FAQ
What is Geeks On A Beach?
Geeks On A Beach (GOAB) is a brand new conference for everyone who is passionate about startups, technology, design, and making the world a better place. GOAB aims to “Bring Together Tech Innovators --- from Startups to Global Heroes”. It will be held in the beautiful island of Boracay, Philippines on September 26 to 27, 2013
Who is behind Geeks On A Beach?
Geeks On A Beach is organized by TechTalks.ph. GOAB is powered by Sym.ph Studios and the creative genius behind it is Happy Garaje. We are the good people behind Startup Weekend Cebu, Startup Weekend Davao, Cebu ON3 Startup Pitching Competition and other events in the Philippines -- “all of which help educate, support and empower people to become entrepreneurs”.
What is TechTalks.ph?
TechTalks.ph is a non-profit, independent community of technology, business and startup enthusiasts. We are bound together by our interest in technology and the advocacy of developing technopreneurs as a contribution to the country’s economic growth. TechTalks.ph provides opportunities for training and empowering the grassroots community with the right resources to become more globally competitive and implement industry best practices. TechTalks.ph was founded by Tina Amper, who returned to her hometown in the Philippines in 2012 after having worked abroad for many years. TT founding members include Tech Entrepreneurs Mark John Buenconsejo, David Overton, among others. TT chapters are located in Cebu, Bohol, Davao, Iloilo and other cities in the Philippines.
How is it related to Geeks On A Plane?
Well, Geeks On A Plane is the inspiration for Geeks On A Beach. Can you tell? Hahaha! Don’t worry, we had previously alerted Dave McClure of our plans to take GOAP to the beach! And, he said “a-ok”. As they say, “non-originality is the highest form of flattery” :D Our thanks to Dave and GOAP crew for their indulgence.
What happens during Geeks On A Beach?
There will be talks by hand-picked speakers from different sectors of the startup and technology scene. We will also have panel discussions, networking events, fire pitches, film showings, and our inaugural geek games. Of course, Geeks On A Beach will also be a great opportunity to network with like minded geeks and have fun at the beach with activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, parasailing, swimming, island hopping, and others. We have main events and fringe events.
What is the event registration fee?
View our registration details and form. We offer tiered pricing to accommodate all sectors of the startup and tech ecosystem: Standard or Corporate, Startup, Investor, or Student.
Can I register as “Student” or “Startup” since the registration fee is cheaper? Even if I’m not a Student or Startup?
Well, we don’t suggest so. However, we can’t force you to be honest. So that’s up to you and your little conscience. ;) Your badge title is going to reflect the category you are registered in.
What does the registration fee cover?
The registration fee covers all talks and panels on Sep 26 and 27. It also covers lunch, dinner, and snacks on both days. Our planned venue is a 4-star beachfront hotel in Station 2, in the middle of Boracay’s white beach. Event is expected to run from 10am to 5pm on both days. Dinner events are from 6pm onward. You are responsible for your own travel and accommodations. See our recommendations.
What if I want to arrive early or stay late?
You absolutely can arrive early and leave later. According to 2012 World’s Best Island Awards from Travel and Leisure, Boracay Island is Numero Uno - World’s #1 Best Island. Who wouldn’t want stay a little bit longer and enjoy the white powdery sand beach, the sun, and the parties? Email us at hello@GeeksOnABeach.com if you need help with arranging travel and accommodations. Or, if you’d like to travel to other sites in the Philippines.
When does Geeks On A Beach officially begin?
September 26 is the day! Mark your calendar! Well, if you come early, join us for a Welcome Cocktail Reception on September 25. Agenda is in the works. More details coming soon!
Will we get a certificate of participation?
Yes, you will receive an electronic certificate of participation after the event. ;)
Will we have any free time?
Yes, you will have time to enjoy the beach and other activities on the island! We are not holding the conference in Boracay just to sit down and listen to someone talk all day. ;) If you want more time to hang out, again, you are free to arrive in the island earlier or leave later. Email us hello@GeeksOnABeach.com if you have questions or need help arranging travel and accommodations.
What if I want a friend to come too?
Sure! Invite your friends! If they want to listen to the talks and participate in the event, just make sure that they register, too :) You can even bring your spouse or significant other! They can enjoy a massage in the spa or go strolling by the beach or enjoy shopping while you meet with other geeks. According to CNN, Boracay is number 5 in the World’s Most Romantic Islands. Maybe you might also want to consider another honeymoon after the event. ;)
How do I get there?
Hassle-free way? Email us and we’ll arrange everything for you. We have partnered with an international travel agency to help you get to GOAB. Email your requirements to hello@GeeksOnABeach.com. Don’t worry, we can take care of all your travel needs so you can arrive safe and sound in GOAB. We can also help you with side trips if you’d like to visit other awesome places in the Philippines (Palawan to see World Heritage sights, Siargao for surfing, Cebu/Dumaguete/others for diving, etc.) TechTalks.ph chapters are also available in other Philippine cities if you wanna hang out, give-back, or hack with other tech/startup communities.
Again, How do I get there?
From international destinations:
- a) Fly in to Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB) airport in the Philippines
- b) Take a smaller plane (~45-minutes) to Caticlan (MPL)
- c) 15-minute boat ride to Boracay Island
- a) Fly in to Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB) airport in the Philippines
- b) Take a smaller plane (~45-minutes) to Kalibo (KLB)
- c) One hour bus or shuttle ride to Caticlan pier.
- d) 15-minute boat ride to Boracay Island
By boat or airplane to Iloilo, Caticlan or Kalibo then follow steps c or c-d above.
What? Why so far?
It’s not. Well, if it is, then remember “Good things come to those who wait.”
What’s the weather going to be like?
Weather forecast in Boracay for September is around 24 to 30 degrees celsius (75 to 86 degrees fahrenheit). We can control our weight but not the weather! So, think positive and get ready with some sunscreen and sunglasses!
What should I wear?
We will be posting the agenda soon so you will know what to wear depending on our activity. But definitely you’re gonna be rubbing elbows with other startup founders, investors, media representatives, and other interesting people in the startup scene from all over the world so wear something beach-friendly, comfortable, and presentable at the same time.
I want to promote GOAB, are there any images I can use?
Oh course! We prepared images of different sizes that you can choose from. You can get them at our website's banner page.
What if I have any other questions?
If you have other questions, email us at hello@GeeksOnABeach.com . See you in Boracay!