What is it?: A vast and diverse region, including countries like United States, Canada, and Mexico, offering everything from cosmopolitan cities to stunning natural landscapes like the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls.
Affordability: Varies - The U.S. and Canada tend to be more expensive, especially in major cities, while Mexico offers more budget-friendly options for accommodations and food.
Safety: Generally safe - Most areas in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico are safe for tourists, though caution is advised in certain cities due to higher crime rates, especially in parts of Mexico.
Popularity: Extremely popular - The region is a top global destination, known for its cultural landmarks, national parks, and cities like New York and Toronto.
Tourist Infrastructure: Well-developed - Modern transportation, accommodations, and services are readily available, especially in major cities, with good connectivity between countries.
Weather: Diverse - Ranges from cold winters in Canada to warm, tropical climates in Mexico, with a mix of temperate and arctic conditions depending on the region.
Best Time to Go: May to October - Ideal for outdoor activities, road trips, and sightseeing, with mild weather and plenty of events. The summer months (June–August) are great for festivals and national park visits.
Known For: National parks, skyscrapers, diverse cultures, historical landmarks, beaches, modern cities, and outdoor adventures.
Top Destinations: New York City • Toronto • Los Angeles • Grand Canyon • Niagara Falls • Vancouver • Mexico City • Cancún • Washington D.C. • Montreal • San Francisco • Yosemite National Park • Cabo San Lucas
- Bermuda: A British territory known for its pink sand beaches, turquoise waters, and colonial charm, but it’s very expensive compared to the Caribbean.
- Canada: A vast country offering dramatic landscapes from the Rockies to the Maritimes, vibrant cities like Toronto and Montreal, and abundant outdoor activities year-round.
- Greenland: An Arctic destination with massive glaciers, Inuit culture, and dramatic fjords, where travel is remote, expensive, and heavily weather-dependent.
- United States: A massive and diverse country with everything from national parks to world-class cities, though crime and costs vary greatly by region.
North America is a continent of wide-open landscapes, diverse cultures, and powerful cities. The United States stretches from New York’s skyscrapers to the Grand Canyon’s vastness, offering endless variety. Canada blends rugged wilderness, friendly cities like Vancouver and Montreal, and a deep respect for nature. Mexico pulses with ancient ruins, colonial towns, and vibrant traditions, from Oaxaca’s markets to the beaches of the Yucatán. Greenland’s icy expanses and indigenous cultures offer a glimpse into the Arctic world. Across North America, towering mountains, endless plains, tropical coasts, and rich histories create a region full of contrasts and energy.
North America stretches from the Arctic tundra of Canada to the tropical beaches of Mexico, blending wild nature, world-famous cities, and rich indigenous and immigrant cultures across a massive, varied landscape. It includes Canada, United States, Mexico, and smaller countries and territories in the Caribbean. Travelers come for everything from road-tripping through national parks in the U.S., exploring colonial cities in Mexico, hiking rugged coastlines in Canada, or island-hopping in the Caribbean. North America feels bold, vast, and familiar yet filled with endless corners to explore.
From the picture perfect setting of the famed Florida Keys to the sparse and chilly snow covered Alaskan regions, visitors are rarely prepared for what North America has to offer.
With Native American culture a mainstay in some of the most picturesque settings around the American plains and the uniquely modern heritage of the greater American population, cultural exploration will need more time than just a short holiday. New York, one the great American landmarks, is a metropolis that leaves visitors feeling as if they have just walked onto the set of an epic movie, while places like San Francisco and the state of California are hugely popular for their own unique charms.
Canada, with a wealth of French character, prime skiing conditions and a vibrantly rich heritage, offers yet another experience. Bermuda, comprising nearly 200 islands linked by bridges and home to some of the most spectacular beaches, is the perfect place to head to for a relaxing retreat and that unparalleled ocean side revitalisation.
From soaring skyscrapers, oversized plates of the best junk food and a ‘bigger is better’ mind set to sprawling deserts and cloud tipping mountain ranges stretching the length of a large country, North America is a place where diversity is a way of life, not a choice.
Visitors can partake in all manner of activities in the new world. From extreme sports such as mountain biking, skiing, water sports, sky diving and much more, surrounded by almost any scenic beauty imaginable to quiet spa retreats, natural exploration and city slicking, there are few people on earth who won’t be able to find something to delight them on this mind-blowing continent.
Traveling in North America is mid-range to expensive, depending on where you go and how you travel. Canada and the U.S. are generally pricier, while Mexico and parts of the Caribbean can be quite affordable, especially outside resort areas. You’ll find everything from budget motels and hostels to boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Food is diverse and accessible: tacos, poutine, barbecue, seafood, and regional specialties across every state and province. Western food is everywhere, but local flavors still shine when you seek them out.
Getting around depends heavily on distance. Domestic flights, trains, buses, and car rentals are common ways to cover ground. Public transport is good in big cities but limited in rural areas. English dominates in the U.S. and Canada, French is strong in parts of Canada (especially Quebec), and Spanish is widely spoken in Mexico and throughout U.S. cities with strong Latino communities. North America is very safe, though normal urban precautions apply in bigger cities.
