I remember the first event of this kind well.
It was November 2016 in Amsterdam.
Since then I have also been to Lisbon (2017) and Krakow (2018).
A lot has happened in 6 years and it's back in Amsterdam.
Of course I am going.
Especially the first Steemfest was among the best events I have ever been to.
It comes with the territory that a new technology like this attracts open minded people, who can deal with new concepts and ideas quickly. Aditionally, Amsterdam has the perfect vibe for these kinds of enterprises. It is a very liberal and open minded city, so are the Netherlands in general.
Speaking English is perfectly normal in Amsterdam and at times easier than in London.
I like a lot that the date was changed to September, as Amsterdam's weather is bad in November.
It should all make for a great atmosphere for meeting new people, talking about new ideas, seeing the city, going for a cruise on a boat.
As mentioned above, the Hive crowd is generally open minded and intelligent, like you would expect at a tech-event. However, Hive is a bit unusual and so are some of the people it attracts.
This makes for a most interesting mix of characters.
The whole premise of the event is unusual. I do not remember, who came up with it, but someone noticed, how Hive works different than other social media: Usually you meet someone and add them to your friends; On Hive, you meet people online first and then get to speak to them at Hivefest.
This means, you get to meet and talk to people, who you might already know quite well.
I mean, at some point I was just casually talking to 
Some years prior I had read a book of his, which had changed my life, fundamentally.
It would have been worth going to just see him and thank him, but at this event he was just a sideshow, as there were so many people to talk to. (No offence Neil)
Basically, I have met a lot of people, who I don't have much in common with, other than Hive.
A lot of people, who I would have otherwise never met.
I picked up some new ideas, some connections and even made some friends.
I am mainly going for the people, but I need to mention, how well these events have been organized.
We always had excellent locations, good food and everything was well communicated.
I have to admit: Personally, I do not really watch the presentations and talks, as they are all being recorded and I prefer to watch them at home and instead spend my time with other things, while I am there.
The side-events are well worth it.
One time, near Krakow, we went some 100 meters underground for dinner.
Other than that, I don't even know why I wrote this post.
Take it as an encouragement to book a ticket yourself, or just as my announcement of attendance.
I recommend you book the hotel that is closest to the venues.
Otherwise, look for a shared air bnb, early.
Do not miss the final dinner.
Bring an umbrella, maybe. Perhaps sunscreen.
Last time, I felt severely underdressed.
This year, I am buying a brand new track suit.
