The U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows foreign nationals from the list of participating countries to enter the United States for a short-term stay and travel, tourism or business for up to 90 days or less without obtaining a U.S. Visitor Visa. The VWP program facilitates free travel to the United States by making travel easier and providing a stimulus boost to the U.S. tourism industry. All travelers belonging to VWP eligible countries may also choose to apply for a visitor visa also, if they plan to stay longer than the allowed 90 days of stay.
Foreign nationals belonging to the list of VWP countries must meet all eligibility requirements for travel under the VWP without a visa, please see the eligibility requirements for the Visa Waiver Program and read the frequently asked questions as the program excludes certain travelers from these countries. As a pre-qualification requirement, the VWP travelers are required to have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) authorization prior to travel and are screened at the port of entry into the United States. In addition, VWP travelers are also required to enroll in the United States Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology program (commonly referred to as US-VISIT) by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Currently 36 countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program. Taiwan recently is the 37th and newest nation added under U.S. Visa Waiver Program list, which allows Taiwanese visitors to USA to be able to enter the United States of America for 90 days without a US visitor visa. The number of inbound visitors and tourists to the United States is growing all the time as many American embassies around the world are stepping up efforts to promote the U.S. as a travel destination.
Here is a listing all the eligible countries/territories under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program:
Andorra
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Brunei
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Portugal
San Marino
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Kingdom
America offers the travel experience of a lifetime for many foreign nationals visiting on a holiday, to meet friends or be with relatives living in USA. The United States has some of the fabulous cities in world to see, there are many enchanting national parks have some of the best environmentally protected lands, it is also home to thousands of amusement parks, theme parks, water parks and zoos. Traveling coast-to-coast is a lifetime dream for many, but even exploring selected destinations is thrilling. New York on the east coast, also referred to as the Big Apple, is by far the top tourist attraction in USA. San Francisco on the west coast offers visitors the option to walk across the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Florida offers visitors great options such as Disney World in Orlando or the sizzling beach life of Miami. Los Angeles offers tourists all the glamour that Hollywood has to offer, and one can experience the magic of Disneyland too. In the windy city of Chicago, the downtown and all the attraction around the magnificent mile by the lake is spectacular. Casino enthusiasts can have non-stop fun in Las Vegas, which has the best nightlife in America. Museum lovers must make it a point see the monument and many fabled museums in Washington DC. Boston features many fabled academic campuses and a history of its own to see and experience. Dallas and Texas offer a taste of the southern life and one can get a first hand feel of the rodeo also. For animal lovers, a visit to a zoo is a must, and the San Diego Zoo and the National Zoo in Washington DC are among the best in the world. Last, but not the least, Honolulu in Hawaii offers a tropical escape that is unforgettable if you love hopping the many tiny islands.
Check out the below video that offers a glimpse of all this excitement that visitors to USA can expect:
While the VWP program saves you a lot of time and money in obtaining a US visitor visa in advance, you are now rightfully prepared for visiting and traveling across USA once you purchase your airline tickets. But in navigating all these procedural steps, it is prudent to also purchase visitor medical insurance for the duration of stay as a temporary visitor in the U.S. or even outside you’re home country, if you plan to visit other nations en-route. America’s healthcare facilities are ranked topmost in the world, but the cost of medical care for a sickness or injury could by significantly higher than amounts encountered in your home country. Buying a visitors insurance plan can protect you from such risks and allows you to travel to USA worry-free.
Visiting America is really easier than you think. Yes it is, and the below video produced by the U.S. Department of State show you the highlights step by step of how easy the process can be. So if you have had the urge to visit USA, or to backpack across the American hinterland, or planning a group business trip to a convention or just getting your relatives, friends or family to visit America, do not get bogged down, but explore the possibilities with the easy steps.
Every year, many foreign citizens travel outside their home country, and millions choose USA as a destination country. International visitation to the United States has grown year over year since 2004, with many visitors to USA looking forward to experience the beauty and sights that America offers. According to the U.S. Travel and Tourism office, top countries from where visitors to USA arrived from in the recent years include Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, Brazil, France, South Korea, China, Australia, India, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Thailand. Travel and tourism provides many billions of dollars in net surplus each year for the U.S., as many million visitors to USA choose visiting America’s scenic holiday spots, or its bustling cities, or visit family and friends living in America, or escape the crowds on an idyllic beach resort, America offers a variety of things to do and places to see for these short term visitors to USA.