Families: North America is outstanding for family travel , theme parks, national parks, beaches, and family-focused cities. Orlando, San Diego, Vancouver, Toronto, and Cancún are top picks, offering easy transport, activities for all ages, and strong infrastructure.
Couples: North America offers romantic escapes from coast to coast , wine tours in Napa Valley, road trips along Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail, beaches in Tulum, and city getaways in New York or Québec City. The range of couple-friendly destinations is immense.
Backpackers: Backpacking is more expensive than in many regions, but still rewarding , road trips, budget flights, and national parks offer affordable adventures. Mexico is much cheaper than the U.S. and Canada, making it very popular among budget travelers.
Digital Nomads: Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, Austin, Toronto, and Vancouver are major digital nomad hubs. Excellent infrastructure, coworking spaces, and flexible visa options (especially in Mexico) make North America very friendly to remote workers.
Luxury Travelers: North America delivers top-tier luxury , elite hotels in New York, private resorts in Los Cabos, luxury trains in Canada, and exclusive retreats across the Rockies. Service standards and amenities are among the best globally.
Foodies: Food scenes are spectacular , from Michelin-starred dining in New York and San Francisco to street tacos in Mexico City and seafood feasts in Montréal. Regional diversity is enormous, blending indigenous, European, Asian, and Latin American influences.
Beach Bunnies: North America has superb beaches , Caribbean-style beaches in Mexico, rugged Pacific coasts, the Gulf of Mexico, and lake beaches in Canada. Cancún, Miami, Tulum, Vancouver Island, and Bermuda all offer different beach vibes.
Nature Buffs: North America’s natural wonders are unparalleled , the Grand Canyon, Banff National Park, Niagara Falls, Baja Peninsula, and Greenland’s fjords. Hiking, camping, and wildlife watching opportunities are widespread and accessible.
History Buffs: North America’s recorded history is newer compared to Europe, but indigenous sites, colonial towns, Revolutionary War sites, and ancient ruins like Chichen Itza offer depth and diversity. Boston, Philadelphia, and Mexico City are historical highlights.
Culture Vultures: Arts, music, film, and festivals thrive , from Broadway in New York to jazz in New Orleans and film festivals in Toronto. Indigenous cultures, immigrant communities, and vibrant modern scenes enrich the cultural fabric across the continent.
Adventure Seekers: Endless adventures await , hiking, rafting, skiing, surfing, skydiving, and mountain biking. From Colorado’s Rockies to Baja’s surf breaks and the Canadian Arctic, adventure activities are extremely diverse and well-supported.
Solo Travelers: North America is solo traveler-friendly , safe cities, strong hostel networks (especially in Canada and Mexico), organized tours, and abundant transport options make it easy. The size of the continent can be daunting, but infrastructure is excellent.
Party Animals: Legendary party scenes , clubs in New York and Miami, music festivals like Coachella, street parties in New Orleans, spring break in Cancún, and vibrant nightlife in Montreal. Every major city and many tourist towns have strong nightlife.
Wildlife Watchers: Wildlife experiences are world-class , whales off British Columbia, grizzly bears in Alaska, wolves and moose in Canada’s national parks, sea turtles in Mexico, and bird sanctuaries across the continent. Eco-tourism infrastructure is strong and varied.
LGBTQ+: North America is broadly LGBTQ+ friendly , marriage equality is national in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, and cities like Toronto, San Francisco, New York, Mexico City, and Montreal have vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes and strong legal protections.
Why Go to North America?
- National Parks and Wild Landscapes: Explore places like Banff, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Copper Canyon, each a natural wonder.
- Iconic Cities: Wander the streets of New York, Toronto, Los Angeles, Montreal, Mexico City, and dozens more, each with its own rhythm and energy.
- Diverse Cultures and Histories: Experience First Nations culture in Canada, deep indigenous roots in Mexico, or African-American heritage across the southern U.S.
- Road Trips and Scenic Drives: Cruise Route 66, the Pacific Coast Highway, or Canada’s Icefields Parkway for classic open-road adventures.
- Music, Food, and Festivals: Taste Tex-Mex in Texas, hear jazz in New Orleans, explore mariachi traditions in Guadalajara, or enjoy indie festivals in Montreal.
- Beach Escapes and Island Life: Relax on the Caribbean coasts of Mexico, explore Prince Edward Island in Canada, or sail around the Florida Keys.
- Adventure Sports: Go skiing in Colorado, surfing in Baja, hiking the Rockies, or kayaking around Vancouver Island.
Who Might Not Enjoy North America?
North America, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the countries of Central America, offers huge geographic, cultural, and economic diversity. Still, certain travelers may find parts of the region challenging:
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Budget Travelers in the U.S. and Canada: Travel costs in the U.S. and Canada can be very high, especially for accommodations, transport, and attractions in major cities like New York, Toronto, or San Francisco. Budget travel options are more limited compared to other parts of the world.
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Visitors Hoping for Historic Cities Everywhere: While Mexico and parts of the U.S. East Coast offer rich historical architecture, much of North America is relatively modern, especially compared to Europe or Asia. Those seeking ancient or medieval cities may find urban landscapes less charming.
