United States Travel Guide
- Everything you need to know for your trip to the United States of America-
America, U.S., or United States, is officially known as the United States of America, a North American country. This country holds a population of more than 300 million in 3.8 million square miles (9.8 million square kilometers). The country is the Federal Republic, consisting of 50 states, Hawaii’s archipelago, five major areas with Washington D.C. as a federal state, and the United States’ capital. The U.S. is famous as the “Land of Opportunities” ever since the colonial times when numerous immigrants came to the continent of America. The land is rich and diverse, with limitless beauty, opportunities to work and have fun, and freedom to do as you wish as long as you are doing no harm to others.
Why Visiting The United States of America?
One of the most popular reasons for people visiting the U.S. is the diversity of cultures and nations under one flag. You can see people from all over the world living freely with their own ideas and beliefs, together and with unity, in one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. This diversity of people and culture brings about numerous things that attract tourists.
One of the things that come about with the mentioned diversity is the amazing food you can try in the United States of America. Spanish, German, French, Asian, African, and anything in between can be found in their original and traditional form, as well as mixed and new recipes. There is also the fast-food culture of the Americans that some people find delicious.
Another amazing thing that is also affected by the diversity is the rich history of this land, from both the indigenous tribes and the immigrants. The rich history of this land has led to numerous vast and educational museums, attracting countless visitors to these lovely structures.
To make just these two points much more enjoyable, the country will aid you in any way you imagine for moving around and about. Traveling will not bother or bore you as you are exploring the rich and beautiful lands of America. Additionally, you will uncover all the USA’s hidden gems while traveling from one of the States to the other. In nature, and wildlife, or on the roads.
Roads, nature, museums, and delightful food are not all. The cities and towns are another one of the attractions in the U.S. The modernity in the architecture is the one that amazes most people, but there are also roots of the colonial architecture that is interesting for tourists. You can see the past, live in the present, and feel the future all in one country. You just have to be ready for exploring.
Last but not least, there is the infinite amount of entertainment which is the primary reason for a majority of travelers:
You can have the best seafood of your life on the beaches and islands of the U.S. Also, make sure to do whatever watersports you desire, or if you ever need resting, they are also ideal for relaxing.
The climate sceneries you find in the landscape of North America are like no other. There is simply no end to the possibilities for destinations and adventures between the small towns and natural environments.
Nature and the land may not be for all travelers. This is why you also have places like Vegas, which have the most fun. Shows, games, entertainment, and anything you can name, the United States of America has it.
USA Top Destinations
Best Time to Visit USA
The best time to visit the USA depends on numerous factors, with climate and weather as just one of them. Other factors are the crowds or the exchange rates that vary seasonally. The most general description would be that the northern regions are mostly cold all year, and as you move towards the south, it gets warmer. More than that, Spring and Autumn are the most popular seasons for travelers when the country is most pleasant from north to south.
Spring (April To July)
Temperature: 6.7°C (44.1° F) – 18.1°C (64.5° F)
Features
The loveliest time of the year as life is coming back to the environment, and the snow is melting. This time of year is ideal for outdoors and natural environments in all of the States. It is considered a shoulder season with a lower number of travelers, reasonable prices, and great weather.
Where to visit in Spring?
The beaches are ideal at this time. If you have plans for hiking and traveling in the highlands and mountains, Spring is the best time for this end. There are several events that get really crowded that you can easily avoid with some planning unless you like crowds.
Summer (July To August)
Temperature: 17.5°C (63.5° F) – 28.8°C (83.8° F)
Features
Most people would say Summer is the best time in the U.S. as it is mostly warm and only hot in certain areas. The busiest time of the year as so many travelers chose America as a suitable destination for a summer vacation with everything you need. The schools are also out, so it is expected to see crowded sites and beaches wherever you go.
Where to visit in Summer?
All of this country is worth seeing during Summer. You still see the snow in the northern regions and the heat of the south. Even Nevada is suitable and enjoyable in its own way as there are numerous ways to fight the heat. Plan for your favorite things to do, and keep an eye out for the amazing national events during summer.
