Dublin, The Host City
There are many layers to the city of Dublin amongst which every visitor finds their niche. It is a bustling city with a population of over 1.7 million and is home to over 100 different nationalities all of whom contribute to the fabric of Dublin. While it has a genuine cosmopolitan feel, Dublin has still managed to retain its own distinct culture which is expressed in a love of literature, drama, traditional music and sport.
Browsing the shops on Dublin’s Grafton Street is a renowned pastime as the shopping can also be combined with sight-seeing. The city is abundant with unique buildings and quirky stores; and the streets are always bustling.
The wide-ranging choice of hotels, restaurants, and pubs meets every visitor’s pocket and taste and whether it is a chic boutique hotel, world-class international accommodation or a quaint B&B, Dublin’s menu suits every palette.
With Michelin Star Restaurants centrally located, to casual eateries for resting the feet, again the mood and inclination of Dublin’s guests is anticipated, provided for and enjoyed.
Of course, the quintessential Dublin Pub provides the focal point of Dublin’s social life, illuminating the vibrant hues of Dubliners and their culture. Conversation flows freely unleashing the unique atmosphere that defines the city.
Dublin is one of the oldest cities in Europe and with ancient churches, grand buildings and fine museums, cultural riches abound. From the ancient to the avant-garde, from history, architecture, literature, art and archaeology to the performing arts Dublin has it, with the real advantage to the visitor being that everything is contained within a small area. Furthermore, Dublin boasts the largest park to be found in a European City, the Phoenix Park.
Dublin is a modern city with all the skills, structures, features and facilities necessary to host the most complex of conferences.
When congress business is over, there is a wealth of activities and culture to attract the delegate. Due to Dublin’s coastal location, the sea is an integral part of Dublin life. This inheritance allows for a wide variety of water activities, sports or just strolling. Inland, Dublin offers a pick of events from greyhound racing, a variety of many fine gardens, old stately homes and picturesque parklands.
Dublin accounts for 40% of Ireland’s GDP
Dublin has 47% of all Foreign Direct Investment Projects in Ireland
50% of Dublin’s population are under the age of 36, the youngest capital city in Europe
25% of Nobel Laureates for literature written in English were awarded to writers from Dublin
Some of the biggest multinational companies are located in Dublin including Google, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, AOL, eBay, Microsoft, Amazon, Yahoo.
Ireland enjoys relatively cool summers. The daily temperature in March is on average 16 °C. Dublin enjoys reasonable sunshine in March with unpredictable rain showers. These rain showers generally don’t last long, but it is recommended that you have an umbrella or light rain gear to hand.
Dublin has a busy city centre shopping area around Grafton Street and Henry Street. There is a huge range of products to bring home – from traditional Irish hand-made crafts to international designer labels. Shopping hours in general are from 9.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Saturday, with shops open until 8.00pm on Thursdays, and many shops open from 2.00pm – 6.00pm on Sunday. Dundrum Town Centre is a large shopping centre located in South Dublin. The LUAS Green Line serves Dundrum Town Centre from St. Stephens Green to Brides Glen. The Dundrum and Balally stops are only a few minutes-walk from the centre.
The Conference Organising Committee or its agents will not be responsible for any medical expenses, loss or accidents incurred during the conference. Delegates are strongly advised to arrange their own personal insurance to cover medical and other expenses including accident or loss. Where a delegate has to cancel for medical reasons, the normal cancellation policy will apply. It is recommended that citizens from EU countries bring with them a current EHIC card.
Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 23% on most goods. Cash back is the simplest and most widely used VAT refund service that issues cash refunds on departure for a handling fee. Ask for cash back form when you make your purchase.