CSSS 2007 Beijing-Details

CSSS 2007 Beijing

Arrival Information

Please download and print the three documents below. These maps and addresses will be helpful if you do not arrive in time for a shuttle to the Fragrant Villa and have to go there by taxi. If you end up taking a taxi, be sure to take only licensed taxis with meters, available in the taxi stand outside the airport. Do not take a taxi from from someone who approaches you in the airport terminal.

PDF map of Beijing

PDF map of Fragrant Villa and surrounding area

PDF addresses and phone numbers for Fragrant Villa (week 1) and the ITP Guesthouse (weeks 2-4)

Housing and Meals

Double-occupancy rooms have been reserved at the Fragrant Villa and the guesthouse of the Institute of Theoretical Physics (ITP), Chinese Academy of Sciences. Linens (sheets and towels) and a minimum amount of toiletries are provided. You will be matched with a roommate based on your responses to our pre-registration form. Three meals a day are included in your room and board provided by the CSSS.

Commitment

The summer school is a full-time commitment; interaction with your fellow students and instructors is a major component of the learning process. Guests are not allowed to stay with you or visit the school. This policy includes spouses and significant others.

Students living in Beijing should reside at the school and are expected to give it their full attention. Students should not plan to attend other conferences during the summer school, or conduct outside research/work activities. Failure to observe these restrictions could have negative implications for future participation by the institutions sponsoring such students.

Climate and Clothing

It will be very hot and humid in Beijing in July. The atmosphere for the school will be casual so cool, loose clothing is appropriate. There will be laundry at ITP, but not at the Fragrant Villa during the first week of the school. Fast-drying clothing that can be hand washed will be handy. The Fragrant Villa is located adjacent to a beautiful park with ample opportunities for walking and hiking so you may wish to have good walking shoes.

The final banquet will be held in a nice hotel with some high level officials attending. You may be comfortable bringing one nicer outfit to wear on the final evening, but this is not required.

Health

===Health Insurance=== It is important that you have health insurance coverage while attending the summer school. International participants are especially advised to make sure they have adequate coverage before entering China. Please check with the company with whom you currently have information to determine your level of coverage overseas. If you are not covered internationally, we recommend a short-term policy with American Express or a similar institution.

===Prescription Medication=== If you take prescription medication, you should bring enough medication to last the duration of your stay. You should also bring a copy of your prescription from your doctor.

===Preparatory Treatment=== Prior to arriving in Beijing, it is recommended that foreign travelers consult their doctor about possible vaccinations. In general, Beijing is a very safe city, and there are no reccommended vaccines beyond routine shots. Students planning independent travel in areas of rural China will also want to discuss additional precautions with their physician.

Spending Money

Although housing and meals are provided, students will want to bring some money for incidentals. International ATMs are available in Beijing. Foreign students who plan to use ATMs should check with their bank to see if they can access an ATM in Beijing. Travelers Cheques are also a convenient and safe option. Ensure you have Chinese Renmin Bi (or RMB) before leaving the airport. At the airport you can exchange US dollars at the airport, use your ATM card, or cash travelers cheques. Exchanging money at the Fragrant Villa will be difficult. Once we move to ITP there are will several nearby ATMS and banks.