Romantic Places in the USA

Travel can be amazing and many couples will want to look for some romantic trips away together, which is why we are sharing the most romantic places in the USA chosen by travel experts.

US most romantic cities

New York City, New York

If you’re interested in planning trips to the most romantic destinations in the USA, you need to consider coming to New York City. The City that Never Sleeps has so many different locations and activities for swoon-worthy dates.

Take a day and catch the view from one of the observatories in New York City, like Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building. Then, have a picnic on one of the many benches in Central Park. Or, if heights aren’t for you or your partner, spend your day on a romantic boat tour, where you will see incredible views of New York City from the water. You can even spend your day leisurely wandering around Greenwich Village, stopping in at the boutiques and small businesses, before grabbing lunch on the terrace of a bistro you happened to pass by. 

The most classic romantic evening in New York City is dinner and a Broadway show. Check out restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen, a neighborhood in the City that encompasses the streets from 34th Street up to 59th Street, from 8th Avenue to the Hudson River. There are so many phenomenal restaurants in this neighborhood, and it’s within walking distance to the Theatre District, where all of New York City’s Broadway theaters operate.

Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport Rhode Island is a bit like Camelot. 

For starters, it’s where Jackie O. and John F. Kennedy married. In addition, you’ll find this seaside destination offers lots of romantic activities for couples, both day and night. 

Whether you take a breathtaking waterfront stroll along The Cliff Walk, sail the yacht-filled harbor, or dine at The Black Pearl on bustling Barristers Wharf, your visit to Newport will make memories. 

There are plenty of things to do in Newport for you to discover; the Newport Mansions are a “must-see” when visiting. Once luxury summer homes to rich and famous families like the Vanderbilts, these exquisite architectural gems of the Gilded Age are like modern castles. 

You’ll find eleven stately mansions around Bellevue Avenue, with the most impressive mansion being “The Breakers.” To see the most opulent decor, you’ll want to visit the Newport Mansions at Christmastime, shown here. 

In summer, beach-lovers can spend the day languishing along Newport’s pristine white-sand beaches lapped by the Atlantic Ocean. At day’s end, you might cruise Ocean Drive, taking in historic landmarks and a stunning coastal sunset. 

If you’re lucky enough to spend the night, consider staying at one of the most famous luxury hotels in Newport: The Hotel Viking. Situated atop Newport’s Historic Hill, you’ll find a rooftop bar, full-service spa, and indoor pool at this award-winning hotel.

Or, opt for the intimate comfort of a charming historic inn, like The Admiral Fitzroy Inn. Their special occasion package includes champagne, chocolates, fresh flowers, and more. Located right on Thames Street, you’ll find upscale boutiques just steps away. 

Jackie Gately at Enjoy Travel Life

Las Vegas, Nevada

When you think of romance I am sure Las Vegas isn’t on the top of your list, but it should be. Las Vegas is one of the most versatile vacation destinations for families, couples, solo trippers and gay couples in Las Vegas.

You can’t go to Las Vegas without exploring the strip and taking a ride on the gondola at the Venetian. It is a replica of the iconic gondola ride in Venice, Italy. If you want to kick up the romance factor, I recommend arriving during one of the two times they do the Gondolier March. This is the time when they sing in unison while marching to announce their arrival and departure for the day. You can check out this cool experience at 9:50 and 4:20 near the turn-around point at the Grand Canal Shoppes.

Another can’t miss event is the water and light show at the Bellagio at night. You can hold your partner while watching the water dance to the music. It’s an amazing sight to see with someone you love and its one of the best free things to do in Vegas. If you are into adventure, try taking a ride on the Linq High Roller and seeing the entire strip from over 5,000 feet in the air. It is beautiful during the day, but breathtaking to see all of the lights from the sky at night.

Las Vegas is one of the best places in the world to eat, with some of the most famous chefs in the industry having a restaurant there. There are countless restaurants in Las Vegas to choose from but some of the favorites are Gordon Ramsey’s Burger, Hell’s Kitchen, Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen & Bar, and Cut by Wolfgang Puck. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any restaurant you pick while in Las Vegas, it’s likely to be great.

