Spring in New York is an underrated sweet spot. While the Big Apple typically tempts travellers with its magical winters and sizzling summers, spring promises the gift of crowd-free fun. As the weather begins to warm, coats and winter blues are shed, cherry blossoms explode to life and rooftop bars reopen. Tick off the city’s classic corners (hello, Times Square) and join in with the seasonal festivities.
30th September 2025 - USA Guide
When it comes to postcard-perfect beaches, the USA has them in bucket-(and spade)-load. From California’s colourful coast and Florida’s buzzing beaches to Oregon’s rugged shores and Georgia’s photogenic stretches, there’s no shortage of sandy escapes on a USA holiday. Spot puffins on Cannon Beach and nesting turtles on Perdido Key, or stroll past Art Deco architecture on South Beach and charming hotels overlooking Coronado Beach.
4th August 2025 - USA Beaches & Islands
Americans know a thing or two about wide, open spaces, and our USA specialist, Dave, discovered what all the fuss was about during his research trip to the Rockies and the American West. He dug into dinosaur discoveries in Bozeman, snapped pictures of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon and spotted bears and bison in Grand Teton National Park. When he wasn’t cheering at a Major League Baseball game in Denver, he was tucking into South Dakota’s specialty steak dish.
15th July 2025 - USA Travel Tips
With its dramatic landscapes, explosive geysers and wonderful wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of our favourite places in the USA. Spread across two million acres of land and spanning three states, the park is set on a dormant supervolcano and boasts spectacular geological features. Each season in Yellowstone brings a new spectacle – winter brings snow and serenity, while spring offers fantastic flora and fauna.
30th June 2025 - USA Travel Tips
While leaf peepers famously flock to New England come autumn, California’s golden foliage shouldn’t be forgotten when summer fades across the USA. From Yosemite’s maple-framed hiking trails to the apple-picking paradise of Julian, autumn in California might just be our new favourite season. Read on to discover where to escape to next... Yosemite National Park June Lake Loop Napa Valley Julian Big Sur Yosemite National Park Best for:
10th June 2025 - USA Travel Inspiration
Nowhere does ‘effortlessly cool’ quite like Los Angeles. With its offerings of sun, sand and SoCal spirit, the city is often associated with summer, but we’re of the opinion that September is the best time of year to visit. With fewer tourists and a deliciously warm climate, autumn in the ‘City of Angels’ allows you to experience the Californian city at its best. Whether you’re looking to showcase your surfing skills,
26th May 2025 - USA Travel Inspiration
The sister states of North Carolina and South Carolina are natural subjects for healthy sibling rivalry. While they share a border (and a name), each has a distinct personality and attracts visitors for different reasons. From mountain hikes to floodplains and a great BBQ debate, we’re doing a deep dive into the North Carolina vs South Carolina debate to help you pick where to visit next. Eager to get planning your USA holiday?
20th May 2025 - USA Travel Inspiration
A land of beautiful beaches, looming volcanoes, lush rainforests and technicolour coral reefs, Hawaii is easily one of God’s greatest creations (and a cracking USA holiday destination). But having just 24 hours to enjoy it, well, that’s like attempting to run a sub-two-hour marathon. Impossible unless you’re a pro. Fortunately, we have a team of experts who know these islands like the back of their hands.
19th May 2025 - USA 24 Hours In
As the fourth-largest country in the world, it’s easy to get lost in the mainland maze on a USA holiday. However, cast your attention beyond its shores, and you’ll discover a spectacular smattering of islands within (almost) touching distance. From the wildlife-rich Santa Catalina to Hawaii’s gorgeous ‘Garden Island’, read on to discover our pick of the most beautiful islands in the USA. 1. Santa Catalina, California2.
22nd April 2025 - USA Beaches & Islands
Majestic and mysterious, whales grace California’s coastline throughout the year. In Southern California, spring is prime time to witness grey and humpback whales, while summer ushers in blue and fin whales. If you’re looking for orcas, Monterey Bay is your go-to spot between April and May, while the Mendocino Coast offers occasional sightings if you’re lucky. Ready for some bucket list breaches? Read on for our roundup of the best places for whale watching in California… San Diego Dana Point Santa Barbara Monterey Bay Mendocino San Diego Starting strong,
24th March 2025 - USA Safari & Wildlife
When it comes to ranch holidays, it’s easy to be swept up in a Wild West fantasy. We get it – whether it’s the boots, the hats or the horses, there’s plenty to be excited about. But what’s the reality like? Enter our resident USA travel expert, Dave, who knows a thing or two about ranching. While horse activities are a big part of the experience, there’s much more to bear in mind before you book; be it budget or family-friendly considerations, Dave’s got the answers.
17th March 2025 - USA Travel Tips
The wonderful thing about the USA is no two cities are the same. Each has its own distinctive personality, quirks and beat, and so choosing just five of the most beautiful cities in the USA was a tough ask. While Charleston is known for its southern charm and rich history, Portland, Oregon has hipster style and hangovers – home to many bustling breweries. Seattle features the iconic Space Needles tower, while Savannah is renowned for making seriously sweet iced tea.
28th December 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
Big beaches, big waves and a big reputation – California offers some of the world’s most sensational surfing. Aptly nicknamed the Golden State, sun-soaked surfers flock to its 840-mile coastline on USA trips to wrestle with waves that range from gentle rollers to towering giants. Whether in Santa Cruz, Orange County or Newport Beach, California treats riders of all abilities to waters worth waxing a board for.
21st October 2024 - USA Adventure
One thing the Golden State isn’t short of is beauty. Whether it’s the sun-drenched coastline, the mountainous interior or the diverse national parks, there’s something to marvel at in every corner of California. Add in an enviable climate and some must-visit cities, and it’s no surprise that this sparkling state is high up on everyone’s travel bucket list. But when it comes to nature, nowhere does it quite like Cali.
