Question 1

Do I need a visa for the United States?

Accepted Answer

ESTA pre-authorisation under the Visa Waiver Program for UK, EU, Australian, NZ, Japanese and most other Western passports — $21, two years' validity, apply at least 72 hours before flying. Canadians need no ESTA. Anything beyond 90 days, work, or study needs the consular B-visa or category-specific route.

Question 2

Cards or cash in the US?

Accepted Answer

America runs on cards. Tap-to-pay is universal in cities, slower in the rural interior. Carry $100 in singles and fives for tips — the country tips constantly and visibly, and ATMs charge $4–6 per foreign withdrawal. American Express works almost everywhere except some independent restaurants.

Question 3

How does tipping work in the US?

Accepted Answer

Non-negotiable and substantial. 20–22% in restaurants (calculated pre-tax). $2–3 per drink at a bar. $2–5 per bag for porters, $5–10 per night for housekeeping (left daily, not at checkout). $5–10 per ride for car services. Half-day private guides: $50–100 on top of the booked rate.

Question 4

How do I move around inside the US?

Accepted Answer

Domestic flights for any leg over 300 miles — Delta, United and American all run strong premium-cabin product. Amtrak Acela works for Boston–NY–DC. Inside cities, rideshare (Uber, Lyft) is the default; New York's subway is the rare US transit system worth using. Outside the coasts, you will rent a car.

Question 5

When should I avoid US destinations?

Accepted Answer

Miami and the Florida Keys August–October (peak hurricane season). NYC during the UN General Assembly week in late September (gridlock, hotel rates spike). Las Vegas during CES (early January) or major fight nights. The week of US Thanksgiving (late November) breaks domestic flight availability everywhere.

Best time to visit United States

When United States actually opens up

The United States calendar