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Travelers Sensitive to Long Travel Distances: North America is vast. Moving between major destinations often requires long flights, multi-hour drives, or expensive domestic travel, particularly in the U.S. and Canada.
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Strict Vegetarians or Vegans Outside Urban Areas: Big cities like New York, Toronto, and Mexico City are excellent for plant-based diets, but rural and small-town areas often have fewer vegetarian or vegan options.
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Tourists Wanting Compact, Walkable Cities Everywhere: While cities like Boston and Montreal are walkable, many North American cities are spread out and car-dependent. Renting a car is often necessary for suburban and rural exploration.
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Visitors Expecting Cheap Public Transportation: Public transport can be efficient in select cities (e.g., New York, Washington D.C., Mexico City), but many regions have limited or expensive options, making travel by car or rideshare essential.
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Travelers Uncomfortable with Highly Regulated Environments: In the U.S. especially, there are strict rules and regulations around visas, customs, alcohol purchase, and personal behavior. Failing to follow procedures can lead to serious consequences.
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People Wanting Old-World Atmosphere and Slow Travel: North America often prioritizes speed, efficiency, and modern convenience. Travelers looking for slower-paced lifestyles or deeply historic environments may prefer other continents.
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Tourists Seeking Ultra-Low Prices Across the Board: While Mexico offers excellent value, the U.S. and Canada are generally not cheap, especially for healthcare, hotels, dining, and attractions.
What’s Cool
Vast and varied landscapes from Canadian Rockies to the Grand Canyon and Caribbean beaches, iconic cities like New York, Toronto, and Mexico City full of art, food, and culture, rich Indigenous, European, and African heritage, world-class national parks and outdoor recreation, excellent road trip and train travel opportunities, strong music scenes from jazz and blues to country and hip-hop, vibrant street food and culinary diversity, efficient infrastructure and transport in major areas, friendly and multicultural populations, easy access to diverse climates and experiences, strong tradition of public festivals and events, incredible museums and historical sites, great shopping and entertainment.
What’s Not
Expensive healthcare for uninsured travelers, high cost of living in major cities, busy airports and long security lines, tourist scams and petty crime in some areas, language barriers in rural Mexico and parts of Quebec, large distances between major attractions, unpredictable weather (hurricanes, blizzards, heat waves), tipping culture complicating dining and services, traffic congestion in urban centers, strict visa and border crossing rules for some nationalities, political tensions and polarized social issues, expensive national park entry fees without passes.
Bermuda
Bermuda is a small island group in the North Atlantic Ocean, known for its pink sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Its subtropical climate offers warm, humid summers and mild winters. Key tourist sites include the historic Royal Naval Dockyard, the scenic Horseshoe Bay Beach, and the Crystal Caves, known for their impressive stalactites and underground pools.
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Hamilton: The capital and main port, offering pastel buildings, shops, restaurants, and a polished waterfront promenade.
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St. George’s: A UNESCO-listed historic town with 17th-century streets, forts, and colonial architecture reflecting Bermuda’s British heritage.
Canada
Canada is the second-largest country in the world, characterized by its vast and varied geography, from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Lakes. The climate ranges from arctic in the north to temperate in the south. Major tourist sites include the city of Toronto, the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park, the historic charm of Quebec City, and the natural beauty of Niagara Falls.
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Vancouver: A scenic coastal city surrounded by mountains and water, known for outdoor adventure, food culture, and access to nearby nature.
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Toronto: Canada’s largest and most multicultural city, with major museums, entertainment, and easy day trips to Niagara Falls.
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Québec City: A UNESCO-listed Old Town with cobbled streets, French-Canadian charm, and fortress-like architecture overlooking the St. Lawrence River.
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Montreal: A dynamic, bilingual city blending history, arts, festivals, and top-tier food, with a distinct European feel.
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Banff / Lake Louise: The most iconic part of the Canadian Rockies, offering turquoise lakes, glaciers, and world-class hiking and skiing.
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Whistler: A major mountain resort north of Vancouver, famous for skiing, biking, and alpine scenery year-round.
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Halifax: The gateway to Atlantic Canada, combining coastal history, seafood, and access to scenic drives like the Cabot Trail.
Greenland
Greenland is the world’s largest island, located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Its geography is dominated by ice sheets, fjords, and rugged coastline. The climate is arctic, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Key attractions include the Ilulissat Icefjord, the colorful capital city of Nuuk, and opportunities for whale watching and viewing the Northern Lights.
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Ilulissat: The country’s most visited town, famous for its massive icefjord (a UNESCO site), boat tours among icebergs, and northern lights.
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Nuuk: The small but growing capital, offering Inuit culture, museums, and fjord views, often used as a base for southern adventures.
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Kangerlussuaq: The main international gateway and jumping-off point for inland ice cap excursions and wildlife viewing.
United States
The United States features diverse geography, including mountains, deserts, forests, and coastal regions. The climate varies widely, from the tropical climate of Florida to the arid conditions of the Southwest and the temperate regions of the Northeast. Notable tourist destinations include the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, the bustling city of New York, and the iconic landmarks of Washington, D.C., such as the White House and Capitol Building.
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New York City: The country’s cultural and financial capital, packed with landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, Broadway, and the Statue of Liberty.
