All participants will receive an attendance certificate which will be included in the Conference documents.
Badges:
You will receive a personalised badge when collecting your registration documents. During the Conference this badge grants access to the scientific sessions, social events and the poster area.
Official language:
The official language of the congress is English. No simultaneous translation will be provided.
Banks:
Official opening hours of banks in Spain are from 8.30 to 14.00 from Monday to Friday. They are closed in the afternoon. It is possible to change foreign currency into Euros in the main city hotels.
Climate:
Barcelona enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, sunny winters, warm summers and relatively low rainfall. The average temperatures in May are 15ºC minimum and 25ºC maximum. Our sunny days are ideal for strolling along the shop lined promenades, sitting out on a restaurant or walking along the shore.
Credit Cards, Currency and Exchange:
All major international credit cards are accepted. Foreign currency and traveler's checks can be exchanged at banks and foreign exchange offices. Cash-point machines (ATMs) accepting major international credit card and charge cards are available at most banks. The Spanish currency is the Euro.
Electrical power:
A 2-pin round adapter is necessary for electrical appliances. The electric current used is 220 volts/50hz.
Entering Spain:
Visitors from other European Union member countries may enter Spain using either a passport or their national identity document. Visitors from other countries must have a valid passport and a visa if required. Inquiries regarding visas can be directed to Spanish diplomatic representatives abroad. On request, the Congress Secretariat will be pleased to send a letter of invitation to individual scientists. Invitations of this kind are intended to assist potential delegates to raise their travel funds or obtain visas. They do not imply any commitment or responsibility on behalf of the Conference to provide financial support.
Insurance:
Participants are advised to arrange health and accident insurance prior to travelling to the Conference. The Conference Organisers will not assume any responsibility for accidents, losses or damages, as well as for delays or modifications in the programme, caused by unforeseen circumstances. No claims for indemnification from the organisers shall arise for contractors or participants in case of cancellation, for any reason, of the entire Conference.
Public Transport and Car Rental:
Barcelona has a good, comprehensive public transport network, with special ten-trip and one, two or three-day tickets valid on bus, metro and local trains. Taxis are abundant. Free parking is very limited in the city centre and car parks are expensive.
Shopping:
Normal shop hours are Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 13.00 and 16.30 to 20.00; however, in the city centre of Barcelona and shopping malls, many shops stay open all day from 10.00 to 21.00.
Tipping:
Service is generally included in restaurant bills. Tips, however, are given to show appreciation of a good meal or special service.
There is a variable value added tax (VAT) of 7% to 16% applied to most items and services, but most prices you see will include it. When it is not included, this should be clearly indicated.