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PHILIPPINES TRAVEL INFORMATION Philippines Country Information The Land || History || The People || First-time Traveler Tips || Visas || Customs || Currency || Weather Clothing || Utilities || Newspapers & Media || Business Hours || Language || Getting Around Modes of Transport || Weather Conditions || Things to Know || Sightseeing || Museums and Art Further Information The Land The Philippines is an archipelagic nation made up of 7,107 islands spanning 1,840 kilometers north to south. It is part of the East Indies, a vast island group lying south and east of mainland Asia, with Taiwan at its northernmost coast and Borneo on the south. The three main Philippine island groups are Luzon , the Visayas and Mindanao . Luzon is the island of contrasts. The most modern districts in the Philippines , including the capital city of Manila , are in Luzon , but so are some of the oldest tribal communities in the nation like the Ifugao of the Cordilleras. Luzon is also where a visitor can see the latest model luxury cars overtaking a carabao sled or modern skyscrapers within driving distance of primordial volcanos. The Visayas is famous for its charm, a trait shared by many other southern regions in the world, but here seems to run deeper among a people who are intrinsically connected to their sun soaked island home. The Visayas is also famous as a seat of history, being one of the earliest landfalls of western voyagers. It has also gained a reputation as being a cradle of the nation's future, if the unprecedented economic growth of Cebu City continues. Mindanao is our offering to the Guinness Book of Records with the world's largest clam, the world's largest Eagle, the nation's highest peak and the world's largest city. Mindanao is also home to the Philippines' Muslim population. With a land mass of 300, 780 square kilometers, the Philippines is considered a medium-sized nation, about two- thirds the size of its first colonizer, Spain, and a little larger than the British Isles. Manila is only one hour and 40 minutes from Hong Kong by jet; Sydney only 7 1/2 hours away. Flights to Europe take 17 hours and to the American west coast 15 hours. The Philippines has many things to offer the visitor: a mixture of the old and the new, a diversity of art and culture and a warm, friendly people. Blessed by nature, the Philippines has something to offer every sportsman too . . . extraordinary dive sites, forests to roam, mountains to climb, caves to explore. Top History Situated on the crossroads of Asia, on the eastern rim of the China Sea, the Philippines has hosted voyagers, migrants and traders since the dawn of history. That it was the center of lively Asian trade route that stretched all the way to China and Japan can be seen from the relics these early visitors left behind. Among our archaeological treasures is a Neolithic spirit boat typical of early Southeast Asian culture. The West discovered the Philippines when Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer who sailed for Spain, landed in Cebu in 1521. However, colonization didn't actually begin until 1565, when Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established a Spanish base in the town of Manila. Because Philippine society was loosely organized, without a central government, the Spanish conquest was rapid and total. Only the Muslims in the south and some inaccessible hill tribes were able to resist Spanish influence. Along with the Spanish conquerors came a new religion, Christianity, a new language, new laws and the galleon trade. Despite several uprisings against Spain, including the Katipunan, a revolutionary movement inspired by Dr. Jose Rizal and led by Andres Bonifacio, it was the United States of America that broke the Spaniard's grip on the Philippines. Unfortunately, that began the nation's second period of colonization. Once again there was resistance, this time led by Emilio Aguinaldo; but his rag-tag army was no match for Admiral Dewey's forces. In 1901, with Aguinaldo's capture, the Americans were entrenched. The Americans brought over their educational system, their legal system and planted the seeds of their own style of government. In 1935, the Philippines became an American commonwealth country with Manuel Luis Quezon as president. The status quo ended with the Japanese Occupation; and it wasn't until 1946, after the end of the Pacific war, that the Philippines finally regained true independence as the Republic of the Philippines under the presidency of Manuel Roxas. Still one of the strongest democracies in Asia, the current president is Joseph Ejercito Estrada. Top The People Halo-halo is a Filipino word that means mixture. While it describes a popular dessert, it could also describe the Filipinos. They look like Asians, write and speak English like Americans, worship like Spaniards, and have an outlook that is international. Like the Southern Chinese, the Thai, Malay, Indonesian and Burmese, the modern-day Filipino traces his remotest genetic lines back to an Australoid and Mongoloid stock. You will also find a touch of Caucasian, Chinese, Indian and Arabic in their gene pool as well. But to truly understand the Filipino, you have to look at the land. The historic isolation between islands and the topographic isolation on each island, become the primary influence governing regional traits and societal behavior. This diversity makes Filipinos all the more interesting. However, what is apparent isn't how different they are from each other, but rather how alike they are. Brought together by a common history, and looking forward to a common future, it is not surprising to find a sharing of certain traits. Their warmth, graciousness and hospitalityall part of the Filipino psychewill make your stay a delight. Top Tips for First-time Philippine Travelers Generally speaking, it is important to travel light. Bring only what's necessary. Avoid the extra baggage. You don't want to pay exorbitant fees for your luggage service. As in any foreign place, be careful with pickpockets. Some might act as a helpful stanger, but they're out to get something from you! It's good to be cautious at all times. Whenever going outdoors, being in a group is recommended. If you're bringing kids with you, make sure to bring all the things they would need, like medicine, bottles of potable water (although many bottled water is