ABOUT TEXAS

Texas, the second largest state in the USA, boasts a diverse landscape including deserts, plains, forests and coastlines. 

Its capital, Austin, is known for its vibrant music scene and technology industry. Its largest city, Houston, is a major centre for the energy sector. Other major cities include Dallas, San Antonio and Fort Worth, each of which contributes uniquely to the state's cultural tapestry. 

The Texas economy is growing through industries such as energy, agriculture, technology, and manufacturing. Influenced by its rich history, which includes periods of Spanish and Mexican rule, Texas has a unique cultural heritage. 

Texas cuisine, famous for dishes such as barbecue and Tex-Mex, is recognised worldwide for its distinctive flavours. 

The state is home to prestigious universities such as the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University.

With its independent spirit and significant economic and political influence, Texas plays a key role in shaping national policy and debate. Despite occasional challenges such as natural disasters, Texas continues to thrive as a dynamic and resilient state.

Entry into USA

As a state of the United States, the conditions of entry for visitors to Texas vary depending on factors such as the visitor's country of citizenship and the purpose of the visit. 

Here are some general guidelines. However, it is essential to check the current entry requirements and regulations as they are subject to change.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

Travellers from countries eligible for the Visa Waiver Program must apply for authorization through ESTA before travelling to the United States. ESTA determines the eligibility of travellers for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

Where to apply for ESTA: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

Currency

The currency in the United States is the US dollar (USD), which is the world's main reserve currency. It is denoted by the symbol "$" and is subdivided into 100 smaller units called cents. 

The US dollar is issued and regulated by the Federal Reserve, the central banking system of the United States. It is widely accepted as a medium of exchange in international trade and finance, making it one of the most influential currencies in the world. The U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates depending on a variety of factors, including economic indicators, geopolitical events and market sentiment.

Approximate exchange rates for United States Dollar (USD) against some major currencies:

Euro (EUR): approximately 1 USD = 0.85 to 0.90 EUR.
British Pound Sterling (GBP): approximately 1 USD = 0,70 to 0,75 GBP.
Japanese Yen (JPY): approximately USD 1 = JPY 110 to JPY 115.
Canadian dollar (CAD): approximately USD 1 = CAD 1,25 to CAD 1,30.
Australian dollar (AUD): approximately USD 1 = AUD 1,25 to AUD 1,30.

Electricity

In Texas, as in the rest of the United States, the standard electrical outlet and plug type is the NEMA 5-15 configuration. It has three grooves, two vertical grooves for the live and neutral pins and a semicircular groove for the ground pin.

Mobile services

Mobile services in the US are provided by several large operators and a number of smaller regional operators and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs). 

AT&T
AT&T is one of the largest mobile operators in the US and offers a wide range of tariffs for individuals, families and businesses. It provides nationwide coverage and offers postpaid and prepaid options.

Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless is the largest prepaid provider: Verizon Wireless is another major player in the US mobile market, known for its extensive coverage and reliable network. It offers a variety of plans, including unlimited data options, for consumers and businesses.

T-Mobile
T-Mobile offers mobile plans that are only available to customers who have the ability to make calls from a cell phone: T-Mobile is known for its competitive pricing and innovative offerings, such as its "Un-carrier" initiatives. It provides nationwide coverage and offers plans with features such as international roaming and data porting.

MVNO
There are also a number of MVNOs in the US that lease network infrastructure from the major operators and offer their own branded tariffs. Examples include Cricket Wireless (which operates on AT&T's network), Boost Mobile (which operates on T-Mobile's network) and Visible (which operates on Verizon's network).

However, if you're not local and need mobile data, we recommend apps like Airalo.

Important telephone numbers

There are several important phone numbers in Austin that residents and visitors should know for emergencies and basic services. Here are some of the most important ones:

Emergency services
Police, fire, and medical emergencies: 911

Non-emergency services
Austin Police Department: (512) 974-2000.
Austin Fire Department: (512) 974-0130.

Interesting facts about Texas

Texas, the second largest state in the USA, boasts a diverse landscape including deserts, forests, plains, mountains and the Gulf Coast. 

It has a strong economy driven by industries such as oil and gas, technology, agriculture and manufacturing. Texas has a vibrant music scene, particularly in Austin, which is known as the "Live Music Capital of the World", and a rich cultural heritage influenced by cowboy traditions and Mexican roots. 

Texas is a leader in energy production, particularly oil, natural gas and wind energy, and is among the world's top producers in these sectors. Houston is home to NASA's Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, and Texas plays a major role in space exploration. 

The diversity of wildlife includes iconic species such as armadillos, white-tailed deer and the Texas long-tailed. Texas was once part of Mexico and the Mexican influence is still evident in its cuisine, architecture and cultural celebrations.