Consisting of 50 states and 2 territories, the United States is one of the most diverse countries in the world. No matter if you’re looking for family fun, beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, or exhilarating hiking experiences, there’s a little something for everyone. With 18 states and 1 territory under my belt, I can promise that you’ll find something charming in every place you go. So rent a car and take a road trip, or book that hotel and enjoy the views. Either way, get ready to explore the United States and soak in all that it has to offer—you won’t be disappointed!
The United States At A Glance
LANGUAGE
English & Spanish
DOCUMENTATION
Passport & Visa (Non-US)
CURRENCY
US Dollar (USD) & Visa/ Mastercard
CONNECTIVITY
US Cellphone Carriers & US outlets (120V)
WHEN TO VISIT
Year-Round
DRINKING AGE
21 Years Old
WEATHER
Varies Depending On Area/Region
GETTING AROUND
Bus, Car Rental, Taxi & Ridesharing
Know Before You Go
Although the United States doesn’t have an “official” language, English is most commonly spoken among residents. Spanish comes in as a close second, depending on the area you’re visiting. However, many locals are not bilingual, so you may run into some challenges with everyday activities. Thankfully, most people have Google Translate, which can be helpful (most of the time)!
United States citizens and permanent residents can fly to Puerto Rico domestically—meaning no passport or visa needed! However, Real ID laws went into effect in May 2025, so you’ll want to double-check that your ID meets the requirements to prevent yourself from the headache at the airport.
If you’re from a country outside of the United States, you’ll need to follow the usual laws of US entry and customs. This includes having a valid passport (for at least 6 months) and, possibly, a visa, depending on your specific country of origin. Several countries have an ESTA agreement with the United States, which allows tourists to explore Puerto Rico for up to 90 days without a visa.
The official currency used throughout the United States is the US Dollar (USD), and ATM machines are widely available. Additionally, businesses across the country accept various credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, and AmEx.
The most popular cellphone providers in the United States are Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile, and AT&T. Many of these mainstream providers offer plans for international travelers to the US and have stores that can be found in most locations. Another practical option is WIFI. Most accommodations, cafes, restaurants, and other public spaces offer WIFI, so visitors should have no issues connecting.
The electrical outlets in the United States are 120V. Most international travelers will need to purchase a special charger or adapter. Additionally, international travelers should consider purchasing an eSIM.
It’s difficult to say when the best time to travel to the United States is due to its sheer size and diversity. Each region and state in the country gives a different experience, depending on when you decide to visit. Generally speaking, prices for flights and accommodations tend to skyrocket during Spring Break, the holidays, and the summertime. However, any time you decide to explore the United States, you’ll be sure to have a unique and fulfilling experience.
Overall, many countries rank the United States as an area with normal safety expectations. However, while most tourist trips are usually trouble-free, visitors should still remain vigilant and use common sense when exploring. Gun violence, protests, demonstrations, and high crime areas are all concerns to be aware of before planning your trip. Always research neighborhoods or cities before booking, keep your eye on the news, and be aware of your surroundings.
Generally speaking, renting a car is a necessity when planning a trip to the US. Public transportation is almost nonexistent, especially when you’re looking to explore the less-traveled areas. It also gives you the opportunity to plan a road trip, which is arguably one of the best ways to experience the country.
However, if you plan to stay in the larger cities or tourist areas (Philadelphia, New York, Los Angeles, Miami, etc.), I advise against renting a car due to the high costs. Not only will you need to pay for the car rental and the insurance, but you’ll also be responsible for purchasing parking in a garage or finding a spot on the street. Trust me, don’t do it. Instead, enjoy walking through the city, check out local public transportation, or use popular rideshare options (Uber, Lyft).
The United States requires that individuals be 21 years old to purchase alcohol or recreational cannabis (legal in some states), enter clubs, bars, and casinos, and purchase tobacco products. You also need to be 21 years old to book many hotels and rentals. Always make sure you read the fine print beforehand, and when in doubt, call and ask.