west USA

About the destination: New Orleans is a major port in the United States and the largest city and metropolitan area in the state of Louisiana. New Orleans is situated in the Mississippi River Delta, on the east and west banks of the Mississippi River and south of Lake Pontchartrain. The area along the river is characterised by ridges and hollows. The Saint Louis Cemeteries, historic cemeteries built in the 18th century, are one of the city's most significant sights. Located in the iconic Jackson Square is St. Louis Cathedral. This national historic monument is the oldest continually operating cathedral in the country. One of the most famous neighbourhoods in America is New Orleans's French Quarter. Enjoy the historical architecture, jazz clubs and restaurants that are plentiful in the area. The French Quarter is also the hotspot for Mardi Gras celebrations. Mardi Gras is the city's impressive carnival. Millions participate in the carnival and enjoy its parades and balls. New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in the United States. The Cajun, creole and African-American cultures of Louisiana have had a significant impact on the architecture, art, and music of New Orleans.

About the destination: Phoenix, often referred to as the valley of the sun, is the capital of the state of Arizona as well as the most populous city in the American Southwest and the sixth largest city in the United States. Situated in the north-eastern parts of the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix has a subtropical desert climate. The most significant places to visit in Phoenix include the Mining and Mineral Museum, Cosanti, Tovrea Castle, Sunrise Trail at McDowell Mountains, Arizona Science Center Planetarium, Phoenix Art Museum, Arizona Science Center, Desert Botanical Gardens, Japanese Friendship Garden and Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park. Positioned in the heart of Arizona, Phoenix is the ideal base for a western adventure as the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Tombstone, and Tucson are all within close proximity.

About the destination: Seattle is a major coastal port and the administrative centre of King County, in the state of Washington. Seattle is situated on seven hills including Capitol Hill, First Hill, West Seattle, Beacon Hill, Magnolia, Denny Hill and Queen Anne. The Kitsap and the Olympic peninsulas along with the Olympic Mountains are to the west of Puget Sound, while the Cascade Range and Lake Sammamish are to the east of Lake Washington. A standout feature of Seattle's skyline is the Space Needle. The view from the top is breathtaking with a revolving restaurant, undoubtedly Seattle's most famous landmark. Mount Rainier, towering over Seattle, is 80 kilometres from the city. There's a national park with camping and hiking activities. One of Seattle's most popular attractions is Pike Place Market. The farmer's market is over 100 years old and still maintains local character. The Seattle Aquarium showcases a wide variety of colourful marine species. To experience Seattle's history visit the city's oldest neighbourhood around Pioneer Square. Moreover, it's packed with lively night clubs, restaurants and galleries. Seattle is one of the beautiful cities of the Pacific Northwest. Eclectic, urban, outdoorsy, artsy, gritty and down-to-earth, this vibrant city is well worth a visit.

About the destination: Vancouver is a coastal seaport city on the mainland of British Columbia, Canada. Vancouver is the eighth largest Canadian municipality and one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse cities in Canada. Explore the cobbled streets, shopping, dining and unique architecture of Gastown, a national historic site. Vancouver houses the second largest Chinatown in North America after San Francisco. It has many unique, as well as traditional shops. Granville Island is a popular peninsula connected to Vancouver. With its colourful market, it's a draw amongst locals and visitors alike. Vancouver wouldn't be the same without Stanley Park, one of the great urban parks. It's a perfect city escape. Overlooking Vancouver city, Grouse Mountain has winter skiing and even an excellent wildlife refuge. Vancouver has grown into a cosmopolitan city nestled in the great outdoors. Enjoy the snow-capped mountains, waterfront forests, cityside beaches, Olympic history and the world’s highest suspension bridge.