Useful Information

Host Team 

Members of the Host Team will be staying at the Hilton Hotel during the event. We should be able to assist you with any questions. Our team members will be easily recognizable wearing red scarves with white maple leaves.

Airport Arrival Information 

There are a number of ways to get downtown from Pearson International Airport: a car service (limo), taxi to the hotel or train (the Union/Pearson Express – adult fare $12.35, senior fare - $6.20) to Union Station, the main downtown train station, and then a short taxi or subway ride to the hotel.

UP Express PROMO Code for OB-PS 

Just visit UPexpress.com before June 20, 2019 and use promo code OBPS2019  to get your 25% discount on adult return tickets (round-trip) from Pearson Station to Union Station (regular price $24.70* CAD).

Tickets are valid for 1 year.

Select the ticket and apply the promo code OBPS2019 at the Checkout.

 NOTE:  Seniors (65+) Return Fares are available at a discounted rate of $12.40 – no PROMO code required.  Please note that this PROMO code is only for delegates and is not to be shared outside the conference. 

It is important to note again that this PROMO code is only for use with the ADULT RETURN ticket which will cover a trip to downtown Toronto and return to Pearson Airport.

UP Express connects Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station in the heart of downtown Toronto in just 25 stress-free minutes—less than half the time it often takes by car.Trains leave every 15 minutes with the first train departing Pearson Station at 05:27 and the last train departing at 00:57. There’s no easier or more convenient way to get to or from Toronto Pearson.

 *Price subject to change. 

Parking 

There will be parking available at the hotel for those who arrive in their own car. Parking will be paid for separately by the participant.

Clothing 

June is the beginning of summer in Canada. It will likely be warm and sunny although some rain is possible. Average temperature in June is 17ºC / 63ºF, with the high temperature regularly reaching 24ºC / 75ºF.

The dress code for the meeting will be smart casual or uniform; for the Presentation Ceremony and Gala dinner the dress code will be smart, uniform or national dress.

Communication

At OB-PS we welcome people from all over the world. This means many people will be speaking and working in English as their second, third or fourth language.    We ask everyone to please try to speak clearly and slowly.

Currency

The unit currency used in Canada is the Canadian dollar $. Notes are $5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and coins are $1 and $2 as well as 5, 10 and 25 cent coins. Guests are recommended to exchange currency at the airport upon arrival or at one of the large banks near the hotel.

Electricity

The voltage in Canada is 110-120 volts and electrical plugs have two pins, as shown below.  If needed you should bring a plug adapter for a type A socket.

Internet 

As part of our conference arrangements, we have obtained complementary wireless internet is in all bedrooms and in public areas of the Hilton Hotel.  Wireless internet will not be available inside the plenary hall.

Name Tags

Name tags will be given out at registration. Attendees are asked to wear name tags at all times during the event; these are entry tickets to activities and events.  There will also be separate tickets for some events.  You will receive them in your registration package.

Payment and Tipping 

At most shops, restaurants and department stores, you are able to pay with debit cards and credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, Diners, AMEX.  Tipping is customary in restaurants depending on the level of service.

Registration

Registration for the event will take place in the convention floor foyer, one floor below ground, at the Hilton Toronto on Thursday June 20th between 09:00 and 19:00.  Registration will also be available on Friday morning from 08:00.

Smoking

In many areas of Canada smoking is prohibited in buildings and on streets.  Smoking in a prohibited area may result in a fine. Smoking areas are clearly signposted.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available outside the hotel.

Time Zone

Toronto in June is on Eastern Daylight Time (UTC-4:00).

Transportation

Buses will pick up and drop off at the Hilton Hotel for the Saturday tours and for the gala at the Royal Ontario Museum on Saturday evening.  Please note these services will only run between the Hilton Hotel and your chosen tour.  If you choose alternative accommodation, you will need to make your own transportation arrangements.

Travel Insurance

We strongly advise that you take out travel/medical insurance for your trip to Canada.  In the event of illness or injury you will be responsible for your own medical expenses.

Visas

Canada has various visa requirements for various nationals.  Please check with the Canadian Embassy or Consulate in your country. Many visitors to Canada need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa. Delegates can find out if they need an eTA or a visa and if they need to give biometrics.

If you need a letter of invitation, please indicate this on your registration form.

Water

Tap water in Canada is safe to drink. If you prefer mineral or sparkling water this is readily available at convenience stores or vending machines.