Social Programme
 |
Message from the Organisers On behalf of the Costa Rican, Chillian, and Mexican Groups of the IABSE, it is our great pleasure to extend a warm invitation to the international structural engineering community to join us at the IABSE Congress 2024. The Congress will be held in the vibrant city of San Jose, Costa Rica, from 25-27 September 2024, at the Costa Rica Convention Centre. The theme of the Congress, "Beyond Structural Engineering in a Changing World," serves as a call to embrace the dynamic challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in our ever-evolving field. As we embark on a new era of innovation, sustainability, and resilience, it is crucial for us to come together as a global community to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and forge new collaborations. We are particularly thrilled to host the IABSE Congress in Latin America after more than 60 years, since the last gathering took place in this vibrant region. Latin America has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent decades, with remarkable advancements in infrastructure and structural engineering. The Congress presents a unique opportunity to explore the diverse and rich engineering landscape of Latin America while fostering connections with professionals from this part of the world. San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica, is an ideal location for this congress. Nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty, Costa Rica is globally recognised for its commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. As you explore the city and its surroundings, you will be captivated by the lush rainforests, majestic volcanoes, and pristine beaches. Costa Rica's sustainable infrastructure showcases our dedication to harmoniously coexisting with nature, making it a compelling destination for professionals in the field of structural engineering. During the Congress, you will have the opportunity to engage in a diverse range of activities. Our programme will include thought-provoking keynote speeches, informative technical sessions, and insightful discussions. The Congress will also provide a platform for sharing best practices, case studies, and research findings, enabling us to collectively shape the future of structural engineering. Furthermore, we have planned exciting social events and networking opportunities that will enable you to connect with fellow professionals, renowned experts, and industry leaders. We believe that these interactions will foster collaboration, nurture friendships, and create lasting memories. We encourage you to seize this remarkable opportunity to not only expand your professional horizons but also immerse yourself in the natural wonders and sustainable infrastructure that Costa Rica has to offer. Come and discover the innovative projects that exemplify the fusion of structural engineering with environmental preservation. We eagerly await your participation and look forward to welcoming you to San Jose, Costa Rica, in September 2024. Warm regards,
|
About the Organising Committee
The IABSE Congress 2024 is organised by the Costa Rican, Chillian, and Mexican Groups of IABSE from both academia and industry. Their collective expertise ensures a well-organised and engaging event that caters to the needs and interests of the participants.
Objective and Scope
The objective of the IABSE Congress 2024 is to bring together bridge and structural engineering professionals, researchers, and practitioners from around the world to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss the latest advancements in the field. The congress aims to foster collaboration and promote innovative approaches in addressing the challenges faced by the industry in a rapidly changing world. The IABSE Congress 2024, with the theme "Beyond Structural Engineering in a Changing World" will cover a wide range of topics related to bridge and structural engineering. The congress will explore emerging trends, technological advancements, and sustainable practices in the field.
Important Dates:Call for Abstracts opens: 3 July 2023 Deadline of Abstracts Submission: 15 January 2024 Notification of Abstracts Acceptance: 16 February 2024 Deadline of Submission of Full Papers: Closed Annual Meeting: 23-24 September 2024
| Congress FormatThe IABSE Congress 2024 will feature a diverse program that includes keynote lectures, technical sessions, discussions, and networking opportunities. The event will provide a conducive environment for meaningful discussions, sharing of experiences, and establishment of professional connections. Who Should Attend?The Congress welcomes participants from various disciplines within the field of structural engineering, including but not limited to researchers, academics, practicing engineers, architects, contractors, and industry professionals. We encourage individuals who are passionate about advancing the field of structural engineering and shaping its future to attend this esteemed gathering. |
What is San Jose, Costa Rica known for?
