Friday, June 8, 2012

Tampa USMNT Trip 6/7/12

So far, Tampa has been a blast. My journey began yesterday with an unusually high amount of traffic on the road on the way to the airport, to the point where someone on the shuttle made a comment. Airport security was also extremely busy so that the United Premiere Access section was just as busy and crowded as non-elites. Perhaps this is due to the summer holiday and fact that flights tend to be cheaper on Thursdays.

The flight itself was a bit turbulent as we approached Tampa. I was unable to fully nap, thanks to the 7-month-old in front of me. Babies are cute until they can be heard, whether whimpering or playing with an empty snack bag. I noted the parents bought 2 snack boxes for $16, which I find extravagant.

The Hertz rental car center at the Tampa airport is atypical of other Hertz counters. There is no marquee board listing your spot, and instead of the key being in the ignition, you have to collect the key from a kiosk. Later we found no one checks your car or contract upon exiting, which is strange. I also now know a Nissan Altima is in the same car class as a Toyota Corolla.

We arrived at the hotel with no problems. American Outlaws did a good job with picking the hotel, bar, stadium, and airport all being witin a 10-minute drive.

After checking in, we went to the bar. Detroit, Phoenix, and others I've met on previous trips were there. On the third try, I finally found a bartender I liked and had 2 long island iced teas. RH bought a round of white gummy shots (delicious - contains Bacardi strawberry). I bought another round of shots, drank BH's shot, and another random shot BH had on his table. Thankfully one of the Phoenix guys, who needed a lift anyway, drove us back to the hotel.

I did not sleep well last night, but oh well. I'm watching the Euro 2012 game between Poland and Greece at MacDinton's. I like this AO bar because it's homey and has delicious macaroni and cheese, perfect after a night of shenanigans. On to the tailgate and game!

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