Practical info Seattle, USA
Getting around the city
Seattle city centre is well serviced by public transport, with an excellent bus system, historic streetcars along the waterfront, and a high-speed elevated Monorail that links downtown to the Seattle Center and offers views over the harbour and beyond. The bus system is the most extensive and runs throughout the night, but less frequently after 8pm. Fares on buses and trams are slightly more expensive during peak hours. Taxis can be hailed from taxi ranks or ordered by telephone. Parking in Seattle is expensive and limited, but traffic isn't too bad outside of rush hour and the city is fairly easy to navigate. Renting a car for excursions outside the city is a good option.
Time
GMT –8 (GMT –7 from March to November).
Electricity
Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.
Currency
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
Communication
The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas. Internet cafes are prevalent in most towns and cities and wifi is widely available.
Emergency number
911 (General)
Travel documents and health
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Getting to the city
The SeaTac/Airport Station provides passengers a direct connection between the airport and downtown Seattle. The station is on the fourth floor of the airport's main parking garage. Line Shuttle Express offer door-to-door shuttle services leaving regularly for the nearby towns and cities. Public King County Metro Transit buses run on schedule to destinations in and around Seattle. Sound Transit operates two express bus routes around the city.
Car rental
Alamo, Avis, Budget, Hertz and National have facilities at the airport.
Airport taxi's
To arrange for a taxi, use one of the curbside phones or visit one of the Information Booths.
Transfer between terminals
The terminals are connected by an underground people mover.
Facilities
Facilities at the airport are extensive, including a variety of fast-food and full-service restaurants, several bars and retail outlets. The airport has ATMs and currency exchange desks, and also offers a pet relief area, a massage bar, shoe shine services, smoking areas and a baggage storage service.
Parking
Parking rates at Sea-Tac Airport range from $4 per hour to daily rates of $37. Long term rates of $30 per day or $140 per week are also available.
Internet
Wifi is available free of charge throughout the airport.