General information

Official language
The official language of the Congress is English.

Transfer from airport
The distance from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavík is 55 km, or 45 minutes drive. The FLY BUS offers shuttle service between hotels in Reykjavík and Keflavík airport in connection with arrivals and departures. Congress Reykjavík operates a special guided transfer service available upon request. Taxi service is also available.
For further information:
See: www.re.is
See: www.airport.is

Reykjavík
Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland and its surroundings, is the home of more than half of the country's 300 000 inhabitants. Named after the steam from the geothermal areas the city is now known for its clean air and beautiful surroundings. In Reykjavik you have opportunities for historical sites, natural beauty, museums and galleries, public parks, excellent shopping, a wide range of leisure activities, hotels, restaurants and a remarkably lively artistic scene.

Climate
Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland has a temperate ocean climate, cool in the summer and surprisingly mild in the winter. During the summer temperatures generally average between 12°C and 15°C (50°-54°F) in the populated lowlands. The weather in Iceland can be a bit unpredictable and tourists should be prepared.

What to wear
Due to the fact that the weather is unpredictable in Iceland, it is wise to bring warm clothes, rainwear, etc, especially for those who are interested in outdoor activities. As there are ample opportunities for swimming in warm spring water, it might be a good idea to bring a bathing suit

Duty-free shopping
Duty-free goods may be purchased both upon arrival and departure at Keflavík Airport. The duty free allowance is 1 liter of spirits (up to 47% alcohol) and 1 liter of wine (up to 21% alcohol) or 6 liters of imported beer and 200 cigarettes or the equivalent in other tobacco products. It is prohibited to bring uncooked meat and various meat products (salami, smoked meat, etc.) into the country.

Tax refunds
Upon departure, visitors to Iceland can reclaim the VAT tax paid on purchase in the country. This may amount to 13-15% of the value of the purchase. The refund voucher should be presented to the Duty-Free shop at Keflavík Airport or other departure points.
See: http:// www.airport.is/english/menu/before_departure/VAT_refund/

Currency exchange
The currency in Iceland is Icelandic Krona (ISK). Foreign currency can be exchanged at all banks, which will also advance cash against all major credit cards. Cash can also be obtained against these cards in all banks, ATMs are to be found in many places. Banking hours are from 09:15-16:00, Monday to Friday. The Change Group offices are open daily, May-September from 08:30-20:00.
Exchange offices are also available in Keflavik Airport.

Shopping hours
There are many excellent shops in Reykjavík. Visitors will find a wide selection of goods both in the downtown area and at Kringlan and Smáralind shopping malls, offering woolen products, ceramics, jewelery and skin and fur products.

Stores are open from 10.00-18:00 on weekdays, but have variable opening hours on weekends.