Don’t forget you are only 5 hours from the Grand Canyon if it’s on your bucket list; perfect for a road trip and those romantic Grand Canyon viewpoints. The possibilities are endless in Las Vegas.

From Itz A Family Thing

Maui, Hawaii

Hana on the Island of Maui is the perfect romantic destination for adventurous and outdoor couples.  The romance for this travel spot is all about the journey – making it one of the best honeymoon destinations in the USA.

To get to Hana, you will drive along the northern coast of Maui on the Road to Hana.  Along the way you will find gushing waterfalls, majestic ocean viewpoints and hidden pools of serenity.  

Take advantage of your jet lag and get an early start to enjoy the sun lighting up the coastal cliffs and waterways.  Bring a guidebook to show you where to stop along the way.

The Road to Hana is on the west side of the island so all along the drive will be lush, green overgrown rainforest.   

Hike through the rainforest to a secluded pool of warm water.  Swim together under a waterfall.  There are so many romantic things to do in Maui, every couple will find something to enjoy here. 

In Hana, you can soak in the sun, surf, and sand on Red sand beach or Green sand beaches.  Snorkel at one of the best locations on Maui at Uakea in Hana Bay.  Relax in awe of the sea-sculpted lava formations at Wai’anapanapa State Park. 

From Hana, venture 10 miles further to Haleakala National Park to visit the pools of Oheo Gulch, also called Seven Sacred Pools.  Just like its name, you’ll find multiple waterfalls pouring into still, glistening pools.  The water is warm and inviting.  Hike through the dense bamboo forest to find another tall waterfall. 

Adventure, beauty, and private paradises make Hana on Maui the perfect romantic getaway!

Jamie Harper from Fly by the Seat of our Pants   

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale, Florida has been one of America’s most popular LGBTQ+ vacation spots for years. All travelers love the sun and beaches of southern Florida, but the city of Fort Lauderdale and the adjacent village of Wilton Manors is home to over 200 LGBTQ-owned businesses. That means that gay Fort Lauderdale has a vibrant and active community where queer travelers can feel safe and at home on a romantic getaway.

All couples love spending time together on a beautiful beach and for queer visitors to Fort Lauderdale, that beach is Sebastian Street Beach. It stretches from Sebastian Street to Castillo and is a laid-back oasis with all types of couples enjoying the surf and sun along the Atlantic.

There’s more than just the ocean in Fort Lauderdale, couples can enjoy a romantic boat ride through the intercoastal waterway. A sunset cruise is a perfect way to spend an evening as a couple in the beautiful waterways and canals around Fort Lauderdale. 

For dinner and nightlife, the gay village of Wilton Manors is the perfect destination. Dining on oysters and champagne at Bubbles & Pearls is a fabulous way to start an evening out on the town. Alternatively, for something more casual you can head to the campy gay-owned burger restaurant, Rosie’s. The perfect place for an after-dinner cocktail is DrYnk Bar & Lounge, an eclectic speakeasy with the best Old Fashions in Florida.

For so many reasons, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect romantic holiday destination.

Derek from Robe Trotting

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is known as a cool and quirky city that welcomes backpackers, families, and couples alike, but if you’re planning a couple’s getaway or a honeymoon trip, you might be looking for some additional romantic activities to make your stay even more special. Thankfully the city has loads of romantic things to do no matter your budget and it is one of many romantic places in Northern California.

If you’re looking for picturesque places to take a stroll in and around San Francisco, you’ll want to check out Corona Heights Peak, Shakespeare Park, Ocean Beach, and Baker Beach before strolling down the zig-zag street; Lombard Street.  Some of these walks are located directly in the city while others are just outside and their beauty will not disappoint!

Once you’ve taken in panoramic views and floral blooms, head back into the city to enjoy some buttery baked goods at B. Patisserie or step it up a notch by booking a champagne brunch on a boat!

For even more indulgence, book yourself into one of the two rooftop infinity hot tubs at Spa Vitale or allow yourselves to be pampered at the luxurious Nob Hill Spa.

Your day can then continue with a stroll around one of San Francisco’s many museums, a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge or a helicopter ride over the bay. Top it all off with dinner and drinks at some of the city’s top venues such as Saison, Angler, the Linden Room, Top of the Mark, and the Wilson & Wilson speakeasy.

