TamTips

[Chris H]

Hiya!

Now that people have well and truly started thinking about TAM, I thought it might be cool if some of the TAM veterans posted some tips and advice for the newbies who are thinking about making their first trek to the holy land (ironically, the skeptic holy land is "sin" city!). ;) Things like when to arrive, when to leave, how to get an invite to all the cool parties ( ;) ), would be really helpful in planning our trip. Thanks to everyone, in advance!

Cheers,

Chris

[arthwollipot]

It's a long way to go for a long weekend. Arrange to do some other things before TAM. Don't plan on doing much after TAM except sleeping on the plane home.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

I always arrive on Wed & leave on Mon.

But I'm from the US. Coming all the way from Australia, take some extra time and see some things out west - Zion & Bryce parks, Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, etc...

[kmortis]

I always arrive on Wed & leave on Mon.

But I'm from the US. Coming all the way from Australia, take some extra time and see some things out west - Zion & Bryce parks, Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, etc...
What he said.

I cannot recommend enough getting with Scott when he asks for volunteers. It's a great way to get involved.

And go do stuff with the rest of the TAMmers. you can't do it all, but you can do a lot.

And don't eat alone. Pick someone you've never met and ask to sit with them. I did that at every meal, and no one refused. Meals are probably the best time to get to know someone else one-on-one.

[Sc00ter]

And don't eat alone. Pick someone you've never met and ask to sit with them. I did that at every meal, and no one refused. Meals are probably the best time to get to know someone else one-on-one.

A bit of a tip for people in the forums about this... Not everybody is in here and may not understand your forum name..

For example (and I'm using Loon as an example because I remember him doing it correctly last year):

Correct: "Hi I'm Jason, Loon in the forum"

Incorrect: "Hi, I'm Loon"

Incorrect will seem a bit odd. I was in the forums before TAM7 and even I thought it was weird.. My wife who hadn't been in here was a little put off by it and made her feel awkward.

And yes, I realize that you have your name around your neck, but that doesn't matter. :)

Another tip, don't be afraid to go up to anybody and say hi. There's a lot of big names at TAM, but they're there to meet you.

Oh, and avoid Scrut at all costs.

[Wowbagger]

A few other tips:

* Learn in advance what meals are provided, and which are not. And, allocate time and funds for the other meals. For example: breakfast is usually provided on mornings, so it makes little sense to buy and eat a breakfast beforehand (unless you really want to).

* If you have never been to Las Vegas before, you might want to stick on an extra day or two, to see the sights of the city. Especially the stuff up and down the Strip. Our hotel, unfortunately, will be a few miles away from the strip, so very few opportunities to visit it, during the conference, will arise.

* If you insist on discussing your own crack-pot ideas about something, try to do it with a more sarcastic demeanor. If you appear to take yourself too seriously, while dispensing your drivel, you will likely suffer the wrath of clearer thinkers.

Oh, and avoid Scrut at all costs.And, I second this notion. (Unless you're the type who's lookin' for trouble.)

[SkepticScott]

Another tip, don't be afraid to go up to anybody and say hi. There's a lot of big names at TAM, but they're there to meet you.Seconded. But remember to use common sense; not that we've ever had a problem.

For cheap, slow tranportation to the Strip, a 24-hour all-access bus pass is $7, IIRC. There's a bus stop at the NE corner of Silverado Ranch Blvd and Las Vegas Blvd South.

[Dicon]

1. Be sure to be back in your room and in bed by 9:00pm every night so you will be fresh and well-rested for the start of the next day.

2. Be sure to set your alarm to go off two hours earlier than normal on Sunday so you can get to church and back before the start of the papers presentations.

3. Bring your own licorice. Do not accept licorice from anyone at the conference.

4. Look people in the eye when they are speaking to you nude.

5. Remember, nothing pleases Randi more than when someone comes up from behind, grabs him and tosses him in the air with a hearty "wheeeeeeeeeeee!"

6. Any woman who speaks to you (or even looks in your general direction) wants to make out but is too shy to initiate things. It's up to you.

7. Any man who speaks to you (or even looks in your general direction) wants to make out but is too shy to initiate things. It's up to you.

8. Blackjack dealers have a great sense of humor and really like the grab-a-stack-of-their-chips-and-run-off gag.

[hcmom]

Hiya!

... Things like when to arrive, when to leave...
Cheers,

Chris

Come early, leave late.

[rustypouch]

Desktop Icon, are you serious?

9pm to bed? If one hopes to be fully alert for the morning lectures, that's a bit late.

Beyond that, there are a few things:

Don't even think about touching alcohol. No one else there does, and it's rude to be the only drunk.

Everyone there enjoys it when you kiss them, especially if they don't know you and there's tongue.

Be sure to be early to Shermer's lecture, as it is so riveting seats fill up early.

Stay in your room except for the talks, as there is nothing else to do.

Horse's ass and up the stairs.

[kmortis]

Horse's ass and up the stairs.
This could be an issue, as I move around quite a bit and I'm not always near stairs.

[Marquis de Carabas]

The two most important things to do at TAM:

1. Drink
2. Make out with rustypouch

Everything else takes care of itself, really.

[Wowbagger]

It's generally not a good idea to swallow live grenades.

[Loon]

9pm to bed? If one hopes to be fully alert for the morning lectures, that's a bit late.

Actually, 9 pm is way early for bed, because George Wallace doesn't even start until 10 pm.

[Fitter]

Actually, 9 pm is way early for bed, because George Wallace doesn't even start until 10 pm.
Best 10 o'clock show in Vegas, baby!!!!

[SkepticScott]

* As others said, remember the free meals. They are included in the registration cost. You paid for them.

* Mingle at meals! You'll never know who you'll meet if you walk up to a table of strangers and ask if you can join them.

* IIRC, the Del Mar Lounge is the hangout after TAM hours.

* There is a bus stop in the hotel parking lot, but you'll spend time going east before looping back to the stop I mentioned above.

* Do not expect to have free time. So many groups do things after TAM each day that you'll find something to do every night.

* Find the Forum table, if people are running it again this year. It's a great way to meet fellow Forumites.

* It's not clear on the floorplan (http://www.southpointcasino.com/pressroom/presskit/floorplan.pdf) but there is a corridor between the corridor with the elevators and the corridor with the escalators (the thin pink rectangle between 21 and 25 on the floorplan).

* As Sc00ter wrote, don't be shy. None of the Big Names have ever bitten a TAM attendee. Most are very friendly.

* Keep watching the Forum for even announcements. Conversely, post your ideas for group events. Do you want to go to the Stratosphere tower some night? Start a thread and you may have a group of friends going with you.

* People will be there before and after TAM. Wander around and look for people wearing TAM t-shirts.

[Chris H]

Thanks to everyone who has posted so far, particularly Desktop Icon and rustypouch, whose posts made me giggle like a school girl. Much appreciated. I've booked a room at South Point from the Thursday (July 8th) until the Monday (July 12th) - someone please tell me I got those dates right?

Cheers,

Chris

[kittynh]

just remember, the horses ass.

you'll know it when you see it.

VOLUNTEER! It's the best way to get to meet people. Then you get invited to all the cool stuff. If you don't want to pay for evening shows and such that are extra at TAM there are always other things going along with groups. People go out to dinner, just hang at the bar and talk, share a cab to the strip and just walk and people watch.

I do TAM on a budget.. if you have money to blow then the shows are fantastic! Being that you are coming a long way ask for suggestions for a good show to see. Penn and Teller are good, and you will meet them at TAM. THe great thing is that most of the speakers like to hang around and are very friendly.


The Grand Canyon isn't that far. Well worth the drive or perhaps signing up for a helicopter tour.

[ejk]

Thanks to everyone who has posted so far, particularly Desktop Icon and rustypouch, whose posts made me giggle like a school girl. Much appreciated. I've booked a room at South Point from the Thursday (July 8th) until the Monday (July 12th) - someone please tell me I got those dates right?

Cheers,

Chris

I hope so, I booked the same dates.

[MattusMaximus]

It's generally not a good idea to swallow live grenades.

Or lay on beds of nails ;)

ETA: I also highly recommend connecting with Scott and the volunteers. It's an excellent way to get introduced to a lot of really awesome people.

[SkepticScott]

I've booked a room at South Point from the Thursday (July 8th) until the Monday (July 12th) - someone please tell me I got those dates right?Yes, those are correct. The schedule hasn't been posted yet, but at TAM7 Thursday was optional (pay) workshops, followed by a reception (free) and magic show (pay). At past TAMs Sunday was a half-day of paper presentations; at TAM7 that was followed by Connie Sonne's test.

just remember, the horses ass.
you'll know it when you see it.Yes, you will.
The Grand Canyon isn't that far. Well worth the drive or perhaps signing up for a helicopter tour.I took a helicopter tour into the merely impressive west end of the Canyon, http://www.papillon.com/popris/show_package.aspx?package_id=19&lang=en-US . It was well worth it, and I got some fantastic pictures and videos. It's a half-day trip.

This year I might take their combination bus & helicopter tour to the incredibly impressive South Rim. :) That's a full-day trip.

Thank you everyone who praised the volunteers. They are fantastic people. I'll start a thread for volunteers in March. By then most people should know when they will be there, and what events they're going to (I work around your schedule).

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Just remember to look for the horses ass.


He answers to "Marquis".

