Seattle Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards & eSIM

Choose from major providers like T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon or Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).

Connectivity Options

Prepaid SIM cards available from major carriers and retailers.
ESIM options from many providers for compatible, unlocked phones.
Confirm your phone is unlocked before purchasing a local SIM card.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

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

Stay Connected

Free Wi-Fi at most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public libraries.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offers free Wi-Fi.
Consider a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi for consistent access.

Postal Services

Send letters and packages through reliable services.

Sending Mail

United States Postal Service (USPS) offices are widely available.
Purchase stamps and send postcards or larger items from post offices.
Private carriers such as FedEx and UPS also offer shipping services.

Language & Translation

The official language in Seattle and the U.S. Is English.

Translation Tools

Language barriers are generally minimal, especially in tourist areas.
Seattle is a diverse city; English is universally understood in public settings.
Mobile apps like Google Translate or Rosetta Stone are beneficial for non-English speakers.

Communication Checklist

Pre-Arrival & Setup

Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked for international SIM use.
Consider purchasing an eSIM for immediate connectivity upon arrival.
Download offline language packs for interpretation apps.
Save important local contacts (hotel, emergencies) to your phone.

During Your Visit

Utilize free Wi-Fi at hotels and cafes to save on data.
Locate a nearby USPS office if you plan to send postcards or packages.
Carry a portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day.
Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers (911 for Police, Fire, Ambulance).

Phone Unlocking Tip

Confirm your mobile phone is unlocked in advance of traveling. This allows you the flexibility to use local SIM cards or eSIM services without carrier restrictions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Plan your day around typical operating hours in Seattle.

Retail Stores

Generally open from 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM (Mon-Sat), with shorter hours on Sunday (11 AM to 5 PM).

Banks & ATMs

Banks typically open 9 AM to 5 PM (Mon-Fri). ATMs are widely available at various locations.

Restaurants & Markets

Lunch 11:30 AM-2 PM, Dinner 5 PM-10 PM. Pike Place Market operates 9 AM-5 PM (main market).

Public & Federal Holidays

Federal holidays can close many businesses and government offices.

Holiday Schedule Impact

New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day.
Many businesses and government offices close or have reduced hours.
Public transportation may operate on a holiday schedule.

Seasonal Adjustments

Some businesses and attractions adjust hours during the low season.

Winter Travel Notes

Smaller businesses or attractions may reduce hours in winter.
National Parks may have road blocks due to snow in winter.
Always check park websites for current conditions before you go to in colder months.

Operating Information

Shopping & Banking

General retail: 10 AM - 7 PM (Mon-Sat), 11 AM - 5 PM (Sun).
Local banks: 9 AM - 5 PM (Mon-Fri), some Saturday mornings.
ATMs: Available 24/7 at most banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores.

Dining & Markets

Cafes: Often open early, 6 IN the morning - 07:00.
Lunch service: 11:30 AM - 2 PM.
Bars: Typically close at 2 AM.

Verify Hours Locally

While general hours are consistent, specific establishments may vary. Check their websites or call ahead, especially during holidays or adverse weather.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigate Seattle with self-assurance by understanding local customs.

Greeting Customs

Greetings are considered generally casual in Seattle.

Typical Interactions

A handshake is common upon introduction.
Expressions such as "Hello," "Hi," and "How are you?" are typical.
Direct eye contact is generally expected and signals sincerity.

Appropriate Attire

Seattle has a relaxed dress code for most situations.

Dress for Comfort

Athletic wear and comfortable, practical clothing are common.
Business casual or semi-formal attire for upscale restaurants or events.
Layered clothing is always recommended due to unpredictable weather.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Dining customs are casual; tipping is an expected part of service.

Tipping Expectations

Basic politeness, like not speaking with your mouth full, is expected.
15-20% for good service at restaurants, bars, and for drivers is standard.
Tipping is a significant part of service industry income.

Photography Permissions

Generally permissible to take photos in public spaces and at attractions.

