United States
New York
Essential facts
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Language
English
Time zone
Eastern Time · UTC -5 (UTC -4 in summer)
Typical weather
Four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid at 25–32°C, winters cold at -3 to 5°C with snow. Spring and autumn are mild and popular.
Plug type
Type A and Type B · 120V
Getting around
The subway runs 24 hours; pay by contactless card or phone at the turnstile with OMNY. Yellow cabs and ride-hailing are everywhere. Manhattan's grid makes walking straightforward.
Local customs
Tipping is expected: roughly 18–20% in restaurants and bars. Sales tax is added at the till, so displayed prices are lower than what you pay. Stand to the right on escalators.
Travel tips
A 120V supply means UK appliances need a plug adapter and, for anything without dual voltage, a converter. Book Broadway and observation decks in advance. Free Staten Island Ferry views rival paid cruises.
Entry requirements for British citizens
- Visa
- British citizens normally travel under the Visa Waiver Program and must hold an approved ESTA before boarding. Apply on the official ESTA website well before departure.
- Passport
- Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. Check the current requirements for your passport type before booking.
- Return ticket
- You must be able to show a return or onward ticket.
- Accommodation
- You will be asked for your first night's address on arrival.
- Health
- Medical treatment is expensive. Adequate travel insurance is strongly recommended.
- Customs
- Declare all food, plant and animal products. Penalties for non-declaration are significant.
Always check before you travel