[Hokulele]

TamTip:

Go into the gender-appropriate restroom payday evening and look for free drink coupons. I found three in the ladies room right off the casino floor (one of which was wasted by my Mom on a Corona). Apparently the South Point had a program where local people could stop by with their paycheck, get it cashed at the cashier's window, and try to win a prize. Most often, the prize was a coupon for a free drink at the Del Mar. I suppose the ones I found were left there by people who didn't want the drinks, but didn't want to throw them away (they were on the counter next to the trash can). Seeing as how there was no one else in the restroom at the time, they were mine, all mine!

[Sc00ter]

I took a helicopter tour into the merely impressive west end of the Canyon, http://www.papillon.com/popris/show_package.aspx?package_id=19&lang=en-US . It was well worth it, and I got some fantastic pictures and videos. It's a half-day trip.

Yes, we did this as well (pics here - http://scootz.net/~travis/gallery2/v/2009-07-13_-_Grand_Canyon/)

TAM7 pics here if you're interested - http://scootz.net/~travis/gallery2/v/07-2009_-_TAM7/

[Chris H]

if you have money to blow then the shows are fantastic! Being that you are coming a long way ask for suggestions for a good show to see. Penn and Teller are good, and you will meet them at TAM. THe great thing is that most of the speakers like to hang around and are very friendly.


I've had several on my wishlist for quite a few years now. Penn and Teller, Copperfield, Mac King, Lance Burton, Blue Man Group...that's just off the top of my head! I'll probably get to Vegas a few days early just so I can get the shows out of the way before TAM. Very much looking forward to it!

[Sc00ter]

I've had several on my wishlist for quite a few years now. Penn and Teller, Copperfield, Mac King, Lance Burton, Blue Man Group...that's just off the top of my head! I'll probably get to Vegas a few days early just so I can get the shows out of the way before TAM. Very much looking forward to it!

When you register for TAM they usually have discounted P&T tickets and transportation available. I'd do that, plus you usually go with a group of people from TAM.

[UnrepentantSinner]

Now that people have well and truly started thinking about TAM, I thought it might be cool if some of the TAM veterans posted some tips and advice for the newbies who are thinking about making their first trek to the holy land...

Yes. Don't go. They never live up to the hype and can never repeat the magic of TAM 1 and 2.


;)

[arthwollipot]

Here's an idea. Become a host or correspondent for a podcast. Before TAM, email Bart to arrange interviews with as many people as you can. You'll miss out on some stuff because you're interviewing, but you'll get one-on-one time with some completely awesome people, and furthermore you'll get a press pass that'll get you into press-only events!

What can I say? It worked for me. :D

PS. Want to be an official correspondent?

[SkepticScott]

Penn and TellerAs sc00ter said, the JREF usually has discounted P&T tickets, and usually coordinate a bus or two for transport. Last year, IIRC, it was a $5 'honor system' contribution to defray the cost of the buses. If you can't take the bus, a cab to or from the Rio is about $20, and you can share it with three other people. Or you could take the bus and walk from the Strip to the Rio.
Mac KingHis show is in the afternoon, so you should be able to easily fit it in to your pre-TAM activities. His show is great!

[Paul C. Anagnostopoulos]

There is a TAM scholarship program, which will cover all or part of your registration fee if money is a bit tight this year. You can apply once the TAM8 pages are up and the scholarship page appears. Apply early!

When you see a bunch of forumites hanging around the bar, come right on over, introduce yourself, and buy everyone a round of drinks. We really are friendly. Don't be put off.

Watch out for Paul C. Anagnostopoulos. He can't remember your name, be it your real one or your forum name. If he appears to be an idiot, keep trying. He's pretty good except for the name thing.

~~ Paul

[Sc00ter]

As sc00ter said, the JREF usually has discounted P&T tickets, and usually coordinate a bus or two for transport. Last year, IIRC, it was a $5 'honor system' contribution to defray the cost of the buses. If you can't take the bus, a cab to or from the Rio is about $20, and you can share it with three other people. Or you could take the bus and walk from the Strip to the Rio.
His show is in the afternoon, so you should be able to easily fit it in to your pre-TAM activities. His show is great!


As far as the Bus goes... Make sure you do whatever they say to do. Last year we were told to email Jeff, and I did. There was some confusion, but best to follow the instructions to save a hassle, both for you, and for the staff of the JREF. That said, it all worked out in the end.. Horray to Jeff and Linda.. They saved my ass.. I had issues with my ticket.

[Sc00ter]

When you see a bunch of forumites hanging around the bar, come right on over, introduce yourself, and buy everyone a round of drinks. We really are friendly. Don't be put off.


Watch out for Mr. Pinky!

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Or you could take the bus and walk from the Strip to the Rio.

True, although, given Las Vegas' 10 miles long blocks and 1000 degree heat, isn't as easy as it sounds. I did it 2 years ago. :)

[The Central Scrutinizer]

As far as the Bus goes... Make sure you do whatever they say to do. Last year we were told to email Jeff, and I did. There was some confusion, but best to follow the instructions to save a hassle, both for you, and for the staff of the JREF. That said, it all worked out in the end.. Horray to Jeff and Linda.. They saved my ass.. I had issues with my ticket.

And make sure you do whatever they say to do logistically also. The bus was to be at place X after the show, which it was. However, some people thought it should stay there and wait for them all night, while they visited with friends and wandered around the casino.

[CriticalThanking]

If you see a TAM group in conversation, do not be afraid to join in. My first TAM, I knew no one on sight. I was listening to a small group - one person obviously from the northeast US and the rest from England. Within a minute, I had met tkingdoll and was being used as a stage assistant by magician Jeremy Ian Swiss.

If you hear a group is going to some restaurant, show, bar, strip club, chess club, etc that interests you, it's ok to ask to come along. It may be a gig with reservations required ahead of time, but you will not have your head bitten off** for asking, and you will likely have a great time.

Volunteer! It will hieghten your TAM experience, not interfere with it. Scott is great about working around your schedule. You will meet more people, and get to talk during the times when there aren't 5000 more things vying for your attention.

Wear the badge. We may be 1000 people strong at TAM, but there will be thousands more in the hotel.* Ignoring the joke about staring at chests, it is the only way I have a chance of associating names with faces.

You can't do everything. You can't be everywhere. You have to sleep at least once during TAM. It's sad, but you'll get over it.

CT




*You would not want to accidentally lick a non-TAM attendee's arm. [Don't ask.]
**We go for other things first.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Avoid DRBUZZ0.

I don't even have to describe him. It will be quite apparent who he is.

[fuelair]

There is a TAM scholarship program, which will cover all or part of your registration fee if money is a bit tight this year. You can apply once the TAM8 pages are up and the scholarship page appears. Apply early!

When you see a bunch of forumites hanging around the bar, come right on over, introduce yourself, and buy everyone a round of drinks. We really are friendly. Don't be put off.

Watch out for Paul C. Anagnostopoulos. He can't remember your name, be it your real one or your forum name. If he appears to be an idiot, keep trying. He's pretty good except for the name thing.

~~ Paul

Weird, possibly. question for you: Do you have trouble when you are talking with blanking out on other nouns or is it only names?

[Patricio Elicer]

True, although, given Las Vegas' 10 miles long blocks and 1000 degree heat, isn't as easy as it sounds. I did it 2 years ago. :)


At TAM6 I had the excellent idea to go out for a walk on The Strip at 5pm. Fifteen minutes into the adventure were enough for me to realize how excellent the idea was. My skin kind of burning, my hands swollen and difficulty to breath. 180º turn, and back to the air conditioning refuge. I don't know for sure, but it must have been over 40ºC in the shade, the highest ambient temp I have ever experienced.

[Sc00ter]

And make sure you do whatever they say to do logistically also. The bus was to be at place X after the show, which it was. However, some people thought it should stay there and wait for them all night, while they visited with friends and wandered around the casino.


Hah, then bitch when the bus left when they said it would. Penn and Teller hang around TAM all the time, you don't HAVE to see them right after the show.

[Cleon]

Correct: "Hi I'm Jason, Loon in the forum"

Incorrect: "Hi, I'm Loon"

...But Loon's real name is Maxine. :confused:

[kittynh]

I also reccomend Mac King. It's pretty easy to get a comp ticket to his show. But it's not expensive at all. At least not compared to Penn and Teller (but go see them also).

Mac performed last TAM just a tad of his act. My friend sat through all the other acts before Mac and seemed very unimpressed. Mac came on and I thought I was going to have to give her CPR. She was laughing so hard. Even Randi was talking about Mac after...the guy is also very very NICE. So if you see him around TAM say hello and if you go to his show tell him you are attending tam (after his show he hangs around to sign stuff and say hello).

Bring a camera if ofcourse something I should not have to mention to you right?

[kittynh]

oh closer to tam there will be threads going up here about all the activities, official and unofficial.

THere is also a "forum welcome table" where you can stop by and ask what's going on and just say hello and Kochanski and I will be more than glad to introduce you to people. Though honesty if you know the bar and "horses ass" you will be fine.

[Sc00ter]

Though honesty if you know the bar and "horses ass" you will be fine.


Horses ass? I thought we were telling people to avoid Scrut ;)

[Horatius]

I'll suggest you consider submitting a paper for the Sunday Talks. If there's any topic you have a special interest in, it's a great way to get information out there, and to find other people who are also interested in the topic. After my talks at TAMs 5 and 7, I spent most of the rest of the day having people come up and start conversations about the subject. It's really quite cool.

