Global Travelers

Welcome! We are looking forward to seeing you in San Francisco, California, USA!

At ICIS 2018 you will have the opportunity to meet like minded professionals from across the world and exchange information and insights, discuss research opportunities and learn about the research of others.

Event Basics

Here are a few details you may want to know prior to registering for the conference or before coming to the United States.

  • Venue

    The conference will be held at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis Hotel. Click here fore more information on the hotel or to make a reservation.

  • Language

    Sessions at the event are conducted in English.

  • Weather

    In December, San Francisco has average highs of 58°F (14°C) and average lows of 47°F (8°C). Prior to traveling for the conference, you may wish to check the San Francisco 10-day weather forecast.

  • Travel Discounts & Hotel Accomodations

    You will need to book a hotel room with the San Francisco Marriott Marquis. A negoitated rate has been established for the conference. To book a room with the AIS room rate click here (link coming soon).

  • San Francisco Highlights

    San Francisco is home to many world-famous attractions, from the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz Island. Getting around is easy, whether walking, taking public transportation, or hailing a cab.

    Tourist Attractions

    Getting Around in San Francisco

  • Time

    San Francisco is in the Pacific Time Zone.  The time in December is -8:00h GMT

  • Electricity

    The United States uses 120V, 60 Hz AC power.

  • Telephone

    The United States’ country code: +1
    LOCAL area codes: (415), (628)
    U.S. telephone numbers have 10 digits total, which includes the area code and a seven digit phone number (e.g., (XXX) XXX-XXXX)

  • Internet Access

    Most hotels offer high-speed Internet connections either in the room or on public areas within the hotel. Some access requires a fee. Ask the hotel staff if you are unsure.

  • Emergencies

    Dial  911 from most phones. Some hotel phones may require an additional number. Please see the phone or hotel for specific instructions.

Cultural Nuances

If you are not familiar with the United States culture you may want to become familiar with them prior to traveling.

  • Attire

    Attire at AIS Conferences is business casual. Since meeting room temperatures and personal comfort ranges may vary, a light sweater or jacket is recommended.

    Here is an article, with illustration, on what business casual is in the United States.

  • Tipping

    Tipping in the United States is customary. A 15% to 20% tip is usually expected in restaurants. Click here for information on tipping other service providers

  • The Handshake

    If you are unsure or uncomfortable with shaking hands in the U.S. click here for advice.

Visas

To help you with your travel arrangements, below are links to important information regarding visa invitation letters, visas, and other resources.

  • Visa Invitation Letters

    Once the conference registration form opens you may complete your conference registration, and then complete the Invitation Letter Request Form. After completing both, please email the completed request form to the AIS Registrar at registrar@aisnet.org or fax to +1 (404) 240-0998.

    Please Note: Prior to receiving a letter of invitation you will need to complete and pay for your conference registration. As Visa requests can take several weeks, registrants are strongly encouraged to apply for the Letter of Invitation no later than two months prior to the conference.

  • Visa Information

    The U.S. government requires residents of many countries to obtain a temporary visa before entering the United States. Recent changes to the visa application process may have increased the length of time required to receive your visa. It is very important to apply for a visa at least 90 days prior to departure. For information on U.S. visa policies and procedures, visit  https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en.html .

  • Visa Waiver Program

    The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of 38 countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.

    In order to travel without a visa on the VWP, you must have authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to boarding an approved U.S. bound air or sea carrier. ESTA is the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) automated web-based system to determine eligibility to travel without a visa to the United States for tourism or business. VWP travels must also have the correct type of passport.

    To obtain a complete list of exempt countries and learn more, visit the Visa Waiver Program website at https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en/visit/visa-waiver-program.html .