7th October 2024 - USA The Natural World
The world is full of legendary landscapes, and the rugged Rocky Mountains are no exception. Carving incredible views from North America’s New Mexico to Canada’s British Colombia, no trip to either country is complete without visiting the Rockies. Providing enviable views, adventurous activities and heaps of history year-round, their mountainous national parks shine in every season. So, read on to discover some of the best places to lace up your boots and explore an ancient rocky world.
30th September 2024 - USA The Natural World
Situated on America’s Atlantic Coast between Georgia, Virginia and Tennessee, the Carolinas (North and South) keep a fairly low profile when it comes to US holiday destinations. Yet, this duo of coastal states combines scenic drives, stunning beaches, historic cities and sun-soaked sea islands. Opt for a classic American fly-drive holiday, or alternate between the Outer Banks and the southern cities of Wilmington and Charleston.
12th August 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
While USA holidays are synonymous with epic road trips, it’s easy to overlook the nation’s equally epic capacity for train travel. Forget extortionate gas prices and wrong turns and embrace a different (and more romantic) form of slow travel. From trundling through the Alaskan wilderness to whizzing up California’s Pacific coast, train travel is gaining trac(k)tion as an alternative means of getting from A to B.
8th July 2024 - USA Slow Travel
Our America specialist, Dave, recently visited the ‘Aloha State’ for an iconic island-hopping Hawaiian research trip. While venturing through the varied landscapes of Maui, Big Island, Kauai and Oahu, he explored the Jurassic Park filming locations, stayed in a room with a volcano view and drove to heights of over 10,000ft. Curious to find out more about his USA holiday? Read on for the inside scoop on Dave’s tropical adventure… Where did you visit?
2nd July 2024 - USA Travel Tips
They say all roads lead to Rome, but when it comes to music, they take a detour through America's Deep South. The land of big bands, the blues, jazz, country, bluegrass, gospel choirs and more is a fascinating melting pot of cultures, history and musical milestones. All of this is combinable in one toe-tapping USA trip, and we'd always recommend delving deeper into the Deep South. Read on for our list of the top six things to do in the Deep South.
17th April 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
Everything’s bigger in Texas, but it's got to be seen to be believed – and Dallas, the third most populous city in Texas, is the perfect place to start. While visitors flock here on US holidays for the must-see cowboy culture and thriving arts scene, there are things to do in Dallas that go beyond the typical. Think wide green spaces filled with thousands of flowers and museums jampacked with historical artefacts and spellbinding works of art.
10th April 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
Step into the heart of the Deep South, where the Mississippi River flows, sultry jazz melodies dance through the French Quarter, and flavours burst with soulful intensity. Louisiana, a state steeped in history, tradition, and a dash of Cajun spice, is full of culture and charm. From the lively streets of New Orleans, where Mardi Gras ignites the city, to the wildlife-filled swamplands, Louisiana (also known as the Pelican State) has a way of captivating the senses.
27th February 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
In Arizona, the landscapes are as diverse as they are dramatic. From the world-famous Grand Canyon to the eerie allure of the Sonoran Desert, this state - rich with rushing rivers, snow-capped mountains, stands of ponderosa pine and pristine lakes - has adventures to suit every traveller's taste. So, dust off your hiking boots and don your best cowboy hat because here are some of the best things to do in Arizona.
12th February 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
Saddle up for an epic journey through the untamed landscapes and fascinating history of the American West. Home to sweeping deserts, majestic mountains and storied towns, this region offers a bounty of experiences for adventurers, history buffs and nature lovers alike. So, grab your Stetson hat and cowboy boots for some of the most thrilling things to do in the American West on your next USA holiday.
31st January 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
Cape Cod is all about good times and summer vibes. Its expansive 40-mile-long seashore makes it one of New England's premier beach destinations, but there's more to do here than simply top up your tan. Whether you hop aboard a whale-watching tour, visit lively Provincetown or get your fill of fresh seafood, this arm-shaped peninsula in Massachusetts is the ultimate destination for some R&R. Dreaming of a summer USA trip and need a little help curating an itinerary?
16th January 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
Warm days and wild rides may spring to mind when you first think of Florida, but America’s southeasternmost state – aptly nicknamed the Sunshine State – has plenty more to offer beyond palm-fringed beaches and thrilling theme parks. From gator encounters in the Everglades to sweet debates over Key lime pie, read on for our roundup of the top ten things to do in Florida on your next USA trip. Experience
15th January 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
Seattle is well-known as the birthplace of Starbucks, and although they sure know how to brew a mean cuppa, there’s more to the city than its coffee culture. Washington State's fast-growing capital city has a lot to offer, and while it’s true that it gets its fair share of drizzle, there’s no need to let the weather rain on your parade. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy even in chillier climes; spend time sauntering through Pike Place Market, reach new heights at one of America’s greatest landmarks, or explore the city's lush parks (they call it the 'Emerald City' for a reason).
1st January 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
From moose encounters and mountain hikes to seafood feasts and sea life spotting, Maine contains a wealth of adventure waiting to be discovered. With 3,500 miles of rocky coastline, punctuated by historic lighthouses and home to a thriving wildlife population, it's no wonder that this picturesque state in New England is fondly nicknamed Vacationland. Ready to plan your next USA holiday? Roll up your sleeves and grab a lobster bib, or lace up your hiking boots, and get stuck into our list of the best things to do in Maine.
20th December 2023 - USA Travel Tips
With two-week October half-terms becoming more commonplace in schools, our head of PR, Rebecca, decided to make this the time for her main family holiday. She discovered that this was a great time to visit destinations which are either too hot, too busy or out of season in the British summer. After considering Oman, Morocco and Sri Lanka, Rebecca decided California was the perfect place to visit with her boys, six and nine.
