The USA.
Go Live Your American Dream!
Welcome to the Land of Big Adventures!
The United States of America isn't just one destination; it's 50 different countries rolled into one epic adventure. It’s a land of cinematic landscapes that you’ll feel you already know, from the towering skyscrapers of New York City and the sun-drenched beaches of California to the majestic, soul-stirring expanse of the Grand Canyon. I’ve road-tripped its coasts and explored its cities, and the sheer scale and diversity of the place never fails to take my breath away.
A trip to the USA is all about choosing your own adventure. The country is so vast that you simply can't see it all in one go. So, what’s your American dream? Is it a fast-paced city break, a theme park holiday packed with family fun, a musical pilgrimage through the Deep South, or an epic road trip through jaw-dropping national parks? Whatever you choose, get ready for a holiday that’s big, bold, and completely unforgettable.
Spoken Languages
It’s American English, of course! You’ll have no problem communicating, but enjoy the new vocabulary – 'trousers' are 'pants', 'pavements' are 'sidewalks', and a 'jumper' is a 'sweater'.
Accepted Currencies
You'll be using the mighty US Dollar (USD or $). Card is king, but it's essential to have some cash on you for tipping and smaller vendors.
Weather and Climate
Hugely varied! You can find scorching desert heat in Arizona, tropical humidity in Florida, and deep snow in Colorado, sometimes all on the same day! Always check the specific forecast for your destination.
Transport Options
For coast-to-coast journeys, domestic flights are essential. But for a true slice of Americana, you can’t beat hiring a car and hitting the open road.
Our Top Four American Experiences
New York City
The Big Apple. The ultimate city break and an electrifying assault on the senses. . Wander through Central Park, catch a spectacular Broadway show, gaze up at the Empire State Building, and feel the buzz of a city that truly never sleeps.
California & the West Coast
This is the stuff of road trip legends. Hire a convertible and drive the stunning Pacific Coast Highway from the glamour of Los Angeles up to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Then head inland to be humbled by the giant sequoia trees and granite cliffs of Yosemite National Park.
Florida
The Sunshine State and the undisputed capital of family fun. Orlando is home to the magic of Walt Disney World and the thrills of Universal Studios. Beyond the theme parks, you’ll find the beautiful white-sand beaches of the Gulf Coast and the unique wildlife of the Everglades.
The National Parks of the West
Prepare to have your jaw drop. This is where you experience the epic scale of American nature. A road trip linking the Grand Canyon in Arizona with the otherworldly landscapes of Zion and Bryce Canyon in Utah is a journey through some of the most spectacular scenery on Planet Earth.
Four Tips for Your Trip Across the Pond
Master the Art of Tipping!
This is the number one rule for visitors. Tipping isn’t just a nice gesture in the USA; it’s an expected and essential part of the culture, as many service staff depend on tips for their income. The standard rate is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill at restaurants. You should also tip bartenders, taxi drivers, hotel porters, and tour guides.
Don't Forget Your ESTA!
Before you book anything, make sure you have a valid ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). This is a visa waiver that UK citizens must apply for online before travelling. It’s a straightforward process, but make sure you use the official US government website to avoid overpaying on third-party sites.
Tax Isn't Included on the Price Tag!
This catches many visitors out. The price you see on an item in a shop or on a menu is not the final price. Sales tax is added on at the checkout. The rate varies by state (some have none at all), but it's a good habit to mentally add about 10% to the price to avoid a surprise at the till.
Embrace the Scale (and the Driving)!
Everything in America is bigger, including the distances. A drive that looks short on a map could take all day. Be realistic when planning a road trip and don't try to cram too much in. The motorways are called 'freeways' or 'interstates', and while the driving is straightforward, remember that it's all about the journey, not just the destination.
So, Why Go All-Out for the USA?
Because it’s a country you already know from a lifetime of films, music, and television, but nothing prepares you for the sheer awe of seeing it for yourself. Standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon or in the middle of Times Square is a feeling you’ll never forget. It’s a country of boundless energy and endless horizons, where that famous 'can-do' spirit is genuinely contagious.
A holiday in the USA can be anything you want it to be. It’s a place that can deliver a slick city break, a magical family adventure, or a soul-stirring journey through nature's greatest masterpieces. It’s a country that encourages you to dream big, and it delivers big on fun, big on adventure, and big on memories that will last a lifetime.
