Business Offices: 08:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday Banks: 09:00 to 16:00, Monday to Friday
Department Stores and Shops: 10:00 to 21:00, Monday to Saturday; 12:00 to 18:00, Sundays
Museums: opening times vary
Post Offices: 09:00 to 15:00, Monday to Friday
Travel within the United States is generally problem-free; however, security throughout the country and particularly at airports has been heightened.
As with any holiday destination, petty crime is common in tourist hotspots. It is advisable to always hold on to your belongings and avoid flashing lots of cash and valuables, which may act like a magnet for criminals. Car crimes in Albuquerque are high, so always lock your car door when you are driving and never leave any possessions on show when you are away from your vehicle.
The southern area of the United States is prone to hurricanes between June and November, so arrive prepared if you are visiting during these months and always be sure to heed the official advice given if a hurricane strikes.
The currency which is used across the country is the US dollar. Notes can be found in denominations of US$100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1, and coins are available in US$1 and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cent. Only major banks exchange foreign currency, but ATMs are widespread and often provide the best rate of exchange. Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club and American Express are usually accepted at all ATMs.
Credit cards and traveller’s cheques are widely accepted although traveller’s cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid unnecessary hassle.
If you are arriving from outside of the USA, you must fill out a customs declaration form on arrival into the country. Duty-free allowances are: 200 cigarettes or 100 cigars; one litre of spirits and gifts to the value of $100. There are strict laws on bringing in drugs and firearms, and bring the following products into the country is prohibited: fresh food; agricultural products; items from North Korea, Cambodia, Libya or Cuba; chocolate liquors and pornography.
110V AC, using two-pronged plugs.
Albuquerque is a laid back city with no real etiquette to follow other than basic good manners and common courtesy. The people here are very friendly and extremely welcoming towards visitors and this friendliness should always be reciprocated.
Some basic guidelines to follow are to always be respectful of local religion and avoid getting into any religious debates. If you are invited to somebody’s house, take a small token of gratitude such as flowers or a box of chocolates. The attitude of locals towards smoking has changed dramatically in recent years and in many public places, smoking is frowned upon. Always check with those around you before lighting up. Smoking is now banned on all public transportation in Albuquerque.
As with social etiquette, dining etiquette is fairly relaxed. Many families only gather around the dinner table at holiday feasts and most restaurants are so casual that they don’t require anything more than basic table manners. Very occasionally, perhaps at a business dinner, on a romantic date at an expensive restaurant or at an important function, it will be necessary to display a more sophisticated knowledge of dining etiquette.
Tipping is usual in Albuquerque and in many cases it is required. Restaurants in the city expect a tip of between 10 and 20 per cent, as do taxi drivers. Bars in the city also appreciate tips and often leave tip-trays on the counter.
There are no specific vaccinations required for travel to the USA, but it is recommended that you are up-to-date with your standard vaccinations such as tetanus. Tap water is safe to drink and restaurants all have to follow strict health and safety procedures.
Be careful when hiking along nature trails as wild animals are unpredictable and should be treated with caution.
If you suffer from any health problems while you are visiting Albuquerque, you will find excellent medical facilities. Emergency treatment is given, which is then charged for later, but for most other treatment, upfront payment is required. Because of this, it is advisable to have comprehensive medical insurance and to keep hold of all medical receipts for proof of payment.
Albuquerque Manor: Tel: +1 505 255 1717
Emergency Services: 911
The most commonly spoken language in Albuquerque is English, although there are a number of indigenous languages spoken throughout the area. Many other languages are taught in language schools, especially Spanish around the city.
European Union nationals need to fill out a form requesting a visa at least 72 hours before they plan to travel to the US. You may need to show evidence of funds and an onward ticket. Canadians also require a passport to enter the US.
Albuquerque’s Convention and Visitors Bureau can be found at 20 First Plaza NW. The tourist information office is open from 08:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday. You can contact them by calling: +1 505 842 9918.
