...for a local, that is.

Of course, people here (in the DC area) always want to know where I'm from, and none seem to believe me when I say "New Jersey." LOL.

I generally "pass" in Europe myself, until I open my mouth, that is, but I think it's because I'm quite a frumpy dresser. (I'm serious, by the way.)

LOL E_M for a second when I read your thread I thought you meant passed on, but than I realized NO that couldn't be since you were starting a thread. And to my knowledge we haven't had any Fodorite give us a trip report from the great beyond..well not to my knowledge!

Pegontheroad, you are funny!!!

LoveItaly, remember Scarlett posted her trip report from Hell...

Lee Ann

Oh good grief you are right LeeAnn, I stand corrected, lol!! How could I ever forget that thread.

OK E_M, you must give us a trip report!!

>a trip report from the great beyond<

Can you imagine the questions and threads?!

"When do the Pearly Gates open? Will I hear the call if I take my Ipod?"

"How long does it take to get through customs? Do they really insist on the "You can't take it with you" rule?"

"Does it make a difference if I turn up in white tennis shoes?"

"Am I too rich? I've tried getting a camel through the eye of a needle and I'm still in traction - should I risk it?"

"Which cloud?"

"Do they really sing and play harps ALL the time? Should I take earplugs?"

"What's your favourite place for ambrosia?"

"Which circle in Hell?"

"How many layers should I pack?"

Oh good grief Patrick, tooooo funny!! I can see another long thread in the making. See what you caused E_M?? LOL.

"Which currency do they use there?"
"Whats the best guidebook on offer?"

What should I wear?

Which places did RS recommend that I should avoid? Because I would like an out-of-the-way authentic local spot devoid of all tourists carrying his handbook........

Do they have ATMs? And does anyone know the currency rate? Will my bank overcharge me on conversion since I won't be coming back?

What about sunblock? Better take a hat.

now, THAT's what I call "dynamic conversion"

"Passed?" Passed on? Passed up? Passed by? Passed out? Passed gas? And you can't wear trainers in "hell"..the soles will melt.

Ah, but that's all part of the torment - shoes that leave you stuck in the same position.

How about
"Any Fodorites gonna be there at the same time -lets meet up!"

Or -"Whens the best time to go?"

Has the exchange rate gotten any more favorable?

"What about AC ?"

AC available only in certain parts of the hotel!

Certain rooms are known to be hotter than others . . .

The AC is perpetually broken.

LoveItaly, I wrote a trip report on St. Pete's, but didn't bother writing one for Italy, as there are so many here on the topic. I'll just second: It was fabulous.

Will my sim card work?

Should I take a taxi, a shuttle or the RER?

How can I look like a local"

Do they speak English up there?

If I don't like my room, should I ask for a change. If so, who is the best person to speak to?

I don't look good in loose cut white gaments, they make me look fat. Will they left me wear shorts and a tank top with my flip flops?

Is there a non-smoking section?

Will I have internet access - maybe a cyber cafe?

Will my passport expire the minute I arrive?

Can I cancel my reservation within 24 hours to avoid a penalty?

Nina