Trip report 5/23 to 6/9 2013
June 15th, 2013 at 7:36:02 PM
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No matter how long the trip is, it's not long enough...
[Note to illiterate trolls: when I say "more later" I mean "I'll be posting more later." This would be obvious to anyone who is not illiterate. Take my word for it.]
Anyway, I traveled via Interjet, departing from Toluca airport. I hadn't used that airport in a while, and it's changed a bit since then. For one thing it's recovered some traffic (which it had lost to Mex City's airport), but is still far short from its peak in 2009 before Aerocalifornia, Taesa and Mexicana failed. It seems Volaris is happy to maintain a minimal presence there, but Interjet has moved some of it more touristy routes there. Also some other airlines have made an appearance, notably Aeromexico and Spirit.
It's a rather small airport, which means it's easy to depart from. You're always near the gate or security. There are varied stores and restaurants before the security divide. There's free WiFi. Best of all, since few international flights operate there, the security lines are short. And as traffic is relatively light, the plane just rolls off to the runway without having to wait its turn behind other departing flights.
But let's back up a bit. Though my flight left at 3:10 pm, my day began at 5 am. I had some last minute business to take care of at work, and I didn't want to meet any of my coworkers. So I arrived long before anyone else did (and left long before, too). Then I went to the bank to pay off a credit card and exchange some money. I failed at the first (the "system" was "down"), and needed a second bank for the latter (fortunately there are several nearby).
I opted for an earlier shuttle to the airport, because the highway to Toluca is prone to delays due to accidents. So better safe than sorry. It also gave me a nice buffer in case check-in took too long. As it happened, there wasn't even a line. I had time to catch up on Facebook through my cell phone, and to have a leisurely lunch as well.
The shuttle is quite nicely appointed and has lap safety belts. Pickup is at a hotel in the Santa Fe area of Mexico City, right on the highway to Toluca. This required a taxi ride from home, and eventually one back. Total cost must have been around 500 pesos, tips included, which is around US $40. That's about even compared to taxis to and from Mex City's airport, but with less traffic and definitely a shorter ride in the afternoon.
Toluca airport is small by American standards, but large by Mexican ones, excepting Mex City's airport (which is large by any standard). There are a few restaurants and shops before passing security, and also plenty of departure lounge style chairs here and there. I found one currency exchange stand and some ATMs, but no bank operates a half-service branch as many do in Mex City. Nearby there are a few hotels and, about 3 or 4 miles away, a sprawling outdoor shopping mall.
The flight was boring and uneventful. I'd stockpiled some Philosophy in Action podcasts for the flight, then on board I discovered I left my earphones at home. Had I noticed at the terminal, I could easily have gotten a new pair... <sigh> At least I managed to sleep a little.
Interjet is a low cost carrier. All it serves during flight is a small snack (in this case a choice between 30 gr. bags of chips, Fritos and Doritos) and drinks. The latter include free alcohol, just don't ask for anything complicated. If you want a mixed drink, you're better off trying to wheedle a cup of orange juice and a shot of vodka, for example. You can bring in food with you, and some of the restaurants in the departure area offer take out.
I mentioned that Interjet has a generous 50 kilo, two bag luggage allowance. And that it made packing easier as I could simply take whatever I wanted. Well, yes. But I forgot an amazing number of important items. Aside from the earphones, I forgot to bring makeup remover, perfume, deodorant, compact mirror, magnifying mirror (not lighted), and two camis I needed for two outfits. Eventually I was able to replace almost everything, though finding suitable cotton camis took over a week.
By almost I mean I couldn't find a satisfactory perfume for a reasonable price. What I forgot to take was Chanel No. 5 eau de parfum. What I wound up getting was a Liz Taylor eau de toilette. It's just not the same.
I arrived at McCarran's new Terminal 3. As usual for arrivals, for me, I tried to get out of the airport as soon as possible. I got through immigration quickly, but my bags took their sweet time arriving. There's a lot more walking involved than at the old Terminal 2, but it's all indoors and the shuttle ticket desks are inside.
By the time I arrived at the Four Queens, I was too tired and sleepy to do much. I unpacked, went to Walgreen's to get a magnifying mirror and deodorant (I hadn't realized some omissions by then yet), had dinner at Magnolia's and went to bed.
The next two days were consumed by WoVCon activities. these have been recapped elsewhere, so I won't go into them. Except to say it was a real pleasure to see old friends, to meet new ones, and to meet friends I'd only known online.
More later, though there's little else to say.
[Note to illiterate trolls: when I say "more later" I mean "I'll be posting more later." This would be obvious to anyone who is not illiterate. Take my word for it.]
Anyway, I traveled via Interjet, departing from Toluca airport. I hadn't used that airport in a while, and it's changed a bit since then. For one thing it's recovered some traffic (which it had lost to Mex City's airport), but is still far short from its peak in 2009 before Aerocalifornia, Taesa and Mexicana failed. It seems Volaris is happy to maintain a minimal presence there, but Interjet has moved some of it more touristy routes there. Also some other airlines have made an appearance, notably Aeromexico and Spirit.
It's a rather small airport, which means it's easy to depart from. You're always near the gate or security. There are varied stores and restaurants before the security divide. There's free WiFi. Best of all, since few international flights operate there, the security lines are short. And as traffic is relatively light, the plane just rolls off to the runway without having to wait its turn behind other departing flights.
But let's back up a bit. Though my flight left at 3:10 pm, my day began at 5 am. I had some last minute business to take care of at work, and I didn't want to meet any of my coworkers. So I arrived long before anyone else did (and left long before, too). Then I went to the bank to pay off a credit card and exchange some money. I failed at the first (the "system" was "down"), and needed a second bank for the latter (fortunately there are several nearby).
I opted for an earlier shuttle to the airport, because the highway to Toluca is prone to delays due to accidents. So better safe than sorry. It also gave me a nice buffer in case check-in took too long. As it happened, there wasn't even a line. I had time to catch up on Facebook through my cell phone, and to have a leisurely lunch as well.
The shuttle is quite nicely appointed and has lap safety belts. Pickup is at a hotel in the Santa Fe area of Mexico City, right on the highway to Toluca. This required a taxi ride from home, and eventually one back. Total cost must have been around 500 pesos, tips included, which is around US $40. That's about even compared to taxis to and from Mex City's airport, but with less traffic and definitely a shorter ride in the afternoon.
Toluca airport is small by American standards, but large by Mexican ones, excepting Mex City's airport (which is large by any standard). There are a few restaurants and shops before passing security, and also plenty of departure lounge style chairs here and there. I found one currency exchange stand and some ATMs, but no bank operates a half-service branch as many do in Mex City. Nearby there are a few hotels and, about 3 or 4 miles away, a sprawling outdoor shopping mall.
The flight was boring and uneventful. I'd stockpiled some Philosophy in Action podcasts for the flight, then on board I discovered I left my earphones at home. Had I noticed at the terminal, I could easily have gotten a new pair... <sigh> At least I managed to sleep a little.
Interjet is a low cost carrier. All it serves during flight is a small snack (in this case a choice between 30 gr. bags of chips, Fritos and Doritos) and drinks. The latter include free alcohol, just don't ask for anything complicated. If you want a mixed drink, you're better off trying to wheedle a cup of orange juice and a shot of vodka, for example. You can bring in food with you, and some of the restaurants in the departure area offer take out.
I mentioned that Interjet has a generous 50 kilo, two bag luggage allowance. And that it made packing easier as I could simply take whatever I wanted. Well, yes. But I forgot an amazing number of important items. Aside from the earphones, I forgot to bring makeup remover, perfume, deodorant, compact mirror, magnifying mirror (not lighted), and two camis I needed for two outfits. Eventually I was able to replace almost everything, though finding suitable cotton camis took over a week.
By almost I mean I couldn't find a satisfactory perfume for a reasonable price. What I forgot to take was Chanel No. 5 eau de parfum. What I wound up getting was a Liz Taylor eau de toilette. It's just not the same.
I arrived at McCarran's new Terminal 3. As usual for arrivals, for me, I tried to get out of the airport as soon as possible. I got through immigration quickly, but my bags took their sweet time arriving. There's a lot more walking involved than at the old Terminal 2, but it's all indoors and the shuttle ticket desks are inside.
By the time I arrived at the Four Queens, I was too tired and sleepy to do much. I unpacked, went to Walgreen's to get a magnifying mirror and deodorant (I hadn't realized some omissions by then yet), had dinner at Magnolia's and went to bed.
The next two days were consumed by WoVCon activities. these have been recapped elsewhere, so I won't go into them. Except to say it was a real pleasure to see old friends, to meet new ones, and to meet friends I'd only known online.
More later, though there's little else to say.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 15th, 2013 at 9:23:50 PM
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I spent less time gambling on this trip than in previous ones. Partly it's because I spent more time shopping and sight-seeing, but also partly due to the beating we took Friday and Saturday on WovCon craps play.
I don't keep track of my play or bankroll. I simply bring along X amount of cash and set limits on credit card expenditures (vague ones, though). That's that, and that's supposed to last me the whole trip, hopefully with a little left over. Still, this trip I think I either came ahead or even.
I did gamble every day, but at ultra-low stakes, even for me. Still, one such paid off big time in relation to the stakes involved. Which? The famous Loose Deuces machine at the infamous Ditz.
I'm thinking of another name for The D, but that would be a bit offensive to people who are not involved with it. So I'll refrain. The thing is I hate having to set foot in the main casino. It's too loud. That's all there is to it. But the slot museum on the upper floor of the casino is as near ideal to me as is possible. It's relatively quiet (none of the noise below makes it upstairs), except for the odd sound effects of the Sigma Derby machine, it has good drinks service, the slot attendants come quickly, and the background music is mostly made up of songs I've actually heard before. In fact I found myself sometimes singing along while playing VP.
