Top tips for visiting Washington DC

Foreign travellers to the United States are required to have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure. Citizens of some countries need a visa to travel to the U.S. and must apply for one at an American embassy or consulate.

International travellers who are seeking to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program are now subject to enhanced security requirements and will be required to pay an administrative fee. For details, visit esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta. Be sure to bring copies of your passport so that if it gets stolen or lost you can prove your citizenship

The dollar is the standard currency in the U.S. The best place to exchange money is at an ATM since the bureaux in the airports or around the city tend to charge higher fees. Use a currency converter to determine the value of your currency compared with the dollar.

Currency Exchange Locations:

• Travelex Currency Services: Dulles International Airport, BWI Airport,  Reagan National Airport,  Union Station, 1800 K Street NW Washington, DC
• CXI Currency Exchange International: Tysons Corner Center, Potomac Mills Mall, Westfield Montgomery at Bethesda, Treasure Troves Jewelers (1305 G Street NW, Washington DC)

Driving in Washington DC is difficult to navigate. If you are staying in the city you can easily get around using public transport, which is plentiful. To rent a car within the United States, you will need to have a driver’s licence issued by your home country and you will also need to obtain an International Driver’s Permit. Rental cars can be picked up at all Washington DC major airports.

Tipping is expected in the U.S.

The amount is usually based on the quality of service. Gratuities are not automatically added to the bill except in some cases for large groups. Tipping Guidelines: Restaurants – 15-20%; Taxi Drivers – 15%; Doormen, Skycaps, and Porters – $1 per bag.

Electricity is 110 Volts in the United States. Appliances brought from Europe, Africa and most of Asia and Latin America will require a voltage transformer.

If you’re headed out for a night on the town, you should know that the drinking age is 21 throughout the U.S.  A customer must provide a valid photo I.D. if asked by the establishment to show it in order to be served alcohol.

Washington DC is a relatively safe city, but you should secure your passport and other valuables in a hotel safe whenever possible. Keep your valuables close to you and be aware of your surroundings. Stay in well lit areas and with a group after dark.

Many of Washington DC’s attractions are open almost every day of the year and you can visit them at your leisure. There are a few popular sites that require reservations, tickets, and advance planning. There are plenty of  free things to do in Washington DC all year-round. You will find free attractions, festivals and events, educational programmes and much more.