Dr Salonen's WorldTravel

IBM, GM Collaborate on Technology for Chevrolet Volt Electric Car - Application Development - News & Reviews

2010-11-18T11:27:00.001-06:00

Katos JP...

Olen taas Suomessa... Takaisin 27.11

http://mobile.eweek.com/c/a/Application-Development/IBM-GM-Collaborate-on-Technology-for-Chevrolet-Volt-Electric-Car-151125/

Let the road trip to Western Europe begin!

2010-05-14T08:49:00.001-06:00

It is time to hit the road. I have been preparing for a 6 country business seminar for Microsoft partners (WebsiteSpark) and we will be doing 2 countries each week. The first one is Milan (Italy), then Vienna (Austria), Stockholm (Sweden), Helsinki (Finland), Brussels (Belgium), Lissabon (Portugal).

I am starting my trip from DFW, flying via New York and the to Milan.

Time to get back home from Seattle

2010-03-17T16:38:00.001-06:00

A few days in Seattle were highly productive, lots of meetings with Microsoft and Microsoft partners. Time to fly home, fortunately I was upgraded to first class. Dallas, here I come!

Seattle, here I come again.

2010-03-14T09:49:00.001-06:00

Oh well, two nights in my own bed was all that I was able to get this time. I am on my way to Seattle and did not get upgraded this time probably due to spring break travel... I will just sleep away the seat that does not give you space for work.

Two weeks in Helsinki was awesome

2010-03-14T09:46:00.000-06:00

My two weeks in Helsinki was not only useful, but proved that I am working on the right things concerning my company. We had many successful events such as ISV seminar and ISV workshop and I also had a speech for more than 300 people about influencer intelligence. The weather in Finland was awesome, lots of snow and pretty cold.

I flew back via Paris to Dallas for a couple of nights as my travel continues to Seattle, WA for 3 nights. It looks like that I will continue on my Executive Platinum status this year as well.

Dallas - New York - Helsinki

2010-03-01T16:14:00.001-06:00

Two nights home, and then back on the road. This time I am flying to Helsinki via New York. The flight from Dallas to New York was a choppy one...

I really like this new terminal in JFK, the Admirals Club has its own section for executive platinum members, the terminal has a nice food court and overall it is pretty nice. The weather here has been sunny today while it has been raining in Dallas.

Flying back to Dallas from San Francisco

2010-02-27T17:08:00.001-06:00

Time to fly back to Dallas. I spent a couple of nights in the historical Fairmont hotel in downtown San Francisco, having interesting discussions with executives from all over the world. I also had a chance to have a quick meeting in Cupertino, so lots of things accomplished during the two days. Coming here I got to experience the coach class... No better luck... was upgraded to business... Unfortunately I won't have time to be in Dallas more than two nights as I have to fly to Finland on Monday.

Here we go again, San Francisco

2010-02-25T07:19:00.001-06:00

It is almost a month since I traveled, but now my travel starts with full steam. I am on my way to San Francisco to do a keynote speech (downtown San Francisco) and also to have a meeting in Cupertino. I am returning on Saturday, but will be leaving to Helsinki Finland on Monday via New York. I was not upgraded, so sitting in coach in these small seats.

Pleasant stay in Paris in route to Dallas

2010-01-14T03:01:00.001-06:00

I flew yesterday from Helsinki to Charles de Gaulle, Paris. I had booked Holiday Inn at Charles de Gaulle airport that was a good choice and I realized of having been there before. Why is this hotel nice... It has a nice restaurant and bar for a meeting, the rooms are clean and it is close to the airport.

This morning I had to get to the airport, the shuttle takes one to the airport train, smooth, very smooth. The security was easy today,not too much people but it could be that my priority status helped a bit. I am now sitting in Admirals Club waiting on my flight to Dallas... It has been very smooth sailing today at CDG.

Finland and a week of snow and cold

2010-01-13T03:56:00.001-06:00

The week is over. Helsinki has not had this much snow in 40 years and it was very evident by measuring the hassle in the traffic. It was cold, it snowed a lot and now I am on my way to Paris for one night with a meeting. The hassle with luggage in Helsinki airport is laughable... Labor unions.... I hope they can fix the issues so the travel can continue as normal.

Time to travel

2010-01-05T10:13:00.001-06:00

I can't believe it, I was not travelling at all during December 2009 which felt good, very good. I am now on my way to Helsinki, Finland and then to Paris, France and back to Dallas. I heard that there is huge amount of snow in Helsinki... and cold... so that is going to be interesting to see. The weather in Dallas has been very cold as well and based on local newspapers, the snow on the 24th of December was only the 7th time during the last 111 years. How about that.... I am flying via New York with American Airlines and switching to Finnair to get to Helsinki$

Back to Dallas after 3 days in Los Angeles

2009-11-19T20:39:00.001-06:00

Yet again on a plane, now flying from Los Angeles LAX airport to Dallas. I spent four interesting days learning new stuff at Microsoft PDC09 event (Professional Developers Conference) with announcements around Windows Azure etc. Useful week I have to say and still one day to go.

Los Angeles, CA for a few days

2009-11-16T07:07:00.001-06:00

I am on my way to Los Angeles for a conference and very excited about it as Microsoft will now publicly announce Windows Azure, its cloud computing platform. I am staying there until Thursday and unfortunately did not get upgraded on my way there but will be flying business coming back.

