How do I pack for TAM?

[Pope Molestus XXX]

Question...as this is my first TAM, I need advice on the type of clothing to pack.

I assume (due to the weather) that I should take mostly casual clothes and shorts. But is there any reason I should take nicer clothes as well? "Going out" clothes and/or a suit as well?

TAM Veterans, please advise.

[Terry]

You will be spending long hours in a conference room, which may well be air-conditioned to the point where the air is beginning to liquify. So you might consider bringing some warm layers.

[Dicon]

You can get by with casual wear in all but the most upscale restaurants and clubs in Vegas, and there's no need at all for a suit. Unless it's a bunny suit.

[Marquis de Carabas]

I find that all my sartorial needs can be met with g-strings and nipple clamps.

Oh, and clogs, if you don't like going barefoot.

[Merko]

I'm wondering what it's like outside. I mean, it's a bloody desert. So super hot in the day, that's clear. But what is it like in the middle of the night? Still warm? Cool? Cold?

[realpaladin]

Don't forget to pack an RPG or two.

[Fitter]

I'm wondering what it's like outside. I mean, it's a bloody desert. So super hot in the day, that's clear. But what is it like in the middle of the night? Still warm? Cool? Cold?

Last year, in June, I found it was still warm at 2 A.M. Mind you I had plenty of anti-freeze in me at that hour.

[SkepticScott]

I'm wondering what it's like outside. I mean, it's a bloody desert. So super hot in the day, that's clear. But what is it like in the middle of the night? Still warm? Cool? Cold?
Low temperatures at night are about 20°F/12°C lower than the high temperatures during the day. Still hot.

With near-zero humidity, the temperatures feel more like an oven than a sauna. If you do go outside for long periods during the day always, repeat always, bring water with you and keep drinking even if you aren't thirsty.

[Hokulele]

Las Vegas weather forecast:

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=36.233049&lon=-115.242288&site=all&smap=1&searchresult=Las%20Vegas%2C%20NV%2C%20USA

Don't forget that summer in Las Vegas can mean spectacular thunderstorms. That can cool things down a little bit as well. I usually wait until a couple of days before I leave to check the 7-day forecast, and pack accordingly.

Also, if you plan to indulge in adult beverages, it is a good idea to pack aspirin/ibuprofen/acetaminophen and antacids. You can get them in the sundry store, but it is nicer to have them on hand rather than staggering down in search of them. Las Vegas is so incredibly dry that for me, the hangovers are far worse than anywhere else. I have (finally) learned to limit the amount I drink there and to make sure that I drink water or juice whenever I get the chance.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Question...as this is my first TAM, I need advice on the type of clothing to pack.

I assume (due to the weather) that I should take mostly casual clothes and shorts. But is there any reason I should take nicer clothes as well? "Going out" clothes and/or a suit as well?

TAM Veterans, please advise.

Shorts and t-shirts is all you need. And all a lot of people will be wearing.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

I find that all my sartorial needs can be met with g-strings and nipple clamps.

Oh, and clogs, if you don't like going barefoot.

You'll be packing fudge too, won't you?

[SRW]

here ya go (http://sites.google.com/site/usbaggers/)

[KarlG]

Shorts and t-shirts is all you need. And all a lot of people will be wearing.

Shorts and t-shirts were all i wore last year, except for the trip to Quarks and one other inspired occasion. I decided i would wear jeans for the Skepchick party. Man, was that a stupid decision!! A speedo would've been too much :)

I would suggest packing lots of t-shirts, socks and underwear. Shorts you can wear more than once, the other things you may need multiples per day, especially if you venture outside the air-conditioned areas.

[TaoMacGuy]

In a word: layers.

As others have noted it will vary from (potentially) arctic-like conditions in the conference rooms to Sahara-like conditions outside (even in the evening after sunset it will be seriously warm).

For the conferences, dress for comfort! Me? I love wearing linen - and yes, I do all of my own ironing.

I'm also planning on packing about 1/2 a suitcase full of portable snack-like goodies. This will A) let me choose what snacks I'm eating and B) avoid the limited and potentially local snack-shop alternative/pricing. Last thing I want to have to do during the conferences is realize I'm thirsty or hungry and have to figure out the food thing.

Also as others have suggested directly or indirectly, I'm also fully expecting to change my cloths a minimum of once a day if not twice or three times. This either for comfort reasons, dress-code appropriate reasons or just because I feel like it reasons.

