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General information

  HUNGARY
The Republic of Hungary is situated in Central Eastern Europe. The country covers an area of 93,036 km2 and it has roughly 10 million inhabitants, who speak a unique language which is not used anywhere else in the world. In the year 2000 the nation celebrated the thousandth anniversary of the foundation of the Hungarian State. Since the reign of state-founder King Saint Stephan, Hungary has gone through golden ages as well as repeated trials, but has survived despite its stormy history. Today, Hungary, a member of the EU is one of the most popular destinations of visitors who wish to encounter this beautiful country with natural, historical, cultural and gastronomic attractions.

PASSPORT & VISA INFORMATION
Participants from outside the EU must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months after the end of the Meeting. Please check your visa requirements at the web-site of the Portal of the Hungarian Ministry of Foregin Affairs
Upon request the Congress Secretariat will send a personal invitation to the Conference participants. This invitation, however, is meant only to help visitors to raise funds or to obtain a visa, and will not constitute a commitment to provide any financial support.

LIABILITY
The organizers regret that they cannot accept liability for any personal accidents, loss of belongings or damage to private property of participants and accompanying persons that may occur during the Meeting. Participants are advised to make their own arrangements to obtain health, travel and property insurance before their departure.

CREDIT CARDS & CURRENCY
All major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, ATMs and shops. The Hungarian currency is Hungarian Forint (HUF).

LANGUAGE
The official language of the Congress is English.

WEATHER
www.weather.com

In consequence of Hungary's continental climate, the beginning of September can still be considered as late summer. The average temperature is 22-28 °C during the day and 15-22 °C at night. The humidity is usually low, but rainy days may be expected.

HOW TO GET TO HUNGARY

Transport
Hungary lies at the crossroads of the main tourist traffic flows in Europe. About 35 airline companies operate regular flights to and from Budapest. Railway connections from all European countries are excellent, while there are also bus and boat connections with countries in the vicinity of Hungary. Budapest can be reached by car on motorways M1, M3, M5 and M7.

ARRIVAL BY AIR
All participants arriving at Ferihegy International Airport are advised to take the airport shuttle minibus to their hotels; this is the least expensive and most reliable service.
The Airport Shuttle Minibus (BAM) shuttle service to hotels runs every 10 minutes for approx. 5-6 persons. Fare: EURO 15 at 2008 prices.
For detailed information and reservation please  click here.
Metropolitan bus No. 200 (blue) also leaves from the terminal building for Kõbánya-Kispest station, where you may take metro line No. 3 (blue line) to the centre of the city.
Taxis are also available. Fare: approx. EURO 30-50. Taxis are usually not equipped with credit card readers.

ARRIVAL BY TRAIN

There are 3 major international railway stations in Budapest (Deli pu., Keleti pu. and Nyugati pu.), located in the city center and within easy reach of the Conference hotels either by public transport or by taxi.

CURRENCY, EXCHANGE, CREDIT CARDS
The official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Exchange facilities are offered to participants at the airport, in hotels, at the exchange desk of the banks or at the registration desk of the Congress at around the daily rate indicated by the Hungarian National Bank.
American Express, Visa, and Eurocard, Master Card are accepted at the registration desk, in hotels, first class restaurants and city stores, but you should ask or look for the logo before ordering a service.

INSURANCE
The Organizing Committee can not assume responsibility for injuries or losses occurring to persons or personal belongings during the Congress. Participants are therefore advised to travel with a valid insurance package.

LOCAL TRANSPORTATION IN BUDAPEST
Public transport in the city is well organized. Trams, buses and metro trains operate without conductors. Tickets must be purchased in advance at tobacco shops, newsstands metro stations or at vendor machines at some tram and bus stops. Weekly  and Tourist (valid for 3 day) passes allowing free travel on all means of transportation within the city limits can be bought at each metro station. For prices please click here.

TAXIS

We suggest that you use only taxis equipped with a taximeter, such as Fõtaxi, City Taxi or Buda Taxi. Beware of private cabs, especially those without a taximeter.

TIPPING
It is customary to give a tip of 10% over the amount of the bill at restaurants and in taxis.

ELECTRICITY SUPPLY
In Hungary, electricity is supplied at 230 V, 50 Hz. The 2-pin connecting plug is different from that used in some other countries, e.g. the USA, the UK and Japan.

NOTICE FOR DRIVERS (ZERO ALCOHOL)
Drivers should be aware that there is a zero tolerance of blood alcohol level while driving in Hungary

PARKING
Parking is available at the open air parking area of the Conference Venue free of charge. If you park in the city center on week days you have to pay for parking.

SHOPPING HOURS
The usual shopping hours in Budapest are from 10:00 to 18:00, in big shopping centres around the city up to 21:00
For further information please contact the Registration Desk.

SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted inside the conference buildings or at the venues for the social functions. Smokers are required to smoke outdoors in the designated area.
 


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