A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO THE 2018 JCI EUROPEAN CONFERENCE
DESTINATION RIGA, LATVIA
03 ACCOMMODATIONS + VENUES
04 CONFERENCE INFORMATION
06 ABOUT RIGA + EXPLORE RIGA
12 CONFERENCE KEY EVENTS + NATIONAL NIGHTS
MESSAGE OF GREETINGS Dear 2018 JCI European Conference Delegates, Congratulations on choosing to take part in the 2018 JCI European Conference in Riga, Latvia! I am confident that you will find this event as a worthwhile investment in your selfdevelopment and journey through JCI. The theme of this conference is One Step to Success. We will help you achieve success at all levels in your journey to personal development by fulfilling your goals, in your professional lives by networking for your business and in achieving sustainable impact for your communities! In particular, be a very interesting business forum guiding you on how to take advantage of the latest trends and technologies from around the world. Join us to learn about business in Latvia and the dynamic Baltic region. I strongly recommend that you pre-register for all the events that you wish to attend and get ready to meet, share and attend this unique European Conference with not only members from Europe but also from around the world. Learn more about the event through this guide and be assumed the Conference Organizing Committee, JCI World Headquarters Staff and JCI Officers are working together to make this the most memorable conference ever. If we can help you in any way, please feel free to ask! I look forward to meeting you all personally in Riga, Latvia. Best wishes,
Kevin Hin 2018 JCI Executive Vice President
Destination: Riga, Latvia
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Accommodations Headquarters Hotel
Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel Elizabetes 55 Riga LV-1010, Latvia Tel: +371-67-77-2222 Email: info.latvija.riga@radissonblu.com Website: www.radissonblu.com/en/latvijahotel-riga
Senator Hotel
Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel Elizabetes Street 73 Riga LV-1050, Latvia Tel: +371-67-78-5555 Email: info.elizabete.riga@radissonblu.com Website: www.radissonblu.com/en/elizabetehotel-riga
Venues Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel The Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel will serve as the Headquarters Hotel for the 2018 JCI European Conference. As a defining landmark of the Riga skyline, the Radisson Blu is the largest business and conference hotel in the Baltics. Located in Old Town Riga, guests of this hotel will enjoy its contemporary restaurant with lunch and dinner buffets, three trendy and stylish bars with great city views as well as a vibrant nightclub. You’ll enjoy easy access to popular attractions like the Freedom Monument, Old Town and the House of Blackheads.
Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel The Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel will serve as the Senate Hotel for the 2018 JCI European Conference. Only minutes from the scenic Daugava River and Old Town, this hotel provides guests with a short walk to some of the city’s most popular attractions. For farther destinations, walk to the nearby Central Train Station or take advantage of the city’s convenient bus and tram network.
Destination: Riga, Latvia
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CONFERENCE
INFORMATION Registration Delegates are strongly encouraged to register online before arriving to Riga. Upon arrival registered delegates should pick up their name badges at the Headquarters Hotel.
Registration will be open:
visa information can be viewed on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Republic of Latvia website: www.mfa.gov.lv/en/consular-information/obtaining-visas If you are looking for clarification on whether your country may enter Latvia without a visa based on the Schengen Agreement, please visit: www.mfa.gov.lv/en/consular-information/entry-into-schengen
• Tuesday 19 June: 08:00 – 18:00 • Wednesday 20 June: 08:00 – 18:00 • Thursday 21 June: 08:00 – 18:00
Health
• Friday 22 June: 08:00 – 18:00
There are some vaccines that are recommended and required before
Only delegates who register will be allowed to participate in conference events. Admission will be restricted to delegates wearing conference badges and holding entry tickets, when necessary.
Travel Visa All travelers must have a valid passport or valid identity card (depending on nationality) to travel to Riga. Visas are required for a continuous stay of more than 90 days within any 180-day period while visiting in the European Schengen Area. If your stay is shorter than 90 days, you only need to bring your valid passport or identity card with you. For more information on visas, please contact the Embassy of Latvia located nearest to you or check the official website to see whether you require a visa for entry into the country. The most up-to-date
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traveling to Riga. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and your yearly flu shot. However, you should always make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing and if you are traveling from another country beforehand.