A suit? I don't even own one. Makes that decision easy (I'm a professional trainer and I don't even own a suit. Any job which requires a suit falls completely off my radar).

Personally my goal is the comfortable-casual-sexy look. ;)

[Fitter]

I've always found packing a credit card helps. Preferably someone else's.

[KarlG]

Re: snacks during the conference - Last year there was plenty of free food/snacks available. From the breakfast and lunch thru to mid-morning/afternoon snacks/coffe/soft drinks, i never went hungry or thirsty. Of course i wouldn't put you off bringing things you like, but there was always plenty during the sessions.

[Marquis de Carabas]

Not to mention, Vegas is crawling with people, many of whom wouldn't be missed if you start feeling a little peckish.

[saganite]

Even though no women have asked this question yet, allow me to chime in for any ladies wondering what suitable attire for a TAM might be:

Conferences: like the guys say, go comfortable and casual. Be aware that if you wear a tee shirt with a pithy or nerdy expression on it, perfect strangers will strike up a conversation with you about it. I consider that a plus, because I like meeting new people, but if you're shy, it might be something to keep in mind.

Outings: These tend to stay casual as well, although there are always a couple of impeccably-dressed skeptics who put everyone else to shame. (Rustypouch, I'm looking in your bow-tied direction.)

Skepchick Party: The dress code is traditionally all over the map for this one, but you can't really over-dress -- it's whatever makes you feel good. Feel free to break out your gold sequins and your stiletto-heeled boots if you want to, or rock jeans and a casual top, but don't worry about standing out too much because people tend to let loose, wardrobe-wise.

[arthwollipot]

You will be spending long hours in a conference room, which may well be air-conditioned to the point where the air is beginning to liquify. So you might consider bringing some warm layers.Pfft! Right now, where I am, it's 8°C outside, and I'm wearing a short-sleeved shirt. What can I say? I like it cold. I'm a freak.

Also, if you plan to indulge in adult beverages, it is a good idea to pack aspirin/ibuprofen/acetaminophen and antacids. You can get them in the sundry store, but it is nicer to have them on hand rather than staggering down in search of them. Las Vegas is so incredibly dry that for me, the hangovers are far worse than anywhere else. I have (finally) learned to limit the amount I drink there and to make sure that I drink water or juice whenever I get the chance.This is extremely good advice. Thanks Hokulele for reminding me. I'll make a policy of not hacing two drinks in a row without having water in between. That will also mean I will drink less, which will be a bonus. :)

While we're talking about packing, don't forget to pack your StopSylvia t-shirt!!!

[Fitter]

<snip> That will also mean I will drink less, which will be a bonus. :)

<snip>

Woohoo, more for me!!!!!

[phyz]

You'll be packing fudge too, won't you?

Was that really called for? Oh wait. Just remembered where I am.

Never mind.

[Pope Molestus XXX]

The dress code is traditionally all over the map for this one...it's whatever makes you feel good....don't worry about standing out too much because people tend to let loose, wardrobe-wise.I think that should be THE advertising pitch for their party. Makes me want to go in my Borat table tennis costume (like this...http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dgFk7KzCuHY/RZMitM7sx5I/AAAAAAAAABI/F-vLJ-0LD2k/s320/bscap0002.jpg

[Sc00ter]

What about other stuff, non-clothes related. I was going to bring my Sony DSC-T1 for most of the day to take quick shots of people I meet or stuff that's interesting. Plus it fits in my pocket. And my Olympus E-410 SLR for bigger events where I want good pics. Lugging that thing around all day, every day would be annoying.

I'll most likely have my police line messenger bag (http://images.play.com/covers/1112345x.jpg) to carry my stuff in, including my new Dell Mini 10 (if the damn thing arrives on time, stupid Dell screwing up my order). I'd hate to have to lug around my large laptop, that just seems obnoxious. In tight spots where a laptop wouldn't seem appropriate I'll have my Nokia N180.

I figured the laptop/tablet would be good for all the social networking stuff will be going on, plus it will make it easier to add people I meet to my facebook/twitter and do it right there.

[MLynn]

In soite of Las Vegas' reputation, no birthday suits (bad joke...).

If you gamble, sign up for the South Point's players club. You could get freebies during your stay.

During the summer the hotel/casinos can get really cold - bring sweater or light jacket.

