- avoiding having valuables on show
- taking safe and reliable transport
- travelling with colleagues or other delegates, especially at night
- being alert in crowded and tourist areas, airports, restaurants, pubs and bars and on public transport
- keeping your card in sight and concealing your PIN when using ATMs and paying by card
Location and travel advice
THE is committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive and enjoyable experience for all our delegates.
To help you prepare for your upcoming visit, we encourage you to review the key information and travel advice below.
Before traveling, we recommend checking the travel guidelines and recommendations from your home country's embassy. Additionally, we advise consulting your primary care provider to determine whether any vaccinations or other health preparations are needed for your trip.
Venue
University of Leeds
Woodhouse Lane
Leeds
LS2 9JT
UK
Visas
Some delegates may require a visa to enter the country. Please note that it can take several weeks to process a visa application so early application is recommended.
We can provide visa invitation letters for ticket holders when requested. Please email a photo/scan of your passport to events@timeshighereducation.com once you have booked your ticket.
We cannot accept any responsibility for visa applications. Where a delegate is unable to attend because of failure to obtain a visa on time, the normal cancellation policy for the ticket fee will apply.
We recommend having travel insurance for the duration of your trip. Please contact your travel agent for further details.
Getting there
By plane
The closest international airport is O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, about a half-hour drive from the event hotel. Transfer services to Pretoria can be booked via the airport website.
By train
The Gautrain high-speed train operates between Johannesburg, Pretoria and O.P. Tambo International Airport. Do not walk to or from Gautrain stations after dark.
By public transport
Lancaster University's main campus at Bailrigg is on the A6, just south of the city. Bus routes 4 and 4X operate between Lancaster Railway Station (Platform 3 exit) and the campus every 30 minutes Monday to Friday daytimes.
Accommodation
Delegates are responsible for reserving and covering the cost of accommodation for the duration of their stay.
Below you will find information about the recommended event hotels as well as a map through which you can easily browse for other hotels and private accommodations. Hover over an accommodation to view travel times and distances to the venue.
Saadiyat Rotana Resort
23 Al Sa'Diyat, 1002, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Located in the heart of Leeds, next to Leeds Central Rail Station, the hotel is ideally placed for easy access to all corners of the city. Enjoy a fitness room and health club featuring a heated indoor pool, sauna and steam room.
We have secured the discounted price of £125/night including breakfast. To book, click on the black pin on the map below and apply the group code ACME23.
Saadiyat Rotana Resort
23 Al Sa'Diyat, 1002, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Located in the heart of Leeds, next to Leeds Central Rail Station, the hotel is ideally placed for easy access to all corners of the city. Enjoy a fitness room and health club featuring a heated indoor pool, sauna and steam room.
We have secured the discounted price of £125/night including breakfast. To book, click on the black pin on the map below and apply the group code ACME23.
Safety advice and emergency contacts
To protect your personal safety we recommend:
South Africa's main emergency service number is XXXX. Call this number if you need urgent help from police, fire or ambulance services.
FAQs
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What is the main language?
English is the most widely spoken and the language of official business and commerce.
Which currency can I use?
The UK’s currency is the pound sterling (£, GBP) with notes in denominations of £5, £10, £20 and £50, and coins in denominations of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2. While most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, it is still a good idea to have some cash on you (especially small change). ATMs are easily accessible in most shopping malls, high streets and banks.
Which plug socket is used?
The UK uses type G plug sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz. We would recommend bringing a universal adapter.
Will wi-fi be available?
Free wi-fi is available throughout the university's buildings. Connection details will be displayed at the check-in desk.
Are there data roaming charges?
You will need to check the exact charges with your network provider but most international delegates will incur high data roaming charges. We recommend buying an eSIM via Airalo which gives you 1GB of data for 7 days for US$4.50. Use our referral code TIMESH7718 for US$3 off. We recommend checking that your phone supports eSIMs before making your purchase.
Is tap water safe to drink?
Tap water in the UK is subject to very strict regulations and is considered one of the best water supplies in the world. All tap water is safe to drink and cook with.
Do you have any guidance for LGBTQ+ delegates?
Homosexuality is legal and it is illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. For more information and advice for LGBTQ+ travellers, visit the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association's website.