United States of America Travel Guide

The USA represents the ultimate holiday package - a vibrant collection of experiences, events, scenery, landmarks, cities, culture and people that even the most experienced traveller will never forget. There's no need to compromise on your next big trip - this vast nation has something for every taste, age and style. Plotting your course to take in the best and most diverse selection of attractions is no easy challenge, so let us be your guide.

Due to its high profile status and it's all pervading pop culture which has influenced all western societies, many would be travellers think they already know all about the US. Many will be tempted to place a holiday in the USA at or near the bottom of their short term wish list for a holiday, they think that they will first explore more 'cultural' destinations and come back to the US later. Those that do go discover an America with far more culture and history than they could have guessed. It's a country that can't be described easily or with often used terms, not just because it is so large and diverse, but because so much of it is unique in the world. This is a land of distinction and dramatic diversity, home to some of the world's most iconic and exciting cities, unforgettable frontiers, breathtaking scenery and charismatic people. The sense of regionalism is strong, creating marked distinctions in style and character between one area and the next. It is this rich tapestry of difference and unexpected surprises that gives the USA such variety and makes it a fantastic travel option. Now more than ever, the USA wants people to rediscover its wonders and share in its many blessings - among them an enviable climate, a plethora of natural marvels, a melting pot of peoples and a genuine love of life's good things including food, leisure, music, sport and the arts.

Travel in the modern age is about much more than visiting a series of postcard-worthy locations and collecting some kitsch souvenirs. To experience places, events and people that you can't see or do anywhere else, is the modern measure of a trip worth taking - something you can talk about and reflect on for years to come. The USA is brimming with such experiences. As the saying goes 'only in America' - the United States of America is home to an enormous number of natural and man-made attractions, many of which are entirely unique to this corner of the globe.

Visit the real home of the 'old west' in Las Vegas - an intriguing blend of awe-inspiring sights from the natural wonder of the Grand Canyon to the chaotic colour of the casinos. Marvel at the architectural ingenuity of the Golden Gate Bridge. Cruise along Florida's Key's amazingly low coastline where at times it seems the road is one with the surrounding water. Be enchanted by the 'deep south' heritage of New Orleans. And of course, you'll never forget a visit to the world's second largest city and biggest 'people zoo' - New York.

Whether your idea of adventure is placing a roulette bet at Vegas, boarding the most daring ride at Disneyland or exploring the cells of Alcatraz, America is full of excitement. Those keen on experiencing the best of the natural world will love the opportunity to sight a bear in Yellowstone National Park, brave the rapids on a Colorado River rafting trip or hike to the panoramic views of the Grand Canyon. The breathtaking scenery of the US is so often overlooked in movie backdrops but the captivating coastlines, amazing desert plains and lush forest fringing lazy southern rivers provide compelling reasons why so many filmmakers fell in love with the country in the first place. It is impossible not to get out and enjoy it, and fortunately there are plenty of ways to do so, regardless of the dose of adrenalin you prefer. Fly over Central Park, have an astronaut's adventure in Orlando, taste test your way around the Californian wine region, cruise the Seattle harbour and hunt for Salem witches in Boston.

The people of the US are as varied as its scenery. Thriving African American, Jewish, Hispanic and European cultures combine in a mostly accommodating society of eclectic traditions, tastes and customs. The easy hospitality of the south and the outspoken openness of the west coast contrast so cleanly with the courteous reservation of the east it is almost like travelling to three different countries. Every corner also seems to turn up an individual style with an abundance of renowned towns and intriguing city sub-districts to explore, such as the college scene in Boston, the birthplace of the hippie movement in San Francisco and the lavish bayside boutiques in Santa Barbara. Each region also has plenty of well-known representatives and the Americans' avid love of iconic identities make famous footsteps very easy to follow - from Elvis's turbulent life in Memphis, to the movie-star homes in LA, the political personas of Washington and sitcom star's sets of NY. Everywhere in the US seems imbued with traces of the great American dream, from the parklands of Chicago to the lifeguard towers of Malibu and the muddy banks of the Mississippi. There are constant revelations of classic Americana style, right down to the formica and vinyl interior of a traditional diner and the uplifting chorus of a church choir.

Whether it's sustenance for your waistline or your wardrobe, the USA is spoilt for choice and full of refreshing surprises. Though famous as a fast food mecca, there is much more to the nation's gastronomic offerings. From traditional American dishes such as meatloaf and apple pie through to every exotic cuisine under the sun, no-one will ever go hungry at the table of Uncle Sam. Worth exploring are the many regional specialties drawing on freshly grown ingredients and local game. Save your appetite for a traditional two-hand sourdough sandwich in San Francisco, a street-side hot dog in New York and a deliciously decadent slice of coconut cream pie in Memphis.

Love shopping? The USA will ably support your habit and you are bound to be pleasantly surprised by the prices - even Australian surf brands are cheaper. You'll love the designer clothes scene on America's west coast and even window shopping is sheer joy on Beverly Hills' renowned Rodeo Drive, where famous faces are almost as common as Prada sunglasses. In New York, head for the Garment District for sensational bargains at the outlet stores or for something more unique, check out Greenwich Village and SoHo. Meanwhile, every single town or suburb comes complete with a strip mall boasting an array of iconic big-name stores like Sears, Bloomingdale's, JCPenny or Macy's, selling quality merchandise. This is retail therapy on a grand scale!

Whatever and wherever you choose for your US experience, you will be struck by the sheer diversity of possibilities and you'll find it easy to plan a trip with a little bit of something special for everyone - from the family-oriented theme parks of the east and west coasts, to the adults-only enclave of Vegas or from heady urban metropolises to some of the most remote and unique landscape in the world.