While most of you plan to apply for a US visitor visa and buy your airline tickets in advance, it is equally important to purchase visitor medical insurance for the duration of stay outside your home country. America has one of the best health care facilities in the world, but the cost of care without a qualified visitors health insurance plan can be prohibitively high for many. Protect yourself and your loved ones visiting USA by selecting a US based visitor insurance plan and enjoy the visit!
Chicago is often called The Windy City, is the largest city in the Midwest and the third most-populous city in the United States. Chicago has something for offer every type of visitor, and is a popular tourist attraction in the U.S. with more than 32 million domestic leisure travelers and over 1 million overseas visitors to USA visiting Chicago every year. Chicago is located at the southwestern tip of Lake Michigan, which is part of the Great Lakes.
While undoubtedly one of the United States’ major metropolises, Chicago is a major transportation hub and airline travel is available from just about every U.S. city. O’Hare International Airport is the second-busiest airport in the world, and Midway Airport also sees a great deal of air traffic. The Chicago Transit Authority’s rapid transit rail system, locally known as the L, serves both O’Hare and Midway, making travel from either airport to downtown Chicago a breeze. Taxis are also available from both airports. The Greyhound bus system has many intercity buses to Chicago and the Amtrack train system has many trains to and from the Chicago Union Station.
Chicago offers something in every season, but the peak season for travel to Chicago is the Spring, through Summer and up to late Fall season from April through December, with throngs of visitors flooding the windy city for popular summer events such as Taste of Chicago. Chicago has notoriously cold winters, but cost-conscious travelers willing to brave the elements can take advantage of promotions from hotels and cheap airfare during the low season from January through March.
Chicago features a wide variety of attractions to tempt every type of traveler. In terms of culture, the city is home to critically acclaimed theatre and comedy troupes. Chicago also prides itself on its historic Cultural Center and Museum Campus. The Cultural Center, erected in 1897, originally housed the Chicago Public Library and now features various galleries and exhibit halls that highlight rotating exhibits, as well as the city’s Visitor Information Center. The Museum Campus encompasses the Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, the Field Museum of Natural History, and the Shedd Aquarium.
While the vast offering of attractions can make it difficult for travelers to choose how to spend their time in Chicago, visitors and locals alike agree that there are certain must-dos in the Windy City. Recommendations typically include the following attractions, in no particular order. Navy Pier, with its stunning Ferris wheel, shopping and dining, and excursion boats; Wrigley Field, home of the Cubs and the United States’ second-oldest major league ballpark; the Museum Campus, which hosts exhibits for all ages; and the Skydeck at the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), where visitors can take in 360 degree views of up to four states from over 1300 feet above ground level.
Chicago lays claim to franchises in all four major sports leagues including the Major League Baseball teams Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox, the National Hockey League team Chicago Blackhawks, the National Basketball Association team Chicago Bulls, and the National Football League team Chicago Bears. The Wrigley Field is the home of the Cubs which is the second oldest active major league ballpark, and the Chicago Marathon is one of the five World Marathon Majors. Chicago’s football history goes back to the 1930’s and the Chicago Bears play at the newly renovated Soldier Field located on the shore of Lake Michigan just south of downtown. The Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks play at the United Center which is a tourist stop for those wanting to see a life-sized bronze statue of former Bulls’ star Michael Jordan.
Chicago pays homage to Mother Nature with its 7300 acres of municipal parkland, including 29 public beaches along historic Lake Shore Drive. Visitors to these beautiful beaches can enjoy bike rentals and a refreshing dip in Lake Michigan. Lincoln Park stretches 5.5 miles along the waterfront and features the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is home to more than 1,000 animals. Grant Park, flanked by the Museum Campus, is home to the beautiful Buckingham fountain and also hosts the immensely popular Taste of Chicago culinary event each summer. Millennium Park, one of the city’s newest additions, offers visually stunning attractions such as the stainless steel Cloudgate sculpture, while also providing for ice skating in the winter and the interactive Crown fountain in the summer.
Navy Pier once again highlights the importance of Lake Michigan as a defining factor in Chicago’s identity, and, as Chicago’s number one tourist attraction, is certainly not to be missed. The 3,000 foot long pier has a 150 foot-tall Ferris wheel that attracts more than 8 million people annually. Navy pier is also home to various exhibitions throughout the year and is an embarkation point for tour and excursion boats, such as the popular Tall Ship Windy.Navy Pier has been a Chicago landmark since it opened in 1916.It now showcases a unique collection of restaurants, shops and plenty of entertainment. At Navy Pier you’ll find the Chicago Children’s Museum, an IMAX theater, an indoor botanical park Crystal Gardens, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows.
