1 North America 0 Earth <strong>North America</strong> is the third largest continent, with a surface area of 24,221,490 sq km. It is located in the northern hemisphere, between the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean and to the north of South America. North America's highest point is Alaska's Mount McKinley, which rises to 6,194 m (20,320 ft) above sea level. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Ancient Mayan Ruins</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a>) It would be impossible not to admire the magical structures of this remenant civilization left from over a 1000 years ago.</li><li><strong>CN Tower</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a>) At 553 m (1815 ft) the worlds tallest free standing structure (including the worlds highest observation deck) is just one of many cool things to check out in Toronto.</li><li><strong>Death Valley</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>) The lowest place in the western hemisphere, your sure to be impressed by the deserts heat and bare beauty.</li><li><strong>Grand Canyon</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>) The enormity and complexity of nature is sure to stand out as you stare at your surroundings shaped by what appears to be a mere stream 1500 meters below your feet.</li><li><strong>Laying on a Beach in Hawaii</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>) While technically not on the continent of north america, the perfect beaches, relaxing people, and pounding surf could not be left out of the highlights list. </li><li><strong>Mexican Cuisine</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a>) With strong influences from Spain plus a dash of flavor from <span class="intralink">africa</span>n, french and native americans the food in many <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> street corners can be some of the best in the world. </li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a></strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>) Sometimes considered the capital of the world, from it's iconic statue of liberty and empire state building to it's relaxing central park, you haven't seen urban amazement until you've been there.</li><li><strong>Niagra Falls </strong>(<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a>/<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>) Straddling the border of the U.S. and Canada, these waterfalls make up one of the seven natural wonders of the world. </li><li><strong>Skiing or Snowboarding in Canada</strong> With so much of the country covered by snow and mountains theres plenty of places to shred a bit of snow. Of those Whistler is probably the most popular. There you will find one of the largest resorts in the world and the home to the 2008 winter olympics. </li></ul><h2>Getting In</h2><p>While air travel into a North American country has always required a passport, stricter border laws are now requiring passports during local travel between countries. This recent change primarly affects anyone entering or re-entering the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/United_States"><span class="intralink">United States</span></a>. Previously, other forms of identification were sufficient for travel between <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a>, the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/United_States"><span class="intralink">United States</span></a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> (if you were a citizen of one of those countries) but this is no longer the case. Whenever you travel across a border, you should have your passport with you. </p><h2>Culture <br /></h2><h3>Language </h3><p>The three most common languages spoken in North America are english, spanish, and french. In <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> both english and french are official languages. In the <span class="intralink">United States</span> english is the primary language however spanish is also commonly spoken within the states that border <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a>. In <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Mexico">Mexico</a> spanish is the official language, however in larger tourist areas, english speakers can be found.</p><h3>Regions </h3><p>Due to the large size of the three main countries that makeup <span class="intralink">North America</span>, cultures vary dramatically within each country. In general though one could say that Canada and the U.S. share many similarities and traditions and common historical and economic ties often bonds them together (although their political differences are often more complicated). <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> on the other hand, shares more traditional commonality with countries throughout <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/central_america" class="intralink">central america</a>.</p><h2>Health </h2><h3>Food and Water </h3><p>Within <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> and the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/United_States"><span class="intralink">United States</span></a> health standards are usually high. Drinking tap water or eating produce should not be a problem and you are unlikely to find any major health scares that you wouldn't see in any other 1st world nation. In <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> however water standards can vary from good to poor depending on the city or area you are in. There it is best to either ask a local, or to be on the safe side, rely on bottled water and drinks without ice. In those areas you should also be aware that the water used to wash fresh fruits and vegetables may also get you sick. Finally although the Mexican cuisine can be absolutely wonderful, you should be aware that is considerably spicier than local food in the U.S. or <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a>. </p><h3>Smoking </h3><p>Many ares of the U.S. and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> have recently banned smoking in public areas (such as restaurant). These laws can vary between states or providences so its probably best to observe what the locals are doing. </p><h2>Communications</h2><h3>phone</h3><p>The Country code for both the U.S. and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> is 1. Both countries also share a similar numbering structure: a three digit area code, followed by a seven digit local number. You can also make calls between these two countries (as well as parts of the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/caribbean" class="intralink">caribbean</a>) as if it was only an intracountry call. Within the last few years, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> has also made efforts to harmonize their phone number format. The country code for <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> is 52.</p> 37.32 -95.71 flora, 66.27.75.200, 130.191.162.170, 125.120.105.167, chrislhendricks, 220.191.107.45, 70.230.193.169, jeremy 0 Ryan Holliday, Hesty, Todd VerBeek, Jordan Mills, Ricardo, Evan Prodromou, Colin Jensen, Jordan Weinstein, Benjamin FrantzDale and Yann Forget, Wikitravel user(s) Episteme, Jonboy, Yzerfontein, InterLangBot, Huttite, Chris j wood, Nils, Akubra, Dhum Dhum, Fuzheado and Karen Johnson and Anonymous user(s) of Wikitravel 2008-07-07 18:18:46 2 United States 1 North America The land of the free. <h2>Highlights </h2><ul><li><strong>Death Valley National Park </strong>(<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>) At the lowest place in the western hemisphere, you are sure to be impressed by the deserts heat and bare beauty.</li><li><strong>Grand Canyon National Park</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/arizona" class="intralink">Arizona</a>) The enormity and complexity of nature is sure to stand out as you stare at your surroundings shaped by what appears to be a mere stream 1500 meters below your feet.</li><li><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Hawaii"><strong>Hawaii</strong></a> Perfect beaches, a layed back lifestyle, pounding surf, world class golf, tropical rainforests, breath-taking volcanoes, amazing weather, and on on, Hawaii is one of those places thats hard not to consider paradise.</li><li><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Las_Vegas"><strong>Las Vegas</strong></a> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/nevada" class="intralink">Nevada</a>) Sin City is the place where dreams are made (and broken). This desert city has made a name for itself for it's fantasy land of mega casinos. You can gamble, watch an elvis impersonation, have a 10 minute wedding, club hop, drink, pass-out, and wake up all without having any idea what time of day it is. </li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a></strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>) The entertainment capital of the word will certainly keep you entertained. The stars of Hollywood, the fun of Disneyland, the beaches of Malibu, and the shopping in Beverly Hills are all just the beginning of what this vibrant city has to offer </li><li><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_Orleans"><strong>New Orleans</strong></a> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/louisiana" class="intralink">Louisiana</a>) With the world famous Mardis Gras celebration, the historic french quarter, and amazing jazz festivals, not evan a natural disaster can bring this city down.<br /></li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a></strong> Sometimes considered the capital of the world, from it's iconic statue of liberty and empire state building to it's relaxing central park, you haven't seen urban amazement until you've been there.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> D.C.</strong> America's capital is more than just politcs. Here you will find some of the country's best museams, architecture, and historical points of interest. </li><li><strong>Yellowstone Nationa Park</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/wyoming" class="intralink">Wyoming</a>) Spectacular geysers and hot springs litter this world famous park. If the amazing geothermic activity is not enough, the abundance of wildlife viewing in the park can keep you entranced for your entire visit. </li><li><strong>Yosemite National Park</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>) Hike through beautiful forests, admire gaping waterfalls , relax in lush valleys, and watch climbers attack some of the worlds most challenging granite cliffs. America's natural wonderland is sure to impress. </li></ul><h2>Getting Here</h2><h3>Visa Requirements<br /></h3><p>Citizens of the 27 countries within the Visa Waiver Program, as well as Canadians, Mexicans living in the border region and Bermudans, do not require an advance visa for entry into the United States, although other conditions may apply. Most notably, a machine-readable passport (with your information on the bottom of the front page) will be required failing which they will have to apply for a visa, and Mexicans living in the border must also apply for a reusable Border Crossing Card.<br /><br />Passports issued after October 26, 2005 need digital photographs embedded on them, and passports issued after October 26, 2006 must be e-passports, which have a chip embedded with the user's information. Some countries, e.g. France, did not have e-passports available at that date, meaning that citizens from these countries with newer passports but not e-passport have to obtain a tourist visa, which can be a cumbersome, costly and time-consuming process. If you have a non e-passport issued after October 26, 2006 and you are from a visa waiver country, try having your government exchange it for an e-passport, explaining that you wish to travel to the US.<br /><br />The countries under the Visa waiver program are <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Andorra">Andorra</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Austria">Austria</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Australia">Australia</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Belgium">Belgium</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Brunei">Brunei</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Denmark">Denmark</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Finland">Finland</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/France">France</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Germany">Germany</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Iceland">Iceland</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Ireland">Ireland</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Italy">Italy</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Japan">Japan</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Liechtenstein">Liechtenstein</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Luxembourg">Luxembourg</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Monaco">Monaco</a>, the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Netherlands">Netherlands</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_Zealand">New Zealand</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Norway">Norway</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Portugal">Portugal</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/San_Marino">San Marino</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Singapore">Singapore</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Slovenia">Slovenia</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Spain">Spain</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Sweden">Sweden</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Switzerland">Switzerland</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/United_Kingdom">United Kingdom</a>.<br /><br />Visa waiver visitors should note that returning the green card stapled to their passport on entry is their responsibility. If it is not returned at the end of your visit, you might be deemed to have stayed in the US and then be refused entry in future. Airline or border staff will typically take this card from you on departure, but check and insist on it, and if you leave the country with it in your possession, contact US officials about how to return it and update your departure record as soon as possible. You will need to present a substantial amount of evidence that you in fact left the country before the waiver expired, such as foreign payslips or credit card bills for the relevant dates; it is much easier to return the slip when boarding for departure. Air New Zealand has information about what to do if your slip is not collected, but double check this procedure with your US embassy or consulate.<br /><br />For the rest of the world (including Mexicans not living in the border region), the visa application process is onerous, expensive, and slow. The application fee is US$100 (not refundable even if your application is rejected). Face-to-face interviews (where the official needs to be convinced that you are not a "potential immigrant") at the nearest US embassy or consulate are required for many nationalities, and waits for interview slots and visa processing can add up to several months.