Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia A Practical Guide to the 2017 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference
Dear Conference Delegates and Honored Guests, It is with great honor and pleasure that I welcome you to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, the host city of the 2017 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference! Mongolia is known as the “The Land of the Blue Sky,” where at night, one can gaze upon the heavens and see five billion stars. It is a country gifted with an inimitable culture, rich heritage and a history that is thousands of years old. Mongolia is without a doubt a unique destination for this year’s Asia-Pacific Conference. The Conference Organizing Committee has been working tirelessly for the past year, creating a conference program that provides skills development, offers networking opportunities, showcases the impact of JCI and gives the perfect environment to share best practices and new ideas among the delegates. We will unite in Mongolia not only to learn, but also to become inspired to act. In doing so, we realize that although we may come from different countries and cultures, we share a common thread that I am JCI, you are JCI, we are JCI—and together we can build a better future. This guide serves to help you plan for your upcoming travels to Mongolia, with the Conference Organizing Committee and the men and women of the JCI World Headquarters ready to assist and support you in any way. I sincerely thank you for your support and wish you all a wonderful Conference!
Marc Brian Lim 2017 JCI Executive Vice President
Accommodations Headquarters Hotel
Shangri-La Hotel 19 Olympic Street, Sukhbaatar District-1, Ulaanbaatar, 14241, Mongolia Tel: +976-7702-9999 • Fax: +976-7702-7799 Email: slub@shangri-la.com • Website: www.shangri-la.com
Senate Hotel
Best Western Premiere Tuushin Hotel Prime Minister Amar’s Street 15, Ulaanbaatar, 14200, Mongolia Tel: +976-1132-3162 • Fax: +976-1132-5903 • Website: www.bestwesternmongolia.mn
Venue Shangri-La Hotel Shangri-La Hotel will serve as the Headquarters Hotel for the 2017 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference. Located in the heart of the city centre, also known as Chinggis Square, it is an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers and within walking distance of the famous Government House and the country’s main offices and embassies. This hotel features 290 elegant and spacious guest rooms that feature a contemporary and indigenous fusion of designs. With the largest selection of conference and meeting venues throughout Ulaanbaatar, no other luxury hotel offers more versatility or options for your conference experience.
Blue Sky Hotel and Tower The majority of conference trainings and skills development courses will be held at the Blue Sky Hotel and Tower. This luxurious 5-star hotel is located within Ulaanbaatar’s tallest building, located in the city centre and is considered the city’s most exclusive and luxurious development. It boasts 200 spacious guestrooms, an Executive Club Lounge, indoor pool and wellness center and also features free Wi-Fi throughout its entirety as well as free onsite parking.
Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre The Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre will hold conference trainings, the Skills Development Forum, Asia-Pacific Development Council meeting as well as the JCI Awards Ceremony. The Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre offers free Wi-Fi access.
Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia 5
Conference Information Registration
Transportation to Your Hotel
Delegates are strongly encouraged to register online before
By Bus
arriving to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, registered delegates
From Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN), we
should pick up their name badges at the Headquarters Hotel.
recommend traveling by bus. The bus departs from ULN and
The registration desk will be open:
arrives at Shangri-La Hotel; this is typically a 40-minute trip. The national and municipal governments regulate a wide
• Wednesday 7 June: 14:00 – 18:00
system of private transit providers which operate numerous
• Thursday 8 June: 08:00 – 18:00
bus lines around the city.
• Friday 9 June: 08:00 – 18:00 Only delegates who register will be allowed to participate in conference events. Admission will be restricted to delegates wearing conference badges and holding entry tickets, when necessary.
Travel Visas Every traveler must have a valid passport to travel to Mongolia. To learn more about travel visa requirements and which countries are eligible for visa exemption when visiting, go to: www.2017aspac.com/visa
Furthermore, there is an Ulaanbaatar trolleybus system as well as a secondary transit system of privately owned microbuses (passenger vans) which operate alongside these bus lines.
By Taxi Generally, there are two types of taxi services you can use throughout the city. There are taxis that depict the designated taxi symbols and there are un-marked private cars driven by their owners who stop to transport passengers. Ulaanbaatar has over 4000 taxis. Please be mindful that public transport is slow in Mongolia and destinations are limited.
