International HYM 2024

where it all began, in Switzerland, 41 years ago...
Lausanne 1983 - and now Berne in 2024

17-20th October 2024

Dear friends! ☀

We’re getting more and more excited for the upcoming meeting in Bern! 🎉

Quick update from the committee: After our meeting yesterday, we had to make a tough call! 😅 Due to many last-minute bookings, the Gala Dinner is now fully booked! 🍽💃 But don’t worry, there’s still room for Friday and Saturday morning events! 🌟

If any friends haven’t signed up yet, they can still register for these times! 🙌 And if they’re hoping to attend the Gala, they can drop us an email at event@hym2024.ch to be added to the waitlist. 🤞 We’ll do our best to fit them in if spots open up!

Looking forward to seeing everyone! 😄

About This Event

We look forward to hosting delegates from Club 41 International, Club 41 Switzerland, Round Table Switzerland, Ladies Circle Switzerland, Tangent Club International, and Agora Club International for this extraordinary rendezvous.
Join us for an unforgettable experience!

Welcome to HYM2024

We are thrilled to invite you to the 41st Club 41 International and Tangent Half Year Meeting (HYM), taking place from October 18th to 20th, 2024, in the charming city of Berne, Switzerland. This year's meeting holds a special significance as we celebrate the legacy of the inaugural Club 41 International HYM, which took place in Lausanne, Switzerland, back in 1983. A lot has changed since then, but our commitment to friendship, fellowship, and community remains as strong as ever.

About Berne

Berne, the capital city of Switzerland, is not just a political hub but a vibrant cultural center. With its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, the Zytglogge clock tower, and the BearPark, Berne offers a unique blend of historical richness and modern sophistication. The Aare River that runs through the city adds a touch of natural beauty, making Berne a perfect backdrop for this milestone event.

Why This HYM is Special

The fact that the 41st HYM coincides with the event returning to its Swiss roots adds an extra layer of excitement and nostalgia. We've planned a memorable agenda featuring not only our traditional activities but also some special festivities to commemorate this unique occasion.

HYM 2024 Berne in

HOTELS

Accommodation Options in Bern

These are some example hotels, all located at the same address, ensuring you stay at the heart of the event.

1. Ibis Budget
2. Ibis
3. Novotel

Berne City Card: Free Public Transportation
Special Offer for Hotel Guests:
All participants who book a room at any of our official hotels will receive a Berne City Card for the duration of their stay. This card grants you free access to Berne’s public transportation system.

How to Get Your Card
You will receive your Berne City Card directly upon checking in at your hotel.

Novotel
4-Star Hotel
Ibis
2-Star Hotel
Ibis Budget
1-Star Hotel

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

01. General FAQ

When and where is the event taking place?

The Club 41 International Half Year Meeting (HYM) is scheduled to take place from October 18th to October 20th, 2024. This special 41st anniversary event will be held in the beautiful city of Berne, Switzerland. Various activities and meetings are planned at different venues around the city, including official hotels for registration and accommodation. Further details on specific venues for each part of the program can be found on our Program Page.

Who can attend the event?

The Club 41 International Half Year Meeting (HYM) is a collaborative event involving multiple clubs: Club 41 International, Tangent Club International, Agora Club International, Round Table Switzerland, and Ladies Circle Switzerland.
For international delegates and their partners, registration can be done through this website.

If you are a national delegate from Switzerland, please use the registration for Swiss Delegates.

What kind of weather can I expect in Berne in October, and what clothing should I pack?

In October, Bern typically experiences autumnal weather with average temperatures ranging from 6°C to 14°C (43°F to 57°F). It’s a season of transition, so you can expect a mix of sunny days and the possibility of rain. We recommend bringing layers — including a warm sweater, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable footwear. Don’t forget to pack a scarf and a hat to stay cozy during the cooler evenings. Checking the weather forecast closer to your departure date is always a good idea for the most accurate information.

02. Registration & Fees

How do I register for the event?

To register for the event, navigate to the “Registration” section on our website. Complete the online form with the required information, including your choice of participation package and optional pre-tour interest. Once submitted, you will receive payment instructions via email.

What is the Pre-Tour and how can I sign up?

The Pre-Tour is an optional event that takes place before the main meeting. If you’re interested in participating, please indicate your interest on the online registration form. A separate section will be available for this. Additional information about the Pre-Tour will be sent to you at a later date, and you can then confirm your participation directly with the organizer.

What are the payment options?

After registering, you’ll receive an email with the payment instructions. Payment must be made through bank transfer to the account details provided. Your registration will be confirmed only after we receive your payment.

What does the registration fee include?

The registration fee covers the cost of attending the planned events as per your selected package.
o Package 1 (Thursday to Sunday) includes the Home Party on Thursday, Nations Night on Friday, Saturday meetings, Saturday lunch, and the Gala Dinner. The fee also covers meals at the events and drink vouchers. Price: 320 Swiss Francs.
o Package 2 (Friday to Sunday) includes Nations Night on Friday, Saturday meetings, Saturday lunch, and the Gala Dinner. The fee also covers meals at the events and drink vouchers. Price: 299 Swiss Francs.

