General FAQ
1. Temperatures in Arizona in May can reach highs of 95F and lows of 40F. We have a casual dress code, so please wear whatever you find comfortable.
2. Smoking is not permitted in any area of Biosphere 2, including in Casitas except for in designated smoking areas.
3. Casitas are fitted with kitchens, but these are very limited. If used, we politely request that the kitchen is left in a clean and tidy condition (as you found it) upon checkout.
4. The nearest shop is around 15-20 mins away. Please bring snacks/drinks with you if you require them beyond our catering. We are catering breakfast, lunch and dinner (no b'fast on 6th, no dinner on 8th). There will also be refreshments (tea/coffee/water) available throughout.
5. You may bring alcohol with you, but this must remain in your Casita. We will have a bar service during dinner.
6. We are politely requesting that you are fully vaccinated against covid and take a covid test before arriving. You are not required to present proof to us.
7. Arrival is before 17:00. There is parking available on site.
8. Biosphere 2 address is: 32540 S Biosphere Rd, Oracle, AZ 85739
9. The digital agenda is available here.
10. Any other questions please contact analogastro@gmail.com
Accomodation FAQ
Where will the conference be held?
The conference will be held at Biosphere 2, 322540 S. Biosphere Rd, Oracle AZ 85739.
What sort of accommodations are available?
Biosphere 2 provides casitas, which are small houses, each featuring 3-5 bedrooms for conference attendees. These rooms are booked individually, and each casita includes shared common spaces such as a living room and kitchen. Guests will be charged per room per night. For pictures and more information about the casitas, please check out their website here.
For your convenience and for the best experience we strongly recommend staying at Biosphere 2.
How can I book a room at Biosphere 2?
To book a room at Biosphere 2, please follow these steps:
Purchase your conference ticket to include accommodations.
Complete the accommodations booking form.
Please note that if you do not complete your accommodation payment before the deadline and fill out the accommodations booking form, we cannot guarantee the availability of a room for you. Your prompt action is essential to ensure your accommodation at Biosphere 2.
What are the checkin and checkout times for the on-site accommodations?
You are welcome to check in between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm on your scheduled arrival date. If you are arriving after 5:00 pm, please see the late check-in instructions below. Check-out time is set for 2:00 pm on Sunday, May 12th. Please be aware that staying beyond the designated check-out time will incur an additional night's charge.
What if I arrive after the check-in time closes?
For anyone checking in after 5:00 pm, we will provide instructions here soon…
Are there any recommended hotels nearby?
Here is a list of the nearest hotels with their distance and approximate time to travel to Biosphere.
El Rancho Robles | 7 miles, 11 minutes
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oro Valley Tucson North | 18 miles, 25 minutes
El Conquistador Tucson – A Hilton Resort | 20 miles, 30 minutes
Fairfield Inn & Suites Tucson North/Oro Valley | 20 miles, 26 minutes
Please keep in mind that staying off site will require you to have your own vehicle. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft do not transport from Biosphere. (Check the transportation FAQs for more details.)
What happens to my accommodation payment if I am unable to attend the conference?
If you find yourself unable to attend the conference, and consequently, won't be using your accommodations, please reach out to us at analogastro@gmail.com to request a refund. For attendees who purchased a shared room rate, we will make every effort to find a replacement attendee for your accommodations. However, we cannot guarantee this substitution. In the event we are unable to find a replacement, you may need to forfeit your shared room rate. Rest assured, we are committed to accommodating refund requests to the best of our ability.
What happens if I am sharing a room with someone and they are unable to attend?
In the case that your roommate is unable to attend, we will make our best effort to find a replacement attendee and adjust the room accordingly to split the cost. We aim to ensure that you can still enjoy the accommodations you booked without any additional financial burden.
Are the casitas equipped with kitchenware, dinnerware, and drinkware?
No, the casitas do not come with kitchenware, dinnerware, or drinkware. While they have a kitchen area that includes an oven, microwave, and refrigerator for your use, you'll need to bring your own eating utensils, plates, bowls, glasses, cups, pots, and pans if you plan to use them. We kindly ask that you leave the kitchen in the same clean and tidy condition as you found it when you check out.
Alcohol Policy
You may bring your own alcohol, but it must be kept in your Casita at all times.
Is there housekeeping for the casitas?
No, housekeeping services are not available. You are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of your designated area and disposing of any trash. Any excessive leftover trash or damages after checkout could result in a cleaning fee.
What accessibility options are available?
Biosphere has a limited number of casitas that are specifically designed to accommodate individuals who require additional assistance or have accessibility needs. To secure an accessible unit, please indicate your requirement in the booking form when reserving your accommodations. We will do our best to ensure that your stay is comfortable and accessible.