A Practical Guide to the 2016 JCI Conference of the Americas
Destination:
Punta del Este | Uruguay Dear 2016 JCI Conference of the Americas delegates and honored guests, It is with great honor and excitement that I welcome you to Punta del Este, Uruguay. Punta del Este is a beautifully diverse city with an impressive legacy of artistic and literary traditions. From the stunning beaches to the multi-cultural origins, it is the ideal location for JCI members from around the globe to unite to create impact. During the conference, we seek to give JCI members from all around the world, a chance to experience and exchange best practices and knowledge. I invite you to join us at this year’s conference with the motivation to just act for a better world. Network with others through a wide range of trainings, discussions, forums and social events—it is only when we take action together that incredible things are accomplished. I hope you to have an unforgettable experience in Punta del Este! This guide will help you prepare for your travels, while the Conference Organizing Committee, JCI World Headquarters team and I are also available to assist you with any further questions you may have. Thank you for your support of the 2016 JCI Conference of the Americas. I look forward to seeing you in Punta del Este!
Sean Chang 2016 JCI Executive Vice President
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Accommodations Headquarters Hotel
Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino Rbla. Claudio Williman Parada 4, Punta del Este 20100, Uruguay Tel: +598-4249-1111 Hotel website: www.conrad.com.uy Booking: https://barcelo.eventsair.com/jciconference-of-the-americas-2016/accommodation/ Site/Register
Venue Located in one of the most desired resort destinations in South America, the Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino has been named the most important entertainment center in the region since its opening 17 years ago. The main activities of the conference will be held in the Headquarters Hotel, however, some of the conference activities will also be held in nearby venues. Transportation from the Headquarters Hotel will be provided for everyone.
Registration Delegates are strongly encouraged to register online before arriving in Punta del Este, Uruguay. Upon arrival, registered delegates should pick up their name badges in the lobby of the Headquarters Hotel. The registration desk will be open: • Tuesday, 26 April: 12:00 – 18:00 • Wednesday, 27 April: 08:00 – 19:00 Above: La Mano (The Hand) is a sculpture in 1982 by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal which is located on Parada 1 at Brava Beach in Punta del Este. Below: The beautiful cityscape of Punta del Este at sunset.
• Thursday, 28 April: 08:00 – 18:00 Only delegates who register will be allowed to participate in conference events. Admission will be restricted to delegates wearing conference name badges and holding event entry tickets, when necessary.
Destination: Punta del Este | Uruguay
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Conference Information Travel Visa
By Land
Depending on the country of origin, Uruguay may require a
del Este by bus or car. Uruguayan roads are in excellent
travel visa. Please visit the link below for more information on
condition.
which nations must secure a visa before traveling to Uruguay.
Delegates within driving distance can also arrive to Punta
By Sea
Uruguay Travel Visa Information:
Delegates who like to sail can arrive to Punta del Este in
https://migracion.minterior.gub.uy/index.php?option=com_
their own yacht or through different transportation services
content&view=article&id=1280
operating throughout the city. The arrival ports are Colonia
If you have any problems or need assistance regarding
del Sacramento Harbour and Montevideo Port. Many of
travel visas, please contact the Conference Organizing Committee at coc@jciuruguay.org.
Transportation to Punta del Este There are three common ways to travel to Punta del Este: land, air and sea.
these companies provide a trip from Buenos Aires to one of these ports and include the bus ride to Punta del Este in the ticket rate.
Transportation Around Punta del Este Taxi Taxis are the fastest and cheapest form of transportation in
Air Travel
Punta del Este. However, for safety purposes, tourists are
Delegates flying to Punta del Este have the option of
highly recommend to not take a taxi alone. Only use taxis
arriving to either Carrasco International Airport (MVD) near
identified by “Taxi” or “Radio Taxi” signage. Remember
Montevideo (134 km from Punta del Este) or Laguna del
that taxi drivers do not usually accept foreign currency;
Sauce Airport (PDP), which is located in Punta del Este.
therefore make sure to exchange some money at the
Laguna del Sauce Airport operates with the following airlines:
airport prior to your travels.
Aerolineas Argentinas, Alas Uruguay, Azul and Latam. For transportation from Carrasco International Airport to Punta del Este, delegates can take a taxi, shuttle or bus. Taxi and shuttle services are provided by Taxi Aeropuerto de Carrasco located within the airport. Buses run directly from the airports to the Punta del Este
Bus Service Buses are also a safe option for traveling throughout Uruguay. Buses can be found at the Punta del Este Bus Terminal located within walking distance from the Headquarters Hotel.
Bus Terminal, which is located within walking distance to
Car Rental
the Headquarters Hotel. JCI Uruguay volunteers will be at
For more information on how to rent a car in Uruguay, visit:
the bus terminal to assist and guide delegates if needed.
www.barcelocongresos.com.es/pde2016/INGLES/index. html.