Flight via Paris to Dallas, Texas had some issues

2009-11-16T07:02:00.001-06:00

I returned to Dallas via Paris and of course it was delayed in Paris due to a technical issue but fortunately the issue was cleared. I was upgraded to business so I had the opportunity relax and sleep some during the flight. One week and I am good again for another trip, this time to Los Angeles.

A week in Helsinki is behind

2009-11-06T22:08:00.001-06:00

I had a productive week in Helsinki with numerous meetings with different companies. The weather was typical for this time of the year.... dark, rainy and we even got snow one day... I heard that it is still more then +25 centigrades in Dallas which is sweet....

The flight between New York and Helsinki was sweet..

2009-11-06T22:07:00.001-06:00

I was lucky, Finnair upgraded me for my flight over the Atlantic. I was able to sleep, work and enjoy the flight.... Thank your Finnair!

Amazing flight between Dallas - New York

2009-10-29T16:27:00.001-06:00

I was lucky even if the storm almost screwed my flight... I had a good discussion with a President of a very well known brand sitting with me and discussing about life, career and other fun stuff. Now I am sitting in business class flying from New York to Helsinki...cool, very cool...

Finland on my mind: Fall weather in Helsinki

2009-10-29T10:33:00.001-06:00

Well, it was fun as long as it lasted... Dallas, my home, is without me for a week as I am on my way to Finland for a week. The weather here in Dallas is aweful, a front from north is approaching, the temperature will drop from 79 Fahrenheit to 55 in matter of hours but I am sure that it will be bad in Helsinki as well... I will have a bunch of meetings so I am good with any weather!

A week in Seattle behind

2009-10-23T16:30:00.001-06:00

Yet another week away from home.... This time the weather was pretty rainy, but very successful from business perspective. I am in Dallas for a few days and then I have to fly to Helsinki again for a week... Miles get clocking....

Seattle, Redmond, Bellevue in my mind

2009-10-18T06:49:00.001-06:00

A week in my home city and now it is time for travel again. I am headed to Seattle, Tacoma to have meetings for the whole week. The weather in Dallas is beautiful this early morning and I have had my first triple grade soy latte.... Life is good...

Finally back in Dallas, Texas

2009-10-10T20:33:00.001-06:00

The change of plane in Frankfurt was too tight, I just barely made my flight. We were 9 passangers that had to get off the Finnair flight and run to American Airlines flight 71 to Dallas. We were running like crazy, but made it. I was upgraded to business and had a very pleasant flight. Dallas is cold to this time of the year (52 degrees).

On my way to Dallas, Texas from Finland

2009-10-09T21:39:00.001-06:00

A week is behind and I am on my way back to Dallas via Frankfurt Germany. The week was very successful, meetings and the weather was very fall-like with snow coming in northern part of Finland. It will be nice to get back home.

Finally in Finland

2009-10-01T23:57:00.001-06:00

Finally in Helsinki, Finland after a long trip via New York to Helsinki (from Dallas). It feels strange as the weather is below zero and the fall is here. The contrast between Finland and Dallas at this point in time is huge. The sun is shining, so life is good!

I am on my way to Helsinki again, via New York

2009-10-01T10:09:00.001-06:00

It stinks, I did not make my upgrade to first class, so it is going to be coachall the way to Helsinki. Finland got its first snow yesterday, so the difference between Dallas and Helinski weather is huge at this point in time. It is raining in Dallas today.

Business trip to Seattle/Redmond is almost over

2009-09-18T18:08:00.001-06:00

Finally I am on the plane in Seattle-Tacoma airport on my way back to Dallas. It has rained the whole week in Dallas and the sun has shined in almost every day. My flight is delayed for almost 3 hours so I will be home around midnight... huh...

Seattle, Redmond for a week

2009-09-14T11:15:00.001-06:00

It is time to spend a week in Seattle, Redmond Campus. Like before, I am still amazed how large this country is. It takes more than 4 hours to fly from Dallas to Seattle-Tacoma airport. It has rained 4 days in Dallas, so I am ready for the nice sunshine in Seattle.

Two weeks in Finland was productive

2009-08-29T03:41:00.001-06:00

I am back on the Helsinki Vantaa airport waiting on my flight back home to Texas. I came here 2 weeks ago via New York, and messed my flight schedule as I did not realize that there were 2 Friday evening flights to Helsinki so I spent 6 hours in the New York American Airlines Admirals Club waiting for my flight. At least I got some work done. The flight to Helsinki was good, but had to sit in coach which was not fun. Now I am flying back to Dallas via New York (coach again) but will have First Class from New York to Dallas. The weather in Finland has been warm, pretty sunny and the trip was a success overall.

Final leg on our vacation

2009-08-09T10:15:00.001-06:00

Getting onshore from the cruise ship was effortless and easy. The only thing we would have wished that the cruiseline would have told us that we were able to make-up our delay from Grand Cayman Islands. We took a cab from the Ft Lauderdale port to Miami International airport (MIA) and this was a 30 min ride and cost me 81 dollars. At the MIA airport we used the comfortable Admirals Club and the only thing I would have wished is to get a direct flight to Dallas and not via Nashville... Well, we will be home tonight in DFW and that is what matters.

