Chicagoland First Travel Meeting - Saturday 11/16 @ 10:00 a.m.

I look forward to meeting you next weekend, Sarah....and anyone else who can make it too.

The driving directions for those coming off the Ike are as follows:

Exit at Harlem (a left exit). Go north on Harlem about 1 mile to Lake Street (just after the railroad viaduct). Turn left on Lake going west one block to the first light. Left at that light into the strip mall. The Panera and parking for it will be to the right as you enter the strip mall.

You can also take the Metra UP West line to the Oak Park Station. The directions are virtually the same as for the L once you get off the train.

The Panera is in River Forest.

Not sure how big a group it will be but there aren't a lot of large seating areas in the restaurant. To the left as you walk in is the best bet, or just to the right as you walk in.

I hope to attend but will be late as I have another event that starts at 10:00.

@Diane - glad you can come to the meeting!

@Douglas - hope you can make it as well.

For anyone who is coming, please feel free to bring a Rick Steves book so we can more easily ID each other. I'll bring my 2 books and stand them up on the table(s). I know how difficult it can be to find new people in a crowded space!

Send that Panera Helpline meeting franchise fee to me, c/o ETBD ;-)

I heartily suggest wearing moneybelts on the outside of your clothing, fannypacks, and all assorted 'footloose-and-fancy-free' types of luggage to help you recognize each other. Khakis are a given.

We will be easy to spot because we'll all be dressed like sophisticated travelers, not sloppy tourists...

Love your post, Eileen! I'm bringing my huge suitcase, white tennis shoes, a shirt with an American flag on it, my DLSR...did I forget anything? :)

Speak really loudly, and complain often that 'that's not how WE do it'.

Or, hold an open umbrella over your head like a tour guide...if you aren't superstitious. The piece de resistance is a huge, floppy, fake flower at the top.

Everyone will find your table ;-)

It was wonderful to meet everyone today! (And to meet Eileen in spirit! :) ) We had a good turnout of 5 people and everyone shared some travel stories and future travel plans. The Panera is also a good location for all us - we come by L, Metra, and car.

Yes, it was very nice meeting everyone today. I look forward to meeting again next year, January 18th at 10am at the same Panera Bread. We decided to skip December because of the busy holidays.