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United States Resources

Meagan — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 19:33:39 +0000

Are you dreaming of a vacation to the United States? With its rich cultural heritage, wide open spaces, and world-class attractions, it’s no wonder why so many travelers choose America as their destination. From bustling East Coast cities like New York and Washington D.C., to the adventure of the West Coast with destinations such as Yosemite National Park and Monument Valley, there is something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for vibrant city life or an outdoor escape away from it all – read on for everything you need to know about traveling in the United States!

Table of contents

Practical Info

Getting to the United States

You are going to have to fly. Then once you are there you may need to fly around within the United States because the country is massive.

When to go

Hypothetically, you could visit the United States during any season, depending on what you want to go for. Visit from June-August for beaches and summer activities, September-November for foliage, apple picking, and pumpkin carving. From November-December, many cities have dramatic holiday displays and decorations to admire, as well as plenty of events for the kids. December-February provide ideal months for skiing, snowboarding and other outdoor winter activities. The spring months of March-May are reserved for wildflower blooms, flower shows, Mardi Gras, and St. Patrick’s Day festivities.

For lower costs, visit in April-May or September-October. Prices for travel are high in November due to Thanksgiving.

What to See

New York City	Statue of Liberty, UN Headquarters, Empire State Building, Times Square, Nightlife
Los Angeles	Film Industry, Venice & Santa Monica Beaches
Washington, D.C.	Capital City, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, White House
Chicago	Deep-Dish Pizza, Wrigley Field, Lakeside City
San Francisco	Golden Gate Bridge, Cable Cars, Hilly Bayside City
Boston	American Revolution History, Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, Seafood
Las Vegas	Gambling, Strip Clubs, Nightlife, Entertainment
Miami	Beach Life, Nightlife, Art Deco Architecture
Providence	Culinary Scene, Waterfire, Art, Culture
Seattle	Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Coffee
Orlando	Disney, Theme Parks, Family Destination
Salt Lake City	Skiing, Hiking, Outdoor Activities, Mormon Culture
Denver	Access to Rocky Mountains, Art Museums, Sports Games, Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Charleston	Antebellum Architecture, Southern Charm, Magnolia Plantation
San Antonio	Alamo, River Walk, Tex Mex

The United States is simply too big to list all of the major cities and their different personalities. Depending on your interests, you’ll surely find somewhere that suits you in the USA.

Getting around within the United States

This is one country where it’s almost necessary to rent a car. The rail system in the United States is not as well-connected as in Europe, and also much, MUCH more expensive! The country is so big that, if you want to do your own thing, renting a car is your best bet.

Flying within the country is also quite expensive – to be honest, I fly from Boston to Europe cheaper than elsewhere in the United States. If you must fly within the country, the budget airlines are Spirit, Frontier, and Jet Blue – just don’t expect much in the way of luxury (or leg room, for that matter).

Detailed USA Articles

Alabama

Gulf Shores

Arizona

California

Colorado

Denver
Vail

Florida

Georgia

Atlanta

Hawaii

Kauai

Princeville

Oahu

Idaho

Illinois

Chicago

Kentucky

Bowling Green

Louisiana

New Orleans

Massachusetts

Boston
Martha’s Vineyard

Missouri

Montana

Nevada

Las Vegas

New Mexico

Albuquerque

New York

North Carolina

Ohio

Cincinnati

Oklahoma

Tulsa

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia

Puerto Rico South Carolina South Dakota

Rapid City

Rhode Island

Newport

Tennesee

Texas

Utah

Virginia

Washington, D.C.

Washington

Wisconsin

Lake Geneva

Wyoming

Yellowstone

Flight Resources

Skyscanner is the website I use for all of my flights. Other travelers also like Momondo.

Money-saving tip: Don’t input any dates to scan the best available times to go OR simply input ‘Netherlands’ instead of a specific airport – you may get a much cheaper flight!

