United States Overview
Language
English (some Spanish in areas like the Southwest and Miami)
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Entry Requirements
Passport required; ESTA allows stays up to 90 days. Some travelers may need additional documentation for work/study.
Northeast (New York, Boston, Washington DC)
Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–November) when the cities bloom and the autumn leaves turn Instagram gold. Summers can be hot and muggy, but this is still my favorite time to visit because I love sunshine! Winters can be, well, frigid.
Southeast (Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas)
Late fall to early spring (October–April) when humidity takes a vacation and hurricane season is safely at bay. Summers are hot and steamy, but hey, that’s what beaches are for!
Midwest (Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis)
Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October). Winter? Let’s just say unless you’re building a snowman, you might want to skip it.
Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas)
Fall (September–November) and spring (March–May) when the desert heat won’t fry your flip-flops. Summer can reach serious oven status.
West Coast (California, Oregon, Washington)
All year, depending on what you’re after! Spring and fall bring the best weather for cities and hikes, summer is glorious on the beaches, and winter is perfect for Northern California wine country.
Rocky Mountains (Colorado, Utah, Montana)
Winter (December–March) for ski enthusiasts; summer (June–September) for hikers and national park junkies.
Alaska & Hawaii
Alaska: Summer (June–August) for long days and mild temps.
Hawaii: Spring and fall (April–June, September–November) when it’s less crowded and still warm.
Plane, Train, Automobile
Whether you’re chasing the bright lights of New York City or that off-the-beaten-path diner in Kansas, the USA makes getting there an adventure all its own. Touch down at the big hitters like JFK, LAX, or Chicago O’Hare—think of them as your travel launchpads. Domestic flights are everywhere, but if you want to take the scenic route, Amtrak’s long-haul train rides let you soak up the rolling hills, deserts, and small towns you might otherwise miss (pro tip: snag a window seat). For the ultimate road trip? Rent a car and get lost on Route 66, or take the Pacific Coast Highway—trust me, I’ve done it, and it’s worth every mile.
Cruise Ship
Ports like Miami, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle welcome cruise travelers in style. You can dock in bustling cities, hop off for local excursions, and reboard with a sunburn and a smile. Popular cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian) make it easy to start or end your journey by sea, perfect for those who want to see the skyline from a deck chair with a piña colada in hand.
Top Things to do in USA
Embrace the road trip. Rent a car and hit the highways—some of the best experiences hide between the big cities.
Road Trips
Route 66: Nostalgia, neon, and quirky roadside attractions.
Pacific Coast Highway: Cliff-hugging views and ocean breezes.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Scenic Appalachian magic, especially in fall.
Overseas Highway: The Florida Keys—where the road meets the sea.
Great River Road: Follows the Mississippi—history and blues.
Music Festivals & Fairs
Coachella (California): Sun, sound, and celeb sightings.
SXSW (Texas): Music, film, and tech all in one.
Mardi Gras (Louisiana): Beads, brass bands, and big fun.
Lollapalooza (Illinois): Epic beats by the lake.
Burning Man (Nevada): Art, dust, and radical self-expression.
National Parks Galore
Yellowstone: Geysers, bison, and a whole lotta "wow."
Grand Canyon: A mile-deep wonder that defies description.
Yosemite: Granite cliffs and giant sequoias—photographer’s dream.
Great Smoky Mountains: Misty mornings, fall colors, and black bears, a personal favorite.
Zion: Red rock canyons perfect for adventurers.
Glacier: Alpine lakes and epic hiking.
Rocky Mountain: Majestic peaks and elk galore.
Acadia: Rugged coastlines and New England charm.
Arches: Over 2,000 sandstone arches—nature’s playground.
Everglades: Alligators, mangroves, and subtropical swamps.
City Adventures
New York City: The city that never sleeps—or stops surprising.
Los Angeles: Laid-back vibes with a side of Hollywood glam.
Chicago: Deep dish, skyline, and a lake that feels like an ocean.
San Francisco: Foggy hills, Golden Gate, and cable cars galore.
New Orleans: Jazz, beignets, and enough soul to fill a saxophone.
Austin: Live music capital with BBQ and a “keep it weird” vibe.
Seattle: Coffee, rain, and a thriving arts scene.
Miami: Beachy bliss with Latin flair and art deco cool.
Boston: History, sports, and that irresistible accent.
Las Vegas: Neon lights, big bets, and endless entertainment.
Mexico Overview
Language
Spanish (some English in tourist areas)
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Entry Requirements
Passport required; FMM can be filled out on arrival or online before travel. Valid for up to 180 days for most tourists. Proof of onward travel may be requested.
