Destinations and ports
With Riviera Tour you can currently cruise to 12 destinations and more than 315 ports around the world. In addition to sailing to individual global destinations, you can also take advantage of our transoceanic Long Cruises or our annual Round the World Cruises (see Destinations for a list of our destinations).
Travel advice: before you set out to explore
If you've never taken a cruise and are thinking of taking one, we recommend starting with a cruise with transportation and a delegate. Cruises really are a different kind of holiday and with your delegate it will all be relaxed without having to think about what and how, treatments and so on. Our delegates will take care of it all. If you're choosing a cruise for the first time, we recommend the Eastern or Western Mediterranean.Current offers can be found here. If you are thinking of exotic destinations, pay strong>attention to the destination information below.
Before you go on your cruise, here is a personal observation from our travels abroad. After visiting over a hundred countries, we can say from the bottom of our hearts that we are grateful for where we were born and where we live. If anyone wants to have a truly beautiful vacation that is meant to leave beautiful memories in their heart, they need to realize what country they are going to and that not everywhere people live as well as we do. You really need a little humility and respect for the country you are exploring, for the people who live a sometimes difficult life there. Not all services will be of good quality, not all hotels will be beautiful, not all customs, religions, governmental regimes will be to your liking. However, if you respect the country you are exploring with love and an open heart, it will come back to you at least in the form of beautiful memories, It is possible that you will then fall, like us, into a literal mania to discover new countries, new people, new traditions and other, previously unrecognized beauties of this world.
Mediterranean
Learn to perceive time a little differently. If you make an appointment for 10:00, expect it to start no earlier than 10:15. That's just the way it is. Unlike us, these countries have a different perception of time and way of life. Usually nobody is in a hurry to get anywhere, and that's true in restaurants and bars. Be patient and if you are in a hurry, always use a smile and the word please. Never, really never raise your voice and don't argue - it achieves nothing in this area.
The people here are very friendly, smiling and happy to help you. They are very fond of children and conversation. They are also literally masters of chaos and incomprehensible arrangements that nonetheless work quite well. Also, count on the fact that people in these countries have fun until late in the evening. They don't go out to dinner until around 10pm and usually everything extends well past midnight. If you want to go to bed early, you're better off finding another destination.
Below are a few more tips on what not to do in a Mediterranean destination:
Don't frown on "bambini"
Children are a sacred and protected species here. So be nice even if they dump a bucket of sand on your head or bang their plates next to you in a restaurant. This is an advantage when you travel here with your children or grandchildren. They can get away with anything in the Mediterranean.
To Never Church in Shorts
The people of the Mediterranean are gradually getting used to it with the influx of tourists, but try to avoid it anyway - you just don't go to church in short shorts, miniskirts or with your shoulders exposed.
Don't trust the navigation
The further south you go in the Mediterranean, the more often the navigation will start to fail. The kilometres to your destination don't quite add up, one-way streets in small towns lead you in a different direction, and when you're looking for a beautiful beach, navigation will send you to a no-go zone or private property. If you know the local language, it's best to ask a local for advice or use trial and error.
Don't rush
Whether you admire Rome, Barcelona or Athens, we recommend you take your time. The ancient monuments aren't going anywhere, the locals wouldn't either, and these beautiful countries are definitely worth slowing down a bit.
Supervision of children
In Italy, it is forbidden by law to leave children under the age of 14 unsupervised; breaking this law carries a penalty of 6 months to 5 years' imprisonment; e.g. you cannot leave a child unsupervised in a playground and go to a nearby bar across the street, even if only for a moment.
Travel to the Mediterranean by Riviera Tour bus (only on cruises with transport and delegate):
MONCALFONE: departure from Brno at 20:00, arrival in port approx. 9:00
TERST: departure from Brno at 20:00, arrival in port approx:18:00, arrival in port approx. 9:00
JANOV: departure from Brno at 18:00, arrival in port approx. 9:00
CIVITAVECCHIA: departure from Brno at 16:00, arrival in port approx. 11:00
Northern Europe
These destinations are primarily about nature. Don't expect extensive historical explanations from the delegate - they won't be in this destination. Enjoy the nature around you. Cruising the fjords is a never-ending experience from the deck of the ship. There is always something to look at, even at night.