available, it is always recommended to bring one), and one of your kids' favorite toys for their own receration. Top Visas If you are coming from America, Asia or Europe with a valid passport, and either a return ticket or a ticket to another destination outside the Philippines you may enter without a formal visa and stay for 21 days. If you wish to stay longer you must obtain a Visa Extension either before your trip from a Philippine Consulate or Embassy. Or, once here, you may obtain it from the Bureau of Immigration. Customs Upon Arriving: Visitors are allowed to bring in duty free personal belongings, two cartons of cigarettes or two tins of pipe tobacco and up to one liter of alcohol. Balikbayans have separate rules and should check with the Embassy or Consulate in their home city. You may bring in unlimited amount of foreign currency. Upon Leaving: Any antiques you may have acquired during your stay must be accompanied by a certificate from the National Museum. You may also not take more than PhP5,000.00 (five thousand Philippine pesos) out of the country. Currency The currency in the Philippines is the Peso (PhP) and the Centavo. 100 centavos = P1. Coin denominations are: 1, 5, 10, and 25 centavos, P1, and P5. Bill denominations are : 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1, 000 pesos. Foreign currency may be exchanged at your hotel, and in most of the large department stores, banks and authorized money changing shops. Exchanging money anywhere else is illegal and the laws are strictly enforced. Most large stores, restaurants , hotels and resorts accept major credit cards including American Express , Visas and MasterCard. Traveller' s checks preferably American Express are accepted at hotels and large department stores. Personal checks drawn on foreign banks are generally not accepted. Top Weather The Philippines is tropical with just two seasons--hot and dry from November to June, and rainy from July to October. Filipinos will tell you that it is cool from December through February and they themselves will wear jackets. Clothing People in the Philippines dress for the weather (HOT!) Casual attire during the day for women are light blouses and shorts. For men collared T- shirts worn over slacks. In the evening skirts are substituted for shorts and the T-shirts are tucked in. For Men Only: If you expect to have to attend any occasion which would usually require a jacket and a tie (which is torture in this weather) there is a wonderful substitute. Go immediately to a department store and buy a barong tagalog. It is an embroidered shirt that is considered a formal dress. It will cost more or less PhP1,000.00, but it is worth every centavo. Utilities Electricity is 220 volts a/c. Many of the major tourist hotels also have 110 volt a/c outlets. Water supply in Metro Manila and in all the other major cities are considered potable. Bottled purified water, spring water or mineral water is often supplied by hotels and resorts, and sold in all grocery stores. Telephone service is modern and you can direct dial anywhere in the world. Public phones are plentiful. Public phones require a minimum of two one-peso coins for a local call. Some Important Telephone Numbers: (24-Hour Hotline) Police & Fire: 757 or 116 Emergency No.: 501- 650 or 501- 728 Directory Assistance: 114 National Operator: 109 International Operator: 108 For other emergency numbers, please refer to Directory . NOTE: It is advisable to always have the telephone number and the address of your embassy or consulate with you. Top Newspapers & Other Media The newspapers in the Philippines have been called the freest in the world, as you will see for yourself, with more than 24 different morning papers to choose from, most of them in English. There is also a wide selection of magazines printed in English including Time, Newsweek and Asiaweek. In Metro Manila you can buy the Asian Wall Street Journal, The International Herald Tribune and USA Today. Television is "on the air" from early morning to midnight, showing American programming as well as local programming. The standard channels are 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 13, and 23. If you need more channels, most of the major hotels are with Cable TV bringing in TV programs from all over the world. There is also AM and FM radio broadcasting with the pop stations primarily on AM in Filipino and the English language programs on FM. Top Business Hours Most businesses are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays and 8:00 AM till noon Saturdays. Banks are open from 9:00 AM till 3:00 PM Mondays through Fridays. When banking in the Philippines, it is advisable to have your passport with you for identification. The post offices are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays only. Stamps for postcards are frequently available from the Concierge Desk at most major hotels. The Philippines uses ZIP codes, please include them in addressing local mail. NOTE: The Standard lunch hour is noon to 1:00 PM. Most businesses and government offices are closed. Language While there are over 100 regional languages in the Philippines, the national language is Filipino, with English as the most widely spoken second language. All business, governmental and legal transactions are conducted in English. Top Getting Around There are four modes of public transport in Metro Manila and surprisingly, they are easy to use. Buses : Both air-conditioned and regular buses travel most of the major routes in Metro Manila. On an air-con bus a short ride costs PhP 9.00, adding a few peso for every succeeding kilometer. The regular bus' minimum fare is PhP 4.00. Just tell the conductor where you are going and he will tell you how much it costs. Keep your bus receipt as it is your proof of payment. Jeepneys : Called "folk arton wheels," jeepneys ply most of Manila's secondary roads and even a few major thoroughfares. They're as much fun to ride on as they are to look at and you have to try one. Although there are regular stops, you can often just flag one down and hop on. Call out "bayad" (bah-yhad) and pay the driver. If you are too far back, pass your PhP 4.00 (minimum fare for the first 4 kilometers; 1 peso additional for every succeeding 500 meters) down. When you are ready to get off, call out "para" (pah-rah); wait till he slows down and jump. The LRT : It's a fast, cheap way to go to downtown Manila. A token can take you between Monumento (the northern end of Edsa) and Baclaran, travelling first along Rizal Avenue and then Taft Avenue. Many of the tourist maps have the route of the LRT marked. The MRT : After it's somewhat unsuccessful opening, the MRT is now enjoying a fair share of passengers plying EDSA. This is definitely the fastest mode of transport, this side of the metropolis. The MRT runs from the North Avenue Station in Quezon City up to Taft Avenue Station in Pasay City. Passengers would enjoy the traffic-less route, clean stations and coach, with a good view of Metro Manila's landscape. The only problem is that some stations have very high stairways. Although a number of elevators is operational, not all stations have one. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes end to end. Taxis : Air-conditioned taxis cost PhP25.00 on the meter and an additional PhP 2.00 is added for every succeeding 200 meters to the final cost. Non-airconditioned taxis do not ply anymore. Taxis are always lined up at the major hotels and tourist restaurants and can be hailed on the street. If you take a taxi, make sure the driver turns on the meter. If he gives you a story that it is broken, get out and take another taxi. Unless you are taking a long trip or the traffic is unusually horrible, most taxi rides should be well under P100. At least a 10% tip is expected. Top Other Modes of Transport Most of the major car rental agencies, including AVIS, Budget, and Hertz have offices in Metro Manila and carry a full line of vehicles from jeeps to limousines. All vehicles may be rented with or without a driver. If you wish to do your own driving you must have a valid foreign or international license. Inter-island transportation is provided by either airplane or ferry boat. Philippine Airlines services most of the major provincial airports. Cebu Pacific, Asian Spirit, SeaAir, Air Philippines, and Pacific Airways are smaller carriers servicing more remote tourist destinations. For information about boat schedules, check with the Department of Tourism on T.M. Kalaw Street, Manila (63-2-5267652, 5267653, 5267655). Top WEATHER CONDITIONS & GEOGRAPHY Climate: Tropical (two seasons) Dry Season: March -May (warm) 33-34 C Wet Season: June- October (monsoonal) November -February (coolest) 29-31C Coastline: 334,539 km. Terrain: Many of the islands in the Philippines are extinct volcanoes and atolls. On the larger islands, many mountains, rainforests, rich valleys and swamp regions. The Philippines still does have thermal activity consisting of active volcanoes and hot springs. Top THINGS TO KNOW Language: Filipino (based on Tagalog dialect) is the National Language. The American occupation was responsible for teaching the English Language. The Philippines is currently the third largest English speaking country in the world. Currency: Peso(PhP). Notes are issued in denominations of , PhP 10, PhP 20, PhP 50, PhP 100, PhP 500, and PhP 1000. Coins are issued for 5c, 10c, 25c, PhP 1, PhP 5. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, hotels and authorized exchanged dealers. Outside of Manila payments are preferably made in pesos. Major Travellers Cheques are widely accepted. Major Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club) can be used to pay for most goods and services. Bank Hours: Banks are open 9am-3pm Mon-Fri (except public holidays). Shop Hours: Most shops operate 10am-7.30pm daily (except public holidays). Time : Local time is GMT plus 8 hours. Business English is the language used. Sexual equality is more widespread in the Philippines than in other Asian countries. Make sure you have business cards. Top SIGHTSEEING Casa Manila: A replica mid 19th Century house, recreating the Intramuros lifestyle of upper class Filipinos at this time. Corner Real and General Lunar Streets, Intramuros, Manila. Luzon Chocolate Hills : Bohols most famous attraction: the area is named thus, because of the rich grass which covers them turns brown in summer. Carmen Town, Bohol. Visayas* Colon Street: The oldest street in the Philippines located in the heart of Cebu. Cebu. Visayas* Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: The only underground cemetery in the Philippines; it served as a meeting place for the revolutionary leaders in Laguna. Laguna, Luzon Island Magellans Cross: The most historically-famous landmark in Cebu. Planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, it marks the place where the first Christian Filipinos were baptized. Cebu. Visayas* Top PARKS & WILDLIFE Katibawasan Falls: These 250-foot falls cascade down to a pool surrounded by orchids and other rich tropical flora- 4 km from Mambajao. Camiguin. Mindinao* Maquinit Hot Springs : Located on a scenic beach corner, this is the premium hot spring in the Philippines. Palawan. Luzon* Hidden Valley: A natural recluse is created within this 90-meter crater . A haven for lush jungle life, natural springs and still water pools. Accommodation available. Alaminos, Laguna. Luzon, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife: Quezon Avenue. Quezon City. Luzon. Rizal Memorial Park: Within the lush park there are monuments, a skating rink and adventure playground. Free concerts every Sunday. Ermita, Manila. Luzon. Top MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES Museums & art galleries Ateneo Art Gallery Quezon City Tel: (02) 998 721 Metropolitan Museum of Manila Tel: (02) 832 3645 National Museum Manila Tel: (02) 494 450 Villa Escudero San Pablo City, Quezon City Tel: (02) 521 8698 Top VISAS AND PASSPORTS Visa and Passport No Visas are required for foreigners entering the country for a stay no longer than 21 days provided that you have valid passports and tickets to leave the Philippines. Visas are required only for stateless persons and citizens of countries with which the Philippines have no diplomatic relations. A temporary visitor's visa is required for those who are planning to stay up to 59 days. Vaccination certificates may be neccesary for long term stays. Holders of Hongkong and Taiwan passports need special permits. All visas and permits may be obtained from Philippine embassies and consulates. Duty Free Items: Two 1-litre bottles of alchohol, and two cartons of cigarettes are allowed. Air Travel to the Country : Ninoy Aquino International Airport (7 km from city centre) Ninoy Aquino Avenue Manila, Philippines: Mactan International Airport Cebu, Philippines: (Most major airlines have flights to the country). Top FURTHER INFORMATION Department of Tourism: T.M. Kalaw Street Rizal Park Metro Manila P.O. Box 3451 Tel: (02)523-8411 Fax: (02) 521 7374 Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporatiom: 4th Floor, Suites 10-17 Legasi Towers 300 Roxas Boulevard Metro Manila Tel: (02) 525-93-18-27 Fax: (02) 521-61-65/ 525-33-14 Top

