America Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
Visas and Entry Requirements:
ESTA/Visa: Most non-US citizens need an ESTA (for visa-waiver countries) or a B-2 tourist visa. Canadians and certain other nationals may have different requirements.
Strict Enforcement: Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are noted for strict enforcement. Travelers should have clear travel plans, proof of sufficient funds, and strong ties to their home country to avoid suspicion of overstaying or working illegally.
Phone Searches: Be aware that CBP can search phones and other electronic devices, even for US citizens. It’s often advised to clean up any potentially “problematic” content (e.g., political statements, remote work discussions) before travel.
Criminal Records: Even old criminal records (excluding minor traffic violations) can lead to denial of entry.
Travel Bans: Be aware of any current or rumored travel bans that could affect your nationality, as these can take effect quickly.
Budgeting & Costs:
Tipping Culture: Tipping is customary for table service in restaurants (generally 15-20% of the bill). It’s also expected for bellhops, taxi/rideshare drivers, and tour guides. For counter service, tipping is optional.
Taxes: Sales tax is not included in advertised prices and is added at checkout.
Accommodation: Hotels can be expensive, especially in major cities. Consider alternatives like Airbnb or hostels. Camping can be a budget-friendly option, especially for road trips.
Food: Don’t just stick to fast food. The US has incredible food cities and local eateries across the country. Look for places with good local reviews or long lines.
Transportation:
Car Rental: Essential for exploring outside major cities and for road trips due to the vast distances. Ensure you understand insurance options.
Public Transport: Major cities like New York, Chicago, Boston, and Washington D.C. have good public transportation, making them walkable and easy to navigate without a car.
Domestic Flights: Necessary for covering long distances within the US.
Road Trips: A popular way to see the country, but be mindful of immense distances and allow ample time. Plan routes to avoid excessive driving.
Packing & Essentials:
Layers: Be prepared for varying temperatures, especially when traveling across different regions or to high elevations.
Comfortable Shoes: Essential for walking and exploring, especially in cities or national parks.
Travel Kit: Have a pre-packed toiletry bag and essentials for easy packing.
Cash vs. Card: Credit cards are widely accepted, but some cash is useful for smaller businesses or food trucks.
Chargers/Adapters: Don’t forget universal chargers and adapters.
Printed Itinerary: Have physical copies of reservations and important documents in case your phone dies or is inaccessible.
Safety & Awareness
General Safety:
Common Sense: Apply common sense as you would in any big city. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in cars, especially in major cities.
Trust Your Instincts: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in less familiar neighborhoods.
Jaywalking: While common in some areas, be cautious as rules vary by region.
Remote Areas: If venturing into natural areas (e.g., deserts, mountains), be prepared for the conditions and understand the risks.
Gun Culture: While a concern for some, tourists are generally unlikely to encounter gun violence in typical tourist areas. Focus on usual travel safety precautions.
Interacting with Locals/Culture:
Friendliness: Americans are generally friendly, but understand cultural nuances. “How are you?” is often a polite greeting, not an invitation for a detailed life story.
Diversity: The US is incredibly diverse. Don’t expect a single “American lifestyle” or experience. Rural and urban areas can be vastly different.
Politics: Be cautious about discussing politics, especially with strangers or at border crossings.
Popular Destinations & Recommendations
Major Cities:
New York City: A must-see with iconic spots, world-class museums, and diverse food.
Washington D.C.: Home to numerous free Smithsonian museums and historical landmarks.
Chicago: Excellent in summer with world-class museums, architecture, and food.
San Francisco: Great for combining city exploration with nearby nature (e.g., Yosemite).
Los Angeles: Offers diverse experiences from beaches to Hollywood.
Boston: Rich in history (American Revolution), walkable, with museums and sports.
New Orleans: Unique culture, food, music, and vibrant nightlife.
Philadelphia: Historic, walkable downtown, good food scene.
Seattle/Portland: Cool, walkable downtowns with good food, and close to nature.
Savannah/Charleston: Historic Southern cities with charm, food, and nightlife (can be hot/humid in summer).
National Parks & Nature:
Western US (National Parks): Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Glacier, Yosemite, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon are frequently lauded.
Utah: Known for its “Mighty 5” National Parks (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands).
Alaska: Highly recommended for nature and cruising.
Maine: Acadia National Park, picturesque coast, lobster.
New Mexico: Northern New Mexico (for food and culture), beautiful landscapes.
Pacific Northwest (Oregon/Washington): Amazing nature, waterfalls, hikes, wine tasting.
Florida: Theme parks (Orlando), beaches (Key West).
Unique Experiences:
Road Trips: Embrace the vastness of the US and plan cross-country or regional road trips.
Local Events: Look for local county fairs, festivals, or unique events depending on the season and location.
Food Tours: Explore local culinary scenes beyond chain restaurants.
Southern Charm: Cities like Nashville (music), Memphis (music/history), New Orleans, Savannah, and Charleston offer distinct cultural experiences.
Common Mistakes & Pitfalls to Avoid
Underestimating Distances: The US is massive. Trying to pack too many far-flung destinations into a short trip will lead to excessive travel time and burnout. Focus on a region or two.
Ignoring Tipping: Failing to tip adequately can be seen as rude and impact service workers’ livelihoods.
Assuming Tax Included: Always factor in sales tax, which is added at the register.
Lack of Planning for National Parks: Many popular national parks require reservations for entry or certain activities, especially during peak season. Research ahead.
Over-relying on Movies/TV: What you see in media isn’t always an accurate representation of everyday life or every region.