General Information
Time Zone and language
Time Zone
UTC+01:00
Language
Dutch is the official language in the Netherlands, however English is widely spoken.
The official congress language is English. In the plenary room we will have translation/interpretation services, namely French, Spanish and Chinese.
Emergency and Health
Emergency
In emergency situations, you can contact the local police, ambulance service, fire department and other emergency services by calling 112.
Medical Services
Should you need to see a doctor or a dentist, we recommend contacting your hotel’s reception desk who will direct you to the medical professionals assigned to the hotel. If immediate medical attention is required, call the emergency services at 112. Emergency medical services (including transportation by ambulance) are not free and you will be billed for any services rendered.
Health and Immunizations
Vaccination certificates are usually not needed when travelling to the Netherlands, but please check shortly before the congress as requirements may change.
Telephones and Electricity
Telephones International Dialing Codes
The Netherlands: +(31)
More dialing codes for other countries can be found here.
Electricity
The standard electrical voltage in the Netherlands is 230 volts AC, 50Hz (hotel bathrooms may also have outlets for 100 volts). The electrical outlets in the Netherlands take two-pronged, round-pin plugs. We recommend that you purchase an adaptor for your electrical equipment prior to your arrival.
Water, weather and conversions
Water
Tap water is safe to drink in Maastricht.
Weather
The average temperature in October is between 8°C (46.4°F), and 14°C (57.2°F). We recommend bringing wet-weather gear.
Distance
Distances in Maastricht are given in kilometers.
1 mile = 1.62 kilometers
Currency, ATM's and Tipping
Currency
The currency used in Maastricht is Euros (€).
ATM's & Credit Cards
ATMs are widely available throughout Maastricht and most are open 24 hours a day. Souvenir and clothing shops accept all major credit cards, however supermarkets, cafes and some restaurants will only accept cash.
Tipping
Most restaurants in Maastricht will automatically add a service charge to bills. Alternatively, a 5-10% tip at restaurants and cafés is acceptable.