Location Shanghai, China Dates June 2-5, 2011 Language English is the official language of the Congress. Climate Temperatures in June are between 20°C and 25°C ( 68°F and 82°F). Clothing Informal for all occasions. Currency Exchange The unit of money in China is known as renminbi (RMB). The unit of money itself is called the yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels as well as shopping malls. Visa, Master, American Express, Diners Club, JCB and other credit cards are accepted in many department stores and hotels. It may be difficult to withdraw cash with credit cards. The Bank of China and most hotels can cash travelers cheques issued by any foreign bank or financial institution. Travelers cheques signed over to a third party cannot be cashed in China, but can be presented for collection through the Bank of China. Time Zone GMT: +8 Voltage 220 V Mobile GSM system Taxes A 15% surcharge, including government tax, is applicable in most hotels and some private restaurants. Tipping Many mid-range and top-end restaurants include their own service charge that varies. Officially, tipping is considered inappropriate and is discouraged. Business Hours Bank Hours: 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday Office Hours: 9am to 6pm, Monday through Friday Shop Hours: 10am to 10pm daily Public Health Visitors entering China are required to complete a health declaration form. Check with your local doctor or health care professional about vaccination requirements before you plan your trip. The organizer recommends you drink only boiled or bottled water during your stay in Shanghai. Invitation An official invitation letter can be issued via this website. However, this invitation implies no obligation, financial or otherwise, by the Congress. With this invitation letter, you can go to the nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate to apply for an entry visa(s). If any problem arises, please contact the Secretariat of the Congress for assistance (use our 'contact' page). Visas Prior to booking flights, registrants are strongly advised to confirm with their travel agent whether they require a Visa to travel to China. Information about Visa requirements can be found on the World Travel Guide website: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/country/58/passport_visa/Far-East-Asia/China.html ComtecMed will not be responsible for any cancellations or delays caused by authorities due to a lack of Visa or other required documentation. Liability and Insurance The Congress Organizer cannot accept liability for personal accidents, nor loss of, or damage to private property of participants, either during or directly arising from The 1st Asia Pacific Congress on Controversies to Consensus in Diabetes, Obesity and Hypertension (CODHy). Participants should make their own arrangements with respect to health and travel insurance. Congress Organizers Please do not hesitate to contact the Organizers for any additional information or assistance. china@codhy.com