WE’RE A TRAVEL SITE, so we can’t think of any two words more horrifying than “travel ban.” The world, to us, is better when everyone can wander and explore. Countries should by playgrounds, not jails. But recent events in the US have made our country seem like a hostile, unfriendly place towards outsiders. That’s not a country we’re familiar with, but the world seems to have gotten that message: global interest in travel to the US has dropped 17% since the beginning of the year.
45 Reasons the Rest of the World Should Keep Traveling to the US
America, at its best, is a welcoming place. We literally erected a giant statue at our most common point of entry that said, “welcome, weary travelers!” We sing, “This Land is Your Land, This Land is My Land,” and we sing it not only to ourselves, but to the entire world.
We’re a diverse country. Our people come from all over, speak every language, and bring the best of their cultures and tie it into ours. Our outdoors are staggering. We’ve got shining seas, amber waves of grain, purple mountain’s majesty, fruited planes, and some pretty grand canyons as well. Our food is delicious. Our drinks are strong. And most of us would rather welcome you through the front door than make you scale a wall.
We dug into our Travelstoke app for some of our favorite US spots we could find. Please, world — come visit us. We need new friends now more than ever. For those of you who have been banned from traveling to our country — we’ll keep fighting that. We promise.
It’s easily accessible from both Cherokee/Bryson City, NC and Pigeon Forge, TN and the journey there takes you all through the park.
Tips:
In the Smoky Mountains it’s hard to predict but try to head up here on a clear day.
Dress in layers because the elevation really cools things off up there.
Leave time in your drive to pull off at the scenic lookouts and explore some of the trails. #hiking #activekids #funforteens #greatsmokymountains #nationalpark #tennesee #northcarolina
Garden of the Gods Recreation AreaHerod, United States#extreme #hiking #camping
(Yes, we know this Travelstoke spot is in Canada, but why not cross the falls and spend a day up north while visiting the US?)
Devils Tower National MonumentDevils Tower, United States#hiking #camping
Carlsbad Caverns National ParkCarlsbad, United StatesAwesome place caring wait to go back 😊👍 #hiking
Tips:
Wear comfortable shoes (and clothes).
Drink plenty of water in advance. Bring more with you and a snack.
Grab a map from a visitor center or download one on your phone.
Don’t expect your phone to work out in the park. Cell towers are few and far between. #hiking #extreme #greatsmokymountains #nationalpark #gsmnp
Xo #NYC #manhattan