IDQ Conference cum LAS VEGAS Exploration

I have become an International Association for Information Data Quality (IAIDQ) Member after attending the IDQ Information and Data Quality conference in Las Vegas, Nevada September 2007.

My participation in this conference came as a surprise as this is not my current portfolio .... not going into this though....... but no complains as this is a good opportunity to expand my knowledge and understand what others in the industries have experienced. Quite interesting though is that many participants are from banking, insurance sectors and even writers too.

The trip to-and-from SG to Las Vegas is miserable, almost 21hrs of flight time each direction. Where possible, go for the Singapore Airline one as it is more comfortable. However if you would like to spend some time shopping at the Japan Narita airport, then you may need to try other carriers.

First thing which I have noticed Las Vegas is their lifestyle; 24hrs non stop Casino and shopping! The public bus even has a bicycle holder in front and I have seen several locals made use of this feature easily (about 15 secs to mount the bike properly and board the bus). This is something the Singapore government could learn to sustain the Casino environment and to encourage a healthier lifestyle.

Everyday after the conference proceeding, I would link up with my conference trip mates (Hazal and Foong Yee) to explore the Town using the free shuttle bus from RIO Hotel. This free shuttle bus is really convenient and it has 3 bus traveling to 3 different locations (Harrah, Caesar and ..... can't remember as I only uses the other 2) at 30mins interval. If you are going to Las Vegas, probably check this out.




Listed below are some pictures for your viewing pleasure.......





One amazing and interesting stop which I made was to the Grand Canyon. As all the bus tour has been fully booked, I have no choice but to opt for the expensive helicopter option.






** Do note that this place is not reachable by tour bus.

If you really like these views and would like to visit Grand Canyon, you will have to go there by helicopter either in the early morning (I actually took the 5:30am shuttle bus to the airport where they have kept the helicopters) or evening where the sunlight is "gentle" for photo shooting.

Meanwhile..... adios for now.....