Autumn (September to November)
Temperature: 13.4°C (56.2° F) – 14.3°C (57.8° F)
Features
It starts to get a bit cold during Autumn, but other than that, this season is a shoulder season, just like Spring. The schools are back, so there are fewer crowds and better prices. Because of the lower temperature, there are fewer travelers, which means more freedom when visiting the sites and beaches. There are also very good events to participate in, which are good reasons for traveling during Autumn.
Where to visit in Autumn?
The east coast and the south are most pleasant during this season. The rest of the United States is also good for traveling. But mostly for indoor activities and participating in the events such as thanksgiving. There is also the advantage of good prices, which makes this time of year suitable for food tourism.
Winter (November To March)
Temperature: -2.8°C (26.9° F) – 13.4°C (56.2° F)
Features
Where to visit in winter?
If you enjoy the cold and snow, it is the best time of the year to visit. If not, just stick to the south and the warmer states. If you plan to have fun at Christmas and party during New Year’s Eve, New York is also a popular destination during this time of year.
Best USA Tours
Things to Do in the United States
The land of opportunities can give all you are looking for as a perfect traveling destination. The United States of America is full of things to do, with activities for all tastes. Speaking of taste, the food is also an attraction that is not mentioned in this list. You will never have enough time to see it all in one go, so just make sure to check out the top highlights and do all the best things you can do while in the United States.
Visit the Magnificent Niagara Falls
Some people may not find the idea of Visiting Niagara Falls as one of the best things to do in the United States, but it is a great natural part of the country. For starters, Niagara Falls is located at the border of Canada and the United States, with numerous outdoor and watersport activities. Cruising on the river is always a great thing to do, but there are various places to go to in Niagara Falls. Viewing Niagara Falls is always a fantastic experience from all directions and sides of the border, but one of its best experiences is in the cave behind the waterfall.
Get Amazed at the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon in the United States of America is a top destination of the entire world and not just America. The best things to do in the Grand Canyon include hiking and riding on horseback. Whatever you decide to do in the Grand Canyon, bring lots of water and the appropriate clothing, along with suitable gear for hiking in the canyon. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most popular part of this natural phenomenon as it is close to Vegas.
As for the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, it is less crowded, and it can be inaccessible from time to time. It is worth mentioning that the North Rim offers better and more exciting hiking trails. You can also get a more impressive view in this section. Just remember, if you want to book anything near or at the Grand Canyon site, you have to do it several months ahead of time.
Discover the Wildlife and Beauties of Nature in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is one of the places in the USA with a vast area and suitable terrain for several activities. Some people visit Yellowstone and drive inside it as fast as they can, trying to cover as much ground as possible in as little time as they can. Others will make it a camping trip for several days and discover all of its beauty. It is also a good place for adventures to travel on a bike and explore Yellowstone National Park.
The most popular highlights of Yellowstone are the geyser and wildlife. Be sure to spend at least a week inside Yellowstone to see more beauty in America than ordinary travelers do. The most recommendable plan would be to go on a 12-day tour in Yellowstone and stay in one of the campsites inside this National Park.
See the Untouched Beauty of Glacier National Park
Beautiful and full of life, the Glacier National Park has everything from wildlife and biodiversity to beautiful elements such as lakes and mountains. The Glacier National Park is in a remote location and has few visitors, but it offers some of the best hiking trails in nature. The best of it is that you get to see some glaciers as you travel the mountains; and other trails of Glacier National Park. This rare beauty of the United States of America is a must-see as it might melt in the future. The preferred plan would be to stay for a few days, either as camping or staying in a resort. If time is an issue, just make sure to catch the sunrise or sundown in the magnificent Glacier National Park.
Have the Best Time of Your Life in Las Vegas
Las Vegas may not be the number one city of the United States, but you can never say you have been to America without spending time in Vegas. Whatever you want, Vegas has it. Gambling, drinking, partying, and exploring the city should need no introductions as they are the most famous things to do in Las Vegas. There are other ways of having fun, like having a romantic walk in the city or going to one of the numerous restaurants. The shows and entertainment never end in this place; that you could almost say the fun never ends.