[saganite]

I think that should be THE advertising pitch for their party. Makes me want to go in my Borat table tennis costume (like this...http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dgFk7KzCuHY/RZMitM7sx5I/AAAAAAAAABI/F-vLJ-0LD2k/s320/bscap0002.jpg

Go for it. Last year there was a guy who brought a straitjacket with him everywhere he went. It was quite the conversation-starter.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Go for it. Last year there was a guy who brought a straitjacket with him everywhere he went. It was quite the conversation-starter.

At least for 5 minutes. That act got real old, real quick.

[Horatius]

If you gamble, sign up for the South Point's players club. You could get freebies during your stay.





Actually, you should look into signing up even if you don't gamble, since they often give you freebies just for joining, and often you get some kind of discount book for bars/restaurants and the like.

[Hokulele]

Bring a pair of very comfortable shoes. The conference rooms tend to be a decent hike from the rooms, which are a decent hike from the restaurants, which are a decent hike from the bars, which are a decent hike from the restrooms, which are a decent hike from the...

And if you go downtown or to the Strip to sightsee, everything is a decent hike from anything.

[Phlebas]

At least for 5 minutes. That act got real old, real quick.

It perked back up again watching him hit on the Skepchicks.

[RemieV]

PMXXX,

Having lived in Vegas since February, I think I'm finally beginning to understand where to wear what. (There have been some missteps where I was in heels and everyone else had ratty clothes. And then, after the guy I was dating commented on that, I finally went out in my ratty clothes and it was the one night where all the girls were in dresses and all the guys were in button-down shirts and jackets.)

Anyway, at TAM and TAMgoer gatherings, there will be a wide range of what people are wearing. Any bar you go to that is located inside of a casino and is not an independent structure, but part of the casino itself, will not have a dress code (but if you go into Wynn or Encore, prepare to stick out if you're in a t-shirt). Themed bars inside of casinos will, for the most part, have a dress code. These are places like Revolution and Cathouse. Clubs, like ghostbar, LAX, Jet, XS, etc. will have even stricter dress codes.

If you plan on going to the downtown bars, the trendy ones will also either have a dress code, or you will look out of place in a t-shirt.

Just bring a button down shirt, black slacks, and a nice pair of shoes as "going out" clothes and it will be fine. Though tons of people in those clubs will be wearing suits, they're not a requirement.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

PMXXX,

Having lived in Vegas since February, I think I'm finally beginning to understand where to wear what. (There have been some missteps where I was in heels and everyone else had ratty clothes. And then, after the guy I was dating commented on that, I finally went out in my ratty clothes and it was the one night where all the girls were in dresses and all the guys were in button-down shirts and jackets.)

Anyway, at TAM and TAMgoer gatherings, there will be a wide range of what people are wearing. Any bar you go to that is located inside of a casino and is not an independent structure, but part of the casino itself, will not have a dress code (but if you go into Wynn or Encore, prepare to stick out if you're in a t-shirt). Themed bars inside of casinos will, for the most part, have a dress code. These are places like Revolution and Cathouse. Clubs, like ghostbar, LAX, Jet, XS, etc. will have even stricter dress codes.

If you plan on going to the downtown bars, the trendy ones will also either have a dress code, or you will look out of place in a t-shirt.

Just bring a button down shirt, black slacks, and a nice pair of shoes as "going out" clothes and it will be fine. Though tons of people in those clubs will be wearing suits, they're not a requirement.

Having seen the way you dress at a couple of TAMs now, I would suggest your idea of "ratty" is my idea of "dressed up".

[TaoMacGuy]

Just bring a button down shirt, black slacks, and a nice pair of shoes as "going out" clothes and it will be fine. Though tons of people in those clubs will be wearing suits, they're not a requirement.

I draw the line at a tie. Heck I present for a living and I don't wear a tie when I do that. If it's ever "required," it's an engagement I skip. ;)

[Dicon]

In soite of Las Vegas' reputation, no birthday suits


But that's my preferred outfit after 6:00pm! Or on any day with a vowel in it.

[phyz]

My psychic and politically incorrect prediction:

Most of the straight men will underdress (no worries, Scrut, you know I love you in a non-gay way).

Most straight women will overdress, especially in the evenings. They've got a good-enough excuse (and it rarely takes much).

Nothing wrong with any of this, of course! But it does make for amusing pairings.

