General information on Czech Republic and Hradec Kralove

Czech Republic

Those who would like to get acquainted with one of the most beautiful countries in Europe should not miss the Czech Republic - a beautiful country situated in the very heart of Europe.

The number of foreign visitors to the Czech Republic has been increasing sharply over the last several years. Many come back after their first visit, to enjoy together with others all that the Czech Republic has to offer. The main advantage of the Czech Republic is the wealth, diversity and accessibility of cultural, historical and natural places of interest, all concentrated in a relatively small space that boast very serviceable standards of accommodation and dining facilities.

Complete information about Czech Republic is available at the official website of the Czech Republic at www.czech.cz or www.czechtourism.cz.

Hradec Kralove

This city, situated at about 100 km east of Prague, constitutes a meeting point of two rivers, Labe and Orlice. It was a royal fortress during the medieval era. Better known as "The Salon of the Republic", Hradec Kralove, with a population of less than 100,000, is a centre of history and architecture.

Complete information about Hradec Kralove is available at the official website of Hradec Kralove at www.hradeckralove.org (for English version click on the icon in the top - right corner) or www.hradeckralove.cz/gbr/

Currency and exchange rates

The official currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech Crown = Ceska koruna (CZK = Kc). Exchange of foreign currency is available at Prague international Airport and at most hotels, banks and exchange offices throughout the city. International credit cards are accepted for payments in hotels, restaurants and shops. Payment in cash in EUR is also available in some restaurants and shops.

The exchange rate is around 25 CZK for a euro; you can find an up-to-date, official exchange rates on the website of the Czech National Bank at www.cnb.cz/en/index.html.

Electricity

The Czech Republic uses a 230 volt 50 Hz system, sockets have the European standard and plugs are three-prong grounded.

Insurance

The organizers do not accept responsibility for individual medical, travel or personal insurance. All participants are strongly advised to make their own personal insurance before travelling to the conference.

Visa requirements & Invitation letter

Visitors from non-EU Countries must posses a passport valid for at least the next 3 months. Participants requiring a visa should apply to a consular office or a diplomatic mission of the Czech Republic in their country. Please note that the visa application procedure can take approximately up to two months. It is not possible to obtain visa at the Prague Airport.

The Conference Secretariat will send you on request an invitation letter to be used for this purpose. An invitation letter can be sent also if your institution requires it.

For more information about traveling to the Czech Republic, please visit web site www.czech.cz or http://www.mzv.cz/jnp/en/information_for_aliens/index.html.

Hradec Kralove Public Transport

It is very convenient to use public transport in Hradec Kralove. The bus nad trolleybus network covers the whole town and the fare is very cheap. More information can be found on web pages www.dpmhk.cz/about-us.htm.

Time Zone

The Czech Republic is on Central European Time - Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) plus 1 hour. From April to October is summer time, i.e. GMT + 2 hours.

Weather

The Indian summer weather in the Czech Republic can be quite pleasant. The current weather conditions you can find at http://freemeteo.com/default.asp?pid=23&la=1&gid=3074967.

Internet

Free wi-fi connection will be available at the conference venue fot all registered participants.