Preparing your trip to Houston: advices & hints - things to do and to obey

1.Tourists who plan to bring electrical appliances have to consider that the mains voltage is 110 V. Some devices may require special adapters and connectors, which are usually provided on-demand in large hotels.

2. Tipping is accepted; tip is left literally everywhere. Be sure to leave small cash reward to waiters, hairdressers and taxi drivers; 10-15% of the total bill will be optimal.

3. Those who expect to dedicate a lot of time to shopping trips have to remember that commercial establishments have a strict schedule here. Major shopping centers usually open no earlier than 9:30 am and serve visitors until late in the evening. Small shops usually open earlier, but they serve visitors only to 6:00 - 7:00 pm.

4. The city has excellent public transport links. The fare in the bus is paid to a driver; foreigners are advised to stock up on plenty of small-denomination coins. The fact is that asking for change in public transport is not accepted.

5. Popular mode of transport is taxi, which can be called by phone or stopped on the street. Travelling by taxi is especially beneficial to those who dwell on the rest as a great company. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

6. Foreign guests would need an international driver's license and a credit card used for depositing to rent a car. Some car rental companies may deny service to those under 21 years, while others require renters to be at least 25 years old.

7. Despite the ubiquity of mobile communications, street phone booths are still relevant and popular in Houston. They represent the best way to make long-distance and international calls. The majority of street phones accept special cards.

8. In Houston, as well as in other cities of the United States, there is a very strict attitude towards sales of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products. You can buy them only in specialized retail pavilions and only within a period of time declared in local rules.

9. For the above reasons young travelers who expect to attend prestigious restaurants and nightclubs are recommended to have an identity document. Don’t be surprised, if they would ask you to show your passport in a restaurant or night club. Persons under the age of majority mayn’t be allowed to visit some night clubs; they won’t be able to order alcoholic beverages at restaurants and bars.