Pacific Coast (Puerto Vallarta, Oaxaca, Baja California)
November–April, when the weather is warm, dry, and perfect for margaritas. Summers can bring rain and humidity, plus hurricane threats.
Yucatán Peninsula (Cancún, Tulum, Mérida)
December–April—warm days, cool nights, and beaches that practically beg you to nap in a hammock. Avoid June–October unless you’re into sticky humidity and hurricane season.
Mexico City & Central Highlands
March–May for warm, dry weather. Rainy season runs June–September, but it’s mostly afternoon showers that freshen up the cityscape.
Northern Mexico (Chihuahua, Monterrey)
October–April. Summers here can sizzle like a fajita plate.
Plane, Train, Automobile
Mexico’s international airports—Mexico City, Cancun, and Guadalajara—are your gateways to a country that’s as vibrant as the street art in Oaxaca. Domestic airlines like Volaris and Aeroméxico connect you to every corner of the map, from colonial towns to hidden beaches. And if you’re craving the authentic travel experience, hop on a long-distance bus—ADO buses are comfy enough to catch some z’s between tacos. For short hops, local taxis, Ubers, and collectivos (shared vans) make getting around easy, even if you don’t habla español fluently (smile and point works wonders). Renting a car is great for exploring cenotes, ancient ruins, and those off-the-grid villages where the real magic happens—just watch out for topes (speed bumps that could double as small mountains).
Cruise Ship
Ports like Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta roll out the red carpet for cruise lovers. From quick getaways to multi-country itineraries, cruises to Mexico serve up beaches, tequila tastings, and enough mariachis to last a lifetime. Whether you’re on a mega-ship or a boutique vessel, get ready to trade in your WiFi worries for sun-soaked decks and ocean breezes.
At the tip of Baja California Sur, Cabo is known for its dramatic rock formations (El Arco), lively party scene, luxury resorts, sport fishing, and whale watching (seasonal).
Famous for its stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise Caribbean waters, all-inclusive resorts, and lively nightlife, as well as being a gateway to Mayan ruins.
Located further south on the Yucatán Peninsula, this port is often on Eastern Caribbean itineraries. It offers beautiful beaches, access to Mayan ruins like Chacchoben and Kohunlich, and activities like snorkeling or visiting Bacalar Lagoon.
By far the most popular cruise port in Mexico. This island off the Yucatán Peninsula is famous for world-class snorkeling and scuba diving on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, pristine beaches, and opportunities for excursions to mainland Mayan ruins like Tulum or Chichen Itza.
A popular port for shorter cruises from California, located in Baja California. It's known for La Bufadora (a marine geyser), wine tasting in the Valle de Guadalupe, and outdoor activities.
The capital of Jalisco, known as the birthplace of mariachi and tequila, offering rich colonial architecture, a lively arts scene, and traditional Mexican culture.
Located in Oaxaca, this port is part of nine bays and is known for its pristine beaches, eco-tourism, and tranquil atmosphere.
Mexico's busiest port, known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World" for its deep-sea fishing, beautiful beaches, and local charm.
Known as the "Pearl of the Pacific," Mazatlán offers long stretches of golden beaches, a well-preserved historic Old Town, vibrant markets, and excellent seafood.
The capital of Yucatán, known for its rich Mayan and colonial heritage, beautiful white stone mansions, vibrant culture, and reputation as one of Mexico's safest cities.
The vibrant capital, offering world-class museums, historic sites (like the Zócalo and Frida Kahlo's Casa Azul), diverse cuisine, and endless cultural experiences.
A cultural and culinary capital in Southern Mexico, renowned for its indigenous traditions, colorful markets, historic architecture, and incredible food (especially mole and mezcal).
A bustling coastal town in the Riviera Maya, known for its pedestrian-friendly Quinta Avenida, beach clubs, and proximity to cenotes and Mayan sites.
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Progreso is known for its long pier and serves as the gateway to the historic city of Mérida, offering a taste of colonial culture and Mayan heritage.
Located on the Pacific coast, celebrated for its beautiful beaches, Malecon boardwalk, charming Old Town, and vibrant arts and culinary scene.
A UNESCO World Heritage site in the central highlands, famous for its colonial architecture, art scene, and charming cobblestone streets.
A popular coastal town with a bohemian vibe, ancient Mayan ruins perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean, and stunning cenotes.
Top Things to do in Mexico
Trade the city skyline for towering pines or turquoise waves—some of the best adventures hide just beyond the trailhead or tide line.
National Parks Galore
Parque Nacional Cañón del Sumidero (Chiapas) — Towering cliffs and boat tours on the Grijalva River.
