Local Information
Boston is not only a historic icon – a true Birthplace of America – it is also a vibrant, world-class city reflecting the best of modern business and culture.
Following are some helpful tips for our international guests:
Time Zone
Boston is in the Eastern Time Zone (Greenwich Mean Time minus five hours). The city switches to Daylight Savings Time from the first Sunday in April through the last Saturday in October.
VAT & Taxes
- Sales tax in Boston is 5%.
Voltage
- 110V AC, 60Hz. Plugs are of the flat, two-pin type.
Tipping
- Restaurants 15% to 20% of bill, none at fast-food restaurants
- Taxis 10% of fare
- Hotel Bell Desk US$1 per piece of luggage or per taxi summoned
- Hotel Housekeeping US$1 per person per day
- Hotel Room Service 15% of bill
Business Etiquette
- It is customary for a meeting to start with a few minutes of casual conversation to get to know each other.
- A meeting is likely to begin and end with a handshake.
- Business cards are exchanged at the beginning or end of a business meeting.
- Smoking is generally not acceptable in business meetings.
- Do expect direct and transparent business culture.
- Do make appointments for meetings and be punctual.
- Do confirm deals in writing as soon as possible.
Visitor/Tourism Information
Local Weather
Host Airport
- Take a virtual tour of BOS with the Boston Logan Airport Wayfinder.