’s Table Food Hall at UPenn and hit up Goldie’s. Philly pizza and bagels are oft overlooked in the shadow of the big city that is NYC.
Of course, hit all the historical sites you can take, stroll through Rittenhouse Square, run the steps at the Art Museum, sit by the river, check out University City specifically Locust Walk at UPenn, go to Fishtown, South Philly, all the neighborhoods. There is a great Ethiopian place in West Philly if you care to venture out that way.
Enjoy!
Edit: And how could I forget, I grew up eating this with my grandfather. Have a warm, soft pretzel smothered in good, brown mustard. And, grab a Federal Donut, you won’t be disappointed.
These are good.
Some other things to see and do and eat:
Rittenhouse Square as a place to see. There are some $$$ higher end spots there like Parc the French Bistro.
Franklin’s Table if he’s at UPenn.
South Philly Barbacoa (Mexican)
Tierra Columbiana (North Philly)
Angelo’s mentioned.) S 9th St.
First timer should probably see the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Rocky, etc…
DiNics (mentioned) Roast Pork and Beef at Reading Terminal Market among many other things there.
Middle Child Clubhouse (mentioned) 2 locations.
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Getting sent to Philadelphia for work for a week in October. Never been before. Any must sees or must eats? I'm staying pretty much in the heart of downtown.
My favorite place for margaritas outside of Mexico is in Philly. El Vez in the heart of downtown is amazing. Always packed. Good food, great margaritas. And I’m really picky.
Also, for beers, Monk’s Cafe has great beer, including one of the few east coast places for Pliny the elder.
McGillen’s is the oldest bar in Philly. For a bit of history, If you are in the neighborhood. Though I actually like Bru Craft and Wurst across the alley.
And yeah, the Reading Terminal Market is a must. If the line is long and the food looks good, wait in the line.
Edited to add: second the Rittenhouse Square. Great people watching scene too.
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The market is fantastic. People obviously talk a lot about the various cheesesteak places, but I had a brisket sandwich at Herschel's Deli in the Reading Market that I still think about to this day. Much better and more memorable than Pat's or Geno's (I honestly don't remember which of them we went to).
Also, we had some great hand-pulled noodles in China Town which is also very close.
Yep. You could eat a lot of good meals there. The Reading Terminal Market is definitely a first stop/favorite stop type of place when in Philly for a variety of things.
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May wanna partake in a little lootin'. Seems like dat's a popular activity in Philly, hey?
Fear and control, fear and control.
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Nah man, reality. You ok with smash and grab? What da fook is wrong wit people, hey?
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May wanna partake in a little lootin'. Seems like dat's a popular activity in Philly, hey?
Nah man, reality. You ok with smash and grab? What da fook is wrong wit people, hey?
Seems like Grab and Go food has been taken to another level in Philly….
https://www.foxnews.com/us/philadelphia-swarmed-alleged-juvenile-looters-targeting-apple-store-lululemon-footlocker-others
https://www.foxnews.com/us/philadelphia-looting-break-stolen-atm-crime-spree-continues-2nd-night-leaving-residents-desperate
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Seems like Grab and Go food has been taken to another level in Philly….
https://www.foxnews.com/us/philadelphia-swarmed-alleged-juvenile-looters-targeting-apple-store-lululemon-footlocker-others
https://www.foxnews.com/us/philadelphia-looting-break-stolen-atm-crime-spree-continues-2nd-night-leaving-residents-desperate
iTs ALWaYs dA LIbZ DeRAiLIng THreAdz
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A law and order society can't return quickly enough, aina?
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Getting sent to Philadelphia for work for a week in October. Never been before. Any must sees or must eats? I'm staying pretty much in the heart of downtown.
Enjoy your time in Philadelphia. Like any city in America, suburb, rural or urban, it has its share of problems but has plenty to offer. Some will say it’s dangerous and we need law and order but there has never been a time in America without serious crime problems but a lot of people ignore history and don’t want it taught and that’s why we have that problem.
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"That's why we have the problem." Who knew? Seems like a simple fix, hey?
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May wanna partake in a little lootin'. Seems like dat's a popular activity in Philly, hey?
Nah man, reality. You ok with smash and grab? What da fook is wrong wit people, hey?
A law and order society can't return quickly enough, aina?
"That's why we have the problem." Who knew? Seems like a simple fix, hey?
My "simple fix" if I would a mod would be a permaban for your nonsense replies to a travel topic.
But they're nicer than I am.
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Just swipe the smash snd grab under the rug. Nothin' to see here, aina?
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Philadelphia is a great city. As a student of history, I’d visit all the historical sites
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Philadelphia is a great city. As a student of history, I’d visit all the historical sites
Profound.
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Profound.
Thanks! Trying to get this back on track! Hoping others will continue with the Philly suggestions.
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Philly is a world class city: history, arts, food, sports, education, business, beauty, it’s own little culture and dialect, awesome neighborhoods, and, yes, crime.
In the last couple weeks, several text alerts were sent to my son about assaults, robbery, a shooting, sexual assault all near him, within a few blocks. It is a real issue, but in a city of millions, it’s pretty small. Real, for sure. Do I feel unsafe, I do not. Am I aware and cautious, I am, pretty much anywhere I am really. Will that help me from getting in a pickle, maybe or maybe not. Would I go there tomorrow, 100%. Will my wife chastise me for walking around West Philly with my younger son…again…probably.
I don’t think the issue is political or even big city really, it’s desperation. Help people become less desperate and the world changes. People are proud to be from Philly, I can’t even count the number of stories my grandfather told me about growing up in the row homes, playing stick ball with all kinds, hopping the coal trains to shovel it off to sell to the neighborhood, living above my great grandparents when my uncle and mom were born, taking my mother to the old Bookbinders, going to art school there, being part of a strong and thriving Polish community. My kids still make fun of me for the way I say water and order, and I was born in the Midwest. There is just something about Philly, what a city.
Last time we were there a couple months ago, I took my kids into this cool hip hop, art shop with a radio studio upstairs. We ended up talking to the owner for 30 minutes about Philly, the value of education, music, stopping and chatting with people you may never stop for, listening, being curious. After a little dap, an bro hug, and some mutual respect, we made off for a walk around Old City.
A place I used to buy spirits from back in my restauranteur days is there. It’s called Art in the Age, and their spirits were/are amazing. We could no longer get it due to PA/WI laws, but swing in the shop if you can. There is a little bar in the back.
Love the city of brotherly love (which I learned on a tour of Drexel that Philos means love and Adelphos means brother. Also Delphi means center of the world, for sure some locals feel that way). I’m not as smart as most, so if I should have already known that, bad on me. What a city.
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I should also mention, much like Austin, I’ve traveled to Philly for music. Check out The Fillmore and Union Transfer. Franklin Music Hall, and The Foundry are great. Some pretty killer jazz joints there, too.
The mecca of college basketball is at UPenn and worth a look see.
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Philly is a world class city: history, arts, food, sports, education, business, beauty, it’s own little culture and dialect, awesome neighborhoods, and, yes, crime.
In the last couple weeks, several text alerts were sent to my son about assaults, robbery, a shooting, sexual assault all near him, within a few blocks. It is a real issue, but in a city of millions, it’s pretty small. Real, for sure. Do I feel unsafe, I do not. Am I aware and cautious, I am, pretty much anywhere I am really. Will that help me from getting in a pickle, maybe or maybe not. Would I go there tomorrow, 100%. Will my wife chastise me for walking around West Philly with my younger son…again…probably.
I don’t think the issue is political or even big city really, it’s desperation. Help people become less desperate and the world changes. People are proud to be from Philly, I can’t even count the number of stories my grandfather told me about growing up in the row homes, playing stick ball with all kinds, hopping the coal trains to shovel it off to sell to the neighborhood, living above my great grandparents when my uncle and mom were born, taking my mother to the old Bookbinders, going to art school there, being part of a strong and thriving Polish community. My kids still make fun of me for the way I say water and order, and I was born in the Midwest. There is just something about Philly, what a city.
Last time we were there a couple months ago, I took my kids into this cool hip hop, art shop with a radio studio upstairs. We ended up talking to the owner for 30 minutes about Philly, the value of education, music, stopping and chatting with people you may never stop for, listening, being curious. After a little dap, an bro hug, and some mutual respect, we made off for a walk around Old City.
A place I used to buy spirits from back in my restauranteur days is there. It’s called Art in the Age, and their spirits were/are amazing. We could no longer get it due to PA/WI laws, but swing in the shop if you can. There is a little bar in the back.
Love the city of brotherly love (which I learned on a tour of Drexel that Philos means love and Adelphos means brother. Also Delphi means center of the world, for sure some locals feel that way). I’m not as smart as most, so if I should have already known that, bad on me. What a city.
Spent a lot of time in Philly over . Used to frequently take the train from New York to Philly for meetings . Over time my kids had a lot of athletic events there ,high school and college ,so we got to see different parts of the town and surrounding areas.
There definitely is a unique culture to Philly. I agree the populace is proud. We had a lot of good times and memorable moments there.
Hopefully some day the City of Brotherly Love can regain its Mojo
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I was just at MU wedding with 30 or Philly residents. Many of them were in law enforcement. All of them were implorring me to cme back and visit. Nary a mention of the violence a few have mentioned above. Interesting.
Also, I'm spending next weekend in Chicago. If i make it out I'll report back. Hotel prices were pretty high. Marathon weekend and all. I guess people are still showing up.
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It looks like Muggsy is in Philly. He may have some recommendations.
https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38512361/support-alligator-wally-denied-entry-phillies-stadium
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I should also mention, much like Austin, I’ve traveled to Philly for music. Check out The Fillmore and Union Transfer. Franklin Music Hall, and The Foundry are great. Some pretty killer jazz joints there, too.
The mecca of college basketball is at UPenn and worth a look see.
Paging Sultan
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I was just at MU wedding with 30 or Philly residents. Many of them were in law enforcement. All of them were implorring me to cme back and visit. Nary a mention of the violence a few have mentioned above. Interesting.
Also, I'm spending next weekend in Chicago. If i make it out I'll report back. Hotel prices were pretty high. Marathon weekend and all. I guess people are still showing up.
I've been to a lot of places near and far, and I've yet to visit, or live in a bad place.
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I've been to a lot of places near and far, and I've yet to visit, or live in a bad place.
Tell me you've never been to Jackson, MS, without telling me you've never been to Jackson, MS. ;D
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I was just at MU wedding with 30 or Philly residents. Many of them were in law enforcement. All of them were implorring me to cme back and visit. Nary a mention of the violence a few have mentioned above. Interesting.
Also, I'm spending next weekend in Chicago. If i make it out I'll report back. Hotel prices were pretty high. Marathon weekend and all. I guess people are still showing up.
Brother Lens:
Last year, I moved from Chicago's Northern Suburbs to Vero Beach, FL. My deal with Ms. Dgies is we come back to Chicago in the summer and I get to go to at least one home game at FiServ.
We came back to Chicago in July and am here through this weekend. For the first time in our lives, we lived in the city itself. Yes, we heard the same crime reports you have and they stirred a healthy caution in us. But....
The experience has been wonderful. Other than one petty crime incident, we have had no problems. No, I don't go roaming the west side at 3:00 a.m., but we live in a nice community (Broadway, Clark and Diversey) with lots of nearby restaurants, bars, wine cellars and a host of everything else. It is what I wanted Chicago to be. Only downside is there's an occasional Badger in the neighborhood.
You'll live unless you troll the west or south side at 3:00 a.m., and if you, have your car fitted for armor plating and bullet proof glass.
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Tell me you've never been to Jackson, MS, without telling me you've never been to Jackson, MS. ;D
Hey now. I've spent more time in Tupelo, Oxford, Starkville and all the small towns between Memphis and Tuscaloosa.
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Hey now. I've spent more time in Tupelo, Oxford, Starkville and all the small towns between Memphis and Tuscaloosa.
You seem like you've been everywhere... you a carnie? :P
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Brother Lens:
Last year, I moved from Chicago's Northern Suburbs to Vero Beach, FL. My deal with Ms. Dgies is we come back to Chicago in the summer and I get to go to at least one home game at FiServ.
We came back to Chicago in July and am here through this weekend. For the first time in our lives, we lived in the city itself. Yes, we heard the same crime reports you have and they stirred a healthy caution in us. But....
The experience has been wonderful. Other than one petty crime incident, we have had no problems. No, I don't go roaming the west side at 3:00 a.m., but we live in a nice community (Broadway, Clark and Diversey) with lots of nearby restaurants, bars, wine cellars and a host of everything else. It is what I wanted Chicago to be. Only downside is there's an occasional Badger in the neighborhood.
You'll live unless you troll the west or south side at 3:00 a.m., and if you, have your car fitted for armor plating and bullet proof glass.
You order a chocolate milkshake at Wiener's Circle yet?
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I've been to a lot of places near and far, and I've yet to visit, or live in a bad place.
I can say fully that Springfield, OH is a bad place.
The smallish factory town I’ve visited outside Surat, India with total poverty, basically owned by a old school brutal tycoon types, so bad that even the meager paid factory workers chose to commute from 20 min away rather than live there…is a bad place.
The meth haven in rural Southern PA near where my old roommate was from that felt like it was out of a movie when I visited…is a bad place.
Now if we are talking major cities? Then I agree. Even the worst most mockable have redeeming qualities and areas. For example, Cleveland is often a punchline. I personally thought Joachim Noah’s joke about vacationing there was hilarious. But I actually adore Cleveland and was beyond surprised by how much I enjoyed it there at various stages of my life.
But there are some truly bad places, even if they have some good people there. Might actually be an interesting thread
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You seem like you've been everywhere... you a carnie? :P
As in someone who works at a carnival? Ha. Nope. More sports and people related I suppose. Don't sleep on those towns. A friend of mine has a big farm in Eutaw, AL. Great people. I've seen some things.
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I can say fully that Springfield, OH is a bad place.
Born there. Haven't been back in 35 years.
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Hey now. I've spent more time in Tupelo, Oxford, Starkville and all the small towns between Memphis and Tuscaloosa.
All quality towns. Well not Tuscaloosa. Maybe if they closed the community college there. ;D
Robinsonville, MS? Worth the drive from Memphis.
Jackson? Still no redeeming quality. Although that was where I learned one should never place their hot tub display next to the petting zoo at the state fair. ;)
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Brother Lens:
Last year, I moved from Chicago's Northern Suburbs to Vero Beach, FL. My deal with Ms. Dgies is we come back to Chicago in the summer and I get to go to at least one home game at FiServ.
We came back to Chicago in July and am here through this weekend. For the first time in our lives, we lived in the city itself. Yes, we heard the same crime reports you have and they stirred a healthy caution in us. But....
The experience has been wonderful. Other than one petty crime incident, we have had no problems. No, I don't go roaming the west side at 3:00 a.m., but we live in a nice community (Broadway, Clark and Diversey) with lots of nearby restaurants, bars, wine cellars and a host of everything else. It is what I wanted Chicago to be. Only downside is there's an occasional Badger in the neighborhood.
You'll live unless you troll the west or south side at 3:00 a.m., and if you, have your car fitted for armor plating and bullet proof glass.
Panes Bread Cafe.
(It’s behind the hospital (Illinois Masonic) 3002 Sheffield Ave. (Sheffield and Wellington)
My people.
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I've been to a lot of places near and far, and I've yet to visit, or live in a bad place.
Been to Gary, Indiana much?
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All quality towns. Well not Tuscaloosa. Maybe if they closed the community college there. ;D
Robinsonville, MS? Worth the drive from Memphis.
Jackson? Still no redeeming quality. Although that was where I learned one should never place their hot tub display next to the petting zoo at the state fair. ;)
Robinsonville? Tunica Resorts? Mark it down. I’m not much of a gambler though.
I have a friend who feels the same way about Hattiesburg. He can’t stand it. Funny thing is I had a friend who lived in Jackson for a time. (news anchor) Wish we had kept in touch better so I can have a better answer in this moment.
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I can say fully that Springfield, OH is a bad place.
The smallish factory town I’ve visited outside Surat, India with total poverty, basically owned by a old school brutal tycoon types, so bad that even the meager paid factory workers chose to commute from 20 min away rather than live there…is a bad place.
The meth haven in rural Southern PA near where my old roommate was from that felt like it was out of a movie when I visited…is a bad place.
Now if we are talking major cities? Then I agree. Even the worst most mockable have redeeming qualities and areas. For example, Cleveland is often a punchline. I personally thought Joachim Noah’s joke about vacationing there was hilarious. But I actually adore Cleveland and was beyond surprised by how much I enjoyed it there at various stages of my life.
But there are some truly bad places, even if they have some good people there. Might actually be an interesting thread
I’ve been more of a “passing through”Dayton and Columbus. It’s super close to Dayton. What? Less than 30 miles? Not all that much farther to Columbus, a little bit. I’m sure I’d fine something good fun there.
Oxford, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, Mason, Toledo, Bowling Green, Sandusky.
One thing about Ohio, it’s a big state but there is always a good sized town not too far it seems. It’s not like that everywhere.
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Born there. Haven't been back in 35 years.
You have my sympathies. One of my closest friends in college, and his good friends who became part of my close circle, all went to Kenton Ridge which was the “nicer” of the HS there. They all fled and spent as little time as possible once they graduated. My friend lost both his parents in the last 3-4 years and with their passing he said he legitimately can’t see himself every stepping foot in Springfield again…and he lives in the Cbus suburbs, not like he moved to the coasts
I’ve been more of a “passing through”Dayton and Columbus. It’s super close to Dayton. What? Less than 30 miles? Not all that much farther to Columbus, a little bit. I’m sure I’d fine something good fun there.
Oxford, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, Mason, Toledo, Bowling Green, Sandusky.
Yes you could find something good in Dayton or Columbus…But that’s leaving Springfield to go there. Toledo and Dayton are both pretty crappy for mid sized cities, but I know of a couple cool spots in each. Springfield is a decrepit rust belt city that got brutalized in the 90s and faded ever since. Sad but true. No need to stretch to sing it’s supposed praise opposing people who have actual experience there just to be contrarian
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You have my sympathies. One of my closest friends in college, and his good friends who became part of my close circle, all went to Kenton Ridge which was the “nicer” of the HS there. They all fled and spent as little time as possible once they graduated. My friend lost both his parents in the last 3-4 years and with their passing he said he legitimately can’t see himself every stepping foot in Springfield again…and he lives in the Cbus suburbs, not like he moved to the coasts
Yes you could find something good in Dayton or Columbus…But that’s leaving Springfield to go there. Toledo and Dayton are both pretty crappy for mid sized cities, but I know of a couple cool spots in each. Springfield is a decrepit rust belt city that got brutalized in the 90s and faded ever since. Sad but true. No need to stretch to sing it’s supposed praise opposing people who have actual experience there just to be contrarian
Nah. You're a Negative Nancy.. That's gotta be exhausting.
You're also a bit loose and obsessive with the term contrarian. Seems like some projection going on there. Maybe you're just unhappy and argumentative.
Like I said I've never been to a bad place. That isn't saying something contrarian to anything. What is contrarian though is your follow up to it. If that works.for you, great. But that isn't me,
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Springfield was a one company town.
International Harvester.
Springfield was ravaged in the 80's.
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Springfield was a one company town.
International Harvester.
Springfield was ravaged in the 80's.
And there is nothing that is ever going to draw people back.
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No. Somehow avoided becoming a bedroom community for Dayton and Columbus.
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Completely unrelated, I’m not surprised in the least that Delta’s CEO announced today that Delta is going to walk back some/a lot of their recent SkyMiles changes. I know a bunch of Delta folks that immediately switched over to United recently after the changes were announced.
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Robinsonville? Tunica Resorts? Mark it down. I’m not much of a gambler though.
I have a friend who feels the same way about Hattiesburg. He can’t stand it. Funny thing is I had a friend who lived in Jackson for a time. (news anchor) Wish we had kept in touch better so I can have a better answer in this moment.
Actually I was thinking about the Hollywood Cafe. Great food and music. Granted I have not been in a long time. It’s the place referenced in the song Walking in Memphis.
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Actually I was thinking about the Hollywood Cafe. Great food and music. Granted I have not been in a long time. It’s the place referenced in the song Walking in Memphis.
It’s the Southern part of that town, near the Arkansas border. Off of HWY 61. It’s maybe 30 miles S of Memphis. Yep. I know that song too.
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Nah. You're a Negative Nancy.. That's gotta be exhausting.
You're also a bit loose and obsessive with the term contrarian. Seems like some projection going on there. Maybe you're just unhappy and argumentative.
Like I said I've never been to a bad place. That isn't saying something contrarian to anything. What is contrarian though is your follow up to it. If that works.for you, great. But that isn't me,
I’m sure my friends that grew up in a depressing dead end town where going to a good college was a unique escape are just negative nancies too. They should be more like uninformed strangers.
The majority of my posts in this thread are praising places and giving recommendations for such places. I literally agreed with your points about cities and pointed out exceptions. You, having never been there, assured us we were wrong and now label me a negative person and that I’m unhappy and argumentative… right. It’s also rich to call me argumentative coming from the person who shotguns 1000 words into a post if someone besmirches his hometown or favorite baseball team.
