Category: USA

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit the US state of California! It’s the third-largest state in the country by size and largest overall for population, and there are so many cool places and cities to visit in California. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your California vacation.

Hate #1: California Traffic

Traffic in California is legendary! If your California vacation has you visiting any major cities, like Los Angeles, San Diego or San Francisco, expect to spend some time sitting in traffic. The best thing you can do is to avoid driving during rush hour in California. You can save a couple of hours per day by avoiding rush hour, leaving you with more time to explore the best places in California. California drivers are also something to look out for. You have a range of drivers from crazy speeders to super slow grannies, so just be prepared to have some patience and extra time while driving.

Love #1: Iconic California

Chances are, you’ve admired California from afar before coming to visit. Whether it’s the Hollywood sign, the Pacific beaches, San Francisco cable cars, or hundreds of movie locations, seeing California in real life is such a treat! It’s not just the scenery, but the people of California also live up to their reputation. From valley girls to surfer dudes, Californian stereotypes are alive and well to this day. Visiting these iconic California attractions can sometimes be surreal because you will feel like you’ve been there before.

22 Don’ts of Visiting San Diego

Hate #2: Lack of Public Transportation

You may think you can avoid traffic by taking public transportation, but it’s not that great in California. The reason traffic is so bad in California is partly due to the car culture where everyone likes to have their own car. San Francisco has BART, which is probably the best public transportation in California. Every other city, though, does not have a convenient transit system for tourists.

Love #2: Variety & Diversity of California

California is like three states all rolled into one. Whether you want mountains, beaches, deserts or rainforest, California has it all. Northern California and Southern California could not be more different. Northern California has redwood forests and the cool city of San Francisco, while Southern California has Los Angeles, San Diego, and Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks. California has nature, culture, education, and entertainment.

Hate #3: Size of California

Foreign visitors to the US may not realize just how big California is. You might think you can cover the entire state in a weeks’ vacation like you can with other states, but there are just too many places to go in California. It’s probably not possible to see the beaches of Orange County and the Redwood forests plus Yosemite all in the same trip. Unless you have more than two weeks, your California vacation should focus on one region of California: Southern, Central or Northern. If you were to take I-5 all the way through California, it’s 800 miles or 12 hours. That’s not accounting for traffic or stops at the many California attractions along the way.

Love #3: California Cuisine

In addition to the diversity of landscapes and attractions in California, there are a ton of diverse cuisines to explore as well. Everyone talks about In N Out Burger when they talk about California food, but there’s a lot more to love beyond the fast food. California has great Mexican food with a unique spin (carne asada fries in San Diego are a must), plus tons of fresh seafood along the coast, and if you like to eat healthily, California is the best place to do it! There are tons of local, mom-and-pop places to eat in California, giving the cuisine a real artisan feel. When you visit California, skip the chains and hit the local spots.

Five Things You Must Eat in San Diego

Hate #4: Prices in California

California is a pretty expensive destination compared to other states. It’s not outrageously expensive unless you want to buy a house, but it’s definitely not a cheap destination. As of 2019, the state sales tax in California is 7.25%, with many cities adding on a local tax that totals up to 10.25%. This, of course, affects everything from gas to groceries and entertainment options.

Love #4: California Landscapes

While many people think of California as the cities that make it famous, what I really love is the nature in California. From the beaches of San Diego, you can be in the mountains in 45 minutes or sand dunes within 90 minutes. If you like outdoor adventure, California is the perfect destination for hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, snow sports, and surfing. With the addition of Pinnacles National Park, California now has nine national parks, more than any other state in the country.

Hate #5: Safety Issues in California

Statistically, safety issues are pretty rare, but it’s worth mentioning anyway. If your vacation includes California beaches, make sure you are aware of what the flags mean. Some of the ocean rip currents can be deadly, so if the flags are up, check-in with the lifeguards. Additionally, the cost of living in California has created a serious homeless problem, so you will see a lot of homeless people living on the streets in California. If you are visiting some of the bigger California cities, ask your hotel if there are areas that you should avoid during your visit. Lastly, be aware of the wildlifes in California. Whether it’s the seals and sea lions on the beach, or deer and mountain lions in the woods, don’t approach any wild animals that you might encounter during your California trip.

Love #5: California Weather

California is known for its great weather, and it’s why so many people want to live here and visit California for vacation. Along with the diversity of landscapes, California also has diverse weather. But along the coast, the weather is pretty good year-round. The farther south you go, the warmer the weather will be, and Northern California can be pretty rainy, but the point is that there is a perfect climate for everyone in California. The weather makes California a year-round destination.

California is one of the most interesting and diverse states in the US, so I recommend including it in your USA vacation itinerary. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a trip to California. Want more tips for planning a US vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• Ten Things That Will Shock You in the USA
• 17 Don’ts of Visiting the USA
• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting the USA

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Seattle, Washington! Seattle is a really cool city in the Pacific Northwest and a great place for travelers to explore, though a bit on the pricey side. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit Seattle.

