USA

USA Independent Travel Guide

The United States is a vast and culturally diverse country, offering everything from the magnificent natural landscapes of the West Coast to the bustling modern cities of the East Coast, from theme park paradises to awe-inspiring national parks. Whether you want to experience Hollywood glamour in Los Angeles, the vibrant pace of New York, the geological wonders of Yellowstone, or the magic of Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando, this guide will help you plan a perfect trip.. The US is a large country with iconic city landmarks, natural wonders, and theme parks. Be sure to plan enough time to balance sightseeing with relaxation.

Important Travel Notice for 2026: Starting from January 1, 2026, the US has implemented significant fee changes for international visitors visiting national parks.

I. Pre-Trip Preparations

1. Visa

Chinese citizens holding ordinary passports need to apply for a B-2 Tourist Visa (B1/B2) to travel to the US for tourism. US tourist visas are valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries. The length of stay upon each entry is determined by customs at the port of entry, with a maximum of 180 days. It is highly recommended to start your application 2-3 months in advance.

Application Process (5 Steps) :

1. Complete the DS-160 application form online at the official US State Department website, providing accurate personal information, travel plans, employment history, and social media accounts for the past 5 years.

2. Pay the visa application fee (B visa fee: $185).

3. Schedule your visa interview appointment.

4. Prepare the required documents and attend the in-person interview at the US embassy/consulate.

5. Receive the interview result on the spot.

Essential Interview Documents:

• Original Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date.

• DS-160 confirmation page and interview appointment confirmation.

• One 2x2 inch (51x51 mm) color photo taken within the last 6 months.

• Proof of employment (including position, salary, and approved leave information).

• Bank statements from the last 3-6 months.

• Travel itinerary, round-trip flight booking, and hotel reservations.

Key 2026 Policy Updates:

• Interview Waiver Restrictions: Only applicants who previously held a 10-year B1/B2 visa that expired within the last 12 months are eligible for interview waiver.

• Expanded Social Media Screening: Visa officers can now review applicants' social media accounts for the past 5 years, including deleted accounts. Any inconsistencies with application information can lead to permanent ineligibility.

• Demonstrate Ties to Home Country: Focus on showing stable employment, income, family relationships, and property/assets that demonstrate your intention to return home.

Tip: Be honest and confident during the interview. Prepare answers for questions about your travel purpose, itinerary, and employment background. First-time travelers with no previous travel history to developed countries may face slightly higher scrutiny.

2. Getting Around

The US transportation system varies significantly by region. The East Coast has relatively developed public transit, while the West Coast (especially national park areas) is best explored by car.

International Flights:
Direct flights from major Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu) to New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, etc., take approximately 12-15 hours. Economy round-trip fares range from $700-1,100\ast \ast inoff-peakseasonsand\ast \ast$1,100-2,000 in peak seasons. Pro tip: Book 3-6 months in advance, flying on Tuesdays or Wednesdays for better prices. Connecting flights can also help reduce costs.

City Transportation:

• New York City: The subway is the most convenient way to get around Manhattan (approximately **$2.90\ast \ast perride)\mathrm{.}TaxisandUbersareexpensive\text{—}ashorttripcaneasilyexceed$15-20. Uber/Lyft rides within the city cost around $10-20. Stick to the subway for getting around and use ride-hailing apps as a backup.

• Los Angeles: Public transit is relatively limited — renting a car is strongly recommended. Daily rental rates average $30-80 (excluding gas and insurance). Uber/Lyft are also available for shorter trips but can get expensive.

• San Francisco: The city's iconic Cable Cars cost $8 per single ride (more a tourist experience than practical daily transport). For getting around, Muni buses and BART are affordable options. Check the official MuniMobile app for real-time schedules and maps.

• Las Vegas: Most attractions are concentrated on The Strip, which is walkable. The Deuce bus runs along the Strip and is a cheap way to explore (all-day pass available).

