I visited the USA in December month with my family for a 10 day holiday trip. We explored New York, Washington DC, and Orlando. Each city was little different – the best part was everything was well organized, street were so clean. There was famous tourist spots and family friendly places too. I am going to share my experience – hope this will help you to plan your US trip.
1. New York
During our NY trip, we visited Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building. Each of them were beautiful place. One mistake that we did was visiting in December month. December was very cold, so warm good jackets were a must. Normal jacket not going to help you. The street, malls etc were decorated with Christmas lights and festive atmosphere made the city feel special. One thing you really should not miss is a visit to Times Square at night if you are a first time visitor to New York.
We had a lovely evening in the city and even visited the shops. New York has plenty of places to eat, from small cafes to big dine in stops. Still the right planning is very important. Popular attractions can take time to explore. Put on your comfortable shoes to keep your tippy toes on the move with comfort.
2. Washington DC
We spent total 2 days in Washington DC and visited the White House, the Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial. We took several pictures, and believe me you are going to love take photos and videos. We also explored one of the Smithsonian museums, and the best part, entry fee was free. We travelled from New York by train. The city felt very peaceful than the New York crowd and that’s why we took time to explore it at our own pace. Many top landmarks are close to each other, so you can cover several spots in a day. Love history, museums and gorgeous buildings? Add Washington DC to your USA itinerary, it’s worth your time. Just check visiting hours before you go.
3. Orlando
We spent next 3 days in Orlando, visiting Magic Kingdom at Disney World and Universal Studios. The kids really loved the rides, and spent an hour extra that we didnt thought of. They also loved meeting their favourite characters. Tickets were quite expensive. Try to book online and use coupon to get some discount. If possible, try to take multi day passes that will save good amount of $.Orlando was our family’s favourite, especially because of Disney World and Universal Studios.
A useful tip is to go through the park maps and ride timings before you visit. Some attractions have long queuesduring holidays. And this can be very annoying, specially when you are travelling with kids.Bring a bottle of water and some snacks if it is allowed. You will be walking most of the day and some resting time between rides is good for your little ones.
Cost and Visa
Total we spent around AED 12,000 to 15,000 per person for 10 days. We booked the USA tour packages from Dubai from a local tour operator in Dubai. One thing what we like that Efficient Tourism manage everything, cost was little extra but no headache from mine side. US visa is not quick, so start your documents early only.
What I Would Change
If I could change one thing, I’d add a few more days so we could explore each city without rushing.
FAQs
Is December a good time to visit the USA?
One mistake that we did was visiting in December month. It was very cold, so warm good jackets were a must, normal jacket not going to help you.
How many days are enough for Washington DC?
We spent total 2 days and visited the White House, the Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial.
Are Smithsonian museums free?
Yes, we explored one of the Smithsonian museums and the best part, entry fee was free.
How to save money on Orlando park tickets?
Tickets were quite expensive. Try to book online and use coupon, and if possible take multi day passes that will save good amount of $.
How much does a USA trip cost from Dubai?
Our 10-day USA trip cost around AED 12,000–15,000 per person.
Planning your USA trip from Dubai? Efficient Tourism can manage your flight, visa and USA tour package.