Embarkation usually takes place in Hamburg, Kiel or Warnemunde, and it is necessary to expect a longer embarkation and disembarkation than in Genoa. The Germans, despite their organisation, can be very unpleasant and indeed sometimes incomprehensible. Be patient. And be warned: for cruises in the north, expect rain. So a raincoat, spare clothes and boots are a requirement for these cruises.
Allemannsrett - is a traditional Norwegian law, according to which anyone can move freely on uncultivated land (even on private land) and can also spend up to two days on it. You just have to follow a few rules, namely that you must not disturb other people, animals and must keep a minimum distance of 150 m from the nearest inhabited building;
Don't give thanks for everything - in Norway, the phrase "Thank you for everything" (Takk for alt) is not used in common speech, as this phrase is reserved especially for memorials, ribbons on funeral wreaths and obituaries. It is always better to thank specifically for a particular thing or service.
Don't be impatient - Northerners are known to be in no hurry. There is a Norwegian proverb "Ting tar tid" (Good things take their time), and Norwegians stick to it perhaps completely in all activities.
Let me help you - Norwegians, with few exceptions, are not very outgoing with strangers and generally do not interfere with other people's plans and activities, or those of their guests. So if your Norwegian host even hints that it's not a good idea to go fishing or take a bigger trip around the area, it's a good idea to follow that advice, because no one knows the fickle Norwegian weather as well as the locals do.
Never use alcohol as payment - in Norway, where stronger alcoholic drinks are very expensive, you may be tempted to use a bottle of hard liquor as payment or for barter. But this may not be the best idea, especially in southern and southwestern Norway, where many people keep their distance from alcohol and so the offer of wine or schnapps is not very convenient.
Tip - should be no more than 10% of the total spend and should only be given at maximum satisfaction.
Cesta busem:
KIEL: departure from Brno at 21:30, arrival in port approx. 10:00
HAMBURG: departure from Brno at 21:30, arrival in port approx. 10:00
WARDEMUNDE: departure from Brno at 23:00, arrival in port approx. 10:00
Arab Emirates
Flight time approx. 6 hours non-stop. Every year a large number of people visit the UAE, especially the city of Dubai. If you are planning to visit Dubai for any purpose, there are a few things you should know before you get here. People in Dubai are kind, hospitable and polite, it is a wonderful place to visit. Although it is an Islamic country, it follows a fairly tolerant policy.
Visitors are expected to respect their cultural sensitivities. There are certain factors to consider when it comes to dress code and behavior, and you are sure to have a great time. Respect the laws and values of the country and your stay will be extremely enjoyable. If you are not going to respect these values,do not go to the ARAB EMIRATES and find another destination.
WHAT TO WEAR
While you will see plenty of foreign women wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts in shopping malls and other public places, you shouldn't assume that this is acceptable to all locals. While as hosts they are often too polite to reproach female tourists, most locals take it as disrespect. Despite the relative liberalism of the UAE, you are in a country for which traditions are dear, and it is inconceivable for locals to accept completely different values of behaviour.
It's rude to come from the beach in a swimsuit to the hotel. A little common sense is always enough, such as dressing up after leaving the beach or dressing decently in restaurants, on the streets or nightclubs. Long sleeves and casual skirts below the knee or trousers are acceptable. No covering up is necessary. Generally speaking, appropriate clothing has its advantages. You will attract less attention, receive a warmer welcome and treatment from locals who can appreciate your willingness to respect their customs, and all will be well.
Cotton T-shirts and loose trousers or skirts not only protect you from rude male stares, but also protect your skin from the sun. If you're travelling outside Dubai, remember that social norms are much more conservative elsewhere in the UAE. Dubai is one of the safest destinations for women in the Middle East, but women in inappropriate clothing, especially in the evening, in nightclubs and bars risk being seen as prostitutes by the locals. It may surprise you, but although prostitution does not officially exist here, it is quite common in the clubs, bars and streets of Deira and Bur Dubai. Mostly, however, women from Asia and also from Balkan countries are involved in this trade.
BASIC RULES FOR STAYING
Despite assurances from travel agents and Dubai authorities that women have nothing to worry about in the country, it's a good idea to follow a few basic rules to help ward off unwanted attention and make it easier for you as a woman to travel. Wear a wedding ring, even if you are single. You're instantly an "unavailable" object for local men. However, you may be surprised by uncomfortable questions about how you could have left your husband or children alone. If you are travelling with a friend, refer to him or her in company as a spouse, not a boyfriend. Avoid direct eye contact with men, wear dark glasses. Do not sit in the front seat of a taxi. If you need help or advice, ask a woman first. It's a pretty gross transgression to approach a man first as a woman.