Costa Rica A Tropical ParadiseCosta Rica extends from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, and its distance is 200 miles. The variety of landscapes and microclimates that can be enjoyed on the same day make this country a paradisiacal destination. In only 51.000 km2, the traveler can find: sun and beach, adventure, nature, and culture—necessary components to satisfy the taste of thousands of tourists who find their ideal vacation spot in Costa Rica. Costa Rica occupies a privileged place in the heart of Central America for its beaches, bathed by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, separated by just three hours by car or 45 minutes by plane. The Caribbean area stands out for its variety of aquatic ecosystems and its black and white sand beaches, ideal for practicing activities focused on nature and the sea, such as sport fishing and diving in clear waters, and also for enjoying the sun and taking walks by the sea. The Pacific coast concentrates large tourist centers, and its beaches are preferred for surfing; for example, Esterillos, Jacó, Hermosa, Boca Barranca, near the Marino Ballena National Park, and in the Golfito sector, where the famous “long left wave''. |
|
About San Jose
San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, blends urban energy with cultural richness. Vibrant and packed with Victorian mansions, Costa Rica's rowdy, bustling capital. Explore historic sites, museums, and bustling markets. Immerse in the lively arts scene, savor local cuisine, and use it as a gateway to the country's diverse natural wonders.
|
 |
Venue
COSTA RICA CONVENTION CENTER (CCCR)
The Costa Rica Convention Center (CCCR) is an avant-garde architectural work. Responsible for the environment and inspired by the biodiversity, culture, and authenticity of Costa Rica. Its design was conceived to generate unique experiences for visitors within a sustainable, modern, and versatile space. The CCCR is a country project developed to satisfy the demand for meeting tourism in the provision of spaces and the best conditions for the reception and holding of congresses, conventions, and social events, both national and international. With this project, Costa Rica hopes to enhance its commercial advantages and thus become one of the main convention destinations in the region.
.png)
Artistic TrilogySculpture “Evolution”Upon entering through the main San José entrance, our visitors will be greeted by a unique  display of modern Costa Rican art. Its name is evolution and it is the creation of the internationally renowned Costa Rican sculptor, Jorge Jiménez Deredia. The experience is complemented by the colors of the typical cart wheel of our country, at the feet of all visitors. Red, blue and orange explode on the floor and pigment the lobby. | Mural of the Second Republic
The mural of the Second Republic, painted by Luciano Ranucci in the 50s, exalts the values of our society, at its ends scenes related to education, public works, agriculture and family were drawn. It is a work of contemporary heritage, which was exhibited at the old “El Coco” international airport. | The Five Pre-Columbian Spheres
|
Map
|
.png)
.png)
Hotel and Accommodation
| Double Tree by Hilton Single room Executive: $128 + VAT / Standard: $115 + VAT Double room Executive: $151 + VAT / Standard: $124 + VAT
|
.png)
| Country Inn By Radisson Single room Executive: $113 + VAT / Standard: $80 + VAT Double room Executive: $113 + VAT / Standard: $80 + VAT / Master Suite: $125 + tax
|
.png)
|
|
.png)
.png)
.png) | Adventure Inn Single room $90 VAT inc. Double room Double: $105 VAT inc. / Triple: $130 VAT inc. / Quadruple: $150 VAT inc. .png) |
Social Programme
In Costa Rica you are immersed in a tropical paradise, with impressive landscapes and natural beauties, rich biodiversity, volcanoes, culture, pleasant climate, beautiful beaches and the typical good humor of its inhabitants. Optional Tours available for you. For more information click here. Contact us for booking. |
|
| Caribbean Gala Dinner19:00 Thursday 26 September COST PER PERSON USD 150 + 2% VAT Includes: drinks (wine, whiskey, soft drinks), 4-course dinner, DG, Caribbean dances and Calypso music. Register here. |
Accompanying Persons ProgrammeWednesday, September 25 08:30 – 09:00: Participant Accreditation 09:00-10:30: Inaugural Ceremony 18:30 – 20:30: Welcome cultural activity Thursday, September 26 09:00 to 13:00: City Tours Learn about the daily life and culture of Costa Ricans on this sightseeing tour visiting the most notable areas of downtown San José in a mix of historic and contemporary locations that include museums, shopping centers, the largest government buildings, theaters, parks, churches, schools and universities. In addition, guided visits will be made to the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and the National Theater, two of the most emblematic places in the Central Valley, ending with a stop at a famous place called La Esmeralda to buy souvenirs. Includes: transportation, museum tickets and guide. Bring walking shoes, sunscreen and, depending on the weather, a raincoat. |
