General InformationDurbanDurban is a sophisticated cosmopolitan city of over three million people - a city where east meets west - a city beneath which beats the pulse of Africa - city known as the home of Africa's best managed and busiest port. Durban is in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa.The Outer West area of the city of Durban includes the beautiful Valley of a Thousand Hills, up the winding and picturesque Botha's Hill. To the south of the centre of Durban is Amanzimtoti which is a popular KwaZulu-Natal or Zulu Kingdom seaside destination for the family.
Umhlanga and Umdloti is a tropical paradise, which have been dubbed the 'Riviera' of Durban. Gateway Mall in nearby Umhlanga is a big attraction, as are two exciting casino complexes - Sibaya just beyond Umhlanga and Suncoast "down the road" on Durban Beachfront.
Currency and BanksThe unit of currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR) and is indicated with a capital R so that, for example, three Rand and fifty cents would be written R3.50. South Africa has a decimal currency system with one Rand equalling 100 cents. Denomination of Rand notes are R200, R100, R50, R20, and R10 and of the coins are R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c and 10c.The following exchange rates were applicable as of 15 January 2024:
Facilities for cashing traveller's cheques are available at banks (operating hours are Monday to Friday 09h00 - 15h30, Saturdays 08h30 - 11h00) and at most hotels. Banks are closed on Sundays. Foreign exchange agencies are open during the week and on Saturdays. Automatic teller machines (ATM) are open 24 hours and are located at most banks as well as at the conference Venue. International credit cards (Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard, and American Express) are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. Price Guidelines (for illustration purposes only). Prices will vary, but the following is an indication of what delegates might expect to pay:
Electricity SupplyThe electricity supply in South Africa is 220 - 240 volts, 50 Hz. The connection for appliances is a round three-pin plug. Most hotels provide dual-voltage two-pin razor sockets (100-120 volts and 220-240 volts).
HealthThere are no compulsory vaccination requirements for persons entering South Africa although a certificate for yellow fever may be required if you are entering from certain South American or sub-Saharan African countries. Certain parts of the country have been designated as malaria risk areas. If you intend travelling to one of these areas, it is essential that you take prophylaxis before arrival and whilst in the area. Protective clothing and insect repellents should also be used.City centres like Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town are free from malaria and safe for travellers of all ages. Malaria is endemic in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and in Limpopo (including the Kruger Park and private game reserves which make these provinces so popular with travellers). In KwaZulu Natal malaria is endemic on the Maputaland coast. So, if you are travelling to the far north of South Africa, please consult a health-care professional for the latest advice on malaria prophylaxis as it changes regularly. South African doctors and dentists are highly trained professionals and hospitals are well equipped. Participants are requested to make their own arrangements with respect to health insurance prior to departure and consult their local general practitioner for personal expert advice. The South African National Travel Health Network (SaNTHNet) has been established to provide travellers with essential information related to health risks both locally and across borders. The website has regular updates on health risks, as well as providing general information related to vaccination requirements for various destinations. For more information, please visit: https://www.santhnet.co.za/ It is safe to drink tap water throughout South Africa. However, for those who prefer bottled mineral water, this is readily available in various stores. Smoking is prohibited by law in all public buildings in South Africa (airports, shopping centres, restaurants etc.), except in designated smoking areas. There are currently no Covid-19 restrictions applicable for entry into South Africa.
InsuranceThe The 96th Congress of the South African Sugar Technologists' Association 2024 (SASTA 2024) accepts no liability for any personal injury, loss, or damage of property belonging to or additional expenses incurred by conference participants either during the conference or as result of delays, strikes or any other circumstances. Participants are requested to make their own arrangements with respect of health, travel, and cancellation insurance.
LanguageThe official conference language will be English.
Programme ChangesThe organisers cannot assume liability for any changes in the programme due to external or unforeseen circumstances. Changes will be mentioned on message screens throughout the conference Centre.
Safety and SecurityFor those participants who have not previously visited South Africa, or Durban, and are concerned about personal safety, we wish to assure all visitors that Durban is like any other major city with good and bad areas. Common sense will ensure a trouble free and enjoyable conference and vacation. The area around the International Convention Centre is safe, and well monitored, but we advise that you do not walk alone especially after dark or in unpopulated streets. You are advised to take a metered taxi or e-hailing cab from your hotel to the conference venue. Ostentatious displays of wealth should be avoided all the time. During the Conference, the information desk at the venue and your hotel's concierge will be able to assist you with information on places to visit and the appropriate means of transport.
Shopping in DurbanMost shops in the city centre and suburbs open between 08h00 and 17h00 to 17h30. Shops in major shopping malls open at 09h00 and close at 21h00 or later (especially at the V&A Waterfront), even on Sundays and most public holidays. Government agencies keep to traditional weekday only hours. Most banks close at 15h30 and have limited Saturday morning opening times. Muslim-owned businesses close at noon on Fridays and re-open at 14h00.
TelecommunicationInternational direct dialling, internet, and e-mail facilities are easily accessible in Durban. Most of the mobile telephone systems used around the globe operates in Durban. Local SIM Cards can be purchased at convenience stores or at the Airport on Arrival.
TippingGratuities are not obligatory but are expected in South Africa. A guideline for visitors is the following: Airport porters ZAR 20.00 per item, taxis 10%, waiters, and waitresses in restaurants 10%.
Time ZoneDurban is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+2GMT).
Traveller's ChequesMost international traveller's cheques are accepted, provided they are in an acceptable currency and may be cashed at most banks. Many hotels and shops also provide this service. Please note that Credit Cards or Cash are generally a more acceptable form of payment.
VAT / Tax RefundsVAT of 15% is levied on nearly all goods and services. Foreign tourists may claim back VAT paid on goods or products (not services) that will be taken out of the country. Original tax invoices, foreign passport, plus all the items on which a refund is claimed, must be presented at the VAT Refund Administration Office or an appointed RSA Customs and Excise Official on departure, and the total VAT on these items will be refunded.
Venue and DatesThe Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre Complex, 13 - 15 August 2024Address: 45 Bram Fischer Rd, Durban, 4001 Phone: 031 360 1000 The ICC Durban is a world-class facility, renowned for its high standards of service excellence, has successfully staged some of the world's most prestigious and complex events. This multi-award-winning Centre has been voted "Africa's Leading Meetings and Conference Centre" by the World Travel Awards no fewer than 17 times in 18 years and has been rated amongst the World's Top 17 convention centres by AIPC. For more detailed information please visit: https://icc.co.za/
WeatherThe temperatures in Durban in August are comfortable with low of 15°C and and a high of up to 22°C.You can expect about 3 to 8 days of rain in Durban during the month of August. It's a good idea to bring along your umbrella so that you don't get caught in poor weather. |
ANNUAL CONGRESS CONGRESS OVERVIEW REGISTER FOR CONGRESS TRAVEL & TOURS ABSTRACT SUBMISSIONS & INFORMATION FOR AUTHORS SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMME CONGRESS PROCEEDINGS EXHIBITION & SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION CONGRESS NOTICES |
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