More information on transportation to and from the Airport is also provided here: http://www.barcelocongresos.com.es/pde2016/
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Conference Attire National dress, dark business suits or tuxedos, cocktail or evening dresses are appropriate for: • Opening Ceremony • JCI Awards Ceremony • Gala Dinner Business suits or national dress are appropriate for: • General Assemblies • Other business sessions Business casual dress is appropriate for: • JCI Official Courses, JCI Skills Development courses, forums and workshops • JCI Regional Partnership Summit Casual dress is appropriate for: • National parties • Tourism
“candombe” are the most important examples of African influence, as well as Umbanda religious beliefs and practices. Guarani traditions can be seen in the national food and drink such as mate, a traditional South American caffeine-rich drink. The many music genres also depict the cultural diversity of the country — folk, rock, tango and cumbia are the popular music genres.
Language Spanish is the official language of Uruguay. English and Portuguese are also taught in schools in Uruguay, therefore many citizens can hold conversations in those languages as well.
Currency The Uruguyan currency is the peso. Some businesses
About Punta del Este, Uruguay
accept payment in US dollars (excluding buses and taxis)
Punta del Este is located at the extreme southeast point of
Check the most up-to-date currency exchange rate using
the country on a small peninsula. Punta del Este’s coastline
the link: www.bcu.gub.uy/Estadisticas-e-Indicadores/
is divided into two beaches. The Mansa is located on the
Paginas/Cotizaciones.aspx
and major credit cards are accepted in the majority of the shops.
river’s side and features thick and golden sand, while the Brava is located on the ocean’s side and has white, fine sand. Each beach has public access. Punta del Este is virtually connected to the city of Maldonado and widely spreads eastward encompassing La Barra and José Ignacio. It has 122 hotels, 80 restaurants, an international airport and a yacht port that can
Time Zone UTC – 3:00 Hours
Credit Cards
accommodate 500 boats. About 8 kilometers southeast
In Uruguay, credit cards are accepted in a variety of
of Punta del Este is the Lobos Island occupied with South
places. However, some venues such as small shops and
American fur seals.
transportation services such as taxis and buses, do not accept credit card payment.
Cultural Notes The culture of Uruguay is diverse in its nature since
Tipping
the nation’s population has multi-cultural origins. The
There is no rule in Uruguay on how much you should tip for
country has an impressive legacy of artistic and literary
services; it mainly depends on your satisfaction with the
traditions, especially for its small size. The contribution
service provided.
of its alternating conquerors and diverse immigrant population has resulted in traditions that integrate Native American elements with their own. Uruguay has centuriesold remains and fortresses of the Colonial era hosting a rich architectural heritage, and also claims an impressive number of writers, artists and musicians. Carnival and
Destination: Punta del Este | Uruguay
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Electricity
Internet Access
The electrical current in Uruguay is 220V (50Hz). A
Delegates staying at the Headquarters Hotel will have
converter will be needed if your electronics require a
access to Internet throughout their stay.
different voltage. The types of usable plugs are C, F, I and L. Converters can be purchased in any electric supply store or supermarket.
Telephone For international calls, you must first dial the international code +598 followed by the local number.
Plug Type C
Punta del Este Attire Uruguayans dress conservatively and seldom wear the bright colors popular in other South American countries. Western style clothing is acceptable.
Plug Type F
Emergency In the case of an emergency please dial +598 – 911 Plug Type I
Local Police Contacts Radio Police Address: Avenida Francia parade 5, Punta del Este Tel: +598-4248-0348 Emergency: +598-911
Plug Type L
Police Station_10a Punta del Este Address: Calle 10 and 13, Punta del Este Tel: +598-2152-5220 or +598-2152-5221
Health There are no required vaccinations before traveling to Uruguay. However, it is recommended to talk with your local health care provider about any recommended vaccines before visiting Uruguay.
Weather Punta del Este has mild weather with high temperatures in the summer (28°C) and very low temperatures in winter (7°C). The autumn and spring have temperatures around 20°C with a few warm days. In April, conference delegates can look forward to having mild weather with some rainfall.
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Explore Punta del Este Museo – Taller de Casapueblo Built by Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, Casapueblo was designed in a style comparative to houses in the Mediterranean coast town of Santorini. The construction took 36 years to complete with the structure originally serving as a summerhouse and workshop. The Casopueblo is now home to an art gallery, café, hotel and a museum, which consists of four exhibition halls including the artwork of the late builder. The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 for tours.
