The United States is known for its landscapes, cities, national parks, road trips, cultural variety, and iconic landmarks. Here’re some quick facts about the United States:
Capital: Washington, D.C. 
Currency: US Dollar (USD) 
Language: English 
Time zone: Multiple (Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific) 
Power plugs: Type A & B, 120V / 60Hz 
Driving side: Right Useful local phrases:
Hello: Hello
Thank you: Thank you
I’m sorry: Sorry
The food/drink is great: It’s delicious
Best time to visit the United States
Wondering about the best time to visit the United States? Because of its size and variety, the climate differs by region, but here’s a general overview:
Summer
June – August
20–35°C
Hot in many areas, ideal for beaches and national parks
Autumn
September – November
10-25°C
Mild weather and
beautiful fall foliage
Winter
December – February
-10–10°C
Cold in the north, mild in the south and snow in many regions
Spring
March – May
10–25°C
Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes
So what’s the best time for visiting the United States?
- Summer: best for road trips, national parks, and coastal destinations
- Autumn: best for road trips, cities, and fall colors
- Winter: best for skiing, festive cities, and southern states
- Spring: best for sightseeing, nature, and fewer crowds
How to get there and getting around?
Airport: The United States has many major international airports, including JFK (New York), LAX (Los Angeles), and O’Hare (Chicago). These are well connected to city centers by public transport, taxis, or shuttle services. Domestic flights are common due to the large distances between destinations. You can compare flights and find the cheapest deals via Skyscanner. If you don’t know yet when you are going to leave the country, buy an onward ticket and fake your return. This works fine.
Train / Bus options: Public transport varies by region. Amtrak trains connect major cities, especially along the East Coast and parts of the West Coast. Long-distance buses like Greyhound and Megabus are affordable options between cities.
Car rental / driving: Renting a car is often the best way to explore the United States, especially for road trips and visiting national parks. Roads are generally well maintained, and distances can be long. Parking is widely available, though it can be expensive in major cities. Use DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices.
Ride-sharing apps: Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely used.
Boat travel: Boat travel is possible in coastal cities and regions with large lakes and rivers. Ferries operate in places like New York City, Seattle, and San Francisco, and are sometimes part of public transport. Boat tours and cruises are also popular along rivers like the Mississippi and in coastal areas.
Other travel tips: Cycling is popular in many cities such as Portland, San Francisco, and New York, which offer dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. However, outside major cities, infrastructure can be limited, so planning your route carefully is important. Some regions and national parks also have excellent cycling trails. Consider booking a free bicycle tour via Freetour or GuruWalk.
Destinations
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FAQ about the United States
Is the United States safe for (female) solo travelers?
Yes, the United States is generally safe for (female) solo travelers. As with any destination, stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy cities or unfamiliar areas.
Why is the United States worth visiting?
Yes, because the United States offers incredible diversity! Think vibrant cities and cultural hotspots to natural landscapes and national parks.
Is the United States cheap to visit?
Travel costs can vary widely. Cities like New York and San Francisco are expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas are more budget-friendly. Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay the local currency with a Wise Visa Card or Revolut Maestro Card. I have been using these cards for several years and have saved a lot of money as a result. I recommend bringing both bank cards with you when you travel.
Is tipping expected in the United States?
Yes, tipping is customary and expected. Typically, 15–20% is standard in restaurants, with additional tips for services like taxis and hotel staff.
Do I need a visa for visiting the United States?
Many travelers can enter under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) for stays up to 90 days. Always check official government requirements before traveling. The official website to check visa regulations for the United States is the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs portal: https://travel.state.gov. It provides official and up-to-date information on visa types, requirements, and application procedures for all foreign nationals.
Do I need travel insurance for visiting the United States?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended, especially because healthcare costs can be very high. Heymondo or Safetywing are among the cheapest travel insurances for travelers and cover medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. As a reader of Girlswanderlust, you’ll receive a 5% discount on your next Heymondo travel insurance.
Will my mobile phone work in the United States?
Yes, coverage is generally excellent in cities and populated areas. Rural coverage may be limited. The main U.S. mobile carriers are Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, which operate the nationwide networks. Popular cheaper alternatives include MVNOs like Mint Mobile, Visible, and Cricket Wireless that use those networks. I recommend getting a local SIM card or an eSIM. eSIM providers like Holafly, Airalo, or Saily are convenient options. I’ve been using eSIMs on my trips and find them convenient and cost-effective.
Can I drink tap water in the United States?
Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink across the country.
Do I need to speak the local language in the United States?
No, English is the main language spoken, so communication is usually easy for most travelers.
