Oahu

Also know as The Heart of Hawaii, this dreamy island offers its visitors the chance to experience a taste of paradise. Boasting plenty to see and do, the island of Oahu is one of the most popular places to visit in Hawaii. Glide through the crystal clear waters of the prestigious Waikiki – home to most glorious beaches – before drying off under the sun and enjoying the stunning mountain views of the Nuuani Pali Lookout. Jump into Honolulu’s vivacious nightlife before dining in style at a Hawaii Regional Cuisine restaurant.

Molokai

Chock-full of amazing wildlife and cool coastlines, the island of Molokai is tranquil and unspoiled, offering its visitors a place to escape from the strain of everyday life. Its calm waters, natural wonders and peaceful presence will have you falling head over heels. Take a trip to Maunaloa, the birthplace of hula, before enjoying a fabulousmule ride and a whole other range of activities.

Kauai

Home to a 50-mile stretch of blissful beaches, historic towns like Koloa and Hanapepe and of course stunning scenery, the island of Kauai urges its visitors to discover more about heavenly Hawaii. Take your camera to the breathtaking cliffs of the Napali Coast or explore the entire island by air, sea or land.

Lanai

Settle back and relax on the beautiful island of Lanai, a destination of pure tranquility. The island is perfect for romantics or potential honeymooners, in addition to those who simply want to escape the stress of day-to-day life. Lovely Lanai attracts golfers from all areas, due its two high-caliber golf courses in addition to enticing travellers from all over the world. Explore Lanai City before taking in the sensational sights of Keahiakawelo and the iconic Sweetheart Rock, Puu Pehe.

Maui

Magical Maui is home to some of the most heavenly beaches in the world, in addition to many spectacular scenic wonders. Readers of Conde Nast Traveler voted Maui as the “Best Island” and have done so for seventeen years. Take a trip to Haleakala National Park or enjoy a spot of golf at one of the championship golf courses. Truth is; when you arrive at Maui, you really won’t want to leave.

Hawaii’s Big Island

Although the youngest island in the entire Hawaiian chain, the Island of Hawaii is definitely the biggest. Discover Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes and Maunakea, the tallest sea mountain on earth. With plenty to see and do, Hawaii’s Big Island caters for anyone of all ages.

Whether you’re planning to travel to the USA for business or pleasure, you must have a valid ESTA issued by the American Government prior to entry.

Order your ESTA through Visas4USA for just £10, plus a tiny $14 USA Government issuing fee.

Accommodation

If you’re already staying with family or friends then accommodation won’t be a problem for you. Likewise, if you’ve gone through a travel agent then your flights may come with suitable accommodation! If you’re looking at sorting your accommodation once you’ve arrived in America then prepare yourself for the potential costs:

A ‘midrange’ hotel may cost from anywhere between $80 and $250, whereas in some cities, clean accommodation can start from as much as $200. Therefore, if you’re travelling on a budget, consider stopping in a hostel or camping. Besides, a hostel can cost as little as $15 per night! Although this may mean cooking your own meals and forfeiting a few luxuries for the sake of a few pennies, you’re still guaranteed to have a fantastic experience, wherever you are in America. This also means you’ll have more money left over for spending on other things, such as nice meals out or day trips.

Getting around

Again, depending on your budget, you can experience America through various ways of travel. Plan the ultimate American road trip and rent a car: rental only is a minimum of $40 a day but you need to take fuel costs into consideration. Wherever you are in America, there’s sure to be a taxi, bus or rental company nestled somewhere nearby! Buses are the cheapest way to get around America, so make sure you understand the routes; get a local to direct you in the right place!

Money

Remember to get your currency converted into US dollars before you travel. It is, after all, the only currency accepted in America. Not sure how the US dollar works? 1 US dollar (1$) is the equivalent to 100 cents (100 ¢). Coins come in denominations 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢ and the 1$ coin, whereas notes come in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 and sometimes $2.

ATMS are available in most banks, shopping centers, supermarkets, airports and casinos. If your card is affiliated with one of the main ATM networks then you’ll escape the $1-$3 charge.

Visas

Whether you’re planning to travel to the USA for business or pleasure, you must have a valid ESTA issued by the American Government prior to entry.

Order your ESTA through Visas4USA for just £10, plus a tiny $14 USA Government issuing fee.

