The United States has a different tipping culture than Europe and most countries around the world. It’s discretionary, but very much expected. For service workers – restaurant and hotel staff, taxi drivers, tour guides, etc. – tips are an essential part of their earnings. Always aim to tip between 15 and 20%, or even more if the service was excellent. For purchases over the counter, like takeaway food or coffee, tipping isn’t necessary but will be warmly appreciated.

Haggling is uncommon in restaurants and shops, but not unheard of in certain venues like open-air markets or street vendors. Be aware that sales tax is not included in shop prices, so the price you pay is often higher than advertised.

New York City has four fairly distinct seasons: a hot summer and a cold winter, shouldered with a mild spring and autumn. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from about 70°F to 95°F (21°C – 35°C) – just be aware that high humidity can make the “feels like” temperature much higher.

Winters vary in severity from year to year, but temperatures can dip to as low as 20°F (-6°C). Snowfall averages about 25 inches per winter, and severe snowstorms may occur.

Autumn (or fall) produces crisp temperatures, not to mention stunning fall foliage colors across the city. Spring also offers mild temperatures, as well as beautiful cherry blossoms. Rain is common throughout all seasons, so it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella year-round.

An electric plug in America has two pins. Search for a Type A plug adaptor, which you’ll be able to purchase in most electronics stores or large stores like Target.

Mobile data reception is excellent and SIM cards are available in most grocery stores and electronics stores. Free WiFi will also be included in your serviced accommodations.

Safety & Security

With any large city, it’s important you follow some general rules. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded places. Check your pockets frequently. Don’t travel to secluded areas, and stay local. Don’t roam around the city alone at night.

Grocery stores can be found all over the city, and range from small to mid-size markets to full supermarkets. Because the majority of New Yorkers don’t have cars, it’s common to grocery shop frequently and buy fewer groceries at a time. The reason behind this is so they can be easily carried home without the use of a vehicle

High-quality, high-price: Small local chains such as the Amish Market, Citarella and Westside Market offer high-end groceries and prepared foods at prices to match. Other gourmet purveyors include specialty stores like Eataly and Zabar’s.

Mid-range: You’ll notice many small markets, known as “bodegas,” that sell a limited selection of groceries, snacks, drinks, conveniences, alcohol, coffee, and hot and cold deli foods like sandwiches. Beloved by locals, bodegas can be found close to your furnished apartment in NYC and on nearly every block. Although their prices tend to be higher, many find the convenience to be worth paying a little extra. Other moderately priced options include Gristedes, Morton Williams, Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods.

Cheaper eats: You may have to travel to Brooklyn or Queens, but low-price grocery stores like ALDI, CTown and Key Food  can be found throughout the city.

The USA has a different tipping culture to Europe and most countries around the world – it’s discretionary, but very much expected. For service workers —restaurant and hotel staff, taxi drivers, tour guides, etc. —tips are an essential part of their earnings. Always aim to tip between 18 and 20%, or even more if the service was excellent. For purchases over the counter, like takeaway coffees, tipping isn’t necessary but will be warmly appreciated.

Haggling is uncommon. If you try to negotiate a lower price in a restaurant or shop, it’s likely you’ll be met with a bemused look and possibly be considered rude. Be aware that sales tax is usually not included in shop prices, so the price you pay is often higher than advertised.

The weather in San Francisco is comfortable all year round. Summer lasts from June to September with temperatures generally in the low 70’s degree fahrenheit (21°C) with lots of sunshine and very little rain. The coldest months are from December to February, with temperatures between 45°and 60° F (7° -15°C). Some rain should be expected in the winter months. Just keep in mind that when you visit San Francisco it can get quite windy any time of year, making it feel colder, so it’s smart to wear layers. And be sure to watch out for Karl, the famous San Francisco fog, when you visit!

An electric plug in America has two pins. Search for a Type A plug adaptor. You will be able to purchase one in most electronics stores or large stores like Target and Walmart.

Mobile data reception is excellent and SIM cards are available in most grocery stores and electronics stores. Free WiFi will also be included in your serviced accommodation.

Safety & Security

With any large city, it’s important you follow some general rules. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded places. Check your pockets frequently. Don’t travel to secluded areas, and stay local. Don’t roam around the city alone at night.