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Delta Vacations - Vacation packages to Las Vegas Maui Waikiki Hawaii Aruba Bahamas Orlando South Beach Florida Walt Disney World Europe Jamaica Caribbean Cancun Mexico All-Inclusive Family Beach Colorado Ski Membership log in E-mail address: Password: Remember me. Not A Member? Forgot Your Password? My Profile Related Links delta.com Vacation Protection Plan Special Group Rates SkyMiles Membership Last Minute Deals D e l t a V a c a t i o n s . c o m 2 0 0 4 Announcing New Service Package type Flight + Hotel Flight + Hotel + Car Hotel + Car or Transfer Flight + Car Preferred cabin Coach First Class Leaving from Departure date Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Time anytime morning noon afternoon evening 1am 2am 3am 4am 5am 6am 7am 8am 9am 10am 11am 12pm 1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm 5pm 6pm 7pm 8pm 9pm 10pm 11pm 12am Going to Return date Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Time anytime morning noon afternoon evening 1am 2am 3am 4am 5am 6am 7am 8am 9am 10am 11am 12pm 1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm 5pm 6pm 7pm 8pm 9pm 10pm 11pm 12am Adults 1 2 3 4 5 Children 0 1 2 3 4 Promo code (optional) Child 1 na under 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Child 2 na under 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Child 3 na under 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Child 4 na under 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 -- Announcing New Service Package type Flight + Hotel Flight + Hotel + Car Hotel + Car or Transfer Flight + Car Preferred cabin Coach First Class Leaving from Departure date Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Time anytime morning noon afternoon evening 1am 2am 3am 4am 5am 6am 7am 8am 9am 10am 11am 12pm 1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm 5pm 6pm 7pm 8pm 9pm 10pm 11pm 12am Going to Return date Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Time anytime morning noon afternoon evening 1am 2am 3am 4am 5am 6am 7am 8am 9am 10am 11am 12pm 1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm 5pm 6pm 7pm 8pm 9pm 10pm 11pm 12am Adults 1 2 3 4 5 Children 0 1 2 3 4 Promo code (optional) Child 1 na under 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Child 2 na under 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Child 3 na under 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Child 4 na under 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Grand Cayman Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort Las Vegas, Nevada Paris Las Vegas Wednesday, December 28, 2005 Save $300 on a Golf and Spa Getaway Earn 10,000 Bonus Miles to London 3 Night Packages to Turks & Caicos from $790 Search all Last Minute Deals -- Announcing Daily Flight Service Salt Lake to Cancun begins 6/1/05 Atlanta to Moscow begins 6/1/05 -- Member Registration ® 2005 Delta Vacations. All rights reserved. delta.com | Site Map | About Us | Privacy Policy | Legal Notices | Customer Care | Web Compatibility | Travel Agents ### ISHQWEBCVGNET01 ### ### --

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USENIX - USENIX '05 Hotel & Travel Information USENIX '05 Home USENIX Home Events Publications Membership Registration Organizers Invitation At a Glance Training Tech Sessions Themes WiPs BoFs Sponsors Activities Hotel/Travel Services Students Brochure PDF Questions? Help Promote! Call for Papers Past Proceedings Authors Speakers HOTEL & TRAVEL INFORMATION HOTEL USENIX has negotiated special rates for conference attendees at the Marriott Anaheim. Please make your reservation as soon as possible by contacting the hotel directly and mentioning USENIX to get the special group rate, or by clicking here to book online. Hotel Discount Reservation Deadline Friday, April 1, 2005 Deadline Extended! Marriott Anaheim 700 West Convention Way Anaheim, CA 92802-3483 714.750.8000 Hotel Floor Plan (PDF) Room Rates: Single/Double/Triple/Quad: $169 Online Reservations Click here to book through the Marriott Anaheim's Web site. This will send you to a Web form auto-filled with the USENIX reservation code. Discounted In-Room Connectivity All guests booked within the USENIX room block are eligible to receive a discounted Wired for Business Plan rate of $5.95 per day, noon-to-noon. You'll get high-speed Internet access and unlimited domestic long-distance calls within the 50 states. Note: When the rooms in the USENIX block have sold out, requests will be handled on a space-available basis at the hotel's standard rate. Please make your reservation early! Why should you stay in the headquarters hotel? We strongly encourage you to stay in the conference hotel and when making your reservation to identify yourself as a USENIX conference attendee. By staying at the headquarters hotel, you not only help us keep registration fees low, but you also get valuable discounts on local attractions and on in-room connectivity . By contracting rooms for our attendees, we significantly reduce hotel charges for meeting room rental. When those sleeping rooms are not occupied, we face significant financial penalties. Those penalties ultimately force us to raise registration fees. With costs going higher and higher, we are working hard to negotiate the very best hotel rates for you and to keep other conference expenses down, in order to keep registration fees as low as possible. We appreciate your help in this endeavor. TRAVEL Airports Anaheim's location in the Los Angeles metropolitan area makes it easily accessible by air. The three closest airports are Orange County/John Wayne (15 miles SE), Long Beach (20 miles N), and Los Angeles (LAX) (35 miles NW), all of which are served by major airlines. Shuttle service to the hotels is easily accessible from LAX and Orange County. Other airports serving the region include Ontario (35 miles NE) and Burbank/Bob Hope (40 miles NW). Traveling to USENIX '05 from Outside the U.S.A.? See detailed advice from the National Academies about