Hi everyone,

We’re heading to the Pacific Northwest (USA) and Western Canada this summer. We’ve made some progress planning, but we still have a few questions.

Our trip is mostly nature-focused—hiking, wildlife spotting (ideally bears, orcas/whales, otters, etc.), mountains, forests—and a few days in cities, though we’re not big on museums.

We’re looking at flying into Seattle (cheaper than Vancouver), then renting a car and staying in Airbnbs.

A few years ago, we traveled through eastern Canada/USA (Halifax/Montréal/Boston/Halifax) and ended up driving *way* too much and switching accommodations too often. This time, we’d like to settle in a bit more.

Here’s our current plan:

- 2 nights in Seattle to avoid hitting the road right after the flight. One day for a quick city visit, then we’ll leave early after the second night. -> Heading to Olympic National Park from the south.

- 4 nights near Olympic National Park, likely around Forks. -> Then to Port Angeles and a ferry to Vancouver Island via Victoria (maybe 1 night there).

- 7 nights in Port Alberni, which seems like a central base for exploring Vancouver Island (Tofino, Pacific Rim, Cathedral Grove, etc.). We really want to enjoy the area without constantly packing and unpacking.

The issue is, that brings us to 13–14 nights, and we’d like to spend 2 in Vancouver.

We’re wondering if we should head farther north on the island and add a few more days, or reduce our stay in Port Alberni to explore the north as well.

After that, we’d have about a week left. We’re considering a detour near the Canadian Rockies, then slowly making our way back to Seattle via North Cascades National Park.

Anyway, we’d love your input on all this!

Thanks for your suggestions,

Emilie and Thomas

Hi everyone,

I’m a total USA addict. I’ve already done several road trips, including the East Coast and West Coast. I’m here today because I’m planning to go back for another road trip on the West Coast. Possibly with one of my sisters and a couple of friends. It’s still just a plan for now, but I’m working on an itinerary in the meantime. Ideally, I’d leave in 2026, but I don’t have the exact dates yet—maybe April-May or September-October. My last trip to the West Coast was in September 2014. We went for 2 weeks, but this time it’d be 3 weeks. What made me want to go back was simply a colleague who just left today. As I’m writing this, he’s on the plane. I’m so happy for him, but now all I can think about is going back.

Since I recently went to NY, I noticed that prices have really gone up. I assume the same is true for the West Coast? For 2 people over 3 weeks, what budget should I expect? We’re the type to watch our spending and find great tips. I think we’ll arrive in San Francisco like the first time and leave from either Los Angeles or Las Vegas.

Thanks to everyone for your advice and help.

Hi everyone.

I assume many of you already know, but the America the Beautiful annual pass, which was $80, will increase to $250 starting January 1, 2026.

So if you're planning to travel before the end of December 2026, it's in your best interest to buy your pass in December 2025, since it will still cost $80 and be valid until the end of December 2026 if you purchase it in December 2025.

This price increase only applies to non-U.S. residents.

Additionally, for those who planned to visit just one park, a $100 surcharge per person will apply to access a list of 11 national parks... For example, if there are 4 of you in a car, you’ll have to pay $35 + $400, which comes to $435 to visit one of the 11 parks on the list (I don’t have all of them... Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, etc.). Total madness.

The goal is to push people who only visit one park into buying the annual pass.

Last point: free entry days are over for non-residents!

That’s all for now.

Hi,

Bad news for foreign visitors 🙁. No info yet on when this will take effect or the cost of the Beautiful Pass, currently at $80.

United States: Donald Trump raises national park entry fees... for foreigners

Not exactly the best Independence Day news 🙁

Hello! The itinerary is pretty much set for August 2026. Yeah, I know it’s gonna be *super* hot. But it’s the only time we can get away.

So, here’s the plan: Montpellier-CDG-Dallas.

Stay from July 31 to August 26, 2026: Car rental – check, Hotels – check, Itinerary – almost check, Photo gear – check, Budget – check, 🤪 Meal planning – meh, we’ll see... Walmart, of course, for the cooler when we arrive.

And now, without too much detail...

Fort Worth: The Longhorns and the Stockyards; JR’s ranch (for the missus); Medal of Honor Museum – Arlington.

Houston and NASA Space Center: See the Gulf of Mexico/America.