Supermarkets: San Francisco is short on space, so don’t expect to find a huge superstore around the corner from your apartment. That said, there are plenty of familiar favorites like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods with sizable stores across the city. Note that most stores offer home delivery services —just ask or take a look online.

Local stores: You won’t have to go far from your furnished apartment in San Francisco to come across a decently sized, family-owned grocery store. The selection of food is generally very good, the service far more personalized, and prices competitive.

Speciality: San Francisco is one of the world’s greatest food destinations. Delis, bakeries, butchers and markets are in high supply and worth exploring if you love good eats. Check out this guide to the best in the city.

Living in the heart of San Diego offers more than just the chance to enjoy the city’s numerous attractions; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture for as long as you’re here. Our carefully selected, fully furnished apartments reflect our dedication to providing you with a comfortable and unforgettable experience during your extended stay. We take immense pride in delivering world-class hospitality and serviced accommodations in some of the coziest and most welcoming neighborhoods across San Diego. You can always rely on us to ensure a remarkable stay that captures the true essence of San Diego’s warm hospitality.

Embrace the essence of modern San Diego living in our luxury apartments. Experience the blend of contemporary design, state-of-the-art amenities and convenient access to the city’s lively energy. Each apartment is carefully crafted to provide a move-in ready experience, complete with a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living area with a SmartTV and high-speed Wi-Fi. With easy access to the vibrant city center, our San Diego apartments offer an ideal alternative to traditional hotels, whether you’re planning a long or short-term stay. Immerse yourself in the dynamic spirit of San Diego while savoring the comfort and convenience of our modern accommodations, all with a local touch that makes your stay truly special.

However, it’s not just about the attractions San Francisco offers; it’s also about the seamless feeling of being at home away from home. Our fully furnished apartments are meticulously selected to provide you with a comfortable and unforgettable experience during your extended stay. We take pride in delivering world-class hospitality and serviced accommodations nestled within some of the most convenient and welcoming neighborhoods in central San Francisco. Count on us to ensure a remarkable stay that embodies the true essence of San Francisco’s hospitality.

Embrace the essence of modern living in our luxury apartments in San Francisco. Experience contemporary design, state-of-the-art amenities, and convenient access to the city’s vibrant energy. Each apartment is crafted to provide a comfortable living space, complete with a fully equipped kitchen, complimentary Wi-Fi, and seamless connectivity. With easy access to the bustling city center, our San Francisco apartments offer an ideal alternative to traditional hotels, whether you’re planning a long or short-term stay. Immerse yourself in the dynamic spirit of San Francisco while enjoying the comfort and convenience of our modern accommodations.

It’s not only about the attractions New York has to offer: it’s also about the seamless feeling of being at home away from home. Our selection of fully furnished apartments in New York is meticulously curated to provide you with a comfortable and unforgettable experience. We pride ourselves on delivering world-class hospitality and serviced accommodations situated in the heart of the city’s most welcoming and convenient neighborhoods.

Embrace the epitome of modern living in our serviced apartments in New York City. Experience the perfect fusion of contemporary design, state-of-the-art amenities and unparalleled access to the vibrant city. Each NYC apartment is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of any business traveler or digital nomad, complete with a fully equipped kitchen, living area, complimentary Wi-Fi and seamless connectivity to the bustling city center. Whether your visit is long or short-term, our furnished apartments in NYC provide an ideal alternative to traditional hotels, ensuring a truly remarkable stay in New York City.

Synergy maintains temporary housing in 25 high rise buildings in Manhattan and neighboring Jersey City, NJ. Uniquely, Synergy also maintains two branded buildings in Manhattan: Synergy Madison in Midtown and Synergy Chelsea in the popular Chelsea neighborhood. Virtually all of our offerings are in luxury doorman buildings in prime locations and offer a full suite of amenities.

The most common size apartment and the most often requested in New York is a one-bedroom apartment. You’ll find a fully equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. Studios and 2 bedrooms are also part of our offerings in this great city.

Living in the heart of Houston offers more than just proximity to the city’s attractions; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture for the duration of your stay. Our thoughtfully selected, fully furnished apartments showcase our commitment to providing a comfortable and memorable experience during your extended visit. We take pride in offering top-notch hospitality and serviced accommodations in some of the coziest and most welcoming neighborhoods across Houston. Count on us to ensure an exceptional stay that captures the genuine warmth of Houston’s unique hospitality.

