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Practical info Washington, USA
Getting around the city
Getting around Washington DC is relatively easy as most attractions are within walking distance of one another. The city is laid out in a circle around the White House, with 'spokes' radiating out from it. Washington DC has an excellent public transport system that includes buses and the Metrorail subway, which has stations at or near almost every tourist attraction. The system operates until midnight during the week, and Metrorail stations stay open until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays. The efficient Metrorail subway system provides services throughout the city, and to the Virginia and Maryland suburbs, and is used by means of a computerised fare card. The extensive Metrobus network fills in the gaps, but is more complex to use and is slower due to heavy traffic; bus transfers are free and valid for two hours from boarding. Bus, train or combined one-day passes are available. Although most visitors to Washington DC arrive by car, it is often easier to use public transport as traffic is heavy, and parking in the city is difficult and expensive. Taxis are a good way of getting around for short distances and they are cheaper than most other major city in the US.
Time
GMT -5 (GMT -4 from March to November).
Electricity
Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs 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, including all urban areas, however unless you have a tri-band phone it is likely your cellular phone from home will not work in the United States. Internet cafes are prevalent in most towns and cities.
Emergency number
Emergencies: 911
Visa and health information
Washington-Dulles International Airport
Getting to the city
The Washington Flyer Silver Line provides a direct link to the airport, operating every 20 minutes to the Metro Silver Line station, with a fare of around $5. The coach service tickets can be bought at arrivals door 4 in the main terminal. A public bus service is available at the station for transport to areas not serviced by Metrorail. SuperShuttle operates a door-to-door shared van service.
Car rental
Car rental companies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz and National.
Airport taxi's
Taxis are also available all day and night from the lower level of the main terminal. The only taxi service authorised to serve the airport is Washington Flyer. Taxis charge around $68 for the 30 to 60 minute drive into the city; you may pay by credit card.
Facilities
There are ATMs and foreign exchange services available. Other facilities include restaurants, bars, shops and duty-free shopping, business services, tourist information and hotel reservations.
Parking
Hourly parking at Washington Dulles International Airport is available in the parking garage adjacent to the terminal building and starts at $6 per hour, going up to $35 per day. Daily parking garages 1 and 2 are cheaper and are connected to the terminal by shuttle buses.
Internet
Laptop and tablet users can access wifi throughout the terminal, free of charge. There are also a number of internet kiosks after security in the terminal.
