Tips for Traveling in the U.S.

International Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are available at the Houston Hobby Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The Hilton Americas - Houston, site of the 2008 Conference, also has currency exchange services. You may be able to exchange your currency at some, but not all, banks.

You will also be able to use your credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) to pay for purchases and withdraw American funds from ATMs. Bank cards (debit cards), which have a plus, star or cirrus sign on the back of the card will also work at ATMs and in some stores.

If you plan to use your ATM and/or credit cards, you may want to make sure that they will work in the U.S. Contact the issuer of your ATM debit card and credit card to notify them that you will be traveling to the U.S. and will need to use your debit and/or credit cards internationally. Be aware that your bank at home may charge a fee for foreign transactions (this is sometimes rolled into the exchange rate charged on your statement).

Health Insurance
Medical care in the U.S. can be very expensive. All visitors should carry adequate health insurance that will be valid for the duration of their stay in the U.S. When planning your trip, it is a good idea to contact your primary healthcare provider or insurer in your home country to determine if you are covered, as well as under what circumstances and to what extent, while traveling abroad. You may be surprised to find that your health care provider offers little or no protection while traveling in the U.S. If this is the case, it might be wise to purchase international travel insurance.

Driving in the United States
Visitors who wish to rent cars must have a major credit card and a valid driver’s license from their own country. In some cases, an international driver’s license may be required. Contact the car rental company directly for specific information.

Electric Power
Electric power is standardized in all states across the U.S. It is set at 110 Volts and 60 cycles. 220 Volt power is used in homes only for large appliances like stoves, water heaters and clothes dryers. It is not normally available for personal appliances.

Standard electric plugs, as illustrated here, have two flat blades. The plugs on some newer appliances have a third round grounding pin. Almost all homes and commercial buildings are equipped with electrical receptacles that can accommodate either type of plug.