Know Before You Go - 2026 Zone Institute

Keep an eye on this page…more info coming soon!

Dress Code:

  • Business Casual: Wear Business Casual for most of the event, including general sessions, learning sessions, etc.
  • Formal: The Saturday evening Gala will be an formal evening (suit and tie, evening/cocktail dress, etc. - you will see some tuxedos)
  • End Polio Now Apparel: Please pack an End Polio Now tee shirt or, a red or purple shirt for the Friday night beach End Polio Now Vigil and group photo. Be aware that End Polio Now tees will not be sold on site.

Event Program:

  • Printed programs will be available when you check in to the Institute. This will include lots of great information including the event schedule, speaker bios, sponsor information, and more.
  • Click the image below to view the event program:

Registration & Schedule:

  • The detailed event schedule will be available in the printed program/schedule book you'll receive at check-in.
  • Signage will direct you to the Rotary registration area — note that this is separate from hotel check-in.

Guest Speakers:

  • Guest speaker materials: Guest speakers who have not already done so should provide their presentation materials to the respective committee as soon as possible, including slides, videos, and any other resources they plan to use in Cancun.
  • Presentation backup and accommodations: Guest speakers should also bring a USB copy of their presentation. Please let us know at this time if you require any accommodations so arrangements can be made in advance.

What to Pack

Consider packing some extra supplies to help make your trip more comfortable and safe!

  • Sun & bug protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent
  • Comfort & health: hand sanitizer, aloe vera, antacid
  • Tech & travel gear: portable charger, water bottle, waterproof phone case, large ziplock bag (for wet clothing), umbrella, luggage lock
  • Sleep essentials: ear plugs, sleep mask
  • Excursions: if you signed up for an optional excursion, bring appropriate clothing and footwear for that activity

Don't forget to pack some canned corn as we look ahead to next year's Zone Institute and go “From Cancũn to Canned Corn” and gather in Omaha, Nebraska in 2027. All corn will be delivered to a local food pantry in Cancũn.

Airport Arrival & Transportation

  • If you're staying on-site at the Iberostar, transportation to and from the airport is provided — be sure you've passed along your travel details to your registrar.
  • The airport will have clear signage, Rotary greeters, and well-labeled transportation vehicles to help you find your way.
  • Check out the below video for a visual guide on navigating the airport upon arrival:

Iberostar Resort:

Dining

  • Most meals will be at your choice of the various restaurants around the resort.
  • A few special events have assigned meals: the Major Donor Luncheon, the RLI Breakfast, and the Saturday Night Gala.

Water & Hydration

  • Drink the bottled water provided in your room and avoid the tap water.
  • As with any warm climate travel, be sure to stay hydrated.

Travel & Safety Tips

  • Consider using a VPN to protect your passwords and data while traveling.
  • Stay within the hotel zone after dark.
  • It's normal to see armed guards on the beach — a standard security measure in the area, not a cause for concern.
  • Make copies of your driver's license, passport, and Global Entry card, and keep them in your room safe.

Time Zone:

  • Cancún stays on Eastern Standard Time (EST) year-round and does not observe Daylight Saving Time. Since the Institute falls in September, plan on Cancún being 1 hour behind Eastern Time — the same as Central Time.

WiFi:

  • We'll share the WiFi network and password here as soon as we have it!