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.
ELECTRICITY
The voltage of the electrical system in the USA is 120 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. The electrical plugs used in the USA are Type A and Type B.
Type AType B
TIME
Miami is on Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) which is UTC - 4 hours. The current time in Miami is:
TIPPING
In the United States, restaurant workers typically receive low wages and they depend upon tips (gratuities) for their livelihood. Over the years, the normal percent for tipping has increased from 10% to 15%, and many people now tip between 15% and 20%. The exact amount of the tip is at your own discretion, and should depend on the quality of the service that you receive. Please note that some restaurants, particularly in popular tourist areas, will automatically add a certain percentage to your bill for the gratuity. Other restaurants will automatically add the gratuity if there is a large number of persons in your party. So review the check before you pay, to make sure that the restaurant has not already added a tip. If you have any doubt, just ask the waiter if the tip is already included.
It is also customary to tip hotel porters around $1 per bag and concierges according to the services they render. Housekeepers who clean hotel rooms may be tipped around $1 per night. These are entirely discretionary and similar to tipping practices in other parts of the world. If you use a valet parking service, it is customary to tip the attendant $1 or $2 when you pick up your car. Taxi drivers normally receive a tip of 10% or so of the fare.
VISAS
Please inquire at your nearest US embassy or consulate about visa requirements for your nationality. The HFCC Conference organizers can assist you with personal invitation letters and other visa requirements, but please begin these procedures as soon as possible in order to allow plenty of time for visa issuance.
WEATHER
Greater Miami enjoys a subtropical climate that ensures plenty of sunshine all year round. Sun protection is advised, even when temperatures are moderated by cool ocean breezes. In summer, temperatures rise to around 90°F (30°C). Winters are typical of the 'Sunshine State' with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 80°F (16-27°C). Rainfall occurs mainly during summer and early autumn. Summer humidity levels are usually between 85 and 90 percent, making Miami one of the most humid cities in the US. Miami is genuinely a year-round destination; however, many travellers prefer to avoid the crowds over December and January, and the oppressive heat of July and August.