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San Francisco: A scenic west coast city known for the Golden Gate Bridge, steep hills, and nearby tech hubs and redwood forests.
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Las Vegas: A global entertainment and casino hotspot with massive resorts, shows, nightlife, and access to the Grand Canyon and other desert parks.
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Los Angeles: The home of Hollywood, beaches, theme parks, and creative culture, sprawling across Southern California.
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Washington, D.C.: The nation’s capital with iconic monuments, Smithsonian museums, and political landmarks like the Capitol and White House.
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Chicago: A Midwestern metropolis known for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, lakefront skyline, and jazz and blues heritage.
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New Orleans: A unique city blending French, African, and Caribbean cultures , famous for music, food, and festivals like Mardi Gras.
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Orlando: A theme park capital centered on Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, drawing families from around the globe.
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Miami: A vibrant coastal city with Cuban culture, nightlife, and nearby access to the Everglades and Florida Keys.
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Honolulu: Hawaii’s capital island, offering volcanic landscapes, surfing beaches, and a gateway to the state’s tropical adventure.
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Yellowstone National Park: America’s first and most iconic national park, with geysers, wildlife, and vast wilderness across three states.
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Grand Canyon National Park: One of the world’s most dramatic landscapes, often visited via road trip from Las Vegas or Phoenix.
Highlights
North America has something for everyone, from the glittering cities of New York and Los Angeles to the isolated wilderness of Alaska and northern Canada. Visitors are bound to find what they’re looking for in this vast continent, whether it’s a tropical beach vacation, a snowy ski trip, or almost anything in between.
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Grand Canyon: (USA) The Grand Canyon in Arizona is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and white-water rafting in the Colorado River.
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Niagara Falls: (Ontario and New York): These twin waterfalls are North America’s most famous cross-border tourist attraction. Visitors may view the falls from below on the famous Maid of the Mist boat tour or from several observation decks on both sides of the border. Niagara Falls is also a popular honeymoon destination featuring a casino and strip on the Canadian side.
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Yellowstone National Park: (USA) As the world’s first national park, Yellowstone is renowned for its geothermal features, including geysers like Old Faithful, colorful hot springs, and amazing wildlife.
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Banff National Park: (Canada) Located in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is famous for its stunning mountain landscapes, turquoise lakes like Lake Louise, and outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
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Walt Disney World Resort (Florida): The world’s largest and most visited recreational resort, Walt Disney World is especially popular with young families. There’s truly something for everyone at the four theme parks, two water parks, and countless other attractions. The Magic Kingdom and Epcot Center are the two oldest and most well known theme parks, but more recent attractions include Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Typhoon Lagoon, and Downtown Disney.
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New York City: (USA) New York City is a bustling metropolis known for its iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and its arts and cultural scene. Central Park is an 843 acre forest green oasis in the middle of Manhattan. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy the John Lennon memorial called Strawberry Fields, concerts on the Great Lawn, a zoo, performances in the Delacorte Theater, the horse-drawn carriage rides along 59th street, or simply strolling along the Mall promenade.
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Yosemite National Park: (USA) Located in California, Yosemite is famous for its stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoias, and hiking trails in areas like Half Dome and El Capitan. Wildlife here includes bison, bears, and wolves. The park offers numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring its geyser basins and waterfalls.
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Vancouver: (Canada) Surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is known for its scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and kayaking. The city’s neighborhoods, such as Gastown and Granville Island, are known for their unique shops, galleries, and dining options. Vancouver also boasts world-class attractions like Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge,
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San Francisco: (USA) Famous for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, steep streets, and cultural attractions, San Francisco offers destinations like Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown.
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Rocky Mountains: (Canada/USA) The Rocky Mountains span both Canada and the USA, offering stunning natural scenery, outdoor recreation, and wildlife viewing in parks such as Rocky Mountain National Park and Jasper National Park.
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Washington, D.C.: (USA) The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C., is home to numerous national monuments, museums, and landmarks, including the White House, Capitol Building, and the Smithsonian Institution.
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Chicago: (USA) Chicago, known as the Windy City, is famous for its impressive skyline, arts scene, deep-dish pizza, and attractions such as Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago.
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Alaska: (USA) Alaska offers stunning wilderness landscapes, including glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
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Las Vegas: (USA) Las Vegas, known as the entertainment capital of the world, attracts tourists with its dazzling array of casinos, world-class shows, and nightlife. The iconic Las Vegas Strip is lined with themed hotels, fine dining restaurants, and spectacular entertainment venues. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, from the Bellagio Fountains to the High Roller observation wheel,
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Black Hills National Forest (South Dakota): The 60ft granite Mount Rushmore monument to George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt is one of America’s most famous symbols. It’s also the most popular tourist attraction in this massive forest on the South Dakota/Wyoming border. Nearby campgrounds, sport fishing reservoirs, and 450 trail miles, including an unforgettable hike to the summit of Harney Peak, add to the experience.
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French quarter (New Orleans): New Orleans’ historic French quarter suffered only minor damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and its architecture remains much the same as when it was originally designed in 1722. Visitors always find something new to discover no matter how often they explore this neighborhood of cafés, galleries, restaurants, and nightclubs.