Other romantic activities include watching the Bay Lights illuminations, heading out to Napa Valley to enjoy some wine tasting, renting a tandem bike, and boating on Stow Lake.

Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

Catalina Island, California

If you’re looking for a picture-perfect romantic destination in California, then you can’t go wrong with visiting Catalina Island. This beautiful island located off the coast of southern California has a unique history and gorgeous setting. And while it is generally preferable to spend a weekend there, you can also do a day trip to Catalina Island from Los Angeles or Orange County.

Catalina is accessible via ferry from Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Dana Point in LA and Orange Counties and it takes a little over an hour to reach the island. Once you’re there, you can take the time to explore the charming town of Avalon with its iconic casino and beautiful side streets. There are lots of hiking opportunities, as well, that will afford you great views over the island, the Pacific Ocean, and, on a clear day, mainland California. 

If you’d rather hit the water, there are numerous activities to choose from. Catalina is home to some beautiful beaches and also has some incredible dive sites for those interested in SCUBA diving through the incredible kelp forests. Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are also popular activities. 

Of course, no romantic visit to Catalina Island would be complete without taking in the sunset over the Pacific. All in all, if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful romantic destination, make sure to head to Catalina Island.

Maggie from The World Was Here First

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai is a perfect romantic escape. Compared to the more heavily touristed islands, Kauai is quiet, laid-back, and feels a little more off the beaten path. If you are looking for a destination where you can enjoy the beach and some outdoor adventures without the crowd, this is the island for you.

Kauai is also one of the most beautiful places on Earth, nicknamed the Garden Isle for good reason. Most of the island is covered in dense jungle and is one of the wettest places on Earth. And while that may not sound particularly romantic, it makes for stunning scenery and creates a backdrop for a truly romantic experience.

One of the most popular things to do on Kauai is to take a helicopter tour of the infamous Na Pali Coast and the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”: Waimea Canyon. You can opt for a private tour, which makes for an unforgettable date.

If you are an adventurous couple, Kauai is known for incredible hiking and outdoor adventure sports. Spend your days working up a sweat in the jungle and your evenings enjoying one of the many stellar restaurants around the island.

The beaches of Kauai are not heavily developed and generally do not get very crowded. Pack a picnic with a bottle of wine and spend the day lounging at one of Kauai’s many picture-perfect beaches, from family-friendly Poipu in the south to the ritzier Princeville up north. You can’t go wrong with any of them!

By Dani of Diapers in Paradise

Savannah, Georgia

As the oldest city in Georgia, Savannah is filled with history and charm. From beautiful landscapes to ancient architecture, there are tons of romantic things to do for you and your significant other.

If you’ve always wanted to have your Cinderella moment, you can take a private carriage ride through the cobblestone streets of Savannah. Have the Madison Tour Company pick you up and go on a romantic ride to see some of Savannah’s culture and historic buildings.

Want to visit Savannah’s most famous hangout spot? Have a picnic at Forsyth Park! Set down a blanket and have some lunch with views of the Cast Iron Fountain dating back to the 19th century. You and your partner can shop local at the farmer’s market if you’re visiting on a Saturday too!

If you need a reason to hug your partner a little tighter than usual, be sure to go on a haunted tour! Savannah is considered America’s most haunted city, so you won’t want to miss any eerie sights after dark. All tours include historic stories as well, making it a fun and memorable experience. Then finish the night by eating at a mom-and-pop restaurant in Savannah.

There’s nothing more romantic than drinking wine with your love. Make sure to visit the Georgia Tasting Room for some tastes from Georgia and the Coastal South. The winery itself resembles Savannah’s southern charm with its aesthetic. You’ll have to try their craft beers, wines, and even wine smoothies!

Daniela from Daily with Dani

Nashville, Tennessee

There are so many amazing romantic destinations in the United States and Nashville is one of them. Known as the “Country Music Capital of the World,” Nashville is home to world-class food, romantic boutique hotels, and vibrant music venues. 

