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North America, South America and the Caribbean Islands together make up the landmass that is collectively known as the Americas, covering 8% of Earth’s total land area.
Roughly divided into two major cultural groups, Anglo-America (the North American continent and Latin America which includes North America south of Rio Grande), the Caribbean Islands and South America. Mexico and Central America is often referred to as the Middle Americas.
Home to over a billion people,65% of who live in one of the most populated countries (the United States, Brazil, and Mexico).The most populous urban areas are Mexico City, New York City, São Paulo, Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, and Rio de Janeiro, with over ten million inhabitants.
Comprising of 35 independent nations and various over sea settlements under European control, the continent is made of diverse cultures and an assortment of ecosystems.
For the ease of navigating through the vast continents, this guide has been divided into four fractions.
North America, Central America, the Caribbean, South America
Some of the popular destinations are
North America – United States of America, Canada ,Hawaii
Central America – Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama
The Caribbean – Aruba, Bonaire, Cuba, Puerto Rico, The Dominican Republic, St. Kitts
South America – Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela
Population – The total population of the Americas add up to a total of approximately one billion.
A total of roughly 364 million people populate North America, with around 326 million people in the United States, plus roughly 1.43 million living on the islands of Hawaii, and approximately 37 million in Canada and Greenland, accounting to 4.77% of the world’s population out of which 85.3% is urban.
80.2 per cent of Latin America and the Caribbean population live within urban contexts, and roughly make up 8.55% of the world’s population.
Language – The majority of the languages spoken across the Americas are a result of the European colonization. English, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese and French are widely spoken in comparison to indigenous languages.
Immigration also has contributed to the language pattern of the New World, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Arabic, German and Russian are among the top ten languages spoken in the Americas today.
However, it should be known that both the North and South American continents are home to a variety of indigenous languages which are not much in use today.
Currency – The US Dollar is the only currency accepted in the United States. Credit cards, Debit cards and prepaid travel cards are the common alternatives used by travellers.
The Canadian Dollar (CAD) is widely used across the country, and foreign currencies can easily be changed into Canadian dollars after arrival. USD can be used at most shops but will most likely be expensive as retailers can set their own exchange rates.
South America is home to 12 different units of currency used across the 12 nations, USD is widely accepted across the continent, however, it is best to use the local currency.
Interesting facts
In line after Asia and Africa, North America is the third largest continent in the world.
The continent of North America is contained within Northern and Western hemispheres alone.
North America is bound by three of the world’s largest oceans – the Pacific, the Atlantic and the Arctic.
The first Native American is believed to have migrated from Asia when a land bridge still connected the two continents.
Canada is the largest country in the North American continent, spanning 6 time zones, whereas The United States and Mexico have the largest populations. Mexico City is the most populous with in the urban context, with New York not far behind.
Canada has the longest coastline in the world, more than twice than that of the country which comes second.
Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica collectively used to be a single country named Central America.
Only 2% of the Caribbean islands are inhabited
Covering half of the continent’s land mass, Brazil is the largest country in the state of South America.
Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer at 25 % of the world’s coffee supply.
Peru grows about 55 varieties of corn, in a variety of colours including yellow, purple, white and black.
Religion – Religion in the Americas has been evolving significantly from the days of the Native Americans to the days of the colonists to today, influencing art, culture and law.
The sum of the population of the united states, Canada and Mexico, which accounts for 85%of the population of the North American continent is significantly (77.4) Christian, making it the largest religion in North America. Coming second is the non-religious followed by Islam and Hinduism, with the percentage of Islamic and Hindu believers being significantly more in Canada compared to that of the United States. Hawaii is home to a large number of Christians and Buddhists as well.
The dominant religion in Mexico is Christianity, representing 83% of the total population.
Almost all the countries in the continent of South America is predominantly Christian, although Suriname is home to a significant number of people who are non-religious.
Art and Architecture – The geographical and geographic diversity of the American continents has resulted in the development of culturally diverse regions whose have built vivid and expressive indigenous communities.
Colonisation meant that these cultures superficially accepted European styles and modified them to reflect their tradition and cultures.
It was only in the early 19 th century a collective Latin American, as well as a Native American identity, came into being only as a result of increased networking in the continent and due to shared linguistic ties and colonial heritage leading to a result of pluralistic, multicultural conditions.
The late 20th and the early 21 st centuries saw the evolution of art in the Americas trying to diverge from individualistic identities to a global one.
Colonisation also meant that European influences (British, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, French, German) styles of design and construction were brought to the newly discovered continent. On the new continent, they became amalgamated with various cultures picking the best of each to suit local context.
