You want to visit the USA to see and experience America in the most fulfilling way possible but are limited in time and finances to do so. Many international students face this same dilemma and know it is impossible to see it all. They need to choose the cities that offer them the most opportunity to see, experience, and live American culture.
At Boston Academy of English we love to dispense advice on what to see and how to see it. So the following is one man’s opinion on the top 10 US cities for international travelers:
1. New York City, “The Big Apple”
A truly unique, diverse, and exciting city, New York City is the home to Broadway and shopping galore. New York is uniquely American while maintain an international flare. One fallacy this author found was that many New Yorkers are extremely busy and impatient with tourists and visitors and can often inadvertently appear rude.
2. Washington D.C.
The “Mall” is known for having more monuments and museums arranged in a symmetrical fashion. The greatest perk for Washington is that many of the museums and art galleries are free, making this an affordable place to visit. There are so many must sees in D.C.
3. Boston
Boston is one city that has it all. In the greater Boston area alone there are more college students per capita than any other city in the US. There are more than 100 colleges and universities and it is rumored that English is spoken best here. Boston is known for having a European vibe and the absolute best time to visit is the summer or fall when the energy in the air is addictive as is the foliage.
4. “Only in San Francisco”
Perhaps the most beautiful of American cities, S.F. is built on on and around a hilly peninsula that is served by the antique cable car system. Great tourist destination, with Fishermans Wharf, Alcatraz prison, and the Golden Gate bridge. Mild weather and a very tolerant, “anything goes” atmosphere.
5. The Windy City, Chicago
Chicago is a city with it’s roots deeply planted in the heart of music. Chicago is a large city with superb restaurants and sophisticated amenities all while maintaining the small town feel with their friendliness. Chicago is a great middle point to visit on your trip across the US from West to East coast.
6. Los Angeles
L.A. is more a series of communities strung together by the freeway system than a city with a center. The beach community of Santa Monica, Hollywood, Rodeo Drive – it doesn’t lack attractions, but make sure you have a car. Mellow sun-drenched vibe, and very spread out geographically.
7. Miami
All without a passport you can be transported to Latin America and tropical paradise in Maimi Florida. The beaches are amazing, the Latin flair is addictive, and the people are energetic, loud, and a blast to be around.
8. Orlando
You will not find yourself lost as Orlando is a city run around the theme parks they offer and there are so many signs pointing you in the right directions. Best to take the many busses offered than to drive yourself. But the fun, thrills, and adventure you can have in Orlando are the memories worth making.
9. Las Vegas, “the city that never sleeps”
This city actually never sleeps or at least you don’t have to if you don’t want to. There is something to do all night long straight until morning. The playground for adults you don’t even have to take your chances with the tables or slots as there is so much to do in the hotels alone. A desert city, the temperatures tend to get hot (pushing 100 degrees F) in the day and drop at night. Bring a jacket, some fancy clothes, and a whole lot of money.
10. San Diego, California
With a mild, sunny climate and great beaches, this one is a no-brainer, although if that is not your thing the city is not Excitement Central. High foreign student population, and probably the best zoo in the country.
Bon voyage!(French) Have a good trip!