[Esseth]

This is a great thread guys, seeing as TAM Australia will be my first one (i know alot of the tips are vegas only tips) but it is still great to read and get ideas. :D keep them coming

[Paul C. Anagnostopoulos]

Weird, possibly. question for you: Do you have trouble when you are talking with blanking out on other nouns or is it only names?
Only names. And it's not really blanking out. I couldn't recall people's names even if you gave me ten minutes. Not only do I suck at names, but the conflict between real name and forum name just makes it hopeless. You'll notice my forum name equals my real name.

Some people I have socialized with many times, so I can remember. For example, I know kittynh's real name. And SkepticScott's. And Patricio Elicer's.

~~ Paul

[Chris H]

I'll suggest you consider submitting a paper for the Sunday Talks. If there's any topic you have a special interest in, it's a great way to get information out there, and to find other people who are also interested in the topic. After my talks at TAMs 5 and 7, I spent most of the rest of the day having people come up and start conversations about the subject. It's really quite cool.


I have an idea for a paper that I think would be interesting, but I expect I'd be terribly nervous doing it at my first TAM. Maybe next year. :)

[Horatius]

I have an idea for a paper that I think would be interesting, but I expect I'd be terribly nervous doing it at my first TAM. Maybe next year. :)



Hey, I did a paper at my first TAM! The idea for the paper is what finally pushed me into attending!


And once you're up there, the time just flies!

[Wowbagger]

Things To Do and See

* Start praying to God, right now, for the Star Trek: The Experience, or at least some portion thereof, to reopen in time for TAM 8. Rumor has it that they intend to open something in 2010, in the downtown area. But, they never specified when.

* I really should emphasize seeing more of Vegas, if you can. Being cooped up in a single hotel, even as friendly and exciting as that hotel is, will hardly give you any insight into what the whole city is about. There are other things, going on in other hotels, that are just... insane to witness.

* Pick up some of the cheesy touristy magazines they have around. Some of them have good maps of the Las Vegas strip, and discount coupons for various attractions.

* Note that some magazine maps of The Strip are skewed, and not scaled properly; so that a few buildings at one end will look like they are closer than they really are.

* Apparently, the SpongeBob SquarePants 4D attraction is still running at the Excalibur. If you love SpongeBob, and don't mind paying a little too much for a fun, silly show, that is also a much too short, I would recommend it. Discount coupons might be found in various touristy magazines you can pick up.

* More seriously: Cirque du Soleil puts on some exceptional shows. If you can afford them.
** Ka and "O" are my two favorites in Vegas.
** Followed by Mystere and The Beatles: LOVE.
** I have not seen the new Elvis one, yet, but I might this year.
** I am not inclined to watch Zumanity, but if you think it's your type of thing, go for it.

** One possible exception to the above: Criss Angel: Believe might suck badly. I have not seen it, myself, yet. But, this is what its witnesses are telling me, so far. Supposedly, the show is temporarily closing this month, to make some improvements to it. But, there is no guarantee anything truly better will come out of it. Especially since Criss Angel is still going to be hosting it, as far as we can tell. I might be willing to see it, actually, if I can get cheap tickets, but only because I want to properly criticize it, and not just work off of the hearsay all the time.

The Conference and Stuff Around It

* If a speaker gets boring (which is infrequent, but still possible), don't be afraid to get up and do something else for a while. You may find a bunch of other folks to hang with, outside, who also found the presentation to be less-than-exciting.

* Although Tim-Tams are more widely available in the U.S., than they have been in the past, they are still well-enjoyed delicacies amongst many TAM attendees.

* If Wowbagger insults you to your face, once, don't take it personally: It probably only means that your name happened to be next on his list. If it happens twice (or more), then you should probably take personally.

[hcmom]

Can I start "oh man"-ing yet?

[arthwollipot]

Avoid DRBUZZ0.

I don't even have to describe him. It will be quite apparent who he is.Word.

[Chris H]

* Although Tim-Tams are more widely available in the U.S., than they have been in the past, they are still well-enjoyed delicacies amongst many TAM attendees.



I'll endeavour to bring a decent supply. Does anyone have any objections to the caramel, dark chocolate and mocha varieties? I've heard that Vegemite, musk sticks and Minties are all fairly well received too?

[SkepticScott]

Ignoring the joke about staring at chests, it is the only way I have a chance of associating names with faces.If you think you need it, you can find an "I'm just looking at your nametag, honest!" button at a SF convention. (I've got one. I have not been killed yet. YMMV. :D )

[SkepticScott]

Can I start "oh man"-ing yet?Start???? Most people never stop!

[SkepticScott]

Star Trek: The Experience, or at least some portion thereof, to reopen in time for TAM 8.Shiny!
* Note that some magazine maps of The Strip are skewed, and not scaled properly; so that a few buildings at one end will look like they are closer than they really are.AAA's free map of Vegas is good and not skewed.
** One possible exception to the above: Criss Angel: Believe might suck badly.Years ago I had the misfortune of seeing Steve Wyrick's magic show. :( Maybe he's gotten better since then, but I'd skip his show even if given a free ticket.

[Wowbagger]

I'll endeavour to bring a decent supply. Does anyone have any objections to the caramel, dark chocolate and mocha varieties? I've heard that Vegemite, musk sticks and Minties are all fairly well received too?

Oh, One More Word About Tim Tams:

Of course any flavors of TimTams would be most welcomed. However:

In the U.S. we currently have fairly good access to supplies of milk chocolate, caramel, and dark chocolate ones. (Though, the Dark chocolates are exclusively sold in Target stores.)

If you happen to live outside the U.S., and have access to other flavors: mocha, white chocolate, hazel nut, mint-crisp, etc; please try to bring some of those along! Thanks!

------------------------------

Minties are often well received.
Vegemite gets mixed reviews, but some people love it, for some reason.
I'm not sure about the status of musk sticks.

[Wowbagger]

Shiny!But, we don't know if it will actually happen, yet. You might have to pray to God, first.

[Sc00ter]

Oh, One More Word About Tim Tams:

Of course any flavors of TimTams would be most welcomed. However:

In the U.S. we currently have fairly good access to supplies of milk chocolate, caramel, and dark chocolate ones. (Though, the Dark chocolates are exclusively sold in Target stores.)

If you happen to live outside the U.S., and have access to other flavors: mocha, white chocolate, hazel nut, mint-crisp, etc; please try to bring some of those along! Thanks!


They are not as available everywhere in the US, and the ones that are, they're not quite the same as the ones in Australia. So anything is welcome, trust me.

[Wowbagger]

So anything is welcome, trust me.Oh, that is certainly true!

(But, for the record, my own taste tests between the Australian ones (Arnott's-branded imported into NYC), and the U.S. ones (Peppridge Farm branded) found only very minor differences.)

[Cleon]

About the musk sticks:

Richard Saunders likes to hand them out, but I'm pretty sure he does that because he hates Americans. Or he wants us to think Australians are really as crazy as they seem. Or maybe he just wants to make New Zealand look good.

[Chris H]

RE: The Tam Tips Tim Tams. I shall endeavour to bring as many packets of as many varieties as I can, but I'll be spending a couple of days in LA and Vegas prior to TAM and am a bit concerned about the excessive heat and it's effect on all of that tasty, tasty chocolate. *drooooooooooools*

[kittynh]

yeah tell people you are from someplace other than Australia, like say Canada, or they will mug you for Tim Tams.

[Geek Goddess]

Last year, the hotel handed out coupon books when you checked in. In them were a few free or discounted drink coupons, and a two-for-one coupon for the buffet. You can use those to cut down some of your costs as well, assuming they will be available again.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

...and a two-for-one coupon for the buffet.

Of course, bad food at half price is still bad food. :)

[Wowbagger]

Of course, bad food at half price is still bad food. :)Not all the food at the buffet was bad. Some of it was fairly mediocre, you know.



ETA: The last year that TAM was at the Stardust (2006): that was a bad buffet.

[Horatius]

yeah tell people you are from someplace other than Australia, like say Canada, or they will mug you for Tim Tams.


Hey, only New Zealanders are allowed to pretend to be Canadians! Aussies have to pretend to be pommies, or yanks, or some **** like that!

[paperskater]

My two tips for now...

1. Bring cash. The ATMs, I hear, only let you withdraw money in increments of $100. I brought my own cash in various denominations and it helped a lot when going out to dinner or trying to split cab fare.

2. Don't expect to get any decent hours of sleep. If you can, take naps during the day or whenever you can so you can stay up really late and enjoy the party at the bar.

[HawaiiBigSis]

Does anyone have any objections to the caramel, dark chocolate and mocha varieties? I've heard that Vegemite, musk sticks and Minties are all fairly well received too?
I've not been able to find the dark chocolate kind (even where I found the Arnott's original), nor mocha. I would LOVE the orange ones, or actually just about any of them.

I understand Minties are required to endear yourself to Phil Plait...

[hcmom]

They make orange Tim Tams?!?

I have dark chocolate ones in my pantry right now though, so neener neener!

[HawaiiBigSis]

They make orange Tim Tams?!?

I have dark chocolate ones in my pantry right now though, so neener neener!
I'll tell Shaunie! That'll take care of the ones in your pantry...

I must've been dreaming, since I can't find orange ones now (or the raspberry I swear were on the same page). Maybe they were specials or limited release. Or I was dreaming.

[Wowbagger]

They make orange Tim Tams?!?
According to Wiki, Chocolate Orange Tim Tams are on the "Formerly Available" list. Along with Chili Chocolate.

[Wowbagger]

Also, according to Wiki, Tim Tams in the U.S. will only be available for six-month seasons: from October to March, every year. That means after March 2010, you have to wait until October 2010 to get them again.