18th December 2023 - USA Travel Tips
Denver’s a dreamy destination, a lively hub where the Rocky Mountains give way to urban adventure. Days spent in the Mile High City are likely to be jam packed, with cultural and culinary delights around every street corner. And the best part? The must-see spots of Colorado’s capital can be ticked off in just one day on your next USA trip. Read on for our insider’s take on how to spend 24 hours in Denver… Early
7th December 2023 - USA 24 Hours In
‘Chicago is my kinda town’, so sang the legendary Frank Sinatra. Spend a few days here and you might find it’s your kinda town too. There’s lots to love about this spirited, skyscraper-strewn city on the shores of Lake Michigan. Planning your next USA trip? From lakeside lounging to moseying around the marvellous museums and parks, here are eight of our favourite things to do in Chicago. According to Sinatra, it’s ‘one town that won’t let you down’.
27th November 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
A city of redbrick and revolution, tea parties and trails, Boston is where America’s history was made and saved. So, naturally, it’s one of the country’s favourite cities (and a top destination for US holidays). Brimming with character and cobblestones, as well as a food scene that puts seafood centre stage, Boston truly feels like a home away from home. So, whether you're a history buff, foodie, sports fan or just a traveller wanting to be surprised, Beantown has you covered.
10th November 2023 - USA Big Short Breaks
Perched amid the Rocky Mountains, where the air is crisp and the views are jaw-dropping, Denver proudly wears its 'Mile High City' badge like a rooftop crown. In a city that boasts over 300 days of sunshine, the question isn't whether you should be sipping cocktails and craft beers on a rooftop, its which rooftop to conquer first. From sky-high penthouse hotel bars that seem to touch the clouds to brewpubs that offer a refreshing sip of altitude, Denver's rooftop scene is where the sky's the limit.
7th November 2023 - USA Food & Drink
There’s more to Seattle aka the ‘Emerald City’ than big tech, rain and the world’s best latte. The birthplace of Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana and Chris Cornell, as well as the original American fresh-roasted coffee bean, this Pacific Northwest city is home to a sleuth of sights (and is well worth exploring on US holidays). But even with just 24 hours in Seattle, you can get a taste of its culture, nature and fantastic food and drink scene.
30th October 2023 - USA 24 Hours In
Where do you start with a round-up of things to do in Texas? The second-largest US state is a vast and varied land with no shortage of stuff to see and do. So, whether you’re a hiker, history-lover, beach bum or wannabe cowboy, the Lone Star state has something for everyone for your next USA trip. Here are seven of the most memorable things to do in Texas (cowboy boots optional). Stretch Your Legs
26th October 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
Autumn and New York City go together like apple pie and the Fourth of July and candied yams on Thanksgiving. They’re the Ross and Rachel of cities and seasons and boy, do they know it. Cut to early October and its trees are cloaked in crimson shawls, Halloween decorations and celebrations are in full swing (here’s looking at you, Night of the 1,000 Jack O’Lanterns) and the sweet smell of cinnamon can’t help but linger around coffee shops pumping out pails of pumpkin spice lattes.
19th October 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
In a city of sweeping views, everyone wants to be on top. Home to four of the ten tallest buildings in the United States, Chicago offers unbeatable skyline vistas. On a USA trip, should you find yourself breezing through the Windy City on a warm summer night, you’ll have no shortage of elevated bars and beer gardens to choose from. Some even have retractable roofs so you don’t need to worry about bad weather ruining your plans (handy given the city’s notoriously short summers).
10th October 2023 - USA Food & Drink
If someone asked you to imagine Los Angeles’ skyline, we’re guessing your mind would draw a blank. That’s because Los Angeles isn’t just a city, it’s 88 cities. It’s Pasadena and Burbank, Glendale and Malibu, Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, each with their own signature skyline. So, when it comes to rooftop bars – a.k.a. the easiest way to show off a city’s sights - each one wants to outdo the other.
6th October 2023 - USA Food & Drink
Yosemite National Park is a display of some of Mother Nature’s finest work. Dating back millions of years, the valley is home to cascading waterfalls and granite rocks whose size seems to defy the laws of nature. But no matter how unbelievable this landscape appears, we can assure you it’s all too real – the yearly 3.5 million visitors can vouch for it. Given its enormity, it’s difficult to know where to start when planning how to spend just one day here on your next USA trip.
25th September 2023 - USA The Natural World
In Las Vegas (or ‘Sin City’ as it’s nicknamed), the real party starts when the sun dips below the horizon. So, why settle for ground-level fun? Get ready to soar above the Strip on your next USA trip, where cocktails taste better, skylines sparkle, and even traffic lights look like dancing stars. Las Vegas from a rooftop is a whole new world. Whether you're dressed to the nines or rocking a laid-back vibe, we’ve rounded up the five best rooftop bars in Las Vegas that deliver a front-row seat to the sky-high action.
16th September 2023 - USA Food & Drink
In a city where sunshine often plays hard to get, rooftop bars in San Francisco were once as elusive as a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. However, thanks to a wave of new hotels and some nifty outdoor heating technology, these high-altitude havens have firmly established themselves in the Golden City's landscape and are here to stay. Now, you can enjoy sky-high fresh air (with heaters, don't worry) and views that stretch from the iconic Bay Bridge to the hills with a drink in hand year-round.
15th September 2023 - USA Food & Drink
Films tend to treat New York and Los Angeles like they’re next-door neighbours. Characters will seamlessly jump between the two like they’re adjoining hopscotch squares, bouncing between brownstones in Brooklyn and Hidden Hills mansions like they’re just popping to the bodega. But there’s more than just movie magic to these flagship US cities. And (spoiler alert) it turns out they’re nothing alike. While Los Angeles sprawls over 469 square miles with countless golden beaches to its name, New York sits up tall with over 7,000 high rises packed into its 300 square miles.
14th September 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
New Orleans might be notorious for its nightlife, but there’s more to the ‘Big Easy’ than after-dark antics. With excellent museums, picturesque parks and an iconic French Quarter, there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans that don’t involve cocktails (unless, of course, you’re craving one). So, whether you want to find the best view of the city, listen to live jazz in its spiritual home or relax outdoors for an hour or two – here are our tips for how to spend your time in Louisiana’s largest city on your next USA holiday.