visiting the United States. GROUND TRANSPORTATION Taxi A one-way taxi trip from LAX to the hotel costs $70–$90; from the Orange County airport to the hotel is $30–$40. AirportBus From LAX A one-way trip on the AirportBus from LAX to the hotel costs $16; round-trip is $25. Buses run from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., departing every hour on the hour from the airport. The buses pick up passengers from every terminal at LAX. Please stand outside the baggage claim area under the overhead green bus sign on the center island. To confirm the time of the next bus, use the courtesy phone located in the baggage claim area or call dispatch at 1-714-938-8937 or 1-800-938-8933. Buses are distinctly marked with DISNEYLAND & CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE themes or the AirportBus name. From the Orange County Airport A one-way trip on the AirportBus from the Orange County Airport to the hotel costs $11; round-trip is $18. Buses run from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., every hour on the half-hour. After collecting your luggage, please proceed to the Airport ticket booth located across the street at the John Wayne Airport Ground Transportation Center. Buses are distinctly marked with DISNEYLAND & CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE themes or the AirportBus name. To confirm the time of the next bus or make a reservation, call the dispatch number 1-714-938-8937 or 1-800-938-8933. Super Shuttle A one-way trip on Super Shuttle from LAX to the hotel costs $15; from the Orange County Airport to the hotel is $10. ABOUT THE AREA Area Map & Info (PDF) USENIX is pleased to bring USENIX '05 to Anaheim. Anaheim offers a wealth of activities for the entire family, a wide array of restaurants to suit every taste and budget, and the beautiful weather of Southern California. There are many attractions that will be of interest to USENIX '05 attendees, many of which are within a few miles of the hotel. Here are just a few: What better reason to visit Anaheim—besides attending USENIX '05—than to discover the magic of Disneyland ? If you stay at the Marriott Anaheim, you'll receive valuable discounts on tickets! Disneyland Park Disney's California Adventure Downtown Disney Go out to the ball game! The Anaheim Angels play only 2 miles from the hotel and will be home the weekend before the conference, April 8–10. Board the Queen Mary in nearby Long Beach for a tour of the floating palace, a fine meal, or even a glimpse of a ghost . Explore the world's largest ocean at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. For more ideas, visit the Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau's Web site . Need a Ride to the Disneyland Parks? Take Anaheim Resort Transit! Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) is a multi-route guest transit system serving the greater Anaheim Resort. Board ART in front of the Marriott Anaheim. Tickets are available in front of the hotel at a self-serve kiosk, at the Front Desk, and in the Lobby Shop. The cost is $3.00 per day, $6.00 for a 2-day pass, or $12 for a five day pass. Children through age 9 ride for free. Daily service begins 60 minutes before area event centers open and concludes 30 minutes after closing. Event centers include Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure. During peak periods or special events, 10-minute frequency will service early morning and evening high-demand periods. Non-peak periods days are serviced with 20-minute frequency. Guests can obtain more exact schedules at the Front Desk or Bellstand. See the ART Web site for more information. Need help? Use our Contacts page. Last changed: 7 April 2005 ch

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WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO? -- Please Select the Destination You'd Love To Visit-- " u-menulink1="all-inclusive.htm" clientside s-menu1="Caribbean" b-holdselection="0" u-menulink2="antigua_vacations.htm" s-menu2="....Antigua" s-target="" u-menulink3="aruba_vacations.htm" s-menu3="....Aruba" i-type="3" u-menulink4="bahama_vacations.htm" s-menu4="....Bahamas" i-count="62" tag="p" i-menusize="1" s-inform=" -- Please Select the Destination You'd Love To Visit-- " s-separator="" s-menu9="....Cayman Islands" u-menulink12="dominican_republic.htm" u-menulink17="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=STX&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" u-menulink20="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=STT&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" u-menulink7="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=bonaire" s-menu12="....Dominican Republic" s-menu17="....St. Croix" u-menulink6="bermuda_vacations.htm" u-menulink15="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=jamaica" s-menu20="....St. John & St. Thomas" s-menu7="....Bonaire" u-menulink10="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=curacao" s-menu11="....Dominica" s-menu16="....Puerto Rico" u-menulink19="saint_martin_vacations.htm" u-menulink5="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=barbados" s-menu6="....Bermuda" u-menulink14="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=guadeloupe" s-menu15="....Jamaica" u-menulink9="cayman_vacations.htm" s-menu10="....Curacao" u-menulink13="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=grenada" u-menulink18="http://www.cmtravelonline.com/st_lucia_vacations.htm" s-menu5="....Barbados" s-menu14="....Guadeloupe" s-menu19="....St. Maarten" u-menulink8="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=britvirgin" s-menu18="....St. Lucia" s-menu13="....Grenada" u-menulink16="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=puertorico" s-menu8="....British Virgin Islands" u-menulink11="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=dominica" u-menulink21="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=grenadines" s-menu21="....The Grenadines" u-menulink23="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=PLS&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" u-menulink22="trinidad_vacations.htm" s-menu23="....Turks & Caicos" s-menu22="....Trinidad & Tobago" s-menu30="....Huatulco" u-menulink33="los_cabos_vacations.htm" u-menulink38="belize_vacations.htm" s-menu51="...Other major U.S. cities" s-menu25="....Acapulco" s-menu46="....Miami & South Florida" u-menulink28="cozumel_vacations.htm" s-menu41="United