Parque Nacional Isla Contoy (Quintana Roo) — A protected island paradise for birdwatchers and snorkelers.
Parque Nacional Barranca del Cobre (Chihuahua) — Copper Canyon’s breathtaking landscapes and Tarahumara culture.
Parque Nacional Nevado de Toluca (Estado de México) — A volcanic crater lake with epic hiking.
Parque Nacional Palenque (Chiapas) — Mayan ruins hidden in the jungle.
Music & Festivals & Fairs
Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) — A national celebration from Oaxaca to Mexico City—think colorful altars and marigolds.
Guelaguetza (Oaxaca) — A vibrant showcase of indigenous dances, music, and costumes.
Festival Internacional Cervantino (Guanajuato) — Mexico’s largest arts festival, featuring music, theater, and dance.
Vive Latino (Mexico City) — The ultimate Latin rock and alternative music fest.
Carnaval de Veracruz (Veracruz) — Mexico’s biggest carnival with parades, costumes, and salsa beats.
Sun Soaked Beaches
Tulum (Quintana Roo) — Where white sand meets ancient ruins, and the vibe is eco-chic.
Playa del Carmen (Quintana Roo) — Bustling nightlife, water sports, and easy access to Cozumel.
Isla Holbox (Quintana Roo) — Laid-back, car-free, and famous for whale shark tours.
Puerto Escondido (Oaxaca) — Surfers’ paradise, with a boho twist and killer sunsets.
Playa Balandra (Baja California Sur) — Shallow turquoise waters and perfect for paddleboarding.
Zihuatanejo (Guerrero) — Authentic Mexican charm with pristine beaches.
Mazunte (Oaxaca) — Off-the-beaten-path gem known for sea turtle sanctuaries.
Sayulita (Nayarit) — Hip surfer town with lively beach bars and street art.
Cancún (Quintana Roo) — Big resorts, big nightlife, and a party that never stops.
Huatulco (Oaxaca) — Nine beautiful bays and beaches, plus excellent diving.
City Adventures
Mexico City (CDMX) — Ancient ruins meet modern cool, with art, culture, and tacos on every corner.
Oaxaca City (Oaxaca) — A feast of markets, mezcal, and colonial charm.
San Miguel de Allende (Guanajuato) — An expat favorite known for art galleries and cobblestone streets.
Guanajuato (Guanajuato) — Colorful alleys and a vibrant arts scene.
Puebla (Puebla) — A UNESCO gem with stunning Talavera tiles and mole poblano.
Mérida (Yucatán) — Colonial elegance with a laid-back vibe and cenote day trips.
Guadalajara (Jalisco) — Mariachi music, tequila tours, and historic architecture.
Campeche (Campeche) — Fortified walls, pastel buildings, and pirate tales.
Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco) — Beaches, nightlife, and a lively Malecon.
La Paz (Baja California Sur) — A tranquil coastal town with sea kayaking and whale watching.
Canada Overview
Language
English, French (especially in Quebec)
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Entry Requirements
Passport required; eTA is quick and easy online for most visitors. No eTA required for US citizens.
British Columbia & the West Coast
Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October). Summer is gorgeous, but the crowds follow the sunshine.
Prairies (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba)
Summer (June–September) when the wildflowers bloom and the festivals kick off. Winters here are a polar bear’s dream—less so for us humans.
Rockies (Banff, Jasper)
Summer: June–September for hiking, kayaking, and that fresh mountain air.
Winter: December–March for skiing and snowboarding.
Central Canada (Ontario, Quebec)
Spring (May–June) and fall (September–October) for mild temps and those famous autumn colors. Winter? Only if you pack your best parka.
Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, PEI)
Summer (June–September) when the coast comes alive with festivals, seafood shacks, and (maybe) a sunny day or two.
Northern Territories (Yukon, Nunavut, NWT)
Summer (June–August) for the midnight sun; winter (December–March) if you’re chasing the Northern Lights.
Plane, Train, Automobile
The easiest way to reach Canada is by air. Major international gateways include Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver International (YVR), and Montreal Trudeau (YUL)—each with direct flights from around the world. Domestic flights connect these cities with regional airports from St. John’s to Victoria, making it easy to hop across provinces.
For those who like to slow things down, VIA Rail is your ticket to classic Canadian travel. Routes like The Canadian (Toronto to Vancouver) and Ocean (Montreal to Halifax) serve up breathtaking views—Rocky Mountains, autumn foliage, endless prairies—perfect for a leaf-peeping tour or just soaking up the scenery.
