The United States of America, a gloriously defiant work in progress, isn't a place that you come to and stand still, it has always been about the journey, and calls out for exploration and discovery. Some head for the cities, from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan to Los Angeles's sun-drenched boulevards, while others choose solitary contemplation of the country's awesome natural beauty. Some come to revel in America's kitsch and pop culture. But the journey across America never fails to be rewarding - because of her people, whose energy and restless reinvention never ceases to amaze.

Best time to visit

March to July.

Essential experiences

California beaches at sunset; camping the great America West; pounding the pavement in bustling New York City; touring mysterious Anasazi Indian ruins in south-western deserts; cruising the neon madness of the Las Vegas strip.

In a few words, the USA is

Burgers, fries and Budweiser, red white and blue, sneakers and jeans, yuppies in SUV's, cowboys in pickups and gun lovers.

Did you know?

New Yorkers love to help strangers, half of US citizens don't vote in elections, in American football, you're supposed to use your hands and baseball is a rounders type game for men.