Other information

Visas
As Portugal is a state member of the European Union (EU) and of the Schengen Area, participants from state members of these communities do not need a visa to enter the country. Many other countries have special agreements with Portugal concerning visa procedures and therefore participants from non EU countries are advised to check what visa requirements exist for them to enter Portugal. Information about visa requirements can be found on the internet (for example http://www.secomunidades.pt/vistos/index.php?lang=en) or from the relevant embassy or consulate of Portugal, and various travel agents.
If you need an invitation to get a visa, please supply the Congress secretariat –XVIICEMsecretariat@mundiconvenius.pt – with the following information:

• Last name.
• First name.
• Middle name(s) if any.
• Affiliation (e.g. place of work).
• Full address in your own country.
• Passport number.
• Date of birth.
• Expiry date of passport.

Insurance, liability
The Congress organisation does not accept liability for individual medical, travel or personal insurance, and participants are strongly advised to take out their own personal insurance policies in their country of origin.

Climate
Because of its geographical position, the island has average temperatures of 25°C in summer and 17°C in the winter and a moderate level of humidity. For the excursion, as it includes a visit to the surrounding mountains, it may be cooler and sometimes a little cloudy. Rain is possible at any point, so it may be wise to have a light raincoat.
The seawater temperature is also very mild with averages between 18°C and 22°C.

Local Time
Madeira is 1 hour behind European Standard Time (UTC/GMT) same time as UK.

Electricity
Electricity is supplied at 220V/50Hz AC and power sockets are of the 2-pin round type.

Language
The language spoken in Madeira is, of course, Portuguese. However, English is very widely spoken, especially among young people, as Madeira accepts millions of visitors every year.

Money Matters
The currency in Madeira (Portugal) is the Euro. There is no restriction to import or export foreign currency. Currency exchanges can be made at banks that can be found on most central streets. The general opening times of the banks are from Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 03.00pm. Banks are usually closed on Saturday and Sunday however there are many 24-hour cash points (ATMs) available; if the currency being withdrawn from the ATM is different from that in which the bank account is denominated the money will be converted at an official exchange rate. Thus, ATMs often provide the best possible exchange rates for foreign travellers, and are widely used for this purpose. Up-to-date currency exchange rates can be found on many internet sites (for example http://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/full/). Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, taxis, restaurants and shops. All conference fees and rates are charged in Euro only.

Tipping
Tipping is optional, but normally 10% is customary in taxis, restaurants and bars.

Telephones
Portugal country code is +351 and Madeira code is 291. It is strictly necessary to dial +351 291 and after the number (with 6 digits)
Public telephone boxes accept money and credit card and are usually much cheaper than calling from restaurants, bars and hotels

In case of emergency
National emergency number for ambulance, police and fire brigade: 112