I  TIME ZONE

The time in Belgium is Central European Time (CET), which is GMT plus 1 hour, plus 1 hour in summer.

I  WEATHER

You can check the weather forecast on www.meteobelgie.be The Belgian climate is distinctly maritime and usually mild, and the city of Ghent is no exception to this. At this time of the year, it is usually sunny with temperatures around 18-20°C. An umbrella might be useful as the weather can change rather quickly.

I  EMERGENCY NUMBERS

In Belgium - to contact the police dial 112 or 101 - to contact the fire brigade dial 112 - to contact the ambulance service dial 112

I  ELECTRICAL SUPPLY

Electricity is supplied at 220 volts, 50 Hz. Some hotels provide 110 volts AC sockets for electric razors only. Plugs and sockets are the same as in the Continental countries of the European Union. British, Irish and non-European participants need plug adaptors for electrical appliances.

I  LOCAL CUISINE AND EATING OUT

Ghent has numerous restaurants of various styles, prices and categories serving local or international cuisine. Most restaurants are open for lunch from 12am to 3 pm and for dinner from 7pm to 11pm.

I  TIPPING

In Belgium, all prices are quoted “all inclusive”, which means that no additional tipping is necessary unless the service has been exceptional.

I  BANKS AND POST OFFICE

Most banks open at 9 AM and close around 4 PM, Monday through Friday. They are generally closed for lunch between 12 AM- 2 PM. Post offices are generally open between 9 AM - 4 PM. The monetary unit used in Belgium is the Euro. Most services in Belgium accept major credit cards.

I  INSURANCE

The Congress organizers cannot accept liability for personal injuries sustained, for loss of, or damage to, property belonging to congress participants (or their accompanying persons), either during or as a result of the congress/meeting. Please check the validity of your own travel insurance.

I  LIABILITY

In the case of government intervention or regulation, military activity, strikes or any other circumstances that make it impossible or inadvisable for the congress to take place at the time and place provided, the participant shall waive any claim for damages or compensation except the amount paid for registration after deduction of actual expenses incurred in connection with the congress and there shall be no future liability on the part of either party.