The oral presentations should be prepared in Microsoft Powerpoint or .pdf formats and have a 16:9 aspect ratio. They should be a maximum of 8 minutes long to allow for 2 minutes of questions. A copy of the presentation file needs to be given to your session chair before the start of your session, ideally on a USB stick or external hard disk. The conference makes no copyright claims for any item presented in the conference and the authors are free to reuse as they please.
Posters need to have a portrait orientation and A0/A1 size.
Pumula Beach Hotel is located in the small coastal town of Mzumbe on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal.
- The following shuttle/car hire services are recommended:
Southern Shuttle
Tel: 081 475 7575
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.southernshuttle.co.za
Champagne Shuttle and Coach Hire
Tel: 084 581 6492
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.csch.co.za
Bluu Car Rental
Tel: 031 702 6561
Mobile: 084 514 6626
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.bluucarrental.com
- The closest main airport to the venue is King Shaka International Airport in Durban ~1h30m to the north.
Please note that there is no public bus service to the venue and delegates will need to reserve a shuttle or make their own shuttle bookings.
Climate in coastal KZN and clothing suggestions
July is winter in KZN, which is known for its sunny, warm and dry conditions. This is the best time to visit the coast of KZN, with warm days and cool, mosquito free nights.
Day temperatures average between 22° to 26° C, with night time temperatures dropping to 14°C.
Unless there is a cold front, it is highly likely we will experience sunny days.
If you’re planning to swim or surf in the Indian Ocean, water temperatures will vary between 20° to 22°C (courtesy of the Agulhas Current).
Clothing Suggestions for July:
- Daytime
Opt for light clothing with an extra layer at hand due to the a/c.
- Evening Wear
Consider trousers, long-sleeved shirts/blouses and sweaters for cooler evenings.
- Swimwear
The venue is situated directly on the beach. There are lifeguards present and a
designated swimming area (the surf can be very energetic). Heated swimming pools are
also available, so do bring swimming costumes.
Currency
- Currency
The Currency used in South Africa is the South African rand (ZAR). Credit card facilities
are widespread so large volumes of cash are not required. There are no nearby banks
(the closest are located in Hibberdene and Southport ~ 20 minutes to the north and
south respectively). Cash can be drawn at any ATM in the airport, and currency can be
exchanged on arrival to South Africa/Durban.
Health
There are not many health problems that visitors might face. The most common problems may arise due to the unusual heat waves (with dry offshore winds) or an upset stomach. While there are no compulsory vaccinations, it is highly advisable to bring insect repellent and sun protection. The tap water is safe to drink.
Doctors are plentiful, located in Mzumbe and Hibberdene. For emergencies, the nearest hospitals are in Port Shepstone, a half hour drive to the south. Travel insurance is advised so that any emergencies can be fully covered in the event of a hospital stay.
Electricity
The venue is linked to a generator in case of “governmental electricity restrictions”.
The following plug types are used:
- Type D: Has three round pins in a triangular pattern.
- Type M: Also has three round pins in a triangular pattern, but with a larger, thicker top pin. This is the most common standard for high-power appliances in South Africa.
- Type N: Features three round pins in a nearly linear arrangement. This is the newer standard, becoming more common in modern buildings
A global travel adaptor is worth bringing.
Communication
- Mobile Phone Coverage
Mzumbe offers reliable mobile phone coverage and on multiple mobile network operators like MTN, Vodacom, Telkom, and Cell C. Make sure your mobile phone is unlocked if you plan to use a local SIM card for better rates.
- Wi-Fi
The hotel offers free Wi-Fi access to their customers.
- Emergency Services
The emergency number in South Africa is 10111. This number can be dialed for police,
medical emergencies, and fire services.