United States of America

The country contains a variety of terrain with its vast central plains, mountains in the west, low mountains and hills in the east, rugged mountains and rivers in Alaska and a volcanic landscape in the Hawaiian Islands . It is the fourth largest country in the world after Russia , Canada and China . The USA is unfortunately prone to many natural and man-made hazards such as tsunamis, volcanoes, earthquakes, tornadoes, flooding and mudslides.

The population of the United States is a mixture of White, Black, Hispanic, Asian, America Indian/Alaskan, Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders and others. English is the official language with Spanish widely spoken. The dominant religion is Protestant, with Roman Catholic, Mormon, Jewish, Muslim and others.

Historically referred to as The Land of the Free and Land of Opportunity , America is a melting pot of many races of people who have travelled to its shores hoping to find a better life. It is also a place where it is possible to swim in the ocean and ski the mountains in the same day.

The East Coast of America is famous for its cities such as New York , Boston, Philadelphia , Miami , Atlanta and Washington D.C . Manhattan is an exciting city to visit and perhaps catch a Broadway Show, or reflect on the monument at Ground Zero. The White House, situated in the capital of Washington D.C. is a popular attraction for visitors and also home to the President when he is not at his ranch in Texas . Florida , with its miles of golden beaches and attractions such as Disneyworld and the Epcot Centre attract a huge number of tourists, and those wishing to live in its warm climate. The coastal areas of Maine and New England offer a slower pace of life and much beauty.

The West Coast is known for its laid-back lifestyle. Los Angeles attracts many visitors as well as starry eyed hopefuls to its sights such as Hollywood , Universal Studios and its miles of beaches. California ’s beaches are a major draw for surfers from all over the world. A stroll down Venice Beach is something not to be missed for its zany sights. Marina del Rey displays a showcase of the yachts of the wealthy and famous. Catch a tourist bus to see the Homes of the Stars and watch from the window as the miles of palm-lined boulevards, beautiful houses and mansions of the rich and privileged pass by. Or visit Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm in Orange County . San Francisco is famous for its landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge , Alcatraz prison, and Fisherman’s Wharf, attracting visitors to admire the views from its hilly streets, as well as those seeking a relaxed and alternative lifestyle. San Diego , close to the border with Mexico , has the ever popular Sea World attraction as well as miles of sandy beaches.

Perhaps known for its association with gangsters, Chicago, also known as The Windy City, is located on the shores of the Great Lakes. It has a lively nightlife and music scene.

Texas conjures up images of wealthy men wearing big hats and tending their oilfields, cowboys on their horses and cacti. Dallas and Houston are the places to go for shopaholics with the many malls and plazas, as well as good restaurants, clubs and entertainment. New Mexico in the southwest has many beautiful sights to see, with its art colony and galleries, Native American historical sites and places such as the lovely town of Santa Fe , Aztec ruins and the Peublo at Taos . Although it is set in the desert, Taos is also a popular skiing destination. Colorado has its cosmopolitan ‘ Mile High City ’ of Denver , spectacular scenery with mountains and lakes and world-class ski resorts.

Las Vegas is on the list of must-see’s for many visitors to the United States . Even if you are not a gambler, party animal or night owl there will be plenty to amuse and entertain, from the big-name shows to casino cabaret acts. You can even get married on a whim in one of the many wedding chapels. Las Vegas is best seen at night for its millions of lights and displays. This oasis in the Nevada Desert has replicas of just about all the wondrous places on earth.

The United States contains almost more than its fair share of natural wonders and attractions with its National Parks such as Yellowstone , the Grand Canyon , Yosemite and Canyonlands, to name just a few. For lovers of the outdoors there is enough to keep you busy for the rest of your life, whether it be mountain biking, backpacking, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, mountaineering, river rafting, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, skiing, snowboarding, or just about any activity you can think of. There is far too much to see and do to cover in this small page, but you can be sure that everything you could possibly want is there!

Weather
The United States has a climate that is mainly temperate but, due to its size, varies according to the area and terrain. Climate data for individual States should be consulted. In general, Hawaii and Florida have tropical climates, Alaska has an arctic climate, the plains states are seasonal to the west of the Mississippi , while it is arid and dry in the SW Great Basin area.

Disclaimer: While we have tried to ensure this information is correct we do not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy.

* Inclusion on this guide does not guarantee travel insurance is available in this country at any given time. Travel Insurance is not available in countries for which the F.C.O. advise against travel to.

** At the time of writing, the F.C.O. advised against travel to countries, or areas thereof, marked thus at the time of writing. Travel Insurance is not available in areas where the F.C.O. advise against travel to.

You are strongly advised to visit the F.C.O. web site for up to date information and general travel advice before you travel.