States" u-menulink49="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=ANH&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" u-menulink44="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=0FL&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" s-menu36="....Puerto Vallarta" s-menu31="....Isla Mujeres" u-menulink39="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=brazil" u-menulink34="manzanillo_vacations.htm" u-menulink42="hawaii_planner.htm" u-menulink47="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/partners.asp?xmlFile=0un&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" u-menulink50="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=LAX&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" s-menu39="....Brazil" s-menu26="...Cancun" u-menulink29="guadalajara_vacations.htm" s-menu34="....Manzanillo" s-menu42="Hawaii" s-menu47="....Universal Orlando Resorts" u-menulink24="mexico.htm" u-menulink32="ixtapa_vacations.htm" u-menulink37="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=0CN&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" u-menulink40="costa_rica_vacations.htm" u-menulink45="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=MCO&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" s-menu50="....Los Angeles" s-menu29="....Guadalajara" s-menu24="Mexico" s-menu32="....Ixtapa" s-menu37="Latin America" s-menu45="....Disney World" u-menulink27="mexico_riviera.htm" u-menulink30="huatulco_vacations.htm" u-menulink35="mazatlan_vacations.htm" s-menu40="....Costa Rica" u-menulink43="http://www.vegasvacationsource.com" u-menulink48="http://www.funjet.com/destinations/detail.asp?Dest=0CA&pageMode=D&OAC=&plCode=7575962774" u-menulink51="http://dg.ian.com/index.jsp?action=viewLocation&locationId=41713&cid=64169" s-menu27="....Riviera Maya" s-menu35="....Mazatlan" s-menu43="Las Vegas" s-menu48="California" u-menulink25="http://www.cmtravelonline.com/acapulco_vacations.htm" u-menulink46="http://ref.iliit.com/agents/page.asp?site=0296757C058&pin=&page=island&id=&island=sflorida" u-menulink41="http://dg.ian.com/index.jsp?cid=64169&action=viewLocation&locationId=41713" s-menu38="....Belize" s-menu33="....Los Cabos" u-menulink36="puerto_vallarta_vacations.htm" u-menulink31="isla_mujeres_vacations.htm" s-menu28="....Cozumel" s-menu49="....Anaheim & Disney Land" u-menulink26="cancun_information.htm" s-menu44="Florida" u-menulink59="south_pacific_holidays.htm" u-menulink54="asia_travel.htm" s-menu62="More International Destinations" u-menulink60="tahiti_vacations.htm" s-menu52="Canada" s-menu57="....India" u-menulink55="dubai.htm" s-menu63="....Hong Kong" u-menulink61="go_europe.htm" s-menu53="Africa" s-menu58="Australia & South Pacific" u-menulink56="hong_kong.htm" s-menu61="Europe" s-menu56="....Hong Kong" u-menulink62="http://www.eeitravel.com/site_cobrand/index.asp?Group=cmtravelonline&GroupID=256" s-menu59="....Fiji" s-menu54="Asia" u-menulink57="india.htm" u-menulink52="http://dg.ian.com/index.jsp?cid=64169&action=viewLocation&locationId=29266" s-menu60="....Tahiti" u-menulink63="hong_kong.htm" s-menu55="....Dubai" u-menulink53="africa.htm" u-menulink58="australia.htm" -- 0) window.open( document.JBOT124110.dest.options[document.JBOT124110.dest.selectedIndex].value,'_self');this.selectedIndex = 0;" -- Please Select the Destination You'd Love To Visit-- Caribbean ....Antigua ....Aruba ....Bahamas ....Barbados ....Bermuda ....Bonaire ....British Virgin Islands ....Cayman Islands ....Curacao ....Dominica ....Dominican Republic ....Grenada ....Guadeloupe ....Jamaica ....Puerto Rico ....St. Croix ....St. Lucia ....St. Maarten ....St. John & St. Thomas ....The Grenadines ....Trinidad & Tobago ....Turks & Caicos Mexico ....Acapulco ...Cancun ....Riviera Maya ....Cozumel ....Guadalajara ....Huatulco ....Isla Mujeres ....Ixtapa ....Los Cabos ....Manzanillo ....Mazatlan ....Puerto Vallarta Latin America ....Belize ....Brazil ....Costa Rica United States Hawaii Las Vegas Florida ....Disney World ....Miami & South Florida ....Universal Orlando Resorts California ....Anaheim & Disney Land ....Los Angeles ...Other major U.S. cities Canada Africa Asia ....Dubai ....Hong Kong ....India Australia & South Pacific ....Fiji ....Tahiti Europe More International Destinations 0) window.open( document.JBOT162632.dest.options[document.JBOT162632.dest.selectedIndex].value,'_self');this.selectedIndex = 0;" -- Please Select Your Activity You'd Like To Do -- Book a flight & hotel together Book International Flights Find the best hotel deals Find an exotic vacation Find Passport information Find sightseeing tours & attractions Take a cruise Plan a destination Wedding Plan a honeymoon Plan a family vacation Plan a tropical spa vacation Plan a luxury vacation Plan an adults-only vacation Plan a clothing-optional vacation Plan a couples only vacation Plan a spa vacation Rent a villa or condo Research vacation ideas RELATED TRAVEL SECTIONS HONEYMOON VACATIONS CRUISE VACATIONS GO EUROPE SPA VACATIONS ONLINE RESERVATIONS Great Honeymoon 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Russia Travel

* GoToRussia.Ru * When you wish to visit Russia :: Information, tips, guides, routes, cities, excursions, etc. Visa To Russia Online Tourist invitations; Business Visa Visit: www.VisaToRussiaOnline.com Call: +7 095 7413870 ABOUT RUSSIA: HISTORY TRAVEL TIPS RUSSIAN EMBASSIES ENTRY Requirements VISA CURRENT PRICES PHRASE BOOK FAQ ABOUT MOSCOW: HISTORY ARRIVING BY PLANE MEETING AT SVO CUSTOMS ARRIVING BY TRAIN METRO FOREIGN EMBASSIES WHAT TO SEE MAPS AND PLANS Travel Tips What to pack. The days of having to bring your own bottled water and toilet paper have gone long time ago, although you may still find them useful in regional cities. Now it is possible to easily find basic food, bottled water and toiletry items in many places around Moscow. However, the following are items some tourists prefer to bring for themselves. 1. Bring your own toiletries and pharmaceuticals. Although there are many stores carrying western medicines, you may not be able to read the Russian or European labels. 2. Comfortable, waterproof and warm, (if winter) boots or shoes. It is frequently wet in Moscow from snow or rain, and you will probably walk a lot. 3. Umbrella. 4. Adapter for small appliances like hair dryers. Russia has the same 220 watt currency as Europe and electrical sockets take round two prong plugs. 5. Travel alarm clock. 