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I’m sure my friends that grew up in a depressing dead end town where going to a good college was a unique escape are just negative nancies too. They should be more like uninformed strangers.
The majority of my posts in this thread are praising places and giving recommendations for such places. I literally agreed with your points about cities and pointed out exceptions. You, having never been there, assured us we were wrong and now label me a negative person and that I’m unhappy and argumentative… right. It’s also rich to call me argumentative coming from the person who shotguns 1000 words into a post if someone besmirches his hometown or favorite baseball team.
To be fair, anyone who thinks St. Louis is actually a nice place is probably going to think there aren’t any bad places.
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Been to Gary, Indiana much?
Or East St. Louis?
One of my parents grew up there, and the other one in Jackson, MS. Needless to say, they aren't in any hurry to get back to either of those places.
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I’m sure my friends that grew up in a depressing dead end town where going to a good college was a unique escape are just negative nancies too. They should be more like uninformed strangers.
The majority of my posts in this thread are praising places and giving recommendations for such places. I literally agreed with your points about cities and pointed out exceptions. You, having never been there, assured us we were wrong and now label me a negative person and that I’m unhappy and argumentative… right. It’s also rich to call me argumentative coming from the person who shotguns 1000 words into a post if someone besmirches his hometown or favorite baseball team.
I don’t know your friends. I didn’t mention them. I said you are a Negative Nancy. You just don’t like my answer, my opinion. Maybe get over it.
Contrarian is a pet word for you that you overuse and don’t realize you are projecting about yourself.
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Or East St. Louis?
One of my parents grew up there, and the other one in Jackson, MS. Needless to say, they aren't in any hurry to get back to either of those places.
Sure. I’ve been to East St. Louis, many times.
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To be fair, anyone who thinks St. Louis is actually a nice place is probably going to think there aren’t any bad places.
I’m anything if consistent when it comes to not bashing places. Your trolling isn’t going to change that I also think Milwaukee and Chicago are nice places and all of the other towns in Il and WI that compile the 75% plus Marquette student body.
A lot of people here seem to pick on you, so I’ll let you go. It’s gotta be tough on you daily to be that miserable.
It’s the same few negative people, every time here.
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I’m anything if consistent when it comes to not bashing places. Your trolling isn’t going to change that I also think Milwaukee and Chicago are nice places and all of the other towns in Il and WI that compile the 75% plus Marquette student body.
A lot of people here seem to pick on you, so I’ll let you go. It’s gotta be tough on you daily to be that miserable.
It’s the same few negative people, every time here.
Tribal
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Tribal
Yep. I understand that you’re tribal, and that explains how you post. I like every place. You don’t like places because of your sports team rooting interest. And to me, that’s pretty sad.
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Brother Lens:
Last year, I moved from Chicago's Northern Suburbs to Vero Beach, FL. My deal with Ms. Dgies is we come back to Chicago in the summer and I get to go to at least one home game at FiServ.
We came back to Chicago in July and am here through this weekend. For the first time in our lives, we lived in the city itself. Yes, we heard the same crime reports you have and they stirred a healthy caution in us. But....
The experience has been wonderful. Other than one petty crime incident, we have had no problems. No, I don't go roaming the west side at 3:00 a.m., but we live in a nice community (Broadway, Clark and Diversey) with lots of nearby restaurants, bars, wine cellars and a host of everything else. It is what I wanted Chicago to be. Only downside is there's an occasional Badger in the neighborhood.
You'll live unless you troll the west or south side at 3:00 a.m., and if you, have your car fitted for armor plating and bullet proof glass.
Our last several years in Chicago, we lived right down the street from where you’re staying, dg.
Great area. So much to see and do within easy walking distance. Regularly walked to Lincoln Park Zoo, Wrigley, tons of restaurants, and all kinds of other spots.
Like every major metro (and some far, far smaller, “safer” places), Chicago has areas to avoid. So we avoided them, as have you. Otherwise, for 16 years, we loved living, working, playing and raising our kids in that great city.
I actually feel sorry for people who ignorantly parrot negative crapola they hear on TV.
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I can say fully that Springfield, OH is a bad place.
The smallish factory town I’ve visited outside Surat, India with total poverty, basically owned by a old school brutal tycoon types, so bad that even the meager paid factory workers chose to commute from 20 min away rather than live there…is a bad place.
The meth haven in rural Southern PA near where my old roommate was from that felt like it was out of a movie when I visited…is a bad place.
Now if we are talking major cities? Then I agree. Even the worst most mockable have redeeming qualities and areas. For example, Cleveland is often a punchline. I personally thought Joachim Noah’s joke about vacationing there was hilarious. But I actually adore Cleveland and was beyond surprised by how much I enjoyed it there at various stages of my life.
But there are some truly bad places, even if they have some good people there. Might actually be an interesting thread
Big fan of Cleveland. Back in the day, we would hit up the Flats, see a game at the Jake, and eat some great food. My longest friend and her entire family live in Olmsted Falls. Underrated city imo
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Hey now. I've spent more time in Tupelo, Oxford, Starkville and all the small towns between Memphis and Tuscaloosa.
You Jack Reacher?
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Brother Lens:
Last year, I moved from Chicago's Northern Suburbs to Vero Beach, FL. My deal with Ms. Dgies is we come back to Chicago in the summer and I get to go to at least one home game at FiServ.
We came back to Chicago in July and am here through this weekend. For the first time in our lives, we lived in the city itself. Yes, we heard the same crime reports you have and they stirred a healthy caution in us. But....
The experience has been wonderful. Other than one petty crime incident, we have had no problems. No, I don't go roaming the west side at 3:00 a.m., but we live in a nice community (Broadway, Clark and Diversey) with lots of nearby restaurants, bars, wine cellars and a host of everything else. It is what I wanted Chicago to be. Only downside is there's an occasional Badger in the neighborhood.
You'll live unless you troll the west or south side at 3:00 a.m., and if you, have your car fitted for armor plating and bullet proof glass.
dgies9156:
Some of the best times of my life were spent near your current Chicago residence. Lived on Lincoln Park West with a great view of the Lake .
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Big fan of Cleveland. Back in the day, we would hit up the Flats, see a game at the Jake, and eat some great food. My longest friend and her entire family live in Olmsted Falls. Underrated city imo
Agreed. Fantastic food scene in some of the traditional ethnic neighborhood pockets. A diverse and unpretentious yet eclectic bar scene. Lot to like. And it’s only continuing to evolve and develop from its industrial wasteland days.
Also, I get a kick out of Dgies the retiree spending the summer in a notorious new grad/young 20s landing spot. But at the same time, it’s a great area with tons to do and still makes total sense for that type of demographic. I spent my first year in Chicago a few blocks west at a Lincoln and Diversey.
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Big fan of Cleveland. Back in the day, we would hit up the Flats, see a game at the Jake, and eat some great food. My longest friend and her entire family live in Olmsted Falls. Underrated city imo
I am a fan of Cleveland also. I spent quite a bit of time there because in the Aughts' I had to go visit a supplier every quarter and I used to check the Indians schedule (in season) before making plans. My supplier was in Painesville.
The area was even more interesting as it felt a little like Connecticut since it was originally part of the Connecticut Western Reserve Every city and town had a Green including Cleveland because they were planned out by New Englanders. I used to go local wine searching at the Giant Eagle.
Dortmunder Gold remains one of my favorite beers.
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Agreed. Fantastic food scene in some of the traditional ethnic neighborhood pockets. A diverse and unpretentious yet eclectic bar scene. Lot to like. And it’s only continuing to evolve and develop from its industrial wasteland days.
Also, I get a kick out of Dgies the retiree spending the summer in a notorious new grad/young 20s landing spot. But at the same time, it’s a great area with tons to do and still makes total sense for that type of demographic. I spent my first year in Chicago a few blocks west at a Lincoln and Diversey.
Dgies is a stud, he can't help it. 8-)
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Agreed. Fantastic food scene in some of the traditional ethnic neighborhood pockets. A diverse and unpretentious yet eclectic bar scene. Lot to like. And it’s only continuing to evolve and develop from its industrial wasteland days.
Also, I get a kick out of Dgies the retiree spending the summer in a notorious new grad/young 20s landing spot. But at the same time, it’s a great area with tons to do and still makes total sense for that type of demographic. I spent my first year in Chicago a few blocks west at a Lincoln and Diversey.
Our plan at retirement is a series of AirBnB's. First year is winter in Manhattan, next year is winter in Manhattan Beach. From there i can see us spending a winter in San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, Boston (maybe even Philly!) etc.
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Also, I get a kick out of Dgies the retiree spending the summer in a notorious new grad/young 20s landing spot. But at the same time, it’s a great area with tons to do and still makes total sense for that type of demographic. I spent my first year in Chicago a few blocks west at a Lincoln and Diversey.
Aside from the relatively high cost of living and the weather, you're right that it's a great place for retirees to live, with just about everything one could want or need being very close by.
Wherever we move next - and there's a slight chance it could be back to Chicago - we will be looking for a neighborhood just like that because walkability (and easy public transportation) to stuff we want to do will be #1 on our list of requirements.
I know we'll be putting our lives on the line, of course, because every single neighborhood in every big city is a hellscape war zone, but I guess we're risk-takers like dgies.
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Our plan at retirement is a series of AirBnB's. First year is winter in Manhattan, next year is winter in Manhattan Beach. From there i can see us spending a winter in San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, Boston (maybe even Philly!) etc.
A Marquette couple we met a few years ago at a Charlotte game-watching gathering did a version of that for almost a year.
They knew they wanted to move somewhere but weren't sure exactly where, so they sold their house, put most of their stuff in storage, and then spent 3-6 weeks in each of numerous airbnbs. I think they did Charleston, Nashville, Savannah, Hilton Head, Pawley's Island, Sarasota and a few others. They ended up loving Hilton Head and recently bought a house there.
So not exactly what you're talking about doing, but similar.
Several years back, we knew a couple who "lived" on cruise ships for nearly 2 years!
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Several years back, we knew a couple who "lived" on cruise ships for nearly 2 years!
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/cruises/2015/01/19/woman-pays-164k-per-year-to-live-on-luxury-cruise-ship/22030011/
This is from 2015, but I think the only thing that stopped her was Covid. So 12 years living on a cruise ship.
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https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/cruises/2015/01/19/woman-pays-164k-per-year-to-live-on-luxury-cruise-ship/22030011/
This is from 2015, but I think the only thing that stopped her was Covid. So 12 years living on a cruise ship.
I'd rather live with Sultan than be on a cruise ship for a week, much less 12 years.
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I'd rather live with Sultan than be on a cruise ship for a week, much less 12 years.
We are nice hosts. Hope you don't have a problem with general nudity.
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We are nice hosts. Hope you don't have a problem with general nudity.
I heard he did fine work in saving ryan's privates
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Our plan at retirement is a series of AirBnB's. First year is winter in Manhattan, next year is winter in Manhattan Beach. From there i can see us spending a winter in San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, Boston (maybe even Philly!) etc.
You must be a cold weather person. I’m the opposite of that.
Whenever I had a friend or family visit me in Chicago or Milwaukee, it was almost always later June-September unless it was for a specific event. And sometimes they remarked about the chilly Summer temps. They still talk about their Winter visits like a badge of honor.
Some of those places aren’t the best for everyone in the Winter, especially older people. Keep that in mind.
San Francisco and Manhattan Beach won’t matter much. You won’t get the warmer Summer temps inland from the South Bay in L.A. during Winter. Boston has some tough Winters. Not as bad but not great, NYC/Philly/Ballmer/DC. Seattle is very challenging in the Winter, more than all of the rest possibly. And these are all for people who seem to like endless sweatshirt weather.
Everyone is different. I’d say 105 with low humidity is the higher end of comfortable. With humidity, I’d say 80’s is the higher end of comfortable. But I know many Upper Midwest and Northern coastal types like it cooler or colder.
Let me know if you ever make it out to NYC or Manhattan Beach.
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Stuck in the Charlotte Airport flight delays for 4 hours
MU82 any chance your in the airport ?
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Stuck in the Charlotte Airport flight delays for 4 hours
MU82 any chance your in the airport ?
I was not. Hope you got home OK.
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https://nypost.com/2023/09/30/retired-couple-books-51-back-to-back-cruises-because-its-cheaper-than-retirement-home/
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No list of Austin places is complete without the world famous https://www.antonellischeese.com/ of capital one fame! ;D
I have no idea what it’s really like but the Hyde Park restaurant next door is good. https://hpbng.com/
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Alright, need some advice. We are contemplating a trip to Costa Rica. We live by the ocean and used to live in Hawaii, so not really caring about the ocean part.
Teen son that is very adventurous. I know very little about the country. Assume I am flying into San Jose, just based on connections, price.
Jungle and mountains seem to be a draw.
Is an area of the country better than others? Especially for nature/adventure stuff?
Resort or awesome AirBnB better?
Any other tips?
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Fly into San Jose. Stay near the Arenal volcano. There are a lot of nice resorts, adventure stuff around there.
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Alright, need some advice. We are contemplating a trip to Costa Rica. We live by the ocean and used to live in Hawaii, so not really caring about the ocean part.
Teen son that is very adventurous. I know very little about the country. Assume I am flying into San Jose, just based on connections, price.
Jungle and mountains seem to be a draw.
Is an area of the country better than others? Especially for nature/adventure stuff?
Resort or awesome AirBnB better?
Any other tips?
Sultan's suggestion is a good one. I would add that one of the coolest parts of Costa Rica was that you can drive or fly for just an hour or two and feel like you're in a completely different world. The regions are just so different - e.g. the central region with volcanoes. mouintains, and temperate cloud forests vs the tropical rain forests of the southern and coastal parts of the country. Both are ridiculously cool, but quite different, so just have a good idea what you're after.
The topography and scenery of the cloud forests is unlike anything else. However, if you're looking for the sloths, tapirs, monkeys, parrots and the other large, charismatic animals many people associate with Costa Rica, you won't find quite as much of it there in my experience. For that you need to head to the more remote and southern parts of the country. For that, the Osa Peninsula is very cool, if a bit tough to get to - the Sansa puddle jumper was a small adventure in itself. But you can access the Corcovado Natl Park from there, and with it right on the doorstep of the town, you get things like monkeys trying to steal your toiletries.
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Alright, need some advice. We are contemplating a trip to Costa Rica. We live by the ocean and used to live in Hawaii, so not really caring about the ocean part.
Teen son that is very adventurous. I know very little about the country. Assume I am flying into San Jose, just based on connections, price.
Jungle and mountains seem to be a draw.
Is an area of the country better than others? Especially for nature/adventure stuff?
Resort or awesome AirBnB better?
Any other tips?
Great place and great people.
You can roughly break down Costa Rica into sections.
San Jose and the Central Valley: San Jose is crowded, narrow streets, with Museums, cultural attractions, parks, galleries. Central Valley is the base of the mountains and volcanic peaks, lots of agriculture here. coffee, cocoa, dairy.
Northern Plains: Arenal Volcano, hotsprings, lakes, rivers, lagoons, biodiversity, lots of festivals in the towns, it rains more often in this section. close to La Fortuna and the capital.
West Coast can be divided into the following areas:
Puntarenas: It’s on the Nicoya Peninsula, and includes the Golfo Islands. Saint Teresa, Montezuma, Tambor, etc…are all along the Peninsula.
Guanacaste: This is the area from the Nicaragua border to the Nicoya Peninsula. Liberia and Santa Cruz are the bigger areas. Mountain lowlands, dry forests, warmer here. Less humidity here.
Central Pacific: This area is most accessible. Jacó, Manuel Antonio, etc…you’ll want to go to here on your trip.
Southern Pacific is hot and humid and less developed and more remote. Probably skipping for a first timer.
Caribbean Coast has two sections:
Northeast: Rainforests, flat with rivers. Need a plane or boat to access.
Southeast: Afro Caribbean culture, banana farms. Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Manzanillo. Very backpacker reggae vibe in some parts. Surfing is more seasonal (Dec-April) here than year round on Pacific side. Caribbean side has a much different vibe than the Pacific side. Both are worth exploring. Chile Rojo is one of a few spots in Puerto Viejo to stop by in th e evenings. Jaguar Rescue Center, Salsa Brava beach, Playa Negra, Ounta Uva, Chocolate farms etc…stay between playa cocles and Manzanillo. This side is super laid back.
You can cross the Sixaola border here, and take a boat to Bocas Del Toro in Panama. (great ppl here too) This is how many people cross between Costa Rica and Panama, as opposed to through Chiriquí in the Volcan Baru highlands, or even the NW coast of Panama which is less developed as opposed to the areas South of there such as David or the Gulf of Chiriquí or Azuero Peninsula etc…
If it were me, first time, San Jose, Central Valley, Central Pacific, Limón (SE Caribbean side/Puerto Viejo) and see what else you can fit in there. The challenge with the Caribbean is it is farther away, 4hrs as opposed to 1, 1.5. 2 to some other areas.
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Dgies is a stud, he can't help it. 8-)
But Ms. Dgies threatens his economic viability if he enters stud service! ;D
We are back in Florida and I would heartily endorse the idea of the summer in Chicago. The neighborhood was incredible and Brother MU and Herm were right. The restaurants were really good, the neighborhood safe and the people very warm. Ms. Dgies and I went to a Packers bar on Diversey a couple weeks ago to watch the Packers/Bears game. Ms. Dgies, who drinks beer and wine, won a free shot in the contest and all the 20-somethings cheered her on as she scarfed the shot. She was such a good sport that the 20-somethings invited her to join them the following week while I was in California on business.
She did and had a blast!
We found an incredible Catholic Church in the neighborhood, St. Clement's Parish, that had me clamoring to go back. Good mix of old and young, vibrant and engaged. The pastor was a Polish priest who has an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School and teaches Change Management at the Quinlan School at Loyola. His homilies were incredibly organized and presented similar to how I would do a Management presentation. And the church itself was stunning.
We were gone exactly three months. Next year, it's probably going to be two, as that long away from home probably is too much. Plus, we're going to do a cruise down the Danube next year.
For the record, I'm DEFINITELY NOT RETIRED! Not yet, anyway.
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But Ms. Dgies threatens his economic viability if he enters stud service! ;D
We are back in Florida and I would heartily endorse the idea of the summer in Chicago. The neighborhood was incredible and Brother MU and Herm were right. The restaurants were really good, the neighborhood safe and the people very warm. Ms. Dgies and I went to a Packers bar on Diversey a couple weeks ago to watch the Packers/Bears game. Ms. Dgies, who drinks beer and wine, won a free shot in the contest and all the 20-somethings cheered her on as she scarfed the shot. She was such a good sport that the 20-somethings invited her to join them the following week while I was in California on business.
She did and had a blast!
We found an incredible Catholic Church in the neighborhood, St. Clement's Parish, that had me clamoring to go back. Good mix of old and young, vibrant and engaged. The pastor was a Polish priest who has an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School and teaches Change Management at the Quinlan School at Loyola. His homilies were incredibly organized and presented similar to how I would do a Management presentation. And the church itself was stunning.
We were gone exactly three months. Next year, it's probably going to be two, as that long away from home probably is too much. Plus, we're going to do a cruise down the Danube next year.
For the record, I'm DEFINITELY NOT RETIRED! Not yet, anyway.
On Diversey? Which one? Would be surprised some place would try to steal crowd from Wills in that area.
Is Saint Clements the one on like Orchard just north of Fullerton? If so I went to a wedding there once, gorgeous church
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All of these posts mentioning San Jose Costa Rica reminded me of a friend's trip many years ago when trips were still booked through travel agents.
5 women took an annual girl's trip. The year after doing Tuscany Costa Rica was up.
2 booked together through the same travel agent, left on the plane only to land in San Jose Guatemala. No one had read things carefully including when boarding. At the time there were no flights between Guatemala and Costa Rica so it took a combination of flights/delays to join the other 3 women.
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On Diversey? Which one? Would be surprised some place would try to steal crowd from Wills in that area.
Is Saint Clements the one on like Orchard just north of Fullerton? If so I went to a wedding there once, gorgeous church
The bar is in the 400 block of east Diversey. Willie Lills is the name of the place.
St. Clement's is on Deming at Orchard. You are right, it's a beautiful church. But there's lots of beautiful churches with a very unengaged congregation. This one is very different.
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I was just at MU wedding with 30 or Philly residents. Many of them were in law enforcement. All of them were implorring me to cme back and visit. Nary a mention of the violence a few have mentioned above. Interesting.
Also, I'm spending next weekend in Chicago. If i make it out I'll report back. Hotel prices were pretty high. Marathon weekend and all. I guess people are still showing up.
Back on the train from an incredible weekend in Chicago. The date worked for us bc of kids schedules. Wasn’t sure what it would be like with the marathon.
Despite 45,000 descending on the loop it still was fantastic as usual. Made reservations at Gibson’s 4 weeks ago and though it was packed we had an amazing meal and they treated us like royalty.
Took the 5:08 back. Fun to spend the day in the city. Marathon energy and then other oblivious to it.
I can’t imagine avoiding Chicago, it never disappoints. One of our planet’s greatest treasures. Already planning the next trip back.
