Practical Information
Language
English is the official language of the Conference. Please note that no simultaneous translation services will be available.
The official language in the Czech Republic is Czech, a Slavic language. Many of the older people speak some Russian, while English (and often German) is spoken well by the younger generation.
Currency
Czech crown (CZK) is the official currency in the Czech Republic. For up-to-date exchange rates, please refer to www.cnb.cz/en/. Money can be easily exchanged at banks, exchange offices, and hotels. Czech currency is available in coins of denomination up to 50 CZK and in notes up to 5,000 CZK. Automated Teller Machines are readily found in the streets, at Metro stations, and also in the Prague Congress Centre and its vicinity. Credit cards are accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels.
Time
The Czech Republic will be on the Central European Summer Time (GMT + 2h) during the Conference.
Weather and Dress
The Czech Republic has a mild continental climate with warm, sometimes damp summers and cold winters. The weather in Prague in August is generally pleasant, usually sunny, though light rain is possible. So, it is advisable to bring an umbrella or a raincoat. The average temperature in summer is 24 °C (74 °F), although temperatures can rise to 30 °C (92 °F). At night, temperatures fall to 15 °C (46 °F). The weather forecast can be found at www.yr.no/place/Czech_Republic/Prague/Prague/. Formal dress is not required for any event.
Electric Supply
The Czech electricity system uses 230V AC, 50 Hz (50 cycles). Czech sockets are the standard European type E sockets (French, CEE 7/5) which are compatible with CEE 7/6 plugs (French, two-prong round pin plugs with a hole for the main ground pin) and CEE 7/7 plugs (French+German) or with the unearthed CEE 7/16 plug (Europlug) or CEE 7/17 plug (see more info and photos). For other types of, please make sure to bring adapters. For equipment from USA or elsewhere with 110/120V, a voltage converter is required to be able to connect it to 230V.
VAT and Tax Refunds
Every shop in the country will charge up to 21% VAT on all purchases. Goods purchased in the Czech Republic and taken overseas are eligible for a tax refund.
Opening Hours
Most museums and shops are open daily from 9am to 6pm. Museums are closed on Mondays and state holidays. Banks operate similarly, but remain closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Health Care
No vaccination is required to enter the Czech Republic. During a visit to the Czech Republic, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) enables an access to a necessary state-provided healthcare on the same basis as for Czech residents.
Important telephone numbers
112: General Emergency
150: Fire Fighters
155: Ambulance
156: Prague Municipal Police
158: Police