The other day I played a game with my friends: who could name all 50 US states? (Embarrassingly, we rapidly discovered the answer was none of us).
Aside from summing up our lacking geography skills, it was a timely reminder of the diversity of the US – from Mission Control in Houston, Texas, to the bright lights of Vegas in Nevada.
In this special US-themed edition, we explore the myriad elements that Make America Great (as we believe it already is). You can read about the effortless cool of San Diego and an RV tour of Montana and Wyoming.
Of course, America’s diversity is also evident across its political landscape – and ever more so in recent years. Sadly, most of us have become all too used to the angry rhetoric of the current US president (usually typed out in capitals in 280 characters). But beyond the irate tweets of the current occupier of the White House is a country as beautiful as it is varied. And, as Brand USA is keen to demonstrate, it’s a story best told through its people (president excluded).
One US local keen to share his story is our star of this week’s In the Frame, Wayne Hartley, who went from the army to working with manatees at Blue Spring state park in Florida.
Meanwhile in Washington DC, which is currently bearing the brunt of the government shutdown, we hear how businesses are offering deals to entice UK visitors.
They may not need to though – agents and operators have reported soaring sales to the US, perhaps as Brits look for alternatives to European options amid the shadow of Brexit. Travel 2 alone has seen a 25% rise in bookings to the country over the past three months.
So can you name the 50 states of the US? After reading this issue, I’d wager your score will be a lot higher than mine was!