Temple Of Geek Podcast - What to know before going to San Diego Comic Con!
Temple Of Geek Podcast - What to know before going to San Diego Comic Con! #SDCC #SanDiegoComicCon #TheTogCast
On This Episode
This podcast episode is mainly geared towards people who are visiting San Diego Comic Con for the first time and for those who may have gone several times but maybe want some tips on how to maximize their trip. Podcast Hosts, Monica Duarte, and Paloma Figueroa are San Diego Comic-Con veterans and they share some insight on how to get the most out of your trip.
Your electronic devices will likely run out of juice at some point during the day at SDCC 2018! Here are some tips to help keep your devices powered up.
Just posted the latest in our series of SDCC Tips articles, which offers advice on how to keep your electronic devices powered up throughout the day at San Diego Comic-Con!
Welcome to San Diego! We’ve always been a tourist destination, but July is particularly busy due to one of our biggest events of the year: the San Diego Comic-Con.
We love our city, and we’re very proud of it. We hope you’ll love it too! Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the most of your trip, and help us locals who live here year-round.
San Diego In General
1. San Diego is much more than just the city. We’re one of the largest counties in the State, and contain habitats from the beach to the mountains to the high desert. Most residents (including myself) live outside the city and are made up of many cultures that make us unique. In the big picture, we’re divided up into: North County, South County, East County (where I’m from), and the city of San Diego.
2. We’re a diverse county made up of multiple races, faiths, sexualities, and ideologies. We take pride in that, celebrating our diversity year-round.
3. It’s beneficial to know some Mexican Spanish before coming. Those of us who grew up here and have lived here for long periods of time have picked up an intermediate knowledge of the language in order to communicate and pronounce our city and street names correctly. It is a large part of our culture, and many of us are bilingual or know enough to interact with the many Mexicans who work, live, and visit our county.
4. We are a Sanctuary City, and we take pride in that.
5. We have a large LGBTA+ community, who gather and celebrate in HIllcrest.
6. We’re a Navy town. We take pride in our military and many San Diegians have some connection or a relative involved with the military. We desire peace and peaceful solutions, but we also take pride and support our military.
7. We’re friendly, but don’t like bad guests. Remember, we live and work and play here year-round. You’re visiting, and we’re good at pointing out that you’re being rude to us. But we will go out of our way to make you feel welcome if you’re kind to us.
8. Our state has gone bagless! This means we charge 15 cents per plastic bag at almost all stores. Bring reusable bags.
Lodgings and Transportation
1. If you’re staying downtown, take advantage of the public transportation. While it’s not as reliable or practical outside of the city (since we’re so big), it’s easy to get around downtown that way. It’s sometimes slow, especially during a big event such as SDCC.
2. If you’re staying someplace other than downtown (such as fashion or mission valley), rent a car. Carpool with people and park at one of the lots downtown.
3. Downtown is a walkable city. It can get a little hilly on the North end of the city, but it’s doable.
4. Whatever you do, avoid Grape St. It’s a horrible intersection and we avoid it as much as possible.
5. Conserve water! We may technically be out of a drought, but we’re still protective of this resource. That and it’s incredibly expensive.
6. Be kind to those working transportation and hotels. Thank often and you’ll be rewarded.
7. Always ask us for recommendations. We’ll point you away from the touristy places and to our favorite hidden secrets. Provided you’ve been kind to us.
8. We refer to our freeways as THE (#). So The 94, The 8, The 5, so on. So if we’re giving directions, you’ll hear it one of two ways: “Take the 94 West.” or “Go South on the 5.”
The Con Itself
1. It’s big, it’s loud, it’s crowded. If we aren’t attending or working nearby we tend to stay away. But we love hosting and we’re just as surprised as you that it has grown this big.
2. Plan out your day. Give yourself downtime as there is much to see and do and it can get overwhelming.
3. If you have purchased something large and you need help transporting it home, there is a FedEx shop in the center itself.
4. There is plenty to do and see outside of the center as well. The library has started doing things plus the Gaslamp Quarter is packed full of things to check out. Also Liberty Station and places further downtown tend to hold events as well. You just have to look.
5. HYDRATE! We’re a semi-arid climate and even though you’re by the water it still gets hot. If you’re from someplace not used to the dry heat, practice hydrating now. You can always tell who the locals are by how much we hydrate.
6. If you’re like me and get anxious or overstimulated (or both), there are various places to hide away to calm down. I recommend the back of the convention center and the upper levels. There are plenty of little corners to take a quick mental break.
7. No matter where you go, there are pickpockets. Keep your badge close, and your belongings closer. I suggest small bags that are slung across the body or are attached to you. Backpacks can be a bit much on the con floor and pickpockets have gotten better about opening those little pockets.
8. If you’re planning on braving Hall H, I suggest following or talking to Englishman in SD or HiddlesEducates on Twitter. They’re pros at it and know all the fun tips. If you’re claustrophobic, have anxiety, or get overstimulated, I recommend not going in there. Trust me, having a panic attack in there is beyond not fun.
9. WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Food
1. Food will be expensive downtown and around the con. The food inside the con isn’t great but will do in a pinch.
2. There is a Ralphs downtown. Buy snacks and small food items to take with you or make in your hotel if you’re able.
3. You’re here at the height of tourist season. Plan a little extra for food so you’re not surprised.
4. If you want to try real Mexican food, ask a local. We know where the best places are. Old Town and El Indio are good places to start.
5. Don’t forget to eat real food. You’ll need your energy.
Weather
1. Our weather is unpredictable. So far it’s been either normal 70 degree weather we all love, or way too hot. Dress for hot weather during the day and a light jacket/sweater for the night if you’re by the water. If you’re further inland it won’t cool down as much.
2. If you’re white like I am, WEAR SUNSCREEN. Everyone should but if you’re white wear more of it. The sun is unforgiving, even on overcast or marine layer days. If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, wear a hat.
3. We’re used to the heat but we complain a lot about it. That’s just us. We’re firm believers in climate change because we can feel the effect.
4. If you’re Cosplaying, be aware of the heat. I love seeing everyone dress up but really hate seeing anyone getting heatstroke because of it. When I cosplay I have summer versions that I wear for SDCC for this reason.
5. From now to the day your arrive, watch our weather. Like I said, it’s unpredictable. For example, when the cast for Thor: The Dark World came we had a thunderstorm with rain and everything. Last year we had one of the worst heatwaves we’ve ever seen. It happens.
Things to do
1. Have a day off? Check out some of these other awesome places!
2. Balboa Park. We’re the largest urban park on the west coast. There are a ton of museums with plenty to explore. I recommend the miniature railway museum, Casa del Prado, and the Ruben H. Fleet science center.
3. The Zoo. We’re world famous! And we just celebrated our 100th year. This year we just opened a new African exhibit that is pretty awesome.
4. Liberty Station. Places to shop and eat, the location of Stone Brewery, and is the home to Image Comics. I recommend Slider’s 50/50.
5. Old Town. Where people first settled when they came to our area. There is plenty to explore, shop, and eat. I recommend exploring the Whaley House.
6. Sea World. There are rides, water fun, and plenty of animals to see. I recommend the shark encounter and the Shamu cookies.
7. Fashion/Mission Valley. If you’re interested in shopping and places to eat. Fashion Valley is pricier and Mission Valley has one of the best movie theaters.
8. Point Loma. Go all the way to the tip to see the lighthouse, catch the view of downtown, and visit the tidepools.
9. The Beach. This is where you think we’re at all the time. Not all the time but you’re close. Mission and Ocean Beach are right next to each other and are closer. You have the boardwalk and Belmont Park with shops. I prefer La Jolla Beach since it’s better to swim in and the surfing’s better.
10. Seaport Village. Literally a 5 minute walk from the convention center, it hosts shops and restaurants with a great view of the bay. Or catch the ferry to go to Coronado Island. I recommend the carousal (it’s faster than the one in Balboa Park) and the Hat Shoppe.
11. Julian. A bit of a drive but it’s an old community up in the mountains. Be careful driving. Come for pie (berries are in season), visit the old mines, and see what living in San Diego was like back in the day.
12. La Mesa. My neck of the woods! If you want to see where the locals really live and play (at least for East County), this is a good place to start. Downtown La Mesa has shops and a bunch of new restaurants that I’m still exploring. We just did a huge upgrade a few summers ago so it looks really nice. Easy to get to by trolley.
Packing List
As a local I find this weird, but this is how I’d pack:
Sunscreen, light clothing, light jacket/sweater, comfortable shoes, snacks, water, hat, sunglasses, medication you may need, a list of medical issues, emergency contact information, a small bag, swim suit, towel (if you’re going to the beach), reusable bags, something to keep you entertained while you wait in lines, device chargers, portable battery pack, maybe an extra bag to take home your loot in.
Have fun, enjoy your stay, and welcome to San Diego! Feel free to ask me questions.
How to survive San Diego Comic Con from a local (that’s me!) whether it’s you’re 1st or 30th time going.
- San Diego is a laid-back city. We’d like to keep it that way. Enjoy the sun and ocean breezes and remember that we LIVE here 24/7/365. Treat us with respect especially those who are working. We’re very proud to call San Diego home and that pride shows in our work. Don’t be a jerk. We’re not your personal servants for the weekend.
- It’s gonna be HOT. It’s going to be a little hotter than usual for this time of year, so: DRINK LOTS OF WATER, wear sunscreen if your going to be outside for lengths of time, if you’re cosplaying take breaks, wear cool and comfortable clothing.
- Seriously. Drink water.
- And eat. I recommend the fish tacos. Or tacos. Or real authentic Mexican food. It’s really good I promise!
- Public transportation is unpredictable and slow. If you’re staying close to the convention center I recommend walking.
- Don’t have a ticket for a day? Go explore! We have TONS to do.
- If you’re playing Pokemon GO, PLEASE be aware of your surroundings.