1. Columbus Zoo – Columbus, Ohio

Named as the number one zoo in the United States by the USA Travel Guide (2009), the Columbus Zoo has a worldwide reputation thanks to the huge efforts of director animal-lover Jack Hanna. The zoo welcomes an annual influx of 2.3million visitors, which continues to grow each year. Here, the animals are divided into regions of the world (there are currently 8), which nestle closely to the Water Park, amusement park and golf resort. With a little something for everyone, Columbus Zoo is undoubtedly the best in America. The Zoo is open daily.

http://www.colszoo.org/

2. San Diego Zoo – San Diego, California

Home to over 4,000 animals comprising over 800 different species, the San Diego Zoo is known to be one of America’s most modern zoos. It is also one of only four zoos in the world that houses the giant panda, making the Giant Panda exhibit an absolute must-see. The Zoo also prides itself in promoting open air attractions – why not hop on the guided tour bus and explore these wonderful sights? There’s even an overhead gondola lift called the Skyfari, which provides its visitors with an aerial view of the zoo.

http://www.sandiegozoo.org/

3. Phoenix Zoo – Phoenix, Arizona

Known to be the largest non-profit zoo in the USA, the Phoenix Zoo has over 1,300 animals on display and boasts a 2.5mile stretch of walking trails. The zoo is divided into four main trails: the Children’s Trail (includes a petting zoo), The Arizona Trails (includes American Southwest flora and fauna), The Africa Trails (includes African animals) and the Tropics Trail (includes animals of the rain forests). The Zoo also allows for bicycles and rollerblades, providing you with the chance to enjoy an afternoon full of activity!

http://www.phoenixzoo.org/

4. Fort Worth Zoo – Fort Worth, Texas

Named as the top zoo in the nation by Family Life, USA Today and the Los Angeles Times, Forth Worth Zoo is another one of America’s gems. It is the proud home of over 350 species from every continent excluding Antartica. The main exhibits include penguins, cheetahs, meerkats and the World of Primates.

“The mission of the Forth Worth Zoo is to strengthen the bond between humans and the environment by promoting responsible stewardship of wildlife and ensuring diverse, high-quality educational and entertaining family experiences through effective and efficient management of its resources.”

http://www.fortworthzoo.org/

5. Houston Zoo – Houston, Texas

Definitely one of North America’s most-attended zoos, the Houston Zoo offers a chance to enjoy the “zoo experience” from completely different angles: hop on a private tour, watch special feedings or get a glimpse of all the behind-the-scenes action.

http://www.houstonzoo.org/

Before anything, don’t forget to apply for your ESTA! Apply for your ESTA Visa online today through Visas4USA.

1. Portland, Oregon

Known for its warm, dry summer, Portland is a place where summer is at the tip of your tongue; here, you’ll find plenty of farmers’ markets full of fabulous food, cool cafes and tasteful cuisine, all encompassed by stunning scenery and rose gardens. Stroll through central Portland and dot around the shops and scenes or cycle around before stopping off for an ice-cold beverage in one of Portland’s many great cafes.

2. Seattle, Washington

Experience sun-kissed Seattle and its buzzing atmosphere. Although boasting spectacular views of the Cascade and Olympic mountains, this vibrant city isn’t just a pretty face. Seattle is the perfect place to venture on your summer vacation – especially with the family – thanks to its brilliant events, comedy, museums, parks and shopping plazas. The Botanical Gardens, Pike Place Market, Seattle Aquarium and Museum of Glass are all noteworthy attractions.

3. San Diego, California

Known for its luxurious beach weather almost all-year-round, San Diego is a tourist hotspot for summer vacations that leaks a cosmopolitan edge. San Diego is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy some glorious sunshine and some fantastic entertainment. SeaWorld and Legoland are just a couple of reasons why families flock to stunning San Diego during summer.

4. Denver, Colorado

Are you a fan of summer festivals? Denver is definitely the place for you. Summer brings the Chalk Art Festival, Buffalo Bill Days and the Underground Music Showcase. Denver is also great for hiking and mountain biking during summer – two activities that are quite popular here amongst its active locals.

5. Providence, Rhode Island

Watch Providence glow on a warm summer night at WaterFire Providence, a multi-sensory experience comprising more than 100 bonfires that light up the rivers downtown (held May-October). Providence also boasts fantastic cafes and burger bars, perfect for a light summer snack before heading further downtown.

Don’t forget – you’ll need an ESTA if you’re thinking about travelling to the USA! Visas4USA can provide you with a valid ESTA from just £10 usually within 24 hours. Please note that the ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States; that decision rests with the immigration official at the Port of Entry.

