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I'd like to clarify a few things.
Regarding Merlin's post, I'll address each point directly, as I found the most inaccuracies and justified criticism in my part of the work.
1. Composition of the organizers, responsibility for execution.
It seems I am an Organizer's assistant. Vigo is the main organizer; all questions regarding who, what, and why should be directed to him.
I was tasked with creating a minimal package for accommodation that closely reflects real-world conditions, as well as outlining other possible services offered by the hotel in Korolev. As you correctly noted, I don't have experience with CIS events, so I will naturally listen to the opinions of more experienced players who have attended other similar events and are aware of some potential pitfalls. Fortunately, the organizers, including myself, still have some time while the official voting is ongoing.
All possible suggestions and wishes will, of course, be taken into account.
2. Regarding the conference hall.
a) I admit my mistake; I didn't think it through properly. Of course, the conference hall can be rented around the clock. If we translate this into a monetary equivalent, the total cost will be 2362 rubles, instead of the initially stated 1137 rubles. I will update all the information, including the price, within five minutes.
b) The conference hall we are considering renting can accommodate approximately 300 people. In my opinion, this means there will be enough space for drinking, poker, and playing Heroes. If my assumptions are far from the truth, please correct me. Of course, it is possible to rent two conference halls without any problems; it will just be a slightly different price. So, if the majority of experienced CIS players decide that this is what we should do, we will do it.
c) All statistics regarding the technical specifications and discounts negotiated by Vigo for the conference hall will be available tomorrow, most likely from Vigo himself. We believe in his diplomatic skills and are waiting for his success.
3. Regarding the date of the tournament's completion:
If you want to depart on the 13th, we will depart on the 13th. This is a solvable issue. Again, in my opinion, after the final, the evening closing ceremony, and a final party, it would be good to get some rest, gather our belongings, say goodbye, and leave. We can move it forward by one day; we will simply adjust the schedule slightly.
4. Regarding the organization of airport and train station pickups:
I can't say anything about organizing pickups; everyone arrives at different times, tired after their flights. It probably wouldn't be very nice to make some people wait for several hours while others arrive, and then take everyone to the hotel together. We are all adults and can call a taxi or take a bus to get to the hotel ourselves. If anyone needs a taxi, we will arrange it.
I will post the most affordable and convenient ways to get there later, with time and cost information linked to Yandex/Google Maps, so everyone can get their bearings.
The issue is more relevant for the 13th – we will all be checking out of the hotel together, and it would be better for most people to get to the city, at least, by a pre-booked bus. This is a more realistic prospect, and if it interests the public again, the organizers are ready to take care of it.
5. Regarding the behavior of the staff and administration of the establishment:
I haven't spoken to these people face-to-face, so I can't guarantee their integrity.
I plan to visit Korolev towards the end of the week to see the rooms, karaoke, conference hall, sauna, etc., in person. I will try to create a photo report and attach it to this thread, along with my personal conclusions after talking to these people, if you are interested.
Even though I'm at work, I will try to answer your other questions as quickly as possible.