It may feel like 2013 just began yesterday, but we’ve already turned the first corner into February, which means the ECR is not so much creeping up on us as sprinting at full speed. So, in the five weeks remaining before March 7, what can you do to make sure you get the most out of this five-day festival of everything radiological? Here are our five top tips to get you off to a good start.

ECR badges, patiently waiting to be mailed

1) Get your badge mailed to you

Nobody wants to turn up full of enthusiasm on the first morning, only to spend the first 30 minutes in the longest queue of the whole congress. Be one of the smart ones; register before February 6 and get your congress badge and CME stickers sent to your home. You’ll be glad you did when you waltz past the waiting masses at the onsite registration desks.

2) Plan your trip now

Don’t put it off. Vienna is full of great places to stay in every price category, but the city fills up fast for the ECR. The ECR Accommodation Service will help you find somewhere quickly at great rates. And if you’re flying, bear in mind registered participants can save up to 20% on Star Alliance flights for themselves and one accompanying person!

3) Start getting involved

Got a question about Vienna’s nightlife? Looking for tips on which sessions to attend? Or perhaps you just want to tell everyone about your stunning presentation? Then join the ECR Facebook Discussion Group. But don’t stop there. RSVP the ECR 2013 Facebook event and like the myESR page for regular ECR-related coverage. We love our social media and will be doing our best to give you the inside track.

4) Pick out your top sessions

As one visitor pointed out last year, the only way you can see everything at the ECR is to clone yourself several times over. So the best thing you can do is select your must-see sessions in advance and plan a schedule. Right now, the best way to do that is to download the ECR 2013 Preliminary Programme and start browsing. We’ve highlighted a few key sessions with special articles, but we know you’ll find what you’re really looking for.

5) Find out what’s on in Vienna

If you come to Vienna and only visit the Austria Centre, then I feel genuinely very sorry for you. Equally, if you can’t find something to entertain you in this fantastic city, then you are probably a lost cause. This place is teeming with wonderful museums, exhibitions, theatres, and music venues. If you need advice, the Arts & Culture section of the ESR website provides an extensive listing, as well as info on how to book tickets.

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