North America is a continent located in the Northern Hemisphere and is made up of three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It is also home to several territories and dependencies, including Puerto Rico, Greenland, and the Caribbean islands.
Listed below is a very small sampling of natural and man-made landmarks within North America.
Natural Landmarks:
- Niagara Falls in New York and Canada
- The Grand Canyon in Arizona
- Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming (96%), Montana (3%), and Idaho (1%)
- The Rocky Mountains cross 7 states and 2 Canadian provinces
- Red Wood National Park in California
Man-Made Landmarks:
- Statue of Liberty in New York City
- The CN Tower in Toronto
- The Mayan Ruins in Mexico
- The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
- Empire State Building in New York City
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit North America depends on where you plan to go and what you want to do. Here are some general guidelines:
- Spring (March to May): Many parts of North America have pleasant weather in the spring, making it a good time to visit. The flowers are in bloom and the crowds are not yet as heavy as they are in the summer.
- Summer (June to August): The summer is peak tourist season in many parts of North America, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. However, it is also a good time to visit the beach or enjoy outdoor activities.
- Fall (September to November): The fall is a great time to visit North America because the weather is usually pleasant, and the crowds have thinned out. The fall foliage is also a sight to see in many parts of the continent.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is a good time to visit North America if you enjoy cold weather and winter sports. Ski resorts and other winter destinations are usually busiest during this time.
Overall, the best time to visit North America is subjective and depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to do during your trip.
What to Expect:
Language:
The official language of North America is English. English is the most widely spoken language in the United States, Canada, and many other countries in the region. However, it is not the only language spoken in North America. Spanish is also widely spoken in the United States and Mexico, and French is the official language in Canada (along with English). There are also many Indigenous languages spoken in North America, including Inuktitut in Canada and Navajo in the United States.
Currency:
The official currency in North America depends on the country. Here is a list of the official currencies of each country in North America:
- United States: United States Dollar (USD)
- Canada: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
- Mexico: Mexican Peso (MXN)
It’s worth noting that some territories and dependencies in North America have their own currencies, such as the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) in several Caribbean countries and territories, and the US Dollar (USD) in Puerto Rico. However, these currencies are not officially recognized as the currencies of North America as a whole.
Banks & ATMs:
Banks & ATMs are available everywhere
Primary Modes of Transportation:
There are many ways to travel within North America, including by plane, car, bus, train, and even boat. Here are some more details about each mode of transportation:
- Air travel is a popular and convenient way to travel within North America. Many major cities have airports and there are many airlines that offer domestic flights within the continent.
- Renting a car is a good option if you want to have more flexibility and the ability to explore on your own. There are many car rental companies in North America, and the continent has a well-developed network of roads.
- Bus travel is a budget-friendly option for getting around within North America. There are many intercity bus companies that operate throughout the continent.
- Train travel is another option for getting around within North America. Some popular train routes include the Amtrak system in the United States and VIA Rail in Canada.
- Depending on where you are traveling, boat travel may also be an option. For example, ferries operate in some coastal areas and can be a convenient way to get to nearby islands or across waterways.
Overall, the best mode of transportation for you will depend on your destination, budget, and personal preferences.
Safety:
Overall, North America is generally a safe place to travel. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Here are a few tips to help ensure a safe trip:
- Research your destination: Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, and be aware of any potential safety concerns.
- Stay in touch: Make sure someone knows your itinerary and how to contact you in case of an emergency.
- Protect your personal belongings: Keep your valuables close to you and be aware of your surroundings when in crowded areas.
- Use common sense: Avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings when out and about.
- Get travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance in case of any unexpected events or emergencies.
By following these basic safety guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to North America.
What to Pack and Wear:
North America is a vast continent with a wide range of climates and landscapes, so it is important to pack and dress appropriately for your specific destination. Here are some general guidelines to consider when packing and dressing for a trip to North America:
- The weather in North America can vary widely depending on the region and the time of year. It is a good idea to research the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. If you are traveling in the summer, pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat. If you are traveling in the winter, pack warm and insulated clothing, as well as a coat and gloves.
- Comfortable shoes are a must when traveling in North America, as you will likely do a lot of walking. Pack a pair of comfortable sneakers or sandals for everyday wear and consider packing a pair of waterproof shoes if you are traveling to a region with wet weather.
- Even in the warmer months, the evenings can get cool in some parts of North America, so it is a good idea to pack a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.
- If you are traveling to a region with a beach or pool, be sure to pack a swimsuit.
- In general, North America is a fairly casual and relaxed place, so you can usually dress in comfortable, casual clothing. However, it is always a good idea to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to dress modestly in public.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that you are prepared and comfortable when traveling in North America.
Please feel free to reach out to me if you need any specialized coaching in travel planning or coordination or if you would like to engage me as a speaker on travel related topics at one of your future events! You can find travel related coaching information on my Travel Consulting & Planning page.
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