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s great art museums, with collections dating from 3,000 B.C. through the present, including famous French Impressionist paintings and drawings; fine and decorative arts from America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America; photography, textiles and architectural works. The Chicago Botanical Garden is a world-renowned garden and is located in a 385-acre, living museum features 23 specialty gardens set on a series of islands and lakes. The Garden is always in bloom, featuring year-round exhibits, festivals, tours and special events.
The Field Museum is another Chicago landmark where you can discover Sue, the largest and most complete T-rex ever found! At The Field Museum, you can get a bug’s-eye view in Underground Adventure, descend into an Egyptian tomb, watch a glowing lava flow, be dazzled by sparkling gems, come nose-to-nose with the man-eating lions of Tsavo, and learn about the worlds cultures and environments. The Shedd Aquarium houses the world’s largest indoor aquarium offers more than 22,000 aquatic animals from around the world.
At the Chicago Children’s Museum there are hands-on exhibits and new activities daily make every visit unforgettable for toddlers to ten year olds and adults also. Visitors to Chicago will want to check out the Legoland Discovery Center and thrill seekers of all ages can face their fears and take in the wondrous views provided by Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). Cultural enthusiasts will relish the city’s renowned comedy and theatre troupes.
The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio complex located in Oak Park, Illinois is just outside Chicago and has served as Wright’s private residence, studio and architectural laboratory during the first twenty years of his career from 1889 to 1909. The Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust offers guided interior tours of the Home and Studio.
Perhaps Chicago’s most identifiable claim to fame resides in its architecture, and the city is a veritable museum of modern architecture. Best view of Chicago from one of the world’s tallest buildings.The Sears Tower Skydeck offers a free touch and tell computers featuring Chicago’s landmarks in six languages. See some of Chicago’s world-famous architecture. Take a virtual tour or browse on your own. Learn about the architects who influenced the city’s architecture and view their creations. Boat cruises offer the opportunity tour Chicago’s world-renowned architecture aboard the Architectural River cruise or experience Chicago’s rich history on the Historical Lake & River cruise. Boat tours depart daily from River East Plaza, a short walk from Navy Pier.
Chicago is home to a vital, vast and varied community of theatrical companies, as well as several large independent theaters, where you’ll find everything from traveling Broadway mega hits to experimental theater, to Chicago’s famous improvisational groups that display the wit and humor of the Second City. The rich contrasts of the city are wonderfully reflected in music. At Symphony Center, you’ll find the world-famous Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The blues, jazz, reggae, modern rock and more are alive in Chicago, with dozens of clubs all over town.
The 94th-floor observatory, more than 1,000 feet above Chicago at the John Hancock Center, features an open-air Skywalk, the Midwest’s highest open-air experience; Sky Tours, which takes you on a personal audio tour of Chicago’s incredible sights and remarkable history; Soundscope 3-D “talking” telescopes that speak in four languages and create startling real sound effects; a Chicago history wall; and a theme park-style ticketing area that recreates the construction of the John Hancock Center.
The Magnificent Mile offers 460 stores in eight city blocks. Beyond shopping, choose from delectable restaurants, unique shops and several museums and galleries to round out your day on the mile. Dining Out at Chicago mainstays like a perfect steak or deep-dish pizza, the city’s diverse dining offerings feature everything from ethnic dining to traditional family fare to the hottest new restaurants.
International visitors to USA do require a visitor visa to enter the United States. Elderly folks and senior visitors to the U.S. need to take precautions and plan for walking a lot, or plan for handicap wheel chair. There is abundant of food and variety of cuisine available to accommodate all tastes and requirements. Be watchful and wary of street vendors and other touts. It is prudent that visitors to USA get the health coverage and medical protection needed in the form of visitors health insurance for sickness, injuries or hospital emergencies while visiting USA. Enjoy your visit to the windy city and your stay in America.
New York City or the City of New York is the most populous city in the United States and the center of the New York Metropolitan Area, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. New York exerts a significant impact upon global commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and entertainment. The home of the United Nations Headquarters, New York is an important center for international affairs and is widely deemed the cultural capital of the world.