While having a good time in this part of the USA, you can also have an educational experience by visiting the Hoover Dam. Las Vegas is a must-see city with an unlimited number of things to do, so just be careful not to run out of money while enjoying yourself.
See the Aurora Borealis in Alaska
Alaska is a very cold and snowy part of the United States of America that can be an ideal destination for both summer and winter. You can visit Alaska for snowboarding or doing some snow sports during summer. Alternatively, you can visit Alaska during winter to see the Northern Lights, as most people do. In any case, one of the best places to visit in the U.S. is Alaska, either during the long days of summer or the cold and dark nights of winter. It is a marvelous and memorable experience no matter when, and it must be had when traveling to America.
Learn About America and See Its History at the National Mall
For starters and those who want to make the most of Washington DC in a short time, the National Mall is the best place to go. The National Mall is a 2-mile park where you can see some of the top highlights of the entire country, such as the Lincoln Memorial and numerous museums, all of which are pages of American history. Every step of the way is a great experience, no matter where you begin and where you end this journey. Our recommendation is to take a guided tour to visit each and every highlight and learn some history along the way.
Spring and summer have the best vibe and the most beautiful scenery of the National Mall. Touring the area at these times can also become more enjoyable with a pro who knows where to take you for some rest and refreshments.
Take the Ferry to the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is not the only great place to visit in New York but can be seen as the best and most picturesque place to be. When in the U.S. and New York City, you should see Times Square and see a Broadway show as some of the fun things to do, but the most iconic thing to do is visit Lady Liberty. The Statue of Liberty and the surrounding area can be explored with tickets that give access to different areas, or a tour of the whole place.
Spend a Day at Mount Rushmore Then Live and Eat Like the Locals
Visit four of the most prominent figures in American history at the famous Mount Rushmore. Although it may look smaller than the pictures (especially when standing far below the sculpture), Mount Rushmore is one of the most impressive sights you can visit in the United States. When visiting Mount Rushmore, consider exploring the surrounding area in South Dakota and experience a trip in the cowboy country. There is also the food and drinks to try while still around and enjoying the air.
Have Fun in the Walt Disney World
Florida, California, or L.A., going to Disneyland is a must-do activity in the United States of America. From the fairytale lands to the Star Wars section, all over the Walt Disney World is worth exploring. And to make it a perfect place with numerous things to do, it does not have an age limit or any limitations in the possible fun activities. Just look for your preferred theme park section and have a memorable time, either with a Princess or Darth Vader.
Have the Best Beach Experience or See an Active Volcano in Hawaii
Hawaii with the Waikiki beach is one of the best places to relax or try watersports. As one of the best beach destinations in the world, Hawaii needs no more introduction, but there is more about it. Besides relaxing or having fun on the waves, Hawaii is good for visiting some of the largest active volcanos on the planet. Seeing the molten lava during a hiking trip or on a helicopter is one of the popular things to do in Hawaii. While in this part of the United States, plan for both Volcanoes National Park and some exciting surfing as the top activities.
Go to Outer Space in the Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center is a suitable experience for all ages and groups as an educational experience and a fun trip in one. It may not sound as much fun until you give it a try, but it is recommended to purchase a multi-day pass for the Kennedy Space Center. Experience space exploration, and even the moon landing, all in one place and as a very popular activity in the United States. If you are lucky, during your Kennedy Space Center visit, you will also get a chance to meet an astronaut from NASA, along with the actual experiences of space-traveling.
Catch the Kentucky Derby in Louisville
One of the popular activities in the United States that many travelers do not know about is going to the Kentucky Derby. This horse race will not take long and only happens once a year in Louisville, but it is a must-see spot for the Americans. Kentucky Derby takes place on the first Saturday of May, and it even has its own tours, making it easy and enjoyable while in the U.S.
