With such a large crowd at Otakon, it is easy to be sweep up in the energy of the event and forget to use normal etiquette. This section may seem like an unnecessary reminder to some, but it’s amazing how many people make these mistakes each year.
1. Do Not Forget to Shower
Many convention attendees are young adults, without the income to pay for their own hotel room for a full weekend. Futhermore, the hotels in the area surrounding Otakon become fully booked quickly. Due to this, oftentimes hotel rooms will be packed with multiple people, making organizing bathroom and shower times somewhat difficult. As a result, it can be tempting to skip the hassle of normal hygiene for a few days, thinking no one will notice in the crowd. The problem with this is that, most likely, people WILL notice, and, if multiple people start thinking this way, the crowds of Otakon may become very unpleasant. Especially with the high temperatures of late July/ August, it is vital to make sure you shower daily, regardless of how troublesome it may seem.
Many convention attendees are young adults, without the income to pay for their own hotel room for a full weekend. Futhermore, the hotels in the area surrounding Otakon become fully booked quickly. Due to this, oftentimes hotel rooms will be packed with multiple people, making organizing bathroom and shower times somewhat difficult. As a result, it can be tempting to skip the hassle of normal hygiene for a few days, thinking no one will notice in the crowd. The problem with this is that, most likely, people WILL notice, and, if multiple people start thinking this way, the crowds of Otakon may become very unpleasant. Especially with the high temperatures of late July/ August, it is vital to make sure you shower daily, regardless of how troublesome it may seem.
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| This is what you should NOT do |
Imagine you’re walking down the halls of the convention center. Suddenly, you turn the corner and spot a cosplayer- your favorite anime character come to life. Of course you become excited, and likely you want to talk to them and take a picture or two. You may even be tempted to run up and hug them, aka ‘glomp’ them. Do not do this. Regardless of whether you have the same taste in anime or not, this person is very likely still a stranger. If you really want a hug, approach them at a normal pace and ask politely. Keep in mind, the cosplayer is still a normal con attendee; they are not the actual character they are cosplaying. It’s okay to get excited over someone’s costume, especially since they’ve probably put a lot of hard work into getting it together, but most people value their personal space.
3. Do Not Take Pictures Without Asking
One of the highlights of Otakon is the vast number of cosplayers that attend each year. Many put a lot of effort into their work, and are more than welcome to pictures. However, it is always better to ask before snapping a photo. For example, if someone is eating with his/her friends, they likely won’t appreciate having their photo taken while they’re in the middle of chewing. Of course, if a large group is already taking photos, such as at a photoshoot, it may be impossible or unnecessary to ask permission. As long as you always take other people’s feelings into account, you should be able to use your own judgment and everyone can have a good time. As a general rule, if it’s possible to ask beforehand, do.
4. Do Not Skip Meals or Skip Sleep
Although food in downtown Baltimore can get a bit pricey, like all touristy areas, and you may be tempted to skip a few meals in order to save money for that expensive figure you wanted, staying fed and hydrated is extremely important. The weather in late July/ early August in Baltimore will be hot, you will be walking a lot, and passing out in the middle of the weekend will ruin your weekend. For cheaper food options, stop by a convenience store or pack a lunch. (Just remember to pack spoilable food with an ice pack!) However, keep in mind that the convention center may not be happy with people bringing in a large amount of outside food, so be discrete.
Here’s a handy map of restaurants in the downtown Baltimore area, courtesy of Otakon staff: http://www.otakon.com/images_content/location_map.jpg. During mealtimes, nearby restaurants will be packed with con-goers and other tourists, so set aside an ample amount of time for eating.
Likewise, if you’re running low on sleep you won’t be able to enjoy the convention to the fullest. So, stay up late, but don’t stay up all night.
5. Do Not Bring “Yaoi Paddles” or “Vuvuzelas”
Both of these items (along with similar weapons or noisemakers) have been banned from Otakon due to the disruption they cause. Read the official rules for a more extensive explanation of what kind of props are and are not allowed.
6. Do Not Forget the Official Con Rules
Besides the advice listed here, make sure to read through Otakon’s official policies and rules! Following these rules will make the convention safer for everyone and help the volunteer convention staff to run everything more smoothly.
http://www.otakon.com/policies.asp
Besides the advice listed here, make sure to read through Otakon’s official policies and rules! Following these rules will make the convention safer for everyone and help the volunteer convention staff to run everything more smoothly.
http://www.otakon.com/policies.asp
