21st Annual EAIE Conference
16-19 September 2009, Madrid, Spain

Madrid
Madrid is located in the heart of the peninsula and right in the centre of the Castillian plain, 646 meters above sea level. Due to its great geographical location, the city became Spain 's capital in 1561. In fact, all roads in Spain lead to Madrid so you can find the best products that the country has to offer. A cosmopolitan city, a business centre, headquarters for the Public Administration, Government, Spanish Parliament and the home of the Spanish Royal Family, Madrid plays a major role in the banking and industrial sectors.

It is a city rich in history and culture and its people are known for being friendly and open towards visitors. With three of the world's best art museums (the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza), Madrid is a great cultural centre. You can choose among a great variety of tourist attractions, great shopping streets such as Calle de Serrano or lose yourself in the tangled streets of the historic city, or in the vibrant neighbourhoods of Chueca and Huertas.

From traditional Castilian fare to delicious Galician seafood, Madrid will most certainly entertain your taste buds. Indeed, Madrid is a meat-lover's paradise, so you can try local favourites such as cocido and roasted meats. And of course there are always plenty of options when it comes to tapas bars. Indeed, Madrid is renowned for its wild nightlife and endless options for nightlife entertainment. You do not need to walk the streets of Madrid very long to find late night cafes, theatres with evening shows, and artists performing their acts in the middle of the street!

Highlights
Museo del Prado
Plaza de Santa Ana
Centro de Arte Reina Sofia
Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza
Plaza Mayor
Palacio Real
La casa de Campo
Plaza de Oriente
Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Almudena
Puerta del Sol

Conference and Exhibition venue
The Palacio Municipal de Congresos Convention Center offers functionality, versatility, and the latest technology in communications and services for hosting the 21st Annual EAIE Conference in Madrid . Designed by architect Ricardo Bofill, the spectacular architecture offers participants limitless light and the largest ever EAIE Exhibition area to date! The venue is located in the heart of the Campo de las Naciones business complex, the new financial hub of Madrid and is easily accessible by underground and expressway. Using the modern and efficient underground system, the venue is within 5 minutes from Barajas International Airport and 15 minutes from the city centre. Although only inaugurated in 1993, Palacio Municipal de Congresos Convention Center is one of the main engines of Madrid 's economy – many historical and important events have taken place within its walls. The 21st Annual Conference, which marks the 20th anniversary of the EAIE, will no doubt be an unforgettable event! Hope to see you there!

Madrid 2009