In the continent has seen modernist developments included commercial developments notably skyscrapers, devoid of all but essential ornamentation.
Contemporary architecture has developed in the entire collective continent of the Americas, not in any singular style but as an amalgamation of several expressive styles keeping in mind the latest technology and aimed to astound.
Customs and Traditions – The Americas as a whole is a continental region that is best described as a melting pot. Not only does the massiveness of the continent make for regional diversity, but the continent is home to a lot of immigrants from all over the world creating an amalgamation of entirely distinct cultures.
Noted Traditions
Of several days of national importance celebrated across the United States the most popular of which is Thanksgiving, 4 th of July and Ground Hogs Day.
Giving leis – garlands made of tropical flowers, maile, nuts and berries (called Lei) are often given to people celebrating a milestone or those coming back home as a gesture of a hearty welcome.
Central America is a region with deeply rooted ancestral traditions. Depending on the time of year, life, the dead, the saints, and the harvests are celebrated.
In most Spanish-speaking countries, Carnival celebrations are held between late January and early March, the time leading up to Lent. Carnivals are generally recognized as the final chance to celebrate before Lent. There are many festivities, including dancing and music, throughout the day and night.
Food – Like everything related to American culture, its cuisine too is an amalgamation of influences from indigenous native tribes, African Americans, Asians, Europeans, and Pacific Islanders. A lot of variations developed during the 18 th and 19 th centuries calling cooking styles of multiple ethnicities or regional approaches to fuse or adapt with other styles, to make ways for completely new styles.
Quintessential foods that cannot be missed are –
The US – Buffalo Chicken Wings,Apple Pie, Hamburger, Chilli, Clam Chowder
Canada – Poutine, Nova Scotian Lobster Rolls,
Hawaii – Poke, Lomi Salmon, Chicken long rice, Haupia, Fish tacos, Ahi, Manapua, Malasadas,
Central America – Jerk Pulled Pork (Belize), Anafres (Honduras), Pupusas (El Salvador), Vigaron (Nicaragua), Chilera (Costa Rica), Ceviche (Panama),Tapado (Guatemala)
The Caribbean – Mofongo (Puerto Rico), Boca Chica fried fish and tostones (Dominican Republic), Keshi Yena (Aruba), Stewed saltfish (St. Kitts)
South America – Ceviche (Peru), Arepas (Venezuela), Empanadas (Argentina), Dulce de Leche (Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil)
Clothing – Apart from professional business attire, American and Canadian fashion is predominantly informal. The western states are commonly noted for being more informal in style than those closer to the eastern seaboard. Dress pants, formal shoes, a button-down shirt or jeans, shorts, and a simple tee, is the norm.
Other communities in the Americas, wear traditional clothing on special occasions or but in general are open to western fashions, often adapted to their own climatic or cultural conditions. For example in Hawaii and the Caribbeans, Local designers take inspiration from the sea, the vivid flora and the relaxed culture for which the region is known.
While travelling through the South American continent, try to blend into the local crowd and dress conservatively. Be sure to pack an elegant going out outfit and a good pair of shoes. Also the smaller things like gloves and scarves and jumpers (which are often hand woven and colourful), can be bought in the local markets.
North America
United States of America
East coast
New York – John F Kennedy International Airport
Massachusetts – Boston-Logan International Airport
Pennsylvania – Philadelphia International Airport
Virginia – Richmond International Airport
Maryland – Baltimore Washington Airport
District of Columbia – Dulles International Airport
Maine – Portland International Airport
South Carolina – Charleston International Airport
Florida – Miami International Airport
West coast
Washington – Tacoma International Airport,San Francisco,
California – San Francisco International Airport, Sacramento international airport
Los Angeles, California – Los Angeles International Airport
San Diego, California – San Diego International Airport
Arizona – The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Oregon – Portland International Airports
Nevada – McCarran International Airport
Canada
Calgary, Alberta – Calgary International Airport
Victoria, British Columbia – Victoria International Airport
Vancouver, British Columbia – Vancouver International Airport
Winnipeg, Manitoba -, Winnipeg International Airport
Ottawa, Ontario – Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport
Toronto, Ontario – Toronto Pearson International Airport
Montreal, Quebec – Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport
Quebec City, Quebec – Québec/Jean Lesage International Airport
Hawaii
Kona International Airport (Kona), Hilo International Airport (Hilo)
Travellers also have an option of flying into Honolulu International Airport on Oahu first and then taking a short, 35-40 minute flight to the island of Hawaii.