Watch the American Indy 500 Race in Indiana
The Americans have a good number of races and fun things to do, with the Indy 500 as a loud yet popular race in Indiana. There is the race, its museum, and guided tours of the stadium of the Indy 500. It is noisy, and it is unique, found only in this part of the United States. If you have never seen an Indy 500 race, the first time is always recommended to all travelers.
Spend the Summer in Cape Cod
Cape Cod is a coastal province in the southeastern regions of Massachusetts. It is an ideal place for exploring and finding the different parts of the beach. Cape Cod is an underrated beach destination of the United States with all the seafood you can eat and watersports to try. This town or province was founded in the early 17th century and still has some New England vibes that are clearly seen in their cuisine. If you are looking for unique beach destinations, Cape Cod is one of the top picks for travelers and locals alike.
There Is More to the United States of America
The things to do in America can possibly never end as no matter where you begin your trip and where you go from that point, there is always something to do for everybody. The items mentioned above are only some of the top picks, but as far as partying and beaches are concerned, Miami is always a hotspot for travelers. And besides Miami, the beauties of the land also have limitless options to offer.
If you enjoy walking and sightseeing, going to the Freedom Trail of Boston is always among the top activities, among other highlights. Or if walking does not sound good enough, there is the American NASCAR you could watch. And if you prefer the more educational experiences with some excitement mixed in, try heading out for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge or taking pictures next to this iconic landmark is also something free and fun for most visitors. Fun and sports are always easily found in all corners of the United States. And these numerous opportunities come with all kinds of adventures or relaxing areas in between.
Last but not least, one of the oddest things you can do in America is legally smoking marijuana in some of the States. Just be sure not to overdo it and follow the law.
What to see in USA
Local Transportation in USA
Local transportation can be a bit challenging in the USA since the country and the cities are very large, and there are times when a lack of suitable local transportation is visible.
Bus
For traveling in the cities, you will only need to buy tickets (easily available even from the drivers); and acquire a map of the city and bus stops. The buses run on a schedule so long as you are in a city. In the suburbs, you will see a lot fewer buses and may find some difficulty, but the option still remains as a very good method of transportation.
Metro
Perhaps the cheapest and most suitable way of getting around inside the major cities is to use the subway. The only thing you need to use the subway is to learn the system and schedule.
Uber
If you have a credit card in the United States of America, the better alternative to the taxies and cabs would be Uber or Lyft applications. You can select the start and end of your journey, select the car and see the price and then decide to have a ride. The prices are better, and both apps will offer cars no matter where you are.
Taxi
Taxies and Cabs are a bit difficult to find and charge by the meter. They offer good services, but chances are that you will not find them easily. You will either have to ask around where you can find a taxi, or call a taxi company to send you a cab.
Car Rental
If you are traveling during the high season, you will see a lot of traffic. The traffic makes it difficult to rent a car. There is also the price of gas to considers. But for low season and road trips, there are various great options for renting a car.
Bicycle
Perhaps the cheapest option for those who are up to the challenge would be to ride a bike. They can take you anywhere, and all they need is a helmet and following the law.
Intercity Transportation in USA
Air
The fastest and easiest way of traveling is taking the Airplane. It will not be cheap, but you will have no worries about comfort or time.
Train
Traveling by Train is available all over the States but not very recommendable as it is slow and as costly as air travel. It is still an option if you prefer to select a scenic route and slower method of transportation.
Car Rental
Going on road trips will not get as expensive as you may think. In some cases, it might get a bit cheaper than intercity and local transportation alike.
Ferry
Traveling by boat is also widely available in the rivers and along the east coast, which does not cost very much, and can make the traveling experience much more enjoyable.
Flight Deals to the United States
USA Travel Costs
Food
The cost of food in America will not be cheap, but if you want to keep the spending to a minimum, you better eat at cheaper cafés and takeaway eateries. There are several inexpensive places to eat, but they are also considered fast ways to die!
