Welcome to the United States

So pervasive is American culture that we all have an idea of what to expect when we visit. In fact, it’s often seeing the familiar with our very own eyes that provides the greatest thrill when travelling in the States: iconic yellow taxis waiting in line in Times Square, cable cars heaving their passengers around San Francisco, paddle boats steaming up the Mississippi River, or jazz musicians playing on the streets of New Orleans.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family holiday, a scintillating city break, an outdoor adventure or a romantic escape for two, the United States has an answer for everything. For here is a country masquerading as a continent, where just about every type of holiday imaginable is possible, from the bright city lights of New York and Las Vegas to the autumn colours of leafy New England and the reefs and rainforests of heavenly Hawaii.

Yet in a country so large, it’s often hard to know where to start when planning a holiday. That’s where our USA specialists come in. Our travel advisors have journeyed extensively across America and regularly return to the regions and properties within our portfolio, meaning you can be assured of a first-hand, honest and up-to-date opinion. You’ll find their personal recommendations for what to see and do in this vast and varied country on pages 6, 36 and 78 of this brochure.

One thing is for sure though, travelling in America is almost always about the journey, which is why we’ve filled these pages not just with hotels but with suggested itineraries for each of our destinations. These are merely examples of what’s possible in the region. They can of course be booked as you see them on the page, but they can also be adjusted to suit your own tastes, interests, budget and timeframe. Such is the beauty of tailor-made travel.

Cities with direct UK flights

Inside the USA with Julie Hammond

Why should I visit the United States?

I can think of at least 50 reasons – the states themselves. Each one is different, with its own identity and personality.

What’s your fondest memory from your time in America?

Definitely bottling my own wine in California’s Sonoma Valley. I had the chance to do so at Buena Vista Winery and found the process so fascinating I've been recommending it ever since.

What’s your favourite US state and why?

More of a collection than a single state but I adore New England, especially in autumn – or ‘fall’ as they say there. Boston makes a wonderful base from which to explore the area, though the real fun lies in making your own discoveries along quiet leafy byways – stopping at cider mills, stocking up on maple syrup, and posing for photos by quaint covered bridges and iconic, red barns.

Which places live up to the hype?

It’s got to be Las Vegas. Sin City is brash, fun and strangely alluring. It’s also a launchpad for visiting the Grand Canyon, best seen from the air on a helicopter tour – a worthwhile indulgence if ever there was one.

What’s your favourite city and what must I do while I’m there?

For me it’s the City by the Bay, glorious and bohemian San Francisco. Go in autumn or winter for the clearest days (summer fog often obscures the views), hire a bike and cycle across Golden Gate Bridge.

Where should I go if I’m looking for adventure?

Arizona is America’s adventure capital, from hiking to the floor of the Grand Canyon and white-water rafting on the Colorado River to hot-air ballooning in the Sonoran Desert.