Fully registered atendees receive a round-trip, standard economy flight, lodging and all meals during the event.

We want you to know where you're going:

Optica Global Headquarters
2010 Massachusetts Ave NW
Washington, DC 20036
USA

Thanks to the support of donors, a lot of the expenses are covered.

1. ​Your flight is on us
   Within two weeks of registration, attendees will be contacted by the Optica Foundation's preferred travel agency Safe Harbors to complete a flight booking. We aim to book the lowest economy flight with an option for aisle or window seat selection arriving on 22 July and departing on 26 July.
   
   For attendees who wish to travel by car or train instead, those options can be explored with us at the time of booking.
   
   Flights MUST be booked by 16 June 2024. If you are not able to book your flight by that date, we cannot continue to hold your spot at the school.
    
2. Your accomodation is on us.
   Attendees will be provided a shared* room at The Ven at Embassy Row, Washington DC checking in 22 July and checking out 26 July. A valid credit card will be needed upon check-in for incidentals.
   
   The Ven at Embassy Row
   2015 Massachusetts Ave NW
   Washington, DC 20036
   Phone: (202) 265-1600
   
   Rooms are shared with one other attendee of the same gender. Attendees requesting private rooms may cover the expense on their own.
    
3. Your meals are on us.
   Beginning Monday night on 22 July and ending at the closing reception on 26 July, we provide meals for attendees. We can acommodate requests for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free meals as well as various allergies. For other meal needs, we may not be able to provide a complementary option.

Not all expenses are covered; here's what to plan to pay for on your own.

1. Your registration fee of US$800. Learn more on the registration page.
    
2. Other transportation and car rentals.
   We ask attendees to cover their own transportation to and from the airports. Optica Headquarters is within walking distance of the Dupont Circle metro stop, hotel and all activities.
    
3. Additional nights.
   If you wish to arrive early or stay later in the Washington, DC area or add other travel to the trip, you will be responsible for any additional costs and fees.

Let's talk about health and safety.

1. If you become ill before, during or after the event, please contact us to explore options that keep you healthy and avoid spreading anything to your fellow attendees. We encourage participants to secure the necessary health insurance for their trip. This would be covered by the attendee, not Optica. It is important to independently research your options and weigh whether you feel it is needed. If you are entering a country different from your own, it can be a daunting and scary experience trying to navigate a health issue without the appropriate coverage. 
2. Attendees are discouraged from walking alone after dark in Washington, DC. Don't worry. You will make friends quick at the Innovation School.
    
3. Stay hydrated. You will be able to refill a water bottle at Optica Headquarters.
    
4. Drink responsibly. Alcoholic beverages will be avaiable occasionally during the event. We love a party, but Innovation works best if you keep your wits about you.

Here's what we think you should wear and bring.

1. July in Washington, DC is hot and humid. Optica Headquarters is air-conditioned. Plan to bring a light jacket or something to layer when indoors (and immediately take off when you walk outside into the heat).
    
2. Plan for a rainstorm at least one day and bring a portable umbrella.
    
3. Bring some shoes you can walk comfortably in.
    
4. Leave gowns, tuxedos, tiaras, etc. at home. The dress code is casual. You're meeting peers, colleagues and mentors, but don't overthink it.