General Information

Dates 

October, 7-9, 2018

Venue

Inbal Hotel, Ze'ev Jabotinsky St. 3, Jerusalem

Language

Israel’s official languages are Hebrew and Arabic.
Most Israelis speak English, and most of the signposts are also in English.
The official language of the Summit is English.

Weather and Clothing

Israel's northern and coastal regions are classified as Mediterranean climate characterized by hot and dry summers and cool rainy winters; whereas the southern and eastern areas of Israel are characterized by an arid climate.
Israel enjoys temperate weather throughout the year. No rain is expected from early spring through late autumn. October is Autumn in Israel. 
Along with avoiding excessive exposure to the sun, visitors are recommended to wear protective head coverings and use sun blocks. 
Jerusalem and the Galilee are colder than Tel Aviv, especially in the evening. Jacket is recommended. 

Currency

The unit of currency in Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS), commonly known as the Shekel. The Shekel consists of 100 Agorot.
As of March 2018
1 US$ = approximately NIS 3.5
1 EUR = approximately NIS 4.3

Exchange rates are fluctuating daily.

Electricity

Electricity in Israel is supplied at 220V, 50Hz and has a three-pin connecting plug.

Value Added Tax Reimbursement

According to the Value Added Tax (VAT) Law, a foreign tourist is able to benefit from a zero rate of VAT on a vast array of services obtained during a stay in Israel. In addition, a special arrangement exists whereby a tourist may also request a VAT refund on purchases made during a stay. For more details please visit the official website of the Ministry of Finance, Israeli Department of Customs and VAT.

Visa Information

Some participants may require a visa to travel to Israel. Visa regulations depend on participants’ nationality and country of origin. To find out if you need to obtain a visa, please click here. For the most updated information regarding visa requirements, we strongly suggest that participants consult the Israeli embassy or consulate in their home country or via a travel agency for specific details relating to visa requirements. It is the responsibility of the participant to obtain a visa if required.

Invitation Letter

Participants requiring a formal letter of invitation to enable them to make their arrangements to participate should write to the Symposium Secretariat itss@ortra.com, no later than three months prior to the Symposium, giving their full name, full address, contact details, date and place of birth, passport number and date of issue and expiry, date of arrival and flight details. 

Please note that this letter cannot be regarded as a commitment regarding scheduling or financial support from the organizers.

For any question relating to visas, please contact the ITSS Secretariat at: itss@ortra.com
More Information about Israel on the Internet in the following web sites: 
Ministry of Tourism
Visit Tel Aviv
iTravel Jerusalem
Ministry of Foreign Affairs