Welcome to Tampa Bay! Florida is one of the most internationally-visited states in the US, and the Tampa Bay area is particularly popular with visitors from Canada, the UK, Germany, and Brazil. Here's a practical guide to navigating the basics of a Tampa Bay visit as an international visitor.
Arriving at Tampa International Airport (TPA)
US Customs & Border Protection
International arrivals to TPA process through Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before collecting baggage. Wait times vary: 30-90 minutes depending on flight origin and time of day. Canadian, UK, and EU citizens typically use the shorter lines.
Global Entry & TSA PreCheck
If you travel to the US regularly, Global Entry (for permanent US residents and citizens of certain countries) significantly speeds customs processing.
Transportation from TPA
Private car service is the recommended ground transportation for international arrivals:
- Driver meets you in the baggage claim area with a name sign
- No language barrier for navigation
- Luggage assistance included
- Pre-booked flat rate — no confusing meter or tip calculation
Tipping in the United States
Tipping is a significant part of US service culture — here's what's standard:
- Restaurant servers: 18-22% of pre-tax bill (standard), 15% minimum
- Rideshare/Taxi: 15-20% suggested
- Hotel housekeeping: $2-5 per day
- Car service drivers: 15-20% appreciated
- Airport porters: $2-3 per bag
Driving in Florida
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Speed in miles per hour (1 mile = 1.6 km)
- International driving license valid in Florida for up to 1 year
- Right turn on red is legal unless posted otherwise
- Seat belts required for all occupants
- Florida has no left-lane cruising — use left lane only for passing
Money & Payments
- US Dollars only — credit cards accepted virtually everywhere
- ATMs widely available
- No-fee currency exchange at major Tampa hotels and international terminals
Phones & Data
- US SIM cards available at Target, Best Buy, and airport kiosks
- Verizon and AT&T have the best coverage in rural areas
- T-Mobile is excellent value and has good coverage in cities
- Many international plans now include US data — check your provider