<br /><br />The best advice for travelers today, from any country, is not to assume, but to check on documentation requirements with the United States State Department or with your nearest United States consulate. </p><h3>Customs and Immigration </h3><p>All visitors go through a short interview at immigration, where the official tries to determine if the traveler's stated purpose of visit is valid. Be prepared to show proof. For example if you are on a business visit, it is advisable to have an invitation letter from the company you are visiting, and a return ticket. If you are a tourist, you'll probably need to show proof of hotel bookings, etc. Whether they choose to give you a hard time or let you in without much notice seems to depend on your citizenship, ethnicity, and general appearance (shabby clothing and long hair may elicit greater attention than casual business attire, for instance). Once they decide to let you in, you are fingerprinted and a digital photograph is taken. As in most countries, it is also important to note that customs officials are required by law to treat any comments about bombs, terrorism, or other security issues extremely seriously; unless you are looking for an excuse to spend an hour or so being interrogated do not make even the most flippant remark about any of these subjects within earshot of any customs or other security official.<br /><br />For non-residents, your entry forms will need to state the street address of the location where you will be staying. The name of your hotel, hostel, university etc may not be sufficient; you must provide the street address including the street number. Look this up before leaving home. If staying in multiple locations, provide the address where you will be spending the first night of your stay. This also means it is unwise to arrive in the United States without planned accommodation for your first night.<br /><br />The Department of Homeland Security has now named the program of additional security measures US-VISIT and is now piloting a measure where you need to leave your fingerprint and photograph at a kiosk even while leaving. Currently, this is applicable at 12 airports and 2 seaports. Check the list, as most of the important ports of entry are covered.<br /><br />Travelers from other continents may not bring meat or raw fruit or vegetables into the U.S., but may bring cooked nonmeats, such as bread. See APHIS for details. You will be given a sheet of paper with checkboxes for products such as food. Answering "yes" to any of these checkboxes may result in a search of your luggage and a longer interrogation about your motive for travelling in the US, even though the product is legal to import.</p><h3>By plane<br /></h3><p>Most visitors from outside <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> arrive in the United States by plane. While even medium sized inland cities such as, for example, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Pittsburgh">Pittsburgh</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Pennsylvania">Pennsylvania</a>, have an international airport there are limited flights to most of these airports and most travelers find themselves entering the US at one of the major entry points along the coasts. The primary entry points to the country are:</p><p> </p><ul><li>From the east <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a> City, Chicago, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/atlanta" class="intralink">Atlanta</a>, Boston, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>, DC and Miami are the primary entry points from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a> and other transatlantic points of departure.</li><li>From the west <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Seattle">Seattle</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> are the primary entry points for travelers from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/asia" class="intralink">Asia</a> and other transpacific points of departure. <br /></li><li>From the south <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Miami">Miami</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida</a> is the primary entry point from Latin America, primarily <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/south_america" class="intralink">South America</a>. Also, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Dallas">Dallas</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Houston">Houston</a> are major international waypoints. <br /></li></ul><p><br />Note that the United States does not recognize the concept of international transit. You must have a valid visa to enter the United States, even if you are continuing on a flight to different country. It is advisable to avoid transiting through the U.S. if you don't have a visa. Further, when booking flights to the US note that you will be required to clear customs and immigration at your first US stop, not at your final destination, even if you have an onward flight. Allow at least 2 hours of stopover (ideally more than 3) at your first US stop.</p><h3>By car</h3><p>If coming to the country by car via <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> or Canada, be sure to have any additional documents required (such as car insurance, rental agreements, drivers license, etc.) before trying to enter the US, as the process has become more strict in the last few years.<br /><br />The entry points into the U.S. by road from Canada or <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a>, are too numerous to mention and travelers should consult a map.</p><h3>By boat</h3><p>Entering the US by sea, other than on a registered cruise ship, may be difficult. The most common entry points for private boats are <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> and the surrounding area, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida</a>, and the Eastern coastal states.<br /><br />Some passenger ferries exist between <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> and the US, notable from the Atlantic Provinces to New England, and from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Victoria">Victoria</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/British_Columbia">British <span class="intralink">Columbia</span></a> to <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Seattle">Seattle</a>.</p><h3>By train</h3><p>Amtrak offers international service from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Vancouver">Vancouver</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Toronto">Toronto</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Montreal">Montreal</a> into the US. There are no train services from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> into the U.S.</p><h2>History</h2><p>America was once populated by peoples who are thought to have migrated from northeast <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/asia" class="intralink">Asia</a>. In the United States those that remain are known as Native Americans, or American Indians. With populations once in the tens of millions, most led tribal, hunter-gatherer lifestyles, although some developed political enclaves based on agriculture, such as the Five Nations of the Northeast and the Pueblo peoples of the Southwest.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>an interests in the region began at the end of the 15th as Christopher Columbus believed he had found an alternate passage to the West Indies. During the 16th and 17th centuries, various parts of both North and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/south_america" class="intralink">South America</a> were colonized by several <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>an nations and/or their religious missionaries, including <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Spain">Spain</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/France">France</a>, Great Britain, the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Netherlands">Netherlands</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Sweden">Sweden</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Russia">Russia</a>. Of those, the British colonies in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Virginia">Virginia</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Massachusetts">Massachusetts</a> were the kernel of what we now know as the United States of America. By the early 18th century, 13 colonies ranged along the Atlantic coast from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> to present-day Maine. Their growth drove the displacement the Native American population westward and the extinction of many others, as well as the end of the embryonic Dutch and Swedish footholds.<br /><br />The southern areas, because of a longer growing season, had richer agricultural prospects, especially for cotton and tobacco. Large plantations developed with most of the labor being provided by <span class="intralink">Africa</span>n slaves, as was typical of most of Central and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/south_america" class="intralink">South America</a>. The Northern colonies developed as mercantile societies modelled after the "home" country, Britain.<br /><br />In the late 18th century, colonial revolutionaries declared independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776, eventually realized by a bloody Revolutionary War. The colonies formed a federal government, with its Constitution inspired by Enlightenment-era ideas about government and human rights. In the late 18th and early 19th century, this government established itself and grew westward, under the "Manifest Destiny" for the nation to expand to the Pacific Ocean.<br /><br />Territories in the Midwest were added as new states, and the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/louisiana" class="intralink">Louisiana</a> Purchase of 1803 gave the United States nominal control of former French territory along the Mississippi River. Much of this area was however contested by Britain, especially in the northeast. <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida</a> was purchased in 1813 from the Spanish; American settlers in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/texas" class="intralink">Texas</a> rebelled against the Mexican government, setting up a republic that was absorbed into the union. The Mexican-American War of the 1840s won the northern territories of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a>, including such states as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/arizona" class="intralink">Arizona</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_Mexico">New <span class="intralink">Mexico</span></a>, giving the continental US the rough outlines it has today. The marginalization of the Native Americans, and their concentration in the west by treaty, military force, and by the inadvertent spread of <span class="intralink">Europe</span>an diseases, continued apace.<br /><br />By the mid-19th century the differences between North and South had become severe. Though slavery was not the only issue between the two, it was an important one. In particular, the question of whether the new states in the west would be "slave" or "free" became a critical issue. By the 1860s, the Southern states decided to secede from the Union and civil war broke out. It was one of the bloodiest conflicts in history, costing hundreds of thousands of lives. With the victory of the North a single country was maintained. While slavery was abolished, the former slaves by and large remained an economic and social underclass in the South.<br /><br />The late 19th century saw the U.S. cementing its power on the continent and making tentative expansions abroad. Alaska was purchased from the Russians in 1867, and Hawaii was annexed in 1898. The Spanish-American War, fought for <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Cuba">Cuba</a>'s independence (as the official story goes), gained the first "colonial" territories: the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Philippines">Philippines</a> (later granted independence) and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Puerto_Rico">Puerto Rico</a> (which remains by choice a US territory).<br /><br />In the Eastern cities of the United States, an immigration boom had begun. Southern and Eastern <span class="intralink">Europe</span>ans, especially Italians, and Slavs, including many Jews fleeing Russian pogroms, joined Irish refugees to become a cheap labor force for the country's growing industrialization. Many Southern <span class="intralink">Africa</span>n-Americans fled rural poverty for the relative security of industrial jobs in the North. Other immigrants, including many Scandinavians and Germans, moved to the now-opened territories in the West and Midwest, where land was available for free to anyone who would develop it. A network of railroads, most notably the transcontinental railroad which runs from the Atlantic to the Pacific, crisscrossed the country, allowing faster movement of people and materials, and thus accelerating development.<br /><br />With its entrance into World War I near the end of the conflict, the United States established itself as a world power. The creation of real wealth grew rapidly in this period. In the Roaring 20s stock speculation created an immense "bubble" which, when it burst in October of 1929, created economic havoc, known as the Great Depression, across the country and around the world. This crisis exacerbated the disaffection among the working classes in the United States and around the world and led to a rise in socialist thinking that was to have a large effect on the rest of the century.<br /><br />In late 1941 the United States entered World War II, which had begun in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a> in 1939. In Alliance with the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union, the U.S. helped defeat the fascist regimes in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Italy">Italy</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Germany">Germany</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Japan">Japan</a>. At the end of this war of unprecedented scale, the United States, because of its relative isolation and power, became the dominant economic power in the world, responsible for nearly half of the world's production. The Soviet Union, a former ally though now devastated from the war, still possessed a great deal of military power. It became a rival of the United States and the other "western" countries, giving rise to what is now known as the Cold War.