In an unofficial poll taken last week, the majority of people voted that I should go to Morocco or Cuba. Which means I'll be going to Guatemala. I know ... I can't take directions very well. But there are some very good reasons why I chose Guatemala for this trip and saved the others for later.

I haven't taken any vacation this year, which means I have about three weeks to use. If I take a nice 10 day trip to Guatemala over Thanksgiving, that saves me two weeks in December for a longer trip to Morocco. Plus, Guatemala is in the Central timezone, so I won't have any jet lag and I can get right back to work when I return home.

Makes sense?

I hope so, but I'm not positive yet. The flights were cheaper last week. As they always are. Next time I swear that I'm going to book my flight early. Or at least a week before my trip. I'm sure there's some medical condition related to not pre-planning my vacations. Who knows?

I'd much rather be in Thailand right now. But who wouldn't, right?

I picked up a guidebook over the weekend and printed out a map today. I'm trying to figure out the best route to take where I won't have to sit in the back of a "chicken bus" all day long. Alas, Guatemala doesn't have a railroad system (at least not now), which means I won't be able to ride the rail again. I was tempated to fly into San Salvador and take the train up to the border from there. Not sure about that yet. I suppose I should make that decision soon -- like in the next 10 minutes.

So ... if you're looking for me to celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday, I won't be around. I will send out an update or two from the road to let you all know what it's like. I'm also traveling with my new Vaio (4.3 pounds of wonderful digital excellence). Hopefully I won't get jacked on the side of the road.

Better check my insurance policy. And better quick change my life insurance policy to someone who won't hire someone to whack me while I'm away.