Anyway, I usually played that machine daily, buying in for $20 (it's a nickel machine) and playing until it was all gone or I got tired of it. I lost it all maybe three times, the rest I ended up sightly ahead, even or a few dollars behind. Except for three occasions. In two of these I hit 4 deuces, for a total payoff of $250. And in one I hit a natural royal flush for $200.
Other than that I'd play 9/6 JoB at the Four Queens on a nickel machine with the double-up feature enabled. Not every day, but somewhat often. I tried the Sigma Derby a few times, with low buy-ins. It is a rather exciting game, for all its old, old age and primitiveness. It tended to gather large crowds of very enthusiastic people who'd cheer and urge the mechanical horses they bet on to do better. At one point I heard another player tell an onlooker "You just chose what combination to bet on, then you cheer. That's it." :) The last time I played it I hit a long shot bet of one quarter for a $11.50 I played the $1.50 and left with $10. I like to leave ahead, even by a little.
During the first week, that is from May 26th to June 1st, the weather was hot, but bearable. I visited both outlet malls and did some sight-seeing on the Strip. The next week, June 2nd to the 9th, was unbearably hot, with temps ranging up to 42+ C (about 105-110 F). This was actually easy to take Downtown under the FSE canopy during the day. That shade is worth more than the light show, IMO. But venturing to the Strip was problematic. I even considered renting a car (I didn't).
BTW I found a design flaw in the SDX buses. The A/C doesn't quite reach the accordion area where the two bus segments are joined. It does get appreciably hotter there, on days where the thermometer breaks 100 F, and when the bus is full (and why would you stand there if the bus wasn't full?) One time it was so bad, I had to shower and change when I reached my hotel.
Even venturing to the Cal and MSS with such high temps was a bit of a hardship (I know, First World Problems, right?) I think the coolest route is to head to the Binion's back exit, then cross as quickly as the light allows to the Cal. There is not one centimeter of shade in the short open area.
More later.
I don't keep track of my play or bankroll. I simply bring along X amount of cash and set limits on credit card expenditures (vague ones, though). That's that, and that's supposed to last me the whole trip, hopefully with a little left over. Still, this trip I think I either came ahead or even.
I did gamble every day, but at ultra-low stakes, even for me. Still, one such paid off big time in relation to the stakes involved. Which? The famous Loose Deuces machine at the infamous Ditz.
I'm thinking of another name for The D, but that would be a bit offensive to people who are not involved with it. So I'll refrain. The thing is I hate having to set foot in the main casino. It's too loud. That's all there is to it. But the slot museum on the upper floor of the casino is as near ideal to me as is possible. It's relatively quiet (none of the noise below makes it upstairs), except for the odd sound effects of the Sigma Derby machine, it has good drinks service, the slot attendants come quickly, and the background music is mostly made up of songs I've actually heard before. In fact I found myself sometimes singing along while playing VP.
Anyway, I usually played that machine daily, buying in for $20 (it's a nickel machine) and playing until it was all gone or I got tired of it. I lost it all maybe three times, the rest I ended up sightly ahead, even or a few dollars behind. Except for three occasions. In two of these I hit 4 deuces, for a total payoff of $250. And in one I hit a natural royal flush for $200.
Other than that I'd play 9/6 JoB at the Four Queens on a nickel machine with the double-up feature enabled. Not every day, but somewhat often. I tried the Sigma Derby a few times, with low buy-ins. It is a rather exciting game, for all its old, old age and primitiveness. It tended to gather large crowds of very enthusiastic people who'd cheer and urge the mechanical horses they bet on to do better. At one point I heard another player tell an onlooker "You just chose what combination to bet on, then you cheer. That's it." :) The last time I played it I hit a long shot bet of one quarter for a $11.50 I played the $1.50 and left with $10. I like to leave ahead, even by a little.
During the first week, that is from May 26th to June 1st, the weather was hot, but bearable. I visited both outlet malls and did some sight-seeing on the Strip. The next week, June 2nd to the 9th, was unbearably hot, with temps ranging up to 42+ C (about 105-110 F). This was actually easy to take Downtown under the FSE canopy during the day. That shade is worth more than the light show, IMO. But venturing to the Strip was problematic. I even considered renting a car (I didn't).
BTW I found a design flaw in the SDX buses. The A/C doesn't quite reach the accordion area where the two bus segments are joined. It does get appreciably hotter there, on days where the thermometer breaks 100 F, and when the bus is full (and why would you stand there if the bus wasn't full?) One time it was so bad, I had to shower and change when I reached my hotel.
Even venturing to the Cal and MSS with such high temps was a bit of a hardship (I know, First World Problems, right?) I think the coolest route is to head to the Binion's back exit, then cross as quickly as the light allows to the Cal. There is not one centimeter of shade in the short open area.
More later.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 15th, 2013 at 10:54:36 PM
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Good start! Definitely jealous of your D loose deuces hits. The only time I got around playing to the machine (Dec. 2011 for about 45 minutes), I turned dealt quints into quads...doh
Did you ever get to play Dream Card?
I had my g/f snap a pic from the last trip of a Dream Card hit with you in mind, but I have ultimately been lazy about writing a TR myself from last month. She switched phones since then, but it doesn't look like she saved the pics on a computer before the switch. Bah. I was playing at Mandalay Bay next to her and got dealt 3 2's in the first 4 cards with Dream Card on and it hit the last 2. Unfortunately, I was too cheap to play more than one hand (nickel spin poker), but it was crappy 6/5 Bonus for a $10 hit! :(
Did you ever get to play Dream Card?
I had my g/f snap a pic from the last trip of a Dream Card hit with you in mind, but I have ultimately been lazy about writing a TR myself from last month. She switched phones since then, but it doesn't look like she saved the pics on a computer before the switch. Bah. I was playing at Mandalay Bay next to her and got dealt 3 2's in the first 4 cards with Dream Card on and it hit the last 2. Unfortunately, I was too cheap to play more than one hand (nickel spin poker), but it was crappy 6/5 Bonus for a $10 hit! :(
June 15th, 2013 at 11:42:22 PM
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Quote: tringlomaneGood start! Definitely jealous of your D loose deuces hits. The only time I got around playing to the machine (Dec. 2011 for about 45 minutes), I turned dealt quints into quads...doh
Thanks.
I very nearly turned 5 of a kind into 3 of a kind once. I tend to see two deuces and hold them and hit draw. Fortunately I've developed the habit of looking again at the hand after I hold.
Quote:Did you ever get to play Dream Card?
Only online.
In Vegas I pretty much play VP only Downtown, and only with good pay tables (with two exceptions I'll get to later). I despair of finding a decent pay table on the Strip for less than $1 denomination, and that's too high for me.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 16th, 2013 at 12:06:05 AM
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As to shopping, the very best place to shop is Ross. At least if you're a low roller and a flea with a taste for bargains. It is cheaper, on average, than even the outlet mall stores. Of course the selection is limited and, shall we say, eclectic. Worse of all the merchandise tends to get mixed up. You find a lovely dress in the portion of the rack with your size, and then find out it's a 2 or a 4. Ugh!
But with some patience there are great deals to be had. For example, they had a good selection of Jockey cotton panties in packs of 3 at only $8. I found several nice skirts, including a lovely mint, pleated maxi I absolutely adore (even if I have to gather it when confronted with stairs and escalators). A few nice tops. 4 pairs of Maidenform T-shirt bras (my new favorite) and a few other things.
There are two branches on Las Vegas Blvd. One next to the Showcase Mall near MGM grand, and one a bit north of the Wynn on the corner of Convention Center Dr. the latter tends to have a better selection, especially in lingerie. To get there from Downtown you either take the Deuce and get off just across the street, or take the SDX to Fashion Show Mall, cross the street to the Wynn and walk the rest of the way; or you can take the Deuce from the Wynn, too.
I visited both frequently and never came out empty handed. They take returns well, too, without even asking why one is returning an item.
What they lack in is shoes. For that I had to scour the outlet malls. I got a great deal on sneakers at Reebok making use of a "buy one, get the second one 50% off" offer. And also a very comfy pair of mid heels from Nine West. Actually I found nicer shoes, some by Nine West even, at other stores, but not in my size <sigh>.
I also got my ears pierced at the Piercing Pagoda kiosk in the south outlet mall. That was great! Clip on earrings are a, literal, pain. The clips either grab too tightly and cause small lesions on the earlobe, or not tightly enough and keep falling out. On the downside, one has to wear the piercing studs, which have a wider post, for 4 to 6 weeks so the piercing will heal properly and remain open. So I was stuck with rhinestone studs for a week and a half. but this is for life, so it's worth it.
Vegas, of course, lacks nothing in the way of shopping (except bookstores). I spent many afternoons window-shopping at fashion Show, the Forum Shops, Miracle mile, and many others, too.
I didn't buy any windows, if you're interested. But at Fashion Show I ran across a large kiosk carrying the MS Surface tablet. I thought about it as I circled the Mall. In the end I decided not to even get close, lest my relaxed attitude suffer from a closer exposure.
So while window-shopping, I stayed away from Windows.
More later.
But with some patience there are great deals to be had. For example, they had a good selection of Jockey cotton panties in packs of 3 at only $8. I found several nice skirts, including a lovely mint, pleated maxi I absolutely adore (even if I have to gather it when confronted with stairs and escalators). A few nice tops. 4 pairs of Maidenform T-shirt bras (my new favorite) and a few other things.
There are two branches on Las Vegas Blvd. One next to the Showcase Mall near MGM grand, and one a bit north of the Wynn on the corner of Convention Center Dr. the latter tends to have a better selection, especially in lingerie. To get there from Downtown you either take the Deuce and get off just across the street, or take the SDX to Fashion Show Mall, cross the street to the Wynn and walk the rest of the way; or you can take the Deuce from the Wynn, too.
