that while actual dates would certainly help...the compulsive need for detailed planning is uniquely american. (those with one flight per day excepted).

my point being, obviously there are some logistics that must be considered, but, the spirit of the convention should be to get together as friends and enjoy the company of one another whether or not there is a concrete agenda. it seems to me that a trip anywhere, doing anything (legal) with good friends is cause enough to go.

as for what to do...comparatively speaking, almost any european city is a living artifact in and of itself. just get out and wander. plus, enthusiasm is contagous, and the notion of our group descending on some unsuspecting museum or eatery and charming our way into a better-than-the-usual welcome because of our passion, comaraderie, and compassion is one of unlimited potential

it simply isn't fair to lament the lack of planning or criticize erstwhile, would-be, imaginary, and assumed eu convention "planners" because their methods don't live up to our madness. i don't think the first (and now second?) event(s) fell through because of lack of planning. i think they simply fall short of the level of structure with which we mainstream americans feel comfortable.

so, my thanks to everyone who worked on both attempts. had it been within my means, i'd have booked for both and shown up at your respective doorsteps even if everything else got cancelled...and gone wih the flow from there.

just my two cents (twopence?) worth...probably worth less, even, since i'm not active on site anymore, anyway.