6. All phone numbers and addresses you will need. 7. Enough cash for your entire stay. Bring clean, crisp, new bills. 8. Travel money holder/conceiler. Pickpocketing is not uncommon, especially in the center of town and incrowded markets. 9. Photocopy of passport and visa. 10. Warm hat, coat, clothes and gloves in winter. 11. Camera and film, of course. 12. Leave your expensive jewelry at home. You don't need to be conspicuous. 13. Locks for your luggage. Make sure to secure all your baggage with heavy locks. Money Currency: Rouble (Rub) = 100 kopeks. Notes are in denominations of Rub 500, 100, 50, 10. Coins are in denominations of Rub 5, 2 and 1. Currency exchange: The ruble is the only legal tender. It is illegal to pay for goods and services in U.S. dollars. According to the Rusian law foreign currency should only be exchanged at official bureaux. Bureaux de change are numerous and easy to locate. Large shops offer their own exchange facilities. You may see many individuals there who would offer you better exchange rate. Please, be careful and under no circumstances exchange money from them. It is advisable not to change large amount of money at a time unless you really need a lot of Roubles. Exchange rate is unpredictable and may change very fast even during one day. All dollar bills must be recent and clean. The Russians are all concerned about getting stuck with an outdated bill that will no longer be honoured, even though this is also a violation of currency laws. Contact us to get more info on today's best exchange rate quotes. more about money... Credit cards Major European and international credit cards, including American Express, Visa and Diners Club, are accepted in the larger hotels and at foreign currency shops and restaurants. Some ATM'S in Moscow are now accepting EC cards together with your PIN number - if you want to get roubles. Compared to most other possibilities of getting roubles, this is a cheap (compared to credit cards) and time saving (compared to travellers cheques) method. Depending on the Russian bank that maintains the cash machine, you may be charged a 1% - 4% commission fee, on top of what your credit card charges. Travellers Cheques Are a big hassle in Russia. Very few places take them and you pay a premium to cash them. If you're not willing to go all cash, credit cards are much better. AMEX traveler's checks may be cashed at the American Express office at Sadovaya Kudrinskaya 21a in the center of town. Expect to pay a 3% commission for cashing the checks. Selected Russian banks will also cash them for a fee. Banking hours 0900 am - 0500 pm Monday to Friday. Some of bureaux de exchange are open 24 hours. Public Holidays Jan 1 - New Year, Jan 7 - Russian Christmas (Orthodox), Mar 8 - International women’s Day, Apr 15 - Russian Orthodox Easter, May 1-2 - Spring and Labour Day, May 9 - Victory in Europe Day, Jun 12 - Russian Independence Day, Aug 22 - National Flag Day, Nov 7 Constitution Day. Calling home? Calling abroad from ALL Russian hotels is a rip-off. For example, to call USA would cost you about US$ 5 per minute, Australia - US$ 8 per minute. To make sure you pay your phone bill most of the hotels require a deposit of a quite a large amount of money or your credit card information. Without it you won't be able to dial an outside line. There is a solution, however. In our office you can obtain pre-paid phone cards of a few Russian telephone companies (US$ 5, US$ 10, US$ 20, US$ 25 and US$ 50) and call from your hotel or home for as low as 25 cents a minute to the USA and Europe. All you need is a touch-tone phone. Some of the hotels in Moscow and in St.-Petersburg and almost all hotels in all other cities in Russia do not have touch-tone phones. But you still be able to use those cards if before you leave home you buy a bipper (cost about US$ 5 in the USA). With the bipper all you have to do is to dial a number shown on the card and then use the bipper to enter your access code and destination phone number. Please, contact us for more information. To call USA from Moscow for as low as 13.5 cents a minute you can use Net Phone Card. Follow this link to check it out. Or just click on the Net Phone Card banner on our first (entrance) page to go there. You can also use it to call from anywhere to anywhere. Computer equipment The State Customs Committee has stated that there are no restrictions on bringing laptop computers into the Russian Federation for personal use. The software, however, can be inspected upon departure; and some equipment and software have been confiscated because of the data contained in them, or due to software encryption, which is standard in many programs. HIV Testing Requirement Any person applying for a visa for a stay of more than three months must present a certificate showing that the individual is HIV negative. The certificate must contain the applicant's passport data, proposed length of stay in Russia, blood test results for HIV infection, including date of the test, signature of the doctor conducting the test, medical examination results, diagnostic series, and seal of the hospital/medical organization. The certificate must be in both Russian and English and valid for three months from the date of medical examination and blood test. For information concerning entry, exit, and HIV requirements, travelers can contact the Russian Embassy, Consular Division, 1825 Phelps Place, N.W., Washington, D.C., 20008; telephone (202) 939-8918, or the Russian consulates in New York, San Francisco or Seattle. Medical facilites Medical care is usually far below Western standards, with severe shortages of basic medical supplies. Access to the few quality facilities that exist in major cities usually requires cash payment at Western rates upon admission. The U.S. Embassy and consulates maintain lists of such facilities and English-speaking doctors. Many resident Americans travel to the West for virtually all of their medical needs; such travel can be very expensive, if undertaken under emergency conditions. Therefore, travelers may wish to check their insurance coverage and consider supplemental coverage for medical evacuation. Elderly travelers and those with existing health problems may be at particular risk. The cost of a medical evacuation from the Russian Far East can be as high as $50,000. It is helpful to carry a letter, in Russian, from your health care provider, describing the nature