Good luck TKO,
Sounds like you embrace your drinking. You sound open and honest about it with people around you. I only suggest that you share with someone your plan that will be around you on this trip. Alcohol withdrawals can be deadly. Have an emergency plan with this person in case you have a seizure or go unconscious.
Good luck with tapering, if I could have changed my drinking I probably would still be drinking. Comeback and share your experience with us please. Thank you.