• Washington, DC: The Metro system is efficient and connects major monuments, museums, and neighborhoods. SmarTrip cards work on both Metro and buses.

Intercity Travel:

• Flights: The domestic flight network is extensive. Flights from NYC to LA/San Francisco take about 5-6 hours. Early-bird round-trip fares can be as low as $150-300. Compare prices across Delta, United, and American Airlines; Southwest often has competitive fares but doesn't appear on aggregator sites.

• Trains: Amtrak operates along the East Coast corridor (NYC–Washington–Boston). Fares vary significantly depending on how far in advance you book.

• Buses: Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus offer budget-friendly intercity travel.

Car Rental & Driving Tips:

• Requirements: A valid Chinese driver's license along with a notarized English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually sufficient to rent a car in most states. Check individual rental company policies before booking.

• Insurance: Always purchase full insurance coverage (Loss Damage Waiver/LDW). Repair costs in the US are high, and self-paying could be very expensive.

• Traffic Rules: Traffic regulations vary by state, as do penalty amounts. Know the local right-on-red rules, speed limits, and school zone restrictions where you'll be driving.

• Using your phone's Google Maps for GPS is fine (download offline maps beforehand for areas with poor signal).

• Gas stations are largely self-service. You can use a credit card directly at the pump or pay inside.

Tip: Renting a car and taking domestic flights are often the most flexible and cost-effective ways to travel between cities in the US.

3. Internet and Payment

Mobile coverage in the US is generally good, but signal can be weak in remote national park areas.

Internet Options: We highly recommend purchasing a US travel eSIM. You won't need to swap physical SIM cards — just scan a QR code before your trip, and you'll connect automatically upon arrival. A stable internet connection (using Google Maps for navigation, Uber for ride-hailing, social media) is essential.

For a reliable, high-speed connection, we recommend purchasing an eSIMface USA Travel eSIM package before you go. eSIMface provides high-speed 4G/5G coverage across the contiguous United States and Hawaii. Key advantages of choosing eSIMface:

• Instant activation: Purchase and install online before departure, connect automatically on arrival in the US.

• Flexible packages: Choose from daily or data-based plans to match your trip length and data needs.

• Broad coverage nationwide: Partnered with major local carriers, ensuring basic connectivity even in remote areas like national parks.

• Dedicated support: Customer service advisors available in Chinese to assist with any questions or issues.

Payment Habits: The US is a credit card society. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere. Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely used at major chain stores and payment terminals.

• Carry a small amount of cash (around $100-200) for street vendors, small purchases, or tipping occasions where a card isn't convenient.

• Tipping culture is deeply ingrained: 15–20% at sit-down restaurants, $1\text{–}2perbagforhotelporters,$2–5 per day for housekeeping, and 10–15% for taxi/rideshare drivers.

• Some sit-down restaurants automatically include a service charge (gratuity) on the bill — check carefully before adding an extra tip.

ATM Withdrawals: ATM acceptance depends on your specific bank card — inquire with your home bank before departure. A per-transaction fee (in addition to any foreign transaction fee) is typically charged on both ends. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize transaction fees. For travelers carrying cash, ATMs are widely available, but the total cost varies significantly depending on your bank.

Tip: In major cities like New York and LA, avoid walking alone through poorly lit, deserted areas at night. Keep an eye on your belongings crowded spots and in Las Vegas casinos.

4. Other Pre-Trip Essentials

• Electricity and Plugs: The US uses 110V 60Hz electricity with Type A/B flat two-prong outlets (the same as standard Chinese two-prong plugs). Chinese three-prong plugs will require an adapter.

• Packing Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses (essential for the West Coast), a light jacket (indoor air conditioning is strong), your primary credit card, and a small amount of US dollars in cash.

• Time Zones: The US spans four time zones. During Daylight Saving Time (mid-March to early November), the West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco) is 15 hours behind Beijing time, and the East Coast (New York, Washington DC) is 12 hours behind. Plan for jet lag adjustment at the beginning of your trip.

