I'm in motherfuckin' Montreaallllll. I just got in, so I have no real thoughts, other than what my colorful uber driver told me. I think I have the kind of conversational demeanor that makes older Uber drivers talk to me as if they were giving life advice to their wayward son. Immigration gave me a good scare. It's really hard to explain why you're in Canada for non-work reasons for 46 days after you tell them you're an online freelancer. Literally the last sentence: "Hey, next time you want to become a citizen in a country, do so the right way, don't just try to stay here until you become a citizen or you'll just get deported." gives me a stamp and points me towards the airport exit, I walk to the uber pickup door smelling of gallons of sweat, gratitude, and shame. Thing: I did Startup Weekend before I left Alaska and my team won 2nd place! There was only three of us on our team, so I'm pretty proud of it, even though we presented a business plan, instead of an actual tech idea. Also won a free ipad, so I was able to give my mom something for Christmas without feeling like an abject failure. Other thing: I'm really afraid of clubbing. My hosts are going to take me clubbing soon and I need to not get into my super introverted shell / throw up on anyone's shoes. Anyone have any advice?
I hate customs so much. I used to travel a lot to see bands. Canada usually didn't give me to much grief to get in, even if it was for 16 hours, but my own damn country acts like I'm suspicious because my vacations to somewhat distant places only last a day. Yes I'm from Wisconsin. Yes I was there this morning. Yes I realize it's 2 AM at Niagara Falls. I don't know how to open the trunk. It's a rental. Yes I was in Toronto just to see a band. No, not working for them, just a fan. No I don't know them. Sure, if it makes you feel better, I'm a pretty big fan. Ugh. The few blocks of Montreal I've seen are cool.
See you in a couple days! I can’t wait. You already win points because the centre phi is one of the hottest new places in town. It’s my personal opinion but I find clubs kind of boring. Especially in Montreal because we have so much more fun stuff around :) My advice is to suck it up for a night, and then find friends around your interests/events. I’ll try to point you in the right direction!
See you soon! I'm going to be drunk at their party. On their livestream. Surrounded by famous / really good chess players. I'm crying on the inside >.<