United States Travel Guide

Shopping

Variety, late-closing hours, competitive prices and an abundance of retail goods typify US shopping. Many small stores, specialty food shops and hypermarkets are open 24 hours a day. Clothes and electronic goods can often be bought direct from factory outlet stores. Retail outlets range from flea markets and bargain stores to large chain department stores. Malls are a popular way of shopping in the USA and consist of a cluster of different shops in one building, often multi-level, connected by indoor plazas and eateries.

Note that a sales tax is levied on most items in most states, and the addition is not included on the price label; sales tax can be anywhere from 3 to 15%, variable by state.

Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0900/0930-1730/2100. There may be late-night shopping one or two evenings a week. Some states permit Sunday trading; hours vary.

Currency

US Dollar (USD; symbol $) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of $100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of $1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents.

Currency Exchange

Hotels do not, as a rule, exchange currency and only a few major banks will exchange foreign currency, so it is advisable to arrive with US Dollars, or exchange foreign currency at the airport upon arrival.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

Most major credit cards are accepted throughout the USA, including American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Visitors are advised to carry at least one major credit card, as it is common to request prepayment or a credit card imprint for hotel rooms and car hire, even when final payment is not by credit card.

Travelers Checks

Widely accepted in US Dollar checks; Pound Sterling traveler's checks are rarely accepted and few banks will honor them. Change is issued in US Dollars. One or two items of identification (passport, credit card, driving license) will be required.

Currency Restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. However, amounts in excess of US$10,000 or equivalent should be declared at customs.

Banking Hours

Variable, but generally Mon-Fri 0830-1700.

Exchange Rate