New York City has five boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Kings, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island) which are home to some of the world’s most recognizable, cherished landmarks and attractions. From Times Square and Central Park to the Empire State Building and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the island of Manhattan packs more legendary icons into one compact area than any other place on Earth—and that’s to say nothing of the City’s four other boroughs, each of which contains its own roster of must-see destinations. With so much to see and do, a trip to NYC may seem a little overwhelming. To help, we’ve rounded up attractions that belong on any visitor’s to-see list. Since the City’s full breadth of activities is virtually limitless, be sure to visit our complete list of tours and attractions for more ideas.
The world’s most-visited tourist attraction is Times Square in New York City with 39 million visitors annually. Times Square is a major commercial intersection in the borough of Manhattan in New York City, at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue and stretching from West 42nd to West 47th Streets. The extended Times Square area, also called the Theatre District, consists of the blocks between Sixth and Eighth Avenues from east to west, and West 40th and West 53rd Streets from south to north, making up the western part of the commercial area of Midtown Manhattan. There’s no better place to experience the excitement of New York than Times Square. Surrounded by neon lights, giant billboards, Broadway theaters, electronic ticker tape and television studios, Times Square is truly the heart of Midtown. Tourists flock to New York’s neon heart for the flashing lights, Broadway shows, megastores, and sheer spectacle. Pedestrian-only areas with café tables introduced in 2009 have only made it easier and more appealing to hang out here. Times Square can even be a convenient, if chaotic, base, thanks to hotels at every price point and easy access to public transportation: subways, rails, buses, and more yellow taxis than you can count.
Another topping the list of world’s most-visited tourist attraction is Central Park in New York City with nearly 38 million annual visitors. New York has larger green spaces, but none is more famous than Central Park, which stretches across nearly 850 acres of prime Manhattan real estate—an oasis for both tourists and locals. You can ride in one of the famous horse-drawn carriages; check out the modest-size zoo; climb to the top of 19th-century Belvedere Castle; or take a break from pounding the pavement to sprawl on the Great Lawn, gazing at the skyscrapers above.
Grand Central Terminal in New York City is visited by some 21 million folks annually. Unlike harried commuters, visitors take their time in the main concourse of this Beaux-Arts landmark, pausing to view its glittering ceiling painted with a map of the constellations from the night sky. There are shops and events to distract your attention, and, a level below, the historic Oyster Bar—featured on an episode of AMC’s Mad Men—serves two million fresh bivalves a year. Constructed at the beginning of the 20th century, this Beaux-Arts beauty’s interior is as lovely as its exterior. Usually teeming with crowds of commuters, the cavernous main concourse is full of dazzling architectural details, including the much-photographed information booth with its four-faced clock; the domed gold-and-cerulean-blue ceiling painted with astronomical signs and studded with fiber-optic stars; and grand staircases, arched passageways, and palatial mezzanines (housing cocktail bars, where you can sip while you people-watch). How to See It: Arrive via the 42nd Street entrance and have a look at the façade’s giant clock: it’s the world’s largest example of Tiffany glass.
Suprisingly, the South Street Seaport in New York City has 9 million visitors every year. This historic East River site in lower Manhattan dates back to the 1600s and spans some 11 blocks packed with shops, restaurants, and piers, including the popular Pier 17, a barge-turned-mall. Commercialism aside, the history runs deep here and is perhaps best experienced on one of the two 1800s tall-masted schooners the South Street Seaport Maritime Museum maintains. Go for a sunset sail with Gotham as a backdrop.
Last but not least in the world’s most-visited tourist attraction in NYC is the Metropolitan Museum of Art. More than 5 million visitors pass through its doors each year. With a permanent collection of more than 2 million pieces—plus works on loan from renowned museums worldwide—and a rooftop bar with a new installation each summer, it’s no wonder the Met is a huge tourist magnet. Expect even higher visitation numbers in 2011 thanks to the buzzed-about Alexander McQueen fashion exhibit.
Among America’s most beautiful landmarks is the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. At its completion in 1883, this engineering marvel was the world’s longest suspension bridge. Even though it hasn’t held that title for a while, the Brooklyn Bridge’s two Gothic arched towers are an instantly recognizable symbol of New York and all its innovation. How to See It: After walking across the roughly mile-long span from downtown Manhattan, relax in the new Brooklyn Bridge Park overlooking the bridge and Manhattan skyline.
