As others have said, sleep is for the dead...you don't really need it. That being said, make sure you get a hotel with IN ROOM internet access (if they say just "internet access" that usually means a single kiosk computer in the lobby) so you can check your e-mail and contact loved ones in a different time zone.
I liked the Hilton.
I would also reccomend a few pints at Reds Corner (for the characters and Tommy the bartender) and the Union Square Sports Bar.
Also, plan carefully what you want to attend. You can't see everything so go with a theme. My last one was JavaCard, OSS and anything to do with Jini (the best yet least know technology out there). Also, there are sually a few really "out there" sessions that are a blast - a few years back there was one about Lego mindstorms networked in and self-healing autonomous netowrk using Jini ("Let see .Net do THAT").
Also, be sure to visit the booths for most of the big vendors. They usually have envening parties with free food and drink and if you play your cards right, you might not have to buy supper all week,. Borland gives a great party. One year, Iona had Spinal Tap play at a huge party at the Shriners Auditoruim on Van Ness - outrageous (ah, the good old bubble days of 2001).
Besides getting swag and t-shirts, its also fun to "spot the booth babes" - see which vendors use good looking women to tempt you into their booth. Sometimes they actually work for the compay, but not ususally. A few years back, when IBM still had a big precence, they hired 12 very tal, sleek leggy models to don red bob wigs and smart business outfits. They were "The Scullies" and rather than teir Badges saying "FBI" they said "IBM". They never actually stood at the booth, they just wandered the floor and guys would go to the ooth expexcting to see them. Very clever..
Ah memories. I am jealous this year - Although San Fran is pretty frosty in June, I can imagine in May you'll need a heavy coat.
Have fun. |
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