If ever you needed a good excuse to indulge yourself with the utmost in luxury, then your next overseas getaway is it. After a long period of travel restrictions and lockdowns, we’re all craving a little bit of the five-star treatment – and if there’s one nation that knows how to get it just right, it’s the USA.
Although there are still currently travel restrictions in place, with the American border not currently accepting in British travellers, there is hope that this could change over the coming months – which means there’s no better time to start planning that long-awaited getaway.
Before you get booking, there are some things you need to consider first to ensure that your next visit to the States runs smoothly. First, you’ll need to ensure you have all the relevant travel documents to hand, including your passport and ESTA – it’s best to apply for the latter early in case of any unexpected delays – so be sure to search for more information about the process to ensure you’re well prepared.
Once you’ve taken care of the essentials, it’s time to get onto the exciting bit – planning a lavish getaway that you’ll be talking about for years to come. From the best places to visit to what to do while you’re there, we’ve got all the necessary information together to help you plan a memorable and all-round extravagant trip – no expense spared.
Places to visit in the USA
The United States of America is a diverse and culturally rich country. From New York City’s towering skyscrapers and the iconic Hollywood sign, to the vibrant Las Vegas strip, with its neon lights flashing across the sky at night, and of course, a bustling Times Square filled with excitable tourists taking pictures, it’s truly a one-of-a-kind destination for travellers who are seeking a good mix between culture and luxury.
New York City
NYC is probably the most famous city in America, and with all of its iconic buildings, wide avenues and bustling streets full of people from every corner of the world, it’s easy to see why.
Tourist attractions include Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park – a haven of tranquillity away from the throng of the busy city, and the perfect place to find peace amongst beautiful nature or attend concerts during summer months.
If you’re looking to add somewhere close by to your itinerary, consider checking out Washington D.C., which will give you an interesting contrast in terms of culture and style. It also offers many museums, such as the Smithsonian Museum of American History, with plenty to do to suit all tastes.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is the second-largest city in America, and is home to a rich blend of cultures and celebrities. You can do plenty when visiting this destination, including taking a tour of Venice Beach, exploring Griffith Observatory, or going shopping at Rodeo Drive. If you’re feeling adventurous, then try white water rafting down the Colorado River!
Consider checking out Santa Barbara while you’re there, because it offers an authentic experience of local life. This town is home to charming and iconic Mexican restaurant El Chubasco, which serves up delicious food and some typical Californian fare like tacos and burritos. And if you’re looking for a more traditional meal, then head to the historic Santa Barbara Inn, where one of the dishes on offer is the world-famous Cobb Salad, invented here in 1937.
Things to do in the USA
A trip to the USA can make for an incredible holiday experience. The country is so diverse, and there is a wide range of things to do, from hiking the Grand Canyon to visiting some iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty or Mount Rushmore. If you’re looking for adventure, then head out West, where you’ll find amazing national parks and vast deserts.
Don’t forget to take some time out for relaxation during your trip, too – there are plenty of luxury hotels to choose from which offer spa treatments that will take care of both body and soul.
Luxury accommodation in the USA
A stay in the United States of America is always an experience. To make your time here memorable for all the right reasons, you may want to book some accommodation ahead of time to ensure you secure the five-star suite and opulent stay you’re looking for.
The handy thing about booking on hotel websites like Expedia is that you can book your flights and accommodation together, which will save you a lot of time in the long run. The US has some fantastic hotels to choose from as well, so it’s not all about Airbnb!
If money isn’t an issue, then check out The Ritz-Carlton or Four Seasons, where rooms start at over $500 per night. Offering impeccable service and a range of lavish rooms and suites – not to mention an impressive selection of amenities, both make for the perfect accommodation choices in which to relax and unwind after a busy day’s exploring – with spas and fine dining eateries guaranteed.
Food in the USA
The cuisine in the USA is mainly American, which tends to be hearty and high-fat. However, with a bit of effort, you’ll find plenty of great restaurants serving international food all around the country.
Some of the most popular cuisines in this country are Italian, Mexican and seafood. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, then your choice will be somewhat more limited – but the good news is that America’s main cities have already woken up to the need to cater for a broader range of dietary requirements. In LA, you’ll find all manner of health food and vegan cafes and restaurants serving up some truly creative fare, while in New York, celiac and dairy free customers will be well catered for.
The Californian region is known for its fresh produce, so it’s not surprising that you’ll find various organic foods available in this area. However, the Midwest and the Southern states are more reliant on meat-based dishes, which means there will be lots of beef, pork, or chicken served with potatoes and corn as staple diet items.
Choose your destination wisely if you’re looking to indulge in some authentic local cuisine. For example, the Mexican restaurant Cancun may be serving an American menu. Still, at least they have recognisable ingredients such as avocados and chilis, which indicates how close their cooking style is to home cooking.
To find a good restaurant, try Yelp or TripAdvisor reviews.
When to visit
When to visit is the most crucial consideration you’ll need to make before booking your trip. If you want to enjoy sunny and seasonable weather, then it’s best to plan your excursion for early spring or late autumn, when there are fewer crowds, and you’ll be able to take advantage of discounted rates on airlines and hotels.
If you want to experience the nation’s rich culture in all its glory, then you should plan your trip during the summer months, when there are an abundance of events and festivals that are sure to make your trip a memorable one.
