U.S. Visa-Free Prep GO Series ~ Enjoy a Road Trip Across America

Text by Wei Ruyu, Interview & Report　

Driving across America has always been the most free and unrestricted choice. Not only locals, but many international students also enjoy renting a car during their stay in the U.S. to cruise the continent and experience the most authentic American road trip lifestyle.

With the possibility that the U.S. may officially announce visa-free entry this year, the public might as well start planning a DIY trip to the States. Rent a car and explore some beautiful spots that are not easily accessible by tour groups or public transport, all while experiencing life like a local. Especially since many routes are recognized by the U.S. federal government as “America’s Byways” (The National America’s Byways), they’re perfect for soaking in the scenery at your own driving pace.

Since the driver’s seat in the U.S. is on the left, just like in Taiwan, and the roads are wide, driving in the U.S. is easy for Taiwanese. Moreover, the car rental process is simple. Take Hertz, the world’s largest car rental company, for example — anyone aged 25 or above with a Taiwanese driver’s license, an international driver’s license, a credit card, and a passport can select and book a car online. By completing the booking procedures in Taiwan at least 24 hours before arrival in the U.S., you can start enjoying the freedom of driving. When booking, you can also choose whether to have a satellite navigation system, and opt for additional insurance such as vehicle loss and damage insurance, personal accident insurance, personal effects insurance, and third-party liability insurance. These optional services and insurances come at an extra cost. In addition, Hertz offers 24-hour roadside assistance.

Ren Yongxin, General Manager of Hertz Taiwan’s regional distributor business, said: “The legal driving age for locals in the U.S. differs from the legal rental age for tourists. Tourists aged 25 or older can rent a car according to regulations, but those between 20–24 years old must inform the counter when picking up the car and signing the contract, and purchase Young Driver insurance to be eligible to rent.” She also emphasized, “When you reserve a Hertz rental in Taiwan, you can enjoy rental discounts and assistance in confirming and arranging rental details. You can also apply for Hertz #1 Club Gold membership free of annual fees, making the pick-up process more convenient.”

There are several iconic scenic highways in the U.S. that are perfect for road trips, such as:

Beartooth Highway:This is the main road at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Starting from Cooke City and ending in Red Lodge, it has been named one of the most beautiful national scenic highways in the U.S.

Going-to-the-Sun Road:The most essential touring route in Glacier National Park, open from June to October each year. Along the way, you can admire the unique landscapes shaped by countless glacial retreats over two million years.

Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway:Spanning approximately 210 kilometers and about a 3-hour drive, you can visit the historic mining town of Idaho City and enjoy the ever-changing scenery of the Payette River and the Sawtooth Mountains.

Thousand Springs Scenic Byway:Following Highway 30 from Hagerman to Twin Falls, you can witness crystal-clear springs gushing out from the cliffs along the Snake River, creating spectacular waterfalls. Nearly 90% of the fresh and frozen trout in the U.S. comes from this area. The Hagerman National Fish Hatchery in Hagerman produces rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, where visitors can observe trout farming and enjoy a trout feast at local restaurants.

Parks Highway:A major scenic road from Anchorage, passing through Denali National Park heading north to Fairbanks. Along the way, you’ll take in the endless Alaska Range, North America’s highest peak — Mount McKinley, and the Arctic tundra.

Seward Highway: Connecting Anchorage and Seward, heading south into the Kenai Peninsula, this route features what travelers describe as world-class views of Turnagain Arm fjords, as well as the famous Chugach Mountains.

Glenn Highway:A key scenic highway stretching north from Fairbanks, crossing into the Arctic Circle.

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