Getting an opportunity to visit USA from work was a blessing in disguise. It gave me a chance to see the places which I always wanted to visit. I got 8 weekends to spend there and I made the best of this time. I visited over 7 cities and explored different forms of transportation. Here, I share with you what I have learnt in this short visit.

[toggle title=”How to get the Tourist Visa?”]

The tourist Visa for USA is also known as B2 Visa. The process for the same is a little lengthy. I was lucky as the company took care of everything. For all who wish to apply here is the process to be followed:

• Get a digital photograph
• Complete visitor visa application form DS160
• Pay the visitor visa application fee
• Take appointment for visa interview
• Go for visa interview at designated US consulate

[/toggle]

[toggle title=”How to Reach?”]

United States is well-connected from all countries. There are many carriers who take passengers from India to US. If feasible you can take a direct flight which can take around 20 hours. A break journey is also not a bad idea but long lay over times can be very tiresome.

[/toggle]

[toggle title=”How to get around?”]

USA has a mix of transport system. In cities like New York, Boston, etc. the public transport is well-connected. You can take a subway or bus to any place you wish to travel. On the other hand in other places the public transport is not so good. You can hire on-call cabs to move around.
There are places near highways where you are not allowed to walk and having a car becomes mandatory. Renting a car is easier. Many agencies like Avis, Budget, ZipCar provide really cheap rental cars(you need to have a valid license and a major credit card).

For inter-state travel, trains and buses are both good. Buses by Greyhound and Bolt bus connect important places. Train services by NJTransit can be used to travel between cities within New Jersey and to New York. Amtrax train Services connect far off cities.

[/toggle]

[toggle title=”Language”]

English is the language you need to know. At times accent can be a trouble but not a major hindrance.

[/toggle]

[toggle title=”Places to Visit”]

As I visited the West Coast area, I’ll give a list of must visit places in that region:

• Statue of Liberty
• White House
• U.S. Capitol
• Baltimore Harbor Cruise
• Empire State Building Observatory
• Exchange Place
• Broadway Show at Times Square
• Boston Whale Watching

Guided tours can be a good idea if you are traveling alone. They may rush you a little but at least they cover all points.

[/toggle]

[toggle title=”Eat and Drink”]

US is a place where you can get any cuisine you name. Try everything from Italian, Chinese, Mexican to Thai, Indian and American fast food. Try pretzels, sangria, jule’s pizza and falafel along with fresh brewed beer.

[/toggle]

[toggle title=”Stay”]

Try to find cheap hotels to cut the total cost of your trip. Comfort Inn and Hampton Inn are good options and are available in almost all cities. Guided tours spanning multiple days take care of the accommodation usually in these hotels.

[/toggle]

[toggle title=”Money Matters”]

Rather than carrying cash it’s always convenient to carry an International credit card in the US. All small and big places accept cards.

[/toggle]