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USA (south)
The southern U.S. is renowned for its warm climate, vibrant cities, and rich culture. Highlights include New Orleans’ lively music scene, Miami’s beaches, and historic sites in the Great Smoky Mountains. Visitors can enjoy southern cuisine, music, and scenic beauty.
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Summary
Overview
Months
09. September, 11. November, 03. March, 06. June, 05. May, 01. January, 02. February, 12. December, 07. July, 08. August, 10. October, 04. April
Vacation type
Couple, Beach, Family, Party, Nature, Sightseeing, Hiking, Mountains
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
100-150mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
North America
Currency
U.S dollar
Languages
English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit the Southern USA is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons provide mild temperatures and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring cities, beaches, and outdoor attractions.
- Spring (March to May): Offers warm temperatures, blooming flowers, and lower humidity, making it a great time to explore cities like New Orleans, Charleston, and Austin, as well as enjoy outdoor activities in places like the Smoky Mountains and Florida’s beaches.
- Autumn (September to November): Features cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds. It’s an excellent time for outdoor events, scenic drives, and visiting popular destinations like the Texas Hill Country or the coastal areas of Georgia and South Carolina.
- Summer (June to August) can be very hot and humid, particularly in inland areas and the Deep South. This is also hurricane season in the Gulf Coast, which can affect travel plans.
- Winter (December to February) is generally mild but can be chilly, especially in the inland areas. It’s a good time for visiting southern cities and coastal regions, with fewer tourists and mild weather.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: March-August (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($60-120/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (budget motels, hostels).
Food: $10-25/day (fast food, casual restaurants).
Activities: $15-30/day (parks, sightseeing, museums).
Transportation: $10-20/day (public transit, car rentals).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($120-250/day)
Accommodation: $60-120/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $30-50/day (local restaurants, dining out).
Activities: $30-50/day (guided tours, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $20-30/day (local taxis, car rentals).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (souvenirs, activities).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $40+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $50+/day (private tours, high-end activities).
Transportation: $30+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury shopping, exclusive experiences).
Off-Peak Season: September-February (Winter, Fewer Tourists)
Budget Vacation ($40-90/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget motels, guesthouses).
Food: $5-15/day (fast food, local diners).
Activities: $10-20/day (museums, historical landmarks).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($90-180/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (local restaurants, casual dining).
Activities: $15-40/day (sightseeing, guided tours).
Transportation: $10-20/day (car rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, activities).
Luxury Vacation ($180+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $30+/day (exclusive experiences, private tours).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping, exclusive activities).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Austin, Texas
- Known for its live music scene, vibrant culture, and great food.
2. New Orleans, Louisiana
- Famous for its rich history, jazz music, and unique cuisine.
3. Miami, Florida
- Renowned for its beautiful beaches, nightlife, and diverse culture.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
- Offers historic charm, beautiful architecture, and Southern hospitality.
5. Nashville, Tennessee
- Known as the heart of country music, with numerous live music venues and attractions.
6. Atlanta, Georgia
- Features a mix of modern attractions, historic sites, and diverse neighborhoods.
7. Savannah, Georgia
- Offers picturesque streets, historic homes, and a laid-back atmosphere.
8. San Antonio, Texas
- Known for the Alamo, vibrant River Walk, and rich cultural heritage.
Miami
Islands
1. Key West, Florida
- Known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and historic sites.
2. Sanibel Island, Florida
- Famous for its shelling opportunities and natural beauty.
3. Amelia Island, Florida
- Offers historic charm, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed environment.
4. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
- Known for its golf courses, beaches, and family-friendly activities.
5. Tybee Island, Georgia
- Offers a laid-back vibe with beautiful beaches and historic landmarks.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)
- Explore lush forests, mist-covered mountains, and scenic trails. Key features include Clingmans Dome for panoramic views and Cades Cove for wildlife viewing and historic structures.
2. Everglades National Park (Florida)
- Discover the unique wetland ecosystem with airboat tours, wildlife viewing (including alligators and manatees), and exploring diverse habitats.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina/Virginia)
- Drive along this scenic route with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring overlooks, hiking trails, and picturesque landscapes.
4. Big Bend National Park (Texas)
- Experience dramatic desert landscapes, canyons, and the Rio Grande. Activities include hiking, scenic drives, and stargazing in one of the least light-polluted areas in the U.S.
5. Zion National Park (Utah)
- Although not traditionally considered Southern USA, Zion features impressive canyons, rock towers, and the famous Angel's Landing hike.
6. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)
- Enjoy the natural thermal springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic hiking trails in this park known for its therapeutic waters.
Cultural Attractions
1. The National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis, Tennessee)
- Located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the museum offers exhibits on the American civil rights movement.
2. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.)