11th September 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
Long-haul layover or just a flying visit to Florida – 24 hours in Miami offers a tantalising taste of one of the USA’s most intoxicating cities. Palm trees cast frond-shaped shadows across dreamy Art Deco streets, the sounds of Spanish and salsa music fill the air and the tropical climate is perpetually warm and perfectly balanced for both beach and rooftop bar. To help you make the most of your whirlwind USA trip, here’s how we’d spend a memorable day in Miami.
6th September 2023 - USA 24 Hours In
Road trips have long been romanticised. The notion of just flinging your stuff into a car and following that thin mustard yellow line of tarmac all the way to the horizon, or weaving through forested mountains to bucolic cabins with scant sense of urgency, is up there on a lot of people’s travel bucket lists. But we think that when it comes to the best-known US road trips, there’s more than the Pacific Coast Highway and Route 66.
4th September 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
Everyone thinks they know New York. They know its coffee shops thanks to Friends, its skyline and seasons thanks to Nora Ephron and its hardy locals thanks to films like West Side Story and Saturday Night Fever. But New York is far more than its movie star status. It is magnificent museums, secret gardens and rooftop parks, historic lighthouses and English-inspired villages. So, when you’re ready for your next bite of the Big Apple on a USA trip, forget the Empire State Building, Times Square and Brooklyn Bridge and head to these hidden gems in New York instead.
3rd August 2023 - USA Big Short Breaks
The coolest kid on Colorado’s block, it’s no surprise that Denver is miles above the rest. Home to great weather, good views (hello Rocky Mountains) and even better bars, the Mile High City has well and truly kicked off its cowboy boots and embraced its hipster beanie. So where better to spend days dipping into art galleries in the historic Golden Triangle District, tasting craft beers in quirky microbreweries and doing a bit of window shopping in SoBo.
2nd August 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
They call it Music City; the spiritual heartland of the USA's country music scene and home of the honky-tonk (we’ll explain that one later…). But Nashville is more than just square dancing and Stetson hats. It’s street art and deep fried chicken, wild parkland and a Grecian Parthenon and more museums than you can shake a stick at. To help you plan your trip to Tennessee, we’ve hand-picked a selection of must-sees in Nashville that you won’t want to miss on your USA holiday (cowboy hats and boots optional).
25th July 2023 - USA Travel Tips
While city living has its own advantages, there’s no denying that the star-studded skies of the suburbs possess a certain type of magic. Increasingly, travellers are seeking out the reflective calm of the night sky and the phrase ‘astrotourism’ has come to define these star-chasing experiences. Chile has long championed such encounters, with laws in place to prevent light pollution and maintain dark sky sites.
17th July 2023 - USA The Natural World
Thinking about a trip to the Windy City? We’re sure it’ll blow you away. You can easily enjoy 24 hours in Chicago as long as you know where to go and what to see. It’s one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the United States and is home to a variety of attractions and experiences, from the famous deep-dish pizza pies to world-renowned museums, parks and public art. With so much to explore on your holiday to America, it can feel overwhelming (especially when you only have a day to do it all in).
17th July 2023 - USA 24 Hours In
Where to drink in the city that never sleeps? You’re spoilt for choice. New York is a metropolitan maze of watering holes, from the uber chic to the decidedly less so dives. Today, we’ll be focusing on the former, so get ready to channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw as we take a spin around the best cocktail bars in New York. Whether you’re into a Manhattan or you’re partial to a Daiquiri, here’s where you can find your tipple of choice on your next USA holiday.
13th July 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
Atlanta is many things. It’s a hub of history and culture; the birthplace of Martin Luther King, Jr. and home to first-class museums. It’s also a favourite with foodies, who come to sample Southern fare or seek out famous names from the world of gastronomy. And for a sprawling city, it’s surprisingly green; with acres of lush parks and gardens earning it the nickname ‘City in the Forest’. It goes without saying that you can pack plenty in when visiting the unofficial capital of the South.
10th July 2023 - USA 24 Hours In
Do you like stunning beaches, beautiful gardens and Spanish-style architecture? If so, spending 24 hours in Santa Barbara will feel like an absolute treat as it’s jam-packed with unforgettable attractions, experiences and activities. There are so many things to see and do in this vibrant city, from visiting historical landmarks and art exhibitions to eating fresh seafood by the ocean and catching a theatre show.
5th July 2023 - USA 24 Hours In
Think of New England and classic American landscapes, picturesque coastlines and towns steeped in the history of the Revolutionary War spring to mind. The coastline of New England is more low-key than the flashy coastlines of Florida and California – but it comes with a special kind of charm that brings tourists flocking back year after year on USA trips. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly break, an action-packed coastal adventure, or a celeb-spotting jaunt to a famous film set, the beaches of New England have something for everyone.
21st June 2023 - USA Beaches & Islands
Welcome to New York, it’s been waiting for you. It’s rolled out its carpet, switched on its lights and scrubbed up its shiniest skyscrapers. So, naturally, you’ll be wanting to find the best spot in town to appreciate all its hard work. Four times a year the spot is down the city’s east-to-west running streets during Manhattanhenge (more on that later). Year-round, it’s up downtown’s 1,268ft One World Observatory, where you’ll have golden eagle-eyed views of the city and its surrounding boroughs.
16th June 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
It’s a tall ask, trying to encapsulate the scenery, sounds and style of the United States in some 300 pages. But thousands of authors regularly rise to the challenge, penning novels about the 1930s dustbowl through the eyes of penniless Oklahoman farmers and little women navigating womanhood in the heart of Massachusetts. Others prefer to chronicle their own USA trips across the country’s fifty states (here’s looking at you AA Gill), which may come in handy if you’re planning your own USA road trip.
15th June 2023 - USA Culture
Landscapes in the USA are incredibly diverse, ranging from huge desert plains and arid landscapes to jaw-dropping fjords and turquoise glaciers. There are a whole host of vast and strange places to be explored, as well as otherworldly environments and natural wonders to be discovered on US holidays. Some will transport you to a different time, while others are likely to make you question what planet you’re on.
