Country Facts - California & The Canyonlands
Baggage Allowance:
Due to coach space limitations and airline weight restrictions, the baggage allowance is limited to one case per person weighing no more than 23 kilos. (32 kilos per person for Premium Economy and Upper Class travellers). Overall measurement of each piece (length + width + height) should not exceed 62 inches or 158cm. Any excesses will be charged for by the airline. Bags weighing more than 32 kilos will not be accepted due to health and safety restrictions. At the present time each passenger is permitted to carry ONE small item of cabin baggage through the airport security search point. The dimensions of this item must not exceed, a maximum height of 56cm (22 inches), width 36cm (14 inches) and depth 23cm (9 inches), including wheels, handles, side pockets etc and weigh no more than 6 kilos. In addition, you may also carry personal items such as a small handbag/coat/reading matter. Further information regarding hand luggage and items that can be carried in your hand luggage can be found by accessing www.baa.co.uk.
Important: Transport Security Administration (TSA) have advised passengers to leave all bags left unlocked in order to facilitate a search, although neither Virgin Atlantic or Journeys of Distinction support this advice. We would suggest you purchase a TSA recognised baggage lock, which can be opened by security officers rather than the lock being cut open.
Climate & Weather Watch:
The climate throughout Nevada, Utah, Arizona & California is generally very warm and sunny from May to October, however the weather can be changeable at times especially in the mountains. In other areas the weather is pleasantly warm during the daytime, however the evenings can get cool.
Clothing:
Lightweight clothing is recommended, including jumpers, anoraks and umbrellas due to the variable weather. It is also advisable to dress in layers due to the varying temperatures and it is suggested you take some smarter evening attire due to the quality and standard of the hotels.
Communication:
The country dialing code for USA is 001. Internet access is widely available in USA . We would recommend buying telephone cards for international calls. In the event of an emergency, the American emergency services number is 911.
Currency & Money Matters:
The country's currency is the American dollar. We recommend taking US dollar travellers cheques for security reasons. A small amount of US dollars would be useful for drinks etc. before you're able to exchange money locally. Payment in most hotels, restaurants etc can be made in US dollar travellers cheques with change being given back in US dollar bills. Currency can be converted at banks, hotels, and foreign exchanges. Please avoid accepting severely torn bank notes, as they may be refused. All major international credit cards are acceptable. At the airport you will need to pay for baggage trolleys. These cost US$3 and machines only generally take small dollar bills.
Customs:
Visitors may purchase the following amount of goods without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or the proportionate amounts of each. 1 litre of alcoholic beverage (if over 19 years of age) and goods up to the value of US$100.
Electricity:
110/120 volts AC, 60 Hz. Flat 2-pin plugs are in use. European appliances should have dual voltage capabilities and will require an international adaptor.
Goods & Sales Tax:
All American goods are subject to sales tax (GST) this varies from 6% to 7.25%.
Immunisation:
Not necessary for overseas visitors coming from uninfected areas.
Laundry:
Laundry facilities are available if required.
Medication:
Should be carried in hand luggage. Passengers taking needles/syringes should carry a letter from their General Practitioner. All medication should be carried in original packaging with the dispensing label securely attached. Airline check-in staff should be advised the type of medication being carried and they will give further instructions regarding proceeding through security screening.
Medical Facilities:
Medical insurance providing cover up to at least US$50,000 is strongly advised. Only emergency cases are treated without prior payment and treatment will often be refused without evidence of insurance or a deposit. Medical facilities are very expensive but of a high standard.
Passports & Visas:
All passengers require a machine readable passport and must comply with US Immigration Regulations. All passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the end of the tour. British Citizens will need to complete a Visa Waiver Form which will be handed to them during the flight.
If your passport does not prove you are a British Citizen you should seek further advice from your applicable Embassy as visas may be required. In addition, passports indicating that the bearer is a British Subject, British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Overseas Citizen, British National (Overseas) Citizen, or British Protected Person will also need to apply to the US Embassy for a visa.
Important: Some travellers may not be eligible to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP). These include people who have been arrested, even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction; those with criminal records, (the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act does not apply to U.S. visa law); certain serious communicable illnesses; those who have been refused admission into, or have been deported from, the United States, or have previously overstayed on the visa waiver programme; and some driving offences. In these instances you would have to apply to the Embassy for a visa. Further information can be obtained by visiting www.usembassy.org.uk .
The US government now requires all passengers entering the USA to provide details of their country of residence as well as a full postal address of the first USA hotel. This information is currently being collected by the airline upon check in. In addition all travellers will have their left and right index finger electronically scanned and a digital photograph taken upon arrival.
Photography:
We recommend all photographic film and single use cameras are carried in your hand luggage.
Time Zone:
GMT - 7 to -8
Tipping:
Americans generally expect tips or gratuities of approximately 15% of your restaurant / bar bill. Do not tip in fast-food or self-service environments. Gratuities have NOT been included for the driver/guides or the Tour Manager. Journeys of Distinction therefore recommend US$3.00 per person per day for your Tour Manager and a similar amount for your driver/guides, depending on the standard of service given and your level of satisfaction. These recommendations are guidelines only. As tips are a personal matter and purely down to your discretion , we suggest they are given on an individual basis rather than as a group collection. All hotel porterage is taken care of by Journeys of Distinction.
Taxis:
Metered taxis are generally available throughout the country. Taxi drivers expect tips of approximately 10-15% of fare.
Please note that this information may be subject to change. Information correct as at 02/05/2008
