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San Francisco
Welcome to San Francisco. Situated on the west coast, the city has a cosmopolitan flair, spectacular scenery and cultural diversity, which makes it one of the top destinations in the world. San Francisco is acclaimed as home of the 'World's Best Restaurants'.
Conference Headquarters
San Francisco Marriott
55 Fourth Street
San Francisco CA 94103
USA
Tel: +1 (415) 896 1600
Fax: +1 (415) 896 6177
Entry Formalities
All delegates are responsible for checking visa entry requirements for the USA. Applications could take up to two months to process, so please contact your local Embassy for entry formalities and apply for any required visa well in advance. For further information please go to the US Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov We also advise that you check with your Embassy a month prior to travelling to ensure that entry requirements have not changed. We are unable to send visa supporting application letters to delegates prior to receipt of your registration form and full payment of fees.
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Arrival in San Francisco
San Francisco International Airport is situated 25 kms (15 miles) from the city centre. There are several forms of transport available from the airport to the centre:
Taxis - Taxi ranks are situated outside the arrival terminals. Journey time to downtown San Francisco is approximately 25-30 minutes. The fares range from $30-40 depending on destination.
Bus/Van - SFO Airporter service has departures every 20 minutes, 0500-2300, from the arrival terminal, with drop-offs at major hotels in downtown San Francisco. Cost is approximately $12.50
Bus/Train - There is a bus service (SamTrans), which operates from the airport to the Transbay Terminal for the CalTrain commuter rail system into San Francisco.
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Local Transport
Local transport San Francisco has a compact city centre and walking is an easy way to get around. However, a good transport network also exists. The principle public transport system is the bus line, which includes the famous electric trolley buses. There is also a subway system - The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) - that links San Francisco to the East bay area. Taxis are licensed and regulated, and in the city centre are plentiful and relatively inexpensive.
Climate
San Francisco has a temperate, marine climate and is mild year long. Temperatures in the city seldom rise above 70°F /21°C or fall below 40°F/4°C. Fog is common during the mornings but rarely remains through the day. It's best to wear layers of clothing in San Francisco - you can peel them off as the day warms. You'll appreciate a windbreaker or jacket that will protect you from the occasional strong breezes.
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Gratuities/tips
Restaurants: service is not included in restaurant bills. The average tip is 15-17% of the total bill.
Taxis: average tip is 15% of the fare.
Airport/Hotel baggage handlers: average tip for porters is $1 per bag.
Health and insurance
Delegates and guests are strongly recommended to take out health insurance for the duration of their visit to the USA. The International Bar Association can not be responsible for any medical costs incurred by participants.
Smoking
In the state of California, it is illegal to smoke tobacco products in any public space, including restaurants and bars. Please observe designated smoking areas.
Access for the disabled
The majority of all attractions, buildings and public transportation are equipped for easy access. The San Francisco Marriott's meeting room facilities are wheelchair accessible and the official IBA Conference Hotels have specially adapted rooms available.
Voltage
Electricity in the US runs on 110 volts. Delegates using appliances of 220 volts should bring a transformer.
Banks/shopping
Banks in San Francisco are generally open Monday to Friday 1000-1700. Some banks are open on Saturdays. The general opening hours for shops are 1000-1800, although many malls are open in the evening.
Mobile telephones
Mobile telephones in the USA operate on the analogue system. Therefore mobile telephones from countries that operate on the digital system will not work unless they are tri-band. Details of mobile phone hire will be sent to you with your acknowledgement letter.
The IBA has arranged a special rental rates please click here for further information.
Babysitting
Delegates requiring this service should liaise directly with their hotel.
Badges
For security reason, badges must be worn at all times during the conference and social functions. Proof of identity is required for replacement badges.
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