Apply online today.

1. Dallas-Fort Worth

Thanks to its fantastic discounts on a whole assortment of hotels, restaurants, shops and BBQ spots, Dallas-Fort Worth is America’s best value hotspot. If you’re feeling adventurous then take a biking trail across White Rock Lake and White Creek Park for free or perhaps stop off Fair Park’s Hall of State and African American museums, also completely free. Packed with affordable entertainment and plenty to see and do, Dallas-Fort Worth is the ideal family destination or quick weekend getaway.

2. Orlando

Seeing as Orlando is the theme-park capital of the world, let alone the USA, Orlando already attracts a whole influx of visitors who wish to explore its many attractions. Home to Daytona Beach, other brilliant beaches and plenty of affordable entertainment including free rock concerts in Old Town, Orlando is one of America’s most sought-after destinations.

3. Atlanta

Atlanta has many great attractions that the family can enjoy for free or at least next to nothing! If you’re keen to know more about what Atlanta has to offer then read our previous blog on Family Fun in Atlanta.

4. Tampa

Ranked as the 5^th best outdoor city by Forbes, Tampa is a city chock-full of urban excitement, surrounded by natural beauty. A traveller in Tampa doesn’t even need to spend a penny in order to fully enjoy Tampa and all of its truly stunning surroundings. Popular attractions with a low admission fee include Adventure Island, Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center, which is free.

5. Phoenix

Another destination renowned for its great value hotels and entertainment, Phoenix offers a wide selection of outdoor adventures as well as plenty of shops and restaurants. Never pass up on the opportunity to visit the stunning Desert Botanical Garden and “The West’ Most Western Town” (Old Town Scottsdale)

6. Houston

No traveller will be bored in Houston. Thanks to its fantastic medley of museums, shops, parks and entertainment, Houston is one of America’s cosmopolitan gems. The Museum District and Hermann Park should be on your must-see list, in addition to a stroll along Westheimer Boulevard and a trip to the famous Space Center Houston.

IF you’re planning on visiting any of these lovely American destinations then you’ll need to make sure you’ve applied for your ESTA beforehand. If you haven’t already sorted your ESTA then contact Visas4USA today.

• Start off your morning with a relaxing stroll around Centennial Olympic Park, a 7-hectare park build for the 1996 Olympics. If you don’t fancy Centennial Park then pay a visit to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, where you can while away the hours and admire the creative English and Japanese gardens.
• Across from Centennial Olympic Park is the fabulous and widely known Georgia Aquarium. Home to over eight million gallons of fresh and marine water and more than 100,000 freshwater/saltwater fish, Georgia Aquarium is the largest indoor aquarium in the world. The aquarium also features a 30m- long tunnel, which boasts spectacular views into a whale shark habitat. There’s also a learning zone and a 4D theatre which the kids can enjoy while you’re taking advantage of the fantastic shops and a quick coffee at the café.
• The Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is also in close vicinity. Featuring a whole medley of things to explore and get stuck into, this museum will have the children occupied for hours.
• Are you a Coca-Cola fan? Then you definitely can’t pass on the chance to visit the World of Coca-Cola. Although some visitors deem it to be quite over the top due to it’s Coca-Cola branded, well, everything, there’s plenty to see and do here.
• Give the kids an educational tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at CNN on the CNN Atlanta Studio Tour. Visitors can enjoy the chance to explore real newsrooms and discover how newscasts are put together. The CNN Center is also home to a food court, speciality shops, a bank and post office. Whilst here, hop on the world’s longest freestanding escalator which rises an incredible 49m.
• Take a trip to Zoo Atlanta, one of the oldest zoos in the whole of America. The zoo is home to giant pandas and over 250 animal species including tigers, lions, elephants and many more.

It’s worth purchasing an Atlanta CityPass, which allows free entry to six attractions across Atlanta including Georgia Aquarium, New World of Coca Cola, Inside CNN Atlanta Studio Tour, Zoo Atlanta, Fernbank Museum of Natural History (or Atlanta Botanical Garden) and High Museum of Art (or Atlanta History Center). You can purchase your pass from CityPass.com.

Whether you’re planning to travel to the USA for business or for pleasure, you must have a valid ESTA that’s been issued by the American Government. If you haven’t already sorted your ESTA then contact Visas4USA today.