[arthwollipot]

Most of the straight men will underdress.Except for George Hrab. George is never underdressed.

Except when he takes off his pants.

[Redtail]

Having recently gotten married in Vegas (Well, near Vegas) You might want to pack a T-shirt that says "Hot girls direct to your room! 702-869-girl" Then the card guys leave you alone.

[phyz]

Except for George Hrab. George is never underdressed.

Aye; it's a rare man that can pull this look off.
http://phyz.smugmug.com/photos/367829098_cfb3Z-L-1.jpg

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Aye; it's a rare man that can pull this look off.
http://phyz.smugmug.com/photos/367829098_cfb3Z-L-1.jpg

Mr. Clean was in the Galapagos?

[saganite]

My psychic and politically incorrect prediction:

Most of the straight men will underdress (no worries, Scrut, you know I love you in a non-gay way).

Most straight women will overdress, especially in the evenings. They've got a good-enough excuse (and it rarely takes much).

Nothing wrong with any of this, of course! But it does make for amusing pairings.

Heh -- yes, that's my memory too. We've got to offset the sea of tee shirts and shorts somehow...

[Wowbagger]

Know what? I'm just gonna pack a bunch of my funny T-shirts and well-worn jeans. And, I don't care if it's "appropriate" or not, wherever I'm going.

[SkepticScott]

We've got to offset the sea of tee shirts and shorts somehow...You ladies would look lovely in tee-shirts and shorts too.

[Marquis de Carabas]

You'll be packing fudge too, won't you?
Only for paying customers this time, Scrut, sorry.

[RemieV]

Having seen the way you dress at a couple of TAMs now, I would suggest your idea of "ratty" is my idea of "dressed up".

I love my high heels ;)

But the time I'm referring to, I was wearing an Abbey Road babydoll t-shirt, bluejeans, and a pair of Vans.

[kittynh]

Remie will always be rocking the Audrey Hepburn look...she's gorgeous at TAM always.

Me, jeans skirt... tshirt...if the shirt has a funny saying all the better.

I think at one point I was running around in my bare feet

But yeah a sweater or something it get chilly.

Also this year I'm packing rabbits and a magic hat. That's to be a fun carry on for me. Thank goodness the airline is cool with the rabbits coming on board (if they fit under a seat it's ok).

[hcmom]

I make up for the overdressed women.

Although I did just buy a dress...

[kittynh]

Wait hcmom! No fair wearing a DRESS!!!

Really if you want to dress up everyone will probably think you are a speaker, but that's fine!

If you have a big flowing cape that's ok to wear also.

[arthwollipot]

I'll be packing a bunch of t-shirts, business shirts, jeans and trousers, and both sneakers and the world's most comfortable works shoes. I'll pack a warm jumper in the expectation that I won't need it.

Also several books, my camera, laptop and audio recorder, and the iPhone I'm buying this Sunday.

Also some Minties, a bunch of Australia pins, some Tim-Tams and one or two... "special items".

[Hokulele]

Tim-Tams?

[Eos of the Eons]

Having recently gotten married in Vegas (Well, near Vegas) You might want to pack a T-shirt that says "Hot girls direct to your room! 702-869-girl" Then the card guys leave you alone.

What about those guys handing out poster sized stuff. Porn fights are fun...

[Redtail]

What about those guys handing out poster sized stuff. Porn fights are fun...

:D My (supposed to be) best man and I would collect a bunch of them from one row and then hand them to the guys in the next row we came upon.

[arthwollipot]

Tim-Tams?I promised ages ago that I'd pack Tim Tams. But if you want any, you'd better get to LA sometime in the week before TAM (the earlier the better) because I don't think they'll last for very long at hcmom's place.

[Hokulele]

Poop.

[arthwollipot]

No, that I'll produce when I get there.

[HawaiiBigSis]

I don't think they'll last for very long at hcmom's place.
'struth! :D

[Wowbagger]

Tim-Tams? Sorry, I have a professional obligation not to comment on the subject of bringing Tim-Tams to TAM.

[hcmom]

I promised ages ago that I'd pack Tim Tams. But if you want any, you'd better get to LA sometime in the week before TAM (the earlier the better) because I don't think they'll last for very long at hcmom's place.

And just on the offhand chance there are any left when we leave to head (indirectly) to TAM, they'll be coming with me....

