To be fair, if you're willing to walk I know that there's a Quality Inn a bit farther north of the convention center that you could get cheaper rates at. To be fair I tried the cheap hotel thing once, but it was only the night that PAX ended, I couldn't really see myself wanting to do it for the entire duration since you'd have to skip out on anything late night (concerts, parties, etc.) .
Still have yet to finish getting my travel settled, what is the going rate on train tickets currently?
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CuvisTheConquerorThey always say "yee haw" but they never ask "haw yee?" Registered Userregular
@jthom, the train going there is $141, and coming back is $113. If you happen to have points you can use, it's 5,500 points each way, so you might want to look into that as well; it looks like they take transfers from all the major hotel programs, as well as Chase credit cards and a few other programs. The 4-day PAX means you just barely miss the Labor Day weekend blackout dates for points tickets.
I'll be coming from San Diego, so I'm making a connecting train trip. I'm also much more of a board gamer than anything else, so I'll be bringing a good few along with me. Not sure which ones, yet.
There seemed to be pretty consistent LTE coverage as long as the train was in California, but aside from that you could only really get it around Portland / Tacoma / Seattle.
Confirmed for PAXTrain! I'll be joining you all in Emeryville. This'll be my third PAX, and my umpteenth Amtrak trip, but my first combination of the two. Looking forward to it.
(edit) I have a question: is anyone going to be bringing coolers (or fridges)? I'd bring one myself if I didn't need to make the return trip by plane -- just wondering if I should limit myself to nonperishables when bringing snacks to share.
Tickets are bought! My husband convinced me we should get a roomette on the way there this year. We're also dragging some friends along who are new to the train. We'll be getting on in Davis and Sac.
As for perishables... I like bringing pizza, as it's good cold, and lots of people leave it sitting out anyway. With the right toppings, it can make a good breakfast. I'd recommend limiting yourself to perishable food that you expect to be eaten right away, and nonperishable stuff that'll last without the aid of others' coolers. Fruit works well.
Last time a pizza order was made midway, I think in Portland? Hopefully I kept that information. Fresh pizza and salad delivered to the train was absolutely lovely.
Alright, tickets bought. Gonna go for Jack London Square again instead of San Jose. Despite the new origin point, it'll still take 30m longer to get to SJC for about $5 more per person.
I'll be there! Getting on at Union Station on Wednesday morning!
For those who don't remember me, my name's Steve and I rode up on the train for PAX 2011. Unfortunately I couldn't get tickets for PAX 2012 due to the Great Ticket Shortage. This year I managed to barely slip into the queue.
I'm super excited for the ride up and the convention itself. I was dead set on going every year after my first time and missing out last year was heart breaking.
I can DM some D&D games if people are interested. I have all of the books on my laptop and everything we need if we wanted to play. You'll just need a pencil and a set of dice (you can grab a set for $5-$10 at your local hobby shop). I can do a module or just make something up. I tend to just improvise when I DM for my friends, which has led to some great moments so far! Never fear if you're a beginner, it's incredibly easy to learn.
If people are interested please say so. It'll be 4th Edition as that's easiest to learn, although I certainly wouldn't be opposed to doing a game of Mines of Madness from DnD Next! Anyone who needs access to the books PM me your e-mail address and I'll send them to you.
@TimeCruiserMike if you don't mind, can you set up a sign up for D&D in the OP?
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TimeCruiserMikePast Organizer of the West Coast Train TripSan Fernando ValleyRegistered Userregular
edited July 2013
Looking for Group
Table Top/Pen and Paper RPG's are a great way to break the ice and make new friends on the PAXTrain. If you'd like to run a game, post in the thread that you are a GM along with your details, and I will add your info here, and link to this post in the OP
Game: We need to know what game you'd like to run. Doctor Who, Battlestar Galactica, Pathfinder, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, etc.
Time: When do you plan on running your game?
Number of Players: How many players are you looking to bring into your adventure? As player slots fill please be sure update your post in the thread.
Characters: Should players make their own characters ahead of time or would you prefer they roll them on the train? Or would you prefer to offer a selection of pre-made characters?
Equipment: Will your players be expected to bring their own dice or do you have dice to lend? Are there other things you would like them to bring if they're able?
Misc.: Other information you may feel is important for potential victims players to know about your game.
Contact: how would you like potential players to contact you?
If you'd like to join a group but don't see an available game that you'd like to try post in the thread with:
LFG
Game: what sort of game(s) would you'd like to join
Time: when are you available to play
Equipment: can you bring dice, figure, rulebooks, etc. anything that might make it easier for your potential GM to run a game for you.