Hate #1: Prices in Seattle

Seattle is expensive. It’s quickly starting to rival San Francisco in terms of prices and cost of living, so it’s going to cost a lot to eat out, stay in a Seattle hotel or visit some of the top Seattle attractions. Some Seattle attractions can feel overpriced, even, in terms of the value you receive for the money you spend. Several of the top Seattle sightseeing spots cost between $20 and $35, which can add up really quickly, especially if you are visiting Seattle with kids. Before your Seattle vacation, research some of the attraction passes to see if you can save some money by bundling your tickets together.

Love #1: Exploring Seattle

There are so many great Seattle tourist attractions; you’re really going to love exploring the city and the surrounding region. Seattle is relatively compact, but there are several really cool neighborhoods where you can get a very different vibe than the downtown area where most visitors stay. The Seattle ferry system is super fun and a must-do for anyone visiting Seattle. Just outside Seattle, you have a ton of outdoor recreation opportunities, from lakes to mountains and even three national parks!

Taking the Amtrak Cascades Train from Vancouver to Seattle

Hate #2: Automatic Gratuities at Seattle Restaurants

We have noticed in a few Seattle restaurants that they will automatically add tips and/or a service charge to your bill. If you’re not paying attention, you might end up double tipping. At least one restaurant added 20% to our bill as a service charge. 15%-20% is the standard tipping amount in the US, but if your service isn’t great, you may not be happy about tipping 20%.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting the USA

Love #2: Pike Place Public Market

Yes, it’s full of tourists, but locals also visit Pike Place Market. There are a ton of things to do in the market, from tons of restaurants, shops and great views of the Puget Sound. Of course, you have to visit the fish market and watch the vendors tossing huge fish back and forth. There are also several open public areas near the market, so you can shop for food items to make a picnic lunch and then enjoy the views from areas within the market.

Hate #3: Aggressive Beggars in Seattle

Seattle has a huge problem with homelessness and mental illness, so you will see a lot of homeless people on the streets, and many aggressive beggars throughout the city. It’s not so much dangerous as it can be annoying, but be sure you stick to well-lighted areas with a lot of people and just keep walking rather than engage with anyone who is asking you for money.

Love #3: Seattle Cuisine

If you love seafood, you’re going to love the food in Seattle. You can get super fresh salmon and Dungeness crab and oysters, either prepared in a restaurant or purchased and cooked yourself at your Seattle accommodation. Ivar’s has some of the best clam chowder you’ll ever try, so make sure you grab some as you walk along the waterfront. Seattle has a huge Asian population as well, so you can get really good sushi and other Asian cuisines in Seattle. When it comes to drinking, Seattle has a ton of bars and pubs, with local brews and craft cocktails to enjoy.

Hate #4: Seattle Freeze & Seattle Weather

Seattle is pretty famous for being very rainy, and that stereotype holds up for several months of the year. The rain in Seattle is usually more of a constant light drizzle, but it can be annoying if you forgot to pack a rain jacket or an umbrella. When it’s not raining, Seattle has some of the best weather in the country!

The Seattle Freeze actually has nothing to do with the weather. It’s about the people of Seattle. They are very helpful, but they don’t really let you into their inner circle. This probably impacts new residents more than visitors, but just know that Seattle residents are tough to get to know.

Love #4: Seattle Architecture

Seattle is a fast-growing city and has some really incredible architecture. Of course, there are a lot of sleek, modern buildings, but there are also historic buildings, especially downtown in the Pioneer Square area. The public library and the Space Needle are two notable structures in Seattle, as well as the Museum of Pop Culture was designed by Frank Gehry.

Hate #5: Seattle Smell

Recreational marijuana use is legal in the state of Washington, so there’s a distinct aroma of pot smoke in Seattle most evenings. It’s not a big deal, but if you’re visiting Seattle with kids, you may have to explain what the funny smell is.

Love #5: Seattle Views & Vibes

Seattle has such a cool “vibe” as you walk around the city. It’s come a long way since grunge music put Seattle on the culture map, but there’s still a ton of great music and entertainment to experience when you visit Seattle.

In addition to the cool vibe in Seattle, you’ll love the amazing views. When the clouds part, take the opportunity to find a lofty perch for viewing the city. Whether it’s from the top of the Space Needle or Queen Anne hill, there are so many great views around Seattle. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get to see Mt. Rainier to the south of Seattle. One of the best views of Seattle is from the water; either from a ferry deck or from the Alki neighborhood which looks back on the city.

Seattle is one of the coolest and fastest-changing cities in the US, so I recommend including it in your USA vacation itinerary. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to visit Seattle. Want more tips for planning a US vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• Ten Things That Will Shock You in the USA
• 17 Don’ts of Visiting the USA
• US Hotels Explained for Tourists

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Memphis, Tennessee! It’s definitely one of the coolest cities in the southern United States especially if you like blues music and some good old fashion BBQ. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Memphis vacation.

