Skill: ivangdavila/united-states (version 1.0.0)

--- name: United States slug: united-states version: 1.0.0 homepage: https://clawic.com/skills/united-states changelog: "Initial release with verified U.S. entry rules, region playbooks, and practical tourism logistics." description: Plan United States trips with region-specific routing, verified entry rules, transport logistics, and practical tourist safety. metadata: {"clawdbot":{"emoji":"🇺🇸","requires":{"bins":[],"config":["~/united-states/"]},"os":["linux","darwin","win32"]}} --- ## Setup If `~/united-states/` doesn't exist or is empty, read `setup.md` and start naturally. ## When to Use User is planning a U.S. trip and needs practical guidance beyond generic advice: entry requirements, region choice, route design, transport decisions, seasonal risks, and on-the-ground execution. ## Architecture Memory lives in `~/united-states/`. See `memory-template.md` for structure. ``` ~/united-states/ └── memory.md # Trip context and evolving constraints ``` ## Quick Reference | Topic | File | |-------|------| | **Entry and Border** | | | Visa, ESTA, I-94, IDs | `entry-and-documents.md` | | Customs, cash, restricted items | `customs-and-border.md` | | **Planning Backbone** | | | Regions and route strategy | `regions.md` | | Sample itineraries (7-21 days) | `itineraries.md` | | Accommodation strategy | `accommodation.md` | | Budget and cost planning | `budget-and-costs.md` | | Tipping and payment habits | `tipping-and-payments.md` | | **Transport** | | | Domestic flights, rail, transit | `transport-domestic.md` | | Driving and road trips | `road-trips-and-driving.md` | | **Nature and Parks** | | | Passes, reservations, seasonal access | `national-parks.md` | | **Major Regions and Cities** | | | New York City playbook | `new-york-city.md` | | Washington, DC playbook | `washington-dc.md` | | California playbook | `california.md` | | Florida playbook | `florida.md` | | Southwest and Rockies playbook | `southwest-and-rockies.md` | | Pacific Northwest playbook | `pacific-northwest.md` | | Great Lakes and Midwest playbook | `great-lakes-and-midwest.md` | | Deep South and New Orleans playbook | `deep-south-and-louisiana.md` | | Hawaii and Alaska playbook | `hawaii-and-alaska.md` | | **Lifestyle and Execution** | | | Food by region and style | `food-guide.md` | | Nightlife strategy by city type | `nightlife.md` | | Traveling with children | `family-travel.md` | | Accessibility strategy | `accessibility.md` | | **Safety and Conditions** | | | Emergencies, alerts, air quality | `safety-and-emergencies.md` | | Climate and seasonality planning | `weather-and-seasonality.md` | | **Tools** | | | Connectivity and essential apps | `telecoms-and-apps.md` | | Research sources map | `sources.md` | ## Core Rules ### 1. Route by Geography, Not by Bucket List Anchor around one macro-region per week of travel. U.S. distance and transfer friction are a bigger quality lever than attraction count. ### 2. Entry and Compliance First Before itinerary work, confirm the correct travel pathway (`entry-and-documents.md`): visa vs ESTA, passport validity, I-94 context, and acceptable domestic ID rules. ### 3. Make Every Plan Season-Aware Use `weather-and-seasonality.md` and `national-parks.md` before promising outdoor-heavy plans. Heat, storms, wildfire smoke, snow, and park reservation systems can invalidate perfect-looking schedules. ### 4. Always Offer Two Transport Models For each route, provide at least two options with tradeoffs: - Flight-heavy (faster, higher airport overhead) - Rail/road-heavy (slower, more scenery, different logistics) ### 5. Price Reality, Not Sticker Price Budget with real trip math: taxes at checkout, tips where expected, parking/toll risk, resort/destination fees, checked bag costs, and transfer costs. ### 6. Flag Tourist Traps Proactively Call out common mistakes before users commit: - Overstuffed coast-to-coast itineraries - Peak-season parks without reservations - Car rental in dense cores where parking dominates cost - Theme-city weekends without crowd and weather buffers ### 7. Deliver Actionable Plans Output should include: - Base city strategy - Day-by-day flow with transfer windows - Reservation deadlines - Backup plan for weather or delays - Safety and emergency quick notes ## Common Traps - Treating the U.S. like a compact country where five cities in one trip is normal. - Ignoring entry/admin steps until the final week. - Using one fixed itinerary regardless of season or hazard conditions. - Underestimating domestic transfer time between airports, hotels, and final neighborhoods. - Choosing accommodation by nightly rate only, ignoring transport cost and time. - Assuming all parks and attractions allow same-day spontaneous access in peak windows. ## Security & Privacy **Data that stays local:** Trip preferences in `~/united-states/` **This skill does NOT:** Access files outside `~/united-states/` or make network requests. ## Related Skills Install with `clawhub install <slug>` if user confirms: - `travel` — General trip planning and itinerary structure - `car-rental` — Better rental strategy and handoff logistics - `booking` — Reservation workflows and confirmation hygiene - `food` — Deeper culinary planning for each destination - `english` — Language support for calls, bookings, and service interactions ## Feedback - If useful: `clawhub star united-states` - Stay updated: `clawhub sync`

path: accessibility.md
content: # Accessibility — United States

## Planning Priorities

- Confirm step-free transit options in each city segment.
- Verify hotel accessibility details directly, not only listing tags.
- Avoid back-to-back transfer days when mobility support is needed.

