University of Helsinki, Main Building, Helsinki, FINLAND August 30–September 2, 2012 

Local Information




Finland

Finland has it all – snowy winters, pleasantly warm summers and colourful spring and autumn. Lapland is the most snow guaranteed place in the Europe. Not only the climate but also Finns are considered to be cool – a bit quiet and reserved. But they are actually warm, friendly, hospitable and especially honest people.

The first impression you get, looking out from the window of the plane, is that there are a lot of trees. An endless carpet of forest, with lakes in between. And a few small farms and small towns. So it’s kind of a surprise when you land in Helsinki to find that the airport is so modern and efficient. Not a polar bear in sight.

Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital of the Republic of Finland, is a modern city with over half a million residents and is situated on the Baltic Sea. Helsinki together with the neighbouring cities of Espoo, Kauniainen and Vantaa forms the Helsinki metropolitan area with more than a million inhabitants.

Helsinki is unique among Northern European cities. The lifestyle in the second-most northern capital city in the world is full of contrasts and activities in the form of hundreds of events and friendly people. Helsinki’s identity has been formed by cultural influences from both the East and West.

Over 450 years of history, several architectural layers and the impact of different periods can be clearly seen in Helsinki. Finnish design has also made the country’s capital city world famous. The beauty of the surrounding nature blends seamlessly together with high-tech achievements, while old traditions mix with the latest contemporary trends. The city centre has many beautiful parks, and the nearby forests offer an ideal setting for peaceful and quiet walks. Helsinki’s rhythm is laid back yet at the same time refreshingly active in terms of both the number and quality of restaurants and nightclubs. Everything is nearby – Helsinki is a pocket-sized metropolis that is ideal for visitors!

Insurance

The registration fee does not include any insurance. Please check the coverage of your own insurance.

Finnish time

UTC +2, UTC+3 in the summer

Currency

The currency in Finland is Euro. Please check the current exchange rates. You will find exchange offices at the Helsinki-Vantaa airport and Helsinki Central Railway Station. Kindly note the banking hours (Mon – Fri 9 – 16.30, except bank holidays), if you wish to exchange money in a bank.

Cheques, credit cards and cash

Cheques will not be accepted in the conference registration desk or in the local shops. Common credit cards are accepted in most shops and hotels. Visa, MasterCard and Eurocard are also accepted in the conference registration desk. There are several ATM’s in the city called “Otto” or “Nosto” and they are open 24 hours per day.

Clothing and Weather

The weather in Finland will normally be max 15 - 20 degrees Celcius during the day in the end of August, rain can occur.  Nights will be cooler, maximum around 8-12 degrees.

For most occasions, casual attire is appropriate, unless otherwise noted.

Electricity

230 volts (50 Hz), plugs conform to the northern European standard with 2 pins.