Hate #1: Memphis Summer Weather

Memphis is hot and humid in the summer. The weather can be oppressive and even dangerous if you let yourself get dehydrated (and those big beers don’t count as hydrating yourself). I recommend planning your Memphis vacation for spring or fall, but summer is still a popular time to visit, with fun music festivals and events. Just make sure you are drinking lots of water and maybe plan some indoor activities for the heat of the day. Luckily, there are several indoor Memphis attractions to explore, too. Though the Memphis in May festival is probably a great time to visit.

Love #1: Memphis Music Scene

Memphis is known as the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock and Roll. The music scene in Memphis is incredible. You can walk around Beale Street and hear tons of different live bands playing the blues. Listening to blues is a quintessential Memphis experience. In addition to seeing live music, some of the best Memphis attractions are music-related. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the Blues Hall of Fame, and the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum are three great spots to learn how music shaped the history of Memphis. Oh, and you have Graceland, Elvis’ home.

Hate #2: Memphis Accommodation

It can be difficult to find affordable but decent accommodation in downtown Memphis. There are some nice hotels on the higher end, but the hotels at the lower price range can be a bit lacking. The best thing you can do is to book ahead and look for deals.

Everything You Need to Know About US Hotels

Love #2: Memphis BBQ

Besides music, Memphis is known for its amazing barbeque. Whether you like pork, ribs or brisket, you’ll love the BBQ in Memphis. Choosing from dozens of Memphis BBQ restaurants can be overwhelming, so we like to ask the locals for their favorite. Along with the BBQ, you’ll experience some pretty fantastic side dishes that embody soul food at its finest. So whether you like the Rendezvous or Central BBQ make sure you try as many as you can to find your favorite BBQ joint. Make sure you leave room for dessert, which just means more BBQ!

Hate #3: Driving & Parking in Memphis

Driving in Memphis can be a bit crazy, whether you’re downtown or out on the interstates around town. When it comes to parking, it can be difficult and expensive to find parking downtown, which is why you really want to stay downtown so you can walk everywhere and not worrying about driving.

Love #3: People in Memphis

People in the South are great, but the folks in Memphis take it up a notch. Everyone I’ve ever met in Memphis is so friendly and welcoming, whether they’re working at the bars or just walking down the street, they love welcoming visitors to their town. They are proud of their city and happy to give you recommendations for your Memphis vacation, especially for their favorite Memphis BBQ restaurants!

Ten Things That Will Shock You in the USA

Hate #4: Crime in Memphis

At one time, Memphis was ranked as the 2nd most dangerous city in the United States. It’s now ranked #9 in the US, so it’s improved a bit, but there is still a lot of crime in Memphis. Fortunately for tourists, it’s mostly concentrated in certain neighborhoods which are easily avoided. Tourism is an important industry for Memphis, so the main downtown areas like Beale Street are heavily policed and patrolled. Nevertheless, use your street sense stick to the main areas after dark.

Love #4: Elvis in Memphis

If you love Elvis, you’ll love Memphis. The main attraction is Graceland, Elvis’ home that is open for tours. On the grounds of Graceland, you can also tour the gardens where he is buried, as well as view his car collection and his airplane. In 2017, a new complex opened across the street, featuring several museums and restaurants. There’s also a hotel right on the property if you’re willing to splurge on the experience. Throughout Memphis, you’ll find various monuments and memorials to the King of Rock n’ Roll.

Hate #5: Memphis Panhandlers

Like other countries, in the US. the panhandlers go where the tourists go. There are a lot of guys in the streets of Memphis who will ask you for money. There are also lots of street performers and buskers who are looking for money as well. They are generally pretty friendly and won’t harass you if you just say no and keep walking, but if you’re not used to this, it can be unsettling at first.

Love #5: Beale Street

One of the best Memphis attractions is Beale Street. Running through the heart of downtown Memphis, Beale Street is hopping every night of the week, every day of the year. It’s the Memphis version of New Orleans’ French Quarter. Beale Street is one of the few places in the US where you can walk around with an open drink and not get in trouble. So, you can grab a beer or a drink and just walk around enjoying the live music and the atmosphere.

Memphis is a really cool city with a ton of history and culture, and a Memphis vacation should be on everyone’s bucket list. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to visit Memphis. Want more tips for planning a US vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• 11 Shocks of Traveling in the Southern US States
• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting the USA
• 17 Don’ts of Visiting the USA

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Chicago! Chicago is one of the best cities in the United States, whether you want culture, architecture, food, or sports. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit Chicago.

Hate #1: Chicago Winter Weather

Chicago winters are no joke. Chicago is known as the Windy City and in the winter, the wind whips cold air off of Lake Michigan and it is not pleasant to be out walking around, or whatever you call walking at an angle so as not to get blown over. The wind chill can make winter temperatures dangerous. If you decide to visit Chicago in the winter, make sure you are prepared with a warm coat, lots of layers and waterproof shoes. Also, make sure you don’t walk where it says don’t walk. Sometimes ice falls off of those skyscrapers.  