Perfect for sports enthusiasts, outdoorsy types and families, you’re guaranteed to have the time of your life in playful America. Here are our top five favourite activities in the USA:

• Go ice climbing in Alaska. Visit the Keystone Canyon ice climb at Valdez, Alaska – unquestionably the best place to experience ice climbing in America. If you’re visiting in March then be sure to attend the Ice Climbing Festival in Valdez. Visit http://www.alaskaiceclimbing.com/ for more information.
• Hop on a Bobsled in New York. For a real breath-taking action-packed expedition, venture towards Lake Placid and embark on a bobsledding adventure on Mt Van Hoevenberg. Home to America’s only bobsled track, Lake Placid provides its visitors with an exhilarating ride at immense speeds.
• Experience sandboarding at Oregon, Florence. Why not take a trip to the world’s first sandboarding park? Situated in the Oregon Dune National Recreation Area, this unique park is set within 40-acres of oceanfront dunes. This is effectively snowboarding for all sun and sand fanatics.
• Try a spot of snowshoeing at Mesa Verde, Colorado. If you love hiking but fancy doing something a little different then try out snowshoeing and hit the trails through blankets of plush white snow. You can even snowshoe in the desert or take a break by exploring Mesa Verde Nation Park.
• Swim with manta rays in Hawaii. Get involved with the fantastic underwater show of manta rays at Big Island, Hawaii. This exciting night dive experience involved night-dive operators attracting manta rays to the water by shining powerful lights onto the water. You may even see sleeping parrotfish or goatfish too if you’re lucky.

Before embarking on your fun-filled trail around America and getting involved with the endless amount of activities, make sure you have applied for an ESTA prior to your visit. Whether you’re planning to travel to the USA for business or for pleasure, you must have a valid ESTA that’s been issued by the American Government. Visas4usa can provide you with your ESTA, so why not apply online today and get your action-packed trip to the states kick-started?

So, what is there to do? We’ve hand-picked a selection of the top things you can’t miss out on when in ’sin city.’

• One of the most popular activity’s that is so often related to Las Vegas and the magical lifestyle it promotes is gambling. If you don’t experience the full gambling experience in ‘sin city’ then you’ve definitely missed out – Do it fast and do it social. You will stumble upon numerous casinos throughout Vegas, oozing with vibrancy and liveliness in their own individual way.
• Eat ‘til your heart’s content. Splash some serious cash on a designer dinner at Caesars, eat alone at Atelier de Joel Robuchon at the MGM Grand or take your partner to Michael Mina’s Nobhill restaurant, which you’ll also find at the MGM. Whatever cuisine or dining experience you’re in search of, you’ll find something to tickle your fancy in Vegas.
• Take a trip to the truly mesmerizing Bellagio Fountains. Here, you can admire 1,214 water spritzers shooting water up to 460 feet in the air, all wonderfully choreographed to Frank Sinatra or Gene Kelly.
• If you’re keen to spend the pennies on something truly entertaining and completely “Vegas” then grab a ticket and watch the Cirque du Soleil. Although tickets are somewhat pricey, you won’t find a show quite like this anywhere else.
• Pay a visit to the Shark Reef Aquarium, a half-outdoors, half-indoors aquarium that’s chockfull of rays, sea turtles, crocodiles and plenty of sharks. For just $16, this is the perfect day out.
• Experience a rush of adrenaline on the New York-New York Roller Coaster. Although it’s not the most hair-raising of rollercoaster rides, it’s something you simply cannot miss out on; this fab ride passes through the New York-New York Hotel, making it a great way of touring through as opposed to walking!
• Have breakfast at the Wynn. Immerse yourself within the ultimate buffet experience and enjoy really scrumptious food in a beautifully designed building.
• If you’re seeking a little luxury then head to Canyon Ranch at the Venetian or the Spa at the Bellagio. Equipped with the finest luxury treatments, a good ol’ spa never hurt anyone after a wild night out in ‘sin city.’

Before whizzing off to the vivacious Vegas, remember to apply for your ESTA or you won’t be allowed entry into America. Visas4USA can provide you with an ESTA Visa, simply apply online today!

Quick tips

• Arrive early/on time. Allowing enough time to check baggage and going through security is advised. The TSA says, “Arrival time recommendations vary by airline and day of travel, so check with the air carrier.”
• Wear comfortable footwear that can be easily removed, preferably slip-on shoes. This way, if you are asked to remove them at security for further inspection, you won’t be fiddling around with laces or buckles for a while.
• If you’re travelling with children and a pushchair then you’ll save time by collapsing the pushchair before you arrive at security. You can then proceed through the metal detector with your children before putting the pushchair through the X-ray.