<br /><br />Also at the end of WWII, <span class="intralink">Africa</span>n Americans, who had long suffered de facto disenfranchisement, demanded equal rights, with widespread demonstrations. The status of women and other "overdue" societal changes that had been contained by the effort of the war also came into question. Soon after, the unpopular war in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Vietnam">Vietnam</a>, a by-product of the Cold War, added to the social strife. This tension flowered into a virtual revolution (now known as the civil rights movement). Significant changes to the country were left in its wake. The economic and political conditions for <span class="intralink">Africa</span>n Americans substantially improved and a majority of women entered the workplace. This had a powerful effect of changing traditional homelife, the workplace and the economy. </p><p>The modern era is dominated by American struggles with the end of the cold war and the beginning of the war on terror. As a population deeply divided on the issues, the near future is cetain to be dominated by the after affects of it's increased vigilence. Despite this, American tradition, representing freedom and oppurtunity, is unlikely to waiver. </p><h2>Government</h2><p>The United Statesis often considered a democracy, but more specifically it is a constitutional republic. Central to this is maintaining checks and balances between areas of government and ensuring that majority rule does not overrun the rights of the minority. Three branches of government balance power within the United States.</p><ul><li><strong>The Executive Branch </strong>is made up of an elected President and Vice President and appointed Cabinent members (which must be approved by the Senate). </li><li><strong>The Legislative Branch</strong> is made of a 100 member Senate (2 members are elected for each state) and a 435 member House of Representive (currently 1 member elected for every 690,000 citizens). </li><li><strong>The Judicial Branch </strong>is made up of a 9 member Supreme Court and lower level fedral courts. Justices are appointed by the President but most be approved by the Senate. </li></ul><p>Three levels of goverment (federal, state, local) divide up the work of running the nation. </p><p>The nation's capital is <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Washington_DC"><span class="intralink">Washington</span> DC</a>.</p><h3>Politics </h3><p>While numerous political parties exist, the system is dominated by the Democratic and Republican parties. The current Democratic party tends to be more liberal on fiscal and social issues and attracts much of its support from urban voters, especially in the Northeast and West Coast. The Republican party is more conservative on these issues and attracts much support from voters in rural areas, especially in the South. Both parties are fairly centrist (but to the right of parties in most <span class="intralink">Europe</span>an nations). Far-right or far-left political movements that might take hold in other places tend to do poorly here.<br /><br />While most domestic political issues have little impact on international travelers, the current debate within the U.S. over immigration is worthy of attention. Ongoing concerns about the availability of jobs, the question of national identity for a "nation of immigrants", the still-open wounds of the country's racist heritage, and new fears of political violence from foreign nationals, have all contributed to impassioned views on the subject. Illegal immigration (primarily from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a>) is one of the focuses of this debate, but it spills over into policies regarding port/border controls, "guest workers", and even permanent legal immigration. Hostility rarely takes violent form, but suspicion about a visitor's legal status or intentions may lead to discourteous treatment or unpleasant situations, and heated discussions. </p><h2>Money</h2><h3>Economy </h3><p>The US has the most powerful, diverse, and technologically advanced economy in the world with a per capita GDP of $30,200, the largest among major industrial nations. In this market-oriented economy private individuals and business firms make most of the decisions and government buys needed goods and services predominantly in the private marketplace. US business firms enjoy considerably greater flexibility than their counterparts in Western <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Japan">Japan</a> in decisions to expand capital plant, lay off surplus workers and develop new products. At the same time they face higher barriers to entry in their rivals' home markets than the barriers to entry of foreign firms in US markets. In all economic sectors US firms are at or near the forefront in technological advances, especially in computers and in medical aerospace and military equipment although this advantage has narrowed since the end of World War II. The onrush of technology largely explains the gradual development of a "two-tier labor market" in which those at the bottom lack the education and the professional/technical skills of those at the top and more and more fail to get pay raises health insurance coverage and other benefits.</p><h3>Banking </h3><p>Banks can be found in nearly all U.S. cities. There you should be able to cash traveler checks (you will need your passport) and receive cash advances against credit cards (though usually with a hefty fee). Banks will usually not exchange currency (though sometimes in larger cities they will), and it is probably best if you change your money before entering the U.S. or at the airport. To withdraw money, 24 hour ATMs are available at nearly every bank and can also be found at many public places such as malls, theatres, gas stations, amusement parks, etc. </p><h3>Currency</h3><p>The official US currency is the United States dollar (symbol: $), divided into 100 cents (¢). Conversion rates vary daily and are available online. U.S. dollars can be found in denominations of 1's, 5's, 10's, 20's, 50's, and 100's. Pennies (1 cent), Nickles (5 cents), Dimes (10 cents), and Quarters (25 cents) make up the coins. Occasionally one may see a rare 50 cent or 1 dollar coin as well.</p><h3>Credit Cards</h3><p>Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely used. Other cards such as American Express and Discover are also accepted, but not as widely. Almost all sit-down restaurants, hotels, and shops will accept credit cards. Authorization is made by signing a sales slip or sometimes a computer pad. When making large purchases, it is fairly typical for the shop to ask for picture identification, but no additional security precautions are taken, so guard your cards carefully. Shops may also be suspicious of foreign cards and demand identification.<br /><br />Gas station pumps, selected public transportation vending machines and some other types of automated vending machines often have credit/debit card readers. Note, however, that some automated vending machines accepting credit cards ask for the Zip code of the US billing address for the card, which effectively prevents them from accepting foreign cards. For gas stations, it would be advisable to check first with the station attendant inside.</p><h3>Tax</h3><p>Most states have a sales tax, ranging from 2.9% to nearly 10% of the retail price; 4-6% is typical. Sales tax is almost never included in posted prices (except for gasoline, and in most states, alcoholic beverages consumed on-premises), but instead will be calculated and added to the total when you pay. Groceries and a variety of other "necessities" are usually exempt, but almost any other retail transaction – including restaurant meals – will have sales tax added to the total. The states without a sales tax are: <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_Hampshire">New Hampshire</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Delaware">Delaware</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/montana" class="intralink">Montana</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/oregon" class="intralink">Oregon</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Alaska">Alaska</a>.</p><h3>Tipping</h3><p>The United States is very big on tipping. While Americans themselves often debate correct levels and exactly who deserves to be tipped, generally accepted standard rates are:</p><ul><li>Full-service restaurants: 15-20%</li><li>Taxi drivers, hairdressers, other personal services: 10-15%</li><li>Bartenders: $1 per drink or 15% of total</li><li>Bellhops: $1-2 per bag</li><li>Hotel doorman: $1 per bag (if they assist), $1 for calling a cab</li><li>Shuttle bus drivers: $1-2 (optional)</li><li>Housekeeping in hotels: $1-2 per day (optional)</li><li>Food Delivery (Pizza, etc.): $2-5, possibly more for very large orders <br /></li></ul><p><br />The important one here is restaurants. Theoretically, tipping waiters is optional, but in practice you should always leave a tip. In many areas of the U.S. it is legal to pay wait staff less than the mandatory minimum wage, so tips often form the majority of their income, and the tips are often shared with the rest of the service staff as well. If you receive exceptionally poor service that is not corrected when you complain, a deliberately small tip (one or two coins) will express your displeasure more clearly than leaving no tip at all. Tips are normally left as cash at the table when you leave (there is no need to hand it over personally or wait until the tip is collected), but if paying by credit card you can also add it directly to the charge slip when you sign it. For larger parties (sometimes over 6, almost always over 10) it is common for "gratuity" of 18% or so to be added to the bill and included in the total. In this case, an extra tip is not necessary. This will be stated somewhere on the menu, and you should also review the bill carefully before paying to be sure gratuity was not mistakenly added or omitted.<br /><br />Tipping is not expected at restaurants (such as fast-food chains) where patrons stand at a counter to place their order and receive their food. Some such restaurants may have a "tip jar" by the cash register, which may be used at the customer's discretion in appreciation of good service. Some tipping at a cafeteria or buffet is expected since the wait staff often cleans up after you and provides refills of drinks and such.</p><h3>Shopping </h3><p><strong>Major retail</strong>. America is the birthplace of the shopping mall, and suburbs in particular have miles and miles of <strong>strip malls</strong>, or endless rows of small shops designed exclusively to be navigated by car. Larger cities still maintain central shopping districts that can be navigated on public transport, but pedestrian streets are practically unknown. </p><p><strong>Garage Sales</strong>. On weekends, it is not uncommon to find families selling no longer needed household items in their driveway, garage, or yard. If you see a driveway full of stuff on a Saturday, it's likely a garage sale. Check it out; one person's trash may just be your treasure. Bargaining is expected and encouraged. </p><p><strong>Flea Markets</strong>. Flea markets (called "swap meets" in Western states) have dozens if not hundreds of vendors selling all kinds of usually inexpensive merchandise. Some flea markets are highly specialized and aimed at collectors of a particular sort; others just sell all types of items. Again, bargaining is expected. </p><p><strong>Auctions</strong>. Americans did not invent the auction but may well have perfected it. The fast paced, sing-song cadence of a country auctioneer, selling anything from farm animals to estate furniture, is something not to be missed, even if you have no intention of buying. </p><h3>Costs</h3><p>The United States is generally <strong>expensive</strong>, but there are ways to limit the damage. A barebones budget for camping, hostels and cooking your food could be $30-50/day, and you can double that if you stay at motels and eat at cheap cafes. Add on a rental car and hotel accommodation and you'll be looking at $150/day and up. There are regional variations too: large cities like <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> are expensive, while prices go down in the countryside. </p><h2>Geography</h2><p>The U.S. is one of the largest countries in the world in terms of area (at roughly 9.6 million sq km, it's about half the size of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Russia">Russia</a> and around the same size as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/China">China</a>) and population (though, even with 300 million residents, it's far behind <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/China">China</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/India">India</a>).<br /><br />The continental United States (the 48 states other than Alaska and Hawaii) are bound by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, with much of the country's population living on these two coasts. Its only borders are shared with <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> to the north, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> to the south.<br /><br />The country has three major mountain ranges. The Appalachians extend from Canada to the state of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a>, a few hundred miles west of the Atlantic Ocean. They are the oldest of the three mountain ranges, and are not particularly high, but offer spectacular sightseeing and excellent camping spots. The Rockies are the highest in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/north_america" class="intralink">North America</a>, extending from Alaska to <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a>, with many areas protected as national parks. Their natural wonders offer impressive hiking, camping, and sightseeing opportunities. The combined Sierra <span class="intralink">Nevada</span> and Cascade ranges are the youngest. The Sierras extend across the "backbone" of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, with sites such as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Lake_Tahoe">Lake Tahoe</a> and Yosemite National Park, then give way to the even younger volcanic Cascade range, with some of the highest points in the country.<br /><br />The Great Lakes define much of the border between the United States and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a>, also known as the North Coast. Formed by the pressure of glaciers retreating north at the end of the last Ice Age, the five lakes touch the states of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Minnesota">Minnesota</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Wisconsin">Wisconsin</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Illinois">Illinois</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Indiana">Indiana</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Michigan">Michigan</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Ohio">Ohio</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Pennsylvania">Pennsylvania</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>. The lakes span hundreds of miles, and their shores vary from pristine wilderness areas to industrial "rust belt" cities. They are the second-largest source of freshwater in the world, after the shrinking polar ice caps.</p><h2>Climate</h2><p>The overall climate is temperate, with notable exceptions. Alaska has Arctic tundra, while <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Hawaii">Hawaii</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida</a> are tropical. The Great Plains are dry, flat and grassy, turning into arid desert in the far West.