03. Accommodation

How do I book my accommodation?

See “Hotels” on top of page.

As long as the “special rates” applies, you get links to the hotels in your registration confirmation email.

What is the Berne City Card and how do I get one?

The Berne City Card grants you complimentary access to public transportation throughout your stay in Berne. You will receive this card upon check-in at any of the official event hotels.

04. Event Programme

What is the schedule for the event?

For a detailed schedule of the event, please visit our schedule section.

Is there a dress code for any of the events?

Home Parties (Thursday): No dress code is required. Feel free to dress comfortably and casually for a relaxed evening.

Friday Evening – Alpine Chic: Embrace the spirit of the Swiss Alps by dressing in the style of Heidi and Geissenpeter. This is an opportunity to have fun with traditional Swiss-inspired clothing.

Saturday Meetings: Smart Casual is the preferred dress code. This means looking polished yet relaxed—no need for formal attire, but please ensure your outfit is neat and professional.

Gala Dinner (Saturday Evening): The event will be formal, with a Black-Tie dress code. This requires tuxedos for men and evening gowns for women, creating an elegant atmosphere.

05. Other

How do I get to Berne?

✈️ By Air:

The closest airport is Bern Airport (BRN). From there, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the city center. Other nearby international airports include Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA), both of which are well-connected to Berne by train.

🚄 By Train:

Berne’s Main Train Station is well-connected to major cities in Switzerland and Europe. Upon arrival, you can use local transport or taxi to the official hotels.

🚗 By Car:

Berne is easily accessible by car from all directions. If you are driving, most hotels offer parking services, though it’s advisable to book in advance.

🚌 Public Transportation:

Berne has a well-maintained public transportation system. Remember, if you book at our official hotels, you’ll receive a Berne City Card which allows you free usage of public transportation in the city.

Will there be any health and safety protocols due to COVID-19?

Specific health and safety protocols will be updated as the event approaches, in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.

Who should I contact for more information or specific inquiries?

For more information or specific inquiries, please contact our teamevent via event@hym2024.ch. Additionally, a WhatsApp Info Group will be set up closer to the event to disseminate important updates.

Is there a pick-up service available from the airport?

We regret to inform you that there is no official pick-up service provided from the airport for this event. Participants are kindly requested to make their own travel arrangements to reach Bern. For guidance on how to get to Bern, please refer to our How to Get to Bern section on the website.

I have special dietary needs; how can I inform the organizers?

If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, please indicate this when filling out the online registration form. There will be a section dedicated to special requirements.

If you still have unanswered questions after reading this page, please contact us.

SPONSORS

HYM2024 wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors. Feel free to conact us for any sponsoring!

Schedule

Please note that the event programme is subject to change. While we endeavour to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information, adjustments to the schedule may occur. The organizers reserve the right to modify the program details, including but not limited to, the timing, sessions, and speakers, without prior notice. We recommend checking this website regularly for the latest updates to ensure that you have the most current information.

Lobby Novotel13:30 - 18:00Check-In / Registration / Infopoint
Lobby Novotel18:00 - 19:00Pick-Up Home-Parties
Tablers Home19:00 - 23:00Home Parties
Hotelbar Novotel23:00 - 00:00Night Cap at the Hotel Bar
Lobby Novotel09:00 - 18:00Check-In / Registration / Info Point
Novotel Room WANKDORF09:00 - 10:00Workshop 1a
Finance Management (Bob Standaert)
Novotel Room WANKDORF10:30 - 11:30Workshop 1b
Finance Management (Bob Standaert)
Novotel Room NEUFELD09:00 - 10:00Workshop 2
More Rule changes and nobody to blame (Martin Hartl)
Novotel Room NEUFELD10:30 - 11:30Workshop 3
Regions in 41 International (Isak Stjärnlöf)
Lobby Novotel14:00 - 16:00Guided Tours
NPZ17:00 - 18:00Golden Stomach Meeting
NPZ18:00 - 23:30Swiss Night
Dress code: Alpine Chic – or “dress like Heidi and Geissenpeter”
Kursaal Szenario08:00 - 15:00Check-In / Infopoint
Kursaal Panorama 610:30 - 12:00HYM LC Switzerland
Kursaal Panorama 2-409:00 - 12:00HYM RTS
Kursaal Panorama 109:30 - 12:30HYM TCI
Kursaal Szenario09:00 - 13:00HYM Club 41 International
Lobby Novotel09:30 - 11:30Walking Tours
Kursaal Foyer AARE12:00 - 14:00Lunch (with specialities from the regions of Switzerland)
Kursaal Panorama 2-414:00 - 16:00AGM Club 41 Switzerland
Kursaal Panorama 614:00 - 16:00Meeting Agora Club International
Lobby Novotel14:00 - 16:00Walking Tours
Kornhaus- keller18:00 - 19:00Gala-Evening – Reception and Apéritif
Kornhaus- keller18:00 - 23:30Gala-Evening – 41st HYM-anniversary
dress code: black tie
HOTEL NOVOTEL09:00 - 12:00Farewell Brunch