The Empire State Building is also a remarkable landmark which is located at the corners of 5th Avenue and West 34th Street in New York City. After its completion in 1931, it was the World’s Tallest Building, but after 49 years, the title was given to the World Trade Center after its construction in 1972. However, the tragedy of September 11, 2001 restored the Empire State Building to its former titles as the tallest building in New York. It was chosen as one of the Seven Wonders in the Modern World.
Another beautiful landmark is the Chrysler Building in New York City. While the Empire State Building may be the tallest skyscraper in New York, this 77-story Art Deco masterpiece is certainly the prettiest with its shiny stainless-steel crown and architectural flourishes. Pay attention to the details: the big eagles on the 61st floor are modeled after the hood ornaments from a 1929 Chrysler. How to See It: Take a leisurely sunset walk across 42nd Street, and admire the way the light hits its tiered spire.
New York has so much going on and so much to see, it can be overwhelming, and sure is one of the best places to visit in USA! The tourist attractions in Manhattan are must-sees, but if you are ready to be a bit more adventurous and see the real New York, then you have to venture on off the beaten track. After you spend a couple of days walking around Times Square, the museums, Central Park and the Empire State Building, make sure not to miss Little Italy, Koreatown and Chinatown for amazing food and fun stores. You can also go outside of Manhattan and take the subway to Brooklyn, where you can visit the music scene in ultra-cool Williamsburg, the brownstone houses in beautiful Park Slope and the Caribbean immigrant neighborhood of Fort Greene. Other sights to see are the the country’s oldest amusement parks on <a href=”http://www.coneyisland.com/”>Coney Island</a> at the southern tip of Brooklyn.
International visitors to USA do require a visitor visa to enter the United States. Elderly folks and senior visitors need to take precautions and plan for walking a lot, or plan for handicap wheel chair. There is abundant of food and cuisine variety available to accommodate all tastes and requirements. Be watchful and wary of street vendors and other touts. It is also prudent that visitors to USA get the health coverage protection they needed in the form of visitor insurance USA for medical emergencies due to sickness or injury while visiting USA.
The above video snippet helps you plan a quick visit to NYC in 24 hours. If you are planning a more relaxed visit to NYC, check out the top things to do in NYC as you plan your visit to the New York City Attractions. Enjoy your visit to New York City and your stay in America.
Over the course of 6 million years, the Grand Canyon has been carved by the Colorado River, this canyon is like none other. Grand Canyon is unmatched throughout the world for the vistas it offers to visitors on the rim. It is not the deepest canyon in the world. Both the Barranca del Cobre in northern Mexico and Hell’s Canyon in Idaho are deeper. But Grand Canyon is known for its overwhelming size and its intricate and colorful landscape. Geologically it is significant because of the thick sequence of ancient rocks that are beautifully preserved and exposed in the walls of the canyon. These rock layers record much of the early geologic history of the North American continent. Grand Canyon is also one of the most spectacular examples of erosion in the world.
This awesome natural attraction and tourist destination is a river carved gorge with steep sides in northwestern Arizona. It is officially one of the seven natural wonders in the world, chosen as a World Heritage site and one of jewels of the National Park System. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide and attains a depth of over a mile. In 1908 the Grand Canyon was made an official national monument and in 1919, it became a national park. Numerous animals, even endangered California species, make this 1.2 million acre park its home. Aside from the animals, there are more than 1,500 species of plants.
The Colorado River rushes at the bottom of the canyons, about 1,850 feet above sea level. The sides of the canyons are made of rocks, cliffs, ridges, hills and valleys of every form. Many of the ridges have weather carved lines which make them resemble Chinese temples. Thick forests of blue spruce, fir, oaks as well as Ponderosa pines cover the canyon rim. Deep in the canyon’s recesses, the foliage grows sparse and shorter. Pinon pines and juniper growing along the cliffs give way to dry desert scrub on the canyon floor. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon rises about 1,200 feet higher that the south rim. The highest points on the rim are about 9,000 feet above sea level. Most of the 1,904 square miles of the park are maintained as wilderness. There are three distinct sections of the park; the South Rim, the North Rim and the Inner Canyon. Each section has a different climate as well as different vegetation and different experiences. The North Rim is the coldest and the wettest. It receives up to 26 inches of precipitation a year. The South Rim only receives around 16 inches of precipitation a year. The Inner Canyon is the closest to a desert as the lower you descend, the hotter and drier it becomes. The floor of the canyon, approximately a mile below the North Rim, is about 35°F hotter than the temperatures above.
