Tommy VallierNew Media Strategist - Kingston, Ontario

Podcasters Across Borders is a three-day podcasting and new media conference happening right here in Kingston on June 22nd, 23rd and 24th, 2007. I’ll be there, with 159+ other people, talking tech and new media and having a blast.

The guys over there made a post on the blog with an advance welcome to Kingston, and I thought I’d throw a few things on to it. Here a few things you need to know when coming into Kingston for the weekend:

1. You’ll be in the downtown waterfront during our First Capital Days celebration. Known to very few, Kingston was, very briefly, the first capital of this awesome country and we celebrate it for two weeks every year. Find out more at http://www.firstcapitaldays.ca
2. History buffs take note! Being that the conference is happening downtown,in the heart of the city, there are lots of things to see and do. Within a 5 minute walk of the hotel is city all and the tourist information centre (Originally our train station). City hall gives guided tours all day and a 1hr tour trolley (Think Mr Roger’s Trolley) leaves from the information centre every hour.
3. There is GREAT food in the downtown area. If you’re confused and want somethign to eat – ask! There are restaurants specializing in pizza, fajitas and Italian near by, and countless restaurants whose menus span the food groups. All in a 10 minute walk.
4. ALL FIVE banks are within a few blocks, though some are farther then others. The Holiday Inn has a generic bank machine in the lobby. Being a happy little PAB attendee though, I only give directions to the TD Canada Trust.
5. Want proof you were here? The information centre has a bunch, and S&R (One of Canada’s oldest department stores, on the opposite corner of the Merchant) has some too.
6. Kingston is the ‘Limestone City’ and as soon as you look around, you’ll see why. If you get a break and wander the downtown, be sure to note the number of buildings that use limestone as part of the building. Count them I dare you.
7. Leaving the downtown area? Cab it. Kingston’s awesome city… But the transit sucks. At best. It’s less of a headache … and WAY faster.

Any other Kingstonians reading this and want to add? How about PABers? Any specific questions you want addressed before your arrival? Anyone need a map?

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