San Antonio and the missions.

Fort Stockton for an overnight stop.

El Paso via Guadalupe Mountains: El Paso and White Sands.

Tucson and the Pima Air & Space Museum: Tombstone, Bisbee.

Phoenix:

Still working on the program.

Sedona: Round trip around the area via Flagstaff and Williams, or the Grand Canyon (already done) – we’ll decide on the spot.

Albuquerque: Santa Fe, Turquoise Trail, Los Alamos.

Amarillo via Route 66: Old Route 66 in the city; Big Texas Ranch Steak 😏.

Dallas: JFK Museum; Perot Museum; West End district.

And through it all – the road, the road, and more road!!!

We’ll adapt day by day based on our mental and physical state (we’re not exactly spring chickens).

Return to France: Dallas-Montpellier via CDG.

Cheers!

Hello fellow travel forum members,

This time, it's real, concrete stuff.

We’ll be going on a road trip in September this year (if all goes well, yes, I know it’s a bit superstitious, but I can’t help it, especially with the current family circumstances).

There’ll be four of us: my husband, our two grown kids (20 and 24), and me.

The flights aren’t booked yet because I’m still hesitating over the dates (it’s down to a day or two). They should be finalized by the end of this week or sometime next week.

J1 - Friday, August 29: Brussels-SLC via Amsterdam with KLM (I’d love your opinions on this airline since I’ve never flown with them before) – arrival scheduled for early afternoon. J2 - Saturday, August 30: SLC-Moab J3 - Sunday, August 31: Arches – we’ll see if we can get tickets; otherwise, we’ll wake up at dawn (entries possible without a reservation before 7 am) J4 - Monday, September 1: Arches J5 - Tuesday, September 2: Moab - Grand Teton – night booked J6 - Wednesday, September 3: Grand Teton – night booked J7 - Thursday, September 4: Grand Teton - Jackson J8 - Friday, September 5: Jackson J9 - Saturday, September 6: Jackson – evening: Rodeo (tickets booked) J10 - Sunday, September 7: Jackson - Yellowstone – night booked at Lake Yellowstone J11 - Monday, September 8: Yellowstone – night booked at Canyon Lodge J12 - Tuesday, September 9: Yellowstone – night booked at Canyon Lodge J13 - Wednesday, September 10: Yellowstone – night booked at Old Faithful Snow J14 - Thursday, September 11: Yellowstone – night booked at Old Faithful Snow J15 - Friday, September 12: Yellowstone - SLC J16 - Saturday, September 13: departure from SLC J17 - Sunday, September 14: arrival in Brussels

As I mentioned in the intro, the departure and return dates aren’t set in stone yet. Normally, we’d leave on August 29, which would mean visiting Moab and Arches. Otherwise, we’d leave on August 30 and stay in SLC. Around SLC, we’d explore the area, but I’ll admit I’m a bit stuck on what to do there.

For the return, we’d leave SLC on Saturday, September 13, or Sunday, September 14. Our youngest starts classes on Monday, September 15, but he doesn’t mind starting a day later.

Some things are already booked and paid for and can’t be changed (or only with difficulty), so please keep that in mind in your comments. 😕

I’d love to hear about your experiences with a few questions:

* Is it too ambitious to include Arches in the road trip? Especially since the drives are long, particularly the Moab-Grand Teton stretch.

* What do you recommend doing around SLC?

* Same for Jackson. We’ve decided to spend two full days there to take a break between the national parks.

* For the return, I was wondering if spending a day in SLC before heading back to Europe might be a good idea.

Thanks so much in advance for your advice!

Patricia

This is a nightmare! Auchan Telecom’s internet extension isn’t working… so no Google Maps! Big problem in the middle of nowhere yesterday, and we drove in circles for ages trying to find the hotel in Bakersfield. And today we’re heading to L.A. What’s a quick and cheap solution?

Hi there, - Is tap water safe to drink everywhere in the U.S., or do you prefer bottled water? - How do you handle money? ★ Is cash preferred and more commonly used than card payments? ★ For ATM withdrawals, what are the fees? I’ve read that bank ATMs have lower fees than those in some stores—is that true? ★ Is the cashback trick used in the U.S. (e.g., for a $100 purchase, you pay $150, and the cashier gives you $50 in cash)? Thanks in advance to U.S. experts for your tips!