## Airports and Security

- TSA Cares offers guidance for travelers needing additional screening support.
- For complex assistance needs, pre-notify airline and airport support channels.

## Urban Strategy

- Choose one highly connected base over multiple difficult transfers.
- Prefer attractions with clear accessibility documentation and timed entry.
- Keep buffer time between activities.

## Nature Strategy

- Select parks/trails with published accessible facilities.
- Weather can affect practical accessibility more than static maps suggest.


path: accommodation.md
content: # Accommodation Strategy — United States

## Base Selection Logic

Pick bases by daily movement friction, not by map center:
- Walkability to transit
- Airport/rail transfer simplicity
- Night safety and return options
- True total cost with taxes/fees

## Stay Patterns by Trip Type

| Trip type | Better pattern |
|-----------|----------------|
| First-time city visit | One core base + focused neighborhood days |
| Park-heavy | Gateway town near park access window |
| Multi-city route | 2-3 strong bases instead of daily hops |
| Family trip | Fewer check-ins, larger room footprint, transit simplicity |

## Booking Filters That Matter

- Free cancellation window aligned with visa/permit uncertainty
- Late arrival check-in reliability
- Real transit access after 9 pm
- Elevator/accessibility fit where needed

## Hotel Fee Reality

Always check for:
- Resort/destination fees
- Parking fees
- Early check-in/late check-out charges
- Amenity charges not included in headline rate

## Neighborhood Rule

In high-cost cities, one-step-better transit access often beats one-step-cheaper nightly rate.


path: budget-and-costs.md
content: # Budget and Costs — United States

## Useful Budget Bands (Per Person / Day)

| Style | Typical range | Notes |
|------|---------------|-------|
| Budget | USD 90-180 | Hostels/budget hotels, transit focus, selective paid attractions |
| Mid-range | USD 180-350 | 3-star hotels, mixed transport, paid attractions + dining |
| Premium | USD 350+ | Prime-location hotels, frequent flights/rideshare, top dining |

## Major Cost Drivers

- Region and season (NYC/SF/Hawaii/Alaska can spike strongly)
- Last-minute flights and park-adjacent lodging
- Car rental + parking + toll bundles
- Attraction/park permits in peak windows

## Cost Control Levers

- Fewer bases, longer stays per base
- Shoulder-season timing where weather still works
- Early booking for parks, islands, and event-heavy cities
- Transit-first plans in major city cores

## Booking Order for Cost + Risk Control

1. Entry/admin constraints confirmed
2. High-risk inventory (park permits, key flights)
3. Lodging near primary daily movement
4. Secondary activities and dining

## Hidden Costs Checklist

- Hotel taxes and nightly fees
- Baggage and seat fees
- Airport transfer costs
- Attraction service/booking fees
- Data roaming fallback costs

## Planning Rule

If total trip budget is tight, reduce region count first. Do not cut every day to minimum comfort.


path: california.md
content: # California — Playbook

## Best Use Case

Coastline + cities + parks in one state, with high variety and high transfer complexity.

## Regional Split

| Subregion | Core strengths | Typical base |
|-----------|----------------|--------------|
| Bay Area + North Coast | Food, architecture, redwoods access | San Francisco/Oakland side |
| Central Coast | Scenic drives, wine, beach towns | Monterey/Santa Barbara bands |
| Los Angeles Basin | Entertainment, food diversity, museums | Westside/Hollywood/Koreatown by purpose |
| San Diego Corridor | Beaches, family-friendly pace, border culture | Downtown/La Jolla/Mission Valley |

## Planning Rules

- LA movement is zone-based; avoid multi-zone daily zig-zag.
- Pacific Coast segments need slower pacing than map distance suggests.
- Yosemite/other park add-ons require permit and season checks.

## Good 10-Day Pattern

- 4 days Bay Area + nearby excursions
- 1 transfer/coastal day
- 4 days LA or San Diego split
- 1 flex/weather buffer


path: customs-and-border.md
content: # Customs and Border — United States

## What to Declare

Declare goods, food, agricultural items, and monetary instruments as required. Border issues often come from under-declaration, not intent.

## Food and Agricultural Risk

- Many prepared foods are admissible, but meat-containing products are frequently restricted.
- Fresh fruits/vegetables depend on origin and pest risk.
- Agricultural non-declaration can trigger significant civil penalties.

## Cash and Monetary Instruments

- Amounts over USD 10,000 must be reported at entry/exit.
- This applies to currency and multiple monetary instruments combined.
- Reporting failures can lead to seizure and legal penalties.

## Duty and Personal Allowance Context

- Duty-free assumptions are often misunderstood.
- Special rules apply by residency status, item category, and quantity.
- Alcohol and tobacco have separate limit logic from general merchandise.

