u/Oakland-homebrewer

This might be trivial, but the cafeteria is at the top level, right? Is the window supposed to be a window? Or does everyone know it is a video screen?

And who eats in the cafeteria? People have kitchens in their apartments--is it just to eat out? Do they have to pay? Clearly it isn't big enough for thousands of people to eat there. Plus you'd have to walk up all those flights...

I'm retiring and planning to travel more often, with my wife and other family members. I'm moderately network savvy

I'm looking into a travel router with VPN, not so much for the additional privacy, but more for the convenience. As I understand it, once I setup my laptop/phone/iPad for me and family members, then all of those devices will automatically connect to the router wherever we end up staying. Could be AirBnB, hotel, relative's house, etc.

Please confirm:

1. I do need to configure the router, setup the passwords for connecting. I also need to get a VPN account. (considering Slate AX router and some basic VPN). This seems fairly straightforward

2. Whenever I get to a new hotel (or wherever), I need to log into the router and connect it to the hotel wifi, right? (the days of ethernet options are likely gone)

3. How does it work for hotels or other networks that require you to go through a website to log in?

4. Cruise ship--likely won't use it as it would only work in the room, if I can even connect to the wifi. But I can just use the VPN provider app on my devices if I wanted the security.

5. If I want to set the VPN to connect through another country, I need to log into the router again and change the VPN settings there, right? I don't see doing this all that often, so not a big hassle.

I'm looking for a 2 or 3 night backpacking trip in Southern Oregon, ideally not far from Grant's Pass. I've seen the Rogue River Trail, but that is just out and back right? Any way to make a loop?

Also seen good reviews of Sam Brown campground the hiking around it. But I haven't figured out if there is a backpacking loop in the same area.

Thanks.

Edit: Fishing is a plus!

Will be in Northern Tuscany for a week this October. Are there any harvest festivals or wine festivals? I'm not sure how I'd search for them.

Also, we're not going to Modena, but I want to get some real DOP balsamic vinegar, or local equivalent. Easy to find in Florence or surrounding areas?

I found two 15 day cruises from Buenos Aires to Santiago with identical ports in Jan 2028.

Does Viking, with a smaller ship, get into fjords more or is it more scenic? Or do all cruise ships follow essentially the same route?

I enjoy Princess (Enchanted anyway) and haven't sailed Viking yet. Not sure if this trip is the one to "jump ship"

I know it can save time and stress to outsource your flight, but does it save money? Anyone do a compare?

Any other advantages of having Princess do airfare?

Any suggestions for trailheads or destinations?

Would be going with my wife and son in mid September. We are experienced, but looking for a relaxing not grueling trip.

Thanks.

I'd like to get a solid wood corner bookshelf with cabinet below, built-in style. Any recommendations for quality local company, or custom cabinet company?

Thanks

Got an email from GoTickets today saying the Dec 17 show is now at 6:30 instead of 7:30. Haven't seen it corroborated yet.

Could move again in the next six months!

I scored tickets last year, but didn't realize I was on a resale site.

GoTickets says I don't get the tickets until the day before, which I don't get. I've read many people get tickets fine, but some don't.

Fingers crossed.

The coal terminal got me thinking. I know West Oakland air and soil is full of pollution from the last century plus of industry dumping and regulators turning a blind eye, intentionally or not. And I think things are getting better.

But the freeway isn't getting torn down. The port isn't going anywhere. Trains are still coming through.

Is there a future where cleaner fuels and technology slowly reduce the air pollution over the years? Or are residents destined to have to put up with it if they purchase in that area of town?

At least in America, the stores sell limes that are hard and green. Are there varieties that are still green when ripe? Most limes turn yellow when ripe.

Are the limes going to ripen over time?

I have a Persian lime tree and enjoy fresh lime juice most of the year. It just occurred to me how most people think they should be using the limes while still green.

Didn't see anyone asking.

We have a stop here in October. Tender stop I believe.

I'm think I'm fine just walking around town--is it super touristy?

The excursions seem to be just bus to another town (scenic I'm sure), wine tasting or cruise around the shore

Anyone find a hidden gem?

I'd like to get a gold necklace made for my wife.

thanks.

I'd like to get a gold necklace made for my wife.

thanks.

Anyone had experience with Filippo Fattori at Tuscany Car Tours?

We're looking for a driver for a day of wine tasting in Chianti, picking 6 of us up in Marcialla. He's quoting 600 Euro for the group just for the driving, which we are okay with. He's also recommending wineries with English tours.

Wondering if anyone had advice or other option.

Thanks.

I'm joining my wife on a business trip to Chicago. Unfortunately, I found out we're right around Yorktown Center.

I see we can take Metra into town if I want, but anywhere interesting closer to the hotel? Uber distance? Don't need Michelin stars, but solid food and/or cocktails and/or local beer.

Thanks.