Hello, if the off-the-beaten-path enthusiasts are still around 😉, I’d love some info on tackling these trails. I’m not super familiar with the rules, risks, or what to expect—I’m looking for firsthand experience from folks who’ve done it on their own once or multiple times.

Hi everyone! First time for me in the States from March 24 to April 7, 2025—only 15 days, so choices have to be made. I want to explore part of the West, but obviously planning the route is the trickiest part, so here’s what I’ve come up with and where I have doubts: -Leaving Paris for LA 1 or 2 nights to visit -Heading to Vegas, where one couple would go by motorcycle (they’re fans and want the thrill of Route 66) and another by plane (I won’t linger here either—1 or 2 days max!) Then, Lake Powell, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, all by rental car for everyone, so the motorcycle gets returned in Vegas.

Now here’s where it gets tricky: either I continue the road trip through the big parks to finish in San Francisco (but it doesn’t seem like the best time—might be too cold), or I head down to San Diego for the return flight. But which itinerary? Kingman, Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, and San Diego—does that make sense? Is it better to go back to Vegas to take a plane or drive the whole way?

So many questions—your help and advice would be super welcome! Thanks in advance, Anne from Périgord Noir

Hello, After much hesitation about the direction, we finally bought our flight tickets (we splurged on Premium): it’ll be a 15-day road trip starting from Los Angeles in June 2025. We want to do our "farewell tour" by saying goodbye one last time to the landscapes of the "Grand Circle" that amazed and fascinated us during 4 trips between 2008 and 2012. Practical question for choosing a vehicle (possibly a Toyota RAV4 from Alamo): should we opt for the GPS supplement (over 200 € for 15 days; they only "gift" the second driver)? In our previous trips, we didn’t have one, and we don’t really remember struggling in L.A., San Francisco, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, or Denver. It would mainly be useful for driving through Los Angeles at the start and end of the trip, but not really elsewhere... On the other hand, I’m thinking that there must be few vehicles without GPS in service in the U.S. these days, and maybe an upgrade at pickup isn’t out of the question (?). If that doesn’t happen and we have last-minute regrets, can we change our minds and take the option without being too financially penalized compared to booking in advance? That’s the (very 😉) little dilemma of the moment. Thanks for your insights and advice!

Hey everyone!

So, I'm in the middle of planning a 3-week road trip, and of course, I have a ton of questions. But first, maybe I should start with the basics:

When: July 5–28, 2025. Who: 4 people (2 teens and 2 adults). How: Flight tickets already booked (LH and United).

Where (overnights): 07/05: Arrival in SF. Night in SF. 07/06: SF. 07/07: SF. 07/08: Early departure? for Yosemite (Mariposa) – question 1. 07/09: Yosemite. 07/10: Mammoth Lake? (Accommodation in the area? Or somewhere else like 2 nights in Death Valley?) – question 2. 07/11: Death Valley. 07/12: LV. 07/13: LV. 07/14: Zion. 07/15: Bryce Canyon. 07/16: Bryce Canyon. 07/17: Moab. 07/18: Moab. 07/19: Moab. 07/20: Monument Valley. 07/21: Page. 07/22: Grand Canyon (better to stay 2 nights in Page or Grand Canyon?) – question 3. 07/23: Grand Canyon. 07/24: Kingman. 07/25: LA. 07/26: LA. 07/27: LA. 07/28: Return to France.

And question 4: For the car rental, I think it’s better to pick it up right when we arrive (to save time). But once we get to LA, should we drop it off at the airport or earlier to avoid being stuck with it (and paying extra for parking)? (We’re staying near Venice Beach for now.)

Anyway, if you spot any other inconsistencies, let me know! But I think it should work—I’ve already read 5 or 6 travel journals, so I’m feeling pretty set. :)

Right now, I’m deep into researching the rental car. I’m tempted to go for the Tahoe, but I’m not sure which site to use... So far, it’s hovering around 2000 €—quite the budget!

Hi everyone,

We’re planning a road trip on Route 66 in 2027 with our two kids, who’ll be 7 and 4 years old.

My husband would prefer to do it in an SUV, while I’d rather go in a camper van.

What are the pros and cons of each option?