<br /><br />Seasons vary dramatically in the northern and mid-western major cities. In a single winter storm, as much as 2 feet (61 cm) of snow can fall, with bitterly cold temperatures. Summers are typically mild but very humid. However, temperatures over 100°F (38°C) sometimes invade the entire Midwest and Great Plains region now. Some areas in the northern plains can experience dangerously cold temperatures of -30°F (-34°C) during the winter. Temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) sometimes reach as far south as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Kansas">Kansas</a> or even <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Oklahoma">Oklahoma</a>.<br /><br />The climate of the South also varies, but with the extremes coming instead in "the long, hot summer". Humidity and high temperatures make warmer months in these states good for little but sipping iced tea and plunging into cool bodies of water. But from October through April the weather is glorious, and nuisance insects subside.<br /><br />The Great Plains & Midwestern states also experience tornadoes from the late spring to the early fall, earlier in the south and later in the north. See the Tornado safety article for more information. States along the Atlantic coast and the Gulf of <span class="intralink">Mexico</span>, may experience hurricanes. These monster storms frequently miss the the U.S. mainland, but if one is forecast to hit, do not take the situation lightly. Evacuations are often ordered for areas in the path of the storm and should be heeded.<br /><br />The Rockies are very cold and snowy. Some regions see over 500 inches (1,200 cm) of snow in a season. Some of the world's most famous ski resorts are located in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/colorado" class="intralink">Colorado</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/utah" class="intralink">Utah</a>. Even during the summer, temperatures are cool in the mountains, and snow can fall nearly year-round.<br /><br />The Southwestern deserts are extremely arid and hot during the summer, with summer temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C) through most of the summer. This includes such cities as Las Vegas and Phoenix. Thunderstorms can be expected in the southwest frequently from July through September due to the summer monsoon that rises from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a>. Winters in this region are mild, and snow is unusual. Average annual precipitation is less than 10 inches (25 cm).<br /><br />Cool and damp weather is common in the northwest in areas such as in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Seattle">Seattle</a> or <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Portland">Portland</a>. Rain is most frequent in winter, and snow is rare along the coastal regions. The Pacific coast rarely sees snow and extremes in temperature are uncommon. Rain falls almost exclusively from late fall through early spring along the coast, except in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>, where rain falls year-round.</p><h2>Culture</h2><p>Due to its size and the fact that nearly all citizens are descended from immigrants it is in general not possible to identify a single "American" culture. Visitors to the South will find a far different culture than those traveling to <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> or <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a> City. However, there is a culture that is said to be American, stereotyped in many Hollywood films. This reach of the American entertainment industry has helped energize immigration from all over the world. Like many stereotypes, there is a certain truth to this image and also a certain falsity. For example, it has been said that America is a "classless" society. This is true in the sense of class as it is traditionally known in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a> or <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/India">India</a>, where one's class at birth largely determines one's social station in life. But there is a huge disparity in the socioeconomic status of the upper and lower classes in America. The "classlessness" means that one can freely move between them by changing one's financial situation; one's outcomes – not one's origins – determine one's class.<br /><br />It is also true that Americans are more materialistic and individualistic than many other cultures, though that is probably true of any very wealthy society. The wealth on display almost casually in large shopping malls all over the country might seem shocking to someone from a developing country. Yet it is also true that America is more religious than most other industrialized countries. So it is a mixed bag, and this should make it an interesting place to visit.<br /><br />Race is an issue that the U.S. is still having difficulty dealing with. The nation's long history of racist policies and attitudes are a heritage that its population continues to struggle to overcome. Even such simple matters as terminology can lead to awkwardness. A foreigner's innocent use of the "wrong" name for a racial group isn't likely to seriously offend, but it's safest to avoid referring to race altogether, or to ask the person to whom you're speaking what the right term is in this country. Note: The answer will change depending on whom you ask.<br /><br />Many current trends in industrialized and developing countries began in the United States, and almost every modern invention, including telephones, cars, airplanes, radio, television, computers, the Internet, and many others, were either invented or first mass-produced in the United States. The dependence on cars and the national interstate system to get around has long been an American icon, and to this day the United States has one of the highest per-capita car ownerships in the world. Other traditional elements of United States culture include Hollywood films, country music, blues, jazz, rock, rap, pop music, baseball, and fast food.</p><h3>Respect</h3><p>For the most part, Americans dislike arguing; what passes as heated debate in some countries may be seen as confrontation in America. Issues that may be particularly contentious include race, politics, sexuality, and religion. In particular, be very cautious when bringing up the subject of the Iraq War. On the other hand, Americans often have co-workers or neighbors with greatly varied religious, family, and political beliefs and are used to dealing with them. A friendly attitude combined with avoiding obvious points of contention will go a long way towards making your stay in America a happy one.<br /><br />In some places it is not uncommon for individuals to approach strangers in an effort to promote their religious beliefs; if you are not interested, politely decline and go about your business or change the topic. If you have an interest in religion, accepting an invitation can give you a unique glimpse into the local culture and the varied worship styles.<br /><br />Race in America is possibly the most contentious social issue. Whether with Black, White, Hispanic, <span class="intralink">Asia</span>n, American Indian or other people of color, any conversation about race will be particularly loaded. The subject is extremely nuanced, and it is highly unlikely that any foreign traveler will be able to navigate the minefield of American race relations without stepping on something extremely explosive. Keep such conversations limited to close friends who you know won't mistake your intentions.<br /><br />Interpersonal space, for Americans, is very important. Invading a person's "bubble" of interpersonal space will cause most Americans to become extremely uncomfortable or to feel threatened, especially if you are a stranger. Unless you're on a crowded bus or subway, avoid touching or standing too close to other people, even in friendly conversation. Touching has a high sexual connotation, and is seen as a come-on. The size of the personal space "bubble" generally varies geographically, increasing as one moves west. On the west coast (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> in particular), that "bubble" may even extend to include one's auto<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a>.<br /><br />Other standard taboos apply in America: avoid public nudity, including on beaches (exceptions to this can be found at specifically nude beaches and resorts). Urination in public areas is also illegal. Use common sense when communicating; disparaging America, its people, or its policies may be seen as personally insulting by some individuals. In addition, cursing or using foul language is a bad habit that is best avoided. While many Americans have a vocabulary that would make a longshoreman blush, most people choose their words carefully when in public, and especially so if children are present. </p><h3>Holidays and Celebrations</h3><p>The US has a number of holidays - official and/or cultural - of which the traveller should be aware (special events, closures, changed schedules, disruption, etc.) Note that holidays observed on Mondays are usually treated as weekend-long events. </p><ul><li><strong>New Years Day</strong> (January 1) - most businesses closed; hangovers from parties the previous night, football parties</li><li><strong>Martin Luther King Day </strong>(third Monday in January) - many government offices and banks closed; diversity-awareness programs</li><li><strong>St. Valentine's Day</strong> (February 14) - no significant closures; romantic evenings out</li><li><strong>Presidents Day</strong> (third Monday in February) - (also <span class="intralink">Washington</span>'s Birthday) - many government offices and banks closed; few observances</li><li><strong>St. Patrick's Day</strong> (March 17) - no significant closures; Irish-themed parades during the day, and parties in the evening. Travellers may want to be wary of the drunken revelry and associated drunk driving crackdowns.</li><li><strong>Easte</strong>r (a Sunday in March or April) - few significant closures; religious observances</li><li><strong>Memorial Day</strong> (last Monday in May) - most non-retail/tourism businesses closed; some patriotic observances; extensive travel to beaches and parks; traditional beginning of summer tourism season</li><li><strong>Independence Day / Fourth of July</strong> (July 4) - most businesses closed; patriotic parades, fireworks after dark</li><li><strong>Labor Day</strong> (first Monday in September) - most businesses closed; extensive travel to beaches and parks; traditional ending of summer tourism season</li><li><strong>Columbus Day</strong> (second Monday in October) - many government offices and banks closed; few observances</li><li><strong>Halloween </strong>(October 31) - no significant closures - trick-or-treating and costume parties in the evening</li><li><strong>Veterans Day</strong> (November 11) - many government offices and banks closed; some patriotic observances</li><li><strong>Thanksgiving </strong>(fourth Thursday in November, unofficially the Friday and weekend after) - most non-retail businesses closed; family gatherings, on Friday major Christmas shopping begins</li><li><strong>Christmas </strong>(December 25) - most businesses and restaurants closed the evening before and all day; exchanging gifts, religious observances. If you need food from a restaurant, your best bet will be Chinese and Indian restaurants. Plan ahead in case there are no restaurants open in your area. <br /></li></ul><h3>Language</h3><p>The U.S. <strong>has no official language at the federal level, but English is by far the standard for everyday use</strong>. Several states have declared their official state language as English. Some states have declared Spanish as an official language as well, providing services in both languages. Visitors from Commonwealth countries may get some funny looks when using certain expressions peculiar to their dialect, and may themselves be shocked by certain American English expressions, but they should otherwise get along fine. A degree of romance is attached to non-American English accents, and people may be friendlier to you because of yours.<br /><br />Americans seldom speak languages other than English, unless they are from an immigrant community; visitors are generally expected to speak and understand English. Documentation on sights etc. is generally only available in English, though some sites have documentation in Spanish, Chinese, French, German, Japanese etc. Product labels may be translated into French (because the same product is sold in Québec) and Spanish, though some of these translations are badly done.<br /><br />The majority of American accents are derived from Irish and British accents, with some Dutch influence. There are fascinating regional accents in the South and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/texas" class="intralink">Texas</a>, in New England, in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_York%20City"><span class="intralink">New York</span> City</a>, and in the upper Midwest, but aside from pronunciation and a few colorful local phrases Americans from different regions mostly speak English. Americans tend to speak their native dialect, but when speaking formally, they may switch to something similar to a flat "Midwestern" accent, much popularized by radio, TV and movies. Many will also try to speak this way if they realize you have trouble understanding them. However, people with strong local accents may be difficult for non-native English speakers to understand.<br /><br />Many <span class="intralink">Africa</span>n Americans, and some Americans of other ancestries, speak what linguists refer to as "<span class="intralink">Africa</span>n American Vernacular English", commonly referred to as "ebonics". AAVE is related to the nation's southern varieties of English, but some linguists suggest it also retains elements of grammar from the Bantu and Niger-Congo language families.<br /><br />In many parts of the U.S., such as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, the Southwest, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/texas" class="intralink">Texas</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Illinois">Illinois</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>, Spanish is the first language of a large minority of residents, mostly immigrants from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> or Latin America. Although it's rare to be in areas where no one speaks English, a good handle on Spanish can make communications easier in some areas. In addition to English and Spanish, French is spoken in rural areas near the border with Canadian Quebec, in some areas of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/louisiana" class="intralink">Louisiana</a>, and by immigrants from West <span class="intralink">Africa</span> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Haiti">Haiti</a>. Hawaiian is the native language of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Hawaii">Hawaii</a> and in the various Chinatowns in the US's major cities, Chinese is common. Smaller immigrant groups also sometimes form their own pockets of shared language, including Russian, Italian, Greek, Arabic, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. Another pocket comprises a group that has been in the country for generations, the Amish, who live in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Pennsylvania">Pennsylvania</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Ohio">Ohio</a> and speak a variety of German, and some Native Americans speak their respective native languages, especially on reservations in the west.