What is it?
Following on the heels of the highly successful First Irregular Haus Partyin Amsterdam, we're now having a 4th-of-July Haus Party to celebrate the fact we're no British, unlike those sods across the pond. Of course, our British membership is invite to the party; they should simply be prepared to American humour with dignity.
When?
Right after JavaOne, 2-5 of July. Come early, stay late.
Where should I go?
Asheville, North Carolina, US.
How would one get there?
Air travel
The lovely Asheville Airport (AVL) has 6 flights a day to such diverse locations as Atlanta and New York. You can connect at either of those and wing on into the local area. Contact Bob 'The Despot' McWhirterdirectly for address information if you need a taxi or rental car, or if you'd like to schedule a pickup by the haus shuttle from the airport.
Bus travel
No, not Greyhound. peter royal and possibly Jason van Zyl will be driving down from NYC and Canada. If you're along the way, contact them to arrange a pickup.
Rough directions
First, map yourself to 78 Forest Hill Dr, Asheville, North Carolina, 28803.
Now, assuming you've gotten yourself to I-40 by way of I-85...
Take the Route 25 exit, also labelled for the Biltmore Estate. Turn left, which will be north if you have an in-car compass. Slip down the hill, over some railroad tracks, past the classiest McDonalds in the world, and back up the next hill. You'll see some hospitals at the top of the hill. Rigt amongst the hospitals, on the right, is Forest Hill Drive (trees, top of hill, well-named road). Turn right onto Forest Hill Drive. The 2nd road on your left is Thurland Dr/St/Way/Etc. The house is on the corner of Forest Hill Dr and Thurland, on your left. Turn left onto Thurland and look for the first driveway on your left. Pull into driveway, avoiding the Canyonaro and the big red dumpster. Park somewhere, knowing other cars will be parking also, so don't be a hog.
Walk to back door, ignore barking dog, and gain admittance.
Where to stay?
Bus drivers have already claimed our extra beds.
Who's going to be there?
What's to do?
Socialize, geek out, blow up stuff, tour the Biltmore Estate, listen to bluegrass, take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