Air Travel to Ulaanbaatar
By Car
Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN), located 18 km
major towns in Mongolia, but most roads throughout the
southwest of Ulaanbaatar, is the largest international airport
country are unpaved and unmarked, making it difficult to
in the country. It features both a domestic and international
get around. Even within the city, not all roads are paved,
terminal and serves the following airlines who offer direct
and some of the ones that are paved are not in good
flights from Germany, Russia, Turkey, South Korea, Japan,
condition. It is recommended that visitors use public
Hong Kong and China:
transportation such as buses or taxis during their stay.
• MIAT (Mongolian Airlines) • Aero Mongolia • Hunnu Air • Aeroflot • Air China
Ulaanbaatar has a road system that connects most of the
Conference Attire National dress, dark business suits or tuxedos, cocktail or evening dresses are appropriate for:
• Korean Air
• Opening Ceremony
• Turkish Airlines
• JCI Awards Ceremony • Farewell Gala
To learn more about flights to and from Mongolia visit: http://en.airport.gov.mn/
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Business suits or national dress are appropriate for: • Conference Assemblies • Other business sessions Business casual dress is appropriate for: • JCI Official Courses, skills development courses, forums and workshops Casual dress (unless otherwise indicated) is appropriate for:
Health There are no special requirements or recommendations for receiving vaccinations before traveling to Mongolia. It is however necessary to make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheriatetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine and annual flu shot. Please be aware that health facilities are improving in Ulaanbaatar but are still short of western standards.
• National parties • Tourism
All water in Mongolia should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Bottled water is available in Ulaanbaatar and should be used for drinking.
About Ulaanbaatar Located in the north-central region of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar
For more information please visit: wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/Mongolia
is the country’s capital and largest city. It serves as
Telephone
Mongolia’s cultural, industrial and financial heart and
To call another country from Mongolia, dial “+” and then
operates as the center of the national road network; it is
the code for the country you are calling, area or city code
also connected by rail to both the Trans-Siberian Railway
and phone number. To call a Mongolian phone number from
in Russia and the Chinese Railway system.
another country, dial the country code for the country you
The complex history of Ulaanbaatar dates back to its founding in 1639. The country’s first capital city of Urgoo was originally located in the temple complex of Daa Khüree and was built as a residence for the new religious leader of the Mongolian people. Due to the nomadic traditions of the people, Urgoo was relocated roughly 25 times between 1639 and 1778.
are calling from and then dial 976, the area or city code and phone number.
Currency The official currency in Mongolia is the Mongolian Tughrik (MNT). Currency can be exchanged at the airport, banks and exchange offices throughout the city.
During this period of expansion and development, the capital moved from place to place until finally settling on its present location in the Selbe River valley in 1778. This marked the
Credit Cards
beginning of a period of urbanization, and by 1855 the
Most major credit cards are accepted in Mongolia,
residents of the city, now known as Ikh Khuree, had built
especially at hotels, shopping centers and restaurants.
many temples, monasteries and other essential buildings,
However you may still be expected to pay cash at some
combining the Mongolian “ger” style of architecture with
stores and restaurants. Taxis in Mongolia do NOT accept
those of contemporary Chinese and Tibetan design.
credit cards.
In 1924, Ikh Khuree was renamed Ulaanbaatar and legally declared the capital of the newly formed Mongolian People’s Republic.
Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia 7
Tipping/Gratuity Tipping is not customary in Mongolia, but some hotels and restaurants may include a 10% service charge on your bill.
Time Zone GMT +8 hours
Internet Access Pre-paid SIM cards for mobile devices with internet capabilities are available at major Mongolian cell phone companies including Mobicom, Skytel, Unitel, G-mobile and Telecom Mongolia. Upon arriving to Ulaanbaatar, booths available at airport can, also assist you. If you are staying at the Headquarters Hotel, you will have access to the hotels high-speed internet available in each guest room.
Electricity In Mongolia, the standard voltage is 220v and the standard frequency is 50hz. Mongolia uses type C and type E plugs. For more information visit: www.iec.ch/worldplugs/
Plug Type C
Plug Type E
Attire in Ulaanbaatar In the capital, many Mongolians dress in western style, so there is no risk for westerners to attract unwanted attention. The temperatures in June are still very mild so it is suggested to pack jackets and light sweaters.
Language Mongolian is the official language in Mongolia. English and Russian are the most popular foreign languages; English speakers have been increasing significantly through the years.
