I would agree with just about everything mentioned about renters insurance, etc. Lots of sound advice given. As for places to visit, a couple of people have mentioned Sedona - absolutely yes, it is a must. I would also add Santa Fe, New Mexico and Monterrey, California. Be cautious crossing the Rockies - read up on routings and watch the weather very very closely. Travelling in June/July, you will be in prime time for the thunderstorms that develop in the midwest. These are not like anything you will have seen in Europe - you can get lines stretching from New York State all the way to Texas. They develop fast, especially in late afternoons, and can fire up very quickly. Accomodations - sign up for membership in the various hotel/motel chains frequent guest award cards - they are free and can get you a free night stay after a few nights stay. (A lot of the hotel chains operate a number of brands of hotels). Many motels/hotels have vans "limousines" that can pick you up / drop you off at airfields....a lot cheaper than taxis. Make sure you have current charts - all the FBO's sell them. Join AOPA -Aircraft Onwers and Pilots Association - they have some useful booklets as well as an annual airfield guide that is for the most part fairly accurate. Includes names of FBO's, hotels/restaurants nearby, etc.