Accommodation Resources

When I travel, I prefer to use VRBO. I book an entire apartment, giving me my privacy and the comfort of home amenities, such as a kitchen and washing machine. Since my dog(s) travel with me, it also allows me to filter based on pet-friendliness without the stress of disturbing hotel guests. Also, by getting your own apartment (or shared apartment), you’ll have use of the kitchen, allowing you to cook your own meals and save some cash by avoiding expensive dinners.

If you’re traveling long-term, VRBO usually offers discounts for stays of a month or more – the discounts are not as significant as in Europe, but it’s still worth a shot!

For run-of-the-mill hotel stays, Hotels.com usually offers the best deals. Also be sure to check out the Budget hotel chains, such as Motel 6, La Quinta, Super 8, and America’s Best Value Inn. Hostels can be overpriced in the United States and the hostel culture prevalent in Europe is virtually nonexistent.

Safety Tips

The United States falls somewhere in the middle in terms of safety. It’s such a large country with so many different areas, that it entirely depends on where you are going. That being said, all major cities have some aspect of danger to them, particularly in the ‘seedier’ areas. You’ll find areas you feel safe and areas you don’t feel safe in most all cities you visit. Trust your judgment and remove yourself from situations in which you feel unsafe.

Money Saving Tips

The United States is a fairly expensive country to visit, particularly when coming from most of the rest of the world. That being said, some regions of the country are definitely more expensive than others. Areas near larger cities and more populated states (New England, New York, D.C., California, Chicago) are going to be your most expensive places to visit.

If you want to visit the States but are looking for places that don’t cost quite as much, the Southern States (the Carolinas, Florida, Louisiana), the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon), and areas that are further from major cities will likely be cheaper.

Go to a local grocery store and cook your own breakfasts and dinners. Eat out for lunch – most restaurants have lunch menus that have smaller portions and lower prices. Find BYOB restaurants to save money on alcohol.

If you don’t already have one, create a Pinterest account! Pinterest is an invaluable resource for travelers. Simply input ‘Free things to do in….’ and see all the great options that come up. There are plenty of free things to do in the major cities.

Speaking of cities, get yourself a city pass if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing – museums, tours, public transport, etc. are usually highly discounted with the purchase of a city pass.

FAQs About Traveling to the United States

Do I need a visa to visit the United States?
- Visa requirements for visiting the United States vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of some countries can enter the U.S. for short stays (up to 90 days) under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Others may need to apply for a tourist visa. Check with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.
What’s the best time to visit the United States?
- The United States is a vast country with diverse climates. The best time to visit depends on your destination. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally pleasant for travel across the country. Summer (June to August) is ideal for beach destinations, while winter (December to February) is perfect for winter sports in places like Colorado or Vermont.
What’s the currency in the United States, and can I use credit cards?
- The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD), and credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases and in case you visit places that do not accept cards.
What languages are spoken in the United States?
- English is the primary language spoken in the United States. However, due to its diverse population, you’ll also find people who speak Spanish, Chinese, and other languages.
Is tap water safe to drink in the United States?
- Tap water is generally safe to drink throughout the United States. In rare cases, it’s recommended to use bottled water, which is readily available.
How do I get around the United States?
- The United States has a well-developed transportation system, including domestic flights, trains, buses, and an extensive road network. Rental cars are a common choice for exploring, but many cities also have public transportation systems like subways, buses, and trams.
What are some must-visit places in the United States?
- The United States offers a wide range of attractions, including New York City, Los Angeles, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and the beaches of Florida. Explore historic cities, natural wonders, and cultural sites.
What is American cuisine like, and are there vegetarian/vegan options?
- American cuisine is diverse, with dishes like hamburgers, hot dogs, barbecue, and regional specialties. Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most restaurants, particularly in larger cities.
Is it customary to tip in the United States?
- Tipping is customary in the United States. A 15-20% tip for good service in restaurants is standard. In cafes and bars, rounding up the bill or leaving a dollar per drink is common.
Is it safe to travel in the United States?
- The United States is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. Use common-sense precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas.
What should I pack for my trip to the United States?
- Pack clothing suitable for the season and activities you have planned. Comfortable walking shoes, layers, and any specific items you need for your destination, such as swimwear or hiking gear.
What is the legal drinking age in the United States?
- The legal drinking age for purchasing and consuming alcoholic beverages is 21 years old in the United States. Please adhere to these age restrictions when ordering alcoholic drinks in bars and restaurants.