Bummer.

[arthwollipot]

The Chili Chocolate Tim Tams were Awe-hawe-hawesome.

Not as good as the Black Forest ones though.

[Wowbagger]

The Chili Chocolate Tim Tams were Awe-hawe-hawesome.Not awesome enough for them to continue making them, apparently. :(

But, if anyone has any that are still good, I am willing to try 'em. I might even pay a little for the privilege. But, they have to be in good, perfectly edible condition.

That goes for the orange ones, as well! They are premium faire amongst these parts!

[Sc00ter]

Last year, the hotel handed out coupon books when you checked in. In them were a few free or discounted drink coupons, and a two-for-one coupon for the buffet. You can use those to cut down some of your costs as well, assuming they will be available again.

Also part of that coupon book they would give you some free money on one of those comp cards. Dale won $50 on that free money.. So it's worth it, if you lose it all, who cares, it's free money.

[Sc00ter]

My two tips for now...

1. Bring cash. The ATMs, I hear, only let you withdraw money in increments of $100. I brought my own cash in various denominations and it helped a lot when going out to dinner or trying to split cab fare.

2. Don't expect to get any decent hours of sleep. If you can, take naps during the day or whenever you can so you can stay up really late and enjoy the party at the bar.

There's a 7-11 across the street if you need to use a better ATM, but there's still a bit of a surcharge. It's also a good place to get cheaper snacks.

[ejk]

Also, according to Wiki, Tim Tams in the U.S. will only be available for six-month seasons: from October to March, every year. That means after March 2010, you have to wait until October 2010 to get them again.

Bummer.

Does anyone know if they can be stored in the freezer? That's what we do with our other traditional seasonal cookie treats, Girl Scout cookies.

[Hamradioguy]

Some people I have socialized with many times, so I can remember. For example, I know kittynh's real name. And SkepticScott's. And Patricio Elicer's.

~~ Paul

I'll answer to "hamradioguy" but I'm really Sparticus.

[CriticalThanking]

Musk sticks - up until that point I could say I had never eaten perfumed, 20 year old trading card bubble gum.

Minties - wave them in front of Phil Plait and he will follow you anywhere.

Dark chocolate - state you have some and 200 forum members will follow you anywhere.

Vodka - mention the word and Marquis de Carabas will follow you anywhere. Kate dabbed some on like perfume and look what happened!

Paul C Snuphalupagus is right about the conflict between forum and real names. There are some people I will never be able to associate with their real names.

CT

[SkepticScott]

But, we don't know if it will actually happen, yet. You might have to pray to God, first.Could I pray to the quadruple deity of Kirk - Picard - Sisko - Janeway instead?

[SkepticScott]

1. Bring cash. The ATMs, I hear, only let you withdraw money in increments of $100. I brought my own cash in various denominations and it helped a lot when going out to dinner or trying to split cab fare.You might be able to get change at the cashiers in the casino.

[Horatius]

You might be able to get change at the cashiers in the casino.



No might about it. I've never seen a casino that won't allow you to change bills like that.

[ejk]

No might about it. I've never seen a casino that won't allow you to change bills like that.

Most of them have change machines all over the place, too. They want to make it as easy as possible to spend money in whatever increments you desire.

[Sc00ter]

Most of them have change machines all over the place, too. They want to make it as easy as possible to spend money in whatever increments you desire.

I'd like to change this 500 bucks to a random mix of $2 bills and half dollars please.

[Paul C. Anagnostopoulos]

Dark chocolate - state you have some and 200 forum members will follow you anywhere.
My local chocolate factory now makes 98% cocoa chocolate. Shall I bring some?

~~ Paul

[Wowbagger]

Does anyone know if they can be stored in the freezer? That's what we do with our other traditional seasonal cookie treats, Girl Scout cookies. Based on my personal experience, the milk-chocolate-based ones can be preserved very nicely in a refrigerator, or perhaps even in one of those insulated chilled coolers. Before consumption, you can keep them out at room temp., for a few minutes. (Unless you like 'em cold.)

Dark chocolate works much of the time, for the short term; but there might be a risk of it getting "powdery", or whatever that effect is called, over longer periods of time.

Could I pray to the quadruple deity of Kirk - Picard - Sisko - Janeway instead?I don't see how it could hurt.

[Horatius]

I'd like to change this 500 bucks to a random mix of $2 bills and half dollars please.



I'll bet you $10 that, if you can find a $500 bill, they can find a bunch of $2 and 50 cent pieces.


:D

[HawaiiBigSis]

<snip>but there might be a risk of it getting "powdery", or whatever that effect is called, over longer periods of time.

That "powdery" effect is called "bloom".

I can't imagine they'd be damaged by freezing, but you could put one or two in the freezer for a day or so and see what happens.

[ejk]

I shall experiment. My worry is that the gooey middle will expand when frozen and crack the chocolate coating, thereby making the Tim Tam unusable for a Tim Tam slam.

[Wowbagger]

That "powdery" effect is called "bloom". Ah, yes, that's the term I was looking for!

I can't imagine they'd be damaged by freezing, but you could put one or two in the freezer for a day or so and see what happens.Perhaps it had more to do with the humidity of the freezer or something.

[saganite]

Can I start "oh man"-ing yet?

It just isn't TAM season until you do!

My tip? Let's try to get more people to start following the TAM twitter feed this year. It worked pretty well last year, but I think a lot of people didn't know about it, and a lot of others weren't yet familiar with what Twitter is all about. (Me included.) This year, Twitter is so all-pervasive that we should all be using it. For instance, last year I found myself with a couple of people, hanging out in Richard Saunders's hotel suite -- happened quite randomly, but there were only like 5 of us in there and a party REALLY should have been happening. It would have been great if I'd been able to tweet "party with Richard Saunders in Room 1057" and have word get out.

[rustypouch]

It just isn't TAM season until you do!

My tip? Let's try to get more people to start following the TAM twitter feed this year. It worked pretty well last year, but I think a lot of people didn't know about it, and a lot of others weren't yet familiar with what Twitter is all about. (Me included.) This year, Twitter is so all-pervasive that we should all be using it. For instance, last year I found myself with a couple of people, hanging out in Richard Saunders's hotel suite -- happened quite randomly, but there were only like 5 of us in there and a party REALLY should have been happening. It would have been great if I'd been able to tweet "party with Richard Saunders in Room 1057" and have word get out.

And you...

Since I probably won't be there, and you can now drink, you will have to drink for me, and make out with Toby.

[saganite]

and you...

Since i probably won't be there, and you can now drink, you will have to drink for me, and make out with toby.

you will be there. End of story.

[MattusMaximus]

I second Paperskater's advice... bring cash.

[MattusMaximus]

you will be there. End of story.

Yes, we have ways of making things like that happen ;)

[Cleon]

How about we compromise:

rustypouch comes to TAM, we'll all drink, and saganite will make out with me.

[rustypouch]

How about we compromise:

rustypouch comes to TAM, we'll all drink, and saganite will make out with me.

I like your thinking!

[Chris H]

I second Paperskater's advice... bring cash.


I'm slightly concerned (terrified) that the Aussie dollar will take a massive dive, and the bargain that was the South Point sale will turn into quite a sizeable debt, so I'm going to start buying US dollars while the rate is good. I'm in the UK at the moment, and I've already traded my leftover euros for greenbacks. I think it'd be a good idea for everyone to keep an eye on their local rate over the next few months and buy when the rate is good.

Cheers,

Chris

[Chris H]

If anyone is interested, based on todays rate at xe.com:

100 Aussie dollars will get you just over $90 US.

100 of her Majestys pounds will buy a whopping $162 US.

100 kiwi dollars will score you around $72 US.

And 100 euros is worth about $141 US.

[Wowbagger]

One more thing: If anyone tells you they "got a boot on their car", or some other excuse with a log sob story, don't give 'em any money.

[Davidlpf]

One more thing: If anyone tells you they "got a boot on their car", or some other excuse with a log sob story, don't give 'em any money.
How about for an unemployed Canuck who wants to meet the BA and Adam Savage.
Pretty please.:D

[Chris H]

My tip? Let's try to get more people to start following the TAM twitter feed this year. It worked pretty well last year, but I think a lot of people didn't know about it, and a lot of others weren't yet familiar with what Twitter is all about. (Me included.) This year, Twitter is so all-pervasive that we should all be using it. For instance, last year I found myself with a couple of people, hanging out in Richard Saunders's hotel suite -- happened quite randomly, but there were only like 5 of us in there and a party REALLY should have been happening. It would have been great if I'd been able to tweet "party with Richard Saunders in Room 1057" and have word get out.


My booking confirmation said that the room price included Interweb access. Can anyone recall if it's just in the room, or if it's wireless throughout the hotel? Would be nice to be able to access stuff like Twitter on the go, instead of having to crack open the laptop all the time.

[Sc00ter]

My booking confirmation said that the room price included Interweb access. Can anyone recall if it's just in the room, or if it's wireless throughout the hotel? Would be nice to be able to access stuff like Twitter on the go, instead of having to crack open the laptop all the time.

REALLY... ohh boy, this can of worms.

Internet access is for the room only, last year it wasn't included it was an extra charge. It wasn't suppose to work in the conference room but it did. Good thing too, because conference room access was around $25 an HOUR, yes, an HOUR.

[saganite]

How about we compromise:

rustypouch comes to TAM, we'll all drink, and saganite will make out with me.

Sorry Cleon. Hokulele already called dibs.

