United States of America holiday Packages
Qatar Airways Holidays offer a range of US vacation packages deals, giving you access to fantastic flights from a choice of departure points, located all over the country, as well as a large selection of luxurious hotels to make your vacation to the Land of Opportunity a dream come true.
To maximise your experience, consider the various US vacation packages:
- Room only: A room only package provides accommodation only, offering travellers complete flexibility in planning their meals and activities. This option is ideal for those who prefer to explore the city at their own pace and discover hidden gems without being tied to a specific meal plan.
- Bed and breakfast: A bed and breakfast package includes accommodation and a daily breakfast. This option is perfect for travellers who enjoy a leisurely start to their day and prefer a more relaxed pace. Enjoy a delicious and satisfying breakfast each morning, setting you up for a day of exploring the city.
Good to know
United States of America holiday experiences
With a country as vast as the US, the headline ‘top experiences’ won’t even cover a quarter of the best things to do; however, to get things started, Qatar Airways Holidays put together a curated list of must-do activities across the country.
Must-do's as a traveller:
New York City:
- Soar above the city skyline at the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock.
- Stroll through Central Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city.
- Immerse yourself in Broadway theatre, catching a world-class performance.
- Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of SoHo, Greenwich Village, and Chinatown.
- Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Los Angeles:
- Visit Hollywood and catch a glimpse of the iconic Hollywood sign.
- Explore the glamorous world of Hollywood celebrities at the Walk of Fame.
- Spend a day at Disneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood.
- Relax on the sun-kissed beaches of Santa Monica or Venice Beach.
- Drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, taking in breathtaking coastal views.
Las Vegas:
- Experience the dazzling lights and non-stop entertainment of the Las Vegas Strip.
- Gamble at world-class casinos or catch a show at a renowned theatre.
- Explore the vibrant nightlife scene, with countless bars, clubs, and lounges.
- Visit the Hoover Dam, a massive engineering marvel.
- Take a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon for a bird's-eye view.
Washington, D.C.:
- Visit the iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Jefferson Memorial.
- Explore the Smithsonian Institution's museums, which offer a wealth of knowledge and art.
- Take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol Building.
- Visit the White House Visitor Centre to learn about the history and architecture of the presidential residence.
Natural wonders and outdoor adventures:
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: Hike along the rim or descend into the canyon for breathtaking views. Take a helicopter tour or white-water rafting trip for an adrenaline rush. Stargaze at night in one of the darkest skies in the country.
- Yosemite National Park, California: Hike to iconic landmarks like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Drive through Yosemite Valley, taking in stunning views of granite cliffs and waterfalls. Go rock climbing, white-water rafting, or backpacking.
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho: Witness geysers, hot springs, and mud pots in the geothermal wonderland. Spot wildlife like bison, elk, and bears. Hike through scenic trails and camp under the stars.
Day trips and boat rides:
- Niagara Falls, New York: Witness the awe-inspiring power of Niagara Falls, one of the world's most famous waterfalls. Take a boat tour to get up close to the falls. Explore the charming towns of Niagara Falls, Ontario, and Niagara Falls, New York.
- Boston Harbor Islands, Massachusetts: Take a ferry to one of the Boston Harbor Islands, such as Spectacle Island or Georges Island. Hike, bike, or picnic on these scenic islands. Explore historic forts and lighthouses.
- San Francisco Bay, California: Take a boat tour of San Francisco Bay, passing iconic landmarks like Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and the Bay Bridge. Go whale watching or kayaking in the bay.
Remember, this is just a glimpse of the many incredible experiences the US has to offer. With its diverse and vast landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, you’ll need more than one trip to get yourself acquainted with the true beauty of the US.
Food, culture, & wildlife
Food: American cuisine is as diverse and colourful as its people, with influences from around the world.
- Classic American: Enjoy hearty dishes like burgers, hot dogs, and barbecue.
- Regional specialties: Southern cuisine is renowned for its comfort food, featuring dishes like fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, and sweet tea. In New England, seafood takes centre stage, with clam chowder and lobster rolls being popular choices. The Midwest is known for its hearty and satisfying cuisine, with dishes like pot roast, meatloaf, and casseroles.
- Diverse culinary scene: New York City, a global culinary hub, offers a wide range of cuisines, from authentic Italian pizza to innovative fusion dishes. Los Angeles, with its diverse population, boasts a variety of culinary influences, from Mexican and Chinese to French and Italian. Chicago, famous for its deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches, also offers a diverse culinary scene, including Polish, Mexican, and Korean cuisine.
