United States
The US is big, car-based outside a few cities and more expensive than most visitors expect, because prices on menus and in shops do not include tax, and tips are expected. Uber and Lyft work everywhere on this list.
The US is big, car-based outside a few cities and more expensive than most visitors expect, because prices on menus and in shops do not include tax, and tips are expected. Uber and Lyft work everywhere on this list.
- Currency
- US dollar (USD). Cards and Apple/Google Pay almost everywhere
- Entry
- Visa Waiver countries need an ESTA, US$40 on the official site esta.cbp.dhs.gov (an increase was announced for October 2026; check before you apply). Others need a B1/B2 visa
- Sales tax
- Added at the till: about 8.25% in Texas, 6.5–7.75% in California and Florida, about 9.45% in New Orleans, 8.875% in NYC
- Tipping
- 18–20% in sit-down restaurants and bars, $1–2 per drink, 15–20% for taxis and rideshares (in the app)
- Rides
- Uber and Lyft in every city on this list
- Long distance
- Domestic flights are usually fastest; Amtrak trains in the Northeast; Brightline in Florida (Orlando to Miami); Greyhound and FlixBus buses
- Plugs
- Type A / B, 120V. Most European devices need an adapter and should be dual-voltage
- Emergency
- 911
Cities & regions
Dallas
Texas swagger — museums, stadiums, and the country's best urban park.
Fort Worth
The Stockyards, the Rodeo, and where the West actually still lives.
Arlington
The stadium capital between Dallas and Fort Worth.
Austin
Live music, tacos, and the state capitol lit up at night.
Houston
Space City — the home of mission control.
San Diego
70°F and sunny, forever. Balboa Park, the Midway, and Old Town.
Anaheim & Santa Ana
Disneyland's home base — and the scenic Pacific Surfliner south.
New York City
The city — and how to survive it on a budget from the airport in.
Orlando & Walt Disney World
Four Disney parks, one purpose-built town, and every night ends in fireworks.
Miami & Fort Lauderdale
South Florida heat, art-deco pastels, and Latin Miami rhythm.
New Orleans
Jazz, gumbo, wrought-iron balconies, and Bourbon Street at 2am.