[Cleon]

Sorry Cleon. Hokulele already called dibs.

That's fine. She can make out with me too.

[Chris H]

How long do people normally hang around after TAM finishes? I'm thinking of staying in Vegas until the Tuesday afternoon, before heading back to Oz. Does everyone usually scarper fairly quickly, or are there normally a few stragglers?

[hcmom]

Sorry Cleon. Hokulele already called dibs.That's fine. She can make out with me too.

Hmmm... how about I make out with saganite and Hokulele, and Cleon and Rusty can watch?

How long do people normally hang around after TAM finishes? I'm thinking of staying in Vegas until the Tuesday afternoon, before heading back to Oz. Does everyone usually scarper fairly quickly, or are there normally a few stragglers?

People will continue to be there for a couple days after.

[Sc00ter]

How long do people normally hang around after TAM finishes? I'm thinking of staying in Vegas until the Tuesday afternoon, before heading back to Oz. Does everyone usually scarper fairly quickly, or are there normally a few stragglers?


Last year Dale and I left on Monday night because we did a Monday afternoon helicopter tour. There was a few people there, but after days of having the entire bar filled with skeptics it was a bit depressing to be down to around 12 people left. What was funny was that some people were still wandering around the conference room area.

But there was some very clear "con drop" going on. Came SOOOOOO close to getting a pic of krelnik falling asleep at the bar, but he woke up just before :)

I'm sure people will stick around, but I would try to link up with them before hand and plan on doing stuff.

[ejk]

How long do people normally hang around after TAM finishes? I'm thinking of staying in Vegas until the Tuesday afternoon, before heading back to Oz. Does everyone usually scarper fairly quickly, or are there normally a few stragglers?

Last year I left Sunday evening, and there were definitely many people still around. But a lot leaving, too. This year I plan to stay until Monday and go to Penn and Teller Sunday. Plus, I'm getting too old for the red-eye.

[saganite]

Hmmm... how about I make out with saganite and Hokulele, and Cleon and Rusty can watch?


This is shaping up to be the most interesting TAM ever.

[hcmom]

This is shaping up to be the most interesting TAM ever.

Oh man oh man oh man!!! :halo:

[rustypouch]

This is shaping up to be the most interesting TAM ever.

How about pics?

[The Central Scrutinizer]

How long do people normally hang around after TAM finishes? I'm thinking of staying in Vegas until the Tuesday afternoon, before heading back to Oz. Does everyone usually scarper fairly quickly, or are there normally a few stragglers?

TAM ends at noon on Sunday. A lot of people stay until Monday, and a fair number even stay until Tuesday.

You will not be alone.

[Horatius]

How long do people normally hang around after TAM finishes? I'm thinking of staying in Vegas until the Tuesday afternoon, before heading back to Oz. Does everyone usually scarper fairly quickly, or are there normally a few stragglers?



There may also be some people planning side trips for the days after TAM. The Monday after TAM6, a large group of us did a day trip through Death Valley, which was pretty interesting.

I'm contemplating my options for a longer trip this year, that will likely involve the Grand Canyon and Meteor Crater.

There's usually a thread created for these plans, so keep an eye out.

[SkepticScott]

How long do people normally hang around after TAM finishes?I'm flying home Monday morning, but others stay longer. Because of the timing -- the Monday before TAM is a U.S. holiday -- I'm doing all my sightseeing before TAM.

[Geek Goddess]

I stayed until Monday last year, for the first time, and found plenty of people to talk to and hang with Sunday night.

[Hokulele]

If anyone is interested, based on todays rate at xe.com:

100 Aussie dollars will get you just over $90 US.

100 of her Majestys pounds will buy a whopping $162 US.

100 kiwi dollars will score you around $72 US.

And 100 euros is worth about $141 US.


The cashiers in most casinos will exchange money at fairly reasonable rates. I know this because my Dad decided to be a smartass one year and when Mom asked him for some cash, he handed over some bills he had left over from a trip to Europe. The casino cage was more than happy to turn those into US dollars.

As a general tip, Las Vegas tends to be extremely dry, both outside as well as in the air-conditioned rooms. Bring moisturizer/conditioner if needed and drink plenty of water whenever possible. Since I am in Las Vegas fairly often for work, one environmentally-hostile thing I do regularly is when brushing my teeth, either in the morning or just before bed, I close the bathroom door and turn the shower to "nuclear". This creates a lovely steam-room effect which can help make your sinuses and stuff feel a little less desert-y.





And note to self, it appears that I should bring breath mints and lip balm to TAM.

[Fitter]

<snip>
And note to self, it appears that I should bring breath mints...<snip>
Finally.

[SkepticScott]

when brushing my teethHas any ever said "That's not smoke; that's just Hokulele brushing her teeth"?

I second Hokulele's recommendation of lip balm and moisturizer for dry skin.

[paperskater]

I'm hoping to find a good place to buy some Febreeze this year to spritz on my clothes after I get back to my room every night. I can't stand that residual cigarette smoke smell. It makes me gag.

[saganite]

As a general tip, Las Vegas tends to be extremely dry, both outside as well as in the air-conditioned rooms. Bring moisturizer/conditioner if needed and drink plenty of water whenever possible. Since I am in Las Vegas fairly often for work, one environmentally-hostile thing I do regularly is when brushing my teeth, either in the morning or just before bed, I close the bathroom door and turn the shower to "nuclear". This creates a lovely steam-room effect which can help make your sinuses and stuff feel a little less desert-y.


This must have been what the guy in the bar at South Point was talking about when he offered to give me a "Vegas facial."

[Cleon]

This must have been what the guy in the bar at South Point was talking about when he offered to give me a "Vegas facial."

That's so not what I meant at all.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

This must have been what the guy in the bar at South Point was talking about when he offered to give me a "Vegas facial."

LOL! Something like that. :)

[Dicon]

I'm hoping to find a good place to buy some Febreeze this year to spritz on my clothes after I get back to my room every night. I can't stand that residual cigarette smoke smell. It makes me gag.


I find it easiest to simply disrobe before getting in the first-floor elevators and leave my clothes in a tidy pile right there.

[AdMan]

Thanks for all the great tips, everyone. Not to mention the many chuckles, despite the number of inside jokes that I don't get!

Looking forward to my first TAM this year, if all goes as planned, so keep the tips coming.

[RSLancastr]

I'll suggest you consider submitting a paper for the Sunday Talks. If there's any topic you have a special interest in, it's a great way to get information out there, and to find other people who are also interested in the topic. After my talks at TAMs 5 and 7, I spent most of the rest of the day having people come up and start conversations about the subject. It's really quite cool.

I would heartily second this. Giving my paper presentation at TAM4 was a heady experience.

[RSLancastr]

Also, if you see a large, bearded skeptic in a wheel chair rolling your way, watch your toes. combined, my chair and I weigh around 500 lbs.

[TJ]

You may also want to carry around a flask with some nice scotch in it. It's a great way to strike up a conversation and share an intimate drink with Christopher Hitchens, if he's about. I have rustypouch to thank for this experience from a few TAMs ago, and since it's such a good idea, I'm gonna do it to. I'll have bourbon though.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

For those coming from overseas for the first time, in the US, we tip our bartenders.

[kmortis]

For those coming from overseas for the first time, in the US, we tip our bartenders.
...well.

[SkepticScott]

For those coming from overseas for the first time, in the US, we tip our bartenders.And we tip the wait staff 15% to 20%. It is not included in the bill, and they are paid less because it is assumed they'll get tips.

[Chris H]

For those coming from overseas for the first time, in the US, we tip our bartenders.


So in that case, we should buy all our drinks in one transaction, at the start of the evening? ;)

I have to admit, the whole tipping thing fills me with a combination of nervous angst and a mild sense of loathing. I don't understand who I'm supposed to tip, or how much I'm supposed to tip them. In addition, I'm quite adverse to the whole practice. At home, I tip someone because they have gone out of their way to provide amazing service. Is it the same in the USA, or is everyone in the service industry expecting some kind of tip? Will they be dirty on me if I tip them in Tim Tams, instead of dollars? ;)

[The Central Scrutinizer]

So in that case, we should buy all our drinks in one transaction, at the start of the evening? ;)

Won't help. You basically tip by the drink, or as a % of the bill. Bigger bill, bigger tip. More drinks, bigger tip.

I have to admit, the whole tipping thing fills me with a combination of nervous angst and a mild sense of loathing. I don't understand who I'm supposed to tip, or how much I'm supposed to tip them.

These are some of the things we learn as adults, either by being told, or through experience.

Is it the same in the USA, or is everyone in the service industry expecting some kind of tip?

Define "service industry". A car mechanic provides a service, but you don't tip him. A dentist provides a service, but you don't tip him either. A barber provides a service, but you do tip him. Got it? :)

Will they be dirty on me if I tip them in Tim Tams, instead of dollars? ;)

Yes. They want the money. They can buy their own (better) candy with it.

[kmortis]

So in that case, we should buy all our drinks in one transaction, at the start of the evening? ;)

I have to admit, the whole tipping thing fills me with a combination of nervous angst and a mild sense of loathing. I don't understand who I'm supposed to tip, or how much I'm supposed to tip them. In addition, I'm quite adverse to the whole practice. At home, I tip someone because they have gone out of their way to provide amazing service. Is it the same in the USA, or is everyone in the service industry expecting some kind of tip? Will they be dirty on me if I tip them in Tim Tams, instead of dollars? ;)
ALWAYS tip your waitstaff. Waitress, waiter, bartender. The bell boy, too, if you care to. But the waitstaff is key. Maybe one of our resident waitstaffers (I'm lookin' at you, CPP) can give an insider's look at it to help you feriners know what's right and wrong.

