Hi everyone,
I am on the organising team of the Sydney Salsa Congress (Jan 7-9, 2005), and I just wanted to post some info that may be of use to people thinking of coming along. Feel free to check the website www.sydneysalsacongress.com.au for further details.
The events will all be held at Olympic Park, Homebush Bay, in the State Sports Centre, which has a great floor for dancing. Homebush Bay is around 30 minutes drive from the city in normal traffic. You can catch a train to the venue, however the timetable is not fantastic on the weekends, and I would definitely recommend driving, if you're from Sydney. However, if you're from out of town, (and even if you're not!) the Congress Hotel will definitely be the most convenient place to stay over the Congress weekend. The only event not at Olympic Park is the Friday afternoon welcome BBQ, which will be held at the Congress Hotel.
The Congress Hotel (Rydges Parramatta) was chosen because of the quality of facilities in relation to the price. It is 4 star, and is actually quite nice. It will be very convenient if you are from out of town, as shuttle transfers to and from the Congress venueare included in the Super Pass package, and parking is free at the hotel if you are hiring a car or driving from interstate or Canberrra etc. Also, there is a transfer from the airport to the Congress Hotel on Friday for those arriving by 10:30am at the domestic terminal. Just from my experience at the LA Congress, I debated staying at a different hotel, and I'm really glad I didn't - why put yourself through the hassle of getting to the Congress venue when someone else can do it for you?
We're really excited about this event - and January in Sydney in general! The Congress finishes on Sunday night, and the following Thursday is the start of the Bacardi Festival, so it's great timing. I would recommend moving to a hotel closer to the city after the Congress has finished - perhaps at Darling Harbour.
Hoe to see you all in Sydney!
Cheers,
Kiran
