What to prepare before leaving
The ESTA is the acronym of the English term "Electronic System for Travel Authorization". It is a travel authorization in electronic format that any vacationer from an ENP (European Neighborhood Policy) beneficiary country must request from the American government. This document allows you to stay in the United States for a maximum of 90 days.
The ESTA is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). French tourists are the beneficiaries. If you plan to visit the United States, you can apply for this authorization without needing a visa. In this case, you will have to fill out the ESTA form for your visa.
I would like to point out that the ESTA application does not require you to book the tickets. You can apply for authorization even if you don't yet know the exact date of your departure. In fact, it is possible to apply online for simplicity. Make sure that you have a valid passport and that you do not have a history with the United States Homeland Security.
The Statue of Liberty in New York
For a stay in the United States, I advise you to start with one of the places that makes the country famous: the Statue of Liberty. It is the emblem of the United States and is located in New York, on an island called Liberty Island. As a reminder, the Statue of Liberty was a gift from the French to mark the friendship between France and the United States. If you want to visit it, you will have to take a boat, several of them serve the island. Note however that the Statue of Liberty is very crowded: you will have to be patient, especially during the vacations!
The Monument Valley in Arizona
In Arizona, an exceptional site awaits you, the Monument Valley. In the American West, it is one of the places not to be missed. It is known to be the place of shooting of a hundred of films! Moreover, Monument Valley has become the symbol of the West. The best thing about this site is to go there just before sunset. Many travelers take the car to admire it. So, don't forget your camera to immortalize this exceptional panorama!
Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
California itself is worth a visit. This state attracts travelers thanks to its exceptional landscapes that are constantly renewed. But if you pass there, I advise you to admire an element of a mythical architecture: the Golden Gate Bridge. This sublime bridge in San Francisco offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings. You can cross the bridge by foot or by bike. But no matter what means of transportation you take, the crossing promises to be magnificent. Note that the bridge is a must for getting to Battery Spencer View in the northwest.
Discover Las Vegas casino hotels in Nevada
Las Vegas is known for its parties and excesses. The city is known for all its eccentricities and casinos. These hotel-casinos attract tourists from all over the world, located in the heart of the desert, in an exceptional setting. What attracted me to these establishments is their extravagance: all compete in eccentricity to seduce gamblers and casino enthusiasts! In the city, there are many incredible monuments to see.
Visit Arizona and its Grand Canyon
You've probably already heard of the Grand Canyon. In pictures, it looks beautiful. But when you go there, the spectacle is even more incredible. The site is known as the largest gorge in the United States. It was created naturally, carved by the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon can be discovered on foot, by balloon or by plane. The choice is yours!
Follow Route 66 to discover 8 states from Illinois to California
In the United States, even the roads promise exceptional discoveries. Route 66, for example, is an integral part of American history. This mythical road serves Los Angeles from Chicago. With a length of 5,000 km, it crosses the American territory! Today, a large part of this legendary road has been modernized. You can, however, still see the old roads of the American dream. To make the most of it, I advise you to organize a road trip during your stay.
On the trail of the stars at the Walk of Fame in Los Angeles
If there is a must for the 7th art lovers, it is undoubtedly the Walk of Fame. From Vermont Avenue to Sunset Boulevard, this avenue lists more than 2,200 names of cinema. Charlie Chaplin or Neil Armstrong, many movie and media stars have a star in their name on this avenue. This passage is also mandatory if you want to reach the City of Angels.
Following the Mississippi River, from Minnesota to Louisiana
The Mississippi River is famous, even in animated movies. So it is not surprising that it is on the list of mythical places to visit in the United States. The river flows through several major American cities, including St. Louis, Memphis, Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Perfect for a family cruise or a romantic getaway! If you come in the summer, however, avoid getting too close to it, as it is overrun with mosquitoes.
Visit Canyonlands National Park in Utah
This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Utah. It is known for its long, orange-colored bridge that overlooks a desert valley. Moreover, the bridge has been featured in many American books and magazines. What attracted me to this bridge is the view it offers: from the footbridge, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the canyons of the Colorado River and the Green River!