Love #1: Chicago Architecture

Chicago is world-renowned for innovative architecture. For years, the Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) was the tallest building in the world. Chicago is the home of the skyscraper, but it’s also known for historic architecture in buildings like the Tribune Tower and the Wrigley building. One of the best things to do in Chicago is the Architecture Tour on the Chicago River. Each October, the Chicago Architecture Foundation hosts Open House Chicago, with free access to over 250 Chicago buildings.

Hate #2: Chicago Panhandlers

If you take the train to Chicago and arrive at Union Station, or spend any time in tourist areas, you’ll see a lot of panhandlers in Chicago and they can be kind of aggressive. After the first few people, you will start to get tired of it. Just be firm and keep walking.  

Love #2: Chicago People

Chicago is the third-largest city in the US, so you might not expect the people to be very friendly. But the people of Chicago are super friendly and super helpful. (Unless you are holding up traffic!) They are always happy to stop and help you with directions or recommendations. Chicago has a small-town feel in a big city. If you’re interested, the Chicago Office of Tourism has a Chicago Greeter service that will match you up with a local for a free tour!

Hate #3: Chicago Parking

I highly recommend not having a car in Chicago, which is the opposite of the advice I give for the rest of the country. Parking in Chicago is outrageous. Chicago hotels charge as much as $100 per night just to park your car! So, before you jump on a cheap hotel rate, make sure you factor in the cost of parking as well. If you must drive to Chicago, park it and leave it, don’t use it to get around the city, as it’s more hassle than it’s worth. Most locals in Chicago use the SpotHero app to find the best rates on Chicago parking.

Love #3: Chicago Food

Chicago food is amazing! There are tons of diverse neighborhoods serving up ethnic foods, from Greektown, Chinatown, Little Italy, Mexican, Polish and Indian restaurants to the popular restaurants downtown. Chicago-style pizza is world-famous, and Portillo’s Italian Beef and hotdogs are another must-eats while in Chicago. If you see a line of people outside a popcorn shop, that’s Garrett’s, where they sell the delicious “Chicago Mix” popcorn tins.

Hate #4: Driving in Chicago

Another reason to not have a car in Chicago is the driving. The streets are congested and there is no rush hour anymore, it’s all day, every day. The Loop downtown Chicago has lots of one-way streets and underground streets, so it’s very confusing if you don’t know where you are going.

Love #4: Clean Streets of Chicago

Chicago is one of the cleanest big cities I’ve seen in the US. The city spends a lot of money to keep everything clean and looking nice. If you walk along Michigan Avenue, you’ll notice the planters lining the street are changed out frequently with the seasons, and it’s so nice to be in a big city that’s so clean. Of course, that could just be because the wind blows everything away, but let’s go with the city is doing a good job of keeping the city looking beautiful.

Hate #5: Price of Chicago Attractions

There are a ton of really great Chicago attractions, but they are expensive! It’s about $20 to access each museum, like the Shedd Aquarium or the Field Museum, so if you bring the whole family, it can really add up quickly. There are free days offered at several Chicago museums, but they can be pretty crowded, so it’s a choice of paying more or dealing with crowds. You can also consider one of the CityPass options that bundle several attractions together at a discount.

Love #5: Getting Around Chicago

Chicago is super easy to get around. As I mentioned already, you don’t need a car when you visit Chicago. The public transportation system, called the “L” is super easy to use and very affordable. Additionally, the streets are on a grid and everything is numbered in a way that makes sense, so it’s pretty easy to find your way around, especially with the lake bordering one whole side of the city. It’s a super walkable city, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and enjoy strolling the streets of the Second City.

Chicago is one of the best cities in the US, so I recommend including it in your USA vacation itinerary. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to visit Chicago. Want more tips for planning a US vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• Ten Things That Will Shock You in the USA
• 17 Don’ts of Visiting the USA
• US Hotels Explained for Tourists

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit the South or the Southeast states of the US! The South is such a unique region with its own history and culture, and I love visiting whenever I can (if you have not noticed from the dozens of videos from cities like Savannah). As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit the South and Southeast states of the USA.

Hate #1: Liquor Laws in the South

A lot of the Southern states are still considered part of the Bible Belt, so the liquor laws reflect a very conservative attitude towards drinking. In several vacation spots in the south, you can’t buy alcohol on Sunday, or you can’t buy alcohol between certain hours of each day. There are even some dry counties still left in the south (as well as in other parts of the US). This means there is no alcohol sold at all. If you choose one of the southern vacation spots in a dry county, you will have to drive to another county to buy alcohol. So make sure you check before you go, though the restrictive liquor laws are becoming less common.