<br /><br />Compared to some western countries, Americans tend to be very politically natured. It may be surprising to some that many radio and TV stations spend most of the day broadcasting political talk shows. Some Americans may have strong feelings about local politics and US foreign policy, and it is wise to be courteous when talking about politics in general with Americans. Usually they will extend the same courtesy to you. </p><h2>Food</h2><p>The variety of restaurants throughout the US is remarkable. One thing that a traveler from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a> or Latin America will notice is that, in some locations, many restaurants do not serve beer, wine or liquor. Another is the sheer number and variety of fast food and chain restaurants. Most open early in the morning and stay open late at night; a few are open 24 hours a day. A third remarkable fact is the size of the portions generally served by U.S. restaurants. Although the trend has moderated in recent years, portions have grown surprisingly large over the past two or three decades. </p><h3>Types of Restaurants</h3><p><strong>Fast food</strong> restaurants such as McDonald's and Burger King are ubiquitous. But the variety of this type of restaurant in the US is astounding: pizza, Chinese food, Mexican food, fish, chicken, barbequed meat, and ice-cream only begin to touch on it. Alcoholic beverages are not served in these restaurants; "soda" (often called "pop" in the Midwest through the Northwest, or generically "coke" in the South or other soft drinks are standard. The quality of the food varies, but because of the strictly limited menu, it is generally good. Also the restaurants are usually clean and bright, and the service is limited but friendly. In many locations away from the major cities, you will probably need a car to get to one that you want. </p><p><strong>Take-out</strong> food is very common in larger cities, for food that may take a little longer to prepare than a fast-food place can accommodate. Place an order by phone and then usually drive to the restaurant to pick it up and take it away. Many places will also deliver. Pizza and chinese food is by far easier to get by delivery than in a restaurant. </p><p><strong>Chain</strong> sit-down restaurants are a step up in quality and price from fast food. They may specialize in a particular cuisine such as seafood or a particular nationality, though some serve a full variety of foods. These restaurants generally serve alcoholic beverages, though not always. </p><p><strong>Full-service</strong> restaurants are in large cities in America just like a large city anywhere esle, and one may select from inexpensive neighborhood eateries to extravagantly expensive restaurants with extensive wine lists and prices to match. In most medium sized cities and suburbs, you will also find a wide variety of restaurants of all classes. In "up-scale" restaurants, rules for men to wear jackets and ties, while once <em>de rigueur</em>, are becoming more relaxed, but you should check first if there is any doubt. </p><p>The <strong>diner</strong> is a typically American, popular kind of restaurant. They are individually run, 24-hour establishments found along the major roadways, but also in large cities and suburban areas. They offer a huge variety of large-portion meals that often include soup or salad, bread, beverage and dessert. They are usually very popular among the locals for breakfast; some serve breakfast all day. Cost is comparable to a chain restaurant. </p><p>No compendium of American restaurants would be complete without mentioning the <strong>truck stop</strong>. You will only encounter these places if you are taking an intercity auto or bus trip. They are located on interstate highways and they cater to truckers, usually having a separate area for diesel fuel, areas for parking "big rigs", and shower facilities for truckers who sleep in their cabs. These fabled restaurants serve what passes on the road for "plain home cooking": hot roast beef sandwiches, meatloaf, fried chicken, and of course the ubiquitous burger and fries. A general gauge of how good the food is at a given truck-stop is to note how many truckers have stopped there to eat. </p><p>Some bars double as restaurants open late at night. Note, however, that bars may be off-limits to those under 21 or unable to show photo ID proving they are not, and this may include the dining area. </p><p>Americans also tend to serve soft drinks filled with ice cubes to keep them chilled. Getting no ice in your drink is acceptable, and the drink will still probably be fairly cool. If you ask for water, it will tend to be chilled and contain ice cubes, and you will probably have to insist on not having ice cubes if you desire so. </p><h3>Types of Food</h3><p><strong>Barbeque, BBQ, or barbecue</strong> is uniquely U.S. and can be delicious. At its best, it's beef brisket, ribs, or pork shoulder wood smoked slowly for hours as the cooking method. The brisket and ribs are usually sliced thin, and the pork shoulder can be shredded into a dish known as pulled pork. Various parts of the US have unique styles of barbeque. The big regions are <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Kansas_City">Kansas City</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/texas" class="intralink">Texas</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Tennessee">Tennessee</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/North_Carolina">North Carolina</a>. </p><p><strong>Chinese food</strong> is also widely available, though a traveler from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/China">China</a> might find it quite "Americanized". Japanese <strong>sushi</strong>, <strong>Vietnamese</strong>, and <strong>Thai food</strong> have also been adapted for the American market in recent years. <strong>Fusion</strong> cuisine combines <span class="intralink">Asia</span>n ingredients and techniques with more traditional American presentation. <strong>Indian food</strong> outlets are available in most US cities and towns. </p><p><strong>Mexican food</strong> is extremely popular among most age groups. As with other cooking traditions, Americans have given it their own twist. Combining in various ways beans, rice, cheese, and spiced beef or chicken with round flatbread loaves called <em>tortillas</em>, dishes are usually topped with spicy salsa, sour cream, and an avocado mix called <em>guacamole</em>. Small shops called <em>taquerias</em> can be found in the Southwest of the U.S. (and in recent years increasingly in cities throughout the country), where a good meal can be put together for $5-$10. The North and East usually have more pricey establishments, with the average main course running about $10-15. Multiple (sometimes dozens of) Mexican restaurants can be found in almost every US city. </p><p>With a rich tradition of immigration, America has a wide variety of <strong>ethnic foods</strong>; everything from Ethiopian cuisine to Laotian food is available in major cities with large immigrant populations. </p><p><strong>Vegetarian food</strong> is easy to come by in big urban areas. Most big cities and college towns have vegetarian restaurants serving exclusively or primarily vegetarian dishes. In smaller towns you may need to check the menu at several restaurants before finding a vegetarian main course, or else make up a meal out of side dishes. Veggie-only breakfast foods such as pancakes or eggs can be found at most diners. </p><p>People on low-fat or low-calorie diets should be well-served in the U.S., as there has been a continuing trend in <strong>calorie consciousness</strong> since the 1970s. Even fast-food restaurants have "lite" specials, and can provide charts of calorie and fat counts on request. </p><p>For the <em>backpacker</em> or those on <em>very restricted budgets</em>, American <em>supermarkets</em> offer an almost infinite variety of <em>pre-packaged</em>/<em>pre-processed</em> foods that are either ready or almost ready for consumption, e.g. breakfast cereal, ramen noodles, canned soups / "meals", etc. While the quality of these "mass-produced" foods is somewhat questionable, they are much cheaper than most restaurant meals. </p><h3>Etiquette</h3><p>It is generally considered inappropriate to join a table already occupied by other diners, even if there are unused seats available. However, there are exceptions to this rule, mainly cafeteria-style eateries with long tables. In crowded informal eateries and cafes you may have success asking a stranger if you can share the table they're sitting at, and in such circumstances you may be asked to share as well. </p><p>Table manners, while varying greatly, are typically <span class="intralink">Europe</span>an influenced. Slurping or making other noises while eating are considered rude in most restaurants, as well as loud conversation (including phone calls). It is fairly common to wait until everybody at your table has been served before eating. Except in fast food restaurants, it is common to keep your napkin on your lap. Offense isn't taken if you don't finish your meal, and most restaurants will package the remainder to take with you, or provide a box for you to do this yourself (sometimes euphemistically called a "doggy bag", implying that the leftovers are for your pet). Some restaurants offer an "all-you-can-eat" buffet or other service; taking home portions from such a meal is either not allowed, or carries an additional fee. </p><p>Many fast food items (sandwiches, burgers, pizza, tacos, etc) are designed to be eaten by hand. </p><h3>Drinks</h3><p>Drinking customs in America are as varied as the backgrounds of its many people. In some rural areas, alcohol is mostly served in restaurants rather than dedicated drinking establishments, but in urban settings you will find numerous bars and nightclubs where food is either nonexistent or rudimentary. In very large cities, of course, drinking places run the gamut from tough, local, "shot and a beer" bars to upscale "martini bars". </p><p>While most American <strong>beer</strong> drinkers prefer light lagers – until the 1990s this was the only kind commonly sold – a wide variety of beers are now available all over the States. It is not too unusual to find a bar serving a hundred or more different kinds of beer, both bottled and "draft", though most will have perhaps a dozen or three, with a half dozen "on tap". Microbreweries – some of which have grown to be moderately large and/or purchased by one of the major breweries – make every kind of beer in much smaller quantities with traditional methods. Most microbrews are distributed regionally; bartenders will know the local brands. Some <strong>brew pubs</strong> make their own beer in-house, and generally only serve the house brand. </p><p><strong>Wine</strong> in America is also a contrast between low-quality commercial fare versus extremely high-quality product. <strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> wines</strong> are some of the best in the world, and are available on most wine lists in the country. <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> wines are labeled by the grape (merlot, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay) rather than the regional appellation, although wine producers are trying to give names like <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/napa" class="intralink">Napa</a> Valley some more clout on the market. Imports are widely available in better stores and establishments. Many other U.S. regions have also undertaken winemaking, with varying levels of success and respect. Sparkling wines such as champagne and prosecco are available by the bottle in up-scale restaurants, but are rarely served by the glass as they often are in western <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>. The wines served in most bars in America are unremarkable, but wine bars are becoming more common in urban areas. </p><p><strong>Hard alcohol</strong> is usually drunk with mixers, but also served "on the rocks" or "straight up" on request. Their increasing popularity has caused a long term trend toward drinking light-colored and more "mixable" liquors, especially vodka, and away from the more traditional darker liquors such as whiskey and bourbon that older drinkers favor. </p><p>Nightclubs in America run the usual gamut of various music scenes, from discos with top-40 dance tunes to obscure clubs serving tiny slices of obscure musical genres. Country music dance clubs, or <strong>honky tonks</strong>, are laid fairly thick in the South and West, especially in rural areas and away from the coasts, but one or two can be found in almost any city. Also, gay/lesbian nightclubs exist in nearly every medium- to large-sized city. </p><p>While it is common for Americans to drink alcohol, there are some often-peculiar legal restrictions leftover from the country's experiment with Prohibition in the 1920s Although laws regulating alcohol sales and possession vary by state and county, the <strong>drinking age is 21</strong> throughout the U.S. Enforcement varies, but if you're under 30 you should be prepared to show photo ID when buying alcohol or entering a bar (which usually refuse admittance to "minors" under 21). Beware that many waiters/waitresses may have never seen a foreign passport or driving licence. In some states, a foreign passport or driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification for buying alcohol — and the bar could lose its licence to sell alcohol if it gets caught accepting such id. Go ahead and try using your passport as id and you'll probably get your drink — just be aware that it might be refused. Selling alcohol is typically prohibited after a certain hour, usually 2AM. In some states, most stores can only sell beer and wine; hard liquor is sold at dedicated liquor stores. Several "dry counties" – mostly in southern states – ban some or all types of alcohol in public establishments; private clubs (with nominal membership fees) are often set up to get around this. Sunday sales are restricted in some areas. </p><p>Most towns ban drinking in public (outside of bars and restaurants of course), with varying degrees of enforcement. All communities have some sort of ban on "drunk and disorderly" behavior.(with new hamsphire being a notable excpetion, its not illegal to be drunk there, only disorederly(providing one isnt driving a car) Drunk driving has come under harsher scrutiny, with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08% considered "Under the Influence" and many states considering 0.05% "Impaired". Drunk driving checkpoints are fairly common during major "party" events, and although privacy advocates have carved out exceptions, if a police officer asks a driver to submit to a blood-alcohol test or perform a test of sobriety, you generally may not refuse. Penalties for DUI ("driving under the influence") can include hefty fines and a night or two in jail. It is also usually against the law to have an open container of alcohol within reach of the driver. </p><h2>Accommodations</h2><p>By far the most common form of lodging in rural United States is the motel. Providing inexpensive rooms ($30-$85 per night as of 2006) to automotive travellers, most motels are clean and reasonable with a limited array of amenities: telephone, TV, bed, bathroom. As with most low-cost accommodations around the world, the cheaper motels tend to attract a varied clientele. In the North-East, many inexpensive motels can typically be found at each highway exit, particularly along the heavier travelled highways such as I-95. This is convenient since you don't have to arbitrarily interrupt a long road trip - you can simply drive until you're tired then find a room.