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Back on the train from an incredible weekend in Chicago. The date worked for us bc of kids schedules. Wasn’t sure what it would be like with the marathon.
Despite 45,000 descending on the loop it still was fantastic as usual. Made reservations at Gibson’s 4 weeks ago and though it was packed we had an amazing meal and they treated us like royalty.
Took the 5:08 back. Fun to spend the day in the city. Marathon energy and then other oblivious to it.
I can’t imagine avoiding Chicago, it never disappoints. One of our planet’s greatest treasures. Already planning the next trip back.
I lived at Lasalle and Division for 6 years. I absolutely adored the area/location…except for Marathon weekend. It’s been more than 5 years and I still have the sound of cowbells on an early Sunday morning ringing in my ears :o
Only North American city I’ve found to be anything like Chicago was Toronto.
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Thank you shoothoops for the detailed Costa Rica breakdown. I appreciate it.
For Austin, we just had a great, albeit pricey dinner at ATX Cuncina downtown. Great twist on TexMex. Nick Foles dad is part owner.
And I think it was mentioned upthread, but there are a wealth of food trucks in Austin. Find the ones with the long lines.
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Thank you shoothoops for the detailed Costa Rica breakdown. I appreciate it.
For Austin, we just had a great, albeit pricey dinner at ATX Cuncina downtown. Great twist on TexMex. Nick Foles dad is part owner.
And I think it was mentioned upthread, but there are a wealth of food trucks in Austin. Find the ones with the long lines.
You're.welcome.
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Have been on road all week. Airports packed everywhere
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Have been on road all week. Airports packed everywhere
At least hotel prices are cheap! I thought $500 a night for the Fairfield in Austin was very reasonable.
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Only North American city I’ve found to be anything like Chicago was Toronto.
How true, how true!
When I was in Toronto for a long weekend with my wife, I really felt like I never left Chicago. Did Toronto on a weekend during Taste of the Danforth. Really couldn't tell the difference between that community and a Chicago neighborhood.
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https://sf.eater.com/2023/10/12/23914487/north-beach-restaurant-closing-san-francisco?mibextid=Zxz2cZ
😢
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https://sf.eater.com/2023/10/12/23914487/north-beach-restaurant-closing-san-francisco?mibextid=Zxz2cZ
😢
Piccolo Forno is a good spot a couple of blocks NW from there through Washington Square.
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https://sf.eater.com/2023/10/12/23914487/north-beach-restaurant-closing-san-francisco?mibextid=Zxz2cZ
😢
I was always a Don Pistos in North Beach fan before checking out a local bespoke clothing/bag store. Apparently, DP is closed, too.
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Piccolo Forno is a good spot a couple of blocks NW from there through Washington Square.
It is and there are a number of great Italian restaurants there. However, North Beach is historic and a landmark.
That said it was getting a little worn and dusty and I can see why the end of the era is approaching. Hopefully, someone buys it and restores its tradition. Classic
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It’s sad but I’ve seen a number of those kind of restaurants close when the original owner or maybe second generation pass away. Kids don’t want to run it. Sometimes they’re sold and the new owners change it. Other times they just close.
Time marches on sadly.
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It is and there are a number of great Italian restaurants there. However, North Beach is historic and a landmark.
That said it was getting a little worn and dusty and I can see why the end of the era is approaching. Hopefully, someone buys it and restores its tradition. Classic
I can’t speak first hand but what I’ve heard is the opposite of that a bit. The place was refurbished and looked good. But food quality, increased menu prices, staff quality decline since Lorenzo passed away. Mismanagement type of thing more than an aging location. And if those things are true, then the old classic being your grandparents feel would be lost with that. As food quality, strong family customer service etc…was their calling as it wasn’t a trendy spot, but it was a bit of a past power broker spot. (Neither of which are often my thing, but I respect and understand the appeal.)
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I can’t speak first hand but what I’ve heard is the opposite of that a bit. The place was refurbished and looked good. But food quality, increased menu prices, staff quality decline since Lorenzo passed away. Mismanagement type of thing more than an aging location. And if those things are true, then the old classic being your grandparents feel would be lost with that. As food quality, strong family customer service etc…was their calling as it wasn’t a trendy spot, but it was a bit of a past power broker spot. (Neither of which are often my thing, but I respect and understand the appeal.)
I mean the 2nd generation is 50 but Leo has other interests like the winery and real estate. Was the restaurant "maintained"? Yes but it wasn't really modernized and trendy which a lot of North Beach places are doing. Tourism kept the coffers full but that iconic appeal was why it didn't modernize. When that tourism base dried up, the rest of your recap about the decline is true about a past its prime clientele, service, etc.
It was time. But it's still sad. That said, it will be gobbled up which is the purpose for the long close.
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I mean the 2nd generation is 50 but Leo has other interests like the winery and real estate. Was the restaurant "maintained"? Yes but it wasn't really modernized and trendy which a lot of North Beach places are doing. Tourism kept the coffers full but that iconic appeal was why it didn't modernize. When that tourism base dried up, the rest of your recap about the decline is true about a past its prime clientele, service, etc.
It was time. But it's still sad. That said, it will be gobbled up which is the purpose for the long close.
They did a recent remodel. Being trendy was never their thing and they didn’t have to be trendy. My understanding is their problem was regular customers not being as satisfied as they were in the past, separate from being trendy or tourism.
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Thanks to everyone who gave Philadelphia suggestions. That city was a ton of fun, I was not expecting to enjoy it that much. My conference ended up being a block from Reading Terminal Market so I ate there every day for lunch. I also found Middle Child Clubhouse and that was possibly the best breakfast sandwich I've ever had.
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Thanks to everyone who gave Philadelphia suggestions. That city was a ton of fun, I was not expecting to enjoy it that much. My conference ended up being a block from Reading Terminal Market so I ate there every day for lunch. I also found Middle Child Clubhouse and that was possibly the best breakfast sandwich I've ever had.
Love to hear it!!
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Has anyone ever gone to the Olympics before? Best practices for tickets/accommodation etc.
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I lived at Lasalle and Division for 6 years. I absolutely adored the area/location…except for Marathon weekend. It’s been more than 5 years and I still have the sound of cowbells on an early Sunday morning ringing in my ears :o
Only North American city I’ve found to be anything like Chicago was Toronto.
Marathon day was one of our favorites. Although we lived on an earlier part of the course so we probably had smaller crowds and a shorter duration.
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Any Miami recommendations? We’ll have maybe 1.5 days available and are staying in Brickell.
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Any Miami recommendations? We’ll have maybe 1.5 days available and are staying in Brickell.
Little Havana & Calle Ocho - have a sammy, a mojito, and catch some music.
Take a guided tour of Wynwood Walls.
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Any Miami recommendations? We’ll have maybe 1.5 days available and are staying in Brickell.
My wife and I took this tour:
https://www.viator.com/tours/Miami/Little-Havana-Cultural-and-Historical-Food-Tour/d662-19736P3
We loved it, and never felt pressured to do anything that wasn't on the tour.
Also, just walk the strip of art deco buildings that go alongside Miami Beach. You don't have a ton of time, but these are the two things I can suggest.
The sand on Miami beach is very coarse... so it will exfoliate the hell out of your feet if you decide to walk along the water!
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Any Miami recommendations? We’ll have maybe 1.5 days available and are staying in Brickell.
If you’ve never been, definitely spend a good chunk of time on South Beach. I’d hit the beach itself and also visit Lincoln Road.
I’d also recommend visiting Miracle Mile in Coral Gables and/or Coconut Grove. Neither of those would require more than a couple of hours to walk around.
For a unique spot to have a drink or two, I’d recommend Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern in South Miami.
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Any Miami recommendations? We’ll have maybe 1.5 days available and are staying in Brickell.
When? Where are you staying? Have you been there before?
It sounds simple enough but make sure you get on the water via boat or beach.
1) Art Deco District runs between 5th st and 23rd st, going South to North, and along Collins Ave, (A1A) Ocean Drive (East), and Washington Ave (West). Stroll this district for architecture. Espanola Way is between 14th and 15th streets. (Havana 1957 and A La Folie Cafe) Alma Mexicana at 14th and Washington. La Ventana Columbian Cafe is at 7th and Washington. La Sandwicherie 14th street between Washington Ave and Collins Ave. (They also have locations in Brickell near the Brickell City Centre, and Coral Gables) South Ponte Park Pier and Lummis Park South Beach are good spots. Walk through Lincoln Road too.
2) Brickell. Brickell Key Park is a nice little park with skyline and bay views and shade. Brickell City Centre is a 3 story trendy shopping and dining spot. Mary Brickell Village is a smaller open air alternative. (North Italia and Mister 01) A few rooftop spots are more views than food and drink imo. Rosa Sky or Sugar. The Taco Stand on 25th is good. The Underline is Miami’s version of the Highline. It’s a work in progress. You can check it out in Brickell and have a drink or something along the Miami River.
3) Little Havana (Calle Ocho) El Pub for Empanadas. (4 miles West) Lots of dining establishments.
4) If you are near Coral Gables or Coconut Grove, or The U (4-6 miles SW) Casola’s at 17th ave and 24th street. (It’s an old school dive) If you want higher end Italian try Fratellino. Crandon Park in Key Biscayne is good too but you won’t have time.
Metromover and the Trolley are free and available in Brickell to get around.
That’s a start.
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Ring up #22. He might have a soft spot for a fellow alum, aina?
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When? Where are you staying? Have you been there before?
It sounds simple enough but make sure you get on the water via boat or beach.
1) Art Deco District runs between 5th st and 23rd st, going South to North, and along Collins Ave, (A1A) Ocean Drive (East), and Washington Ave (West). Stroll this district for architecture. Espanola Way is between 14th and 15th streets. (Havana 1957 and A La Folie Cafe) Alma Mexicana at 14th and Washington. La Ventana Columbian Cafe is at 7th and Washington. La Sandwicherie 14th street between Washington Ave and Collins Ave. (They also have locations in Brickell near the Brickell City Centre, and Coral Gables) South Ponte Park Pier and Lummis Park South Beach are good spots. Walk through Lincoln Road too.
2) Brickell. Brickell Key Park is a nice little park with skyline and bay views and shade. Brickell City Centre is a 3 story trendy shopping and dining spot. Mary Brickell Village is a smaller open air alternative. (North Italia and Mister 01) A few rooftop spots are more views than food and drink imo. Rosa Sky or Sugar. The Taco Stand on 25th is good. The Underline is Miami’s version of the Highline. It’s a work in progress. You can check it out in Brickell and have a drink or something along the Miami River.
3) Little Havana (Calle Ocho) El Pub for Empanadas. (4 miles West) Lots of dining establishments.
4) If you are near Coral Gables or Coconut Grove, or The U (4-6 miles SW) Casola’s at 17th ave and 24th street. (It’s an old school dive) If you want higher end Italian try Fratellino. Crandon Park in Key Biscayne is good too but you won’t have time.
Metromover and the Trolley are free and available in Brickell to get around.
That’s a start.
Casola’s. Outstanding for late-night post-drinking pizza binge. Don’t believe I ever went there in 8 years other than that.
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Casola’s. Outstanding for late-night post-drinking pizza binge. Don’t believe I ever went there in 8 years other than that.
Yep. Miami nostalgia. Carlos and Augustin now. (RIP Ramon) Always a a strong sample game there too.
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When? Where are you staying? Have you been there before?
It sounds simple enough but make sure you get on the water via boat or beach.
1) Art Deco District runs between 5th st and 23rd st, going South to North, and along Collins Ave, (A1A) Ocean Drive (East), and Washington Ave (West). Stroll this district for architecture. Espanola Way is between 14th and 15th streets. (Havana 1957 and A La Folie Cafe) Alma Mexicana at 14th and Washington. La Ventana Columbian Cafe is at 7th and Washington. La Sandwicherie 14th street between Washington Ave and Collins Ave. (They also have locations in Brickell near the Brickell City Centre, and Coral Gables) South Ponte Park Pier and Lummis Park South Beach are good spots. Walk through Lincoln Road too.
2) Brickell. Brickell Key Park is a nice little park with skyline and bay views and shade. Brickell City Centre is a 3 story trendy shopping and dining spot. Mary Brickell Village is a smaller open air alternative. (North Italia and Mister 01) A few rooftop spots are more views than food and drink imo. Rosa Sky or Sugar. The Taco Stand on 25th is good. The Underline is Miami’s version of the Highline. It’s a work in progress. You can check it out in Brickell and have a drink or something along the Miami River.
3) Little Havana (Calle Ocho) El Pub for Empanadas. (4 miles West) Lots of dining establishments.
4) If you are near Coral Gables or Coconut Grove, or The U (4-6 miles SW) Casola’s at 17th ave and 24th street. (It’s an old school dive) If you want higher end Italian try Fratellino. Crandon Park in Key Biscayne is good too but you won’t have time.
Metromover and the Trolley are free and available in Brickell to get around.
That’s a start.
That is a nice list. I certainly second the bolded ones (others are good too, but those are go to suggestions). Love Espanola Way and Havana 1957 and walking Lincoln Road Mall. Only go to the original Havana 1957 on Espanola, not the now sadly chain ones.
In Brickell, I am not a fan of Mary Brickell Village anymore. Was better before Covid, but haven't been in a year and half, so maybe better.
Two solid restaurant choices in Brickell are: (both are owned by the same folks, so same menus:
Crazy About You - https://www.crazyaboutyourestaurant.com great water views.
Dolores But You Can Call Me Lolita - https://www.doloreslolita.com/ - Sit outside, nice views of the skyline.
I like Blackbird Ordinary for a place to drink. Trendy and dive bar all in one. Inside is dark and a throw back to classic bars.
On the Miami River, American Social is a good place to sit, relax and have a drink while watching the boats go by. Sad note, that is where Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez was drinking before he crashed his boat into the jetty (so don't drink and boat).
Downtown Miami - Take the people mover from Brickell
Perez Art Museum is world class, Science museum is nice as well.
It is touristy, but an experience is Bayside Market - you will feel you are in a different world and you can get boat tours out of there if that is what you are looking for.
Calle Ocho -Drink a cuban coffee or a cafe con leche from a window somewhere. Domino Park to watch old cuban men play dominos, bay of pig memorial.
Café La Trova was just rated a top 25 bar in the world. Not been, but there is that. https://www.cafelatrova.com/
Toward Coral Gables is Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. A beautiful old mansion on Biscayne Bay https://vizcaya.org/
If you do make it to South Beach, Clevelander is a staple. on 14th is one of my favorite bars in the world - Mac's Duece Club. Was truly a dive bar. Since the owner (who tended mark at age 99) died, it can be hit or miss.
Wynwood district has some great art, food, bars, breweries (though I am not a huge fan of Wynwood brewery). The Wynwood Marketplace is a fun open air market with good food. https://www.wynwood-marketplace.com
Let us know specifics. As others have said - Mojito, Cuban Sandwich, Cuban Coffee, Tres Leches for dessert.
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Interesting stuff on the growing inconvenience of travel in the daily email newsletter from the NYT's David Leonhardt:
The next time you take a trip within the U.S., I encourage you to try a thought experiment: Imagine how long the same trip might have taken a half-century ago. Chances are, it would have taken less time than it does today.
The scheduled flight time between Los Angeles and New York, for example, has become about 30 minutes longer. Aviation technology has not advanced in ways that speed the trip, and the skies have become so crowded that pilots reroute planes to avoid traffic. Nearly every other part of the trip also lasts longer than it would have a few decades ago, thanks to traffic on the roads and airport security. All told, a cross-country trip could take a few more hours today than it would have in the 1970s.
Shorter trips also take more time. Auto traffic in almost every metro area has worsened, and the country has done little to improve its rail network. In 1969, Metroliner trains made two-and-a-half-hour, nonstop trips between Washington and New York. Today, there are no nonstop trains on that route, and the fastest trip, on Acela trains, takes about 20 minutes longer than the Metroliner once did.
The speed at which people can get from one place to another is one of the most basic measures of a society’s sophistication. It affects economic productivity and human happiness; academic research has found that commuting makes people more unhappy than almost any other daily activity. Yet in one area of U.S. travel after another, progress has largely stopped over the past half-century.
This lack of recent progress is not a result of any physical or technological limits, either. In other parts of the world, travel has continued to accelerate. Shanghai’s airport is almost 20 miles from its city center, and the trip on a high-speed train takes less than 10 minutes. La Guardia Airport and Times Square are significantly closer together — yet good luck making the trip in less than 30 minutes.
Why is it more difficult to get around the U.S.? Above all, it’s because our society has stopped investing in the future as we once did.
For decades, government investment in highways, mass transit, scientific research, education and other future-oriented programs has grown more slowly than it once did — and has often failed to keep pace with economic growth. And the private sector tends to underinvest in these same areas because any individual company has a hard time making a profit from early-stage investments.
This shortfall of investment affects far more than travel. It affects economic growth, public health and both racial and gender inequities. The long American investment slump is one of the causes of our modern malaise, with rising income inequality, declining life expectancy, and deep frustration about the economy even when it’s growing.
Leonhardt's words were accompanied by this graphic:
(https://ecp.yusercontent.com/mail?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic01.nyt.com%2Fimages%2F2023%2F10%2F17%2Fbriefing%2FoakImage-1697574078726%2FoakImage-1697574078726-jumbo.png&t=1697713927&ymreqid=3c8d0d78-3338-e941-1c8d-9702e8012b00&sig=._CBcViuM3v88ewi.Ox8dA--~D)
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Wait, do you mean by PBI-ATL trip that has grown by 40 minutes over the years isn't due to continental drift? ;D
It is interesting that on smooth travel days, flights can get in 30 minutes early. Lots of padding.
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Wait, do you mean by PBI-ATL trip that has grown by 40 minutes over the years isn't due to continental drift? ;D
It is interesting that on smooth travel days, flights can get in 30 minutes early. Lots of padding.
Yea, my wife and I get in “arguments” about that all the time. I fly a lot more than her and usually refer to flight time. And she always thinks about the listed times on the app/ticket. And I’m like no, it’s no 3 hours flight time from Milwaukee to Newark. Or New York to London is not 7+ hours.
It’s even more amusing when you have an airline like United that has a fantastic, dynamic app. You push back from the gate on time and get into departure queue and all of a sudden you’re already tracking 15 min or so early for arrival on the app tracking the flight, before you’re even in the air
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Pretty sure its all due ta global warming, aina?
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Pretty sure its all due ta global warming, aina?
It’s why snow crabs have disappeared
https://www.yahoo.com/news/billions-crabs-went-missing-around-180012346.html
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It’s been a while since I’ve flown out of here, but Logan has become America’s worst airport.
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It’s been a while since I’ve flown out of here, but Logan has become America’s worst airport.
Are you surprised? It's run by Massport!
Logan has been the world's worst airport for years.
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It’s been a while since I’ve flown out of here, but Logan has become America’s worst airport.
Yea, now that LGA updated, I don't have any disagreement. It was always terrible in a way cause locationally made it a traffic nightmare, but the airport itself just STINKS.
Are you surprised? It's run by Massport!
Logan has been the world's worst airport for years.
Brother DG, I know you're decently traveled, Logan is a glorious beacon compared to many major city world airports. Off the top of my head...Delhi, Chennai, Luton, Berlin, Naples, and Manila.
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AP headline: An off-duty pilot is accused of trying to shut down the engines of a Horizon Air jet in midflight
https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-safety-security-457e4bc7a1eca47842ce64aebe512c24?user_email=6647dfa7189f748384d7389910f7b584c6fcfc35ae990102964c7e826d4175c7&utm_medium=Afternoon_Wire&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_campaign=AfternoonWire_Oct23_2023&utm_term=Afternoon%20Wire
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — An off-duty pilot riding in the extra seat in the cockpit of a Horizon Air passenger jet tried to shut down the engines in midflight and had to be subdued by the crew, a pilot flying the plane told air traffic controllers.
Authorities in Oregon identified the man as Joseph David Emerson, 44. He was being held Monday on 83 counts each of attempted murder and reckless endangerment and one count of endangering an aircraft, according to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.
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Fascinating (and terrifying). 83 counts of attempted murder from a single action has to be a record
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Fascinating (and terrifying). 83 counts of attempted murder from a single action has to be a record
Good thing he was "off duty" and not "on duty"
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Fascinating (and terrifying). 83 counts of attempted murder from a single action has to be a record
Its certainly a unique way of prosecuting. I'm sure there will be some sort of insanity defense but my god what a weird scenario.
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Yea, now that LGA updated, I don't have any disagreement. It was always terrible in a way cause locationally made it a traffic nightmare, but the airport itself just STINKS.
Brother DG, I know you're decently traveled, Logan is a glorious beacon compared to many major city world airports. Off the top of my head...Delhi, Chennai, Luton, Berlin, Naples, and Manila.
But, but, but.... it's run by Massport! They make the Chicago Department of Aviation look organized and efficient.
Perhaps Boston Logan/Massport is not the absolute worst in the world. But it's up there.
I'd add to really bad airports, Minsk IV, the Minsk, Belarus Globalport! Was there in the 1990s and conditions in Belarus were so bad that they had all the lights in the stairways on the international concourse turned out to save energy, which they could not afford. For every operating jetliner on the tarmac (including western Boeings and Airbuses), there were 50 former Aeroflot jets made by Illushyn just rotting on the tarmac. For as "effective" a leader as is Belarus' Freely Elected Dictator for Life, those planes probably are still there!