Traveling to Riga
Conference Attire
By Plane
National dress, dark business suits or tuxedos,
Riga International Airport (RIX) is located nearly 13 kilometers from
cocktail or evening dresses are appropriate for:
the city center, and is the largest international airport in the Baltic
• Opening Ceremony
area. It features both domestic and international terminals and
• Awards Ceremony
serves a large variety of airlines. To learn more about flights to and from Riga, visit: www.riga-airport.com/en/main
Transportation to Hotel By Taxi
• Farewell Ball
Business suits or national dress are appropriate for: • Conference Assemblies • Company Visits • LIAA Business Program • Other business sessions
Taxis are available from the Riga International Airport (RIX) on the ground level outside of the arrivals terminal. We recommend using Airbaltic taxis which can be recognized by their bright green color. Airbaltic taxi has a fixed rate of 14.00 Euro using a pre-purchased voucher that can be bought in the airport arrivals terminal. The journey from the airport to the city center will take about 20 minutes, depending on the traffic intensity. We strongly advise that you do not get into an unmarked taxi around the airport unless you ask and negotiate the price beforehand. Learn more about Riga’s taxi services here: www.airbaltic.com/en/to-from-airport
Business casual dress is appropriate for: • JCI Official Courses and seminars • Forums and Workshops
Casual dress (unless otherwise indicated) is appropriate for: • National parties • Tourism
By Rental Car Several car rental companies offer their services at the RIX Rental Car Center for pick up and drop off. Their offices are located in Sector E of the arrivals area. It is strongly recommended to book your rental ahead of time. Learn more about rental car companies by visiting: www.riga-airport.com/en/main/passengers/services/cafesbars/car-rental
By Shuttle Shuttle buses commonly run between RIX and many hotels, the city center and tourist areas. If you are staying at a hotel, ask your hotel prior to your travels if there is a shuttle you can book.
By Public Transportation The cheapest option to arrive to your destination is to take the public bus transportation; City bus 22 will drop you off at the edge of the city center. Tickets cost 1.15 Euro if purchased prior to your trip or 2.00 Euro if purchased from the driver. The journey time is about 30 minutes depending on the traffic. Learn more and find all the other routes and schedules for public transportation here: www.rigassatiksme.lv/lv/
Destination: Riga, Latvia
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ABOUT
RIGA, LATVIA The largest city in the Baltics and capital of Latvia, 800-year-old Riga is the perfect blend of a medieval center and modern city with the enchanting and irresistible charm of European culture. This vibrant cosmopolitan city might seem quiet and reserved from the outside, but there is much to explore in this elegant city. From the medieval Old Town that hold’s the world’s largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings to the stunning white-sand beaches found on the Gulf of Riga at the Baltic Sea, there is something for everyone.
Language Latvian is the official language in Riga. Latvian is related to Lithuanian, yet the languages are not mutually interchangeable to their speakers. To become more comfortable with the Latvia language, check out this article about useful words and phrases: www.latvia.travel/en/article/useful-words-and-phrases
There are many theories about the origin name of Riga — most
Weather
notably is the theory that Riga owes its name to a role in commerce
Riga summers are cool and humid with the average temperature
between East and West, since it borrows the Latvian word rija,
ranging from 19 – 30 °C. Be sure to bring extra sunscreen,
meaning threshing barn, and substituting the “j” for a German “g”.
protective eyewear and stay hydrated!
Riga was discovered in 1201 by a German named Bishop Albert von Buxhoevden who used the land as a bridgehead for the crusade against the Balts, Salvs and Finno-Ugric people. After Albert’s death, Riga became a member of the Hanseatic League until centuries of
Time Zone Eastern European Summer Time (UTC/GMT +3)
wars and changes of power in Latvia made Riga an occupancy of Nazi Germany until the end of World War II.
Telephone
After seven centuries of foreign domination, the Republic of Latvia
The country code for Latvia is +371. When calling abroad from
found independence in 1991 and has been transforming into an
Latvia, you must dial the respective code of the country that you are
economically dynamic democracy with Riga in the center of that
calling followed by the area code and then the phone number.
change. Riga was the European Capital of Culture in 2014 and received over 1.4 million visitors in 2016. Today, Riga’s cosmopolitan past has enabled the city to adjust and thrive culturally making it the cornerstone of the Baltic region.
