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International

Here are some tips specifically for our international visitors.

Credit/debit cards

The major international credit cards (American Express, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover) are widely accepted. However, in the USA debit cards from overseas are sometimes not accepted for payment.

Taxes

Tax on purchases such as accommodation and meals is added at the time of paying. Rhode Island has no tax on clothing and shoes, and no tax on art.

Tipping

It is standard practice to leave a 15%-20% tip for a meal or taxi. Allow a dollar per bag for a helpful bellhop.

Banks

Banks are usually open during office hours: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A few will open on Saturday mornings. The ATMs (cash machines) at banks are open 24 hours and are often available in supermarkets.

Cash machines

Cash machines, or ATMs as they are called, are plentiful. To find Mastercard/Maestro/Cirrus dispensers call toll-free in the USA: 1-800-MC-ASSIST (1-800-622-7747). For the Visa/Plus System call toll-free in USA: 1 800 843 7587.

Currency

Take travelers’ cheques in US dollars, rather than foreign currency, and have a mixture of small and larger denominations. You can use them like dollars in shops and restaurants. Outside major cities, few banks are ready to exchange foreign currency. Exchange bureaus, usually in airports or city centers, tend to charge a high commission.