Denver 🇺🇸🏔️

Just got back from an academic conference at Keystone Resort—here’s my raw, unfiltered advice for a smooth trip! 📝 Pre-Trip Must-Knows 1️⃣ Visa & EVUS B1/B2 visa holders: Register for EVUS at least 72 hours before flying. Carry printed copies of your conference invitation + hotel booking. 2️⃣ Money Matters Cash: Exchange $300 (small bills!) at Narita Airport—$100 bills may raise suspicion. Cards: Visa/Mastercard only (no UnionPay!). Apple Pay works everywhere. Tipping: 15-20% expected, but credit card tipping is easier. 3️⃣ Phone & Internet Buy a local SIM/esim (AT&T/T-Mobile) or enable roaming (but avoid China Telecom—only 2G!). No internet = No Uber, no maps, no survival! ✈️ Flight & Altitude Tips United Airlines (Tokyo → Denver): ~10 hrs. Meals: First meal = chicken > pasta; second = omelette. Return flight: 12 hrs, 2 meals + a sandwich. Altitude warning: Denver (1,500m) → Keystone (2,300m) = headaches & fatigue. Avoid intense exercise, drink sugary drinks, reduce salt. Lip balm is a MUST—Denver’s air will crack your lips! ❄️ Packing for Keystone Winter gear: Snow boots, down jacket, thermal gloves (yes, even in spring!). Hotel basics: No slippers/toothbrush—bring your own! Towels/hairdryer provided. 🏨 Accommodation & Transport Free shuttles: Many hotels (e.g., AVID) offer airport transfers—call ahead! RTD A-Line Train: Buy a $10.5 day pass (via RTD app). Rare ticket checks. No luggage storage at Denver Airport—plan accordingly! 🍕 Food & Conference Life Keystone Resort food: Huge pizza/sandwiches (split with colleagues!). Scholarship payments: Avoid checks—they take 30-45 days to clear via Chinese banks (+$65 in fees!). Opt for wire transfers. 🏙️ Quick Denver Exploration Union Station: Pretty, but just a photo op. Colorado State Capitol: Free guided tours (10 AM-2 PM)—ask for the gold dome access! Trader Joe’s: Stock up on snacks (black cans = elite!). 😊 Cultural Notes Americans = friendly but less polished than Japanese service. Diversity everywhere—embrace the chaos! #AcademicTravel #KeystoneResort #DenverTips #AltitudeProblems