ICANN59 | Johannesburg
161 Maude St, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | Phone: +27 11 779 0000
ICANN59 will be held 26-29 June 2017
Registration
All attendees will be required to present valid government-issued identification at the registration desk before receiving printed credentials. Register Now
What are the registration fees?
Attendance at an ICANN meeting is free to the general public, although you will have to pay for your own travel and lodging. ICANN negotiates group discount rates at the host hotel and hotels nearby to help you afford to attend the event. For more information, visit http://meetings.icann.org.Travel and Visa
IMPORTANT! Please remember that most countries, including South Africa, require at least two (2) blank, unused pages in your passport for entry.
VISA APPLICATION
In order for the authorities to complete your visa application in time please lodge your application as early as possible.
RESOURCES
- Request an invitation letter https://invitationletters.icann.org/
- Countries Exempt from South African Visa http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/countries-exempt-from-sa-visas
- Apply for a South African Visa http://www.vfsglobal.com/dha/southafrica/
- Where to apply? http://www.vfsglobal.com/dha/southafrica/where-to-apply.html
- How to apply http://www.vfsglobal.com/dha/southafrica/how-to-apply.html
- Application form http://www.vfsglobal.com/dha/southafrica/complete-online-form.html
SECURITY OVERVIEW
As with each ICANN Meeting since ICANN55 in Marrakech, ICANN will implement a 24/7 Health and Safety Center (HSC) providing resources on the ground to help with any security or medical questions, concerns and incidents. Contact information for the HSC can be found in the Emergency Numbers section below.
Johannesburg (colloquially known as Jo'burg or Jozi) is the largest commercial, financial, and industrial center in southern Africa.
The Sandton Convention Center, the attached hotels, and the Sandton City mall complex (including Nelson Mandela Square) are all secure and offer a vast array of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options. The Hyde Park and Rosebank areas are also generally safe and contain a number of excellent restaurants. It is strongly advised that attendees prefer these venues for lunch and evening events. The DMC has also suggested a range of restaurants within these areas for which reservations can be made, space permitting. Additionally, ICANN Health and Safety personnel will be available in these areas to provide assistance as needed.
BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
MEDICAL
Before traveling, consult with a travel health professional about any medical preparations required, including vaccinations. See the CDC website for more information about recommended vaccinations for travel to South Africa. Additionally, a yellow fever vaccine is required for anyone coming from or traveling through WHO-designated yellow fever countries.
Make sure that you have an adequate supply of any regular medications. Work with your health professional to determine if your medications are available in South Africa, and if not, any alternate medications you can take if your medications are lost or stolen. Always carry your medications in your carry-on baggage.
PASSPORT
Make color copies of your passport and visa (if applicable) and carry them with you. Keep originals in a safe location at all times. It's also a good idea to leave a copy with someone at home.
STAYING IN JOHANNESBURG
AIRPORT
OR (Oliver Reginald) TAMBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (JNB)
OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) is situated in Kempton Park in Gauteng near Johannesburg and is the largest airport in Africa. It is the hub for most international and domestic travel from and within South Africa. The airport is roughly 13 miles (21km) east of the city center. Both the international and domestic terminals are well policed and unauthorized personnel are restricted from entering the building. Airport facilities include banks, shops, car rental outlets and an express train into the city. Due to security concerns, it is not recommended to use ATMs at the airport. For more information about moving between the airport and the hotels, see the Transportation section below.
The airport welcome desk will be available by 00:00 on 24 June 2017 through 23:59 on 26 June 2017.
ICANN recommends all attendees use the Gautrain or a private car service to commute between the airport and all Sandton area hotels.
From the Airport
The Gautrain (pronounced how-train), a high speed rail line, links OR Tambo Airport to the Sandton suburb (approximately 25-minute ride), with a station approximately 1km from the Sandton Convention Center. The train service is modern and efficient, running every 12 minutes during peak hours, and includes plenty of room for riders with luggage. It is very easy to locate Gautrain at OR Tambo Airport by following 'TRAIN' signs or asking for assistance. Please note that Gautrain only runs from 05:00 to 21:30 daily. Gautrain cards can be purchased at a station using cash or credit/debit card, except American Express. This is the most preferred, reliable and fastest method of transport between the airport and the hotels.
The Airport Station : OR Tambo
Hotel Station for Sandton Sun / InterContinental Johannesburg Sandon Towers / Garden Court Sandton City : Sandton
Gautrain schedule: http://join.gautrain.co.za/uploads/Train%20Schedule%202016.pdf
IMPORTANT TO NOTE: The pickup point at the Sandton Station for shuttles to the hotels is the PT (Public Transport) Level at the train station.
Hotel Shuttles to/from Gautrain
Shuttle between Sandton Train station and hotels in Sandton area
Garden Court Sandton City / InterContinental Johannesburg / Sandton Sun
A shuttle runs continuously from 06:00 to 21:30 each day (Travel Time: 5-7 min) between the Sandton station and the listed above. The shuttle pickup point is on the PT (Public Transport) Level of the station.
