Travel guides
US & California travel guides
Everything British visitors need to know before, during and after a California trip — from national parks and film locations to ESTA applications and honest cost guides.
Experiences
California experiences
National parks, beaches, wine country, whale watching, theme parks and hidden gems.
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California food & drink
Farm-to-table dining, In-N-Out, farmers markets, wine country, craft beer and tipping explained.
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Whale and dolphin watching
Newport Beach and Dana Point for dolphins and blue whales. The San Juan Islands for orcas.
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Catalina Island
Twenty-two miles off the LA coast. No cars, clear water, island foxes, bison and a genuinely charming harbour town.
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Film & TV Locations
Top Gun in San Diego, La La Land in Los Angeles, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The real locations — where they are and how to visit.
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Planning your trip
When to go, how long to allow, booking timelines and sample itineraries for one, two and three weeks.
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Best time to visit California
Month-by-month guide to weather, crowds and the experiences only possible at certain times of year.
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How much does it cost?
Honest budget guide — flights, hotels, car hire, food and activities across budget, mid-range and luxury.
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California with kids
Theme parks, beaches, national parks and whale watching. How to plan a California family holiday properly.
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LA28 Olympics 2028
Games run 14–30 July 2028. Venues, tickets, transport and what to do around the events.
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General Guidelines
Overview of ESTA, driving, car hire, tipping, currency, health and what to pack — the essentials before you go.
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ESTA guide for UK visitors
How to apply, cost, processing time and the mistakes British travellers most commonly make.
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Driving on a UK licence
UK licence validity, car hire, freeways, toll roads, right turn on red and fuel explained.
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Road trip packing list
What to bring, what to leave behind and what to buy on arrival. The experienced traveller's California checklist.
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California beach guide
Parking, what to bring, best beaches for kids, surfing and quiet. The Wedge, Blackies, Trestles and El Matador.
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