World Series of Poker Dos and Don'ts

Summer is here and the World Series of Poker has arrived. This will be my sixth year of playing at the World Series, and as always, I feel that I am ready. Six weeks of poker with maybe a day or two off in a row is grueling, but I really can't wait. The opportunity is there for all of us, and with discipline, confidence, and a little luck, the prize can be obtained. Enough pep talk. Below are some thoughts I have on what to do and what not to do at the 2006 WSOP.

Do:

Manage your bankroll. There are many events. Be smart and spread it out.

Get a lot of sleep. Once you become sleep-deprived, the odds of winning decrease in the marathon of events.

Drink a lot of water. It is hot in Las Vegas in the summer, and you need to hydrate yourself well.

Exercise. In the past, players wore themselves down. Take a few walks and get your heart rate up for a while.

Stay healthy. Nobody plays his A-game when sick. Wash your hands a lot and keep the germs away.

Dress well for TV. Millions of people watch poker. If you make the television tables, you will want to showcase yourself in a good light.

Don't:

Even consider missing the championship event. Enough said.

Forget to tip. Las Vegas is as efficient as it is because of the service industry. If you tip, they will take care of you.

Act a fool. This is an expression from the South that I learned from my wife. Be good and good will happen. Don't abuse the dealers, the floor staff, or other players.

While in Las Vegas, you may need to get out of the hotels and experience the local vibe. Here are a few casual restaurants that I recommend:

Thai Spice Great Thai food a few minutes from the Rio

Paymon's Mediterranean Café Card Player's Justin Marchand eats at Paymon's four times a week.

Sababah If you like pitas or falafel, this place is for you.

Jimmy Johns The sandwiches take about a minute to make and they are delicious.

Sushi Avenue My favorite sushi in town. Erick Lindgren recommends the monkey roll.