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Bryce Canyon National Park: (USA) Located in Utah, Bryce Canyon is famous for its unique rock formations called hoodoos, which create a surreal landscape of red, orange, and white spires.
Top Cities
- New York City: (USA) Known for its iconic skyline, cultural scene, and landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
- Los Angeles: (USA) Home to Hollywood, beautiful beaches, and world-renowned entertainment industry.
- Chicago: (USA) Famous for its impressive architecture, deep-dish pizza, and arts and music scene.
- Toronto: (Canada) Canada’s largest city, known for its multicultural population and the iconic CN Tower.
- San Francisco: (USA) Renowned for the Golden Gate Bridge, steep hills, and eclectic neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury.
- Vancouver: (Canada) Offers stunning natural beauty with mountains and ocean, along with a thriving cultural scene.
- Washington, D.C.: (USA) The capital city, known for its national monuments, museums, and politics.
- Boston: (USA) Rich in history and education, home to prestigious universities and historical landmarks along the Freedom Trail.
- Miami: (USA) Known for its beautiful beaches, incredible nightlife, and Latin American cultural influences.
- Seattle: (USA) Famous for the Space Needle, coffee culture, and its tech industry.
- Montreal: (Canada) A city with a great cultural scene, known for its festivals, historic architecture, and French influence.
- Atlanta: (USA) A major cultural and economic hub of the South, known for its history, diversity, and the world’s busiest airport.
- Las Vegas: (USA) The entertainment capital known for its casinos, nightlife (vegas baby!), and spectacular shows.
- Philadelphia: (USA) Rich in American history, home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- Orlando: (USA) Famous for its world-class theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
Islands & Beaches
- Maui: (Hawaii, USA) Known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and the scenic Hana Highway.
- Oahu: (Hawaii, USA) Famous for Waikiki Beach, the historic Pearl Harbor, and Honolulu nightlife.
- Kauai: (Hawaii, USA) Nicknamed the “Garden Island” for its verdant scenery and dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast.
- Big Island: (Hawaii, USA) Home to diverse climates, active volcanoes, and beautiful black sand beaches.
- Honolulu: (Hawaii, USA) Renowned for its iconic Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head crater and luaus.
- Key West: (Florida, USA) The southernmost point of the continental US, known for its coral reefs and nightlife.
- Amelia Island: (Florida, USA) Offers beautiful beaches, historic sites, and luxury resorts.
- Sanibel Island: (Florida, USA) Famous for its shell-covered beaches and laid-back atmosphere.
- Nantucket: (Massachusetts, USA) A charming island known for its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and beautiful beaches.
- Martha’s Vineyard: (Massachusetts, USA) Popular for its picturesque landscapes, upscale resorts, and summer culture.
- Cape Cod: (Massachusetts, USA) Known for its scenic beaches, quaint towns, and rich maritime history.
- Prince Edward Island: (Canada) Offers red sand beaches, rolling green hills, and charming coastal towns.
- Vancouver Island: (Canada) Home to beautiful beaches, old-growth forests, and the cool city of Victoria.
- Bermuda: Famous for its pink sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and British colonial charm.
- South Beach: (Miami, Florida, USA) Renowned for its white sand, Art Deco architecture, and lively nightlife.
- Wailea Beach: (Maui, Hawaii, USA) Known for its luxurious resorts, clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
- Malibu: (California, USA) Offers famous surfing beaches, scenic coastal views, and celebrity homes.
- Cannon Beach: (Oregon, USA) Known for its iconic Haystack Rock and wide, sandy shores.
- Outer Banks: (North Carolina, USA) Famous for its long stretches of beach, historic lighthouses, and wild horses.
National Parks
- Yellowstone National Park: (USA) The world’s first national park, famous for its geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.
- Banff National Park, Canada: Known for its stunning mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and outdoor recreational activities.
- Grand Canyon National Park: (USA) Features the iconic and breathtaking Grand Canyon with its immense size and amazing geography.
- Yosemite National Park: (USA) Renowned for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.
- Glacier National Park: (USA) Known for its rugged mountains, glaciers, and scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: (USA) Offers majestic mountain views, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife.
- Jasper National Park: (Canada) Known for its expansive wilderness, stunning mountain views, and abundant wildlife.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: (USA) Famous for its mist-covered mountains, diverse plant and animal life, and historic cabins.
- Zion National Park: (USA) Features towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and scenic hiking trails.
- Acadia National Park: (USA) Offers rugged coastline, beautiful mountain vistas, and scenic ocean views.
- Olympic National Park: (USA) Known for its diverse ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, alpine peaks, and rugged coastline.
- Everglades National Park: (USA) The largest subtropical wilderness in the US, known for its unique ecosystem and unique wildlife.
- Denali National Park: (USA) Home to North America’s highest peak, Denali, and abundant wildlife.
- Jasper National Park: (Canada) Known for its rugged wilderness, mountain scenery, and abundant wildlife.
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: (USA) Famous for their giant sequoia trees, deep canyons, and high mountain peaks.
- Arches National Park: (USA) Features over 2,000 natural stone arches and stunning red rock landscapes.