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If you are dialing a mobile phone, you must dial “2” after the country code and then the local number you are trying to reach. For further information about country codes, please visit: www.countrycode.org/latvia
Internet
Tipping and Gratuity
Riga has the largest number of free WiFi hotspots per square
Tipping is not expected in most situations, but it is appreciated in
kilometer in Europe. You can get free WiFi by looking for a
Europe. In daily life, people in typically round up to the nearest franc
sign showing the nearest access point and choose one of the
or round figure if someone has provided good service.
free wireless connections. To use a Lattelecom-free 30-minute connection, you must open a browser and watch a 15-second message before you can use the internet. After 30 minutes, the
Electricity
connection process must be repeated.
In Latvia the standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets are type F. Type F sockets are also known
You can also visit one of the many internet cafes or other popular
as “Schuko� and this socket also works with plug C and plug E.
public places offering complimentary WiFi that can be found all around Riga. Learn more about how to connect to the free WiFi at: www.wifi.lv
Currency
The official currency in Riga is the Euro. Currency can be exchanged
For more information on electricity visit:
at the airport, banks, some hotels and exchange offices throughout
www.power-plugs-sockets.com/latvia/
Plug Type C
Plug Type E
the city.
Credit Cards and ATMs Major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and ATMs are widely available throughout Riga. They are commonly found in hotel and bank lobbies, supermarkets, shopping malls, gas stations, bars and restaurants as well as on street corners. If you are having trouble locating a bank, make your way to Kalku street in Old Town and you should find a bank or ATM within seconds. The ATM should display the logos of all card networks it accepts. As with any other destination, avoid withdrawing and carrying large sums of cash. Exercise the same vigilance in terms of security consciousness and discretion as you would elsewhere when using an ATM.
Destination: Riga, Latvia
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Transportation By Car Rental
vegetables, herbs, spices and a variety of national delicacies such as sauerkraut — a Latvian staple that can be found in many side dishes, dumplings and soups.
Four international car rental companies are available throughout Riga including Europcar, Budget, Avis and SIXT. These companies
One of the country’s most popular dishes is grey peas — a healthy
can be found at several locations including the Riga International
and hearty dish cooked with fried onions and fatty smoked bacon.
Airport (RIX).
You’ll often see this as a side dish or bar snack throughout Riga, but it’s typically served at Christmas since Latvians believe eating
Most rental companies require that you must be at least 21 years old
peas brings luck and money. Another Latvian signature dish is
and that you have a valid driver’s license. Some companies will only
Karbonade (pork chops), which is usually pounded flat and then
allow individuals who are 25 years old or older to rent special
fried in breadcrumbs. It’s typically served with mushrooms on top or
make cars.
with potatoes on the side.
Attire in Riga Residents of Riga typically wear casual and modern style clothes such as jeans, summer dresses, cardigans, t-shirts and sneakers. Layers are recommended in the colder months due to the fluctuation in temperature throughout the day. In the warmer months, residents tend to dress in preparation for heavy rains so make sure to pack a raincoat and travel umbrella.
Cultural Notes Art Nouveau Riga is known for having the largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in the world since it experienced an unprecedented financial and demographic boom at the beginning of the twentieth century when Art Nouveau was at the height of its popularity. Over a 50-year span, the population grew from 282,000 to 558,000 making Riga the fourth largest city and port within the Russian Empire. The middle class of Riga was inspired by natural forms and structures — curved lines of plants and flowers to be specific — creating a new art style of decorative arts, including architecture, interior design, furniture, glass art and metal work. The buildings of Riga still have these beautiful structures from this movement making Old Town feel like you’re walking through medieval times.