Accommodation
The accommodation prices can get double from the cheapest options to mid-range options. That being said, you can possibly find the cheapest hostels at 40$ a day, and for better rooms, you will have to think around 70-80$ a day. Campsites and sleeping in the car are also suggestions from some travelers, but they are not exactly recommended as the cheaper options are not safe.
Transportation
The best way to travel is by bus, which can start at 1$ and reach a maximum of 10$ (long-distance buses will probably charge about 7$). After the buses, the subway is the most reasonable way of traveling, with each ticket costing about 4$. Taxi and car rentals will cost about 40$ per day, and the prices for each will not be that different to make one stand out as the better alternative.
Air Travel
Domestic flights will cost a minimum of about 350$. They are fast and comfortable, but they will burn through your cash if you are not careful.
Average Daily Costs
| Level | Features |
|---|---|
| Low-end (US $80-100/day) | Stick to hostels and shared rooms and have takeaway and café lunch and dinners. As for transportation, your only option would be finding the cheaper buses. There are some very cheap options like camping, but they are not recommended due to safety reasons. |
| Mid-range (US $100-300/day) | You will have better options for food and drinks, but still no high-end restaurants. You can stay in hotels and go around with Uber or taxies for faster traveling. Saving money by taking the bus is recommended, and if you do it right, you will be spending about 200$ a day. |
| Top-end (US $+300/day) | Anything above the 300$ daily is above mid-range, but you will not have a top-end experience just yet. For a much better and enjoyable experience, you will be spending 700$ daily. You can eat in luxury restaurants and stay in better hotels. Be mindful of transportation prices, as they can make a lot of difference if not careful. The best option is renting a car. |
Best Hotels in USA
Find the best hotels in the USA using our best price search engine, or go with one of our All-inclusive tours with 4 Star hotels included. You can book our guaranteed hotels for your extra accommodation; before or after your tour days.
USA Travel Tips
The U.S. is very large, and unless you have a lot of time and money, you cannot see all of it in one trip.
Tipping is customary in the U.S., and leaving without a tip is considered rude. A 10% tip is enough, but if you liked the service, do tip more!
Smoking is not prohibited, but before smoking in a public area, ask if it is allowed.
The rules and the law in America are very strict. Some countries may not be so severe, but the Americans are.
If your country is using the metric system and you do not know about miles and pounds and such, you better have a calculator or app, or simply use google to do the math.
Even in the low season, it is better to book ahead or go on tours since the large population of the country might not allow you to make the plan as you go.
Remember the part about Obeying the Law? Your I.D.s can get you into trouble if you have anything lacking or wrong. Simply put, vacation over!
You do not want to know the cost of healthcare in the USA.
There are people from all over the world in America. Be considerate and do not disrespect others.
In simple words, do not trust strangers and stay safe. Hitchhiking may not have trouble for most people, but it is still not a safe option.
It will not get you anywhere and just waste your time. Besides, your ideas are probably disrespecting someone else’s. It’s not worth it.
None. Just don’t go fully naked.
Emergency Calls
The only emergency number you will have to dial in case of any emergency is 911. Even in case, your emergency cannot be helped by 911, they will either redirect your call or guide you through dialing the appropriate number. In case you are wondering, you can call for police, fire, department, or any other emergency you have with the same number.
Currency & Money Tips
Currency and Exchange
The official currency of the United States of America is the U.S. dollar ($). Your best option for exchanging will be the banks in the cities. Some banks in the rural areas will also make the exchange but do not count on all of them accepting a foreign currency. Be sure to make the exchange, and before doing so, ask the rates and any possible extra fees and surcharges.
The available banknotes are $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. The larger and older banknotes are also available but avoid them as they are not very common and very old. There are also the coins that are 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, and $1. These coins should not be mistaken with the American collectible coins, which are not for spending.
ATMs
ATMs are widely accepted usable with almost all credit cards. If you want to stay safe, stick to Visa and MasterCard. If you have several cards, do not place them together, and always ask your bank about the withdrawal and service fees.
