It’s almost time to meet again at the annual Learn Tourism Conference! In preparation for the two-day event, we’ve created a quick list of our top ten tips for getting the most out of your conference experience.
1. Bring a reusable water bottle.
Water stations will be available at the conference venue. That means, don’t forget to pack a reusable water bottle to save on waste and money. If you forget your reusable water bottle, you can definitely find one at a local shop nearby.
2. Charge your phone, computer, and/or iPad.
While we will have a charging station available in our main room, power will not be available at your table when you are seated for sessions. Our sessions are tactical and hands-on, so you’ll want access to your platforms and tools throughout each day. That means charging up at the beginning and end of the day is helpful so your devices work throughout the event.
3. How to dress at our event.
Our #1 goal is to facilitate an exceptional learning experience. That means we want our attendees to wear attire that makes them feel confident and learning the priority. The majority of attendees in the past have worn business casual, but don’t hesitate to get creative and choose what feels right for you. Our after-party is not formal, but if you have plans to go somewhere fancy afterward, don’t hesitate to dress for a night out!
In addition, we all know that conference rooms can sometimes feel chilly, no matter what season it is outside. That’s why we recommend wearing or bringing layers of clothing if the temperature is occasionally unagreeable. We want you to be as present and comfortable as possible!
Finally, early spring weather can be cold and windy or warm and humid – or both LOL. There can be differences between daytime and nighttime temperatures in the spring and fall. Downtown Richmond is very walkable, but you may need to bundle up once the sun goes down.
4. Bring supplies that support your learning.
Your preferred device or notebook, favorite pen, highlighters, gum, backpack, notebook, fidget spinners, you name it. Whatever you need to get through our two days of learning and connection should be packed with you at the start of the day. Once we get started for the day, you’re not going to want to miss a thing.
5. Be prepared for a night or two on the town.
Luckily, you’ll be done with the workshop each day with enough time to make dinner reservations. There are a ton of spectacular local eateries and restaurants. Whether you’re in search of a creative, handcrafted food experience or a more laid-back vibe with local beer, you’ll find something delicious ot enjoy. Plus, our event is located in a prime location to see what downtown Richmond has to offer. Check out our local food review for more information about where to go.
6. Parking options are available to meet your needs.
Arriving at the Hilton Downtown by car is straightforward. The hotel is located at 501 E Broad Street, directly across from the Richmond Convention Center. You’ll check in, park, and be steps from sessions, dining, and evening meetups without needing to move your vehicle again.
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Valet overnight parking is available at the hotel for between $41-$56/night per vehicle, depending on size. Day parking (up to 8 hours) is $20. EV charging stations are available.
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There is also a city-run parking lot directly across the street from the Hilton at 5th and Broad Street for approx $20 per night.
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A 4-minute walk from the hotel at 607 E. Marshall Street, you’ll find the 7th & Marshall Street Garage. Rates are $20-$25 per night.
7. Traveling to the city can be done by plane, train, or automobile.
Flying into Richmond is simple via Richmond International Airport (RIC), about 15 minutes from downtown, with up-to-date flight and ground-transportation info available on the airport’s website. Prefer the train? Amtrak’s Main Street Station serves downtown Richmond with Northeast Regional service and direct connections up and down the corridor. Driving in is just as convenient since Richmond sits at the crossroads of I-95 and I-64, with direct access into downtown and the Convention Center area.
8. Be prepared to make friends and engage.
One of the keys to learning is to connect with others and share your knowledge, skills, and experiences. We believe everyone at our conference has valuable insights to share, so we encourage you to participate in the session activities, introduce yourself to new people, ask questions, and express your creative ideas. Whether you’re introverted, extroverted, or somewhere in between, we hope you’ll challenge yourself to:
- be open-minded,
- assume people have good intentions,
- have the confidence to speak up, and
- engage in active listening.
We are incredibly excited to welcome everyone to Richmond and we can’t ait to learn with you