There is something to do in Nashville for any kind of couple whether it be laced with adventure or whether it’s more laid-back activities. Nashville is the perfect combination of relaxation, charm, and excitement. 

The list of romantic things to do in Nashville is endless. Couples can spend the evening dancing away at one of the honky-tonks on Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway. They can also pack an evening picnic and watch the sunset from the top of Love Circle.

Another fun thing for couples to do is to explore Centennial Park and learn about the Parthenon replica. Couples who like nature can go hiking at Forest Hills or kayak on the river around the city. Couples can wind down after a day of adventure by hopping from brewery to brewery. There are plenty of things to do in Tennessee so plan to spend at least 4 days here.

Also, a fun activity for couples is to explore the colorful murals around the city. Some of the most romantic restaurants in Nashville are 5th & Taylor, Sea Salt, Kayne Prime Steakhouse, and Marsh House. All in all, Nashville is a perfect getaway for couples and they won’t be left disappointed. 

Disha from Disha Discovers

Outer Banks of North Carolina

Not only is the Outer Banks of North Carolina one of the best beaches on the east coast, but it can be a very romantic destination too! Grab your loved one and get ready for some fun in the sun. Take a walk on the beach together, hunt for seashells, or act like a kid again building sand castles and playing in the ocean. Don’t be surprised if you see some dolphins frolicking in the waves too! Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, go lighthouse hunting, visit the Wright Brothers Memorial, explore the Blue Ridge Mountains or play a game of mini putt-putt together. North Carolina is one of the most romantic RV destinations in the US, especially for nature lovers. 

Looking for a more a unique Outer Banks experience for couples? There are so many romantic options! Pack a picnic and head to Jockey’s Ridge State Park to watch an always epic sunset. Sign up for kite surfing, hang gliding, or parasailing lessons for an adrenaline rush together. Or venture north to see the wild horses of Carova for a once in a lifetime experience. 

Want to surprise your love with a romantic meal? Make a reservation at Blue Point or Paper Canoe in Duck for fine dining with a view. Need somewhere to The Sanderling Resort & Spa is the perfect place to stay with your favorite person. Whatever you choose to do, the Outer Banks of North Carolina is guaranteed to serve up romance right!

Julie from More than Main Street

St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands is always a popular Caribbean getaway or cruise stopover, luring in visitors with its crystal clear blue water and beautiful white sand beaches.  Whether you decide to wander the colorful streets of Charlotte Amalie or swim with sea turtles at Brewer’s Bay, there’s a little something for everyone.

Looking for a one-of-a-kind and truly over-the-top romantic experience?  Charter a boat(It’s more affordable than you’d think!) and head out for a day sail to explore secluded beaches, snorkel some of the best spots in the Caribbean, and enjoy a day on the water together.   If you’re looking for a unique lunch option, stop by Christmas Cove to snorkel and grab a pizza from the Pizza Pi pizza boat, rated one of the best restaurants in St. Thomas and only accessible by boat.  Or book a sunset cruise to snuggle up with your partner, grab a drink, and enjoy the amazing views of the islands from the water.  

For couples who prefer to remain beachside, there are several amazing resorts on St. Thomas offering couples spa treatments like a seaside couples massage, or hop on the Skyride to Paradise Point and enjoy drinks or dinner overlooking the harbor at Charlotte Amalie.  So whether you’re into adventurous activities or relaxing together away from it all, St. Thomas is the perfect spot to escape together. 

Kristin from Snorkel and Hike

Florida Keys, Florida

When it comes to romantic destinations in the USA, the Florida Keys are on top of the list!

Located in the southern part of the Sunshine State, the Keys are famous for their stunning state parks, wildlife, beaches, and quaint towns.

This popular honeymoon destination in Florida is ideal for couples who want to enjoy warm weather in winter. December to March is the best time of the year to visit. It’s dry and warm, making it very pleasant for visitors. 

If you want to relax, book a resort or houseboat in Key West. There are loads of restaurants and bars where you can go for a romantic dinner. The sunset from Mallory square is exceptional. 

If you like outdoor activities, rent a double kayak and explore the mangroves. It’s very pretty and you may see manatees!

