Customs and traditions
When travelling in the United States, it's important to know and respect certain customs and traditions. Firstly, punctuality is highly valued in American culture. Being late can be seen as a sign of disrespect.
Secondly, tipping is a common and expected practice in many service sectors such as restaurants, taxis and hotels. It is usually between 15% and 20% of the total bill.
Also note that Americans value personal space. Keep a respectful distance when interacting.
Furthermore, as the United States is a multicultural country, it is important to respect diversity and inclusion. Please refrain from using discriminatory or offensive language.
Finally, it is advisable to respect the rules and laws specific to each state, as they may vary. Smoking in public places is often prohibited. Possession of firearms is a protected right, but varies from state to state. As a visitor, it is important to know that it is illegal to possess a firearm without the necessary permits. For your own safety, you are strongly advised to avoid situations involving firearms.
Time difference
The time difference between the UK and the United States depends on your location in the United States. The United States has several time zones. The changeover to daylight saving time does not necessarily take place at the same time as in the UK, so the time difference may be different for a few weeks at a time. Here's an overview:
Eastern Standard Time (EST): The UK is generally 5 hours ahead of EST (New York City, Washington DC, Atlanta, Miami).
Central Standard Time (CST): The UK is generally 6 hours ahead of CST (Chicago, Dallas, Houston, New Orleans).
Mountain Standard Time (MST): The UK is generally 7 hours ahead of MST (Phoenix, Denver, Salt Lake City).
Pacific Standard Time (PST): The UK is generally 8 hours ahead of PST (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Las Vegas).
Hawaii Standard Time (HST): The UK is generally 10-11 hours ahead of Hawaii.
Electricity and internet access
In the USA, the current is 110-120 volts and 60 Hz, with type A and B sockets. To use European appliances, a compatible adapter is required.
Internet access is available in most areas, and Wi-Fi is available in public places such as hotels and restaurants. Pre-paid SIM cards are widely available to avoid roaming charges. For mobile connectivity, it is advisable to check coverage with your local mobile operator.
Safety
The USA is generally safe, but precautions are necessary. As elsewhere, incidents can occur, especially in major cities and tourist destinations.
Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or less frequented areas. Also, always keep an eye on your personal belongings, and never leave valuables in plain sight in your car.
In case of emergency, dial 911. It's also a good idea to take out travel insurance that covers medical visits, as hospital and medical costs in the US are among the most expensive in the world.
When it comes to road safety, compliance with speed limits and driving rules is essential, as the authorities are very strict in this area.
Currency
The official currency in the United States is the US dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted. Tipping of 15-20% of the total amount is common in restaurants and services. Shop prices generally do not include taxes. Your bank must be informed of your trip to avoid having your card blocked.
Weather
The variety of climates in the USA depends on the region and the season. The West Coast has a mild climate, the South is hot and humid, while the Midwest has extreme climates. The Northeast has hot summers but cold, snowy winters. Some areas, such as Florida, are prone to hurricanes in the summer and autumn.
Languages
The language spoken in the United States is English.
Accommodation quality
The quality of accommodation in the USA is similar to European standards. Luxury hotels in major cities offer top-of-the-range services, while bed & breakfasts and inns offer a more authentic experience. It's worth noting, however, that all accommodation, even the most modest, meets minimum quality standards, particularly in terms of cleanliness and safety, which are governed by strict federal and state regulations.
Food quality
In the big cities, you'll find a wide variety of cuisines from all over the world, with high quality standards. However, the country is also famous for its fast-food cuisine, which is ubiquitous and convenient, but not always the healthiest or most nutritious. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are increasingly common. What's more, the U.S. has strict food safety standards, so don't be afraid to eat street food or at local markets. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Other information
If you're planning a trip to the USA, it's important to familiarise yourself with some of the common hotel billing practices. Of particular note are resort fees. These are additional charges added to the room rate per night and generally cover access to certain hotel facilities and services, such as Wi-Fi, local phone calls, use of the gym and sometimes even parking.
These fees are often not included in the initial fare quoted at the time of booking, which can lead to surprises when it comes to final payment. Always check the small print. Resort fees are common in many popular destinations, such as New York, Las Vegas, Miami and Hawaii, and can vary widely, from a few dozen dollars to over US$50 per night. It's important to take these fees into account when making your reservation.
