Back

USA

A vast nation of diverse cultures and boundless opportunities

USA. The greatest country in the world to visit!

Yep, the world would be a pretty boring place without the USA - the land that makes movie stars, has streets paved with their famous names and has homes in Memphis once graced by Elvis. There’s so much to see and do, with a different experience in every state and around every corner. For foodies, there is no better place. From the All-American diner to corn dogs at baseball games, you won’t go hungry in the land of Uncle Sam. It’s a huge country, with an even bigger To-do list.

Come and talk to our USA travel specialists and together let’s start planning your stateside adventure today!

Flight time.

A flight from Auckland to the West Coast of the USA, such as Los Angeles, takes about 12-13 hours. While it’s a long-haul flight, you’ll be arriving in the land of endless possibilities.

Best time to go.

The best times to visit the West Coast of the USA are from April to June and September to November, when the weather is milder and the tourist crowds are thinner.

Time difference.

The West Coast of the USA is 19 hours behind New Zealand. This significant time difference will require some adjustment.

Our favourite things to do in the USA

Glamping in Utah!

Have a stay ‘Under canvas’ in Utah at Zion or Grand Canyon National Park.

Head to a sports game

Grab a hot dog and popcorn and join the locals to watch a game.

California dreaming!

West is Best - Hire a car and go on a roadie.

Music, food and the South

If you are a fan of country, jazz, blues, or rock n’ roll, pack light and buckle up ready for an unforgettable musical journey.

Hit the wine road

Calling all wine lovers!

Get your festival vibes on

Plan your trip to California’s hottest music festivals—Coachella and Stagecoach in Palm Springs!

A magical Christmas in New York

The Big Apple does Christmas better than anywhere else, and New Yorkers seize the opportunity to celebrate every moment of it.

Best. Shopping. Ever!

Shop 'til you drop with the best of LA Shopping from luxe boutiques to outlet steals.

Beat the blues at Mardi Gras in New Orleans

New Orleans

A magical Christmas in New York

New York

New Year, New York!

Katrina Cole, HOT Botany Junction, discovers there is no better place to celebrate New Year’s Eve than in the Big Apple!

Disneyland - Celebrate 100 years of wonder!

Bridget Fogarty, HOT Marketing, plans her 16th trip to the Happiest Place on Earth to take part in the 100 year celebrations

The ultimate USA roadie!

The USA has so much to offer – and the best way to stumble across unique experiences, marvel at extraordinary vistas, explore charming small towns, and discover hidden gems is to hire a car and hit the open road!

Hidden gems you'll love in the Americas

When planning a great American adventure, the sheer size of both continents can be overwhelming. To help, we suggest the next places you’ll love, based on better known places you might have already enjoyed!

Quick guide - The Hawaiian Islands

Stay on O‘ahu for glorious beaches and a Waikiki buzz, then escape to a heavenly neighbour island. All yours within a 35 to 45 minute flight, add some extra dazzle to your island dream.

Swap the tourist traps for the real Hawai'i

So Hawai'i is on your top-pick list? Good stuff.

Our Ultimate Guide to Anaheim - Where to Shop, Eat and Play

With two Disney Theme Parks – Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park – and an energetic entertainment, dining and shopping district, Anaheim is one of the favourite holiday destinations on the West Coast.

9 Reasons to visit Disneyland Resort in California

Disney’s magic is unlike anything else. Here’s what you don’t want to miss!

Top things to see & do in North America

So the USA is on your top-pick list? Good stuff. With a country of such diversity, every state feels completely different. And then there's Canada — a Kiwi fave. Here are a few of our favourite things to see and do in both countries.

America for music lovers

Discover music's past and present in the USA; your musical pilgrimage to the very heart of jazz, pop and rock n’ roll.

Epic self-drive road trips across the USA

Considering how expansive the country is, hiring a car and self-driving around the nation can be a great way to see the sights.

13 must read tips for the NYC first-timer

New York is blessed with glamour, elegance and timeless beauty. For the first-time Big Apple visitor, here's your definitive guide to the city that never sleeps!

The USA's 7 most iconic cities

Whether you’re after a hip urban jungle or a charming historic ‘hood, you’re sure to find it in the USA. Here's our pick for the best of the best.

13 movie landmarks in New York City

However you call it, New York is one of the most famous cities in the world and one of the most touted in pop culture. It’s the setting of novels and comic book series, the topic of Top 40 songs and anything reading “NYC” is a fashion staple.

Why should you visit Utah

Sunsets and starlit nights await. On your guard, people; Utah’s out to seduce you.

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"very efficient same day response to my request"

Peter and Carol

"Carla is so awesome to engage with. She is always excited & enthusiastic about travel plans & experiences. She is so efficient & a excellent communicator when sorting out travel plans. It makes the journey so much fun & gives confidence to the plans! Thanks Carla."

Linda

"Pete and I both found Suzanne very approachable, informative and listened to us regarding the type of holiday we are looking forward to"

Jennifer

See all reviews

Meet our USA specialists

See all

Anna O'Dell-Smith

House of Travel Ferrymead

Having travelled extensively I thoroughly enjoy immersing myself in the rich culture of any country I am fortunate enough to visit. Travel is my passion and I love helping clients create an unforgettable experience that is uniquely their own.

I genuinely believe that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. I enjoy being part of each and every journey. No day is the same in the life of a travel consultant and I relish the challenge that this represents. I am flattered by the number of clients who have come back to me time and time again.

Having travelled to nearly 50 countries, my bucket list is still never ending. I have backpacked my way through the world in my youth as well as enjoying five star luxury in more recent times. I have definitely felt richer from each and every experience. Travel is a way of life, I love what I do and that passion and enthusiasm always translates into the work I put into my clients plans.

Anna

Cherry McGovern

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

Having worked in the Travel Industry for 9 years and counting, I am incredibly passionate about detail and no trip is too small!

I have lived in London & Perth, both opening destinations for me to explore! My favourite trips to date were Greece and Thailand.

Every part of the process excites me, from simple flights, group holidays, to your bucket list trips!

I enjoy getting to know my clients and I understand that no detail is too small and warm prompt service is key to delivering great customer experiences.

Cherry

Jo Coolen

House of Travel Kapiti Coast

For a long time, I've told people I have the best job in the world and I still stand by that.

What could be better than turning peoples dreams into reality? I never know what the day will bring and isn't variety the spice of life?

My travel journey started a bit later in my life, so I haven't been everywhere YET, but I am having a damn good crack at it, gathering local knowledge along the way.

Sindy Jones

House of Travel New Plymouth

I've been on overland truck trips for months on end, long extended self-drive adventures, ocean cruises and riverboats, coach tours, small group guided journeys and done independent travel, visiting 60 countries in 6 continents along the way.

I'm always looking forward to my next adventure and love helping clients get the most from theirs.

Sindy