Mixed experience in United States — beautiful but overhyped

United States is undeniably beautiful. Golden Gate Bridge and the area around New Orleans have a visual quality that photographs don't capture fully. I enjoyed Texas BBQ and appreciated world-class national parks. That's all real.

But distances between attractions was more of a problem than I expected based on reviews I'd read. It coloured parts of the trip in ways I hadn't prepared for. I'd still go back, but I'd approach certain aspects differently. A 4 feels generous on a bad day but fair overall.