Thanks for your input!

Hi there, We’re doing two loops: from SLC to Grand Tetons/Yellowstone from 06/25 to 06/26 (June 1–8) and another in Utah from 06/25 to 06/26 (June 8–16).

We’ve already been to these areas and are filling in gaps from previous trips—especially in Utah with Capitol Reef, Kanab (including White Pocket—we’ve already done North and South Coyote Buttes), Wahweap Hoodoos, The Narrows, and a few other little treats.

Renting an AWD SUV from Rugged Rentals and bringing a sat phone for the gravel roads.

I use a Revolut card for payments to avoid hefty foreign-exchange fees, but I’m wondering how much cash we should bring for 15 days.

Thanks for your input! Louis

Hi everyone! 🙂

I’m almost done planning our September road trip. After our 3-night visit to Sequoia, we’ll have a stopover night in Coalinga (to break up the drive). We’ll be staying two nights in Monterey and would like to stop along the way to visit one side of Pinnacles National Park. We’re torn between the West entrance and the East entrance, and we’d like to do a short hike of no more than 2 hours since we don’t want to arrive too late in Monterey.

This park is split into two distinct zones with no connection between them, and the mileage from Coalinga to Monterey is pretty much the same for both. Which area do you recommend visiting—east or west? And which route is the most scenic?

I’ve spotted two short hikes: - East: Moses Spring to Rim Trail Loop - West: Balconies Cliffs Cave Loop

Has anyone been there, or do you have another hike to suggest?

Thanks in advance, and have a great afternoon! Marcalamar 🙂

Hello everyone,

After our first trip as a young couple to the West in 2007 (yes, that doesn’t make us any younger!), we’re planning to go back in 2028, but this time as a family of four! (We have two boys who’ll be 5½ and 13 years old in the summer of 2028.)

Our plan is to combine a few big cities (SF and LA, maybe San Diego) with national parks and state parks, mostly! Ideally, we’d like to leave at the end of June and head back to France around July 19–20, so we can enjoy the first week of the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Since we already did the "loop" in 2007, there are must-see places we absolutely want to revisit—and especially share with our kids: Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, and above all, the Grand Canyon, which is still the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen on Earth!

On the other hand, some places didn’t leave a big impression on us for various reasons, so we’re not making them a priority: Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, for example.

We’re planning ahead, but might as well be smart about it😏

Do you have any tips for a fun and doable itinerary over about 20–25 days with kids, without rushing?

Thanks in advance for your feedback😉

Hello, we rented a car with Alamo that we’ll pick up in Las Vegas. However, for the basic rental, it’s not clear whether there’s a deductible in case of damage... For the included CDW, they just state this, and it doesn’t help much if the basic CDW includes a zero deductible: Thanks if you’ve had any feedback or clarifications that could help me.

The Damage Waiver (DW) is not insurance. Purchasing the DW is optional and not required to rent a vehicle. You may also purchase optional DW for an additional fee. If you purchase DW, we agree, subject to the actions listed in the rental agreement that void the DW, to contractually release you from all or part of the costs resulting from damage, loss, or theft of the vehicle. The Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) is not valid for damages occurring in Mexico. Before deciding whether to purchase LDW, it is recommended that you consult your insurer or a representative of your credit card company to determine if, in the event of damage or theft of the vehicle, you are protected against costs arising from such incidents and if you benefit from a deductible waiver. For rentals in California, the cost of collision damage waiver (CDW) ranges from $16.99 to $500.00 per day depending on the type of vehicle rented."

Hi everyone, After already exploring the West, which was amazing, I’ve got a new plan—I’d like to visit Texas and Tennessee. I want to start in Las Vegas, revisit Monument Valley, and head toward Dallas, stopping in Albuquerque and other cool spots along the way. Then, I’ll leave Dallas for Nashville, with several stops in between—any suggestions on where to go? Do you think 20 days is enough for this trip? Thanks for your input!

Hi there,

Alright, here’s my own road book for 3 weeks (late June – mid-July 2025) — looking forward to your feedback!

