United States of America

Flight.co.uk Overview

There are as many options of long haul flights for getting to the United States of America as there are towns and cities in this huge country which spans a continent. The USA consists of 48 states, including the volcanic islands of Hawaii in the Pacific and Alaska to the northwest of Canada. The choice of which of many cheap long haul flights to take is therefore dependent on the ultimate US destination one plans to reach. When it comes to holidays, many visitors who take flights to the United States of America head for Florida, the Sunshine State, with its fine beaches and man-made attractions such as Disneyland and Universal Studios. Sunshine is also to be had in California, home of the Hollywood movie stars, and this is also a popular choice for those taking flights to the United States of America. Discount flights to the United States of America are easy to find, particularly to the favourite vacation spots. It is easy to book flights to the United States of America direct from anywhere in the world. The choice of attractions in this country, from the magnificent National Parks like Yellowstone, the formality of the capital, Washington, to the glitz of New York City, so United States flights land at hundreds of major airports throughout the country.

Overview

America was discovered by Columbus in 1492 and for more than 500 years people have travelled here seeking a better life in the 'land of opportunity'. The land was fought over by colonial powers for centuries and finally won its independence from Britain in 1783. Despite the near annihilation of the Native American population, one of the bloodiest civil wars the world had seen, and ingrained racism (Native Americans were not granted citizenship until 1924 and racial segregation was the norm until as late as the 1950s), the American people have succeeded in forging one of the worlds most united, democratic and tolerant nations, a fascinating melting-pot of cultures, and the undisputed military and economic heavyweight of the world.

The country is made up of 48 neighbouring states of the continental USA, plus the huge state of Alaska, northwest of Canada, and the volcanic islands of Hawaii, 2,000 miles (3,219km) out into the Pacific. There are also the US territories, which include Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Midway Islands and US Virgin Islands. Tourism is focused mainly in the great cities such as New York and Washington, as well as sunshine states such as California, Florida and Hawaii where millions of tourists congregate each year to enjoy the fine beaches, natural wonders and man-made attractions such as Disneyland, Universal Studios and Hollywood. Too many miss out on the mind-blowing landscapes of the interior which can found in the wealth of magnificent National Parks like Yosemite, Yellowstone and the Adirondacks, as well as spectacular sights like the Grand Canyon and the Rocky Mountains. With all this on their doorstep, it's easy to understand why most Americans have never bothered getting a passport.

Local Customs

Laws vary from state to state, including speed limits, the age of consent and the age at which you may legally buy and consume alcohol, but this is usually 21 years.

Business

In the United States of America, being such a large country of diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, however in states such as California dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr.; Mrs.; Ms.) are used upon introductions and until otherwise stated. The Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.

Health

There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential.

Safety

Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, however travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened particularly at airports. Following the counter terrorist operation in the UK on 10 August 2006, the terror alert status on all flights was raised, particularly on those originating in the UK. Further restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Southern USA is prone to hurricanes between June and November.

Duty Free

Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,200 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 1,000 cigarettes, a reasonable amount of tobacco and 100 cigars. Travellers over 21 years are allowed 1 US quart of alcoholic beverages; and perfumes, lotions and other goods for personal use. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Cambodia, Korea and Vietnam. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country. Further information may be obtained from the nearest US Consulate. Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes or 2kg tobacco, or a proportionate mix of these. Travellers over 21 years can import 1 US quart of alcoholic beverages. Non-residents may enter the USA with gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period. Please note that it is a punishable offence to make false statements to a US customs officer. Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include: meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, marijuana, dangerous drugs, absinthe (or alcohol containing artemisia absinthium); plants; seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects, snails and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Salmon and trout, including eggs canned, pickled or smoked may only be imported from North America. Imports from or exports to Iran and leather souvenirs imported from Haiti are prohibited. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. All types of lighters and matches are not allowed in luggage, unless properly sealed in an enclosed container. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.

Tipping

A 15% tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but don't tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties tip 20% of the bill. It is normal to tip staff in hotels. In more expensive accommodation there is sometimes a bed tax, often as high as 15%, and it is worth checking that this is included within the quote.

Language

English is the official language.

Communications

The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. The outgoing code is 011, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom). The US has numerous area/city codes, which must be dialled before the local number required (e.g. New York Manhattan, 212, and Washington DC, 202). Mobile networks cover most of the country, including all urban areas, however unless you have a tri-band phone it is likely your cellular phone from home will not work in the United States. The largest GSM networks are T-mobile and Cingular. Internet cafes are prevalent in most towns and cities.

Time Zone

The USA is divided into six time zones. Eastern Standard Time is GMT -5, and Pacific Standard Time is GMT -8, Alaska is GMT -9, and Hawaii GMT -10. Other than Indiana, Arizona and Hawaii, all states observe daylight saving time in summer.

Electricity

110 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the two, flat-pin type, though three-pin plugs are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter, which can be purchased in most major departure airports.

Money

The US Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards and travellers cheques are widely accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid hassles. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.