"Pike Place Market" by Tormod Ulsberg via Flickr Creative Commons

Language

Washington State residents speak English without any noticeable accent.

Currency

The currency used in Washington State is the US dollar (US$). Banknotes come in denominations of US$1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100. There are 100 cents in US$1, with coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 25 cents. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the state, but if you need to exchange foreign currency, this is best done at a bank in a major city. ATMs are easy to find in any town and most are able to handle international cash withdrawals.

Time

Washington State is in the Pacific Time Zone (GMT -8, GMT -7 between March 12 and November 4 during daylight savings).

Electricity

Washington State uses electricity at 110-120V/60Hz. Flat, two-prong plugs are typical, so it is recommended that you travel with a universal plug adapter if you are coming with appliances from Europe or Asia.

Communications

The dialing code for the United States is +1. Washington State uses five area codes: 206 (Seattle), 253 (Tacoma), 360 (Vancouver), 425 (Everett), and 509 (Spokane). Internet access is good in Washington, particularly in the large cities like Seattle and Spokane. Check local coffee shops and public libraries for Wi-Fi hot spots. Cell phone coverage is also good around the developed regions, but loses connectivity in the mountains and remote rural parts of the state.

Duty-free

Every visitor over the age of 18 who arrives in America can carry: one liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes (or 50 non-Cuban cigars or two kilograms of tobacco), and gifts valued at US$400 without paying any duty tax.

Tourist Office

Washington State Tourism Office, tourisminfo@watourismalliance.com (email): +1-866-964-8913 or http://www.experiencewa.com/.

Consulates in Washington State

Canadian Consulate General, Seattle: +1-206-443-1777 German Consulate General, Seattle: +1-206-230-5138 Netherlands Consulate General, Seattle: +1-206-954-1961 French Consulate General, Seattle: +1-206-256-6184 Australian Consulate General, Seattle: +1-206-575-7446 British Consulate General, San Francisco: +1-415-617-1300

Emergency

Emergency services: 911

Click here for Visas and Vaccinations for Washington