And here are some other tips on what to do and what not to do, what not to forget when visiting Dubai:
Clothing. Be modest in your dress, especially in conservative areas and public places. Swimwear is acceptable at private beaches and swimming areas. Swimwear should not be worn in any area other than the beach, water parks or swimming pools. Shorts and t-shirts are appropriate attire in many public places. When visiting mosques, older parts of the city and religious sites, it is appropriate to cover shoulders, arms and legs. Women must cover their heads with a headscarf when entering a mosque. Crossdressing is not accepted and can get you detained by the authorities. Any form of nudity is strictly prohibited, including topless sunbathing. It is not appropriate for men to walk on the street or in shopping malls with their chests exposed.
Gestures. Never point a finger at anyone, it is considered offensive. If you want to gesticulate with your hand, use your whole hand to point in a direction.You can be arrested for making obscene hand gestures in public. Avoid showing your feet or crossing your legs, especially in front of important guests.
Drinks. The country has a policy of zero tolerance for drunk driving. Getting drunk and behaving badly when drunk in public is unacceptable, it could result in a fine or worse. Consumption of alcohol and other illegal substances in public is prohibited. There are plenty of places in Dubai where one can indulge in drinking. Go to a bar or pub and you will be surprised at the variety of liquor that is served.
Photography. Be alert when taking photos. Always get a UAE or UAE national permit before taking a picture of a resident, especially a woman.
Take care of your language. Explicit gestures, noise disturbance, vulgar language and expressions of disrespect for the Islamic religion or UAE leaders are forbidden. You could experience legal consequences for these actions.
The holy month of Ramadan. Muslims pray, fast and reflect during this month. One should follow the rules issued by the government during the month of fasting. Many people would advise you not to visit this country during Ramadan, however, observing the rules and even the time of Ramadan can also be an enjoyable indulgence.
The use or possession of drugs, cohabitation, sex outside marriage, having a child out of wedlock, adultery and homosexuality are considered illegal.
United States and Caribbean
A chapter in itself. Let's be honest with ourselves. Many clients have a life-long dream, and that is to visit the Caribbean. They look at photos, promotional materials, catalogs, movies. That's all well and good, but it's important to remember that life across the pond is very different from ours, and below we'll try to explain some of the pitfalls that can affect your choice of holiday. First of all, it is important to remember that you are not flying to Egypt for your holiday, but to the other side of the globe and you will cross the time zone with a difference of 6 hours.
Before choosing a cruise in America and before departure, properly assess your health. Below will be important information regarding your flight and local customs that may affect your health or you may assess for yourself that you are better off travelling to another destination due to your health.
AIR TRANSPORT TO AND FROM AMERICA
First of all, it is important to remember that you are not flying to Egypt or Madeira.You are flying halfway around the world and air travel is the most challenging process of your entire vacation;
The flight to the USA is always a connecting flight. For an additional fee, we can arrange a direct flight from Vienna without the assistance of a delegate. As standard, you must be ready to check in at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. Departures are from Prague or Vienna with a change in Paris or London. Flight time approx. 2 hours. Transfer time minimum 3.5-4 hours, sometimes more. This connection time is very important because planes in Europe are delayed and if we miss our connection to the USA, your holiday is over. Therefore, this time interval is very important. Another aspect is the transfer at the airport. There can be long lines at passport control and it can take up to 2.5 hours to change at Gate.
The flight from Europe to the USA usually takes about 9-11 hours, depending on the route. Everything is in Economy class and it should be noted in advance that the travel agency has no control over the placement of clients on the plane. Placement on the plane is done by the airport staff at check-in. This is a big problem especially for families with children!!! Guaranteed seats, door seats or upgrades can be arranged at an additional cost and must be requested when signing the travel contract - this is not possible afterwards.
In-flight refreshments including meals will be provided. Please be advised of possible health complications (sitting in one seat for 11 hours). It is ideal to sleep through the flight.
The return flight is handled similarly, with the caveat that we have to be at the airport at least 4 hours before departure. In the US, one airline handles several flights at once, and that means thousands of people at a few counters. If you miss check-in and don't get to the gate on time, you'll miss your flight, with no refund. This is why arriving at the airport on time is extremely important.
