Visa Application
Passport and Visa
Passports, valid for at least six months from the entry into China, and entry visas are required to visit China, except those from Japan and Singapore if they stay for less than 15 days. Participants are advised to consult the nearest Chinese diplomatic mission for details. A single entry visa is valid for three months, and can be extended for an additional month at the Foreigners Section of the Local Public Security Bureau if necessary.
Once in China, the participants are advised to carry their passports on them at all times because the passports may be needed to check into hotels, book airline tickets, and change money.
To apply for visa, participant should first register on-line. The Conference Secretariat will then send a formal invitation form via fax or airmail with which the participant can apply for an entry visa at the designated Chinese Embassy or consulate general. This application should be made preferably at least one month before departure for China.
Alternatively, participants may ask their travel agents to arrange their travel to China and obtain a tourist visa irrespective of whether or not they have registered with the Conference Secretariat.
Weather
The average daily temperature in mid Oct in Shanghai is around 20°C (68°F), with the high at around 25°C (77°F) and low at around 18°C (64°F). There is light rain during the season.
Electricity
The electrical voltage in China is 220V 50Hz. Power sockets available in China are Type A, Type I, and Type C plugs. Adapters are available at most hotels and convenience stores.
Insurance
The registration fee does not include insurance for the participants regarding accidents, sickness or loss of personal property. It is advisable that participants make their own arrangements in respect of health and travel insurance before leaving their countries.
Currency Exchange
In China, only RMB is used. However, exchange centers can be found at airports, most hotels and large shopping centers. When exchanging money, please keep your receipt by which you can change any remaining RMB back to foreign currency when leaving China. Visa, Master, American Express, Diners Club and JCB are accepted in many department stores and hotels. ATM could help you for changing RMB from your credit card.
The Bank of China and most hotels can cash travelers' cheque issued by any foreign bank or financial institution. Participants will need to show a passport and pay a 0.75 percent commission. Travelers' cheque signed over to a third party cannot be cashed in China, but can be presented for collection through the Bank of China.
Reconfirmation of Air Ticket
Departure air ticket (both international and domestic) should be reconfirmed 72 hours in advance. Calling the airline office in Shanghai could make it. But these offices do not work in weekend.