- Bryce Canyon National Park: (USA) Known for its unique hoodoo rock formations and dramatic vistas.
- Mount Rainier National Park: (USA) Features the iconic Mount Rainier, alpine meadows, and ancient forests.
- Waterton Lakes National Park: (Canada) Offers stunning mountain scenery, beautiful lakes, and diverse wildlife.
- Point Reyes National Seashore: (USA) Known for its scenic coastal cliffs, abundant marine life, and picturesque lighthouse.
World Heritage
- Yellowstone National Park: (USA) The world’s first national park, renowned for its geothermal features and diverse wildlife.
- Grand Canyon National Park: (USA) Famous for its immense size and colorful, intricate landscapes.
- Statue of Liberty: (USA) Iconic symbol of freedom and democracy located in New York Harbor.
- Everglades National Park: (USA) Noted for its unique subtropical wilderness and rich biodiversity.
- Mammoth Cave National Park: (USA) The world’s longest known cave system, with vast chambers and complex labyrinths.
- Mesa Verde National Park: (USA) Preserves ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and archaeological sites.
- Independence Hall: (USA) Historic site where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed.
- Yosemite National Park: (USA) Known for its dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees.
- Redwood National and State Parks: (USA) Protects the tallest trees on Earth, the majestic coastal redwoods.
- Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park: (Canada/USA) A cross-border park featuring stunning mountain landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
- Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks: (Canada) Includes Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho National Parks, known for their majestic mountain scenery.
- Gros Morne National Park: (Canada) Showcases the geological history of the Earth’s evolution with its dramatic cliffs and fjords.
- Old Town Lunenburg: (Canada) A well-preserved example of a British colonial settlement.
- SGang Gwaay: (Canada) Preserves the remains of a Haida village with its totem poles and longhouses.
- Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek (Canada/USA) Encompasses vast wilderness areas with glaciers and high mountains.
- L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site: (Canada) The site of an 11th-century Norse settlement.
- Historic District of Old Québec: (Canada) A well-preserved fortified colonial city.
- Rideau Canal: (Canada) A historic waterway connecting Ottawa to Lake Ontario.
- Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump: (Canada) An archaeological site illustrating Indigenous hunting practices.
- Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument: (USA) A vast marine protected area in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, known for its unique marine life and cultural significance.
North America has a greater variety of climates than any other continent. Bermuda and the southern US enjoy summerlike weather year-round, while a massive permanent icecap prevents the temperature from rising above 0°C in Greenland’s interior.
Southern Canada and the northern US have the continent’s most varied temperatures. These regions generally have cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The southwestern US has a semiarid desert climate, while the southeastern part of the country is more humid and vulnerable to hurricanes.
November to February: This is the time of year when northern tourists travel south to escape the long, cold winters. Many northerners even choose to temporarily live in the south during winter. Florida, California, and Bermuda are the most popular vacation destinations during this time of year. Most tourist attractions open in the colder parts of the continent are geared towards skiing, tobogganing, and other winter sports.
March to June: Spring arrives with the most unpredictable weather of the year in Canada and the northern US. Although temperatures steadily increase during this time of year, the weather can still be quite cool, especially at night and during early spring.
July to October: July and August are North America’s most common travel months, since this is the warmest time of year and most children are on summer vacation from school. During September and October, temperature rapidly decline and tourist attractions in the northern part of the continent close for the winter although the weather is usually still pleasant.
Greenland, Alaska, and northern Canada: The temperature only rises above 0°C for a short period of time during the summer in these vast Arctic regions. These northernmost regions are shrouded in darkness for 24 hours during the coldest parts of the long winter, but this is balanced by 24 hours of sunlight during the warmest part of summer.
Southern Canada and northern US: Central North America generally experiences cold winters and hot, sometimes humid summers. Spring and fall are usually pleasant, but warm clothes are recommended at night when temperatures can rapidly decline. Mountain shelter and warm Pacific ocean currents provide the west coast with milder, rainier winters than the rest of North America. Southern British Columbia is Canada’s mildest region.
Southern US and Bermuda: Constant warm weather makes southern North America the most popular winter vacation destination for northern tourists seeking an escape from the cold winters. The humid weather of southeastern states such as Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas transforms into the drier, arid climate of Nevada, California, and Arizona while traveling westward. Temperatures can drop rapidly in southwestern desert regions. The southeastern hurricane season occurs between June and November, while California is vulnerable to earthquakes.
From centuries-old historic landmarks for history buffs to elaborate and modern theme parks such as Walt Disney World for families with young children, to vast unspoiled wilderness parks for the most adventurous visitors searching for a place to truly get away from it all, North America has something to offer for everyone.
Most visitors to North America, especially those from outside the continent, arrive by air. Passengers flying to the eastern US usually land in Boston, New York City, Miami, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, or Washington, DC, and Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles are the busiest American west coast airports. Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver are Canada’s biggest and busiest airports. All of these major centers offer flights to smaller airports located throughout North America.
Bermuda International Airport offers daily flights from Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Newark, New York, Philadelphia, Toronto and Washington, DC. Zoom Airways and British Airways both offer flights to Bermuda from London Gatwick Airport to Bermuda. An air ticket to Bermuda costs substantially more than a ticket to most other Caribbean destinations because Bermuda International Airport has the world’s highest airline landing/parking fee.