The Michelangelo Hotel / DaVinci Hotel and Suites
Attendees who stay at The Michelangelo or DaVinci Hotels can still take the shuttle for the hotels above as Sandton Sun is located right across DaVinci and Garden Court across Michelangelo. Alternatively both The Michelangelo and DaVinci provide free car service from Santon train station to hotels. You only need to call the hotel concierge to reserve the car before you take the train from OR Tambo Airport.
The Michelangelo Hotel tel: +27 (0) 11 282 7000| DaVinci Hotel and Suites tel: +27 (0) 11 292 7000
Hilton Sandton
A shuttle runs every 30 minutes from 07:00 to 22:00 each day (Travel Time: 5-7 min) between the Sandton station and Hilton Sandton. The shuttle pickup point is on the PT (Public Transport) Level of the station.
Private Car Service
The alternative mode of transport from the airport to the hotel is a pre-booked, private car service through ICANN's contracted Destination Management Company (DMC) or your hotel. For private car service reservations, email Dragonfly DMC or contact your hotel concierge. Make sure you confirm cost, cancellation policies, and terms & conditions before booking.
For private car service bookings through Dragonfly DMC, email icann59@dragonfly.co.za
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT FLIGHT DELAYS
If you find that your flight is delayed into Johannesburg, and you will miss the Gautrain service or will miss your scheduled private car service, please send an email as soon as possible to icann59@dragonfly.co.za. Let them know your name, flight number and anticipated arrival time/date. Dragonfly will adjust and ensure you have transportation available upon arrival. Alternatively you can contact the airport welcome desk on arrival to arrange a private car (for delayed flights only).
Include the following information in your request email to icann59@dragonfly.co.za:
Date of pickup/arrival
Flight number
Arrival time or pick-up time
Transfer to (designated hotel)
Mobile number
DMC Pricing:
Standard Sedan Vehicle ( up to 3 people ) - ZAR 800
6 Seater Vehicle – ZAR 2.800
Larger vehicles are available by request
All credit cards ( VISA, MasterCard, Amex ) are accepted. You will receive a confirmation with Meet & Greet details upon booking.
Around the City
Hotel or DMC-organized cars are the preferred methods for everyday travel throughout the city. These can be ordered beforehand through the hotel reception or the DMC desk at the venue.
While locals frequently use taxis and Uber, there are risks associated with these services and they are therefore not recommended. These include petty crime, and sometimes confrontations between taxi and Uber drivers stemming from competition over passengers.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Fire/Police/Ambulance: 112 or 10111
Country Code: 27
ICANN Health and Safety Center:
- Main Line: +1 424 488 6710 (INTERNATIONAL DIALING)
- Local Line: 72 617 6702 (FROM LOCAL PHONE) / +27 72 617 6702 (INTERNATIONAL DIALING)
- Email: Meeting-Assistance@icann.org
LANGUAGE
There are 11 official languages in South Africa, but English and Afrikaans are most commonly used throughout the country. The vast majority of South Africans speak English – especially hotel and service staff.
CURRENCY
South Africa’s currency is the rand (ZAR or R). Banks typically offer the best currency conversion rates, though using a hotel or exchange desk may be more convenient. Banks and most major hotels accept traveler's checks. Bank/credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are widespread. However, it is strongly recommended to use ATMs only in secure locations (see the Financial section of General Travel Safety Guidance below). Most establishments accept major credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. Please note that some vendors may not accept cards that do not have a security chip.
TIPPING
Tipping is common in South Africa. Service staff generally expect a tip of 10-15% or as travelers deem appropriate.
GENERAL TRAVEL SAFETY GUIDANCE
Each traveler is responsible for their own safety during any trip abroad. The following guidance is intended to help improve situational awareness and reduce travel risks.
Pre-Travel Preparations
- Consider vacuum-wrapping/locking luggage where local regulations permit.
- Keep all valuables in your carry-on luggage.
At the Airport
- Keep an eye on your belongings as you move through the airport. Avoid offers from strangers to carry your bags.
- Avoid offers to hail a taxi or car on your behalf. Follow signs to the Gautrain station – see the Transportation section for more information.
- When you reach the arrival terminal, orient yourself quickly and move with confidence. The ICANN assistance desk is located just to the right after you exit customs and walk into the arrival terminal.
Moving Around
- As when traveling to any foreign country, maintain situational awareness and pay attention to your surroundings to minimize travel risks.
- Avoid outward displays of wealth such as watches, bags, jewelry, etc., or frequent display or use of your smartphone.
- Avoid walking alone; move in groups whenever possible.
- Maintain heightened security awareness in touristic sites and crowded transit facilities to deter opportunistic crimes such as pickpocketing or bag snatching. Keep your belongings on or with you at all times.
- While walking around, remain alert and undistracted, especially by your cell phone. Pay attention to your surroundings, especially when walking on the street.
- Carry a cell phone with useful and emergency contact numbers, including the ICANN Health and Safety Center numbers (see above). This information is also printed on the back of your registration badge.
