California: San Francisco, Yosemite & Los Angeles

Yosemite National Park has long been a favourite for visitors to the USA, and it's easy to see why - the vast area in the Sierra Nevada Mountains boasts a landscape of majestic granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, giant sequoia trees and deep valleys and lakes as well as an abudance of wildlife species. The Unesco World Heritage Site offers endless hiking trails throughout, as well as opportunities for camping and other accommodation such as cabins and lodges. A must-see for outdoors enthusiasts, Yosemite is truly a natural jewel.

Once holding the title as the capital of the state of California, Monterey is a beautiful coastal city with much to offer. The many historical buildings in its downtown area show the former influence of the city on the country’s history and politics, and the centre is also home to a must-see aquarium as well as many excellent seafood restaurants. The city’s location on the magical and rugged coast of California only adds to its charm.

The small town of San Simeon is best-known for being home to the magnificent Hearst Castle, a historic hilltop estate that was once the private residence of publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Today, visitors can marvel at the grand design, extravagant interior and lush gardens of the castle, relax on sandy beaches and spot seals, whales and even zebras in the surroundings. The Estero Bluffs State Park features a scenic trail along the unspoiled coastline, and the town itself offers a range of accommodation and dining options.

The City of Angels - known worldwide for its movie industry, the towering Hollywood sign and its celebrity culture. Modern Los Angeles is a city of sharp contrast with a mixture of cultures, as well as an important centre for business, media and arts. The city draws in visitors with its Mediterranean climate, excellent beaches and laid-back atmosphere, and wows with its diverse culinary scene and exciting nightlife.