Venue and accommodations
Omaha, Nebraska is in the center of the United States and the heart of the Midwest. The Omaha Metropolitan Area contains over 865,000 people.
Climate
You can expect plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures when you visit Omaha during the month of August. Average high temperatures reach 85 degrees (Fahrenheit) and evening temperatures average 64 degrees (Fahrenheit). Average precipitation in August is 3.23 inches of rain. Omaha is situated at an elevation of 1,090 feet.
Accommodations:
Attendees will be housed at the Element Hotel, located in a newly re-energized section of Omaha called Midtown Crossing. The Hotel is 100% smoke-free (guests can smoke outside only). All linens, towels, hair driers and toiletries will be provided. Wireless internet is provided. There is a post office drop box as well as an ATM machine available 24 hrs. a day. Several restaurants, lounges, parks, movie theaters and galleries surround the Element Hotel. The hotel is located 5 minutes by bus and 15 minutes by walking distance to the UNMC campus. Transportation between the hotel and campus will be provided. The hotel phone number is (402) 614-8080. See more information on their website.
Travel
Airport
The airport that serves Omaha, Nebraska is Eppley International Airport. Eppley Airport is a 10 minute drive from the Element Hotel. See more information on the Omaha Airport Authority website.
Travel Tips
Alcohol
Legal drinking age is 21 years and older. You must have your passport to prove your age. Alcohol must be consumed within the hotel or at a restaurant or bar. Alcohol may be purchased in supermarkets and liquor stores. It is illegal to carry or drive with open containers of alcoholic beverages.
Electricity
110 volts is standard in the hotel. Universal 2-prong outlets are standard.
Emergency
Dial 911 from a fixed line or mobile phone to reach police, ambulance and fire department.
Language
English
Measures
American Standard of Measurement
Post Offices
Omaha Post Offices are generally open 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays and 9 am – 12 pm on Saturdays. A drop box for mail is also available at the Element Hotel.
Religion
Omaha is multi-denominational.
Road Rules
Drive on the right hand side of the road. Follow posted speed limit signs. Use of seat belts is mandatory. When driving, you must carry your current driver’s license as well as proof of insurance. More information about the “rules of the road” when driving in Nebraska can be found at the DMV website. Foot traffic / pedestrians must use cross walks.
Tipping
Normal tipping in Omaha at restaurants is 15-20%.
Currency and Money
Travelers’ checks can be cashed at banks and major hotels.
ATMs are widely available 24 hours a day. There is an ATM located in the Element Hotel.
Major credit cards accepted at most shops, hotels and restaurants. Common credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diner’s Club.
Bank hours: 9 am – 4 pm (Monday-Friday)
Telephone
The United States country calling code is +1.
To place an international call from Omaha, you must dial 011, then 1, then country code of country you are trying to reach and then the phone number.
Shopping:
Major shopping areas and malls include Midtown Crossing; Old Market; Westroads Mall; One Pacific Place; Oak View Mall; and Village Pointe.
