My calendar reminded me that my ESTA Visa for America has just expired. My partner and I usually travel to the USA twice yearly to see his family in Chicago. We often tag on a trip to New York first if we have time (and the money). However, with the ongoing Covid-19 situation, we haven’t been anywhere this year. But, being super-organised, I will sort out my ESTA Visa so that I can book my flight as soon as I can. In the meantime, I will plan my dream USA trip, which will give me something enjoyable to think about while I’m stuck at home. First, I’ll share some of my favourite things to do in Chicago and New York because these are two of my favourite cities worldwide, apart from London!
My Favourite Things To Do In New York and Chicago
As I said, two of my favourite cities in America are New York and Chicago. When we visit New York, some of the things I love to do are …
1. Stay at The Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca, which is owned by Robert De Nero (we always jest about bumping into him in the lift or elevator, but this has yet to happen!
2. Eat brunch and drink several cups of coffee at Bubby’s in Tribeca
3. Stroll along the High Line, which is a stunning elevated walk on a former railroad
4. Dine at Chelsea Market, the culinary hall in the Meatpacking District
5. Say hello to Libby; that’s the statue! I’ve visited Ellis Island several times now and have walked up to the top of the statue before, which was tiring but worth it for the view
Chicago is special to me because my partner’s family lives there. I’ve visited many times, and we always find something new and exciting to do. Here are five of my favourite things …
1. Hang out in hipster neighbourhoods like Logan Square, Wicker Park or Pilsen
2. Admire the skyscrapers on the Architecture River Cruise
3. Visit Oak Park to look around Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and other houses he designed in the vicinity
4. Discover more about the gangster and mobster past on a Crime Tour
5. Look at my reflection in the Anish Kapoor ‘Bean’ sculpture
My Dream USA Trip
If I had an extended vacation, here are five places I’d love to visit …
1. Portland in Oregon, for its thriving foodie scene
2. Seattle for the delicious coffee
3. New Orleans for the jazz and blues music
4. Los Angeles for people watching on Venice Beach
5. San Francisco for the glorious Golden Gate Bridge
If you’re planning a USA trip, visit the Visit the USA Website.
Getting Ready For My USA Trip With ESTA
If you are planning a trip to America like me, you’ll need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). My partner is a dual citizen, so he doesn’t have to apply for an ESTA (lucky him!). Just so you are aware, the requirements for the ESTA must be met. Essentially, the ESTA is for anyone travelling to America for a holiday because they are visiting friends or family, having medical treatment or going to a business-related meeting. You must have a valid passport return ticket, and be mindful that you can’t stay in the country for more than 90 days.
E-visa is a one-stop travel visa website worth checking out because it makes the process easy. It will take about five minutes to complete the online form, costing £29.95 per person. This is a good value because it lasts for two years. Make sure you sort this out before your travel, and it takes around 72 hours via E-visa; they can turn it around in an hour if you have an urgent request.
Once I’ve sorted out my ESTA, I’ll have to start looking at suitcases because mine broke on my last holiday, which was annoying! It will probably take me longer to purchase a suitcase than it does the ESTA, which is funny when you think about it! Anyway, my lovelies, I hope you enjoy your trip, wherever you decide to go.
Credits: Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Collaboration / Advertising.
