International Conference on Doping and Public Health
General information
Dates: December 1-2, 2026
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Target audience:
Researchers, public health professionals, healthcare providers, policy makers, anti-doping and sport sector representatives, and other professionals working on doping and substance use prevention in society.
Venue:
The conference will take place at Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti, located in central Helsinki next to the Kamppi shopping centre and approximately a 5-minute walk from Helsinki Central Railway Station. The venue is easily accessible by public transport, including metro, tram, bus, and train connections.
Conference sessions, lunches and dinner will be held in the hotel’s meeting facilities. Restaurants, cafés, and services are available in the surrounding Kamppi area, and accommodation is available at the venue for participants who choose to stay at the hotel.
Accommodation
We have reserved a limited number of rooms at Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti.
Participants can book rooms at a discounted rate using the code: BDPH2026.
Room reservations must be made by November 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM.
Please note that availability is limited and bookings should be made directly with the hotel: www.sokoshotels.fi/en
Principles for a Safer Space
To ensure a respectful and constructive environment for all participants, the conference follows the principles of a safer space. All attendees, speakers, organisers, and partners are expected to follow these guidelines.
- Respect others: Treat all participants with respect and courtesy. Value different perspectives, experiences, and areas of expertise.
- Promote constructive dialogue: Discussions may involve complex and sensitive topics. Engage in conversations in a professional and constructive manner, even when viewpoints differ.
- Listen and give space to others: Allow everyone the opportunity to speak and contribute. Be mindful not to dominate discussions.
- Be mindful of diversity: Participants come from different professional backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Avoid assumptions and discriminatory language.
- No harassment or inappropriate behaviour: Harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or any form of inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.
- Respect privacy: Do not share personal stories or sensitive information shared during discussions without permission.
- Support a positive learning environment: The goal of the conference is knowledge exchange and collaboration. Help create an atmosphere that supports learning and professional dialogue.
Arrival information
Helsinki Airport (HEL) is located about 20 km from the city centre. The commuter trains I and P operate frequently between the airport and central Helsinki, with a travel time of approximately 30 minutes. A regional ABC ticket is required. Taxis are available outside the terminal, with a typical journey time of 25–35 minutes depending on traffic.
Public transport
Public transport in Helsinki is efficient, clean, and well-integrated. The system is operated by HSL (Helsingin seudun liikenne) and includes buses, trams, the metro, commuter trains, and ferries. The metro connects the city center with eastern Helsinki and Espoo, while trams serve central areas extensively. Commuter trains link Helsinki with neighboring cities, and ferries run to Suomenlinna and other nearby islands. Tickets are zone-based. For most travel within central Helsinki, an AB zone ticket is sufficient. However, when travelling between Helsinki Airport and the city centre, an ABC zone ticket is required. Tickets can be purchased via the HSL mobile app, ticket machines, or R-kioski shops.
Hotels
The Conference venue, Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti, is a centrally located hotel next to Kamppi shopping centre, offering easy access to metro, bus and tram connections.
Nearby alternatives include Radisson Blu Royal Hotel and Scandic Simonkenttä, both within walking distance and well suited for business travellers. Hotel Helka is another comfortable option close by.
All hotels are centrally located and convenient for a conference stay in Helsinki.
Dining recommendations
Helsinki offers a wide range of restaurants, from casual cafés to Nordic fine dining. Lunch menus on weekdays are often good value. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. The Kamppi and city centre areas provide numerous dining choices within walking distance of most central hotels.
Weather & Packing Tips
In December, Helsinki embraces the winter season with short daylight hours and temperatures typically ranging from -5 to +2°C. The weather can feel colder due to wind, especially near the sea.
Warm winter clothing is essential, including a coat, hat, gloves, and a scarf. Waterproof footwear with good grip is recommended, as streets can be icy or snowy.
Despite the cold, Helsinki in December offers a unique and atmospheric experience. The city is beautifully lit with seasonal lights, Christmas decorations, and festive markets, creating a cosy Nordic winter atmosphere for visitors.
Other practical information
Finland uses the euro (€). Card payments are widely accepted, and cash is rarely needed. Electrical outlets are Type C and F (230V). Tap water is safe to drink. The general emergency number in Finland is 112.