Telephoning

For those traveling internationally, when dialing any number, hold down the "0" key on your cell phone to display the "+" then enter the country code. You should drop the (0) when calling from your cell phone. So, the hotel's number would be dialed as: +49 (0) 40 35 05 0, Luke's number would be dialed as: +1 425 417 5241.

The country code for Germany is 49, for the United States it is 1.


VISA Invitations

For those traveling from outside of the EU, USA or Canada, you may need to get a VISA for your stay in Hamburg. Contact your local government for more information. Be aware that it may take up to 3 months to get a visa, so please plan accordingly.

Download the invitation letter, fill in the information and then email to hamburgvisainvite@casualconnect.org.
[download VISA letter]


Getting Around

With a compact city size, lots of bike riders and good public transit - you will not need to rent a car.

For all planned events, you should be fine walking around the city. If you are lazy or need transport for other reasons - there are plenty of taxis you can hail on the street in the city to take you around. If you need a taxi call: +49 40 61112-2. Try to have a map of where you are going with you so you don't get lost!

Hamburg is easily accessible by train and possesses four train stations in addition to the central railway station, those being Altona, Dammtor, Bergedorf and Harburg. Both InterCity (IC) and InterCityExpress (ICE) trains stop at all five stations. Dammtor is the stop you want to get out at which is next to the Congress Centre and about a 7 minute walk to the Marriott Hotel.


Travel from/to Hamburg Airport

Taxi
Taking a taxi to and from the airport is relativly easy. Right outside the airport are taxis and any hotel in the area can call you a taxi to the airport. The ride is about 15 minutes.

If you take a taxi - it is about 30 € so make sure to have enough cash in Euros before getting into the taxi.


Food

The food in Hamburg is generally very good, and since we descend upon Hamburg outside of the normal tourist season - restaurants are accessible.

If you would like to plan ahead: [View Restaurant Options]


Weather!

In February, the average high is 40F/5C and the average low is 31F/-1C. This is winter guys! Bring a winter coat, gloves and a hat if you are bald. It also may be a bit rainy, so an umbrella is advised.

[View Hamburg weather forecast]