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United States
Travel Guide
Expect diverse landscapes, dynamic cities, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences on your United States journey
Travel to the United States, your ultimate country guide to exploring the land of endless possibilities. The United States is a country of diverse landscapes, from the majestic Grand Canyon to the bustling cityscapes of New York. You can discover the heart of innovation in Silicon Valley and indulge in the southern charm of New Orleans. Uncover the nation's rich history, from the iconic landmarks of Washington, D.C., to the patriotic warmth of Independence Day celebrations.
Fun Fact: As a young child, I visited every state except Hawaii and Alaska on my family’s summer vacations where we enjoyed camping and hitching a trailer on our epic road trips!
What You Need To Know
Language
English is the most common language spoken in the United States. Spanish is the second most commonly spoken language however, more prevalent in Southern states like Florida, Texas, California, and Arizona.
Entry Requirements
39 countries can take advantage of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) which allows entry for travel up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. Check the list here. You must complete the Electronic System for Travel Authorization before travel. Canadians don’t require a visa for entry into the United States. For all countries, you can check the Visa Wizard to understand your visa requirements.
Currency
The main currency in the United States is the United States Dollar (USD). The most common denominations of U.S. currency include $1 (one-dollar bill), $5 (five-dollar bill), $10 (ten-dollar bill), $20 (twenty-dollar bill), $50 (fifty-dollar bill), and $100 (one-hundred-dollar bill).
Outlets
In the United States, the standard electrical outlet plug type is Type A and Type B. These plugs have two flat parallel pins for Type A, and Type B adds a grounding pin. The voltage used is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz. Travelers visiting the U.S. may need to bring the appropriate power adapters or converters to ensure compatibility with their electronic devices. We recommend using a universal travel adapter great for international travel.
United States does not offer a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund program for tourists. Unlike some other countries, the U.S. does not have a national VAT or Goods and Services Tax (GST) that is eligible for refund to non-resident tourists.
Tipping is a common practice in the United States, and it is customary to tip service workers in various industries. In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill to servers. Tipping is seen as a way to acknowledge and appreciate good service, and it’s an important aspect of the service industry in the U.S.
In the United States, tap water is generally safe to drink due to strict regulations enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency.
When is the best time to visit United States?
The best time to visit the United States depends on the regions you plan to explore, as the country has diverse climates. Remember to consider local events, festivals, and specific activities you want to enjoy when planning your visit to make the most of your trip.
Here’s a breakdown by region:
Late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) when temperatures are mild, and there’s less humidity. The exception for New York in December is for the Christmas holidays!
Fall and winter (October to March) to avoid the hot and humid summer. However, Florida can be pleasant in winter.
Late spring to early fall (May to September) for milder temperatures. Winters can be harsh with cold temperatures and snow.
Fall and spring (September to November and March to May) when temperatures are moderate. Summers can be extremely hot.
Year-round, but late spring to early fall (May to October) generally offers pleasant weather. Coastal areas have mild temperatures.
Summer (June to August) for outdoor activities. Winters can be snowy, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
Late spring to early fall (June to September) when the weather is relatively dry. Winters are cool and rainy.
Summer (June to August) for milder temperatures. Winter is extremely cold and dark.
Year-round, but April to October is generally drier. Trade winds provide a pleasant climate.
Travel + Food Guides
A lot of time and effort is put into these blog posts and travel guides. There are some affiliate links throughout for accommodations, excursions and products where we make a small commission if you use them. There is no additional cost to you to use the links and if you found value in this content we would sincerely appreciate all and any support.
United States
Photo Gallery
Discover the world through our lens and uncover the most Instagram-worthy photo spots! Get ready to be inspired for your next vacation as you browse through our curated gallery photos!
