09 Mar 2015

A question about : Discounts for UK Veterans in USA

Ladies/Gents,

Planning a trip to New York in November and was wondering if there are any benefits available to ex military personnel in the States. We are looking at discounts on accommodation predominently; however, any other advice would be gratefully received.

Would greatly appreciate any help out there from those that have been there and experienced it and any advice that we should follow.

Best answers:

  • Hello Upwind,
    I'm a US veteran and my husband is still a serving member of the RAF. From experience we've found that businesses are generally happy to extend any US military discounts to UK military members, but often it simply depends on the person who is working at the time. Mostly restaurants and entrance to events and activities (theme parks, ball games, etc) are the ones you'll find are quite happy to give the discount (providing you have ID). When my husband and I visited New York, he actually got in for FREE (being he's on active duty) on the USS Intrepid while I paid the discounted veteran's fee. Be mindful that you can quite easily be refused the military discount because you are from a foreign military, as happened to us when we asked for the discount at the Empire State building. So don't expect you'll get it every time, just look at it as a bonus if you do. Plenty of places do discounts, so don't be shy about asking, and always be nice about it. A smile goes a long way, and Americans love that British accent!
    As far as discounts on accommodation, even when I was still actively serving in the US military, the 'military rate' was rarely cheaper than the standard or online hotel rates. And only some hotels did a military rate, and I don't think it applies to veterans anyway. You are better off trying the tricks on this site to get discounted accommodation. If I may offer you a recommendation: We stayed in The Verve Hotel in Long Island City and it was spectacular value for money. It may seem a little far out to new visitors, but don't let the map fool you. The hotel is located very close to the subway (runs round the clock) which takes you straight into Manhattan, short trip. The 39th Ave stop for the N and Q lines is 3 blocks away and the Queens Plaza stop for the E line (for Penn Station and Port Auth) and R is only slightly farther. It's in a safe area as well (tho please remember to keep your wits about you in any big city in the US). I can't praise that hotel enough. The rooms were super clean, the beds were so comfy, free wifi, free tea and coffee downstairs, breakfast included and lots to choose from, and super easy access to Manhattan without paying Manhattan prices. And I recommend asking for a room high up with a view of the New York skyline. Positively brilliant.
    Hope this all helps!
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