Your Personal 24/7
Travel Guide
For America

What is the best way to get from JFK airport to my hotel?

Here are some recommended ways to get from JFK Airport to your hotel in New York City:

1. AirTrain + Subway: Take the AirTrain from JFK to Jamaica Station, and then transfer to the E subway line to reach various parts of Manhattan. This is a cost-effective method but might take more time.
2. Taxi: There are flat-rate yellow cabs available from JFK to any destination in Manhattan. The fare is approximately $75, plus tolls and tips.
3. Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are available at JFK airport and can be convenient if you’re looking for a more comfortable ride than the subway.
4. Airport Shuttles: Shared airport shuttle services like SuperShuttle and Go Airlink NYC are available and can be booked in advance.
5. Private Car Service/Limousines: For a more luxurious option, you can book a private car service or limousine.
6. Bus Service: The NYC Airporter provides bus services between JFK and locations like Grand Central Station, Port Authority Bus Terminal, and Penn Station.

Each option has its pros and cons in terms of cost, convenience, and travel time.

How can I rent a car in the U.S.?

To rent a car in the U.S., follow these steps: 

1. Eligibility: Generally, you must be 25 or older to rent a car without restrictions or special charges. Some states allow rentals to drivers as young as 21 but may impose a hefty surcharge. New York and Michigan require rental car agencies to rent to drivers as young as 18.
2. Driver’s License: You need a valid driver’s license from your country. If your license is not in English, you should also have an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified translation . 
3. Booking: Major car rental agencies, such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty, have branches in nearly all cities and major airports. You can book online through their websites or through travel websites like Orbitz or Expedia, which often offer comparisons and discounts.
4. Insurance: Check your insurance options. U.S. residents may be covered by their credit card or personal auto insurance. For non-U.S. residents, it’s essential to purchase insurance coverage to avoid personal liability for the rental car and any potential accidents.
5. Payment: Have a valid credit card to pay for the rental and any additional charges. Some rental car companies might accept debit cards but generally prefer credit cards for security reasons.
6. Fuel: Gasoline in the U.S. is self-service, except New Jersey. Most rental cars run on unleaded gasoline. You’ll be responsible for refueling the car before returning it, or you might incur significant refueling charges from the rental company.

With these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car and explore the U.S. comfortably. Safe travels!

How can I find affordable accommodation in Los Angeles?

For affordable accommodation options in Los Angeles, you can consider the following:

1. Motels: They are a common form of lodging, especially for budget travelers. Chains like Motel 6 and Super 8 offer inexpensive rooms typically ranging from $30 to $70 per night.
2. Business Hotels: These tend to be a middle ground between motels and full-scale hotels, with prices around $70 to $170. Examples include Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn, Hampton Inn, and Holiday Inn Express.
3. Extended-Stay Hotels: If you’re planning a longer stay, consider extended-stay hotels which often come with full kitchens and offer more home-like amenities. Examples include Marriott’s Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites, and Extended Stay America.
4. Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): They offer a more home-like lodging experience and usually range from $50 to $200 per night. They can be a nice alternative to impersonal chain hotels and motels.
5. Vacation Rentals: Services such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer better value, especially for stays longer than 4-5 nights.
6. House Rentals: In tourist areas or big cities, renting a furnished house by the day can also be a feasible option.

Always check both online booking websites and directly with the hotels for the best rates and deals.

What is the weather in Miami in July?

In July, Miami experiences very high temperatures and significant humidity. Daytime temperatures typically range between 85°F (29°C) and 92°F (33°C), with nighttime temperatures usually falling between 74°F (23°C) and 82°F (28°C). It’s important to stay hydrated and use sun protection due to the intense heat and high UV index.

Rain is frequent, with an average of 15 to 22 days of rain in the month, often occurring as short, intense afternoon showers. The average monthly rainfall is around 119 mm. Despite the rain, there are about 10 hours of bright sunshine each day, making it a great time for beach activities if you plan accordingly​.

Can I use my credit/debit card in the U.S.?

Yes, you can use your credit or debit card in the U.S. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard, as well as their debit card counterparts, are widely accepted throughout all 50 states. Nearly all large retailers will accept credit cards for transactions of all sizes, including small purchases like one or two dollars. However, some small businesses may specify a minimum amount (usually $2-5) for credit card use due to processing fees. Be aware that you may incur foreign transaction fees if your card is not U.S.-issued. Some stores might ask for photo identification when using foreign-issued cards. Moreover, some automated systems, like gas station pumps, may require a U.S. billing ZIP code. There are workarounds for this with certain foreign POST codes, such as adding zeros to make it a five-digit number.

What are major NYC attractions?

New York City is filled with iconic and diverse attractions. Some of the major ones include:

1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: These are symbols of freedom and immigration history in the United States.
2. Central Park: A vast green oasis in the heart of Manhattan featuring walking trails, lakes, and cultural landmarks.
3. Empire State Building: An iconic skyscraper offering spectacular views of the city from its observation decks.
4. Times Square: Known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and bustling energy.
5. Brooklyn Bridge: A historic suspension bridge offering pedestrian walkways with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
6. Metropolitan Museum of Art: One of the world’s largest and finest art museums. 
7. Broadway: Home to numerous theater productions and musicals.
8. One World Trade Center and 9/11 Memorial: The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere with a poignant memorial and museum. 

These attractions are just a fraction of what NYC has to offer.

What kind of travel insurance should I purchase for a trip to U.S.?

For a trip to the U.S., you should consider purchasing the following types of travel insurance: 

1. Medical Coverage: Essential due to the high cost of healthcare in the U.S. This should include coverage for hospitalization, emergency services, doctor visits, and prescriptions.
2. Trip Cancellation or Interruption Insurance: This covers the cost of your trip if you have to cancel or interrupt it due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, family emergencies, or other covered reasons
3. Baggage Insurance: Covers losses or delays of your baggage and personal belongings. This can be especially useful for travelers with connecting flights.
4. Liability Insurance: Coverage for third-party liability in case you cause injury to another person or damage their property.
5. Rental Car Insurance: If you plan to rent a car, ensure your travel insurance includes coverage for collision damage waiver (CDW) and liability insurance.
6. Evacuation Insurance: Covers the costs associated with emergency medical evacuation back to your home country if necessary.

Make sure to read the policy carefully or consult with a professional versed in the American health insurance system to understand the coverage limits and exclusions.