If you are attending Vision Expo East this April, now is the time to start planning and preparation.
Vision Expo East is a great opportunity to attend continuing education, learn about the newest technology and innovation impacting our profession, purchase eyewear and instruments for your practice, and perhaps most importantly, network and have fun with colleagues!
I strongly believe Vision Expo East blows Vision Expo West away. I'd much rather spend a weekend in New York City over Las Vegas, but perhaps I'm a bit biased as I attended SUNY for 4 years!
Nonetheless, the grandeur of Vision Expo East, and NYC to a much greater degree can be massively overwhelming. If you do not have plan when you touchdown in JFK, LGA, or EWR, you can quickly find yourself lost in the shuffle.
Vision Expo East 2016 Location, Pricing, Dates & Times:
Location
Javits Center
655 w 34th Street
New York, NY 10001
655 w 34th Street
New York, NY 10001
Exhibition Pricing
Early Bird Rate (On or Before March 17, 2016) - $75
Pre-Show Rate (After March 17, 2016) - $100
Onsite Rate - (April 14-17) - $150
Pre-Show Rate (After March 17, 2016) - $100
Onsite Rate - (April 14-17) - $150
Education Dates and Hours
| Thursday, April 14, 2016 | 7:00am - 6:00pm |
|---|---|
| Friday, April 15, 2016 | 7:15am - 6:15pm |
| Saturday, April 16, 2016 | 7:30am - 6:00pm |
| Sunday, April 17, 2016 | 8:30am - 5:00pm |
Exhibition Dates and Hours
| Friday, April 15, 2106 | 9:30am - 6:00pm |
|---|---|
| Saturday, April 16, 2016 | 9:30am - 6:00pm |
| Sunday, April 17, 2016 | 9:30am - 5:00pm |
Step 1: Register for the Young Professionals Club
If you are a relatively new graduate (5 years of less), this is the single most important thing you need to do.
The benefits are absolutely incredible and its 100% FREE.
As a member of the Young Professionals Club (YPC) you receive: free exhibit hall registration, six free hours of education at Vision Expo, and the option to attend exclusive YPC Social Events and Member Programs
It is easy to register, and you receive your benefits automatically!
Step 2: Register for the Event
Step 3: Register for Continuing Education
The educational opportunity at Vision Expo East is incredible. You can view the continuing education schedule here. Keep in mind, that many states require a certain amount of glaucoma/TPA CE credits for licensure renewal. You'll know what classes I'll be attending!
Step 4: Plan a Route for the Exhibit Hall
The exhibit hall is incredibly massive. Every major company and industry partner within the ophthalmic realm can be found at Vision Expo.
You'll need to:
- Browse the floor plan for the general layout of the event. The exhibit hall typically includes a floor space dedicated to equipment, eyeglass lens/contact lens vendors, big frame vendors and sections for the smaller independent and luxury brands.
- Download the Vision Expo Mobile App to keep track of booths of interest and view show programs and updates.
- Research frame lines, equipment, and accessories you are looking to or need to add to your practice.
- Set up appointments with vendors of interest to fulfill any specific or mandatory agendas you must complete.
Step 5: Plan your NYC Itinerary
Once you've registered and have planned out your schedule at Vision Expo East, it is time to book travel, housing accommodations, and have a plan to get around NYC.
Travel:
New York City is easily accessible. There are three major airports servicing the area including:
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in Queens
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in Queens,
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey
Consider booking your travel and hotel accommodations and receive discounts using the information found on the official Vision Expo website.
Vision Expo East has put together a wonderful guide on getting into the city and to the Javits Center from all of these airport hubs.
Hotel:
Between exhibit halls, continuing education, and social events, I believe it wise to find accommodations that are easily accessible and close to the Javits Center. There are many ways to get to and from the Javits Center from hotels in and around the area, and in some instances, you can walk.
I would look to find accommodations near Times Square. Not only will that put you in the middle of the tourist action (could be great for first time visitors to NYC - I personally prefer to stay away from Times Square!) but it is very walkable to the Javits Center.
Once again, you can get a great deal on hotel accommodations through the Vision Expo East website.
Event Location:
The Jacob Javits Center is easily accessible on the west side of the city, which means there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy all New York City has to offer in between exploring the exhibit hall, attending educational lectures, spending time with colleagues and making new connections.
Many hotels offer free shuttles to and from the Javits Center. Consult this guide for more information.
NYC:
What needs to be said? New York City is the best city in the world. So much to do and see, it would be impossible to see everything New York has to offer in a few short days. The weather in April should be delightful.
I highly recommend walking the High Line down to the Chelsea market if you have a chance. If you are considering taking a trip up to the top of the Empire State Building, skip that and instead go check out Top of the Rock. The view is better, plus you can take pictures of the Empire State Building in the NYC skyline!
You can't go wrong with food. There is cuisine to accommodate anyone's palate. However steer clear of touristy areas. You'll find much better food, at better prices away from the main attractions.
You can always check out these travel guides for ideas on what to see or do in NYC during your stay.
Getting Around:
Taxis, walking, the New York MTA - Getting around NYC is easy. I recommend walking. It is the best way to see and enjoy all NYC has to offer!
Well, what are you waiting for? There's a lot to do to ensure your trip to NYC and your experience at Vision Expo East is a good one. Get going!
