Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For a list of wi-fi hot spots (plus tech and access info), visit
Wi-Fi Alliance
(
www.wi-fi.org
)
Legal Matters
In everyday matters, if you are stopped by the police, note that there is no system for pay-
ing traffic tickets or other fines on the spot. The patrol officer will explain your options to
you; there is usually a 30-day period to pay fines by mail.
If you're arrested, you are allowed to remain silent, though never walk away from an of-
ficer; you are entitled to have access to an attorney. The legal system presumes you're in-
nocent until proven guilty. All persons who are arrested have the right to make one phone
call. If you don't have a lawyer or family member to help you, call your embassy or consu-
late. The police will give you the number on request.
Drinking & Driving
To purchase alcohol, you need to present a photo ID to prove your age. Despite what you
sometimes see, it's illegal to walk with an open alcoholic drink on the street. More import-
antly, don't drive with an 'open container'; any liquor in a car must be unopened or else
stored in the trunk. If you're stopped while driving with an open container, police will treat
you as if you were drinking and driving. Refusing a breathalyzer, urine or blood test is
treated as if you'd taken the test and failed. A DUI (driving under the influence) conviction is
a serious offense, subject to stiff fines and even imprisonment.
Money
Prices quoted in this topic are in US dollars ($).
The ease and availability of ATMs have largely negated the need for traveler's checks.
However, traveler's checks in US dollars are accepted like cash at most midrange and top-
end businesses (but rarely at budget places). Personal checks not drawn on US banks are
generally not accepted. Exchange foreign currency at international airports and most large
banks in Miami, Orlando, Tampa and other Florida cities.
Major credit cards are widely accepted, and they are required for car rentals. Most ATM
withdrawals using out-of-state cards incur surcharges of $2 or so.
