USA

Single-city trips (NYC, LA, SF): 4–5 days each. Classic two-week itineraries: NYC + DC + Philadelphia (7 days), or SF + Yosemite + Pacific Coast Highway + LA (10 days). National park road trips: 10–14 days for a Utah loop (Zion, Bryce, Arches). The country is too big for a single overview trip.

Americans don't need a visa to travel within the US. Foreign visitors from 40 countries (ESTA countries — UK, France, Japan, Australia, etc.) enter visa-free for 90 days with an online ESTA ($21). Other nationalities need a B1/B2 visa. Canadians need only a passport.

Mid-range daily budget runs $220–320 per person, including a 3-star hotel, three meals, transit, one activity. Rental cars add $50–80/day. Major cities (NYC, SF, LA) cost 30–40% more than the national average. The South, Midwest, and second-tier cities (Nashville, Austin, Portland) are 30% cheaper.

For national parks, the south-west, the Pacific Coast, or road trips — yes, essential. For single-city visits to NYC, Chicago, SF, Boston, or DC — no, transit is excellent. LA and most of the south/west require a car to function. Insurance: always take the collision damage waiver unless your credit card covers it.

Non-negotiable. Restaurants: 18–20% (20% standard in NYC/SF, 15–18% elsewhere). Bars: $1–2 per drink or 20%. Taxis/Uber: 15–20%. Hotel housekeeping: $3–5 per night. Hotel porters: $2 per bag. Tour guides: $10–20 per person. American service workers often earn below minimum wage expecting tips.

Tourist areas in major cities are generally safe by day. Standard city precautions apply at night — don't wander unfamiliar neighbourhoods alone in downtown LA, Chicago, or DC after dark. National parks and small-town America are extremely safe. Gun culture is visible in some rural areas but almost never touches tourist itineraries.