I visited both frequently and never came out empty handed. They take returns well, too, without even asking why one is returning an item.
What they lack in is shoes. For that I had to scour the outlet malls. I got a great deal on sneakers at Reebok making use of a "buy one, get the second one 50% off" offer. And also a very comfy pair of mid heels from Nine West. Actually I found nicer shoes, some by Nine West even, at other stores, but not in my size <sigh>.
I also got my ears pierced at the Piercing Pagoda kiosk in the south outlet mall. That was great! Clip on earrings are a, literal, pain. The clips either grab too tightly and cause small lesions on the earlobe, or not tightly enough and keep falling out. On the downside, one has to wear the piercing studs, which have a wider post, for 4 to 6 weeks so the piercing will heal properly and remain open. So I was stuck with rhinestone studs for a week and a half. but this is for life, so it's worth it.
Vegas, of course, lacks nothing in the way of shopping (except bookstores). I spent many afternoons window-shopping at fashion Show, the Forum Shops, Miracle mile, and many others, too.
I didn't buy any windows, if you're interested. But at Fashion Show I ran across a large kiosk carrying the MS Surface tablet. I thought about it as I circled the Mall. In the end I decided not to even get close, lest my relaxed attitude suffer from a closer exposure.
So while window-shopping, I stayed away from Windows.
More later.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 16th, 2013 at 12:27:23 AM
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I lived off of Rosses selection of non-shirt clothing. Never understood the point in spending more money then the cheapest for pants and socks. Shirts however they do make a statement so I splurge on those. I swear I spend about 30-40% of a budget for a man, so probably 10% of a woman's ensemble.
I don't expect this trend to change, even when I start making life changing money. We had a family friend who has a black card, and likes to eat at dives nearby. The waitress always remembers us lol. I'd like to end up in his position someday.
I don't expect this trend to change, even when I start making life changing money. We had a family friend who has a black card, and likes to eat at dives nearby. The waitress always remembers us lol. I'd like to end up in his position someday.
"Man Babes" #AxelFabulous
June 16th, 2013 at 5:56:37 AM
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Quote: djatcI lived off of Rosses selection of non-shirt clothing. Never understood the point in spending more money then the cheapest for pants and socks. Shirts however they do make a statement so I splurge on those. I swear I spend about 30-40% of a budget for a man, so probably 10% of a woman's ensemble.
More like 1% ;)
They do have a large mens' section, though I didn't even look at it.
BTW, at the outlet malls I found a few good bargains at Burlington Brands and Charlotte Russ. the latter is mostly targeted to a younger demographic, but they had a good selection of maxi skirts (on sale) and some nice, cheap jewelry (also on sale). It was also where I found some camis, which were 2 for 1.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 16th, 2013 at 10:22:28 AM
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Great report, This is more like it.
I also stay at the 4 Queens whenever I'm in Vegas. I used to stay on the strip and visit downtown to gamble. Now I'd rather stay downtown and visit the strip using the bus. One of my favorite rides and views is front seat top of double decker, fantastic view of the strip as you travel. Only thing I don't like about 4 Queens is they don't comp red bull even if you are playing. I don't drink alcohol so sometimes I like a little pick me up besides a coke. So I'll head over to the D and play a little at that huge bar with the long line of video screens and get a red bull. You are right that downstairs at the D is too loud but I love that bar if a big sporting event is on. I played upstairs once on one of those old VP machines. When I cashed out, I was surprised coins starting coming out. I'm thinking WTF do I do now. I look up and an attendant is right there with a plastic cup. Great service upstairs. I think its because the machines are old upstairs, they have to watch them closely because cheaters with a special device can clean them out.
Thanks about the Ross suggestion. I needed some new shorts. There's one a short bike ride away. Just stopped up there and got couple pair of shorts and a set of sheets, great prices.
I also stay at the 4 Queens whenever I'm in Vegas. I used to stay on the strip and visit downtown to gamble. Now I'd rather stay downtown and visit the strip using the bus. One of my favorite rides and views is front seat top of double decker, fantastic view of the strip as you travel. Only thing I don't like about 4 Queens is they don't comp red bull even if you are playing. I don't drink alcohol so sometimes I like a little pick me up besides a coke. So I'll head over to the D and play a little at that huge bar with the long line of video screens and get a red bull. You are right that downstairs at the D is too loud but I love that bar if a big sporting event is on. I played upstairs once on one of those old VP machines. When I cashed out, I was surprised coins starting coming out. I'm thinking WTF do I do now. I look up and an attendant is right there with a plastic cup. Great service upstairs. I think its because the machines are old upstairs, they have to watch them closely because cheaters with a special device can clean them out.
Thanks about the Ross suggestion. I needed some new shorts. There's one a short bike ride away. Just stopped up there and got couple pair of shorts and a set of sheets, great prices.
Its just a forum. Nothing here to get obsessed about.
June 16th, 2013 at 5:19:01 PM
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The purpose of the trip was to rest and relax. One major source of stress is the job, of course. Fortunately the management, including my department, are very respectful of vacations. So I got no calls, no emails, no text messages even.
So I'd get up, make coffee and have a cup while watching TV. I'd then shower, depilate as needed (about every three days or so), then get made up and dressed in the most leisurely, lazy way, while enjoying the rest of the coffee. Then I headed out. If I had a destination in mind, I usually headed there directly. If not, I'd walk around Downtown and think about what i wanted to do or where I wanted to eat. I had no breakfast, ate the mid-day meal around 1-3 pm, and dinner around 9-10 pm. By the second week I settled into a routine of eating at the MSS or Fremont buffet at 1:30 and dinner at Magnolia's or Dupar's. But this wasn't set in stone. I ate once at McDonald's (I like the chicken ranch wrap), and sometimes I had to modify my schedule for other reasons, such as being on the Strip at 2 or taking longer at the malls than I expected.
I didn't watch what I ate at all. I simply had whatever I wanted and as much as I wanted. Just the same, i wound up losing perhaps 5 lbs. I know exactly why, too. I walked a fair deal every day, I skipped breakfast, and I had no junk food at all or any snacks between meals. Now, if I could translate that to my daily routine...
At a buffet I'd typically have some salad, with some soup if there was a tasty one (not often). Then I'd serve myself twice from the entrees and sides, concentrating on variety rather than quantity. Then I'd take dessert and coffee. I like it better when there are small pastries or even tiny portions of pie and cake, than when there are regular-sized pies and cakes. Alas, the one buffet with such desserts was the Bacchanal at Caesars. And as value for price goes, the MSS is a better deal.
I ate at the Fremont buffet a few times, both meals, and rather liked it. The quality of the food is close to that of MSS but there is less variety. They also tend to have some of the same dishes every day. The dinning room is not as nice as that of MSS, but it's cozy and comfortable enough.
I re-visited the Mob Museum to finish an article on it (coming soon), and for my own pleasure, too. I also re-visited the CSI thing at MGM. On the plus side, they do let you change the assigned crime scene without fuss. On the downside, now that you know how the game is played, and if you've seen the show, you pretty much breeze through it the second time around. I swear I spent more time getting there from Downtown, including the long, long walk inside the MGM, than solving the case.
More later.
So I'd get up, make coffee and have a cup while watching TV. I'd then shower, depilate as needed (about every three days or so), then get made up and dressed in the most leisurely, lazy way, while enjoying the rest of the coffee. Then I headed out. If I had a destination in mind, I usually headed there directly. If not, I'd walk around Downtown and think about what i wanted to do or where I wanted to eat. I had no breakfast, ate the mid-day meal around 1-3 pm, and dinner around 9-10 pm. By the second week I settled into a routine of eating at the MSS or Fremont buffet at 1:30 and dinner at Magnolia's or Dupar's. But this wasn't set in stone. I ate once at McDonald's (I like the chicken ranch wrap), and sometimes I had to modify my schedule for other reasons, such as being on the Strip at 2 or taking longer at the malls than I expected.
I didn't watch what I ate at all. I simply had whatever I wanted and as much as I wanted. Just the same, i wound up losing perhaps 5 lbs. I know exactly why, too. I walked a fair deal every day, I skipped breakfast, and I had no junk food at all or any snacks between meals. Now, if I could translate that to my daily routine...
At a buffet I'd typically have some salad, with some soup if there was a tasty one (not often). Then I'd serve myself twice from the entrees and sides, concentrating on variety rather than quantity. Then I'd take dessert and coffee. I like it better when there are small pastries or even tiny portions of pie and cake, than when there are regular-sized pies and cakes. Alas, the one buffet with such desserts was the Bacchanal at Caesars. And as value for price goes, the MSS is a better deal.
I ate at the Fremont buffet a few times, both meals, and rather liked it. The quality of the food is close to that of MSS but there is less variety. They also tend to have some of the same dishes every day. The dinning room is not as nice as that of MSS, but it's cozy and comfortable enough.
I re-visited the Mob Museum to finish an article on it (coming soon), and for my own pleasure, too. I also re-visited the CSI thing at MGM. On the plus side, they do let you change the assigned crime scene without fuss. On the downside, now that you know how the game is played, and if you've seen the show, you pretty much breeze through it the second time around. I swear I spent more time getting there from Downtown, including the long, long walk inside the MGM, than solving the case.
More later.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 16th, 2013 at 5:34:18 PM
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I eat at the Fremont buffet all the time when
I stay Downtown. This trip I ate a lot in my
room. There's a Mexican fast food joint
in the Plaza next to McDonalds. For 8 bucks
they make a burrito on an assembly line, you
tell them what you want on it. If you choose
right, its the size of a small football when they're
done. I never ate a whole one in one sitting.
