What You Need to Know Before Visiting the USA?

Visiting the USA is a dream come true for many travellers. Most of them are interested and eager to explore the famous cities and cultural attractions here. The good thing about here is that there is something for all age groups that you can try during the USA holidays. Whether the purpose of your vacation is simply exploration, relaxing on beaches or watching the nature around, you can make your trip truly unforgettable by knowing a few travel-relevant things beforehand.

This guide will help you prepare fully for your USA holidays and travel with confidence during your stay in America.

Understanding the Visa and Entry Process

Before you actually visit the US, it is equally important to understand the visa requirements and the details of the entry process. Depending on the location you are coming from, you may need an entry visa for the US, while most of the travellers may be eligible to travel under the Visa Waver program for shorter visits. You need to check it with the US embassy website to find out which rules apply to you and act accordingly.

To get the visa on time, you must apply early as the process may take a few weeks to execute. Not to forget, your passport must be valid for up to fix months beyond your travel dates. At the airport, you must expect to pass through immigration and customs, so be ready for lots of questions about your trip, show your return ticket and explain everything they ask you. Keep your documents organised in both hard and soft copy to make the entry even smoother.

Best Time to Visit USA

The US as a whole is quite a large country with different weather and climate conditions so it depends on the area you are visiting if you are thinking of the best times. Generally speaking, March to May or fall (September to November) are regarded as the most comfortable times to travel to the US as the weather is mild and the attractions are also less crowded during these times.

Summer is also a popular time to visit beaches and national parks, but it may be expensive as well as quite hot in some areas. Winter can also be extreme in the north but it makes a great time to visit ski resorts and enjoy a warm weather in California or Arizona. Therefore, one must plan their trip in accordance to their interests and weather preferences.

Getting Around the USA

As aforementioned, it is quite a large country to explore, therefore travelling between the cities may often require booking a flight. Major airlines connect to all major parts of the US, and booking in advance can help you save enough money on flights. Renting a car is also a great option if you want to explore some specific region. The roads are beautifully connected and driving a private car gives you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. Public transport is also quite convenient in large cities and for longer journeys, long-distance buses and trains are also available which may take more time than flying. To save both time and money, you must plan your transportation ahead always.

Money and Payments

The currency used here is the US Dollar and both credit and debit cards are widely accepted almost everywhere here, from hotels to restaurants and shops. Still, it is always a good idea to carry some cash for tipping and small purchases or in places that don’t accept cards/. One can easily find ATM in cities and towns. Before you travel to the US, it is better to inform your local bank to avoid any card issues. The prices in the US are mostly shown without tax and the final amount you pay at the checkout is slightly higher. Tipping is also quite a common practice here and in restaurants, it is quite normal to leave a tip of around 15-20 percent of the bill.

Language and Communication

English is spoken all over the US and as this country is quite diverse, you may also get to hear a few phrases of Spanish or other languages in some areas. Most of the Americans are quite friendly and willing to help the visitors and you need not worry even if your English is not perfect. Just learning a few of the phrases may help to make the communication easier and help you feel more comfortable. In most of the areas, the internet and mobile networks are quite strong and you can also buy a local SIM card or use Wi-Fi in hotels and cafes to stay connected.

Food and Dining Experience

American food is quite rich in flavours and famous all over the world. The truth is, it is far more diverse than the fast food and each region here has its own specialty, such as the New York cheesecake, Southern fried chicken and barbeque in Texas. The portion size here is also quite large so you can take leftovers or share dishes. The tap water here is also safe to drink and many restaurants offer free refills for soft drinks and hot beverages. For certain dietary restrictions, many of the places here are quite considerate in accommodating your needs.

Shopping and Taxes

Shopping in the US is quite exciting with lots of options ranging from affordable stores to luxury designer picks. Most of the states charge sales tax, which may not be included in the prices being displayed to you, so expect a slightly higher bill. Keep your receipts for large purchases as you may need to show them at customers. If you are planning to indulge in lots of shopping, look out for malls that offer great discounts on popular brands.

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