The colorful canyon rocks were formed millions of years ago. Their colors change with the changing light of the sun. Many layers of rock have been bared by the constant cutting force of the rushing river. The first layer of rock through which the Colorado River now cuts is black in color and is called Archean. The second layer, called Algonkian, has a brilliant red color. The next layer is a lavender-brown color and is known as Tapeats sandstone. The forth layer, the Devonian layer, consists of small deposits of lavender stone. Above this, the thick Redwall curves along the canyon. Above the Redwall lies 800 feet of red sandstone called the Supai formation. The Hermit shale, another layer of red rock covers this. On top of the Hermit shale rests the sand colored Coconino sandstone, a pale bank that lies 350 feet below the rim of the canyon. The top layer of the canyon consists of cream and gray colored Kaibab limestone. This limestone forms a rim known as the Kaibab Plateau on the north side of the canyon, and as the Coconino Plateau on the south.
There is so much to see in Grand Canyon, aside from the panoramic and breath-taking sceneries. There are many interesting places that tourists can visit like museums and art galleries, amusement parks, National and State Parks, historical places and witness sporting events & festivals. Mild spring, summer and fall are good times to visit the Canyon as it is a safety haven from intense heat. Most old residents of Grand Canyon recommend a visit during the winter season because there are fewer tourists, parking is plentiful and you can catch a magnificent view of snowy peaks.
The park is located at No. 2 Albright Ave, Grand Canyon, Arizona 86023, USA and is open daily for visitors from 8 am to 5 pm. You can get more information from the Grand Canyon National Park using the below sites.
Each year, many visitors to USA from overseas are drawn to the Statue of Liberty, not merely for its aesthetic beauty but also as a symbol for freedom and liberty. The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States and is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886, designated as a National Monument in 1924 and restored for her centennial on July 4, 1986. The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable icons of the United States and is very near to New York City. The Statue of Liberty was, for decades, often the first glimpse of the United States for millions of immigrants arriving after ocean voyages from Europe.
The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum is located on Ellis Island. Both islands are in New York Harbor, south of Lower Manhattan, New York City. The only way to get to Liberty Island is by using the Statue of Liberty – Ellis Island Ferry system. Private vessels are not allowed to dock at Liberty and Ellis Islands.
As you enter the harbor of New York, you will behold a colossal neoclassical sculpture of a stately lady holding a torch – this is the Statue of Liberty which symbolizes liberty enlightening the world. Designed by Frederic Bartholdi, this statue was a gift from the people of France to Americans which was dedicated on October 28, 1886. This robed lady represents Libertas, the Roman Goddess of Freedom who is bearing a torch in her right hand and in her left is the tabula ansata ( a tablet evoking the law) upon which was inscribed the date of the American Declaration of Independence. A broken chain at her feet signifies breaking the shackles from slavery. The total weight of the Statue of Liberty is 450,000 pounds (204, 100 kilograms). The Lady of Liberty’s crown has 25 windows and her crown has seven spikes which represent either the seven oceans or the seven continents.
You can tour this symbolic monument in several ways. First, you can start from the pedestal and take the Observatory Tour. Watch the awesome views of the New York Harbor and New York City and then learn the history of the statue by visiting the history museum. Then go to the next floor of the statue’s pedestal and see the Statue of Liberty exhibit containing photos, videos, museum objects and illustrated history and symbolism related to the icon. Exhibits were opened to the public in 1986 and have become a crowd favorite.
Alternatively, you can take the Promenade Tour guided by a park ranger, by going to the second floor balcony that overlooks the authentic 1986 torch. In the torch exhibit, the guide will explain the different alterations done to the torch. You will pass by Ft. Wood at the base of the monument and gaze at the spectacular Manhattan Skyline and New York Harbor. The last place you visit is the area where you can read the poem New Colossus, written by Emma Lazarus in 1883. This poem is inscribed on the bronze plaque hanging on the inner wall of the pedestal. This plaque symbolizes the message of hope, and freedom for all people across the globe.
