FAQ

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Inside Silicon Valley – FAQs

Weather

Expect warm, early-summer conditions across California:

Los Angeles (Santa Monica):
Daytime ~20–27°C
Evenings ~14–18°C
Silicon Valley / San Francisco Bay Area:
Daytime ~18–25°C
Evenings cooler ~10–15°C
Coastal areas (San Francisco) can feel much cooler and breezier, even in summer.

Tip: Bring layers — you’ll experience both warm sunshine and cooler coastal evenings in the same day.


Dress Code

Business casual throughout, including all company visits:

  • Smart trousers / chinos / dresses
  • Shirts, blouses, knitwear
  • Comfortable smart shoes (you’ll be on your feet and moving locations)

Evenings

Relaxed business casual (no need for jackets/ties)

Note: Some tech offices are casual, but we recommend staying polished.


Where Are We Staying?

  • Los Angeles (Start of Programme)
  • Shutters on the Beach
  • You’ll stay here for the opening sessions and welcome activities.
  • Silicon Valley (Main Base)
  • Treehouse Silicon Valley

From Monday evening onwards, this is your main base.

Most days will begin and end here, including:

  • Breakfast briefings
  • Evening dinners & networking
  • Internal sessions

Tip: Once you arrive here, you’ll remain based here for the rest of the week.


Programme Overview

Your week includes a mix of content sessions, company visits, and group discussions:

Key Visits

  • Snap Inc. (Santa Monica HQ)
  • Apple (Apple Park, Cupertino)
  • NVIDIA (Santa Clara)
  • NEA (Menlo Park)
  • Pinterest (San Francisco)
  • Waymo (Mountain View & SF)

You’ll also have:

  • Expert speaker sessions (e.g. AI, Silicon Valley ecosystem)
  • Group “download” reflections after visits
  • Social and networking dinners

All timings and logistics are tightly coordinated.


Airport Transfers

Transfers are pre-arranged throughout:

Arrivals

  • Drivers will meet you at arrivals (details shared separately)
  • Look out for your name or event signage

If you have issues:

  • Use the WhatsApp group (primary channel)
  • Contact numbers will be shared in advance
  • Transfers During the Week

All transport is organised for you.

You’ll travel as a group between:

  • Hotels
  • Company visits
  • Restaurants and evening venues

Important:

  • Departure times are tight — punctuality is essential
  • Bring photo ID (passport or driving licence) at all times
  • → Required for all company site access
  • Communication During the Week
  • A WhatsApp group will be active throughout
  • Daily updates, reminders, and changes will be shared there

If you get separated from the group:

  • Message in WhatsApp
  • Use Uber if needed (widely available in both LA and SF)

Are Meals Included?

Yes — all key meals are arranged:

Breakfasts at the hotels

Lunches during sessions or company visits
Group dinners each evening

Dietary requirements provided in advance will be catered for.


Are There Activities or Downtime Options?

Yes — particularly at the start in LA:

  • Optional activities (e.g. Hollywood tour, bike tour)
  • Free time on Sunday afternoon
  • Informal networking and social time

In Silicon Valley

  • Some free time after dinners
  • Hotel facilities available (gym, pool, outdoor areas)
  • What Should I Bring Each Day?
  • Phone + charger / power bank
  • Notebook or tablet
  • Photo ID (essential)
  • Light jacket or layer
  • Comfortable shoes

Important:
Bring everything you need in the morning — you may not return to your room until evening.


Luggage & Travel Days

Monday (LA → Silicon Valley):

  • Bring luggage with you in the morning
  • You’ll transfer via flight to San Jose and go directly to the Treehouse
  • Departures (Friday)
  • Final sessions and lunch take place near San Francisco Airport
  • Transfers to SFO are arranged (hotel shuttle service)
  • Meeting space available for later departures

Important:

You’ll receive your exact transfer time in advance
Be ready with luggage and checked out

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