USA Travel Guide
Written by Joeri Van Overloop
Why Visit The USA?
Are you looking for an exciting adventure to take this year? Look no further than the United States of America! With its diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and cities, the USA is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. This comprehensive USA travel guide will provide essential information on why and how to explore the amazing sights and sounds of this incredible country. From bustling metropolises to majestic national parks, here’s a few good reasons to visit the USA.
Diverse Landscapes: From beaches to mountains, deserts to forests, and everything in between, the USA offers a vast array of stunning natural scenery for travelers to explore.
Iconic Cities: Cities like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas are iconic American destinations, known for their unique cultures, iconic landmarks, and world-famous attractions.
Rich History and Culture: With its Native American heritage, the birth of the nation in the 18th century, and the impact of immigrants throughout its history, the USA is a melting pot of cultures and historical sites that offer a fascinating glimpse into its past.
Food and Cuisine: With diverse regional cuisines and international food options, the USA offers a wealth of culinary experiences for food lovers, from farm-to-table restaurants to fast food chains.
Shopping: From luxury boutiques to sprawling outlet malls, the USA is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from designer labels to vintage finds and one-of-a-kind items.
Adventure Sports: With its varied landscapes, the USA is a destination for outdoor adventure, offering opportunities for activities like hiking, skiing, surfing, and more.
Theme Parks and Attractions: The USA is home to some of the world's most famous theme parks and attractions, like Disney World, Universal Studios, and Six Flags.
World-class Accommodations: With hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals to suit every taste and budget, the USA offers travelers the comfort and amenities they need to make the most of their trip.
Frequently Asked Questions When Travelling To The USA
What Is A Good Budget For A Trip To The USA?
As a general rule of thumb, a budget of $100 to $150 per day per person should be sufficient for a budget trip, while a luxury trip could cost $300 to $500 or more per day per person.
Accommodation: As a general rule of thumb, budget travelers can expect to spend $50 to $150 per night for a budget hotel, while luxury travelers can expect to spend $200 or more per night for a five-star hotel. Vacation rentals can range from $75 to $300 or more per night, depending on the size, location, and amenities.
Food and drink: Budget travelers can expect to spend $10 to $15 per meal for fast food or casual dining, while fine dining restaurants can range from $30 to $100 or more per person. It is important to note that prices can vary widely depending on the location and type of cuisine, so it is always a good idea to research options and compare prices before dining out.
Additionally, many restaurants in the USA offer daily specials, happy hour deals, and other promotions that can help keep costs down.
Transportation: The cost of public transportation can vary greatly depending on the location. Major cities, such as New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, tend to have more extensive and expensive public transportation systems than smaller cities or rural areas.
You can expect to spend $2 to $5 per ride on a subway or bus, while a single ride on a commuter train may cost $10 or more. Taxi fares can vary greatly depending on the distance traveled and the time of day, but travelers can expect to spend $10 to $30 or more for a single ride.
Many cities in the USA offer passes or tickets that allow unlimited travel for a set period of time, such as a day, week, or month. These passes can be a cost-effective option for travelers who plan to use public transportation frequently.
Activities and Excursions: Travelers can expect to spend $10 to $20 per person for a museum or concert, while a day at a theme park may cost $50 or more per person. Guided tours and outdoor activities, such as kayaking or hiking, can range from $20 to $100 or more per person, depending on the length and type of excursion.
It is important to keep in mind that this is a rough estimate and your actual budget may vary depending on your preferences and travel style.
How Many Days In The USA Is Enough?
You can expect to spend 7 to 10 days in the USA if you are visiting one or two destinations, while longer trips of 2 to 3 weeks or more may allow you to explore multiple regions or cities.
It is important to note that the USA is a large country with a diverse range of attractions and experiences, and it is not possible to see and do everything in a single trip.
What Is The Best Way To Tour The USA?
Here are some popular options for exploring the USA:
A road trip is a classic American experience and a great way to see the country at your own pace. You can rent a car and drive from one destination to another, stopping at scenic locations and attractions along the way.
Guided tours offer a convenient and hassle-free way to explore the USA. You will be transported by bus or motor coach and accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights and history about the destinations you visit.
Train travel is also a scenic and relaxed way to see the country. The Amtrak system offers a range of routes that traverse the country, including long-distance trains and regional services.
If you want to save time and cover more ground, a fly-drive itinerary may be a good option. You can fly into one city and rent a car, then drive to your next destination, allowing you to visit several cities or regions in a short amount of time.
