Our hotel block went away on November 1, 1997. Please contact Sharon Sbarsky, for one of the few extra reserved rooms if you need one. If you have a room that you won't be using, let us know and we'll reassign it to another who can.
617-783-0090
617-783-0897 (fax)
Check in time is 3pm; check out time is noon. We've asked people to be put on as high a floor as possible, as the Consuite is in 1520. There are glass elevators, so if you have a problem with this, ask to be on a lower floor. They are expecting 85-90% occupancy, so latecomers will probably be scattered.
If you come early, they will attempt to give you a room, should one be available; we are looking into a late check-out time of 1 or 2pm for everyone on Sunday only, and even later (4pm) with a charge. Of course, the hotel will hold your luggage for you after checkout.
Most of the program will be on the 2nd and 3rd floor, but some break-outs may be in the resource rooms (1519 & 1518). Yes, we will have a resource room; thanks to Scott and Jane Dennis (stuff arrived today). There will also be a computer (maybe 2), photo scanner, printer, zip drive, and (hopefully) Internet connection. We will have both a copier & high-speed mimeo.
The hotel will charge $7 parking for all members (guests or not). You only have to mention "Smofcon" or "MCFI" to get the $7 rate. It does not include free in-out privileges (although the hotel guests may be able to get this through the front desk). The normal garage charge is $7/2 hours, so this is still a bargain. There is no local street parking within several blocks. If you will be using the MBTA bus, bring change. Remember, the hotel also has a free shuttle (schedule available at-con).
Most rooms have a fridge/mini-bar, but if you require a fridge, check. There is a bar on the 2-1/2 floor, conveniently near our program rooms. Yes, they do stock some decent beer (but I don't know what, beyond Sam Adams). The restaurant is on the 2nd floor (typical continental/surf & turf). The hotel brunch is nothing special, just a basic breakfast; if you want a fancy Sunday brunch, ask for suggestions. Of course, there'll be stuff in the ConSuite too.
If you have any specific hotel questions, feel free to contact me.
--Lisa Hertel (hotel liaison)Museums include The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, MIT Museum, The Museum of Science, The Computer Museum, and The New England Aquarium.
Harvard Square contains many stores including, bookstores such as WordsWorth, Schoenhof's, McIntyre & Moore, Pandemonium Books, and the Harvard Coop. The Sunset Grill, in Allston, has over 120 beers on draft. In addition we are planning a tour of the NESFA Clubhouse for those who wish to see a local fannish landmark. For an extensive list of current activities and times see The Boston Globe Calendar.