Love #1: Southern People

If the South is known for one thing, it’s Southern Hospitality. The people in the South are amazing and are what make southern vacations so special. They will treat you like long lost family and offer any help they can to ensure your visit to the South is fantastic. This also translates to awesome, friendly service wherever you go in the South. So make sure you mind your manners and be sure to say please and thank you and hold that door at the store.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting the USA

Hate #2: Bugs in the South

Warm weather means more bugs, so the south has a lot of bugs. From mosquitos and gnats to flying cockroaches (Palmetto bugs), the bugs in the south are just gross. If you’re visiting in the south, make sure you bring your bug spray so you don’t get eaten alive. And maybe throw in some after-bite as well for when you do have all those itches.

Love #2: Southern Style

The Southern-style that I love has to do with the atmosphere and the architecture. While some areas of the South are in financial difficulties, they still take pride in their homes and hometowns. There are tons of historic homes in the south that have been impeccably maintained, as well as other historic buildings throughout the South. Southern architecture is also very unique and some of the best examples are in Savannah, Charleston or New Orleans.

Hate #3: Tourist Crowds

The South is so great that everyone wants to visit! In the winter, the south is crowded with snowbirds, which are retirees who leave the cold north for several months and relocate for the winter. In the summer, it’s packed with families traveling over the summer break. This means it can be hard to find affordable accommodation during peak travel periods, and a lot of the restaurants are overpriced and overbooked. This can also result in extra traffic as the roads weren’t built to handle so many people. So make sure you are booking ahead for your hotels, apartments, and car rentals. Also, it might not be a bad idea to make a reservation at some of those restaurants you have been dreaming about visiting.

Love #3: Southern Cuisine

The South has the best food in the United States, hands down. On the coast, you have amazing seafood, New Orleans has Cajun and Creole cuisines, Memphis has BBQ, Nashville has hot chicken and you can get good soul food all over the south. Skip the chain restaurants and go where the locals eat; they’ll be happy to give you recommendations! We have videos that can help you know what to eat, but our best recommendation is to just ask the waiter what is the most popular item on the menu or the most local item and go for that.

11 Things That Will Shock You When Visiting the Southern States

Hate #4: The Slow South

The Southern states tend to take life a bit more relaxed and a bit more slow. So make sure you are ready for a more laid back attitude and atmosphere. It can be a love for many, but we know that some tourists are all about go go go, and in the South sometimes it’s more about slow slow slow. So pack your patience and you will be just fine.

Love #4: Weather in the South

Let’s face it; the reason so many people visit the Southern states is because of the weather! If you want to avoid snow and cold weather, then the south is the place to go. It’s especially popular for fall break and spring break when families escape the northern states for some time on the beach.

Hate #5: Weather in the South

Ok, it’s a “love” and a “hate” depending on when you visit, and your tolerance for heat and humidity. In the summer, the heat and humidity are oppressive. July and August are the worst times to visit the south unless you really love humidity and heat. The humidity locks in the heat so it doesn’t even seem to cool down that much at night. Make sure you are drinking a lot of water and staying hydrated.

Love #5: Southern Landscapes

There is a lot of natural beauty in the south. You’ve got the Smoky Mountains, the Mississippi River delta, the marshlands of North and South Carolina, the beaches of Georgia and Alabama. It’s such a beautiful area to explore, with diverse landscapes to explore. A road trip is the best way to see the states of the south, as you can stop and explore at your leisure.

If you are planning a trip to the USA, make sure you include some southern vacation spots in your itinerary. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason to avoid visiting the South USA. Want more tips for planning a US vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About New Orleans
• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting Savannah, Georgia
• 17 Don’ts of Visiting the USA

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about travel to USA! I love to be a tourist in my own country and explore all the unique places to travel in the US. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your USA trip.

Hate #1: US Sales Tax

When you are shopping or dining out in most countries, the price you see is the price you pay. But that’s not the case in the US. Every state has a sales tax that is added on to the price of the item. When you go to McDonald’s and order off the “dollar” menu, you end up paying $1.06 or whatever the tax rate is where you are. Tax can add anywhere from 5% to 20% on top of the price listed.

Love #1: Prices in the US

Overall, the US is pretty cheap to visit. Hotels, restaurants, and even shopping are very affordable in the States. Of course, you can spend more on luxury hotels and fine dining, but if you are traveling on a budget, you will have plenty of options when you travel to the USA.

US Hotels Explained for Tourists

Hate #2: US Restaurants

When you go out to a sit-down restaurant in the US, the final amount you pay is often much higher than the menu prices. First, you have the sales tax we already mentioned, and then there is the gratuity. While tipping does happen in other countries, the expectations are much higher in the US. You should plan to tip between 15% and 20%. 15% is generally considered the minimum amount to tip for restaurant or bar service.

Love #2: Diversity in the United States

The United States has always been and continues to be, a melting pot of cultures. Each region of the US has a unique culture, from Southern hospitality to New England charm. And then there are other cultures mixed in, especially in larger cities like Chicago, which has huge populations of Mexicans, Polish, Indian and others, with lively neighborhoods serving up amazing cuisines. With 50 states to visit, you’ll find interesting cultures and traditions in each.

