In the big city

I'm still in recovery mode from the big PASIC conference in New York this past weekend. So many new experiences... train ride, cabbies, huge buildings, crowds....

Here are the top ten things I got from my weekend:
1. If a taxi driver asks for directions, you're in trouble. Never get into a cab unless you know exactly where you want to go and how to get there.

2. Lines on the road are suggestions. And only light ones at that. If there's a six inch space, a cabby - or a bus! - will take it.

3. there are almost as many bikes and rickshaws in the streets as there are cars and buses - and they go places cars and buses don't so watch your feet!

4. It can be snowing like crazy outside the 35th floor, but it's rain by the time it gets to the ground.

5. If you go out with someone else, make sure at least one of you is tall so you can spot them when you get separated - and you will.

6. Ignore the guy on the corner who swears his purses are gen-u-ine Gucci. He swears on his mother's grave. The woman standing nearby is probably his mother!

7. There weren't as many sirens as I expected, but there was definitely a lot of noise.

8. You can often get places faster on foot than in a cab. Five of us left a restaurant, three took a cab, two walked (and no, they weren't wearing jogging suits). They beat us back to the hotel - and we even jumped out of the cab a half-block away from the hotel. (refer to # 1)

9. Always carry small bills for tips. Everyone expects it. And they don't like to change 20's. Or 10's.

10. Everyone should go to New York at least once in their lives. Did I want to go? No. I was scared to death. But I am glad I went. It was an experience I'll never forget.

More on my trip later. :)