Language

English is spoken throughout Ohio but each region has its own distinct dialect. Mostly it’s a classic Midwest lilt, though in Amish country it sounds very Germanic. Visitors, however, should have no problem understanding.

Currency

The currency used in Ohio 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. Banks in the big cities are best for exchanging foreign money, though major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are accepted virtually everywhere. Traveler’s checks are probably better cashed in at a bank, which is also a good place to find ATMs that accept international cash cards.

Time

Ohio is in the Eastern Time Zone (GMT -5, GMT -4 between March 12 and November 4 during daylight savings).

Electricity

Ohio uses electricity at 110-120V, 60Hz. Flat two-prong plugs are the norm, so it is suggested to travel with a universal plug adapter if you are coming from Europe, the UK, or Asia.

Communications

The dialing code for the United States is +1. Ohio has 11 area codes for different parts of the state. The main ones are 216 (Cleveland), 614 (Columbus), and 513 (Cincinnati). Mobile phone reception is very good throughout the state since there are few large wilderness areas. Wireless internet is typically available in coffee shops and public libraries in the larger towns, though most hotels these days also provide Wi-Fi service for their guests.

Duty-free

Every visitor entering the United States over 18 years old may bring 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

Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism, PO Box 1001, Columbus, OH 43216: +1-800-BUCKEYE or http://consumer.discoverohio.com/default.aspx.

Consulates in Ohio

Canadian Consulate General, Detroit: +1-313-567-2340 German Consulate General, Chicago: +1-312-202-0480 Netherlands Consulate General, Cleveland: +1-440-324-4164 French Consulate General, Cleveland: +1-216-621-7277 Australian Consulate General, New York: +1-212-351-6500 British Consulate General, Chicago: +1-312-970-3800

Emergency

Emergency services: 911