Welcome to the TravelPod forums

[jamesfbecker]

Gday guys,

New here and I'm planning to venture over to the USA next year, probably just backpacking/cheap hotels.
I was wondering if anyone had any idea of the cost of living/travelling around? Or if there's any online guides to it? Also what are the cheap domestic airlines, are they worth using over buses/trains?

Also what sort of work is available short term? Is it worth doing tutoring (i can tutor in science) whilst I'm over there for a bit of extra cash?

I mean, I don't plan on living there, just sort of doing as much as I can, prioritising the places to see. The only thing I definitely want to do are: Grand Canyon, Mt Rushmoore, Washington state (I have a friend that lives there that I said I'd visit), Niagara falls, NYC.

I'm debating whether or not it's worth seeing the luxurious places, as I figure most cities are basically the same, a bunch of shops and a bunch of places to waste money?

Thanks for any help.

[Jessica_CDN]

Hi James!

Well, first of all, where are you coming from? The strength of your currency will determine how "expensive" things seem....

In terms of accomodations, from what i've seen, there's an extensive hostel network throughout much of the US, especially in the big cities, and these are quite affordable. Campsites can be good too, but it means carrying more stuff.

The LonelyPlanet can give you a good rough estimate to the current costs, but like I said, it's more about your currency. If you're coming from the UK, the US is an affordable place to travel. Coming from India, not so much.

Domestic flights can be quite affordable, so it's going to be on a case-by-case basis. Watch for the deals!

Some US cities are really great. New York, Boston, Washington DC are all really great. I'm going to San Fran soon, so I'll let you know what I think.

[wakingdream]

Hey James,

Jess had a good question; where are you from? Travelling around the US can be done on a variety of budgets.

Here's a hostel link so you can get familiar with what's available and how much it costs.

Cheap flights are another story. Domestic air travel isn't as inexpensive as say, the UK. There are a few "no frills" airlines called Skybus, Southwest and Jetblue that offer limited, but pretty cheap flights by North American standards. Overland travel is pretty affordable too if you're not going too far. Greyhound is the most popular.

In terms of making some extra cash, you may be able to tutor but you may also need a work visa. I read a bit about temporary work visas and they seem to be a real pain Sometimes it's possible to pick up a temporary service job for some extra cash by asking around. I would also check out the local papers in the cities you're in. Side jobs will often be listed there. If you work for an individual rather than a company it would be easier, such as tutoring someone's kids.

I'm debating whether or not it's worth seeing the luxurious places, as I figure most cities are basically the same, a bunch of shops and a bunch of places to waste money?

There are a lot of great places in the US and many cities have their own unique flavor but again, it depends on where you want to go. Which places are you debating on?

[kacampau]

I wouldn't count on finding any work while you are there, unless you have something worked out before you leave.

It sounds like you want to go west and east. It would be eaisier for you and your wallet to pick one or the other. There are great things to see on each coast and it is long and can be expensive to get between coasts.

If you are going to get out west, consider renting a car and doing a big loop with Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, southern Californita (San Diego or LA). There are some beautiful national and state parks and you will get to see a lot of different things. Then you could fly or drive up to visit your friend in Washington. Las Vegas tends to be very accessable and have cheap flights, hotels and food.

[malamukunda]

Like Kacampau said, it's better if you pick one coast, preferably West if Washington state is a must-go. And though there are plenty of natural wonders, you might want to be there at the right time. One of my trips to Grand Canyon was during Thanksgiving (end of November)and my memories are more of my trying to stay in a warm place than enjoying nature's wonders. Washington is a beautiful state too, but it rains quite a bit and you might ask your friend for recommendations for a good time to travel. And while you are there, you could probably cross by road to Canada (assuming your visa and papers are fine) and see Vancouver and Victoria. US law will not let you work on a visitor's visa (unless you're in some special exchange programs). But yes, it will definitely be a worthwhile trip!
Mala Mukunda
http://www.traveling-stories-magazine.com/

[lisartw]

We did North America last year, drove from New York to LA then up to SF. It's cheaper than the UK but it is expensive, we spent on average about $80 - $100 a day all in

Bus and train travel isn't the easiest but it is cheaper than renting a car. Can you afford to rent a car? I would suggest doing that if you can as it is the best way to see the US but it does cost loads because of all the insurances and stuff.

But it does mean you can throw away the guide book and just find random towns and places.

I would say limit your time in the cities and hit the national and state parks - as many as you possible can, it really is the way forward. Buy a national parks pass though (about $50 I think) because it will save you loads.

My favourite places were:

Yellowstone, Wyoming - it is an utterly amazing place
Badlands, South Dakota
Rocky Mountain national park, Colorado
Escalante National Monument, Utah
Niagra Falls, New York State
Boulder, Colorado
Arches National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon, Utah
Grand Canyon, Nevada
Monterey, California
Mt Rushmore, South Dakota

Fave cities were New York and San Francisco. Despite NY being quite expensive you can do lots of stuff for free,

The US isn't really geared up for backpacking though, so be warned that there aren't many hostels compared to other places you may have travelled too. But, it is an amazing country and there is just so much to do and see.