• Hotel Etiquette: US hotels generally do not provide disposable items like slippers or toothbrushes; bring your own. A credit card hold ($50-150 per night) is placed for incidentals at check-in; the hold is released 3-5 business days after checkout (provided no charges were incurred).

• Arriving at US Airports: Have your travel documents and your completed online arrival form (if applicable for visa-free travel) ready for presentation.

• Safety Awareness: In major US cities, be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night. In Las Vegas casinos, keep your belongings secure at all times.

Tip: In major US cities, it's generally safe to stick to well-lit, populated areas. Keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original, and use hotel safes for valuables.

II. Must-Visit Destinations in the USA

1. New York City — The City That Never Sleeps

As the iconic US metropolis, New York is the backdrop for countless films and TV shows. It offers a blend of towering skyscrapers, world-class art museums, and cutting-edge trends, making it an ideal starting point for first-time US travelers.

Must-see attractions:

• Times Square: The vibrant heart of NYC, famous for its massive electronic billboards and bright lights — a 24-hour hub of energy. Admission: Free. Transportation: Subway lines 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W to 42 St – Times Sq station.

• Statue of Liberty: An iconic symbol of the US. Take a ferry for great views and photos. For a free option, ride the Staten Island Ferry from Battery Park for excellent skyline and statue views. Ellis Island's immigration museum is also worth visiting.

• Central Park: Located right in the middle of Manhattan. It has walking trails, a large lake, playgrounds, and it's a popular filming location for movies. Admission: Free.

• Empire State Building: The classic NYC observatory deck. General admission: approx. $44-56 to the 86th floor.

• The Edge (Hudson Yards) : The highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Features a glass floor and 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline. Admission: approx. $39-59. Book sunset time slots well in advance, as they often sell out.

• Metropolitan Museum of Art: One of the world's largest and most comprehensive art museums, with over 2 million works from ancient Egypt to modern art. Admission: Suggested price around $30.

• Broadway Theater District: Catch a world-class musical or play in the Theater District near Times Square.

• Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center) : Offers a stunning view of the Empire State Building and Central Park — a different perspective from the Empire State.

• Brooklyn Bridge: An iconic suspension bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. Walk across for skyline views; photo-worthy at any time, especially during golden hour.

• The High Line: A unique elevated park built on a former railway line. Walk along this linear green space for art installations and skyline views, stretching from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards.

City Pass Recommendations: To save on admissions, consider a multi-attraction pass like the New York CityPASS (pre-select 5-6 attractions) or the New York Explorer Pass (choose 2-10). Both offer bundled savings and can be purchased online in advance.

Tip: Watch out for street performers in costumes who may pressure you for money after a photo. Ignore people handing out "free" CDs or other items on the street, especially in Times Square.

2. Washington, DC — The Heart of American Politics & Culture

The US capital is home to the White House, the Capitol, the Supreme Court, and numerous free world-class museums and historic memorials.

Must-see attractions:

• National Mall: The focal point of the city, lined with iconic monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Jefferson Memorial. The surrounding Smithsonian museums are mostly free to enter.

• White House: The official residence of the US President. View from outside; interior tours require advance booking through your embassy.

• US Capitol: The meeting place of the US Congress. Guided tours are available (reservations required).

• Smithsonian Institution Museums: The National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History, and National Museum of American History are all free and well worth your time.

Unique experiences: Visit the monuments at sunset and again after dark — they're dramatically lit. Visit during late March/early April for the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Tip: Most major sites in DC are free, making it a very budget-friendly destination. Allow a full day or more to properly explore the Mall and its museums.

3. Los Angeles — The City of Angels, Stars, and Beaches

As the cultural and entertainment capital of the West Coast, LA is known for Hollywood's film industry, sunny beaches, and its world-famous theme parks.

Must-see attractions:

• Universal Studios Hollywood: A world-class theme park. Experience the famous Studio Tour, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Super Nintendo World.