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Terminals A and E at Logan are serviceable, the rest can die in a firey hell.
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Has anyone ever gone to the Olympics before? Best practices for tickets/accommodation etc.
Went to 96 summer Olympics as guest of a Major Corporate Sponsor . That is the best way to get accommodations and tickets. The sponsor's book up all the major hotels in the area .
Tickets are always available at a price for any event you want . We went to swimming , boxing , tennis and table tennis .
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Anyone got any secrets for long term parking at ORD? Preferably covered, because I don't enjoy shoveling snow off the car after a long international flight. I'll be traveling from there in 2-3 week stretches for the foreseeable future.
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Anyone got any secrets for long term parking at ORD? Preferably covered, because I don't enjoy shoveling snow off the car after a long international flight. I'll be traveling from there in 2-3 week stretches for the foreseeable future.
Probably not a secret, but any trips I take that are longer than 2 nights, I use Economy Lot F, and do everything possible to find a spot on the 4th floor (which is covered). That lot has the tram to take you to the terminals, so you’re never outside.
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Anyone got any secrets for long term parking at ORD? Preferably covered, because I don't enjoy shoveling snow off the car after a long international flight. I'll be traveling from there in 2-3 week stretches for the foreseeable future.
If you're gonna be out of town for 2-3 weeks, why not just Uber/Lyft to the airport. Unless you're going to ORD from Madison or something, that would have to be significant less expensive than parking there for multiple weeks.
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If you're gonna be out of town for 2-3 weeks, why not just Uber/Lyft to the airport. Unless you're going to ORD from Madison or something, that would have to be significant less expensive than parking there for multiple weeks.
I'm driving 3.5 hours to ORD... because flights from CWA are too unreliable.
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Probably not a secret, but any trips I take that are longer than 2 nights, I use Economy Lot F, and do everything possible to find a spot on the 4th floor (which is covered). That lot has the tram to take you to the terminals, so you’re never outside.
Pre-book or just hope you're lucky?
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Pre-book or just hope you're lucky?
I don’t believe you can pre-book Lot F. It’s attached to the rental car facility, only floors 4 (covered) and 5 (roof, not covered) are open economy parking.
Fourth floor may show that it’s full and tell you to go up to 5. My advice, ignore it, and stay on 4 to find an open spot. The red/green lights above and the numbers/arrows that are supposed to indicate if a space is open or not are both pointless, the green is almost always wrong. If you drive around enough though on 4, you’ll find a spot.
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I don’t believe you can pre-book Lot F. It’s attached to the rental car facility, only floors 4 (covered) and 5 (roof, not covered) are open economy parking.
Fourth floor may show that it’s full and tell you to go up to 5. My advice, ignore it, and stay on 4 to find an open spot. The red/green lights above and the numbers/arrows that are supposed to indicate if a space is open or not are both pointless, the green is almost always wrong. If you drive around enough though on 4, you’ll find a spot.
Just to chime in here, this is good advice and was my go-to for airport parking the last few years I flew out of ORD. And the "open spaces" is always wrong. I once drove up to 4, it said "full" and had a temporary barricade there. Drove around it, entered the floor, and saw at least 25 spots within a few min.
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Just to chime in here, this is good advice and was my go-to for airport parking the last few years I flew out of ORD. And the "open spaces" is always wrong. I once drove up to 4, it said "full" and had a temporary barricade there. Drove around it, entered the floor, and saw at least 25 spots within a few min.
Way to break the law! Lucky you didn't get towed.
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Good thing he was "off duty" and not "on duty"
I guess that is a good argument against premeditation (first degree murder) for the defense. If he was really thinking about this ahead of time, wouldn't he have waited until he was actually in control of the plane? Sounds like a spur of the moment breakdown. Maybe an argument with the other pilots in the cockpit or some other trigger.
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Way to break the law! Lucky you didn't get towed.
When I say barricade, I actually mean "solitary traffic cone"
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Just to chime in here, this is good advice and was my go-to for airport parking the last few years I flew out of ORD. And the "open spaces" is always wrong. I once drove up to 4, it said "full" and had a temporary barricade there. Drove around it, entered the floor, and saw at least 25 spots within a few min.
Book a valet service on Mannheim. Covered for 21.75 a day versus $22 at Lot F. Other services also offer heated options. Discount for longer stays. Can reserve your spot.
https://www.preflightairportparking.com/location/ORD?gclid=CjwKCAjw-eKpBhAbEiwAqFL0mlpsBQWQ6xSWlDkagBXdnYHrUIDoBCXhc7I1xnp056FlgrvS-z4LnRoCNPsQAvD_BwE
I also have booked at Rosemont Hotels but they mostly have surface lots. If you stay at least a night, they offer parking better deals. Their hotel shuttles drop you at O'Hare for no cost and most run 24/7. $15-$18 a day.
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I'm driving 3.5 hours to ORD... because flights from CWA are too unreliable.
Understood. That would be a pricey Uber!
There are discount airport parking sites like this one - https://airportparkingreservations.com/search/ord?checkindate=2023-11-04&checkoutdate=2023-11-18&date=2023-10-25&token=dae2f7d6-7347-11ee-aadf-4d7e51ceb429
Also, Spot Hero could help perhaps?
Good luck in your search.
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I'm driving 3.5 hours to ORD... because flights from CWA are too unreliable.
If we are flying out of ORD for a long period of time, we do park/stay/fly. Drive to Illinois the night before, park at the suburban hotel right under a lightpole, and take the shuttle to the airport the next morning. Or you can drive in the day of and stay at the hotel on the back end. Depending on how long you are going to be gone, it's often cheaper than paying for just the parking in a remote or off-site lot. I use this website a lot:
https://parksleepfly.com
It probably won't be covered, but at a certain cost savings, I will happily get the scraper out.
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Can't you just park at one of the Illinois scooper's homes, and have them drive you to and from the airport?
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If we are flying out of ORD for a long period of time, we do park/stay/fly. Drive to Illinois the night before, park at the suburban hotel right under a lightpole, and take the shuttle to the airport the next morning. Or you can drive in the day of and stay at the hotel on the back end. Depending on how long you are going to be gone, it's often cheaper than paying for just the parking in a remote or off-site lot. I use this website a lot:
https://parksleepfly.com
It probably won't be covered, but at a certain cost savings, I will happily get the scraper out.
Make sure the light pole isn't under a tree. Bird shyt as I learned.
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If we are flying out of ORD for a long period of time, we do park/stay/fly. Drive to Illinois the night before, park at the suburban hotel right under a lightpole, and take the shuttle to the airport the next morning. Or you can drive in the day of and stay at the hotel on the back end. Depending on how long you are going to be gone, it's often cheaper than paying for just the parking in a remote or off-site lot. I use this website a lot:
https://parksleepfly.com
It probably won't be covered, but at a certain cost savings, I will happily get the scraper out.
Yeah but ders cheaper parkin' on 6th and Brown, aina?
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Book a valet service on Mannheim. Covered for 21.75 a day versus $22 at Lot F. Other services also offer heated options. Discount for longer stays. Can reserve your spot.
https://www.preflightairportparking.com/location/ORD?gclid=CjwKCAjw-eKpBhAbEiwAqFL0mlpsBQWQ6xSWlDkagBXdnYHrUIDoBCXhc7I1xnp056FlgrvS-z4LnRoCNPsQAvD_BwE
I also have booked at Rosemont Hotels but they mostly have surface lots. If you stay at least a night, they offer parking better deals. Their hotel shuttles drop you at O'Hare for no cost and most run 24/7. $15-$18 a day.
Preflight is solid. Also recommend BlueSky, they’ll bring your car in and have it warm for you. They used to offer full detail service as well.
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AP headline: An off-duty pilot is accused of trying to shut down the engines of a Horizon Air jet in midflight
https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-safety-security-457e4bc7a1eca47842ce64aebe512c24?user_email=6647dfa7189f748384d7389910f7b584c6fcfc35ae990102964c7e826d4175c7&utm_medium=Afternoon_Wire&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_campaign=AfternoonWire_Oct23_2023&utm_term=Afternoon%20Wire
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — An off-duty pilot riding in the extra seat in the cockpit of a Horizon Air passenger jet tried to shut down the engines in midflight and had to be subdued by the crew, a pilot flying the plane told air traffic controllers.
Authorities in Oregon identified the man as Joseph David Emerson, 44. He was being held Monday on 83 counts each of attempted murder and reckless endangerment and one count of endangering an aircraft, according to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.
Apparently he was in a depressive state, hadn't slept in 2 days, and taken mushrooms a few days before...SHEESH
https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-safety-security-3a86194cccae802341243c77ea0d95ee
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Apparently he was in a depressive state, hadn't slept in 2 days, and taken mushrooms a few days before...SHEESH
https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-safety-security-3a86194cccae802341243c77ea0d95ee
I mean, we've all been there.
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Book a valet service on Mannheim. Covered for 21.75 a day versus $22 at Lot F. Other services also offer heated options. Discount for longer stays. Can reserve your spot.
https://www.preflightairportparking.com/location/ORD?gclid=CjwKCAjw-eKpBhAbEiwAqFL0mlpsBQWQ6xSWlDkagBXdnYHrUIDoBCXhc7I1xnp056FlgrvS-z4LnRoCNPsQAvD_BwE
I also have booked at Rosemont Hotels but they mostly have surface lots. If you stay at least a night, they offer parking better deals. Their hotel shuttles drop you at O'Hare for no cost and most run 24/7. $15-$18 a day.
Thanks everyone. I've booked pre-flight. I would do the hotel thing if my flight is early in the day but this time it's an evening flight so better to drive down the day of. Thanks!
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Has anyone done the AutoTrain from DC to Orlando?
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I know someone who has used it because the had only one driver from Connecticut and friend was meeting the rest of the family later in Florida.
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Any recommendations for restaurants, hiking/activities and hotels for the Sedona area? Traveling April 2024
Would love a hotel recommendation as well for Fort Lauderdale in July 2024. We'll be staying a couple nights before a cruise. Trying to find a nicer hotel beachfront
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Any recommendations for restaurants, hiking/activities and hotels for the Sedona area? Traveling April 2024
Would love a hotel recommendation as well for Fort Lauderdale in July 2024. We'll be staying a couple nights before a cruise. Trying to find a nicer hotel beachfront
In Fort Lauderdale beach, the Marriott Harbor Beach is nice. Tucked away from the crowds. On the strip, the Westin, ritz, W, and Hilton are good.
Or you could be a bit more off the beaten path and do Hollywood beach, the Marriott and Margaritaville hotels are nice. And Hollywood beach has a nice boardwalk with lots of restaurants.
Let me know where you end up staying and I’ll throw out some restaurant suggestions.
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Any Miami recommendations? We’ll have maybe 1.5 days available and are staying in Brickell.
Thanks all!
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Any recommendations for restaurants, hiking/activities and hotels for the Sedona area? Traveling April 2024
Would love a hotel recommendation as well for Fort Lauderdale in July 2024. We'll be staying a couple nights before a cruise. Trying to find a nicer hotel beachfront
Dining in Sedona, you have to hit Mariposa. Amazing views. I would take a stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross as well (even if you are not very religious). Devil's Bridge is the best hike IMO
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Dining in Sedona, you have to hit Mariposa. Amazing views. I would take a stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross as well (even if you are not very religious). Devil's Bridge is the best hike IMO
Mariposa was going to be my recommendation as well. Sit outside if it’s warm enough.
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Thanks folks
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Going to Australia in a couple weeks, haven’t travelled internationally in a while. I have travel adapters for our family to use, however, I use a CPAP machine for sleeping. Question for those that travel overseas frequently, do I need a power converter for my CPAP instead of the adapter?
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Any recommendations for restaurants, hiking/activities and hotels for the Sedona area? Traveling April 2024
Would love a hotel recommendation as well for Fort Lauderdale in July 2024. We'll be staying a couple nights before a cruise. Trying to find a nicer hotel beachfront
We stayed in Flagstaff and commuted the 20 miles or so to Sedona. Beautiful drive and Hotels will be cheaper if that’s what you want. Considering that we are on the road for 30 days, that is a factor.
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Going to Australia in a couple weeks, haven’t travelled internationally in a while. I have travel adapters for our family to use, however, I use a CPAP machine for sleeping. Question for those that travel overseas frequently, do I need a power converter for my CPAP instead of the adapter?
Somewhere on the plug or machine it should have a volt rating. If it is up to 230v you should be fine. I just looked in. Australia is on 230 V not 220.
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Somewhere on the plug or machine it should have a volt rating. If it is up to 230v you should be fine. I just looked in. Australia is on 230 V not 220.
Yea I don’t have a CPAP but it’s similar to blow dryers and curling irons. If it has variable voltage settings or a range for the destination, you’re fine with just an adapter. Otherwise you need the actual power converter
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Somewhere on the plug or machine it should have a volt rating. If it is up to 230v you should be fine. I just looked in. Australia is on 230 V not 220.
Thanks, much appreciated. Just checked the plug adapter on my machine, it lists 100v - 240v.
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Ahh yes, it will be quite an experience regardless! Even for someone as well traveled as yourself, India is unlike many others IMO.
As others have said, stay in an upscale Western brand hotel, as they often cater to business travel, they all have their own onsite water purification systems. So you can at least feel at ease about water in the showers, brushing your teeth, ice at the bar/restaurant etc. As well stuff like fresh fruits and veggies. When I stay in a hotel I RARELY eat at a hotel restaurant. When I’m in India, it’s usually my default in the evening and certainly for breakfast.
Bottled water is easy to find and the go to everywhere. Most business meetings I attend has the staff bringing me a cup of water as is customary before the colleagues im meeting quickly say “ no no, bottle please”
No ice outside the hotel. NO ICE NO ICE. I’ve thankfully, touch wood, never got truly sick outside of a few hour stomach issue in India, but the only times those stomach issues occurred was due to ice. Once at an upscale restaurant and the other at super fancy nightclub that a friend of a friend owned that my table was near 2 different groups of Bollywood stars that had the crowds in awe. It felt like I was in Vegas or NYC so I relaxed, had a number of mixed drinks with ice…and paid the price the next day. They still make the ice with local water
I don’t often travel with medication cause I’ve got my routine pretty down, but Cipro is my recommendation for anyone. If you tell your doctor you are traveling to India, they should prescribe it no issue. I’ve known people that were doubled over with stomach pain, worse than they had experienced, took Cipro, and felt mostly normal within a few hours.
Hotels will handle airport transport if you ask, but while the prices for rooms are great value, the transport is usually insane. For example, the Sofitel in Mumbai I normally stay is PLUSH. Super fancy, incredible service, truly an oasis. I usually pay no more than $150 a night and that is a club room with a private area upstairs with happy hour and whatnot. But if you want them to book you a car to the airport? They charge like $60. It’s wild. Uber is widespread and easy to use there and incredibly cheap. It’s safe, usually clean, and always air conditioned.
Ive never had malaria cautions when I have visited, but if it’s something you worry about, with everything in India, better safe than sorry.
I’ve only been to Delhi, Bangalore, and Calcutta once each. But Mumbai I think I hit visit number 15 back in April. So feel free to shoot me a PM with any questions you may have there
Funny enough, I’m posting from HK. My first time back since Feb 2019. Feels like I never left. But man things have gotten pricier
First day back at the office after 13 days traveling between Singapore, Malaysia and India.
Singapore is fantastic. What else can one say. My hotel ended up being across the street for Lau Pa Sat hawker pavilion and I probably ate their about 5 times. Very inexpensive delicious food and I watched them set up Satay Street every night in front of my hotel and it would take an hour plus for the grills to warm up at the 15 satay stands. I had two trips to Malaysia, one a partial day to Johor just over the border and an overnight trip to Penang. I was with my Singapore reps and we used Air Asia. My plane ticket for the 1hr 15mi flight was $27 one way. I had time on Saturday so I visited the Observation Deck at the Gardens by the Bay and Asian Civilizations Museum. It's a history museum covering the last 1,200 years of trade between Europe, Middle East, India, China, SE Asia, Indonesia & Philippines. Great detail including display of a 9th century Chinese shipwreck found off the coast of Indonesia.
I was in Bangalore one night and did little more than arrive at my hotel at noon and catch up on work stuff. The next day my van driver drove to the wrong address of my customer and I ended up being 45 minutes late to my appointment which didn't matter in the end. Went right to the airport after the visit. The Cricket World Cup is going on in India. While waiting to board my flight to Delhi, the Indian National Cricket team walked past my gate (with heavy security) and everyone was going bonkers seeing the team and taking photos.
Delhi was a extreme smog covered city. As Wags said I had all meals in the hotel and I still took precaution. I did run one morning despite the pollution as I just had to see the India Gate, War Memorial and green Mall down the street from my hotel. Seeing the packs of wild monkey's and wild dogs all over. My van driver got me to the right neighborhood of my customer, but the wrong address and I had to call my customer who helped my driver navigate to his location. Google Maps took us through some of the poorest destitution I ever saw. (Used clothing sorters working on the street among piles of garbage and barely room for the van to past through among other things viusally witnessed.)
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Glad you survived, sounds like an awesome trip! Your flight reminded me of when I flew Singapore to Jakarta on Scoot. I think our tickets were $30 each plus $10 each for a checked bag for a 1:45 flight.
The slums of major Indian cities are both depressing and fascinating. I’ve managed to block out some of the more depressing stuff I’ve seen but I’m always amazed at the rough infrastructure. Ramshackle dwellings made of assorted pieces, but tons of wires supplying electricity and, my personal favorite, no shortage of satellite dishes.
I remember being stuck in traffic one day near some more developed slums and on the first floor, under some dwellings that had tarps as partial roofs, seeing a pet store. Inside there were probably two dozen decently large aquariums and even a small saltwater tank at the front of the store. It was pretty remarkable
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MU Fan in CT
I had 12 days in India, and it went better than I expected. I stayed at all Marriott properties, with exception in Bangalore, and had no health/food issues. Ate every meal at the hotel, with exception of Hard Rock for lunch on the last day. The dogs and monkey's made walking around difficult and we used a driver to go everywhere. We had four nights at hotel that lost their liquor license but used hotel car to take us to another hotel for cocktails.
That is the good news, the bad news it looks like India will be regular stop for me in 2024. I appreciated Wags and others mentioning not to let my guard down on food and water.
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MU Fan in CT
I had 12 days in India, and it went better than I expected. I stayed at all Marriott properties, with exception in Bangalore, and had no health/food issues. Ate every meal at the hotel, with exception of Hard Rock for lunch on the last day. The dogs and monkey's made walking around difficult and we used a driver to go everywhere. We had four nights at hotel that lost their liquor license but used hotel car to take us to another hotel for cocktails.
That is the good news, the bad news it looks like India will be regular stop for me in 2024. I appreciated Wags and others mentioning not to let my guard down on food and water.
Goose, Good to hear your trip went well also.
I stayed in the ITC Gardenia a Marriott Hotel in Bangalore if you need a Marriott there in the future. A very nice property. It's right on Cubbon Park in the center of Bangalore.
Bangalore has a nice new airport which I was glad to see. It's much larger, better organized with more and better shopping amenities inside than the old terminal next door.
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MU Fan
Thanks for the hotel tip in Bangalore. Much appreciated.
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Has anyone done the AutoTrain from DC to Orlando?
I haven't personally, but have known folks who have and they haven't had any complaints. It's certainly not 5 stars, but a relaxing way to break up the trip if you are into trains.
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I haven't personally, but have known folks who have and they haven't had any complaints. It's certainly not 5 stars, but a relaxing way to break up the trip if you are into trains.
👀
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👀
I said what I said.
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MU Fan in CT
I had 12 days in India, and it went better than I expected. I stayed at all Marriott properties, with exception in Bangalore, and had no health/food issues. Ate every meal at the hotel, with exception of Hard Rock for lunch on the last day. The dogs and monkey's made walking around difficult and we used a driver to go everywhere. We had four nights at hotel that lost their liquor license but used hotel car to take us to another hotel for cocktails.
That is the good news, the bad news it looks like India will be regular stop for me in 2024. I appreciated Wags and others mentioning not to let my guard down on food and water.
Silver lining, it does get much easier with continued travels. Would I prefer to head to HK or Singapore, much less London/Antwerp/Geneva? Sure. But you get a routine, the precautionary stuff becomes second nature, and things that were weird, annoying, or strange either become non-issues/background noise or charming in a bizarre way.
It’s something I joke/“complain” about with people who don’t travel much or travel plenty but not there…but when I talk to people in the industry or my friends who have traveled there a bit for work, it’s nothing more than a passing crack or two, usually of the “only in India…” variety
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Wags
Truthfully, India was far better than I expected. I prefer the flight to China, but not a major difference. While I am very excited about a new chapter in my career, wouldn’t mind being a decade or so younger.
I was somewhat concerned if I still competitive chops going into the trip and that concern went away quickly.
