GENERAL INFORMATION

 

WEATHER

September in Beijing is sunny and fine. The average daily temperature is 25° C(77° F), with the high at around 30° C(86° F) and low at about 20° C(48° F).

 

PASSPORT AND VISA

A valid passport and visa for visiting China are required. Upon receiving your Registration Form and relevant payment, LOC will send you an official invitation letter for visa application at the nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate General. Please allow an adequate time to get your visa.

 

CUSTOMS

For information on customs regulations, please consult the nearest China Embassy, high commission, consulate or agency.

 

INSURANCE

The organizers cannot be held responsible for personal accidents or material damage that may occur to the participants during the Congress, or tours. All participants are advised to make their own arrangements in respect to health and travel insurance before commencing their journey to the Congress.

 

CURRENCY EXCHANGE

In China, only RMB is used. However, exchange centers can be found at airports, most hotels and large shopping centers. The rate of exchange is set by the Bank of China, which is about USD 1.00 = RMB 8.26. When exchanging money, please keep your receipt by which you can change any residual RMB back to foreign currency when leaving China. Visa, Master Card and American Express are accepted in many department stores and hotels. The Bank of China and most hotels can cash traveler¢ s cheques issued by any foreign bank or financial institution. Participants will need to show a passport and pay a 0.75% commission. Traveler¢ s cheques signed over to a third party cannot be cashed in China, but can be presented for collection through the Bank of China.

 

MISCELLANEA


Meals And Drinks
BICC is conveniently located in a place within walking distance of a number of restaurants, hotels and other eating facilities which serve various kinds of food with Chinese, western and other types of cuisine.

Power Supply
Throughout China, the electrical Supply is 220 V and 50 Hz with 3 pin plugs and bayonet type light fitting.

Shopping
Most shops are open between 9:00-22:00.

Health requirements
All visitors are advised to cheque that they have complied with all requirements both for coming and returning journey. In case of emergency happened, please inform the LOC secretariat for help.

 

IMPORTANT DATE

Nov. 30, 2000

Deadline for submitting technical session papers and student papers.

Feb. 28, 2001

Notification of acceptance of contributed papers.

Jun. 30, 2001

Deadline for registration with preferential rate

Aug.15, 2001

Deadline for reservation of study tours and hotel rooms.