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Registration and Travel Guide
Sorors, I am elated that we will soon enter our 2024 Cluster Season, and it will be amazing! Our Atlantic Cluster Conference takes place October 4-5, 2024 at the beautiful Grotto Bay Beach Resort in Bermuda. Our Pacific Cluster Conference takes place October 25-26, 2024 at the Dubai American Academy under the spectacular backdrop of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
I invite you to attend one of these conferences that will no doubt deliver a high-level experience under the theme, “Innovate to Elevate: Empowering Women Worldwide. ”
Sorors, you will be empowered, energized, engaged and elevated as we learn together, grow together and work together to carry out the program initiatives and business objectives of our beloved sisterhood. Whether you attend in person or virtually, please be sure to thoroughly read this guide for important information related to both the Atlantic and Pacific Cluster Conferences
Of course, I must thank our Atlantic Cluster Coordinator Soror Lisa Mitchell-Harris, Sigma Xi Omega Chapter Basileus Soror Annae Robinson, Atlantic Cluster Chairman Soror Tekea Saunders, Co-Chairman Soror Shanda Simmons and all of the sorors of Sigma Xi Omega Chapter
Also, I am extremely grateful to our Pacific Cluster Coordinator Soror Clarine Simpson Vaughn, Omega Theta Omega Chapter Basileus Soror Nikki Williams, Pacific Cluster Chairman Soror Saderia Nicole Hooks, Co-Chairman Soror Melanie Allen and all of the sorors of Omega Theta Omega Chapter.
Sorors, please take advantage of this time to register for your respective Cluster Conference. I look forward to welcoming you to Bermuda and the United Arab Emirates where we will “Innovate and Elevate: Empowering Women Worldwide!”
In Sisterhood and Service,
Greetings Sorors!
We hope you are READY to pack your bags and engage in this year’s Cluster Conference Series. This year’s theme is Innovate to Elevate: Empowering Women Worldwide. Together with our phenomenal Regional Director, Carrie J. Clark, the hard-working host chapters, Sigma Xi Omega (Atlantic Cluster) and Omega Theta Omega (Pacific Cluster) we are poised to welcome you to Bermuda and Dubai in October
The Cluster Conference Series has been planned to ensure that you learn about the Soaring Administration’s updates and highlights in an engaging manner whether your experience in this high-quality conference is in-person or virtual. Your commitment to the 2024 Cluster Conference Series is a testament that you support the Sorority and its mission to provide service to all mankind in your communities That is Soaring!
We thank both the Atlantic and Pacific Clusters for always representing Alpha Kappa Alpha on the chapter, regional, and international levels. We promise to provide you an unforgettably elevated experience in Bermuda and Dubai. As we continue to find innovative ways to elevate the region in concert with Madam Regional Director, we look forward to meeting you in Bermuda and Dubai.
We are providing you with the details needed to plan your experience This Registration and Travel Guide shares the itinerary our host chapters have developed to enable you decide your Cluster experience We encourage you to participate in optional activities and events the Cluster Conferences offer.
Sorors, we look forward to seeing you at the 2024 Ingenious International Cluster Conference Series in Bermuda and Dubai. Thank you again for all that you do for the region and our beloved sorority.
Sisterly yours
Graduate Sorors: $120
Undergraduate Sorors: $95
Graduate Sorors: $75
Please
Undergraduate Sorors: $65
Go to www.aka1908.com/international. 1
2
Select "Members Only" at the top of the home page.
3. After successfully logging in, click “Current Events” on the the right-hand size menu.
Log in using the same credentials you use for the Corporate Office website. Your username isyour financial card number; Your password is the one you use on the Corporate website (www.aka1908.com). Only financially active sorors can access this page.
4. Scroll down to your event and click “REGISTER NOW.”
5.
6.
A new web page opens to the Registration Site. Follow the instructions on the page. Login is required again using the primary email address you have on file with the Corporate Office.Your password is your financial card number (unless you have changed it on the Corporate website). Scroll to the bottom of the page to enter these credentials.
7. Click the “Self Registration” button, you should review all details in the registration guide before beginning the registration process
After successfully logging in, select "UPCOMING EVENTS" on the left menu. If registration is open, the Cluster Conference you wish to attend will be listed. Click the event name.
8. Select the appropriate registration fee (Graduate or Undergraduate) then click "NEXT".
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9. Select your session options, save or print the “Printer Friendly Version” document for your event selections.
Follow the online instructions to process your payment. 11 Individual registration must be paid by credit card. Mail-in payments for individual registration is not available. 12.