Central America
Belize – Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, Belize City
Costa Rica – Juan Santamaría International Airport, San Jose, Daniel Oduber International Airport, Liberia
El Salvador – Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport, San Salvador
Guatemala – La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City
Honduras – Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport, Roatan
Mexico – Benito Juárez International Airport (Mexico City International Airport)
Nicaragua – Augusto C Sandino International Airport, Managua
Panama – Tocumen International Airport, Panama City
The Caribbean
Aruba – Queen Beatrix International Airport, Oranjestad
Bonaire – Flamingo International Airport, Kralendijk
Cuba – Jose Marti International Airport, Havana
Puerto Rico – Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport,Carolina
Rafael Hernández International Airport, Aguadilla
Mercedita International Airport, Ponce
The Dominican Republic – Las Americas International Airport, Santo Domingo
St. Kitts – Robert Bradshaw International Airport, Basseterre
South America
Argentina – The Ministro Pistarini International Airport, Buenos Aires
Bolivia – El Alto International Airport, Viru-Viru International Airport, Jorge Wilstermann International Airport
Brazil – Guarulhos International Airport, São Paulo, Galeão – Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, Rio de Janeiro
Chile – Arturo Merino Benitez – Santiago International Airport
Columbia – El Dorado International Airport,Botoga,José María Córdova International Airport,Medillin Rafael Núñez International Airport, Cartago, Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport,Cali
Ecuador – Mariscal Sucre International Airport ,Quito ,José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, Guayaquil
Peru – Jorge Chávez International Airport, Lima, Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport,Cusco
Venezuela – Simon Bolivar International Airport,Caracas, La Chinita International Airport, Maracaibo
The vast continent offers to change landscapes, temperatures, and climates. The climate and intensity of these seasons vary across the country, and the best travel time to depends on what you wish to experience.
North America
United States of America
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the USA, with pleasant temperatures across the country. If you want to see a white winter, the months of December to February is the best time.
The seasons in the US are usually as follows
Spring: March to May
Summer: June to August
Autumn: September to November
Winter: December to February
Canada
In terms of pleasant weather, getting the best value for money and not having to face the crowds at peak travel season the fall months – September and October, and spring – May and June are the best time to travel.
The seasons in Canada are usually as follows
Spring: February to May
Summer: June to August
Autumn: September to December
Winter: December to February
Winters in Canada reach a peak at most places, except at the coast of British Columbia, where winters are moderate with little snow.
In Banff and Whistler (both ski popular ski destinations) or places at similar (high) altitudes, the season usually ends at May.
Hawaii
Hawaii has the best of the best of the weather, with minimal rains from April to September. Best months to go whale watching are December to May. Peak season is July. To get the best of great weather, lesser crowds and good prices, May or September is the best.
The seasons in Hawaii are usually as follows
summer: May to October
winter: November to April
Central Pacific hurricane season: June to November
Central America
The best time to visit Central America would be the dry season, to avoid the torrential rains. July is peak season. The best value for money would be to visit at the end of the dry season, April to May, just before the peak crowds.
The seasons in Central America are usually as follows
Dry Season: early November to mid-May
Hottest months: March and April
Rainy Season: Mid May to Mid or late October
Torrential weather: July to September.
The Caribbean
The best time to visit the Caribbean would be from January to April, due to pleasant weather and low chances of rainfall. April, June and July are ideal, May generally experiences slight rainfall in most places.
The seasons in the Caribbean are usually as follows
Dry Season: February to June
Hottest months: March and April
Rainy Season: July to January
Torrential weather: June to November
South America
South America is a vast continent, with a diverse geography and climate, please check the country wise destination guides for more details about the best time to travel.
The seasons in South America are usually as follows
Summer: December to February
Autumn: March to May
Winter: June to August
Spring: September to November
Rainy season: January to March
United States of America
Stay:
budget accommodation – $40 – $80 (dorm/hostel)
Mid-range – $100 – $200(double room)
High-end – $300+
Food: $5 – $10 per person per meal at a fast food restaurant, food truck or diner
Mid-range: $15 – $25 per person per meal at a reasonable restaurant, gastropub
High-end: $50+ per person per meal at a nice restaurant
Local transport:
Car Rental :
Budget: $200 per week for a budget car that will comfortably fit two people and luggage
Mid-range: $250 – $300 for a mid-range car that will easily fit four people and luggage
High-end: $350 – $500 for a high-end car such as a convertible, large SUV or luxury vehicle
Sightseeing: $10 – $30/person
*Costs are mentioned in terms of USD.
