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Berlin's pollen season usually extends from spring through summer, depending on weather conditions. Grass pollen is typically at its highest between May and July. Parks and green spaces, including the nearby Tiergarten, may have higher pollen levels. Current pollen forecasts are available through the German Weather Service (DWD).
ATMs are widely available throughout Berlin and accept most international debit and credit cards.
Germany's international country code is +49.
To call a German number from abroad, dial +49 followed by the local number (omit the leading 0).
In Germany, money can be exchanged at banks, and official exchange offices (often found in larger cities and tourist areas). Many hotels also offer currency exchange services, but the rates there are usually less favorable than at official exchange offices.
Additionally, it is easy to withdraw cash almost anywhere using a debit or credit card at ATMs, which are located in city shopping centers and other tourist areas.
Berlin has a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. During the symposium in late May and early June, daytime temperatures typically range between 18 and 24°C, although warmer or cooler weather is always possible. A light jacket is recommended for the evenings.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Berlin. However, some smaller cafés, bakeries, kiosks, and independent restaurants may accept cash only, so carrying a small amount of cash is recommended.
Germany uses the Euro (€).
Germany uses 230 V / 50 Hz electricity. Power sockets are Type F (Schuko) and are compatible with most European plugs (Type C and F).
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for ambulance and fire services or 110 for the police.
If you require medical assistance during your stay, please contact your hotel reception or the symposium organisers, who will be happy to help you find the nearest medical facility.
Germany offers a high standard of medical care. EU citizens should bring a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Visitors from outside the EU are strongly advised to have comprehensive travel health insurance.
Several pharmacies (Apotheken) and medical practices are located close to Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the symposium venue.
Many cafés, hotels, restaurants, and public spaces in Berlin also provide complimentary Wi-Fi.
Participants from institutions participating in eduroam can access the wireless network using their institutional login credentials at Charité and many other academic institutions throughout Berlin.
Pharmacies (Apotheken) are widely available throughout Berlin. Many common medications, including pain relievers and cold remedies, can be purchased without a prescription. Prescription medications require a doctor's prescription.
Outside regular opening hours, emergency pharmacies (Notdienst-Apotheken) are available.
During KBS, there are no public holidays in Germany.
The tap water in Berlin is of excellent quality and you can drink from any tap, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Bottled water is available at all supermarkets, snack bars and kiosks.
Berlin operates on Central European Summer Time (CEST, UTC +2) during the symposium period.
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
In restaurants, it is customary to round up the bill or leave 5–10% for good service. Taxi drivers and café staff also appreciate small tips
