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.

Virginia Tech Academic Building One
3625 Potomac Avenue
Alexandria, Virginia 22305
United States

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.

 Check if you require a visa

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.

Delegates are responsible for reserving and covering the cost of accommodation for the duration of their stay.

Below you will find information about the official event hotels, as well as a map through which you can easily browse for hotels and private accommodation if you do not wish to stay at the official hotels. Hover over an accommodation to view travel times and distances to the venue.

Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel

2800 Potomac Ave, Arlington, VA 22202, United States

Situated near Washington DC, this LEED® Gold certified hotel offers pet-friendly and family-friendly rooms, outfitted with high-speed Wi-Fi, alongside room service, a restaurant, and a fitness center.

We have secured the discounted price of USD 179/night. To book, click on the black pin on the map below and apply the code SUMMIT1115.

To protect your personal safety we recommend:

• 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

The US's main emergency service number is 911. Call this number if you need urgent help from police, fire or ambulance services.

What is the main language?
English is the most widely spoken and the language of official business and commerce, with Spanish being the next most commonly spoken language.

Which currency can I use?
The US’s currency is the US dollar (USD, $) which is subdivided into 100 cents (c). Notes come in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100, and coins come in denominations of 1c, 5c, 10c, 25c, and $1. 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, petrol stations and supermarkets.

Which plug socket is used?
The US uses type A and B plug sockets. The standard voltage is 120 V at a frequency of 60 Hz. We would recommend bringing a universal adapter.

Will wi-fi be available?
Free wi-fi is available throughout the venue. 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 urban areas is safe to drink and cook with, however tap water in rural areas is not always safe.

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.