of any personal medication that you carry into Russia. Further information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline (404) 332-4559, or via the CDC home page on the Internet at http://www.cdc.gov/. Bring with you all prescription drugs. Tap water is not to be drunk without first boiling. A good mosquito repellant is recommended for summer. Areas of instability Travel to Chechnya, North Ossetia, Ingushetia, Dagestan, and the areas surrounding Chechnya is extremely dangerous due to political instability and frequent kidnappings. Two U.S. citizens have disappeared in Chechnya and remain unaccounted for. In addition, public gatherings and demonstrations occur frequently in Russia, particularly in Moscow. Although such demonstrations are usually peaceful, travelers are urged to exercise caution when in areas where large groups are gathered. Passports and visas Carry them with you at all times. When you are out walking and you see some motley looking guys with black leather caps and jackets with dark gray uniforms, these are the police. They listen for English language being spoken and they will love it if they stop you and you are without your passport and visa. If you don't have your visa and passport, they will escort you to the nearest jail and try their best at expropriating whatever funds they think they can get out of you. Usually, the fine (bribe) is $50 and there won't be anything we can do for you to get you out of it. If the cops haul you in and you do have your visa and passport, call us immediately and we will rescue you. Your visas, if registered through us, will be in perfect order. Don't pay them anything if, once again, you have your visa and passport in your possession. Air travel Air travel within Russia is often unreliable, with unpredictable schedules and difficult conditions, including deterioration of the quality of service. Russian based airlines certified to operate internationally meet higher standards than domestic-only air carriers and fly to most domestic destinations. Traffic safety and road condition Inclement weather and lack of routine maintenance of roads and vehicles make road conditions throughout Russia highly variable. Drivers and pedestrians should exercise extreme caution to avoid accidents, which are commonplace. Many accidents involve drunk drivers. Traffic police sometimes stop motorists to extract cash "fines," and bandits occasionally prey on travelers. Crime information Crime against foreigners is a problem, especially in major cities. Pickpocketings, assaults, and robberies can occur frequently and at any time or place. The most vulnerable areas include underground walkways and the subway, overnight trains, train stations, airports, markets, tourist attractions, restaurants, hotel rooms, and residences, even when locked or occupied. Groups of children are known to assault and rob foreigners on city streets or underground walkways. Foreigners who have been drinking alcohol are especially vulnerable to assault and robbery in or around nightclubs or bars, or on their way home. Robberies may occur in taxis shared with strangers. Travelers have found it safer to travel in groups organized by reputable tour agencies. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. If you receive a replacement for your lost or stolen U.S. passport in Russia, your exit visa must also be replaced, with assistance from your sponsor, so that the passport number written on the visa matches your new passport. This requires a Russian police report. The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad. Additional information on the region can be found in the brochure "Tips for Travelers to Russia and the Newly Independent States." Both publications are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402. Crime Against Foreign Businesses: Extortion and corruption are common in the business environment. Organized criminal groups target foreign businesses in many cities and have been known to demand protection money under threat of serious violence. Many Western firms hire security services which have improved their overall security, although this is no guarantee. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable. Over the past several years, several American business people have been attacked, kidnapped, and even killed. U.S. citizens are encouraged to report all extortion attempts to the Russian authorities and to inform consular officials at the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. consulate.In general, when staying in Moscow avoid walking through dark, unknown, deserted streets in the evening; check your pockets and purses, while walking along the crowded streets, do the same in big stores and market places. The crowded public places (i.e. close to railway terminals, Arbat, etc.) are full of Gypsies (people, mainly women, wearing pictures skirts and shawls), who may tell you your fortune by hand, playing cards, etc. Of course, not all of them are thieves or pickpockets, try to get rid of them as soon as possible. When visiting somebody don't get into lift cabin with persons you don't know. It is also advisable to have a telephone number of your tourist agency or a close friend, whom you may always call in case of need or emergency. Embassy location & registration All American citizens who reside in Russia for three months or longer are encouraged to register at the U.S. Embassy or at one of the U.S. consulates. Americans who will remain for shorter periods may also register and inquire about updated travel and security information. Registration allows for quicker replacement of a lost or stolen passport, as well as contact in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located in Moscow at Novinskiy Bulvar 19/23; phone (7)(095) 252-2451; fax (7) (095) 956-4261. After hours emergencies: phone (7-095) 956-4422. U.S. consulates are located in: St. Petersburg: Ulitsa Furshtadskaya 15; phone (7-812) 275-1701; fax (7-812) 110-7022. After hours emergencies: phone (7-812) 274-8692. Vladivostok: Ulitsa Pushkinskaya 32, phone (7-4232) 268-458 or 300-070; fax (7-4232) 300-091. After hours emergencies: (7) (4232) 471-644 and (7) (4232) 287-290. Yekaterinburg: Ulitsa Gogolya 15a, 4th floor; phone (7-3432) 564-619; fax (7-3432) 564-515. | TOP | HOME | Ask your questions on our discussion board GoToRussia.Ru © 2002-2005 Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy --