Language
The official language of the Conference is English.
Ben-Gurion International Airport
Ben-Gurion is one of the world’s safest, most secure airports (based on international rankings) and is easily accessible from all international destinations.
The airport is situated 20 minutes from central Tel Aviv and public transportation by train, buses and taxies is available.
Taxi service (about $50/€30) and a modern airport train (about $4/€3) provide safe, fast and economic transportation into Tel Aviv.
In addition, a transfer service from the airport to and from the conference hotel will be offered to the conference participants. For further details please refer to the transportation webpage.
Visas
Participants from most countries do not require a visa to Israel. Individuals from countries who require an entry visa to Israel should contact the Israel Embassy/Consulate in their country prior to their arrival to Israel. Individuals from countries without diplomatic relations with Israel should write to the Conference PCO (iche@ortra.com ), no later than two months prior to the Conference, giving them the following details: full name, date and place of birth, passport number and date of issue, flight number and time of arrival. The PCO will arrange for a visa to be issued at the airport upon arrival. For more information see: Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs site
Important note for tourists continuing from Israel on to Arab countries (Except Egypt and Jordan):
It is recommended that you request that an Israeli stamp does not appear on your passport. You must notify the clerk at the passport control of your request before your documents are stamped.
Note: Passport and visa requirements may change at short notice. Travelers are advised to check their entry requirements with the Israeli Embassy/ Consulate or with their travel agent.
Safety and Security
An average of 3.4 million tourists a year from more than 60 countries worldwide visit Israel each year, to attend conferences, do business and travel the country for leisure.
From an economic perspective, Israel is one of the most secure and stable countries in the Middle East. We also have one of the most secure airports in the world and every aspect of a tourist's personal security is of utmost importance and at the top of our national agenda - providing a general feeling of security from the moment you land, to the moment of departure.
One can walk the streets of our cities day and night and enjoy everything the country has to offer.
The Organizers are committed to provide Conference participants with a safe and secure environment throughout the conference days, in activities both within and outside the Conference venue. The State of Israel has much experience maintaining world-class security standards and you can rest assured that your visit to Israel will be a calm and rewarding experience. All selected venues including hotels, transportation & airport are protected by security guards of different levels as required by the security policy of the venue & organizers.
Currency
The unit of currency in Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS) commonly known as the Shekel.
Approximate currency rates as of September 2013 are as follows:
US $ 1 = NIS 3.55 Euro € 1 = NIS 4.72
The Shekel is a strong and fully convertible currency.
Most international credit cards are accepted.
Climate
March is spring time in Israel and the weather is absolutely splendid.
Average temperatures range between 14 - 24 °C (57.2-75.2°F)
Tax
Israel has 18% VAT on all products in the country. Tourists do not have to pay VAT for accommodation.
Electricity
Electricity in Israel is supplied at 220V, 50Hz and has a three-pin connecting plug.