Useful Information - IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific (WESTPAC) 10th International Scientific Conference

Useful Information

Qingdao is a medium-sized coastal city in eastern Shandong Province on the east coast of China with a population of 8.6 million. Qing in Chinese means "green" or "lush", while dao means "island". Looking out to the Yellow Sea and surrounded by the sea on three sides, the city attracts a larger number of visitors with its charming seascape. The red roofs, green trees, blue sea, and azure sky form a bright and colorful picture here. The city was named one of the China's most livable cities.

While hosting one of the world's busiest seaports, Qingdao is reputed for marine science and technology as home to several major ocean research institutions. 70% of China's academicians and 30% of senior researchers in marine science and technology are working in this city.

Qingdao Liuting International Airport, an important air hub in east China, is the main international airport serving the city of Qingdao with easy access from cities both at home and abroad, including Frankfurt, Los Angeles, Seoul, Busan, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Fukuoka, Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, Da Nang, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Taipei, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Xiamen and Xi'an etc.
Transportation to/from Airport:
The conference venue is located in the downtown of Qingdao City, 25.5 kilometers from the Qingdao Liuting International Airport. There are several options to reach the conference venue. Participants can choose either taxis, shuttle buses, or hotel limousine pick-up.
Taxis: It will cost you around 100 RMB (~15 USD) if you take a taxi from the airport to the conference venue. The Taxi Stand at the airport is in the basement as clearly indicated.
Shuttle Bus: There are five shuttle lines operating between Qingdao Liuting International Airport and downtown. The shuttle buses depart regularly and cover most major places in the local city. You can find these details at
https://www.travelchinaguide.com/

Weather
April welcomes the spring and it is a mild month, but temperature differences during the day and night are significant with average daytime/nighttime temperatures (15℃/7℃). A pullover lined with a raincoat is suitable. Bring a thick coat if you go to the seaside or outside in the early morning and evening.

Time Zone
GMT+0800

Currency and ATM
The official currency of China is RMB. Normally, retailers in Qingdao won’t accept other currencies in cash. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, Diners Club, Discover and other major international credit cards are accepted at most larger establishments or can be used to withdraw cash in local currency from ATMs throughout the city.

Electricity and Electrical Outlet
Voltage is 220 and most outlets accept US and European style plugs.

Visa
Participants are advised to check with his/her nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate whether a visa is necessary for entry into China and how to apply. If you need a visa to enter China, you will need an invitation letter. This letter will be issued by the Local Organizing Committee if requested during the registration process.

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