• Hollywood Walk of Fame: The famous sidewalk with over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the pavement — a must-visit for tourists. Be cautious of street performers and people trying to sell you things.

• Griffith Observatory: Free entry. Offers panoramic views of the LA basin, the Hollywood Sign, and the surrounding mountains.

• Santa Monica Beach & Pier: A classic California beach with a ferris wheel, roller coaster, and the official end of historic Route 66.

• Beverly Hills: Known for its upscale shopping on Rodeo Drive and luxurious homes.

• Disneyland Park: The original Disneyland, located in Anaheim (~40 minutes from downtown LA).

Tip: Renting a car is strongly recommended for most of LA. Public transit is sparse and slow. Expect high parking fees at tourist sites ($10-30/day).

4. San Francisco — The Golden Gate City

A hilly, seaside city famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and its unique mix of Victorian architecture and diverse culture.

Must-see attractions:

• Golden Gate Bridge: The iconic suspension bridge. Walk or bike across it, or take photos from viewpoints on either side. Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to visit.

• Fisherman's Wharf: A popular tourist area with Pier 39 (sea lions), souvenir shops, and seafood stalls serving clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls.

• Lombard Street: Known as the "Crookedest Street in the World" (though an exaggeration), this one-block section features eight sharp turns and beautiful gardens.

• Alcatraz Island: The infamous former federal prison. Book ferry tickets well in advance (1-2 months), as they sell out quickly.

• Palace of Fine Arts: A stunning Beaux-Arts structure originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. Great for photos.

Unique experiences: Ride a historic cable car up the steep hills. Visit on July 4th for the San Francisco Symphony's annual fireworks show at Shoreline Amphitheatre. Drive to Yosemite National Park (~3.5 hours away) as a multiday side trip.

Tip: San Francisco's weather is famously unpredictable, with chilly fog possible even in summer. Pack layers, including a warm jacket, even in July. Parking in the city is expensive; consider using public transit or rideshares to get around within SF and park your rental car at the hotel.

5. Las Vegas — The Entertainment Capital of the World

A dazzling desert city known for its world-famous casinos, luxurious hotels, spectacular shows, and vibrant nightlife.

Must-see attractions:

• The Strip: The main drag lined with mega-casino resorts, each with its own theme, shops, and entertainment. Visit the indoor Venetian canals, the Bellagio fountains, and the Paris Eiffel Tower replica.

• Sphere: A next-generation entertainment venue that opened in 2023. Its exterior is a massive LED screen, and the interior features a groundbreaking immersive audio-visual experience. Watch for show schedules and pricing — general admission often depends on event type.

• Fremont Street Experience: The historic downtown area with a massive LED canopy, live music, and a zip line.

Unique experiences: See a Cirque du Soleil show (like "O" at the Bellagio or "KA" at MGM Grand). Take a helicopter flight over The Strip at night.

Tip: Gambling is strictly for adults and is not a primary tourist activity for all visitors. Drinks on the Strip are expensive; buy bottled water from a convenience store. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded casino areas.

6. Grand Canyon National Park — Earth's Majestic Chasm

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World (unofficial designation by many travel authorities), this immense canyon carved by the Colorado River offers breathtaking views and is a premier adventure destination.

Must-see Highlights:

• South Rim: The most accessible and developed section, open year-round. Classic viewpoints include Mather Point and Yavapai Point. Sunrise and sunset are spectacular.

• Desert View: Home to the Desert View Watchtower, offering panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River.

• West Rim: Features the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge extending over the edge. Operated by the Hualapai Tribe, it is a separate area from the National Park.

• North Rim: Higher elevation, remote, and less crowded. Open seasonally (mid-May to mid-October).

Getting There: The South Rim is a 4-4.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. The West Rim is about 2 hours away.

2026 Fee Update: Starting January 1, 2026, US national parks charge international visitors an additional surcharge on top of standard entrance fees.

