GENERAL INFORMATION

Foz do Iguaçu and Conference Venue
Foz do Iguaçu (Iguazú River Mouth) is one of the most important cities of Paraná state, Brazil, with a population of 255,900 inhabitants. It is located approximately 650 km (400 mi) west of Curitiba and has become something of tourist hotspot, due to its proximity to some exceptional coastal mountains, lush jungle forests and simply awesome tiered waterfalls, named the Iguaçu Falls - a natural wonder. The boundary of the falls is shared between both Brazil and Argentina, with the views and attractions being quite different on each side and warranting a day or two for proper exploration. The Conference will be held at the Rafain Palace Hotel and Convention Center, located just 5 minutes from downtown, 20 minutes from the Iguaçu Falls and 20 minutes from the Airport.
Transportation from the Airport to the RAFAIN HOTEL
The hotel is approximately a 20 minute drive from the airport. To arrive at the hotel you can take a taxi from the airport, it should cost about $30.
Climate - Attire
The climate of Foz do Iguaçu is sub-tropical and generally warm throughout the year, due to the relatively low altitude (standing only 173 m, 567 ft, above sea level). The temperature during the period of the Conference ranges from a minimum of 16 °C (61 °F) at night to 28 °C (82 °F) in the daytime.
Dress during the Conference is informal (including dinner and mixer).
Visas
Applications should be made at least three months in advance. Please remember that visas are granted on a reciprocal basis for each country.
The Conference Secretary can provide on request a letter that describes the conference and certifies an attendee's participation.
Language
The official language of the Conference will be English.
Currency
The Brazilian currency is the Real (R$). The mean exchange rate in November, 2012 was one US$ per R$2.05.
Major credit cards are accepted for payment in nearly all hotels, restaurants and shops.
Letter of Invitation
On request, the Conference Secretary will be happy to send a personal invitation to participation in the Congress. It should be understood that the sole purpose of this invitation is to help participants to raise travel funds in their own countries. Such invitation is not a commitment on the part of the organizers to provide financial support.
Electricity
The electricity current in Foz do Iguaçu is 110V, 60Hz.