Running a Game:
N/A
Looking for Group:
superwoot
*Game: Any
*Time: Getting on at Santa Barbara around noon on Wednesday.
*Equipment: Dice, laptop, possibly books.
*My girlfriend and I are both looking for a game. She is novice, I am noob.
Speaking as someone who will attend their 10th PAX when this Prime runs, I think that what you're proposing is a profoundly bad idea.
1st PAX here so (edit) please (/edit) don't grill me. I'll apologize in person if my bad idea truly offended you.
I didn't know this show runs into the AM or I would have held back. Either way, looking forward to meeting you on the Train.
@TimeCruiserMike, I'm a little short on gear but I think I might be able to contribute with a Fan. Its an 18", oscillating, 2000 CFM fan. I'm willing to lug it on and off the train. You mentioned fans are needed like it is rare for anyone to bring one so I'll step up.
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CuvisTheConquerorThey always say "yee haw" but they never ask "haw yee?" Registered Userregular
Speaking as someone who will attend their 10th PAX when this Prime runs, I think that what you're proposing is a profoundly bad idea.
1st PAX here so (edit) please (/edit) don't grill me. I'll apologize in person if my bad idea truly offended you.
I didn't know this show runs into the AM or I would have held back. Either way, looking forward to meeting you on the Train.
I don't think anybody's offended, we're just trying to warn you that you'd be doing yourself a disservice (some of us a bit more forcefully than necessary, I'll admit). I've only been to one PAX, but I'm pretty sure the only day I made it back to my hotel room before 2AM was the last day. If you're getting a hotel room out by the airport, you'll either have to cut your time short, or get a car (and deal with the hassle of parking downtown, driving when you're already exhausted from PAXing it up, etc). Far better to find some way to stay in walking distance. There are a few options that are more budget friendly than the major convention hotels within a mile of the convention center, and there's always the option of room-splitting.
We learned not to book rooms too far from the con i.e. Holiday Inn i.e. the year it rained often and got really windy i.e. the year everyone got really sick.
I did the Rock Band thing one year, with the projector. Was super fun but I 'bout killed the kid who wouldn't quit butchering "Mississippi Queen." To note: Part of the deal with taking over the arcade car is that we have to let anyone on the train who wants to play RB do so.
I did the train two years, a plane one year, and drove last year (from Bakersfield). I have a friend in the SF area with perpetual foot injury so I drove him so he could take his scooter and other necessities. Since we're both going again this year, the train is out for me again. (Still want a shirt when the time comes.)
My biggest piece of advice, after having my laptop stolen from the train on the ride home near Albany OR - don't take anything you can't trust out of your site. The PAXers aren't likely culprits but there are a lot of other people on the train. Watch that RB stuff like a hawk. I literally slept on the floor of the arcade car where my stuff was, with my stuff between me and the wall.
Otherwise, I miss Mike and Maryann and all youse nutses.
It looks like I got the right train for the return trip without consulting the thread first. While I live out east and will be flying to Seattle, I'm going to visit friends in Portland after the show (they have to go back to work right away, otherwise they'd likely be on the train with me).
I did the train trip for East 2011 and I'm familiar with how much fun it is, so I'm looking forward to joining you all after an even more exhausting PAX and my first Prime.
Quick Question: Anyone know if the Roomettes lock? Would be nice to secure my things.
Hello.
I don't believe they do from the outside (I will check when I go to work Wed.), but since the only people who have access to the sleeper cars are sleeper car passengers themselves, it has never really been a problem.
I am thinking of taking train 501 down to PDX the day of the trip and getting on The Coast Starlight to ride up again. I have that week off so I will see what things look like the closer we get.
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GnomeTankWhat the what?Portland, OregonRegistered Userregular
Provided my procurement of PAX passes works out, I may be joining with you guys in the PDX. Will only be on the train for a few hours, but still a fun initial meet and greet!
Sorry I took so long to get back. Summertime is a busy time for the rails...
Sleeper roomettes or suites do not lock on the outside, only from within.
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CuvisTheConquerorThey always say "yee haw" but they never ask "haw yee?" Registered Userregular
I had a dream last night that we all decided we couldn't wait for PAX and got the train to Seattle and back for no reason at all.
The closer we get to PAX, the more I have PAXTrain on the brain.
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CuvisTheConquerorThey always say "yee haw" but they never ask "haw yee?" Registered Userregular
Thought I'd give this a bump for any Left Coasties making last-minute travel plans. Train tickets are still available, and still cheap!
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GnomeTankWhat the what?Portland, OregonRegistered Userregular
Still more expensive than the Bolt Bus though. I am very torn. Spend four hours on the train with you guys for more dollahs, or save dollahs and just ride the Bolt Bus. I have no idea why I'm being a mizer about this all things considered.
