Baltimore: The Charm City by the Bay

Baltimore is served by Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), located approximately 10 miles south of downtown Baltimore. The airport offers numerous domestic and international flights. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or the Light RailLink directly from the airport to downtown Baltimore. Amtrak also provides train services to Baltimore Penn Station from major cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City. Interstate highways I-95 and I-83 connect Baltimore to other parts of the East Coast.

Baltimore has a variety of transportation options including buses, Light RailLink, Metro SubwayLink, and the Charm City Circulator, a free bus service that runs through downtown Baltimore. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. For those who prefer biking, Baltimore Bike Share offers convenient bike rentals. Additionally, walking is a viable option in many parts of the city, especially in the Inner Harbor area.

The official currency in Baltimore, like the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and many establishments also accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit establishments that do not accept cards.

Baltimore has areas with varying safety levels. While the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, and Federal Hill are generally safe for tourists, neighborhoods like West Baltimore and parts of East Baltimore have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night. Stay vigilant, avoid walking alone after dark, and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. Always consult local advisories and your hotel staff for current safety information.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Baltimore is equipped with modern medical facilities, including Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center. Always have your travel insurance information handy. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress casually but neatly. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing unless you're at the beach or a pool. Religion: Do respect religious sites and practices, especially when visiting churches or synagogues. Public Transport: Do stand on the right and walk on the left on escalators. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. Don’t be overly familiar with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like crab cakes and Old Bay seasoning. Don’t forget to tip, as it is customary in the U.S.

To experience Baltimore like a local, visit neighborhood markets like Lexington Market for local delicacies. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade from the Inner Harbor to Fells Point. Attend a Baltimore Orioles game at Camden Yards or a Ravens game at M&T Bank Stadium for a genuine local sports experience. Don’t miss the annual events like the Baltimore Artscape and the Baltimore Book Festival. For a unique experience, explore the city's rich history by visiting Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem.