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Important Facts To Go Over Before Your Trip To The Big Apple
Passports The website http://travel.state.gov provides detailed information about the passport requirements for traveling to United States, categorized according to countries, under the “International Travel” tab on its homepage. It also facilitates application of U.S passports for citizens and minors. The processing time for a passport application normally takes 4 to 6 weeks. It takes 3 weeks for an expedited process requiring a higher processing fee. Visas The “Visas” section on http://travel.state.gov provides a step by step guide for the visa application process, depending on the type or category of U.S visa applicable to you. It is important to apply for a passport and a visa well in advance of your travel. Taxes Even though the United States has no value-added tax (VAT) at the national level, every state, county, and city levies its own local tax on all purchases, including hotel and restaurant checks and other services. In New York City, sales tax is 8.375% on meals and most goods, but there is no sales tax on clothing and footwear items under $10. Hotel tax is 13.25% plus $2 per room per night (including sales tax). Parking fees for hourly parking in garages or parking lots are subject to sales tax too, which is 18.375% Tipping Tipping is a common way of showing appreciation in return of the services provided by the service staff at hotels and is considered as an important gesture in the city. During your stay make sure you tip the concierge, bellhops, valet-parking attendants $1 at least every time you avail their service. In restaurants, bars, and nightclubs tip the service staff 15% to 20%, bartenders 10% to 15% of your check and cab drivers 15% of the fare. Tipping is certainly not mandatory if the service is unsatisfactory. Public Restrooms Public restrooms with basic facilities can be found in hotel lobbies, bars, restaurants, museums, department stores, railway and bus stations, and service stations Smoking Smoking is prohibited on all public transportation, in the lobbies of hotels and office buildings, in taxis, bars, restaurants, and in most shops. Drinking Laws The legal age for purchasing and consuming alcoholic beverages is 21. The proof of your age is often requested at bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry your ID along with you when you go out for a drink during your New York City Tour. Liquor and wine are sold only in licensed stores. Licensed liquor stores in the city are usually open 7 days a week, with some choosing to close on Sunday, and others on an early or midweek day. Liquor stores are closed on holidays and election days. Beer is available in grocery stores and delis 24 hours a day, except Sunday before noon. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com Author, Tia Jones, is a freelance writer who contributes articles on Affordable Travel Tours for Tours4Fun. For more information on how Tours4Fun can help you plan a trip to your next travel destination visit www.tours4fun.com. |
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