I like eating in my room, I can watch TV and
work on the computer. Eating alone in a restaurant
has always seemed weird to me. Why do it if
I don't have to.
I stay Downtown. This trip I ate a lot in my
room. There's a Mexican fast food joint
in the Plaza next to McDonalds. For 8 bucks
they make a burrito on an assembly line, you
tell them what you want on it. If you choose
right, its the size of a small football when they're
done. I never ate a whole one in one sitting.
I like eating in my room, I can watch TV and
work on the computer. Eating alone in a restaurant
has always seemed weird to me. Why do it if
I don't have to.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
June 17th, 2013 at 7:48:48 AM
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Aside from WovCon, I met Nick and the Wizard once. Precisely the same day I had my ears pierced (and on one day I ate lunch rather late). During dinner, in which I only had dessert, the Wizard showed us his collection of Mexican car plates. I had ample opportunity to display my ignorance of Mexican states, too. I'd quiz him on the designs of US plates as payback, but since that's his hobby he probably knows the reason behind every aprticle of paint on them :) I just hope Nick wasn't too bored by that.
Afterwards we headed over to the Vegas Club, where the Wizard wanted to look at some slot/VP machines. We left him there, while Nick and I had a drink at a bar at the 4 Queens.
Next week I met Nick alone for dinner. We went to a place he found on Fremont east of Las Vegas Blvd. It was nice, and they had a selection of uncommon sodas. I had a root beer, which was served cold in its original bottle. Then we went to Drink and Drag for a drink. We talked about his job, life in vegas and other things.
On Thursday I met PaigowDan at PH. He's as nice in person as on the baord, but he stroke me as one of the most energetic people I've ever met. We taked about game design, writing and other things. He also showed me High Card Flush, a new casino game, and we played a bit. I wound up even, which for me is really good, though I missed making a sucker b- I mean "bonus" bet, on a hand it would have payed 60 to 1 <sigh>. I missed making it in other hands, too, but those paid nothing...
Later that evening I wanted to play craps. I managed to find a $5 table at the 4 Queens, but I dind't do very well. They also ahd a new dealer, who was having a bit of trouble paying off some bets. For the record, she had zero trouoble with my bets (pass, odds, place 6 & 8, and ocassional come bets with odds). The boxman and stick were patient with her, but some of the players weren't. When I colored up I made a point of giving her the tip, though I had the stick lady right next to me. I also told her "It's a complicated game to deal." She smiled and thanked me.
This trip I also tried drinking while playing. I found my tolerance was one mixed drink or two glasses of wine. Both at the Ditz and the 4Q, they served me a full soda glass when I asked for white wine. That's more like 2 regualr glasses of wine, or a little over that. I didn't do anything stupid, unlike the last time I drank at the tables. So, no, I didn't hold a lone Ace in Loose Deuces hoping for a royal, or make hop bets or Any Seven bets at craps.
At WovCon the Wizard gave out some business cards for his websites. I handed one to a dealer at the CR who grew itnerested in a WoV member's "Wizard of Odds" shirt. Over the rest of the trip I handed out four or five more. One to a cocktail waitress at the Ditz, who commented she liked that game and chatted about it briefly. Another later at the same machine. I kept the Bible, sorry, the Wizard's "Gambling 102" out while playing in order to consult the simple strategy. A gentleman approached to ask me about it. I showed him the book and gave him a card.
On Friday June 7th. I launched an offensive on the $0.25 full pay Double Bonus bank at the 4 Queens (100.1% or so), with a progressive royal (not much above $1,000 though). I was armed with a strong bankroll and the Wizard's strategy (copied by hand from the Odds site). Alas the VP machine was armed with variance, an unpredictable but often effective weapon.
After a couple of hours and the loss of half my bankroll, I called it quits. Let's just say that bank of machines is not the ideal spot to play with a written strategy sheet. the light's a bit dim, and the contrast with the bright monitor is hard on the eyes. Unfortunately any better places carry a higher minimum. There's a $1 bank at the 4 Queens near the elevators, and a $0.50 at the Cal with a 1,000 coin bonus for a royal in hearts.
I went to dinner, then, and looked for a craps table. On Fridays it seems the 4 Queens leaves a $10 minimum on all night. At Binion's and Fremont there were $5 tables, but they were packed solid. So I returned to the 4Q and tried the bubble craps. It's a $2 minimum, but only offers 2X odds. On such low minimums, I bet full odds often, but, well... I arrived, ti seems, just in time. One guy had a rather long roll, hitting three points and a few 6s and 8s in the process. The next guy had a longer roll, where he hit 6 eight times. I always bet 6 and 8. This time I pressed the six at some point. Long story short, I recovered my DB VP losses by the end of that roll.
That just leaves Saturday June 8th. Nothing much happened. I played some craps and broke close to even. I tried to head a last time to the south outlet mall to visit a cooking supply store, but the traffic was horrible on the Strip (note to self: don't plan long trips by bus on Saturdays!!) I gave it up as a bad job and took the bus back to Downtown.
More later
Afterwards we headed over to the Vegas Club, where the Wizard wanted to look at some slot/VP machines. We left him there, while Nick and I had a drink at a bar at the 4 Queens.
Next week I met Nick alone for dinner. We went to a place he found on Fremont east of Las Vegas Blvd. It was nice, and they had a selection of uncommon sodas. I had a root beer, which was served cold in its original bottle. Then we went to Drink and Drag for a drink. We talked about his job, life in vegas and other things.
On Thursday I met PaigowDan at PH. He's as nice in person as on the baord, but he stroke me as one of the most energetic people I've ever met. We taked about game design, writing and other things. He also showed me High Card Flush, a new casino game, and we played a bit. I wound up even, which for me is really good, though I missed making a sucker b- I mean "bonus" bet, on a hand it would have payed 60 to 1 <sigh>. I missed making it in other hands, too, but those paid nothing...
Later that evening I wanted to play craps. I managed to find a $5 table at the 4 Queens, but I dind't do very well. They also ahd a new dealer, who was having a bit of trouble paying off some bets. For the record, she had zero trouoble with my bets (pass, odds, place 6 & 8, and ocassional come bets with odds). The boxman and stick were patient with her, but some of the players weren't. When I colored up I made a point of giving her the tip, though I had the stick lady right next to me. I also told her "It's a complicated game to deal." She smiled and thanked me.
This trip I also tried drinking while playing. I found my tolerance was one mixed drink or two glasses of wine. Both at the Ditz and the 4Q, they served me a full soda glass when I asked for white wine. That's more like 2 regualr glasses of wine, or a little over that. I didn't do anything stupid, unlike the last time I drank at the tables. So, no, I didn't hold a lone Ace in Loose Deuces hoping for a royal, or make hop bets or Any Seven bets at craps.
At WovCon the Wizard gave out some business cards for his websites. I handed one to a dealer at the CR who grew itnerested in a WoV member's "Wizard of Odds" shirt. Over the rest of the trip I handed out four or five more. One to a cocktail waitress at the Ditz, who commented she liked that game and chatted about it briefly. Another later at the same machine. I kept the Bible, sorry, the Wizard's "Gambling 102" out while playing in order to consult the simple strategy. A gentleman approached to ask me about it. I showed him the book and gave him a card.
On Friday June 7th. I launched an offensive on the $0.25 full pay Double Bonus bank at the 4 Queens (100.1% or so), with a progressive royal (not much above $1,000 though). I was armed with a strong bankroll and the Wizard's strategy (copied by hand from the Odds site). Alas the VP machine was armed with variance, an unpredictable but often effective weapon.
After a couple of hours and the loss of half my bankroll, I called it quits. Let's just say that bank of machines is not the ideal spot to play with a written strategy sheet. the light's a bit dim, and the contrast with the bright monitor is hard on the eyes. Unfortunately any better places carry a higher minimum. There's a $1 bank at the 4 Queens near the elevators, and a $0.50 at the Cal with a 1,000 coin bonus for a royal in hearts.
I went to dinner, then, and looked for a craps table. On Fridays it seems the 4 Queens leaves a $10 minimum on all night. At Binion's and Fremont there were $5 tables, but they were packed solid. So I returned to the 4Q and tried the bubble craps. It's a $2 minimum, but only offers 2X odds. On such low minimums, I bet full odds often, but, well... I arrived, ti seems, just in time. One guy had a rather long roll, hitting three points and a few 6s and 8s in the process. The next guy had a longer roll, where he hit 6 eight times. I always bet 6 and 8. This time I pressed the six at some point. Long story short, I recovered my DB VP losses by the end of that roll.
That just leaves Saturday June 8th. Nothing much happened. I played some craps and broke close to even. I tried to head a last time to the south outlet mall to visit a cooking supply store, but the traffic was horrible on the Strip (note to self: don't plan long trips by bus on Saturdays!!) I gave it up as a bad job and took the bus back to Downtown.
More later
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 8:10:54 AM
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Quote: Nareed
This trip I also tried drinking while playing. I found my tolerance was one mixed drink or two glasses of wine. Both at the Ditz and the 4Q, they served me a full soda glass when I asked for white wine. That's more like 2 regualr glasses of wine, or a little over that.
Is it really? It didn't seem that large to me but I did feel a little more tipsy than usual when sampling. I was stuck there because the D has the only UTH game going downtown. The Plaza has one but only gets dealt on weekend nights. One should arm themselves with ear plugs and all the alcohol they can drink.
I'm interested to hear about the Wizard's Vegas Club exploits. A part of me died when I saw they turned a part of that place into a mall.
100% risk of ruin
June 17th, 2013 at 8:22:59 AM
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Quote: RogerKintIs it really? It didn't seem that large to me but I did feel a little more tipsy than usual when sampling.
