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Tuesday, January 8, 2008

How About a Chance to Win $500,000?

Officials at the worlds busiest airport, Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, announced a contest today. Atlanta is noted for long waits during peak travel times. I know it has taken me up to one hour to get through. In all fairness, I have also breezed through in just a few moments as well. I tend to fly at off-peak times because that's when seats are most available for stand-by flight. If you think you have what it takes to come up with a security device that will reduce wait times, you could possibly win $500K. For more information, check it out here: www.flyclear.com/innovation

Sunday, January 6, 2008

It Ain't Just the Water in Mexico That You Have to Avoid

Montezuma's revenge. I got it and it was not fun. I spent the last night of my Mexican honeymoon sitting on the toilet with the trash can in front of me. These tips can also be used for any country where the water and food quality is questionable.

1. Ask the restaurant/hotel etc. if they have a working water filtration system.

In the high tourist areas they likely will have them. The chances decrease in the more remote areas. It's best if you stick to eating and drinking in well established places.

2. Take some anti-diarrheal medicine with you.

I know it sounds simple, but when you're young and excited to go on a honeymoon, simple things get overlooked. I was never so glad to be back in the United States and able to buy something for my symptoms.

3. Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables.

I think that's why I got so sick. In third world countries they often use untreated human and animal feces to fertilize their crops. Stick to cooked food no matter how enticing the salad and fruit look.

4. Take some toilet paper.

This applies more to Central American countries. Their toilet paper has antibacterial properties. This is not good if you're a woman that's prone to yeast infections. There's a normal balance of bacteria and yeast in your body that will get out of control if you wipe out the bacteria with the toilet paper.

5. Use bottled water for everything if you think the water is questionable.

When my husband flies to certain places in Mexico, the crew loads up on bottled water to take to their hotel rooms. They use it to wash their faces and brush their teeth. Many crew members have gotten sick when not following this advice.

6. Don't buy or eat any food from street vendors.

The food handling standards are not as high as in the United States. Combined with exposure to blistering hot temperatures for most of the year, it's a great breeding ground for the bacteria that can make you sick.


When you're thirsty, beer (cerveza in Spanish) or tequila is a great alternative! Remember moderation or you'll be just as bad off as with Montezuma's revenge.