Fundación Pablo Atchugarry With the spirit of promoting social and cultural art, Fundación Pablo Atchugarry is a nonprofit institute inaugurated in 2007 by the Uruguayan artist Pablo
Tourism Resources
Atchugarry. The institution encourages the appreciation of visual arts, literature,
For more information on tourism
music and dance among the community and its visitors. The structure of the
in Punta del Este, visit the links
building was constructed to promote the union between art and nature. It
below:
hosts a sculptor’s workshop, an exhibition building, auditorium, open air stage, restaurant, didactic room and a sculpture park. All events organized by the institution are free of charge.
http://barcelocongresos.com.es/ pde2016/INGLES/Tours.html http://www.welcomeuruguay.com/
Lussich Arboretum Demonstrating Uruguay’s unique and natural landscape, Lussich Arboretum sprawls
puntadeleste/index_i.html www.puntashopping.com.uy/
across 192 hectares on the Sierra de la Ballena in the department of Maldonado
www.turismoenpuntadeleste.com/
near Punta del Este. The arboretum is known as one of the most important forest
compras-en-punta-del-este/
reserves in the world as it hosts the largest and most diverse collection of imported and locally naturalized species, featuring more than 400 exotic species and 70 native Uruguayan species. Tourists from schools and colleges around the world frequent Lussich Arboretum to study its variety of wildlife.
www.guiapuntadeleste.com/que -hacer/compras-en-punta-del-este. html For help with any tourism planning,
Reserva de Fauna Autoctona – Pan de Azucar (Sugarloaf Mountain)
please contact the Conference Organizing Committee at coc@jciuruguay.org.
Both a park and zoo showcasing fauna and flora, Reserva de Fauna Autoctona – Pan de Azucar rests on 86 hectares of land and is home to nearly 250 specimens from 53 species of Uruguayan wildlife in the Maldonado department of southeastern Uruguay. The reserve plays a crucial role in major breeding initiatives and wildlife conservation, and also educates as visitors about the importance of protecting the ecosystem. Pan de Azucar, or Sugarloaf Mountain, is also a popular destination for climbing, hiking, biking and even ziplining.
Artigas Square First inaugurated in 1967, Artigas Square is home to the arts and crafts fair, which showcases the work of local artisans and painters. It is the ideal place for inquisitive travelers to learn more about Uruguayan culture. Artigas Square features more than 150 different stands offering a variety of handmade products for purchase including textiles, paintings, wool clothes, leather goods and luxurious jewelry made from silver, gold and semi-precious stones. The plaza is named after General José Gervasio Artigas, a national hero of Uruguay.
Destination: Punta del Este | Uruguay
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Conference Key Events JCI Regional Partnership Summit: Peace is Possible Saturday, 30 April 09:00 – 13:00 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino National Secretary General’s Session Saturday, 30 April 14:00 – 15:00 Room: Caribe Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
Opening Ceremony At the Opening Ceremony of the 2016 JCI Conference of the Americas, National Presidents and heads of delegations will greet delegates, represent their countries and showcase their traditional costumes. Come cheer for your National Organization, enjoy the first day of the celebrations with entertainment and connect with the JCI community. Wednesday, 27 April 18:45 – 20:30 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
Impact Forums and Sessions Discover how young people around the Americas and JCI partners are creating a better world with their actions!
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First Timers Orientation Wednesday, 27 April 16:00 – 17:00 Room: Caribe Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino JCI Morning Show Thursday, 28 April 09:00 – 10:00 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino Community Coalition Building Workshop: Collaborations for Peace Thursday, 28 April 10:30 – 12:30 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino Global Goals Session Friday, 29 April 14:00 – 16:00 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
National Presidents Meeting and General Assembly See the major decisions your National Representatives will make this year to create impact across the Americas! National Presidents Meeting Wednesday, 27 April 09:00 – 12:30 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino General Assembly I Thursday, 28 April 14:00 – 15:30 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino General Assembly II Friday, 29 April 09:00 – 12:30 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
JCI Programs JCI members are challenged to show their impact at the international level. Don’t miss the most exciting competitions and seize the opportunity to share the best practices in the conference!
National Nights and Parties JCI members work hard all day to improve themselves and the world
JCI World Public Speaking Championship
around them, but there’s no reason
Thursday, 28 April 16:00 – 18:00 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
we can’t party too. Bring your name badge to get inside, where you’ll find friends from all over the Americas enjoying the native food and drink of the host JCI National
JCI World Debating Championship
Organization. Check your schedule
Friday, 29 April English: 14:00 – 16:00 Spanish: 16:30 – 18:30 Room: Caribe Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
for times and venues, or just wait until nightfall and follow the crowds. Global Village
JCI Twinning Ceremony
Thursday, 28 April
Friday, 29 April 17:00 – 18:00 Room: Bariloche Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
20:00 – 02:00
JCI Awards Ceremony
Friday, 29 April
Saturday, 30 April 20:00 – 21:00 Room: Punta del Este Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
20:30 – 01:00
Venue: Conrad Beach Uruguay Night
Venue: Charrua Gala Saturday, 30 April 21:30 – 02:00 Room: Montecarlo Venue: Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino
Destination: Punta del Este | Uruguay
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