Two days sailing from Panama Canals to Ft Lauderdale

2009-08-09T09:52:00.001-06:00

We spent two full days on the Carnival Freedom cruise ship enjoying the beautiful weather and the amendnities of the ship. The ship has a large gym (I used it 3 times during the 8 day cruise) with machines and free weights and it is on the uppermost deck with beautiful scenery over the waters.

We also had to do an emergency stop at Grand Cayman as somebody had to be taken for emergency surgery and this delayed us a little but the current and the crew was able to make it back during the rest of the cruise. We came in to Fort Lauderdale early Sunday morning 9th.

The most interesting excursion during the 4 years of Caribbean cruises (Panama) and 17+ Caribbean Islands

2009-08-07T14:27:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was the most interesting day so far during our 17+ islands of exploration so far. We woke up 5.30 AM to get ready for a full day of exploration of Panama City, Panama Canals and Colon, the second largest free port on the earth after Hong Kong. We drove for an hour from Colon to Panama City (second town) that is being completely rebuilt by the protection of Unesco and this city project will take 10 years. From there we moved for lunch to the business city with all of the banking centers etc. And finally to the old city where everything started. On our way back to the ship, we visited the canal locks at the Caribbean side and that sight was impressive! I have always wanted to see the Panama Canal and this dream came true yesterday. I hope to be able to revisit Panama soon.

Limon, Costa Rica day

2009-08-05T17:31:00.000-06:00

The morning started in an interesting way. The Costa Rican officials refused to let the passangers to get off the ship.... more than an hour of negotiations and we do not know the reason for it other than Carnival HQ in Miami getting involved in the discussion.

We participated today into an excursion that took us to a banana plantation where we could see how 26 percent of the worlds banana production is handled and how the 10 US/day employees are managing the production line. We also drove down a river into the rain forest for 2.5 hours and saw plenty of different animals and birds. The same river would take one up to Nicaragua if you continue for 6 hours (80 miles) so this gives one some perspective to the country. Tonight we will continue to Panama where we will participate in an excursion with 8 hours of Panama City and surroundings.

Cruising from Cozumel, Mexico to Limon, Costa Rica

2009-08-04T23:40:00.001-06:00

The trip continued from Mexico to Limon, Costa Rica and due to the distance, this trip had one sea day (with 2 nights) and our aim is to participate in an excursion that takes us to the rain forest, banan plantation and this trip is done by a bus and a boat. Costa Rica is known of its beauty, coffee and nature. I am exited to visit the country.

Day of beautiful excursion by beach buggy and snorkling in over the corral reefs

2009-08-04T23:36:00.001-06:00

We took an excursion in Cozumel where each 4 people had a beach buggy and I was the driver again this year. We had the opportunity to do real snorkling in a very beautiful spot with thousands of different fishes, as well as stingray etc. I have never seen such beauty and this snorkling took 2 hours and I was very tired after that, but pleased. We also visited some Mayan ruines, a light tower and had a chance to do some shopping.

From Ft Launderdale to Cozumel, Mexico

2009-08-04T23:30:00.001-06:00

The Carnival Freedom took us during one sea day to the beautiful island of Cozumel, Mexico for a full day of adventure. The cruise ship Carnival Freedom is built in 2007 in Italy (not in Finland like many of Carnival ships). The weather during the first seaday was beautiful and very hot and I took advantage of the fully equipped gym that is located in the top floor in the front of the ship. This makes my day so I can continue on the regular rythm that I want to keep on a weekly basis.

On Caneval Cruise Freedom

2009-08-01T13:25:00.001-06:00

Ok, the trip has started to Cozumel, Mexico, Panama and Costa Rica. This will be 8 days of fun and relaxation. This is the first time we are starting our trip from Ft Launderdale, FL.

No more hotels.com

2009-08-01T13:22:00.000-06:00

I have to say that I am very dissapointed on hotels.com. We flew to Ft Lauderdale a couple of nights ago and the flight was delayed so we decided to call and notify the hotel that we were arriving late. The hotel did not even have our reservations, so we called hotels.com.... No problem, they said, we will just cancel your reservations to your two room suite and refund... She did not even want to fix their mistake...the hotel was full and hotels.com had never booked it on the one we were supposed to be on.... We ended up in a one room "middle of nowhere" place and paid a fortune on cab rides etc. So, what have we learned of this..... Never again hotels.com in my life, we will call the hotels directly. Hilton will get my money going forward, they again saved us. Hotels.com has been bad news for us every time we use it ad now I have had it.

Caribbean, here we come

2009-07-30T17:58:00.001-06:00

Our annual week to Caribbean is here and I am sitting here on DFW airport sipping Stella Artois and having a nice dinner before boarding American Airlines Fort Launderdale flight. This is the week I have been waiting for. We will be visiting Cozumel, Mexico, Panama and Costa Rica... sweet....

Flight from Atlanta was uneventful but nice

2009-07-30T17:55:00.001-06:00

I tool the Martha train from downtown Atlanta south to the airport and decided to try to get on an earlier flight... and with my status with American Airlines it was a non-brainer and I was even upgraded to first class. Thank you AA!

Drive to Atlanta, GA from Destin, FL: travel route

2009-07-18T17:28:00.001-06:00

This trip is around 350 miles and we decided first to drive to Panama City, via 98n then highway 231 to Dothan, Alabama, along 431 to Columbus, then I--I-185 to I-85 N and this takes us to Atlanta.