- Explore extensive exhibits on African American history, culture, and contributions, including art, music, and historical artifacts.
3. New Orleans French Quarter (Louisiana)
- Experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans with its historic architecture, lively music scene, and famous dining options on Bourbon Street and beyond.
4. The Alamo (San Antonio, Texas)
- Visit this historic site of the 1836 battle for Texas independence, featuring exhibits on the battle and its significance in American history.
5. Charleston Historic District (South Carolina)
- Explore the charming streets and squares of Charleston with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture and historic homes.
6. The Henry Ford Museum (Detroit, Michigan)
- Learn about American innovation with exhibits on automobiles, aviation, and the history of industrialization.
7. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Florida)
- Discover space exploration history with exhibits on NASA’s space missions, astronaut encounters, and the Space Shuttle Atlantis.
8. The Country Music Hall of Fame (Nashville, Tennessee)
- Celebrate the history of country music with exhibits on influential artists, landmark performances, and iconic memorabilia.
9. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum (Santa Fe, New Mexico)
- Explore the works of the renowned artist Georgia O’Keeffe, known for her distinctive paintings of landscapes and flowers.
10. The Civil War Museum (Atlanta, Georgia)
- Discover artifacts, exhibits, and educational programs focused on the American Civil War and its impact on Southern history.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are the quickest way to travel between major southern cities. Airlines such as Southwest, American Airlines, and Delta offer flights connecting cities like Dallas, Atlanta, Miami, and New Orleans. This is especially useful for covering long distances across the South.
2. Trains
- Amtrak provides train services in the southern U.S. Routes like the City of New Orleans connect Chicago with New Orleans, while the Sunset Limited travels between New Orleans and Los Angeles. Trains offer a scenic and comfortable way to travel across the region.
3. Buses
- Long-distance buses are a budget-friendly option for traveling between cities. Companies such as Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus operate routes connecting major southern cities like Atlanta, Houston, Miami, and New Orleans. Buses can be slower but are an economical choice.
4. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is ideal for exploring the southern U.S. with flexibility. It's perfect for road trips, visiting national parks like the Great Smoky Mountains or Everglades, and exploring smaller towns. Major highways such as I-10 and I-35 provide scenic drives through the region.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in cities. They are convenient for local travel and short trips within urban areas. Ride-sharing apps can often be more affordable and flexible compared to traditional taxis.
6. Regional Trains and Light Rail
- In cities like Atlanta and Dallas, regional trains and light rail systems offer convenient local transportation. The MARTA system in Atlanta and the DART light rail in Dallas provide easy access to major attractions and neighborhoods.
7. Cycling
- Cycling is becoming more popular in southern cities. Many places, including Austin, Atlanta, and Miami, have bike rental services and dedicated bike lanes. Cycling is a great way to explore city parks and waterfronts.
8. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers and local attractions. Cities like New Orleans, Charleston, and Austin have pedestrian-friendly areas with historic sites, restaurants, and cultural landmarks within walking distance.
For the best experience, use domestic flights for long distances, trains for scenic travel between major cities, and buses for budget-friendly options. Renting a car offers flexibility for road trips and exploring, while taxis and ride-sharing are useful for local travel. Regional trains, light rail, cycling, and walking are great for navigating cities and enjoying local attractions.
What to eat
1. Gumbo
- A hearty stew made with meat, seafood, and okra, showcasing Creole flavors.
2. Jambalaya
- A one-pot dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables, a Louisiana classic.
3. Biscuits and Gravy
- Fluffy biscuits smothered in sausage gravy, often enjoyed for breakfast.
4. Fried Catfish
- Crispy fried catfish served with hushpuppies and coleslaw, a Southern staple.
5. Pecan Pie
- A sweet pie made with pecans and syrup, enjoyed as a dessert.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airports: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Miami International Airport (MIA), Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €350 to €700.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $100 to $250.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $900.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,100 to $1,800.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Citizens of many countries, including the U.K., Canada, Australia, and most European nations, may require a visa to enter the U.S. for tourism, business, or study.
2. Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
- Citizens from VWP countries can travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they have an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
3. Visa Application
- Travelers not eligible for the VWP must apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Common visa types include a B1/B2 Visa: For business and tourism, typically allowing stays of up to 6 months.
4. Processing Time
- Visa processing times vary but generally take several weeks. It's advisable to apply well in advance of your travel.
5. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days; visa holders should refer to their specific visa for duration.
6. Health Requirements
- Vaccination requirements may vary; check current guidelines, especially for COVID-19.
7. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
8. Proof of Funds
- Visitors may need to show proof of sufficient funds for their stay.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in most areas.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 120V, and plug types A and B (flat pins) are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, usually around 15-20%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Verizon and AT&T.
6. Driving Side
- In the United States, people drive on the right side of the road.