Weather Ulaanbaatar features brief, warm summers and long, cold winters with an average temperature in June measuring 14.6°C (58.3°F). However, the annual average temperature of −0.4°C (31.3°F) makes it the coldest capital in the world. Most of Ulaanbaatar’s precipitation falls between June and September so make sure to pack an umbrella.
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Cultural Notes Mongolian’s encompass a nomadic-based culture. Like many other nomadic cultures, they are well known for their hospitality. Upon guests’ arrival, traditional offerings and treats are served which include dairy products in the summer time and meat in the winter. Traditionally, a Mongolian, even during his absence, will leave his “ger”—or portable round tent used as a dwelling—unlocked to allow visitors to rest and enjoy treats left on the table. Mongolians traditionally lead a pastoral, nomadic lifestyle. Because of the climate and short growing season, animal husbandry, or breeding and caring, defines the nomadic lifestyle, with agriculture playing a secondary role. Nomads raise five types of animals including goats, sheep, cattle (including yaks), camels and horses, which provide meat, dairy products, transportation and wool. Of these animals, the horse holds the highest position in Mongolian tales and legends. Mongolians have a lot of epic heroes from ancient times. The Mongolian word for hero, “baatar,” appears frequently in personal names, and can even be found in the name of the capital, Ulaanbaatar.
Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia 9
Explore Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia Gandanteghinlen (Gandan) Monastery
Restaurants, souvenir shops and horse rental
Constructed in 1809, this Tibetan-style Buddhist
Meanwhile, those who venture onto the grounds
monastery is one of the last of its kind to survive
will find that the park offers hot water springs,
the communist-led purge in the 1930’s, which
a Buddhist monastery and rock formations as
resulted in the death of 10,000 Buddhist lamas and
well as a variety of adventurous activities such
the demolition of 900 monasteries. In 1990, the
as rafting, mountain biking and hiking.
businesses allow visitors the ability to take in the majestic views without tackling the wilderness.
communist government fell, permitting the Gandan Monastery to reinstate its leadership and activities in the city. Meaning “the big place of complete joy,”
Zaisan Memorial
this monastery features a 26.5 meter high statue
A historical show of the former communist
of a bodhisattva who leads the men on the way
government’s appreciation for the Soviet Union,
to truth. Today, there are ten active datsans and
the Zaisan Memorial was built to commemorate
temples inside the monastery, where around 900
Soviet soldiers in World War II as well as the defeat
lamas live. Its rich history has made it a prominent
of Japanese expansion into Mongolia in 1939.
attraction for tourists.
The monument features a circular memorial painting depicting scenes of friendship between
National Museum of Mongolia
the people of USSR and Mongolia. A Soviet tank
The origins of the National Museum of Mongolia
and a map positioned nearby describes the
date back to 1924, when the first collections were
Soviet’s march on Berlin in 1945. When visitors
developed. The present building was built in 1971,
ascend the hill to the memorial, a scenic, panoramic
as the Museum of Revolution, and is the nation’s
view of Ulaanbaatar, the Tuul River and the Bogd
largest museum, encompassing a collection of over
Khan Uul Mountain welcomes them.
sits at the foot of hill on which the memorial stands,
57,000 objects related to Central Asian history and the history of Mongolia; these artifacts range from pre-historic times to the end of the 20th century.
Bogd Khan Palace Museum
However, only a portion of the existing artifacts is
Bogd Khan—Mongolia’s eighth living Buddha
currently on display in the museum’s ten halls.
and final king—resided in Bogd Khan Palace until
This museum receives an average of 60,000 visitors
his death in 1924. Today the palace serves as a
each year, of which 30,000 are foreign tourists.
museum that features an expansive and unique collection of artifacts relating to the country’s
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
political, religious and artistic history. Items vary
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is one of the most
boots from a Russian tsar, fox-skin robes, snow
popular destinations and the third largest protected
leopard gers and Mongolia’s 1911 Declaration of
area in Mongolia, offering an extensive view into
Independence from China. Khan had a fondness for
the environment and landscape of the country.
lavish items, owning a wide variety of animals and
including weapons, furniture, artwork, golden
Buddhist artwork that still lines the property today along with taxidermy commemorative of his interest of nature and Mongolian environment.