Welcome to beautiful Bermuda! Twenty-one square miles of pastel colours, pink sand, crystal clear water and some of the friendliest people this side of the Atlantic. The Sorors of Sigma Xi Omega Chapter are excited to be your host for the 2024 Atlantic Cluster Conference.
As you make plans to join us, in a place some call ‘Another World’, we hope you will find this travel guide helpful. It includes room rates and booking information for our host hotel, the Grotto Bay Beach Resort, airlines and departure cities for flights to Bermuda, currency, modes of transportation, special events to be held during Cluster as well as websites to learn more about the perfect Bermuda vacation.
Upon your arrival, both at the airport and the hotel, Sigma Xi Omega Sorors will greet you with a warm Bermuda welcome We are here to answer your questions, provide recommendations and do our best to ensure your visit is an enjoyable one.
As we come together in Sisterhood and Service to Innovate to Elevate: Empowering Women Worldwide we hope that you will plan time to enjoy our beautiful beaches, visit a few historic sites, sample our native dishes and immerse yourself in our Bermudian culture
We know you could be anywhere. Thank you for choosing the Atlantic Cluster Conference, thank you for choosing Bermuda.
11 Blue Hole Hill Hamilton, Hamilton Parish CR 04, Bermuda
Grotto Bay Beach Resort is 2 minutes from The LF Wade International Airport (BDA)
The Grotto Bay Beach resort sits on a lush tropical estate featuring dramatic caves and acres of woodland preserves along the water’s edge in Bailey's Bay. Scattered over 21 acres and sloping down towards the water’s edge and three private beaches are 11 brightly colored cottages in traditional Bermudian architecture overlooking the turquoise waters dotted with small islands
Hotel transfers are available for $10. This covers a round-trip transfer from the airport to the resort. Reservations are only available during conference registration.
It is very important that your reservations online
Reservations can be ma through September 18,
For assistance with rese or email reservations@
DIRECT BOOKINGS ONLY:
Group Name: AKA Atlantic Cluster 2024 https://www.grottobay.com/Accommodations For assistance, call 441 293 8333 or email reservations@grottobay.com
Rate per night (Net) $295 00
Room Gratuities $13.00
Tax (11.75%) $34.66
Total $342.66 per night
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
Rate per night (Net) $295.00
Room Gratuities $26.00 Tax (11.75%) $34.66
Total $355.66 per night TRIPLE OCCUPANCY
Rate per night (Net) $343.00 Room Gratuities $39 00
Rate per night (Net) $391.00
Room Gratuities $52 00 Tax (11.75%) $45.94 Total $488.94 per night
The rates provided are based on adults (ages 17 and older) in a room. Prices will differ with children in a room. According to Bermuda law, there must be an adult registered in a room with children.
GROUP CODE: AKA
Room Rates do not include a Meal Plan –Guests may add the following meal plans at check-in:
Breakfast Plan - $27.00 per adult and $16.00 per child (ages 4 – 17). No minimum night stay is required. Breakfast & Dinner Plan - $85 00 per adult / $43 00 per child (ages 4 –17) – Minimum of a 2 consecutive nights stay required.
CHECK-IN: 3 P.M.
CHECK-OUT: 11:00 A.M.
Stay Dates: October 3 – 7, 2024
Deposit Policy: 2 nights deposit
Cancellation Policy: 14 days prior to arrival date - Full Refund of deposit.
Location: Fourways Restaurant & Inn
Price: $75 (3-course meal and 1 fruit punch)
Attire: Cocktail Dress
Date: Thursday, October 3rd, 2024 | 6 pm
WELCOME RECEPTION
Location: Grotto Bay Beach Resort
Attire: AKA Chic
Date: Friday, October 4th, 2024 | 6 pm - 8 pm
SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICE
Location: Bethel AME Church
Attire: Sunday Best
Date: Sunday, October 6th, 2024 | 11:00 am
A BERMUDAFUL BRUNCH
Immediately following church service
Location: White Horse Pub & Restaurant, King's Square, St. George's
Attire: Sunday Best
Date: Sunday, October 6th, 2024 | 1:30 pm
Brunch is at guests' own expense $45 plus 17% gratuities
(includes complimentary glass of rum swizzle, glass of wine or soft drink)
DJ Entertainment Relax, enjoy and wind down from a busy conference weekend with a delicious brunch overlooking the water
Conference Venue & Host Hotel
Grotto Bay Beach Hotel
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4TH
Community Service Project (a partnership with HOME organization to eradicate homelessness on the island of Bermuda) - Attire: AKA Paraphernalia
Welcome Reception - Attire: AKA Chic
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5TH
Conference AM Session
Luncheon
Conference PM Session
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6TH
Church Service - Attire: Sunday Best
A Bermudaful Brunch - Attire: Sunday Best
Sigma Xi Omega Chapter is pleased to partner with HOME for the Atlantic Cluster 2024
Toiletry Service Project HOME is a registered charity for all homeless people living in Bermuda Their purpose is to eradicate homelessness on our island Through their work they support people out of homelessness for good as well as they work to prevent new omelessness with their overall goal of ending it for everyone.