Proficient Packing – Hand Luggage

• When it comes to packing the luggage you are carrying on-board, you’ll save time by carefully layering your items, which will help security officers see what’s in your bag with ease. The TSA explain, “innocent items can actually appear to be potential threats in an X-ray image, simply by the way they are packed.”

• Try to avoid packing electronic items such as laptops, large video cameras and games consoles into your hand luggage when possible. These items must be removed anyway for separate X-ray screening. Mobile devices, iPods and other smaller electronic devices can remain in your hand luggage.

• Transfer all of your liquid items in a in a 1 quart-sized clear plastic bag beforehand, in order to save time when you arrive at the airport. The maximum size of each container is 100ml.

• If you’re travelling with any gifts, it’s advised to avoid wrapping these items until arriving at your final destination. This is because the security officers may need to inspect the package and unwrap the gifts.

• If you’re unsure whether an item is prohibited or not then it’s probably best to leave the item at home. View the list of the prohibited items here: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Documents at the ready

Have your boarding pass and identification at hand or somewhere accessible so that the Transportation Security Officer can check them.

Don’t forget to pack your ESTA before you travel! If you haven’t already been issued an ESTA then Visas4USA can help. Apply online today or find out more.

Dress appropriately

The TSA says, “Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) have to resolved any anomaly detected at the checkpoint. If travelers alarm when passing through a metal detector or advanced image technology unit, additional screening will be required.”

As a result of this, remember to remove body piercings where possible to avoid addition screening. Head coverings and other religious garments are permitted and remember that shoes must be removed before entering the screening technology. Remove any belts or other metal items so that they can be X-rayed.

For more information of Advanced Image Technology Screening then visit TSA’s website.

San Francisco

Oozing with cosmopolitan edge, there’s no doubt that San Francisco is one of America’s most treasured urban gems, just like equally glorious city of New York. This world-class city offers a whole medley of stunning attractions and sights as well as a level of infinite culture that inspires all those who visit this historical city. By day, San Francisco is a canvas of pure beauty set amongst a conglomeration of multi-layered hills and by night, it transforms into an atmospheric wonderland, pumping with the most magical nightlife.

San Francisco’s elevated hills have appeared in numerous films and television shows over the years, which adds to the city’s unique diversity. You can get around San Francisco by bus, cab or tram or simply by foot – you could wonder down around the outskirts and admire the pure beauty of America’s urban masterpiece. It’s also the gay capital of America and the core of the dot-com industry.

The must-sees of San Francisco include Chinatown, teeming with markets, restaurants and countless shops. The bustling atmosphere here is truly electrifying; the bustling streets of Chinatown are like no other. Chinatown’s hotspots include Lychee Garden and House of Nanking. Never pass up on the opportunity to visit the famous Golden Gate Bridge and the equally sensational Alcatraz Island; both can be easily reached and both of these fabulous attractions are hugely recommended.

Head down to Fisherman’s Wharf where you’re sure to find a whole cluster of sea lions in additional to a collection of great shops, restaurants and museums. If you visit Fisherman’s Wharf in the morning then wonder down “Fish Alley” and see the Fisherman hard at work while they set up their vendors, packed with fresh fish and delectable shellfish.

Eureka

280 miles north of San Francisco rests the wonderful City of Eureka, one of California’s best-kept secrets. Home to the popularly unique beverages of the Lost Coast Brewery (including ales, stouts and beers), Eureka is a city that is sometimes left behind. The truth is though; it boasts spectacular scenery and plenty of interesting shops.

Wine Tasting

California is renowned for its fine wine and a full wine tasting experience could provide you with the perfect ending to your holiday. There are countless wineries across California, but mostly surrounding San Francisco. Take a trip to Lake County where you can ‘nose and swirl’ before relaxing on Clear Lake and absorbing the Golden State’s fabulous rays. Napa Valley is also a must-see, where you can enjoy a whole medley of flavourful wine. The Valley has become immensely popular due to the success of the film Sideways, which has made Lake Valley truly atmospheric but not overcrowded.

Shasta County, Central Valley, Central Coast and of course, Los Angeles, are also places that burst full of character and diversity. Whether you’re planning to visit in California, you’re sure to find something to suit you. Before whizzing off to the Golden State, remember to apply for your ESTA or you won’t be allowed entry into America. Visas4USA can provide you with an ESTA Visa, simply apply online today!