General FAQ

When will the WG really get going?
What's up with the colored dots on everyone's badges?
How should I dress for hanging around the WG?
How much should I tip at the resort?
What if I need to rent a car?
What if I need a wheelchair or scooter while I'm in Orlando?
Do you need volunteers at the WG?
What does TeenSIG do at a gathering?
Will there be any Gen-X activities?
Where can I learn more about the Walt Disney World® Resort?
What are the policies regarding U.S. visitor visas? Do I need one to come to the WG?
I'm coming in from another country. What about currency exchanges?
What if I have a question that was not answered in this FAQ?

When will the WG really get going?

There will be full progamming and hospitality on Wednesday, Aug. 9. There will be only light programming and hospitality on Tuesday, Aug. 8. Check the online schedule to see exactly what will be happening on Tuesday — or earlier; you do want to be part of M-Force One, don't you?

What's up with the colored dots on everyone's badges?

It's the hugging code. If you want a hug, wear a green dot. If you want the person to ask first, wear a yellow dot. If you prefer your personal space, wear a red dot. Mensans are very respectful of hug dots!

How should I dress for hanging around the WG?

Nearly anything goes. Do keep in mind that it will be approximately 91 degrees outdoors and a comfortable 72 air-conditioned degrees inside, and comfortable shoes are a must!

How much should I tip at the resort?

Averages are:

• Food waiters: 15-20 percent, depending on service level.
• Drink waiters: $1-2 U.S. per round, depending on how many drinks were brought.
• Valet parking attendants: $1-5, depending on how fast they get your vehicle to you and whether or not they park it "up front" so it is ready when you leave.
• Porters: $1-2 per bag if they go to your room with them, flat $2-5 if they just get you to the check-in desk.
• Room service: Most hotels add a gratuity charge on your room service bill, but an additional $2-3 is appreciated.
• Room maid: $2-5 each night.

What if I need to rent a car?

No problem. You can reserve one at the airport and park for free at the hotel. Don't forget that American Mensa members get discounts from Alamo, Hertz and National. Mensa International members can contact the American Mensa National Office for access to the members-only portions of the Web site.

What if I need a wheelchair or scooter while I'm in Orlando?

Scootaround Mobility Product Rentals is providing simple, convenient scooter and wheelchair rental service for WG attendees. You can reserve yours in advance.

Do you need volunteers at the WG?

Of course! If you wish to volunteer as a speaker or worker for the World Gathering, please go to Contacts and sign up!

What does TeenSIG do at a gathering?

Mostly they hang around with each other. They play games like Dungeons and Dragons and other fantasy games. They sit around and talk. They listen to music. And they always, but always, want to come back next year.

Will there be any Gen-X activities?

Oh, yes! There are off-site dinners and other activities for Gen-Xers. For more information email GenX SIG coordinator Maria Sawczuk.

Where can I learn more about the Walt Disney World^® Resort?

Access the resort's FAQ page for more information about registration, guest services, transportation, weather and much, much more. For Disney information specifically designed for the convention visitor, visit www.disneyconventionears.com. For the unofficial scoop on how to save money on all things Disney, visit mousesavers.com.

What are the policies regarding U.S. visitor visas? Do I need one to come to the WG?

Well, there have been changes to the United States' laws governing visitor entry and exit following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, so all international guests should look into it well before August 2006 rolls around. You can start at http://www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/index.html.

I'm coming in from another country. What about currency exchanges?

Most banks, hotels and many area attractions offer foreign money exchange. For exchanges at a theme park, go to the guest relations window at the entrance to the park. In hotels or resorts, see guest services or the front desk.

What if I have a question that was not answered in this FAQ?

Well, you can check out the FAQs specific to the Hotel, Registration, Food, Location, Programs, Mensa Business and Tours sections. If your question is still unanswered, email the appropriate chair from Contacts.