Every year, the United States welcomes over 22 million visitors from abroad, not to mention the countless domestic travelers who explore their own country. Whether you're visiting to marvel at the beauty of the Grand Canyon, watch a Broadway show, or catch a glimpse of celebrities in Hollywood, America offers a fantastic vacation experience. However, like any country, the US has its unique customs and practices that even native Americans may overlook. To ensure you have the best trip possible, here are 6 common errors to avoid when planning and enjoying your stay. Let's get to the point!
So what mistakes should all the travelers avoid when exploring the USA?
1. Don't underestimate the enormity of the United States
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While Europeans have the convenience of easily hopping from one city to another, or even from one country to another, in just a few hours, the United States, known as "America the Beautiful," is also known for being big in size. In fact, some states in the US are larger than entire countries. For example, Alaska, the largest state, covers more than three times the geographic area of France, while Texas is bigger than the entire United Kingdom. When traveling from the East Coast to the West Coast, you'll be embarking on a journey of at least 2,000 miles, so it's important to take into consideration the distances involved and not try to cram too much into a short period of time. Time zones also play a role, so make sure to be aware of when you'll be crossing into different time zones. And let's not forget about Daylight Savings Time.
2. Accumulating costs of tipping and service charges
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In the United States, numerous workers in the service and hospitality industry receive wages that are lower than the minimum requirement. These workers heavily rely on tips to sustain their income. While tipping may not be common in other parts of the world, it's expected in many situations here. When dining at restaurants, it's customary to give a tip of 15 to 20 percent of the total bill, although you should check if a service fee has already been included. In some cases, the service fee may not entirely go to your server, so it might be appropriate to provide an additional smaller gratuity. Additionally, it's also appreciated to give a few dollars to baggage handlers, valet parking attendants, and housekeeping staff. If you're unsure about whom to tip during your travels, our helpful guide is available.
3. Don't schedule close travel connections
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The United States boasts some of the world's largest and busiest airports, which means that transiting through them can be more time-consuming than you may realize. When booking your flights, it's advisable to avoid connections with less than an hour between gates, although more time is preferable. It's far more enjoyable and relaxing to spend extra time indulging in a beverage, reading a book, or observing people rather than rushing anxiously to another terminal. Please keep in mind that boarding concludes 15 minutes before departure, and once the airplane's door is closed, you will not be permitted to board. Even if you do not have a connecting flight, it's still best to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to departure, as many airports experience heavy traffic and potential delays during check-in and security procedures.
4. Verify your visa and passport
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Upon your arrival in the United States, it's necessary to undergo customs clearance and immigration procedures. At present, the visa waiver program includes 41 countries, allowing their citizens to visit the United States for business or tourism purposes for a duration of up to 90 days without the need for a visa. To avail of this program, the Department of Homeland Security mandates the possession of an enhanced e-Passport and prior application through the ESTA program. If your home country is not a participant in the Visa Waiver Program, you will need to apply for a visa several months ahead of your planned trip and may be required to schedule an appointment at a consulate. Additionally, it's important to note that citizens of many countries must ensure that their passports remain valid for a minimum of six months beyond their intended stay in the US, so be sure to check the expiration dates.
5. It's essential to have visitors insurance
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In the event of an unfortunate incident, such as spraining an ankle or contracting pneumonia during your vacation, it's crucial to have the necessary healthcare coverage. Although the United States boasts excellent healthcare, it's also known for being expensive. Without insurance, even a minor injury can result in substantial out-of-pocket expenses reaching tens of thousands of dollars. To ensure both your well-being and peace of mind, it's highly recommended to acquire insurance specifically tailored to provide coverage while you are in the country. A comprehensive insurance plan not only safeguards against medical expenses but also offers protection for trip cancellation or delay, medical evacuation, baggage loss, and more.
6. Remember to bring your power adapters
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Regrettably, there was a lack of international standardization when electricity became widely available globally. While several countries utilize a 220-240V (50 Hz) electrical system, the United States follows a different standard. In the US, we employ a 110-120V (60 Hz) system, and our electrical outlets feature either two or three prongs. If your country follows a different standard, you will require power adapters and converters to effectively use your preferred appliances.
Unlock the ease of airport parking with us – ParkingNearAirports.io!
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Traveling worldwide shouldn't be something tiring – conversely, that's the time you can enjoy both the amazing landscapes of our Earth and joint activities with your loved ones. Nevertheless, things don't always go as planned, and we're at risk to face some challenges even at such an enjoyable moment. One such problem is actually airport parking, specifically its price. Let's have a look at the situation a bit closer.
If you used to get to the airport you're flying from by your own car, you probably know what we're talking about – the question of parking cost arises every time. You'll be definitely shocked – even though most US airports provide travelers with on-site parking, which allows them to leave their vehicles for their entire journey there, such a parking type is unfairly overpriced. Choosing this parking option, your next trip just might cost you a fortune. And that's not even considering it's complicated to find a free parking spot for your car. Since nobody wants to waste money and travel inconveniently, there begs the following question: is there actually any solution?
And we're happy to say – yes, there is one!
What is off-site parking and why is it worth choosing this option exactly?
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Your best solution is already here – off-site parking lots that are just a few miles from the airport. Our smart booking platform with easy-to-use interface, ParkingNearAirports.io, helps our clients to select off-site airport parking lots with the most affordable rates, along with high-quality service. In addition, we offer the services for the major US cruise ports that are located in Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas as well.
Why choose an off-site parking option? The answer is pretty straightforward – it's cheap and convenient. Using our services, first of all, you'll avoid the following difficulties you might face while getting to the airport you're departing from:
- Crowded parking lots,
- Carrying the luggage all the way through the parking lot,
- Expensive fees without great service, and much more.
Everything works simply as well: after you've driven to the entrance, you'll be met by a parking lot staff who will take your luggage from your vehicle and load it onto the shuttle, which will take you and your bags to the airport terminal. Then, your car will be securely parked at the parking lot itself.
By the way, free shuttles going back and forth between the parking lot and the airport terminals are available 24/7. All that's required of you is to make a call and inform staff about the time suitable for you.
Forget about all the nightmares by choosing ParkingNearAirports.io!
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For better understanding, we'd like to give you a good example.
Let's imagine that you live in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. If you're going to visit Richmond, Virginia, use the services of cheap long-term parking near Pittsburgh Airport. In the event that you're flying from Richmond, choose affordable RIC economy parking. As you can see, everything just depends on the place where your journey begins.
Our friendly platform also provides travelers with special airport parking coupons that can make the price almost two times less. And that's without taking into account that our services will cost you up to 70% less at all! So don't forget to monitor all the updates and use them while booking!
Making a reservation is easy with us – it's possible to complete the process through a few clicks on our website. Besides, if your plans change, you can cancel hassle-free and get a refund.
If you still have any questions, turn to our easy-to-navigate website – there, you'll find all the required info connected with the off-site parking. Airport parking, along with its pricing, provided by the majority of US airports, is a true nightmare, but if you know the place, your life can be much easier. Let yourself travel in full comfort right now – Park Smart & Choose Convenience together with us! And have a nice trip!
