United States
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM United States
You’ve seen it in the movies. You’ve read about it. But there’s nothing quite like being on US soil. Seeing the sights with your own eyes and standing in awe of the beauty of it all.
And sure, I may be a little bit biased, but truly, there’s something about this place that people—foreigners and nationals alike—just can’t shut up about.
Maybe it’s the sheer size of it. It has 50 states and 4 million square miles (10 million square kilometers) of land. It’s actually the fourth biggest country in the world.
Or maybe it’s because there’s an adventure to be found on any given corner. The USA is home to the weird, the wild, and the wonderful. And whichever category you belong to, you’re sure to fit right in.
If you’re looking to have a fabulous time exploring the culture, the glam, and the excitement of Hollywood, you can visit Los Angeles, the Hollywood headquarters.
For a wildlife adventure, visit any of the numerous national parks; Yosemite, Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon. Take your pick.
Or if you want to take pictures with some of the most iconic sights in the world, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, or the White House, you can do that too.
You don’t ever have to leave the shores of this country to have every kind of good time there is to be had.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN United States
TYPICAL COSTS WHEN TRAVELLING
Accommodation –
- On a Budget (Under $100 per night):
- Hostel Dorm Room ($32-$75): A social and affordable option with shared bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Camping (Free-$50): Pitch a tent in designated campsites for a truly unique experience.
- Mid-Range ($100-$200 per night):
- Basic Motel Room ($75-$150): Clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities like a TV and a private bathroom.
- Self-catering Apartment (including Airbnb) (from $100): Offers more space and privacy, often with cooking facilities, suitable for longer stays.
- Luxury ($200+ per night):
- Upscale Hotels (from $200): Enjoy luxurious amenities like spas, concierge services, and premium locations.
Food –
- On a Budget (Under $50 per day):
- Diners: Expect comfort food classics like burgers, pancakes, and club sandwiches, often under $12 per person. Plus, free coffee refills.
- Food Trucks: From classic hot dogs and tacos to more adventurous fare like BBQ or gourmet grilled cheese, you can find delicious and affordable options.
- Grocery Stores: Stock up on pre-made sandwiches, salads, and snacks from the deli section of most grocery stores. These are usually quick, convenient, and cost less than $10.
- Self-Catering: If you have access to a kitchen in your accommodation, consider preparing some meals yourself. This gives you complete control over ingredients and portion sizes, saving you money in the long run. Stock up on groceries at local markets or supermarkets for fresh produce and pantry staples.
- Mid-Range ($50-$100 per day):
- Restaurants: You can find delicious meals for $15-$25 for lunch and $25-$50 for dinner.
- Luxury ($100+ per day):
- Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants serve gourmet cuisine. Expect to pay upwards of $100 per person for a multi-course meal, premium ingredients and a superior ambiance.
Transportation –
- On a Budget ($5-$20 per day):
- Public Transportation: Cities often have extensive bus networks, subways, or light rail systems. Prices typically range from $1-$5 per ride, with day passes costing around $7-$10 for unlimited rides.
- Biking: Renting a bike is a great option for exploring the cities and getting some exercise. It costs around $10-$20 per day to rent.
- Carpooling and Ridesharing: Utilize apps like Uber or Lyft to share rides with others, which can be cheaper than taxis, especially for longer distances. Expect to pay around $5-$10 for shorter rides within a city and $10-$15 for longer trips to suburbs.
- Mid-Range ($20-$60 per day):
- Mix and Match : Combine public transportation with occasional taxi or rideshare rides for convenience. This allows you to explore efficiently while saving money compared to relying solely on taxis. Budget around $20-$50 per day.
- Car Rentals: Consider renting a car for day trips or exploring areas with limited public transportation options. Budget around $40-$60 per day for a basic car rental, with prices increasing for premium or larger vehicles.
- Luxury ($50+ per day):
- Premium Car Rental: Rent a premium car for a luxurious driving experience. Budget for rentals starting around $80 per day and increasing for luxury or high-performance models.
- Train Travel: While not the fastest option, it can be a scenic and comfortable way to travel. Train fares vary depending on distance, route, and travel class. Budget can range from $50 for shorter regional routes to several hundred dollars for long-distance cross-country journeys.
Suggested daily budget –Expect a daily budget range of $200-$300 per person. This incorporates factors like accommodation, food, and transportation.
To save money, make use of hostels, public transportation, and the money saving tips below.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM United States?
Nature
There’s no shortage of sights to see in the USA. And because of how large and varied the terrain is, the country hosts a staggering amount of natural wonders.
From towering mountains to cascading waterfalls, volcanic landscapes to winter wonderlands.
I only have space to tell you about a few of these extraordinary places.
Coming up first is Yellowstone National Park, which holds the position of the first national park in the USA (and, some argue, in the world). Here, you’ll witness a geothermal wonderland. Explore bubbling mud pots, inviting hot springs, and the iconic Old Faithful geyser. Look out for roaming bison, elk, and grizzly bears in America’s Serengeti, Lamar Valley.
Next up is Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska. It looks like a scene straight out of a fairytale, with its glorious skies, clear blue waters, and icy mountains in the backdrop. Here, you can kayak amidst glaciers, hike through the beautiful rainforests, and participate in an unforgettable whale-watching experience.
Nature has spent two millennia perfecting the majestic natural stone arches and red rock sculptures in the Arches National Park landscape. Hike beneath Delicate Arch, the park’s iconic landmark, and witness the beauty of the desert.
Experience the raw power of the earth at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Witness molten lava flows from Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Explore volcanic craters and admire the otherworldly landscapes of the Big Island.
Architecture
Many of the USA’s most cherished landmarks are architectural marvels.
Cities like New York, with its famous skyline, host neoclassical masterpieces like the Chrysler and the Empire State Building. Also, the iconic Lady Liberty, the Flatiron Building, and modern skyscrapers like the One World Trade Center.
New Orleans has a very distinct architectural identity, owing to French, Spanish, and African influences. South Carolina has its own intricate blend of eight distinct architectural styles, including Colonial, Gothic, and Greek Revival.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient, multi-story adobe village offers a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloan people.
The Hoover Dam is truly a marvel of engineering. This massive concrete dam provides hydropower, flood control, and irrigation. The Washington Monument rises majestically above the nation’s capital, offering stunning city views from its peak. The world’s tallest arch—the Gateway Arch—is clad in gleaming stainless steel to commemorate St. Louis’ role as the “Gateway to the West”.
THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT PERU
- Factor in additional sales taxes on all purchased items (usually 7% or more). It is not included in displayed prices and can vary by state and locality.
- The US uses the imperial system (pounds, gallons, yards) – keep a conversion chart to navigate feet, inches, and Fahrenheit temperatures.
- While major cities have options, public transportation can be limited in many areas. Consider renting a car or using taxis for getting around.
- You need to obtain an International Driving Permit before your trip if you plan to rent a car.
- The US uses two-pronged plugs with a different voltage (120V) than some countries. Pack an adapter if needed.
- Haggling is generally not expected in the US, except for flea markets or street vendors.
April 11, 2024
