GENERAL INFORMATION

ABOUT ISTANBUL
A unique city where east meets west, the bridge between Europe and Asia thriving metropolis of 12 million people-exotic yet distinctively western. Over the course of millennia , Istanbul was the seat of three great empires Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman and meeting place of people of many religions and cultures who came together and learned to live in peace and harmony. Ultra modern amenities, the splendours of the Ottoman past and the honored traditions of Turkish hospitality combine to make Istanbul a perfect meeting city, one that will impress treasured and lasting memories. The city offers value for the money as well, with competitive prices, often below the rest of Europe, and superior service. The rates may be lower but not the quality.

SECURITY
Based on the data provided by the well known statistical institutes of the world amongst the other metropolises, Istanbul is one of the few cities with a minimum amount of crime. Despite its intensive population and traffic, you can walk through every part of the city together with the people.

CLIMATE AND CLOTHING
The temperature in Istanbul in September is around Cº21 and ranges from Cº19 to Cº24. In Istanbul spring weather is generally warm. However, it is advisable to take a jacket, a pullover, a light raincoat or umbrella for occasional rain showers and cool evenings. Hotels and the conference halls are air-conditioned.

TIME ZONE
Turkish Standard Time is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

CURRENCY
The local currency is Turkish Lira (TL). The exchange rate changes daily. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport, banks, hotels and exchange offices.

BANKS
Bank business hours are from Monday to Friday, 09.00-16.30. Banks are closed on Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays. All banks have similar exchange rates.

POSTAL SERVICES
Hotels often provide basic postal services. Post offices are open daily except Saturday, Sunday and public holidays.

ELECTRICITY
General Household electric power is 220 volts.

RESTAURANT
It is possible to find various kinds of Turkish, Western, Asian and all other cuisine in Istanbul.

SHOPPING
Most shops in Istanbul are generally open from 09:00 to 19:00 Monday to Saturday. Some of the supermarkets, shops, newspaper kiosks, restaurants and food shops are also open on Sunday. In all the big shopping centres major credit cards are accepted and your shopping will be tax free. There will also be some special shopping tours organised by the organisation.

TAXI
All the taxis in the city are yellow colored and with a sign written "taxi" on them. As the historical places and shopping centers are very close to the hotels, it is quite economical to use this transportation. The taxis have a taximeter system which the rate varies during the day and night.

VISAS
All participants in the congress will require a valid passport and a visa for visiting Turkey. Please contact your nearest Turkish Embassy/Consulate for this purpose. Participants from those countries from where there is no Turkish diplomatic representation can obtain their visa at the airport on arrival to Turkey.

FIRST AID & HOSPITAL SERVICES
A Doctor and a Nurse will be available to serve all participants with in the First-Aid room of Princess Hotel during the congress. In case of emergency transfer to the nearest Hospital will be provided by private Ambulance.

INSURANCE
The Organizing Committee can accept no responsibility for accidents or damage to the private property of participants. Please make your own arrangements for health insurance and any other insurance desired.

DRIVING LICENCE
International driving licences are recognised throughout Turkey. Car rental firms ask for a valid national licence or an international licence.