Chris's Guide to a Successful American Road Trip

Step 1: Gain entry to the country.

Border guards do not seem particularly fond of YMCWRGLTEAFTMWNPNFs (young male canadians with rugged good looks trying to enter America for three months with no proof of necessary funds.)

How long will you be staying in America Sir?

I could have lied. Maybe I should have lied. But I feel like when you're trying to do something entirely legal (and you know dealing with customs officers) Its best to tell the truth.

3 months???!!! And how exactly do you intend on paying for your trip sir?

I have 50 bucks in my pocket and no proof of any other funds, it's all in the bank.

Border guard was not so impressed.

SO i got taken over to the suspicious characters area and had my bags searched. Luckily I had proof of three months of travel insurance on me. Apparently this was the only document that got me in and even then it's a good thing I didn't have any stains on my shirt.

On my way out I had to collect my bags from the suspicious characters area. The other border guard there was extremely impressed that I was being allowed through. He congratulated me, saying that people who get taken to the area I was in don't usually get let in to the states.

I felt a little badass being the last guy back on the bus.
Damn straight I got border trouble, I'm dangerous.


Today we set off to and arrived in Pittsburgh. The city is actually really nice! Very spread out. Except for downtown, the buildings are all fairly old and short. It's very, like, midurban (is that a word?). Hilly city, some great views. We're staying with Nick's cousin Lauren in a neighbourhood called shady side which she assures is not so shady. It's fairly close to the carnegie mellon and UPITT campus. UPITT had some beautiful buildings including this massive structure called something like "The cathedral of learning."
We had dinner at what is supposed to be one of the best sandwich shops in America, Primanti Bros . They pile a serving of fries and super peppery coleslaw onto all their sandwiches. Amazing.

Shout out to the third pseudo-member of our roadtrip who promises to call us every day. Mr. Akira Gillingham. The man killed his first med-exam today and has already reached local celebrity status in Albany. Atta boy.