Food

Seattle is a world class city, and its cuisine is no exception. There are many excellent international options, as well as local seafood and Northwest regional cuisine. For some ideas, check out the articles listed at Seattle Cuisine. There are also Seattle Food Tours available for the most serious foodies.

Weather

In May, when the conference is to take place, the average high temperature is around 18 °C (64 °F), while the average low is 8 °C (47 °F). The city has a reputation for frequent rain, so be prepared for possible rain showers (Source: Seattle Washington - Wikipedia).

USA Entry Requirements

If you need a VISA, you will need to apply as quickly as possible! Visa applications are taking longer to receive and individuals are subject to a much higher degree of scrutiny. Applications may take time and are subject to delays. Please apply as early as possible.

Each Visa Waiver Program traveler must present a machine-readable passport at the U.S. port of entry to enter into the United States with a Visa. Visa applications and further information can be obtained on line at www.travel.state.gov.

If you need assistance or an invitation letter contact via email: bwehner [at] amg-corp [dot] com .

Customs Information

For further assistance regarding customs information refer to www.customs.ustreas.gov or call +1 202 344 1770.

Seattle's International Airport

The city’s airport is code is SEA, called Sea-Tac, which is short for Seattle-Tacoma. Itis just under 15 miles from the Downtown Seattle and Conference Venue. For directions and a map, click here.

For information concerning the travel to and from the airport visit the official Sea-Tac Airport website.

Taxation

The United States has no value-added tax or other indirect tax at the national level. The total sales tax rate in Seattle is 8.8% on most goods, clothing, and services, and 9.3% for meals and drinks purchased at restaurants and bars. Hotel tax is 12% for room tax. Car rentals at the airport are assessed 30% in taxes.

Conference Venue

Sheraton Seattle Hotel
1400 6th Avenue
Seattle, Washington, USA 98101
Map
Tel: +1 206 621 9000
Fax: +1 206 621 8441
E-mail

Tipping

Tipping is generally not included in service charges in the United States unless there is a large party. The general rule is to tip 15% to 20% of the entire bill for most service staff. Porters and doormen should get about $1 to $2 a bag and maids should receive about $2 per person per day ($3 in luxury hotels). Tip the valet-parking attendant $1 every time you get your car.

Helpful Phone Numbers

Sheraton Seattle Hotel
+1 206 621 9000

24-Hour Pharmacy (Bartell's, Queen Anne – 600 First Ave. N. )
+ 1 206 284 1354

Medical Care
see hotel concierge

Emergencies (Police, fire & ambulance)
Dial 911

Seattle on The Web

The City's Official Website
Seattle's Convention and Visitors Bureau
Seattle Travel Guide - Wikitravel