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Everything You Need to Know About Visiting the United States

The United States is vast – that one trip is not enough to see everything this country has to offer! Known as the “Land of the Free”, it is a dream destination for many. Ready to fulfill your American dream? Read along as we share everything you need to know.

From travel essentials to a list of iconic places to visit and more, we’ll help you turn your American dream into a reality! 

United States

Travel Essentials for Visiting the USA

Valid Passport and Visa

 

One must have a valid passport to travel to the United States. Check the expiry date of your passport before traveling. Although some nationalities qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), most foreign visitors  require a visa for entry into the country. 

 

The visa type depends on the purpose for the visit. Refer to our visa section to find out the visa that suits you best. Those visiting as tourists may apply for a B-2 visa, while a business traveler may travel on a B-1 visa.


Travel Insurance

 
Travel insurance is a must for any tourist visiting the United States. Hospitalization can be quite expensive – having insurance can provide some relief for unexpected expenses. It protects you from accidents, illness, or cancellation of your trip. 
 
Some insurance can provide coverage against loss of baggage or even delays in travel. Check with your provider to select the best travel plan. Having travel insurance will give you peace of mind while you explore the United States.
 

Mobile Connectivity

 
Mobile connectivity is a necessity when traveling. Being connected assists in directions and communicating with loved ones back home. Check with your network provider whether your phone plan offers international coverage. If not, buy a local SIM card upon arrival or order an eSIM online in advance.
 
If you are going to travel only for a short period, then rent a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. Most of the airports, restaurants, and big hotel chains offer free Wi-Fi. Download your maps and travel apps on your device in advance so that you can access them offline on the go. Staying connected will make your trip to the US more convenient.
 

Credit Cards and Cash

 
Credit cards and some cash are quite essential for any travel to the US. Major credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in most establishments. It’s best to bring at least one card with no foreign transaction fees. 
 
Smaller stores or markets may only accept cash, and hence you should have some dollars with you. You can basically find an ATM everywhere, though some may have certain fees. It is worth considering having both options for convenience. Paying with a combination of credit cards and cash will cover you for any situation.

Iconic Places to Visit in the USA

New York City

 
New York City is among the most iconic cities in the United States. Many refer to it as the “City That Never Sleeps” because it always has something going on. 
 
Anyone interested in history should plan to visit the Statue of Liberty. Take a leisurely walk around Central Park to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Times Square, with its bright lights, is perfect for people-watching.
 
Art lovers will surely be in awe of the world-class collections at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA. And, of course, there’s the iconic Empire State Building, which has stunning city views! Watching a show on Broadway is also a quintessential New York experience.
 

Los Angeles

 
Bathed in the sun for most of the year, Los Angeles is a vibrant city with loads of entertainment and fun activities. After all – it is known as the entertainment capital, housing Hollywood – where movies and dreams are made! 
 
Stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame to spot the stars of your favorite celebrities. Don’t forget to drop by Griffith Observatory for great city views and insight into the famous Hollywood sign. If you want to unwind, sit and lie on the beaches of Santa Monica or Venice Beach. 
 
If you are an art lover, then the Getty Center surely would be a must-see because of its great exhibits and interesting architecture. The Beverly Hills is where you can splurge on luxury shopping while driving along Mulholland Drive is the best way to take in the breathtaking views of the city. 
 

Grand Canyon, Arizona

 
One of the most famous natural wonders in the country is the Grand Canyon, which is situated in Arizona. Because of its enormous size and breathtaking scenery, it is well worth a visit. This 277-mile canyon features amazing sculptures by the Colorado River. 
 
Take a guided tour or hike along the South Rim for breathtaking vistas. And if you’re a thrill-seeker – go white-water rafting down the river! Or better yet, walk along the Skywalk – a glass bridge that spans the canyon! That’s one exciting way to enjoy an incredible perspective of the canyon! Schedule your visit during sunrise or sunset, and you’ll be rewarded with mesmerizing views!
 

Miami, Florida

 
Another iconic place in the United States is Miami, Florida. This city has got beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and an interesting culture. With its sunny weather and palm-lined beaches, the place is a haven for sun-seekers!
 
Must-stops are the crystal-clear waters of South Beach and famous Art Deco buildings. Walk along Ocean Drive, where there’s a long line of restaurants. Grab a seat outdoors and enjoy people-watching. For a taste of Cuban culture, head to Little Havana for authentic food and music.
 
Miami also boasts world-class shopping at the high-end Bal Harbour Shops and outdoor malls like Bayside Marketplace. No trip would be complete without stopping by the breathtaking Vizcaya Museum and Gardens for a taste of the culture and history of the city. If you like art, check out the Wynwood Walls, with its colorful outdoor gallery of murals and street art.
 

Washington D.C.

 
Washington, DC is one of those cities steeped in history and politics. If you’re interested in these things, then make sure you pay a visit. The National Mall features iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Tour the US Capitol and the White House, which give glimpses into American governance.
 
DC is a city of museums, with the Smithsonian Institution offering free access to places such as the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History. Take a leisurely walk around the Tidal Basin, which looks stunningly beautiful during the cherry blossom season. Head to Georgetown, and wander along its charming streets with incredible shopping and dining options!
 

Must-Try Dining Spots Across the USA


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New Orleans, Louisiana

 
New Orleans is among the top foodie destinations in the United States. It is renowned in the country for its unique Creole and Cajun cuisine. Take a gastronomic tour of the city, beginning with traditional dishes in historic surroundings at Commander’s Palace.
 