Another thing you can do is go to Bahia Honda State Park. Situated in Big Pine Key, it’s home to stunning beaches. It’s also a bit of a hidden gem which means that you will stay away from the crowds and enjoy quality time on the beach with your other half. It’s also a good place for a photoshoot. You can book a private session with one of the local photographers and make memories!

Finally, make sure to go on a cruise. If you are on a budget, you can choose a dinner sunset cruise from Key West but if you can afford it, a private boat tour with drinks and dinner is the ultimate romantic experience in the Keys!

Pauline from Bee Loved City

Charleston, South Carolina

If you are looking for romantic destinations in the US, Charleston is the place to head!

Located on the east coast, Charleston is a popular destination and with good reason, Charleston is full of romance and charm. Start your visit with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Historic District. 

Next, wander this area full of historic homes, old mansions, and art galleries. Make a visit to the Nathanial Russell House Mansion to have a glimpse into the high society in Charleston. There are many quaint bed and breakfasts and options such as the stunning Wentworth Mansion where you can stay in the area for the ultimate romantic trip.

When you are ready to leave the Historic District, the romance can continue with some beach time on the nearby coastline. 

To escape the crowds, head to Sullivan’s Island. This affluent area has some great beaches. 

To help finish off the day, make sure you take a sunset harbor cruise just for two. Sparkling wine at sunset will set the mood for a fantastic evening. Have dinner at the Circa 1886 restaurant. This restaurant is located located in a former carriage house at the Wentworth Mansion. Here the food is divine, the service fantastic and the mood, ultra-romantic. It’s the perfect end to a perfect romantic break!

Suzi from Survey Suzi

Chincoteague Island, Virginia

A hidden beach gem that is ideal for a romantic getaway is the beautiful Chincoteague Island in Virginia. Located about two hours north of Virginia Beach, Chincoteague is a more affordable (and less crowded) option for travelers. This makes it a great romantic destination. 

Chincoteague and its neighbor Assateague are a great mixture of nature and relaxing beaches. One of the best things to do in Chincoteague is to see a sunrise at the beach. While the sunsets are also gorgeous, to see the sun rise above the water is truly breathtaking. Since Chincoteague is not as well known as Virginia Beach or Ocean City, Maryland, the beaches are much less crowded! 

If you would like a break from the beach, there is plenty of nature to explore. You can visit the Wildlife Loop Trail which is a great paved path for biking. You can see a variety of birds but also the Assateague Ponies. These ponies are unique to the island and are the stars of the top annual festival – the Annual Pony Swim! This event is held in July to raise funds to take care of the herd. You can even get a beautiful view of the area at the Chincoteague lighthouse. 

One of the best things about visiting Chincoteague is the thirty-seven miles of beach! There are plenty of places to get away from the crowd. The affordability, beautiful beaches, and wonderful nature make Chincoteague a great romantic getaway. 

Pamela from The Directionally Challenger Traveler 

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard is a great romantic destination located only a couple of hours from Boston and one of the best places to visit in the USA.  Going on the ferry from the mainland, you automatically feel your cares slipping away.

There are several towns on the island each with its own distinctive personality. Depending on how much privacy you want, you can choose between elegant Edgartown or the rural beauty of West Tisbury and Chilmark. If you are a couple that craves the buzz of activity, check out Oak Bluffs.

Martha’s Vineyard abounds with romantic things to do. For example, you can visit a farmer’s market and source your ingredients for a picnic on the beach. Go on a hike and find a quiet secluded beach for the two of you. Although the main beaches are busy, there are still plenty of hideaway spots on the island. If you have a beach permit for an overland vehicle, you can even get away from everyone else on the public beaches.

Other great couples’ activities include playing tennis, sailing, kayaking, or just hanging out by the pool. Checking out the five different lighthouses on Martha’s Vineyard is a great way to tour the island. There are plenty of fine dining establishments for your evenings, such as the Outermost Inn restaurant in Aquinnah and L’etoile in Edgartown. Nightlife is subdued on the island so you won’t be having many late nights.

