This weekend I am off to Seattle to spend a few days at the First2Board Seattle Sessions. Unlike some of the other gatherings I’ve attended, this is a more intimate gathering; only 50 people are expected.

One of the most rewarding things about coming to gatherings like this is seeing old friends and their stories about where they’ve been and what they’ve been up to. Tonight was the traditional pre-conference happy hour (which turned into a happy five hours) during which I ran into several familiar faces. Frugal Travel Lawyer is here. Point Princess is going to be here as well. Both are speaking and I can’t wait to hear what they have to say.

Another reason I love these gatherings is because it attracts curious people. To learn and maximize incentive systems takes a certain type of person. Everyone gets into the miles/points hobby for a different reason; some want to generate cash for retirement, some want to experience luxury travel, some just want to visit friends/family more often… but all who get into the hobby seriously are curious people. The ones who have been around a while will spin tales of millions of points earned and spent, and often, the newcomers will share a fresh idea that even the veterans hadn’t considered. I’m excited for all that will be learned during this meet-up.