Expectations of Trip

Going on trips to various parts of the country is always exciting but also can add an element of nervousness, nervousness for not knowing what to expect. When initially looking into the trip I was slightly skeptical about going prior to attending one of the required meetings but after hearing Colleen’s excitement and going through various parts of the trip my mindset immediately changed. Taking this course is not only fulfilling my requirement for an upper general education class but also is giving me the opportunity to see a new part of the country that I may not see otherwise. Since deciding to take this trip to New Orleans I have paid more attention to various shows that surround the area to gather an understanding of what to expect. I am hoping that by doing that I have not tainted my thoughts of the area or already ruined my experience.  The expectations that I have from taking this class are simply to experience a new place, be immersed in the culture, and develop blogging skills.  This is the first time for me to not only set up a blog but to also write one as well.  What I am mot excited for with this trip is to try new foods, spend a week with fellow students outside of a stressful semester, and to escape the cold weather here in Illinois.  Whenever I talk with anyone about my trip the two things they tell me I need to try are Beignets and jambalaya while I am in New Orleans.  So having a food tour as part of our activities has me excited to see what other types of food they highlight for tourists to try.  Going to warm weather is always a plus when going on a trip especially when it is getting colder up here.  One song that I always think of when it comes to New Orleans is "When The Saints Go Marching In" especially the Louis Armstrong version since it encompasses the jazz element that is said to be the heart of the city.

Preparations for Trip

  Packing for trips can either be stressful for some or therapeutic for others. Understanding what you need to take comprises of multiple components such as the weather, what is most comfortable for trip activities, and necessities that you cannot go without. When I start packing for a trip I start by looking at the weather to see what the forecast looks like before putting together outfits. Knowing the weather dictates what you will pack/wear. From there I made a list of things I would need from the store such as travel size personal hygiene kits and medicine that I may need for the trip like Tylenol and Dramamine.

Since we are able to check our luggage I also had to plan a carry-on bag of things I would need for the train ride. That bag would consist of items that may be needed to ease the comfort of journey such as a travel pillow, small blanket, my laptop, and a book to read. Once I figured out what I would be packing I began to prepare myself for the class by looking up different topics on New Orleans not only to complete my part of the E-travel guide but to also know more about the area. Having a general idea of the different areas of New Orleans will not only help with navigating but also has heightened my excitement for the week long excursion. With being gone for a week I needed to make sure I contacted work to request of my weekend shift since it fell on my weekend to work. Beyond that the other components of my daily life have been shifted/moved to accommodate the trip.