- WE ARE IN A DROUGHT. PLEASE conserve water! Keep your towels, make the bed, take short showers.
- Stop by the Southern California Comics booth and say hello! My friends would appreciate it.
- Be kind to the hotel staff. This is a hectic season/weekend for them. Plus, I have many friends who work the hotels. They’re not beneath you. They’re hard working San Diegans who are trying to make the best experience for you. Leave your hotel room cleaner than you found it. If there’s a problem, don’t yell and scream at the workers. Be civil. Don’t be rude.
- Introverted? Anxious? Get overstimulated? Great, so am I! There are plenty of hidey-holes around the convention center to take a breather. The exhibition hall, Hall H, and the Gaslamp (especially at night) are the most crowded areas to either avoid or take in small doses. I personally avoid Hall H because not only is it crowded to where you can’t move, but it’s dark. But there are plenty of quiet areas to decompress and enjoy San Diego.
- The internet has been a hot spot of darkness and hate lately. There will be people coming this weekend who work in the entertainment industry and are wanting to share their work with you. Conventions are designed for those working in a particular industry to learn from fellow members of that industry and showcase their talents. SDCC is unique because it’s where the everyday person and the entertainer cross paths. Entertainers and comic creators use this as a way to directly touch base with their fans and fellow industry workers. IN NO WAY ARE THEY ENTITLED TO CATER YOU. As someone who works and teaches in the entertainment industry, nothing is worse than having someone who only came to criticize you do just that instead of learning. They’re WORKING here. Show some respect. Don’t like their work? Don’t talk to them. Don’t agree with their lifestyle/life choices/relationship choices (you know which fandom I’m talking to since I’m in that fandom)? Focus on the work or don’t talk to them! For heaven’s sake don’t go to the convention to just mock or criticize them! Don’t buy their work, don’t watch their work, don’t go to the panel. Those are ways to get your voice heard without being a jerk. Going up to them or booing them from the audience means you’re a jerk, and I don’t allow that in my city. DON’T ADD TO THE HATE. I’m personally keeping an eye out for my fellow cosplayers and those I care about. Be part of the solution and peace, not part of the hate. Keep that at home.
- Have fun. Stay safe. Drink water. Don’t forget to eat. I’ll be there all weekend if you want to say hi. I’m cosplaying Saturday (look for the blonde Loki in a dress) so that day I’ll be easy to spot. And message me if you have any questions!
When I give you suggested times of when to line up for panels, remember that it is just what I would do if I were in your situation! Just a suggestion. In recent years, I have only missed out on one panel when I got in line in at what I thought was a decent time (who knew Star Wars origami would be so popular???), but it does happen sometimes! If something is SUPER important to you, line up however far in advance you feel you need to line up.
Comic-Con technically begins in 4 days, and this weekend is always a hectic time as everyone scrambles to get ready for the con. I thought I would make a (hopefully handy) list of the things to do in the next few days to make sure you’re prepared!
COMPLETE COSPLAY
(This could mean buying/locating/completing any last minute accessories, makeup, shoes, etc. Try everything on and make sure it’s all good to go and you know how to throw everything together!)
BUY FOOD & WATER BOTTLES
(Quick and easy meals you can prepare in your hotel room, snacks to carry with you that will give you energy and keep you going throughout the day, a decent-sized refillable water bottle you can carry with you, etc)
LOCATE/BUY/CHARGE BATTERIES
(Does your cell phone stayed charged all day long? If not, now might be a good time to buy an extra battery!)
LAUNDRY
(Plan all outfits from head-to-toe that you will wear every day and make sure they are clean)
PRINT ANY TICKETS/PASSES YOU MAY HAVE
(Parking passes? Party invites? NerdHQ tickets? SDCC Barcode? Print them all and store them in a safe place!)
REVIEW SCHEDULE, OFF-SITE EVENTS, ETC
(If you haven’t started to make an SDCC schedule, now is the time to give it some serious thought!)
BUY OTHER ODDS-AND-ENDS YOU MIGHT NEED
(Hand sanitizer? Sharpies? Medicine? Look at your packing list and pick up anything you dont already have!)
You're amazing! Thanks for the quick response. I did think of a few other questions if you would be so kind.. Is there storage/ locker rental or anything like that somewhere near by? Also, Im definitely not on cosplayer level, but plan on dressing up. Is there a place to go specifically to interact with cosplayers/fellow noobs or is it just basically a free for all? lol
There is a bag check! I believe it’s $2 per bag, which is a pretty good deal! Just make sure to pick your stuff up before closing, because I don’t think they keep things over night.As for cosplaying, it’s a lot of a free-for-all lol. There will be cosplayers all over: Inside the exhibit hall, in the lobby, out behind the convention center, and around the gaslamp. I cant think of one main hub, but I think big groups usually gather on the steps out back for pictures, so that might be a fun place to hang!(And definitely feel free to write me again about the SPN panel on Sunday after the schedule comes out to see if I think anything has changed the waiting time for that panel!)
