United States
Your Complete Travel Guide
Overview
The United States offers incredible diversity - from New York's skyline to the Grand Canyon, Miami beaches to Alaskan glaciers. Each region has its own culture, cuisine, and attractions.
TRANSPORTATION
America is car centric. Major cities have public transit, but a rental car opens up most of the country.
New York Subway
Around the clock service, cheap flat fare. Get an OMNY card or tap with your phone. Avoid express trains until you know the system.
Amtrak Trains
Scenic but slow and expensive. The Northeast Corridor (Boston-NYC-DC) is the most practical route.
Road Trip Culture
Interstate highways connect the country. Gas is cheap by global standards. Stop at rest areas for free facilities.
Rental Car Tips
Book in advance for best prices. Many credit cards include rental insurance. Get an E-ZPass for toll roads.
MONEY & TIPS
LANGUAGE
English Level: Native, with Spanish widely spoken in many areas
Watch Out For
Fake Charity Collectors
People in vests claiming to collect for charities that don't exist or keep most of the money.
✓ Research charities before donating. Politely decline street solicitors.
CD/Mixtape Hustle
Someone gives you a 'free' CD, then demands $10-20 payment. Common in NYC and LA.
✓ Don't accept anything 'free' on the street. Keep walking.
Times Square Characters
Costumed characters demand tips after photos, sometimes aggressively.
✓ Photos are optional. If you want one, agree on $2-5 before posing.
Fake Tickets
Counterfeit tickets sold outside sporting events or concerts.
✓ Only buy from official box offices or verified resellers like StubHub.
Cultural Notes
Tipping Culture
Tip 15-20% at sit down restaurants, 15-20% for services like haircuts and taxis. It's expected, not optional.
Personal Space
Americans value personal space. Keep about arm's length distance in conversations.
Small Talk is Normal
Cashiers and strangers may chat with you. 'How are you?' is a greeting, not a real question.
Shoes Stay On Indoors
Unlike many cultures, Americans often wear shoes inside homes. Follow the host's lead.
Drinking Laws
Legal drinking age is 21 everywhere. Bars will check ID regardless of how old you look.
Must-See Destinations
Grand Canyon
ArizonaAwe inspiring natural wonder. South Rim is most accessible. Book lodging months ahead.
New York City
New YorkIconic skyline, world class museums, Broadway shows. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge at sunset.
Las Vegas Strip
NevadaEntertainment capital. Casinos, shows, and dining. Even non gamblers find it fascinating.
Yellowstone National Park
WyomingFirst national park, famous for geysers and wildlife. Old Faithful erupts roughly every 90 minutes.
Golden Gate Bridge
CaliforniaSan Francisco's iconic suspension bridge. Walk or bike across for incredible views.
EMERGENCY: 911
One number for Police, Fire, and Ambulance
Staying Connected
The US features extensive mobile networks. Roamata ensures you stay connected across America with reliable data on the nation's best infrastructure.