SXSW
South by Southwest will blow your mind. If you haven’t gone… GO.
Film, interactive media, music, conferences, comedy, gaming, food, art, everything you want to see, hear, touch, smell and taste.
Once you book your flight to Austin… book your hotel right away. Or better yet, book a year (or as far out as you the hotel will allow) in advance. Make sure they have a cancellation policy. As you’d expect, there are also Airbnb and VRBO options. You’ll want to try and book within 10-20 mile radius. As close as possible.
Download the SXSW app which will guide you through the panels, venues, times and any/all information you’ll need. Within the app you highlight the events you don’t want to miss and share it with your group.
Locals will tell you the most popular of the panels are in the Austin Convention Center. Unless you know specifically who you are going to see… choose wisely! Get there early if that’s where you’re headed. The SXSW crew is amazing and professional and all over the place to answer questions.
Getting home is always a tough one. Be patient and prepared. Check with your hotel to see if they are running shuttles. Biking, walking, driving, Ubering, shuttle service, share a cab… you will get home.
Ready to pack… check the weather. I love Wunderground. Texas can be brutally hot even in early spring. Sunscreen, water bottle (empty going in), collapsible chair, blanket, cross body purse or pockets, comfy shoes, hat, wipes, portable phone charger, ziplock (in case of rain), deodorant, etc. You get the picture!
Soak it up.