I totally spaced on the thread and roster sheet, I bought my tix a while ago and will be hopping on the PAX train. I put on the form that I'll be getting on in LA, but really I'm starting in San Diego, so if anyone else is leaving from SD, give me a shout. I am sorry to say I can't bring much gear, as I'll be meeting my hubby after PAX and going on a cruise to Alaska. I am a complete, total, 100% tabletop/board game NOOB (i didn't come into my nerdhood until late), but if you guys are willing to teach, I'm willing to learn.
What I CAN contribute is a well-run poker game (for M&Ms or pennies or whatever) if anyone is interested.
I didn't know this show runs into the AM or I would have held back. Either way, looking forward to meeting you on the Train.
[/quote]
I don't think anybody's offended, we're just trying to warn you that you'd be doing yourself a disservice (some of us a bit more forcefully than necessary, I'll admit). I've only been to one PAX, but I'm pretty sure the only day I made it back to my hotel room before 2AM was the last day. If you're getting a hotel room out by the airport, you'll either have to cut your time short, or get a car (and deal with the hassle of parking downtown, driving when you're already exhausted from PAXing it up, etc). Far better to find some way to stay in walking distance. There are a few options that are more budget friendly than the major convention hotels within a mile of the convention center, and there's always the option of room-splitting.[/quote]
Actually, I recommend the car service Uber, which does late night pick up and drop offs, door to door. You can download the app to your phone, and they charge a credit card on file, so you don't have to carry cash. You can get a car for 4 people to pick up and drop off within a few miles of the convention center for around $10 (split with a group, that's less than train/metro tickets, and they run late nights). Bigger cars for up to 6 are around $20. Use the link below, and you even get a $10 credit after your first ride!
My crew and I are staying near the stadium (about 1.5 miles from the convention center), and we plan to take turns paying for the car as necessary. Not as convenient as being AT the convention center, but we have a sweet place to stay for half the cost, and we get shuttled around like rock stars!
Posts
Still have yet to finish getting my travel settled, what is the going rate on train tickets currently?
https://www.amtrakguestrewards.com/points/transfer
Same here.
First time at PAX and first time on the PAXTrain!
I'll be coming from San Diego, so I'm making a connecting train trip. I'm also much more of a board gamer than anything else, so I'll be bringing a good few along with me. Not sure which ones, yet.
If some of you were there in 2008, I was a short brown guy with an ukulele. A lot of Mario Kart DS was played and it was plenty of fun!
I'm excited to see how good cellular coverage is five years later, and if there is LTE coverage at all.
Movie suggestion: The Avengers or Wreck-It Ralph
(edit) I have a question: is anyone going to be bringing coolers (or fridges)? I'd bring one myself if I didn't need to make the return trip by plane -- just wondering if I should limit myself to nonperishables when bringing snacks to share.
As for perishables... I like bringing pizza, as it's good cold, and lots of people leave it sitting out anyway. With the right toppings, it can make a good breakfast. I'd recommend limiting yourself to perishable food that you expect to be eaten right away, and nonperishable stuff that'll last without the aid of others' coolers. Fruit works well.
Last time a pizza order was made midway, I think in Portland? Hopefully I kept that information. Fresh pizza and salad delivered to the train was absolutely lovely.
We should do that again. That was good pizza.
Switch: US 1651-2551-4335 JP 6310-4664-2624
MH3U Monster Cheat Sheet / MH3U Veggie Elder Ticket Guide
For those who don't remember me, my name's Steve and I rode up on the train for PAX 2011. Unfortunately I couldn't get tickets for PAX 2012 due to the Great Ticket Shortage. This year I managed to barely slip into the queue.
I'm super excited for the ride up and the convention itself. I was dead set on going every year after my first time and missing out last year was heart breaking.
I can DM some D&D games if people are interested. I have all of the books on my laptop and everything we need if we wanted to play. You'll just need a pencil and a set of dice (you can grab a set for $5-$10 at your local hobby shop). I can do a module or just make something up. I tend to just improvise when I DM for my friends, which has led to some great moments so far! Never fear if you're a beginner, it's incredibly easy to learn.
If people are interested please say so. It'll be 4th Edition as that's easiest to learn, although I certainly wouldn't be opposed to doing a game of Mines of Madness from DnD Next! Anyone who needs access to the books PM me your e-mail address and I'll send them to you.
@TimeCruiserMike if you don't mind, can you set up a sign up for D&D in the OP?