## Practical Border Hygiene

- Keep purchase receipts for high-value goods.
- Keep medications in original packaging when possible.
- Avoid carrying restricted food/meat unless confirmed admissible.
- If uncertain, declare and ask, instead of guessing.

## Common Border Mistakes

- "It was just snacks" thinking for agricultural items.
- Ignoring aggregate cash thresholds across travelers.
- Assuming duty-free shop purchase means tax- and duty-free at final entry.
- Bringing controlled or restricted products without prior check.

## Source Reminder

Use `sources.md` for CBP duty, restricted items, and currency reporting links.


path: deep-south-and-louisiana.md
content: # Deep South and Louisiana — Playbook

## Best Use Case

Music heritage, distinct food traditions, and slower-pace culture routes.

## Core Anchors

- New Orleans for music, food, architecture, and festivals
- Nashville/Memphis for music-focused routes
- Charleston/Savannah style routes for history + coastal rhythm

## Execution Notes

- Heat and humidity shape daytime pacing in warmer months.
- Festival calendars can transform pricing and availability.
- Nightlife-heavy plans need explicit late-night transport safety.

## Food and Culture Rule

Reserve headline restaurants, but protect budget with neighborhood food strategy.


path: entry-and-documents.md
content: # Entry and Documents — United States

## Fast Decision Tree

1. If traveler is from a Visa Waiver Program country, check ESTA eligibility.
2. If not VWP-eligible, route to B-1/B-2 visitor visa workflow.
3. Verify passport validity and that traveler can prove return/onward intent.
4. For domestic U.S. flights, confirm acceptable ID before final booking.

## Visitor Pathways

| Path | Typical use | Core limit |
|------|-------------|------------|
| Visa Waiver Program + ESTA | Tourism/business short stay | Up to 90 days per trip |
| B-1/B-2 visitor visa | Tourism/business when ESTA not applicable | Length decided at admission |

## ESTA Practical Notes

- ESTA authorization allows travel attempt, not guaranteed admission.
- Approved ESTA is generally valid for 2 years or until passport expiry (whichever comes first).
- Multiple trips are possible while valid, with each stay capped by VWP rules.

## I-94 Essentials

- I-94 arrival/departure records are mostly electronic now.
- Travelers can retrieve their most recent I-94 online.
- Land-border travelers can apply in advance using CBP tools when relevant.

## Domestic Flight ID Rules

- REAL ID enforcement began on May 7, 2025 for U.S. domestic screening.
- A passport remains an acceptable alternative for domestic flights.
- If traveler is unsure, ask them to verify accepted ID before ticket finalization.

## Interview and Visa Timing

For B-1/B-2 cases:
- Visa interview wait times vary by post and season.
- Apply early; avoid tight trips that depend on uncertain interview slots.

## Checklist Before Locking Non-Refundables

- Correct entry pathway confirmed (ESTA or visa)
- Passport validity checked for entire trip
- I-94 and admission status understood when relevant
- Domestic ID readiness confirmed for internal flights
- Backup plan if entry/admin timelines slip

## Source Reminder

Use `sources.md` for official links and refresh targets.


path: family-travel.md
content: # Family Travel — United States

## Family-First Planning Framework

1. Pick fewer bases with longer stays.
2. Balance high-energy days with recovery blocks.
3. Choose lodging with kitchen/laundry when trip is longer than one week.

## Destination Fit by Family Style

| Family profile | Better fit |
|----------------|------------|
| Theme parks + easy logistics | Orlando/Central Florida |
| Museum + city learning | Washington, DC + NYC |
| Nature and wildlife | National park loops with moderate driving |
| Beach + downtime | Gulf Coast, Southern California, Hawaii |

## Daily Rhythm Rule

- Morning: top priority attraction
- Midday: indoor/rest/meal break
- Late afternoon/evening: lighter activity

## Risk Reduction

- Heat and hydration planning in summer
- Reservation planning for top attractions
- Transit simplicity over maximum attraction count


path: florida.md
content: # Florida — Playbook

## Best Use Case

Warm-weather trips, beaches, theme parks, and mixed family/adult travel.

## Region Profiles

| Zone | Best for | Caution |
|------|----------|---------|
| South Florida (Miami/Fort Lauderdale) | Beaches, nightlife, Latin food culture | Parking and nightlife price spikes |
| Central Florida (Orlando) | Theme parks and family planning | Queue strategy and heat management |
| Gulf Coast | Slower beach rhythm | Car dependency in many segments |
| Florida Keys | Scenic drives and water activities | Limited lodging inventory and weather sensitivity |

## Seasonal Rule

Hurricane season runs June-November; flexible bookings and storm contingency matter.

