As Ben Folds puts it "...going where the air is clear, there's better beer ... in Adelaide." During the 2007 AIDC, spend some of your free time exploring the city.

Food
Adelaide boasts some of Australia's finest chefs, so you don't have to go far to find amazing food. Or the unusual ... experience a South Australian legend, the pie floater! We've suggested some places to eat, near the conference, Eating out in Adelaide. But feel free to ask any of the AIDC team for suggestions.

Shopping
Late night shopping in Rundle Street and Rundle Mall, 15 minutes walk from the Conference, on a Friday night covers all the bases. Rundle Mall contains major department stores and national chains, with Rundle Street continuing with more boutique clothes, books and funky gifts. Not to mention a wealth of restaurants, pubs and shops. Trims is nearby on King William Rd and stocks a range of Australian labels such as RM Williams and Bonds.

Fitness
Try the Hilton Hotel gym or try City Gym on Light Square, casual visit memberships are $12 a session. Adelaide has magnificent parklands, which ring the city and are lined with plenty of walking and running trails you can use any time. There's always the Marksman Indoor Firing Range on Franklin Street, ten minutes walk away, if you need.

Festival City
Adelaide's reputation as the festival city is for good reason. If you are staying around a bit longer, you really should experience:

Adelaide Film Festival February 22 - March 4

WOMADelaide World Music, Arts & Dance. March 9 - 11

Adelaide Fringe March 8 - 31

And if you feel the need for speed, Adelaide Clipsal 500 March 1 - 4

Staying Longer
Adelaide is truly a gateway to the natural splendour of South Australia. You are within an easy drive of the State's famous Barossa, Claire Valley and McLaren Vale wine regions and the Flinders Ranges a few hours to the north. There are brilliant coastline and beaches to the west; the Adelaide Hills to the East, and the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island to the south. Escape from the city and sit back with a glass of locally produced wine and soak up the brilliant summer weather.

Visit the South Australian Tourism Commission for more ideas.

Climate
February and March are the final months of an Adelaide summer, so be prepared for heat! The average temperature ranges from 16°C (60°F) to 28°C (83°F) however, temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F) are not unusual. So bring a jumper and a swimsuit! If it's warm, remember to wear a hat, sunscreen and always drink plenty of water! Check the Bureau of Meteorology [link to ] closer to the dates.

Transport
Getting around Adelaide city is easy by foot, as the city is completely flat and contained within a compact grid-like area.

Taxis - can be hailed on the street or from the cab rank between the Hilton and Gouger street. However it's wise to ring 131 008 and book. Many cabs have EFTPOS (debit) and/or credit card facilities in the car.

Buses - the 99C City Loop or 99B Beeline buses circulate the city continuously and are free. They leave from Victoria Square opposite the Hilton.

Trams - a tram runs from outside the Hilton to the beach suburb of Glenelg, bursting with cafes.

Trains - run from the North Terrace Train Station and will take you outside of the city centre.

Metrotickets can be used on buses, trams and trains. You can buy tickets from the conductor or driver on board, or vending machines as well as delis, newsagencies, and Post Offices. A single trip will cost you between AUD $2.20 and $3.80

Visit adelaidemetro.com.au for timetable and route information. Or call 8210 1000 or 1800 182 160 toll free.