New England is one of America’s favorites for a reason. Made up of six states – Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont – the region is a cultural juggernaut, home to iconic authors from Nathaniel Hawthorne to Stephen King, and site of key battles of the American War of Independence. . Its waterfront is home to some of the East Coast’s most popular resorts and wild, windswept national parks; Inland, there are forests that glow with fall foliage and winter resorts that are playgrounds for skiers. Here we answer some common questions that might help you plan your visit.

Do I need a visa?

While most British visitors to the United States do not need a visa for tourism purposes, all travelers must apply for a visa. ESTA ($21/£16). These are valid for visits up to 90 days. It is it is best to submit applications at least 72 hours before the trip.

Should I visit using a tour operator or independently?

America was built for road trips, and much of the joy of traveling here is the detours and pit stops you can make along the way. New England is no exception. It’s pretty easy to plan an independent road trip; If you prefer to leave the logistics to a tour operator, consider opting for a self-guided driving itinerary to fully enjoy the freedom of the open highway. As is the case in all U.S. states where wildlife poses a road hazard, it is best to drive during the day, as elk are most active from dusk to dawn.

What is the best season for whale watching?

New England’s Atlantic coast teems with cetaceans from May to October, but you may be able to spot humpback, fin, minke, and occasional North Atlantic right whales from late March to early november. Home to some 600 species of permanent and migratory marine animals, the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary between Cape Ann and Cape Cod offers spectacular sightings. Maine is another hotspot for whale watching; June to August is the optimal time in Portland or Bar Harbor. Book with a World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) certified operator.

Is fall a good time to go?

With red bands of sugar maple, oak, beech and chestnut, New England is the ultimate destination for leaf peeping. The season begins in northern Maine, where it is cooler, around mid-September; the rest of the states catch up until the end of October.

The bad news is that with colors come crowds. New Hampshire – with its winding mountain roads and sparkling streams – alone receives more than three million fall visitors. If you arrive at this time, you may find it difficult to connect with nature. Think beyond the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the Green Mountains of Vermont and the Berkshires of Massachusetts.

How much should I tip?

This is a problem for many travelers to the United States, and a conversation about tipping etiquette cannot be avoided. Put Simply put, adding a minimum of 15-20% is the norm for everything from airport transfers to catering and tour guides. A A growing number of cafes and counter service stores also now offer the option of adding a tip to any mundane everyday purchase, but this is at your discretion.