Tumen Ekh, Mongolian National Song and Dance Ensemble Delivering a fun and captivating show, the Tumen Ekh Ensemble features all types of traditional Mongolian instrumentation, song and dance including the Mongolian long song and Tsam mask dance. Founded in 1989, the group has gained international attention with performances in Washington D.C., New York City and Buckingham Palace. Their performances illustrate the authenticity and traditions of nomadic culture, expressing vastness, freedom and life in harmony with nature and the environment, helping visitors to understand Mongolia’s culture and lifestyle, which has been preserved for thousands of years.
Tourism Resources With a wide range of activities and tours, there is something special for everyone in Ulaanbaatar. To decide how to schedule your perfect post conference plans, visit the following sites for more information: • www.lonelyplanet.com/mongolia/ ulaanbaatar • www.mongolia-trips.com/travel-guide/ Also, make sure to download the Conference Organizing Committee’s excursion brochure to plan your pre or post conference travels.
Conference Key Events Opening Ceremony At the Opening Ceremony of the 2017 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference, 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. Thursday 8 June 20:00 – 22:00 Room: Main Court Venue: Buyant Ukhaa Sports Complex
Impact Forums and Sessions Discover how young people around Asia and the Pacific and JCI partners are building a better future with their actions!
Local President Forum Friday 9 June 14:00 – 17:00 Room: Ulaanbaatar Room
First Timers Orientation
Venue: Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre
Thursday 8 June
Global Goals 2017
14:30 – 15:30 Room: London room Venue: Shangri-La Hotel
Friday 9 June 16:00 – 17:30 Room: Ulaanbaatar Room
JCI Morning Show
Venue: Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre
Friday 9 June
Trainers Forum
09:00 – 10:00 Room: Ballroom Venue: Shangri-La Hotel
Sunday 11 June 14:30 – 16:00 Room: Ulaanbaatar Room Venue: Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre
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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! JCI Twinning Ceremony Friday 9 June 14:15 – 15:00 Room: Ballroom Venue: Shangri-La Hotel
National Presidents Meeting and Conference Assemblies See the major decisions your national representatives will make this year to create impact across Asia and the Pacific! National Presidents Meeting Thursday 8 June 09:00 – 12:30 Room: Ulaanbaatar Room Venue: Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre Conference Assembly I Friday 9 June 10:15 – 12:15 Room: Ballroom Venue: Shangri-La Hotel Conference Assembly II Saturday 10 June 09:00 – 11:00 Room: Ballroom Venue: Shangri-La Hotel
JCI Public Speaking Championship Preliminary Friday 9 June 15:30 – 16:30 Room: London Room Venue: Shangri-La Hotel JCI Public Speaking Championship (During Conference Assembly II) Saturday 10 June 09:00 – 11:00 Room: Ballroom Venue: Shangri-La Hotel JCI Debating Championship Saturday 10 June 14:00 – 16:00 Room: London Room Venue: Shangri-La Hotel JCI Awards Ceremony Sunday 11 June 17:00 – 18:00 Room: Concert Hall and Event Hall Venue: Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre
Conference Assembly III Sunday 11 June 09:00 – 12:00 Room: Ballroom Venue: Shangri-La Hotel
Destination: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia 13
National Nights and Parties JCI members work hard all day to improve themselves and the world around them, but there’s no reason we can’t party too. Bring your name badge to get inside, where you’ll find friends from all over Asia and the Pacific enjoying the native food and drink of the host JCI National Organization. Check your schedule for times and venues, or just wait until nightfall and follow the crowds.
Welcome Party
National Night
Thursday 8 June
Saturday 10 June
22:30 – TBD
21:00 – 24:00
Venue: National Amusement Park
Venue: Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry
National Night Friday 9 June
Farewell Gala
21:00 – 24:00
Sunday 11 June
Venue: Corporate Hotel and
19:00 – 23:00
Convention Center
Venue: Buyant Ukhaa Sports Complex
Conference Organizing Committee For any questions regarding the 2017 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference, visit www.2017aspac.com or contact info@2017aspac.com.
Emergency Contact In case of an emergency please dial: Fire Station: 101 Police: 102 Ambulance: 103 Central Railway Inquiry: 1900–1949 Chinggis Khaan International Airport: 1900–1980 Ulaanbaatar Telephone Inquiry: 1900–1109
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