RIPE 53 Travel Information

Arriving by Air:

Schiphol International Airport is about 15 km south-west of Amsterdam. There are regular trains going to Amsterdam Central Station. The journey by train from Schiphol airport to the centre of Amsterdam takes approximately 20 minutes. The meeting venue is a 10 minute walk (or a short taxi or tram ride) from Amsterdam Central Station.

The Connexxion Schiphol Hotel Shuttle runs between the airport and hotels in Amsterdam, including the Krasnaapolsky.

Every ten minutes between 06:00 hrs and 21:00, an air-conditioned eight-seater bus leaves from platform A7, situated immediately outside Arrivals Hall 2. A seat for your return trip to the airport is guaranteed if booked at least two hours before departure from your hotel.

On arrival, tickets are available at the Connexxion desk on Schiphol Plaza and the Tourist Information Office.

Travel by Train From the Airport

At the airport you can buy a train ticket from either the yellow ticket machines or the ticket office. Take any train heading for 'Amsterdam Centraal' (Amsterdam Central Station).

The meeting venue is located on Dam Square, which is about ten minutes walk from Central Station. Taxis are available outside the train station to get you to the meeting venue or your hotel, or if you prefer, most trams will also take you to the Dam Square. If in doubt, ask the tram driver.

Travel by Taxi From the Airport

Taxis are available at the taxi ranks outside Schiphol airport. Beware of taxi drivers in the arrival halls offering transportation as you run the risk of being overcharged.

All taxis run on meter, or you can ask for a fixed price to the centre of Amsterdam (around EUR 45). Most taxis have a list that shows the fixed prices to different parts of the city. Depending on traffic, the meter usually comes out a little bit cheaper than the fixed price.

Visa Information

We will provide you with an invitation letter upon request, after you have registered. We will include details on how to apply for the invitation letter in your registration confirmation e-mail.

Currency

Currency Exchange
The Dutch currency is the Euro. You can change money in most banks. The GWK Exchange bureau at Central Station offers a better exchange rate. Changing your money at hotels and some other foreign exchange shops is more expensive.

Online Currency Converter
You can find a currency converter at:http://www.xe.com/ucc/

Banks
Banks are open on weekdays between 09:00 - 17:00. A small number of banks are also open on Saturday between 10:00 - 16:00, and Thursday evening between 17:00 - 20:00.

Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted widely, but not everywhere. Some shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards. If in doubt, ask in advance. Cash-on-card services are available from selected American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa Card addresses. These cards are also accepted by all GWK currency exchange outlets and change express offices. You will find the GWK offices at Central Station and Schiphol airport.

Business Hours

Normal business hours are 09:00 - 18:00, Monday to Friday. Thursday is late night shopping in Amsterdam.
Banks close earlier (see above).
Saturday opening hours are generally from 09:00 - 17:00.
Sunday most shops in the city centre are open from 12:00 - 17:00.

Electricity

EU standard: Netherlands 220V 50 Hz - round two pin plugs.

Weather

You can find a local weather forecast at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/

General Information

Dutch is the national language of the Netherlands. Most Dutch people speak good English. In addition, many Dutch people speak German and French.

Emergency Telephone Numbers

• Police/Fire/Ambulance: 112
• Police (non-emergency): 020 55 99 111
• Free legal advice: 020 54 82 611 or 020 62 64 477
• Doctor Services: 020 66 42 111
• Dental Emergencies: 020 68 61 109