Cuisine Resting in-between Scandinavia and Eastern Europe, Riga has an intriguing food scene influenced by its neighboring countries and shaped by native ingredients and traditions. The food of Riga is hearty with a focus on natural ingredients sourced from the Baltic forest. Riga houses Europe’s biggest food market, Central Market, housed in five former German Zeppelin hangars and incorporates incredible Neoclassicism and Art Deco styles. Inside the Central Market, you’ll find the hangars lined with stalls selling fruit,
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Destination: Riga, Latvia
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EXPLORE
RIGA, LATVIA
Local Tourism Information
Alberta Iela (Alberta Street)
With a wide range of activities and sights to see, there is something
Built in 1901 and named after the founder of Riga Bishop Albert,
special for everyone in Riga. To decide how to schedule your perfect
Alberta Iela is a street in the city center known for its historic Art
post-conference plans, visit the following sites for more information:
Nouveau buildings. Many of these beautiful buildings were designed
• www.riga.com/ • www.latvia.travel/en/city/riga-8 • www.lonelyplanet.com/latvia/riga • www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g274967-Riga_Riga_RegionVacations.html
by Russian architect Mikhail Eisenstein who used structural and decorative elements seen in romantic nationalism and in neobaroque styles which were commonly used in Northern Europe at the beginning of the twentieth century. A number of important Riga institutions are located on, or adjacent to, this street such as the Riga Art Nouveau Museum, Riga Graduate School of Law and the embassies of Belgium and Ireland.
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Riga Central Market
Freedom Monument
Riga is home to Europe’s biggest food market — the Riga Central
The Freedom Monument is located on Freedom Boulevard right
Market — which offers a unique taste of Riga to all of its visitors!
next to Old Town Riga, and has been a central landmark of Riga for
This market is one of the most notable structures in 20th century
a century. This 42 meter tall and 200 meter long granite and copper
Latvia since it is contained within five former German Zeppelin
monument stands as a reminder of freedom, independence and
hangars. Not only is this market known for having the best priced
sovereignty honoring the soldiers killed during the Latvian War of
fresh products and biggest fish market around, but also for its
Independence that culminated in 1920. The woman on top of the
unparalleled beauty; Walking through this market is an experience
monument is holding up three golden stars representing Latvia’s
in itself due to the hints of Neoclassicism styles found throughout.
historical regions of Kurzeme, Vidzeme and Latgale. The Freedom
Whether you’re looking to explore the beautiful architecture
Monument often serves as the focal point for public gatherings
or wanting to experience the culture of Latvia through cultural
and official Riga ceremonies. This monument is so important to the
delicacies, Riga Central Market is a must see!
city of Riga that soldiers of The National Armed Forces guard this monument between 9:00 and 18:00 each and every day.
Destination: Riga, Latvia
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Pilsētas Kanāls (The City Canal) Once used as protection from invaders and known as Embassy Row, this old moat has been renovated into a stunning ravine that divides Old and Central Riga. This romantic city canal is filled with rich Latvian history and populated with gorgeous buildings along its thin body of water. Some notable buildings that can be found here are Bastion Hill, the former tower hill of the city wall and the beloved Latvian National Opera House, which sits at the opposite end of the park. Take a stroll over the bridges and pathways that accompany this luscious canal to get a feel for old and new Riga.
Mezaparks Known as one of the most beautiful, greenest, and prestigious neighborhoods in Riga, Mezaparks is a popular recreation area that showcases one of the last remaining fully forested areas. Enjoy a short walk in the park or overcome physical obstacles by experiencing the Mezakakis Adventure Park which offers several routes varying in difficulty for both beginners and experts to enjoy. Within this park, you will find the Riga Zoo situated by the shores of Lake Kisezers, which is home to more than 400 species of wild animals and boasts a 100 plus year history.
Jurmala Located between the Gulf of Riga and the Lielupe River, Jurmala is just west of Riga and serves as a resort town and popular tourist destination in Latvia. It has many amenities such as beach-houses, white-sand beaches facing the Gulf of Riga and unique wooden houses in the Art Nouveau style. When you have time to unwind after the conference, make your way to Jurmala to rent water bicycles, join sport competitions on the beach or relax at the beach café. Other attractions include Livu Aquapark, Kemeri National Park and the Jurmala Open Air Museum.