Tours are free and no reservations are required. However, since thousands of people visit this symbolic monument daily, wait times and lines greater than an hour are commonplace when purchasing tickets and boarding ferries. On weekends, holidays and daily from April through October, wait times for purchasing tickets and boarding ferries may exceed two hours. Please factor in these wait times when planning your visit. Make your visit during a weekday and arrive early and catch the first ferry to avoid unnecessary waiting. You can take a picnic basket and enjoy lunch on Liberty Island. Reservations to Visit the Crown are limited to 240 people per day. Reservations to Monument/Pedestal are limited to 3000 people per day. All other tickets entitle you to tour the exterior grounds only. Review the below infomation sites of the Statue of Liberty which can help you plan your visit to this robed lady.
Las Vegas is a city in Nevada state and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Las Vegas is a glittering and fabulous city located in western United States and is close to California. Visitors from around the world come to visit this mecca of entertainment known for is gambling casinos, live shows, designer shopping, superb dining and all thing showbiz. Las Vegas climate is moderate to hot and is enjoyed by many who seek a sojourn here to escape the stress and grind of daily life. Everywhere you look, you see flashing fluorescent lights, buildings that seemed to touch the sky, people walking the entire length of the Vegas strip, taxis and buses speeding and so much more.
When the Hoover Dam was completed in 1936, which is located in the Black Canyon just outside of Las Vegas city, it resulted in the growth of Las Vegas number of residents. Nevada state legalized gambling in Las Vegas in the year 1931 which caused an increase in tourism ever since. Famous businessman Howard Hughes arrived in Vegas in the late 1960s and purchased many casino hotels, television stations, and radio stations in the city. This encouraged many others to follow and today this is history. The world famous Las Vegas Strip is an approximately 4.2-mile (6.8 km) stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard which has numerous casinos and hotels and are the major attractions of Las Vegas. There are many things you can do in Las Vegas, visit the below suggested sites for travel itinerary and trip planning ideas.
Nearly 40 million people visit Las Vegas every year and no matter what time of year you choose to visit, the city is crowded and the weather is sunny and dry. So plan your travel outside the holidays and summer season for the city is not quite as crowded. To economize on hotels, the best time to go is the period between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, or after the celebration of Labor Day. You can get to Las Vegas by bus, car, plane or train from your place of destination. Be a smart visitor and follow some useful tips when visiting Las Vegas.
International visitors to USA do require a visitor visa to enter the United States. Elderly folks and senior visitors need to take precautions and plan for walking a lot, or plan for handicap wheel chair. There is abundant of food and cuisine variety available to accommodate all tastes and requirements. Be watchful and wary of street vendors and other touts. It is prudent that visitors to USA get the health coverage protection needed in the form of visitors to USA insurance for medical emergencies while visiting USA. Enjoy your visit to Vegas and your stay in America.
Each year millions of visitors from around the world come to Niagara Falls State Park in USA to get up close to the beauty of the Falls. The beauty of Niagara Falls is difficult to replicate, but it’s the diverse region that makes Niagara USA so unique. With so many affordable things to do for visitors, especially families, it’s no wonder Niagara Falls attracts many millions of visitors each year.
The Niagara Falls is comprised of three waterfalls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls, which straddled the boundary of Canada and the USA, include three distinct sections: The American Falls between Prospect Point and Luna Island; the Bridal Veil Falls between Luna Island and Goat Island and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls between Goat island and Table Rock. The mighty river plunges over a cliff of dolostone and shale rock. Niagara Falls is the second largest falls on the globe next to Victoria Falls in southern Africa. One fifth of all the fresh water in the world lies in the four Upper Great Lakes – Lakes Michigan, Huron, Superior and Erie. All the outflow empties into the Niagara river and eventually cascades over the falls. At the bottom of the falls, the water travels 15 miles over many gorges until it reaches the fifth Great Lake – Lake Ontario.
No matter when you visit, or which side of the falls you visit, there are always plenty of things to do in the Niagara Falls area. Enjoy the beautiful Niagara Falls and have an experience that will last a lifetime. Niagara USA is not only home to the Falls but it is a place rich in history, culture, outdoor life, shopping, adventure and agriculture. There are hundreds of attractions and things to do in Niagara Falls year-round. Summertime in Niagara USA is packed with free outdoor concerts, festivals and events to keep you entertained. There are also many events and festivals in the fall and winter months that feature wine, food, and music. Enjoy the Niagara Falls State Park at anytime of the year and experience over 400 acres of protected wildlife and lush landscape. The whole family will love the Niagara USA experience that offers historical and exciting adventures and tours.