The hotels on the Vineyard tend to attract families because many of the inns on Martha’s Vineyard are adults only (but pets are allowed!). Many couples highly rate the Hob Knob Inn in Edgartown for its location and its elegance. The Beach Plum Inn is another good option on the other side of the island. You can see the famous sunset over Menemsha Village but without the crowds. Couples may want to consider renting a cottage which will be a cheaper option for stays longer than a weekend. During the summer high season, accommodation tends to require minimum stays, especially on the weekends.

Have a bit of extra time? Head beyond Massachusetts to explore New England; see the beauty of Vermont and enjoy the many, many things to do in Maine.

Shobha from Martha’s Vineyard Tourist

Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.  There are so many wonderful things that couples can do together.

Mohonk Mountain House is a fantastical collection of fairytale-like buildings around a mountain lake. It makes a great place to stay and explore the surrounding area.  You can row a canoe together on Mohonk Lake, take one of the many great Hudson Valley hikes together, enjoy a brunch with spectacular views of the valley below or share a spa treatment and jacuzzi together. 

In nearby Kingston, you can take a cruise on the Hudson River, past lighthouses, islands and mansions from the Gilded Age.  There are several incredibly romantic restaurants in Kingston including the Ole Savannah, with classic southern fare right on the water, and Armadillo, where there is a lovely garden for al fresco dining.

If you like history, you can visit several historic mansions and wander through the gardens down to the Hudson River.  Staatsburg Manor and Locust Grove have especially lovely romantic walks, and the Vanderbilt Mansion has gorgeous views of the river.  

There are also several cider houses and wineries in the Hudson Valley.  You can wander through vineyards and apple orchards before enjoying a tasting – and even have wood fire pizza together in the gardens at several of them, including Westwind Orchards in Accord and the Brooklyn Cider House (which is New Paltz, not Brooklyn).

The Hudson Valley is one of the most romantic places you can visit!

James Ian at Travel Collecting

Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City, Michigan is an incredibly romantic destination for a couples getaway as the region is known for its exceptional wine, lighthouses and incredible views of the Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan.   

Begin your day by snapping photos of the World’s largest cherry pie pan that won the Guinness World Record on July 25, 1987!  The pie’s net weight was 28,350 pounds!  If you are looking for some exercise, rent some kayaks near the beach for a quiet paddling adventure down the Boardman River. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy some quality time with your loved one. 

Grab some lunch after kayaking at The Dish Café, located in downtown Traverse City. This restaurant features healthy salads, sandwiches, and wraps with out-of-this-world ingredients like fig jam, Havarti cheese, and spicy Ahi tuna. The Buddha Bowl is my favorite as it is very fresh with ingredients such as quinoa, almonds, hummus, tomatoes, and feta.   

After lunch, embark on a wine tasting tour on Old Mission Peninsula or the Sutton’s Bay region.  Many of the wineries, including my favorite, Chateau Chantal, offer incredible views of the Grand Traverse Bay while sipping a glass of wine on their veranda.  Enjoy the afternoon and evening by sharing wine and appetizers the perfect fantastic romantic day.

Sherry from Travel-Mi

Portland, Oregon

Having visited Portland a few times with my girlfriend, I can assure you that there is no end to romantic possibilities in Portland. It’s got gorgeous parks, nice hikes, intimate bars, fine dining experiences, and a lot more.

The Japanese garden of Portland should definitely be on your Portland bucket list. Strolling hand in hand in the beautiful gardens and lakes full of lotus blossoms, watching the fish in the Koi pond, and a lovely tea house to end the tour can surely be romantic.

And after leaving the Japanese garden, maybe you can head to the International Rose Test Garden where the smell of roses takes over everything else. Located in Washington Park, it is on a high point, overlooking the city.

Love movies? Then head to the Living Room Theater in downtown Portland which comes with a European-style café and lounge with oversized chairs with footstools. Catch an independent movie and then have some craft beer and good food at the cafe.

While there are many upscale bars, none other comes close to Xport. Here you can enjoy some Langkawi prawns and sip some of their finest wine collection while having some of the epic views of Portland including the mountains and the bridges. 

So if you are visiting the USA on your honeymoon or anniversary or just on a romantic trip, Portland is a great option. And if you need a visa for the USA like me, here is how to get a USA tourist visa. 

Deb from The Visa Project