To Atlanta Georgia with a car from New Orleans

2009-07-18T17:23:00.001-06:00

We decided to drive a car instead of flying to Atlanta and this was the plan: thursday night to Destin, Florida on I-10 where we drove through Mississippi and Alabama to Florida. We stayed at The Palms of Destin that had everything we needed for 2 nights. I am amazed of Destin and its beauty and evening life. Make sure you check out the location of your hotel before you book it so you do not have to use a vechile during the evenings... The traffic is horrible.... It took us 5 hours (290 miles) to drive to Destin the first evening...

New Orleans Microsoft Worldwide Conference 2009 is behind us

2009-07-18T17:15:00.001-06:00

A week went fast in New Orleans while participating in #WPC09. The weather was humid and steamy, but with the hotel (Hilton Riverwalk) close to the Convention Center, things went smooth. It was obvious that some places overcharged for things, but I am OK with that as we need to get Nola on its feet again. People were friendly, food was good and the bands on Bourbon Street were perfect! Thanks Nola for the week!

Two night in my own bed and now on my way to New Orleans

2009-07-10T06:10:00.001-06:00

Ok, it is time to go again. This time I am flying to New Orleans to attend to Microsoft Worldwide Conference that will take place in the beautiful Nola. Yesterday when I drove with my car in Dallas, it was 106 Fahrenheit, which is far too much... Nola will be even worse, and I will attend to IAMCP golf tournament on Saturday... I hope that does not take people down due to the heat.

When you travel too much, people get to know you

2009-07-10T06:06:00.001-06:00

During my flight back from Helsinki to Dallas via Frankfurt, the American Airlines representative was at the gate waiting for the people to get to the Dallas plane. When she saw me, she said "why don't you Mr. Salonen lead this pack to our gate as you have been doing this forever". I have to say that it felt good as I was on my way home to Dallas and that meant that I was almost halfway there. The upgrade made my flight enjoyable as the chairs will go down to sleeping position. Thank you American Airlines.

Return to Dallas from Finland

2009-07-06T22:47:00.001-06:00

I am finally on my way back to Dallas, Texas from Finland. It has been an eventful three weeks, lots of kilometers in the beautiful Finland visiting cities such as Savonlinna, Imatra, Lappeenranta, Kuopio and 10 days of these were extremely hot and sunny days. I am flying to Dallas via Frankfurt, and unfortunately have to fly again for a week to New Orleans for a conference so not really having time to enjoy home that much.

Mobile weather alert Detail from WeatherBug.com

2009-06-27T09:43:00.001-06:00

Unbelievable heat-wave in my home state and city.

http://weather-mobile.weatherbug.com/TX/Roanoke-weather/severe-weather/local-alerts.aspx?cid=15&aid=42253001

Time to return to Helsinki after midsummer festivities

2009-06-21T06:13:00.001-06:00

Time flies quickly.... I am sitting in a intercity train from Lahti to Helsinki after a couple of days of too much eating and not moving around... The weather was not cooperating this time... It was cold and some rain showers that did not excite people to take full advantage of the midsummer evenings. I have to say that I love the train system in Finland... It really works....

Midsummer in Finland

2009-06-18T09:28:00.001-06:00

I am on my way to celebrate midsummer, which is one of the largest celebrations in Finland and statistically we will have around 15-20 people to get killed of different reasons such as drownings, fights and traffic accidents. There was already a major traffic accident in Mantsala (between Helsinki and Lahti) with seven cars involved.

I am sitting in a train to Lahti and from there I will drive to our summer cottage that is close.... I will be returning on Sunday to Helsinki.

Flight from Dallas to New York to Helsinki: expect the bags to be left in New York

2009-06-18T09:22:00.000-06:00

I have flown twice this route from and both times I have had to exit Helsinki Airport without bags. Both times I have also had to experience the lower than expected service at Helsinki Airport.... They are arrogant, they do not care about your issue, and frankly, you do not exist to them. This time they did not even care to call me the following day to let me know that my bags arrived.... They just dropped it to the office... Anybody could have received my bag claiming it is his or hers... Huh... There is lots to fix in the company that takes care of the lost bags...

To Finland again... airmiles are accumulating

2009-06-13T10:59:00.001-06:00

I am sitting on the plane again... Only one week in Dallas... and a very busy and eventful week with Tornado, damages in our neighbourhood and across Dallas.... We were without electricity for 24 hours and with a heat index of 110 Fahrenheit, that was not fun at all. I am sur Finland will have more moderate temperature. I was also lucky, I was upgraded to first class on the leg from Dallas to New York so I get to work with my laptop.

Palo Alto two nights was fun

2009-06-04T17:54:00.001-06:00

I participated as speaker and panelist at IDC Software Channel Executive event in Palo Alto Sheraton this week. The flight from Dallas to San Jose, CA took 3 hours 10 minutes.

I took a chance to test out the Caltrain from Santa Clara to Palo Alto and that was probably the best thing one can do if travelling along Silicon Valley. Take the bus from San Jose airport (number 10) to Santa Clara and then jump on the train and you will see all these nice cities along the way.

Trip back from Finland was uneventful

2009-06-04T17:50:00.001-06:00

My trip back from Finland was smooth, the Finnair flight from Helsinki to Frankfurt with continued flight to Dallas was good and business class felt good...