*Costs mentioned are the average rates per day per person unless specified otherwise.
Canada
Stay:
budget accomodation – $25 to $100(dorm/hostel)
Mid-range – $100 to $250
High-end – $200 to $500+
+taxes in the range of 18% will be added to the hotel bill.
Food: $28/$50 two people
10% to 15% tax will be added to your restaurant bill at the end of the meal.
Tip – 15% to 20%
Local transport:
Cost to rent a car per day in Canada: $30 to $75.
Cost for return VIA train ticket from Toronto to Montreal: $100 to $300.
Commuter train cost from Hamilton to Toronto (about 1.5 hrs) is $12.10.
The light rail from Vancouver International Airport to downtown Vancouver (30 mins) costs $7 to $10.
Montreal subway tokens cost $2.25 to $3.25.
Taxis in Canada begin with a fixed rate of around $3.50 and then charge $1.75 to $2 per kilometre.
Sightseeing: $21 /person
*Costs are mentioned in terms of USD.
*Costs mentioned are the average rates per day per person unless specified otherwise.
Hawaii
Stay:
budget accommodation – $150
High-end – $252
+Taxes – 13.416%
Food:$70/person/ day
Local transport:
Car Rental: $40 per day for an economy or mid-sized car
Sightseeing:
helicopter tours start at $250, Manta rays from 100$, renting a kayak will at $40 per person
per day and an average cost of $15 to $25 at national parks and monuments.
*Costs are mentioned in terms of USD.
*Costs mentioned are the average rates per day per person unless specified otherwise.
Stay: Accommodation varies from country to country, from $25 to $50, with countries like Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Panama being on the higher range.
Food: The cost of a meal in South America varies from $2 to about $9 per person, with the average being $4 per meal. Street food can cost about half a dollar, and local markets have prices set in between $15 to $25.
Local transport: Rides in local buses cost about $1 or $2, with long distances rides ranging between $10to $3
Car Rental: an average of $50 per day.
Sightseeing: Sightseeing and cultural activities in can cost as less as $2 – $4 and as high as $70 depending on the region and type of activities (mainly varying if additional equipment is required).
Entrance to wildlife sanctuaries and national parks coast well below $12, guided tours would range from $25 to $ 50.
*Costs are mentioned in terms of USD.
*Costs mentioned are the average rates per day per person unless specified otherwise.
The suggested daily budget is about $150.
Stay: Accommodation varies significantly, from something as low as $80 to $166, with islands like Aruba, Bonaire, Puerto Rico and St.Kitts being on the higher range.
Food: The cost of a meal in the Caribbean varies from a little less than $10 to about $54 per day, with with the average being about $32.Cost of food at local markets can vary from $5 to $8.
Local transport: the cost of local transport can vary from $1 or $2 to $40+ depending o n the region. Cuba is the most pocket-friendly while Bonaire manages to supersede all in terms of the cost of public transportation.
Sightseeing: Sightseeing and cultural activities can vary from $60 and can go up to $100+ depending on the region and type of activities (mainly varying if additional equipment is required).The cost of sightseeing spikes in Bonaire at $125 and dips in Cuba. The average remains to be $60 – $70.
*Costs are mentioned in terms of USD.
*Costs mentioned are the average rates per day per person unless specified otherwise.
Recommended daily budget is about $100 to $150, however, note that prices vary steeply across the region and your daily expenditure will exceed your allocated budget in some regions and make up for it in others.
Stay: Dorm rooms cost $10 while mid-range accommodations will range from $25 to $50 in mid-range countries to about $70 in pricier regions.
Food: the cost of meals could vary from $2 – $6/ meal like Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru to $9- $18 person in countries like Brazil, Chile and Columbia. Almost always keeping with $20.
Local transport: The cost of the local transport will invariably be under $10, with monthly passes costing you anywhere between $15 to $45.
Costs in Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Peru are headed towards the upper limit with costs in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela averaging around the lower limit.
Taxis in South America are expensive except in Bolivia.
Another fairly common form of transport is shard rides usually taxis costing you about $0.50.
Sightseeing: The cost of activities varies across the region, and can vary from under $20 to under $100.
*Costs are mentioned in terms of USD.
*Costs mentioned are the average rates per day per person unless specified otherwise.
United States of America (North America) – All travellers must be able to enter the United States on the Visa Waiver Program (or other visa exemption) or obtain a visitor’s (B1 or B2) or transit (C1) visa.
The B2 (tourist) Visa can be applied online. The applicant must have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of application. The time for processing is minimum one week. Minimum duration of a tourist visa is 6 months.
