Vast, exciting and diverse, the USA boasts a huge number of cities and localities, each with their own unique identities. Indeed, you could spend several weeks driving your way round its fantastic network of freeways and still only see a fraction of what this amazing country has to offer. From the thrilling theme parks of Florida and the hedonistic casinos of Las Vegas to the magnificent waterfront of San Francisco and the bustling metropolis of New York, each city brings a vibrancy and diversity you’ll never forget.

Barbecue ribs and charcoal chicken are the order of the day in most Texas roadhouses, while organic and Asian themes prevail at award-winning restaurants on the West Coast. Fresh plates of shellfish from a tucked away Maine pier to Korean tacos from a Portland food truck – you’ll certainly never go hungry!

Whatever you’re looking for in a vacation, the USA is somewhere you’ll come back to time and time again. Eclectic, glamorous, modern and rustic all at the same time, there’s really nowhere quite like it on Earth.

5 Things You Need to Know About the United States

Here are five things you may not have known about the USA, which you’ll want to make note of before packing your bags:

Time Difference: UTC -4 hours
Currency: US Dollars
Native Language: English
Weather: Weather varies widely across the continental USA, as well as in Alaska and Hawaii. In general terms, summers are hot and humid in the plains and southern states, while the southwest is very hot and quite dry.
Sales Tax: The five states with the highest average combined state-local sales tax rates are Tennessee (9.45 percent), Arkansas (9.26 percent), Alabama (8.91 percent), Louisiana (8.91 percent), and Washington (8.89 percent).

Flying to the United States from Australia

Here’s everything you’ll need to know about flying to the United States from Australia, including flight times and entry requirements.

Flight Times

Flights from Australia to the United States generally take around thirteen hours, with direct flights available from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

Flights from other cities in Australia such as Alice Springs, Perth, Darwin and Canberra will require you to take an indirect route, which may take a little longer.

Entry Requirements

Australian citizens entering the USA under the Visa Waiver Program should apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours prior to departure. If your ESTA Application is denied, you will be required to apply for a B-1 Visitor Visa or B-2 Tourist Visa. You will also need a valid Australian passport.

Airlines That Fly to the United States

The following airlines offer direct flights from Australia to the US:

- Qantas
- Hawaiian
- Jet Star
- American Airlines
- Delta
- United

10 United States Must-Dos

If you’ve never visited United States before and are wondering what the ‘must-see’ sights and attractions are, here are our top ten:

- Lincoln Memorial
- Times Square
- Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
- Bellagio Fountains
- Walt Disney World Florida
- SeaWorld Florida
- Grand Canyon South Rim
- Busch Gardens
- Graceland
- Golden Gate Bridge

Book Cheap Flights to the United States with Globehunters

If you’re searching for your next amazing trip to the United States, then look no further than Globehunters. You’ll find the best deals on flights, hotels and car hire with us, and every booking is protected by ATOL and IATA for extra peace of mind.