Location

Crete

Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, and the fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, after Sicily, Sardinia, Cyprus, and Corsica. Crete and a number of surrounding islands and islets constitute the region of Crete. The capital and the largest city is Heraklion. As of 2011, the region had a population of 623,065.

Crete forms a significant part of the economy and cultural heritage of Greece, while retaining its own local cultural traits (such as its own poetry and music). It was once the center of the Minoan civilization (c. 2700–1420 BC), which is currently regarded as the earliest recorded civilization in Europe.

Flights

Departure from Israel

flight from Israel leaves Thursday June 11 2015 from Ben Gurion Airport at 06:30 AM landing in Herkalion Airport at 08:15

Departure from Crete

flight from Crete leaves Sunday June 2015 from Heraklion Airport at 23:50 landing PM landing in Israel 01:40

 

Venue

Elounda Bay Hotel

Elounda Bay Palace 720 53 Elounda, Crete Greece

ISNI will take place at Elounda Bay palace Hotel Convention Center in Greece.

Rooms have been reserved at Elounda hotel and will be offered to ISNI participants at a special reduced rate when booked through the ISNI website.

Hotel’s website: www.eloundabay.gr

Other Accommodation:

We also offer reduced price packages for two more hotels near by

Elounda Ilion, Crete, Greece

The hotel is built on a hill side offering a panoramic view to the bay of Elounda and the island of Spinaloga with its medieval castle. It is situated 6 kilometers from the city of Agios Nikolaos and 2 kilometers from the village of Elounda.

Hotel’s website: http://www.elounda-ilion.com

Elounda Breeze- Previously Aqua Sol Resort

A newly branded hotel that is located in the luxury seaside resort of Elounda, 10 km north of the cosmopolitan and impressive town of Agios Nikolaos. The marvelous views of the famous Mirabello Bay, crystal clean waters and breathtaking surrounding combined with the well-known VITA HOTELS high standard services provided with quality and smile, ensure to our guests unforgettable moments in this splendid resort.

Hotel's website: http://vitahotels.gr/elounda-breeze/home

 

General Information

Language

The official language of Greece is Greek, spoken by 99% of the population. In addition, a number of non-official, minority languages and some Greek dialects are spoken as well. The most common foreign languages learned by Greeks are English, French, Spanish, and Italian.

The official language of the Meeting is English.

Weather

In June, average daytime temperature climbs up to 24 degrees with high peaks reaching up to 28 degrees and lows at 18 degrees. Seawater temperature climbs to 22 degrees Celsius. Rain is virtually non-existent during June in Crete, with only 1 mm of rain expected on just one day of the month across the whole island.

Dress will be informal throughout the Meeting.

Currency

The unit of currency in Greece is the Euro €. The Euro consists of 100 cents.

 Exchange rates are fluctuating daily.

Value Added Tax Reimbursement

According to the Value Added Tax (VAT) Law, a foreign tourist is able to benefit from a zero rate of VAT on a vast array of services obtained during a stay in Israel. In addition, a special arrangement exists whereby a tourist may also request a VAT refund on purchases made during a stay.

Look for stores displaying Global Blue Tax Free Shopping signage in the window.

When paying for your purchases ask the shop staff for a Tax Free Form.

Tax Free Forms are available in two versions, one blue, and one white. Fill in all the required fields in block letters, using the Latin alphabet.

Remember: Incomplete Tax Free Form = No refund

At the airport please allow enough time for the refund process before your flight departs.

Before you check in for your flight, go to the Customs desk and present your completed Tax Free Form, passport and purchases to get a stamp on your form.

Make sure the goods are sealed and unused. Don’t pack them away in your check-in luggage as you will need to show them to the Customs Officer.

Remember: No Customs Stamp = No Refund

Go to a Refund office displaying the Global Blue logo.

Present your stamped and completed Tax Free Forms to receive the refund in cash or to a credit card.

NB: The refund you receive is the VAT minus Global Blue’s service fee.

Shoppers eligible for Tax Free Shopping

• If you have a permanent residence in a non-EU country.
• If you are older than 18 years.

VAT Rate
Mainland: 23%
Aegean Islands: 16%

Minimum purchase amount
120.00 EUR

Tourist Visas

All visitors to Israel must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date they enter the country. 

Israeli passport holders do not need a special visa to enter Greece.