So some simple travel reminders that I usually try to stick to when I travel. I hope they help you.
1. Have back-up. By this let someone at home know where you are going. Don't just up and disappear. Emergencies can happen at home and someone may need to get in touch with you. So let your friends and family know where you’re going. Give them your cell number, hotel room number, the number at the hotel, heck even give them the main office number to Palladium. Being out of touch can be scary to your loved ones, even if it is only for a weekend.
2. I try to pack the bare essentials. In my early days of traveling I would pack so much crap trying to anticipate this and that, and I would end up not using half of it and I would have to haul it all around with me. For the open house I'm packing a few shirts, pants, clean socks and underwear, and the usual assortment of toiletries. Plus my gaming supplies.
3. Cash - Be careful here. I usually take travelers checks instead of cash. For guys secure your wallets in your front pocket, not in your back. Ladies should put their purses slung over their neck and shoulder. For those that wear a fanny pack, wear it in the front, not on the side or rear.
4. If your traveling via plane remember to arrive early so you can get through security. Remember the ban on liquids (I think its only 3 oz) for carry on. For those traveling outside of the Eastern Time zone Taylor MI is in...well the Eastern Time Zone. If you want to know what your time difference is check out World Time Zones. We don't want you missing any games or your return flight home!
5. In strange places be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. If you're not in the warehouse and have to walk outside try and go with a friend, or let someone know your going for a walk.
6. If you’re driving take breaks and try not to drive alone! Have a friend with you that can keep you awake. If you feel drowsy, pull over and take a quick nap! Do it!!! Wear your seat belts and don't rush or take any foolish action. It’s not a race, and PB is not going anywhere. Drive carefully and safely, because I'm going to be on the road too
It might be a good idea to have your car check out too. I got my oil changed last week and had my mechanic check it out and see if she was good for a 1000 mile round trip. A tune up helps too. Last year I had them put in a fresh air filter to get better gas efficiency.
7. Taking a train? I've done it back and forth to NYC. You should be able to check and see if the train is running on time. Still get there at least a half hour early. I know of a co-worker who was tracking the train. They were late, still late, a little more late, then when it was due to arrive, she got there ten minutes early and missed the train because somewhere along the way it made up time. Yeah that sucked!
8. Never traveled by bus before expect on a Grand Canyon tour so I can't offer much here. Bring a book, or make a character or two!
I am no world traveler and have only been around the U.S. and Canada so I know there is a lot more travel tips. Please feel free to post your own here.
Everyone please have a safe and uneventful trip and I'll see you all at the Open House!!!
Carl