[Chris H]

Yes. They want the money. They can buy their own (better) candy with it.



I wasn't aware that you could get better candy? ;)

[The Central Scrutinizer]

I wasn't aware that you could get better candy? ;)

I started a thread about it sometime ago, which I can't find now, wondering why every gets so excited about this candy. I tried it, it's good, but I'm quite sure that in my life I've had hundreds of pieces of candy that were better. Some, far far better.

[Wowbagger]

I have to admit, the whole tipping thing fills me with a combination of nervous angst and a mild sense of loathing. I don't understand who I'm supposed to tip, or how much I'm supposed to tip them. In addition, I'm quite adverse to the whole practice. At home, I tip someone because they have gone out of their way to provide amazing service. Is it the same in the USA, or is everyone in the service industry expecting some kind of tip?I've lived my entire life in the United States, and I still don't get it right, sometimes.

Just google for articles to help you, I guess.

Here are a few:
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g191-s606/United-States:Tipping.And.Etiquette.html

http://www.tip20.com/tipping-standards

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tip_(gratuity)#United_States

[The Central Scrutinizer]

If the bartender is the owner of the bar, you don't tip him. You won't have to worry about that in Vegas.

[Allecher]

Chris H: Thanks for posting a link to this thread in the "New to TAM..." thread.

I just finished back reading and now I am hungry for something called Tim Tams. I am assuming that is not a euphemism.

Is TAM pretty friendly to women travelling alone? And by friendly I mean not overly friendly.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Is TAM pretty friendly to women travelling alone? And by friendly I mean not overly friendly.

Stick by me. I'll keep you safe from the creepy guys.

[Horatius]

Is TAM pretty friendly to women travelling alone?


Yes, it is!


Stick by me. I'll keep you safe from the creepy guys.


And by friendly I mean not overly friendly.


Oh, then no.

[hcmom]

Stick by me. I'll keep you safe from the other creepy guys.

Fixed it for you.

[Dicon]

For those coming from overseas for the first time, in the US, we tip our bartenders.


Real men push them all the way over.

[SkepticScott]

Is TAM pretty friendly to women travelling alone? And by friendly I mean not overly friendly.Yes, I believe it is. Skepdudes are smart enough to understand a cold shoulder.

[Fitter]

Stick by me. I'll keep you safe from the creepy guys.

Well your job will be easier this year as I won't be there.

[Wowbagger]

I just finished back reading and now I am hungry for something called Tim Tams. I am assuming that is not a euphemism.It's yummers in the tummers:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Tam

Especially the "slams":
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Tam_Slam

But, don't take my word for it:
BHzMfZ1FaqA
NplQNaU1SyM

[Chris H]

It's yummers in the tummers:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Tam

Especially the "slams":
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Tam_Slam



They've really thought about this stuff!!

Opposite corners of the Tim Tam are bitten off, one end is submerged in the drink, and the drink sucked through the biscuit. The crisp inside biscuit is softened and the outer chocolate coating begins to melt.

Ideally, the inside of the biscuit should collapse but the outside should remain intact long enough for the liquid to reach the mouth. Refrigerating them helps to preserve the outside coating while allowing the inside of the biscuit to melt. The thicker chocolate coating on the Double Coat Tim Tam offers a more stable structure to prevent a premature collapse. The caramel centre of the Chewy Caramel variety helps to hold the biscuit together for a slightly longer time.

[Chris H]

Here's my Tam stash so far. I've been buying a couple of packs everytime I see them on sale.

3x Tim Tam Original
3x Tim Tam Chewy Caramel (my favourite!)
3x Tim Tam Classic Dark (I believe HawaiiBigSis is a fan?)
1x Tim Tam Double Coat
1x Tim Tam "Crush" Honeycombe
1x Tim Tam "Crush" Mint Crisp
1x Tim Tam "Sweet Surrender" Black Forest Delight (someone on the forum requested these, but I can't find the post and don't remember exactly who it was.)

Hoping to bring more.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Yes, I believe it is. Skepdudes are smart enough to understand a cold shoulder.

They've seen plenty of them!

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Well your job will be easier this year as I won't be there.

Really? That sucks. How come?

[Wowbagger]

Here's my Tam stash so far. I've been buying a couple of packs everytime I see them on sale.

I assume that, by "1x" you mean one box, and not one single Tim-Tam. (That's what your photo implies, at least.)

If you would be so kind, I would like to try at least one single Tim-Tam of each of these:

"Crush" Honeycombe
"Crush" Mint Crisp
"Sweet Surrender" Black Forest Delight

I never had those flavors, before.

In return, I'll find something for you to try, perhaps.

[hcmom]

Here's my Tam stash so far. I've been buying a couple of packs everytime I see them on sale.

3x Tim Tam Original
3x Tim Tam Chewy Caramel (my favourite!)
3x Tim Tam Classic Dark (I believe HawaiiBigSis is a fan?)
1x Tim Tam Double Coat
1x Tim Tam "Crush" Honeycombe
1x Tim Tam "Crush" Mint Crisp
1x Tim Tam "Sweet Surrender" Black Forest Delight (someone on the forum requested these, but I can't find the post and don't remember exactly who it was.)

Hoping to bring more.
I might be willing to share a pack of the Classic Darks with HBS, but I need an entire pack of the Mint Crisps for myself, please... :D

Hmmmm... I've never had the Chewy Caramel either.

Chris, you are going to be a very popular person!

[Wowbagger]

The Chewy Caramel was available in the U.S., this year. Although TAM season has ended, you might still be able to find a box, if you are lucky.

[SkepticScott]

Here's my Tam stash so far.TimTams4TAM, or T24T

[Fitter]

Really? That sucks. How come?

Shiny new job has one draw back. No TAM this year. On the plus side I'll probably be in Mississippi that weekend. Mississippi is better than Vegas, Right? Right!?

[cStyle]

The two most important things to do at TAM:

1. Drink
...

Does it matter what you drink?:jaw-dropp

[Wowbagger]

Does it matter what you drink?:jaw-dropp
We drink all the blood that the newbies shed, when they are put through The Gauntlet.

Except for vegetarians. They drink tomato juice as a substitute.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Shiny new job has one draw back. No TAM this year. On the plus side I'll probably be in Mississippi that weekend. Mississippi is better than Vegas, Right? Right!?

Absolutely! Some of the greatest music in the world can be found in Mississippi. What part will you be in?

[DocM]

e drink all the blood that the newbies shed, when they are put through The Gauntlet.

Except for vegetarians. They drink tomato juice as a substitute.

I'm vegetarian. I prefer my tomato juice with vodka, Tabasco, Worcester Sauce, salt and pepper. Is that too much too ask? (I'm also a newby. Ask me about transferable diseases before drinking my blood. :P)

[rustypouch]

I'm vegetarian. I prefer my tomato juice with vodka, Tabasco, Worcester Sauce, salt and pepper. Is that too much too ask? (I'm also a newby. Ask me about transferable diseases before drinking my blood. :P)

Yes, it is too much to ask. You know that worcester sauce is not veggie, right?

[Wowbagger]

I'm vegetarian. I prefer my tomato juice with vodka, Tabasco, Worcester Sauce, salt and pepper. Is that too much too ask? (I'm also a newby. Ask me about transferable diseases before drinking my blood. :P)I suppose I could spice up my own tomato juice with a bit of Tabasco sauce.

I don't drink alcohol, actually. And, as was already mentioned, Worcestershire sauce (if that is what you meant) is not usually vegetarian.

[DocM]

Yeah, yeah, it's Worcestershire sauce. Pff, I can't be bothered to pronounce it correctly, why should I care how it's spelled..?

And since I drink the stuff (albeit in small quantities), and I am a vegetarian, it has to be vegetarian too. Just like jelly beans. (Don't start arguing with me. I know chemistry. I spent a lot of time with a butcher's daughter. I can tell you things about your food that would make Godzilla throw up!)

[kmortis]

Yeah, yeah, it's Worcestershire sauce. Pff, I can't be bothered to pronounce it correctly, why should I care how it's spelled..?

And since I drink the stuff (albeit in small quantities), and I am a vegetarian, it has to be vegetarian too. Just like jelly beans. (Don't start arguing with me. I know chemistry. I spent a lot of time with a butcher's daughter. I can tell you things about your food that would make Godzilla throw up!)
Oh yeah? I used to work in a frozen pasta factory. You can't frighten me.

[DocM]

Hah! Time for the big guns: I ate dinner with paramedics for 20 months. (Though I avoid talking about that. Or thinking.)

[kmortis]

Hah! Time for the big guns: I ate dinner with paramedics for 20 months. (Though I avoid talking about that. Or thinking.)
I'm a volunteer fireman. Most of my friends are paramedics, firemen and emts...you were saying?

Although, I do know that if you want to get free food, have your paramedic friends start telling war stories in a restaurant. All the other diners will leave and you can sacm their plates. :D

[Fitter]

Absolutely! Some of the greatest music in the world can be found in Mississippi. What part will you be in?

I'll be training at the Stennis Space Center, which sounds much more impressive than the reality.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

I'll be training at the Stennis Space Center, which sounds much more impressive than the reality.

Oh wow, way down at the bottom. The good stuff is up in the Delta. :)

[Fitter]

Yeah I'm hoping on being able to get up to Greenwood to pay homage.

