General Information

Banks

Banks are normally open until from 09:30- 15:30 Monday to Friday, and until 09:30-12:00 with reduced services on Saturday. Some banks/branches operate extended opening hours. Banks are closed on Sunday.

Climate

London enjoys a temperate marine climate, so the city rarely sees extremely high or low temperatures. Temperatures in October are expected to be approximately between 8°C - 14°C (46°F - 57°F) on average. The average daily sunshine is 3.5 hours. 

Credit Cards / ATM

International bankcards are accepted and foreign currency is easily exchanged. Banks, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and exchange bureaux can be found all over London. Credit cards – especially Visa and Mastercard – are widely accepted in London's restaurants, bars, cafés and shops. American Express and Diners Club cards are less commonly accepted.

Currency

The currency in United Kingdom is the Pound Sterling (£, GBP). Currently, the following currency rates apply:

(correct as of 22nd May 2012)

1 USD = approx. 0.63 GBP
1 GBP = approx. 1.58 USD
1 EUR = approx. 0.81 GBP
1 GBP = approx. 1.24 EUR

There are plenty of cash machines (also known as cashpoints or ATMs) dotted around London. Most accept international cards with the Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Cirrus or Maestro symbols. If you have a non-UK account you will almost certainly have to pay a charge when you withdraw cash. Please contact your bank before travelling to find out details.

Disability Access

If you have a disability that may require additional help, please email the Congress Secretariat, GCO (Global Conference Organisers) B.V. info@wstc2012.com who will be able to help you with your request. Here you can find several useful links designed to make your stay more enjoyable: http://www.visitlondon.com/maps/accessibility/links-resources

If you require any assistance at the airport, please notify your airline before you fly. They will notify the landing airport directly. The respective airport staff can provide assistance both airside and landside.

Dress Code

Dress code for the conference, lunches and social events is business casual.

Electricity

Electricity in London is supplied at 220V - 50Hz AC, using the three pin plugs.

Language

The official spoken language throughout the congress is English.

Taxis

The London taxis are equipped with meters. Fees change according to the time of day.

Telephone

The international access code for London is +44. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States).