That was exactly my reaction when I first ordered wine. While I dind't do anything stupid. I did some silly things. For example, when the Loose deuces dealt or drew anything above 4 of a kind, I'd tell the machine "good girl!" :) Softly, of course, as not to draw odd looks. At least I didn't give it a name (don't ask). Since I don't get like that on two glasses of wine, I reason it's a bit more than that.
BTW, while it wasn't great white wine, it wasn't bad. A bit sweet, but I like it that way when not drunk with meals. I'd use it for cooking without hesitation.
Quote:I'm interested to hear about the Wizard's Vegas Club exploits. A part of me died when I saw they turned a part of that place into a mall.
No doubt he'll post about it in the Odds site at some point. I looked the machines over the next day. They're an odd multiplay slot and VP. The VP games have odd names, and tell you the return (lousy overall).
IT's not a mall, BTW, just a tiny souvenir store. I was more upset they removed the UTH machine they had by the Royal match BJ machines.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 11:41:13 AM
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On Saturday I tried the brunch at MSS. Very good. Sunday I tried it at Fremont, which was, as usual, about as good but with less choices available. For some odd reason, the Fremont tends to charge more than MSS for similar meals. Both had omelet stations, and I tried to gain some pointers watching the cooks work.
After brunch on Sunday I did a last play at the Loose Deuces at the Ditz, then went to collect some free play as follows:
1) At the 4 Queens they had an ad outside, on Casino Center Dr., offering $10 in free play by showing any players card from a Downtown casino. I showed them cards for GN, D (actually the old Club Fitz card, it still works), Vegas Club and Boyd. They gave me $10. The free play is good only on certain machines. I found a five play VP with a bad pay table (the good pay tables were not elligible, naturally), and reasoned a bad VP is better than any slot machine, possibly. I left with about $9 in winnings. Which I then wasted on a slot machine with a big progressive and lost it all. I do that anyway on my last day, so it's just as well I did it with "free" money, right ;)
2) I signed up at Binion's and also got $10 in free play with a coupon from the 4 Queens fun book. Same restrictions, and same 5 play with the bad pay table. Only this time at a higher denomination. Bad variance ate my free play...
I spent the rest of Sunday switching between $5 craps tables at Binion's and Fremont, and came out with a small loss overall. Just before it was time to get the bags from the bell desk, I sat at a triple play deuces wild VP at the 4 Queens, playing nickels just to pass the time. Wouldn't you know? I got dealt a wild royal with one deuce. I considered ditching the deuce and aiming for the natural, but everything I know about odds insisted that was a bad idea. Specifically in DW of any kind, you never throw away a deuce. So I kept the hand as dealt, which paid off times three for a total of $18.75
The shuttle was supposed to be there at 3:30 PM. my flight left at 6:00 pm, so I was cutting it a bit close, relying on the punctuality fo the shuttle. guess what? by 3:50 it hadn't show up. A shuttle by a different company showed up then, and it turns out you can take it if you pay cash upfront. Well, a loss of $8 is easier to take than missing a flight (and the next Interjet flight was on Thursday).
I arrived at the airport by 4:30, and there was quite a line at the Interjet counter. It seems lots of people think 50 kilos in two bags means "any amount of mass you can stuff into two bags." So there were a lot of arguments about luggage. My own weighed in at 49.50 kilos, which caused the agent to sigh in relief. By then it was 5:05, and boarding was supposed to start at 5:30 (yeah, right). Even so, I had a cigarette outside and then headed for security. I passed that quickly and made for the gate.
I had time to get a magazine and a yogurt for the flight. By now I had purchased earphones, so I could catch up with the podcasts on the return flight. Snacks were the same as on the way out. I wanted to explore the terminal, but lacked the time. we did board around 5:45 or so. The flight proved unremarkable, except for one thing: I spotted a plane flying a reciprocal course. This is rather rare, and I've no idea what plane it was. Only the running lights could be made out. Immigration in Toluca was quick, but again my bags took a long time arriving (the flight had been nearly full). Customs took longer, as there are only two checkpoints (in Mexico bags are X-rayed at customs), but I passed it without trouble. I took the shuttle to Santa Fe and found two cabs waiting for fares there. THat was a good call, as I'd counted cabbies in western Mex City to know my neighborhood. This one did.
I arrived home around 1 am local time, but that felt like 11 pm to my jet-lagged self. So I hunted around the kitchen for supper and turned on the computer to catch up with email and Facebook. I was too tired to unpack, and anyway the maid woulnd't come on Monday. Eventually I went to bed around 3 am local time.
Just a few odds and ends remain.
After brunch on Sunday I did a last play at the Loose Deuces at the Ditz, then went to collect some free play as follows:
1) At the 4 Queens they had an ad outside, on Casino Center Dr., offering $10 in free play by showing any players card from a Downtown casino. I showed them cards for GN, D (actually the old Club Fitz card, it still works), Vegas Club and Boyd. They gave me $10. The free play is good only on certain machines. I found a five play VP with a bad pay table (the good pay tables were not elligible, naturally), and reasoned a bad VP is better than any slot machine, possibly. I left with about $9 in winnings. Which I then wasted on a slot machine with a big progressive and lost it all. I do that anyway on my last day, so it's just as well I did it with "free" money, right ;)
2) I signed up at Binion's and also got $10 in free play with a coupon from the 4 Queens fun book. Same restrictions, and same 5 play with the bad pay table. Only this time at a higher denomination. Bad variance ate my free play...
I spent the rest of Sunday switching between $5 craps tables at Binion's and Fremont, and came out with a small loss overall. Just before it was time to get the bags from the bell desk, I sat at a triple play deuces wild VP at the 4 Queens, playing nickels just to pass the time. Wouldn't you know? I got dealt a wild royal with one deuce. I considered ditching the deuce and aiming for the natural, but everything I know about odds insisted that was a bad idea. Specifically in DW of any kind, you never throw away a deuce. So I kept the hand as dealt, which paid off times three for a total of $18.75
The shuttle was supposed to be there at 3:30 PM. my flight left at 6:00 pm, so I was cutting it a bit close, relying on the punctuality fo the shuttle. guess what? by 3:50 it hadn't show up. A shuttle by a different company showed up then, and it turns out you can take it if you pay cash upfront. Well, a loss of $8 is easier to take than missing a flight (and the next Interjet flight was on Thursday).
I arrived at the airport by 4:30, and there was quite a line at the Interjet counter. It seems lots of people think 50 kilos in two bags means "any amount of mass you can stuff into two bags." So there were a lot of arguments about luggage. My own weighed in at 49.50 kilos, which caused the agent to sigh in relief. By then it was 5:05, and boarding was supposed to start at 5:30 (yeah, right). Even so, I had a cigarette outside and then headed for security. I passed that quickly and made for the gate.
I had time to get a magazine and a yogurt for the flight. By now I had purchased earphones, so I could catch up with the podcasts on the return flight. Snacks were the same as on the way out. I wanted to explore the terminal, but lacked the time. we did board around 5:45 or so. The flight proved unremarkable, except for one thing: I spotted a plane flying a reciprocal course. This is rather rare, and I've no idea what plane it was. Only the running lights could be made out. Immigration in Toluca was quick, but again my bags took a long time arriving (the flight had been nearly full). Customs took longer, as there are only two checkpoints (in Mexico bags are X-rayed at customs), but I passed it without trouble. I took the shuttle to Santa Fe and found two cabs waiting for fares there. THat was a good call, as I'd counted cabbies in western Mex City to know my neighborhood. This one did.
I arrived home around 1 am local time, but that felt like 11 pm to my jet-lagged self. So I hunted around the kitchen for supper and turned on the computer to catch up with email and Facebook. I was too tired to unpack, and anyway the maid woulnd't come on Monday. Eventually I went to bed around 3 am local time.
Just a few odds and ends remain.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 11:48:24 AM
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Quote: NareedJust before it was time to get the bags from the bell desk, I sat at a triple play deuces wild VP at the 4 Queens, playing nickels just to pass the time. Wouldn't you know? I got dealt a wild royal with one deuce. I considered ditching the deuce and aiming for the natural, but everything I know about odds insisted that was a bad idea. Specifically in DW of any kind, you never throw away a deuce. So I kept the hand as dealt, which paid off times three for a total of $18.75
I remember getting this once in Tunica a couple of years ago, and I stared at the machine for a good couple of minutes before taking the $6.25 win on a nickel machine. I knew which play was correct immediately, but a part of me really wanted to go for $200. And hell, that $6.25 was gone within 15 minutes anyway...lol
June 17th, 2013 at 11:50:39 AM
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DUHHIIIIIIIII HEARD THAT!
June 17th, 2013 at 12:30:49 PM
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Quote: tringlomaneI remember getting this once in Tunica a couple of years ago, and I stared at the machine for a good couple of minutes before taking the $6.25 win on a nickel machine. I knew which play was correct immediately, but a part of me really wanted to go for $200. And hell, that $6.25 was gone within 15 minutes anyway...lol
I considered playing quarters, which would have made the decision all the easier...
In my intuitive grasp of odds, which is far from precise but mostly right, my reasonsing is: "Look, the most likely result is all three hands will lose; the second most likely is a straight, but just one; the third most likely, which isn't at all likely, is one wild royal. So just keep the three wild royals, ok?" FWIW I'd started playing $20, so given an early loss, I wound up with $31.75 or so, which wasn't bad for just passing the time.
Oh, but the temptation is so strong!
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 12:32:08 PM
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Quote: IbeatyouracesI did the same freeplay promo there and was able to use it on the 10/7 DB game.
Which one?
I mean, which casino and which machine. I was told the free play was good only on machines with a PB sticker on them. I checked the 9/6 banks and saw no stickers. I did not check the banks of 10/7 DB.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 12:47:17 PM
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Quote: NareedMy own weighed in at 49.50 kilos, which caused the agent to sigh in relief.
