Climate
Generally, Scotland is cool, damp and cloudy, but daily weather is unpredictable and extremely changeable. January and February are the coldest months, averaging 5°C to 7°C (41°F to 45°F), and summer has average temperatures of 19°C (66°F) with nicer days reaching the mid-twenties during its warmest months of July and August. Scottish weather is slightly cooler on average than that of England. The coldest areas are the highlands and the northern latitude means short winter days and very long summer evenings. The east coast, including St Andrews, experiences more sunshine, but colder winters, compared to the west.

Clothing
Casual wear is acceptable most of the time.Some establishments (nightclubs, bars and restaurants) have a 'no jeans, no running shoes' policy. Certain dining rooms require men to wear jackets to dinner. Please take the time to call ahead to verify the appropriate dress code. Packing some warm apparel is recommended.

Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the United Kingdom. Bank machines can be found everywhere and debit cards are also widely used. If you are using a foreign card at a bank machine, your money will be disbursed in Great Britain Pounds.
Accepted methods of payment are: Cash (Great Britain Pounds), American Express, Diners Club, Visa (including Visa Check and Debit Cards), MasterCard, JCB Card.

Currency
Financial institutions will provide a credible rate of exchange when switching your currency for Great Britain Pounds. The hotel's Front Desk can also assist with exchanging small amounts of major currencies.

Electrical Current
Rooms at Fairmont St Andrews have UK and North American compatible electrical outlets. Hair dryers, irons, coffee makers and CD players are supplied in all guest rooms at the hotel.

Liquor Laws
In the United Kingdom, you are required to be 18 years of age or older to purchase and/or consume alcoholic beverages.

Passport and Visa Requirements
A passport is required for all visitors to the United Kingdom. Visas are not required for citizens of EU countries or Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States. Residents of other countries should consult with their nearest UK embassy.

2007 Public Holidays  

Tipping
Tips or service charges are usually added to a bill in the United Kingdom. 10 to 15% is expected in restaurants and up-market hotels if a service charge hasn't been included. Hotel service staff, including bellmen, housekeepers and concierge, receives a discretionary amount. Taxi drivers are usually given 10 to 15% of the fare.