The trip to Finland is over for now

2009-05-30T23:12:00.001-06:00

Two weeks went quickly and I am on my way to Dallas, Texas via Frankfurt Germany. During this trip, I experienced again the unbelievable light that I have almost forgotten during the past 11 years. I will have to do a little trip to Palo Alto, CA almost immediately on Tuesday to speak at an IDC event, but after that I will have a chance to stay at least a week in Dallas...

Hard to get used to the light so early

2009-05-21T23:54:00.001-06:00

It is 09.00 AM in Helsinki and the sun is very high on the sky.... It is remarkable how light it is already in the morning compared with Dallas, Texas...

The start of the week in Helsinki, Finland

2009-05-21T04:17:00.001-06:00

I have had a good start of the week in Finland, however, too many working hours as with the time difference of 8 hours, my days have been more than 16 hours a day. Today, it is a public holiday in Finland (religious), but tomorrow will be open for business again. I have a full day of meetings and this weekend I will work on my upcoming book as well. The weather in Helsinki is cloudy, chilly but perfeect for walking.

Bags lost somewhere between Dallas-New York-Helsinki

2009-05-18T00:55:00.001-06:00

I landed in sunny Helsinki to find out that my bags have been lost somewhere between the route. I have to say that the person at the lost bags desk seem to be lost himself and thanks to a fellow traveller, I was able to get the 70 Euros, toothpaste and T-Shirt for 24 hours... I wonder whether the rest will follow soon...

On the road again... Helsinki Finland this time

2009-05-17T10:17:00.001-06:00

Our prior trip to Florida was good, even with a four hour delay and diverted flight to Austin so DFW could be cleared from the storm. This trip will be 2 weeks with lots of meetings and projects. The weather in Dallas has been odd... Kind of Finnish summer, not too hot or too chilly... It should be much warmer at this time of the year... I am flying this time via New York to Helsinki, Finland.

South Beach Florida is rock'n roll place to stay

2009-05-11T03:22:00.001-06:00

We spent the last day in Miami Beach/South Beach by walking and enjoying the beautiful weather. I have to say that this was a perfect trip with good company and lot's of laugh. This morning we are flying from Miami to Dallas Fort Worth.

An evening of joy an relaxation in Miami South Beach

2009-05-10T07:00:00.001-06:00

It was a busy evening on South Beach and we had a nice dinner on Lincoln Street and walked around and there were lot's of people enjoying a Saturday evening. I like Miami, there is now question about that. The only complaint is that hotels do not have parking place for motor cycles... That is the only problem and I hope that nobody touched our Harley's during the night.

Check out pictures at http://www.yourmctravel.com

2009-05-09T12:27:00.001-06:00

I have posted a bunch of pictures to the MC travel site http://www.yourmctravel.com

Road back to Miami from Key West

2009-05-09T12:25:00.001-06:00

We are on our way back to Miami after a beautiful day and night in Key West and a very busy evening in Sloppy Joe bar. The city has changed during the past 17 years and this time we had a chance to explore the city driving a Harley. We decided to stop at Bahia Honda State Park that was selected as number one beach back in 1992. We will be staying in Miami South Beach for a couple of nights and fly back to Dallas on Monday morning. The sun is shining and the temperature is 90 Fahrenheit.

Motorcycling in Florida

2009-05-08T13:28:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, we flew to Miami and picked up a Harley-Davison Ultra Glide Classic with the aim to ride to Key West. Our first night was on a beautiful Marriott Resort in Key Largo to celebrate my best friend's wife that turned 50. Next morning we continued our trip to Key West with multiple stops along the way. We have now driven around 200 miles.. with beautiful scenes.

Miami and Harley-Davison, here we come!

2009-05-07T04:38:00.001-06:00

Three hours of sleep, and I am sitting again in the plane.. Now on my way to Miami... with a plan to drive with Harley-Davison to Key West and other nice places along the way. Very excited about this and well deserved trip!

Thank you American Airlines AA-71 from Frankfurt to Dallas 6th of May, 2009

2009-05-06T18:53:00.001-06:00

The crew in American Airlines AA-71 did my flight enjoyable. Smiles, helpful crew was awesome (I flew in business this time). I was able to sleep for 7 hours... and it will be a brutal wake-up 04.00 AM as our flight to Miami will depart 06.00 AM... Sweet

A week in Helsinki in awesome weather

2009-05-05T21:55:00.001-06:00

I am again at the Helsinki-Vantaa airport and it is time ti fly back to Dallas... this time via Frankfurt. I had the opportunity to enjoy the best possible spring weather (even if I had lot's of work) and the 1st of May celebration. The only negative side of these 1 week trips is that you get used to the time difference in one week when it is time to return. I will not have much time to enjoy Dallas as I am flying to Miami the following morning... This time it will be a pleasure trip with some motorcycling.... with a Harley-Davison.

Gym's in Helsinki, Finland are in dire straits: I found one that I can recommend

2009-05-02T10:01:00.000-06:00

I am one of those that travel all the time, so it is important for me to find a gym whereever I go. I am spending time in Helsinki quite a lot and living in my own apartment in downtown Helsinki, so my aim was to find a place that is affordable and where I can have a contract that is for occasional travellers such as me. I went to many places and they all gave me the same answer: we do not have anything resonable for people like me... I have to pay 9 Euros for onetime use.. That is not going to fly with me... that is almost 12 dollars which I found too much especially as I am paying a monthly fee for 24-hours fitness in the US. The place to go to is City Gym that is located with Radisson SAS Hotel in Kamppi. They were willing to work out a plan with me and I went there today. I have used this place for years, but with the new ownership there are new rules. Shame on the others, good for City Gym.

Helsinki main marketplace rocks

2009-05-02T02:59:00.001-06:00

I am sitting and enjoying my traditional cup of coffee at Helsinki main marketplace. The temperature is almost 20 centigrades and sun is shining from a completely blue sky. Life is good..

Not a bad flight experience with American Airlines from Dallas to Frankfurt

2009-04-28T01:44:00.001-06:00

The flight was pretty smooth, even in economy class this time. The only negative side was that I did not have leg room at all as there was a wall between my seat and business class. Frankfurt airport is as always.... I am waiting on my flight to Helsinki... I hope the rainy weather does not create any delays.

On my way to Helsinki, Finland

2009-04-27T14:00:00.001-06:00

I am on my way to Finland again, I applode American Airlines representative to take an extra mile to get a seat to me and my business partner to sit side-by-side in economy. The seat is ok, first row after the business. I got a seat in business on my way back 6th of May. According to the news, weather in Finland has been very nice and warm.

Texas Hill Country motorcycle trip is behind

2009-04-27T13:50:00.001-06:00

I have to say that our annual spring Hill Country, Texas trip was very relaxing and enjoyble. First night in Fredricksburg, then Bandera and finally Austin, Texas was a perfect combination with 1020 miles of perfect motorcycle riding. More to follow with pictures and details.

Time to leave Seattle again... Dallas in my mind

2009-04-22T08:11:00.001-06:00

Three days in Seattle... and time to return to Dallas. I have been here quite a few times and I have to say that the Seattle-Tacoma airport works well, I have not run into any snags at all and the traffc from Redmond and Bellevue has cooperated well. I have to say that Bellevue Hyatt Regent personnel do a tremendous job and are exceptionally friendly and helpful. If you want tro enjoy your stay in Bellevue, Hyatt is a safe bet.

A good day today at Microsoft Executive Briefing Center

2009-04-20T23:54:00.000-06:00

It was a beautiful day today with a sunny morning start and a cab drive from Bellevue Hyatt Regency hotel to Microsoft Executive Briefing Center in Redmond Microsoft Campus. These cities are really moving fast towards the spring and the day was beautiful with clear and blue sky. After the long day and before dinner, I used the Hyatty Regency gym again.. I have traveled soon 3 million miles with American Airlines, stayed in hundreds of hotels and this hotel has a gym that you do not see many times.. Last time I saw a comparable one was in Mumbai, India during my fall 2008 trip. This is the hotel to stay if you visit this city. Also, based on the information, this is going to be the largest conference hotel in town very soon...

Bellevue, WA Hyatt Regency is a treat

2009-04-19T20:45:00.001-06:00

This is my second time I stay in this hotel and I love it. They have a large fully equipped gym and close to restaurants and shops. And most importantly, it is only 5.5 miles from Microsoft Campus where I will be spending the next couple of days.

Flying to Seattle

2009-04-19T06:23:00.001-06:00

My traveling spree is starting again. It is early morning and I will be flying to Seattle for three nights and will be back on Wednesday. It is a beautiful morning, everything is green and I am sipping my triple grande soy latte... Life is good... I was upgraded to business class as well... sweet...

Two weeks of travel behind: returning back to Dallas from Finland

2009-03-25T23:04:00.001-06:00

I am returning back home to Dallas, Texas after a very busy two weeks of travel and work with clients. The weather was very nice in all places during the travel and Helsinki showed a nice sunny side multiple days even if it is still below zero centigrades. I will have to return to Finland in April again, but I will worry about that later on. Now I am focused on getting home.

Bratislava - A city I like and a warning when reserving room from Orbitz or Expedia

2009-03-19T01:21:00.001-06:00

I am waiting on my flight from Bratislava to Prague with a continued service to Helsinki on Czech Airlines. Two nights in Bratislava was very nice and I had a chance to meet with lots of interesting people at local Microsoft office and during some evening gettogether at a bowling alley. I will still be staying in Europe until next thursday, enough for me to be adjusted to the time zone and then get issues again when going back.

A word of warning... Every time I buy my hotel room from Expedia or Orbitz, hotels put me in a sub-standard room (or smoking one like this time) and they di not know hiw to handle the pre-payment. I am now convinced that I should not use these two to buy hotel rooms.

Bumpy ride from Prague to Bratislava, Slovakia

2009-03-17T16:01:00.000-06:00

The plane ride was a bumpy one... snow storm and wind and a small propeller plane... Not one of the most pleseant experiences... However, I am in one piece and ready for bed in the hotel.

Helsinki-Prague-Bratislava

2009-03-17T10:18:00.001-06:00

I have been here in Helsinki a few days... The weather has been murky and something I really do not miss. I am flying now via Prague to Bratislava for a couple of nights and then back to Helsinki. I really like Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. I am flying Czech Airlines today.... Done that before as well and they are very nice!

Back to Europe and it is raining again....

2009-03-13T13:33:00.001-06:00

One night at home and now I am on my way to Europe (Finland via Frankfurt, Germany) and it is cold and wet in DFW in Dallas. I hope the weather in Finland is better as I will be spending two weeks in Europe with a visit to Bratislava, Slovakia to do a speech. The trees and nature in DFW is getting very spring-like so when I get back I am sure everything is blooming. Fortunately I was upgraded to business-class on the Boeing 777 flight.

