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
Leave a Reply