Credit Cards
The same story of ATMs applies here, but keep in mind the system is rather old and needs a bit of getting used to. If you are not carrying a domestic Credit Card, there are occasions you will face some complications, as they may yet not have the chip + PIN available. There is also the need for the zip code that will not make a lot of problems other than being time-consuming. Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other paying applications are very useful if you have any.
Food & Drink (American Food)
Everything you can eat in the United States of America can be a great meal in your traveling experience. Since you can find the cuisine of all the world in America, you should mostly consider what you favor the most. This list is just a few of the delicious things you can eat, which means you have a lot more options that can be discovered.
Clam Chowder
New England Clam Chowder is one of the traditional foods of the United States, which belong to the colonial times. It is one of the top things to try in the country, and it has several amazing versions in different states of America. But perhaps the best versions are available in Boston and Massachusetts. The Clam Chowder of the United States has a creamy texture with the taste of potatoes and onions inside. In different parts of the country, you might find localized and regional recipes of the Clam Chowder, all of which are just as good.
Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and Gravy is an old part of the American cuisine with the English biscuits and the American sawmill gravy. Both of them were considered as parts of breakfast, which were rather cheap and energetic. The Biscuits and Gravy finally found their way in the same plate in the southern regions of the United States, and thus they became a popular breakfast in the U.S. The taste is unique, and the Biscuits and Gravy has a creamy texture, with enough energy to get you on your legs for some hiking or really hard work.
Grits
Grits are considered a comfort food of the southern regions of America. Their best recipe is perhaps the Grits and Shrimp in South Carolina. The recipe of Grits is as American as it gets, with roots in the Native American Cuisine. It is basically a creamy mix of powdered corn with butter and milk, made into a think porridge-like, but not mistaken with porridge. Depending on the region, the flavoring of the Grits can vary, and it can be seen with eggs, bacon, or other side dishes as a healthy and tasty dish. The grits dish itself is mostly savory, but the different tastes and flavors can be had with the various ingredients added to the mix.
Apple Pie
The Apple Pie may have come from Europe, but it is the national dessert of the Americans. They are so popular and loved all over the United States that you will find them wherever you go. The Apple Pie is also a very iconic thing to eat in America with a lovely taste and texture. When you order an Apple Pie, you are having something extraordinary and a part of their culture. Even the saying “As American as Apple Pie” is evidence of how much the people of America love this dessert. It sounds very simple, but it is one thing you have to eat while in the United States.
Lobster rolls
In the coastal regions of the U.S., the number one choice would be some seafood, and above all the other seafood, the Lobster Rolls. They are especially unique in Maine, where they have an amazing recipe with butter, spice, and mayo, all in a hot dog bun. Since it is a specialty of Maine, the Lobster Rolls are better tried several times in this part of America.
Philly Cheese Steak
When in Philadelphia, seek out the Philly Cheese Steak, a new kind of steak invented by Pat Olivieri. The Philly Cheese Steak started out as a simple alternative to hot dogs in a street-side vendor that became popular in a short time. Taste and texture are something unique as Philly Cheese Steak has tiny slices of beef steak, onions, and on top of all that, cheese. This delicious meaty and greasy experience can be found in the “Pat’s King of Steaks” where the family recipe is most famous. Philly Cheese Steak should be your number one American food if you are looking for the best steak sandwich you can find.
Hot Dogs
Another one of the most American things to eat in the United States is their iconic Hot Dogs. Forget about who invented the Hot Dogs first or which country has the best Hot Dogs in the U.S. You just have to give them a try. The Hot Dogs’ variations are just limitless, with each of them having something good about them. While moving in between the States, try the Hot Dogs and decide for yourself which one is best.
Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken Fried Steak is one of the tastiest steaks in the U.S. that actually has no chicken! The truth about this dish is that the Chicken Fried Steak uses a cooking method used only to pan-fry chicken and not beef. To make the Chicken Fried Steak, the meat is breaded in seasoned flour and then pan-fried. This portion of the American cuisine is said to have been inspired by German and Austrian cuisine, but never the less it is wonderful. Once the dish is ready, it is covered with gravy and then served with various amazing side dishes, making it food to die for!
