The United States of America

My USA Highlights

I’ve been lucky enough to visit the USA quite a few times now, and every trip feels like a completely different experience. I’ve made multiple trips to New York and Los Angeles, and I’ve also explored places like Palm Springs, Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston, and Las Vegas. There’s honestly too much to fit into a single highlights section – the sheer size of the country means every state feels like its own world.

One thing I love is how vast and varied the landscape is. You can go from sun-drenched deserts to buzzing cities to lakeside escapes all in one trip. And of course, the food is as iconic as it is generous in portion size – from deep-dish pizza in Chicago to hoagies in Philly.

Los Angeles is a place I’ve visited a few times now, and each visit feels like something straight out of a movie. There’s something so captivating about the mix of palm-lined boulevards, celebrity culture, and laid-back beach life.

One of my absolute favourite areas has to be Santa Monica and Venice Beach. The vibe is so chill  – think beach boardwalks, buzzing cafes, smoothie bowls, roller skaters, and people out for morning runs. There’s such a healthy, feel-good energy about it all. Watching the sunset from the Santa Monica Pier or strolling down Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice never gets old.

Some of the top experiences in LA I’ve loved:

• Walk of Fame & Hollywood Sign hike
• Santa Monica bike hire 
• Day trip to Malibu
• Celebrity Homes tour 

A real standout moment for me was experiencing Coachella Festival – it was everything I hoped it would be and more. Palm Springs, where the festival is held, quickly became one of my favourite places ever. It has this retro-cool charm and desert sunshine that’s hard to beat – it’s somewhere I would go back to in a heartbeat.

New York is a destination that never gets old. Every time I visit, there’s more to explore. Some of my must-sees include:

• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
• Empire State Building
• Broadway Show in Times Square
• Central Park
• Edge Observation Deck
• Walk the highline
• Shopping in SoHo & 5th Avenue

And of course, grabbing a classic NYC slice!

Chicago really surprised me – super walkable, clean, and vibrant. My top picks:

• Millennium Park & The Bean
•  Art Institute of Chicago
• Griffin Science Museum
• Skydeck at Willis Tower
• 90 minute walking tour

Las Vegas is like stepping into another world – there’s truly no place like it. Nestled in the Nevada desert, it hits you out of nowhere with its bright lights, wild energy, and round-the-clock buzz. Whether you’re there to hit the casinos, watch world-class shows, or just soak up the madness, there’s always something going on.

I loved exploring the Las Vegas Strip, watching the Bellagio fountains, and checking out the themed hotels – each one more over-the-top than the last.

Boston has a strong British influence and feels like a home from home with its cobbled streets and rich history. Some highlights:

• Craft Brewery Tour
• Fenway Park for a Red Sox game
• Walking the Freedom Trail
• Whale watching cruise

Philadelphia has its own gritty charm and is known for its rich history and delicious food scene – especially the famous Philly hoagie! The city has a creative, slightly gritty vibe with cool murals, independent shops, and buzzing local markets. It’s also really walkable, and there are loads of leafy parks and waterfront views along the Schuylkill River. If you like cities with personality, Philly delivers.

One trip I’ve been dreaming about is a road trip through the Deep South. I’d love to visit New Orleans, Nashville, Charleston, and Savannah – soaking up the music, food, and southern charm.