7 Important Things to Know Before Visiting the USA

Here are 7 pointers to keep in mind to maximise your experience when visiting America for work or that long awaited holiday:

 

1. The Tipping culture

Tipping your waiter is always required whether you’re in a taxi, at a bar or in a restaurant. It’s regarded as a token of appreciation if the service you received was hospitable.

2. The price on the label is not the final price!

Most things you’ll buy will exclude sales tax which is generally 10% extra in addition to the total cost. When in doubt, just take your phone out to calculate the exact amount you need to pay.  

3. Don’t underestimate the national parks

Forget the concrete jungle that you always see on TV. Make time and go visit the national parks scattered all across America. Some of them such as Yellow Stone National Park, The Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park & Zion National Park are the ones that you cannot miss.

4. Your ESTA Application

Don’t we all love some paperwork! If you’re arriving from a country under the Visa Waiver Program, you are subject to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) and obtain approval before coming to the USA.

5. Not everywhere is safe!

Like every country, there are some places that are unsecured and not guarded at all times. Try and get as much advice as you can from the friendly locals and assess your situation regularly. Wander often but wander safe.

6. Make sure to have your travel and health insurance sorted before you travel.

This is pretty much a step that’s imperative before you go to any country especially where its currency is the American dollar. Invest wisely and keep a printed document of your ID, Health insurance, plane ticket with you at all times.

7. Turning right on a red light is rule-worthy.

Across the 50 states, drivers can take a right turn on a red light when it’s safe and if there’s no sign that forbids a right turn. So watch out when you’re driving or crossing the road.

 

 

Source article: https://www.travelanddestinations.com/things-to-know-before-visiting-the-usa/

Travel Tips & Emergency Services

While are travelling, you will often not know who to contact in the case of an emergency. We have created a list of important numbers in the unfortunate case of an emergency on your travels. We have also added our top 10 travel tips any traveller needs to know when planning an overseas trip.

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Travel Tips and Emergency Services

While are travelling, you will often not know who to contact in the case of an emergency. We have created a list of important numbers in the unfortunate case of an emergency on your travels. We have also added our top 10 travel tips any traveller needs to know when planning an overseas trip.

Embassies in the USA

It is good practice to inform your local embassy, in the country you are visiting, your travel details.  In case of any travel emergency, they will have your records, know your whereabouts and be able to assist you with any consular services. We have collated a list of European Union member countries and the South African Embassies located in the United States of America with direct website links for you.

Embassies in Europe

It is good practice to inform your local embassy, in the country you are visiting, your travel details.  In case of any travel emergency, they will have your records, know your whereabouts and be able to assist you with any consular services. We have collated a list of American and South African embassies in EU member countries with direct website links for you.

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Travel Tips and Emergency Services

While are traveling, you will often not know who to contact in the case of an emergency. We have created a list of important numbers in the unfortunate case of an emergency on your travels. We have also added our top 10 travel tips any traveler needs to know when planning an overseas trip.

Embassies in South Africa

It is good practice to inform your local embassy, in the country you are visiting, your travel details.  In case of any travel emergency, they will have your records, know your whereabouts and be able to assist you with any consular services. We have collated a list of all the Embassies and Consular offices located in South Africa with direct links for you.

*We have only included countries where we have found an official website. We have no control over the information on these sites and take responsibility for any errors, omissions or details.