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USA (west)
The western U.S. is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including majestic national parks, stunning coastlines, and vibrant cities. Highlights include the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and the Pacific coastline. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and dynamic urban experiences.
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Summary
Overview
Months
01. January, 02. February, 12. December, 07. July, 08. August, 04. April, 06. June, 03. March, 05. May, 11. November, 10. October, 09. September
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Nature, Party, Sightseeing, Hiking, Mountains
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C, 0-10°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm, 100-150mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
North America
Currency
U.S dollar
Languages
English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit the Western USA is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and ideal conditions for exploring a range of outdoor attractions and cities.
- Spring (April to June): Features mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. It’s a great time to explore national parks like Yosemite, Zion, and the Grand Canyon, as well as cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
- Autumn (September to October): Offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. It’s an excellent time for visiting national parks, scenic drives, and coastal areas. The fall foliage in places like the Pacific Northwest and the Rockies can also be spectacular.
- Summer (July to August) can be very hot, especially in inland areas and desert regions like Arizona and Nevada, though it’s perfect for visiting coastal areas and mountain regions. However, it is also peak tourist season, which means more crowds and higher prices.
- Winter (November to March) varies widely: coastal regions like Southern California can be mild and pleasant, while mountain areas offer winter sports opportunities. Northern areas can experience cold temperatures and snow, making it suitable for winter activities but potentially challenging for travel.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($60-120/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (budget motels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-25/day (casual dining, fast food).
Activities: $15-30/day (national parks, museums).
Transportation: $10-20/day (public transport, 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, outdoor adventures).
Transportation: $20-30/day (car rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (souvenirs, activities).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury resorts, hotels).
Food: $40+/day (fine dining, upscale meals).
Activities: $50+/day (private tours, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $30+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury shopping, exclusive activities).
Off-Peak Season: October-April (Lower Crowds, Winter)
Budget Vacation ($50-90/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget motels, guesthouses).
Food: $5-15/day (fast food, street food).
Activities: $10-20/day (local exploration, museums).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($90-160/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (local cafes, casual dining).
Activities: $15-30/day (sightseeing, hiking).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis, public transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, activities).
Luxury Vacation ($160+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping, experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. San Francisco, California
- Famous for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant cultural scene, and historic neighborhoods.
2. Seattle, Washington
- Known for its Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and thriving tech industry.
3. Los Angeles, California
- Offers Hollywood, beautiful beaches, and a diverse cultural landscape.
4. San Diego, California
- Known for its beaches, parks, and family-friendly attractions like the San Diego Zoo.
5. Portland, Oregon
- Offers a unique blend of arts, culture, and natural beauty, with a reputation for its food and craft beer scene.
Los Angeles
Islands
1. Maui, Hawaii
- Known for its stunning beaches, Haleakalā National Park, and scenic drives like the Road to Hana.
2. Oahu, Hawaii
- Home to Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, and famous surf spots like the North Shore.
3. Kauai, Hawaii
- Offers dramatic landscapes, including the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon.
4. Santa Catalina Island, California
- Known for its beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and the charming town of Avalon.
5. Channel Islands, California
- A group of islands with diverse wildlife, hiking opportunities, and scenic views.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Yosemite National Park (California)
- Marvel at stunning natural features like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. Enjoy hiking trails, scenic drives, and the iconic granite cliffs.
2. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
- Experience breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon's immense and colorful landscape. Popular activities include hiking, river rafting, and scenic viewpoints.
3. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)
- Explore geothermal wonders such as Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, along with abundant wildlife and scenic landscapes.
4. Zion National Park (Utah)
- Discover dramatic canyons and rock formations with opportunities for hiking, including the challenging Angel's Landing and the scenic Narrows.
5. Redwood National and State Parks (California)
- Walk among the towering ancient redwoods, explore scenic trails, and enjoy the coastal beauty of this protected area.
6. Death Valley National Park (California/Nevada)
- Experience the extreme desert landscapes of the hottest place in North America, with features like Badwater Basin, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and Dante's View.
