Travel America
12 of the Best Free Things to Do in New York
Smaller Earth
November 20, 2023
USA
Welcome to 'The Land of Opportunity'.
With endless opportunities aplenty across 50 states, explore the United States your way.
America Overview
Travel level
Medium
Visa required
Yes
Cost of living
Medium
Currency
USD (U.S. Dollar)
Work Abroad in the USA
The United States has long been the original work and travel destination. Whether summer camp staff, expats, or summer work and travel professionals, millions have had their own adventures in the U.S. for decades, with many more millions preparing to do the same in the coming years.
White jaw-dropping landscapes such as the Rocky Mountains, iconic destinations such as New York City, and adventure aplenty across all 50 states of the U.S., there's a wealth of unforgettable opportunities in city and rural locations.
Whether you work a summer season or you decide to take a full year (or more) there, working abroad in the USA allows you to live the 'American Dream', participate in cultural exchange, and forge lifelong connections.
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What do I need to work abroad in the USA?
If you’re looking at working abroad in the U.S. on a cultural exchange program, then you’ll need to land a J1 visa. Click the button below to read the full comprehensive guide.
What is a J1 visa?
The J1 visa is a work permit that allows you to work and participate on an approved cultural exchange program in the US, with a much simpler application process compared to applying for permanent residency. It covers the duration of your chosen program, as well as 30 days free travel after.
What are the benefits of a J1 Visa?
There are numerous benefits to securing a J1 Visa! These include the shorter application process in comparison to other visas as well as the 30 day free travel that is included with it.
Am I eligible for a J1 Visa?
Eligibility for the J1 is determined for various factors. This includes things such as the applicants ability to speak English, which country they are applying from the insurance and the insurance they have among other things.
Learn more about the U.S.
If you want to work abroad in the USA, you'll find a host of opportunities and unforgettable experiences come hand in hand. This vast country is home to a diverse range of backgrounds, cultures, and environments, meaning each interesting area is as different and as vibrant as the next. Coupled with the fact this huge country has 50 states and covers multiple time zones, you start to realise how truly massive it is. If you're looking for your new American home and to find jobs abroad in America, today's the day to delve deeper into where's perfect for you.
Key Facts
- Population: 335.9m
- Number of States: 50
- Capital: Washington, D.C.
- Currency: U.S. Dollar
- Area: 9.834m km2
- Yearly Tourists: 60 million (approx)
Major Cities
- Washington D.C. (Capital)
- New York City. New York
- Los Angeles, California
- Chicago, Illinois
- Boston, Massachusetts
- San Francisco, California
- Houston, Texas
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Culture
As 'The Land of Opportunity', people have flocked to the United States for centuries. It's become a melting pot of nationalities, cultures, and languages, especially in major cities. Italian, Chinese, Irish and many other cultures influence areas, boasting proud and thriving communities. You'll also find towns and suburbs throughout this vast country which display quintessential American values: a welcoming and warm nature, a kind and helpful, close-knit feel, and a proud sense of national identity from families who have been in the area for generations.
Sports
America is sport crazy. Yes, you have the huge, top-level sports, with the likes of the NFL in American football, the NBA in basketball, and the MLB in baseball, all representing the highest level of American sports. Yet you'll also find a passionate following of these sports beneath the elite level, with college sports teams often having crowds of 60,000 plus, showing this country's incredible thirst for sport. For those wanting to be involved in sports whilst on a placement, America is definitely one of the leading countries to visit.
Music
From country music to the blues, America has a firm imprint on world music, which continues to influence popular culture to this day. It is 'the' place to be if you want to have a seminal impact on world music, but it's also a hotbed of talent. For every Taylor Swift or Eminem, there are countless up-and-coming stars influenced by the U.S.'s musical past, with thriving music scenes anywhere from New Orleans up to New York. Music is unique to every individual, and you're sure to find what works for you in the USA.
Environment
The United States is an incredibly vast and expansive landscape, being home to the equivalent of multiple countries in one. It is home to piercing mountain ranges such as the Rocky Mountains or the Appalachian Mountains and great river systems such as the Mississippi or Missouri Rivers. For those who love the great outdoors, there are very few countries like it.
New York Highlights
"The Big Apple" is undoubtedly a must for any city lovers bucket list. Here are some of our picks of what get up to in "The City That Never Sleeps".
Staten Island Ferry to See the Statue of Liberty
New York can be a pricey place, but if you do it correctly, you can see all the best spots at a fraction of the price. One such thing you absolutely have to see is the Statue of Liberty, which can cost over $30 to go to the actual island. If you're trying to save the pennies, then consider getting the Staten island ferry instead. On this, it's free, and it sails right past the Statue of Liberty, giving great views to see it and for pictures. Just make sure you're on the right hand side of the ferry on the way out, as everyone will flock there when they realise that's the side it's on!
Times Square
Times Square is a place that engages all the senses and one which needs to be seen to be believed.
It definitely solidifies New York City as the 'city that never sleeps'. Large neon signs drape every skyscraper and corner of the area, meaning your eyes are drawn upwards more than just in front of you.
When you do get a moment to look down, you'll find an eclectic mix of street performers, tour operators, and food vendors lining its bustling streets, all among the thousands of visitors who flock to experience it.
If you're coming to New York City, you won't be able to leave until you see Times Square.
Central Park
Central Park is the green jewel in the middle of New York's crown.
Nestled in the middle of Manhattan's sprawling concrete jungle is this green paradise, one which has deservedly been immortalised through major film and TV shows for nearly a century.
While we typically associate New York City with bright lights and towering skyscrapers, Central Park disrupts this association with its picturesque greenery, beautiful lakes, and stunning fountains. In a city of millions, it almost feels surreal to find such a large green area homed directly in the middle, yet it's there and waiting for you to explore each corner.
From museums and galleries to a famous zoo, Central Park has plenty to do.
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