The Canadian east coast cities of St John’s, Halifax, Montreal, Sydney, and Moncton offer regular flights to St Pierre and Miquelon via Air Saint-Pierre. Visitors to Greenland must fly from Copenhagen, Denmark or Reykjavik, Iceland since there are no direct flights to the territory from North America.
The busiest and most expensive times to fly are the Christmas holidays of December and the summer months of July and August, although the busiest travel holiday of all is the American Thanksgiving holiday during the fourth Thursday of November.
From the US: Americans must provide a passport or other proof of citizenship before entering Canada. A visa is required for Americans who plan to stay longer than 180 days. Children under 18 years traveling alone must provide a letter from his or her parent or guardian authorizing the trip. Visitors with criminal records may be refused entry into Canada.
From Canada: Canadian visitors entering the US by air must present a passport or secure document, or other photo identification if arriving by land or sea. Canada-US border wait times have increased dramatically since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
From the UK: London’s Heathrow Airport offers regular flights to Toronto while both Heathrow and Gatwick offer regular flights to Vancouver. Both London airports offer flights to all major American cities. Visitors to the US must register their trip with the American government 72 hours in advance. British visitors to Canada must prove they are in good health, law-abiding, and able to support themselves during their stay. Medical examinations may be required for visitors planning to stay longer than six months.
From Australia and New Zealand: most visitors from Australia and New Zealand do not need a visa when visiting Canada or the US for more than 90 days. Air Canada offers flights from Sydney to Toronto, Vancouver, and Los Angeles. US Airways offers flights from Sydney to Los Angeles and San Francisco. American Airlines offers direct flights from Melbourne to Los Angeles. Air New Zealand offers regular flights between Auckland and Vancouver, as well as to most major American cities.
From South Africa: South African visitors to North America must travel on short stay visas valid for up to six months. Cape Town International Airport and Johannesburg International Airport offer regular flights to New York, Atlanta, and Washington, DC.
From the tropical climates of Bermuda and the southern US to the Arctic adventures of Alaska, Greenland, and northern Canada, North America offers something for everyone. North America may be a massive and diverse region, but most of the continent can easily be explored by air, train, or open highway.
Car: The American Interstate network is the world’s largest highway system. Its freeways are easily accessible, well-marked, and travel through virtually every major continental US city. Motorists may also travel one of the two-lane numbered routes dating to before the Interstates were built for a more scenic, leisurely journey.
The Trans-Canada Highway is Canada’s primary road network. Alternating between four-lane and two-lane roads, it connects Canada’s easternmost city of St John’s, Newfoundland to its westernmost city of Victoria, British Columbia, and travels through all 10 Canadian provinces.
The Trans-Canada does not travel through southern Ontario or the country’s largest city of Toronto, which has its own well-established highway network, including Highway 401, Canada’s largest and busiest freeway. It also does not travel through Canada’s three northern territories, which depend heavily on air travel because of the region’s harsh, long winters and large distances between small, isolated communities.
Air: Air travel is the easiest and quickest way to travel across this vast continent and most areas are well served by both international and budget airlines.
Train: Rail travel looks set to increase in popularity because of rapidly increasing gas prices. VIA Rail in Canada and Amtrak in the US are North America’s largest rail providers, and although the continent has no high-speed rail lines, a cross-country rail journey remains a unique and scenic experience.
There are no railways and very few roads in the vast northern Danish province of Greenland, where flying, boating, and dog sledding are the primary means of transportation. All of Greenland’s towns are small enough to be easily explored on bicycle or on foot.
The French island territories of St Pierre and Miquelon also have few roads and no railway service. The only way to reach the islands - via car or bus – requires a long journey across the nearby Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador to the only ferry service in the town of Fortune, which doesn’t carry vehicles. Air Saint-Pierre, the local airline, offers several flights between the islands and five eastern Canadian cities.
Travelers to the British overseas island territory of Bermuda, located east of North Carolina, usually arrive by air at Bermuda International Airport or by cruise ship. Bermuda has no rental car service so tourists must use public transportation or rent scooters for further exploration.
From luxury five-star hotels to intimate guest houses, North American visitors have a wide variety of accommodations available wherever they go. Accommodations are almost always available, except perhaps during the peak tourist seasons of summer and Christmas vacation, and many places offer discounts during the off-season.
Most accommodations in Greenland and Bermuda are expensive luxury hotels, while the most affordable accommodations in Bermuda are privately-run guesthouses or bed and breakfasts. Accommodations in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon are largely privately run and offer most basic amenities.
Hotels
Travelers on a larger budget may treat themselves to a luxury room in one of the hotels found in North America’s bigger cities. The continent’s most affordable hotel chains are Days Inn, Best Western, and Microtel.
Motels
Found along every major North American highway, motels are the most popular and affordable accommodations for motorists. Motels are generally inexpensive, but most are kept very clean and include telephones, cable TV, and other basic amenities. Reservations are usually not required since most of these motels are geared towards travelers on long road trips. Motel 6 and Super 8 Motels are North America’s two most well-known budget motel chains.
