United States of America Travel Planner

Due to its global economic power and the pervasiveness of its pop-culture within western society, people think they know the USA. Many even leave it towards the bottom of their travel wishlists, figuring they'll explore more 'cultural' regions of the world first. What they quickly discover, when they do reach America, is a country with far more history and culture than even its own people give it credit for. It is a nation that cannot be described in a nutshell, not just because it is so vast, but because so much of it is different to anything else in the world.

This is a land of distinction and diversity, home to some of the world's most exciting cities, unforgettable frontiers, breathtaking scenery and charismatic people. The sense of regionalism is strong, creating marked distinctions in style and character between one area and the next. It is this rich tapestry of difference and unexpected surprises that gives the USA such variety and makes it a fantastic travel option.

Now more than ever, the USA wants people to rediscover its wonders and share in its many blessings-among them an enviable climate, a plethora of natural marvels, a melting pot of peoples, a robust economy and a genuine love of life's good things including food, leisure, music, sport and the arts.

Travel today is about so much more than collecting pretty postcards and quirky souvenirs. Experiencing something that you couldn't see or do anywhere else in the world is the modern measure of a trip worth taking-something you can talk about and reflect upon for years to come.

They don't say 'only in America' for nothing-the USA is home to an enormous number of natural and man-made attractions, many of which are entirely unique to this corner of the globe. Visit the real home of the 'old west' in Sedona, Arizona-the red-rock setting that has inspired more than 100 movies and TV shows. Cruise by ancient Indian burial mounds and old side-wheelers as you cruise along the seemingly endless Mississippi River. Marvel at the prescient architectural ingenuity of the Golden Gate Bridge. Lose yourself along Florida's Key's amazingly low coastline where at times it seems the road is one with the surrounding water. Be charmed by the 'deep south' heritage of New Orleans. And of course, you'll never forget a visit to the world's second largest city and biggest 'people zoo' - New York.

Though famous as a fast food mecca, there is much more to the USA's gastronomic offerings. From traditional American dishes such as meatloaf and apple pie through to every exotic cuisine under the sun, no-one will ever go hungry at the table of Uncle Sam. Worth exploring are the many regional specialties drawing on freshly grown ingredients and local game.