You can't breathe. Every breath is difficult. The sun is hot and burns your skin. Your throat needs water. This is Death Valley National Park in California, an easy drive barely two hours from Las Vegas.

Not one for tracking down experiences that cause stomach-lurching adrenalin rushes? It might be time to doing something that makes your heart leap.

It's famous in hip-hop and notorious for gang violence. So naturally Sarah Gooding had some intimidating preconceptions when approaching South Central Los Angeles for the first stop of her USA adventure.

When in LA, join the beautiful people and head to one of the many rooftop bars for a cheeky cocktail or two. Here are five that should be on your to-do list.

When in LA, join the beautiful people and head to one of the many rooftop bars for a cheeky cocktail or two. Here are a selection that should be on your to-do list.

If you're keen for a shopping fix overseas this holiday season here are the best streets around the world to fill up the suitcase with goodies.

Sustainability may be the biggest test for the Golden State, reports Peter Huck.

Eveline Harvey is awed by the splendour of a world-renowned national park.

Established in 1890, this national park in California's Sierra Nevada mountain range, was designated a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1984. Its spectacular waterfalls, extensive hiking trails and immense granite formations attract millions of visitors each year.

Mariposa is holding its own against invading human industry, says Michael Dickison.

This spectacular stretch of coastline is packed with great places to relax, rejuvenate and recharge your batteries.

The nature of Los Angeles is revealed along this world-famous strip of coastline.

Luxury RVs have all the trappings of penthouse suites, writes Marian Carroll, from marble benchtops to bronze fittings.

The stunning Pacific Coast scenery is enhanced by the surrounding bounty of beautiful food, outstanding wine, horse trekking and other activities in Northern California.

Lake Tahoe offers mountain beauty paired with casino bustle, writes Pamela Wade.

The USA's picturesque Highway 101 leads to one of the prettiest cities in the country.