I just posted some photographs that I have take while here in Berlin on Flickr.
Packing
I have traveled a ton in my 33 years, but lately I have been traveling so much that I am getting really tired of packing.
A few tips I have figured out:
1. Pack the least amount of toiletries.
2. Always bring a Camera.
3. One carry on, unless you don’t want to check your bags.
4. Put as much as you can in your suitcase, ie: laptop powercords, leatherman, crimpers, etc…
5. Pack diversely in the clothing department, but light.
7. Remember to leave room for the potential purchase for the return trip.
8. Take Airborne.
9. Dress comfortably for the plane.
10. Make sure to wiegh your bag before going to the airport.
Las Vegas
I just got home from working the MS CES Keynote and I am so glad to be home. Vegas gets old very quick. Normally, I love staying at the Venetian, but this time…
The updated rooms look great. It’s always nice to have the big suite with the flat screen TVs everywhere, the bathtub, king size bed, sunken living room, etc, etc, etc.
However, there is a noticeable difference in service since the last time I was there. I don’t know if it was because of the opening of the new casino and hotel, but the Venetian in general just had poor service. Perhaps they can smell the fact that I am not rich enough to gamble on their 15 dollar minimum tables and that I have a limited amount to spend each day on food.
Maybe all hotels are this way and I am just getting around to noticing it. I did note that if I did not tip someone, they would make sure to say “thank you” in a very nasty way. If I did tip, they would say nothing and kind of ignore it. I guess I look like all the other tourists there, even though I am really in the service business just like them.
I did get to see the new Planet Hollywood Hotel. It was really nice and has the best mall so far that I have seen in a hotel. I had also never been to the Wynn and so got to take a look. I really liked it, but definitely felt out of place. Its more swanky than the Bellagio. Its a gorgeous hotel and I love the forest/waterfall thing they have going on.
It is so good to be home.
Quick Weekend Trip
I flew to Switzerland on Thursday, arrived on Friday and flew home last night.
Perhaps you think this is crazy, but here are several reasons that I thought it made it worth it:
1. Surprising the pants, and sometimes the socks and shoes too, off of friends.
2. Loading up on Chocolate, esp the kind with a “kick.”
3. Getting Status on Alaska Airlines
4. Catching up on all the movies I missed in the theatre
5. Adventure