The 10 best places to visit in the US on a last minute deal

There's no doubt that Europe is a great holiday destination, but whether it is hotels in Greece, villas in Spain or apartments in the Algarve, there comes a time when Europe's attractions begin to diminish under the blanket of familiarity. What is required is a new destination - one that offers something a little different to the traditional European holiday scene. This is why so many people are heading to the US; listed below are 10 outstanding destinations for a last minute US vacation.

1. ORLANDO, FLORIDA

There are many fantastic hotels to choose from in Florida. If, however, you want somewhere a little more private you will find many outstanding Florida villas available to rent. These plush, comfortable homes for hire are situated around Orlando; the theme park capital of the world and home to Disneyworld. With so much to do for children and adults alike it is easy to see why Florida is the UK's number one US holiday destination.

2. NEW YORK CITY

Take a bite out of the Big Apple with a trip to New York City. This bustling metropolis is certainly familiar to many of us here in the UK thanks to its iconic skyline and the role it has played in famous films over the years. Fantastic shopping, historical treasures, museums, restaurants and so much more, make New York City an outstanding destination.

3. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

The City by the Bay is one of America's most popular destinations. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, nightlife and hilly streets, San Francisco is often regarded as the cultural and cosmopolitan heart of American underground culture. From the famous tramcars, to the majesty of the Golden Gate Bridge and the famed island of Alcatraz, San Francisco is a city well worth a trip.

4. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

Set in the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas may be a gamblers paradise, but there is much more to the city than just casinos. Outstanding shows and hotels, the incredible Grand Canyon (just a short drive away) and many other over-the-top activities right on your doorstep, Vegas is the perfect place for a once in a lifetime holiday.

5. WASHINGTON DC

If you like history, grandeur and splendour on a majestic scale (in combination with great summer weather) then a trip to the capital of the US is well worth the time and money. Some of America's most popular landmarks, monuments, museums and buildings are found in the city including the Smithsonian Institute, the National Gallery of Art and the National Air and Space Museum.

6. LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Home of Hollywood, Disneyland and so much more, make one of the many Californian villas your base and explore this larger-than-life city. From pumping iron on Muscle Beach and touring movie stars' homes, to whale watching in Newport Bay and just soaking up the sun on Malibu beach, Los Angeles has something special for every visitor.

7. NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

Whether it is the Cajun cooking, the magnificent French quarter or the famous parties, New Orleans has bounced back from the dark days of Hurricane Katrina to once again become one of America's premier cities. This is a city that understands how to relax and unwind in the most beautiful surroundings of Southern Louisiana.

8. CAPE COD, MASSACHUSETTS

With the city of Boston so close by and the magnificence of Martha's Vineyard on the doorstep, Cape Cod is truly a different side of America. Indeed travelling to the area is almost like travelling back in time to the traditional American holiday resort - but with all the refinement and convenience you have come to expect from a modern major holiday destination.

9. MIAMI, FLORIDA

Its magnificent Art Deco architecture, abundant nightlife, magnificent beaches, perfect climate and outstanding accommodation makes Miami one of the most popular US cities to visit on any last minute deal. From partying on South Beach and the culture of Little Havana, there's so much to explore in this brash and beautiful city.

10. BUFFALO, NEW YORK STATE

It may seem an odd city for a holiday, but given its proximity to the Great Lakes, the Canadian border and set in the beautiful north east of America, Buffalo is a great base. With the small matter of the magisterial Niagara Falls being just a short drive north of the city, Buffalo is a truly beautiful and memorable part of the US.

23 August 2011

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