Beautiful Seattle: time to leave again

2009-03-11T14:18:00.001-06:00

Three days in Seattle area/Bellavue is over and I am very happy about the trip. Thew weather was around 32 to 45 Fahrenheit and like today, sun is shining. My flight back to Dallas is 4 hours and on Friday, I am going to fly to Europe for almost 2 weeks. The time differences are pretty hard on the body I have to say!

Seattle for a few days

2009-03-08T06:36:00.001-06:00

This time I am leaving DFW very early in Sunday morning and this time it is going to be Seattle. I will be staying in Seattle (Redmond) until Wednesday and then fly back to Dallas for only one day as I have to fly to Europe (Finland) to work with clients over there. I checked the weather in Seattle and it is around 32 Fahrenheit, so pretty winterish weather. I guess similar to the weather in Finland. I was upgraded to business so I should have a good flight.

Back to Dallas from Atlanta in a full flight

2009-03-05T15:43:00.001-06:00

It is time to get back home to Dallas. I did a speech at local Microsoft office for a good group of Microsoft partners and I enjoyed a lot talking to them. My stay in Dallas will not be long as I have to fly to Seattle on Sunday for three days and then only one day in Dallas as I have to fly to Europe for a couple of weeks. American Airlines is getting familiar to me and my 3 million miles is getting closer. The day in Atlanta has been awesome today... sunshine and warm...

Atlanta trip with interesting 2 days

2009-03-03T07:14:00.001-06:00

I am on my way to Atlanta today, flying American Airlines from Dallas to Atlanta. I was upgraded from coach to business and have not yet received an annoyed remark from a frustrated flight attendant that seems to be a norm at American nowadays. Each flight, and believe me there are lots of them, somebody has shown their attitufe in one form or the other and showed that they hate their job. Sometimes I wonder this but I guess it comes with life. So far so good, nice sunrise and this weekend we will loose another hour due to change to summer time.

My feel of New Orleans post Katarina

2009-02-15T16:21:00.001-06:00

I have now seen New Orleans in action and they are ready for the conventions, tourists and any other that want to enjoy New Orleans. I spent three nights in New Orleans with lots of activities and enjoyed the start of Mardi Gra and it was fabolous. I have to say that the hospitality and friendliness of New Orleans people is overwhelming. I am coming back here very soon!

Missisippi River from the air

2009-02-12T08:51:00.001-06:00

I was lucky today. I had a window seat during my flight from Dallas to New Orleans and the sky was blue with good visibility. We flew quite a bit along the great Missisippi River and the view was awesome. Life by the river, huge boats going up and down the river created a spectacular view of the state. I wish I could monitor the life and pace in these neighbourhoods....

Finally in New Orleans and very happy about it.

First visit to New Orleans since the hurricane

2009-02-12T07:07:00.001-06:00

I enjoyed a few days in Dallas and now it is time to move on again. This time I am on my way to New Orleans as Microsoft will have its worldwide conference there in July so we will be checking out the places. I am very excited to get to see the beautiful city and also very happy that vendors such as Microsoft has stepped to the plate and given their business to the still ailing city. I will be in New Orleans until Sunday. I have to say that this is one of the best times in Dallas... Not too hot, not too cold and soon things will be green.

Should American Airlines fail?

2009-02-07T06:47:00.001-06:00

Today, I stepped into American Airlines flight 79 from London to Dallas Fort Worth. When entering to the cabin my seat 2H was occupied by newspapers. When I asked politely twhther they would be removed the stuwardess said with a very unpleasant voice "we did not expect anybody here today" and looked at me like I was an unwanted guest. I guess it is a thank you for flying almost 3 million miles on American. I am getting convinced more every day that it is time for a complete renewal of personnel that really want to work and not show an unpleasant face. This is not the first time nor the last and I will not have any symphaty if these guys go on labor dispute. They have destroyed my feel too many times. Flight AA79 did not start nicely.

Helsinki Finland and beautiful winter weather

2009-02-07T04:35:00.001-06:00

This week in Helsinki has been very nice with a temperature between -2 to -25 Celsius and I ave to say that I enjoyed it besides my 4 day flu with high fever. I am now on my way to Dallas via Heathrow, London and this week UK has got huge amount of snow and the traffic and life in the UK has been a challenge. I hope my flight is not delayed in London so I get home today on Saturday.

On the road again

2009-01-28T14:38:00.001-06:00

Last year (2008) I spent close to 200 days on the road so I am vey happy that I have been able to stay in Dallas for a month and a half without travel....(besides one Chicago gig). I am headed to Helsinki via Frankfurt and I was worried as we have had an artic blast in Dallas for 2 days now... I did get to the airport and it seems I am on my way to Frankfurt soon... Kicking off a project in Helsinki and will fly there evry month now which keeps my milage account up to date. I am flying back via London when I return and the after a few days in Dallas I am headed to New Orleans.