Canada (North America) – The application for a tourist visa can be applied either online or in paper, the visa will be valid for a visit of 6 months and the for a duration of 10 years from the date of issue.
Hawaii (United States of America) – As a state of America, entry to Hawaii is dependent upon the same entry requirements of mainland USA.
Belize (Central America) – Nationals of all member states of the European Union deed not require a Visa, as well as those with a Schengen Visa or a passport issued to citizens of the British Overseas Territory. Visas specifically to Belize are not required when the traveller has a valid multiple point entry Visa from the United States.
Application can be made via post or in person and must have a passport that is valid up to a minimum of six months from the date of application.
Costa Rica (Central America) – Most nationals can enter Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days. People of nay nationality holding the US, Canada, Japan, South Korea or Schengen Visas do not need one specific to Costa Rica.
However travellers who need a visa, must have a passport valid for 6 months from the date of application, and the application must be done in person. Processing may take up to 6 days. The visa will valid for not more than 30 days.
El Salvador (Central America) – Visitors entering El Salvador require to have either a tourist card of a visa.
However citizens of the European Union, South Africa and the United States among others do not require a visa to enter El Salvador for up to 90 days.
Visas can be obtained at the Consulate of El Salvador and a tourist card can generally be obtained for a period of 90 days covering El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
Some countries have an allowance of obtaining visa upon arrival while for some it is a mandate to have it prior to entering the country.
Guatemala (Central America) – Several countries including the United Kingdom and United States do not require a visa for to visit Guatemala.
However for countries that require a visa, the processing time for the application of is up to 5 business days, with a validity of up to 30 days.
Honduras (Central America) –Citizens of EU, Japan, Norway, Malaysia, Singapore, Switzerland, India do not require a visa.
However for countries that do require a visa, the application can be submitted online or can be applied for at the Honduran Consulate. The applicant must have a passport which is valid for at least six months from application.
Mexico (Central America) – Certain nationalities, including those from the United Kingdom, the European Union and those countries which fall under the Schengen jurisdiction, can enter Mexico for a period less than 180 days for the purpose of travel or for 30 days in case of transit.
An online visa application is available, however, for most countries. If otherwise the Mexican Consulate can be contacted for the necessary procedure. A tourist visa would be usually valid for a period of 90 days.
Nicaragua (Central America) – Citizens of some European countries as well as those from the United Kingdom and the United States can enter Nicaragua without a visa.
Other visitors can obtain a tourist card upon arrival varying for duration of one to three months, provided that the traveller has a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of entry.
Panama (Central America) – While an entire list of countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States and several European countries can enter into Panama without a visa, those who require it can approach their nearest Consulate. Visitors require a passport valid for up to a minimum of six months, the processing will take up to a duration of 4 to 5 days and will be valid for a duration of 30 days.
Aruba (The Caribbean) – Citizens of a Schengen country, the United Kingdom and the United States with a valid residential permit are exempt from having to have a visa, for 30 to 60 days.
Travellers from countries which do require a visa however should apply for one before arrival, in person at a consulate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The visa would be valid for 30 days and can be extended for more than 30 days but not exceeding 180 days. The traveller must also have a passport which is valid for the duration of the visit.
Bonaire (The Caribbean) – Travellers to Bonaire from a list of countries can enter the country for up to 3 months every 6 months. However, the traveller must hold a passport that is valid for the duration of the visit.
Cuba (The Caribbean) – Most countries would require a Cuban Tourist Card. A tourist card is valid for 30 days, and can be renewed for another 30. The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least 60 days after departure from Cuba in the case of some nations (EU countries, incl UK, US) and 6 months for others.
Puerto Rico (The Caribbean) – All travellers travelling to the Puerto Rico must follow the Mainland US entry requirements, since Puerto Rico is a self governing common wealth of the United States.
The Dominican Republic (The Caribbean) –Nationals of all European Union countries, the United States and all British Overseas Territories can enter the Dominican Republic visa free.
Travellers from countries which require a visa however can apply for it at the nearest embassy or consulate. However, anyone(of any nationality) having a valid multiple entry visa for USA, United Kingdom, Canada or Schengen visa is eligible to obtain a tourist card upon arrival.
St. Kitts (The Caribbean) – Citizens of Commonwealth Nations, United States, and the UAE among others can visit the island without a visa. However for countries which do require a visa, the application should be mailed to the Embassy in Washington, D.C, provided your passport is valid for another six months post travel.
