USA

The United States of America (USA) are a huuuge country. After living in Washington DC for four and a half years, I took every chance I got to explore various destinations. The US offers a wide range of possibilities, from the sunny coasts of California or Florida to the windy city of Chicago or the historic memorials in the capital of the nation. So, where are you planning to travel next?

WELCOME TO THE United States!

Basic facts

Population: 332 million
Currency: United States dollars (USD or $). Check the current exchange rate here.
Language: English.
Territories: there are 50 states in addition to the District of Columbia.
Capital – Washington DC (this is where I lived four years and a half!)
History – After being a British colony, the country declared its independence on July 4, 1776.
Fun fact– 100 acres of pizza are served in the United States every day!

Things to do

Walk around the majestic National Mall in Washington DC

Enjoy the busy life of New York City (NYC)

Soak up some sun in Florida

Admire the charming streets of Savannah

Drive along highway 101 in California

Listen to jazz music in New Orleans

Check out the incredible Chicago architecture

Experience the cowboy life in Texas

Browse the following American states on my blog

California

Connecticut

Delaware

District of Columbia

A colorful information stand in Coconut Grove

Florida

Earth tones feature prominently in the Savannah architecture

Georgia

Cruising the Chicago River is one of the best ways to admire the Windy City's architecture

Illinois

Louisiana

Maryland

Two bikes locked in front of Tremont Temple

Massachusetts

New Jersey

A black and white view of Manhattan from the Staten Island ferry

New York

North Carolina

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway with the Philadelphia City Hall in the background

Pennsylvania

Who else enjoys seeing these wrought iron balconies around every corner?

South Carolina

Tennessee

Texas

The George Washington Masonic Monument is one of Alexandria's landmarks

Virginia

Some tips

Accommodation Whenever I would go on a road trip, I would stay at hotels such as the Marriott, Best Western or Holiday Inn since their rooms tend to be spacious and comfortable. Airbnb or Booking are great options that will help you find your perfect spot too.

Food Although I'm not a big fan of fast food, I have to admit I came to like burgers after living in the USA. As a matter of fact, I haven't tried more delicious ones since then. The good thing about most cities in the country is that the cuisine is very international. From an Ethiopian restaurant to a Greek deli store, you're likely to find anything that suits your taste. If you're visiting Washington DC, feel free to read my eating guide with my favorite spots in town.

Transportation Coming from Spain, I was shocked at how little people were used to walk in their everyday life in the USA, the exceptions being Washington DC and New York. Most people in this country drive. However, if you're in the capital you'll enjoy biking with Bikeshare thanks to its great price and vast system of stations. Taking the bus throughout the USA is another option and I would recommend Greyhound. Flying is of course the fastest way to travel given the size of the country and the companies are plentiful (American Airlines, United, Delta or Southwest just to mention a few).

My American playlist

Good to know when travelling to the USA

Tips are expected in the country whenever you go to a restaurant, especially if you’re happy with the service. The rule of thumb is to tip in the 15% to 20% range of the total bill.
If you travel to the USA as a tourist, remember to process your US tourist visa well in advance.