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California: FAQs,
Insider Tips & Links
Here are some
useful links and information we thought would be useful when traveling
to California. If you need more information, please contact Karen,
Travel Advisor for California. |
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Time Zone
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California is on Pacific
standard time, which is 8 hours behind Greenwich mean time.
Daylight Saving Time is in effect from the first Sunday in April until
2am on the last Sunday in October. Daylight saving time moves the clock
1 hour ahead of standard time.
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Electricity
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110 volts, AC, 60 cycles
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Tipping
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Tipping is customary in
restaurants, bars, taxis and personal services - 15% to 20% is
customary. Be careful - sometimes the gratuity is added to your
restaurant check, so look carefully or ask the server so you do not
over pay.
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Tax & VAT
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California tax is
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Liquor Laws
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The legal age to drink
alcoholic beverages in Arizona is 21 years old. Proper ID is required.
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Drinking
water
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Water from the tap is potable
- that is to say - You can drink it!
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Public Toilets
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Now that we talked about
water lets talk about toilets. The USA definitely has a clean public
restroom shortage! Public restrooms in the USA are usually located in
public buildings and train stations, but I would not recommend using
these - they are usually not too clean. My advice is to use the
restrooms in your hotel, museums, shopping malls, department stores or
restaurants. Use the restroom when you find a good one. However, my
experience is that when I need one - I can never find one! Good luck.
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Health Tips
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Most health risks in
California are related to altitude: altitude sickness, hypothermia and
sunburn. Bring your sunscreen with you. Drink lots of water. Layer your
clothing in winter and stick to natural fabrics - cotton and wool - if
possible.
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Road Conditions
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Check road conditions before
heading out at California Highway Patrol (tel. 213/953-7383)
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Free
Travel Guides
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Parking Tips |
What are the best
rates for parking in San Francisco? and where? Oran, Chicago
The best parking rates in San Francisco can be found at
www.parksfo.com.
They have great detailed information about the
area and competitive rates. |
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Links |
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http://california-river-rafting.com/ - California River Rafting
Information |
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More
Useful Links for Travelers
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