From Hollywood to Starbucks to the ‘American Dream’, the USA has so relentlessly exported its culture around the globe that many of us feel that we know it already. The country is far from a monoculture though and there remains plenty to explore.
LA, Las Vegas, Miami and New York all have their own international folklore and need little introduction. Lesser known are the boisterously multicultural New Orleans, where a feisty carnival atmosphere overlays a hardened, stoic optimism, or the chic sophistication of Seattle, where wet weather is compensated by one of the most liberal, artistic and forward thinking communities in the world. There are over 30 cities with a population of half a million or more, each with their own unique character.
There are also over 100 national parks. Visit Yosemite for tall waterfalls, dramatic valleys and over 2,000 species of plants and animals, or head to Glacier for the solitude of the wilderness, amid alpine meadows and crystal lakes. Gaze out over the jaw-dropping expanse of the Grand Canyon or wonder at the sandstone rock formations at Arches National Park.
If you still have time after that then find a car and take a road trip to explore the vast expanse of the interior. Because that, above all other things, is what America was made for; getting a set of wheels and driving off into the sunset.
Getting there
There are over 400 airports offering a wide variety of routes and connections. Train connects the USA to Canada while bus services run to Canada and Mexico.
Getting around
The domestic air network is extensive and good for interstate trips. Buses are a cheap and practical alternative. Driving can be a great way to see the country and get around but distances can be long.
Local information
Language: English
Time: UTC – 5 to UTC – 10
Climate: Hugely varied, ranging from Alpine to tropical to desert climate types. Check the climate for the state you are planning to visit.
Currency: Dollar (USD)
Business etiquette: Dress conservatively for initial meeting; business dress requirements vary between states and companies. Punctuality is important as good use of time is deemed a measure of good character. Communication style is direct and to the point.
Tipping: Big tipping culture; tipping is expected to make up a major part of serving staff wages. Tip 15 percent as standard, or 20-25 percent for exceptional service.
Duty free: 200 cigarettes or 2kg of smoking tobacco; 1l of alcoholic beverage; Gifts up to US$400.
Safety: Crime rates vary from state to state but are higher in the cities.
Laws: Police are tough on immigration – expect to have your travel documents inspected at random, particularly when travelling in the south.
Healthcare: Vaccination required for tetanus. Medical facilities are of a high standard but health insurance is essential. Emergency care is given without prior payment but treatment may be refused without evidence of insurance or a deposit.
Socket type: Type A, Type B
