Monday, December 20, 2010

Changing Winds

So this blog started as a class project for RTV 453 Social Media... I figured I would never use it again after the last day of class, but have decided to use it as a journal of experiences in France.  Yeah, France, I'm going to study in France (I can't get over it) for the spring 2011 semester.  Only 52 days till I get on the plane!!! I'm so excited, I've even started a packing list of what I'll need.  Which is something I really think is necessary to ensure that nothing is forgotten and I won't have to scramble at the last minute to gather everything. This is the first year that I've actually had a list of things I wanted for Christmas (usually I just say whatever, I'm super easy to buy for).
I've been doing some research into what can and cannot be taken on a plane (there are some crazy rules) and have discovered a few interesting things that most people probably wouldn't think of...
  • First, for the ladies, it seems that with the heightened security every little piece of metal sets of the alarms (even tin foil wrapped gum), so don't wear under wire bras to the airport.  This has been a big problem at airports and sometimes results in being taken to the backroom.  Also, any water or gel filled bras should be packed in your checked baggage because of the liquid rules (who would've thought a bra could cause such a ruckus, well Madonna maybe).
  • Speaking of liquids the next one I had no idea about.  There is a limit to the amount of liquids in your checked baggage too. I'm sure everyone knows the 3-1-1 rule for carry ons. Only as many three ounce containers that fit in a one quart bag, only one bag per person.  So, the rule for checked baggage, up to a 16 ounce container, no more than 70 ounces total per person. So, be sure to keep tabs on the size of your containers, and remember that a liquid is defined as anything that conforms to its container (this includes creamy items like peanut butter and lotions) Liquids bought on the concourse are fine to take onto your plane.

So, I can hardly wait and am looking forward to meeting new people, seeing new things, and living my life to the fullest.  As my mom says, Carpe Diem!!!