Argentina (South America) – A list of countries including the United States, United Kingdom and Australia do not require a visa to enter Argentina for the purpose of tourism.
Citizens of countries which have to apply for a visa have to do so at the at the Embassy of the Argentine Republic with all the documentation in paper. The visa would be valid for a with a duration of three months.
Bolivia (South America) – Several countries including the United Kingdom, and several Europen countries do not require a visa if visiting for less thn 90 days for the purpose of tourism.
Some countries have the allowance of obtaining a visa on arriaval, but if obtained earlier from the Bolivian Consulate, the visa is free. The visa would require a processing of 5 to 6 working days and would be valid fora duration of 30 days.
Brazil (South America) – Citizens of Canada, Japan, Australia, and the USA can apply for an electronic tourist visa. This electronic visa is valid for multiple entries within two years and stays of up to 90 days in a one-year period.
Citizens of the United Kingdom, along with several other countries do not require a visa to visit as a tourist for a period of 90 days.
Countries that require a visa however must obtain it in advance. Applicants must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from date of issue. Processing the visa would take up to 5 to 8 working days.
Be sure to check the list of countries for visas which get automatically invalidated if not visited within 90 days from issue.
Chile (South America) – A list of countries including the United States, the United Kingdom and several European countries can travel to Chile without a visa for a period which varies from 90 to 21 days for purposes of travel or business.
For those countries that require a tourist visa, one can be applied for at the nearest Chilean Consulate. Processed within duration of 10 to 15 days, the visa would be valid for an entry of 30 days within 90 days of issue.
Columbia (South America) – Citizens of most European countries, some Asian countries, all South American countries, and the United States can enter Columbia without a visa for less than 90 days.
An online visa application is available, however most nationalities with a valid visa from the USA or a Schengen visa is eligible for entry without a visa for up to a duration of 90 days.
Ecuador (Central America) – Citizens of almost any country (with a few exceptions) can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days.
Peru (South America) – Travellers from countries of the European Union, the United States, and Australia among others can enter Peru for a period of up to 183 days.
However for those countries that require a visa, the processing time is about 5 days, upon approval it would enable you to stay in the country for 183 days, however, an extension is not possible.
Venezuela (South America) – Venezuela does not support an option of obtaining a visa upon arrival. Visas have to be obtained prior to travel. An application must be made in person; the applicant must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date. The visa would be valid for a maximum of 90 days.
However some countries including, but not limited to the United Kingdom, Canada and Germany can enter Venezuela for travel related purposes for up to 90 days.
Central Park, New York City, New York – An urban park set in the heart of Manhattan, offering an array of activities, from guided tours to picnics it is home to a variety of landmarks set within the park itself, including a lake (set in the foreground of towering skyscrapers) and a zoo.
Times Square – At its captivating best after sundown, Times Square comes alive with its magical billboards and the quintessential New York crowd. Pedestrian friendly, the square opens up to plazas offering you places to sit and perhaps grab a bite.
Freedom Trail, Boston – Walking you through 16 of the city’s principal historic monuments and sites, the freedom trail will take you to sites ranging from the city’s oldest cemetery to the site of the Boston Massacre. Essential to understanding the history of the host county follow the red brick paved road to go back in time.
Miami, Florida – Don’t forget to visit the famous Miami, an eclectic combination of quiet neighbourhoods and vivid entertainment districts, home to long stretches of fine sand beaches, and a stunning ocean front.
Seattle, Washington – Once an industrial centre, Seattle is now the largest city of the state of Washington, iconic to the skyscape of the city is the Space Needle, a visit to the observation deck will guarantee your views of the city, Elliott Bay, and Mt. Rainier.
Drop by at PIER 39, located along San Fran’s historic waterfront, offering you amazing vistas of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, Alcatraz, Angel Island and the famous city skyline, Pier 39 is an experience iconic to San Francisco, with amazing views of sea lions, chowder bread bowls and local wines.
A suburb of Los Angeles, California, Hollywood offers you attractions, built around the massive film industry. The Hollywood sign, Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame, and the Chinese Theatre are all inspiring sights that cannot be missed.
The Alvord Desert of Portland, Oregon, an endless stretch of desertscape bordered by Steens Mountain offers unparalleled vistas of quiet, haunting landscapes with natural hot springs nearby.
An experience iconic to Las Vegas, Nevada, is the Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian-only area, hosting street performers and artists. Come night, the boulevard becomes a spectacle of bright light and colours and each night hosts a music and visual show.