Cultural Attractions
1. Hollywood Walk of Fame (Los Angeles, California)
- Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard to see the stars embedded in the sidewalk honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry.
2. The Getty Center (Los Angeles, California)
- Visit this renowned museum with its impressive art collection, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens.
3. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge (California)
- Walk or drive across this iconic suspension bridge and enjoy stunning views of San Francisco Bay and the city skyline.
4. The Space Needle (Seattle, Washington)
- Take in panoramic views of Seattle and its surroundings from this iconic observation tower built for the 1962 World’s Fair.
5. Las Vegas Strip (Nevada)
- Experience the vibrant nightlife, casinos, and entertainment of Las Vegas, known for its world-famous resorts, shows, and dining options.
6. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (Washington, D.C.)
- Explore exhibits on natural history, including the Hope Diamond, dinosaur fossils, and diverse ecosystems.
7. Museum of Pop Culture (Seattle, Washington)
- Discover interactive exhibits on music, science fiction, and pop culture, featuring memorabilia from influential artists and genres.
8. Hoover Dam (Nevada/Arizona)
- Tour this massive engineering marvel on the Colorado River, which provides power and water management for the region.
9. Monterey Bay Aquarium (California)
- Visit this acclaimed aquarium to see marine life exhibits, including sea otters, jellyfish, and the Open Sea exhibit.
10. Biosphere 2 (Arizona)
- Explore this unique research facility and living laboratory designed to study ecosystems and sustainability.
Yosemite National Park
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are ideal for covering long distances between major western cities. Airlines such as Southwest, Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines offer flights connecting cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, and Las Vegas. This is especially useful for traversing the vast distances of the West.
2. Trains
- Amtrak provides several key train routes in the western U.S. The Coast Starlight connects Seattle with Los Angeles, offering scenic views of the Pacific coast. The California Zephyr travels between Chicago and San Francisco, passing through beautiful landscapes.
3. Buses
- Long-distance buses are a cost-effective way to travel between cities. Companies like Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus operate routes connecting major cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Las Vegas. Buses are a budget-friendly option and can reach many destinations.
4. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the western U.S. due to the region's vast landscapes and diverse attractions. It's ideal for road trips along routes like Pacific Coast Highway or through national parks such as Yosemite, Zion, and Grand Canyon. Highways such as I-5, I-15, and I-70 provide scenic drives.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in cities and larger towns. They are convenient for local transportation and short trips within urban areas. Ride-sharing apps often provide flexible and affordable options.
6. Regional Trains and Light Rail
- In major western cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, regional trains and light rail systems offer convenient local transportation. The BART system in San Francisco and the Light Rail in Seattle provide efficient access to key attractions and neighborhoods.
7. Cycling
- Cycling is popular in urban areas and scenic regions. Cities such as San Francisco, Portland, and Los Angeles have bike rental services and dedicated bike lanes. Cycling is a great way to explore city parks, waterfronts, and coastal areas.
8. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers and local attractions. Cities like San Francisco, Seattle, and San Diego have pedestrian-friendly areas with landmarks, museums, restaurants, and waterfronts within walking distance.
For the best experience, use domestic flights for long distances, trains for scenic routes between major cities, and buses for budget-friendly travel. Renting a car offers flexibility for road trips and exploration, while taxis and ride-sharing are convenient for local trips. Regional trains, light rail, cycling, and walking are excellent for navigating cities and enjoying local attractions.
What to eat
1. Fish Tacos
- Soft tacos filled with grilled or fried fish, topped with cabbage and salsa.
2. Avocado Toast
- Toasted bread topped with smashed avocado and various toppings, popular in California.
3. Sourdough Bread
- A tangy bread made with sourdough starter, often enjoyed in San Francisco.
4. California Roll
- A sushi roll made with crab, avocado, and cucumber, showcasing local flavors.
5. Barbecue Tri-Tip
- Grilled tri-tip beef seasoned with spices, often served with sides.
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: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €300 to €600.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $100 to $300.
- 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: $600 to $1,200.
- 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.