American Crossing, Travel Tips for East and West Coasts

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The United States is a country with a rich culture and diverse natural landscapes that attracts travelers from all over the globe. For budget travelers, it is vital to know some practical travel tips and advice. This article will provide you with tips on what to expect when traveling to the U.S., recommended budget hotels and cuisine, weather conditions, transportation options, and safety precautions, as well as how to use the eSIM package from PhoneSIMGo eSIM packages to ensure you stay connected to high-speed internet while traveling in the US.

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Travel Essentials

Before traveling to the United States, make sure you understand the following travel essentials:

1. eSIM network in the US

Use the eSIM network from PhoneSIMGo. The eSIM package from PhoneSIMGo is the best choice for traveling in the United States. Designed for travelers in the United States, this package offers high-speed internet service and coverage in remote areas, ensuring you can enjoy the internet wherever you go. Whether you're in a city center or a remote village, you'll always be able to stay in touch with friends and family and share your travel experiences. PhoneSIMGo offers 7/24-hour online live customer service, so you can travel worry-free and say goodbye to expensive roaming charges.

2. Important Documents

Make sure you keep important documents such as your passport, visas and travel insurance with you and make copies in advance in case you need them. Store these documents in a safe place and make sure you have electronic backups.

3. Appropriate clothing

Prepare appropriate clothing for the time of year you will be traveling. heavy coats, scarves, and gloves are needed for the cooler temperatures in most parts of the U.S. in December and January, especially in the north.

4. Medicine

Bring your usual medicines, such as cold medicine, painkillers, and personal prescription medicines, to deal with any minor illnesses during your trip.

5. Travel guides and maps

Download some travel guides and offline maps so that you can find your way around and places to visit even if you don't have internet access.

6. Suitable electronic devices

Make sure your cell phone, camera, and other electronic devices are fully charged, and bring chargers and mobile power sources so you can take and share photos of your trip whenever you want.

7. Small amount of cash

Although most places in the U.S. accept credit cards, it's still a good idea to carry some petty cash in case of emergency.

8. Food and water

When traveling long distances, it is wise to carry some light snacks and water, especially when traveling to remote areas.

9. Travel itinerary

Plan your travel itinerary in advance, including sights, activities and restaurants to ensure you make the most of your time.

10. Emergency Contacts

Make a note of local emergency contact numbers, such as police, fire, hospitals, etc., in case of emergency.

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Affordable Hotel Recommendations

Choosing affordable accommodations is an important part of controlling your budget when traveling in the United States. Here are 10 recommended hotels and hostels for budget travelers:

  1. Motel 6 A national chain that offers basic lodging services at affordable prices.

  2. Super 8 by Wyndham Good for families traveling, usually includes breakfast, good value for money.

  3. Days Inn Offers clean and comfortable accommodations with free Wi-Fi and breakfast at many locations.

  4. Red Roof Inn Ideal for budget travelers, offering spacious rooms and no pet fee options.

  5. La Quinta Inn & Suites Offers comfortable accommodations with breakfast and Wi-Fi included for families.

  6. Quality Inn Offers accommodations with good infrastructure for travelers on a budget.

  7. Travelodge With locations in many cities, it offers affordable accommodation options.

  8. Hostel International Offers hostels for backpackers, suitable for young and social travelers.

  9. Airbnb There are many budget housing options throughout the United States to experience the local way of living.

  10. Comfort Inn Offers comfortable accommodations, often including breakfast, suitable for families and business travelers.

Local Food Recommendations in the United States

The United States has a rich and diverse food culture, and here are 10 must-try local dishes you should try on your trip:

  1. Hamburger (Hamburger) The most representative fast food in the United States, a variety of different flavors.

  2. Hot Dog Hot Dog Classic street food, especially popular at sporting events and summer barbecues.

  3. Pizza New York style and Chicago deep-dish pizzas in particular have a unique flavor.

  4. BBQ (barbecue) Especially popular in the South, BBQ is mouth-watering in a variety of flavors.

  5. Apple Pie A classic American dessert that's even better with vanilla ice cream.

  6. Burrito A combination of Mexican and American flavors with a rich filling that brings back memories.

  7. Seafood Platter The fresh seafood platter is not to be missed, especially in coastal cities.

  8. Milkshake The delicious milkshake is a classic American dessert, especially loved by young people.

  9. Pancakes A popular choice for breakfast and even more delicious with maple syrup or fruit.

  10. Texas Beef The unique grilling method makes the beef tender and representative of Texas cuisine.

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Weather in the United States in December and January