Time to fly to Dallas, Texas from Manchester (via London)

2008-11-25T03:08:00.001-06:00

I am on my way again, just arrived to Manchester airport. I was surprised of the double booking procedures at the airport. The clients are forced to use the automated systems by showing the passpoer, putting in the information, changing seats, and once this is done, it will spit out boarding cards. I am ok with this, but what puzzels me is that you have to do the same thing with the agent once more. When I asked about this, I got this very annoyed look from British Airways agent and she was not something I call for "client friendly" environment. Oh well, I guess this is the first step to eliminate the agents that do not want to work anymore and teach the clients to use the systems.

Manchester airport is very nice, lots of shops and pleasant environment. I am flying from here to Heathrow London and then with a direct flight to Dallas.

Feelings from Manchester UK in pre-Christmas season

2008-11-23T11:18:00.001-06:00

This is the first time that I had the opportunity to spend the weekend in downtown Manchester in the nice Hilton Manchester Deansgate hotel which is the tallest building in town.

Manchester had just opened its Christmas marketplace and the center of downtown Manchester was completely packed with people and it was very hard to get by from one place to the other. I can not remember another place that would have been so packed as downtown Manchester. Nowhere could one see a recession or anything like it.

I highly recommend the Hilton as hotel as you can get to any part of the downtown area as one wants.

Flybe.com flight from Paris to Manchester UK

2008-11-22T02:26:00.001-06:00

I am flying with www.flybe.com from Paris to Manchester, UK and this flight is flown by British codeshare flight as well. I have never flown with this company so we will see how it goes.

Howto in Paris from CDG to Paris downtown

2008-11-22T00:13:00.001-06:00

I hate to admit that during my years of business, I have completely ignored the public transportation in Paris. From here going forward, this is how I am going to do:
1) Buy a "get to know Paris" ticket at CDG (Charles de Gaulle) to the days that you are going to stay. I bought a 5 day ticket for 48 Euros that covered all zones. This ticket is valid for buses, trains and metro
2) Be aware that public transportation do not communicate to the public in any other language than French, so it is up to you to understand or ask what is going on.

Enjoy Paris, the metro network is awesome and you will save lots of money and headache if you can avoid the Parisian traffic.

Paris as a place to work with clients

2008-11-22T00:07:00.001-06:00

I arrived to Paris on Tuesday morning and worked with clients and had other meetings during the week. My hotel was 3 metro stops from Gare du Nord, which is a major hub for both RER trains and metro lines. I have to say that the public transportation in Paris is the only way to go, there is no question about it. The weather was typical for this time of the year, some clouds, some sun and very cold with high winds yesterday. I also had a chance to do what I love which is to walk around the city during the evenings. Paris is impressive, even during the fall. Now I am on my way to Manchester UK until Tuesday morning when I fly back to Dallas, Texas to be able to be part of thanksgiving.

Flight from Dallas to France

2008-11-18T09:16:00.000-06:00

I was upgraded to business class on my Boeing 767 flight and I have to say that the unhappiness within American Airlines crew is getting worse every day. As a customer, I should not have to deal with people that do not want to work and this will eventually turn very negative towards AA. I had an executive from Dallas sitting beside me and he was flabbergasted how he was treated during the flight. He said he wanted to test AA this time but based on what he saw, he will not return to AA. I have almost 3 million miles on American and I hate to see them going in down spiral in both service and convinience.

On my way to Paris, France

2008-11-17T16:52:00.001-06:00

This time I am flying to Paris, France for a few days and continuing my trip to Manchester UK on Saturday. I am scheduled to return back to Dallas on February 25th so I will be able to spend time with my family for thanksgiving. I really like to see how the weather is going to be in Paris this time of the year and I hope that I do not run into rain as I has been doing in Finland according to my friends over there.

Wingate by Wyndham was good

2008-11-09T08:09:00.000-06:00

Our stay at Wingate by Wyndham was nice and it is well located at a closeby mall. The address to this hotel is:

Wingate by Wyndham
9050 Mills Road
FM 1960 & Mills Road
Houston, TX 77070

From Dallas to Houston for an icehockey games with Dallas Stars Select

2008-11-09T08:07:00.001-06:00

We left yesterday Dallas in the morning for an icehockey games. I-45 down from Dallas to Houston is boring I have to say but we finally made it wit a couple of stops. The first game was in the Memorial City Mall (Ice Skate USA) and the second game today will be at Willowbrook Aerodrome. The evening was beautiful and we had lots of fun with the team as well as a nice couple of Houston.

Time to return back to Dallas

2008-11-03T16:36:00.001-06:00

Three days of intensive IAMCP Board meetings in Chicago is over and it is time to return home. The weather was very unseasonal for Chicago at this point in time, very warm and beautiful. I heard that there might be some snow flurries later this week which is kind of unreal when you think how warm it has been. I was upgraded toi first class... Th,k you American! It is nice to get back home!

I found a nice Thai restaurant in downtown Chicago

2008-10-31T11:52:00.001-06:00

I had a meeting at N. Wacker and decided to walk to Magnificent Mile to have lunch before my next meeting. I found a nice place at Ohio Street and the name of this place is DAO Thai Restaurant and Noodle Place. The address is

230 E. Ohio Street
Chicago, IL 60611

Check it out!

Chicago again after a whilean this time it is IAMCP business

2008-10-31T05:33:00.001-06:00

I have not been in Chicago for a while, so it will be nice to visit the windy city again. This time I have meetings the whole weekend and will return on Monday evening. It is time for IAMCP global business and I am looking forward to meet my IAMCP collagues from all over the world.