CNS*2024 Natal: Local InfoTravel to NatalNatal is served by an International Airport with a direct connection to Europe through Lisbon (TAP Airlines, ~7 hours) and to the major Brazillian hubs, like Fortaleza and Recife (Multiple Airlines, ~1 hour), São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro (Multiple Airlines, ~3 hours). The airport is about 50 minutes away from the Praiamar Hotel. A few companies provide a transfer service with prices of $10 per person (R$50). A taxi ride from or to the airport costs about 20 dollars (R$100).
SafetyBrazil is a diverse and large country with different regions of variable safety profiles. The tourist districts and the city center are generally safe. The usual caution as for any touristic city should, however, be observed.
Official LanguageThe official language of the meeting is English. Interpreting is not provided. For getting around, English is normally quite usable, although not everybody will be able to speak and understand it sufficiently well.
InsuranceOrganizers do not accept responsibility for individual medical, travel, or personal insurance. All participants are advised to take out their own personal insurance before traveling to the conference.
Currency & BankingForeign currency exchange is available at airports, most hotels, and currency exchange shops throughout the city. International credit cards are accepted for payments in hotels, as well as in most restaurants and shops, although there might be exceptions. Please get in touch with your bank in advance for overseas travel advice. The official currency in Brazil is the Real (R$). Visit www.xe.com for current exchange rates.
TaxesAll taxes in Brazil are included in the displayed price, and there is no tax return program.
ElectricityVoltage in Natal is 220V 60Hz. Delegates from most nations in Asia, Africa, and Europe should have appliances that work on the same voltage as Natal. Therefore, you will not need a voltage converter. Exceptions to this are Japan, USA, and Canada, which use 100/120V 50/60Hz. It is best to check the local voltage for those adventuring to other Brazilian regions as it can differ. For instance, São Paulo is 110V 60Hz. If your country does use the same voltage as Natal, all you need is a power adapter. Power plugs in Brazil are of type C and N.  Time ZoneBrasilia Time Zone (BRT) in July (GMT-3). During the meeting, sunrise will be around 5:33 am, and sunset will be around 5:22 pm.
TippingTipping is not common in Natal. Restaurants and bars usually charge a 10% service fee converted to the employees.
WeatherJuly is the end of the rainy season, therefore wet, and is in the middle of south winter, but still warm. The average temperature in Natal during July is 26°C with average highs of 28°C and average lows of 24°C. Occasional rain may occur, but thunderstorms and heavy rain are unusual for this season. It is common to experience different weathers within the same day as the ocean breeze is a constant. For sports lovers, Natal is a world-level spot for kite surfing, and July is the best season. Natal has a very high solar incidence, so using sunscreen with a high protection factor is always recommended.
Getting Around - Public TransportationMost hotels will be within walking distance of the conference venue. However, if it is raining or the sun is too intense, the best way to move around is by using taxis or transportation apps like UBER and 99. A typical ride will cost about $3 (R$15) if within the tourist district and $5 (R$25) to the city center. Public transportation exists, but it is uncomfortable - the buses have no air conditioning - and unreliable.
Eating and drinkingNatal is a city with a rich culinary tradition influenced by its history and location. The local cuisine blends Brazilian, European, and African flavors; seafood is the main ingredient but there are lots of meat dishes and vegan options. Natal is the capital of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, which is a major producer of shrimp and fish - especially tuna - and of a wide variety of fruit such as melons, cashews, mango, papaya, and ananas or some that you would only find locally such as cajá, mangaba and acerola. The tourist district is a diverse place for eating and drinking with options for all budgets, from fine dining with a sea view to barefoot bars on the beach. Just by the hotel, you will find traditional restaurants and a large food court with plenty of local and international options. There are a few bars with locally crafted beers and live music for having a drink. Caipirinha with cachaça (our local spirit) is found everywhere. There are plenty of options for juices and icy coconut water for those just looking for a refreshment. Suggestions for restaurants... very close to the venue: - Mina D'Agua - Brazilian food (from Minas Gerais). Voted the best comida mineira restaurant outside Minas Gerais. Confort food with many options based on pork, cheese and corn. Pay by the weight buffet. Good for groups, but better get a reservation. Only open for lunch. Closes on Mondays. - Mangai - Brazilian food (local). All varieties of comida sertaneja, the typical food of the state country side. You will find fruits, salads, seafood, meat, and different local preparations. Try the gelato from local fruits or the famous cartola (banana, cheese and chocolat). Pay by the weight buffet. Beautifully decorated and very spacious. Good for groups. Open all day. - Manary - Seafood. Fine dining and lunch with a gorgeous seaview. Specialized in fish, oysters and shrimps. - Casa do Careca Food Park. Food court with many different options for those on a budget. ... in Ponta Negra district: - Tábua de carne, big restaurant with many options of local food. Specialized in meet. - A Cozinharia, fancy bistot with a mix of local food with a french inspiration. - La Brasserie de la Mer, fancy restaurant from a national-famous judge of Master-Chef TV show. French food. - Farofa D'Agua, small local restaurant specialized in local food. Specilized in meet. - Gudala, good option for vegans and vegetarians. - Praia de Ponta Negra Avenue, a nice street for a walk with many different options for drinking and eating. Don Matias is a good spot for argentinian parrilla and Curió for drink and snacks. ... close to the university: - Nau frutos do mar. Sea food restaurant with a very nice architecture. - City center - Cozinha Ecológica, many different options for vegan and vegetarians. Delivery apps: - iFood (most used) Sights and activitiesNatal, a vibrant city located on the northeastern coast of Brazil, is a paradise for tourists seeking the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Boasting an array of stunning beaches, the city offers visitors a chance to unwind and bask in the golden sun. Ponta Negra Beach, with its iconic Morro do Careca sand dune, is a prime destination for relaxation, beach sports, and vibrant nightlife. Travelers can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the extensive coastal promenade, indulge in delectable seafood at beachside restaurants, and shop for local crafts at the bustling Ponta Negra Market. For those seeking a touch of adventure, dune buggy rides along the Genipabu sand dunes provide an exhilarating experience, combining breathtaking views with a dose of adrenaline. Beyond its beaches, Natal holds cultural treasures that captivate the hearts of its visitors. The historic neighborhood of Ribeira, with its colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets, transports tourists back in time. The Natal Metropolitan Cathedral, a splendid example of modern architecture, stands in stark contrast to the historical surroundings, showcasing the city's harmonious blend of old and new. Travelers can immerse themselves in local traditions by attending a Forró dance night, where the rhythms of this traditional Brazilian dance provide an unforgettable cultural experience. For nature enthusiasts, Natal offers an array of natural wonders that beckon exploration. The Genipabu Environmental Protection Area, encompassing vast sand dunes, freshwater lagoons, and lush landscapes, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities like sandboarding, camel rides, and swimming in the tranquil lagoons. Additionally, the Parrachos de Maracajaú, known as the "Caribbean of Brazil," presents a vibrant underwater world perfect for snorkeling and diving. The coral reefs house a diverse array of marine life, making it a must-visit destination for eco-adventurers. In essence, Natal welcomes tourists with open arms, inviting them to partake in its sun-soaked beaches, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether one seeks relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, this Brazilian gem offers an unforgettable experience that truly embodies the spirit of a tropical paradise. |