7th June 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
There are many bucket-list experiences to be had on USA trips. Standing amid the Grand Canyon’s towering pinnacles and deep, river-carved gorges is certainly one of them. There's no way you can feel anything but tiny. This natural marvel is the epitome of vastness and embodies the splendour and scale of the great American West. Overflowing with a host of hiking opportunities, from leisurely yet jaw-dropping strolls to steep-sided canyon descents, what better way to explore this ochre-stained wonderland than on foot?
30th May 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
Dig out your diamante and don your most creative costume – it’s Mardi Gras. In the US, this colourful carnival can be traced back to 1699 when French coloniser Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville landed near present-day New Orleans and held a small celebration. Today, Mardi Gras (also known as Carnival) is marked by masked balls, street parties and extravagant parades. If you’ve been seduced by this season’s festivities, floats and general fabulousness, we’ve got the lowdown on how to plan and perfect the Carnival experience on your next holiday to America.
26th May 2023 - USA Travel Tips
Sleepless night and city lights, wanderlust and city dust – New York is perhaps the city that most finds itself the protagonist in a whole host of films, songs and poems. And it’s not hard to see why: when you get away from the hustle and bustle of Time’s Square and start exploring the well-worn (but always well-kept) neighbourhoods of New York, you quickly notice the labyrinth of overlapping histories
11th May 2023 - USA Travel Tips
Hollywood can’t resist New York in winter, and neither can we. From Serendipity and You’ve Got Mail to the very apt Winter’s Tale, there is no denying that winter is New York’s season. Maybe it has something to do with Rockefeller’s iconic ice-skating rink (which, thankfully, likes to linger well into March) or Dick Clark’s New Year’s Eve ball drop, or how brightly Central Park gleams after its first fall snow flurry.
5th January 2023 - USA Travel Inspiration
The sights of Los Angeles are synonymous with stars. The sprawling streets of North Hollywood and Burbank are littered with them (literally), the flower-carpeted hillsides of Topanga and Fryman Canyon almost touch them, while the golden beach-backed Malibu mansions that house them are proof that dreams really can come true. Fortunately, Mother Nature and the city’s early forefathers understood the city’s assignment and gave Angelenos plenty of opportunities to ogle at their starry-eyed city.
5th December 2022 - USA Travel Inspiration
From age- old gold rushes and blissful hippie ‘be-ins’ to extraordinary technological hubs and bustling Chinatown, San Francisco in California has long been a beacon for progression, social revolutions and good times. As the sun hits the infamous brick-red bridge and surrounding ochre hills, everything turns a stunning shade of gold, giving the San Francisco the nickname ‘The Golden City’. There is so much to do in ‘Frisco’ as locals like to call it,
27th September 2022 - USA 24 Hours In
Pass the pumpkin spice latte, autumn is here. A season synonymous with plaid shirts, blanket scarves and signature Starbucks lattes, autumn has become the ultimate cosy cliché. Fortunately, the USA welcomes a good cliché with open arms. In New England, which, in a Cinderella-type move, sees September 1st as its cue to start its annual transformation to a crimson carpet, the season is almost deserving of national holiday status.
14th September 2022 - USA Travel Inspiration
If you’re a Red Sox or Yankees fan, you’ll be well versed in New York and Boston’s epic rivalry. Existing far beyond the beginnings of baseball and the creation of the United States (it seems that New England and New Netherland weren’t on great terms either), New York vs Boston has become something of a tradition. At first glance though, there’s not much between them. Both occupy a piece of craggy coastline and are filled with fast-moving fast-talking locals who will never turn down a steaming bowl of hot chowder.
1st September 2022 - USA Culture
Home to massive sandstone cliffs and canyons, high plateaus and rushing rivers, Zion National Park is beautiful beyond belief. This is a place where native tribes and pioneers once roamed and a unique array of plants and animals continue to exist. It’s no surprise that President Woodrow Wilson signed a bill in 1919 establishing it as Utah’s first national park – landscapes this special simply demand to be preserved.
26th August 2022 - USA 24 Hours In
The soulful city of Memphis, in southwestern Tennessee, is the beating heart of the south. This is a city that has risen from the shores of the Mississippi River, one of the most famous bodies of water in the US, bringing with it a wealth of influential strains of music and food and people from all walks of life. For deep south enthusiasts, discovering things to do Memphis-style has become a must, from jumping and jiving in the footsteps of Graceland King Elvis to singing on the microphone used by Johhny Cash, in the legendary Sun Studios, to lay down tracks.
19th August 2022 - USA Travel Tips
You need only have watched a couple of romantic comedies to know that there is something pretty special about America’s small towns. But even before Hollywood swooped in with its wide lens cameras and hot shot directors, America has long carried a torch for its historic hamlets, bucolic main streets and charming town squares. Because when you fall for America’s small towns, you fall hard. Whether it be the call of the Rocky Mountains,
8th August 2022 - USA Travel Inspiration
New York is one of those cities you think you know before you’ve even set foot in it. Thanks to John Travolta and The Bee Gees, we already know that Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge is where Saturday Night Fever starts, and Greenwich Village is the place to go for coffee – at least according to the cast of Friends. And while the city’s most decorated director, Martin Scorsese, made us all a little wary of the city’s taxi drivers in the seventies, he was also responsible for bringing the city’s long, varied and dynamic history to life (particularly where gangs are concerned).
18th May 2022 - USA Travel Inspiration
New York, New York. A state of mind that never sleeps yet runs on its own time, down brownstone-lined streets and avenues of futuristic high rises that promise to ‘make you feel brand-new’ – New York is the ultimate paradox. For songwriters and filmmakers, its enigma makes it the perfect muse and supporting cast member, while for those looking to make it big in front of its bright lights, it is still the ‘concrete jungle…where dreams are made of’, according to Alicia Keys.