We’re not hikers or hardcore adventurers, so I’ve focused the itinerary on what we consider the essentials. We’re flying into SF and out of Las Vegas (because of airfare prices!) and also because I’m skipping Yosemite (doesn’t really tempt us). I’m planning a day trip to Death Valley from LV (been there before — it lets you see the highlights, and that was enough for me at the time). We’re not going as far as Canyon de Chelly — already done, and it didn’t really wow me. Just to note, this is pretty similar to a trip I’ve done before that worked well for us, but I’m open to tweaking it based on your suggestions. The duration (23 days) isn’t flexible — even one extra day sends the ticket prices skyrocketing.

Here’s what it looks like: Day 1: Arrival in SF Day 2 – Day 4: SF Day 5: Monterey (the Aquarium and the bay) – Overnight in Monterey Day 6 – Day 7: Drive down Highway 1 to Los Angeles – Overnight Day 6, e.g., in St. Simeon or nearby, and Day 7 in LA Day 8 – Day 9: LA (possibly an extra day) – Overnights in LA Day 10: Drive to Kingman and sightseeing – Overnight in Kingman Day 11: Drive to Grand Canyon and start exploring GC – Overnight in Tusayan Day 12: Explore GC – Overnight in Tusayan Day 13: Drive to Monument Valley and visit – Overnight nearby (Mexican Hat, Kayenta, etc.) Day 14: More sightseeing in the area (Valley of the Gods, Gooseneck Park) and drive to Mesa Verde – Overnight in Cortez Day 15: Visit Mesa Verde – Overnight in Cortez Day 16: Drive to Page and sightseeing – Overnight in Page Day 17: Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend – Overnight in Page Day 18: Drive to Bryce Canyon NP and start exploring Bryce – Overnight in the area! Day 19: Explore Bryce => Question: It’s a 2.5-hour drive from Page to Bryce. If we leave early, can we see the highlights of Bryce on Day 18 and skip Day 19? I’ll admit, I don’t remember much (it was back in 2009!) Day 20: Drive to Las Vegas with stops along the way (a quick detour to Zion just to say we’ve been, Valley of Fire) – Overnight in LV Day 21: LV; Cirque du Soleil show in the evening – Overnight in LV Day 22: Day trip to Death Valley (or a lazy day and outlet shopping!) – Overnight in LV Day 23: Flight back at 4:10 PM, which still gives us time to enjoy the morning.

What do you think? Best regards,

We were lucky enough to explore the American West a few years ago... a VERY fond travel memory. The urge to return to the USA is calling us...

We're heading out in August with our two grown sons: 21 and 18 years old.

We want to discover another part of the US and I found this itinerary on a website:

Day 1 - New Orleans Day 2 - New Orleans Day 3 - Natchez Day 4 - Dallas Day 5 - Dallas Day 6 - Dallas Day 7 - Austin Day 8 - Austin Day 9 - San Antonio Day 10 - San Antonio Day 11 - Houston Day 12 - Houston - NASA Day 13 - Lake Charles Day 14 - Lake Charles Day 15 - Lafayette Day 16 - Lafayette - White Castle Day 17 - White Castle - Vacherie (Oak Alley) Day 18 - New Orleans Day 19 - New Orleans Does this seem like too many cities?

We love: big landscapes, museums, history, and shopping.

What do you think?

Gaetano

Hi there, We're leaving this Thursday, August 8th: Paris → Detroit → SF. Today I'm loading up the app and filling it out at my own pace, knowing I'll need to take the photos when we arrive in Detroit to benefit from the fast-track customs process. But what about SF? After a domestic flight, do we have to go through customs again? I did Rapid City → Minneapolis → NYC a long time ago... can't remember how it worked... Thanks!

Hi everyone! After years of hoping, waiting, planning, then changing, saving, and searching for the best possible route... we're FINALLY off this summer for a 5-week road trip in the West.

I had planned a trip to Colorado in 2021 but canceled due to COVID, so with time passing and my eldest’s high school graduation approaching fast, I figured it was now or never!

Anyway, the itinerary has been modified and extended to please everyone (I’m no longer the only one making decisions!!)