## Family Execution Notes

- Theme-park days require reservation/queue strategy, hydration blocks, and rest windows.
- Avoid stacking full-day parks without recovery days.


path: food-guide.md
content: # Food Guide — United States

## Regional Food Compass

| Region | Signature style | What to prioritize |
|--------|------------------|--------------------|
| Northeast | Delis, seafood, Italian-American depth | Neighborhood institutions over landmark strips |
| South | BBQ, soul food, Gulf seafood, Creole/Cajun | Regional specialties by city, not generic chains |
| Midwest | Steak, tavern culture, farm-to-table, deep comfort classics | Local icons + modern neighborhood spots |
| Southwest | Tex-Mex, New Mexican chile traditions, border-influenced cuisine | Heat-level and style distinctions by state |
| West Coast | Hyper-diverse immigrant food, produce-forward dining | Area-specific neighborhoods and market halls |
| Hawaii | Plate lunch, poke variants, island-specific local mixes | Local plate shops beyond resort zones |

## Restaurant Planning Rules

- Prime spots in NYC/LA/SF/Chicago often need advance reservations.
- In major tourist districts, moving a few streets can improve quality-price ratio.
- In park towns, dinner slots can sell out early; book before arrival day.

## Practical Dining Tips

- Ask for neighborhood-level options by cuisine and budget.
- Build one anchor dining reservation per day max.
- Protect schedule for jet lag and transfer delays before fixed reservations.


path: great-lakes-and-midwest.md
content: # Great Lakes and Midwest — Playbook

## Best Use Case

Architecture, music/sports cities, food depth, and strong value compared with coastal hubs.

## Key Anchors

- Chicago for architecture, museums, lakefront rhythm
- Great Lakes summer loops (Michigan/Wisconsin segments)
- Twin Cities and regional nature add-ons

## Season Notes

- Summer and early fall are strong for lake and city balance.
- Winter can be severe; build weather contingency into rail/flight movement.

## Routing Rule

Cluster urban cultural days with one slower regional excursion day.


path: hawaii-and-alaska.md
content: # Hawaii and Alaska — Playbook

## Best Use Case

Longer-stay nature-first trips where one destination can carry the whole itinerary.

## Hawaii Strategy

- Fewer islands with deeper stay usually beats island-hopping speed runs.
- Rental car needs vary by island and stay area.
- Book popular activities early in peak periods.

## Alaska Strategy

- Summer and shoulder windows dominate accessibility.
- Distances are large and logistics are cost-sensitive.
- Wildlife/cruise/rail segments need earlier commitment.

## Shared Rule

Treat both as standalone trips unless duration and budget are clearly high enough.


path: itineraries.md
content: # Itineraries — United States

## 7 Days: One-City + Nature Hybrid

### Option A: New York + Hudson Valley
- Days 1-4: NYC neighborhoods, museums, food, one evening skyline window
- Days 5-6: Day trips or one overnight outside core city
- Day 7: Buffer + departure

### Option B: Los Angeles + San Diego
- Days 1-3: LA by zones (do not cross city repeatedly)
- Days 4-5: Pacific coast/Orange County stop
- Days 6-7: San Diego + return

## 10 Days: Two-Base Region Trip

### Option A: California Loop (Flight + Car)
- Base 1: San Francisco Bay (3-4 days)
- Transfer: Pacific Coast or short flight
- Base 2: Los Angeles/San Diego (4-5 days)
- Keep one flex day for weather/traffic

### Option B: Northeast Corridor (Rail-leaning)
- Base 1: NYC (4 days)
- Base 2: Washington, DC (3 days)
- Optional: Philadelphia/Boston add-on with restraint

## 14 Days: Parks + Cities

### Southwest Parks + Vegas/Phoenix
- 2 city buffer days + 8-9 park/road days + 2 flex days
- Secure permits/timed entry before finalizing lodging

## 21 Days: Three-Region Maximum

- Region 1 (cities): 6-7 days
- Region 2 (parks/coast): 7 days
- Region 3 (culture/food/south): 6-7 days
- Do not exceed 3 major regions unless trip is very transfer-tolerant

## Itinerary Quality Checks

- Every 3-4 active days include one lighter day
- Every transfer day has at least one backup option
- Last day before international departure stays in departure city


path: memory-template.md
content: # United States Trip Memory

## Status
- **Planning stage:** [researching / booking / confirmed / traveling / completed]
- **Entry status:** [ready / pending ESTA / pending visa / unknown]
- **Last updated:** YYYY-MM-DD

## Trip Details
- **Dates:**
- **Duration:**
- **Main regions:** [Northeast / Southeast / Midwest / Southwest / Mountain West / West Coast / Pacific Northwest / Hawaii / Alaska]
- **Cities/Bases:**
- **Travelers:** [solo / couple / family / group]
- **Kids:** [yes (ages) / no]

## Preferences
- **Travel style:** [city / parks / road trip / beach / food / mixed]
- **Budget:** [budget / mid-range / premium]
- **Pace:** [relaxed / moderate / fast]
- **Dietary:** [none / vegetarian / vegan / gluten-free / other]
- **Mobility:** [full / limited / wheelchair]
- **Transport preference:** [flight / rail / car / mixed]

## Constraints
- **Must-see places:**
- **Must-avoid:**
- **Weather tolerance:** [heat / cold / rain / smoke sensitivity]
- **Driving comfort:** [none / short only / long road trips]

## Reservations and Deadlines
| Item | Needed by | Status | Notes |
|------|-----------|--------|-------|
| ESTA / visa docs | | | |
| Park permits / timed entry | | | |
| Flights / rail | | | |
| Hotels | | | |
| Car rental | | | |

## Working Plan
- **Current route draft:**
- **Backup plan:**
- **Open decisions:**

## Lessons Learned
-

## Next Trip Improvements
-


path: national-parks.md
content: # National Parks — United States

## Entrance and Pass Basics

- Many national park sites are free, but major parks may require entrance fees.
- America the Beautiful interagency passes cover federal recreation entrance/day-use fees at participating agencies.
- Non-resident annual pass options now exist; verify current price and eligibility before purchase.

