United States

The best time to visit the U.S. depends on the region. For most of the country, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. For beach destinations like Hawaii and Florida, winter (December to February) is ideal. For winter sports, head to ski resorts in the Rocky Mountains from December to February.

The local currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted across the country, but it’s always good to carry cash for smaller purchases or in more rural areas.

The official language is English, though Spanish is particularly spoken in areas with large Latino populations. Some regions may have regional dialects or accents, but English will get you by almost everywhere.

For large cities, public transit systems (subways, buses) are excellent and available in most major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. Long-haul buses like ‘The Greyhound’ connect long distances and offer competitive pricing packages. Alternatively, renting a car is a good way to explore different areas, especially national parks or remote destinations. Domestic flights are common for very long distances between cities. Uber and Lyft operate in most urban areas.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in the U.S., though it’s recommended to check locally in more rural or older areas. Many cities have public drinking fountains, and bottled water is widely available.

SIM Cards – Consider purchasing a local SIM card or an E-SIM from providers like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile. Coverage is generally excellent in cities but can be limited in rural or mountainous regions. Wi-Fi – Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, airports, and many public spaces, though speeds may vary in remote areas.

The emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services is 911.

Tipping is customary in the U.S. – a tip of 15-20% is expected at restaurants. Tipping for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides is also appreciated. Some establishments may include a service charge, better check your bill first.

The U.S. has a growing eco-tourism movement. Opt for eco-friendly accommodations, minimize waste, and support sustainable practices. National parks are a great way to experience the country’s natural beauty while adhering to conservation principles.

The U.S. is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings, particularly in busy urban areas. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. When visiting national parks or remote areas, follow local safety guidelines and always check your countries national safety and security advice for your destination prior to travel.

Food – Don’t miss classic dishes like burgers, BBQ, fried chicken, and regional specialties like clam chowder (New England) and deep-dish pizza (Chicago). Festivals – Experience iconic events like Mardi Gras in New Orleans, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, or the Fourth of July celebrations. Etiquette – Americans are known for being friendly and approachable. A firm handshake, eye contact, and politeness are valued. When in more formal settings, it’s customary to address people with titles (e.g., Mr., Mrs.)