5 tips to make sure you have your paperwork in order before leaving to NYC. Discover what to do before leaving to NYC.
This is definitely not the sexiest part of the trip planning, but it’s rather essential. Cause no ESTA means no shopping on 5th!
Just to be crystal clear, I’m no expert so in case of any doubt please check with your travel agent or even better your local government. Like it or not, different nationalities have different rules…
That being said there are a few things you have to organize before Spreading the News!
Tip 1: ID check!
Wherever you are traveling from, make sure you have a valid passport. It needs to be valid till the end of your trip.
It’s not necessary, but sometimes you’re better safe than sorry. If my passport contains stamps from non USA friends I make sure to request a new one before traveling. Just to avoid difficult questions at the borders.
I don’t know how my Bestie does it, but she always has the nicest CBP (Customs & Border Protection) Officer. It does have something to do with her flirting skills. I’m sure of that ;)!
Me on the other hand, I think the Automated Passport Control (APC) Machines are friendlier :). Anyway take it serious, don’t make jokes. Cause they will take it serious too.
Tip 2: ESTA check!
As soon as you have your passport, you can request your ESTA. This document will make you answer the most awkward questions from time, but it’s serious business.
You can request it here for $14 (prices might change). Note that some sites will charge you way more and are not legit. Don’t be fooled!
Your ESTA is valid for 2 years.
Tip 3: Hotel-Info-for-Mom check!
Call me old fashion, but I always make a ‘fridge-note’ for my mom. Flight & Hotel details on 1 page. Just in case you max out your VISA and she needs to send you money ;).
Tip 4: Money check!
Now that I get your attention about credit cards, don’t forget to check if you can use it in the USA.
Most cards will need to be activated for the US. This one, according to me, is the most crucial one ;). If you haven’t got a credit card, this might be the right opportunity to get one. A debet card doesn’t work as good as they do in Belgium (not sure about other countries).
On top, withdrawing money from an ATM machine will cost you money…Money you can use for coffee to go and a bagel on the site.
I will always combine credit with cash. Tipping, small purchases, street artists,… I do prefer to pay those cash instead of by credit card. BUT corona will probably change this. I’ll always bring some cash so I can get it at the best exchange rate.
You can bring up to $ 10 000 cash into the States (just in case you want to buy a lot of gum :)). I’ve never exchanged euro’s in NYC and I don’t want to scare you. But be aware. Watch out exchanging money. Especially at Times Square, cause it might cost you more money than you exchange. Don’t loose time or money and exchange at home or at a trustworthy bank.
Tip 5: Covid-19 Regulations check!
I’m writing this post during Covid-19. We can’t foresee what this pandemic will cause regarding regulations. I’m rather sure this will influence how we travel to the USA. Make sure to check with your local government before leaving.
Always in an Empire State of Mind,
xoxo,
B
PS Tip: Note I’m not a specialist. Best to check your local government or CBP for the latest regulations.
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