Quote:
Originally Posted by robotcanuck1676
Another question from 1676: Communication. How do American teams communicate with each other at Canadian regionals? Cell phone prices are outrageous, and as far as I know, we can't have radios (walkie-talkie's) at the competition. My guess would be just to send runners to find someone, but I'm not sure.
In addition, are there any other tips American teams that have been to Canadian regionals before have for our team? Since we (my family) are Canadian, we have an idea, but we certainly don't know everything.
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Most important advice to American teams (which won't apply this year):
If it's anywhere near April 1st, beware of individuals with funny-colored hair. They come bearing false and temporarily disturbing information.
As for communication, we always just bit the bullet and used our cell phones - some phones (including my Sprint phone) didn't work at all. I believe you need a GSM phone to even have a chance at roaming. Perhaps that has changed.
Also - AVOID THE ETR 407 (Express Toll Route). The people running that scam like to steal American money and line their pockets with it. There are no toll booths - they use cameras to record your license plate - you'll get a lovely bill in the mail at your home.
There are many useful stores in the vicinity of the Hershey Centre - huge grocery stores, a Home Depot, etc. Ask the locals.
Lick's (great hamburger joint) and Montana's on Hurontario (between 401 and 403) are good places to eat - all in the same plaza. There's also a good pizza place there, whose name escapes me.
If you get a chance to go to Niagara Falls, go. It makes a great side trip. Typically you should stop there for a few hours on the way into Canada.
I can't think of anything else to "watch out for" at the GTR. It's so well organized and operated, you really have to search for things to complain about.
Have fun!