<br /><br />Business or extended-stay hotels are increasingly available across the country. They can be found in smaller towns across the midwest or in coastal urban areas. Generally they are more expensive than motels, but not as expensive as full-scale hotels, with prices around $70 to $170. While the hotels may appear to be the size of a motel, they may offer ammenities from larger hotels. Some of the hotels are for long term stays directed at business travelers or families, as they might feature kitchens in most rooms, afternoon social events (generally by a pool), and generally serve continental breakfast.<br /><br />Hotels are available in most cities and usually offer more services and amenities than motels. Rooms usually run about $80-$200 per night, but very large, glamorous, and expensive hotels can be found in most major cities, offering luxury suites larger than some houses.<br /><br />In many rural areas, especially on the coasts and in New England, bed and breakfast (B&B) lodging can be found. Usually in buildings with less than a dozen units, B&Bs feature a more homey lodging experience, with complimentary breakfast served (of varying quality and complexity). Bed and breakfasts range from about $50 to $200 per night, with some places being much steeper. They can be a nice break from the impersonality of chain hotels and motels. Unlike <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>, most American bed and breakfasts are unmarked; one must make a reservation beforehand and receive directions there.<br /><br />There are also youth hostels across the U.S. Quality of hostels varies widely, but at $8-$24 per night, the prices are unbeatable. Despite the name, AYH membership is open to people of any age. Be aware that while hostels are clustered in more touristy locations, do not assume that all mid sized towns will have a hostel.<br /><br />Camping can also be a very affordable lodging option, especially with good weather. The downside of camping is that most campgrounds are outside urban regions, so it's not much of an option for trips to big cities. There is a huge network of National Parks (+1 800 365-2267) in the US, with most states and counties having their own park system, too. Most state and national campgrounds are of excellent quality, with beautiful natural environments. Expect to pay $8-$20 per car on entry. Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has a chain of commercial campground franchises across the country, of significantly less charm than their public-sector equivalents, but with hookups for recreational vehicles and amenities such as Laundromats. </p><h2>Education</h2><p>Short courses may be undertaken on a tourist visa. Community colleges typically offer college-credit courses on an open-admissions basis; anyone with a high school degree or its equivalent and the required tuition payment can generally enroll. In large cities, open universities may offer short non-credit courses on all sorts of practical topics, from ballroom dance to buying real estate. They are a good place to learn a new skill and meet people.<br /><br />Studying full-time in the United States is an excellent opportunity for young adults seeking an advanced education, a chance to see a foreign country, and a better understanding of the U.S. and its people. It can be done independently by applying directly to a college for admission, or through the "study abroad" or "foreign exchange" department of a college in your own country, usually for a single term or one year. (Either approach requires a student visa.) The latter is usually easiest; the two institutions will handle much of the arrangements, and you don't have to make a commitment to four years living in a strange country. Be forewarned, however: many state universities and private colleges are located in small towns, hundreds of miles from any big urban centers. Don't expect to spend your weekends in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a> if your college is in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/north_dakota" class="intralink">North Dakota</a>.<br /><br />The types of schools vary dramatically. (In conversation, Americans tend to use the terms "school" and "college" inclusively: any college or university might be referred to as "school", and a university might be called "college".) State university systems are partially subsidized by state governments, and may have many campuses spread around the state, with hundreds of thousands of students. Private colleges are generally smaller (hundreds or a few thousand students), with a larger percentage of their students living on campus; some are affiliated with churches and may be more religious in character. Other kinds of colleges focus on teaching specific job skills, education for working adults, and providing inexpensive college-level education to local residents. Although nearly all colleges are open to students regardless of race, gender, religion, etc. many were originally established for a particular group (e.g. <span class="intralink">Africa</span>n-Americans, women, members of a particular religion) and may still attract primarily students from that group. Several private colleges remain female-only, there are a few male-only private colleges, and private religious colleges may expect students to practise the school's faith.<br /><br />Colleges are funded by "tuition" charged to the student, which is often quite expensive, sometimes reaching into the tens of thousands of dollars per year. Most U.S. citizens receive substantial financial assistance from the federal government in the form of grants and low-interest loans, which are not available to non-citizens. Often financial aid for foreign students is provided by their home country. They may be eligible for privately-funded "scholarships" intended to provide educational opportunities for various kinds of students. Some U.S. banks offer loans to foreign students, which usually require a citizen to guarantee that they'll be repaid. Contact the Financial Aid Office of any college you are interested in attending for more information about the sources of aid available.<br /><br />Almost all U.S. colleges and universities operate web sites (in the .edu domain) with information for prospective students and other visitors. </p><h2>Work</h2><p>Work in America is best arranged long before you enter the United States. Young people who are full time students of certain nationalities can apply for a J1 "Exchange Visitor" visa which permits paid work as au pairs or summer work for up to 4 months in virtually any type of job. The United States Department of State has full information on applying for this type of visa including the precise categories that qualify.<br /><br />The H-1B visa allows a limited number of skilled and certain unskilled employees to work in the United States. It is based on a petition filed by an American employer. The most common careers of H-1B visa holders are nurses, math teachers, and computer science professionals.<br /><br />Paid work is generally not allowed on a B1/B2 visitor visa. Working unlawfully in the United States runs the very real risk of arrest, deportation, and ineligibility to re-enter the US. Illegal immigrants also run the risk of dangerous work conditions.<br /><br />If you are seeking to adjust visa status or to enter the US on a working visa you should first check the official government websites of the US Department of State, which issues visas abroad, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services which administers immigration programs within the United States. Unfortunately, con artists both in the US and overseas often prey on people's desire to travel or work in the US. Keep in mind that US visa applications do not usually require an attorney or other intermediary; be wary of and verify any "advice" offered by third parties. </p><h2>Health and Safety</h2><p>The American health care system is world-class in quality, but very expensive. Americans generally use private health insurance, paid either by their employer or out of their own pocket, or go without access to health care altogether. As a traveler, it is advisable to acquire health insurance with medical evacuation coverage before arriving in the US; should you opt not to do so and an accident occurs, you may face enormous hospital bills.<br /><br />In a life-threatening emergency, <strong>call 911</strong> to summon an ambulance to take you to the nearest <strong>hospital emergency room </strong>("ER"), or in less urgent situations get to the hospital yourself and register at the ER's front desk. Emergency rooms will treat patients without regard to their ability to pay, but you will still be presented with a bill for all care. Do not use ERs for non-emergency walk-in care. Not only can this be 3-4 times more expensive than other options, but you will often wait many hours before being treated, as the staff will give priority to patients with urgent needs. In most areas, the charge for an emergency room visit starts around $500, in addition to any specific services or medications you may require. Most urban areas have minor emergency centers (also called "urgent care", etc.) for medical situations where a fully functioning emergency room would be excessive. However, their hours are limited, and very few, if any, are open overnight.<br /><br /><strong>Walk-in clinics </strong>are another place for travelers to find routine medical care, letting patients see a doctor or nurse-practitioner without an appointment (but often with a bit of a wait). They are typically very up-front about fees, and always accept credit cards. To find one, check the yellow pages under "Clinics", or call a major hospital and ask. Make sure to tell the clerk you will be paying "out of pocket"; if they assume an insurance company will be paying for it, they may order tests that are not medically essential and in some cases bill for services that aren't actually provided.<br /><br /><strong>Dentists</strong> are readily available throughout the United States (again, see the yellow pages). As most Americans do not have dental insurance, dental offices are accustomed to explaining fees over the phone, and most will accept credit cards.<br /><br />Most counties and cities have a government-supported clinic offering free or low-cost testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases; call the Health Department for the county you are in for more details. Many county clinics offer primary health care services as well, however these services are geared towards low-income residents and not foreign travelers. Planned Parenthood (1-800-230-7526) is a private agency with clinics and centers around the country providing birth control and other reproductive health services for both females and males.</p><h3>Crime</h3><p>Like most things in the US, crime varies greatly depending on the area. Larger cities have higher crime rates, as might be expected. Outside of major cities and urban areas, however, crime rates are usually lower. As always, common sense goes a long way: do not go out alone at night, avoid high-crime areas, be wary of strangers, and do not draw attention to yourself. Carrying large quantities of cash is generally also not a good idea; tourists are sometimes targeted by thieves since they are more likely to be carrying cash with them. Credit cards are much safer and widely accepted.<br /><br />When in cities, be ready for strangers who will approach, tell a tale of woe, and then request several dollars. In the majority of cases the tale is a scam, so do not feel any obligation to part with your cash. Some cities have a particular problem with aggressive panhandlers asking for money. In any case the best procedure is to firmly say "No" and walk away.</p><h3>Safety in a car</h3><p>Two occasions during which visitors should be particularly cautious are while driving and when being approached in cities. When driving, do not let anyone in your car you don't know; if anyone reaches for your car's doorhandle, drive away immediately. In cities it is best to keep the car doors locked and the windows up, especially at night. Always keep personal belongings in the trunk of your car, out of view of curious passersby. Picking up hitchhikers is generally considered to be unsafe, and is illegal in some states.</p><h3>Gays and lesbians</h3><p>Gay-bashing is not common, but physical and verbal attacks can and do happen, especially in cities and states where there's not an established gay and lesbian population. Most large cities are used to homosexuality (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a>, in particular, is famous for its thriving gay nightlife), with smaller towns being more conservative. Public displays of affection between gays outside of gay-oriented establishments will receive stares of astonishment at the very least everywhere outside of major liberal areas of the country.<br /><br />In large cities such as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Chicago">Chicago</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Philadelphia">Philadelphia</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Cleveland">Cleveland</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> neighborhoods can be found where the large population of gay/lesbian people live, work and play. An increasing number of resort areas are known as gay-friendly; these include old standbys like Fire Island, Key West, Provincetown, Saugatuck, and newer hotspots like Asbury Park.</p><h3>Illicit drugs and prostitution<br /></h3><p>Street drugs, including marijuana, are illegal in all 50 states. Prostitution is illegal in all areas except at a few brothels in rural <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/nevada" class="intralink">Nevada</a>. American police make wide use of the "sting" operation, in which a police officer may pose as, say, a drug dealer or a prostitute in order to catch and arrest persons intending to buy or sell such services.<br /><br />Most Americans frown upon illicit drug use regardless of quantity and travelers would be wise to avoid bringing or using such substances in the United States. Tolerance for prostitution varies by locale and the form it takes. Engaging the services of a street prostitute puts one at a very high risk of sexually transmitted diseases, an embarrassing arrest, and/or being robbed.