Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
4. MAPS
San Francisco is very easy to find your way around, but study the general layout in
advance. Free maps are available from tourist offices.
5. VISAS
All travelers to the US need a valid passport, including returning US citizens. Most
European citizens, as well as Japanese and a few others, need a non-refundable re-
turn ticket from outside the US to qualify for a 90-day visa. Travelers visiting under
the Visa Waiver Program must register and pay a fee at
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
.
Other nationalities must secure a visa, before traveling, from a US consulate or em-
bassy.
6. INSURANCE
Buy a good travel insurance policy to cover lost baggage, cancelled flights, and minor
medical bills. The US generally does not have public healthcare so international
health coverage is the wisest way to go.
7. US EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES
US diplomatic missions are found in virtually every country's capital. They can
provide you with information about San Francisco, as well as answer questions about
visa requirements.
Australia •
www.dfat.gov.au/missions
Canada •
www.canada.usembassy.gov/
France •
http://france.usembassy.gov/
Germany •
www.usembassy.de
Ireland •
http://dublin.usembassy.gov/
New Zealand •
http://newzealand.usembassy.gov