Table Top/Pen and Paper RPG's are a great way to break the ice and make new friends on the PAXTrain. If you'd like to run a game, post in the thread that you are a GM along with your details, and I will add your info here, and link to this post in the OP
If you'd like to join a group but don't see an available game that you'd like to try post in the thread with:
LFG
Running a Game:
N/A
Looking for Group:
superwoot
*Game: Any *Time: Getting on at Santa Barbara around noon on Wednesday. *Equipment: Dice, laptop, possibly books. *My girlfriend and I are both looking for a game. She is novice, I am noob.
{Fondly remembers the PAXTrain}
1st PAX here so (edit) please (/edit) don't grill me. I'll apologize in person if my bad idea truly offended you.
I didn't know this show runs into the AM or I would have held back. Either way, looking forward to meeting you on the Train.
I don't think anybody's offended, we're just trying to warn you that you'd be doing yourself a disservice (some of us a bit more forcefully than necessary, I'll admit). I've only been to one PAX, but I'm pretty sure the only day I made it back to my hotel room before 2AM was the last day. If you're getting a hotel room out by the airport, you'll either have to cut your time short, or get a car (and deal with the hassle of parking downtown, driving when you're already exhausted from PAXing it up, etc). Far better to find some way to stay in walking distance. There are a few options that are more budget friendly than the major convention hotels within a mile of the convention center, and there's always the option of room-splitting.
We learned not to book rooms too far from the con i.e. Holiday Inn i.e. the year it rained often and got really windy i.e. the year everyone got really sick.
Time: Getting on at Santa Barbara around noon on Wednesday.
Equipment: Dice, laptop, possibly books.
My girlfriend and I are both looking for a game. She is novice, I am noob.
I did the Rock Band thing one year, with the projector. Was super fun but I 'bout killed the kid who wouldn't quit butchering "Mississippi Queen." To note: Part of the deal with taking over the arcade car is that we have to let anyone on the train who wants to play RB do so.
I did the train two years, a plane one year, and drove last year (from Bakersfield). I have a friend in the SF area with perpetual foot injury so I drove him so he could take his scooter and other necessities. Since we're both going again this year, the train is out for me again. (Still want a shirt when the time comes.)
My biggest piece of advice, after having my laptop stolen from the train on the ride home near Albany OR - don't take anything you can't trust out of your site. The PAXers aren't likely culprits but there are a lot of other people on the train. Watch that RB stuff like a hawk. I literally slept on the floor of the arcade car where my stuff was, with my stuff between me and the wall.
Otherwise, I miss Mike and Maryann and all youse nutses.
I did the train trip for East 2011 and I'm familiar with how much fun it is, so I'm looking forward to joining you all after an even more exhausting PAX and my first Prime.
@Durinthal
Hello.
I don't believe they do from the outside (I will check when I go to work Wed.), but since the only people who have access to the sleeper cars are sleeper car passengers themselves, it has never really been a problem.
I am thinking of taking train 501 down to PDX the day of the trip and getting on The Coast Starlight to ride up again. I have that week off so I will see what things look like the closer we get.
Sorry I took so long to get back. Summertime is a busy time for the rails...
Sleeper roomettes or suites do not lock on the outside, only from within.
The closer we get to PAX, the more I have PAXTrain on the brain.
What I CAN contribute is a well-run poker game (for M&Ms or pennies or whatever) if anyone is interested.
I didn't know this show runs into the AM or I would have held back. Either way, looking forward to meeting you on the Train.
[/quote]
I don't think anybody's offended, we're just trying to warn you that you'd be doing yourself a disservice (some of us a bit more forcefully than necessary, I'll admit). I've only been to one PAX, but I'm pretty sure the only day I made it back to my hotel room before 2AM was the last day. If you're getting a hotel room out by the airport, you'll either have to cut your time short, or get a car (and deal with the hassle of parking downtown, driving when you're already exhausted from PAXing it up, etc). Far better to find some way to stay in walking distance. There are a few options that are more budget friendly than the major convention hotels within a mile of the convention center, and there's always the option of room-splitting.[/quote]
Actually, I recommend the car service Uber, which does late night pick up and drop offs, door to door. You can download the app to your phone, and they charge a credit card on file, so you don't have to carry cash. You can get a car for 4 people to pick up and drop off within a few miles of the convention center for around $10 (split with a group, that's less than train/metro tickets, and they run late nights). Bigger cars for up to 6 are around $20. Use the link below, and you even get a $10 credit after your first ride!
https://uber.com/invite/fq0bo
My crew and I are staying near the stadium (about 1.5 miles from the convention center), and we plan to take turns paying for the car as necessary. Not as convenient as being AT the convention center, but we have a sweet place to stay for half the cost, and we get shuttled around like rock stars!
Also, I am still searching for a DM for the trip. I will be bringing my gameklip and Settlers just in case no DMs are available.