06/30/25
Barbara:
Here are my take-aways from the Zoom meeting:
Most importantly, book soon! Pre- and Post- tours are filling up - only 90 spots left
Main convention February 9-13 (choose hotel)
PreTour February 5-8 (hotels will be assigned) - if you want to arrive in Fukuoka a day early, put in the notes that you will need an extra night Feb 4
Post Tour February 13-17 (hotels will be assigned)
Wait on Air travel as some discounts may become available from the Japanese government (pre-tour and conference begin in Fukuoka. Post tour ends in Kyoto. Fukuoka is also close to Korea if you want to plan a trip there on your own.
It is possible to book hotel separately for lower cost on Expedia or Booking.com for the same hotels as are listed (this is unofficial, but worth checking).
There will be a shuttle from the main Hotel Okura Fukuoka to the convention center (which is a 15 minute walk from most hotels)
Keynotes and workshops are in English
Guides to be trained in English for the tours
AI translation apps may be available for us to use during the pre and post tours
It is always a good idea to get travel insurance. (one way to do so is when booking flights)
There maybe be an extension for Kyoto (only half day with post tour program) for 2 days and Tokyo 2 days - more information to follow.
My (Greg) comments:
I would certainly emphasize that booking your hotel separately is the way t go, rather than as part of the reservation package. I'd be surprised if you couldn't find something perfectly acceptable for $100.00 or less a night. And, I think November 1st, 2025 is the time to look at airline rezzies. Even now they aren't that expensive, coach through Inchon, Korea or Narita is about $800.00.
There is daily ferry service from Fukuoka to Busan, Korea. It's only a bit over 100 miles. There was a high-speed ferry that was likety-split. It might be back in service.
Greg