America is a complex country. For one thing, it’s huge. On average, it takes around 124 hours to drive through all 50 states, and you’d see a great variety of history and culture. It’s hard to believe that Alaska and Texas are part of the same country.
Due to COVID-19, more people are staying in the US this year. That means that people are traveling between states more often, and travelers are often surprised at the different rules and regulations between states. So, what should you know before traveling to a new state?
Traffic laws
If you plan on driving on your travels, you’ll need to be aware that each state has its own set of traffic rules. This means that some states have harsher rules than others. Speed limits vary between states, for example, so you’ll need to check that out beforehand. Texas is a prime example of a state with strict (and strange) driving rules, as it’s against the law to drive and eat there. Driving without insurance in Texas is also not allowed. On the flipside, North Dakota is very lenient about traffic laws and has minimal charges for those driving over the speed limit. So, always drive safely and check the laws before you visit a new state.
Climate
Unlike many other countries, the US varies greatly in terms of climate. Generally, the climate becomes warmer the further south you travel, meaning that New York can be quite chilly, especially in winter, whereas Texas has a dry heat that can reach highs of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. So, you’ll need to check before you go to ensure that you pack the right clothing!
Culture
The US is brimming with different cultures. It’s a place founded on the ideals that anyone can achieve their dreams. This means that, throughout the US, there are lots of amazing cultures to celebrate. Southern states, such as New Mexico, Texas and California have the highest rates of Spanish speakers, meaning that you might find some excellent Spanish cuisine. Alternatively, Hawaii has a huge number of Chinese Americans. So, if you’re looking to practice another language or celebrate a certain culture, look up the state beforehand and check it out.
Certain states are more expensive than others, especially for hotels and eating out. New York is seen as the most expensive state, probably because of the number of tourists that visit. Washington D.C is also expensive, as is California and North Carolina. So, if you’re on a budget, you might want to avoid these states. Virginia, New Mexico and Texas are cheaper options – but it depends where you stay and where you go. As with everywhere, there are cheaper and more expensive options throughout.
