FAQs

Meeting Format

Will there be a virtual option for the meeting and events?
The Congress will be an in-person event.

Will there be livestream or on-demand content available during or after the Congress?
No ICCN courses or symposia will be live-streamed during the Congress or recorded for viewing after the Congress. This will be an in-person, live event.

Registration

When does Congress registration open?
Congress registration will open in December, 2025.

What does Congress registration include?
The Congress registration fee includes Symposium sessions from Sept. 8 through Sept. 12, the Welcome Reception and Ceremony, the Opening Ceremony and Award Lectures, Lunch and Posters on Wednesday through Saturday, coffee breaks, and the Awards and Closing Ceremony.

What events/extras are not included in the registration fee?
The following events and activities are optional. Additional fees will be required for Education Courses offered on Tuesday, Sept 8 and Wednesday, Sept. 9. The Gala Reception is a separate invitation, ticketed event. Space is limited for off-site events. Register early for best outcomes.

Who qualifies for Student registration rate?
The student category for registration is for Graduate, Doctoral and Postdoc students, and medical residents. This rate does not apply for medical fellows. You will be asked to show student identification to receive your badge onsite during check-in.

Who qualifies for Tech registration rate?
The Tech category for registration is for any individual working as a technician in any related field. You will be asked to show an employee badge, business card, or other proof of employment identification to receive your badge onsite during check-in.

Can I register for just Education Courses?
Yes. Please see options for registering for Education Courses (without Congress registration) on the Registration page.

Do Education Courses have limited capacity?
Yes. Due to varying room sizes, there is a registration cap for Pre-Congress Courses.  For best results, register early to secure your participation. 

Are CME credits available for ICCN 2026 Education Courses?
IFCN will be offering International CME Accreditation. The American Medical Association has determined that physicians not licensed in the US who participate in this CME activity are eligible for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. ACCME / AMA PRA Category 1 CreditsTM carry reciprocity with EACCME member countries and most international licensing bodies for physicians, with some exceptions. Physicians should check with their country/board for eligibility.

Will I receive my name badge in the mail?
Badges will not be mailed in advance of the conference. Participants must register to attend. Registered attendees will receive a name badge with their registration materials when they check in at the registration desk at the Centro de Convenciones Cartagena de Indias Convention Center in Cartagena, Columbia during the following times:

Tuesday, September 8             7:00am-5:00pm
Wednesday, September 9       7:00am-7:00pm
Thursday, September 10         7:00am-8:00pm
Friday, September 11             7:00am-6:00pm
Saturday, September 12          7:00am-5:30pm

Your badge is your "ticket" into conference activities (sessions, exhibitions, and receptions). Badges must be worn at all times and are not transferable at any time. Name badges should be worn at all times inside the Convention Center, as badges will be noting your access to sessions and activities. Attendees are cautioned against wearing their name badges while away from the venue, as they draw unwanted attention to your status as visitors to the city.

I am a poster presenter; do I need to register?
Yes, poster presenters with accepted abstracts must register to attend the Congress. As previously outlined in the application process, at least one author must attend ICCN 2026 in person as a presenter of the poster at their assigned time. Opportunities to register for optional events are included within the registration portal.

I am a speaker; do I need to register?
Yes, invited speakers must register to attend the Congress. Opportunities to register for optional events are included within the registration portal.

What is the refund policy?
If you need to request a refund for the Congress and Education Courses, registered attendees are required to submit a request in writing by August 8, 2026.

  • $75 processing fee before July 8, 2026
  • 50% refund if canceled July 9, 2026 - August 8, 2026
  • No refunds will be provided for cancellations after August 9, 2026, except in cases of health or family emergencies. For such extreme exceptions, a written request via email is required for consideration within 15 days post-conference. (please refresh the formatting in this area if needed).

Please Note: ICCN registrants are asked to grant IFCN permission during registration to reproduce, copy, and publish photographs taken at the Congress.

The Cartagena Convention Center is fully accessible to persons with special needs. For assistance with accommodations please note concerns on the registration form and/or contact Ms. Kathy Uy, MS CMP at kuy@ifcn.info.