HOME’s six core values are trust, equity, compassion, unity, leadership and innovation. Its strategic priorities are to help homeless individuals and families receive shelter, health and social services, to prevent episodes of homelessness, to empower and support public, private and community partners to improve their response to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and to track progress in preventing, reducing and ending homelessness.
It is our goal during the Atlantic Cluster 2024 Toiletry Service Project to receive and bag items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, shaving cream, lotion, sanitary products etc. that will be presented to HOME for their distribution to the persons they support.
Your generous financial and/or items donations are greatly appreciated
Sorors can make multiple donations of $19.08 via the Ivy Boutique - Select Atlantic Cluster Service Donation.
When traveling to Bermuda, an official Government issued passport is needed. Visas are not required. There is one airport in Bermuda - The LF Wade International Airport. The airport code is: BDA.
When booking a flight to Bermuda, please utilize the following link for the airlines and cities of departure. https://www.gotobermuda.com/plan/getting-to-bermuda
BermudAir: If traveling on BermudAir, please enter the discount code ALPHAKAPPAALPHA24 to receive a 15% discount on your airfare. Discount code is valid until October 19, 2024.
Upon your arrival, both at the airport and the hotel, Sigma Xi Omega Sorors will greet you with a warm Bermuda welcome. We are here to answer your questions, provide recommendations and do our best to ensure your visit is an enjoyable one.
NOTE:
Effective November 14, 2022, Covid-19 testing and travel authorisation forms are not required to enter Bermuda All air arrival visitors will need to fill out the arrival card
The Visitor arrivals form will make coming through customs when arriving in Bermuda easier, and can be found at bermudaarrivalcard.com).
For more information about the card, visit Bermuda Arrival Card | Go To Bermuda www.gotobermuda.com/bermuda-arrivalcard
The electrical current in Bermuda is 110 volts, 60Hz AC, which is the same voltage supported by the U S and Canada Travelers from the U K and Europe will need to use an adapter since twopronged plugs are in use island-wide.
Transportation will be provided from the Grotto Bay Beach Resort to all cluster conference events, except to/from the airport.
If you plan to spend some vacation time in Bermuda, there are many ways to see all that Bermuda has to offer!
The link below provides information about all options for traveling around the island https://www.gotobermuda.com/plan/ getting-around-bermuda
Bermuda offers unique rental car options, featuring the electric rental cars! Grotto Bay Beach Resort offers scooter and electric rental cars on site https://bermudarentalcar.com/
For off-site options for rental cars, see link below https://www.gotobermuda.com/inspiration/ article/bermuda-car-rental-options
I N T E R N A T I O N A L R E G I O N
Legal tender on the island is the Bermuda Dollar, which trades at the same rate as the U.S. dollar and carries the same symbol ($).
Bermuda and the U.S. Dollar are accepted interchangeably. When dispensing change, most retailers and businesses will try to provide change in U S dollars to visitors
ATMs are widely available Find 24-hour ATMs at HSBC Bermuda, Butterfield Bank and Clarien Limited. Check convenience stores, gas stations or your hotel or the ATM nearest you. Most ATMs dispense only Bermuda dollars. HSBC Bermuda does offer US Cash ATM's at their branch locations.
Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Due to recent changes in the laws (the U.S. Patriot Act and the Bank Secrecy Act), travelers’ cheques and money orders in the U.S. Dollars have not been accepted in Bermuda since March 1, 2014.
As they can be purchased for cash with no identification required, there has been increasing use of these instruments in fraudulent financial transactions
Sigma Xi Omega Chapter
Basileus Annae Robinson: 441-704-4494
Chairman Tekea Saunders: 441-332-7918
Chairman Shanda Simmons: 441-799-4807
Atlantic Cluster Coordinator Lisa Mitchell-Harris - 407-364-9840 (cell); 340-332-9504 (Whatsapp)
U.S. Government: The Consulate General In Bermuda, 1-441-295-1342 https://bm.usconsulate.gov/
Emergency Services: Police, Fire, Medical: 911
Though Bermuda may be small in size, its international telecommunication system ranks among the best in the world for reliability, quality and sophistication.
The island provides telephone, fax, Internet, wireless and wireless roaming services. Bermuda's country code is 441
Direct dialing is possible to and from the island.
