ABOUT NORTH CAROLINA 

North Carolina is a place where long-standing Southern traditions sit comfortably alongside modern growth. From historic towns and cultural landmarks to fast-growing cities driven by research, technology, and business, the state combines a strong sense of identity with a forward-looking mindset. Known as the Tar Heel State, North Carolina is recognised for its rich history, welcoming communities, and deep cultural roots.

Its landscape is impressively diverse. In the West, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer sweeping views, hiking trails, and some of the most scenic drives in the eastern United States. The central Piedmont region is defined by rolling hills, farmland, and major urban centres, while the east opens out into the Coastal Plain, with rivers, wetlands, and access to the Atlantic coast. Whether you enjoy mountain trails, countryside roads, or coastal scenery, outdoor experiences are always close by.

History plays an important role across the state. From early colonial settlements and Revolutionary War sites to Civil War landmarks and historic downtowns, every region tells part of North Carolina’s story. Cities such as Asheville, Raleigh, and Wilmington balance preservation with renewal, keeping their heritage alive while continuing to evolve.

At the same time, North Carolina is firmly focused on the future. The Research Triangle has become a global centre for education, technology, and healthcare, while Charlotte stands out as a major financial hub. Smaller cities and towns, including areas around North Wilkesboro, continue to grow through industry, culture, and tourism.

Sport is a key part of life here. NASCAR has deep roots in the state, highlighted by racing at North Wilkesboro Speedway and at Charlotte Motor Speedway, while college sports draw huge followings across the region. Professional teams like the Carolina Panthers (NFL), Charlotte Hornets (NBA), and Carolina Hurricanes (NHL) ensure year-round passion for sport.

The food scene reflects North Carolina’s character just as strongly. Famous barbecue styles vary by region, complemented by Southern classics such as biscuits, fried chicken, and sweet desserts. Local craft breweries and distilleries add to the experience, making food and drink an essential part of any visit.

Quick snapshot – North Carolina

• Population: About 10.8 million (2023)
• Area: 53,819 square miles (139,391 km²)
• Capital: Raleigh
• Key Motorsports Location: North Wilkesboro, in northwestern North Carolina

Entry into the United States

North Carolina is part of the United States, so standard U.S. entry requirements apply. Entry conditions depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

• Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Citizens of eligible countries may travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
• Visitor Visas: Travelers who are not eligible for the VWP typically need a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visa.
• ESTA: Visitors traveling under the Visa Waiver Program must apply online for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before boarding their flight.
• Passport: All international visitors must hold a valid passport for the entire duration of their stay in the U.S.

Currency

As throughout the United States, North Carolina uses the U.S. Dollar (USD), symbol $, divided into 100 cents. The U.S. dollar is one of the world’s most widely used and easily exchangeable currencies.

Typical mid-2025 exchange rates:

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90–0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.70–0.75 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 110–115 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.25–1.30 CAD

Cash, credit cards, and mobile payments such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted. ATMs are readily available in cities, towns, and near major attractions.

Electricity

North Carolina follows standard U.S. electrical specifications.

• Socket type: Type A and Type B (two flat pins, sometimes with a round grounding pin)
• Voltage: 120V
• Frequency: 60Hz

Travelers from Europe and most of Asia will need a plug adapter, and some devices may also require a voltage converter.

Mobile services

Mobile coverage in North Carolina is generally strong, including rural areas and around cities such as North Wilkesboro, Winston-Salem, Charlotte, and Raleigh.

• AT&T: Broad statewide coverage with reliable 5G service
• Verizon Wireless: Excellent overall reliability and strong rural coverage
• T-Mobile: Competitive pricing with an expanding 5G network, especially in urban areas

Short-term visitors can also use eSIM services such as Airalo for easy mobile data setup without visiting a physical store.

Fun facts about North Carolina

• “First in Flight”: North Carolina is where the Wright brothers made the first successful powered airplane flight in 1903, in Kitty Hawk.
• Music Heritage: The state has deep roots in bluegrass, folk, and country music, with North Wilkesboro historically linked to early NASCAR and regional music culture.
• Motorsports Tradition: North Carolina is considered the heart of NASCAR, home to many teams and drivers, with North Wilkesboro Speedway playing a key role in the sport’s history.
• Great Smoky Mountains: Part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies along North Carolina’s western border and is among the most visited national parks in the U.S.
• Diverse Landscapes: North Carolina stretches from Atlantic Ocean beaches in the east to the Appalachian Mountains in the west, offering remarkable geographic variety.