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Photo Credit: loop_oh

When thinking about countries that have been coined and shaped by migrants from all over the world, it is impossible to overlook the United States of America. From the colonial era comprising the initial thirteen British colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries, followed by an 19th century influx of German, Irish and Central European migrants and the foes of two devastating world wars – migrants from all over the world have coined a multicultural society unlike any other in the world.

But it’s not just the unique multiculturalism that explains the country’s fascination. With a total territory of around 3.7 million square miles, the third-largest country in the world is blessed with awe-inspiring natural gems. Getting to know all the diverse, and sometimes even seemingly contradictory, facets of this country can be a daunting task. Nonetheless, if you are finding yourself on a slow travel trip, there are a few must-do’s to consider:

  • World-class cities: Whether your choice is the legendary New York City, entertainment-packed Las Vegas, the alternative-artsy vibes of San Francisco, Hollywood-esque Los Angeles or the beach lifestyle in Miami – these cities have one thing in common: they are the cornerstone of America’s lively multicultural flare. Hence, it may be a good idea to ease into your US experience by starting off your trip in one of these megacities.
  • Breathtaking national parks: The US is not just big, but also blessed with some of the most breathtaking gems that Mother Nature has to offer. Much of it is protected by extensive national parks, which attract millions of visitors each year. The most famous of them all is certainly the Grand Canyon. Seeing pictures or videos of this monumental canyon does not even come close to experiencing its enormity in person. The Yosemite National Park, located around 300 kilometers east of San Francisco and Yellowstone National Park with its geysers and extensive wild life are other popular destinations for nature lovers.
  • Countryside lifestyle: There is certainly a unique charm in experiencing some of the small towns and extensive rural areas that the country has to offer. The lifestyle, mentality and pace of life here tend to be quite different from that of the large cities. It is certainly worthwhile experiencing this part of the US through an extensive roadtrip.

At the end of the day, it’s hardly surprising that many travelers who experience the country as part of a slow travel itinerary begin to imagine themselves residing there permanently one day. The good news is that, compared to many other developed countries around the world, getting a visa for the US is still relatively easy. An extensive overview of visa options can be found here, along with other information about visa and Green Cards.

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