[wafonso]

(...) A barber provides a service, but you do tip him. Got it? :)

You do? Really?

Wow. That explains some events of my years living in California...

[DocM]

You do? Really?

Wow. That explains some events of my years living in California...

Now I'm really curious how your haircut looks...

[wafonso]

Well, now it looks ok... but it's been 13 years :-)

[HawaiiBigSis]

Here's my Tam stash so far.
While the Dark Chocolate were indeed my request, I didn't know so many interesting varieties were still available. I'd try one of the honeycomb kind, or the dark forest kind, or...

Who am I kidding? I'd eat any of 'em!

(And I'm going to be there to do so!)

And Chris, you are going to be a forum god!

[Chris H]

And Chris, you are going to be a forum god!


;)

I've added a couple of packs of white chocolate ones, at I can't remember who's request. And even my mum is on the lookout now!! She saw them on sale last week and grabbed another packet of the black forest ones. :)

[kmortis]

Oh, another tip....


Don't eat alone

And try to eat with someone different every meal. Some overlap is ok, but try not to get caught in a very friendly rut.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Don't eat with me. Odds are I won't like you.

[Wowbagger]

And try to eat with someone different every meal. Some overlap is ok, but try not to get caught in a very friendly rut.
I second this. The wider variety of people you eat with, the more variety of fascinating conversations you will have, and the broader your mind will become.

[CriticalThanking]

;)

I've added a couple of packs of white chocolate ones, at I can't remember who's request. And even my mum is on the lookout now!! She saw them on sale last week and grabbed another packet of the black forest ones. :):jaw-dropp

White.


Chocolate.


Forum god, my tuchus! This is obviously some incompetent minor demon.

CT

[Wowbagger]

Forum god, my tuchus! This is obviously some incompetent minor demon.
Don't eat the white chocolate ones, then.

That means more for us who actually like white chocolate, to various degrees, depending on stuff.

If he comes through with the Tim-Tams he'll hardly be "incompetent".

[DocM]

And try to eat with someone different every meal.

Hm, my wife may not like that...

Some overlap is ok...

Ah, OK, then.

[Yogzotot]

DocM, why do you think I come without my wife? ;)

OK, this actually has other reasons, her returned fear of flying just being one.

[Chris H]

I've just updated my stash. An additional packet of Tim Tam "Crush" Honeycombe and a packet of Tim Tam "Crush" Mint Crisp, plus two packets of Tim Tam "Crush" Double Choc Crunch. Must put all of these packets into my carry on case soon to see how much room I've got left.

If anyone has any idea as to how we should go about consuming these things, I'd be open to suggestions. Having late night callers to my room asking for a quick nibble seems a rather odd way to go about distributing the 150 odd (and counting) biscuits I'm now in possession of. ;)

http://www.ilike.org.uk/images/tim_tams.jpg

[hcmom]

Bring them to the Del Mar Lounge, sit back and enjoy the fighting...

[HawaiiBigSis]

Bring them to the Del Mar Lounge, sit back and enjoy the fighting...
I was thinking that my room would be a great place for them to ... um ... stay.

[Chris H]

I've just updated my stash. An additional packet of Tim Tam "Crush" Honeycombe and a packet of Tim Tam "Crush" Mint Crisp, plus two packets of Tim Tam "Crush" Double Choc Crunch. Must put all of these packets into my carry on case soon to see how much room I've got left.



Just had a call from Ma to tell me that the Black Forest ones were on special this week, so she's added another packet to my stash. Expecting some funny looks at customs. :confused:

[Wowbagger]

Expecting some funny looks at customs.Bring a few extra packets to pass out as bribes. Just seeing them in your bag might make some customs officials come up with excuses to give you a hard time, to get some.

Anyway: The Del-Mar lounge, in the hotel, is the general hang-out spot, on any of TAM's evenings. Bring 'em down any time.

I suggest you distribute them in "waves". Don't toss all the packets at everyone, all at once. They'll be consumed instantly, and you'll have none left for the folks who got tampled by the other folks who managed to run there first.
Put out a few packets, see what happens, then put out a few more as needed.

Warning: I might be exaggerating the Tim Tam's effect on people, just a tiny bit.

[kmortis]

I was thinking that my room would be a great place for them to ... um ... stay.
...and never be heard from again?

[HawaiiBigSis]

...and never be heard from again?

:blush:

[bumlet5]

Just to ask, how inclusive are the unofficial events? I have a friend joining me for the trip, but he won't be attending TAM. He's going to do his own Vegas-y thing during the official events, but will likely be coming along for the parties and drinking.

[kmortis]

Well, I know that the Del Mar is open to all. Granted, we tend to scare off most of the straights. As for the other stuff, I couldn't say.

[hcmom]

Just to ask, how inclusive are the unofficial events? I have a friend joining me for the trip, but he won't be attending TAM. He's going to do his own Vegas-y thing during the official events, but will likely be coming along for the parties and drinking.


There's going to be 1000 people there. Chances are excellent that no one would even realize your friend wasn't attending the conference part. Not that anyone really cares.

[SkepticScott]

kmortis and hcmom are right: if it's not on the TAM8 schedule show up and enjoy! The JREF has nothing to do with the unofficial events. (I'm not speaking for the JREF but I'm sure they'll say the same thing.)

[Chris H]

Must put all of these packets into my carry on case soon to see how much room I've got left.



Just did the test. LOADS more space!! Even enough for Phil Plaitt's Minties (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minties)!!

[HawaiiBigSis]

Just did the test. LOADS more space!! Even enough for Phil Plaitt's Minties (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minties)!!

Glad to know there's room for a change of clothes for you, as well as Phil's Minties...

I was gifted with a few Minties, and I have to say, they're...unusual. Good, but different from anything I'd ever encountered before.

[ricklesgibson]

Just please leave the musk lollies at the border :)

[JamyeJ]

I will also vouch for the idea of getting out and dining, drinking, or hot tubbing with people you don't know. I consider myself very lucky to have made so many friends last year, mostly because I went in not knowing anyone. I worry a bit this year that I'm going to hang out with the friends I've made over the last year, I need to keep an eye out for new folks. So if you don't know me, come up and say hi! I promise I don't (generally) bite.

[kmortis]

I will also vouch for the idea of getting out and dining, drinking, or hot tubbing with people you don't know. I consider myself very lucky to have made so many friends last year, mostly because I went in not knowing anyone. I worry a bit this year that I'm going to hang out with the friends I've made over the last year, I need to keep an eye out for new folks. So if you don't know me, come up and say hi! I promise I don't (generally) bite.
Not even if we ask realy nicely?

[JamyeJ]

Well, thus the 'generally'. Exceptions can be made. :p

[Horatius]

Well, thus the 'generally'. Exceptions can be made. :p



...but only if you look tasty.

[bumlet5]

...but only if you look tasty.

And sometimes out of sheer curiosity.

[Ziggy66]

Just please leave the musk lollies at the border :)

Yeah, someone should notify Homeland Security about those ;-)

[Chris H]

Just updated my stash with another nine (yese, nine!) packets of Tim Tams. 2x caramel, 2x dark chocolate, 2x double coat and 3x original. After the barrage of abuse I received last time I mentioned it (:)), I've chosen not to buy anymore white "chocolate" biscuits. Feel free to come grab me at TAM if you want to try anything specific. I expect some of us are going to be home significantly rounder (than some of us already are). ;)

[bumlet5]

Just updated my stash with another nine (yese, nine!) packets of Tim Tams. 2x caramel, 2x dark chocolate, 2x double coat and 3x original. After the barrage of abuse I received last time I mentioned it (:)), I've chosen not to buy anymore white "chocolate" biscuits. Feel free to come grab me at TAM if you want to try anything specific. I expect some of us are going to be home significantly rounder (than some of us already are). ;)

I have never had them before, and I'd at least like to try one of each, plus a Tim Tam Slam at TAM. I think that's one of my many goals this year.

[hcmom]

The mint TimTams are the most important.

And I think I love Chris H.

[Chris H]

The mint TimTams are the most important.

And I think I love Chris H.


I forgot about those! I'll get some more. :-)

[bumlet5]

I think the minties sound like the most intriguing ones...

[Wowbagger]

Weren't we also supposed to get some "Crush" Honeycombe and Black Forest Delight ones? This is what you wrote back in April:

Here's my Tam stash so far. I've been buying a couple of packs everytime I see them on sale.

3x Tim Tam Original
3x Tim Tam Chewy Caramel (my favourite!)
3x Tim Tam Classic Dark (I believe HawaiiBigSis is a fan?)
1x Tim Tam Double Coat
1x Tim Tam "Crush" Honeycombe
1x Tim Tam "Crush" Mint Crisp
1x Tim Tam "Sweet Surrender" Black Forest Delight (someone on the forum requested these, but I can't find the post and don't remember exactly who it was.)

Hoping to bring more.

Also see if they got any White Chocolate ones.

[bumlet5]

Why do I get a feeling I will be web-ordering these after TAM?

[HawaiiBigSis]

Why do I get a feeling I will be web-ordering these after TAM?

Or scouring the cookie section of every store you set foot in...

[Chris H]

Weren't we also supposed to get some "Crush" Honeycombe and Black Forest Delight ones? This is what you wrote back in April:



My post from yesterday was merely what I purchased over the weekend. My current Tam Tim Tam stash is (providing I can fit them in my luggage) as follows:

6 x Original
5 x Chewy Caramel
5 x Classic Dark
3 x Double Coat
2 x White Chocolate
3 x Black Forest Delight
2 x Mint Crisp
2 x Honeycomb
2 x Double Choc Crunch



Also see if they got any White Chocolate ones.



