Out and About
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.
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 February can be cold
and rainny (average 5 to 15C). Light clothing is suitable but
somewhat warmer clothing may be required.
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
Eur = 1.30 USD rated on 15th September 2014
Emergency
Porto has several public hospitals and private clinics.
The main hotels and congress centers are equipped for first aid
needs. In case of emergency the contact number is 112.
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.
Currency and Exchange
Since January 2002 the Euro is the official currency in
Portugal. All major credit cards (Visa, American Express,
MasterCard) are accepted. Diners is rare.
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.
Underground Network
The Porto underground lines are shown in different colors and
alphabetic letters.
To travel by underground visitors may buy a blue card called
“Andante” – a magnetic rechargeable ticket that can be used both
in the metro network and on several bus lines. Rates vary
according to the different zones. A journey will generally can
cost between€1.20 and €5.00 (when travelling outside the city).
Public Transport
A network of buses covers the city. The card “Andante” used on
underground can be used on the bus. 1 day and 10 days cards are
available. Original tramcars offer nostalgic tours along the
riverfront, ocean promenade and the historic center.
Restaurants
An information and reservation service will be provided by the
Secretariat at appropriate counter.
Shop Opening Hours /SHOPPING
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.
Shops in the city center are open on weekdays from 09h00 a.m. to
7h00 p.m. Some are open open all day Saturday.
The best shopping areas are along the Santa Catarina, 31 de
Janeiro and Cedofeita streets.
Shopping centers, in Porto and surroundings, are open 7 days a
week from 10h00 to 23h00.
In addition to the main international brands, national textiles,
leather, pottery, shoes, crystal, wines and gold handcraft can
be found in the shops at excellent prices.
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.
|
|
