Climate
Generally, Scotland is cool, 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 British Pounds.
Accepted methods of payment are: Cash (British 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 British 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 and coffee making facilities are supplied in all guest rooms at the hotel.

Alcohol Consumption 
In the United Kingdom, you are required to be over 18 years of age 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 and the United States. Residents of other countries should consult with their nearest UK embassy.

2012 Public Holidays 

New Year's Bank Holiday: January 2nd and 3rd
Good Friday: April 6th
Easter Monday: April 9th
May Day: May 7th
Spring Bank Holiday: June 4th
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee: June 5th
Summer Bank Holiday: August 27th
St Andrews Day: November 30th
Christmas Day: December 25th
Boxing Day: December 26th

 Time Zones
From the last weekend in October through the last Sunday in March Scotland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Throughout the other 6 months, it is one hour ahead of GMT.

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, receive a discretionary amount. Taxi drivers are usually given 10 to 15% of the fare.