9º CONTECSI
Language
The official language of the conference is English and Portuguese. Simultaneous translation will be provided.
The official languages in Brazil is Portuguese. Even though English is spoken in Brazil, you may find people with no command of the language.
Passport / Visa
Brazil follows the reciprocity rule. If your country requires visa for Brazilians, Brazil will also require visa. Please check with the Brazilian embassy in your country. A valid passport is required. Citizens of other countries should contact their nearest Brazilian embassy for further information. Visitors requiring a visa for entry to Brazil are strongly advised to make an application in their home country at least three months before the intended date of travel.
Letter of invitation
Upon request, the Congress office will send a letter of invitation (by postal mail) after receipt of the full payment of the registration fee. This invitation implies no obligation, financial or otherwise, by the CONTECSI Organizing Committee.
Hybrid climate situation
Money
Brazilian banks are open on weekdays from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Foreign currency and travellers' cheques can be exchanged in banks and exchange offices. ATMs for cash withdrawal are widespread. Major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard and Amex can be used for payment in most shops and restaurants.
Time zone
Finnish time zone is GMT-3 hours. http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/city.html?n=233
Computer services, e-mail access and photocopies
Delegates have the possibility to use the computer classroom in FEA Building during the Congress hours. The exact opening times will be announced here later. In the FEA Hall there is a free wireless network available.
There is a copying service for the congress delegates at the information desk (0,20 reais/page).
Drinking and smoking regulations
Smoking is not permitted indoors in public buildings and other places open to the public. This also includes restaurants, pubs and clubs. In some places there are designated smoking zones.
Electricity
The electric current in Sao Paulo is 110 V . Like in continental Europe a two-pin plug system is used. Adapters are available in airport shops, for instance.
Emergency situations and medical services
The national phone number for emergency services is 109. No area code is required.
Taxis and public transportation
Taxis can be hired from taxi stands, booked by telephone or sometimes hailed on streets. Using taxis is considered to be safe and fairly simple in Brazil. The cars have a meter indicating the fare and the driver will not expect to be given tips.
