Words by Carlie Tucker
It doesn't matter if you have an inclination for big city buzz or majestic mountain peaks, soft sand beaches or small town charm, the USA delivers on the travel front like no other destination in the world. 50 states await, allowing families, couples and solo travellers of all ages to tap into larger-than-life fun.
In the spirit of America's penchant for bigger, better and more of everything, it's only fitting to get there via one of many equally exciting stopover destinations. It like a holiday in a holiday, and you can never have too much of a good thing. Especially when it comes to travel.
Double Dip or Triple Treat your way to and through the USA like this:
On The Way
Auckland:
Sitting roughly three hours from Australia's east coast and 12 from Los Angeles, Auckland is a great way to break up your journey. It's the North Island's largest city and beckons with the perfect combination of cosmopolitan flair and outdoor pursuits.
City slickers will hit their stride sampling the diverse shopping and dining scenes. Viaduct Harbour, anyone? And nature lovers need only venture an hour in any direction to find themselves amongst some of New Zealand's most stunning landscapes. Delve into the rich Maori culture at the Auckland Museum or trek the volcanic reaches of Rangitoto Island. For the best of both worlds, a day trip wine tasting tour to Waiheke Island will not disappoint.
Fiji:
If you fancy more of an tropical break before you hit the USA's hotspots, add Fiji to your Double Dip itinerary. Fly approximately four hours from Australia's east and you'll find yourself shifting to island time as you relax among the swaying palms.
Say Bula to Denarau Island for top resorts and poolside sunbaking. Or get more secluded with a trip to one of the many resorts peppering the Mamanuca and Yasawa archipelagos. From family-friendly to couples-only, there is a 4- or 5-star stay to suit your needs. Not content to settle on just one? Split your days island hopping with tours available that allow you to see many of Fiji's best getaways. When you've had your fill of sun and sand, a 12-hour flight will see you refreshed and ready for the glitz and glam of Los Angeles.
Once You're There
If you'd rather get right down to business in the USA, there are plenty of Double Dips and Triple Treats that allow you to combine some of the country's most iconic cities. This includes Hawaii, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Miami and New York.
Los Angeles and New York:
Get your fill of the west and east coast by holidaying in the USA's two most famous cities. Strut the famed sidewalks of Rodeo Drive and go celebrity spotting along Sunset Boulevard. Find your favourite stars along the Walk of Fame and relish the views atop Runyon Canyon. Or, get into the spirit of the Happiest Place on Earth at Disneyland before taking a bite out of the Big Apple. Head straight to the top of Empire State Building for incredible views of the city, or walk the slightly quieter paths along the High Line. Central Park and the MET are must sees for all types of traveller, topped off with a show on Broadway.
If you're still wanting more, turn this Double Dip to a Triple Treat by adding a third stopover in Las Vegas!
Discover the luxury of the USA.
A Luxury Guide To San Francisco
San Francisco and New York:
If you'd rather mix things up, San Francisco is a more than suitable start to any USA holiday. This funky city marches to the beat of its own drum, which means memorable holiday experiences around every corner. A morning hike to Battery Spencer will pay off in dividends with (dare we say) the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge, or wander the bustling streets of Chinatown for unique shopping and dining aplenty. Don't forget to twist and turn your way down Lombard Street and view the Painted Ladies from Alamo Square Park. Then it's on to New York where the spoils of the City that Never Sleeps await.
Los Angeles and Miami:
Los Angeles to Miami is glamour defined, allowing you to live the high life in these hot and sultry cities. After rubbing shoulders with the who's who of Hollywood, get your glam on in the Magic City. Miami certainly has a reputation for unbeatable night life, but exploring the city by day is well worth the earlier start. Of course a tour of the Art Deco District should be on the cards, along with the colourful lifeguard towers of famous Miami Beach. Walk the Miracle Mile for some retail therapy and marvel at the lofty heights of the Freedom Tower. For those that want to escape, the quieter shores of Key Biscayne are calling.
If you'd rather stick to the west coast, swap Miami for Las Vegas and do Sin City high roller-style.
Honolulu, Maui and Big Island:
Travellers that prefer the sand over the city may just want to consider a Triple Treat trip around Hawaii, taking in some of the best locations this island chain has to offer. Honolulu is the perfect place to get you into the Hawaiian spirit. Sign up for a surfing lesson on the sandy shores of famous Waikiki Beach, or head inland for a hike to the top of Diamond Head.
Don't forget to visit the Royal Hawaiian Centre and Iolani Palace before moving on to Maui where quieter shores offer a chance for quality time amidst this beautiful tropical setting. Snorkelling, windsurfing and whale watching are abundantly available, but don't forget to take in the lush landscapes along the road to Hanna.
Speaking of beautiful landscapes, the Big Island is known for its incredible scenery, ranging from black lava fields to picture perfect valleys surrounded by dense jade-coloured jungles. This more secluded spot is all about adventure – be it on the water or in the mountains – but a spot of sunbaking on the black, white and green sand beaches is always an option.