Camping
Camping is especially popular in rural areas. Most national, state, and provincial park campgrounds are well-run and offer most major amenities. North America also has several privately-run campgrounds.
Hostels
Youth hostels can be found in most major cities, have no age limit, and are the cheapest option for budget travelers.
B&B
At bed and breakfasts visitors may find a more intimate lodging experience at one of the independently-run bed and breakfast locations most commonly found on North America’s east and west coasts. Most bed and breakfasts are converted houses owned by the operators, who provide bedroom suites, breakfasts, and friendly local hospitality. Reservations are usually required since most bed and breakfasts are small, independent businesses.
Extended Stay
Business or extended-stay hotels are becoming popular among travelers searching for a home away from home during a long-term visit to a particular city. These accommodations are generally more expensive than motels, but cheaper than full-scale hotels. Many extended-stay hotels offer private kitchens, continental breakfasts, and social events. Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inns, and Holiday Inn Express are among the most well-known extended-stay hotel chains.
North America is one of the world’s safest vacation destinations. Vaccination against tetanus is recommended for visitors from outside the continent. Rabies is the most serious threat, but it is relatively rare. Only visitors planning to remain in Canada or the US for longer than six months may be required to undergo a medical examination. HIV positive visitors must obtain a waiver of inadmissibility from the US Embassy before entering the US.
Visitors are advised to protect themselves against heatstroke during high temperatures and frostbite during low winter temperatures, especially if they are not accustomed to this type of weather.
Non-prescription drugs can be easily purchased although many drugs sold over the counter in other countries require a prescription in the US. Most North American hospitals provide excellent care although private insurance is essential for visitors from outside Canada and the US since hospital charges for foreign tourists are very high. A personal first-aid kit is also recommended for visitors to more remote areas, especially in the far north. Dial 911 for emergencies.
Tap water is safe to drink throughout North America, and a variety of eateries can be found from five-star restaurants to fast food and everything in between.
Scams & Petty Crime
Although violent crime against foreigners is rare in North America, taking common sense safety precautions is still highly recommended, especially in large cities. Avoiding high crime areas, keeping money and valuables in a safe place, abstaining from drugs and alcohol, and generally blending in are the best ways to avoid becoming a crime victim in North America.
Political Unrest
North America is a peaceful continent with no major regional conflicts, although the threat of terrorism has risen in the US after the September 11, 2001 attacks on New York City and Washington, DC.
Diseases
It is very rare for visitors to catch serious diseases in North America, but hepatitis B and rabies vaccinations are recommended. Lyme disease and West Nile fever are becoming more common, especially in the northeast, Midwest, and Pacific northwest. Wearing insect repellent and keeping skin covered in areas with fleas and ticks are the best ways to prevent contracting these two diseases. Those who take prescription medicine must be sure to keep them in carry-on luggage and bring enough to last throughout their stay.
Nature’s Fury
Hurricane season in the southern US and Bermuda takes place between June and November, while North America’s west coast is vulnerable to earthquakes. Tornadoes primarily occur in the center of the continent between May and September. Blizzards, ice storms, and harsh winters are common in the northern part of the continent, especially far northern Alaska, Greenland, and northern Canada.
Sexual Harrassment
Women are generally safe while traveling in North America although safety precautions such as avoiding high crime areas, not openly displaying money or other valuables, avoiding walking alone at night, and abstaining from drugs and alcohol should be followed.
Students wishing to study full-time at an American or Canadian university can apply directly to the school they wish to attend or through an exchange program with the university they attend in their home country. Foreign students cannot student loans or grants, but can receive financial aid from their home country, private scholarships or North American bank loans.
Visitors are welcome to study short courses at one of the numerous community colleges or open universities in the US or Canada, as long as they have a tourist visa, the equivalent of a high school diploma, and the required tuition payment.
Visitors wishing to work in the US are recommended to make arrangements long before entering the country. Some full-time students may apply for a J1 Exchange Visitor visa allowing paid au pair work or almost any other summer work for up to four months.
A limited number of skilled employees such as nurses, mathematic teachers, and computer scientists may qualify for an H-1B visa allowing them to work in the US. An American employer must file a petition on behalf of the applicant before this visa can be obtained.
Visa applications do not usually require a lawyer or third party, so be wary of the numerous con artists who prey on the many visitors seeking work in the US. Please check the official websites of the US Department of State and Citizenship and Immigration Services for more information on the various US work visas.
Visitors wishing to work in Canada may be most successful in the westernmost provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, which are experiencing an oil boom and a constant labor shortage. Workers may qualify for a skilled labor visa allowing them to work in Canada upon securing employment from their home country.
Saint-Pierre and Miquelon has become a popular destination for English-speaking Canadians to study and immerse themselves in the French language and culture at the FrancoForum, a teaching facility operated by the local government. One of the FrancoForum’s best known French immersion programs is Le Programme Frecker, offered to students at Memorial University in St. John’s, Newfoundland.
It is difficult for visitors to work in Bermuda because of the territory’s successful laws and policies encouraging the training and hiring of native-born Bermudians, who have been denied professional opportunities in favor of foreign workers in the past.