Please also note that the size and, above all, the weight of your luggage must be strictly observed. Exceeding the weight of the baggage by even half a kg will incur a fee, which is sometimes quite high - around 100-150 USD.
FLYING CONDITIONS
Clients are strongly advised that flying outside the EU will significantly change the flight conditions and airline powers. Airlines quite often change pre-announced flight offers and in the vast majority of cases the passenger has no choice but to accept these conditions. Complaining about these changes is usually unsuccessful. The travel agency has no control over these changes and is not responsible for them. In any case, if such a situation arises, we will do our best to help you resolve the situation.
Attention: again, please note that enough time is needed to transfer to long-haul flights, so we recommend sufficient time to transfer at airports:
LONDON PARIS AMSTERDAM GENEVA | 3-4 hours 3 hours 2 hours 1,5 hours | |
ATLANTA NEW YORK DUBAI DOHA | minimum 3,5-4 hours 3 hours 3,5 hours 4 hours |
What situations you may encounter during the flight:
You miss your connecting flight | -> Try to rebook on a new flight | First flight delay |
Position on the plane (you are not next to each other) Transfer to another flight or flights Splitting the group on other flights A bumped flight (they refuse to carry you) | -> Ask the counter for a transfer -> Try to make arrangements at the counter -> It can happen. -> You'll get an alternate flight | Outside the possibilities of CK Outside the possibilities of CK We will assist you We will assist you |
VISION AND IMMIGRATION CONTROL
Currently, you can travel to the US with or without a visa under the ESTA visa waiver programme. The first option is "Visa to the USA" and the second option is "ESTA - Visa Waiver".Both options have their pros and cons, so consider carefully which option you choose. Visas to the US are valid for up to 10 years and you can travel repeatedly. Visa Waiver Registration ESTA visa to the US is valid for two years from the date of approval and during this time you can travel to the US repeatedly. We can help you arrange an Esta at your request for an additional fee.
Upon arrival in the USA, you will be required to go to immigration control after you get off the plane. At the immigration check, you must provide both left and right hand prints and the immigration officer may ask you a few questions about entering the US. We have prepared possible immigration questions and answers in a separate attachment to the check-in instructions. A delegate will accompany you to the immigration procedure if you are sailing with a delegate. However, the delegate must not interfere with or be present during the immigration procedure;
It is possible that the immigration process will take a considerable amount of time. We are usually cleared within about 2 hours, but we have experienced situations where we have had to wait considerably longer. We ask for your utmost patience. Neither the delegate nor the travel agency can influence these procedures. You will also need to wait for the arrival of your hotel transfer (if booked) after check-in, which is affected by the current traffic situation. Thank you in advance for your understanding.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
A citizen of the Czech Republic cannot travel to the U.S. on the basis of ESTA approval if he/she has visited DPRK, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Sudan at any time after March 1, 2011. Similarly, he or she cannot use ESTA approval to travel to the U.S. if he or she has visited Cuba after January 12, 2021.In these cases, it is necessary to apply to the U.S. Embassy well in advance for the appropriate visa (e.g., a category B1 business visa or a category B2 tourist visa). Travelers who, in addition to Czech citizenship, also hold citizenship of Cuba, DPRK, Iraq, Iran, Sudan and Syria must apply for a visa.
TRANSFER AND TAXI TO HOTEL
American cities are huge, but in some ways small. What we mean is that in Miami, for example, 7 cruise ships can dock in one day, which is roughly 30-35,000 clients. And these people need somewhere to stay and, above all, to be transported. That's why the prices for hotels in American ports are astronomical by our standards, and the same is true for transfers, their prices and, above all, their availability.
The word "trafic", referring to a bad traffic situation, is probably the most used right now for this kind of transportation. The whole problem is related to immigration control, both at the airport and when disembarking from the ship and returning back to the American mainland. Because you can't estimate the time of the group's clearance at immigration, you can't estimate the time of the transfer. It is quite common for transfers to miss the scheduled time and have to be rebooked and therefore re-paid.