Hate #3: Public Transportation in the US

Outside of major cities, there really is no public transportation in the United States. Smaller cities often have just a few bus lines and no train system to speak of at all. Amtrak is the train system, but the routes aren’t always convenient. If you plan to visit the US without driving, you’ll really need to stick to some of the larger cities along the Eastern seaboard, as the train options are better around New York, Boston, and Washington DC.

Love #3: People in the US

Americans are really great. When traveling abroad, a lot of people seem to think that Americans are superficial or fake because they are so friendly. A more reserved culture is suspicious of this friendliness, but it’s actually genuine. When we ask “how are you?” we actually mean it, and when we smile, it’s sincere. When I have lived abroad, I miss the people of the U.S. more than anything else. Of course, this varies by region, but for the most part, you will find most Americans to be very helpful.

Hate #4: Great Distances Between Attractions

The United States is huge and there are often vast distances between the things you want to see. Things are a little more concentrated in New England and the northeast, but if you are visiting the Southwest, the Midwest or the West Coast, expect a lot of long driving days between attractions. People think they can visit New York, Miami, and Los Angeles all in one trip because you’re not leaving the country, so it can’t be so bad. In reality, that is over 6,500 kilometers. The best thing to do is to focus on one region for each time you visit the United States.

Love #4: U.S. Cities and Small Towns

There are so many cool cities and towns to visit in the United States. Chicago is one of the best cities in the world, with big-city culture in a very easy to get around town. Each large city of the U.S. is unique and interesting, which makes it hard to decide where to go in the U.S. Apart from the big cities, small towns are really the heart of America. Take a road trip along Route 66 and visit all different kinds of towns.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About New Orleans

Hate #5: Driving is a Necessity

Unlike traveling through Europe, having a rental car in the US is pretty much a necessity. Due to lack of public transportation and the great distances in the States, having a car is the best way to see the country, unless you are visiting the East Coast or Chicago, where public transportation is decent. This does add to your expenses for the trip. Not only will you have to pay for a rental car, but you’ll have to think about fuel, parking, tolls, and insurance.

Love #5: American Landscapes

There are so many unique and diverse landscapes across the country. There are the deserts of the Southwest, the Rocky Mountains, the Smoky Mountains, the Great Lakes, the Great Plains, the swamps and bayous of the South. There are so many different environments to explore throughout the United States beyond the amazing cities and towns.

The US is such an amazing and diverse country that everyone should try to visit at least once. With so many places to visit in the US, it can be hard to narrow down an itinerary for your USA trip. The “hates” are all really just things to avoid, rather than a reason not to travel to the USA. Want more tips for planning your USA vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting New England
• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Orlando, Florida
• What to Know Before You Visit Vegas for the First Time

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Boston, Massachusetts! I love Boston and am always excited when I get to come back here for a visit. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Boston vacation.

Hate #1: Fake History in Boston

There are tons of historic things to see in Boston, but a lot of history has been exploited in the name of tourism. Places like Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall are historic buildings that look cool from the outside, but inside it’s basically a mall food court. Then there’s the “Cheers” bar, which is a replica of the original. There are a lot of “replica” destinations in Boston and it gets old after a while.

Eight Don’ts of Visiting Boston

Love #1: Historic Sights in Boston

While there’s a lot of “fake” history in Boston, there’s so much real history that you can’t help but be amazed. One of the most popular Boston tourist attractions is the Freedom Trail, which is a self-guided walking tour of the best historic sights in Boston. You get to see Paul Revere’s house, several historic government buildings, churches, and graveyards. The “real” history in Boston far outweighs the “fake” history.

Hate #2: Boston Winters

If you visit Boston in the winter, you’ve been warned. The winters in Boston are terrible. They don’t just get snow in Boston, they get tons of snow at a time. When it’s not snowing, it’s still freezing cold and windy and just overall unpleasant. Any other time of year is perfect for visiting Boston, but I don’t recommend winter.

Love #2: Getting Around Boston

While Boston is a huge city with lots of diverse neighborhoods, the majority of Boston tourist attractions are very centrally located in a compact area. This makes it easy to see a lot of Boston in a short time. Fortunately, it’s very easy (and preferable) to visit Boston without a car. If you want to go outside of the city center, the “T” system is affordable and easy to use.

Hate #3: Driving & Parking in Boston

Boston has existed for nearly 400 years, so the city pre-dates cars by a couple of hundred years. This means that Boston is not on a grid system like more modern cities, so driving is frustrating. There are a lot of one-way streets and dead ends; even with GPS, driving in Boston is confusing and frustrating. Affordable parking does not exist in Boston, but even trying to find any parking is a nearly impossible task. It’s best not to have a car at all on your Boston vacation.

Love #3: Boston Sightseeing

Besides all the great historic sights, there are many other fun things to do in Boston. There are zoos, aquariums, parks, museums, and sports teams. Fenway Stadium, home of the Boston Red Sox, is one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the country. You can ride the swan boats at the Boston Public Garden, or take a cruise on the Boston Harbor.