December and January are winter months in the United States, and temperatures vary by region:

  • NORTH: such as New York, Chicago, and Boston, where temperatures are generally cooler and may drop below freezing, with frequent snowfall.
  • South: such as Florida and California, where temperatures are relatively warm, with daytime temperatures reaching 20°C or more, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
  • Western: such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, where temperatures are moderate and humidity is low for traveling.

Transportation options

Choosing the right means of transportation is crucial when traveling in the United States:

1. Renting a car

Self-driving is the best way to explore the USA, offering freedom and flexibility in scheduling.

2. Public Transportation

In big cities, buses, subways and light rail are affordable ways to get around.

3. Shared Transportation

Shared rides, such as Uber and Lyft, are convenient for short trips.

4. Trains

Amtrak offers interstate train service, which is a great way to enjoy the scenery along the way.

5. Bicycle

Bicycle rental services are common in some cities and are good for short trips.

Personal Safety Precautions

When traveling in the United States, it is important to ensure your personal safety. Here are 10 personal safety precautions:

  1. Stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in unfamiliar areas.

  2. Avoid traveling alone at night Try to avoid traveling alone in unfamiliar places, especially at night.

  3. Keep your belongings safe Do not leave valuables in plain sight and use anti-theft backpacks.

  4. Use safe means of transportation Choose a reliable cab or shared mobility service.

  5. Know the emergency contact numbers Write down local emergency contact numbers in case of emergency.

  6. Keep your cell phone free Make sure your cell phone is fully charged and always connected.

  7. Avoid displays of wealth Try to keep a low profile in public and avoid displaying valuables.

  8. Choose safe accommodation Choose a reputable hotel or hostel to ensure safety.

  9. Keep in touch with family members Report your whereabouts to your family regularly, especially in remote areas.

  10. Understand the local culture and laws Familiarize yourself with local culture and customs as well as laws and regulations to avoid unnecessary trouble.

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Overview of American Culture

The United States is a multicultural country, composed mainly of people of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Here are some characteristics about American culture:

  • Pluralism: The United States is a country of immigrants where various cultures mingle to form a unique cultural atmosphere.
  • Freedom and Equality: American culture emphasizes individual freedom, equal rights, and the spirit of democracy.
  • Innovation and Creativity: The United States has a strong capacity for innovation in the fields of science and technology, the arts, and business.
  • Sports Culture: Sports play an important role in American culture, especially American soccer, basketball, and baseball.
  • Holiday Celebrations: Holidays such as Thanksgiving, Independence Day, and Christmas reflect American history and culture.

Must-Have APP Recommendations

When traveling to the United States, here are some must-have APPs to help you better plan and enjoy your trip:

  1. Google Maps A must-have tool for navigating and finding information on restaurants, attractions and more.

  2. Uber/Lyft Convenient shared travel service for quick car hailing.

  3. Yelp Find reviews and recommendations for restaurants, stores, and services.

  4. TripAdvisor See reviews of attractions and activities to help with travel planning.

  5. Airbnb Book affordable lodging options.

  6. Weather App Real-time weather forecasts to help you organize your travel plans.

  7. Currency Converter Convenient for currency conversion and price comparison.

  8. Translation App Helps you communicate with locals, especially if you don't speak the language.

  9. Travel Itinerary Apps Apps for managing and coordinating your travel plans for easy access at any time.

  10. Emergency Apps Provides information on emergency contacts and local services to keep you safe.

When traveling in the U.S., here are 10 small items that are great to take with you to ensure a smoother trip:

  1. Portable chargers Ensure that your electronic devices are always charged and easy to use at any time.

  2. Collapsible Shopping Bag Convenient to use while shopping and reduce the waste of plastic bags.

  3. Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially when traveling long distances.

