USA

The Eastern side of the USA is a blended symphony of culture. From the highest concentration of states in the upper North East, to the long and lazy states further South, the East has something for everyone. Let’s start up the top with the likes of New York City, Washington, D.C., Boston and Philadelphia. These are the cities we’ve heard so much about and seen so many times in the movies we love. Boston with its amazing history, Washington, D.C. with its monuments and culture and the big city buzz of ‘The Big Apple’. You can see some of the most famous spots in the world here, and you quickly realise that there’s nothing quite like actually being there yourself.

The great lakes that line the border with Canada will take your breath away no matter what time of the year you visit, and the countryside that surrounds them is absolutely worth exploring. The cities that line these lakes are also high points of interest, there’s the buzzing blues and jazz hub of Chicago and Detroit; the home of Motown just to name two. Once you head down south you’re in for a change of scenery. Launch yourself into relaxation mode on the beaches of Florida – with 1250 kilometres of coastline you’re sure to find a spot that takes your fancy, or get into the huge Everglades National Park, a massive network of forests and prairies and wetlands.

This is only the surface of the awesome nature of the East Coast of the USA. It’s all there, and it’s all begging to be explored.

It’s all about soul... smell the cornbread, hear the blues in Tennessee and the sound of jazz in Louisiana. Enjoy music, food and culture in exciting cities all across Texas.

The ole Mississippi River flows down to New Orleans, Louisiana. A city that has gone through tragedies but the soul is still there. Jazz and the blues bring the French Quarter to life along the famous Bourbon Street and oh that Creole and Cajun cuisine thrills the senses. The city celebrates food and fun during the world-famous ‘Mardi Gras’ held every year just before the 40 days of Lent.

Memphis, Tennessee, known more these days as the home of Elvis Presley, is where the sound of blues began when W.C. Handy penned the first blues song. Graceland and Beale Street are two famous addresses in the heart of the south.

Discover the capital of country music – Nashville, Tennessee. Live music can be seen and heard every day and night of the week. With more than 130 music venues, featuring nearly every genre of music, it’s easy to see why this is the city that ‘music calls home’.

Texas cities beat with a pulse all of their own. They’re richly historic and cutting-edge modern, full of unique culture, iconic architecture and music that’s second to none. Steeped in cowboy lore, Texas proudly holds onto its heritage. Delve into the history by visiting the Alamo in San Antonio and museums in Houston, or live out cowboy dreams on a dude ranch. When you get hungry, grab a bite of Tex-Mex cuisine or world-famous Texas BBQ. No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Texas.

Exploring America by car is easy. Driving on the right hand side of the road may be different, however the roads are excellent, well sign-posted and spacious. Just remember the centre line should be by the driver! Below are just four of our favourite self-drive itineraries. We have many other America road trip and self-drive suggestions here.