Most mobile phones will work on the island; ask your carrier ahead of time to make sure.
Tobacco Bay Beach Club, Best snorkeling and beach bar in the east. Use the group code "AKA" for 10% discount.
Snorkel Park Beach Club, The hidden gem in the west. Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear lagoon Use the group code "AKA" and entry fee will be waived.
There are 15 tips/things to know when traveling to Bermuda - which can be found at 15 Things to Know Before Visiting Bermuda (Bermuda Travel Tips) - Bobo and ChiChi
Don't be scared of the triangle 1 Bermuda has British Influences 2 Time Zone - Bermuda is in Atlantic Standard Time 3. Currency4. Not in the Caribbean 5. Transportation is Different 6. Plan your Budget 7. Tips are included in restaurants 8
There are Portuguese Man of War (certain times of year) 9 Know the dress code (no swimsuits or shirts off outside of the beach) 10. The electricity 11. The Water 12. Pink sand beaches 13. There’s a UNESCO world 14 There are shipwrecks to 15 (scuba, snorkeling and v
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Bermuda is famously known for its pink sand beaches and crystal blue water With a population in 2022 of 63,522 people Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic Ocean. The closest land outside the territory is in the American state of North Carolina, about 1,035 km (643 mi) to the west-northwest.
Bermuda consists of 181 islands, with the most significant islands connected by bridges and appear to form one landmass. It has a land area of 54 square kilometers (21 sq mi).
Bermuda has a sub-tropical climate, with mild winters and warm summers
Bermuda's island culture is a mix of British colonial history, African heritage and modern style that has developed into a completely original and inviting way of life. Come experience this way of life during the Atlantic Cluster October 3rd –6th.
Feel the relaxing breeze in your hair while you and some Sorors explore the island driving one of our Twizys Bermuda’s fun and ecofriendly micro rental cars
Or if you just want to relax, have a deep tissue massage in the Grotto Bay Natural Cave Surrounded by tranquil water inside the cave, an experience you don't want to miss.
Or if you are a dedicated foodie, try one of Bermuda’s food tours, you will enjoy this three-hour food-focused tour of Hamilton, Bermuda.
On behalf of all members of Omega Theta Omega, I you to Dubai for our 2024 Pacific Cluster Conference
I, along with all of my chapter members are excited t embark on what is sure to be a life-changing experie of Dubai is a playground of innovation and futuristic becoming reality This backdrop makes it the perfect conference themed Innovate to Elevate: Empower
The International Region is filled with a group of women who are eager to continue to push our beloved sorority forward Through our work in the International Region, we play a very important role in spreading our founders’ mission of service to all mankind. To be able to serve internationally is a privilege and honor and through our Pacific Cluster conference, we will continue making lifelong connections through service.
Although service is a special part of our sorority, I am excited to also focus on the specialness of our sisterhood As our beloved sorority hymn says, “ there’s no other like our sisterhood ” We share a bond that has transcended international boundaries and has allowed us to uplift each other no matter where we reside. Through this conference, we will continue to learn how to support each other and strengthen our sisterhood.
Again Sorors, Omega Theta Omega is excited to welcome you with open arms to the United Arab Emirates Our 2024 Pacific Cluster Conference will be an elevated experience that is sure to be unforgettable
In Sisterhood & Love, Nikki Williams
Soror Nikki Williams
Omega Theta Omega, Basileus
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai welcomes you to the heart of the city's lively downtown district. Soaring above Sheikh Zayed Road, our bustling and dynamic 5-star hotel with spa is one of the tallest in the world, consisting of two towers with 1608 rooms and boasts awe-inspiring views of the water and Dubai cityscape.
Gracefully furnished rooms and suites provide a sanctuary with deluxe bedding, complimentary WiFi, marble bathrooms, and 24-hour room service
Sample the flavors of the world at our 12 restaurants and lounges, which offer Japanese, Italian, Indian and Thai cuisine. Explore Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Opera which are all minutes away during your stay.
Comprising two iconic towers, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is centrally located beside the Dubai Water Canal.
The 1,608 rooms hotel has a collection of over 12 awardwinning restaurants and bars, a sublime Saray Spa and Club Marquis, and over 8,000 sq m of spectacular indoor and outdoor event space.