Tip: For a South Rim day trip, leave Las Vegas very early. Better yet, stay overnight in the nearby town of Tusayan (just outside the park entrance) to maximize your time in the park and enjoy sunset/sunrise without the long drive back.

7. Yellowstone National Park — The World's First National Park

Yellowstone is famous for its incredible geothermal features (geysers, hot springs), dramatic canyons, and abundant wildlife. It is one of the most unique geological places on earth.

Must-see sights:

• Old Faithful: The park's most famous geyser, erupting roughly every 90 minutes (the visitor center posts predicted times).

• Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the United States, famous for its rainbow-like colors.

• Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: A spectacular 39-kilometer-long canyon with two large waterfalls. Artist Point is the classic viewpoint.

• Mammoth Hot Springs: Terraces of travertine hot springs that change constantly as the water flows.

• Yellowstone Lake: One of North America's largest high-elevation lakes, offering scenic beauty.

Visiting Tips: Getting to Yellowstone from China often involves flying into Salt Lake City (SLC) . Drive to West Yellowstone (~5 hours).

2026 Fee Update: International visitors are subject to the new national park pricing structure, which includes higher fees at the entrance. For multi-park trips, the $250 annual pass may be an economical option.

Best Time to Visit: Yellowstone is most accessible from May to September when all roads are open and facilities are running.

8. Orlando — The Theme Park Capital of the World (Florida)

Orlando is home to the world's largest collection of theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld. It is a top destination for families and thrill-seekers.

Must-see attractions:

• Walt Disney World Resort: Four major theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom), two water parks, and dozens of hotels.

• Universal Orlando Resort: Two theme parks (Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure). The main attraction is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which includes the Hogwarts Express train connecting the two parks (requires a park-to-park ticket to ride).

• Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Located about an hour from Orlando, this is the launch site for NASA's human spaceflight program. It features real spacecraft and rockets, including the Space Shuttle Atlantis and a Saturn V moon rocket.

Tip: Purchase tickets in advance online. The weather in Florida can be extremely hot and humid, especially in summer. Plan for breaks and stay hydrated. For the best experience, schedule at least 3-5 full days for Disney World and Universal combined. Plan to arrive at the parks early (before official opening) and use the official apps (My Disney Experience, Universal Orlando) for wait times. It's recommended to visit the Disney parks before Universal, as the latter's rides and experiences tend to be more intense. Hotel parking at both resorts averages about $35/day.

III. Sample Itineraries for the USA

1. Classic West Coast: Los Angeles + Las Vegas + Grand Canyon (7 Days)

This itinerary is perfect for first-time West Coast visitors, combining city exploration with natural wonders.

• Day 1: Arrive in Los Angeles (LAX). Pick up rental car, check into hotel. Adjust to the time zone.

• Day 2: Los Angeles — Universal Studios Hollywood. Evening at Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame.

• Day 3: Los Angeles — Drive to Santa Monica Beach, visit Beverly Hills, explore Griffith Observatory for sunset and city views.

• Day 4: Drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas (~4.5 hours). Explore The Strip in the evening (Bellagio fountains, Venetian).

• Day 5: Grand Canyon National Park day trip (South Rim, ~4-4.5 hours from Las Vegas). Viewpoints: Mather Point, Yavapai Point, Desert View Watchtower. Return to Las Vegas for overnight.

• Day 6: Free day in Las Vegas — explore The Strip, see a Cirque du Soleil show, visit the Fremont Street Experience.

• Day 7: Depart from Las Vegas (LAS).

Budget Estimate (excluding international flights) : Approximately $1,800-2,800 per person (including 6 nights' lodging, rental car, gasoline, park entrance fees, and meals).

2. New York City Classic (4 Days)

A compact but comprehensive introduction to the city that never sleeps.

• Day 1: Arrive in New York (JFK/EWR/LGA). Check into Manhattan hotel. Evening visit to Times Square.

• Day 2: Lower Manhattan — Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, Battery Park for Statue of Liberty views (via free Staten Island Ferry or paid ferry), Wall Street, Charging Bull.