[SkepticScott]

If you're a JREF member, please pack your member card! That'll make it easy for us when you buy merchandise and ask for your 10% discount! http://www.randi.org/site/index.php/support-us.html

[paperskater]

Remie will always be rocking the Audrey Hepburn look...she's gorgeous at TAM always.

Me, jeans skirt... tshirt...if the shirt has a funny saying all the better.

I think at one point I was running around in my bare feet

But yeah a sweater or something it get chilly.

Also this year I'm packing rabbits and a magic hat. That's to be a fun carry on for me. Thank goodness the airline is cool with the rabbits coming on board (if they fit under a seat it's ok).


Awwww!! Rabbits! I love rabbits! :heartbeat:

ETA: Wait, I just noticed that was plural. Are you bringing more than one?!

[Wowbagger]

Who doesn't love rabbits?

[Hokulele]

Who doesn't love rabbits?


Unexpecting fathers.

[Geek Goddess]

I figured the laptop/tablet would be good for all the social networking stuff will be going on, plus it will make it easier to add people I meet to my facebook/twitter and do it right there.

I called the hotel this morning. Wifi in your room is $12.99 for a 24-hr period, and you can access in your room or in the pool area.

In the meeting rooms, your room access will not work, and you have to access through the convention center wifi. Jeff reported on this yesterday. It's $25 PER HOUR or you can buy a four hour block for $80.

Seriously.

[Geek Goddess]

If a certain pair of my friends go, we nearly always go out to a dressy place at least one night.

I have some linen pants. Although I've been avoiding any shopping for "TAM" clothes (I have to look professional at work; shorts, tshirts, or cropped pants don't pass muster), I think I will pick up another pair and maybe just some casual shirts.

I friggin HATE shopping

[arthwollipot]

I called the hotel this morning. Wifi in your room is $12.99 for a 24-hr period, and you can access in your room or in the pool area.

In the meeting rooms, your room access will not work, and you have to access through the convention center wifi. Jeff reported on this yesterday. It's $25 PER HOUR or you can buy a four hour block for $80.

Seriously.I'm pretty much assuming that I'll do all my uploading when I return.

[TaoMacGuy]

I called the hotel this morning. Wifi in your room is $12.99 for a 24-hr period, and you can access in your room or in the pool area.

In the meeting rooms, your room access will not work, and you have to access through the convention center wifi. Jeff reported on this yesterday. It's $25 PER HOUR or you can buy a four hour block for $80.

Seriously.

Traveling as much as I do for a living, I have no problem whatsoever believing this. And I've seen worse. Much worse.

I'll (reluctantly) pay the $12.95 (plus tax, don't forget the tax!), but $25 per hour! Sigh. That's (cough - usuary), (cough - highway roobery), (cough - financial assault), a lot of money for, let's face it, a few minutes a day of online access. Sigh.

Maybe we'll all have to take regularly scheduled "breaks" out at the pool area? ;)

[Paul C. Anagnostopoulos]

Y'all're packing too much. Three T-shirts, three shorts, and socks. I guess one light long-sleeved shirts because the hotel may be freezing.

~~ Paul

[TaoMacGuy]

Y'all're packing too much. Three T-shirts, three shorts, and socks. I guess one light long-sleeved shirts because the hotel may be freezing.

~~ Paul

Whoa!

Dude, unless you are planning on doing laundry or risking smelling.... er, ripe by the end of the conference, I'd seriously suggest more than three outfits! I'm planning on an absolute minimum of two per day (and will probably err towards the 2.5 to 3 per day side).

Besides, being semi-fashion conscious, I'm not sure I want to be seen in the same outfit twice. ;)

[Wowbagger]

Unexpecting fathers.

And, apparently, some Australians.

[Arianna]

Ladies, you can get by and look fab by bringing just a few items.
I can't afford to go this year (profoundly depressed about it), but I dressed up last year and was able to get all I needed in a carry-on and had room to spare:

One casual sleeveless denim dress with a long sleeved blouse under it in the conference room; wear the same dress w/o the blouse outside.
One pair of jeans.
Two tee shirts.
One silk blouse.
One pair of pumps

If you stay for a week, you can have your clothes laundered at the hotel.

[Dicon]

I just took a look at the long-range forecast for Vegas. We'll be seeing daytime highs of 100+, with overnight lows in the upper 70s.

Leave the down parka at home.

[nettiemoore]

Yeah, $13 I could just about accept, but an additional $25 is nonsense. For that price I might just as well pay the global roaming fees and use my Australian provider (well, their partner in the US anyway).

