The YWCA of Palestine S International Conference

Useful Information

The YWCA of Palestine’s International Conference Women’s Freedom, Peace and Dignity in Palestine UNSCR 1325 for Accountability September/ October 2014

Venue: Inter-Continental Hotel (Jacir Palace) Hotel Address: Jerusalem-Hebron Road, Bethlehem Telephone: 972-0-22766777 Discounted rooms have been reserved by YWCA of Palestine at the Inter- Continental Hotel (Jacir Palace) for people attending both the Witness Visit and the Conference. Breakfast is included in the price.

Pre-Conference Witness Visit: Will be arranged by YWCA and other local partners/organizers of the Conference, and will be from 26th-28th of September 2014. Plan to arrive latest on Thursday September 25th 2014.

This organized 3-day witness visit is intended to offer participants the opportunity to experience daily life in Occupied Palestine under Israeli military rule. This visit includes witnessing separation walls, check points, land and water confiscations, uprooting of trees, home demolitions, and expansion and building of settlements. Participants will have the opportunity to dialogue with key leaders and organizations, and hear some of the challenges women face under military occupation and patriarchal structures. Selected visits to YWCA programs and activities might be included, based on time availability.

The Conference: A 3-day comprehensive program in Bethlehem between September 29- Ocotber 1, 2014 to discuss women’s role in ending violence, and promoting human rights and dignity for all Palestinians through the framework of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325). The intention of the conference is to strengthen existing partnerships and build new networks and partnerships around women issues and UNSCR 1325, as well as to set up a list of actions and develop a strategy for a national action plan on 1325 for the occupied State of Palestine. The conference will be in Arabic and English with simultaneous translation.

Things to Know: Protocols for Entering the Country: All visitors must have a valid passport. People with no nationality must hold a valid travel document, as well as a visa back to the country which issued it. For consultation about what to expect upon your arrival to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]

Flight Arrangements and airport pickup In the registration form make sure you give the full flight information and indicate if you need an airport pick up. Cost of this transportation service is included in the registration form. You are free to make other or your own arrangements if you wish.

Remember that beginning on Friday at noon October 3, 2014 the Ben Gurion airport, borders and all checkpoints (between West Bank and Jerusalem) will be closed for the Jewish holiday (Yom Kippur). If you wish to leave the country right after the Conference, it has to be done by the 2nd of October. People wishing to stay in Jerusalem or other places, also may wish to re-locate on the 2nd.

Weather and Clothing Your visit will be in September/October when the weather will be pleasant. We usually do not expect rain at this time of year but it could get cool in the evenings. Cotton clothes should be fine, and bring a warm jacket. Please dress appropriately and conservatively, especially when visiting refugee camps and churches. Shorts are never appropriate regardless of the temperature and women are advised not to wear sleeveless shirts at all times.

Currency and Exchange: The primary unit of currency is the Israeli Shekel (ILS). The exchange rate is currently around 3.5 to the dollar and 4.75 for the EURO. Check www.onanda.com for up to date rates. US dollars and EUROs are the easiest to change. Most other currencies as well as credit cards are widely accepted, but some shops and supermarkets will not accept credit cards, so preferable to have/use cash.

Culture: Despite the difficult life that most Palestinians are living, family and hospitality remain very important. Most Palestinians are extremely friendly and helpful to internationals, going so far as to welcome them into their homes. Shop owners might offer tea or coffee, but this does not oblige you to buy something.

Other Important Information: Dialing Code: from outside the country +972 (2), the code for Jerusalem is (02) Electricity: 220V, 50Hz, unless your electrical appliance is designed for 220 volts you should bring a converter. Bring your needed prescription medications and additional copy of your passport and medical insurance

Other Places to stay in the Area: If you wish to make your own bookings, we are providing you with the below list of recommended hotels in Bethlehem, but the YWCA of Palestine is not responsible for your booking arrangements.

Phone Email Alexander Hotel 2770780 www.alexanderhotel.ps www.hotelbethlehem.co Bethlehem Hotel 2770702 m Golden Park Resort & www.goldenparkresort.p 2774414 Hotel (Beit Sahour) s 2741602, www.grandhotelbethlehe Grand Hotel 2741440 m.com Nativity Hotel 2770650 www.nativityhotel.net www.paradisebethlehem. Paradise Hotel 2744542/3 com www.sanctamariahotel.c Santa Maria Hotel 2767374/5/6 om

If you need any further assistance or details, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected] or call us at 00972- 2-6277911.