Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time GMT -5 hours

Language

English is the official language of the United States however a variety of European languages are spoken by many of our staff and are always willing to assist.

Currency

The accepted currency is USD used in units of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and up. You can either exchange from a bank or private currency exchange stores. The exchange rate may vary between different banks & stores and additional charges may apply.

Electrical Standard

Local voltage is 110 to 120 volts.

Shopping Hours

Monday to Friday: 10:00am to 7:00pm

Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 to 6:00pm

Banking Hours

Monday to Friday: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Local Facilities

Mandarin Oriental, New York is very conveniently located in the centre of Manhattan with excellent access to all necessary facilities.

Shopping

There are two shopping areas within a 10 minute walk. The Shops at Columbus Circle are located directly below Mandarin Oriental in the same complex and 5th Avenue shopping is a few blocks away.

Medical

The nearest emergency facility is St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital two blocks away; a 5 minute walk.

Banking

Three convenient banking facilites are located in and around the hotel.

First Republic located at 10 Columbus Circle operates Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 10-3 and Sunday 11-3.

Chase located at 250 West 57th Street operates Monday-Friday 8:30-6 and is closed Saturday/Sunday.

Wachovia located at 1755 Broadway has banking hours Monday-Friday 8-6, Saturday 10-2 and is closed on Sunday.

Tips on Tipping

Tipping can be an awkward business but don’t be abashed in New York, for many it is an agreed part of their salary and very much expected. There are some people you always tip, generally those doing you a temporary service like waiters and waitresses, 15% to 20%; likewise hairdressers; taxi drivers 10% to 15%; delivery people and anyone handling bags and luggage, allowing approximately USD1 a bag so perhaps USD2/3 and then the people who clean your room would expect approximately USD2 each day. Tips are best given in cash to the individual however in restaurants it is quite acceptable to add it onto the bill.