  4. Travel Toiletries Bag Convenient for organizing personal toiletries and keeping tidy.

  5. First Aid Kit Carry basic first aid medicines in case of emergency.

  6. Earphones Convenient for enjoying music or watching videos while traveling.

  7. Portable Wi-Fi device Guarantee internet connection anytime, anywhere, especially in remote areas.

  8. Waterproof bag Protect your electronic devices and important documents from flooding.

  9. Compact Flashlight Provides illumination and safety when traveling at night or in remote areas.

  10. Travel Diary Record the bits and pieces of your trip to make your memories even better.

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Recommendations for low-cost attractions and activities

There are many low-cost attractions and activities for budget travelers in the United States:

  1. Central Park (New York) Free and open city park for walks and picnics.

  2. Washington D.C. Monument (Washington D.C.) Free to visit national monument to learn about American history.

  3. Golden Gate Park (San Francisco) Expansive park for hiking and biking, free admission.

  4. Statue of Liberty (New York) Take a boat trip to see the spectacular Statue of Liberty.

  5. Griffith Observatory Los Angeles (Los Angeles) Free and open to the public, the observatory offers excellent views of the city.

  6. National Gallery of Art (Washington, D.C.) Free and open to the public, the gallery showcases world-famous works of art.

  7. Chicago Beach (Chicago) Free city beach for summer fun.

  8. Seattle Public Library (Seattle) Modern architecture, free and open for enjoyment and reading.

  9. San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf (San Francisco) A lively wharf area for walking and enjoying the ocean view.

  10. Boston Park (Boston) One of the oldest parks in the U.S. Free admission for picnics and walks.

Emergency Contacts for Problems

When traveling in the United States, call the following emergency contact numbers in case of problems:

  • Emergency help: 911 (police, fire, EMS)
  • Non-emergency police services: 311
  • National Poison Control Center: 1-800-222-1222
  • U.S. Citizen Services: 1-888-407-4747
  • U.S. Travel Police: 1-800-368-5647
  • Local hospitals: can be found on Google Maps

Notes on how to travel

1. Free Travel

  • Flexibility: Free travel offers maximum flexibility, but you need to plan your trip in advance.
  • Safety issues: Pay attention to personal safety and avoid traveling alone at night.

2. Group Tours

  • Itinerary: Group tours offer a complete itinerary, but activity time may be limited.
  • Group Safety: Take care of your personal belongings during group activities.

3. Self-drive tours

  • Traffic rules: Familiarize yourself with the traffic rules and driving habits in the United States.
  • Navigation equipment: Use GPS or cell phone navigation to ensure smooth arrival at your destination.

4. Backpacking

  • Light Luggage: Minimize your luggage and choose a lightweight backpack and essentials.
  • Accommodation Options: Choose youth hostels or backpackers' hostels which are affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to the United States

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When preparing for a trip, many people will encounter the following common questions:

  1. How long does it take to apply for a visa? It usually takes a few weeks and it is recommended to apply in advance.

  2. How do I choose the right travel insurance? Choose an insurance policy with a wide coverage according to your personal needs.

  3. What are the plugs and voltages in the United States? The United States uses A/B type plugs and the voltage is 120V.

  4. Do I need to book attraction tickets in advance? If it is a popular attraction, it is recommended to book in advance to avoid queuing.

  5. Is public transportation in the U.S. convenient? Public transportation is more convenient in big cities, but may not be good enough in small cities.

  6. How is the dining culture in the U.S.? The dining culture is diverse, with a variety of fast food, family restaurants, and upscale restaurants.

  7. How do you handle tipping? Restaurants usually require a 15%-20% tip, and other services are also tipped appropriately.

  8. Is telecommunication service cheap in the United States? Use PhoneSIMGo, you can avoid high roaming charges and enjoy affordable internet services.

  9. How do I cope with cultural differences? Learn about local customs in advance and respect other people's cultures.

  10. What is the tax refund policy in the U.S.? Some states offer tax rebates to tourists on purchases, but you need to know the local regulations.

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Conclusion

The United States is a fascinating destination, and proper travel planning and preparation will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. By knowing about affordable hotels, food recommendations, weather conditions, transportation options, and safety precautions, you will be able to make the most of your time in the United States. Remember to use PhoneSIMGo eSIM package to ensure a hassle-free internet connection to make your trip perfect. We hope you make great memories of your trip to the USA!