FAQs, the Real Dope on This Convention
Why Easter/Passover weekend?
Why not? First of all, we are affirming that square dancing is truly a religious experience. The date was not an easy choice to make, and our convention was competing with other groups for hotel space. The National Education Association has the entire city tied up for the July 4 weekend - seriously, the whole thing, no teacher left behind. Every large hotel and the entire Convention Center. The committee debated the merits of the Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends and decided that Labor Day is just too unpleasant in DC, so it chose Memorial Day. However, the hotel of choice was booked for that weekend (and Labor Day, too), but offered us the Easter/Passover weekend instead. As circumstances turned out we got a significantly better hotel rate for that weekend. Spring in DC is usually very nice, and the date coincides with the Cherry Blossom Festival. That's the scoop on the weekend selection. It was all about availability and affordability, in a busy convention town, and we think you'll be very pleased with the hotel, the weather, and an outstandng choice of tours, restaurants, shows, museums, and, square dancing.
I notice you say I should call the hotel directly (at 202-328-2000) rather than Marriott’s national toll-free number. Why is that?
We’ve been told by several sources, including Marriott personnel, that the local computers don’t always communicate well with the national network. By calling the hotel directly you can eliminate any potential problems with not receiving the convention rate, or being misinformed about room availability, or several other problems. It also helps us by making sure that every convention attendee is counted in our favor, so thank you for seeing you’re registered properly.
Can I register on line?
You Betcha! Go to the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel Web Site. The group block code is "DCDDCDA"
Can I pay for my convention registration with a credit card?
Yes. You can register online at the IAGSDC Web Site. If you have not created a profile with IAGSDC, you will need to do that first. Log in to the IAGSDC Web Site, select "Events," then select the 2009 IAGSDC Convention. It could be simpler, but alas, it isn't. Your registration payment is handled through PayPal. Sorry, credit cards are accepted only online at this time.
Does the hotel have a pool? A gym?
The short answer is yes, the longer answer is maybe. Just to be sure, pack a swimsuit and your exercise togs. You can always use them during the leather tip.
Is everything in the hotel, or will we need to go outside between events?
All the dancing, planned meals, and entertainment are inside the hotel. You’ll only have to leave the hotel for the Fun Badge Tour, pre- and post-convention tours, and any sightseeing you might want to do, or to eat at the fabulous local restaurants. Unfortunately, this being Washington, DC, you won't want to leave the hotel, because there is absolutely nothing to do in this town!
Speaking of sightseeing, will I need to rent a car? How will I get around?
If you’re planning on staying within DC, the Metro system is fast, right next to the hotel, and pretty inexpensive. It opens at 5:00 AM weekdays, 7:00 AM weekends, and closes at midnight Sunday through Thursday and 3:00AM Friday and Saturday.
If you want to visit those parts of town not immediately Metro accessible, or stay out after hours, DC cabs are cheap and safe. For example, a ride from the hotel to the Washington Monument would cost about $10 for a single passenger, with $1.50 for each additional passenger. You can calculate a taxi fare on the Washington D.C. Taxi Fare Finder.
If I drive, will I have to pay to park?
No, in a purely existential way, you won't have to pay to park, but it will cost you an arm and a leg to get your car out of hock, and you'll have to visit an impounded car lot to where it's been towed. The lot will be on the far side of the city, only open in the early morning hours between 2 and 4 a.m. It will be pouring rain, and you'll be expected to pay up in East Caribbean Dollars. It's clearly your choice. The hotel fee is $28.00/day for parking, or $13.00/hour. Now, what are you going to do?