Birmingham has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years and is now the ideal destination for everyone. The city offers a diverse range of activities, catering for the needs of its many visitors. From ballet to Balti houses, clubbing to chocolate tasting; you will discover everything you could ever want from a city. Experience the endless shopping facilities, marvel at extensive artwork or simply relax in beautiful parkland. Birmingham, a city that oozes style, culture and charm, welcomes visitors with more pride than ever before. Vibrant and cosmopolitan you will discover everything you want in a city: scintillating shopping, the £500 million Bullring development and iconic Selfridges building has confirmed Birmingham's reputation of the regional shopping capital. A World class culture, staging more national and international sporting championships, the UK's finest concert venue - Symphony Hall and the most popular exhibition centre in Europe - The NEC. If you seek some enriching stimulation after your ICC visit you are perfectly located. In terms of culture and entertainment Birmingham benefits greatly from its position as being one of Europe's most multi-cultural cities. There is always something occurring in this active city that will satisfy your preferences. Numerous theatres including The Hippodrome attract the most acclaimed stage productions whilst Birmingham's renowned art galleries house an eclectic range of work from pre-Raphaelite to contemporary.   By air: More than 22 scheduled airlines serve Birmingham's International Airport linking it to over 60 business destinations throughout the UK, Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East. Conveniently located next to The NEC and adjacent to Birmingham International Rail Station, travellers can access the city centre and The ICC quickly and conveniently. By road: Birmingham is at the hub of a comprehensive motorway network that connects you to every corner of the country via the M5, M6, M40 and M42. Furthermore, you benefit from over 2,000 parking spaces for The ICC and a further 5,000 spaces within walking distance. By rail: Nothing could be easier than reaching The ICC by train. It is minutes away from Birmingham New Street Station, the UK 's largest interchange station. Regular services connect you to London (100 minutes away), Edinburgh (4hrs 30mins), Cardiff (2hrs) and most other regional towns and cities throughout the UK. For more information see Air Travel.   Delegates have a choice of local hotel accommodation. You will be able to choose from a range of city centre hotels booked directly through the Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information see Hotel Booking.   Birmingham has an abundance of convenient transport options. The One Day Centrocard is £5.60 and is valid on train, light rail & bus all day everyday. And the One Week Centrocard at is valid for unlimited public transport for a week at £21.30. For more information visit the Centro website.   Visitors must have a valid passport and from some countries, a visa is required. It is incumbent upon delegates to ensure they arrange appropriate entry. Contact your British Consulate for advice.   Average temperatures in Birmingham during October are 7–13 degrees Celsius. Delegates are encouraged to bring warm clothes and a raincoat.   The monetary system is based on English pounds and pence. All major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, stores and restaurants. For currency conversion, visit www.xe.com.   England operates with VAT (value added tax) this tax rate is generally included in your quoted prices in retails stores and restaurants. However it is advisable to check prior to your purchase on such items as airline and travel bookings.   The ICC has an Information Desk for assistance with any tours.