From the Road

From the days when I was living at airports and driving the highways and byways:

• Street signage in the western United States is far superior to that in many of the eastern states. I hope that gap has been filled. It often seemed as if Massachusetts and New Jersey wanted you to get lost.
• Do some basic research on a city if you will be there for more than a day.
• Don't leave San Juan without seeing the fort.
• A car rental company at the airport has a leg up over one at an off-airport location if only for the simplicity factor but it could make a big difference when you are pressed for time.
• The River Walk in San Antonio is well worth your time.
• Hotel conference rooms often shift between baking and freezing.
• With rare exceptions, Marriott Hotels have outstanding customer service.
• When a restaurant owner in Florida recommends the rum cake, order it.
• Never, ever, be without something to read.
• If the hotel clerk cringes when you ask about a good jogging route, it's probably wise to stay inside.
• Don't wing it without reservations when traveling to small towns. One local festival can leave you sleeping in your car. 
• The more you leave the hotel television set off, the more work you'll get done.
• Pick up the local paper. It's a good way to get a small sense of the community.
• "Minnesota Nice" is true and New Yorkers can be as pleasant as people anywhere else.
• Visit the blues clubs on Beale Street in Memphis.
• If you have the choice of driving or flying a relatively short distance, choose the drive. You'll be less at the mercy of strangers and will see more of the countryside.
• Summer days in San Francisco can be very cold.