The post United States Resources appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Destinations

Meagan — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 07:26:15 +0000

Scotland

Singapore

South Africa

Cape Town

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Turks and Caicos

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Jamaica

Japan

Tokyo

Kuwait

Malaysia

Langkawi Island

Nevis

New Zealand

Panama

Prague

Scotland

Singapore

South Africa

Cape Town

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Turks and Caicos

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

India

Dublin

Jamaica

Japan

Tokyo

Kuwait

Malaysia

Langkawi Island

Nevis

New Zealand

Panama

Prague

Scotland

Singapore

South Africa

Cape Town

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Turks and Caicos

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

India

Dublin

Jamaica

Japan

Tokyo

Kuwait

Malaysia

Langkawi Island

Nevis

New Zealand

Panama

Prague

Scotland

Singapore

South Africa

Cape Town

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Turks and Caicos

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Guyana

Honduras

India

Dublin

Jamaica

Japan

Tokyo

Kuwait

Malaysia

Langkawi Island

Nevis

New Zealand

Panama

Prague

Scotland

Singapore

South Africa

Cape Town

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Turks and Caicos

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Guyana

Honduras

India

Dublin

Jamaica

Japan

Tokyo

Kuwait

Malaysia

Langkawi Island

Nevis

New Zealand

Panama

Prague

Scotland

Singapore

South Africa

Cape Town

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Turks and Caicos

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Cambodia

Caribbean

Guyana

Honduras

India

Dublin

Jamaica

Japan

Tokyo

Kuwait

Malaysia

Langkawi Island

Nevis

New Zealand

Panama

Prague

Scotland

Singapore

South Africa

Cape Town

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Turks and Caicos

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

So far we’ve been to at least 29 countries. It’s been a while since I’ve tried to figure out how many. This list is not up to date. To see a full list of places I have written about using the category drop-down tool or you can use the search box.

Australia

Bahamas

Belize

Canada

Quebec

Costa Rica

Alabama

Gulf Shores

Arizona

California

Colorado

Denver
Vail

Florida

Georgia

Atlanta

Hawaii

Kauai

Princeville

Oahu

Idaho

Illinois

Chicago

Kentucky

Bowling Green

Louisiana

New Orleans

Massachusetts

Boston
Martha’s Vineyard

Missouri

Montana

Nevada

Las Vegas

New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

Ohio

Cincinnati

Oklahoma

Tulsa

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia

Puerto Rico

South Carolina

South Dakota

Rapid City

Rhode Island

Newport

Tennesee

Texas

Utah

Virginia

Washington, D.C.

Washington

Wisconsin

Lake Geneva

Wyoming

Yellowstone

Belize

Cambodia

Caribbean

Denmark

Copenhagen

Dominican Republic

Punta Cana

England

London

Fiji

Menton
Paris

Guyana

Honduras

India

Dublin

Jamaica

Japan

Tokyo

Kuwait

Malaysia

Langkawi Island

Nevis

New Zealand

Panama

Prague

Scotland

Singapore

South Africa

Cape Town

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Turks and Caicos

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

The post Destinations appeared first on Mommy Travels.

UV Tips for Travelers

Meagan — Sat, 14 Sep 2013 02:31:00 +0000

I got to attend a travel blogger briefing about UV eye safety a few weeks ago by the Vision Council and I’m excited to pass on what I learned.

If you’ve read this blog for a while then you know that my daughter suffers from an eye condition caused by allergies that is difficult to control. When it’s at its worst she becomes extremely sensitive to light. So, our family knows first hand how crucial it is to protect your eyes, no matter what your age is. If your child is overly sensitive to sunlight take them to see an eye doctor immediately, not the pediatrician. This is a sign that something is wrong.

As you can see, I’m not kidding, we have everyone covered!