Experience the essence of contemporary Houston living in our upscale apartments. Immerse yourself in the fusion of modern design, cutting-edge amenities, and convenient access to the city’s vibrant energy. Each apartment is meticulously designed for a seamless move-in experience, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living area with a SmartTV, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Positioned for easy access to the bustling city center, our Houston apartments provide an excellent alternative to traditional hotels, catering to both long and short-term stays. Immerse yourself in the dynamic spirit of Houston while relishing the comfort and convenience of our modern accommodations, all infused with a local touch that makes your stay truly special.

Seattle, a city brimming with history and innovation, is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Our team at Synergy is deeply rooted in the local community, providing you with insider knowledge and personalized recommendations to make the most of your stay.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Seattle’s culture as you wander through its diverse neighborhoods. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront in Belltown or discovering hidden art galleries in Pioneer Square, our local expertise ensures you experience the city like a true Seattleite. Let us guide you to the best dining spots, cultural attractions, and off-the-beaten-path gems, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

• Space Needle
• Pike Place Market
• Seattle Center Monorail
• Seattle Aquarium
• Olympic Sculpture Park

Known for its perpetual state of innovation and contrasting laid-back vibe, Seattle offers a unique blend of natural beauty, technological advancement and cultural richness. As the birthplace of Starbucks, Amazon, and Microsoft, Seattle embraces its reputation as a pioneer in business and culture.

Immerse yourself in local tradition and experience the authentic spirit of Seattle. Sample artisanal coffee at a cozy cafe, browse handmade crafts at a neighborhood market, or embark on a scenic hike through the lush greenery of Discovery Park. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, Seattle invites you to discover its diverse landscapes and rich heritage, creating memories that will stay with you long after you leave.

Unwind and relax in the comfort of Synergy Global Housing’s fully furnished apartments, meticulously designed to provide a home away from home experience. Our apartments offer spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens and luxurious amenities to ensure your stay in Seattle is both comfortable and convenient. Enjoy the flexibility of staying in the city’s most inviting neighborhoods, with easy access to attractions, dining, and entertainment options.

Experience personalized service and unmatched hospitality from our dedicated team, who are committed to making your stay memorable. Whether you’re in Seattle for business or leisure, Synergy Global Housing provides a seamless and stress-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying all that the Emerald City has to offer.

Phoenix is rising — Aside from being one of the fastest growing cities in the country, Phoenix offers an abundance of nature excursions from exploring the Camelback trails to visiting the Grand Canyon. Sunlight and sweeping mountain views are constant, helping guests fully experience the desert year-round.

As a Phoenix serviced-apartment provider, we provide guests with an experience that makes them feel at home, while they cultivate a love for this Southwest city. We carefully select each furnished apartment to ensure our guests have a comfortable and convenient stay. Experience best-in-class hospitality and apartments in some of Phoenix’s most central and friendly neighborhoods.

Enjoy Scottsdale’s nearly 100 permanent public art pieces, which range from the artistic Soleri Bridge and Goldwater Bell to abstract objects and lifelike human forms. You can find numerous statues in the city that depict horses from the Old West as well as a wealth of temporary art, including colored light installations along the Arizona Canal.

If you find yourself in Old Town Scottsdale make sure to visit Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West to learn about the history of the 19 states of the American West. Nearby the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art you can also find the dynamic world of art, architecture and design with intriguing exhibits and interactive workshops.

The votes are in — there is something special about D.C.! As a serviced apartment provider in the US Capitol, our fully furnished accommodations are carefully chosen to provide a convenient and comfortable stay in some of the most central and friendly neighborhoods. With an award-winning customer service team available every step of the way, you’ll have expert assistance throughout your stay. Come experience world-class hospitality and exceptional service as you discover all that Washington DC has to offer.

Our furnished apartments in Washington DC offer contemporary living defined by modern amenities and convenient access to the city. Each apartment boasts a comfortable living space, a fully equipped kitchen, complimentary Wi-Fi, and easy access to the bustling city center. Whether you’ll be in Washington DC for a short or long-term stay, our furnished apartments provide an ideal alternative to hotels.