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ dxbjw-jw-marriott-marquis-hotel-dubai/overview/
RECOMMENDED HOTELS WITH SHUTTLE SERVICE TO HOST HOTEL FOR TRANSPORTATION
Radisson Blu Dubai Waterfront
https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-dubai-waterfront
DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai Business Bay
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dxbbbdi-doubletree-dubai-business-bay Grand Millenium Business Bay
https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/dubai/grand-millennium-business-bay-dubai Holiday Inn Dubai Business Bay
https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/dubai/dxbby/hoteldetail
Conference Venue
Dubai American Academy
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24TH
Experience Abu-Dhabi Service Project Preparation
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25TH
Community Service Project
Welcome Reception at Babiole Restaurant Cultural Experience
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26TH
Conference AM Session
MUHAISNAH LABOR CAMP Attire: Parapharnelia (long sleeve and trousers)
Members will visit a Migrant Worker Labour Camp to provide hot meals, personal hygiene items and promote their well being by doing general screenings for weight, blood pressure and glucose.
Luncheon
Conference PM Session
Dinner - Yacht on Arabian Gulf
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27TH
Custom Desert Kimono Photo Op Farewell Brunch
Sorors can support the service project through multiple donations of $19 08 via the Ivy Boutique - Select Pacific Cluster Service Donation.
EXPERIENCE ABU-DHABI
ATTIRE: Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai's historic neighborhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.
Tour the Grand Mosque and Lunch at the Louvre
Location: Abu-Dhabi
Price: $100
Attire: Business Casual (No flip flops, shoulder & knees covered)
Date: Thursday, October 24th, 2024 | 9 am
Learn about Dubai's cultural past and present at His Royal Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding
Price: $75
Attire: Business Casual (No flip flops, shoulder & knees covered)
Date: Friday, October 25th, 2024 | 9 am - 12 pm
CUSTOM DESERT KIMONO PHOTO OP AND FAREWELL BRUNCH (AT YOUR COST)
Price: RSVP Required
Attire: Custom Kimono over black attire
Date: Sunday, October 27th, 2024 | 5 am
Brunch follows immediately after
WELCOME RECEPTION AT BABIOLE RESTAURANT
Price: RSVP Required
Attire: AKA Chic
Date: Friday, October 25th, 2024 | 8 pm
YACHT DINNER ON THE ARABIAN GULF
Price: RSVP Required - At your Cost
Attire: AKA Paraphernalia
Date: Saturday, October 26th, 2024 | 7 pm
When traveling to the United Arab Emirates, an official Government-issued passport is needed. Visas are required for the duration of your stay. American Passport Holders can receive visas upon arrival at no cost Citizens of other countries may need to apply for a visa via the airline or host hotel To check your visa requirements visit: www.VisitDubai.com
While vaccinations are not generally required for entry, countries with risk of Yellow Fever transmission must show proof of their Yellow Fever vaccination to obtain a visa.
ARRIVAL
When booking a flight to the conference please make travel plans for the Dubai International Airport (DXB). The Zayed International Airport (AUH) is located in Abu Dhabi and will require additional transportation to Dubai.
Review UAE Laws and Customs before traveling to the country
Travel with a pashmina or scarf
Wear compression socks on the plane. Tip: Walk hourly if flight is longer than 3-4 hours to avoid swollen legs, ankles, and feet
Heavily hydrate before, during, and after your trip to the desert climate
Tip: Pack your favorite electrolytes to add to water and drinks
Use moisturizers with sunscreen
Download WhatsApp
For recommendations on things to do, see, and places to eat in the UAE as well as to learn basic Arabic phrases visit our chapter website for tips: www.OmegaThetaOmega.com/visiting-uae
UAE uses a Type G Power Cord We recommend a universal travel power converters for ease of use with other international plugs
UAE Currency is the Dirham (AED) and can be exchanged at the airport
All major credit cards are accepted in the UAE
Uber, Careem, and Dubai/Abu Dhabi Taxis are available for transportation
Weather in October has highs of 36º C (97º F ) and lows of 26º C (79º F)
Moderate Clothing and Swimwear
Nothing revealing private body parts
Sleeveless tops are OK but bring coverage
Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai's historic neighborhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.
Omega Theta Omega Chapter:
Basileus Nikki Williams: +1-229-201-9343
Chairman Saderia Nicole Hooks: +1-305-761- 0689
Co-Chairman Melanie Allen: +971-52-807-4535
Pacific Cluster Coordinator: Clarine Simpson Vaughn, +231 888229222 or 703 626 8276 US Government: US Consulate (Dubai): +971-4-309-4000 | US Embassy (Abu Dhabi): +971-2-414-2200
Host Hotel and Booking: JW Marriott Marquis: +971-4-414-0000 Never Unpack Travel: +1-910-474-1256 (WhatsApp) | Travel@NeverUnpacks com
Emergency Services: Police – 999 | Medical Ambulance – 998 | Fire Department | Civil Defense – 997