Tacos
There are two types of Tacos that anyone should try in the United States of America; the ones made by locals with Spanish heritage and the Fish Tacos of California. You can easily find Tacos wherever you go in the States, and all of them are great, but there is just something unique about these two.
Crab Cakes
Crab Cakes are nowadays found all over the country, but wait until you are in Maryland for the first try. They were originally found only in Maryland and Virginia, where these tasty crabs can be found, with the original local recipes. There are several ways to make Crab Cakes, but the magic is mostly in the ingredients such as eggs, milk, spices, and bread crumbs.
Chicken and Waffles
The sweet and savory taste of Chicken and Waffles is definitely a surprise, but a welcome one. It is not something to be called traditional, but it has some old roots in African-American cuisine. However, no matter where it comes from, the taste and texture are quite good and must be tried at least once as a new breakfast. A soft and sweet waffle is topped with maple syrup and then topped with crispy and savory fried chicken. Some would say you have to give the honor of the first try to New York, but Chicken and Waffles are great no matter which State you have them.
S’mores
Since one of the things you have to do in the United States of America is camping, then you must make sure to have some S’mores while camping. The S’mores were originally invented as a snack by Girl Scouts. S’mores are the best thing to have with the lovely and memorable experience of sitting at a campfire. To have S’mores, you have to make the fire and then get marshmallows, Graham crackers, and chocolate. Make your marshmallows brown over the fire, and then make them into a sandwich with the chocolate and the crackers. S’mores may not seem like something to fill you up until you have had so many of these tasty sandwiches that you feel full.
And since S’mores and the camping may be a one-time experience, do not hold back. Have as many as you can and practice making the best S’mores for yourself.
Buffalo Wings
Buffalo Wings were the invention of a family in Buffalo, New York, and they are the perfect thing to have while watching the game. The Buffalo Wings are hot but not too spicy to be intolerable, and they are just the thing to have in a pub or small joint. The secret to the Buffalo Wings is the hot sauce with butter and pepper that makes this part of American Cuisine so addictive. Buffalo Wings may have extra ingredients in the sauce and some great side dish vegetables, all in New York.
Reuben
There are debates about where and when the first Reuben sandwich was made, but that does not matter so long as you give it a try in New York. The Reuben sandwich has lots of corned beef that is topped with melted swiss cheese in a tasty and delicious bread. There is also the possible special sauce that is added on top of the meat and cheese. The sauce adds to the flavor of this already mouthwatering mix, which is a must-try.
Key Lime Pie
Right after the Apple Pie of America, the best dessert to eat is the Florida Key Lime Pie. The sweet and sour taste of the Key Lime Pie is something odd yet delightful. For making a Key Lime Pie, Key lime juice is mixed with condensed milk and eggs and put on a crust made with tasty graham crackers. There is also the cream topping that adds to the sweetness. Some people might argue that the Key Lime Pie did not originate in Florida. But ignore all of that and try them in Florida as they have the best of this dessert in all of America.
Cheeseburger
If having a heart attack was not a problem, going on a Cheeseburger would be a top recommendation in America. As one of the most staple parts of American cuisine, Cheeseburger is one of the best fast foods in the United States. And there are so many combinations and versions in different fast-food chains that there is no way to say which one is best unless you try them all for yourself. All of them are good in their own ways but just go easy on Cheeseburgers since they are not exactly healthy.
While on the subject of Cheeseburgers, it might be fun to hear out the local legends about the creation of Cheeseburgers. One story goes that the Cheeseburger was originally an accident, and the chef actually burnt the meat and used the cheese to cover his mistake!
Tater Tot
Tater Tot is the American’s answer to French fries, with the most interesting history. In 1956, Nephi Grigg wanted to do with the edible potato leftovers, so he added seasoning and flour and then deep-fried them. Soon after, these fried-shredded potatoes got the name Tater Tot, and now they are one of the most consumed snacks or side dishes in the United States of America. Tater Tot is so simple and yet magically good, and they will make you want to learn the recipe for yourself.
