If you’re going to conclude your hoops roadtrip in Richmond for the CAA Tournament on March 7-10, here are a few pointers on making the trip run smoothly.

Where to stay: UNCW fans take over the Embassy Suites on Emerywood Parkway during the tournament. I had heard this before, but I was a bit surprised when I arrived there last year and most of the employees were decked out in teal t-shirts. The interior courtyard of the hotel is actually pretty cool with a stream and landscaping. The Seahawk Club has a giant tent set up out back. On my first pilgrimage to the tournament in 2006 I didn’t know any better and stayed at the Days Inn just across the street, because it was ridiculously cheap. Whenever we were getting ready to go to the games though, no one really shared our enthusiasm. Another option would be at the Hilton which is directly across from the Richmond Coliseum, but that’s a little more pricey.

Where to eat: Apparently not TGI Friday’s after 10 p.m. I’m not sure if this has since been changed, but some restaurants won’t allow people under 21 after a certain hour. Last year, I was denied delicious broccoli and cheese soup less than a week before my 21st. It stung like you wouldn’t believe. I can’t wait to go back so I can proudly flash my ID and get a steak. Another good option is the Sheetz right across from the Embassy. By now, most people have experienced the glory that is a meatball sub at Sheetz at 4 a.m. Well, in 2006, the gas station/amazingness chain hadn’t made it down to the North Carolina yet. I stood there totally mystified at what the hell these people were doing ordering food at a gas station at 3 a.m. Another positive is that it’s always full of VCU students, so you might get lucky and find a party. Other than that, there’s the standard fare of Chipotle, McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Buffalo Wild Wings and such. I wasn’t too pleased with my visit to Burger King. I had it my way, but it took about 15 minutes and 2 tries.Then there’s the Olive Garden, which I had a pregame meal before the 2006 CAA Championship. Chicken Alfredo never tasted so sweet.

What else to do: There are plenty of bars around Richmond, it would appear from driving around. I was a few days too early to check things out last year. The closer you get to the coliseum, the less likely you probably want to go there. Try to find somewhere well lit with plenty of other people, I ‘spose. If you’re into learning on Spring Break, then hit up the Virginia Museum of Fine arts or the Science Museum of Virginia, which also has an IMAX theater.

What to wear: Neutral colors. A large coat, probably. This isn’t exactly your spring break to South Florida. It’s drab, it’s dark and it’s cold. You’re not there for the weather, you’re there to help the Seahawks punch their ticket to the NCAA Tournament.