As I get closer to "the trip," I'm reminded of the important things in life. Namely, doubling down on 11, splitting aces, and backing up my come bet with odds. Ah yes, simplicity.
And I've got these trips pretty much down to a science these days. Not so much an agenda or itinerary - although I do like to think about the fun stuff that I'll do when I'm there - but I mean preparing for these trips is much more routine for me because I know what to expect.
First, what to do in preparation. I try to make sure I eat right, take vitamins, and drink lots of water about one to two weeks before the trip. I know once I'm there, I'll eat and drink too much, and in the desert heat, that ain't a good thing. So I want to feel my best before I go so I can ruin my immune system once I get there. I always pack ibuprofen, vitamins, and antacid tablets for damage control.
What to wear? It depends. For me, I'm mostly gambling and hanging out, so I'm not going to pack spiffy clothes. I'm not clubbing or going to really expensive restaurants. For me, it's more about comfort: shorts, t-shirts, a few nice short-sleeve button-down shirts, maybe one pair of dress pants and loafers. Don't overlook the importance of footwear. Always bring one pair of shoes that you can walk a few million miles in without getting blisters. And, of course, take the advise of you mother: lots of clean underwear.
Now the hard part. I've done all this preparation, and now the day of the trip I have to deal with airports and, finally, getting to the Strip. When I book my trip, I always try to get an aisle seat because I like to stretch my legs out in the aisle for a little extra legroom - don't want to be cramped up once I hit Vegas. The only difficult part is when the beverage/snack cart comes my way. Move it or lose it.
When I arrive at McCarrin, I know the journey is still underway. I usually pack so little that I can take it all in a carry-on, so I'm lucky that I don't have to go to baggage claim. But, I do usually rent a car. So, I've gotta catch the bus to the facility, which is about a 5-10 minute drive from the airport. At this point, I'm jumping outta my skin cause I just wanna hit the Strip!
Ok, now I'm at the rental car place, and because I try to get a cheap car, I'm in a long line with everyone else who had the same idea. I'm looking at 20-30 minutes.
Finally, I get the car, and I'm on my way! As long as Strip traffic isn't bad, I'm there in about 15-20 minutes. Hooray! But there's more... now it's time to check in! I have not checked in to a Vegas hotel on a Friday, so I've never experienced long lines. Once I get that key in my hand, I know I'm there. It's a simple elevator ride up to the room, drop the bag, and head to the casino.
I'll let you know how I do when I... Go to Vegas. It's that simple.
Viva,
Mike
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