Texas Barbecue
The Texas Barbecue can be regarded as the perfect barbeque on the planet as the people of Texas seem to live on a diet of the Texas Barbecue. The Texas Barbecue is in other words, juicy beef brisket in the best possible way. The meat is seasoned and marinated, but the more important thing about this American food is the slow process of making it into the juicy perfection that is a must-try.
Mobile & Internet
There are two major GSM networks in the United States, AT&T and T-Mobile. But you can also have other options that come at lower prices and offer limited services, depending on your needs. The difference in these SIM Card providers is mostly in the data plans as the coverage in the USA is fairly well in all regions.
There is also a provider called Orange Holiday that will only offer data with good coverage all over the U.S. With Orang Holiday, you will not have the option for texting or calling, but recharging of its data is cheaper. Lastly, LycaMobile will help you a lot if you are only looking for calls and texts. You can get a data plan with LycaMobile as well, but do not count on it working in all places. These last two options are much cheaper and only offer limited services. If your life does not depend on your phone, these two might be your best picks.
The Best Company
Although AT&T offers the best services, it costs a lot more than T-Mobile and has the drawback of using its hotspot. T-Mobile has no problems in coverage and offers unlimited calls and texts in all of North America. You can also activate your hotspot but only with 3G speed.
Where to buy it?
You will either have to purchase your SIM Card at the airport as you arrive or in the stores all over the country. It really is not a difficulty; you just have to check if you are being charged extra at stores. There is also the option of buying your SIM Card online and having it shipped to you before departure.
The best way to get a local SIM would be to get it at the airport with better prices and no worries. It is possible that you will not get your preferred plan from an online shop. And since there is an outlet in almost any store or Walmart in the USA, it is not difficult to find.
Holidays & Festivals
| Name | Date 2021 | Detail | Date 2022 | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1-Jan | 1-Jan | ||
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 18-Jan | 17-Jan | ||
| Inauguration Day | 20-Jan | DC, MD*, VA* | 21-Jan | |
| Presidents’ Day | 15-Feb | All except DE, GA, IA, IN, KS, KY, LA, NC, NM, RI, WI | 21-Jan | All except DE, GA, IA, IN, KS, KY, LA, NC, NM, RI, WI |
| Memorial Day | 31-May | 30-May | ||
| Independence Day | 4-Jul | 4-Jul | ||
| Independence Day observed | 5-Jul | 5-Jul | ||
| Labor Day | 6-Sep | 5-Sep | ||
| Columbus Day | 11-Oct | 11-Nov | ||
| Veterans Day | 11-Nov | 11-Nov | ||
| Thanksgiving Day | 25-Nov | 24-Nov | ||
| Day off for Christmas Day | 24-Dec | 26-Dec | ||
| Christmas Day | 25-Dec | 25-Dec | ||
| Day off for New Year’s Day | 31-Dec | 26-Dec |
Shopping in the United States
Barbecue Sauce
If you love meat and barbeque as much as the Americans, what you have to bring home with you is some Barbecue Sauce for its amazing flavor.
Candies and Cookies
As far as edibles are concerned, sweets and chocolate are some of the favorites of the Americans right after the barbeque. Sweets and desserts are the second-best things you can bring back to have with your loved ones.
NASA Merchandise
If you are a fan of science or know somebody who loves to learn about space, it is only appropriate to purchase some NASA Merchandise while in the United States.
Disney Merchandise
Everybody loves at least one of the characters from Disney. What is better to buy something related to a fictional character?
American Drinks
If you think buying drinks from America is not a good idea, you have not done your research. There are numerous top-quality American drinks you can buy as a souvenir. You just have to know the taste of the person who will be receiving this gift.
Graham Crackers
Sweets and desserts aside, Graham Crackers are also the top picks as souvenirs from the U.S. The Graham Crackers are just so good that they have to be considered separately.