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Destination: Riga, Latvia
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CONFERENCE
KEY EVENTS
Opening Ceremony
Impact Forums and Sessions
At the Opening Ceremony of the 2018 JCI European Conference,
Discover how young people around Europe and JCI partners are
National Presidents and heads of delegations will greet delegates,
building a better future with their actions!
represent their countries and showcase their traditional costumes. Come cheer for your National Organization, enjoy the first day of the celebrations with entertainment and connect with the
First Timers Orientation Tuesday 19 June
JCI community.
16:00 – 17:00
Tuesday 19 June
Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
19:00 – 21:00 Room: Omega 1 & 2 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
Room: Beta 1 & 2
JCI Morning Show Wednesday 20 June | 09:00 – 10:00 Thursday 21 June | 09:00 – 10:00 Room: Alfa Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
Strategic Planning Workshop Thursday 21 June 10:00 – 12:00 Room: Beta 2 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
Become a Social Billionaire |
The Way to Help Billion People Panel Firday 22 June 10:15 – 12:00 Room: Omega 1 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
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National Presidents Meeting and Conference Assemblies See the major decisions your national representatives will make this year to create impact across Europe!
National Presidents Meeting Tuesday 19 June 09:00 – 12:00 Room: Alfa Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
Conference Assembly Wednesday 20 June | 14:00 – 17:00 Thursday 21 June | 14:00 – 17:00 Room: Alfa Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
Keynote Series Learn more about the future of business and work in these keynotes and panel discussion presented jointly by LIAA and the JCI European Conference.
Global Megatrends and the Future of Business, Work and the Workplace Thursday 21 June 13:00 – 13:30 Room: Omega 1 & 2 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
The Predictable Unpredictable Future of Work Thursday 21 June 13:30 – 13:45 Room: Omega 1 & 2 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
Panel Discussion: Future of Work Thursday 21 June 13:45 – 14:00 Room: Omega 1 & 2 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
JCI Programs JCI members are challenged to show their impact at the international level. Don’t miss the most exciting competitions and seize the opportunity to share best practices during the conference!
JCI World Public Speaking Championship Preliminary
Wednesday 20 June 10:00 – 12:00 Room: Beta 2 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
JCI World Public Speaking Championship Final in Conference Assembly Thursday 21 June 14:00 – 17:00 Room: Alfa Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
JCI World Debating Championship (English) Friday 22 June | 09:00 – 12:00 Friday 22 June | 13:00 – 15:00 Room: Beta 2 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
JCI World Debating Championship (Deutsch) Friday 22 June | 09:00 – 12:00 Friday 22 June | 13:00 – 15:00 Room: Beta 1 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
JCI World Debating Championship (Français) Friday 22 June | 09:00 – 12:00 Friday 22 June | 13:00 – 15:00 Room: Lambda Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
JCI Twinning Ceremony Thursday 21 June 10:00 – 12:00 Room: Beta 1 Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
JCI Awards Ceremony and Gala Friday 22 June 17:30 – 18:30 Venue: Skonto Hall
Destination: Riga, Latvia
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National Nights and Parties JCI members work hard all day to improve themselves and the world around them, but there’s no reason we can’t party too. Bring your name badge to get inside, where you’ll find friends from all over Europe enjoying the native food and drink. Check your schedule for times and venues, or just wait until nightfall and follow the crowds.
Welcome Party
Nordic Night
Tuesday 19 June
Wednesday 20 June
Time: 21:00 – 03:00
Time: 23:00 – 03:00
Room: Omega 1 & 2, Hall 1 & 2,
Venue: Nightclub FIRST
Gamma 1 & 2
Andrejsalas 2k-3
Venue: Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel
Germany, Austria, Switzerland Night
French Night
Thursday 21 June
Wednesday 20 June Time: 20:00 – 03:00 Time: 20:00 – 23:00
Venue: Nightclub Studio 69
Venue: Nightclub FIRST
Tērbatas 73
Andrejsalas 2k-3
Conference Organizing Committee For any questions regarding the 2018 JCI European Conference, visit www.ec2018riga.com for more information.
Conference Organizing Committee Director
Andris Urbans
andris@ec2018riga.com
Emergency Contact In the case of an emergency please dial 112 to get ahold of the fire department, police and for an ambulance.