Travel Tips
USA
Iconic cities, national parks and epic road trips make the USA almost a dozen countries in one.
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
- Currency
- US dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Best overall
- Varies by region: spring and autumn suit most places
- Emergency
- 911
- Electricity
- 120V, plug types A and B
Top Destinations
Many visitors under the Visa Waiver Program need ESTA approval, and others need a visa. Use only the official US government sites. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Spring and autumn suit most regions. Summer suits national parks and is hot in the south. Winter is best for skiing and warmer states.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
New York City
Broadway, museums and iconic skyline.
Grand Canyon
The vast canyon in Arizona.
San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge and hilly neighborhoods.
Yellowstone National Park
Geysers and wildlife.
Boston
Revolutionary history, top universities and seafood.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 4 New York City
- Days 5 to 6 Boston
- Days 7 to 9 San Francisco, by air
- Days 10 to 13 Grand Canyon
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Fly long distances and rent a car for national parks.
- Trains work well in the Northeast. Elsewhere they are slower and less frequent.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Sales tax is added at checkout, and tipping around 15 to 20 percent is expected for restaurant service.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Regional barbecue.
- New York pizza.
- Lobster rolls in New England.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Buy travel insurance, because US medical care is very expensive.
- Check park reservations, weather and road conditions before you go.
Planning a trip to the USA?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.