In anticipation for a Phoenix Forum chock full of new business, new attendees, and new technology, I've put together a few pointers for Europeans and other non US visitors coming to the show for the first time:
1) Sunscreen and chapstick/lip balm with SPF - AZ is in the desert, so it's a "dry" heat, meaning you won't feel the burn while you're outside, and can even get exposure in the shade since light reflects.
2) Casual in the day, dressier at night - The show takes place primarily outdoors, with the exception of seminars and eating areas, so bring your summer clothes (shorts, sandals, short sleeves, etc) but it can cool down a lot at night so sport jackets, long sleeves, etc are good for the evenings.
3) Get a "disposable" (prepaid) phone with a US number. You can pick them up pretty much anywhere for around $30-$50 USD. It will be cheaper for you to coordinate with folks at the show, and honestly, most Americans are retarded when dialing outside the US unless they have traveled overseas. Your US contacts will also appreciate not having to call overseas to tell you to meet them at the elevators for dinner. Just ask the person for their number and then call it and they'll have yours (that way you don't have to memorize your new US number).
5) Drink A LOT of water. Thankfully bottles of water will be freely available courtesy of the awesome snack huts in the courtyard of the hotel, but be sure to drink extra water than normal, especially if you are drinking alcohol. A lot of folks get dehydration headaches, so stay ahead of the game by drinking water before you get thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already in dehydration mode.
Hope these tips help and I look forward to seeing everyone on Thursday!!! Seasoned TPF veterans, feel free to add to the list!