[netravel]

[I mean, I don't plan on living there, just sort of doing as much as I can, prioritising the places to see. The only thing I definitely want to do are: Grand Canyon, Mt Rushmoore, Washington state (I have a friend that lives there that I said I'd visit), Niagara falls, NYC.


Well, I am sure you'll get a lot of information on the well traveled tourist sights on the coasts. I am an avid "midwest" traveller, and Go through NE and SD often. I suggest you take your time in SD. A lot of history there. You may want to check out the Indian Reservations, or Keystone, maybe Hill City (all near Mt. Rushmore.)

I plan itineraries for NE and SD. MY advise to you if you plan on spending time near Rushmore is to check out places like Chadron NE. I often get 7 nights for the price of 4 or 5 at several places there.

Just one persons opinion, but, I do travel there quite often!

[washdcmike]

I would say you should visit Washington DC. The hotels are expensive but most places in the city are free to visit. You can visit my travelblog to see several hundred pictures of the city and what it has to offer. You could also email me through there for any questions.

[djark]

My recommendation is Yosemite Park. It's a very nice spot to visit. If you want to get a preview of how it looks like check it here: www.mapjack.com/Yosemite

[russellf]

Don't maske the mistake of not seeing something because it may be luxurious,
Think about ancient cities, Rome is luxurious, you're not gonna see it?
come to new york , stay in a cheap motel and just look!!!

Gday guys,

New here and I'm planning to venture over to the USA next year, probably just backpacking/cheap hotels.
I was wondering if anyone had any idea of the cost of living/travelling around? Or if there's any online guides to it? Also what are the cheap domestic airlines, are they worth using over buses/trains?

Also what sort of work is available short term? Is it worth doing tutoring (i can tutor in science) whilst I'm over there for a bit of extra cash?

I mean, I don't plan on living there, just sort of doing as much as I can, prioritising the places to see. The only thing I definitely want to do are: Grand Canyon, Mt Rushmoore, Washington state (I have a friend that lives there that I said I'd visit), Niagara falls, NYC.

I'm debating whether or not it's worth seeing the luxurious places, as I figure most cities are basically the same, a bunch of shops and a bunch of places to waste money?

Thanks for any help.

[umamna]

Hey there,

I grew up in the NYC/southern Connecticut area and lived in nothern New Mexico for 3 years.

If your looking to pick up some extra cash while in the states, with out the proper paperwork it is illegal. Finding work in the north east will be next to impossible. In New Mexico however... its a bit more "loose" to say the least, I nannied and house sat myself to my next meal, living on about $5 a day and there is a funky hostel there in Taos called the abominal snowmansion with dorm accomodation for super cheap.

if you are a backpacker and have any more questions or need more suggestions about the nothern New mexico area let me know. It would be my pleasure! The sangre de cristo mountians are one of the most beautiful places in the world.

I can still taste the green chilies....

[umamna]

PS the stupid gas prices are insane, sorry to burst your bubble, so you should stick to one coast or another. it takes more than 4 days of continuous driving, no stops, to reach coast to coast in most places, the cheapie domestic flights arent so cheapy anymore either, my family is always belly aching about how nothing is the same. When I go back to visit my mom in CT it ends up costing us an insane amount of money.

So if money is no object, travel on travler! If it is you sould be aware of the cost of living in the US right now... Its not so pretty for at least transportation.

[russellf]

Gday guys,

New here and I'm planning to venture over to the USA next year, probably just backpacking/cheap hotels.
I was wondering if anyone had any idea of the cost of living/travelling around? Or if there's any online guides to it? Also what are the cheap domestic airlines, are they worth using over buses/trains?

Also what sort of work is available short term? Is it worth doing tutoring (i can tutor in science) whilst I'm over there for a bit of extra cash?

I mean, I don't plan on living there, just sort of doing as much as I can, prioritising the places to see. The only thing I definitely want to do are: Grand Canyon, Mt Rushmoore, Washington state (I have a friend that lives there that I said I'd visit), Niagara falls, NYC.

I'm debating whether or not it's worth seeing the luxurious places, as I figure most cities are basically the same, a bunch of shops and a bunch of places to waste money?
there is always quick work available, just make sure you have your travellers/work visa available.
also, there must be some aussie wesie available for all you ask

Thanks for any help.

[croydon]

Gday guys,

New here and I'm planning to venture over to the USA next year, probably just backpacking/cheap hotels.
I was wondering if anyone had any idea of the cost of living/travelling around? Or if there's any online guides to it? Also what are the cheap domestic airlines, are they worth using over buses/trains?

Also what sort of work is available short term? Is it worth doing tutoring (i can tutor in science) whilst I'm over there for a bit of extra cash?

I mean, I don't plan on living there, just sort of doing as much as I can, prioritising the places to see. The only thing I definitely want to do are: Grand Canyon, Mt Rushmoore, Washington state (I have a friend that lives there that I said I'd visit), Niagara falls, NYC.

