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Practical Information

Practical Information

Georgia, USA

Local SIM Cards and Mobile Providers

Modern smartphones are compatible with U.S. Mobile networks. Ensure your phone is "unlocked" from your home carrier for local SIM use.

Options

Internet Access and Wi-Fi Availability

Internet access and Wi-Fi are widely available in Savannah.

Access Points

  • Most hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals offer free Wi-Fi
  • Many cafes, restaurants, and bars provide free Wi-Fi
  • Free public Wi-Fi in some city squares and public buildings

Postal Services

United States Post Office (USPS) branches are available throughout Savannah. Private courier services also operate here.

Options for Mail

  • USPS for postcards, letters, or packages
  • UPS and FedEx have drop-off locations or service centers
  • Check USPS website for locations and hours

Language Barriers and Translation Resources

English is the official language. For non-English speakers, a translation app may be useful.

Language Aids

Important Phrases with Pronunciation Guides

Common Expressions

  • "Y'all": (pronounced "yawl") - Southern contraction for "you all."
  • "Sweet Tea": (pronounced "sweet tee") - Iced black tea with sugar.
  • "Howdy": (pronounced "how-dee") - An informal greeting.
  • "Fixin' to": (pronounced "fix-in too") - Meaning "about to."

Contextual Phrases

  • "Bless your heart": (pronounced "blehs yor hahrt") - Can be genuine sympathy or a polite, subtle pity.
  • "Unsweet Tea": If you do not want sweet tea, ask for this.
  • "To-Go" Cups: Open-container law for alcoholic beverages in Historic District.
  • "Y'all" for groups: Use when addressing multiple individuals.

Connectivity Tip

If your phone has an eSIM option, purchasing a local data plan prior to arrival is an option. Immediate connectivity without a need for a physical SIM card results.

Business Hours & Schedules

Retail Shops

Generally 10 AM to 6 PM. Popular tourist areas may have extended hours until 8 PM or later, especially on weekends.

Restaurants

Breakfast: 7-10 AM. Lunch: 11 AM-2 PM. Dinner: 5-10 PM. Bars stay open later, sometimes until 2 AM.

Banks & Attractions

Banks: 9 AM-5 PM, M-F. Attractions: 9 or 10 AM to 5 or 6 PM. Many museums are closed Mondays.

Religious and Public Holidays Affecting Services

U.S. Federal holidays may alter business hours, with some businesses closed or on reduced schedules.

Major Holidays

  • New Year's Day, Independence Day
  • Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving
  • Christmas Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Seasonal Closures and Limited Schedules

Some smaller businesses, attractions, or tours may have reduced hours or close entirely during lowest tourist seasons.

Periods of Reduced Operation

  • January (after holiday rush)
  • Peak of summer (due to extreme heat and lower visitor numbers)
  • Always verify operating hours directly

Airport Services

Airport Lounge Access

  • Priority Pass for airport lounge access
  • Comfort and amenities during layovers
  • Enjoy benefits like WiFi, food, and quiet spaces

Flight Compensation Services

  • Compensair for flight disruptions
  • Claim compensation for delays or cancellations
  • Assistance with denied boarding situations

Verify Hours

Always check specific hours for attractions or businesses you plan to visit, as they alter seasonally or for special events.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Savannah is recognized for its Southern hospitality. A polite "hello" or "good morning" is common.

Interacting Locally

  • Handshake typical for formal introductions
  • Direct eye contact for sincerity
  • Using "sir" or "ma'am" as a sign of respect

Appropriate Attire for Different Settings

Casual attire is widely accepted for most tourist activities. Some venues have specific expectations.

Dress Code Considerations

  • Modest attire (shoulders/knees covered) for religious sites
  • Smart casual for fine dining (collared shirts, dresses)
  • Check restaurant websites for specific dress codes

Dining and Tipping Practices

Tipping is customary for service staff (15-20% for good service in restaurants, bars, taxis, tours).

Dining Notes

  • Tipping is expected
  • Standard Western table manners apply
  • Open-container law in Historic District for "to-go" cups

Photography Permissions and Restrictions

Photography is permitted generally in public spaces. Private locations may have restrictions.

Guidelines for Photography

  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals
  • Some private businesses or museums restrict photography
  • Discreet and respectful practice inside religious sites

Taboos and Sensitive Topics

Topics to Approach with Caution

  • Politics and religion: generally avoid with strangers
  • Slavery and Civil War history: approach with respect
  • Personal space: Americans prefer a bit more distance

Sensitivity Notes

  • Avoid flippant comments at historical sites
  • Respect differing views if topics arise
  • Maintain a comfortable distance when speaking

Gender Considerations and LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Equality

  • Gender equality is generally recognized
  • Modern American city norms apply
  • Fair treatment expected regardless of gender

LGBTQ+ Welcoming

  • Savannah is a welcoming city for LGBTQ+ individuals
  • Municipal ordinances offer protections
  • Visible and active LGBTQ+ community present

Embrace Politeness

A friendly, respectful demeanor is appreciated in Savannah.

Accessibility Information

Savannah endeavors to enhance accessibility for all travelers, though its historic infrastructure poses some challenges.

Infrastructure for Travelers with Mobility Challenges

The Historic District, with cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks, presents challenges for mobility aids.

Navigating Mobility Needs

  • Cobblestone streets and uneven brick sidewalks
  • Older historic buildings: some without elevators
  • Newer construction generally follows ADA standards

Accessible Attractions and Transportation

Many major museums and public buildings have accessibility features.

Access Points and Transit

  • Museums have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms
  • All Chatham Area Transit (CAT) public buses are wheelchair accessible
  • Some hop-on-hop-off trolley tours offer accessible vehicles

Services for Travelers with Visual or Hearing Impairments

Savannah offers some services for visitors with sensory impairments.

Sensory Support

  • Service animals permitted generally in public places
  • Some museums offer tactile exhibits or audio guides
  • Tours may offer written transcripts or sign language interpretation

Resources and Organizations Providing Accessibility Information

Official tourism organizations and local advocacy groups may offer accessibility details.

Information Sources

  • Savannah Convention & Visitors Bureau for specific information
  • Local disability advocacy groups sometimes yield user-specific advice
  • Calling ahead for specific venues for accessibility features

Advance Accessibility Research

For a smooth experience, research specific attractions' accessibility beforehand. Websites often have dedicated accessibility sections, or direct calls are possible.