International Visitors
Welcome To Boston
Boston is in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in the northeast of the USA on the eastern seaboard. It is well connected internationally and domestically by air. The train and coach network also offers great public transportation options across the region while the well-developed highway network ensures the car is also a good option. We encourage those visiting for the event to use public transportation where possible.
Note: Distances between Host Cities can be significant. Verify travel times and logistics before finalizing your plans.
US & LOCal Tips
Time zones:
- During the World Cup Boston is on Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), which is 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 3 hours ahead of the west coast Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).
Country Entry Requirements:
- Passports: Travelers to the U.S. must have a valid passport which will not expire until at least 6 months after departing from the US.
- Visas: A visitor, or temporary, visa is required for all non-residents seeking to enter the USA except for nationals of Canada and countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program who do still require approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Driving in the USA:
- Rules of the road: Remember to drive on the right, pay close attention to speed limits posted in miles per hour, and be aware of varying state and federal laws, noting that Boston is in the state of Massachusetts.
- Driving permits: Many international driving licenses are valid in the USA without an International Drivers Permit but check for the State in which you are traveling.
- Road tolls: It is commonplace to pay to use sections of roads across the USA.
- Right turn on red: Vehicles can turn right at a junction when red lights are showing as long as it is safe to do so and there is no sign indicating otherwise. Remember pedestrians always have the right of way.
Using public transportation in the USA:
- USA Rail Pass: This is a good option for those wishing to make multiple journeys on Amtrak’s national network. It allows the user to purchase a fixed number of trip ‘segments’ over a 3-month period at a discount to the usual fare.
- There is no single USA wide bus or coach pass. Please check with the individual operator for the routes you are interested in.
Other important information to be aware of:
- Drinking / Gambling Age: 21 years of age
- Public Drinking: It is illegal to drink from or possess open containers of alcohol in public in Massachusetts, including on sidewalks, streets, parks, and beaches
- Drug Use: Information on recreational use of drugs in Massachusetts is available on the VisitMA website.
- Tipping: Is expected across the USA, typically at 15-20% for bars/restaurants
