subject: Car Rental And Travel Tips [print this page] Driving through the States is probably the best way to appreciate the diverse geography. From the huge urban sprawls of the cities to the rugged coast and desert interiors! The roads are well maintained with plenty of stopping places, to rest and get something to eat. Driving your car along the vast stretch of coastline and get a feel for the dramatic coasts. Watch the sunset over the sea and relax. If you're renting a car and you want an extra driver find a company that will not charge for the extra driver.
There is a minimum age for drivers. Drivers have to be at least 21 years old, if under 25 they can still drive but they will have to pay a surcharge, which is paid locally when picking up the vehicle. This restriction is statewide and beyond the control of any major rental company.
Pick your rental car up at the airport or downtown, whatever is most convenient to you, but know the appropriate protocol in traveling the States in your rental car.
Customs Regulations: Whilst on the plane you'll be given a Customs declaration form, which you must fill in before you get to Customs Control. Staff will not let you approach the desk until this form is completed. Your duty free allowance includes 200 cigarettes and 100 (non-Cuban) cigars. You must be over 18 for this. If you're over 21 you may also have a liter of spirits.
Because of certain foreign policies you are not allowed to bring in anything produced in Cambodia, Cuba, Iraq, Libya or North Korea. Neither are you allowed to bring in any fresh foods. As in other countries, obscene materials and drugs are strictly prohibited and anyone found in possession of either is liable to be prosecuted and face a lifelong ban from entering the USA.
Insurance: It is vitally important to take out comprehensive travel insurance when visiting the US! There is no NHS and medical treatment is extremely expensive. If you've already got travel insurance, please make sure it is comprehensive. If you intend on skiing or climbing, taking part in water sports, or anything else excessively physical, make sure you're covered.
Remember that most insurers expect you to pay for any 'on the spot' medical treatment and make a claim on your return. If you suffer any loss or theft it's important that you report it to the local police, to enable them to complete an official report. You will need this to make any claim on returning home.
Health: Generally speaking European travelers are not require to have inoculations before visiting the USA. Visitors from other countries should check with their travel agent or the US Embassy or Tourist Office.
The emergency services telephone number in the States is 911, if you or one of your party have an accident then a call to this number will usually result in a fast, efficient service. Remember, you will be expected to pay for any treatment later!
In the US, laws are much tighter on proprietary medicines than in many other countries. You may find that a simple painkiller, which is readily available to you at home, will only be available in the States with a Doctor's prescription. However, most pharmacies have a facility for you to ask for advice and this is free of charge.
Should you need a doctor, you can look them up in the Yellow Pages under 'Physicians and Surgeons' or 'Clinics'. Remember this is not a free service and you can expect to pay $50 - $100 in advance as a consultation fee. Any medication you require can be quite expensive, as a 'National Health Service' does not underwrite it, keep any receipts for insurance purposes.
by: Terry Mickelson
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
