On 24/5/05, William Robb, discombobulated, unleashed: >I am sort of wondering what to bring. >I am flying from Regina to (I think) Minneapolis, and then from there to >Charlotte on June 2nd, renting a vehicle and driving to GFM. >I prefer to not check luggage, though I suspect I will have to check a >suitcase. >Any comments will be read, probably not responded to. >Thanks
Well, I flew in last year and then took a road trip with 4 others (including a carsick Australian muppet). I was pretty happy with what I brought - here's some tips: Make sure you bring a macro lens - there's lots of flaura and fauna. If you intend to do the competition, bring a film camera *and a loupe* !!! Bring a flash - after a few drinks, the beer demands some photographic larking about. If camping, and follically-challenged on top of the head, bring a woolly hat for sleeping in. Facilities are basic in the extreme for campers. There is a small toilet block, but some bottled water could be useful. Buy some beer and snacks - you'll be popular. If Bill Owens offers you some cherry ale, accept it - but be warned, he will be lurking and readily approaches with a refill ;-) Access from the camping area to the auditorium / restaurant / animal habitats area is by car. They discourage walking on the access road to keep pedestrians and vehicles apart. There is a trail up there, but you'll drive or catch a ride with someone. It takes less than 2 minutes to drive but it's a steep walk and who wants to arrive sweaty and wheezing. In the auditorium, sit near a door - it can get warm in there. In the restaurant, hope you like 'grits' ! If you're into hiking out, get Mark Roberts to take you on an exciting excursion high up onto the mountain. I regret not doing this, but the social aspect of just hanging out with the gang was too much of a draw. In the end I just wandered about the animal habitats, which is okay, and much fun with a long lens, but if i can make it next year, I will beg Mark for a tour. Apparently not for those with a fear of steep drops. You'll have a ball and it will all be over far too soon. Trouble is, next year you'll be in my situation - reading about folks now prepping to go along and the draw to go along is very very strong. Enjoy! Cheers, Cotty ___/\__ || (O) | People, Places, Pastiche ||=====| http://www.cottysnaps.com _____________________________
