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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Where should I stay in Dakar?
The Forum will take place at Le Méridien Président Hotel, where most participants will stay (reservations will be made for those who have confirmed their attendance.) Le Méridien Président is equipped with a fitness facility and several other amenities – please visit their website for more information.
Hôtel Méridien Président Dakar
Pointe des Almadies
Dakar, Senegal
Phone: +221 33 869 69
Email: helene.kande@lemeridien.com
Q. How do I get from the airport to the hotel, and back again?
A representative from our event agency will welcome your arrival at the Dakar airport. You will be transported between the airport and the hotel at both ends of your trip.
Q. Will vegetarian food be available at Le Méridien Président?
Yes, vegetarian food will be available at the buffet lunches, and at the banquet dinner.
Q. Can I access the Internet at Le Méridien Président?
Internet access is free of charge in the rooms and at the Conference Centre for the purpose of the event.
Q. How do I get reimbursed for the costs of attending the forum?
Although the Forum begins on Monday, October 5, we encourage you to arrive at Le Méridien Président by Sunday, October 4 so that you can register and receive your subsistence allowance in advance. This CAD$ amount will be paid to you in XOF francs calculated at the exchange rate of the day funds are paid by the Centre.
On October 4 IDRC representatives will be available from 14:30-20:00 to register you. Those arriving after that time can register between 8:00 and 9:00 on October 5, or during the break.
Q. Where can I get information on Senegalese visas?
The Government of Senegal's webpage displays the flags and French names of countries around the world. To obtain the coordinates of your nearest Senegalese representative in order to inquire about visa requirements, simply click on the flag of the country in which you reside.
Q. What weather conditions can I expect?
Senegal is one of the sunniest countries in the world, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. Swept by sea winds, Dakar enjoys a mild and pleasant microclimate, which distinguishes it from the rest of the country.
The country offers a change of scenery and its climate comes in two seasons:
- a rainy season, from June to October, with a greater rainfall in the South than in the North;
- a dry season, from November to May, with temperatures between 22° C and 30° C.
In Dakar, the average daytime temperature is 26° C during the month of October.
To ensure that you are suitably packed for your trip, check out Yahoo! News Weather, which will give you an idea of what the weather forecast in Dakar will be for this period.
Q. What currency is used in Senegal, and how can I obtain cash?
Senegal is a member of the ‘zone de la Communauté Financière Africaine’ (CFA franc). To check exchange rates, the Bank of Canada’s online currency converter can be accessed here.
You can use your credit card in the hotel to get money.
Q. Where can I eat during the conference?
The hotel room fees include breakfast. IDRC will pay for lunch from October 5-8, inclusive, as well as dinner on October 7. Your subsistence allowance will cover other meals and incidentals, but you will be responsible for any other expenses.
Several restaurants can be found close to the hotel, including the following:
Le Mogador : 33 820 04 02
Le Dionewar : 33 820 09 11
La pointe des Almadies : 33 820 01 40
Le Duplex/ L’Opium : 33 820 00 30
Le Lodge : 33 869 03 45
Q. What health considerations should I bear in mind?
It is recommended that, before traveling to Senegal, you speak to your doctor about malaria prevention and vaccinations such as yellow fever and Hepatitis A and B.
Q. What do I need to do if I want to change my flight arrangements?
IDRC staff in Dakar will handle any requests for flight changes/ticket validations in consultation with the travel agent.
Last updated 180 days ago by Jennifer Vincent