For adventure seekers and nature lovers, the USA offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. National parks and forests are a great place to start your outdoor adventures.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The USA?
The best time of year to visit the USA depends on several factors, including weather conditions, peak tourist seasons, and your personal travel preferences. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine the best time to visit.
If you prefer warm weather, the best time to visit the USA is during the summer months of June to August. If you prefer cooler weather, the fall months of September to November are a great time to visit, with stunning fall foliage in many regions.
If you want to avoid crowds and save money, it is best to avoid peak tourist seasons, which can vary by region. For example, peak season in Florida is during the winter months, while peak season in California is during the summer months.
If you have specific interests or activities in mind, such as attending a festival or outdoor activity, it is important to consider the timing of these events when planning your trip.
In general, the USA can be visited throughout the year, and each season has its own unique attractions and experiences to offer.
What Are The Dos And Don’ts In The USA?
Here are some general dos and don'ts to keep in mind while traveling in the USA:
Dos:
Be polite and respectful to others, especially in public spaces.
Follow the law and obey local customs, including traffic regulations.
Tip service providers, such as waiters, bartenders, and hotel staff, in line with local customs.
Ask for permission before taking photographs of people or property.
Bring and use sunscreen, especially if you are visiting during the warmer months.
Don'ts:
Do not litter or deface public property.
Do not carry firearms or other weapons unless you have proper licensing and authorization.
Do not engage in illegal activities, such as drug use or theft.
Do not engage in culturally insensitive behavior, such as talking loudly or loudly in public places.
Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
By following these basic dos and don'ts, you can ensure a safe and respectful visit to the USA and avoid any potential legal or cultural issues during your trip.
What Are The Visa Requirements For The USA?
The visa requirements for entering the USA depend on several factors, including your country of origin, the purpose of your trip, and the length of your stay. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine the visa requirements for your trip.
- Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Citizens of 38 countries, including most European countries and Australia, can enter the USA for business or tourism purposes for up to 90 days without a visa through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
- B-1 Business Visa: If you are traveling to the USA for business purposes, such as attending meetings or conferences, you may need a B-1 Business Visa.
- B-2 Tourist Visa: If you are traveling to the USA for leisure or personal reasons, such as visiting friends or family or taking a vacation, you may need a B-2 Tourist Visa.
- F-1 Student Visa: If you are studying in the USA, you will need an F-1 Student Visa.
- J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa: If you are participating in a cultural exchange program or internship in the USA, you may need a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa.
Do I need Travel Insurance To Visit The USA?
Travel insurance is not required by law to enter the USA, but it is highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide you with important financial protection in the event of unexpected events such as illness, injury, trip cancellations, or lost or stolen property during your trip.
How To Stay Safe In The USA?
The USA is generally considered to be a safe country to travel, but like any other destination, it can have its own safety risks and challenges.
Large cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, may have higher crime rates than rural areas, but overall crime levels in the USA are low compared to other developed countries.
It is always a good idea to take common-sense precautions when traveling, such as staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and being cautious when using ATMs or carrying valuables.
The USA also has a well-developed emergency response system, and medical facilities are widely available and of a high standard.
Where To Stay In The USA?
The Best Booking Resources For The USA
These are the companies I use predominantly when I travel to the USA. They offer great customer service and the best value, consistently outperform their competitors, as they always have excellent deals. I rely on them the most, and they are the starting point in my search for travel deals.
Booking.com - This is the best travel partner when it comes to planning your vacation in the USA. With over 28 million listings in more than 200 countries and territories, you'll have no problem choosing from the world's most comprehensive selection of accommodations - from exotic villas to cozy apartments! Booking.com offers a secure and convenient way to book your next holiday, with unbeatable deals that will make sure you get the best value for your money when travelling to the USA.
Skyscanner - This is the perfect tool for finding the best flights at the best prices to the USA. With a comprehensive selection of airlines to choose from, you can compare prices and routes in seconds - saving you time, stress and money. Skyscanner's intuitive search engine makes it easy to find great deals on domestic and international flights. Plus, you can easily customize your search preferences so you get results that fit your budget and destination needs.
Get Your Guide - Are you looking for ways to make your travel experiences more memorable? With GetYourGuide, you can book amazing activities, tours and attractions all over the USA. Whether it’s a tour of an iconic city landmark or unique experience that’s off the beaten path, GetYourGuide offers something spectacular for any traveler. With thousands of things to do and see in different cities around the USA, this platform simplifies the search process with user-friendly filters.
More USA Travel Resources