Foreign visitors to USA or Canada should always consider visitors health insurance, this is especially important for elderly visitors to the falls and senior travelers to Canada or USA. On the U.S. side of the falls, there is an international food court that caters multi-cuisine foods including Indian, Chinese, Italian, and more. Visitors who plan to cross borders to either America or Canada need to be prepared with all the documents and meet customs and border regulations. Visitors from any country other than the U.S. have always needed a passport with a valid visitors visa to enter Canada or USA. Please visit the following official websites for more information.
America welcomes visitors to USA from around the world. International visitors to USA add greatly to American cultural, education and economic life. USA continues the tradition of welcoming visitors to the United States, with secure borders and open doors. Visitors to USA can enjoy and experience the myriad avenues of sightseeing and travel, and all that America has to offer. VisitorsToUSA.com welcomes all temporary and short term visitors to America, and wishes them a happy journey and relaxing stay while in the United States.
Tourism in the United States is a large industry that serves millions of international and domestic tourists yearly. Tourists visit the US to see natural wonders, cities, historic landmarks and entertainment venues just as Americans seek similar attractions, as well as recreation and vacation areas. Today, there exists a wide range of tourist attractions in the United States such as amusement parks, festivals, gambling casinos, golf courses, historical buildings and landmarks, hotels, museums, galleries, outdoor recreation, spas, restaurants, race tracks and sports stadiums. According to a recent U.S. government travel and tourism report, the number of foreign tourists who visited the US in 2010 was well over 60 million, these foreign visitors to USA created a whopping economic impact of USD $1.34 trillion for the year.
Many visitors to US also include parents, relatives and friends who come to America to visit and spend some time with their kith and kin. Visitors to USA need to get a U.S. visitor visa from the U.S. Consulate in their home country prior to travel to the United States. If your home country falls in the list of countries that belong to the U.S visitor visa waiver program, you might be exempted from this requirement. Please read and review below links for additional related information. It is also not currently mandatory to obtain a visitors insurance USA, at least for certain nationalities. However, it is always prudent to obtain visitors insurance coverage as costs of health care and emergency medical help is high in America.
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts created the above film for the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Homeland Security and is featured at international ports of entry at major airport in U.S., and throughout consular waiting areas around the world at U.S. embassies and consulates. The film previews all America has to offer: diversity from all regions and walks of life within the United States. America is a melting pot of different cultures, religions, lifestyles, careers, cities, landscapes, sports, technologies, and entertainment, this brilliant video above offers a kaleidoscope on many aspects of American life, including culture, geography, entertainment, science, and more.
Domestically, the U.S. travel and tourism industry is barely out of the recession here in USA, lot of U.S. citizens have cut back on travel within the United States. But, on the bright side is inbound travel by international visitors and foreign tourists visiting USA. In 2010, the numbers according to the annual Commerce Department report as reported by USAToday.com look encouraging with a 9% year over year increase in the U.S. visitor inflow into the United States.
Also included in the report was the department’s Office of Travel & Tourism Industries estimate of the economic impact of the inbound visitors to USA to the U.S. economy as USD 1.34 trillion. International visitors to USA spend on hotel accommodations while visiting USA, travel and tourism expenses visiting places in America, eating and drinking in restaurants and bars across the US, shopping for all the goods at the various malls and outlet stores in America. Another number documented in the report is the average amount spent by foreign visitors to USA and international travelers to US on leisure travel is twice the number of foreign business travelers to the US, and also they spend more money than their domestic counterparts. Also, each year, substantial number of non-US citizen visitors coming inbound on a US visitor visa include parents, relatives and friends of US citizens and permanent residents on green cards residing permanently in the US as immigrants and expats.
Here are some interesting stats on the origin and destination of the visitors and tourists. The countries from which the most visitors to USA come from are Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom (UK), Japan and Germany, in that order. Within the United States, the top city for foreign visitors are New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Orlando, San Francisco, Hawaiian islands, and Las Vegas. Globally, the following countries accounted for the greatest increases in visitation from international tourists: China, South Korea, and Brazil.
With the cost of health care already high and rising in USA, Visitor Insurance USA should be made mandatory for all international visitors to the U.S. as these travel medical insurance plans provide visitors health insurance coverage and protection from risks associated from sickness or illness or injury while a visitor in USA.
Visitors To USA 
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