Greetings from Brussels!

Busy times at the IAPP as we prepare for the 9th IAPP Europe Data Protection Congress in Brussels next week. If you are traveling in, we look forward to welcoming you! We do have a packed couple of days with trainings, workshops, networking and the conference itself. No doubt, it promises to be a great and bustling week. 

If you have a ticket to Congress, consider yourself lucky! We sold out three weeks ago and have had an extended waiting list in place since. Unfortunately, due to restrictions associated with the venue, we are capped for attendance capacity, so I apologize if you didn’t “make the cut,” as they say in golf. I do hope we will see you on another occasion at one of our Europe Data Protection Intensives next year. If you’re not aware, we grouped all our Europe Intensive events onto one landing page, which gives you an overview of where and when those events are taking place. Some registrations are already open, so please take advantage by registering ahead of time.

For those of you coming to Brussels, a couple of pointers to make your stay as enjoyable and as efficient as possible. First of all, we will be a “full house,” so if you are arriving next Tuesday, I’d recommend registering on-site ahead of the Congress. Registration will be open beginning Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Congress Centre. And don’t forget, if you want to grab a drink that evening before your dinner plans, we will have our “Welcome Reception” at the venue at 7 p.m. (Grand Hall 1 & 2) Tuesday evening. This is a good opportunity to check out this year’s sponsors and exhibitors ahead of the event.

Another good tip is to use the IAPP event app, which is available for Google and Apple phones. As with all conference programs — particularly larger events — programming can be subject to change for a host of reasons. Download the app for the latest programming and to stay abreast of all the ancillary social activities that go hand in hand with the Congress. If there is a session you absolutely want to attend, get there ahead of time. I myself swear by the app; it’s my entire planner for the two days. Moreover, if you are an aficionado of social media, our hashtag is simple: #DPC19. I get asked that question frequently, so now you know how to tag those quotes, selfies and event pictures. Don’t be shy; it is half the fun of going to these events, so take a photo with a fellow delegate, and get posting.

I’ll end on a note about Brussels. Sure, I’m biased, but I’m OK with that as it’s my adopted home. Brussels is historic but hip at the same time. A city internationally known for its European bureaucracy, yet there are few cities that can rival its eclectic architectural diversity; think Horta, art deco and nouveau. It is a multicultural melting pot; beer and chocolate are the best here and in abundance; cafe and restaurant offerings provide ample choice; and the waffles are world famous. But you may want to hold that experience for Congress — I believe there will be complimentary waffles at the venue. Sound good?

Last but not least: It is November, so a good umbrella and scarf is advisable. Safe travels!