Practical information on New York
New York, the city that never sleeps. Check out the overview below before taking off to NYC!
- Temperature: The average temperature is 25˚C during the summer and approximately 5˚C during the winter.
- Time difference: London is 5 hours ahead of New York.
- Currency: US Dollar (USD). £1 = $1.28 (fluctuating average)
- Language: The official language is English.
- Money: Most New Yorkers use credit cards. It is best to bring enough cash for your first day and from there use ATM services or a credit card.
- Required travel documents: A valid passport and an ESTA visa (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). Anyway, the rules and regulations of travel documents and visa applications change frequently. There can also be different requirements. On the website of the visa service the required and current information is listed.
- Health: Information about the (mandatory) vaccinations change constantly. Current information can be found on Travel Health Pro and NHS or consult your GP surgery.
- Insurance Valid health insurance is a personal choice, but not a mandatory requirement. The NHS does not provide any health insurance to British citizens in the United States.
- GPS Maps - Make sure to always have a map at hand. To avoid roaming costs, download a New York App that is accessible offline.
- Outlet plug - Outlets are made for flat two-prong plugs. Make sure you bring an adaptor to convert your three-prong plug.
- Tipping - Tipping in restaurants in New York is very important as it makes up an essential part of your waiter’s wages. New Yorkers are good tippers and usually won’t tip less than 18% in restaurants.
- Drinking age - The legal drinking age for the consumption of alcohol is 21 years old. The policy is strictly implemented and children are often refused entry into bars.
- Safety - As far as large cities go, New York is very safe. However, like anywhere in the world, it is best to always be aware of your surroundings and ensure your belongings are with you at all times.