For fresh seafood, visit Acme Oyster House and order delightful oysters and po’boys. For café au lait and beignets, Café du Monde is a must visit. If you love spicy dishes, head to Cochon Restaurant for hearty and spicy Cajun flavors. Take a stroll along the French Market, where you can savor the tastiest local street food.
 

Austin, Texas

 
The food scene in Austin, Texas is so diverse and flavorful, so it’s no surprise why it’s considered one of the best dining spots in the US. If you are looking to sample the tastiest barbecue in the area, check out Franklin Barbecue, which serves briskets and other types of meat at this highly praised location. 
 
If you like tacos, get creative with your order at Torchy’s Tacos. If you are in the mood for sushi or other Japanese food, visit Uchi. It serves delectable Asian cuisine in an intimate setting. Finish off your gastronomic adventure with The Salt Lick for a most Texas barbecue experience set amidst a postcard-perfect backdrop.
 

San  Francisco, California

 
 San Francisco takes the spot for one of the best dining places in the US due to its excellent food diversity. At the famous Fisherman’s Wharf, you can enjoy traditional seafood dishes such as clam chowder in sourdough bread. If you prefer a cozier dining setting, try the House of Prime Rib for classic prime rib dinners.
 
If you love Mexican food, you should stop by the Mission District. There are some great Mexican spots here, including La Taqueria, which has the best tacos and burritos! And for those feeling like spending some cash on a fancy fine dining meal, they should check out Gary Danko for great tasting food and awesome views!
 

Portland, Oregon

 
Portland is a great city for dining, known for its eclectic food scene. For farm-to-table dining, Le Pigeon is a good bet, with its remarkable menu. If you like food trucks, this city has plenty of great options for you, including the old Hawthorne Asylum. Here, you’ll have great options to satisfy your cravings.
 
But if you’re thinking about doughnuts, the place to be is Voodoo Doughnut, offering up peculiar and eclectic flavors for some of the tastiest doughnuts in the city. Tasty desserts could also be had at Salt & Straw, where regional ingredients make one-of-a-kind ice cream flavors. And if Asian food is on your mind, fantastic Thai dishes are up for grabs at Nong’s Khao Man Gai, with chicken and rice its top sellers.
 

Fun and Unique Activities to Experience

 

Outdoor Adventures

 
If you are the outdoorsy type, then you will surely have a blast in the United States. Think of the many fantastic outdoor activities waiting to be done here: you can hike in the Grand Canyon in Arizona or visit Yellowstone National Park for hot springs and wildlife watching.
 
Other brilliant options for trekking are the Rocky Mountains. If you happen to be here in winter, then you should try skiing or snowboarding. For the truly adventurous, white water rafting along Colorado’s rivers is the best thing to do. A more relaxing alternative is kayaking Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters. For something very different and exciting, hike the Appalachian Trail-one of the longest trails in the world!
 

Sports

 
There is plenty to enjoy for people who appreciate sports in the United States. MLB baseball, NBA basketball, and NFL football are among the thrilling live sports events that you can watch here. You can also take a snowboarding or skiing trip in the Rocky Mountains. 
 
Visit well-known locations for surfing, such as Hawaii’s North Shore or California’s Malibu Beach. World-class golf courses are available to players, particularly in states like Florida and Arizona. Try hiking or mountain biking in national parks if you’re an adventurer. 
 

 

Cultural Experiences

 
If you love culture, there’s plenty to love in the United States, be it world-renowned museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City or a fun Broadway show. Don’t miss the Smithsonian museums in Washington, DC, and famous monuments, such as the Lincoln Memorial. For music lovers, head to New Orleans to experience jazz, rhythm, and live performances. 
 
In Santa Fe, New Mexico, you can witness Native American art and culture not found anywhere else in the world! Experience Hollywood in Los Angeles and embark on a studio tour. If you are into history, explore the Freedom Trail in Boston. 
 

Entertainment  Options

 
The United States has endless entertainment options. For casinos, live shows, and concerts, one should go to Las Vegas. Take a studio tour in Los Angeles, and see Hollywood’s famous sights. For world-class theater, see a Broadway show in New York City.
 
If you are fond of theme parks, then Orlando is the place to visit. After all, it is home to Disney World and Universal Studios – two of the world’s most famous theme parks! For people into music, head on to Nashville for some great live country music.
 

FAQs for Traveling in the United States


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What is the best way to get around in the USA?

 

 The best way to get around in the USA mainly depends on your location. If you’re in a city, use public transportation – such as buses or trains. They are modern and efficient. You may want to consider renting a car for longer trips. Alternatively, ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft are convenient for short distances. Biking or walking is also a good option in many cities.

 

Are there any health requirements when traveling to the United States?  

 

There can be health requirements in addition to the usual travel essentials when you visit the US. Certain tourists require immunizations and other health requirements. These rules can change, particularly in the event of a pandemic. Prior to your trip, make sure to review the most recent travel advisories. Ensure you comply with all health and entry requirements, or you could get denied entry into the United States.

 

What are the specific safety tips for traveling in the USA?  

 

Just as when traveling to any other country, be very aware of your surroundings at all times in the United States. Protect your valuables, and try not to “flash” expensive accessories while walking. If you do go out at night, always stick to well-lighted areas, especially if you are alone. In case of any type of emergency, call 911. Above all, obey all local laws. Another thing you may want to do is purchase travel insurance for added security.