Therefore, please be aware that transfers may sometimes be delayed more than 30 minutes and we will have to wait for them - that's just the way it is in the USA. We ask for your utmost patience. There is really nothing we can do about this situation. If you don't want to wait, we can arrange a private transfer from the airport to the hotel for an additional $50 per person, and also from the hotel to the port for an additional $30/person and from the port to the airport for an additional $40 per person (prices apply for transfers in Miami).
If you want to book a taxi, always allow some time, especially when going to the airport or going from Dolphin Mall to the airport. You may be delayed for more than an hour. You should also be aware that taxis may not arrive at your booked time, but with a significant delay, which will affect your arrival time at the airport.
HOTELY V USA
Hotels in the US are a real stumbling block for Europe. From Europe, we are spoiled by the standards of our hotels. Travellers to the US will tell us that in the US, you have to discount your standards a lot, but a lot. Our advice is: look at the hotel reviews, check off 2-3 stars and you'll get to the level you'd expect in Europe.
Accommodation in the USA is very complicated and expensive. Our travel agency selects hotels primarily based on location. In Miami, for example, we use for our clients the services of a hotel about 100 meters away from Miami Beach. In New York, we book rooms right in the centre of Manhattan, which is a few minutes' walk from Times Square and the Empire State Building.
What's different about hotels in the US and what might surprise you:
Air conditioning. In the US, they air condition everywhere and everything to refrigerator temperature - about 20 degrees. We therefore strongly recommend turning off the air conditioning in your room at night to avoid unpleasant health consequences the next day (see below).
Closed windows. Most hotels in Miami and New York have them. The windows are simply closed, and if they can be opened, it's only about 10 cm at most. No more than that. It's for safety reasons. Closed windows combined with air conditioning is not the best combination for us. In the rooms, thanks to the varied program, you just sleep, the bathrooms are mostly with bath, the bed sheets are clean. If you are interested in a better hotel, we will be happy to arrange a hotel of your choice for an extra charge. However, please note that departures for airport and ship transfers are always from the hotel where the rest of the group is staying in the case of cruises with transport and delegate.
Breakfast. Forget the breakfast buffet. Many hotels in the US don't offer breakfast at all. A common breakfast you get here is drip coffee, a bagel, butter, muffin, jam, apple or orange. That's it.
Deposit on hotels. Deposit is paid by credit card at hotels - if you are travelling with transport and delegate, you don't have to worry about anything, the delegate will sort everything out.
JÍDLO
Near our hotels you will find shops where you can buy food, drinks and drugstores. Alcoholic beverages must be carried on your passport and can only be purchased between 08:00 and 20:00. Eating out on the street will set you back about $6-15 per person per meal, restaurants about $30-80 per person. Warning! In some US states there is a ban on alcohol consumption in public!
In the US, food will be a problem, especially if you have allergies. American stores and products are built for shelf life and "e's" are everywhere and in everything. Watch out! It's illegal to bring food, fruit, etc. into the U.S.Not only will they confiscate it at the airport, they'll add a fine of up to $300.
PENÍZE A "TIPS"
It is very difficult to pay with a Stodollar Card and many shops and restaurants will not accept them at all. Also, as far as cards are concerned, 90% of them accept only credit cards. Be warned - we have a completely different idea of a credit card - a credit card is one where you have a loan with the bank and you can go negative on the card.
Everywhere in the US and the Caribbean you pay TIPS. It's simply their culture and it should be respected. Drivers are generally given $1 for transfers , guides $1-2, restaurants 10% of the price, taxi drivers 10%, similarly at hotels and other public places. During your cruise you will need about $5-10 per person for TIPS. In America, the rule is: You don't give TIPS - you're unnecessarily getting in trouble.
KLIMATIZACE
We'd better draw your attention once again to the air conditioning problem. You fly to the Caribbean, you fly to the heat. And in America, everything is air-conditioned. Our bodies really aren't used to it. Stores, restaurants, taxis, buses, airports, airplanes - everything is air-conditioned to an unbelievable 20 degrees. If you walk out of a hot street where it's over 30 degrees into a chilled shop and do it like that several times in a row, you're in for a nice cold at best, and it usually sits on your vocal cords. That's why we recommend a light sweater and a hat or headscarf for airplanes and buses.The air conditioning on airplanes and buses blows all the time. At hotels, we recommend turning off the air conditioning.