Wow.
Care to elaborate?
A week in Vegas for me weighs in at about 12 kilograms, (one carry-on sized bag plus a small backpack), so I am dying to know what you lugged around in those suitcases. Unless you bring your bankroll in copper bars...
June 17th, 2013 at 12:49:38 PM
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DUHHIIIIIIIII HEARD THAT!
June 17th, 2013 at 12:57:48 PM
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Quote: CanyoneroCare to elaborate?
Not really, no.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 1:00:08 PM
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Quote: IbeatyouracesThe quarters for sure. But this was a few months ago and we know things can change fast in casinos.
As I said, I did not check them. Likely I figured is the 9/6 didn't take free play, the 10/7 wouldn't, either.
But as you say, things change awful fast in Vegas. it's one of my Laws, actually, or close to one.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 1:53:25 PM
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I remember the last time I got that hand. I was playing at the Silver Legacy in Reno. The guy next to me cajoled me to throw away the deuce and go for the natural royal, saying "you gotta go for those chances." Even though I knew it was the wrong play, I threw away the deuce. I'm still mad about that.Quote: Nareed
I spent the rest of Sunday switching between $5 craps tables at Binion's and Fremont, and came out with a small loss overall. Just before it was time to get the bags from the bell desk, I sat at a triple play deuces wild VP at the 4 Queens, playing nickels just to pass the time. Wouldn't you know? I got dealt a wild royal with one deuce. I considered ditching the deuce and aiming for the natural, but everything I know about odds insisted that was a bad idea. Specifically in DW of any kind, you never throw away a deuce. So I kept the hand as dealt, which paid off times three for a total of $18.75
I was able to use 4Q freeplay on the $0.05 9/6 Jacks or Better machines by the sportsbook.
"Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving-hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe." -Rig Veda 10.34.4
June 17th, 2013 at 2:14:51 PM
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Odds and ends (not those "odds").
I won't write a separate report on the GLBT section, because things were mostly exactly the same this time around (minus the makeover). THe one notable incident was on Fremont St. when I noticed a woman staring at me. I feared some kind of adverse reaction, all the more so as she sudenly appoached me. But she said "Excuse me, ma'am. Where did you get that necklace? I love it!"
The other not-as-notable thing was I showed my ID a few times (twice for credit cards, and as I noted elsewhere to prove my age when getting my ears pierced). No one said anything, nor did anything more than match the names on the passport and the card.
I took the chance to try Greek yogurt. You can find it in mexico, but as yet there's no non-fat version available (there is a low-fat one, but it also has the regular amount of sugar). One thing I noticed is that all two ro three brands I saw, some were regular yogurt, came in 170 gr. containers. In Mexico the individual cups dropped 170 long, long ago. The standard now is 125 gr. and a few brands sell 150.
Now, in the food industry the preferred way to raise prices is to reduce the size and leave the nominal price the same, ergo charging more per gram of product. This leads me to believe, given economic conditions over the past few years, that either the size has come down from perhaps 210 gr. or US manufacturers can maintain prices longer or make the shrotfall elsewhere.
Another thing I noticed was a prevalence of Mexican brands of snacks. I saw lots of Sabritas products, including the imitation chicharrones made with flour. Sabritas is the equivalent of Frito-Lay, and I think they're both owned by Pepsi. But I saw plenty of these, including "Japanese" style peanuts at one souvenir shop. I also saw some barcel brands, including varieties they've dicontinued in Mexico, such as Takkis Nitro. Barcel is owned by Bimbo, the Mexican company that owns the baked goods market here (including all sliced bread, or near enough).
BTW, a point the Wizard raised at dinner (see up-thread): Tabaso sauce, the standard for hot sauce all over the world, is not, and never has been, made in Mexico. It's made by a company in Louisiana. This includes all the millions of units they sell in mexico. It's all imported from a small island in Louisiana.
The biggest advantage of staying, or being, Downtown, is that there are a lot of casinos within a short walking distance. You can easily go from the Ditz to 4Q to Fremont to Binion's to GN to Golden Gate to Las Vegas Club to the Plaza in the same time it takes to walk from one casino to the next on the Strip. And only slightly mroe time to the Cal and MSS on one side and ElCo in the other (of course excluding shared casinos like Wynncore or Venazzo, and in some cases without excluding them). That is a huge convenience when you're looking for a lower minimum game, a better pay table, or even just some elbow room.
On the other hand, shopping options Downtown are meager, except for souvenirs.
Over the past year I developed a chronic shuolder pain from doing too much work at the PC at work (and at home). I've modified some aspects of postyre and palcement to ease it, and that has worked. But when it gets cold it flares up. This trip it flared up, a lot, in air conditioned palces (which means all Vegas, pretty much). I kept Tylenol and an analgesic cream in my purse, but they take time and only work for so long before they need a boost. This was a near-constant annoyance, especially when the A/C hit me directly on the right shoulder.
Free WiFi Downtown is easily found at these two places:
1) The D, at the second floor with the old(er) slot amchines. Scan for a network called "Marriage can be murder." It's usually up and I could piggyback onto it without trouble most times.
2) The Plaza, in the casino floor. Scan for networks called something like "Plaza ballroom events."
In both places I managed to hook my cell phone to the WiFi and use it to browse Facebook and surf the net (albeit the brick I carry is primitive in this sense).
I did not look for free WiFi on the Strip. There's also free WiFi at McCarran.
I won't write a separate report on the GLBT section, because things were mostly exactly the same this time around (minus the makeover). THe one notable incident was on Fremont St. when I noticed a woman staring at me. I feared some kind of adverse reaction, all the more so as she sudenly appoached me. But she said "Excuse me, ma'am. Where did you get that necklace? I love it!"
The other not-as-notable thing was I showed my ID a few times (twice for credit cards, and as I noted elsewhere to prove my age when getting my ears pierced). No one said anything, nor did anything more than match the names on the passport and the card.
I took the chance to try Greek yogurt. You can find it in mexico, but as yet there's no non-fat version available (there is a low-fat one, but it also has the regular amount of sugar). One thing I noticed is that all two ro three brands I saw, some were regular yogurt, came in 170 gr. containers. In Mexico the individual cups dropped 170 long, long ago. The standard now is 125 gr. and a few brands sell 150.
Now, in the food industry the preferred way to raise prices is to reduce the size and leave the nominal price the same, ergo charging more per gram of product. This leads me to believe, given economic conditions over the past few years, that either the size has come down from perhaps 210 gr. or US manufacturers can maintain prices longer or make the shrotfall elsewhere.
Another thing I noticed was a prevalence of Mexican brands of snacks. I saw lots of Sabritas products, including the imitation chicharrones made with flour. Sabritas is the equivalent of Frito-Lay, and I think they're both owned by Pepsi. But I saw plenty of these, including "Japanese" style peanuts at one souvenir shop. I also saw some barcel brands, including varieties they've dicontinued in Mexico, such as Takkis Nitro. Barcel is owned by Bimbo, the Mexican company that owns the baked goods market here (including all sliced bread, or near enough).
BTW, a point the Wizard raised at dinner (see up-thread): Tabaso sauce, the standard for hot sauce all over the world, is not, and never has been, made in Mexico. It's made by a company in Louisiana. This includes all the millions of units they sell in mexico. It's all imported from a small island in Louisiana.
The biggest advantage of staying, or being, Downtown, is that there are a lot of casinos within a short walking distance. You can easily go from the Ditz to 4Q to Fremont to Binion's to GN to Golden Gate to Las Vegas Club to the Plaza in the same time it takes to walk from one casino to the next on the Strip. And only slightly mroe time to the Cal and MSS on one side and ElCo in the other (of course excluding shared casinos like Wynncore or Venazzo, and in some cases without excluding them). That is a huge convenience when you're looking for a lower minimum game, a better pay table, or even just some elbow room.
On the other hand, shopping options Downtown are meager, except for souvenirs.
Over the past year I developed a chronic shuolder pain from doing too much work at the PC at work (and at home). I've modified some aspects of postyre and palcement to ease it, and that has worked. But when it gets cold it flares up. This trip it flared up, a lot, in air conditioned palces (which means all Vegas, pretty much). I kept Tylenol and an analgesic cream in my purse, but they take time and only work for so long before they need a boost. This was a near-constant annoyance, especially when the A/C hit me directly on the right shoulder.
Free WiFi Downtown is easily found at these two places:
1) The D, at the second floor with the old(er) slot amchines. Scan for a network called "Marriage can be murder." It's usually up and I could piggyback onto it without trouble most times.
2) The Plaza, in the casino floor. Scan for networks called something like "Plaza ballroom events."
In both places I managed to hook my cell phone to the WiFi and use it to browse Facebook and surf the net (albeit the brick I carry is primitive in this sense).
I did not look for free WiFi on the Strip. There's also free WiFi at McCarran.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 2:33:26 PM
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You see? You did have a trip report in you after all. People
want to hear the minutia thats boring, its what makes a
trip a trip.
want to hear the minutia thats boring, its what makes a
trip a trip.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
June 17th, 2013 at 2:34:36 PM
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Quote: teddysI remember the last time I got that hand. I was playing at the Silver Legacy in Reno. The guy next to me cajoled me to throw away the deuce and go for the natural royal, saying "you gotta go for those chances." Even though I knew it was the wrong play, I threw away the deuce. I'm still mad about that.
I've done the Bonehead Maneuver before (apologies to JMS). It helps to 1) make up your mind not to get mad; if you can't, then don't do it. 2) Do it for lower stakes; such as throwing away a straight for a chance at a striaght flush in DW (the straight only pays 2 or 3 for 1 anyway). 3) Serious gamblers should stay away from it.
