Get Ready for CES and Las Vegas

Even though the town has tried to become more family-friendly, Las Vegas still holds much of its allure for people looking for good parties, lots of alcohol, and plenty of gambling. While I may partake in those three vices while in Sin City, the primary purpose of my trip is for the Consumer Electronics Show 2010, which just so happens to be the largest trade show of its kind in North America.

Deja Vu All Over Again?

While I don’t think that I’m a “veteran” of the show just yet, I’ve been able to discard my newbie badge thanks to two previous visits in 2008 and 2009. Having been to Las Vegas several times before, I was already familiar, but going for a trade show is a different experience altogether. Open bars, complimentary lunches and free swag are always appreciated.

Last year, we were lucky enough to score a wicked deal on a suite at the Wynn Encore. This time around, we’re not quite so lucky, staying at Harrah’s instead. Thankfully, it has a very central location with easy access to the monorail (assuming it doesn’t break again). We’re also extending our stay just a little, arriving a day early and leaving a day late.

That’s the good news.

Introducing Baggage Restrictions

The bad news is that flying to Las Vegas could prove to be quite the major headache. Thanks to a failed terrorist attack on Christmas Day, all carry-on baggage has been banned from international flights bound for the United States. Yes, Canada is considered international.

Normally, I have a carry-on bag with my mobile blogging setup, including things like my notebook PC, digital camera, and so on. From what I hear, I won’t be able to carry that onto the plane. I can bring the laptop, but not the laptop bag. That makes perfect sense, don’t you think? At least I’ll skip some delays with my NEXUS card, since it lets me bypass the customs officers.

Want to Meet Me in Person?

As always, I’ll try to stay as in touch as possible, though time is very rarely on my side in this respect. I’ll do what I can to keep you updated via my Twitter account, so be sure to follow me there.

If you happen to be in Las Vegas and want to meet up with me, Stephen, Eric, Bob, and other like-minded folks, send us a message and we’ll see what we can do.

Viva Las Vegas.