I had two options for visas in regards to the United States. The first, was to apply for a visa which would give me permission to stay in the US from six to 24 months. The second, was to use the United States visa waiver scheme, whereby people from certain countries can stay up to three months in the US with no special application needed.

I've decided to go for the second option, mainly due to monetary concerns. The north American section of my trip will be the most expensive, so I have decided to get to Mexico as swiftly as possible, and within the three months that the visa waiver scheme allows. Once in Mexico, I'll probably take a couple of well deserved weeks off fom cycling!!

Whichever option I chose, all travellers have to fill out an online form stating their declaration to travel, which is at tis website  https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/ . Hardly the most friendly URL in the world, but my registration was quick, and I am glad to say, successful.