Quote:I was able to use 4Q freeplay on the $0.05 9/6 Jacks or Better machines by the sportsbook.
I'm not sure I looked. I wanted to play it for quarters anyway. I reasoned the high variance of DW would work in my favor. This time it did.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 3:14:19 PM
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Thanks Nareed. I really enjoyed reading your trip report!
You serious, Clark?
June 17th, 2013 at 4:19:48 PM
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Quote: blount2000Thanks Nareed. I really enjoyed reading your trip report!
You're very welcome.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 4:27:31 PM
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Quote: NareedI reasoned the high variance of DW would work in my favor. This time it did.
Deuces is relatively low variance; lower than Double Bonus or Double Double Bonus anyway. Loose Deuces on the other hand... ;)
June 17th, 2013 at 4:35:05 PM
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Quote: tringlomaneDeuces is relatively low variance; lower than Double Bonus or Double Double Bonus anyway. Loose Deuces on the other hand... ;)
Is it? perhaps I don't quite get variance. My understanding of math is spotty at best.
What I mean is some payoffs are high in relation with the bet. Like 50 for a straight flush, for example. so hitting a few could cycle the $10 in free play more easily.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 17th, 2013 at 5:15:19 PM
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Quote: NareedIs it? perhaps I don't quite get variance. My understanding of math is spotty at best.
What I mean is some payoffs are high in relation with the bet. Like 50 for a straight flush, for example. so hitting a few could cycle the $10 in free play more easily.
Deuces does has higher variance than JoB and Bonus Poker. But the huge quad payouts for DB and DDB make them have even a higher variance than Deuces. I just tend to think Deuces as "low variance" because many players only play DDB, and Deuces is significantly lower in comparison. I also think JoB is pretty damn boring too. Nothing but a Royal will get you super ahead.
June 17th, 2013 at 5:52:27 PM
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Outstanding Trip reporting, Nareed. Thanks for this thread!
June 17th, 2013 at 7:33:29 PM
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Quote: midwestgbOutstanding Trip reporting, Nareed. Thanks for this thread!
You're welcome.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 18th, 2013 at 6:38:49 AM
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Thanks for the explanation
For me it varies.
See, when playing DW, sooner or later I get a series of dealt hands where no action can be taken save drawing 5 new cards. When this happens, I feel a bit like I'm playing reels: just pushing a button. This happens in JoB, too, but less often. That is, there are more hands where a hold is helpful.
But that's a minor gripe on my part.
Quote: tringlomaneI also think JoB is pretty damn boring too. Nothing but a Royal will get you super ahead.
For me it varies.
See, when playing DW, sooner or later I get a series of dealt hands where no action can be taken save drawing 5 new cards. When this happens, I feel a bit like I'm playing reels: just pushing a button. This happens in JoB, too, but less often. That is, there are more hands where a hold is helpful.
But that's a minor gripe on my part.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 18th, 2013 at 7:17:26 AM
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A few more odds and ends I left out.
Thursday June 6, after meeting with Dan, I saw the police detain a man outside of Paris, near the bus stop. I've no idea what happened. But the man, already in handcuffs, was still resisting, and his girlfriend was making a loud and large fuss. I decided against joining the growing crowd of onlookers, but I think the cops moved the man inside the casino. Eventually, though, three more cops showed up. I still have no idea what happened.
That same day the SDX runs were off. See, first I waited over 20 minutes at Binion's waiting for the SDX to show up. Then outside of Paris no less than three Deuces made stops there, without a single SDX showing up. I wound up taking the third Deuce because I was tired of waiting. Usually I take the SDX because it makes fewer, and faster, stops.
Speaking of the Deuce, I wonder why they don't make it open boarding like the SDX. What slows down its stops isn't so much the need to swipe the ticket, but the people who buy their tickets aboard. But this is probably something that should be discussed elsewhere.
I said something to the effect of mocking Caesars "Roman" motiff. Well, I dind't. But I did notice a replica of Michelangelos' "David" in a display by the entrance among statues of Roman gods. Granted Renaissance sculpture was deliberately done in emulation of Classical Greco-Roman styles, so "David" fits in esthetically, but it was made centuries after Rome fell.
And speaking of that, among the photo-op people Downtown, I noticed this man wearing nothing but a loincloth and a Greek plumed battle helmet, the kind that looks like a metal mask over the face. He had the most amazingly well-defined musculature I've ever seen in my life. He looked, in fact, like a living Greek god.
On Saturdays there were concerts on Fremont St. There are three stages along the street and there are badns playing there every evening. But for these Saturday concerts areas of the street were cordnoned off, bags were searched, sings were posted, etc. A banner in each stage anounced the dates and names of the bands. As far as I know, these were not well-known bands. What gives? Anyway, it made moving about Fremont St a chore.
I mentioned elsewhere I saw a few Christians quietly proselytizing (I know I butchered the spelling of that word). But this time I also noted several of the spray-paint pictures on display at the spray-paint kiosk with crosses on them. One in a city-scape of vegas. Odd.
Before heading out of my room I made use of the mirrored closet doors to check my looks. The elevators at the 4 Queens have mirrors on the walls, too, where I made a last check. Just the same, one time I managed not to notice a bit of my dress caught in my underwear. A young woman pointed it out shortly after I stepped off at the casino level.
I think this about covers everything, but I may have left a detail or two out.
Thursday June 6, after meeting with Dan, I saw the police detain a man outside of Paris, near the bus stop. I've no idea what happened. But the man, already in handcuffs, was still resisting, and his girlfriend was making a loud and large fuss. I decided against joining the growing crowd of onlookers, but I think the cops moved the man inside the casino. Eventually, though, three more cops showed up. I still have no idea what happened.
That same day the SDX runs were off. See, first I waited over 20 minutes at Binion's waiting for the SDX to show up. Then outside of Paris no less than three Deuces made stops there, without a single SDX showing up. I wound up taking the third Deuce because I was tired of waiting. Usually I take the SDX because it makes fewer, and faster, stops.
Speaking of the Deuce, I wonder why they don't make it open boarding like the SDX. What slows down its stops isn't so much the need to swipe the ticket, but the people who buy their tickets aboard. But this is probably something that should be discussed elsewhere.
I said something to the effect of mocking Caesars "Roman" motiff. Well, I dind't. But I did notice a replica of Michelangelos' "David" in a display by the entrance among statues of Roman gods. Granted Renaissance sculpture was deliberately done in emulation of Classical Greco-Roman styles, so "David" fits in esthetically, but it was made centuries after Rome fell.
And speaking of that, among the photo-op people Downtown, I noticed this man wearing nothing but a loincloth and a Greek plumed battle helmet, the kind that looks like a metal mask over the face. He had the most amazingly well-defined musculature I've ever seen in my life. He looked, in fact, like a living Greek god.
On Saturdays there were concerts on Fremont St. There are three stages along the street and there are badns playing there every evening. But for these Saturday concerts areas of the street were cordnoned off, bags were searched, sings were posted, etc. A banner in each stage anounced the dates and names of the bands. As far as I know, these were not well-known bands. What gives? Anyway, it made moving about Fremont St a chore.
I mentioned elsewhere I saw a few Christians quietly proselytizing (I know I butchered the spelling of that word). But this time I also noted several of the spray-paint pictures on display at the spray-paint kiosk with crosses on them. One in a city-scape of vegas. Odd.
Before heading out of my room I made use of the mirrored closet doors to check my looks. The elevators at the 4 Queens have mirrors on the walls, too, where I made a last check. Just the same, one time I managed not to notice a bit of my dress caught in my underwear. A young woman pointed it out shortly after I stepped off at the casino level.
I think this about covers everything, but I may have left a detail or two out.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 18th, 2013 at 8:58:12 AM
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Nareed, since you've given a lot of information in this thread about your clothing I have a few questions that I don't think are out of line. Did you travel to and from Vegas in female attire, did you spend the entire trip in female attire, do you visit family and friends in female attire and do you wear it to your job? I ask only out of curiosity with no ulterior motive.
I'd also like to hear more details about your accommodations if you could.
I'd also like to hear more details about your accommodations if you could.
Many people, especially ignorant people, want to punish you for speaking the truth. - Mahatma Ghandi
June 18th, 2013 at 10:09:17 AM
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If it's not too much to ask, I'd appreciate some feedback on what makes for a good trip report.
Previously I've tried to go chronologically. As this was a long trip and the days tended to meld together in my memory, except for a few, I tried to go more or less by theme; i.e. getting there, shopping, gambling, leaving, odds and ends (more or less). Does this help? Or would you rpefer a more chronological presentation?
Thanks!
Previously I've tried to go chronologically. As this was a long trip and the days tended to meld together in my memory, except for a few, I tried to go more or less by theme; i.e. getting there, shopping, gambling, leaving, odds and ends (more or less). Does this help? Or would you rpefer a more chronological presentation?
Thanks!
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 18th, 2013 at 10:19:31 AM
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Quote: NareedIf it's not too much to ask, I'd appreciate some feedback on what makes for a good trip report.
Previously I've tried to go chronologically. As this was a long trip and the days tended to meld together in my memory, except for a few, I tried to go more or less by theme; i.e. getting there, shopping, gambling, leaving, odds and ends (more or less). Does this help? Or would you rpefer a more chronological presentation?
Thanks!
I think it depends on your intention with the report. Going by theme is helpful if the report is to be mostly informational, since then it's easy to find the section that is about _____ without necessarily reading the entire report. If the report is written for entertainment purposes, then I think a chronological representation is beneficial. Especially in Vegas, the juxtaposition of items and events is often entertaining and can only be captured by a chronological account.
And, FWIW, I thought you looked great at Wovcon & I would also be interested in the answers to 1BB's questions if that's not too personal.