23rd March 2022 - USA Culture
John Denver asked to be taken home via country roads, Steppenwolf told us we were born to be wild and Ray Charles told Jack to hit the road and not come back. And Jack probably did so in a red convertible Cadillac, past shimmering seas into sand-swept valleys where crimson skies blend perfectly into proud sanguine rocks. Put simply, US holidays were made for road trips. Classic Ford Mustangs and Chevrolet Corvettes practically scream cross-country adventure,
4th March 2022 - USA Adventure
There is nothing more spectacular than driving over the brow of a hill or venturing around a headland and coming across a view so eye-catching that you forget to take a breath, something that happens regularly in California’s national parks. These adventure wonderlands are full to the brim with cinematic dreamscapes and endless natural diversity. Californian national parks are known and loved worldwide, making them hotspots for tourists, but with the help of our expert guides and in-country Concierges, you’ll find that there are still plenty of little hidden gems along the way.
23rd February 2022 - USA Conservation
Reducing the capital of country to 24 hours is a mighty challenge. The home of honkytonks, hot chicken, and Dolly Parton, Nashville is truly a city unlike any other. Its continual stream of hen parties, country music stars, and their fans means the city never sleeps. But there are only so many hours in the day. And if you’re travelling to Nashville, you’re probably on an epic USA trip and heading on to a neighboring state’s cosmopolitan city soon after, so we understand.
8th February 2022 - USA 24 Hours In
New York has one of the most iconic skylines in the world, so if you want to truly appreciate the enormity of this city, climb up to the roof of one of its skyscrapers to soak up the view. And to go one better, find a spot where you can do this with a drink in hand. It's not easy to choose the best rooftops bars in New York: with each cocktail, you think you've discovered the best view until the next one dethrones it.
31st December 2021 - USA Food & Drink
The Pacific Coast Highway, or State Route 1, hugs the Pacific coast for over 600 miles. It's one of the most beautiful drives in the world, with hundreds of beaches along the way. These are our six best beaches in California. Hermosa Beach Santa Monica Beach Big Sur Beach Pfeiffer Beach Carmel City Beach El Matador State Beach 1 Hermosa Beach 'Hermosa' means beautiful in Spanish. Pretty much says it all.
28th August 2021 - USA Beaches & Islands
It will come as no surprise that Canada and the USA (the world’s second and third largest countries, respectively) do wilderness better than most, and thanks to the National Park Service, these vast landscapes will be protected in perpetuity. The main draw is, of course, the sublime natural landscapes and we can recommend the top activities – from canyoneering to whale watching – to get the most out of your America holiday.
20th July 2021 - USA Safari & Wildlife
Hotel Wailea Hotel Wailea is one of the few quality boutique hotels in Hawaii, with a relaxed, laid back vibe verging on hippy-ish, but authentic all the same. Located in the hills above Wailea and a seven minute drive from the beach (by shuttle bus), the hotel has beautiful panoramic views over the ocean and mountains. The 15 acres of grounds are lush and tropical, with palm groves, lush vegetation, vegetable gardens, ponds and waterfalls.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
Wondering where to stay along Highway One while on the California stint of your America holiday? Read on for our top picks... Belmond El Encanto Dating back to the 1920's, El Encanto has been meticulously restored by Belmond, and aims to capture the romance and glamour of that era. There are 92 rooms, housed in California-style bungalows spread around the landscaped gardens. Many have views of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean, and all have a private garden or terrace.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
I have come to the conclusion that I am a tad Yin and Yang. I adore the city but I also thrive on country life. I travel extensively but I also find happiness with my home comforts. I explore the new but always return to my favourites - which is probably why I love visiting contrasting destinations on holiday. With one, you appreciate the other, and this duality is one of the reasons I strongly recommend combining the ever bustling New York City with one of the most beautiful and remote islands on Earth, Kauai in Hawaii.
28th June 2021 - USA Travel Inspiration
My love affair with America continues. I've just returned from one of our American tours around the Land of Dreams, having spent the last two weeks hopping from coast to coast (as well as stopping off in the middle), all in the name of research. I had an awesome time—and I love how Americans say aaawesome. Here's my guide to tailor-made USA tour holidays... California's golfing paradise The adventure started in California, with a night in the ever-fabulous San Francisco before driving two hours south to Pebble Beach, nestled just at the top of Big Sur.
28th June 2021 - USA Travel Inspiration
The extraordinary Burning Man Festival in the Nevada desert has been listed as an ultimate bucket list experience. Original Travel staffer Rachel relays her thoughts on the zany event... Mad? Probably a little Before embarking on my Burning Man adventure, whenever I told people that I was going on holiday to California and Nevada everyone replied with a ""how lovely"" and ""what a great wine region"".
28th June 2021 - USA Culture
Fast food and mass-produced meals might first spring to mind when you think of food in the USA. But there's so much more to discover on trips to America, where the country is so vast and varied. As a multicultural nation primarily made up of immigrants, the US of A is home to some truly diverse, delicious dishes (most of which we know and love across the world). Read on for a culinary journey as we tuck into our favourite traditional food in the USA… 1.