Renting a car opens up the real magic of Canada’s vast landscapes. From the Icefields Parkway in Alberta to the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada is built for road trips. Just be sure to check road conditions (and wildlife warnings!) before setting out.
Cruise Ship
Canada’s coastal cities are popular cruise ports, especially during the summer and fall. Vancouver welcomes Alaska-bound ships, while Halifax and Quebec City see frequent calls from New England and transatlantic cruises. It’s a unique way to explore Canada’s maritime heritage, charming waterfronts, and even the stunning Bay of Fundy tides.
Cowboy hats meet mountain peaks. Home to Banff, Lake Louise, and a rodeo or two.
Where the Pacific meets the peaks. Think Vancouver’s vibes, rainforest hikes, and ski slopes galore.
Prairie heartland with polar bear encounters in Churchill and friendly locals all around.
Home of the world’s highest tides (hello, Fundy!), plus Acadian culture and seafood feasts.
Colorful row houses, iceberg alley, and enough folklore to fill a saltbox.
Lighthouses, lobster rolls, and the legendary Cabot Trail.
Canada’s urban hub with Toronto’s skyline, Niagara Falls, and cottage country getaways
Red sand beaches, Anne of Green Gables, and rolling potato fields.
The true north, dotted with Inuit culture, polar bears, and Arctic tundra.
Prairie skies that stretch forever—and a place where sunsets steal the show.
Where the Northern Lights dance and wild rivers rule the land.
Old-world charm meets poutine dreams. Montreal’s culture and Quebec City’s cobblestone magic.
Gold rush history, epic hikes, and the call of the wild in every direction.
Top Things to do in Canada
Road Trips
Icefields Parkway (AB) — A road trip between Banff and Jasper that’s pure Rocky Mountain magic.
Cabot Trail (NS) — Coastal cliffs, Acadian culture, and some of the best seafood on the east coast.
Sea to Sky Highway (BC) — Vancouver to Whistler with epic ocean and mountain views.
VIA Rail’s The Canadian (Toronto to Vancouver) — A legendary train ride across five provinces—Canada’s landscapes unfold outside your window.
Trans-Canada Highway (BC to NL) — The ultimate cross-country adventure, from Pacific beaches to Atlantic lighthouses.
Music & Festivals & Fairs
Montreal International Jazz Festival (QC) — The world’s largest jazz fest, with acts from every genre.
Calgary Stampede (AB) — The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth—rodeo, concerts, and cowboy hats galore.
Quebec Winter Carnival (QC) — Ice sculptures, parades, and Bonhomme the snowman.
Toronto International Film Festival (ON) — Celeb-spotting and red carpets—Canada’s Hollywood moment.
Ottawa Bluesfest (ON) — A summer festival mixing blues, rock, and everything in between.
Embrace the road trip, eh? Rent a car, hit the Trans-Canada Highway, and discover the best adventures hiding between the big cities.
National Parks Galore
Banff National Park (Alberta): Turquoise lakes, rugged mountains, and endless hiking trails.
Jasper National Park (Alberta): Stunning glaciers, wildlife galore, and star-filled skies.
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (British Columbia): Surfing, rainforest walks, and whale watching.
Gros Morne National Park (Newfoundland and Labrador): Dramatic fjords and unique geology.
Yoho National Park (British Columbia): Waterfalls, alpine lakes, and jaw-dropping scenery.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park (Nova Scotia): Coastal cliffs and the famous Cabot Trail.
Kluane National Park (Yukon): Towering peaks and glaciers (hello, Mount Logan).
Fundy National Park (New Brunswick): Home of the world’s highest tides and lush forests.
Prince Edward Island National Park (PEI): Red-sand beaches and Anne of Green Gables vibes.
Waterton Lakes National Park (Alberta): Rugged meets serene, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.
City Adventures
Vancouver (BC) — Mountains meet ocean in this cosmopolitan west-coast gem.
Toronto (ON) — Canada’s largest city, with a bustling food scene and diverse neighborhoods.
Montreal (QC) — European charm with a Canadian twist; think croissants and festivals galore.
Quebec City (QC) — Cobblestone streets and old-world romance.
Ottawa (ON) — Canada’s capital with Parliament Hill and world-class museums.
Calgary (AB) — The gateway to the Rockies—and the Calgary Stampede!
Victoria (BC) — Quaint harbor, English gardens, and whale watching.
Halifax (NS) — Maritime hospitality and vibrant waterfront nightlife.
St. John’s (NL) — Colorful row houses and a lively arts scene.
Winnipeg (MB) — History meets hipster at The Forks and the Exchange District.