Honest thoughts on United States after my first visit

First time in United States and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. New York was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best lobster roll I've ever had. Times Square was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: distances between attractions, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: world-class national parks, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.