28th June 2021 - USA Food & Drink
Planning a USA holiday? If the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas are calling, read on for our pick of where to stay... Bellagio The Bellagio overlooks a 12-acre lake replica of Italy's Lake Como, complete with a choreographed ballet of water, music and lights. Avoid the crowds watching the lake's famous fountain show while enjoying a cocktail in the Bellagio's Hyde Bar. The Bellagio is located at the corner of Flamingo and Las Vegas Boulevard in the heart of 'The Strip' and guests enter the lobby through a display of some 2,000 hand-blown glass flowers.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
Shutters on the Beach Seeking the ultimate Californian experience on your USA trip? Shutters on The Beach is just the ticket. The hotel evokes a sense of comfortable elegance that one might find in a grand, yet unpretentious, beach home, all with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and California coastline. The 198 rooms all have private balconies or patios and most with fantastic sea views. The rooms are beautifully decorated, with a range of luxuries (flat screen, iPod docs and rain showers) yet still feel incredible homely.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
Tenaya Lodge A great alternative to the Ahwahnee Hotel, Tenaya Lodge is just outside Yosemite National Park's south gate surrounded by almost 50 acres of beautiful forest. This lovely stone and timber lodge is perfect for relaxing US holidays, merging the feel of an alpine lodge with a Native American twist. There are two types of accommodation at Tenaya Lodge - a large main lodge with 244 rooms, and 50 private cottages five minute's walk away from the hub.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
Old No 77 & Chandlery New Orleans is surprisingly lacking in the chic boutique hotel department, but that's immaterial when what's on offer is as good as the new Old No 77 & Chandlery, with its exposed brick walls and high ceilings befitting of a former warehouse. The stylish rooms and suites are ideal for your next USA holiday. The hotel's interior is characterised by large windows, hardwood floors and ceiling fans and the rooms offer a lovely place to relax after a day exploring the city.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
White Stallion Ranch White Stallion Ranch is one of the best dude ranches in southern Arizona, within easy reach of Tucson and surrounded by 3000 acres of beautiful countryside at the foot of the Tucson Mountains. There's a sense of laidback charm at White Stallion which permeates the 41 rooms and the four-bedroomed private property - The Hacienda. Every room has a terrace with a view of either the cactus gardens, horse corrals or the mountains beyond, and some of the suites also have hot tubs.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
Booking a USA holiday? If San Francisco is on the cards, read on for our top recommendations of where to stay... Hotel Vitale The eco-friendly Hotel Vitale occupies an enviable position at the foot of the Embarcadero, the eastern waterfront of the Bay of San Francisco. The Vitale is an eco-inspired hotel where the main theme is that of vitality. This is showcased in all of the 200 rooms, which have limestone showers and noise machines echoing sounds of the ocean.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
The Setai Although a little calmer than its party animal neighbours (some say boring, others say phew), the Setai's location in the heart of Miami's South Beach is spot on for a USA trip. The rooms are split between two buildings - the art deco building which houses Studio Suites, Junior Suites and One Bedroom Suites, and the Tower which has larger suites perfect for families. All are spacious and the Asian influence resonates throughout - the décor is all dark wood and black granite bathrooms, and the result is resolutely calming.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
Hotel Yountville Yountville is the gastronomic capital of Napa Valley (and a must-visit on your USA trip), and Hotel Yountville is arguably the best place to stay. A total of 80 rooms and suites at the newly reopened property are located in freestanding two-storey cottages dotted around the attractive grounds. The rooms themselves are lovely and large, with excellent bathrooms and private outdoor space.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
The Vanderbilt Grace The Vanderbilt Grace in Newport, Rhode Island, was built by a scion of the supremely wealthy Vanderbilt clan during the so-called Gilded Age at the turn of the 20th century. As such, it is one of the only famous Rhode Island mansions now operating as a luxury hotel, and is the perfect base for your USA trip. There are 33 light and airy rooms and suites in total, ranging from the 300 sq ft State Rooms to the huge 940 sq ft two-bedroomed apartment-style Vanderbilt Grace Suite,
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
The Mercer One of the best new boutique hotels in New York, and sister hotel to Hollywood's famed Chateau Marmont, the Mercer prides itself on its service and attention to detail. Guests are asked to treat the front desk as their private secretary and every staff member as their personal concierge. The rooms are on six floors of a Romanesque building in the heart of Soho, and wooden floors throughout.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
Feeling overwhelmed trying to plan the perfect day in New York? Big Apple enthusiast and Original Travel Content Manager, Susie Thorne, tells us exactly what to do with 24 hours in New York to get the best out of this vibrant and culture-filled city on your USA holiday... Morning There's a lot to fit into one day in New York, so rise early and get breakfast to go. We've got a couple of favourite delis across the city that we can recommend - order an everything bagel and coffee to look like a true New Yorker.
28th June 2021 - USA Big Short Breaks
At first glance Frisco is a city without a clear narrative, swinging from late 19th Century Gold Rush greed to flowers in your hair hippie free love and now home to techpreneurs from Twitter to Instagram. What's the common theme? An over-riding sense of what might be possible when groups of like-minded individuals put their minds to something. It's this vibe that has attracted so many migrants over the years, and what makes this one of the most uplifting places in the world and a top-notch USA holiday destination.
28th June 2021 - USA Travel Inspiration
First introduced by President Ulysses S. Grant, the US National Parks system began with Yellowstone National Park, an Original Travel favourite, and now includes 58 parks which protect approximately 52.2million acres of mountains, forests, and wilderness, not to mention the countless creatures who live within their boundaries and provide a haven for outdoorsy types looking for luxury experiences. So, strap on your most sensible shoes and get ready to explore six of our favourites to inspire your next USA holiday.
28th June 2021 - USA Adventure
These two cities will likely frame any trip to California. In one corner we have San Francsico, the so-called 'most European American city ', with 870, 000 inhabitants living within the city itself, and 4.7 million within the extended urban area. In the other corner, we have the urban giant with its ever-expanding boundaries, stretching 75 miles along the Pacific and 30 miles wide, with four million inhabitants living in the centre, and almost 19 million in all its neighbourhoods combined.
28th June 2021 - USA Travel Inspiration
Planning a USA holiday? Read on for our selection of the ten most beautiful national parks on the West American coast. 1 Bryce Canyon Utah Bryce Canyon is one of Utah's five natural wonders and a real favourite among travellers, who flock to see its labyrinthine hoodoos rock formations, which look like giant red chimneys erupting from the arid ground below. Must Do: tiptoe through the rocky peaks at Sunset Point for amazing panoramic views.
28th June 2021 - USA Travel Inspiration
A metropolis combining glamour, Art Deco and contemporary art, 800 miles of coastline dotted with thousands of heavenly islands and the world's largest playground - the Sunshine State of Florida is perfect for USA family holidays. 'SoBe' MIAMI Jump in a convertible, on a motorbike or on the Jitney (minibus) and drive on the Venetian Causeway towards Ocean Drive. Gaze at the artificial-looking sand and the people dotted along it, between the mint-green ocean and the overflowing terraces and beneath a sky lined with palm trees and pelicans.