Culture: The United States is a melting pot of cultures, each region offering its unique traditions and history.
- Northeast: Experience the historic charm of Boston, with its colonial-era architecture and rich literary heritage. New York City is a global cultural hub, offering world-class museums, theatres, and diverse neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy.
- Southeast: Immerse yourself in the soulful music of the American South, from blues and jazz to country and rock 'n' roll. Explore the historic cities of Charleston and Savannah, with their antebellum architecture and Southern hospitality.
- Midwest: Experience the heartland of America, with its friendly people and vibrant agricultural heritage. Visit Chicago, a city known for its architecture, museums, and deep-dish pizza.
- Southwest: Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Southwest, influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cultures. Explore the ancient ruins of Mesa Verde and the vibrant city of Santa Fe.
- West Coast: Experience the laid-back lifestyle of California, with its stunning beaches, diverse cities, and wine country. Visit San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Portland, each with its unique character and attractions.
Wildlife: The United States is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from majestic mammals to fascinating birds.
- National parks: Visit national parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Grand Canyon to see iconic animals such as bison, elk, bears, and mountain lions.
- Coastal areas: Explore the coasts of California, Florida, and the Pacific Northwest to spot marine life like whales, dolphins, and sea lions.
- Birdwatching: The United States is a birder's paradise, with diverse habitats that attract a wide variety of bird species, including Bald Eagles, American Robins, Blue Jays, Northern Cardinals, House Finches, Mallard Ducks, Canada Geese, Great Blue Herons, Great Egrets, and Ospreys.
Remember, this is just a brief overview of the cultural, culinary, and wildlife experiences the United States has to offer. As the saying goes - it’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Travel tips
Travel visa information:
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From 1 December 2024, citizens of Qatar can travel to the US for up to 90 days without requiring a US Visa - click here for more details. You can also check other need-to-know destination-specific travel information here.
Currency:
- The official currency of the United States is the US Dollar (USD).
Language:
- While English is the primary language, there are many other languages spoken throughout the country, especially in diverse urban areas.
Climate:
- The climate in the US varies significantly depending on the region. The eastern and western coasts generally have more moderate climates, while the central and southern regions can experience extreme temperatures, from hot and humid summers to cold winters.
Transportation:
- The US has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including:
Air travel:
- Major airports are located in most if not all major cities.
Car rental:
- Renting a car is a popular option, especially for road trips.
- Public transportation: Major cities have bus and subway systems.
- Train travel: Amtrak provides long-distance train services.
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps: Uber and Lyft are virtually available in all of the United States.
Safety:
- While the US is generally safe, it's always advisable to take standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in large cities. Pay special attention to cities with high crime rating, taking extra care to not venture out during the late hours of the night.
Dress code & alcohol:
- Dress code: Casual attire is suitable for most occasions. However, dress codes can vary depending on the specific location and activity.
- Alcohol: The legal drinking age in the US is 21. Alcohol is widely available in bars, restaurants, and liquor stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Diverse landscapes: From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the sandy beaches of California, the US offers a stunning variety of landscapes.
- Cultural melting pot: The US is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.
- Innovation and technology: The US is a global leader in innovation and technology, with Silicon Valley and other tech hubs driving the world's economy.
- Iconic landmarks: The US is home to many iconic landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, Golden Gate Bridge, Niagara Falls, and Grand Canyon.
- Times Square and Central Park
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art
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The Statue of Liberty
- Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame
- The beaches of Santa Monica or Venice Beach
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The Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
- The Las Vegas Strip
- The Bellagio Fountains and the Volcano at the Mirage.
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The Grand Canyon
- The beautiful beaches of South Beach
- The Art Deco District
- Little Havana (for authentic Cuban food and culture)
From 1 December 2024, citizens of Qatar can travel to the US for up to 90 days without requiring a US Visa - click here for more details. For the other up-to-date travel information, it's advisable to check the official website of the US State Department.
While the US is vast with so many wonderful places to visit and once-in-a-lifetime experiences to be had, here are some of the best:
New York City:
Las Vegas:
Miami:
Qatar Airways Holidays offers a diverse range of US travel packages that include accommodations in the country as well as fantastic flights from a choice of departure points, located all over the country, catering to all sorts of globe trotters. Choose from room-only and bed and breakfast stays to suit your preferences and budget as well as give you the best opportunity to explore the Land of Opportunity.