Hello everyone, this is a message from an Englishman who wants to go the the States next year to celebrate the big 50. My wife and I want to do a fly drive and we think the West Coast is a good starting point, say kick off with San Francisco, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon etc plus any other good non touristy spots.Perhaps booking a car and a flight on an open jaw to end up say at Salt Lake City

We have 3 weeks free and our prefer to travel in September.

We would also prefer where possible to stay at smaller hotels/lodges and want to book up as much as possible over the web, although if there is a good travel company recommended for this type of venture then please let us know.

We are happy to hear your views on any other routes other than West Coast.

Sincere thanks.

A Virgin Holidays' fly-drive is a good way to do this. E.g. fly into San Francisco and out of Las Vegas - no car drop-off charges. You can also book some hotels through them and others on your own. Their prices tend to be cheaper in S.F.

Aim to stay in the national parks rather than at the edges with a long drive in. In-park accommodation needs to be booked well in advance -a year in some cases.

Yosemite has a B&B (The Yosemite Peregrine)in the park - info. on the internet.

Bryce,Zion,Yosemite are all spectacular but don't miss Death Valley as well (staying at the Furnace Creek Inn if possible rather than the motel).

Best wishes