About two and a half hours outside Calgary, Alberta, Canada you’ll find a hike, camp and an active dig site at the Dinosaur Provincial Park. Over 300 fossils have been unearthed here, making it the world’s biggest source of Cretaceous fossils.
When in Vancouver, British Columbia, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, stretches 470 feet across a canon with the Capilano river running 230 below it, offering breathtaking vistas of the fern-filled woods. Enjoy walks through wooded trails and don’t miss a chance to visit the Salmon Hatchery.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Toronto, Ontario, close to the famous CN Tower, this is one of Toronto’s newest attractions, home to an impressive underwater tunnel where you can watch the ocean go by.
Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Monument – A suburb of Honolulu, famous for dining, resorts and entertainment. Lined with cafes and boutiques, the Waikiki Beach is the highlight. The monument is important from a defence perspective and offers spectacular vistas of the island.
Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica, is the wettest part of the country can only be reached by boat or plane, one of the most important breeding ground for the green sea turtle; turtle watching is one of the major activities here. The island is also home to many walking trails, and one can spot monkeys, sloths, and kinkajous during.
Honduras is home to rich ecosystems and many reserves and national parks are trying to preserve the beauty and diversity of the tropics. Punta Sal National Park houses everything from tropical jungles, mangroves, and wetlands to sparkling beaches and coral reefs, teeming with a variety of wildlife including many rare species. Hike, swim and snorkel and meet the locals from the nearby village of Garifuna.
Mexico’s largest and oldest cathedral, Catedral Metropolitana, Built using stones taken from the ancient Aztec temple, a masterpiece of three distinct architectural styles – Xalapan, Gothic and Spanish – is a must visit for the first timer.
Casco Viejo, Panama City is home to remnants of the Spanish era and is home to the perfect blend of colonial ruins and modern buildings. It also offers a sharp contrast to the line of skyscrapers across the bay. One of the best places to visit local markets and enjoy a cup of coffee, a visit to Casco Viejo, makes the top of everyone’s list.
Oranjestad the capital of Aruba is a striking city in which Dutch colonial architecture gets a touch of Spanish and Caribbean influence, located on the waterfront, Wilhelmina Park, is an important landmark as are the National Archaeological Museum, Aruba Aloe Factory, Access Art Gallery, Butterfly Farm, the harbour market, and the Numismatic Museum.
The town of Trinidad, Cuba takes you back in time with its colonial buildings and cobblestoned streets. Highlights of the town include the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Church and Monastery of Saint Francis, the Museum of Colonial Architecture and the art gallery at the Casa de Aldeman Ortiz.
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is an intriguing town where the Spanish influences from the colonial era can be seen with a twist of quintessential Puerto Rica. The piqué of interest is the El Morro Fort, which is just a short walk from the city centre.
Iguazu National Park is situated along Argentina’s border with Brazil; an almost 3km edge is made up of numerous waterfalls, with walkways allowing you get close to these magnificent waterfalls. It is easily accessible to the tourist and is a must visit.
One cannot leave Brazil without having visited the Janauari Ecological Park, where one can explore a number of different ecosystems by boat along its narrow waterways, the highlight of the boat ride is a lake entirely covered with water lilies.
The moon valley, at the Chile where it shares its border(s) with Bolivia, is famous for its landscape which resembles the moon. Set in the middle of the Atacama Desert, it is also equally well known for its caverns, home to pictographs of early man and some of the world’s oldest mummies.
