Planning to study at one of the Seattle universities?

Here are some Seattle Travel Tips for both Students and other travelers…
University of Washington is one of the reputed universities in Seattle. Opt for Student Health Insurance before applying and read on to know more about life in Seattle    (Source: www.worldtravelguide.net)

•  The best time to visit Seattle is the May month of the Summer season. Weather is quite unpleasant otherwise as Seattle is frequently shrouded with gray clouds and fog.
•   In Seattle, the relatively warmer months are July and August and the coldest month is January with very low temperature levels.
•  here is a consistent rainfall in the month of October, which makes the atmosphere dull. In December’s torrential rains bring instant chill in Seattle’s weather. If you’re ready to adjust with the moods of Seattle’s weather; you’re welcomed.

• While in Seattle, preferably exchange your foreign currencies from the places listed below:

1. Nothgate Cion Shop – 539, NE Northgate Way, Seattle
2.  Wells FargoBank Na – 1215, 4^th Avenue, Seattle
3.  Custom House Global Foreign Exchange – 911, Western Avenue, Seattle
4.  Chartered Forex Inc – 4501 15^th Avenue St, Seattle
5.  LBC Mabuhay USA Corporation – 2000, 23^rd Avenue St, Seattle
6.  Travelex Currency Services – 400, Pine St, Seattle
7.  Travelex Currency Services – Sea Tac International Airport, Seattle

• Seattle is also known as ‘Emerald City’ since it is voted as America’s most youthful and habitable city.

• Accommodating oneself is quite easy in Seattle and there is range of accommodation available that suit to every kind of budget. Usually, the Summer season is the peak season and it is prudent to reserve your stay well in advance. Best rates can be found during the low season, which is November to March. There is 5% tax levied on every hotel room; VAT and service charges also included.

• Seattle has an outstanding Bus service called Metro Transit that gets you around in just $1.50. There is free transport in the downtown area everyday until 7 PM. In other locations, adult tickets cost more (around $2.50) during peak hours. A day pass for Metro Transit is available on Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Standard fares depend on zones and time of travel.

• If you want to travel by a taxi, a 20 min tour costs around $30-$40 plus a tip up to 10-15%. Seattle taxi drivers are quite polite and reliable, although you may have to wait up to 20 minutes for a cab. You can also hire a car or a bike to get around in the city. Bus and other tours are also available. Rented cars are easily available but make sure you leave no objects in the car to prevent robbery.

• Seattle is a relatively safe city with a low crime rate. Pickpockets are often attracted to crowded places. They often work in teams of two or three; one may create a distraction while the other one lifts your wallet. If you need any assistance, ask a police officer. You will see Seattle Police Department officers in their dark-and-pale blue uniforms on car, foot, bicycle and even horseback around town and in the downtown area of Seattle.

• Preferably, stay away from White Center, Skyway, Seatac, Block 8 of Southend and Yesler . These are considered as risky areas in Seattle. Otherwise, Seattle is quite safe and walkable even during the night.

• Driving in Seattle is not much difficult as Seattle driving conditions are excellent and motorists are extremely law abiding. However, visitors should be aware of the specially designated lanes for buses, cars and bicycles.

• Parking in Seattle costs around $3 for two hours, although weekend parking costs approximately $5 for the entire day. On-street parking varies as per the neighborhood. You can also buy a CityPark token worth $1 with purchases of $20 tokens and over. These tokens are redeemable at CityPark lots and garages.

• Seattle is far-famed for its fashion trends and if you’re interested in fancy boutiques, handcrafted material, jewellery, art and antiques, Pioneer Square is a right destination for you. Shopping hours begin from 09.30 to18.00 on average, including Sundays. Sales tax in Seattle is 8.8% on non-food items. Unlike in other states, visitors are unable to claim tax refunds on goods purchased in Seattle.

• Seattle has variety of restaurants that offer diverse cuisine matching to your taste and budget. Restaurant meals are subject to state sales tax of 8.8%, which will be added to the bill at the end. When the service charge (15 to 20%) is not added to the bill, a tip of 15 to 20% is expected. For parties of six or more, most restaurants automatically include the service charge with the bill.

•   Seattle is popular for sensational nightlife as it holds majority of young population. It is prudent to carry a photo identity while visiting any local bar, lounge or club as the minimum drinking age in Seattle is 21.

•  Seattle hosts many cultural events and activities. The Seattle Opera, Pacific Northwest Ballet and The Seattle Symphony Orchestra play at various centers in Seattle. 

•  Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying costly gadgets. Be careful with your luggage and belongings. Avoid leaving any valuables in the hotel room and make sure you lock the room well.

• Call 911 in case of any emergency.

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