Respectful Captures

Always seek permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Be especially mindful when photographing children; always seek consent.
Look for signage; certain private or religious settings may prohibit photography.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

General Avoidance

Avoid discussing politics or religion unless a local initiates the conversation.
Respect personal space; avoid standing too close during conversations.
Do not litter; public bins are widely available.

Inclusive Environment

Seattle is a progressive plus all-embracing city.
INDIVIDUALS from the lgbtq+ community are generally welcomed and accepted.
Diversity is a valued aspect of Seattle's community.

Local Interaction Tips

General Conduct

Be polite and patient in your interactions.
Avoid making assumptions about locals or their backgrounds.
Engage respectfully with local communities and businesses.

Dining Out Notes

Table service often brings water without asking; it's generally safe tap water.
Portion sizes can be generous; consider sharing or ordering smaller dishes.
Asking for a "to-go box" or "doggie bag" for leftovers is common.

Seattle's Welcoming Spirit

Seattle is known for its friendly and open atmosphere. A respectful and open-minded approach to interactions will foster pleasant encounters.

Accessibility Information

Seattle strives to be an accessible city for all travelers.

Mobility Challenges

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility for public buildings and transportation.

Infrastructure Support

Newer infrastructure, like Link Light Rail stations, is generally accessible.
Older areas, like parts of Pioneer Square with cobblestones, present challenges.
Seattle's hilly terrain can affect ease of movement for mobility devices.

Accessible Transit & Attractions

Most major attractions and public transit options are ADA compliant.

Getting Around

Major attractions like the Space Needle, MoPOP, and SAM are accessible.
The Link Light Rail, King County Metro buses, and Washington State Ferries are accessible.
Ferry services accommodate travelers using wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

Visual or Hearing Impairments

Many institutions offer services to aid travelers with sensory impairments.

Support Services

Audio guides, large print materials, or assisted listening devices are available.
Some venues provide braille signage or tactile exhibits.
Service animals are permitted in most public places.

Resources & Organizations

Information and support are available for planning accessible travel.

Finding Information

City of Seattle Office for Liberties (Disability Section) for information.
Official tourism websites like VisitSeattle.org often have dedicated sections.

Accessible Travel Overview

Venues

Many major attractions are designed for easy access, including ramps and elevators.

Transportation

Public transportation systems provide set up for mobility devices and offer priority seating.

Assistance

Assisted listening devices and large printed resources are often accessible upon request.

Planning Accessible Travel

For a seamless trip, consider reaching out to specific venues or service providers in advance to confirm their current accessibility offerings and any special accommodations.

Airport Services & Flight Information

Navigate Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) with these important services and tips.

Airport Lounge Access

Relax Before Your Flight

Gain access to an international network of airport lounges with Priority Pass, offering comfort and amenities.

Complimentary Refreshments

Enjoy food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and quiet spaces away from the busy terminal at SEA and other airports.

Global Coverage

Priority Pass includes hundreds of lounges worldwide, making travel more pleasant for frequent flyers.

Flight Delay & Cancellation Compensation

If your flight experiences delays, cancellations, or refused entry onto the plane, you may be eligible for compensation.
Services like Compensair assist travelers in claiming compensation from airlines.
Compensation depends on factors like flight distance, delay duration, and reason for disruption.
EU261 regulation offers significant protection for flights within or departing from the EU.
Retain all flight documents and boarding passes as evidence.
Check your eligibility for compensation within the specific time frames allowed by regulations.

General Airport Tips for SEA

Arrive early, particularly during busy travel periods, to allow for security and check-in.
Utilize the SEA Airport app for real-time flight status, gate changes, and wait times.
Access free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals for your convenience.
Ground transit includes Link Light Rail, rideshares, taxis, and rental cars.
Family restrooms and pet relief areas are available for travelers.
Explore various dining and shopping options both pre- and post-security.

Connecting Flights & Transit

Link Light Rail

Direct service from SEA Airport to the city center Seattle, Westlake Center, and other neighborhoods. An efficient connection.

Rideshare & Taxi

Designated pick-up areas for Uber, Lyft, and taxis situated on the third floor of the preserveing garage at SEA.

Car Rentals

A devoted rental car facility is located off-site, with shuttle services from the main terminal.

Seattle Travel Tips