General information

The official currency in the Netherlands is EURO (€).

ATM´s, VISA and MasterCard card are widely accepted at hotels, shops, museums, theatres and restaurants. American Express and Diners ClubCard are not everywhere accepted.

Restaurants in Groningen range from gourmet-type restaurants to informal restaurants. There are also many international restaurants in the city, offering a choice of almost any kind of cuisine. In the Netherlands lunch is served between 12:00 and 15:00, dinner around 19:00.

Service is usually included in the prices in bars and restaurants, but tips are welcome. It is common to tip in restaurants. Tip between 10% and 15% of the bill, depending of the level of service (15% for exceptional service). In taxis it is common to tip 5% for good service, or just round up smaller amounts.

To visit the Netherlands, you must have a valid passport. Passport-holders from countries in Western Europe as well as from North America and Australia will not need a visa to enter the Netherlands. For some nationalities, visas can be issued at the airport in Amsterdam upon arrival. Others may have to apply before. If in doubt, please check with your nearest Dutch embassy, consulate or your airline for visa requirements.

The Congress Organisers will not assume any responsibility for accidents, losses or damages to private property and persons, as well as for delays or modification in the programme, caused by unforeseen circumstances. Please make your own arrangements for health insurance and any other necessary insurance.

Traveller cheques cannot be changed at any bank in the Netherlands. Banking hours in general are Monday 13:00 – 17:00  Tuesday till Friday 09:00 – 17:00. Automated cash dispensers are located outside most banks, cash can be withdrawn there 24 hours a day.
National and foreign Maestro cards (cash cards) as well as Mastercard, American Express and Visa are accepted. Credit cards are also accepted by numerous hotels, restaurants, shops and gas stations.
Money can be changed at the airport, at banks, exchange bureaus and at some trainstations. Please ask about charges before changing money – these may vary considerably.

In general the shopping hours are Monday 13:00 – 18:00, Tuesday to Friday 09:30 – 18:00, Saturday 10:00 – 17:00 and Sunday 12:00 -17:00.
There are many shopping streets in Groningen. By walking from the Central Station via Hereburg and Hereplein to Herestraat, shops on both side of the streets can be found. De Grote Markt is also a well known shopping area.
Visitors from Non-EU countries should ask for VAT refunds when purchasing goods.