28th June 2021 - USA Travel Inspiration
Our selection of five movies to watch before a holiday to America... 1 Once Upon a Time in the West, by Sergio Leone The American West would not be the American West without Westerns. In this case, the Western was created by Italian Sergio Leone. Strolling through Monument Valley, Ennio Morricone's whining, sublime harmonica goes hand in hand with a cowboy jumping out from behind a rock. 2 The Birds,
28th June 2021 - USA Culture
A trip to the American West? A road trip to California? Las Vegas is a must. Here are our ideas of the best ways to spend a day in Las Vegas away from the clichés to inspire your next USA holiday. 09:30 Tour of the arty district Visit the trendy and arty district of Downtown Vegas and join Las Vegas hipsters at the weekends. South of Fremont Street is a wonderful container park of shops, art galleries, vintage record stores, veggie brunches and concert halls.
28th June 2021 - USA 24 Hours In
More than just a glittery city or a simple stop to start or finish a road trip in the parks of the American West, Las Vegas is also a great base for USA holidays to learn about the state of Nevada. Here are eight ideas for getaways around Sin City. 1 Seven Magic Mountains Just nine miles south of Las Vegas, Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone's art installation is an amazing sight to see rising from the expanse of the desert.
28th June 2021 - USA Travel Inspiration
We think we know everything about America… With so many images, stories and clichés. Behind the clichés and feeling of déjà vu, the reality is even more beautiful. The list is endless and we each have our own. Our living American dream. The 60s and 70s are hard to escape. We have grown up with these images. Views and reviews are what really mattered back then. A nostalgic time of our lives that we still miss today.
28th June 2021 - USA Travel Tips
More private than museums, as crowded as concert halls and fashion boutiques, less showy than towering glass skyscrapers, Manhattan's markets are New Yorkers' best hiding places and offer freshness, nature and sincerity. Read on for our rundown of the top 4 best Manhattan markets to inspire your next USA trip. At the time of the new organic era, the vegan wave was growing and gyms were packed 24/7.
28th June 2021 - USA Culture
The trendification of New York's Brooklyn suburb has been well publicised over the past few years and it's become synonymous with the word 'hipster'. Jay-Z's childhood play ground now has streets laden with artisan coffee shops, quirky boutiques and trendy beards. Not forgetting it's a foodie's paradise and home to the Brooklyn Nets. Our must-see when doing Brooklyn in a day. Where To Start? Brooklyn is vast.
28th June 2021 - USA 24 Hours In
A simple Oreo cupcake recipe with a twist that Original Travels' Pip picked up in New York City on a recent USA trip! Ingredients For the cakes: 110g/4oz butter or margarine, softened at room temperature 110g/4oz caster sugar 2 free-range eggs, lightly beaten 1 tsp vanilla extract 110g/4oz self-raising flour 1-2 tbsp milk 1 packet of oreos (of course) For the butter cream icing: 140g/5oz butter, softened 280g/10oz icing sugar 1-2 tbsp milk Cake time I always find that when making cakes people can be too strict and follow the recipe too rigidly.
28th June 2021 - USA Food & Drink
Winterlake Lodge Winterlake Lodge sits between the Tordrillo and Alaska Mountain Ranges and is one of two family-owned lodges. Only accessible by seaplane in summer and ski plane in winter, the lodge sits in an extremely sought after destination perfect for any outdoor adventure seeker. The heart of Winterlake is the main lodge where guests are encouraged to socialise. Five guest cabins spill out into the surrounding gardens, all of which are hand built using locally sourced wood.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
From the heart of Texas comes the traditional pecan pie, representing Texas's pride, since the pecan is the nation's state tree. So, if you find yourself on a USA trip during Thanksgiving or at Christmas, it's worth knowing this recipe - an essential (and incredibly delicious) part of Texan culture. Convince yourself: For the dough: 2 cups (240g) of all-purpose flour Pinch of salt ½ cup (125ml) of corn oil Mix the flour and salt together, then add the oil and stir thoroughly.
28th June 2021 - USA Food & Drink
Very soon after my father retired from a 30+ year career as a lawyer in New York, he embarked on a cross country bike trip from San Francisco to New York. The journey was over three thousand miles from start to finish and it took him just under three months. This was, to him, the best way to unwind from many years of stress and the rigid structure of his office environment: the ultimate catharsis. Just under 20 years later,
28th June 2021 - USA Slow Travel
Hawaii is undoubtedly a holiday-of-a-lifetime kind of destination - but each of the six inhabited islands has its own character, soul, and a nickname. So how should you choose which to visit? Read on to get inspired for your next USA trip... Introducing Hawaii What comes to mind when you think of Hawaii? Those who haven't yet been to the other side of the world may think of white sandy beaches, surfing, tiki torches, hula skirts or Pearl Harbour.
28th June 2021 - USA Beaches & Islands
Little Palm Island Just 30 luxurious suites are available on Little Palm Island - a resort only accessible by seaplane or boat, and blissfully TV and phone free. This is the resort to retreat to for a luxurious digital detox, and perhaps a little celeb spotting too. Located just off of the fabled Florida Keys coastline, Little Palm Island is easily the most exclusive of all Keys hotels, where guests can truly switch off and unwind, and have every whim catered for by the team of welcoming and efficient staff.
28th June 2021 - USA Hotels
While San Francisco is known for its more cultured vibe, Los Angeles is all about constant energy and exuberance at all hours of the day (and night). With references to legendary Hollywood movies on practically every corner, the city is like one huge movie set that's just waiting to be explored. Read on to inspire your next USA holiday. First off, get ready to clock up the miles and accept that in Los Angeles, there is absolutely nothing you can do without a car.
28th June 2021 - USA 24 Hours In
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