## Reservation Systems (Critical)

Some high-demand parks or corridors use timed entry or reservations seasonally. Never assume same-day access.

### High-impact examples

- Yosemite: announced no season-wide timed entry system for 2026.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: timed entry permits continue for specific periods/hours in peak season.
- Reservation release calendars and processing fees can decide whether a park-focused trip works.

## Reservation Workflow

1. Identify target parks and exact dates first.
2. Check each park for reservation/timed-entry requirements.
3. Book permits before non-refundable lodging where possible.
4. Keep a backup park/day plan in case of sold-out windows.

## Parks Logistics Rules

- One park per day is often enough in peak season.
- Start early for parking and lower trail congestion.
- Use shuttle systems where provided.
- Heat, altitude, and wildfire conditions can change route safety quickly.

## App Stack for Park Trips

- NPS App for official park content and offline downloads.
- Recreation.gov for reservations and permit workflows.
- AirNow + weather alerts for smoke and storm checks.

## Source Reminder

See `sources.md` for NPS passes, Yosemite, RMNP, and NPS app links.


path: new-york-city.md
content: # New York City — Playbook

## Best Use Case

First-time U.S. city base with high museum density, strong public transit, and large food variety.

## Neighborhood Strategy

- Manhattan for first-time efficiency and late-night transit convenience.
- Brooklyn for food and neighborhood depth with commute tradeoff.
- Queens for value and airport convenience in selected zones.

## Movement Rules

- Use subway/bus tap payments (OMNY) for day-to-day movement.
- Cluster days by zone (Downtown, Midtown, Uptown, Brooklyn sectors).
- Avoid cross-city ping-pong between bookings.

## Timing Moves

- Major observatories and top museums: prebook timed entries.
- Broadway and headline experiences: reserve earlier in peak periods.
- Keep one rainy-day museum block and one clear-sky skyline block.

## Cost Traps

- Hotel location that looks cheaper but adds 60-90 min/day transit.
- Over-indexing on rideshare for every movement.
- High-markup tourist strips for every meal.

## 3-Day Skeleton

- Day 1: Lower Manhattan + waterfront + evening skyline
- Day 2: Midtown core + museum block + show/night plan
- Day 3: Brooklyn or Uptown + neighborhood food crawl


path: nightlife.md
content: # Nightlife — United States

## Nightlife City Types

| Type | Examples | Pattern |
|------|----------|---------|
| Mega-metro | NYC, LA, Chicago | Distributed neighborhoods, late options, transit planning required |
| Entertainment hubs | Las Vegas, Miami, New Orleans | Venue-driven nights, dynamic pricing, heavy weekend surge |
| College/younger hubs | Austin, Nashville zones | Live music density, peak queues on weekends |

## Execution Rules

- Prebook headline clubs/shows when relevant.
- Use licensed rides at close-out hours.
- Keep one low-intensity morning after heavy nightlife days.

## Safety Basics

- Monitor drink handling and personal belongings.
- Keep return transport pinned before going out.
- Prefer neighborhood hops over cross-city late-night jumps.


path: pacific-northwest.md
content: # Pacific Northwest — Playbook

## Best Use Case

City + nature blend with forests, coastline, coffee/food culture, and road-trip optionality.

## Main Anchors

- Seattle metro and nearby mountain access
- Portland + Columbia Gorge extensions
- Olympic and Cascade side trips

## Planning Notes

- Shoulder seasons deliver value but can include wet and variable weather.
- Trail and mountain access can shift quickly with snowpack and closures.
- Reserve iconic park lodging and ferries early in peak periods.

## Pace Recommendation

Use one city base and one nature base for 7-10 day trips.


path: regions.md
content: # Regions — United States

## Region Selection Grid

| Region | Best for | Watch-outs |
|--------|----------|------------|
| Northeast | First-time cities, museums, history, rail links | Winter storms, premium lodging costs |
| Southeast | Beaches, warm weather, theme parks, road trips | Summer heat/humidity, hurricane season |
| Midwest/Great Lakes | Architecture, food cities, lakefront summers | Harsh winter weather in many months |
| Southwest | Desert parks, geology, scenic drives | Extreme heat, long driving distances |
| Mountain West | Hiking, alpine scenery, parks | Altitude and weather volatility |
| West Coast | Coastal cities, food, national parks | High costs, wildfire/smoke periods |
| Pacific Northwest | Forest/coast/city blend | Rain planning and shoulder-season daylight |
| Hawaii | Beaches, volcanoes, island culture | Inter-island logistics, high costs |
| Alaska | Wildlife, wilderness, summer daylight | Expensive logistics, seasonal closures |

## Planning Rule of Thumb

- 7 days: 1 region
- 10-14 days: 1-2 regions
- 21 days: 2-3 regions with flights and explicit buffers

## Transfer Reality

- East Coast corridor enables more rail flexibility.
- Western routes often require flights or long drives.
- Park-heavy itineraries are usually car-dependent.

