Advice for a trip in the USA?
Hi All,
I live in Italy and my girlfriend and I are planning a trip to the west of the USA (landing in LA then moving to Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Lake Powell/Page, Bryce Canyon) for September 2010 and I’m looking for advice about affordable places to stay at, how to get around (rented car, bus, train…?), how to dress for the desert and what do we need to bring with us (water, etc). Thanks!
Filed under: Bus Tours
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wow-sounds like a great trip.
It will be very hot there, even in September.
Biggest problem, sightseeing in the desert, is the danger of snakes. Be aware of your surroundings, always, and don’t step off of paved roads, walkways, etc.
In the USA, NEVER EVER accept rides, or let anyone ride with you. Don’t go anywhere with a “local” you might meet. Be cautious about your safety and your possessions.
Be very polite to everyone (and of course you will, being Italian) — it does not pay to argue or have a conflict with people in the Western USA—remember, most people there carry guns.
Ditto with the Police—if they tell you to do something, say “Yes Sir!”
There are massive amounts of guidebooks, maps, etc. detailing every sight to see–if you can’t find them in Italy, look for them in any bookstore in Los Angeles.
Best mode of transportation is going to be a rental car or even better, a camper van. At $45 to $55 per day, you’ve got your wheels and a motel room. There’s a place to them rent right at LAX. Then, get out of LA as fast as you can (just kidding, I love LA). You better stop and see Las Vegas (Disneyland for adults) and be sure to stop on Fremont Street for the light show and a lap dance! Take a drive over to Hoover Dam, it’s very impressive. Zion Nat’l Park is just a couple more hours down the road, and Bryce is near Zion (both very beautiful). North of the Grand Canyon is Utah and the beautiful Canyonlands National Park. So much to see!
It is HOT in September, so shorts, tees and sunscreen! AND the occasional rain downpour, and light rain ponchos are appropriate (it doesn’t get real cold, just real wet). Always bring lots of water, get a cheap styrofoam ice chest and buy lunch meats and bread to save $ on food. And don’t forget to come visit me in Santa Rosa before you go home! I am 50 miles north of San Francisco, the most beautiful city in the United States (ok, I’m partial!). Have a WONDERFUL trip!