</p><h3>911<br /></h3><p>During any emergency, dialing 911 at any telephone will connect you to an area call center for all the emergency services in the area (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Calls to 911 are free from payphones. Dispatchers will send appropriate personnel to deal with accidents, serious sickness, criminal or any other emergency situations. Unless you are calling from a <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a> phone, the 911 call center can almost always trace your call to locate the caller. Abuse of the 911 program for non-emergency purposes can result in a heavy fine; only use this service for true emergencies. Some cities have a 311 number for situations which are not of immediate danger. </p><h2>Communication</h2><h3>Phones</h3><p>U.S. telephone numbers have a fixed format XXX-YYY-ZZZZ. The first three digits (XXX) are the area code, which can usually be omitted when dialing from the same area. However, in large cities with multiple area codes, the area code may be required regardless. It no longer automatically implies a long distance call. The second three digits (YYY), called the "prefix" or "exchange," refer to the town or a section of a city and are always required (sometimes can mean the difference between a local call and long distance); the final four digits are unique to each phone within the exchange. You must usually dial "1" before the area code. Calls to <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> and certain <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/caribbean" class="intralink">Caribbean</a> islands can be dialed as if they were in the U.S. (Caution: some <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/caribbean" class="intralink">Caribbean</a> islands are expensive); calls to other locations require an international access code (011). At some locations (businesses and hotels with internal phone systems), you will need to dial an access code (usually "8" or "9") to reach an outside line before dialing the number.</p><p>The country code to call into the U.S. is 1.</p><p>Numbers with the area code 800, 888, 877, or 866 are toll free within the U.S. Outside the U.S. dial 880, 881, 882, and 883 respectively, but won't be toll free. The area code 900 is used for services with additional charges applied to the call (e.g. "adult entertainment"). Also, applies to prefix (no area code) 976.<br /><br />Most visitor areas and some restaurants and bars have books with two listings of telephone numbers (often split into two books): the "white pages", for an alphabetical listing; and the "yellow pages", an advertising-filled listing of business and service establishments by category (e.g. "Taxicabs"). Directory information can also be obtained by dialing 411 (for local numbers) or 1-area-code-555-1212 (for other areas). In case 411 doesn't work locally, try 555-1212 or 1-555-1212. Directory information is normally an extra cost call. These phone numbers are also available online at each regional telephone company's web site (AT&T, Verizon, Bell South, and Quest). Although each claims to have all the local phone numbers of the others, using the site of the region you are searching for yields the best results (i.e. AT&T for most of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, Verizon for the Northeast, etc.) Beware, many residential land-line phones and all cellular (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a>) phones are unlisted. This is especially true of land lines in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> and urban areas of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/nevada" class="intralink">Nevada</a>.<br /><br />Prior to the popularity of personal cell phones, pay phones were ubiquitous on sidewalks all over the United States, and commonplace in other places such as service stations (for gas/petrol). Today, however, many phone companies have removed them or have increased their charges substantially. You will probably have to enter a store or restaurant to find one, though some are against the outer wall of such businesses, usually in front.<br /><br />Long-distance telephone calling cards are available at most convenience stores. Most calling cards have specific destinations in mind (domestic calls, calls to particular countries), so make sure you get the right card. Some cards may be refilled by phoning a number and giving your Visa/Mastercard number, but often operators refuse foreign cards for this purpose.<br /><br />American <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a> phones (known as cell phones regardless of the technology used) are not very compatible with those elsewhere. While GSM has been gaining popularity, the U.S. uses the unusual 1900 and 850 MHz frequencies; check with your operator or <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a> phone dealer to see if your phone is a tri-band or quad-band model that will work here. The two largest GSM network operators are T-<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">Mobile</a> USA and Cingular. Roaming fees are high and text messages may not always work due to compatibility issues between networks. Alternatives to using your own phone include renting one (most larger airports have a shop, with rental fees starting at $3/day) or buying a cheap local prepaid phone. Be aware, however, that prepaid <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a>s in the U.S. are not nearly as common as in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>; fees for prepaid service are generally high.</p><h3>Internet<br /></h3><p>Over 76% of Americans have Internet access, mostly in their homes and offices. Internet cafes, therefore, are not common outside of major metropolitan, tourist and resort areas. Even within major cities, Internet cafes are rarer than in their <span class="intralink">Europe</span>an counterparts. However, public-access computers with Internet can often be found in libraries and in high schools, colleges, and universities (though you should always ask first).<br /><br />To access the internet with your own computer: </p><ul><li>Many hotels provide in-room internet connections. Sometimes access is wireless. Often this service is billed as a separate cost, but increasingly it is not extra and is part of the cost of the room.</li><li>There is also an increasing trend in coffee shops, bookstores, and other establishments, to provide free wireless internet access for laptop computers.</li><li>Some cities also have free WiFi connectivity, although this movement is still in its early stages. <br /></li></ul><p><br />If you don't bring a computer, you can access the internet by:</p><ul><li>All public libraries now provide Internet access, free of charge, but you may have to wait in line and their hours of operation are limited. Many libraries limit user access to 30 minutes at a time.</li><li>The best bet for computer rental is a "photocopy shop" such as FedEx Kinko's (+1 800 2KINKOS/+1 800 254 6567) which is a national chain.</li><li>Some hotels have "business centers" where you can use a computer connected to the internet, fax a message, and use a computer printer and make limited copies. <br /></li></ul><h2>Getting Around</h2><p>The size of the US and the distance separating major cities make air the dominant mode of travel for short-term travelers. If you have time, travel by car or rail can be interesting.</p><h3>By plane<br /></h3><p>By far the most convenient form of intercity travel in the U.S. is air travel. Coast-to-coast travel takes about 6 hours, compared to the days or weeks necessary for land transportation. Most cities in the US are served by one or even two airports, with many small towns also having some passenger air service, although you will often have to detour through a major hub airport to get there. Depending on where you are starting from, it can sometimes be cheaper to drive to a nearby large city and fly from there or, conversely, to fly to a large city near your destination and drive from there.<br /><br />Major carriers compete vigorously for business on major routes, and bargains can be had for travelers willing to book two or more weeks in advance. The converse of this is that most smaller destinations are served by only one or two regional carriers, and prices there can be surprisingly expensive. There are some discount air carriers in the U.S. and they are becoming more dominant all the time.</p><h3>By Private Jet<br /></h3><p>Private jet travel within the United States is no longer the realm of just the super rich. Various fractional ownership programs as well as "jet cards" make it possible for the well to do to travel in style without the hassles of purchasing and maintaining an aircraft. In general, the advantages of private jet travel are:</p><ul><li>You can fly directly to small, more remote airports that would be inaccessible by commercial flights.</li><li>You can fly at the time and schedule of your choosing, and on short notice.</li><li>You can bring pets on board the aircraft.</li><li>You can avoid the hassles of airports and receive luxury service throughout your journey. <br /></li></ul><p><br />Excluding outright ownership, there are three ways to fly privately in the United States. Fractional ownership refers to buying an interest, as little as 1/16th, in a specific aircraft. The charter company maintains the aircraft and hires pilots to be fly the plane upon several hours notice from you. You can later sell or exchange your ownership interest in the plane. Air Charter refers to hiring a private jet for one time journey. Jet Cards are pre-paid cards entitling the owner to a specific number of flight hours on a specified aircraft. As all expenses are pre-paid on the card, you do not need to concern yourself with deadhead time, return flights, landing fees, etc.<br /><br />The cost of chartering the smallest private jet can begin at around $4000 per flight hour, with the cost substantially higher for larger, longer-range aircraft. While private flying is by no means inexpensive, a family of four or more can often fly together at a cost similar to or even favorable to buying first class commercial airline tickets.</p><h3>By train<br /></h3><p>Passenger trains in the United States are surprisingly scarce and relatively expensive. The national rail system, Amtrak (1-800-USA-RAIL), provides service to many cities, concentrating more on sightseeing tours than efficient intercity travel. They have promotional discounts of 15% for students and seniors, and a 30-day U.S. Rail Pass for international travelers only. Separate from Amtrak, commuter trains carry passengers to and from the suburbs of major cities.<br /><br />Amtrak offers many amenities and services that are lacking from other modes of transport. Many scenic attractions visible from the train are not visible from the road, or are more impressive when viewed from the train as the raised seating gets you above foreground clutter. Amtrak offers many routes that traverse some of America's most beautiful areas. Travelers with limited time may not find travel by train to be convenient, simply because the country is big, and the "bigness" is particularly evident in many of the scenic areas. For those with ample time, though, train travel offers an unparalleled view of America's scenic beauty, without the trouble of a rental (hire) car or the hassle of flying.<br /><br />A major Amtrak line in regular daily use by Americans themselves is the Northeast Corridor line, running between <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Boston">Boston</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Washington_DC"><span class="intralink">Washington</span> DC</a>. It stops in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_Haven">New Haven</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Philadelphia">Philadelphia</a> and many other cities on the way. This line is electrical, with top speeds of 150 miles per hour (though the average speed is a good deal slower). The fastest trains are the Metroliner and the Acela Express, both of which have first class service, but can be quite expensive. Given the difficulty and expense of getting from the center of some of the major Northeastern cities to their respective airports, trains can sometimes be more convenient than air travel.<br /><br />While some trains in the Northeast Corridor and other medium-distance lines do not require advance reservations, the premium trains and most of the long-distance trains do require such reservations. During usual American vacation times, some long-distance trains can sell out weeks or even months in advance, so it pays to book early if you plan on using the long-distance trains.<br /><br />One major scenic long-distance train route, the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Zephyr, runs from Emeryville in the Bay Area of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> to <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Chicago">Chicago</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/via_Reno">via Reno</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Salt_Lake%20City">Salt Lake City</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/denver" class="intralink">Denver</a>. The full trip takes around 60 hours, but has incredible views of the Western deserts, the Rocky Mountains, and the Great Plains, things that you just cannot see if you fly. Many of the sights on this route are simply inaccessible to cars. The trains run only once per day, and they usually sell out well in advance.<br /><br />Amtrak also provides reasonably speedy daily roundtrips between <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Seattle">Seattle</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Vancouver">Vancouver</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a> and several daily trips between <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Seattle">Seattle</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Eugene">Eugene</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/oregon" class="intralink">Oregon</a> on the Amtrak Cascades line.<br /><br />Passengers travelling long distances on Amtrak may reserve a seat in coach (Economy class) or pay extra for an upgrade to a private sleeping compartment. Amtrak trains in the West feature a lounge car with floor to ceiling windows, which are perfect for sightseeing.</p><h3>By car<br /></h3><p>America's love affair with the auto<span class="intralink">mobile</span> is legendary, and most Americans prefer the convenience of car travel for getting to nearby cities in their state or region. Many northern "snowbirds" drive to a haven in the south for the winter so that they have their auto with them. Besides intercity travel, a car can be necessary even to get around in a single city. Travelers from outside the country may not sufficiently appreciate the need for an auto<span class="intralink">mobile</span> here. Of course in very large cities like <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_York%20City"><span class="intralink">New York</span> City</a> or Chicago there are extensive in-city bus and/or train services and large numbers of cruising taxicabs, but in most medium-sized American cities, particularly in the west and south, cities are very spread out and public transportation thin. Taxis are often available, but except at airports you may have to phone for one and wait a half-hour or so to be picked up, and make similar arrangements to return. Even in some very large cities (such as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/atlanta" class="intralink">Atlanta</a>), a private car is your most practical option.