## First-Time U.S. Route Suggestions

- Culture + food: Northeast + Chicago
- Nature + road trip: Southwest + Mountain West
- Sun + family: Florida + selected East Coast city
- City + coast: California split-base model


path: road-trips-and-driving.md
content: # Road Trips and Driving — United States

## When Car-First Is Correct

- National park clusters (Utah 5, Arizona/Utah loops, Rockies scenic drives)
- Multi-stop coastal routes with flexible stops
- Small-town regions with weak rail/transit coverage

## When Car-First Is a Mistake

- Dense cores with expensive parking and congestion
- One-way trips where drop fees erase rental savings
- Winter mountain routes without weather-ready planning

## Driver Documentation

- International Driving Permit needs depend on country and state context.
- U.S. government guidance warns to avoid unofficial IDP sellers.
- Carry original license + passport + any required permit.

## Cost Structure Most Travelers Miss

- Parking (daily and overnight)
- Tolls and cashless toll invoices
- One-way drop fees
- Fuel price differences by state/metro area
- Under-25 or additional-driver surcharges

## Practical Routing Rules

- Keep driving legs realistic: scenic roads are slower than map assumptions.
- Build one no-driving evening after heavy transfer days.
- Avoid red-eye arrivals immediately followed by long highway legs.

## Safety Notes

- Do not rely on sparse-cell-coverage corridors for navigation continuity.
- Download offline maps for mountain/desert sections.
- In winter and heat extremes, carry water and a basic contingency kit.

## Source Reminder

See `sources.md` for IDP and weather safety references.


path: safety-and-emergencies.md
content: # Safety and Emergencies — United States

## Essential Numbers

- `911` for police, fire, and ambulance emergencies.
- `988` for mental health crisis support by call/text/chat.
- Poison Help: `1-800-222-1222` for exposure/ingestion incidents.

## Alert Systems to Use

- Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) for local urgent notifications.
- NOAA Weather Radio and official weather alerts for severe conditions.
- Keep phone notifications enabled while traveling through hazard-prone areas.

## City Safety Habits

- Use licensed transport options late at night.
- Keep hotel and transport addresses saved offline.
- Avoid displaying valuables on crowded transit or nightlife corridors.

## Nature Safety Habits

- Start hikes early; carry water, layers, and navigation backup.
- Check heat, lightning, and flash-flood risk before departure.
- Respect trail closures and park warnings.

## Health and Air Quality

- Monitor AQI in wildfire smoke periods.
- Adjust outdoor plans when air quality is unhealthy.

## Incident Response Rule

If an itinerary segment becomes unsafe due to weather, smoke, flood, or wildfire warnings:
1. Stop movement
2. Rebase to a safer nearby city
3. Rebuild remaining days around open/low-risk activities

## Source Reminder

See `sources.md` for Ready.gov, 988 Lifeline, Poison Help, and AirNow links.


path: setup.md
content: # Setup — United States Travel Guide

## First-Time Setup

When user mentions U.S. travel for the first time:

### 1. Create Memory Structure
```bash
mkdir -p ~/united-states
```

### 2. Initialize Memory File
Create `~/united-states/memory.md` using `memory-template.md`.

### 3. Gather Trip Context Naturally
Ask in conversational flow:
- Entry pathway: ESTA/visa status already solved or still pending?
- Travel window and flexibility: exact dates or month range?
- Scope preference: one region deep or multi-region highlights?
- Priorities: cities, parks, beaches, food, road trip, family, nightlife, shopping.
- Constraints: budget, mobility, dietary, driving comfort, weather tolerance.
- Pace: relaxed, moderate, or fast-moving itinerary.

### 4. Save to Memory
Update `~/united-states/memory.md` with the current intent, constraints, and decision status.

## Returning Users

If `~/united-states/memory.md` exists:
1. Read it silently
2. Reuse known constraints and preferences
3. Ask only what changed (dates, region focus, budget, mobility)
4. Update memory with deltas

## Quick Start Responses

**"I want to visit New York"**
→ Ask: nights, first-time vs repeat, budget band, core interests.
→ Then use: `new-york-city.md`, `accommodation.md`, `transport-domestic.md`.

**"I want national parks"**
→ Ask: month, hiking level, car comfort, crowd tolerance.
→ Then use: `national-parks.md`, `southwest-and-rockies.md`, `weather-and-seasonality.md`.

**"I need a full U.S. itinerary"**
→ Ask: total days and whether user accepts flights between regions.
→ Then use: `regions.md`, `itineraries.md`, `budget-and-costs.md`.

