Our guide to the world’s magnificent continents, and all that lays in store, this month takes in North America.
A traveller’s playground, North America offers a diverse range of destinations, each with unique charm. From the Vegas glitz to the natural splendour of the Canadian Rockies, you’re invited to explore vibrant cities, breath-taking landscapes and rich cultural history.
Biggest Cities
New York City – with towering skyscrapers and the iconic Times Square and Central Park – is a global hub of culture and commerce. Los Angeles offers Hollywood glamour and laid-back beach vibes, while Mexico City, the continent’s largest city, is a whirlwind of vibrant street life, ancient Aztec heritage and modern innovation.
Culinary Culture
As diverse as its people, the USA has the classic comfort foods of burgers, hotdogs and apple pie; Mexico boasts spicy dishes of tacos, tortillas, fajitas, burritos and more, while Canada offers unique flavours of poutine and maple syrup. Embrace the food truck revolution, offering everything from gourmet donuts to authentic ethnic cuisine on the go.
Traditions
Witness the vibrant Mardi Gras celebration of music, dance and extravagant parades in New Orleans, the solemnity of Canada honouring the diverse cultures of the First Nations on National Indigenous Peoples Day, or Mexico’s ‘Day of the Dead’, a is a deeply spiritual celebration where families remember ancestors through colourful altars, marigolds and sugar skulls.
Popular Places To Stay
From five-star New York City luxury and exclusive Caribbean resorts to the charm of boutique inns in Quebec or cosy Rocky Mountain cabins, there’s something for every traveller. With prices varying from $50 a night in a budget motel to $500+ in upscale establishments.
Travel Time
Vast size means travel times can vary widely. Flights from Europe to New York or Toronto typically take around 7-9 hours. Domestic travel can be quick by air, but road trips are popular for those who wish to soak in the diverse landscapes.
Off The Beaten Track
Explore Alaska’s Denali National Park, New Mexico’s White Sands desert, or Mexico’s Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá. These lesser-known destinations offer stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife and deep connections to history, providing a unique and unforgettable experience.
Pros
Stunning diversity of landscapes, cultures and experiences, from the frozen tundra of the Arctic to the sun-drenched beaches of the Caribbean. Well-developed infrastructure and amenities make travel comfortable and convenient.
Cons
High travel costs, especially in popular tourist areas with vast distances between destinations requiring careful planning. Some areas are prone to extreme weather, necessitating flexibility in travel plans.
Either way, whether exploring bustling cities, tranquil wilderness or cultural landmarks, North America promises an unforgettable journey.
