Hotel/Travel Planner

Use the Hotel and Travel Planner to estimate related trip expenses, including hotel reservations and transportation costs.  You can also take care of your visa requirements and take note of local hospitality customs.

Hotels

To reserve a room, please call the hotel direct or use the form enclosed in this brochure. Be sure to reference the ICOSPA Congress to receive the group rate. 

Group rates are available until August 20, 2008.  Any reservation received after the reservation cutoff date will be handled on a space available basis. If possible, the group rate will be honored.

Transportation

Grand Rapids is located 184 miles (296 km) from Chicago and 160 miles (257 km) from Detroit.  The nearest airport is Gerald R. Ford International Airport - GRR
The hotels are approximately 10 miles from the airport, so visitors will either use a taxi (approximately $30 USD) or airport shuttle ($15 USD one way, $25 USD round trip).  The shuttle runs every 30 minutes from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.  Tickets may be purchased online at  www.grandrapidsairporter.com or by phone at 1-877-397-4377.

Time Zone

The time in Grand Rapids is Eastern Daylight Time (GMT -4 hours).

Official Language

The official language of the Congress is English.  Simultaneous interpretation will be provided in French, German and Japanese.

Passport and Visa

To visit the U.S. you must have a valid passport.  A visa is required for citizens of countries that do not have visa-exempt agreements with the U.S.  Please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for visa requirements; also visit http://www.icospa.com/2008/ for a letter of invitation and instructions.

Credit Cards and Travelers Checks

VISA, MasterCard, Diners Club and American Express are widely accepted at hotels, department stores, shops and restaurants.  Traveler’s checks are also widely accepted.

Weather

In September, the average high temperature is 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius).  At night the temperature can drop down to 51 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius).  It is advisable to have an umbrella in case of a rain shower.

Tips

In the United States it is customary to tip a person for good service.  15-20% of the total bill should be given to the waiter, bartender and taxi driver.  It is also appropriate to leave $1/day for maid service.  A concierge typically receives a tip of $5 to $10, with an additional gratuity for special services or favors.

Definitions of Dress Codes

• Casual: Comfortable clothes and shoes
• Business Causal: Dress pants or khakis; button-down shirt or golf shirt.  No tie.
• Business/Formal: Dress pants and shoes, button-down shirt, tie and coat.