FAQS
Frequently asked questions about COMS

If you have a question that isn't answered here, send along an email to seminars@easterncurrents.ca and we'll get back to you right away.

Answers
  1. Will Continuing Education Credits be available?

    COMS 2010 has been approved by the NCCAOM for 28 PDA Points (CEUs).

    Up to seven CEUs are available per day from March 26-28 (including Qi Gong with David Bray), and 7 CEUs are available for Whitfield Reaves' one-day workshop on March 25th.
     

    The Veterinary workshop is two days and has been approved for 12.5 credits by IVAS.

    Please note to receive CEUs you MUST sign in and out for every session you attend. CEU Certificates are mailed out approximately 2-3 days after the Symposium.

  2. Am I allowed to film or record any of the lectures?

    No, recording of any kind is not permitted at COMS 2010. All registrants will receive a Symposium binder with full notes for every available course. 

  3. Can I place an order for product at the Symposium?
    Yes! We will have a full store set up in the Port of Vancouver room with everything from acupuncture needles to books to massage tables. Keep your eyes peeled for weekend specials and some exciting new products!
  4. I'm not attending the Symposium on Saturday. Can I still attend the networking party on Saturday night?
    No, the networking party is only open to those practitioners who have attended the Symposium on Saturday. While we'd love to open the party to everyone, space is limited.
  5. What if I need to cancel my registration?
    COMS 2010 has a three-tier cancellation policy. If you have to cancel for any reason before February 25th, there is a full refund less a $50 administration fee. If you cancel your registration between February 25 - March 11, you will have 50% of your course fees refunded. And finally, if you have to cancel after March 11th for any reason, there is no refund.
  6. How far away is the hotel from the airport?
    The Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside is approximately 20-30 minutes away from the airport, depending on traffic. Taxi fare will run you approximately $30, or if you have more time you can take the new Canada Line (rapid rail line). For more information on getting from the airport to the hotel using public transit, please call 604-953-3333 or visit Translink's homepage.
     
    For a map showing the location of the hotel and driving directions from the airport, please click here
  7. Is parking available at the hotel?
    Yes, underground parking is available at a rate of $6 per hour or $23/day. 
  8. Are meals provided at COMS 2009?
    No, meals are not included in your registration fee. We do always ensure a healthy supply of herbal teas and coffee, not to mention morning refreshments of pastries, yogurt and fruits. In the afternoon, save room for some light refreshments courtesy of our sponsors.
  9. What is the weather like in March in Vancouver?

    Spring will be springing! March in Vancouver is typically around 6 degrees Celsius. Your best bet is to pack clothes that allow you to layer them. Be sure to bring a sweater or fleece as air conditioning in hotels can be fickle! While we always hope for sun, it doesn't hurt to pack a waterproof jacket and umbrella. 

  10. My partner/spouse will be joining me in Vancouver. What are some sights they can check out during the day while I'm in class?
    Your partner will thank you! Vancouver is beautiful in March, and they won't run out of things to do during the day while you're enjoying the Symposium. Take a stroll over to Stanley Park where you can rent a bike or visit the Vancouver Aquarium. Head over to Granville Island and explore a wide selection of market stalls selling fresh food and flowers, or enjoy a meal in a waterfront cafe. Take a tour of the Vancouver Art Gallery and some of the many shops along Robson Street. To end the day, why not take a leisurely stroll along the Vancouver Seawall?
  11. Can you recommend any nearby restaurants?
    Yes! The Renaissance is close to loads of great restaurants. For a quick lunch, the P2B Bistro in the lobby is a good bet. Cardero's is nearby on Coal Harbour Quay and offers a great selection of fresh seafood.  Along West Georgia St. you'll find Joe Fortes for great steaks.
     
    For those that don't mind taking a taxi, The Sandbar on Granville Island has great seafood and fantastic views. For great Indian food, try Vij's on West 11th near Granville Street. For some great Thai food, Maenam on West 4th is a good bet.
  12. Is the Symposium happening at the same time as the 2010 Olympic Games?

    No, COMS 2010 takes place about one month after the Olympic games leave Vancouver. (The Olympics take place from February 12-28, and the Paralympic Games are from March 12-21).

  13. I'm a Naturopathic Doctor. Is COMS 2010 approved for CE Credits by the CNPBC?

    Yes, COMS 2010 has been approved for CE Hours by the CNPBC. Hours would count towards category C or E for a maximum of 14 hours combined.