I'm debating whether or not it's worth seeing the luxurious places, as I figure most cities are basically the same, a bunch of shops and a bunch of places to waste money?
there is always quick work available, just make sure you have your travellers/work visa available.
also, there must be some aussie wesie available for all you ask

Thanks for any help.

It's always cheap in America but these days it's becoming more expensive especially Airlines.
Greyhound buses is the best and cheapest way to go. You really get to see the sights that way. I just bought this product called Head-Bac and flew to Philly with it and it was sensational, I really slept with this damn thing and I was in the middle seat. Also it has these straps that allow you to eliminate the need for armrests. Trust me bud get one you won't be sorry. Washing dishes or construction is only way to work for cash and without permits or waiting tables.
Grand canyon is a bust unless you plan to ride the river, check out New Orleans, it's fabulous. San Francisco is a better city than New YOrk. If you go to Niagara then head over to Toronto. Canada has much more spectacular cities. Montreal and Quebec is out of the world but Vancouver is sublime. Denver is by far the most spectacular state, from Alpine to desert.

[dowab]

Try to get the book "Great Hostels USA". Neat places cheap price.
For interesting stuff to do all over the USA - go to

America's Best and Top Ten

From National Parks, Whate Rafting, to best pizza or Ice Cream.

[jotan23]

here are some suggestions and tips from our personal experience in NYC:

we went to NY for a week and stayed at the Hilton Embassy Suites.
we had a blast!!!

there's a book called Lonely Planet (NYC)
it is a really really helpful book for tourists like us because it includes walking tours, etc, and places to eat.

you should visit Serendipity for dessert
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/day-1-...-i-woke-up.html

by the way, instead of waiting for hours in line to get to the statue of liberty, you may opt to have the NY waterway tour instead. This way, you will save enough time to tour other parts of the city
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/tourin...y-on-day-2.html
there's also the famous BULL at the financial district
you should also try the yummiest Pizza Margherita at 'Lil Frankie in East Village ^,^

if you have more time, try walking the stretch of Brooklyn Bridge.
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/travel...city-day-3.html
this serves as an exercise too.. hihihi
also, do visit Saint Patricks's Cathedral at 5th avenue.
don't miss to go inside.
it's wonderful!!!
we also went to Top of the Rock instead of the Empire State Building to avoid the long line hihihi because we were afraid we won't have enough time to see other parts of NYC

for shopping, you may want to visit Century 21, just across the former WTC.
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/livin-...s-do-day-4.html
you should have lunch/brunch at Cafe lalo!!! or at Sarabeth's
we chose Cafe Lalo hihihi because of the ambiance and because it's famous.

To relax, try having a picnic at Central Park.
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/labor-...-nyc-day-5.html
we chose to eat at the top of one huge rock there to have e good view of the whole central park
then, we went to MET (entrance is by donation only, you don't have to give 20 USD)
if you're a techie like my friends, you may want to visit the MAC store. it is now a tourist spot because of its unique architecture
DON'T MISS eating at PARADOU!!!
it's a MUST!!!
trust me on this!

you also gotta watch a broadway show! definitely!
there's WICKED and SPAMALOT
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/goodby...york-day-6.html

[russellf]

For Italian food, try Sofia's restaurant in the Edison hotel. Jazz Bands, good food, wine and the filmed "The Godfather" there.

here are some suggestions and tips from our personal experience in NYC:

we went to NY for a week and stayed at the Hilton Embassy Suites.
we had a blast!!!

there's a book called Lonely Planet (NYC)
it is a really really helpful book for tourists like us because it includes walking tours, etc, and places to eat.

you should visit Serendipity for dessert
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/day-1-...-i-woke-up.html

by the way, instead of waiting for hours in line to get to the statue of liberty, you may opt to have the NY waterway tour instead. This way, you will save enough time to tour other parts of the city
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/tourin...y-on-day-2.html
there's also the famous BULL at the financial district
you should also try the yummiest Pizza Margherita at 'Lil Frankie in East Village ^,^

if you have more time, try walking the stretch of Brooklyn Bridge.
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/travel...city-day-3.html
this serves as an exercise too.. hihihi
also, do visit Saint Patricks's Cathedral at 5th avenue.
don't miss to go inside.
it's wonderful!!!
we also went to Top of the Rock instead of the Empire State Building to avoid the long line hihihi because we were afraid we won't have enough time to see other parts of NYC

for shopping, you may want to visit Century 21, just across the former WTC.
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/livin-...s-do-day-4.html
you should have lunch/brunch at Cafe lalo!!! or at Sarabeth's
we chose Cafe Lalo hihihi because of the ambiance and because it's famous.

To relax, try having a picnic at Central Park.
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/labor-...-nyc-day-5.html
we chose to eat at the top of one huge rock there to have e good view of the whole central park
then, we went to MET (entrance is by donation only, you don't have to give 20 USD)
if you're a techie like my friends, you may want to visit the MAC store. it is now a tourist spot because of its unique architecture
DON'T MISS eating at PARADOU!!!
it's a MUST!!!
trust me on this!

you also gotta watch a broadway show! definitely!
there's WICKED and SPAMALOT
http://jotan23.blogspot.com/2008/03/goodby...york-day-6.html