[firecoins]

a suitcase with clothing is a good start. Don't want to show to your first TAM naked

[kittynh]

well warning about hotel laundry fees. I'm with Paul A. Hey you aren't going to be all sweaty unless you LEAVE the hotel. Which we probably won't a lot...

sinks are also lovely for washing. I have to sometimes travel in Europe and I can do 10 plus days with a carry on. But its all black and lot of washing!

TAM, casual is good. But like Geek said if you are going to a really nice restaurant you will want something a little nicer. Me, I'm budget time so I'll stick with super casual.

oh and I'm training the bunnies to stay in the carry on for a longer period of time each day. I have to get some "live animal" stickers the airline said, but other than that it should work out fine.

[ejk]

Traveling as much as I do for a living, I have no problem whatsoever believing this. And I've seen worse. Much worse.

I'll (reluctantly) pay the $12.95 (plus tax, don't forget the tax!), but $25 per hour! Sigh. That's (cough - usuary), (cough - highway roobery), (cough - financial assault), a lot of money for, let's face it, a few minutes a day of online access. Sigh.

Maybe we'll all have to take regularly scheduled "breaks" out at the pool area? ;)

Really, is it that hard to go a couple hours without being on line? Especially at TAM -- isn't it interesting enough?

I'll have my iPhone to check things as needed, but am kind of looking forward to being offline. The best part is when I get to tell clients they really can't expect to reach me at any given moment. Aaah, vacation.

[TaoMacGuy]

I'll have my iPhone to check things as needed, but am kind of looking forward to being offline. The best part is when I get to tell clients they really can't expect to reach me at any given moment. Aaah, vacation.

Clients? Clients! You still have clients. To quote Monty Python ('s Life of Brian): You lucky, lucky bastard! ;)

I was thinking it might be sort of cool to Tweet (e.g. taunt) my friends and family a few times a day each day. I guess I'll have to "settle" for the "daily summary."

And to keep this on-thread, electronically-wise, I am packing both iPod Touch (I have decided to forgo the iPhone thing for now), my (relatively dumb) cell phone and my laptop.

[saganite]

well warning about hotel laundry fees. I'm with Paul A. Hey you aren't going to be all sweaty unless you LEAVE the hotel. Which we probably won't a lot...


That's true...but I don't know about the rest of you guys, but I find that my clothes tend to pick up that old familiar "Vegas smell" after one wearing. Call it a combination of cigarette smoke, dirty cash and desperation. I wouldn't want to wear the same shirt two days in a row.

[Fitter]

I'm just going to steal clothes from rustypouch when all mine are dirty.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Y'all're packing too much. Three T-shirts, three shorts, and socks. I guess one light long-sleeved shirts because the hotel may be freezing.

~~ Paul

Didn't you forget underwear?

Wait a minute......

Oh no.........:eek:

[KarlG]

I'm bringing my new netbook and i'll be paying for wifi most days, so if anyone needs to check their emails or anything like that, look me up during breaks or before and after sessions.

[Nankay]

Karl,
For a small fee, of course.............

[KarlG]

Karl,
For a small fee, of course.............

I like beer :)

[TaoMacGuy]

That's true...but I don't know about the rest of you guys, but I find that my clothes tend to pick up that old familiar "Vegas smell" after one wearing. Call it a combination of cigarette smoke, dirty cash and desperation. I wouldn't want to wear the same shirt two days in a row.

OMG!

As I suggested in an earlier post, I don't think I'm going to wear any shirt for even an entire single day.

I'm envisioning changing my shirt at the very least before the dinner hour, if not also mid-day (lunch-time-ish).

Oh, and I'm not doing or having the hotel do laundry during this trip. This trip is for fun, not dealing with the logistics (not to mention the expense) of laundry!

[Marquis de Carabas]

That's true...but I don't know about the rest of you guys, but I find that my clothes tend to pick up that old familiar "Vegas smell" after one wearing. Call it a combination of cigarette smoke, dirty cash and desperation. I wouldn't want to wear the same shirt two days in a row.
All my clothes smell like this anyway.

[GeekyAtheist]

The bulk of my luggage will be geek gear: cameras/lenses, laptop, chargers, etc..

