Denver, United States

• Denver sits at 5,280 feet, where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountains. The altitude catches many visitors out: headaches, dry skin and poor sleep are common for the first couple of days, so drink a lot of water and go easy on alcohol at first. The city itself is casual and outdoorsy, with a walkable core, plenty of craft breweries and coffee shops, and mountain views at the end of many streets.
• Most visitors stay in Downtown, LoDo, LoHi, RiNo or Capitol Hill. These areas have plenty of restaurants, breweries and bars, and eating or drinking alone is normal. People are relaxed and informal, and a woman on her own at a bar or coffee shop rarely draws attention.
• Denver has the property crime you would expect in a large American city, especially car break-ins. Homelessness and drug use are visible in parts of downtown, along East Colfax Avenue and around some transit stops. Most problems involve belongings rather than violence. Keep valuables out of parked cars, and take a rideshare rather than walking through quiet blocks after dark.
• Getting around works with a mix of light rail, buses, scooters and rideshare. The A Line train runs between the airport and Union Station, and the downtown core can be covered on foot. Red Rocks, Boulder and the mountains usually need a car or a tour.

English is the main language, and Spanish is widely spoken. Call 911 for any emergency and say the service you need: police, fire or ambulance. Phone interpreters are available if you do not speak English. The 988 lifeline gives free, confidential support by call or text at any hour.

• Dress is casual. Hiking boots, jeans and fleece are fine almost everywhere, including nice restaurants. Bring layers and sunscreen, since the sun is strong at altitude and temperatures can swing a lot in a single day.
• Tipping is expected: around 18-22% at sit-down restaurants and bars, plus a dollar or two per drink at a bar. Prices on menus and shelves do not include sales tax.
• Recreational cannabis is legal in Colorado for adults 21 and over and sold in licensed shops. Public consumption is illegal, and it cannot be taken out of the state or onto flights. Never leave a drink unattended, and note that edibles can hit harder at altitude.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Police, Fire and Ambulance: 911. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• The RTD A Line train links Denver International Airport with Union Station in about 37 minutes, and fares are a few dollars. Light rail and buses cover the rest of the metro area. Service is fine in the daytime, but stops can be quiet and uncomfortable late at night, so use rideshare after dark.
• Uber and Lyft are widely available and the easiest option at night. Check the plate and driver name before getting in. Scooters and rental bikes are common downtown and along the Cherry Creek and South Platte trails.
• Downtown, LoDo, LoHi, RiNo and Capitol Hill can be walked, and the free MallRide shuttle runs along 16th Street. Cars parked on the street are often broken into, so never leave bags or electronics visible. A car is useful for Red Rocks, Boulder and the mountains, or book a small-group tour.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

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