Text by Wei Ruyi, 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 US to cruise the continent and experience the most authentic American road trip lifestyle.
With the possibility that the US may officially announce visa-free entry this year, the public might want to start planning a DIY trip to the US—rent a car and explore some beautiful attractions that tour groups or public transport rarely reach, all while embracing the local lifestyle. Especially since many routes are recognized by the US federal government as “America’s Byways” (The National America’s Byways), they’re perfect for taking your time to enjoy the scenery along the way.
Want to experience a road trip in the US? You can arrange car rental and related procedures in Taiwan in advance and enjoy discounts. (Image provided by Hertz Car Rental)
Since the driver’s seat in the US, like in Taiwan, is on the left, and the roads are wide, driving in the US is easy for Taiwanese. The rental process is also simple. Take Hertz, the world’s largest car rental company, as an example: as long as you are 25 or older, have a valid Taiwanese driver’s license, an International Driving Permit, a credit card, and a passport, you can select and book a car online. Complete your booking in Taiwan at least 24 hours before arrival in the US to enjoy the freedom of self-driving. When booking, you can also choose whether to include a GPS system, and opt for optional insurance such as vehicle loss/damage, personal accident, personal effects, and third-party liability. These optional services and insurances come at an additional cost. In addition, Hertz offers 24-hour roadside assistance.
Ren Yongxin, General Manager of Business at Hertz Taiwan, said: “The legal driving age for locals in the US is different from the legal rental age for tourists. Tourists aged 25 or above can rent a car as per regulations. However, those aged between 20–24 must inform the counter when picking up the car and signing the contract, and purchase Young Driver insurance in order to rent a vehicle.” She also emphasized, “Booking a Hertz rental in Taiwan allows you to enjoy discount rates, and we assist in confirming and arranging the details of your rental. Additionally, you can apply for Hertz #1 Club Gold membership free of annual fee, making the pick-up process more convenient.”
There are several iconic scenic highways in the US that are great 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 ranked as one of the most beautiful national scenic highways in the US.
Going-to-the Sun Road:This is the most essential travel route in Glacier National Park, open from June to October each year. Along the way, you can admire the spectacular landscape shaped by millions of years and countless glacial movements.
Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway:Stretching about 210 kilometers and taking roughly 3 hours to drive, this route takes you through the historic mining town of Idaho City, and lets you enjoy the diverse scenery of the Payette River and the Sawtooth Mountains.
Renowned CBS journalist Charles Kuralt called the Beartooth Highway the most beautiful road in the US. (Image provided by the Asia-Pacific Office of the Montana State Government, USA)
Thousand Springs Scenic Byway:Along Highway 30 from Hagerman to Twin Falls, you can witness crystal-clear springs gushing out from the cliffs along the Snake River, creating stunning waterfalls. Nearly 90% of the fresh and frozen trout in the US comes from this area. The Hagerman National Fish Hatchery in Hagerman produces rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, where visitors can learn about trout farming and enjoy a trout feast at local restaurants.
Parks Highway:This important scenic route runs from Anchorage, through Denali National Park, and northward to Fairbanks. Along the way, you’ll be treated to 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 passes by Turnagain Arm, described by visitors as a world-class scenic fjord, as well as the famous Chugach Mountains.
Glenn Highway:An important scenic highway that heads north from Fairbanks and crosses the Arctic Circle.
Enjoy the beautiful mountain landscapes of Alaska—you can freely stop to take photos while on your self-drive adventure. (Image provided by the Alaska Taiwan Office)
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