"So as the clock ticked and the day passed, opportunity met preparation, and luck happened." - Maurice Clarett
June 18th, 2013 at 10:51:54 AM
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Quote: rdw4potusI think it depends on your intention with the report. Going by theme is helpful if the report is to be mostly informational, since then it's easy to find the section that is about _____ without necessarily reading the entire report. If the report is written for entertainment purposes, then I think a chronological representation is beneficial. Especially in Vegas, the juxtaposition of items and events is often entertaining and can only be captured by a chronological account.
I pretty much agree with this. I think it's fine in its current format. These take a lot of effort, so I appreciate anyone doing them. But anyone who doesn't use paragraphs when writing these up, then they can be pretty rough to read...lol
June 18th, 2013 at 11:08:20 AM
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Quote: tringlomaneI pretty much agree with this. I think it's fine in its current format. These take a lot of effort, so I appreciate anyone doing them.
Thanks.
They do take a little effort, but frankly I should admit I didn't give it much thought beforehand. The themeing sort of grew as I was writing. I wouldn't think, for instance, to take notes and photos while on the trip in order to present an accurate trip report. Besides, I figure if I forot something it was probably not very relevant or interesting.
Quote:But anyone who doesn't use paragraphs when writing these up, then they can be pretty rough to read...lol
true. But that applies to everything. A great wall of text is as much a barrier as the Great Wall of China :)
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 18th, 2013 at 11:14:49 AM
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Writing a good trip report is easy, just put in
info that will be of use to others. The D was
too loud, the walk between this casino and
that one is too dangerous, this restaurant has
killer whatever, don't stay in the whatever
tower because its too loud, the waitresses in
this casino are wearing almost nothing. Stay
away from generic chronological reports because
nobody cares that you got up at 7am and took
a shower and had a banana for breakfast.
They want info they can use and remember for
their own trips. Don't give money to the bums
because then they won't leave you alone. If
you're a cheapskate fill up a 12 oz water bottle
with half vodka and half water and carry it with
you everywhere. Ignore the porn slappers. Stay
away from this buffet because everything is
overcooked and dry. You get the idea.
info that will be of use to others. The D was
too loud, the walk between this casino and
that one is too dangerous, this restaurant has
killer whatever, don't stay in the whatever
tower because its too loud, the waitresses in
this casino are wearing almost nothing. Stay
away from generic chronological reports because
nobody cares that you got up at 7am and took
a shower and had a banana for breakfast.
They want info they can use and remember for
their own trips. Don't give money to the bums
because then they won't leave you alone. If
you're a cheapskate fill up a 12 oz water bottle
with half vodka and half water and carry it with
you everywhere. Ignore the porn slappers. Stay
away from this buffet because everything is
overcooked and dry. You get the idea.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
June 18th, 2013 at 11:25:37 AM
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Quote: rdw4potusI think it depends on your intention with the report. Going by theme is helpful if the report is to be mostly informational, since then it's easy to find the section that is about _____ without necessarily reading the entire report. If the report is written for entertainment purposes, then I think a chronological representation is beneficial. Especially in Vegas, the juxtaposition of items and events is often entertaining and can only be captured by a chronological account.
Well, let's take it one at a time.
The purpose was to share my experiences. The level of detail is a kind of intellectual fetish of mine as regards travel. I don't just like airplanes, I like airports, too (I think they're melded in my mind). That's why I mentioned not having time to explore the new terminal at McCarran.
The themeing, as I said, just grew out as I wrote. I didn't have it in mind, but I also didn't have a strict chronology in mind either. Once I got into it, I kept at it.
Quote:And, FWIW, I thought you looked great at Wovcon & I would also be interested in the answers to 1BB's questions if that's not too personal.
Aw! Thanks! I thought I looked like I gained weight since last year. Mostly because I gained weight since last year. You're too kind!
As to the rest, well, I haven't read that post.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 18th, 2013 at 12:25:11 PM
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Quote: rdw4potusI think it depends on your intention with the report. Going by theme is helpful if the report is to be mostly informational, since then it's easy to find the section that is about _____ without necessarily reading the entire report. If the report is written for entertainment purposes, then I think a chronological representation is beneficial. Especially in Vegas, the juxtaposition of items and events is often entertaining and can only be captured by a chronological account.
And, FWIW, I thought you looked great at Wovcon & I would also be interested in the answers to 1BB's questions if that's not too personal.
I think many of us in the WOV family would be interested in the questions that I've asked Nareed. Perhaps you or someone else could re post them so Nareed will see them.
Many people, especially ignorant people, want to punish you for speaking the truth. - Mahatma Ghandi
June 18th, 2013 at 12:34:32 PM
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Quote: 1BBI think many of us in the WOV family would be interested in the questions that I've asked Nareed. Perhaps you or someone else could re post them so Nareed will see them.
Quote: 1BBNareed, since you've given a lot of information in this thread about your clothing I have a few questions that I don't think are out of line. Did you travel to and from Vegas in female attire, did you spend the entire trip in female attire, do you visit family and friends in female attire and do you wear it to your job? I ask only out of curiosity with no ulterior motive.
I'd also like to hear more details about your accommodations if you could.
June 18th, 2013 at 12:38:24 PM
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Thanks!!
Many people, especially ignorant people, want to punish you for speaking the truth. - Mahatma Ghandi
June 18th, 2013 at 12:58:18 PM
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Quote: NareedIf it's not too much to ask, I'd appreciate some feedback on what makes for a good trip report.
Previously I've tried to go chronologically. As this was a long trip and the days tended to meld together in my memory, except for a few, I tried to go more or less by theme; i.e. getting there, shopping, gambling, leaving, odds and ends (more or less). Does this help? Or would you rpefer a more chronological presentation?
Thanks!
I am probably the King (especially at DT) of the tl:dr post. The majority of my postings, including a popular “Top Thread”, are essentially several-page-long trip reports and I’ve gotten plenty of positive feedback. Here’s some suggestions that seem to have worked for me…
1. Go chronologically. Of course there is room to stray, foreshadow, backtrack, whatever, but TRs are very much a story. Chronologically is the natural way we all understand things, so it makes it easier to follow.
2. Minutiae – I almost always include it, it just has to be done with purpose, and it has to have a point. I often include it, and I think people who read my TRs know now that there’ll be a payoff for it somewhere. It’s almost like a little suspense builder, it leaves people to wonder why something so trivial would be mentioned and causes them to think ahead. Of course, if there’s no point, there’s no payoff. That leaves people feeling let down. Additionally, I think those of us who have been here a while are interested in the person behind the keyboard for two reasons. Part of it is just general curiosity and friendship. I don’t care much for gambling or Vegas at all, yet I read every word you wrote because you wrote it. Also, if you give insight into the type of person you are, then people can better judge what you’re putting out. For instance, if you were a hippie peacenik yet still got much joy out of the atomic weapons testing display, then that sort of gives more weight to the museum’s drawing power.
3. Proper English! – I’ll read just about anything, but wall o’ texts are something even I can’t stand. It’s an automatic deal breaker for me. Spelling, punctuation, and grammar aren’t as big a deal, but generally the more proper something is written, the better response you’ll get.
The opinions of this moderator are for entertainment purposes only.
June 18th, 2013 at 1:09:37 PM
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Quote: tringlomane
Seriously that's what the quote function did.
I wouldn't feel comfortable asnwering those questions. Sorry.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 18th, 2013 at 1:53:28 PM
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Quote: Face1. Go chronologically. Of course there is room to stray, foreshadow, backtrack, whatever, but TRs are very much a story. Chronologically is the natural way we all understand things, so it makes it easier to follow.
Yeah, that would have been a lost cause from the start. Do you know how often I found myself thinking "What did I do yesterday?" or "when did I get this blouse?" Long trips are like that. The only reason I can even divide it in two weeks overall is the weather. The dates for meetings I kept the reminders in my cell phone calendar function.
Quote:Part of it is just general curiosity and friendship. I don’t care much for gambling or Vegas at all, yet I read every word you wrote because you wrote it.
Really? No offense, but either a topic grabs me or it doesn't. Not exactly regardless of who wrote it, but the topic comes first.
Quote:3. Proper English! –
I sense that's a rebuke of some sort :)
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 18th, 2013 at 2:15:44 PM
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Quote: NareedYeah, that would have been a lost cause from the start. Do you know how often I found myself thinking "What did I do yesterday?" or "when did I get this blouse?" Long trips are like that. The only reason I can even divide it in two weeks overall is the weather. The dates for meetings I kept the reminders in my cell phone calendar function.
Eh, that's when you just sorta make up the approximate date and fit it in wherever.
Quote: NareedSeriously that's what the quote function did.
I wouldn't feel comfortable asnwering those questions. Sorry.
Wow, that function also blocks quotes? Maybe I should have thought of that, but I just assumed it wouldn't be programmed to that level. Silly me.
Quote: inquiring minds want to knowNareed, since you've given a lot of information in this thread about your clothing I have a few questions that I don't think are out of line. Did you travel to and from Vegas in female attire, did you spend the entire trip in female attire, do you visit family and friends in female attire and do you wear it to your job? I ask only out of curiosity with no ulterior motive.
I'd also like to hear more details about your accommodations if you could.
Can you see that now?
June 18th, 2013 at 2:20:41 PM
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Quote: tringlomaneEh, that's when you just sorta make up the approximate date and fit it in wherever.
That wouldn't work with me. I can obsess for minutes trying to recall what I wore yesterday ;)
Quote:Wow, that function also blocks quotes? Maybe I should have thought of that, but I just assumed it wouldn't be programmed to that level. Silly me.
Can you see that now?
No, it posted the quote. When I re-quoted it came up empty. Anyway, I did see the questions in question and replied I'd rather not answer such questions.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