North America
United States of America
National Parks Trail – (3 weeks/4 weeks)
Yosemite National Park, CA; Death Valley, CA; Zion National Park, UT; Grand Canyon, AZ;
Monument Valley, AZ/UT; Arches/Canyonlands national parks, UT; Grand Teton National Park, WY; Yellowstone National Park, WY; Craters of the Moon, ID
Classic Coast to Coast – (3 weeks)
New York, NY; Chicago, IL; Springfield, IL; St Louis, MO; Santa Fe, NM; Las Vegas, NV; San Francisco, CA; Los Angeles, CA; San Diego, CA
Southern USA – (2 weeks/3 weeks)
New Orleans, LA; Mississippi; Montgomery, AL; Atlanta, GA; Charleston, SC; Savannah, GA; Miami, FL;
Key West, FL
East coast – (2 weeks/3 weeks)
Washington DC; Philadelphia, PA; New York, NY; Hartford, CT; Nantucket, MA;
Provincetown and Cape Cod, MA; Boston, MA; White Mountains, NH; Acadia National Park, ME
West Coast – (2 weeks/3 weeks)
Seattle, WA; Portland, OR; Crater Lake, OR; San Francisco, CA; Los Angeles, CA; San Diego, CA
Northern Routes – (2 weeks/3 weeks)
Madison, WI; Badlands National Park, SD; Black Hills, SD; Theodore Roosevelt National Park, ND;
Little Bighorn, MT; Butte, MT; Glacier National Park, MT; Idaho Panhandle; Cascade Loop, WA
Canada
Western Canada: Through the Mountains – (15 days)
Eastern Canada – ( 2 weeks)
Classic Canada – Québec City to Vancouver (3 weeks)
Best of the Maritimes – (2 weeks /3 weeks)
The Great North – (3 weeks/ 4 weeks)
Canada – First Time Visitors – (3 weeks)
Hawaii – 10 days/ 15 days
Central America
Mexico, Belize, & Guatemala – 10 days
Cuba, Mexico, Belize, & Guatemala – 2 weeks
Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Costa Rica – 3 weeks/4weeks
Honduras, Guatemala, Belize – 15 days
Belize and Guatemala – 15 days
Grand Mexico & Panama – 4 weeks
Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama – 15 days
Exploring one country at a time
Belize – 1 week
Costa Rica – 2 weeks
El Salvador – 1 week
Guatemala – 2 weeks
Honduras – 1 week
Mexico – 9 days/ 15 days
Nicaragua – 2 weeks
Panama – 1 week/ 2 weeks
The Caribbean
Aruba – 3 days/1 week
Bonaire – 4 days/ 1 week/ 2 weeks
Cuba – 1 week/ 3 weeks
Puerto Rico – 5 days/ 10 days
The Dominican Republic – 8 days
St. Kitts – 3 days/ 5days
South America
Peru, Bolivia and Chile – 3 weeks
Southern Brazil – 7 days
Chile and Argentina – 9 days
Brazil & Argentina – 3 days/5 days
Northern Chile and southern Bolivia – 8 days
Ecuador, Peru and Northern Bolivia – 1 week/2 weeks
Colombia and Venezuela – 1 week/2 weeks
Northern Brazil and the Amazon – 7 days
South American Circuit – Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Peru, The Galapagos Islands – 5 weeks
Classic Inca Trail – 4 days
Exploring one country at a time
Argentina – 15 days
Bolivia – 1 week/ 3 weeks
Brazil – 10 days
Chile – 8 days/ 18 days
Columbia – 10 days
Ecuador – 7 days
Peru – 2 weeks
Venezuela – 18 days/21 days
North America
United States of America
The continental United States is large – roughly 3 times that of India, so the most important advice would be not to try to cover too much on one trip. The best way to travel in the US would be to focus on one region and explore it in depth.
Tipping is customary; it forms a substantial amount of some of the service employer’s salary. Tipping is left up to the discretion of the tipper, but anywhere between 10% to 20% is the usual ballpark.
Canada
Climates differ across the nation, so it’s important to understand the region of visit and carry appropriate clothing for maximum comfort. Essentials include snow boots, woollen accessories, and waterproof jackets.
When visiting Canada’s gorgeous national parks, take care not to let animals get a sight of your food. When visiting Churchill, be especially alert of polar bears that are the only animals who actively stalk humans.
Most of Canada’s major cities have an excellent public transport system. But when travelling between them its best to book a car.
Always carry extra cash. Canada is a vast country made up of many rural towns and islands; Carrying extra cash is always worthwhile.
As in every city, it is best to avoid some areas as a tourist, in Vancouver locals recommend staying away from Downtown Eastside, in Toronto the same goes for Sherbourne and Parliament Streets after sun down.
Hawaii
Hawaii’s beaches are prone to high surf, be cautious and avoid swimming where there’s no lifeguard.Check the air quality reports every day, if you are susceptible to respiratory problems due to the volcanic smog.
Central America
Central America has amazing things to offer and most of it is outdoors, so dress appropriately, in clothes that would not let hamper your exploration of local ecosystems. Be sure to pack mosquito repellent, light clothes and solid shoes.
Learn a bit of the local language, which in Central America in most cases is Spanish, making interactions with the locals easier. People from central America are very open to sharing and explaining their tradition, understanding Spanish would make way for wonderful relations with them and you would probably get to hear a few narratives of personal accounts.
The Caribbean
Remember to pack for warm weather, carry a pair of sweaters, just in case.
Be sure to carry extra cash, in case you do not come across ATMS.
South America
South America is home to diverse landscapes and climates ensure you do enough background checks and carry clothes most suited to your region of travel, also carry mosquito repellents.
Carrying extra cash during the length of the travel would come in handy.