The Winter Music Conference can be complicated and overwhelming. Mainly because unless you are going to the Ultra (If you are reading this you probably are not), there are tons of parties going on at the same time, so here are some tips to have fun, keep your cool, and make it back home on time.
Planning: Airline tickets are already very expensive so the sooner you buy them the better. I personally prefer flying to Ft. Lauderdale: it’s less congested and you will be in and out in no time. If you are staying at a hotel, Bingo! You are set with accommodations. Just make sure it’s in a decent distance from downtown and Miami Beach. If you are staying at a friend’s house, be careful. Have a plan B and C in mind. If your friend goes to sleep, gets lost, or his/her cell phone doesn't work, you are doomed to sleep on the street. If you know which shows you are going to see for sure then buy tickets ahead of time. A good example is the closing party at Pawn Shop.
From Here to There: Transportation can be a major bitch in Miami in the hours of 10pm to 10am. You would only need a cab going from your hotel/friends couch to South Beach and Down Town. So if you are moving between those times call for a Cab an hour before (save the number 305-444-444). Renting a car is not a bad idea but it is expensive. It gives you the flexibility of going anywhere as you wish (Miami is a commuter challenged city). But, first make sure you can park wherever you are staying. Don't worry, parking at the clubs is not a problem. Most of them have valet parking (ranging from 10 to 20 dollars flat rate). The biggest draw back of the rental besides the cost is that you wont be able to drink. Cops are everywhere.
The Law: During this week cops are everywhere and they place state troopers at the doors of every major hotel. If you are doing something illegal, do it during the day when security is not so tight.
Drugs: In Miami drugs are cheaper but in this week the prices go up like crazy. If you know someone in Miami, send them some money and have them buy it for you before. This is cheaper and safer. If you don't, take them with you on the plane and don't worry I asked a customs agent (this is true) [Warning this only applies to pills, acid, and mushrooms don't try to take coke or weed on a plane]
Shows: There are too many shows at the same time. Make sure the people you are with want to see the same shows. If someone wants to do something different set a rendezvous point for later. The best way to plan your shows is by going to the Remix Hotel (National Hotel on Collins ave.). They will give you a booklet with every show until the end of the week. Also, plan ahead. Cover charges range from 20 to 80 dollars so its an average of 100 dollars only in covers per night.
Getting Home: If you have class or work on Monday, don't gamble! Leave Pawn Shop on time and sleep on the plane. If you can take Monday off also... you deserve it!
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