We are pleased that you will be attending the 5th World Stroke Congress, taking place in Vancouver B.C., Canada, June 23-26, 2004 and we look forward to a great scientific and social event.

As the dates of the Congress are approaching, please find below some useful information:

The weather in Vancouver in June is mild and pleasant. Temperatures range from 11°C - 19°C. Rain is possible.

The registration desks will open on Wednesday, June 23, at the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre as follows:

08:00 - 10:00 Registration for courses participants only
10:00 - 19:00 Registration for Congress (and for courses)

The registration desks will stay open throughout the Congress during session times.

A Hospitality Desk will be open for the duration of the Congress, to provide full tourist facility services, including additional hotel accommodation, car rental services, tours etc.

The opening ceremony will include the following exciting program giving participants the opportunity to experience the unique culture of Western Canada:

Northern Shadow Dancers - One of the most dynamic First Nation dance groups in western Canada. This group of dancers challenges the traditional native dancing format and brings exciting legends, story-telling, costumes and choreography into their act.

Vancouver Police Pipe Band - Attired in traditional Scottish regalia, the Vancouver Police Pipe Band creates a strong and memorable impression as they perform their emotional and exciting pipe music. This band has a worldwide reputation for excellence and is immaculately turned out.

Chief Maurice Nahanee - Leader of the Squamish Nation. Traditional protocol requires that a First Nation Chief gives the gift of his blessing to the opening of Congresses and presents a "Talking Stick", meaning of the right to speak

Transportation from the Congress Centre at 18:30 and back at the end of the event.

A Speakers' Ready Room will be available for speakers, and will be situated in Room 10 on the 2nd floor (follow the signs). The speakers' ready room will be available every day throughout the Congress during session times.

Audiovisual Equipment

• If using a Powerpoint (or any other computer) presentation, please note you need to bring it on a floppy disk (3.5"/1.44 MB), on a CD or on a "disk on key", using the USB port in the computer and load it on one of the congress' computers in the Speakers' Ready Room, at least 1 hour before the start of the session.
• Video Presentation will be available for those who have pre-ordered it by June 5, 2004 (VHS multi-system format only).
  
• Overhead projection (projection of transparencies) will be available for those who have pre-ordered it by June 5, 2004. Please bring your presentation to the session hall where your lecture is taking place during the coffee or lunch break prior to your session.

Please note that slide projection will not be available.

Upon registration you will receive your personal envelope containing your badge. All participants, accompanying persons and exhibitors are kindly requested to wear their badges throughout the Congress in order to be admitted to the lecture halls and other scheduled activities.