Philadelphia: Business Etiquette, Transport

Business Etiquette

Both men and women dress predominantly suits in financial institutions and office hubs. Most organizations allow casual clothing over the weekend. During winter, style takes a backseat with most wearing gloves, hat, a heavy coat, and waterproof boots.

The traditional work hours are from 0900 to 1700. Business meetings are generally held over lunch. Business cards are usually exchanged at the end of important meetings. Business etiquette demands that you go low on the alcohol till the host states his or her preference. Most Americans stick to non-alcoholic drinks and juices at lunch. Avoid smoking and heavy drinking during business hours. Most business meetings end in dinner parties. However, do not expect an invitation to visit your host’s house. Gifting is not compulsory, although exchange of products with the company logo is appreciated.

Transport

Philadelphia is well connected with buses, automobiles, subway, and train services. Some of these services are operational 24×7. Use ticket vending machines to avoid queues. The bus services are equipped to handle the physically impaired.

Day passes are available, which give you unlimited travel on all modes of transport. Weekly and monthly passes, too, are sold in large numbers.

The shuttle bus service connects the downtown area to the city’s major attractions. The Art Museum and Penn’s Landing are two popular destinations.

The ferry service connects Philadelphia to New Jersey and Camden. A new boat leaves every hour on weekends. Tickets are available at the dockside terminals.

Taxis are easily available throughout the city. Some taxis also offer a telephone service.

Taking a drive in the city

The public transport system is well developed in the city. Therefore, a car may seem superfluous. Some areas remote in nature may need private transport. The grid system of the roads makes driving easy and full of pleasure. The streets running north-south are numbered, whereas those running east-west are named. The prominent streets are Broad Street and Market Street. The main town centre can witness traffic snarls during peak hours.

Parking facilities and garages are galore. The Center City allows on-street parking. Keep a lookout for signs on the streets to know when parking is allowed.

Car Rentals

The average age for renting a car is 25. However, drivers aged between 21 and 24, too, are allowed to rent out cars. All drivers need to possess a driving license issued by their country. Liability insurance, though expensive, is mandatory. Always cross-check with your insurance company to see if they cover liability insurance.