Here’s our final route: Day 1 - 7/12/2026 - Brussels / Los Angeles Day 2 - 7/13/2026 - Los Angeles Day 3 - 7/14/2026 - Los Angeles Day 4 - 7/15/2026 - Los Angeles Day 5 - 7/16/2026 - Los Angeles Day 6 - 7/17/2026 - Los Angeles / Kingman Day 7 - 7/18/2026 - Kingman / Grand Canyon Day 8 - 7/19/2026 - Grand Canyon / Page Day 9 - 7/20/2026 - Page Day 10 - 7/21/2026 - Page / Monument Valley Day 11 - 7/22/2026 - Monument Valley / Durango Day 12 - 7/23/2026 - Durango Day 13 - 7/24/2026 - Durango Day 14 - 7/25/2026 - Durango Day 15 - 7/26/2026 - Durango / Glenwood Springs Day 16 - 7/27/2026 - Glenwood Springs Day 17 - 7/28/2026 - Glenwood Springs / Moab Day 18 - 7/29/2026 - Moab Day 19 - 7/30/2026 - Moab Day 20 - 7/31/2026 - Moab Day 21 - 8/1/2026 - Moab Day 22 - 8/2/2026 - Moab / Vernal Day 23 - 8/3/2026 - Vernal / Grand Teton Day 24 - 8/4/2026 - Grand Teton Day 25 - 8/5/2026 - Grand Teton / Cody Day 26 - 8/6/2026 - Cody / Yellowstone Day 27 - 8/7/2026 - Yellowstone Day 28 - 8/8/2026 - Yellowstone Day 29 - 8/9/2026 - Yellowstone Day 30 - 8/10/2026 - Yellowstone / Salt Lake City Day 31 - 8/11/2026 - Salt Lake City / Bryce Canyon Day 32 - 8/12/2026 - Bryce Canyon / Zion Day 33 - 8/13/2026 - Zion Day 34 - 8/14/2026 - Zion Day 35 - 8/15/2026 - Zion / Las Vegas Day 36 - 8/16/2026 - Las Vegas Day 37 - 8/17/2026 - Las Vegas / Los Angeles Day 38 - 8/18/2026 - Los Angeles Day 39 - 8/19/2026 - Los Angeles / Brussels Day 40 - 8/20/2026 - Brussels / Home

We’ll be alternating between house swaps, motels, and campgrounds. I’ve booked all the accommodations (except the campground at Bryce since sunset bookings open only 14 days in advance) and the first activities, as well as the most touristy ones.

I’m currently putting together my day-by-day roadbook and having some trouble planning certain days, like in LA or Las Vegas. Choosing hikes isn’t easy either—it’s tough to decide!

We’re really excited but could definitely use your help with choices and optimizations!!

Hi there, I know these aren’t the most popular destinations on the forum, but I thought I’d give it a shot. I’d love to do a road trip loop next April, and I really want to visit Nashville and Memphis first. Browsing the forum, I saw that Atlanta / Memphis / Nashville / Charlotte / Charleston / Savannah / Atlanta might be a good route. But I’m only planning to go for 14 days, and it seems like that might be too much. What do you think? I mostly want to enjoy the music scene in the area and pass through the Smoky Mountains. I know I won’t have much time to stop for hiking, but oh well... I’m saving Louisiana and New Orleans for another trip. Thanks to anyone who can help me map out my route and make the most of this part of the U.S. that I don’t know at all yet.

Hi everyone, I’m planning to visit Monument Valley next Saturday after 3 days at the Grand Canyon. I saw on navajonationparks.org that some roads can be tricky during rainy periods. Is anyone there right now who could tell me what the road conditions are like in the park and whether it’s impassable with a regular rental car? Thanks so much in advance, Ruby

Good evening, everyone! 🙂 Just a few last questions to wrap up our Lake Tahoe visit plans.

**Parking:** We’d like to walk to Eagle Falls and then Eagle Lake. I’ve spotted two parking lots that seem close to each other and give access to the trailhead. Where and how do we pay for entry to Emerald Bay State Park and Inspiration Point?

**Viewpoints on the East Side:** Are most of the viewpoints (Balancing Rock, Granite Cave, Bonsai Rock, etc.) right by the road, or do you have to hike to reach them?

**Donner Memorial State Park:** Is it worth making a detour to Truckee to visit this park and the Truckee historic downtown?

Thanks in advance for your tips! 🙂

Hi VF community,

I’m planning a week in S.F. in April 2026 and I can’t figure out how to tell the cable cars—of which I understand there are three lines—apart from the trams, which I think number seven. I can’t find their individual numbers or routes anywhere.