[Nankay]

My room was approximately 12 1/2 miles from the lunch area and conference room last year at the Flamingo. I don't think I had time (or , in all honestly, I was probably too damn lazy) to go back and change during lunch. The time between the last presenter and evening outings/supper made it a little easier, but it was still a mad breathless dash to my room and then back down to the lobby. If I hadn't left my trusty trail of bread crumbs each time, I never would have made it.

[saganite]

All my clothes smell like this anyway.

My post was directed towards those who can actually take steps to do something about this embarrassing problem.

[Horatius]

My room was approximately 12 1/2 miles from the lunch area and conference room last year at the Flamingo. I don't think I had time (or , in all honestly, I was probably too damn lazy) to go back and change during lunch. The time between the last presenter and evening outings/supper made it a little easier, but it was still a mad breathless dash to my room and then back down to the lobby. If I hadn't left my trusty trail of bread crumbs each time, I never would have made it.



Based on my visit to the South Point last September, and the map I picked up then, and just found again today (yes, I'm a bit of a pack rat!), it will be a much shorter walk between the conference and the hotel rooms this year.

So, adjust your clothing schedule as appropriate.

;)

[arthwollipot]

The bulk of my luggage will be geek gear: cameras/lenses, laptop, chargers, etc..Ditto.

[krelnik]

I figured the laptop/tablet would be good for all the social networking stuff will be going on, plus it will make it easier to add people I meet to my facebook/twitter and do it right there.

I called the hotel this morning. Wifi in your room is $12.99 for a 24-hr period, and you can access in your room or in the pool area.

In the meeting rooms, your room access will not work, and you have to access through the convention center wifi. Jeff reported on this yesterday. It's $25 PER HOUR or you can buy a four hour block for $80.

Seriously.

Don't tell the hotel, but there may be a free WiFi alternative in the main room if we can make it work. I'm gonna see about setting this up this week.

Downside: its only a couple megabits per second, so the number of people we can handle is limited. May have to password it.

[Wowbagger]

I'll probably have Internet access set up in my room. But, me and my roomates got dibs on its usage.

I should probably get one of those cell phone Internet access thingies, one of these days.

[Paul C. Anagnostopoulos]

Dude, unless you are planning on doing laundry or risking smelling.... er, ripe by the end of the conference, I'd seriously suggest more than three outfits! I'm planning on an absolute minimum of two per day (and will probably err towards the 2.5 to 3 per day side).
Oh, I am staying one day longer than I have previously, so perhaps four T-shirts and four shorts. The trick is to wear one set on Thursday, then put it aside to wear again on Saturday. It airs out fine in three days.

I promise to bring deodorant, too.


Besides, being semi-fashion conscious, I'm not sure I want to be seen in the same outfit twice.
And thus you have to pack the world.


Didn't you forget underwear?

Wait a minute......

Oh no........
You are correct, sir.

~~ Paul

[Wowbagger]

I think I'm gonna pack whatever I can manage to stuff into a couple of tennis ball cans.

[TaoMacGuy]

I should probably get one of those cell phone Internet access thingies, one of these days.

"Internet access thingies": Wowbagger, you have simply got to stop talking technical on us. You have me completely lost! ;-)

[TaoMacGuy]

And thus you have to pack the world.

Well not so much, really. I travel (for the most part) for a living and I can do a two week business trip with a single (checked) suitcase and my carry on (laptop bag).

Pants, I can and will wear twice. Shirts no so much. Fortunately for me, I almost always wear short-sleeved shirts and I can pack enough of them with pants, underwear, etc. into a single suitcase (easily!) to make it all work.

The hardest part for me, having the love of linen and Tommy Bahamas shirts that I do, is the two hours of ironing I will be doing my first night in town.

[TobiasTheViking]

OMG!

As I suggested in an earlier post, I don't think I'm going to wear any shirt for even an entire single day.

I'm envisioning changing my shirt at the very least before the dinner hour, if not also mid-day (lunch-time-ish).

Oh, and I'm not doing or having the hotel do laundry during this trip. This trip is for fun, not dealing with the logistics (not to mention the expense) of laundry!

And people call me ghey. :jaw-dropp

[rustypouch]

And people call me ghey. :jaw-dropp

That's because you are.

[arthwollipot]

I promise to bring deodorant, too.Mine's already in my case. Pump pack, not aerosol. Anyone who's flying? Bring deoderant in a pump pack!