|
Friday 27 September 07:00 to 17:00 Poas Volcano Tours and La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park. As we ascend towards the Poas volcano, you will notice the difference in terms of microclimates and vegetation, appreciating the great diversity of agriculture present during the trip, among them: ferns, flowers, strawberries, as well as the livestock farms and the view of the central valley. creating a beautiful landscape. The 2708-meter (8000-foot) high Poas Volcano is active, and you will not only admire its impressive crater and gas emanations, but you will also learn about its phreatic and fumarolic activity in addition to the different ecosystems and lush vegetation found in it. this beautiful national park. We will continue our way to La Paz Falls, The park has five waterfalls, hiking trails through a cloud forest and a tropical forest and an orchid exhibition. Plus, numerous educational animal exhibits, including an aviary, butterfly observatory, insect exhibit, hummingbird garden, and snake exhibit. It should be noted that this walk takes place in the humid tropical forest sector and consists of steps in some parts of the route. They include: transportation, entrance, guide and lunch. Bring walking shoes, a light waterproof coat, mosquito repellent and sunscreen. |
|
%20-%20Copy.png)
.png)
COST OPTIONS | Cost per person in dollars |
Option No.1 Includes: Opening ceremony, welcome cocktail, gift, private City Tours, tours to the Poás Volcano and Waterfall Option No. 2 Includes: Opening ceremony, welcome cocktail, gift, tours to the Poás Volcano and Waterfall Option No. 3 Includes: Opening ceremony, Welcome cocktail, gift, Private City Tours Option No. 4 Includes: Opening ceremony, welcome cocktail, gift | USD 300,00 +2% VAT USD 220,00 +2% VAT USD 125,00 +2% VAT USD 100,00 +2% VAT |
Facts to consider before your trip to Costa Rica
VISAS Depending on your nationality it is possible to enter the country without a visa. Those who carry passports from the United States, Canada and most European countries have this privilege. More information, click the link. |
YELLOW FEVER VACCINE In Costa Rica there is NO Yellow Fever, coming people require vaccination at least 15 days before their trip: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea. Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Bolivia, Venezuela. Brazil, Peru, Colombia and Ecuador as well as the Department of Guyana. Upon arrival in the country, individuals will be required to present the certificate. For further details, please visit the following link here . |
Transport For transportation within the capital and its surrounding areas, including travel to and from the airport, we recommend utilizing taxi or Uber services. They are readily available and provide convenient options for getting around. Electrical Appliances For Costa Rica there are two associated plug types, types A and B. Plug type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and plug type B is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. Costa Rica operates on a 120V supply voltage and 60Hz.
Climate
During September, you can expect a climate with humid days and intermittent rain. The average temperature ranges between 19°C to 23°C. It is recommended to bring rain gear and light jackets. Despite the rain, you can still enjoy the rich culture and attractions of the city, but it is advisable to be prepared for changing weather conditions. To find out the weather conditions during your stay in our country, we suggest you visit the website of the Meteorological Institute of Costa Rica at the following link | Currency and Credit Cards The Costa Rican currency is the colon. American dollars and credit cards are used in almost all establishments in the country. The highest recognition cards are accepted. You will also find ATMs distributed throughout the national territory. Language The official language in Costa Rica is Spanish. However, in many places, you will always find people who speak English! During the IABSE conference, the official language will be English with access to Spanish. Drinking Water The water is drinkable in most of the national territory. However, we recommend drinking bottled water, especially in areas near the coast. |
|
