- 850 years of history
- Two continents
- 6th most visited city in the world
- 15+ million population
- 58 universities
Close your eyes… Imagine yourself in a city. On your left side, ancient walls built during Byzantium days lasting tens of kilometers are spreading their arms… On your right side, a tower dating back hundreds of years glimpses its eyes from the middle of a blue sea. Resembling an open-air museum with grand arches, magnificent mosques, and glorious churches around your eyesight… If you step under the terra, a cisterna with charming columns and attractive Medusa is waiting for you with curiosity. All these historical areas are hidden in Istanbul. The city harmonizes the ancient aspects with modern faces. With a history dating back to 8,500 years, Istanbul is one of the most visited places in the world, a central hub connecting East and West, blending the past and the future, bringing together cultures and people from all over the world. As one of the most prestigious capitals of the ancient and modern world, Istanbul is also an ideal destination for international meetings with its world-class convention venues and accommodation.
You are invited to discover the beauties of Istanbul, as there is a lot to experience and share in Istanbul.
Academic Excellence in Istanbul
Istanbul’s high-quality educational institutions, cultural diversity, and enviable lifestyle have transformed the city into internationally recognized human resources. The city’s 58 universities and 11 technology development zones give a clue to Istanbul being a hub of learning, inspiration, and innovation, ideally in line with the philosophy of meetings. Istanbul has inspiring academic opportunities with universities dating back hundreds of years filled with experienced academicians.
Türkiye in Brief
Türkiye is a rapidly developing secular democracy with a population of nearly 84 million and is a candidate for membership in the European Union. It is the only country to straddle Europe and Asia, a fact reflected in its complex cultural makeup. Asiatic Türkiye, or Anatolia, constitutes the bulk of the country. It consists of a vast peninsula framed by four seas, the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara, the Aegean, and the Mediterranean, each of which has its distinctive character. In human and geographical terms, Türkiye is a country of immense diversity. Cosmopolitan cities include Istanbul and Izmir, a high plateau, forested mountains, and Mediterranean beaches. The climate and ecology are equally varied, ranging from temperate rain forests on the eastern Black Sea Coast to semi-desert in the Southeast.
Türkiye has more Classical ruins than any other country but boasts some of the world’s finest Islamic art and architecture. Whether your interests or those of your guests extend to exploring archaeological sites, trekking, rafting, nightclubbing, or simply lazing on a beach, Türkiye is for you. And you are assured of a warm welcome. Turkish hospitality is second to none and grows out of a long tradition. Much the same could be said of Turkish cuisine, to which Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans contributed. The results are as varied and enticing as the country itself. According to most experts, Turkish cuisine is the third most extensive cuisine in the world after Chinese and French. With so much on offer, there is no doubt that you will find something to suit your tastes and tempt your palate.
+ Visa
All participants must have a valid passport and may require a visa to visit Türkiye.
Please click https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ and check the current visa policy of Türkiye.
+ Banking & Currency Exchange
The currency unit is “Turkish Lira”. Some foreign currency can be exchanged on arrival at the airport in İstanbul. Most banks are open from 9:00 to 16:30, Monday through Friday, and some banks in the city provide extended banking hours. Exchange facilities are also available in hotels, exchange bureaus in the city center, and shops near the venues.
+ Credit Cards
Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept major international credit cards.
+ Personal Insurance & Liability & Emergency
Personal and accident insurance are recommended to all participants during their stay in Türkiye. The Organizing Committee will not accept any responsibility in this respect, but assistance will be provided in urgent cases. In case of illness or accident, contact the Congress venue’s hotel reception or registration desk.
The participant in the Conference agrees that the Organizing Committee and Secretariat do not assume responsibility for personal medical and travel expenses incurred during the Conference. Participants are advised to obtain their travel insurance policies. Attendees waive any claim against the Organization for injury or other damages resulting in any way from Conference participation. If you need a private insurance service, please contact [email protected].
+ Local Time
GMT +2
+ Climate & Dressing
Starting from the end of March, temperatures increase significantly. Daytime averages 24°C (75°F) in Istanbul, but nights are colder, around 15°C (60°F). Tulip blossom time is around mid-April which is an indicator for spring.
+ Business & Shopping Hours
Government offices are open on weekdays from 8:30 to 17:00 and closed at the weekend. Most shops are open from 9:00 through 19:00, Monday to Saturday. Some supermarkets, shopping malls, department stores, newspapers, and food shops are also open on Sundays. Certain newspapers in English, German and French are available in the hotels.
+ Tipping
Tax and service charges are included in all goods and services. It is not mandatory; a 10% tip is expected for good services.
+ Electricity Supply
The electric current is 220 Volts / 50 Hz AC with European-type connections.