• Day 3: Midtown Manhattan — Grand Central Terminal, New York Public Library, Empire State Building (or Top of the Rock), Rockefeller Center, Broadway show in the evening.

• Day 4: Central Park & Museums — Morning walk in Central Park, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, then head to the airport for departure.

Budget Estimate (excluding international flights) : Approximately $1,500-2,200 per person (including 3 nights' Manhattan lodging, attraction entry fees, local transport, and meals).

3. Yellowstone + Grand Teton National Parks (5 Days)

A nature-focused itinerary for lovers of wildlife, geology, and the great outdoors.

• Day 1: Fly into Salt Lake City (SLC). Pick up rental car and drive to West Yellowstone (~5 hours). Check into hotel for overnight.

• Day 2: Yellowstone National Park — Lower loop: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, West Thumb, Yellowstone Lake.

• Day 3: Yellowstone National Park — Upper loop: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (Artist Point), Mammoth Hot Springs, wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley.

• Day 4: Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Park — scenic drive, Jenny Lake, Jackson Lake, Oxbow Bend. Overnight in Jackson.

• Day 5: Morning in Jackson (Elk Antler Arches), drive back to Salt Lake City (~4.5 hours), return rental car, depart from SLC.

Budget Estimate (excluding international flights and in-US flight to SLC) : Approximately $1,500-2,200 per person (including 4 nights' lodging, rental car, park entrance fees, and meals). Note: national park fees for international visitors increased in 2026.

4. US East Coast: NYC + Washington + Boston (7 Days)

An ideal itinerary for travelers interested in American history, culture, and the vibrant cities of the East Coast.

• Day 1-3: New York City (follow the 4-day NYC itinerary's first three days).

• Day 4: Travel from NYC to Washington, DC. Options: Amtrak train (~3 hours), bus, flight (~1.5 hours). Check into DC hotel.

• Day 5: Washington, DC — National Mall: Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, WWII Memorial, Capitol Hill, Smithsonian museums (free).

• Day 6: Travel from DC to Boston. Options: Amtrak (~7 hours) or flight (~1.5 hours). Afternoon walking tour of the Freedom Trail, Quincy Market.

• Day 7: Morning exploration of Boston (Harvard/MIT campuses), depart from Boston (BOS).

Budget Estimate (excluding international flights) : Approximately $1,800-2,800 per person (including 6 nights' lodging, intercity transport, attraction entry fees, and meals).

IV. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much does a trip to the USA cost in 2026?

The US is an expensive travel destination. Accommodation and meal costs in major cities and tourist areas are among the highest in the world. Actual costs vary based on travel style, season, and exact destinations.

• Budget travel: Hostels/budget motels, fast food, public transit. Excluding international flights, budget travelers spend around $100-150 per person per day.

• Mid-range travel: 3-star chain hotels, a mix of restaurants, rental car or rideshares. Mid-range travelers spend around $200-350 per person per day.

• Luxury travel: 4-5 star hotels, fine dining, private transfers, VIP tours. Expect to spend $500-925+ per person per day.

Detailed cost breakdown (per person per day, mid-range) :

Overall trip estimates: A 14-day West Coast road trip (including flights from China) typically costs $4,500-7,000\ast \ast \mathrm{.}A10-dayEastCoastcitytour(NYC+Washington+Boston)costs\ast \ast$3,500-6,000. A 5-6 day standalone NYC trip costs $2,800-5,000 (including trans-Pacific flight).

2. How much cash should I bring to the US?

The US is a credit-card driven society. A small amount of cash — around $100-200 — is useful for occasional small purchases, street vendors, or tipping when a credit card isn't accepted. For most daily expenses, you can rely on a major credit card (Visa or Mastercard) almost everywhere.

• Visa and Mastercard are accepted at the vast majority of businesses including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and shops.

• Many Chinese bank cards (with the UnionPay logo) can also be used at ATMs and some merchants, but acceptance is less widespread than Visa/Mastercard.