Hate #4: Boston Jaywalking

Bostonians take jaywalking to the next level. If you are a driver in Boston, be on high alert at all times. If you are a pedestrian, don’t just blindly follow someone else who steps out into the street.

Love #4: Boston is Safe & Kid Friendly

For a city of this size, Boston is very safe. Of course, there are bad neighborhoods to avoid, but as a tourist, I’ve not had to worry about my safety while sightseeing in Boston. You don’t hear much about pickpockets or traveler scams like you do in other large cities. If you are visiting Boston with kids, it’s very family-friendly. There are tons of fun activities for the whole family, including the Boston Children’s Museum.

Safety Tips for Travel in the USA

Hate #5: Cobblestone Streets of Boston

Sure, the cobblestone streets add to the historic feel and look of Boston, but after a few hours of walking on cobblestones, your feet will begin to hate them. Most Boston activities involve a lot of walking, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. If you have ankle or foot problems, you’ll need to be extra careful when you are walking around.

Love #5: Eating & Drinking in Boston

Boston has some fantastic restaurants and bars, and the food is fantastic. Clam chowder and lobster rolls are two local specialties that you have to have in Boston. The North End has amazing Italian food. Boston cream pie and Sam Adams beer are other local specialties to try when you are in Boston.

Boston is such a cool city with so many things to see in Boston. The “hates” are all really just things to avoid, rather than a reason not to take a Boston vacation. Want more tips for planning your USA vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate in New England
• Ten Shocks of Visiting the USA
• 17 Don’ts of Visiting the USA

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit the American Southwest! The Southwest states include Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Nevada, and Colorado. It’s a beautiful region of the United States that is well worth coming to. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit the Southwest USA.

Hate #1: Sand Everywhere

Even though not all of the Southwest is desert, you will end up with sand and dust everywhere. In your car, your suitcase and on your clothes. This is not the trip to bring your brand new white tennis shoes, or they may end up dyed red from the dirt in the Southwest.

Love #1: Southwest Weather

The weather in the Southwest is pretty perfect, especially in winter when the rest of the country is cold and snowy. You’ll have sunny, warm days and crisp, cool nights. There’s a reason so many people retire to the Southwest. Even in the summertime, there are areas of the southwest at higher elevations that are not too hot to visit.

Hate #2: Extreme Temperatures

Although the weather in the southwest is generally great, there are huge temperature shifts every day, from hot to cold. You end up having to pack more clothing because you need warm weather clothes for the daytime and a few extra layers for nighttime. A typical day will see about a 30-degree temperature swing, whether it’s from 50 to 80-degrees, or from 80-degrees to 110-degrees, depending on when you visit.

Love #2: Southwest Landscapes

The landscapes of the Southwest states are incredibly unique and breathtaking. There are so many neat places to visit in the American Southwest. National Parks like Bryce Canyon, Zion, Grand Canyon, Saguaro National Park, and more! Then there are state parks and unique destinations like Sedona, Arizona. Monument Valley is another iconic Southwest destination. The Southwest attracts a lot of outdoor adventure travelers because of all the amazing opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature.

Hate #3: The Snowbirds

Many retirees spend their summers up north and then converge on the southwest for the winter. The joke in Arizona is that you know it’s autumn when the license plates start to change colors. Most of the cities aren’t built as seasonal tourist destinations, so restaurants, grocery stores, and other places can get overwhelmed during the snowbird season. Finding accommodation can also be a challenge, especially if you want an apartment rental or long-term stay.

Love #3: Native American Culture

Native Americans lived in the Southwest long before the Europeans arrived and started to move west. The Native American culture remains strong in the Southwest, and there are so many interesting places where you can learn more. There are many spots to visit the historic settlements at places like Mesa Verde and Chaco Canyon. You can sample Native American food in several places, and experience the culture through pow-wows that are open to the public. There are also some really great museums in the southwest that are dedicated to preserving Native American culture and history.

Hate #4: Long Drives

Yes, there’s something fun about the open road, but the distances between attractions of the Southwest states are huge. Many travelers tend to over-plan their itineraries to include too many Southwest destinations and end up spending most of their vacation behind the wheel of a car. Given the long stretches of desolate roads, it’s always a good idea to fill up your gas tank when you are leaving a town because you don’t know where the next gas station will be. It’s also a good idea to have an actual map with you, as you may frequently be out of cell phone range.

Top Ten Road Trip Essentials

Love #4: Southwest Food

The food in the southwest is amazing and diverse. Native American foods include fry bread (with sweet or savory toppings) and lamb stew. New Mexico is known for tamales, green chiles and hatch chiles, while Arizona has some of the best Sonoran Mexican food you can find. Make sure you try a Sonoran hot dog if you visit Tucson!

