Okay, I'm getting ready to go on my first solo big-girl trip next week. Specifically, I'm going to an academic theatre conference in Los Angeles. I've never flown or checked into a hotel by myself. The largest city I've gone to alone is Kansas City. Needless to say, I'm a tad bit anxious about this trip.
Airport/Airplane
I'm flying Southwest, and their website has actually be pretty helpful. However, if anyone has tips or tricks, especially concerning the carry-on and check in procedure, I'd love it. One silly question, one friend said that I should wear flip-flops to get through security faster. But, isn't it chilly on a plane? My feetsies get cold easily. Also, I'm taking my mini-laptop, and putting it in my carry-on. Should I use a small suitcase and put the mini in a padded sleeve or would it be better to use my padded computer bag?
Hotel
Basically, I need to call the hotel (a Hyatt, if memory serves) and ask a lot of stupid questions. For example, exactly what toiletries are provided? (if they have shampoo, I'm not bringing shampoo.) Is there a hair dryer? If I get there before check-in, is there someplace I can store my bags? That kind of thing. When would be a good time to call? I don't want to take up someone's time during a busy period.
Also, there is the question of food. I have no idea if there will be anything provided at the conference itself. The hotel has a few restaurants, but they're pricy. And as far as I could tell, there's not a complimentary breakfast. (But with how much I'm paying for the room, I should have a full breakfast hand served to me by Antonio Banderas.) Would the concierge tell me if there are convenience stores nearby? Or other places where I could get a cheap meal? I know there are some LA'ers here, could any of you offer suggestions within walking distance? I'd rather not deal with cabs or anything. My hotel is on the Avenue of the Stars, which I imagine is smack-dab in tourist central.
Thanks for the help, guys!
Airport/Airplane
I'm flying Southwest, and their website has actually be pretty helpful. However, if anyone has tips or tricks, especially concerning the carry-on and check in procedure, I'd love it. One silly question, one friend said that I should wear flip-flops to get through security faster. But, isn't it chilly on a plane? My feetsies get cold easily. Also, I'm taking my mini-laptop, and putting it in my carry-on. Should I use a small suitcase and put the mini in a padded sleeve or would it be better to use my padded computer bag?
Hotel
Basically, I need to call the hotel (a Hyatt, if memory serves) and ask a lot of stupid questions. For example, exactly what toiletries are provided? (if they have shampoo, I'm not bringing shampoo.) Is there a hair dryer? If I get there before check-in, is there someplace I can store my bags? That kind of thing. When would be a good time to call? I don't want to take up someone's time during a busy period.
Also, there is the question of food. I have no idea if there will be anything provided at the conference itself. The hotel has a few restaurants, but they're pricy. And as far as I could tell, there's not a complimentary breakfast. (But with how much I'm paying for the room, I should have a full breakfast hand served to me by Antonio Banderas.) Would the concierge tell me if there are convenience stores nearby? Or other places where I could get a cheap meal? I know there are some LA'ers here, could any of you offer suggestions within walking distance? I'd rather not deal with cabs or anything. My hotel is on the Avenue of the Stars, which I imagine is smack-dab in tourist central.
Thanks for the help, guys!
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