Will there be a mobile app for the conference?
Yes, the ICCN 2026 Event App, for use on Android and Apple devices, will be available for download on or before 7 August 2026

Travel Information

What is the recommended airport to fly into Cartagena?
Most people fly to Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG). There are flights from several US cities including Miami, New York, and Fort Lauderdale. The airport offers 47 direct international connections, flights from 26 countries, 24 airlines, and over 1,000 weekly flights from Bogotá to Cartagena.

How to get around in Cartagena?
Many places are close in the historic center, and many hotels are near the convention center, so walking is a good option. For other areas like Boca Grande, it is recommended to ask for a taxi at the hotel or request an Uber. Avoid taking taxis off the street.

What is the recommended form of transportation from the airport to my hotel?
The airport is 3.5 miles from the old town and taxis are available. Taxi and Uber services are available at the airport. There are also local ride-share companies that are less expensive: Cabify, InDriver and DiDi Rider.

What is the currency in Colombia?
Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are accepted in most places, yet it is recommended to carry cash for small vendors. Download a currency converter app available on iPhone and Android phones before arriving in Colombia.

What is the Tax?
VAT is the consumption tax in Colombia, levied on almost everything sold. The Sales Tax rate in Colombia is 19%

What is the official language in Colombia?
Spanish is the native language. English is not widely spoken in Cartagena, especially among locals who aren't working directly in the tourism industry. Many hotel staff, especially in mid-range to high-end places, tour guides who work with international travelers, some restaurant servers in touristy areas like the Walled City and Bocagrande as well as some vendors who regularly deal with tourists may know basic English phrases.  Taxi drivers (unless you use Uber), street vendors and local markets and locals in non-touristy neighborhoods often do not speak English.

What if I don’t speak fluent Spanish?
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases. Use Google Translate or download a language app for Spanish offline. Apps like Duolingo or SayHi can help with quick interactions.

What electrical cord can I use in Colombia?
Colombia’s standard voltage is 110V, and the frequency is 60Hz. You can use US electric appliances in Colombia. Power plugs of type A and B:

What time zone is Cartagena?
Cartagena is in the US Central time zone.

What is the Country Dialing Code?
+57 Use messaging apps with Wi-Fi such as WhatsApp, Google Hangouts, Skype, Viber, FaceTime, etc. to reduce costs through your cell phone provider.

Is Cartagena safe?
Tourist areas are generally safe but watch out for petty theft. Don’t flash valuables.

How is the weather in September in Cartagena?
The weather is hot and humid year-round with temps around 85–90°F (29–32°C). The Convention Center has strong A/C, so bring a light layer for indoors. For evening networking events outdoors, dress code is “smart casual” or “tropical formal” (think: polished but relaxed). Light clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and reusable water bottles are essentials. Plan to dress in layers. The convention center is air conditioned.

Is it common to barter in Cartagena?
Yes, if you’re shopping in markets or taking a taxi, don’t be shy about negotiating.

Is tipping common in Cartagena?
Tipping in Cartagena (and Colombia in general) is appreciated, yet it's a bit different from the U.S. At Restaurants: A 10% service charge is often automatically added to your bill. It’s called “propina voluntaria” (voluntary tip), but most people pay it. Double check the bill to see if it's included. If not, you can leave 10% in cash or round up. If the service was excellent, feel free to leave a little extra in cash, even if the service charge was added.

At Bars: Tips are not expected but rounding up or leaving a small tip (a few thousand pesos) is appreciated, especially for good service.

 At hotel/housekeeping: Tips are appreciated by hotel housekeeping staff. Plan to tip 5,000–10,000 COP per day (~$1–2.50 USD). A best practice is to tip daily, since different staff may clean your room each day. Leave the cash on the pillow or on a desk with a note that says, “para la limpieza” (for cleaning), or just “gracias” (thank you).