Could someone shed some light on this for me? Thanks in advance.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2026 full of amazing travels. Cheers, Régine

Hey everyone!

We just finished 9 days in the American West and wanted to share our experience because we had an amazing time.

I know some of you might ask, why use an agency? Honestly, we didn’t really feel like doing all the driving and planning, especially since we didn’t know the area at all. And since our English isn’t great, having French-speaking guides was a big comfort.

We found Emmanuelle and Isabelle, and wow, they were fantastic. It was just the two of us with them, so it was a truly VIP, ultra-personalized experience. They treated us like royalty from start to finish. These two live in Las Vegas and know the region like the back of their hand. They told us they’ve spent over 15 years exploring every corner of the American West, and it really shows. Their knowledge of geology, park history, and local anecdotes is just impressive. It’s nothing like someone reciting a memorized script. They answer all your questions and really adapt to what you want to see or do.

What we really loved: the vehicle was super comfortable, and the little details made a difference—like snacks and even a homemade cake! Though, to be fair, we devoured the cake right away, so that counts.

Since they know the sites inside out, they took us at the right times to avoid crowds. So we could enjoy peaceful picnics at Grand Canyon viewpoints without being packed in with 200 people. Plus, on top of the must-see spots, they showed us some hidden gems that were absolutely stunning—places we never would’ve found on our own. They’re true locals who know all the best tips.

The service was really personalized. They adapted to our pace and preferences, and we could stop whenever we wanted to take photos. It’s the luxury of being in a small private group—you’re not just a number on a big bus. In short, we really felt like we were traveling with friends rather than professional guides. Everything’s included in the price (hotel pickup, meals, park entries, etc.), so the value for money is fair.

We loved it so much that we’re already planning to come back next year to explore other areas with them. I think we’ve caught the American West bug—it’s all we can think about, and we can’t wait to return.

If you’re looking for a French-speaking tour with real personalized service and guides who know the region like no one else, we highly recommend them. We had unforgettable moments. They also design road trips for those who don’t want a guide. And they handled our hotel reservations in Las Vegas too. If you want genuine advice from friendly locals, we’re giving them a 200% recommendation!

Hello,

I’m currently looking for well-located hotels near points of interest in the cities below. I’ve found a few, but the prices are really high. Could any of you share some great addresses in the following cities? - Los Angeles - Las Vegas - San Francisco

Also, do you have a preferred airline for domestic flights? If so, which one?

Thanks so much, and have a great day, everyone!

Gertjan

Hi everyone, I’m planning a road trip along the American West Coast in July 25 and, of course, I’d love to visit the parks east of Las Vegas. The crowds—but especially the heat—are making me second-guess whether it’s a good idea (the parks). I’d really appreciate your (honest!) feedback from those who’ve been there. Is the experience ruined? Maybe it’s manageable (early morning visits)? I have no doubt the scenery will be breathtaking, but does the context let you fully enjoy it? Thanks so much in advance for sharing your thoughts!

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out for your help because I’m a bit lost trying to rent a car in Washington, DC. I’ve already rented twice out West with ALAMO—no issues, brand-new SUVs… This time, I need to rent an SUV for 12 days in Washington and return it at Newark Airport in NYC. I never would’ve thought there’d be such a price difference between the East and West Coasts!!! 12 days out East costs almost the same as 26 days out West! With Alamo out West, full insurance where you return the vehicle no matter its condition is called CDW. Here, it’s not clear at all. I’ve never rented from another company. If I stick with the two "big rental companies," here are my options:

ALAMO DULLES AIRPORT: 1,250 € with additional protection included (96 €) AVIS AIRPORT: 831 € with additional protection included (96 €) Or AVIS downtown WASHINGTON, 700m from my hotel, where I’d save on the taxi to the airport! Same price: 831 €. Has anyone ever picked up a vehicle downtown? Given the small indoor parking lot, I’m guessing the selection is limited. Is there a difference between AVIS and ALAMO? Because between 830 € and 1,250 €??????????? I’m not too familiar with other rental companies. I’ve rented brand-new cars in Europe from BUDGET for 70 € a week with no issues, but this is on the other side of the world!!!! Thanks so much for your feedback! Have a great day