WHAT FIRST TIME TRAVELERS TO AMERICA NEED TO KNOW.
Top Places First Time Travelers Should Visit in America
Most of the time when I travel overseas, I am impressed by the number of people who have either been to the U.S or want to visit. But when we chat some more and I ask where they have been, their answers are almost always the same; New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Once in a while I hear Disneyworld. Not that these places are bad or anything, but I feel those three cities are a bit overdone when there are so many other alternatives first time visitors can visit and have just as much fun. I have therefore made a list of some suggestions here.
Before I continue, I’d like to say that a few friends who came to visit last month from Amsterdam experienced delays at the airport because of minor issues with their ESTA Visa. So I’d advise citizens from VWP countries to ensure their ESTA Visa documents are intact before traveling to the U.S. It must be obtained electronically online and can be renewed after 90 days.
The Big Three: New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles
So why these 3 cities? What makes them so popular? To start, I understand the excitement that New York provides for every foreign visitor when heading to the Big Apple for the first time. Being the backdrop setting for several TV shows (I’m a huge Mad Men fan myself) and movies, New York is indeed one of the finest cities in the world and I encourage everyone to visit.
But there’s the issue of LA and Las Vegas.
I would say, the rave about these cities is none other than pop culture, and unfortunately it’s not good enough. Say, what’s your intention for going to Vegas? Gambling? To drink? Surely you can do that anywhere. Los Angeles is a popular destination because of the perceived flamboyance and Hollywood aura. Many people go there hoping to see iconic structures and perhaps run into the odd actor or two, but it’s not always the case.
This is just my opinion; first time visitors to the U.S need not hurry to Vegas or L.A before they can have a good time. Instead, you should go to places in the country that are truly symbolic of the United States, and where you could learn a lot more about this great nation. I could name a long list which would take the whole day, but I have cut it down to a few favourite picks.
1. Seattle
The Pacific Northwest is a personal favourite which I believe any first time visitor will love. Seattle especially, is an amazing alternative because there is a lot to see and do, both inside the main city and a short drive on the outskirts. Walking around Seattle, like many cosmopolitan cities, is plenty of fun. A visit to the busy but lovable Pike Place Market will reward you with delicious spicy fish and original Starbucks. If you enjoy quirky museums, Seattle has so many, such as the Pacific Science Centre or the Museum of Flight. Some beautiful daytrips include Mountain Rainer and the Olympic Peninsula. Think of the Pacific Northwest as America’s exuberant and adventurous side.
2. New Orleans
Another beautiful city, New Orleans actually appears on the to-go list of many international travellers, however it is not always for the right reasons. No doubt, Bourbon Street has a rave every night of the year, but New Orleans is more than roaring music and rambunctious partying. What makes it so entrancing is the strange mystical quality that pervades its history. The city has always been a melting pot of cultural diversity, where people have lived peacefully together for many centuries. Today, besides being a place rich in cultural heritage, New Orleans is a huge destination for foodies all over the world. Enjoy a culinary paradise of staple foods such as Jambalaya, a Creole dish of rich vegetables and meat mixed with rice.
3. Any National Park
Many Americans will proudly tell you their country pioneered the modern conservation program in the nineteenth century, when it commissioned the first National Park. Since then, we have included over 58 parks and several other national monuments and geographical markers, producing a large network of places so important, they must always be protected. Many countries have adopted the so-call North American model of conservation. You have a lot of options to choose, from Yellowstone Park to Yosemite and the Great Smoking Mountains- if you love hiking.
4. Savannah
The American South is undeniably a coveted region for me. If you really want to learn about the history of America, and experience its vibrant, lively culture and taste some of the most delicious foods, then go to Savannah, Georgia. It is a notable Colonial-era city where you can learn about America’s history through beautiful parks and monumental architecture. You can also spoil yourself with the local delicacies in Savannah’s quirky but lovable city centre.
These are my alternative destinations for some real American tourism experience. Do you have any more suggestions?