Portugal is situated in the most western part of Europe. It covers an area of 92.000 square kilometres and has a population of 10 million people. It was founded as an independent kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula more than eight centuries ago.
Porto, the “unconquered”, is the hard working capital of the north. Flowing down slopes to the River Douro, its irresistible attraction lies in its monuments and picturesque streets that wrote many pages of Portuguese history.
Spectacular are the city trio of ex-libris, the barco Rabelo (typical boat), Clerigos Tower and the old steel bridges over the river. The first of the three was the traditional means of transporting Porto Wine from the upper Douro to the cool wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, where it matures. The second is the symbol of the 18th century town with its quaint cobbled streets. The third is the symbol of hard work and progress of the region.
Access to Hotels from the Airport
Participants may use either a bus or taxi.The usual fare from
the airport to the city centre is approx.15/20
Banking
Bank services are available at the airport and throughout the
city.Banks are open from 08.30 –15.00.
Climate and Clothing
Porto has a moderate Atlantic climate.There are no great
variations in temperature.The weather in September is usually
pleasant (average 16 to 18C).Light clothing is suitable during
the day,and somewhat warmer clothing may be required for
the evening.Showers are possible in September.
Credit Cards
International credit cards are accepted at ATMs,hotels,
restaurants and most shops,as well as car rental agencies. The most common credit cards are VISA,Euro card,MasterCard
and American Express.Diners Club is not accepted.
Cultural
A list of the main Porto museums and other relevant
information will be provided by the Secretariat.
Currency
The € (Euro)is the currency used in Portugal.Conversion
rates:1 USD =0.9843 rated on 13 th August
Electricity
In Portugal,electricity is supplied at 220V/50Hz AC and power
sockets are of the 2 pin round type.
Insurance/Liability
Participation in this congress implies that persons/participants
agree that the organizers assume no liability whatsoever.
Upon registration,the participant accepts this provision.
Language
Portuguese is the official language.However,most Portuguese
understand English.
Meals
The food in Portugal is very good and deserves its worldwide
reputation.Prices could vary between 15 € (modest,
traditional restaurant)to 50 € (luxury restaurant).Porto is
renowned for its gastronomy,from the simplest and most
typical fare to fine cuisine.There are restaurants for all tastes
and pockets.
Passport and Visa
Nationals of the European Community require only a valid
identity card.For most countries outside Europe,for example
USA and Canada,a valid passport is enough.Some countries,
however,still require a visa.Please check with your travel
agency.
Post Office
Services are available at the hotel or at post offices.The
working hours are 09.00 –18.00.
Public Transportation
Buses and trams are available and operate on weekdays from
6 or 7 AM until midnight or 1 AM (maps and information
available at the Secretariat).Tourist passes for 1,4 or 7 days
are valid for trams and buses.
Restaurants
An information and reservation service will be provided by the
Secretariat at appropriate counter.
Shop Opening Hours
09.00 to 19.00.Most of the shops are open on Saturday
mornings.Several shopping centers are open from 10.00 to
midnight,seven days a week.
Time Differences
Portugal has Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Tipping
This is customary in restaurants and taxis.Tipping up to 10%
of the bill is acceptable.
Secretariat:
MUNDICONVENIUS
R. Embaixador, 13 - 2 - 1300-215 Lisboa
Tel: +351 21 364 94 98 Fax: +351 21 364 95 23
info@mundiconvenius.pt