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MU Fan in CT
I had 12 days in India, and it went better than I expected. I stayed at all Marriott properties, with exception in Bangalore, and had no health/food issues. Ate every meal at the hotel, with exception of Hard Rock for lunch on the last day. The dogs and monkey's made walking around difficult and we used a driver to go everywhere. We had four nights at hotel that lost their liquor license but used hotel car to take us to another hotel for cocktails.
That is the good news, the bad news it looks like India will be regular stop for me in 2024. I appreciated Wags and others mentioning not to let my guard down on food and water.
Don't be afraid to try the Oberoi and Taj hotels in India. They are far better than the ITC/Marriott/Hyatt. I had 5 years of my life with 100+ days in India and have been to the back of beyond as well as to all the major cities. It is one of my favorite places to travel. Let me know if you need any specifics.
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Wags
Truthfully, India was far better than I expected. I prefer the flight to China, but not a major difference. While I am very excited about a new chapter in my career, wouldn’t mind being a decade or so younger.
I was somewhat concerned if I still competitive chops going into the trip and that concern went away quickly.
What about the flight to China do you prefer? They are more or less the same distance wise. I guess it depends on your route to India these days. Direct to India was much easier/nicer before the Ukraine conflict changed the routes.
Don't be afraid to try the Oberoi and Taj hotels in India. They are far better than the ITC/Marriott/Hyatt. I had 5 years of my life with 100+ days in India and have been to the back of beyond as well as to all the major cities. It is one of my favorite places to travel. Let me know if you need any specifics.
Yea those are right on par with any Western hotel, but depending on where, you'll pay. I stayed at a Taj for a wedding on a trip a few years ago and it was double my normal Sofitel/Marriott rates.
A third of the year in India? WOW. I bow to your expertise in comparison 8-) Where were you based at the time? I'd imagine you have a stomach of steel.
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WarriorFan
Thanks for the insight. I definitely will reach out with questions before I head back in January. Much of time will be in more out of the way places rather than big cities.
Wags
Direct flights are hard to come by these days. The flight back from Delhi to Newark was 16:40 long. I prefer the tailwinds and nonstop Shanghai or HK to Chicago.
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Wags
Direct flights are hard to come by these days. The flight back from Delhi to Newark was 16:40 long. I prefer the tailwinds and nonstop Shanghai or HK to Chicago.
Yea thats a bit of a hike. My only complaint pre-COVID was that Mumbai was just far enough south that I had to connect from ORD to EWR and then EWR to BOM. ORD direct to Delhi was always in play but I'd rather fly United to EWR instead of Air India or something from Delhi to BOM. But the Delhi directs from ORD have vanished recently too.
But the nonstops to HK aren't back either, either from EWR or ORD. Same with PVG, gotta connect on the West Coast.
I will say, regardless of flight length, I LOVE flying back to the US from India/the ME. Leave late evening/early morning (1-2AM) and knock out and land back in the US early morning. Its the best way to readjust time wise. I always bounce back quickly coming back from India. Asia is a bit more of a crap shoot, even with directs. And now especially more that I'm connecting twice to get back to Florida.
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Wags
The late night departure and morning return was nice. Had no jet lag upon return home, even being gone long enough to have been on India time.
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When I was flying there I was based in Singapore or Beijing. It was always a pleasure on the pointy end of SQ... Even from Beijing, I'd always fly through SIN. The flight from India to Singapore, however, usually departing late at night, was "too short" to get a good sleep. One had to very carefully calculate the amount of whiskey in the glass and the depature timing to get on board conscious but become immediately unconscious once on board.
Side note: Did you know that most Indian whiskey (Teachers, for example) is actually rum flavored as whiskey?
Nowadays if traveling there from the US I'd look at Qatar, Emirates, Etihad. Emirates is the worst of these because they still use the old 2-3-2 biz class out of ORD but they are all better than the US carriers... and Qatar is better BY FAR.
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What about the flight to China do you prefer? They are more or less the same distance wise. I guess it depends on your route to India these days. Direct to India was much easier/nicer before the Ukraine conflict changed the routes.
Yea those are right on par with any Western hotel, but depending on where, you'll pay. I stayed at a Taj for a wedding on a trip a few years ago and it was double my normal Sofitel/Marriott rates.
A third of the year in India? WOW. I bow to your expertise in comparison 8-) Where were you based at the time? I'd imagine you have a stomach of steel.
It's all about the Skyteam points.
Singapore was my first stop and I flew JFK to Seoul. 13hr layover then 6.5 hr flight to Singapore. There was an earlier flight to Singapore but it was $4k more. Thankfully Incheon offers '$3 Transit Tours" that killed most of my wait. I toured a palace in Seoul and hung out in the Insadong neighborhood for an hour.
Singapore to Bangalore was a 4 1/4 hr flight. Flew Vistara to Delhi and that was 2.5 hr flight.
KlLM on the way home. 3:20AM flight to Amsterdam than home to JFK.
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Just curious, do you guys think biz class or first is worth the money? I work for myself and I struggle to justify the crazy high prices these days. I have flown biz or first a lot of times over the years, but find it too expensive these days.
On a sidebar, my wife travels to Europe very regularly on biz and her company has no problem paying $10k for a ticket. I have always felt publicly traded companies should offer to split savings with their employees to fly economy. My wife would take biz, I would take the money.
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Just curious, do you guys think biz class or first is worth the money? I work for myself and I struggle to justify the crazy high prices these days. I have flown biz or first a lot of times over the years, but find it too expensive these days.
On a sidebar, my wife travels to Europe very regularly on biz and her company has no problem paying $10k for a ticket. I have always felt publicly traded companies should offer to split savings with their employees to fly economy. My wife would take biz, I would take the money.
Goose,
For the Asia flights I think Business Class, despite being overpriced, is necessary for sleeping and meal purposes. Economy Class doesn't flatten enough to really sleep and you get less food.
For Europe, I can fly business class but I don't. The flights are too short and would be completely unnecessary. I usually compromise and go Comfort Plus for the priority boarding and extra legroom and drink service and it is only $200-$400 extra per ticket.
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MU Fan
Thanks for the feedback. I guess the older I get, the cheaper I get. Always justify it to myself that I prefer to have better hotel, food and a driver. I am big fan of comfort plus and have no problem paying extra for that.
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Just curious, do you guys think biz class or first is worth the money? I work for myself and I struggle to justify the crazy high prices these days. I have flown biz or first a lot of times over the years, but find it too expensive these days.
On a sidebar, my wife travels to Europe very regularly on biz and her company has no problem paying $10k for a ticket. I have always felt publicly traded companies should offer to split savings with their employees to fly economy. My wife would take biz, I would take the money.
Its truly hard to tell. I think when you're looking at some of these TransPacific fares that are $10-12K and up for Business, thats pretty steep. Like you, I'm at a smaller sized company and don't have a 6 figure travel budget for executives. Fortunately, with 1K on United, Ive gotten pretty good at securing upgrades internationally, so in a good year, I'd say around 80-90% of my flights to Asia or India I get upgraded. Food is nice but certainly doesn't justify the cost (if you're on a US carrier), but lay flat seats and feeling relaxed and calm on arrival is amazing.
Its pretty amazing what some of the bigger companies expense. I sat next to a tech executive going to India right before COVID. He wasn't a C suite big deal, just upper middle management. He'd been with the company 6-7 years and had been 1K the whole time...and NEVER qualified with the segments, only pure spend. He said his highest number of segments for work in that time was 16, yet was easily carrying $20K+ in spend every year. His personal travel he preferred Alaska so he rarely flew United outside of work. Just wild as I usually scheme to spend $5 more than necessary to qualify each year.
Goose,
For the Asia flights I think Business Class, despite being overpriced, is necessary for sleeping and meal purposes. Economy Class doesn't flatten enough to really sleep and you get less food.
For Europe, I can fly business class but I don't. The flights are too short and would be completely unnecessary. I usually compromise and go Comfort Plus for the priority boarding and extra legroom and drink service and it is only $200-$400 extra per ticket.
Agreed on Europe. Ive done Business on personal travel to Europe with my wife, but 6 hours is just too short with the longer meal service, so I'd never try to upgrade.
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Wags
The tech companies are the big reason on why everything is out of whack price wise on these flights. I read in the WSJ during the pandemic that APPL alone spent $100m on air tickets on United in 2019.
I do not even look at my status anymore on UA. In 2019, I made seven trip to China/Vietnam and I think my total spend was under $13k. I am the the type of passenger they could live without.
I became million miler on UA over a decade ago and that gives minor league status today. Likely will hit 2 million before retirement and that means little today, it is all about the spend and not miles today.
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I fly only biz for international and first in the US. I believe it's worth every penny. I'm loyal to no airline and while I'm in all the frequency programs, their points never sway my decisions. I buy the cheapest available business class, with a strong preference to minimum connections/ direct flights (for which I will pay a small premium) and connections only at decent airports which basically excludes all US airports.
My new company has a policy to pay for premium economy maximum... so I just negotiated an annual travel allowance and I manage the spend myself. I might go a bit over their allowance, but I can be sure of my own comfort.
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I don't fly enough for work to get into the tiers you fellas are talking - but just wanted to say I appreciate being a fly on the wall for this convo. Helps contextualize the cost and ROI on upgrades even just for personal travel.
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We are friends with a wealthy entrepreneur whose last name most of you would recognize.
He travels on business as if it is his own money - because it is. He is extremely generous with his friends and his charitable interests, but otherwise, doesn't spend a lot of money on things he considers frivolous.
Recently, he told us that he was on a plane when the pilot came on over the intercom to congratulate him by name for reaching his 3 millionth mile on their loyalty program. The flight attendants were looking around for him in first class. He was back in coach - in a middle seat.
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chick
That is pretty cool. I am far from a wealthy guy but have over 3 million miles flown in my life. I also can be found in coach, often a middle seat. I always say to myself what I can do for my kids with the extra $4-8k per trip. On my trip to India my client paid my expenses and still flew coach.
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chick
That is pretty cool. I am far from a wealthy guy but have over 3 million miles flown in my life. I also can be found in coach, often a middle seat. I always say to myself what I can do for my kids with the extra $4-8k per trip. On my trip to India my client paid my expenses and still flew coach.
If you have flown that many miles, why the hell are you in a middle seat? You certainly have some level of permanent status on a carrier. I can understand coach, but there is never an excuse for a middle seat short of buying a flight the day of or switching in an emergency.
I have my own opinions on the truly affluent flying coach on business trips, mostly around their value of their own time and comfort, but I don’t need to insult anyone so I’ll keep it to myself. Though I will say, if you truly have lots of disposable income that you can splurge and you’re regularly flying long haul in economy, you’re doing yourself a disservice health wise over the long run, IMO
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I have my own opinions on the truly affluent flying coach on business trips, mostly around their value of their own time and comfort, but I don’t need to insult anyone so I’ll keep it to myself. Though I will say, if you truly have lots of disposable income that you can splurge and you’re regularly flying long haul in economy, you’re doing yourself a disservice health wise over the long run, IMO
I have no problem with it at all. First Class and Business Class are high-margin products for the airlines, and if that makes the airlines able to turn a profit while keeping my seat in steerage nice and cheap, it's all good.
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If you have flown that many miles, why the hell are you in a middle seat? You certainly have some level of permanent status on a carrier. I can understand coach, but there is never an excuse for a middle seat short of buying a flight the day of or switching in an emergency.
I have my own opinions on the truly affluent flying coach on business trips, mostly around their value of their own time and comfort, but I don’t need to insult anyone so I’ll keep it to myself. Though I will say, if you truly have lots of disposable income that you can splurge and you’re regularly flying long haul in economy, you’re doing yourself a disservice health wise over the long run, IMO
And you should always pick an aisle seat so you can get up and walk around anytime and as many times as you want.
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Wags
1.5 million on UA, with literally one trip since pandemic, over 1 million on Delta with one trip since pandemic and well over 500k spread over Cathay, Japan, American and local China airlines. My status is now middle of the road on UA and Delta and way down the list of priority flier.
For years I was given white glove service by UA and Delta and those days are long gone. Now, to your point on middle seat, the only time I have a middle seat is if I get the right row. 9 out of 10 I take the window seat.
You may be right on general health, and I will likely only take the Comfort Plus on UA moving forward. It really is not much lower than what business class was 30 years ago. As Chick noted, the bloated difference in price is what bothers me. If a $2-3k difference I likely take business, at a crazy premium I am a seller.
I will say, Marriott has been the one company that has taken care of me since the pandemic. They have kept my status every year, even with few nights stay at their properties. Until they piss me off again, they get 100% of my business.
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Wags
1.5 million on UA, with literally one trip since pandemic, over 1 million on Delta with one trip since pandemic and well over 500k spread over Cathay, Japan, American and local China airlines. My status is now middle of the road on UA and Delta and way down the list of priority flier.
For years I was given white glove service by UA and Delta and those days are long gone. Now, to your point on middle seat, the only time I have a middle seat is if I get the right row. 9 out of 10 I take the window seat.
You may be right on general health, and I will likely only take the Comfort Plus on UA moving forward. It really is not much lower than what business class was 30 years ago. As Chick noted, the bloated difference in price is what bothers me. If a $2-3k difference I likely take business, at a crazy premium I am a seller.
I will say, Marriott has been the one company that has taken care of me since the pandemic. They have kept my status every year, even with few nights stay at their properties. Until they piss me off again, they get 100% of my business.
That’s fair. You said “often in middle” which is what made me confused. 10% if the time isn’t so often. 1.5MM is lifetime gold, which gets you all the international star alliance perks and definitely isn’t stuffing you in a non-Economy Plus seat. But I hear you otherwise. The vast spectrum of service is silly even for 1K. I’m more surprised when it gets acknowledged or the FA proactively offers me drinks or whatnot due to my status than the expectation like it used to be.
Though I will say, beyond the international upgrade which are worth every penny of status for me, as I got married and had my first child, the other benefits that didn’t matter as much have become quite nice. 3 bags, no realistic weight limit, general priority stuff is all amazing when I have a 1 year old.
As for business vs comfort, I agree. And FWIW, I was more speaking long haul. I could care less about domestic first most of the time. I was speaking more specifically to people where cost is of little or no concern. Flying 4/6/14 hours in economy when you don’t need to is just not good for you especially on the high side of 40.
Agreed on Marriott. My wife escalated my status a few years ago due to a couple of long domestic trips and it’s been fantastic. Whereas before I was mostly a hotel FA or Hotels.Com (which has lost my business completely with their BS devaluation this year)
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Are sports bars a thing in Malaysia? Should I plan on getting a VPN? Trying to plan a way to watch the Maui invitational games next week.
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Are sports bars a thing in Malaysia? Should I plan on getting a VPN? Trying to plan a way to watch the Maui invitational games next week.
Lots of sports bars but you'll struggle to find anything other than football (soccer) unless it's F1.
I'm in Senegal at the moment and watched the first two MU games using VPN & fox sports app with TV provider sign in.
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Are sports bars a thing in Malaysia? Should I plan on getting a VPN? Trying to plan a way to watch the Maui invitational games next week.
Depends on your tolerance. VPN for Fox Sports/ESPN will depend on your wifi connection cause a lot of time in Asia I feel like my speeds get chopped when I use a VPN and that can affect those streaming apps.
Otherwise, places like VIPBox or other streaming sites are good for situations like this. But I always use incognito mode and Malware blocker, plus accept I’m gonna have to close a few popups
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Yeah when I was living in Ireland I tried the VPN thing and it was like watching on a flip book. VIP box usually works alright but figured if there was a bar or casino that'd show it I'd just head there.
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I am the old guy in the room, but I have followed a lot of MU basketball and Packer games via game cast on ESPN. I guess better than when I would call an 800 number non stop to get updates.
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Are sports bars a thing in Malaysia? Should I plan on getting a VPN? Trying to plan a way to watch the Maui invitational games next week.
Where will you be? Kuala Lampur? - I can't really help with KL.
I was in George Town (Penang) & Johor (over the border from Singapore) the week before left.
Just enjoy the kopi (coffee) in Malaysia. They were bog on 4 varieties; Kopi-B & Kopi-C, etc.
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I am the old guy in the room, but I have followed a lot of MU basketball and Packer games via game cast on ESPN. I guess better than when I would call an 800 number non stop to get updates.
The 800 number was a lifesaver
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Are sports bars a thing in Malaysia? Should I plan on getting a VPN? Trying to plan a way to watch the Maui invitational games next week.
FWIW, I watched the Marquette Game against Northern Illinois on the FOX Sports App on my phone in India. It was perfectly timed to be televised in the morning at wakeup.
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The 800 number was a lifesaver
I’m younger but I remember in the mid 2000s texting an ESPN number and getting score updates before my first smartphone
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Where will you be? Kuala Lampur? - I can't really help with KL.
I was in George Town (Penang) & Johor (over the border from Singapore) the week before left.
Just enjoy the kopi (coffee) in Malaysia. They were bog on 4 varieties; Kopi-B & Kopi-C, etc.
Kuala lampur, a Marquette housemate's wedding.
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If you have flown that many miles, why the hell are you in a middle seat? You certainly have some level of permanent status on a carrier. I can understand coach, but there is never an excuse for a middle seat short of buying a flight the day of or switching in an emergency.
I have my own opinions on the truly affluent flying coach on business trips, mostly around their value of their own time and comfort, but I don’t need to insult anyone so I’ll keep it to myself. Though I will say, if you truly have lots of disposable income that you can splurge and you’re regularly flying long haul in economy, you’re doing yourself a disservice health wise over the long run, IMO
Middle seats are often only the option when you buy a few days in advance regardless of status. Thankfully we have a rule for work that we are supposed to buy a week out at least.
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Wags
800 number was during my excessive gambling days, many moons ago. I found an old Northwest boarding pass (first class) from ‘93 and had my bets on it. Great memory, but a bad memory.
Flyer
Part of my problem pre pandemic was I often change my return flight home. Buy cheapest dates and adjust longer or shorter when needed, hence some center seats.
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I’m younger but I remember in the mid 2000s texting an ESPN number and getting score updates before my first smartphone
As a former degenerate who spent years in retail (‘93-‘00) before any cell phones, getting those sports updates either made me a better employee or a very nervous employee
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Rico
What type of retail? 80% of our clients are retail in nature. Tough racket
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Rico
What type of retail? 80% of our clients are retail in nature. Tough racket
Local chain retailer, somewhat specialized. Loyal customers and does good business
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Rico
Good for you. Some very good local retailers, a couple of difficult ones, but better than the big boys we support.
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Local chain retailer, somewhat specialized. Loyal customers and does good business
Ah, either you're the dude at my neighborhood Ace Hardware store who everyone talks when their toilet plugs up or the grocery bagger at Sendiks, hey?
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Ah, either you're the dude at my neighborhood Ace Hardware store who everyone talks when their toilet plugs up or the grocery bagger at Sendiks, hey?
You had to edit that?
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You had to edit that?
Yeah, 'cuz someone taught dey neu ewe from Sendiks, hey?
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Doc
Thanks for the early laugh.
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Yeah, 'cuz someone taught dey neu ewe from Sendiks, hey?
There’s something wrong with working at Sendiks? Huh. I’ll let them know what you think next time I’m shopping there
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We are friends with a wealthy entrepreneur whose last name most of you would recognize.
He travels on business as if it is his own money - because it is. He is extremely generous with his friends and his charitable interests, but otherwise, doesn't spend a lot of money on things he considers frivolous.
Recently, he told us that he was on a plane when the pilot came on over the intercom to congratulate him by name for reaching his 3 millionth mile on their loyalty program. The flight attendants were looking around for him in first class. He was back in coach - in a middle seat.
Eh, one flight, he got upgraded from the very back of the plane to economy plus....middle seat. ;D
Once, I was in the back when the FA thanked me for being a million miler. She actually gave me points for being stuck in the back. Other than a few minutes longer deplaning, seats are the same in economy. Paraphrasing Arthur "I took the points, I'm not crazy."
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We’re leaving for Australia on Saturday, United had a crazy offer over the summer (40k one way), so we booked with miles.
The flight from SFO to Brisbane is maybe 30% full. Since I booked with miles, I don’t think I have any chance of us being upgraded to Polaris. However, with economy plus and economy having tons of empty rows, we’re hoping to spread out and each one of us (five total), takes a row to ourselves. I don’t think I’ve ever slept on a row of three seats, should be interesting.
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We’re leaving for Australia on Saturday, United had a crazy offer over the summer (40k one way), so we booked with miles.
The flight from SFO to Brisbane is maybe 30% full. Since I booked with miles, I don’t think I have any chance of us being upgraded to Polaris. However, with economy plus and economy having tons of empty rows, we’re hoping to spread out and each one of us (five total), takes a row to ourselves. I don’t think I’ve ever slept on a row of three seats, should be interesting.
1) Not sure if you’re 1K, but unfortunately you can’t use Plus Points to upgrade a mileage flight, regardless
2) also unfortunately, there are no complimentary upgrades on international flights. The ONLY exception is if Business is open and economy is full plus a standby list. In my 50ish international flights over the last decade, this happened to me precisely once, going to Brussels
That being said, a full row is not bad at all. Honestly, for sleeping purposes, I’d rather have a full row in economy plus than premium economy with limited recline. If you can grab multiple pillows you can to between you and the seat in hard parts, and then you’ll get some solid sleep. Also use the belts to hold you in like you’re sleeping on a mountain side :)
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We’re leaving for Australia on Saturday, United had a crazy offer over the summer (40k one way), so we booked with miles.