## Important Notes

- Entry/admin risk can block otherwise perfect itineraries.
- U.S. travel quality depends heavily on regional focus and season fit.
- Big cost deltas often come from transport and hidden fees, not hotel headline price.
- Always include a weather-aware fallback plan.


path: sources.md
content: # Sources — United States Skill

Last checked: 2026-03-02

## Entry, Visa, and Border

- U.S. Visitor Visa (State Department): https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html
- CBP Visa Waiver Program: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/visa-waiver-program
- CBP ESTA overview: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/esta
- CBP I-94 guidance: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/i-94
- CBP restricted items: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go/prohibited-and-restricted-items
- CBP duty information: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/kbyg/customs-duty-info
- CBP currency reporting (FinCEN 105): https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/kbyg/money

## TSA and Flight Screening

- TSA liquids rule: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-rule
- TSA REAL ID: https://www.tsa.gov/real-id
- TSA Cares: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares

## National Parks and Reservations

- NPS entrance passes: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
- Yosemite reservation update: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/reservations.htm
- Rocky Mountain NP timed entry: https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm
- Arches planning: https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/index.htm
- NPS official app: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/digital/nps-apps.htm
- Recreation platform: https://www.recreation.gov/

## Domestic Transport and Transit Payments

- Amtrak carry-on policy: https://www.amtrak.com/onboard/baggage-policy/carry-on-baggage.html
- Amtrak checked baggage policy: https://www.amtrak.com/onboard/baggage-policy/checked-baggage.html
- OMNY (NYC tap-to-ride): https://omny.info/
- Los Angeles Metro fares/TAP: https://www.metro.net/riding/fares/
- BART payment and fares: https://www.bart.gov/tickets

## Weather, Alerts, and Safety

- Hurricane safety: https://www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane
- Winter safety: https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter
- Heat safety: https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat
- Flood safety: https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
- FEMA/Ready alerts: https://www.ready.gov/alerts
- Air quality index: https://www.airnow.gov/air-quality-and-health/
- 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/
- Poison Help: https://www.poisonhelp.org/

## Travel Calendar and Practical Planning

- Federal holidays calendar: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/
- International driving permit guidance: https://www.usa.gov/international-drivers-license
- State/local sales tax context: https://taxfoundation.org/data/all/state/state-sales-tax-rates/

## Destination and Regional Tourism Boards

- New York City tourism: https://www.nyctourism.com/
- Washington, DC tourism: https://washington.org/
- Choose Chicago: https://www.choosechicago.com/
- Visit California: https://www.visitcalifornia.com/
- Discover Los Angeles: https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/
- San Francisco Travel: https://www.sftravel.com/
- Visit Seattle: https://www.visitseattle.org/
- Visit Florida: https://www.visitflorida.com/
- New Orleans tourism: https://www.neworleans.com/
- Las Vegas travel: https://www.lasvegas.com/
- Illinois tourism: https://www.enjoyillinois.com/
- Texas tourism: https://www.traveltexas.com/
- Arizona tourism: https://www.visitarizona.com/
- Hawaii planning portal (availability may vary by region): https://www.gohawaii.com/

## Park Homepages (Regional Planning)

- Grand Canyon NP: https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm
- Yellowstone NP: https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm
- Zion NP: https://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm
- Acadia NP: https://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm
- Glacier NP: https://www.nps.gov/glac/index.htm


path: southwest-and-rockies.md
content: # Southwest and Rockies — Playbook

## Best Use Case

Iconic parks, geology, hiking, scenic drives, and stargazing-heavy routes.

## High-Value Clusters

- Utah/Arizona parks loop
- Colorado Rockies + Denver front range
- New Mexico culture + desert landscapes

## Critical Constraints

- Extreme summer heat in desert sections
- Altitude adaptation in Rockies
- Timed-entry/permit systems at specific parks and corridors
- Limited late-night services in remote towns

## Route Design Rules

- 2-4 nights per base in park corridors
- Start hikes early; protect midday from heat
- Keep a full weather backup day every 4-5 active days

## Common Failure Mode

Underestimating driving and overestimating same-day multi-park feasibility.


path: telecoms-and-apps.md
content: # Telecoms and Apps — United States

## Connectivity Setup

- Prefer eSIM or prepaid plans activated before arrival.
- Keep a second low-cost fallback data option for long road routes.
- Download offline maps for low-coverage national park corridors.

## Payments and Transit Apps

| Use case | Recommended app/system |
|----------|------------------------|
| NYC subway/bus | OMNY (tap card/phone) |
| Los Angeles transit | TAP |
| Bay Area rail/transit | Clipper + BART tools |
| National parks | NPS App + Recreation.gov |

## Travel Execution Apps

- Airline and rail official apps for real-time gate/platform changes
- Weather alert apps for storms and heat events
- Air quality tracking for wildfire season areas

## Battery and Device Hygiene

- Carry power bank and cable access in daypack.
- Keep screenshots of tickets, hotel addresses, and reservation numbers.
- Save key confirmations offline for poor-signal situations.

## Practical Rule

No phone = no itinerary. Build redundancy for maps, payment, and reservations.

