| GENERAL INFORMATION
Venue
The Conference will be held at the Renaissance Jerusalem Hotel, which
is located near the entrance to the city on the main artery leading
to every section of Jerusalem. The Hotel is near the Israel Museum,
Bible Lands Museum, Science Museum, Jewish National and University
Library and its archives, the Israeli Parliament and other places of
interest.
The Renaissance Jerusalem Hotel is glatt-Kosher. It offers a high level
of comfort and service with its spacious public facilities including
swimming pool and 650 luxurious rooms and suites.
The Organizing Committee has reserved rooms at the Conference venue,
which will be offered to the participants at special reduced rates between
June 27, 2004 and July 17, 2004 when ordered via the Conference Secretariat,
Ortra Ltd.
Language
The official language of the Conference is English. A few lectures will
be in Hebrew, with simultaneous translation to English. For Hebrew
only speakers, simultaneous translation for selected lectures from
English to Hebrew will be provided; some lectures will be presented
in both languages.
Travel
The official airline for the conference is El-Al. Participants
and accompanying companions will be offered special discounted fares.
Climate and Clothing
Temperatures in Jerusalem in July range between 19 - 28°C / 66 - 88°F.
Do not expect rain! Dress will be informal throughout the Conference.
In addition, modest dress appropriate for visits to religious sites is
recommended.
Pre and Post – Conference Tours
Pre and Post-Conference tours in Israel will be arranged for interested
participants. Please see the Travel, Tours and
Accommodation Page.
Take special note of the genealogical post-Conference
tour to Safed.
Currency
The unit of currency in Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS) commonly
known as the Shekel. Approximate currency rates as of March 2004 are
as follows:
| US $ 1 = NIS 4.50 |
|
NIS 1 = US $ 0.22 |
| Euro € 1 = NIS 5.50 |
|
NIS 1 = Euro € 0.18 |
There are no restrictions on transfer and use of foreign currencies in
Israel.
Most international credit cards are accepted.
Electricity
Electricity in Israel is supplied at 220V, 50Hz and has a three-pin connecting
plug.
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.
For more details please visit the official website of the Ministry of
Finance, Israeli Department of Customs and VAT
More Information about Israel on the Internet see the following web
sites:
Ministry of Tourism: http://www.infotour.co.il
Jerusalem’s Official Site: http://www.jerusalem.muni.il
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: http://www.mfa.gov.il
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