• The US does not widely accept Alipay or WeChat Pay except at some businesses catering to Chinese tourists.

• For self-service gas pumps, if you encounter trouble using your card, you may need to pre-pay with cash at the counter inside.

Tip: Notify your bank of your travel dates before you leave China to avoid your card being frozen for suspicious activity. Keep a copy of your passport separate from the original, and use a hotel safe for valuables when possible.

3. What apps should I download for an independent trip to the USA?

• Navigation & Ride-Hailing: Google Maps (essential for navigation and public transit), Uber / Lyft, SpotHero (for parking reservations).

• Translation: Google Translate can help with menus and signs.

• Tickets & Experiences: Klook, KKday (pre-book attraction tickets and tours). Ticketmaster (for sports, concerts, Broadway).

• Dining & Reviews: Yelp (restaurant reviews, similar to a US version of Dianping).

• Communication: WeChat (to stay in touch with family), but you'll need a data plan (eSIMface) to use it while out and about.

• Flight & Hotel: Booking.com, Expedia, Skyscanner.

4. Is it better to visit the US West Coast or East Coast for a first trip?

For a first trip, it's generally better to focus on either the West Coast or the East Coast, as the country is vast and trying to do both in a single short trip can be rushed.

• Choose the West Coast if you want a classic road trip, enjoy dramatic natural landscapes (national parks, coastline), and want to experience Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. West Coast highlights: scenic drives, national parks, fewer crowds in nature areas, relatively warmer climate..

• Choose the East Coast if you prefer city experiences, history, and culture. This route (NYC, Washington DC, Boston, plus possibly Philadelphia) offers packed urban itineraries, with museums and monuments, and efficient Amtrak connections between cities.

• If you have 3-4 weeks, it is absolutely possible to do a combined cross-country trip. A classic route connecting both coasts and the Grand Canyon, for example, might include: Los Angeles → 17-Mile Drive → San Francisco → Yosemite → Las Vegas → Grand Canyon → Page (Antelope Canyon) → fly to New York → Philadelphia → Washington DC → Niagara Falls → Boston.

5. Is it safe to travel to the USA?

Most tourist destinations are relatively safe for visitors. However, you should exercise standard precautions:

• In large cities, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night when walking alone.

• Keep valuables (passport, large amounts of cash) in a hotel safe. Carry only what you need for the day.

• Do not accept open drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended.

• Be cautious of street scams: people offering "free" items (CDs, flowers, bracelets) then demanding payment, or overly friendly strangers inviting you to bars/clubs. A firm "no, thank you" and walking away is usually the best response.

6. Can I drive in the US with a Chinese driver's license?

The rules vary by state. Most western states popular with tourists (California, Nevada, Arizona) generally allow driving with a valid Chinese driver's license accompanied by a notarized English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Eastern states (such as Massachusetts, Texas) have stricter policies — always check the specific state's DMV website for the latest official guidance before arriving.

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a widely recognized translation of your existing license and can help avoid disputes, especially when driving across state lines. For complete compliance across all states, the most straightforward option is to obtain an IDP before leaving China, if possible.

• If you rent a car and plan to drive through multiple states, ensure your rental company is aware of your itinerary. National chains typically allow one-way rentals (picking up in Los Angeles and dropping off in San Francisco, for example), but fees may apply.

Tip: Always bring both your original Chinese driver's license and your translation/IDP with you when driving. A police officer cannot accept a license they cannot read.

V. Conclusion

The USA's immense size means that careful planning — especially regarding which region to focus on — is essential for a rewarding trip. Whether you want the fast-paced urban energy of New York, the open-road landscapes of the American West, or the family-friendly thrills of Orlando's theme parks, the country has something for every type of traveler.

Having a stable internet connection throughout your journey is crucial. This is why we highly recommend setting up a reliable data connection in advance. Stop worrying about finding WiFi, and focus on enjoying the incredible diversity this country has to offer. Have a wonderful trip!