Hate #5: Leaving the Southwest

One of the worst parts of visiting the Southwest is having to leave and go back home, especially in the winter! As you can see, we really had to stretch to find five things to hate about these Southwest vacation destinations!

What to Know Before Visiting Las Vegas

Love #5: Desert Views

This is one of the least populated areas of the United States, which means there are still wide open vistas with nothing to see but scenery. From canyons, forests, rivers and unique plants like the saguaro cactus, the Southwest is a very diverse environment. And the night skies are some of the best in the world. You won’t believe how many stars you can see!

Overall, the Southwest is a really fantastic place to visit, with iconic scenery, great culture, history, and food. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason to avoid Southwest USA travel. Want more tips for planning a US vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• Ten Things That Will Shock You in the USA
• 17 Don’ts of Visiting the USA
• US Hotels Explained for Tourists

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit New York City! New York is one of my favorite cities in the world with so many cool places to visit in New York City. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit New York City.

Hate #1: New York Aroma

The whole city doesn’t stink, but every once in a while, as you walk around New York, you’ll get a very pungent whiff of something rather unpleasant wafting up from the ground. It’s super random, but you’ll know it when you cross paths. It’s pretty funny when you see someone else walk through it.

Love #1: Wandering New York Streets

The moment you emerge from the train station onto the streets of New York is unforgettable. The best thing to do on your New York vacation is just to wander the city streets, enjoy the crazy bustling atmosphere, see how locals go about their day and enjoy some cheap street food. Roaming various neighborhoods is one of my favorite NYC activities.

Hate #2: Noise and Crowds

New York is one of the most visited cities in the world. There are an estimated eight million people living in and around New York, then add in another 60 million visitors per year, and you can see why it’s the city that never sleeps. It’s noisy, it’s crowded and it’s sometimes just insane. It can be really hard to find peace and quiet in New York and a New York vacation is not a relaxing one.

12 Things That Will Shock You in NYC

Love #2: New York Sightseeing

New York is full of so many iconic sights, from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building and so many more. Even flying in and seeing the skyline from above is such a treat! There are so many cool places to visit in New York City, but they can really add up, so you need to do your research and prioritize what you want to see. Rockefeller Center has a great observation deck and of course, there are tons of great museums in New York, too. No matter what kind of culture you are interested in: art, history, nature, science, music, or theater, you will find it in New York!

Hate #3: The New York Subway Experience

If you want to get around New York quickly, the subway is the best way to go about it. It’s faster and cheaper than taxis or Ubers, but it’s always an interesting experience. From bizarre people to unsettling smells or just being so crowded that you have no personal space, you either love or hate the New York subways. If smashing up against a bunch of other random strangers on a moving train sounds like a nightmare to you, then try to avoid rush hour on the subway.

Love #3: New York-isms

If you’ve watched any TV show that is based in New York, you probably already know a bit about the iconic side of New York. Whether it’s visiting Greenwich Village where Friends took place or the Upper East Side where Gossip Girl happened, walking around New York is almost like a stroll down memory lane. It’s featured in so many TV shows and movies that it feels familiar. Of course, you have to have a slice of New York pizza, watch the street performers in Times Square and if you are so inclined, take a jog through Central Park.

Hate #4: The New York Sidewalk Experience

The sidewalks of New York are busy and crowded. Probably half of the people are just locals trying to get to work, and they’ll be in a hurry. If you are a tourist who is meandering down the street, stopping to take pictures, you’re going to get run over and bumped into. Make sure you step off the to the side before stopping completely.

Love #4: New York Diversity

New York is THE original melting pot of the United States. There is so much diversity and multi-culturalism in New York City, that it’s a really cool experience to visit. You can hear dozens of different languages being spoken around the city, and experience so many different cultures and cuisines. If you have more than a few days in New York, make sure you get out and explore some of the other boroughs and neighborhoods and maybe try a new cuisine while you’re there.

Hate #5: Finding a Public Toilet in New York

It is really hard to find public restrooms in New York, and the ones that are open to the public are not nice. Make sure you use the bathroom at your hotel and then at any business or restaurant you stop at throughout the day. If you have kids or use the restroom a lot throughout the day, download one of the apps that can help you find good public restrooms in New York.

Love #5: New Yorkers

Seriously, New Yorkers are the best! Yeah, they have a harsh reputation for being rude jerks, but that’s just the surface. Yes, they do get annoyed with tourists stopping in the middle of the street to take photos, but you would too. They’re just in a hurry all the time because it’s a huge city with a lot of traffic and many people have to commute quite a ways to be able to afford to live in New York. In reality, if you need help, a New Yorker won’t hesitate to help you out. We’ve even had a local walk us to our destination to make sure we got there OK.

15 Don’ts of Visiting New York

New York is such a great city and I love coming back because there are so many things to do in New York. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on, rather than a reason not to visit New York. Want more tips for planning your USA vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

• What You Need to Know About New York Hotels
• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate about New England
• Ten Things That Will Shock You About the USA