- When in a car, keep the windows rolled up and remain alert, especially at traffic lights or stops. Keep valuables such as cell phones, jewelry, and hand bags out of sight.
- Never get into a taxi that already has a passenger, or allow your taxi to pick up additional passengers en route.
Financial
- Use ATMs within secure locations, such as the Sandton City mall (attached to Convention Center) instead of ATMs on the street. This will decrease the likelihood of card skimming and robbery. We strongly advise against using ATMs at the airport, on the street, or in small shops.
- When using your credit/debit card at shops or restaurants, maintain visibility of your card at all times to minimize fraud opportunities.
GOVERNMENT TRAVEL ADVICE
- We encourage you to refer to your countries’ traveler advice resources, where available, such as:
https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/south-africa.html
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa/safety-and-security
Schedule
Click to view the BLOCK SCHEDULE. The full meeting schedule will be posted by 5 June at https://icann59johannesburg2017.sched.com
Supporting Hotels
ICANN has negotiated special rates at nearby hotels. All rates are subject to availability and booking deadlines.
Sandton Sun Hotel
Corner Alice Lane and Fifth Street | Sandton 2196 | South Africa | tel: +27 11 461 9744
Distance from Sandton Convention Centre: 200 Meters
Located in the heart of Sandton's exclusive business district, in the Johannesburg northern suburbs, the Sandton Sun hotel has become synonymous with style and timeless hospitality.
The Sandton Convention Centre is connected to the hotel via a skywalk and the Sandton City Shopping Centre and nearby Nelson Mandela Square are easily reached from the hotel.
Guests can enjoy access to the Sandton Sun Spa, located within the hotel, which offers a host of rejuvenating and refreshing treatments.
From grand cafe-style eatery at the San Restaurant, the best sunset drinks on the San Deck, to the well-equipped fitness centre and the complimentary Gautrain shuttle service, the 5 star Sandton Sun hotel caters to every taste and requirement in a manner that is attentive and professional.
Rates: (include internet, full buffet breakfast, and access to the fitness center)
- Superior single room: ZAR 4095 (includes 14% tax, excludes 1% Tourism Levy)
- Standard twin/double room: ZAR 4325 (includes 14% tax, excludes 1% Tourism Levy)
One night's accommodation payment will be required to confirm the reservation. The balance of payment is due no later than 14 days prior to arrival.
Cancellation Policy:
InterContinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers
Corner Alice Lane and Fifth Street | Sandton 2196 | South Africa | tel: +27 11 461 9744
Distance from Sandton Convention Centre: 100 Meters
The award-winning InterContinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers hotel offers visitors a luxurious and enjoyable stay in the city's upmarket northern suburbs.
This 5 star Sandton hotel offers 231 stylish, elegantly appointed luxury rooms, a full range of services and amenities, and a friendly concierge who can refer visitors to authentic and captivating local attractions in what is possibly Africa's most energetic and stylish city.
The adjacent Sandton City multilevel shopping mall, accessible via a convenient skywalk, provides the perfect opportunity to visit a range of chic boutiques, department stores and eateries.
The Atrium restaurant, the Sandton Sun Spa, the hotel's sparkling pool, and well-equipped fitness centre offer ample opportunity for leisure.
Rates: (include internet, full buffet breakfast, and access to the fitness center)
- Superior single room: ZAR 4095 (includes 14% tax, excludes 1% Tourism Levy)
- Standard twin/double room: ZAR 4325 (includes 14% tax, excludes 1% Tourism Levy)
One night's accommodation payment will be required to confirm the reservation. The balance of payment is due no later than 14 days prior to arrival.
Cancellation Policy:
Garden Court Sandton City Hotel
Corner of West and Maude Streets | Johannesburg 2196 | South Africa | tel: +27 11 461 9744
Distance from Sandton Convention Centre: 250 Meters
Garden Court Sandton City, located in Johannesburg's northern suburbs. Functional urban design, affordable rates and technology combine to create a city hotel that is informal and relaxed, yet which offers outstanding service and convenience in central Sandton.
The hotel's 444 attractive, contemporary en-suite rooms are equipped with amenities which include air conditioning, free WiFi, flat screen television, and in-room tea and coffee facilities.
Guests can enjoy meals at Riffs Bar and Grill, while the outdoor swimming pool with garden area and patio is ideal for guests to relax in restful surroundings in the heart of the city. The Sandton Convention Centre is adjacent to the hotel.
Garden Court Sandton City offers a central and convenient location with many of Sandton's and Johannesburg's top attractions within easy reach. From the best shopping malls, the most popular restaurants and entertainment options to relaxing treatments at the nearby Sandton Sun Spa, there is plenty to keep you entertained.
Rates: (include internet, full buffet breakfast, and access to the fitness center)
- Superior single room: ZAR 1540 (includes 14% tax, excludes 1% Tourism Levy)
- Standard twin/double room: ZAR 1630 (includes 14% tax, excludes 1% Tourism Levy)
One night's accommodation payment will be required to confirm the reservation. The balance of payment is due no later than 14 days prior to arrival.
Cancellation Policy:
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