The flight from SFO to Brisbane is maybe 30% full. Since I booked with miles, I don’t think I have any chance of us being upgraded to Polaris. However, with economy plus and economy having tons of empty rows, we’re hoping to spread out and each one of us (five total), takes a row to ourselves. I don’t think I’ve ever slept on a row of three seats, should be interesting.
We are doing a trip next year where we fly to Sydney, take a cruise up the Great Barrier Reef, fly to Melbourne, stay a few days, fly to Singapore, and then take transpacific cruise to LA, hitting Vietnam, Malaysia, Guam, and Hawaii on the way back, and then flying to Las Vegas. All in, I think we are spending about $1000 each for airfare.
Last night, we watched a YouTube video of a guy who flew around the world in 80 hours, all on budget airlines. He used all of the airlines we did for our trip.
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We are doing a trip next year where we fly to Sydney, take a cruise up the Great Barrier Reef, fly to Melbourne, stay a few days, fly to Singapore, and then take transpacific cruise to LA, hitting Vietnam, Malaysia, Guam, and Hawaii on the way back, and then flying to Las Vegas. All in, I think we are spending about $1000 each for airfare.
Last night, we watched a YouTube video of a guy who flew around the world in 80 hours, all on budget airlines. He used all of the airlines we did for our trip.
When does the article come out on you guys living aboard cruise ships permanently? ;D Which budget airline are you using to get to Asia? The trans pac cruise sounds amazing.
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. I guess better than when I would call an 800 number non stop to get updates.
You did that too! Glad I’m not the only one who remembers doing that back in the day!
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When does the article come out on you guys living aboard cruise ships permanently? ;D Which budget airline are you using to get to Asia? The trans pac cruise sounds amazing.
Digital Nomads?
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When does the article come out on you guys living aboard cruise ships permanently? ;D Which budget airline are you using to get to Asia? The trans pac cruise sounds amazing.
I assume they found a reasonable priced ticket to Sydney out of LAX/SFO on one of the US carriers. Cause I'm sure our resident LUV loyalists will be flying that from HNL back to LAS. Probably flying Jetstar or QantasLink within Oz (which is EasyJet cheap) and then if I had to guess...Scoot (Singapore Airlines' low cost carrier subsidiary) to Singapore, both probably under $100 each).
That actually sounds like an awesome itinerary TBH. People have an understandably iffy view of cruises cause they just think of budget Carnival excursions through the Caribbean. But anyone I know who has went on cruises in the Pacific, to Hawaii/Alaska/Pac Islands/etc..., has raved. I don't know anyone who has done a TransPac cruise though, look forward to hearing about it.
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When does the article come out on you guys living aboard cruise ships permanently? ;D Which budget airline are you using to get to Asia? The trans pac cruise sounds amazing.
Fiji airlines to Sydney, JetStar to Melbourne, Scoot to Singapore, Southwest to Las Vegas. ;D
Fiji isn't necessarily a budget airline but we did get an incredible airfare.
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Fiji airlines to Sydney, JetStar to Melbourne, Scoot to Singapore, Southwest to Las Vegas. ;D
Fiji isn't necessarily a budget airline but we did get an incredible airfare.
I just flew Air Asia to/from Singapore on my recent trip which is a similar airline type to Scoot. I had to change my return flight time, but was not allowed to because it was less than 48 hours before the flight. Instead I had to buy a new ticket. It cost $27. It would have been $19, but I decided to pick a seat. I found it weird that the front of the airplane was largely empty because most people didn't wan to pony up $8 for seat assignment.
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Digital Nomads?
Pretty sure posting on scoop while on a cruise does not count as being a digital nomad. Right chick? ;D
BTW, for anyone interested in digital nomading, this is a good blog - https://readyjetroam.com/category/digital-nomad/
Fiji airlines to Sydney, JetStar to Melbourne, Scoot to Singapore, Southwest to Las Vegas. ;D
Fiji isn't necessarily a budget airline but we did get an incredible airfare.
Cheap airfare is always good!
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Pretty sure posting on scoop while on a cruise does not count as being a digital nomad. Right chick? ;D
BTW, for anyone interested in digital nomading, this is a good blog - https://readyjetroam.com/category/digital-nomad/
Cheap airfare is always good!
No need to be a "digital nomad" if you aren't really working anymore.
Max out those 401(k)s, boys!
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No need to be a "digital nomad" if you aren't really working anymore.
Max out those 401(k)s, boys!
Hmmm. Not writing those travel expenses and gambling losses off in a shell S Corp? I thought Glow's YouTube channel was a money earner?
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I just flew Air Asia to/from Singapore on my recent trip which is a similar airline type to Scoot. I had to change my return flight time, but was not allowed to because it was less than 48 hours before the flight. Instead I had to buy a new ticket. It cost $27. It would have been $19, but I decided to pick a seat. I found it weird that the front of the airplane was largely empty because most people didn't wan to pony up $8 for seat assignment.
Flew a bunch of Air Asia around Malaysia/Indonesia/Singapore a few years ago. Crazy cheap fares! Like Langkawi to Singapore - two people for $15.50 after adding a bag to the fare.
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Checking in many years ago on a Spicejet flight out of Chennai, my (very large) colleague asked, "just by chance, do you have any extra space seats"??? The check in girl says yes, of course we do, but nobody ever buys them because they are very expensive. So we asked how much... she says "too much"... we went back and forth for 5 minutes and obviously she thought it was so expensive it would be embarrassing for us if we asked and then couldn't pay, so she was just refusing to tell us. Finally after much back and forth and a bit of persuasion from an Indian colleague, she says 500. We were like, $500 bucks, that is a lot. Indian colleague chimes in - Rupees, right? Yes, it was 500 Rupees. For the 2 of us. $4 each.
Needless to say, we did it! we each had a row to ourselves in the front of the plane!
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Getting ready to leave Sydney in a few hours, had been to Australia a couple of times before this, but (surprisingly) never to Sydney.
Might have become my favorite city in the world, a fantastic, beautiful city. A little Hong Kong, a lot of London influence (my two other favorite cities in the world). Incredibly easy to navigate, people nice as can be. Only complaint is the food is pretty bland, but definitely restaurants/cuisines from all over.
If you’ve been on the fence about going, I really can’t recommend it enough.
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Getting ready to leave Sydney in a few hours, had been to Australia a couple of times before this, but (surprisingly) never to Sydney.
Might have become my favorite city in the world, a fantastic, beautiful city. A little Hong Kong, a lot of London influence (my two other favorite cities in the world). Incredibly easy to navigate, people nice as can be. Only complaint is the food is pretty bland, but definitely restaurants/cuisines from all over.
If you’ve been on the fence about going, I really can’t recommend it enough.
Thanks Dish. We haven't been, but it's high on our list. Hopefully get there in 2025 or 2026.
Safe travels.
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Anyone been to the area around Barcelona?
I will be in Madrid Spain on company dime in January, but beforehand, I think I am likely going to revisit Barcelona. I visited for a very short 48 hours previously. So, this time I will explore a bit more of Barcelona, but will likely have time for a day trip.
Background: I have already visited a ton of places in Spain, but none around Barcelona. Spend time in Andalusia, Costa del Sol, and around Madrid. I do like seeing historical sites, especially really old stuff, but mostly enjoy embracing the culture. Would rather sit in a outdoor cafe watching the world go by than a museum. Ideal day would be walking through Roman ruins to a park where I can grab a drink and listen to music. Less touristy is ideal too.
Since it is January, I am guessing most of the beach towns like Stiges and Calella de Palafrugell are out, but I could be wrong.
On the radar:
Montserrat. Cog train and mountains are appealing,
Tarragona: Roman ruins, nice views.
Girona: Medieval town, old sites, good food.
A couple of constraints.
Public transportation. So many of the smaller medieval towns are out. I prefer train, but will do bus. I could also be persuaded to do a tour, but am more of an on your own person so I can do mostly my own timeline.
True day trip. I don't want to do an overnight trip where I have to schlep luggage. Less travel time, the better, but willing to make it a long day.
Any suggestions? A preference on the ones mentioned? One I missed? And I already checked. Markus' team is not playing anywhere I can go watch during the timeframe.
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Anyone been to the area around Barcelona?
I will be in Madrid Spain on company dime in January, but beforehand, I think I am likely going to revisit Barcelona. I visited for a very short 48 hours previously. So, this time I will explore a bit more of Barcelona, but will likely have time for a day trip.
Background: I have already visited a ton of places in Spain, but none around Barcelona. Spend time in Andalusia, Costa del Sol, and around Madrid. I do like seeing historical sites, especially really old stuff, but mostly enjoy embracing the culture. Would rather sit in a outdoor cafe watching the world go by than a museum. Ideal day would be walking through Roman ruins to a park where I can grab a drink and listen to music. Less touristy is ideal too.
Since it is January, I am guessing most of the beach towns like Stiges and Calella de Palafrugell are out, but I could be wrong.
On the radar:
Montserrat. Cog train and mountains are appealing,
Tarragona: Roman ruins, nice views.
Girona: Medieval town, old sites, good food.
A couple of constraints.
Public transportation. So many of the smaller medieval towns are out. I prefer train, but will do bus. I could also be persuaded to do a tour, but am more of an on your own person so I can do mostly my own timeline.
True day trip. I don't want to do an overnight trip where I have to schlep luggage. Less travel time, the better, but willing to make it a long day.
Any suggestions? A preference on the ones mentioned? One I missed? And I already checked. Markus' team is not playing anywhere I can go watch during the timeframe.
I was just in Spain for the last two weeks. If you want to do a day trip, consider doing a tour to Montserrat as well as a Cava tasting at a local winery. We enjoyed it, despite having poor weather. Also, we are very 'do it yourself' type of people, but the drive up the mountain would have been very difficult, so we went with a guide.
Our guide suggested Tarragona, but we didn't plan for it, and we didn't have time.
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Getting ready to leave Sydney in a few hours, had been to Australia a couple of times before this, but (surprisingly) never to Sydney.
Might have become my favorite city in the world, a fantastic, beautiful city. A little Hong Kong, a lot of London influence (my two other favorite cities in the world). Incredibly easy to navigate, people nice as can be. Only complaint is the food is pretty bland, but definitely restaurants/cuisines from all over.
If you’ve been on the fence about going, I really can’t recommend it enough.
We'll be there in September for several days. Then on to Melbourne for several more. Really looking forward to it!
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Just did Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh and Tokyo.
Hi Chi Minh was my favorite wife's favorite was Tokyo. Loved each one. If you're ever in Singapore would 100% recommend the bar Native (we only did the bar not food) some of the most unique and creative cocktails I've ever had.
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Just did Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh and Tokyo.
Hi Chi Minh was my favorite wife's favorite was Tokyo. Loved each one. If you're ever in Singapore would 100% recommend the bar Native (we only did the bar not food) some of the most unique and creative cocktails I've ever had.
Actually heading to Singapore in a week. Will definitely swing by.
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I was just in Spain for the last two weeks. If you want to do a day trip, consider doing a tour to Montserrat as well as a Cava tasting at a local winery. We enjoyed it, despite having poor weather. Also, we are very 'do it yourself' type of people, but the drive up the mountain would have been very difficult, so we went with a guide.
Our guide suggested Tarragona, but we didn't plan for it, and we didn't have time.
Thanks, Montserrat is on my radar as well. Forgot to mention that. Is the wine tasting there or nearby as well? I saw they have a cog train to Montserrat.
If I train back to Madrid and depending on timing, it stops at Tarragona. Maybe I can hop off for a couple of hours if there is a left luggage locker at the train station. Will check into that.
Where were you in Spain? Any Barcelona suggestions for food and drink?
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Sydney, Singapore, Barcelona? I’m heading to Dayton in a few weeks so everyone can stick it!
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Thanks, Montserrat is on my radar as well. Forgot to mention that. Is the wine tasting there or nearby as well? I saw they have a cog train to Montserrat.
If I train back to Madrid and depending on timing, it stops at Tarragona. Maybe I can hop off for a couple of hours if there is a left luggage locker at the train station. Will check into that.
Where were you in Spain? Any Barcelona suggestions for food and drink?
The wine tasting was in the valley that does the majority of cava wine (think Champage) production. It was a drive from the Montserrat tour, but included in the tour.
We went all over. Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Malaga, Ronda, Mihas, and Barcelona. Food stops in Barcelona... hmmm actually had my worst meal in Barcelona so I won't recommend that place. And the other place doesn't really come to mind so it was fairly forgettable as well.
I probably had about 300 padron peppers on this trip though... wish I could get them at home!
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The wine tasting was in the valley that does the majority of cava wine (think Champage) production. It was a drive from the Montserrat tour, but included in the tour.
We went all over. Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Malaga, Ronda, Mihas, and Barcelona. Food stops in Barcelona... hmmm actually had my worst meal in Barcelona so I won't recommend that place. And the other place doesn't really come to mind so it was fairly forgettable as well.
I probably had about 300 padron peppers on this trip though... wish I could get them at home!
Thanks. Yeah, those peppers are awesome. The Mushroom Bar in Madrid, though named for mushrooms, has the best in padron peppers in Madrid.
If you haven't already, check out the Jose Andres specials on Spain on CNN. Many of the places you hit.
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Thanks, Montserrat is on my radar as well. Forgot to mention that. Is the wine tasting there or nearby as well? I saw they have a cog train to Montserrat.
If I train back to Madrid and depending on timing, it stops at Tarragona. Maybe I can hop off for a couple of hours if there is a left luggage locker at the train station. Will check into that.
Where were you in Spain? Any Barcelona suggestions for food and drink?
Wife and I loved Vivanda and Dos Pebrots in Barcelona.
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Wife and I loved Vivanda and Dos Pebrots in Barcelona.
Thanks! Both look awesome.
BTW, the middle schooler in me, I will be trying out this place in Barcelona, just for the name (https://myunnatural carnal knowledgeingrestaurant.com/).
I was just in Spain for the last two weeks. If you want to do a day trip, consider doing a tour to Montserrat as well as a Cava tasting at a local winery. We enjoyed it, despite having poor weather. Also, we are very 'do it yourself' type of people, but the drive up the mountain would have been very difficult, so we went with a guide.
Our guide suggested Tarragona, but we didn't plan for it, and we didn't have time.
Oops I conflated Tarragona and Zaragoza. Yes, I think if I do not do Montserrat, Tarragona is plan A right now. Roman ruins, sunny, and good food.
Zaragoza is the city I was considering stopping at between Barcelona and Madrid.
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Sydney, Singapore, Barcelona? I’m heading to Dayton in a few weeks so everyone can stick it!
Hey, I think they have Skyline Chili there! Tastes great, certainly better than that grease bath stuff on Wells Street!
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Sydney, Singapore, Barcelona? I’m heading to Dayton in a few weeks so everyone can stick it!
Pine Club
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Hey, I think they have Skyline Chili there! Tastes great, certainly better than that grease bath stuff on Wells Street!
Ban dis guy^^^
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d7/4-way_Cincinnati_chili_from_Camp_Washington_Chili_in_Cincinnati_OH_USA.jpg)
Two bags of Kraft Shredded Processed Cheese is not chili. 🤮
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Enjoying Business Meeting in Deer Valley Utah. Spent some time in Park City but did not see any sign of Wojo
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Pine Club
My bride is from Dayton and I’ve been going there for the last 45 years. Big fan of the Pine Club (and Oakwood Club) no so much Skyline Chili.
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I’ll be doing a lot of additional reading, but has anyone been to Colombia?
Going to Peru (Lima, Cusco) in April. Decided to tack on two cities in Colombia. Deciding between Bogota, Cartagena and Medellin. This will be my first trip to South America. Any tips or recommendations?
The friend I’m traveling with is down for whatever, but isn’t much help when it comes to planning and I’m a bit overwhelmed while planning as I don’t know anyone who has been to Colombia.
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Interesting 2023 rain stat:
Fort Lauderdale had its wettest year on record.
Naples had its driest year on record.
100 miles apart.
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Heading to Barcelona in a week. Any recommendations for food or drink?
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Heading to Barcelona in a week. Any recommendations for food or drink?
We were huge fans of Vivanda & Dos Pebrots.
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We were huge fans of Vivanda & Dos Pebrots.
First, kudos to you for going far afield for Vivanda. Both places look great. The meat at Dos Pebrots looks really tasty. It will depend on if it is just me or a co worker joining.
Thanks!
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I’ll be doing a lot of additional reading, but has anyone been to Colombia?
Going to Peru (Lima, Cusco) in April. Decided to tack on two cities in Colombia. Deciding between Bogota, Cartagena and Medellin. This will be my first trip to South America. Any tips or recommendations?
The friend I’m traveling with is down for whatever, but isn’t much help when it comes to planning and I’m a bit overwhelmed while planning as I don’t know anyone who has been to Colombia.
Peru - eat everything. Such an incredible variety of foods from the coast to the mountains.
Central in Lima is considered one of the best restaurants in the world. I didn’t have a chance to go, but look into it. They’re featured in an episode of Chef’s Table on Netflix if you want a preview.
I recommend strolling around the Barranco neighborhood. Interesting shops, plazas, art.
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Quote from: BM1090 on December 24, 2023, 10:48:01 PM
I’ll be doing a lot of additional reading, but has anyone been to Colombia?
Going to Peru (Lima, Cusco) in April. Decided to tack on two cities in Colombia. Deciding between Bogota, Cartagena and Medellin. This will be my first trip to South America. Any tips or recommendations?
The friend I’m traveling with is down for whatever, but isn’t much help when it comes to planning and I’m a bit overwhelmed while planning as I don’t know anyone who has been to Colombia.
My oldest son lived in Cartagena for 6 months on a work rotational program. We visited for 10 days. I highly recommend it. Great choices for food, drinks. Good bar scene, generally very safe. Had very good Mediterranean food, good Italian, excellent seafood and great ceviche.
He lived in Bocagrande, beach area with Western hotels, expats typically live there.
I would stay in the Walled City or Getsemani. Both have very nice for restaurants, bars, historical sites. Great city for history.
We did the typical touristy things but also off the beaten path a bit. I also have a google doc of activities my daughter in law put together for our group. Wide range of ages on our trip- (60s to early 20's)
Trip advisor pretty solid on Cartagena, but a little heavy on islands, tours. We went to the islands, and they are islands that is true, typical Caribbean islands with a nice Latin vibe, but I preferred sticking to the city.
Great coffee bars, we found a cigar/ coffee bar that had the best of both coffee and cigars, Cubans available if you are into them.
My wife , sister-in-law and daughter spent entire days shopping, the boys bar hopped and wandered around to historical sites in the Walled City (Museum of Inquisition was my favorite- unique for sure). Also the Naval museum was surprisingly good, I did not know Colombia had such a proud naval tradition. There is a lot about the repeated battles, for Cartagena bewteen the English and Spanish,
We did a harbor cruise, sunset and unlimited drinks. Touristy but it was a big hit. There is also a famous bar for sunset, we went one night (Cafe del Mar) it was nice.
My son went to both Bogota and Medellin, really enjoyed them both. He said the food was incredible, more of an urban feel to both Bogota and Medellin compared to Cartagena.
Another consideration is the time of year. Cartagena can be brutally hot and humid in the summer. Bogota and Medellin would be cooler. In April I would do either Bogota or Medellin in addition to Cartagena if you are going to two (of the 3 I think Cartagena would be most unique), I will talk to my son if you want further info, but he is on a business trip to Cartagena this week, so can definitely speak to him further when he gets back if you would like more info.
Long winded but I would highly recommend.
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TSA at MSP is lousy.
Mens rooms are good though.
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TSA at MSP is lousy.
Mens rooms are good though.
Uhhhhh
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Uhhhhh
Some folks need to be the center of attention.
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I fly to Orange County (Irvine) for work every few months. I usually just stay around the hotel and office but might explore a little this time. Anyone have any recommendations?
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I fly to Orange County (Irvine) for work every few months. I usually just stay around the hotel and office but might explore a little this time. Anyone have any recommendations?
During the Great Recession, I got back to work in Connecticut by taking a 6-month contract engineering job where I had to restart an assembly line in Brea, CA. I had to go for 1 or 2 weeks a month for 4 months of that span. I stayed in the Anaheim triangle and had an easy 15-20 minute commute to Brea. I was told if I stayed a little farther south the commute would triple. I was looking forward to attending an Angels game, but the last time I had to go was in March. I planned to attend a Ducks game and the night I picked was one of only two times I ever got food sickness while business traveling. Ironically, the source was an ESPN Zone restaurant at Disneyland, where I went to watch a Marquette game the night before.
When I was there for 2 weeks I would do touristy stuff over the weekend like visit the Observatory, and visit Hollywood & Beverly Hills & Santa Monica pier. I visited the La Brea tar pits and LA Museum of Art.
I was told to go to one of the Orange County beaches where they had restaurants and stores overlooking the water. I never made it. I can't remember which one. I didn't really have time after working to go anywhere especially in SoCal traffic.
I'm sure others travel there more frequently and can offer something more specific.
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Margaritas at Las Brisas in Laguna Beach. Drive down PCH to get there.
For a great dive bar (though I have not been since Covid) The Goat Hill - https://www.goathilltavern.com/ It was craft beer before craft beer was a thing.
Cruise down to the Balboa peninsula. Mutt Lynch is a good dive bar. Woody's Wharf for waterside dining, drinking and where Dennis Rodman was arrested.
PCH north to Huntington Beach - Walk the pier, eat a burrito at Wahoo's fish tacos, get sex wax at Jack's. (waterside dining at Duke's, but I prefer the original in Waikiki)
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I fly to Orange County (Irvine) for work every few months. I usually just stay around the hotel and office but might explore a little this time. Anyone have any recommendations?
Some if the nearby beach towns are Huntington (they have a dog beach), Laguna (very artsy town, a fouple of big Summer arts festivals there, Pagaent of the Masters and Sawdust. Take the 133 or SR-1) Newport (Whale watching, The Harbor). You can also explore Dana Point, San Clemente, etc closer to Irvine take in an Anteaters baseball game this Spring.
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TSA at MSP is lousy.
Mens rooms are good though.
FIFY
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We don’t talk enough about how incredibly awful MCO is as an airport.
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We don’t talk enough about how incredibly awful MCO is as an airport.
To be fair, it's barely an airport.
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We don’t talk enough about how incredibly awful MCO is as an airport.
You're disrespecting the stairway to heaven Applebees?
But it does stink. The only thing I actually like about it is that the pre-check lines are always a ghost town cause 90% of the people traveling fly like twice a year.
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What booking service do you guys use for hotels/motels?
I use Expedia. Are there certain ones that you guys prefer?
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What booking service do you guys use for hotels/motels?
I use Expedia. Are there certain ones that you guys prefer?
Hotels.com used to be the gold standard. In terms of quality, pricing, etc... But then Expedia bought them and gutted their rewards and made it a lot less attractive.
But Expedia, Booking.com, Kayak are all pretty interchangeable at this point, IMO.
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Hotels.com used to be the gold standard. In terms of quality, pricing, etc... But then Expedia bought them and gutted their rewards and made it a lot less attractive.
But Expedia, Booking.com, Kayak are all pretty interchangeable at this point, IMO.
I thought they had all basically consolidated.
Frequently, I'll search on any of those websites and then just book directly through the hotel if the price is the same (it usually is).
But I have also used Hotel Tonight on my phone plenty of times and found great last minute rates.
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I thought they had all basically consolidated.
Frequently, I'll search on any of those websites and then just book directly through the hotel if the price is the same (it usually is).
But I have also used Hotel Tonight on my phone plenty of times and found great last minute rates.
I always check the hotel’s site to see if I can get it cheaper than Expedia.
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Hotels.com used to be the gold standard. In terms of quality, pricing, etc... But then Expedia bought them and gutted their rewards and made it a lot less attractive.
But Expedia, Booking.com, Kayak are all pretty interchangeable at this point, IMO.
Depends we're I'm traveling. I usually check Hilton & Marriott sites first, my preferred for points, for USA and Asia travel. I stay away from them for Europe travel to because these brands are usually not in the neighborhood where I want to stay.
I noticed Hotels com offerings are way fewer than before and I frequently use Booking.com. Will check these for Asia travel and USA travel if no Hilton's or Marriotts nearby.
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You're disrespecting the stairway to heaven Applebees?
But it does stink. The only thing I actually like about it is that the pre-check lines are always a ghost town cause 90% of the people traveling fly like twice a year.
I’ve flown in and out of MCO a couple of times in the last few months. I think you’re underestimating the business convention crowds. Longest pre-check and Clear lines I’ve seen recently have been at MCO.
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What booking service do you guys use for hotels/motels?
I use Expedia. Are there certain ones that you guys prefer?
Expedia owns most of the good booking sites.
https://welcome.expediagroup.com/en/about-us/about-expedia-group-travel-brands
As a hotel owner - I encourage people to always try to book through the hotel directly. OTA's are a necessary evil because they increase occupancy but their fees are unbelievable. I mark up all my prices on Expedia sites so I get the same net after their fees. They call me monthly to get me to change to the prices on my site... I don't.
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I have to go to Orange County and am staying in Dana Point next week. Where do I get a quality meal there without being robbed? Ty.
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I have to go to Orange County and am staying in Dana Point next week. Where do I get a quality meal there without being robbed? Ty.
Shwack Beach Grill.
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Shwack Beach Grill.
Tyvm Sandstone.
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It's California. Everything is going to be expensive.
I have friends who live in Dana Point and I dropped $100 on Mexican takeout for 4.
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It's California. Everything is going to be expensive.
I have friends who live in Dana Point and I dropped $100 on Mexican takeout for 4.
I live in the Bay area but from my experience that particularly area is crazy costly.
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It's California. Everything is going to be expensive.
I have friends who live in Dana Point and I dropped $100 on Mexican takeout for 4.
If that takeout was from Las Brisas in Laguna, you should have stayed and had a margarita on the patio and enjoyed the views of the Pacific. Then again the bill would have been far north of $100,…..from my experience at least. ;D
Serious answer, check out San Juan Capistrano up the hill. Could get better prices there. But it’s been years since I’ve been.
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Trivia question: What MUMBB alum was from Dana Point?
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Trivia question: What MUMBB alum was from Dana Point?
Mbao?
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Mbao?
Good guess but no. Simi Valley
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Terry Reason?
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Kaiten Reinhardt
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Trivia question: What MUMBB alum was from Dana Point?
Don't care. needs to work on their SEO!?!
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Kaiten Reinhardt
Yes, however with Katen, there was no D in Ana Point.
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Don't care. needs to work on their SEO!?!
Xanax, Wojo and Dana Point seem to go together to me, aina?
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If that takeout was from Las Brisas in Laguna, you should have stayed and had a margarita on the patio and enjoyed the views of the Pacific. Then again the bill would have been far north of $100,…..from my experience at least. ;D
Serious answer, check out San Juan Capistrano up the hill. Could get better prices there. But it’s been years since I’ve been.
This was literally a hole in the wall place... The same food from my favorite suburban Chicago place, La Taqueria in Hanover Park, would have been less than $40.
If you check it out, get the guacamole And tell Francisco that I miss him.
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This was literally a hole in the wall place... The same food from my favorite suburban Chicago place, La Taqueria in Hanover Park, would have been less than $40.
If you check it out, get the guacamole And tell Francisco that I miss him.
A similar drive a few miles up the coast to Laguna and Newport Beach, would be Elgin for Hanover Park. Nothing at all against those fine exurbs 40-50 miles outside of Chicago, but the others are some of the more expensive parts of the Southern California Coast.
And if you spend some time there, you’ll find some good more affordable places too. Like anywhere else, you just need to know where to go.
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I am headed to Dublin for a conference. Have a couple free days. First time in Ireland. Know about the standard stuff, Guinness, temple bar, trinity library.
Other off the beaten path stuff? Considering a day trip to Belfast as well. Good, bad idea?
Sunday roast dinner suggestions? Fish and chips? Good craft beer bars?
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I am headed to Dublin for a conference. Have a couple free days. First time in Ireland. Know about the standard stuff, Guinness, temple bar, trinity library.
Other off the beaten path stuff? Considering a day trip to Belfast as well. Good, bad idea?
Sunday roast dinner suggestions? Fish and chips? Good craft beer bars?
If you go to Galway or pretty much anywhere in Mayo I have a million suggestions. Belfast's cool, do a black cab tour or the troubles, titanic museum's kinda cool, there's a pub built from the stuff the titanic was made of.
As far as Dublin goes if you're not familiar with Irish sport see if there's a hurling or Gaelic football match on to watch or go do the croke park tour and GAA museum. Teeling has a great distillery tour. Still waiting to find food in Dublin that makes me go "that hits" so no suggestions there unfortunately.
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My wife and I have a trip coming up in late Aprll:
5 nights in London
2 nights in Positano
2 nights in Rome
Weve been to London + Rome so don't need much on the big stuff. Would love hole in the wall lunch + dinner spots. Bars with great bartenders and some off the beaten path tours to do. One thing we want to do in London is go to Wimbledon to see the grounds.
In Positano on day 1 we're hiking up to Montepertuso for dinner at Il Ritrovo (Thanks to Chris at Bob's Barber for the tip).
We love to walk a lot, stop and drink a lot and we hate being around tourists.
Thanks!
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My wife and I have a trip coming up in late Aprll:
5 nights in London
2 nights in Positano
2 nights in Rome
Weve been to London + Rome so don't need much on the big stuff. Would love hole in the wall lunch + dinner spots. Bars with great bartenders and some off the all tours to do. One thing we want to do in London is go to Wimbledon to see the grounds.
In Positano on day 1 we're hiking up to Montepertuso for dinner at Il Ritrovo (Thanks to Chris at Bob's Barber for the tip).
We love to walk a lot, stop and drink a lot and we hate being around tourists.
Thanks!
Idk if it's your scene but the area around Hackney Wick is awesome. Dinner on a barge, beers at Crate brewery or howling hops, there's some appreciate the street art that's literally everywhere, other cute restaurants. I'd personally call it fairly off the beaten path.
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In Rome, well, across the river in Trastevere is a great beer bar, Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fa',(loosely translated - What am I doing here?, aka the football pub. https://www.football-pub.com. Rumor has it that other members of this board have been there. They started out smuggling Belgium monk beers into Italy in their VW van. They have grown up sadly, but still fun and great beer selection.
While the internet has ruined every secret travel place, Trastevere is a bit off the beaten path and has a great collection of restaurants and bars and shops.
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In Rome, well, across the river in Trastevere is a great beer bar, Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fa',(loosely translated - What am I doing here?, aka the football pub. https://www.football-pub.com. Rumor has it that other members of this board have been there. They started out smuggling Belgium monk beers into Italy in their VW van. They have grown up sadly, but still fun and great beer selection.
While the internet has ruined every secret travel place, Trastevere is a bit off the beaten path and has a great collection of restaurants and bars and shops.
Very cool place. They serve one of our favorite German beers, Schlenkerla there.
We stayed in Trastavere on our last trip to Rome, and I would never stay anywhere else. A true neighborhood feel, great restaurants, but still walking distance to most of the stuff you go to Rome to see.
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Going to Budapest, Munich, Prague and Vienna as part of a European trip/Danube River cruise (Viking).
Any suggestions? Been to Munich when it raised to high heaven. Want to see it for a day when I'm back. But, any thoughts Warrior Travelers?
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Going to Budapest, Munich, Prague and Vienna as part of a European trip/Danube River cruise (Viking).
Any suggestions? Been to Munich when it raised to high heaven. Want to see it for a day when I'm back. But, any thoughts Warrior Travelers?
I was in Budapest in June 2022, two days for work and a weekend on my own and in Munich in November 2022.
Budapest riverfront was loaded with Danube cruise boats. They were wheeling old people in wheel chairs from the airport to the boats.
Mass transportation was easy in Budapest. I rode the trams and subway everywhere.
My hotel was near the Central Market Hall which I visited several times.
Check out the views from the Fisherman's Bastion, and Buda Castle (there is a Rail Incline up the cliff to it). The Hungarian White House is next to Buda Castle.
The Parliament Building, of course.
The view from the top of Szent Istvan Basilica is great too.
You have to visit Hero's Square and there a castle and park next to it worth walking through. There is a George Washington statue in this park.
I like visiting Roman ruins. Budapest was founded by the Roman Empire and was on the edge of it and there are great ruins to visit called Aquincum.
I ate 3 versions of goulash that I rotated every night.
Munich was a work trip and I was there only Wednesday through Saturday morning.
I visited a different beer hall every night for dinner and the original Hofbrauhaus with a work colleague for lunch one day.
Since I'm a runner, my morning runs were my tourism stops. Visit the Hofgarten and English Garten. You have to watch the surfers in the English Garten.
Anywhere in the Old Town is nice.
My wife was in Vienna and Bratislava (1 hr away) in the Summer 2023.
Schonbrunn is the giant Hapsburg palace that she recommended.
There are several Viennese cakes and desserts that you have to try. (I can't remember the name.)
My wife said Vienna was beautiful everywhere.
She caught glimpses of several buildings from a recent PBS show, Vienna Blood that we had been watching.
Prague is still on the visit list. More good beer.
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Going to Budapest, Munich, Prague and Vienna as part of a European trip/Danube River cruise (Viking).
Any suggestions? Been to Munich when it raised to high heaven. Want to see it for a day when I'm back. But, any thoughts Warrior Travelers?
I am assuming since it is a river cruise you have a day in each city. Correct?
Been to Munich multiple times and Prague and Vienna.
Munich:
I echo the above advice of the English Garden and watching the surfing, very cool. A short stroll away from surfing is a place to get a beer in the garden Fräulein Grüneis https://fraeulein-grueneis.de/. Be aware the garden itself is clothing optional. So feel free to let it all hang out! You may see people sunbathing topless or au natural.
Haufbrau house is touristy but a must (and it is pretty cool). My daughter who was too young to drink at the time, swears they have the best apple juice in the world. Also just for the history there. Nearby is the city hall (catch the Glockenspiel at 11, 12 and 5) in Marienplatz.
I would recommend a beer and brat at the Viktualienmarkt a short walk away. Even if it is 9 in the morning, you won't be drinking alone.
A bit further afield is Augustiner-Keller, a great beer garden and restaurant. An intimate setting with you and a couple thousand of your closest friends. Mostly locals usually as well. https://www.augustinerkeller.de/en
My favorite place if you have time during the day is the Deutsches Museum, their technical museum. Big, so if you have limited time, maybe pass.
Vienna - ah Vienna.
Tons of palaces and museums. The one mentioned above, Schönbrunn Palace, is a metro ride away, but it and its grounds are spectacular. If you go, pay the extra couple of euros for the grand tour, not the limited one. It is huge. Not much else near there. But again, easy metro ride back to the city center.
Do not waste your time standing in line to get the famed Sachertorte cake at the Sacher hotel. It is dry and bland. Get pastries and coffee at one of the many amazing coffee houses instead. Demel is pretty well known. https://www.demel.com/en/pages/cafe
They have a variety of coffees that would make the best US barista embarrassed. Here is a guide to the coffees here: https://www.flightcentre.ca/window-seat/how-order-coffee-vienna
You can probably spend the entire day in the Museum quarter and have an amazing day. If you do, visit the Austrian National Library, in State Hall. It rivals the one in Dublin. If you want to see the famed Lippenzaner (sp?) stallions perform, the shows are pricey and long and not so thrilling, but they practice almost every day from 10am-12pm and you can watch for a much smaller fee (15-20 euros)
A bit further afield suggestions:
If you like markets the Naschmarkt is cool, again an easy metro ride, especially if you visit the Schönbrunn Palace.
The national cemetery has every famous composer buried there. Beethoven, Mozart, Shubert, and of course, the most famous….Falco!
Prater park is an old amusement park with the world’s oldest ferris wheel, famous from the movie The Third Man. Each gondola is an actual cabin.
Prague:
Drink beer. Walk around old town, see the astronomical clock, drink beer, walk across the historic Charles bridge up to the Prague Castle, don't miss the Golden Lane (where alchemists lived and "worked"). Did I mention drink beer?
The library in Prague is pretty cool as well, Klementinum. Maybe a nice spa day at the Beer Spa? https://www.beerspa.com/en/
If you want to be totally depressed, visit the Jewish quarter and the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Holocaust museum. The exhibit on the children's artwork will rip your heart out.
If you are at all a WWII buff there are sites in Munich and Prague that would be must see.
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No Coke Zero in the American lounge at CLT.
The world is doomed!
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We decided to drive rather than fly from Wisconsin to Charlotte NC for a wedding in May. Stopping in Cincy to say hello to my wife's sister and her husband, then was thinking about checking out the New River Gorge area of West Virginia. Need to cross West Virginia off the "visit every state" list and would appreciate any recommendations.
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Tudor's Biscuit World.
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We decided to drive rather than fly from Wisconsin to Charlotte NC for a wedding in May. Stopping in Cincy to say hello to my wife's sister and her husband, then was thinking about checking out the New River Gorge area of West Virginia. Need to cross West Virginia off the "visit every state" list and would appreciate any recommendations.
I can't speak to any destinations but I drove to Morgantown 2-3 times in college from SW Ohio, as well as taking a longer route south through WV driving from NYC to Wisconsin during Covid, and its some of the prettiest and cool scenery that you will get in the Eastern part of the US. I can't think of a place that is more disconnected in the US in terms of natural beauty and terrain with reputation, stereotypes, and socioeconomic situations than WV.
Huntington stinks tho.
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We decided to drive rather than fly from Wisconsin to Charlotte NC for a wedding in May. Stopping in Cincy to say hello to my wife's sister and her husband, then was thinking about checking out the New River Gorge area of West Virginia. Need to cross West Virginia off the "visit every state" list and would appreciate any recommendations.
Driving out to Cincinnati from Connecticut we would pass through one of the fingers of WV and would only be in it for 15 -20 minutes or so. Definitely beautiful scenery that went totally flat one minute after crossing in Ohio.
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I used to drive to Winston-Salem from MKE and took I-77 near Zanesville, OH (I-70) south into NC. Very scenic with a few tunnels on the way through the mountains.
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This story from the Atlantic about the inaugural voyage of the Icon of the Seas is something.
https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2024/05/royal-caribbean-cruise-ship-icon-of-seas/677838/
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This story from the Atlantic about the inaugural voyage of the Icon of the Seas is something.
https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2024/05/royal-caribbean-cruise-ship-icon-of-seas/677838/
I know we have big cruise fans here and they know all the ins and outs.
As someone who visits several of the ports of call for work or sometimes for fun, you couldn’t pay me to be on one of those cruises. They overwhelm The destination.
I would do Alaska cruise and if forced maybe a Mediterranean one, but would prefer train there.
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Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee in Georgia is an Excellent Resort. Staff is super friendly , quality food and the setting is remote and tranquil.
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Later this summer my wife and I are planning on a quick stop-over in Nashville on our way to a wedding in Arkansas. I figure we'll be there mid-afternoon. We'll stay the night and then continue on to Little Rock the next day. We've never been. Any suggestions? I do see that the Opry has a show the night we will be in town and think we should probably do that.
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Later this summer my wife and I are planning on a quick stop-over in Nashville on our way to a wedding in Arkansas. I figure we'll be there mid-afternoon. We'll stay the night and then continue on to Little Rock the next day. We've never been. Any suggestions? I do see that the Opry has a show the night we will be in town and think we should probably do that.
Mid-afternoon on Broadway often has some of the best singers/acts as they are usually singer songwriters and not necessarily the cover bands. I love The Listening Room, Basement/East, Bluebird, The Blue Room. Grand Ole Opry is out of town at a mega mall type situation. Definitely a great experience, get there early as lines can be crazy long to get in, or hit up the old Opry The Ryman downtown for a show. Check out Third Man Records.
So many incredible restaurants, and you have to get Prince’s or even Hattie B’s hot chicken. Husk, Lockeland Table, Puckett’s for breakfast (a short walk from Broadway), Biscuit Love for well a biscuit, Audrey (big Sean Brock fan), good old fashioned meat and three at Big Al’s or Monell’s.
Lots of cool neighborhoods outside Broadway, pick one or two and check em out like The Gulch, 12 South, Germantown, or East Nashville. Last time I was there, I stayed in Hillsboro Village.
Since it’s your first time, kick around Broadway and pop in and out of bars all night. Go to the small dumpy places, go in the back door and up the back steps at Tootsies, watch out for flying chairs apparently.
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Just got back from California. We drove from Reno down the East side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Made stops at Virginia Creek Settlement, Mono Lake, some hot springs, Lone Pine... then drove through Death Valley... which was amazing. It was atypically cold and wet (snow at elevation, and 56F at sea level). Father Crowley Overlook was cool, but fogged out. Saw an amazing super bloom of yellow flowers near Panamint Springs that stretched for hundreds of acres. Continued on with stops at the dunes near Stovepipe Wells, an abandoned borax operation, Furnace Creek, and finally a quick stop at Zabriske Point. We ended a really awesome day in Barstow (don't do this) and then moved on to Palm Springs as well as Joshua Tree. Honestly, it was pretty neat, but Death Valley was much much cooler.
After a nice nature vacation, we spent a week in LA. Driving everywhere is extremely annoying and then you need to find parking. Definitely the low-light of the trip. Checked out some breweries, Venice, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Griffith Observatory, WeHo, Hollywood (don't), Long Beach, and Disneyland.
Strangely, our Uber driver on one of the first days in town was a former member of the 80s group SlyFox!
Overall, it was a good trip, but I'm not in any hurry to rush back to Los Angeles.
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Strangely, our Uber driver on one of the first days in town was a former member of the 80s group SlyFox!
When you got in his vehicle, did he lead with 'Let's Go All The Way?'
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When you got in his vehicle, did he lead with 'Let's Go All The Way?'
Nah, but he was very down on the world in general. He lost his nightclub in NYC during the 'plandemic'.
I felt for the guy, really.
