Suni Boraston, MD
I hope we will have the great pleasure of welcoming you to 10th Conference of the International Society of Travel Medicine (CISTM10) in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, May 20-24, 2007. CISTM10 will undoubtedly be the travel medicine event of the year in one of the most spectacular setting to be found anywhere. It should not be missed!
The professional goal of our meeting is to share with our collegues from all parts of the world the latest advances in the science and art of travel medicine. Educational formats will include plenaries and symposia, debates, workshops, original scientific presentations, meet the experts, case of the day and abstract presentations. Satellite programs and sponsored events will also be offered.
Nestled between mountains and ocean, Vancouver has something to offer every visitor. The Conference will be held downtown, on the waterfront, at the Trade and Convention Centre. Cruise ships dock here, right next to the conference location and you can spend hours just watching their coming and goings.
Like any multicultural city, Vancouver has numerous fine restaurants of many ethnicities. Recently fusion food has appeared _ think Szechuan, Malaysian and Thai together - delicious! And just a short walk from the Convention Centre there are many excellent shops, guaranteed to please the most ardent shopaholic. Collections from all the major designers are available here, many in their own boutiques.
Across the harbour from the Convention Centre are the North Shore Mountains. Hikers will love the great walking and hiking to be found there and the fabulous mountain scenery. Others might simply want to ride the Grouse Mountain Tram to the top for breath-taking views. Or head to Whistler just 2 hours drive north of Vancouver along the Sea-to-Sky Highway for a true mountain experience. This world-renowned ski resort will host the 2010 Winter Olympic Games and offers numerous summer activities as well.
And treat yourself to a day or two after the conference to get to know the areas beyond the City. If golf is your style, you will enjoy the fine courses available in Greater Vancouver, with many other courses both in Whistler and on the way there. Bowen Island, a 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, has a brand new, very affordable 9-hole golf course. Come experience a little bit of island living that is so cherished here on the West Coast. Many artists reside on the islands and there are numerous art studios, shops and cafes to discover.
British Columbia has strong English roots and nowhere is that more evident than in Victoria on Vancouver Island. Go over by ferry or, if your budget permits, via an unforgettable floatplane ride directly to Victoria's inner harbour. Touching down you will be greeted by the façade of the magnificent Empress Hotel. Make sure you have afternoon tea there to experience why Victoria is described as "more English that England".
We will have more for you about the scientific program as the various sessions are finalized. Stay in touch. See you in Vancouver.
For full details, visit the CISTM10 website.
Suni Boraston, Chair, Local Organizing Committee
