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Frequently Asked Questions

45. I hear it’s quiet on Friday night. What’s happening then?

This is a night when many of the publishers and agencies hold big parties for their authors, as it’s one of the few occasions when they’re all together at the same time. This is a great time to plan some sight-seeing or a big night out at a local hot-spot. Or, if you’d rather not leave the hotel, RWA offers a great line-up of Friday night workshops

46. How do I buy tapes, and when is the best time to do it?

There will be a large desk earmarked specifically for tape purchases starting on Friday. The lines can become quite long between or after workshops, so if there is a session where you’re not attending a workshop, that might be a good time. There will also be a complete list of workshops tapes available at the desk and on the RWA Web site, if you want to buy tapes later. Tapes are usually available one to two hours after the workshop is presented.

47. How do certain chapters manage to have rooms for special functions?

Arrangements are made with the Office for these rooms far in advance of the conference.

48. Why should I give up a day of sight-seeing to attend the Annual General Meeting?

The Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on Thursday morning, is the one time each year when the general membership of RWA is asked to participate in making decisions that effect the entire organization. This is where bylaws are amended and passed that will have long-reaching effects on every member of RWA. It is important and necessary that every member be a part of this process and takes an active interest in the governing of our organization. The AGM is your opportunity to make your voice heard.

49. Do I need business cards, even if I’m not published?

Of course you don’t need them, but you will find a business card is a handy way to exchange information with people. They’re not very expensive to buy; even cheaper to make. In fact, you might even want to think about making more than one type of card -- some listing professional credits for an editor, some with promotional information, some fun ones just for friends.

Another great idea if you’re making your own is to print a 25-words-or-less blurb about your book on the back, in the event you're asked by an editor / agent / new friend in the elevator / restroom line what you're writing.

If you exchange business cards with someone else, jot a few notes on the back of theirs to remind you of meeting them. Two weeks after the conference, it might be hard to remember the specifics on the thirty cards in your purse or wallet.

50. What are some other things that I should think about bringing with me?

  • A sweater or jacket, as the hotel and function rooms can be a little cool for some people
  • Safety pins, needle and thread for clothing emergencies
  • COMFORTABLE SHOES - you’ll be walking a lot; don’t let vanity overrule good sense.
  • Lambs wool pads and band-aids for blisters if you ignore the above
  • Business cards
  • Work-out gear or swim-suits, if you want to take advantage of the hotel gym or pool
  • Extra pantyhose
  • Aspirin / Tylenol
  • Casual clothes for hanging around the room chatting after activities are over, or sightseeing
  • Clothes with pockets for easy access to business cards, room key, and pens
  • A soft-sided/fold-up suit-case for all the souvenirs, goodies, give-aways, and books you bought that will not fit in the suitcase that was already packed to the rim when you left home. (The hotel may also have a shipping office or know of one near-by, in case you don’t want to lug all that stuff onto a plane.)

51. What amenities are available at the Conference hotel?

Visit the San Francisco Marriott Web site to see what's available.

52. What airport is closest to the Conference site?

San Francisco International Airport is the closest airport to the San Francisco Marriott hotel (13 miles). You can find out more information about San Francisco International airport at http://www.flysfo.com/web/page/index.jsp. San Francisco has a second airport, Oakland International Airport, which you can find information about at http://www.oaklandairport.com. Oakland International is 19 miles from the conference hotel.

53. Is there a shuttle service available between the airport and the hotel?

Visit http://www.flysfo.com/web/page/tofrom/transp-serv/hotel/pickup.html for shuttle information from San Francisco International Airport. Oakland International Airport also provides transportation information online at http://www.oaklandairport.com/ground_transportation.shtml.

54. I'm driving to San Francisco for the Conference. Does the hotel have parking and how much does it cost?

Hotel parking (per http://www.marriott.com/hotels/maps/travel/sfodt-san-francisco-marriott/):

  • On-site parking, fee: 11 USD hourly, 50 USD daily
  • Valet parking, fee: 50 USD daily
  • Off-site parking; contact hotel for details
  • Limited Valet & Area Parking. No over-sized vehicles. To Map Driving Directions use 777 Mission St as destination