This page is designed as an aid to first time visitors to the USA.  Experienced travellers and those from the American continent can swiftly hit the back button . . .

The following are just hints and suggestions that hopefully may come in useful on your travels. Apart from straight forward tips, the idea is to try and get you through any of the 'what am I supposed to do now' scenarios that crop up from time to time.

Help from readers of this page is also encouraged, please send in your tips especially those that overcome any minor, but potentially embarrassing, situations.  The suggestions will appear on this page.  Any  aspect  of the vacation  can    be  covered no matter how small . . no doubt it will help                                  someone, someday.

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Tipping:      Tipping is voluntary but expected. Usually 15% but give some thought to the standard of service you are getting. For instance in a restaurant if you feel the service from the waiter/waitress has not been up to standard then tip accordingly. If you are going to leave a very small tip bear in mind that if you are going to use that restaurant again it might just work against you. Of course if the service is very good then show your appreciation, you will be remembered.
When you get your bill, tax will have been added, base your tip on the total before tax. Any kind of service i.e.. shuttle bus driver, baggage handler, bellhops, taxi driver, room cleaners is subject to a voluntary tip, once again it is entirely up to you as to how much or whether it is deserved.

Car rental:   Rental stations can be found within the confines of the airport or just a short free bus ride away. If you cannot locate the desk in the airport look for the signs pointing to the free shuttle service pick-up points just outside the terminal doors. There will probably be quite a few different rental companies so make sure you get on the right bus. From here you will be taken to the rental station and directed to the entrance. The golden rule, once at the desk, is if you do not want an upgrade or additional non-compulsary insurance then check the itemised document before signing. Failing that ask the agent to make it absolutely clear if any additions have been made. Of course if required you will have to pay for a full tank of gas. Before you leave the compound check the car for damage and that it appears to be the correct grade (not model or make) of car as paid for .( size is everything ! ) All this may be a nuisance but it could save you having to return to the rental station sooner than you anticipated.

Gas station:  City gas stations will be right up to date, either insert your card into the appropriate slot on the pump, or pay in the station (before or after filling as the case may be). Gas stations out of town may be a little different. If you are not sure ask at the desk. Sometimes you may be asked to leave your card with the cashier while you fill up ( not good for your peace of mind). If this does not suit, estimate how much you need and pay up front. Other times you will be asked to go ahead , fill up and then pay. On some older pumps you may find that after removing the nozzle and inserting it no gas flows into your expectant vehicle. The cause is often a small metal lever on one side of the pump that has to be lifted first !.

Below Tips from Paul F (UK) vacation 2004.
Remember to add on the state or local taxes when calculating payment for services/goods etc.
If vacation time is short it is often worth the extra expense to stay near the park/attraction to save on journey time.
Eat a substantial breakfast it will set you up for an active day out and about, plus there may be long periods before finding an eating establishment on journeys. Taking food out is also an option.
In Flagstaff remember that if you are bothered by night-time train noise (very, very long trains) best not stay East side near the line .(or make sure your room is to the quiet side of the building (J&L) )
Seek local advice on best times to photograph in the parks to avoid too much shading at certain times of day.
Run out of camera memory? Take your card to Walmart or the like and get the card downloaded on to CD ( 1 hour service) This will free up your camera memory for another bunch of masterpieces !
The boots/trunks of some American cars are smaller than usual, be warned if you are carrying multiple cases.
And finally, its not frowned on to share a dessert in the restaurants. The helpings are large!