## Source Reminder

See `sources.md` for OMNY, Metro TAP, BART, NPS App, and alerts links.


path: tipping-and-payments.md
content: # Tipping and Payments — United States

## Card and Cash Reality

- Cards are dominant across major U.S. destinations.
- Keep one backup physical card and a small cash reserve for edge cases.

## Tipping Baseline (Tourism Context)

- Full-service restaurants: tipping is generally expected.
- Bars, rides, and hotel service roles usually involve smaller tip norms.
- If service charge is already included, adjust to avoid double tipping.

## Tax at Checkout

- Posted prices usually do not include sales tax.
- Final checkout totals vary by state/locality.
- Some states have no statewide sales tax, but local taxes may still apply.

## Payment Traps

- Dynamic currency conversion at payment terminal often worsens rates.
- Hotel "resort" or "destination" fees can be excluded from headline rates.
- Parking, toll, and baggage add-ons can shift daily cost materially.

## Practical Rule

Always price the real total (room + taxes + fees + transport + tips), not just base rates.

## Source Reminder

See `sources.md` for current sales-tax and transport payment references.


path: transport-domestic.md
content: # Domestic Transport — United States

## Mode Selection Framework

| Route type | Default winner | Why |
|-----------|----------------|-----|
| 250-600 miles urban corridor | Rail or short flight | Depends on station/airport access overhead |
| Coast-to-coast or multi-time-zone | Flight | Time-efficient despite airport friction |
| National park loops | Car | Last-mile access and schedule control |
| Dense city core trips | Public transit + walking | Avoid parking, toll, and congestion cost |

## Flight Screening Reality

- TSA liquids rule: carry-on liquids are limited to travel-size containers in one quart-size bag.
- Larger liquid items should go in checked baggage unless explicit exception applies.
- Medical and infant-related exceptions exist but should be prepared for screening.

## Amtrak Baggage Facts

- Standard allowance includes one personal item plus two carry-on items, with size/weight limits.
- On many routes, checked baggage is available (with station and route limitations).
- Typical checked model: two included, with paid additional bags where offered.

## Urban Payment Systems (High-Value for Tourists)

- New York (OMNY): tap contactless card/phone; weekly fare-capping behavior available.
- Los Angeles (TAP): fare capping and transfer rules matter for multi-ride days.
- San Francisco Bay Area (BART + Clipper): distance-based fares, no weekly pass model.

## Transfer Buffers to Add

- Domestic flight to domestic flight: 2-3 hours buffer when separate tickets.
- International arrival to domestic onward: conservative buffer with immigration + baggage.
- Rail to flight same day: only with explicit slack for city transfer.

## Tourist Trap to Flag

Renting a car for city-only itineraries in Manhattan, central San Francisco, central Chicago, or downtown DC often increases cost and stress.

## Source Reminder

See `sources.md` for TSA, Amtrak, OMNY, Metro TAP, and BART links.


path: washington-dc.md
content: # Washington, DC — Playbook

## Best Use Case

History, museums, policy landmarks, and walkable urban core with transit support.

## Core Advantage

Large concentration of major museums and monuments in compact planning radius.

## Route Strategy

- Group National Mall and museum-heavy days.
- Keep one evening monument loop (night lighting value is high).
- If adding Arlington/Alexandria, treat as separate half-day blocks.

## Booking and Timing

- Many Smithsonian options are free, but timed entry may apply for specific institutions/exhibits.
- Cherry blossom periods require crowd-aware booking and early starts.

## Stay Strategy

- Metro-accessible base is usually better than cheapest room outside core.
- If trip is short, prioritize time savings over nightly rate delta.

## Common Mistake

Trying to cover all museums in one visit. Focus by theme (air/space, art, history, policy).


path: weather-and-seasonality.md
content: # Weather and Seasonality — United States

## Macro Seasonal Strategy

| Season | Strong fits | Main risks |
|--------|-------------|------------|
| Spring | Cities, desert shoulder trips, DC festivals | Rain volatility, spring break crowds |
| Summer | Mountain parks, Alaska, coastal escapes | Heat waves, hurricane season, wildfire smoke |
| Fall | Cities + foliage routes + parks | Early snow at elevation, shorter daylight |
| Winter | Sunbelt cities, ski destinations, Hawaii | Snow/ice disruptions, severe cold, road closures |

## Hurricane Window

- Atlantic and eastern Pacific hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30.
- Peak activity often concentrates late summer to early fall.
- Florida/Gulf/Atlantic trips should include cancellation-flex strategy.

## Heat and Air Quality

- Heat can become a trip-limiting hazard in desert and southern regions.
- Build indoor midday blocks during extreme heat windows.
- Check AQI via AirNow in wildfire-prone periods.

## Winter Risk

- Winter storms can affect roads and flights far beyond mountain states.
- Snow/ice travel requires larger transfer buffers and flexible bookings.
- Mountain drives in winter should include alternate routing options.

## Flood Risk

- Flash flooding is a major hazard during storm periods.
- Flooded roads can look passable but are high-risk; reroute early.

## Source Reminder

See `sources.md` for weather.gov and AirNow links.


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