What You Need to Know About UV Rays

Now back to the UV eye safety briefing I got to attend. Here’s some of the great stuff I learned.

By the time a child turns 18, they will have acquired nearly 80% of lifetime exposure to UV. Kids need to wear sunglasses.
Always carry/pack sunglasses with you that way you have them when you need them, because your eyes can get SUNBURNED!
Some cities have more intense UV Rays then others: Rome, Italy, Orlando, Hawaii, Las Vegas, and Atlanta. Here’s a chart for you to check.

If you are wearing sunscreen you should also be wearing sunglasses.
When skiing, you should be wearing at least sunglasses, goggles would be even better because snow reflects 85% of UV light!

Kids ski goggles are very affordable. We got our kid ski goggles at Big 5 on Black Friday for $10 a pair.

Wondering what the UV levels are near you?
In case you are unsure what type of protection to get or unsure which is the best to purchase check out this great guide.

As you plan your future travel heading into fall – please remember to pack your UV-protective eyewear – and take lots of pictures!

Read Next:

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Magic Strollers an Orlando Stroller Rental

Meagan — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 10:30:00 +0000

Now you may think you do not need a stroller for Disney, but it is so much walking that even kids that haven’t used a stroller in a while will happily sit in it and let you push them around.

Stroller Rental Orlando

Magic Strollers is a great place to rent a stroller from in Orlando, Florida. You can do the whole rental online and it only takes a few minutes. They even rent baby carriages, a push chair or a baby buggy for those that don’t want the jogging stroller.

Free Delivery and Pickup on your stroller rental in Orlando, Florida

They will drop the stroller off at your hotel and pick it back up. We actually stayed at two different hotels and they dropped it off at one and picked it up from the other. It was so easy! There was no extra cost to do this.

They cannot deliver a stroller to the actual Disney Parks or the Orlando airport. They also will not deliver to a private home. This means if you are staying in an AirBnB you are out of luck.

Double Jogging Stroller Rental in Orlando

I choose a double stroller even though my youngest two children are 6 and 9. Disney World, Universal, and Sea World is a lot of walking. A LOT OF WALKING. It makes everything so much easier when you can push them around. I would encourage everyone to either rent a stroller or take a stroller for their kids. It makes everything easier.

Thankfully Magic Strollers offers strollers with a higher weight limit, because my 12 year old also went for a spin. (And, yes he is playing on his iPod instead of enjoying the most magical place on earth! In his defense, he’s been to Disney 16 times. You can only see the same thing so many times I guess.)

Additional Benefits

Easier to find – The stroller doesn’t look exactly like 200 other strollers in the parking area. If you wait and rent at Disney, your stroller will look just like all the others. This isn’t a huge issue, but it does make it a bit harder to find at times.

To make your stroller even easier to find in stroller parking tie a distinctive bandana around the handle.

Fits on the tram – The stroller was easy to fold up and fit on the Disney trams without problems. This can be a huge issue for some people. There’s nothing like struggling for 10 minutes to get a stroller on a tram.

Convenient Handles – In the 1st photo you can see that the stroller has easy to use handles.

Rain Cover – Your stroller rental comes with a rain cover. Chances are low that it will rain while you are there, but if it does it will pour and you will be grateful for that rain cover!

Magic Strollers Coupon Code

If you are looking for a coupon code for Magic Strollers check Birnbaum’s Guide. They sometimes have a coupon.

They also offer a military discount. To get the military discount call 866-866-6177 during normal business hours and they will walk you through how to apply the discount during your online reservation.

Magic Strollers is a great place to rent strollers for your Orlando vacation. They offer quality products at an affordable price, making it one of the best places in town for renting strollers. Not only will you be saving time with their quick order process but you’ll also have a breadth of options to accommodate any size family or budget. We look forward to seeing how your Orlando vacation is made even more stress-free and comfortable with Magic Stroller rentals. So, go ahead and book that flight and pack those bags – Magic Strollers has got this!

Have you rented a stroller in Orlando? Where did you get it? We would love to hear your experiences so take a moment to leave us a comment below and share them with us!