FIVE MORE TIPS FOR JOURNEY TO AMERICA
Don't forget to complete your ESTA travel registration
You don't necessarily need to apply for a visa before travelling to the US - if you're staying for no more than 90 days and are travelling for business or pleasure, just complete and pay for an ESTA travel registration. An approved ESTA in no way guarantees permission to enter the US, but it does authorise you to travel to the US. Officially, it is recommended to fill it out at least 72 hours before departure, although the evaluation will occur within minutes. If you leave for the airport without a completed ESTA, you will most likely not be allowed on the plane.
Make copies of all reservations
Always keep several copies of your airline tickets, travel tickets, hotel reservations, travel documents and insurance contracts. The best option is for each passenger to have one copy of all documents, including, for example, the travel insurance of another tour participant.
Are you afraid of an immigration interview because of your English? Prepare ahead!
When you land at your first airport in the US, you must have a mandatory interview with an immigration officer. The immigration officer will decide whether to let you into the country or send you back home on the next plane (very unlikely).You can usually go through the immigration interview in a group with your fellow travellers. If you are still worried about your English, have the answers to each question written down on a piece of paper and present it to the officer.
Check your credit card
If you haven't used your credit card abroad before, check with your bank that you can pay with it abroad. As unbelievable as it sounds these days, I know of a case where a Czech savings bank's credit card didn't work in the US. Don't be fooled by the name credit card when paying, in America the vast majority of purchases are made on credit cards. In the Czech Republic, on the other hand, you mostly use debit cards, where you spend your own money. Still, when paying in the US, state that you are paying with a credit card to avoid any complications or inability to pay. For more information, see our article on how to pay by credit card in the USA.
Don't forget to activate roaming
Before you leave, be sure to check that your roaming to the US is activated - without it, your phone won't log into the network, so you won't get a signal and you won't be able to get through. Some mobile operators differentiate between roaming inside and outside the European Union, so beware. Beware, you have roaming activated - but not data, you have to activate it!!!
Get ready for the time shift
The United States of America is divided into six time zones, with 6 hours less from east to west in the USA compared to the Czech Republic. Hand in hand with the time shift goes jet lag, also known as jet lag. Your body is accustomed to a different time, so you'll tend to fall asleep in the afternoon for the first few days after arriving in the States and wake up in the middle of the night. Experts state that for every hour of time shift, the body needs one day to adapt.
Don't underestimate travel insurance
The cost of healthcare in the US is extremely high, which is reflected in the cost of insurance to the US. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, I recommend taking out travel insurance with sufficiently high limits before departure. To give you an idea - treatment of acute appendicitis in the USA costs 600 000 CZK, the average cost of treatment for an insured tourist in the USA is 230 000 CZK!
Will you be driving? Apply for an international driving licence and read the rules of the road
Renting a car is a must when travelling in the USA (except perhaps in New York). If you intend to drive in America, be sure to get an international driver's license, which is usually required by rental companies. I recommend comparing offers from several companies before renting a car, you are more likely to save money. Drivers should read the article on driving in the US, there are a few differences in practice. In the US, cars with automatic transmissions predominate and traffic lights are after the intersection where you can turn right on red. Just give way to a vehicle coming from the left, if necessary. Make sure you know the speed limit to avoid being fined. Also, to be on the safe side, read the instructions on how to fill up at a US gas station. The procedure is quite different from the Czech one.
Prepare your supply of single-dollar bills
The United States of America is the land of tipping. Restaurant servers, hotel maids and airport shuttle drivers are paid so that tips count. Restaurants (not fast food) expect a tip of 15-20%, taxi drivers expect around 10%, and maids and porters settle for a dollar or two. I recommend making a supply of these. In some restaurants, tipping is already part of the final price. Just look for the "Service Charge" box filled in.
Check your baggage allowance early
Check the maximum baggage allowance before each flight to or within the USA. For most airlines, only 1 piece of checked baggage weighing 20-23 kg is included in the ticket price. When flying to the USA, I recommend you have a reserve - expect to pack a lot of souvenirs, gifts or cheaply bought clothes on the way back, and expect your clothes to be wet after your Caribbean cruise.
Do not lock the case, pull it down with the cable clamp
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has the right to open your suitcase at the airport and check its contents. This is not an exception, but a common practice - the chances of being picked at random are quite high. In addition, security staff have the right to forcibly remove the lock, and you will only find out about the check from the leaflet when you pick up and open your suitcase at your destination airport. There are two ways to avoid buying new locks - either get a "TSA approved" lock or use cable clips to remove the zippers. One costs about a penny and if you add another to your suitcase, they will pull it off again after any inspection.