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Mid-afternoon on Broadway often has some of the best singers/acts as they are usually singer songwriters and not necessarily the cover bands. I love The Listening Room, Basement/East, Bluebird, The Blue Room. Grand Ole Opry is out of town at a mega mall type situation. Definitely a great experience, get there early as lines can be crazy long to get in, or hit up the old Opry The Ryman downtown for a show. Check out Third Man Records.
So many incredible restaurants, and you have to get Prince’s or even Hattie B’s hot chicken. Husk, Lockeland Table, Puckett’s for breakfast (a short walk from Broadway), Biscuit Love for well a biscuit, Audrey (big Sean Brock fan), good old fashioned meat and three at Big Al’s or Monell’s.
Lots of cool neighborhoods outside Broadway, pick one or two and check em out like The Gulch, 12 South, Germantown, or East Nashville. Last time I was there, I stayed in Hillsboro Village.
Since it’s your first time, kick around Broadway and pop in and out of bars all night. Go to the small dumpy places, go in the back door and up the back steps at Tootsies, watch out for flying chairs apparently.
Thank you. Helpful stuff.
I figure that if we're in Nashville, we've really "got to" go to the Opry. We're going to be there on a Wednesday and they happen to have a show on Wednesday. Ticket prices are lower than I expected (starting at about $50). They've announced one performer (someone I've never heard of) but apparently there likely will be 6-8 others that will either be announced closer to the day or unannounced.* Honestly, the appeal isn't any particular act...just going to such a famous and historic venue. I wouldn't characterize us specifically as country music fans -- and we certainly aren't familiar with the up-and-coming acts -- but it just seems like if we're in Nashville we should probably go.
When you refer to the long lines, are you referring to specific ticketed shows? Or do you mean in general for tours, etc.?
*Edited to add: I see they've now announced another performer...that I've at least heard of, but am not particularly familiar with.
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Thank you. Helpful stuff.
I figure that if we're in Nashville, we've really "got to" go to the Opry. We're going to be there on a Wednesday and they happen to have a show on Wednesday. Ticket prices are lower than I expected (starting at about $50). They've announced one performer (someone I've never heard of) but apparently there likely will be 6-8 others that will either be announced closer to the day or unannounced.* Honestly, the appeal isn't any particular act...just going to such a famous and historic venue. I wouldn't characterize us specifically as country music fans -- and we certainly aren't familiar with the up-and-coming acts -- but it just seems like if we're in Nashville we should probably go.
When you refer to the long lines, are you referring to specific ticketed shows? Or do you mean in general for tours, etc.?
*Edited to add: I see they've now announced another performer...that I've at least heard of, but am not particularly familiar with.
You’re welcome, have a great time!
I love not knowing much about the musicians and often pick a venue I like, score some tickets, and go in blind. The last time I went to the new Opry, I knew nary an act and saw some incredible bluegrass. Of course, I follow my faves around the country, but I have stumbled on some of my new faves not knowing them before a show.
So, the last time I went to the new Opry, it took forever to get in. It was a ticketed show, assigned seats/bench, and the lines to get in were prohibitively long. We didn’t make it in time for the start, I don’t think, and it felt like we were some of the last people in the joint.
Perhaps it was a function of day/time/lineup, but I was stressed. I like to get into venues early, scope it out, if it’s not ticketed grab my sweet spot for sound, grab a beer, stuff like that. That’s why I said maybe be mindful of arrival time. Perhaps your experience will be different. Remember, it is a fair distance from downtown, so plan accordingly with traffic.
Not sure if they still broadcast live, but that is a cool experience. I highly recommend The Ryman, if you’re interested in sort of the home of country music. It was the home to the Opry for years, probably the most famous home. It’s a music Mecca.
It’s Nashville, you can’t go wrong. A common misconception is that it’s only country music. I have seen some of the best songwriters and voices there that are decidedly not country. And, if I recall, there is a bar on Broadway where I crushed old school hip hop for hours. Of course, it’s a lot of country, and the voices are incredible.
I’ve been racking my brain for a place I like to spend midday on Broadway, I think it’s Layla’s. Also, there is another area nearby called Printer’s Alley, which I think is worth it. I recall there being a lower level English pub where I watched some futbol. It’s probably worth a walk, but maybe a bit hit and miss.
Looking forward to hearing where you check out and who you see.
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When you got in his vehicle, did he lead with 'Let's Go All The Way?'
That was my first thought.
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Mid-afternoon on Broadway often has some of the best singers/acts as they are usually singer songwriters and not necessarily the cover bands. I love The Listening Room, Basement/East, Bluebird, The Blue Room. Grand Ole Opry is out of town at a mega mall type situation. Definitely a great experience, get there early as lines can be crazy long to get in, or hit up the old Opry The Ryman downtown for a show. Check out Third Man Records.
So many incredible restaurants, and you have to get Prince’s or even Hattie B’s hot chicken. Husk, Lockeland Table, Puckett’s for breakfast (a short walk from Broadway), Biscuit Love for well a biscuit, Audrey (big Sean Brock fan), good old fashioned meat and three at Big Al’s or Monell’s.
Lots of cool neighborhoods outside Broadway, pick one or two and check em out like The Gulch, 12 South, Germantown, or East Nashville. Last time I was there, I stayed in Hillsboro Village.
Since it’s your first time, kick around Broadway and pop in and out of bars all night. Go to the small dumpy places, go in the back door and up the back steps at Tootsies, watch out for flying chairs apparently.
21 is spot on. Sounds like you have plans for a night but if you have more time, I’ll echo/add just a little—
Catch the afternoon slots at the big Broadway bars for singer/songwriters instead of the cover bands playing the hits at night. At night catch a show at a place like Bluebird. Explore Printer’s Alley. Found a dive bar hosting karaoke once; the voices were absolutely incredible. There’s also a jazz club that had an open mic night where folks signed up with their instrument and were thrown together to make music.
East Nashville definitely has some great restaurants away from the crowds of downtown.
I also found the Country Music Hall of Fame really interesting for the history in the museum. I am not a modern country guy by any stretch, but learning about its origins and development was great.
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Just got back from California. We drove from Reno down the East side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Made stops at Virginia Creek Settlement, Mono Lake, some hot springs, Lone Pine... then drove through Death Valley... which was amazing. It was atypically cold and wet (snow at elevation, and 56F at sea level). Father Crowley Overlook was cool, but fogged out. Saw an amazing super bloom of yellow flowers near Panamint Springs that stretched for hundreds of acres. Continued on with stops at the dunes near Stovepipe Wells, an abandoned borax operation, Furnace Creek, and finally a quick stop at Zabriske Point. We ended a really awesome day in Barstow (don't do this) and then moved on to Palm Springs as well as Joshua Tree. Honestly, it was pretty neat, but Death Valley was much much cooler.
After a nice nature vacation, we spent a week in LA. Driving everywhere is extremely annoying and then you need to find parking. Definitely the low-light of the trip. Checked out some breweries, Venice, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Griffith Observatory, WeHo, Hollywood (don't), Long Beach, and Disneyland.
Strangely, our Uber driver on one of the first days in town was a former member of the 80s group SlyFox!
Overall, it was a good trip, but I'm not in any hurry to rush back to Los Angeles.
I was just in LA and Orange County all last week. I personally enjoy LA, but I won’t argue with you at all about traffic/parking. I agree on Hollywood, but I enjoyed a meal at Dan Tana’s in WeHo. Didn’t see anyone of note, but the vibe was great.
Did you go into Newport? I saw you mentioned going south towards Long Beach and then into Orange County/Disneyland. I was actually at the Anaheim Marriott (at the convention center) a few nights last week.
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I was just in LA and Orange County all last week. I personally enjoy LA, but I won’t argue with you at all about traffic/parking. I agree on Hollywood, but I enjoyed a meal at Dan Tana’s in WeHo. Didn’t see anyone of note, but the vibe was great.
Did you go into Newport? I saw you mentioned going south towards Long Beach and then into Orange County/Disneyland. I was actually at the Anaheim Marriott (at the convention center) a few nights last week.
We had a lot of good food (sushi and tacos aplenty!) and beer in town. We based most of our journey from an AirBnB just south of UCLA... which was great because it was fairly central for our LA portion, and it included free underground parking.
We didn't make it as far South as Newport. In Long Beach, we only checked out the marina area and aquarium before we headed to Anaheim.
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In what I call the layoff and contract work period of my life in 2009-10, I took a contract engineering job in Connecticut and I had to restart a manufacturing line in Brea, CA. I always stayed in Anaheim next to Disneyland. It lasted 7 months and they ended the contract in March which stunk because I really wanted to go to an Angels game. I would head out 1-2 weeks a month and the travel didn't start until November. On the longer trips I liked to drive through Beverly Hills and do my Eddie Murphy.
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We had a lot of good food (sushi and tacos aplenty!) and beer in town. We based most of our journey from an AirBnB just south of UCLA... which was great because it was fairly central for our LA portion, and it included free underground parking.
We didn't make it as far South as Newport. In Long Beach, we only checked out the marina area and aquarium before we headed to Anaheim.
Sounds like an awesome trip altogether, everywhere you went has something cool and unique for everyone.
I was on UCLA’s campus for work and (stating the obvious) love that area. To me it’s cool how different each neighborhood is, even though they’re super rich. Bel-Air is highest of high, Beverly Hills is glitz, and UCLA’s campus is just smack between them in Westwood.
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Nah, but he was very down on the world in general. He lost his nightclub in NYC during the 'plandemic'.
I felt for the guy, really.
One of them was a Bowie collaborator/protege I believe. Wonder if it was him, that would have been cool to hear about.
One of my closest friends lives in Santa Monica and I have good friends there and in Venice. They are very much beachy people, but we always get inland a bit when I visit. Its always crazy to me how much LA changes in vibe and buzz even just from SM to WeHo to Downtown to Bel Air/Westwood/BH. Traffic blurs reality, but its really not that far distance wise to get huge cultural swings.
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One of them was a Bowie collaborator/protege I believe. Wonder if it was him, that would have been cool to hear about.
One of my closest friends lives in Santa Monica and I have good friends there and in Venice. They are very much beachy people, but we always get inland a bit when I visit. Its always crazy to me how much LA changes in vibe and buzz even just from SM to WeHo to Downtown to Bel Air/Westwood/BH. Traffic blurs reality, but its really not that far distance wise to get huge cultural swings.
Yeah it was Michael. And I totally agree with you and Dish, there are a ton of different vibes from each city within the greater city.
I forgot to mention we drove out to Malibu. It was a very gloomy day, and there wasn't much going on. We walked out on the pier, and along some of the rugged beaches. I didn't understand the allure of the city at all.
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Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee in Georgia is an Excellent Resort. Staff is super friendly , quality food and the setting is remote and tranquil.
Brunch at the Breakers in Palm Beach is an excellent brunch. Staff is excellent, food is excellent, the setting overlooking the ocean is excellent. All for only $195 per person, plus tax and service fee.
https://www.thebreakers.com/dining/sunday-brunch/
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21 is spot on. Sounds like you have plans for a night but if you have more time, I’ll echo/add just a little—
Catch the afternoon slots at the big Broadway bars for singer/songwriters instead of the cover bands playing the hits at night. At night catch a show at a place like Bluebird. Explore Printer’s Alley. Found a dive bar hosting karaoke once; the voices were absolutely incredible. There’s also a jazz club that had an open mic night where folks signed up with their instrument and were thrown together to make music.
East Nashville definitely has some great restaurants away from the crowds of downtown.
I also found the Country Music Hall of Fame really interesting for the history in the museum. I am not a modern country guy by any stretch, but learning about its origins and development was great.
We're intrigued enough by the live music at the Broadway bars that I'm fairly sure we're going to forgo the Opry. We're going to have limited time in Nashville, and Broadway just sounds like a lot more fun. Between driving out there, getting there early, seeing the show, and returning downtown it seemed like the Opry was going to be somewhere in the neighborhood of a 3-4 hour block of time. Throw 90 minutes for dinner in the mix, and we'd have little time for what sounds like the best part. That said, we're now thinking about doing the first 2-3 hours of the drive Tuesday night so we can get there a few hours earlier.
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We're intrigued enough by the live music at the Broadway bars that I'm fairly sure we're going to forgo the Opry. We're going to have limited time in Nashville, and Broadway just sounds like a lot more fun. Between driving out there, getting there early, seeing the show, and returning downtown it seemed like the Opry was going to be somewhere in the neighborhood of a 3-4 hour block of time. Throw 90 minutes for dinner in the mix, and we'd have little time for what sounds like the best part. That said, we're now thinking about doing the first 2-3 hours of the drive Tuesday night so we can get there a few hours earlier.
It has been a while since I have been to Nashville (pre covid), but I was going to suggest bypassing the Opry given your limited time. I would suggest taking the self guided tour of Ryman auditorium (original home of the Grand Ole Opry. If you go to Tootsie's using the back entrance. I think better music at the back stage.
Seems like a lot of the bars have been taken over by big name country stars.
Don't forget there is a full scale replica of the Parthenon there (right near the Taylor Swift bench, if you are into that sort of thing https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/taylor-swift-nashville-dedicates-invisible-string-bench-centennial-park-1235322735/)
Sadly, it looks like my favorite restaurant in that area, Merchant's is closed for renovations.
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We're intrigued enough by the live music at the Broadway bars that I'm fairly sure we're going to forgo the Opry. We're going to have limited time in Nashville, and Broadway just sounds like a lot more fun. Between driving out there, getting there early, seeing the show, and returning downtown it seemed like the Opry was going to be somewhere in the neighborhood of a 3-4 hour block of time. Throw 90 minutes for dinner in the mix, and we'd have little time for what sounds like the best part. That said, we're now thinking about doing the first 2-3 hours of the drive Tuesday night so we can get there a few hours earlier.
Eat at husk. You're welcome in advance
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Eat at husk. You're welcome in advance
Is that the same chef as the one in Charleston? If so, yes, totally yes.
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Is that the same chef as the one in Charleston? If so, yes, totally yes.
It is, Sean Brock. He’s a genius. He also owns and operates Audrey, June both in Nashville among others. Not sure he is still connected to Husk, but his fingerprints are all over it.
Love Husk in Charleston, had an awesome lunch there that rivals the dinner, so good.
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We're intrigued enough by the live music at the Broadway bars that I'm fairly sure we're going to forgo the Opry. We're going to have limited time in Nashville, and Broadway just sounds like a lot more fun. Between driving out there, getting there early, seeing the show, and returning downtown it seemed like the Opry was going to be somewhere in the neighborhood of a 3-4 hour block of time. Throw 90 minutes for dinner in the mix, and we'd have little time for what sounds like the best part. That said, we're now thinking about doing the first 2-3 hours of the drive Tuesday night so we can get there a few hours earlier.
This is the move. Take the extra time to eat another meal and catch another artist. You won’t be disappointed.
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Has any Scooper been to Rapa Nui (Easter Island)? Ty.
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Eat at husk. You're welcome in advance
100%. Have hosted many meetings in the little building they have out back that used to be a stable or smokehouse or something like that. Great place.
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Has any Scooper been to Rapa Nui (Easter Island)? Ty.
Ive had a few friends who have been. Its very cool for the Moai and some of the caves/cave painting, but otherwise there isn't a ton to do/see. 1-2 full days is plenty.
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OK, I was raised in Nashville, so I am a bit jaundiced. I'm not a country music fan and, growing up, we had quite a few of the stars of the time living in our neighborhood. This was BEFORE country music was the rave.
A couple of ideas I know:
1) Jimmy Kelly's -- It's a steakhouse on Louise Street about five blocks north of Vanderbilt University. It's in an old mansion and is very elegant. Haven't been since it changed ownership but this is a top-notch place for good steaks in Nashville.
2) Southern Steak and Oyster -- Third Avenue just south of Broadway. Not a lot of charm but good food. Gotta plug this place. Went to grade and high school with the owner! He grew up down the street from me.
3) Loveless Cafe -- Bit of a drive from downtown. It's on Highway 100 west of St. Henry's and Vatican Valley. Old time southern cooking. Don't go on a Sunday unless you want to spend your day waiting for a table. Warning: has gotten a bit touristy in recent years. Owned by my old friend who also owns Southern Steak and Oyster.
4) Fifth & Taylor -- In the old Germantown neighborhood, this is an old warehouse that's now a very good restaurant. Never had a bad meal there, varied menu.
5) Sperry's -- Highway 70S (West End to Harding Road, just before the 70/100 split). This also is a steak and seafood house. Great local clientele in a location on the edge of Nashville's premier neighborhood.
Some things I like to do:
-- Union Station -- Now a Marriott branded hotel. Great location on the north end of the Gulch (its trains used to traverse the gulch). Incredible architecture, gracefully restored. Nice but pricey place to stay.
-- Frist Musuem -- I registered here for the draft when it was a post office. Last place in Nashville I went before heading off to MU. Nice art decco building and the collection is great.
-- Antagonize the Metro Cops -- OK, that's the younger me getting out. You probably don't want to do this because these guys are old school Bubbas.
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Ive had a few friends who have been. Its very cool for the Moai and some of the caves/cave painting, but otherwise there isn't a ton to do/see. 1-2 full days is plenty.
Ty. It's not exactly an easy place to get to. They found 50 new ocean species near there. The Moai are amazing and I still haven't read any clear answers about them.
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Ty. It's not exactly an easy place to get to. They found 50 new ocean species near there. The Moai are amazing and I still haven't read any clear answers about them.
I thought the most common understanding was that the islanders cut down their trees and made the island uninhabitable so they abandoned it.
It's certainly happened on other Pacific islands.
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I thought the most common understanding was that the islanders cut down their trees and made the island uninhabitable so they abandoned it.
It's certainly happened on other Pacific islands.
No, it was aliens or manatees
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I thought the most common understanding was that the islanders cut down their trees and made the island uninhabitable so they abandoned it.
It's certainly happened on other Pacific islands.
Also completely wiped out all native island bird populations. Unfortunately foresight wasn't common in abundance for many subsistence cultures in areas of limited resources.
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Also completely wiped out all native island bird populations. Unfortunately foresight wasn't common in abundance for many subsistence cultures in areas of limited resources.
A few years ago I read a very interesting book: Sapiens: A Brief History of Mankind
One of the things I thought was really fascinating was that there are quite a number of species of large, slow mammals that became extinct almost immediately once humans began to move into their habitat. Mammoths and Mastadons are just a couple of them.
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A few years ago I read a very interesting book: Sapiens: A Brief History of Mankind
One of the things I thought was really fascinating was that there are quite a number of species of large, slow mammals that became extinct almost immediately once humans began to move into their habitat. Mammoths and Mastadons are just a couple of them.
Yeah, there is a lot of debate about that. Mammoths in particular lived along-side humans for many years prior to becoming extinct. A lot of people believe it was due to a warmer and wetter climate.
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Yeah, there is a lot of debate about that. Mammoths in particular lived along-side humans for many years prior to becoming extinct. A lot of people believe it was due to a warmer and wetter climate.
They have done actual scientific studies that conclude in numerous instances that the extinction of these species (way more than just Mammoths and Mastodons, many were animals most people have ever heard of) correlates with the arrival of human beings in that area. I don't have the book anymore, so I can't quote chapter and verse.
And it makes perfect sense. Slow, delicious animals that can feed a crap ton of people, and all they had to do is encircle it and stab it enough times with their spears.
I understand that donations World Wildlife Fund were a little scarce back in the prehistoric era.
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They have done actual scientific studies that conclude in numerous instances that the extinction of these species (way more than just Mammoths and Mastodons, many were animals most people have ever heard of) correlates with the arrival of human beings in that area. I don't have the book anymore, so I can't quote chapter and verse.
And it makes perfect sense. Slow, delicious animals that can feed a crap ton of people, and all they had to do is encircle it and stab it enough times with their spears.
I understand that donations World Wildlife Fund were a little scarce back in the prehistoric era.
This study says it was both.
https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.0060079
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This study says it was both.
https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.0060079
Never thought I would see Sultan turn into Chicos.
Very well, then, feel free to have the last word.
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Never thought I would see Sultan turn into Chicos.
Very well, then, feel free to have the last word.
I was actually viewing it more as a kumbaya moment as where both of us could be considered "right."
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A few years ago I read a very interesting book: Sapiens: A Brief History of Mankind
One of the things I thought was really fascinating was that there are quite a number of species of large, slow mammals that became extinct almost immediately once humans began to move into their habitat. Mammoths and Mastadons are just a couple of them.
The Missus had the Audio Book version. Listened to it on road trips with her. Was definitely interesting.
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I was just in LA and Orange County all last week. I personally enjoy LA, but I won’t argue with you at all about traffic/parking. I agree on Hollywood, but I enjoyed a meal at Dan Tana’s in WeHo. Didn’t see anyone of note, but the vibe was great.
Did you go into Newport? I saw you mentioned going south towards Long Beach and then into Orange County/Disneyland. I was actually at the Anaheim Marriott (at the convention center) a few nights last week.
About 10 years ago , went to Dan Tana with some business associates who were regulars there, of all people we were seated next to Bob Lanier. The next night we had dinner at The Grill on the Alley in Beverly Hills and guess who shows up again, Bob Lanier. He was a funny guy very engaging personality, he was working for The NBA at the time.
Chicken Parm at Dan Tana was outstanding.