I'll be getting wifi, because I hope to do a Skype link from TAM back to Jason for a podcast. Probably late Sunday night (which will be midmorning Monday Sydney time) after P&T.

[TobiasTheViking]

That's because you are.

Am not...

Remember, call me when you land ;)


Pretty boy

[Horatius]

I should probably get one of those cell phone Internet access thingies, one of these days.



I was looking into that as well, but coming from Canada, the charges for roaming in the US came with the fine print: "Warning: may cause rectal bleeding."

And that's on top of the monthly contract they want you to sign!

[TaoMacGuy]

And people call me ghey. :jaw-dropp

As the old joke goes, you can call me anything you want, just don't call me after midnight!

[TaoMacGuy]

I was looking into that as well, but coming from Canada, the charges for roaming in the US came with the fine print: "Warning: may cause rectal bleeding."

And that's on top of the monthly contract they want you to sign!

Who was the comedian who commented on roaming as follows: When you are roaming they should change the icon to show a guy bent over, taking it up the...

Well you get the idea. ;)

[TobiasTheViking]

As the old joke goes, you can call me anything you want, just don't call me after midnight!

Says you... you woke me up at *********** 2:30 yesterday.... being all needy and begging

[Horatius]

Just started packing, and thought, "I wonder who packs the most for TAM". My first go, which doesn't have everything I plan to bring, is 35 pounds, 12.5 of which is Canadian beer that I used for a bet.

[TaoMacGuy]

Just started packing, and thought, "I wonder who packs the most for TAM". My first go, which doesn't have everything I plan to bring, is 35 pounds, 12.5 of which is Canadian beer that I used for a bet.

Me? Only what I can fit into one checked piece (not terribly large either), and one carry on (which is generally my suitable for a 17" laptop bag).

The packing has already begun!

[phyz]

The bulk of my luggage will be geek gear: cameras/lenses, laptop, chargers, etc..

Ditto.

I do so enjoy time with my people!

[Paul C. Anagnostopoulos]

Mine's already in my case. Pump pack, not aerosol. Anyone who's flying? Bring deoderant in a pump pack!
Pump pack? Aerosol? I must be out of the loop. I just have a stick.

~~ Paul

[rustypouch]

For those still wondering what to pack, you should bring presents.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

For those still wondering what to pack, you should bring presents.

I'll bring presence.

[Dicon]

I'll bring presence.


I'll bring pressed ants.

[Sc00ter]

I called the hotel this morning. Wifi in your room is $12.99 for a 24-hr period, and you can access in your room or in the pool area.

In the meeting rooms, your room access will not work, and you have to access through the convention center wifi. Jeff reported on this yesterday. It's $25 PER HOUR or you can buy a four hour block for $80.

Seriously.

I had a few emails and phone calls about this, it's $12.99 for 24hrs for guests anywhere on the property. I think the $25 per hour rate is for non-guests.

[Sc00ter]

Here's what I have from the director of public relations and I'll sure be holding them to it:


If you are an exhibitor at the show and need internet at your booth,
then you will have to make arrangements through the show.

If you are a hotel guest and need access for your personal computer then
the cost is $13 for 24 hours of access. The code for access is only
available from your guest room TV and is specific to your room. Once you
access using that code, your computer will be able to access the WiFi
for 24 hours anywhere on the property.

If you are attending a show but are not a guest at the hotel then you
will need to make arrangements through the show.

Is this better?

Courtney A. Fitzgerald
Director of Public Relations

[Horatius]

Here's what I have from the director of public relations and I'll sure be holding them to it:



I'll be your goon, if you need it. This is a much more reasonable arrangement.

[Jeff Wagg]

I had a few emails and phone calls about this, it's $12.99 for 24hrs for guests anywhere on the property. I think the $25 per hour rate is for non-guests.

That's not true.

It's $25 an hour for the conference center which is on a different network than the rooms.

The $12.99 an hour rate is for the hotel. You cannot pick up the hotel's WiFi from the conference center. At least, I couldn't.

[Horatius]

So, apparently the South Point staff haven't a clue how their network works.


Can we exploit that?

[Sc00ter]

That's not true.

It's $25 an hour for the conference center which is on a different network than the rooms.

The $12.99 an hour rate is for the hotel. You cannot pick up the hotel's WiFi from the conference center. At least, I couldn't.

You would think the Director of Public Relations would have a clue. That figures.

How's Verizon cell reception? I can do tethering if I have to.