Pack the adapter into the socket
In America, the standard is the so-called Type A or Type B socket with 110 V - that is, the one with two flat pins. Be sure to buy or borrow an adapter and pack it in your trunk. They tend to be very expensive at airports. You can buy reducers for American sockets in most electrical shops, the cheapest sets can be bought for as little as 180 CZK.
Buy a power bank and carry it with you
Powerbank is a very useful thing, it is a kind of backup power source that you charge with a classic USB charger and then you can charge any phone or tablet. Depending on the capacity of the powerbank, you can charge your phone about once to five times. If you use your phone for photography or navigation, the battery drains quickly and the powerbank is a lifesaver.
Leave the steak and schnitzel at home
Customs regulations prohibit the import of most meat and dairy products, including salami, sausages and the popular Czech steaks. On your flight to the USA, you will still have to fill out a customs declaration form to indicate whether you are importing any of the banned foods. If you fill in a yes form, or if you are found during a random check, the food in question will be confiscated. For a detailed list of permitted and prohibited items, see What foods can be imported into the US.
The cheapest food you can buy in fast-food restaurants
Americans are very, very fond of eating at fast food restaurants, there are endless chains and I bet you've never heard of many of them. Subway, McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Jack in the Box, KFC, Taco Bell, Starbucks, Applebee's, Domino's Pizza, White Castle, Hooters, Krispy Kreme, Dunkin' Donuts, In-N-Out Burger, El Pollo Loco, Pizza Hut... just to name a few.Most of them sell burgers with fries in various shapes and you'll pay $6-$10 for a menu. If you prefer a healthier lifestyle, I recommend Subway with fresh bagels of your choice. The menu usually includes a calorie count and amount of fat, part of the fight against obesity. All fast food restaurants offer a free refill of a post-mix drink, which in America is called a fountain. In addition to sugary drinks, there is usually a limited range of unsweetened drinks, usually tea or water. If you want to try something typically American, fill up on A&W Root Beer, an herbal lemonade with a hard-to-describe taste.
The amounts on the price tags are without tax
In states where it is collected, sales tax is not included in the amount shown on the price tag. The advertised $10 for a real American ground meat bun can turn out to be less than $12. When converting to crowns, keep this distinction in mind.
Alcohol is served in America from the age of 21
Alcoholic beverages are allowed in the US up to the age of 21, and under 21s cannot buy, import or possess alcohol. Unlike in the Czech Republic, this rule is quite strictly enforced in America, although there are of course cases where even minors drink. The vast majority of American states prohibit drinking in public or carrying and possessing open bottles of alcohol. Paradoxically, this law can be circumvented by, for example, hiding a beer bottle in a paper bag and drinking from it.
And finally:
DON'T TAKE PICTURES OF POLICE OFFICERS, MILITARY VEHICLES, MILITARY AIRCRAFT
NEVER TAKE A PICTURE AT IMMIGRATION.
NEVER MAKE A PHONE CALL TO IMMIGRATION.
NEVER DRINK ALCOHOL IN PUBLIC.
NEVER EXPOSE YOURSELF IN PUBLIC.
NEVER RESIST THE POLICE.
ALWAYS KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR PERSONAL BELONGINGS
ALWAYS PUT PASSPORTS AND MONEY IN THE HOTEL SAFE
ALWAYS KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR CREDIT CARD
ALWAYS LISTEN TO THE INSTRUCTIONS OF AIRPORT, IMMIGRATION AND AIRPLANE STAFF IN AN ORGANIZED MANNER
Conclusion
Friends, this information is not intended to discourage you from cruising, but rather to inform you in advance of what you might encounter during your travels. All of this information, which we provide here and also in more detail in your instructions, is the result of years of experience in travelling and gradually avoiding mistakes and crises. We sincerely hope that you will appreciate our intention.
We spend most of our time on MSC Cruises ships and we know all the ships, services, destinations well. The fact that we work exclusively with MSC Cruises is a guarantee of good service and service of our travel agency. Every year we send over seventy organized groups on cruises at sea and the sea is our second home. Accept our invitation aboard MSC Cruises and let yourself be carried away on the waves of well-being, relaxation and good fun.