This might sound boring compared to waterfalls and waterslides, but trust me, it matters. One thing I loved about the venue is how compact the conference space is. No hiking across giant hotel lobbies or speed-walking half a mile to your next session. No wondering which section your talk is actually in.Instead of everyone disappearing into the city after the sessions end, I think people are going to stick around. Hanging out by the pool. Sitting around the fire pits. Grabbing a drink. Talking Drupal late into the night.
I’ve been trying to make this happen for years. Every DrupalCon I’d pitch the idea of a talent show, and every year something got in the way. Well… this is the year! It’s happening!
A few weeks ago, I met up with some of the DrupalCon Orlando local planning committee at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort to check out the venue and finalize a bunch of plans.
And honestly? I can’t wait!
This DrupalCon is going to feel different (and I think that’s a good thing)
This venue is a little different than what we’re used to, but after spending the weekend there, I know it’s going to create a totally different kind, and super memorable, DrupalCon.
This is cross-posted from Mike Herchel’s blog
The pools wind around faux limestone cliffs with waterfalls pouring down into them. There’s a cave that connects two sections of the pool, a grotto, a waterslide, two hot tubs, and tons of places to spread out.
The pools are ridiculous
Instead of everyone scattering around downtown after the sessions end, I think we’re going to end up hanging out together around the resort having poolside cocktails, or smores by the fire pits. And after spending the weekend there, I think that’s going to make for an even better conference.
This isn’t that. The Grand Cypress sits in the middle of Orlando’s resort area near Disney. If you want to leave the property, you’ll probably grab an Uber or Lyft. Disney Springs is only about 10 minutes away, and the parks are just beyond that.
Besides your laptop?
Florida in March is basically cheating
Then you’ve got a poolside bar serving frozen drinks, beer, and food just a few steps away. I can already picture dozens of Drupal people hanging out there after sessions.
Expect highs around 80°F (27°C), cool evenings, blue skies, and weather that’s pretty much perfect for sitting outside all day. It’s warm enough to swim without feeling like you’re melting.
But honestly… I don’t think most people are going to want to leave. This resort is awesome.
Everything is actually close together
If you’re coming from somewhere that’s still cold in late March… congratulations. This is probably the nicest time of year to be in Florida.
We toured the resort, planned events, sampled food and drinks (strictly for quality assurance, of course), floated around the pools, and spent way too much time talking about all the fun stuff we’re putting together.
Drupal’s Got Talent is finally happening!
If you’ve been to previous DrupalCons, one thing you’ll notice right away is that this one is going to have a different vibe. Normally we’re in a downtown convention center where you can walk to bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and whatever else you stumble across.
One of the nicest surprises is the hotel rate that we have. The Drupal Association was able to lock in an incredible rate of just 9/night, and that includes no resort fee. Considering this is one of the best times of year to visit Florida (and a resort like this!) it’s an amazing deal. If you’re planning to attend, book sooner rather than later:https://www.hyatt.com/events/en-US/group-booking/VISTA/G-DC27.
- Musicians
- Bands
- Stand-up comedy
- Magic
- Singing
- Dancing
- Juggling
- Puppet shows
- Weird talents you didn’t think anyone wanted to see (we do)
Everything is clustered together, which means less walking and more time talking to people in the hallways, which is the best part of every DrupalCon anyway.
What should you pack?
We’ll be looking for pretty much anything entertaining:
- 👙 A swimsuit (trust me)
- 🩴 Flip-flops or sandals
- 😎 Sunglasses
- 🧴 Sunscreen
- 👕 Clothes for warm afternoons and cooler evenings
- 🎤 Your hidden talent
Seriously. The pool area is unlike anything we’ve ever had at a DrupalCon.
After seeing everything in person, I’m convinced this is going to be the best DrupalCon ever!
We’re not taking sign-ups just yet, but keep an eye out!