Where do you recommend to get lunch during the Pre-Congress?
There are many options near the Convention Center to enjoy lunch. Please check the internet for hours, menu and walking directions. Some recommended restaurants are:

Inspiracion
  Location: Directly attached to the Convention Center 
  Cuisine: Coffee shop featuring breakfast and lunch options
  Why go: Perfect for convenience without leaving the venue, coffee, sandwiches, salads, snack
  Best for: convenience
  Address: Cl. 24 Centro de Convenciones Calle del Arsenal, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Juan Valdez Cafe
  Location: Two doors down from the Convention Center 
  Cuisine: Colombian java, cold drinks & pastries in a casual coffeehouse setting with Wi-Fi
  Why go: Perfect for convenience 
  Best for: convenience, quick snack
  Address: Centro de Convenciones, 24-01, Cra. 8b, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia

Restaurante Marea | Barra & Comida
  Location: Inside the Convention Center itself
  Cuisine: Seafood-focused menu inspired by the Colombian Caribbean, ideal for quick access and midday views
  Why go: Perfect for convenience and scenic dining without leaving the venue
  Best for: convenience, views, quick lunch
  Address: Centro de convencionesb, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
  
Doña Lola
  Location: In Getsemaní, a short walk from CCCI. 
  Cuisine: Caribbean cuisine with Mediterranean influences, tapas-style dishes.
  Lunch notes: Offers lighter daytime menu and brunch options. Stylish colonial ambiance
  Best for: Stylish midday, lighter menu

Ana Restaurante Bar
  Location: Getsemaní area
  Cuisine: Caribbean-Asian fusion with modern flair. Highly rated
  Lunch notes: Excellent for a unique, elevated lunch experience
  Best for: Elevated, creative lunch

DeIndias Comedor & Copas
  Location: Near Parque Centenario, beyond the old city walls. Very close to CCCI
  Cuisine: Contemporary Colombian flavors, designed for sharing and slow-paced meals
  Lunch notes: Ideal for leisurely lunches; creative cocktails and a warm atmosphere
  Best for: Relaxed, longer lunches, shareable

Celele (La Cocina de Pepina)
  Location: In Getsemaní’s Callejón Vargas; short walk from CCCI
  Cuisine: Contemporary Caribbean-Colombian, with recognition among Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants
  Lunch notes: Great for a refined and culturally rich culinary experience
  Best for: High-end, artistic cuisine

La Mulata
  Location: In the Old City; a short walk from the Convention Center
  Cuisine: Afro-Caribbean comfort dishes—hearty, delicious, affordable
  Lunch notes: Perfect if you're looking for a local, flavorful, down-to-earth meal
  Best for: authentic, casual, affordable

Do you have restaurant recommendations in Cartagena for the evening?
Please verify hours/make reservations on their website:

What is the congress dress code?
For Women: Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or rayon. Professional dresses, midi skirts with blouses, or light trousers with a sleeveless top. Consider blazers or cardigans for indoor A/C—but you probably won’t wear them outside. Closed-toe flats or low heels—streets can be uneven, especially in the Walled City. Keep makeup light and go for humidity-proof products. A sunhat and sunglasses for any outdoor events are stylish and practical.

For Men: Linen or light cotton button-downs – short sleeves or rolled-up long sleeves are totally fine.   Lightweight slacks or chinos – breathable fabrics are key. Loafers or dressy leather sneakers – something comfy but polished. Blazers are optional – bring one for formality, but don’t expect to wear it all day. Skip the tie unless it's a very formal event.

Health and Safety

Where is the nearest Hospital to the Cartagena Convention Center?
Clínica del Caribe
Address: Calle 38 #8-33, San Diego  (600 mts from the Convention Center | 30 min by car/taxi)

Where is the nearest Pharmacies from the Convention Center?

  • Farmacia Olímpica
    Address: Calle 38 #9-54, Centro Histórico (500 mts from the Convention Center)
  • Farmacia Pasteur
    Address: Calle 39 #8-33, San Diego (600 mts from the Convention Center)

What is the nearest Grocery Store to the Convention Center?

  • Éxito San Diego
    Address: Calle 39 #8-33, San Diego (600 mts from the Convention Center)
  • Carulla Bocagrande
    Address: Avenida San Martín #7-10, Bocagrande (1.5 Km from the Convention Center)

What number do I dial in an emergency in Colombia?

  • Ambulance and police 112
  • Fireman 119

What are the Visa requirements?
Citizens of over 90 countries do not require a visa to enter Colombia for tourism or short-term stays. To verify whether a visa is required for citizens of your country, please consult the official website of the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/colombia/nuestro-pais/visas-pais

Other Questions:
Have another question not covered here? Please contact Ms. Kathy Uy, MS CMP, ICCN Senior Meetings Manager at kuy@ifcn.info.

We look forward to seeing you in Cartagena!