Just about any city is safe if you know where to go. American cities – like European ones – have districts and neighborhoods that are better and/or worse than others. In general, if you stay in downtown commercial districts or in the suburbs, you’ll be OK (that holds true for L.A., S.F., Chicago, and NYC). The only “touristy” area in a major city that I didn’t feel safe in was the Underground in Atlanta (though I really liked the rest of Atlanta – just stay away from the Underground)

If you’re looking for good food – just ask a local (if they say “Cracker Barrel” – run away.

You could also head north to Seattle and maybe even into Canada and Vancouver (absolutely gorgeous city). If you’re a nature lover, Alaskan cruises can be a good option.

What alot of people from Europe don’t seem to grasp is how big the United States is. I live near Chicago and a guest from France thought it might make a nice day trip to slip to New York City (it’s about 18 hours away by car).

Since you’ll be on the west coast, I’d rent a nice car and drive down the coastline to L.A. and San Diego (I personally don’t care too much for L.A. – but you really can’t beat the sightseeing). You could also divert from L.A. to Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon area. Maybe I’m biased, but I think Chicago is a great city to visit – it’s distinctly American in both architecture and culture – just rent Ferris Bueller’s Day off and you’ll get a taste (circa 1985).

Try to catch a professional American Football game (might cost a tad, however) you’ll really enjoy at the very least people watching.

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BTW – I honeymooned in England 10 years ago and had a great time. London has some of the best culture and theatre in the world – though the Pub food was a tad scary for an American.

If you have the time and resources, I would suggest a drive down the coast, there are lots of beautiful places to go… Big Sur is beautiful, and as you head down the coast you can go to Heart Castle in Cambria. Morro Bay is beautiful, if you go out by Morro Rock you should be able to see sea otters. Santa Barbara has a lot to offer as well, and the central coast has become a great wine area (the Santa Ynez Valley is great for wine tasting).

Some areas in Los Angeles are nice as well – there’s a lot to do, it just depends on what you’re interested in. If you have time, take the ferry out to Catalina Island from LA. If you can head further south, San Diego is a great place as well – go to the Gaslamp District and Old Town if you have the time.

Yes, you will be able to find tea in CA, tea has become a lot more popular in recent years. If there is a kind you are particularly fond of, however, I would suggest bringing some with you or having a friend or family member send some to you. Enjoy your trip!

If you’re going to be in Berkley do not expose ANY conservative political views or you’ll be risking your life. People in the San Francisco area are rude and arrogant. Stay out of Oakland. If you choose to go to Los Angeles be VERY careful about where you venture. Things are much, much better in the midwest. The cost of living, expenses, and tuition/lodging. People are incredibly friendly and warm in the midwest.

You could try Yosemite State Park, Alcatraz Island, and some wine-tasting in the Napa Valley.

ha, just kidding.

stay in US is safe most everywhere if you use your head… have fun in LA, too!

cheers!

…stay where you are. you dont wanna come…