THE OPTIMA JURIS GUIDE TO NORTH AMERICA

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Table of Contents

  1. Overview of North America
  2. North America Parties to the Hague Evidence Convention
  3. Countries That Require Visas
  4. Currency
  5. Security Isssues
  6. Tipping Rules
  7. Transportation
  8. Country Specific Information
  9. Major Cities in North America
  10. Major North American Airports
  11. Useful Links


Overview of North America

North America is a continent wholly within the western and northern hemispheres. It is also considered a northern subcontinent of the Americas. It is bordered on the north by the Arctic Ocean, on the east by the North Atlantic Ocean, on the south and southeast by South America and the Caribbean Sea, and on the west by the North Pacific Ocean.

*Optima Juris does not offer deposition services in the United States, but we have a network of trusted National Court Reporting Agencies and we can recommend to best one for your needs.

North America Parties to the Hague Evidence Convention

Mexico
Full List of the Hague Evidence Convention Parties

Countries That Require Visas

Canada and Mexico do not require visas, but a passport is necessary to enter each country.
List of Foreign Consular Offices in the United States
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Currency

Money

Cash is easy, flexible and you don't even have to show your passport as ID to exchange cash like you do with travellers checks. But easy come easy go. Cash is also the riskiest way to carry large amounts of money. If lost or stolen, it's gone - unlike travellers checks which can be replaced.

Credit cards

Check carefully for your credit card's terms and conditions. In particular, check the small print regarding ATM transaction fees and currency conversion charges so you don't get any suprises. Make sure your card has the Cirrus, Plus or Maestro symbol - otherwise you may not be able to use it overseas.

Exchanging money

Compare exchange rates at a number of booths if possible, but don't waste time and money traipsing across town to save ten dollars. Banks and booths typically give much better rates than hotels or other businesses. It's wise to exchange money at a licensed foreign exchange location - while you may get a better rate on the street, you may get burned by a scam or wind up with obsolete or fraudulent notes - weigh up the pros and cons.

Travellers checks

The main advantage of travellers checks is that they can be replaced if lost or stolen. The disadvantage is that there is often (though not always) a fee to both buy and cash them. Even so, think of this small expense as a type of travel insurance, guaranteeing that you'll be able to get cash in an emergency, when you'll need it most. Travellers checks are most commonly issued in U.S. dollars, but other currencies are also becoming more widely accepted.

Security Isssue

  • Concerns for safety and security in Mexico have risen steadily over the past decade and various foreign governments have cautioned travelers to Mexico to pay special attention to these matters.
  • Ask your hotel for a list of safety cell numbers & email.
    There should be a main contact and a backup contact whom you can contact in the country you're visiting. Get a cell number and email. Getting a contact number of someone in the USA is ok.
  • Carry some cash.
    While credit cards are accepted throughout Mexico and Canada, cash is still king when you are absolutely in a bind. While we aren't saying to be a walking ATM, do have several hundred dollars on you just in case.
  • Get your paper work straight.
    Do make sure everyone has a passport. Do make sure everyone has a visa if applicable. Do check the embassy rules as they are constantly updated. Also, see what items are included in your travel package (insurance, tipping, forms, etc).

Tipping Rules

Gratuities are seldom included in Canadian restaurants. It is customary to tip approximately 15% on the total bill before tax, 20% for exceptional service.

Tipping guidelines for Mexico are nearly the same as tipping guidelines used in the United States or Canada, with some exceptions. Most service employees earn very little or no base salary and the tips they earn comprise the vast majority of their overall income.

Transportation

If you want to call a taxi, your hotel or the nearest tourism information office can recommend a reliable service.

Also available in Metropolitan Areas

  • Buses
  • Cars
  • Taxis
  • Subways
  • Trains

Country Specific Information

  • Country
  • Capital
  • Currency
  • Official languages
  • Eletrical requirements
  • Dialing code
  • Canada
  • Ottawa
  • Canadian Dollar
  • French, English
  • 120V/60HZ
  • 1
  • Mexico
  • Mexico City
  • New Peso
  • Spanish
  • 127V/60HZ
  • 52

Major Cities in North America

  • Toronto, Canada
  • Quebec, Canada
  • Vancouver, Canada
  • Mexico City, Mexico
  • Guadalajara, Mexico
  • Monterrey, Mexico

Major North American Airports

  • Toronto, Canada
    Toronto Pearson International Airport
    YYZ
  • Vancouver, Canada
    Vancouver International Airport
    YVR
  • Calgary, Canada
    Calgary International Airport
    YYC
  • Mexico City, Mexico
    Mexico City International Airport
    CCS
  • Cancun, Mexico
    Cancun International Airport
    LIM
  • Guadalajara, Mexico
    Guadalajara International Airport
    GDL

Useful Links

Hotels

Agoda Hotel Search in North America
Lonely Planet North American Hotel Search

CIA

CIA Factbook Page

U.S. Embassy

United State Embassies Around the World

Electrical Requirements

Detailed List on Voltage Requirments

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