OK, I'll be the first to bite, hopefully the rest of the crew will fill in with some of the more descriptive details:
Wed 11/7: CO # 56 EWR-CDG
I got to EWR about 90 min before my flight, had no problem getting my 18" wheeled carry on through security, checked in at the new PC-grabbed a coke & some cheese, organized some of stuff, then assuming a need for an early boardng headed over to the gate. Well, I had lots of time, as my 8:00 flight didn't begin to board till 7:35... Flight overall was fine, I was luckily seated in 4K which had an empty seat next to me and we took off just slightly late. Nothing major to note about the flight, watched Bridget Jones Diary (very funny), some old tv shows and slept for the rest of the flight. We landed early at CDG and for once, we pulled right up to the terminal .
Thurs 11/8 CDG-NCE
I was able to find my way from C to F, but everyone was stopped by 'security activity' just prior to the check in area--funnily enough while the police were not letting anyone go through where they were standing (at the enterance to F), if you went around the corner, away from the crowds--you could stroll right through! I was early so I asked about getting on the earlier flight--but no go. So I sat around and read some newspapers till we boarded. It was a very empty flight, and I dozed on and off until we got close to the coast. Am I glad I woke up! It was a beautiful clear day, and the coastline was spectacular. We landed early and pulled right up, I was able to find the bus to Cannes right outside Terminal 1 and was on my way . The bus stops in Cannes across from the Palais du Festival and it was a short stroll east (actually about 10 blocks) along the harbor to my hotel- the Noga Hilton. Despite arriving early, I had no problem checking in. They noted my 'Gold' status and the concierge escorted me to my room, which while small (I'll let the others describe their enormous suties ,and very orange in a 70's disco way (Austin Powers would have felt very very much at home), did have a great view of the harbor and the 'old town of Cannes. Awaiting me was a nice bottle of Champagne chilling and a large basket of fruit (as a Gold this was my first Hilton amenity )
After resting up a bit, and taking some obligatory pictures of my great view, the orange room, & the 'plastic coated walls, I set out to explore the city. I wanted to check out the train station, as I had plans to take an early train to some of the coastal towns the next day, I also strolled around the Rue d'Antibes and found my favorite shopping store 'MonoPrix', where I loaded up on cheap, decent wine, coca cola and snacks. I also bought some 'french cat food'--for my babies at home (Sam, Tsuki & Casey-- so they too can enjoy some 'exotic' food

Back at my hotel, with no word from other FT'ers I went out to get a bite to eat, since it was only 6:30, pickings were slim, but I found an 'ok' fish restaurant just down from my hotel. After dinner, I went back and crashed!! About 10:30pm the phone rings and it was MJM (Mike-- our organizer) calling to check on who had made it in. I told him I was fine, and went back to sleep!!
More coming.....




[This message has been edited by mauld (edited 11-13-2001).]