Don't be so bloody cheeky! :p

[Wowbagger]

Chris, if you need to carry an extra suitcase on the plane, to carry all the Tim-Tams, I will gladly pay the airline's "2nd bag fee".

[bumlet5]

Chris, if you need to carry an extra suitcase on the plane, to carry all the Tim-Tams, I will gladly pay the airline's "2nd bag fee".

I get the feeling you're not the only one who would.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Why do I get a feeling I will be web-ordering these after TAM?

You won't need to. There are plenty of cookies/candies as good, and many better at your local grocery store.

[bumlet5]

You won't need to. There are plenty of cookies/candies as good, and many better at your local grocery store.

Isn't that pretty blasphemous to say in the forums?

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Isn't that pretty blasphemous to say in the forums?

No. People have, for some reason, convinced themselves that these Tim Tams are the greatest cookies on earth. They're good, but like I said in another thread, I'm quite sure I've had hundreds of better cookies in my life, all available locally. No need to send away to Australia.

[Wowbagger]

You won't need to. There are plenty of cookies/candies as good, and many better at your local grocery store.Blasphemy!!!! :eek:

Isn't that pretty blasphemous to say in the forums? Scrut is not afraid of blasphemy. Not even that which might be considered blasphemy on this forum.

He is, however, afraid of many, many other things. Despite his bravery with the verbiage, he is, in general, a big, yellow chicken.

[bumlet5]

Despite his bravery with the verbiage, he is, in general, a big, yellow chicken.

Like the pit bull that barks once and hides in the closet?

[Wowbagger]

Like the pit bull that barks once and hides in the closet?Close! he barks once, then just waits in the bar.

(And, I think he is still afraid of closet monsters.)

[paperskater]

Just updated my stash with another nine (yese, nine!) packets of Tim Tams. 2x caramel, 2x dark chocolate, 2x double coat and 3x original. After the barrage of abuse I received last time I mentioned it (:)), I've chosen not to buy anymore white "chocolate" biscuits. Feel free to come grab me at TAM if you want to try anything specific. I expect some of us are going to be home significantly rounder (than some of us already are). ;)


Ideally, I'd like to try one of each, but I'm willing to bet that everyone is going to want to try one of each and that's just not going to work out.

Could you save just one white chocolate one for me? That's all. I'll even just take half or a quarter of one if there isn't enough to go around.

[Hokulele]

Isn't that pretty blasphemous to say in the forums?


Scrut is just depressed that Chris gets all the attention from us ladies with those Tim Tams.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Scrut is just depressed that Chris gets all the attention from us ladies with those Tim Tams.

I'm just setting folks up for the impending disappointment. :)

[Hokulele]

I'm just setting folks up for the impending disappointment. :)


Chocolate never disappoints.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Chocolate never disappoints.

Even Hershey bars?

[Hokulele]

Even Hershey bars?


Even Hershey bars, especially when they accompany graham crackers and toasted marshmallows.


Mmmm, s'mores...

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Even Hershey bars, especially when they accompany graham crackers and toasted marshmallows.


Mmmm, s'mores...

I didn't even know Hershey bars qualified as chocolate. :)

Which indirectly proves my point - those who think Tim Tams are the world's greatest cookies, probably have never had good cookies.

[SkepticScott]

Ideally, I'd like to try one of each, but I'm willing to bet that everyone is going to want to try one of each and that's just not going to work out. The solution is everyone gets a Tim Tam tidbit.

[HawaiiBigSis]

Could you save just one white chocolate one for me? That's all. I'll even just take half or a quarter of one if there isn't enough to go around.
You can have my share of those!

[hcmom]

Could you save just one white chocolate one for me? That's all. I'll even just take half or a quarter of one if there isn't enough to go around.

You can have my share of those!

My share too, so it looks like you'll be getting a whole one, paperskater!

[Wowbagger]

I've already tried at least one of most of those varieties, in the past. But NOT:

White Chocolate
Mint Crisp
Honeycomb

So, I would want at least one of each of those.

I am not entirely sure if I had the Black Forest Delight, yet. It sounds familiar.

Could you save just one white chocolate one for me? That's all. I'll even just take half or a quarter of one if there isn't enough to go around.I could make a deal with you: Whomever gets to the Tim Tams first will save half a white chocolate for the other, in case there is none left when the other arrives. (If there are more left, then other half can be eaten by the person who saved it, since the second person would be able to get a whole one of their own.)

[SkepticScott]

Wowbagger, it seems like you're advocating Tim Tam dibs. :)

[Wowbagger]

Wowbagger, it seems like you're advocating Tim Tam dibs. :)Tim Tams tend to bring out what little selfishness and jealousness lies within me.

[bumlet5]

I could make a deal with you: Whomever gets to the Tim Tams first will save half a white chocolate for the other, in case there is none left when the other arrives. (If there are more left, then other half can be eaten by the person who saved it, since the second person would be able to get a whole one of their own.)

This sounds fair.

[Chris H]

Scrut is just depressed that Chris gets all the attention from us ladies with those Tim Tams.


Hellooooooooooooo ladies!!

[bumlet5]

Hey, what an I say, women like chocolate.

[SkepticScott]

Hey, what an I say, women like chocolate.I'll be bringing some chocolate from Dante's Chocolates, a local chocolate shop. ;);)

[bumlet5]

Also, if we're doing requests, I'll put in for a mint, a caramel, and a honeycomb. :D

[Wowbagger]

Also, if we're doing requests, I'll put in for a mint, a caramel, and a honeycomb. :DWe can do a halfsies deal on those, if you'd like. (Like I proposed for Paperskater.)


ETA: I just remembered: I might be able to bring my own batch of caramel ones, left over from my Target stash. If that is the case, I can promise you one whole caramel, if we do the halfsies deal on the other two. But, let me double-check my stash, first.

[bumlet5]

We can do a halfsies deal on those, if you'd like. (Like I proposed for Paperskater.)


ETA: I just remembered: I might be able to bring my own batch of caramel ones, left over from my Target stash. If that is the case, I can promise you one whole caramel, if we do the halfsies deal on the other two. But, let me double-check my stash, first.

Deal.

[kmortis]

We can do a halfsies deal on those, if you'd like. (Like I proposed for Paperskater.)


ETA: I just remembered: I might be able to bring my own batch of caramel ones, left over from my Target stash. If that is the case, I can promise you one whole caramel, if we do the halfsies deal on the other two. But, let me double-check my stash, first.
Wowbagger, IIRC Wegmans carries Tim Tams.

[Wowbagger]

Wowbagger, IIRC Wegmans carries Tim Tams.Yeah, but they're in New Jeresy. And, what varieties do that have?


Some specialty shops in New York City will sometimes import real Australian packets of TimTams to sell. But, not as reliably as I would like.

[hcmom]

I'll be bringing some chocolate from Dante's Chocolates, a local chocolate shop. ;);)

Dark chocolates? Do volunteers get first dibs?

[SkepticScott]

Dark chocolates? Do volunteers get first dibs?I'll bring a mix of milk, dark, and white chocolate bars, and yes, they'll show up at the places where the volunteers will be first, solely because that's where I'll be first. :cool:

[xinit]

I feel somehow obligated to bring something from Canada... not sure how well poutine will travel, though...

[bumlet5]

I feel somehow obligated to bring something from Canada... not sure how well poutine will travel, though...

Quality maple candy?? :shy:

[Wowbagger]

I can probably bring some surströmming in, if anyone wants to try some. How many cans should I bring?









This post, of course, was a joke. Even if I wasn't a vegetarian, I still probably wouldn't eat that stuff. Yeeech!!

[Chris H]

Could you save just one white chocolate one for me? That's all. I'll even just take half or a quarter of one if there isn't enough to go around.



I could make a deal with you: Whomever gets to the Tim Tams first will save half a white chocolate for the other, in case there is none left when the other arrives. (If there are more left, then other half can be eaten by the person who saved it, since the second person would be able to get a whole one of their own.)


Considering the two of you are the only ones that seem interested in the white chocolate ones, and I've only bought two packs so far, consider them yours. I'll keep a packet each for you in my room. Come and grab me at TAM and I'll work out when to get them to you.

Cheers,

Chris

[Wowbagger]

I'll keep a packet each for you in my room.
Thanks. I am wondering what to get for you, in return.

[Yogzotot]

As a newbie to the forum, I have *no* idea what you are talking about here. I love chocolate and cookies and chocolate cookies (who doesn't?), but what are Tim Tams? Enlighten a European, who only knows proper German, Swiss and Belgian chocolate and pralines... (enlighten = safe some for me to try them out :p)

[The Central Scrutinizer]

As a newbie to the forum, I have *no* idea what you are talking about here. I love chocolate and cookies and chocolate cookies (who doesn't?), but what are Tim Tams? Enlighten a European, who only knows proper German, Swiss and Belgian chocolate and pralines... (enlighten = safe some for me to try them out :p)

You'll likely be disappointed. :)

[Paul C. Anagnostopoulos]

Should I bring a few bars of the 98% cocoa chocolate made by our local chocolatier?

~~ Paul

[SkepticScott]

Should I bring a few bars of the 98% cocoa chocolate made by our local chocolatier?If you want to bring some of that from Dante's please do so. It'll make many people very happy, even though it's too much for me.