USA
Now Open To UK Travellers
The sheer size of the US prevents any kind of all encompassing statement about the typical American experience. From the state-of-the-art skyscrapers of New York City to the scenic country lanes of New England, the United States of America is a place of astonishing beauty and extraordinary diversity. Nothing can remotely prepare you for your first glimpse of the glorious Golden Gate bridge, the glistening Empire State building, the neon lights of Las Vegas or the iconic Statue of Liberty.
Not to mention the natural treasures on offer – the country’s beautiful national parks are home to some of the world’s most treasured wildlife and landscapes; the west and east coasts are strewn with spectacular beaches, and the Rockies provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. In fact, it is a country of such epic proportions that you could easily spend a lifetime in the US and still feel like you have barely scratched the surface.
TRAVEL, TRANSPORT AND GETTING AROUND
Road
Americans drive on the right hand side of the road. Driving is a great way to see the USA but distances can be huge eg 4,716km (2,930 miles) between San Francisco and New York City. Nevertheless, for those visitors with ample time, travelling by road is an ideal way to get a sense of both the vastness and the diversity of the country. Besides, road tripping is a favourite method of travel for Americans, and some of its great roads are iconic, such as the famous Route 66.
Rail
Nearly all the long-distance trains are operated by Amtrak, which serves more than 500 communities in 46 states and three Canadian provinces over a 35,000km (21,000 mile) route system. Rail is not considered the best way to travel within the USA, as trains can be slow, infrequent and expensive.
FOOD, DRINK AND CUISINE ADVICE
Frequent eating out is a relative novelty for many Americans, particularly in suburban areas, and is just one of many consequences of the popularization of television shows that feature celebrity chefs and a focus on culinary history and popular culture.In large cities, restaurants are mostly modern and very clean, offering a vast range of cuisines, prices and facilities. Restaurants come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from fast-food, self-service and counter service, to drive-thru and table service. There are numerous options for casual and fine dining alike.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
The overall climate in the United States of America (USA) is temperate, with notable exceptions. Alaska has an Arctic tundra climate, while Hawaii and South Florida have a tropical climate. The Great Plains are dry, flat and grassy, turning into arid desert in the far West. The climate is Mediterranean along the Californian coast.
Inspiration
Time To Rediscover The World
New England Self Drive
Highlights
Suggested multi-centre and self-drive itinerary
- Enjoy rugged coastlines and pristine beaches, to mountain vistas
- The perfect trip for any season, but particularly spectacular during Fall
West Coast Road Trip
Highlights
- The bright lights of Vegas & The Rugged beauty of the Grand Canyon
- Visit Yosemite National Park
- Drive the iconic Pacific Coast Highway
- Ride the cable cars of San Francisco
- Discover Hollywood and go star spotting in LA
Florida Thrills and Chills
Highlights
- Thrills and excitement of Orlando’s best theme parks with time to relax on the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.