Planning your Trip
1. Passports/Visas
Everyone entering the US must have a machine-readable biometric passport. Citizens of the EU and other visawaiver countries must apply for entry at least 72 hours ahead of travel
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
2. Tourism Information
Discover New England focuses on the tourism resources of the six New England states.www.discovernewengland.org
3. When to Go
New England is a year-round destination, but traffic is heaviest from late June through mid-October; and from Christmas through late February in ski country. Bargains can often be had from late April into late May, and in late October, but some rural attractions will only open weekends.
4. Weather
New England weather varies widely. Daytime temperatures December to February are usually freezing or colder, while July and August daytime highs often exceed 80°F (26.7°C), with high humidity. September and October are usually cool and dry, while November and March are chilly and damp. Spring weather ranges from warm sun to windy rain. Northerly areas are generally 10°F (7°C) cooler.
5. What to Pack
Given the changeable weather, it makes sense to dress in layers, with a sweater or jacket for cool summer evenings. Be sure to pack a folding umbrella, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. You may want to pack smart-casual outfits for restaurants and evening entertainment. In midwinter, a warm coat, scarf, gloves, and a hat that protects your ears are necessities, and boots are recommended.
6. Time Zone
New England is in the Eastern time zone: GMT minus five hours. Daylight saving time (EDT) begins at 2am on the second Sunday in March and reverts to standard time (EST) at 2am on the first Sunday in November. During EDT, the local time is GMT minus four hours.
7. Currency
US money comes in dollars and cents. Coins come in 1-, 5-, 10-, 25-, and 50-cent, and 1-dollar denominations. Dollar coins are used mostly in vending machines; 50-cent pieces are rare. The quarter (25-cent piece) is the handiest coin for vending machines and parking meters. Notes (bills) are $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, though a few $2 bills are still in circulation. Small businesses often decline $50 and $100 bills.
8. Insurance
It’s a good idea to buy comprehensive travel insurance prior to your departure. Emergency medical or dental treatment is expensive, and proof of insurance is all but mandatory. A good policy will also pay to replace lost or stolen property. If you need to cancel or change your travel plans, many policies will refund your costs.
9. Current and Phone Adapters
US electricity is 110–120 volts, 60 cycles, and uses a polarized two-prong plug. To use non-US appliances you will need an adapter and voltage converter, available at airport shops and some department and electrical stores. Most laptops and travel appliances are dual-voltage, and many hotels have dual-voltage sockets for electric shavers. US phone systems use an RJ11 connector.
10. Special Equipment
If you’re planning to do a lot of hiking, or walking in the woods, lightweight collapsible trekking poles are a good investment. Sold in pairs for mountain trekking, a set will equip two people with walking sticks. Good binoculars greatly enhance the pleasure of watching wildlife, and may be less expensive to purchase in the US.