<br /><br />Travelers from places like Western <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a> should be conscious that if they intend to drive around in the US, they may spend a lot longer time in their car than they are used to, due to longer distances. This means that some characteristics that one may at first dismiss as gadgetry, such as air conditioning, may in fact be very useful - air conditioning is very welcome in the summer beyond the West coast. Also, roads and parking installations are generally designed for larger vehicles than they are in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>, you may wish to avail yourself of the opportunity to have more space.<br /><br />A romantic appeal is attached to the idea of long-distance car travel; many Americans will tell you that you can't see the "real" America except by car. Given the dearth of public transportation within American cities, the loss of time traveling between cities by car rather than flying, can be made up by the convenience of driving around within cities once you arrive. In addition, many of the country's major natural attractions, such as the Grand Canyon, are almost impossible to get to without an auto<span class="intralink">mobile</span>.<br /><br />The United States is covered with a convenient system of U.S. and Interstate highways. Interstates are always freeways (limited access; no grade crossings), while U.S. Highways may be freeways on some sections and not on others. These roads network between major (and minor) population centers, and can make it easy to cover long distances – or get to the other side of a large city – quickly. Primary Interstates have one- or two-digit numbers, with odd ones running north-south (e.g. I-5) and even ones running east-west (e.g. I-80). Three-digit interstate numbers designate shorter, secondary freeways. An odd first digit signifies a "spur" into or away from a city; an even first digit signifies a "loop" around a large city. The second two digits remain the same as the primary Interstate that travels nearby. The U.S. Highways are generally older routes that lead through the midst of town centers. In many cases, Interstates were constructed roughly parallel to U.S. Highways to expedite traffic that wishes to bypass the city.<br /><br />American drivers tend to drive calmly in residential neighbourhoods. Freeways around big cities, however, can become really crowded with a significant proportion of "hurried" drivers - who will exceed speed limits, pass unsafely, or follow other cars at unsafely low distances. Enforcement of posted speed limits is somewhat unpredictable. Keeping pace with most local drivers will usually avoid a troublesome citation; however, it is possible that some local law enforcement forces preferably stop cars with out-of-state plates.<br /><br />Renting a car in the U.S. usually runs anywhere from $30 and $100 per day, with some discounts for week-long rentals. Most rental agencies have downtown offices in major cities as well as offices at major airports. Not all companies allow picking up a car in one city and dropping it off in another (the ones that do almost always charge extra for the privilege); check with the rental agency when making your reservations.<br /><br />Most rental agencies accept an International Driver's Permit only when presented along with a valid driver's license from your country. You may wish to join some kind of auto club before starting a large American road trip, and having a cell phone is a very good idea. Most rental agencies have some kind of emergency road service program, but they can have spotty coverage for remote regions. The largest and most popular club in the United States is the American Auto<span class="intralink">mobile</span> Association (1-800-391-4AAA), known as "Triple A". A yearly membership runs about $60. AAA members also get discounts at many hotels, motels, restaurants and attractions; which may make it worth getting a membership even if you don't drive. Alternatively, Better World Club (1-866-238-1137) offers similar rates and benefits as AAA with often timelier service and is a more eco-friendly choice (1% of revenue is donated to environmental cleanup programs).<br /><br />Traffic signs often depend on the ability to read English, using only words. The country is gradually adopting signs with internationally understood symbols, usually with English "translations" for locals not yet familiar with them. Signs rarely use metric units; distances and speeds will almost always be given in miles and miles/hour, without these units specified. (1 mile = 1.6 km.)<br /><br />Gasoline ("gas") is sold by the gallon. The American gallon is smaller than the UK gallon, and equals 3.785 liters. The US octane scale is different from that used in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>; a regular gallon of US gasoline is rated at 87 octane, the equivalent of about 92 in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>.<br /><br />Despite increasing petroleum prices worldwide and some increases in gas taxes, the American voter's attachment to his auto<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a> has kept retail fuel prices much lower than in many parts of the world. Prices fluctuate by region and season, generally ranging from $2.00 to $3.00/gallon ($0.53-0.79/liter) the past couple years.</p><h3>By bus<br /></h3><p>Intercity bus travel in the United States is widespread, but is not available everywhere. Many patrons often use bus travel when other modes aren't readily available, as buses often connect many smaller towns with regional cities. Many of the disadvantaged and elderly often use these bus lines, as auto<span class="intralink">mobile</span> travel proves arduous or unaffordable for some.<br /><br />Greyhound Bus Lines (+1 800 229 9424) has the predominant share of American bus travel. Their <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/north_america" class="intralink">North America</a>n Discovery Pass allows unlimited travel for ranges of 4 to 60 days, but you might want to try riding one or two buses first before locking yourself in to an exclusively-bus American journey.<br /><br />Megabus offers inexpensive daily bus service in the Midwest from their hub in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Chicago">Chicago</a> to <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Milwaukee">Milwaukee</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Wisconsin">Wisconsin</a>; <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Saint_Louis,">Saint Louis</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Missouri">Missouri</a>; <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Indianapolis">Indianapolis</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Indiana">Indiana</a>; <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Detroit">Detroit</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Michigan">Michigan</a>; <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Cleveland">Cleveland</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Cincinnati">Cincinnati</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Ohio">Ohio</a>.<br /><br />For bus service between large East Coast cities (particularly <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Washington_DC"><span class="intralink">Washington</span> DC</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a> City, Philadelphia, and Boston), travelers can purchase deeply discounted (below Greyhound prices) tickets from a number of small operators, typically called "Chinatown bus" operators, because they usually enter and depart from the Chinatown area of the cities they serve. These type of services are also beginning to appear on the West Coast.</p><h3>By Recreational Vehicle (RV)<br /></h3><p>Recreational Vehicles -- large, sometimes bus sized vehicles that include sleeping and living quarters -- are a uniquely American way to cruise the country. Some RV'ers love the convenience of being able to drive their home anywhere they like and enjoy the camaraderie that RV campgrounds offer. Other people dislike the hassles and maintenance issues that come with RVing. And don't even think about driving an RV into a huge metropolis such as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>. Still, if you want to drive extensively within the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> and are comfortable handling a big rig, renting an RV is an option you should consider.</p><h3>By thumb<br /></h3><p>A long history of hitchhiking comes out of the U.S., with record of auto<span class="intralink">mobile</span> hitchhikers as early as 1911. Today, hitchhiking is nowhere near as common, but there are some nevertheless who still attempt short or cross-country trips. The laws related to hitchhiking in the U.S. were most recently proposed by the Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC) and adopted with changes in wording by individual states. In general, it is legal to hitchhike throughout the majority of the country, if not standing within the boundaries of a highway (usually marked by a solid white line at the shoulder of the road) or if not on a major interstate highway prohibiting pedestrians.<br /><br />In many states interstate highways do not allow foot traffic, so hitchhikers must use the entrance ramps. In a few states it is allowed or tolerated (unless on a toll road). <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Oklahoma">Oklahoma</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/texas" class="intralink">Texas</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/oregon" class="intralink">Oregon</a> are a few states that do allow pedestrians (ie, hitchhikers) on the highway shoulder, although not in some metropolitan areas. Oklahoma allows foot traffic on all free interstates, but not toll roads) and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/texas" class="intralink">Texas</a> only bans it on toll roads - and on free interstates within the city of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/El_Paso">El Paso</a>. <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/oregon" class="intralink">Oregon</a> only bans it in the three counties that make up the tri-met transit district (Multnomah, Clackamas and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> (Metro <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Portland">Portland</a>).) <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Missouri">Missouri</a> only bans it within <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Kansas_City">Kansas City</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/St_Louis">St Louis</a> city limits.<br /><br />Though not all laws may necessarily reflect it yet, hitchhiking has come to be discouraged in light of increasing publicity in the news media of the occasional kidnapping or other unusual crime. International travelers to the U.S. should avoid this practice unless they have either a particularly strong sense of social adventure or extremely little money. Even many Americans themselves would only feel comfortable "thumbing a ride" if they had a good knowledge of the cultural and social norms, not to mention the geography, of their current locale. </p> 37.32 -95.71 automall, 200.106.94.243, 83.38.47.123, derek, 125.120.105.167, 220.191.107.45, 76.254.232.78, chrislhendricks, emilyanncox, jeremy 0 Based on work by Colin Jensen, Ryan Holliday, Ben Willson, Peter James, SONORAMA, John Kim, Mark Jaroski, Andrew Haggard, Ravikiran Rao, sean peterson, Frederick Heald, Tom Holland, dan mcdermott, Evan Prodromou, Mike Dillon, Robert Unferth, Todd VerBeek, Dan McDermott, Ricardo, Johny Canal, Bill Johnson, Scott, Mayor Pez, Bob Palin, William Chu, ijunkman@gmail.com, Richard Petersen, Keith K. Higa, Paul N. Richter, laowai, Jacob Norlund, Rob Payne, David Hagood, Jason Berntson, William M Goetsch, Tom, Neala, Benjamin FrantzDale, Colin Burnett, Brian, Michele Ann Jenkins and Chris Lemay, Wikitravel user(s) Jonboy, Cacahuate, MMKK, Jpatokal, Jr traveller, Cupcakecommander, Fipe, Hypatia, Texugo, Episteme, Submarine, Orangefob7, Moogle, Pjamescowie, Alexwcovington, Eco84, WindHorse, Ajrhobby, Felixboy, SHC, Jusjih, Bletch, InterLangBot, Dtobias, Nicole, JosephBarillari, Mikito, Nzpcmad, Patrickr, KagakuyaSan, Nurg, Nickpest, Huttite, Mbstone, Bijee, Tlogmer, Nils, Chipuni, PierreAbbat, Nicksand, Chris Roy, Dhum Dhum, Christopher S. Penn, Jiang, Toiyabe, Karen Johnson and CIAWorldFactbook2002, world66 user approaching genius, and Anonymous user(s) of Wikitravel 2009-05-22 13:06:50 3 California 2 United States California is the 3rd largest state in the US geographically (trailing Alaska and Texas in size) and the largest by population. Sometimes called the Golden State - a name that was originally coined from the gold miners - it now seems to represent the image of California's golden sand beaches. But California is more than just beautiful beaches, here you will find everything from ancient forests, rolling hills, fertile valleys, and cosmopolitan cities. With so much to explore, there is a reason why its one of the most visited places on the planet. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Death Valley National Park </strong>At the lowest place in the western hemisphere, you are sure to be impressed by the desert's heat and bare beauty.</li><li><strong>Disneyland</strong> Who on earth has not heard of the original fantasy world of Disneyland, the theme park by which all others are measured. One of the most visited attractions in the U.S., very few come to California and miss Disneyland. </li><li><strong>Gold Country</strong> Try your hand at mining in the rolling hills near <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/sacramento" class="intralink">Sacramento</a>. <br /></li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a></strong> The entertainment capital of the word will certainly keep you entertained. The stars of Hollywood, the fun of Universal Studios, the beaches of Malibu, and the shopping in Beverly Hills are all just the beginning of what this vibrant city has to offer<strong>.</strong></li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/napa" class="intralink">Napa</a> Valley</strong> offers some of the best wineries and win tasting tours in the U.S.</li><li><strong>Road Trip on Coast Highway 1</strong><strong> </strong>The dramatic highway bordering the ocean can be beautiful throughout the state but the dramatic stretch hugging the cliffs of Big Sur will take your breath away.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a></strong> Take the kids to Sea World or the world famous zoo, or enjoy a sunset cruise and a night of fine dining in the gaslamp district. </li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a></strong> One of those endlessly charming places that can have a relatively small town feel in a large culture-filled city. <br /></li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/santa_barbara" class="intralink">Santa Barbara</a></strong> A beautiful coastal resort town where the rich and famous like to hide out. <br /> </li><li><strong>Yosemite National Park</strong> Hike through beautiful forests, admire gaping waterfalls, relax in lush valleys, and watch climbers attack some of the worlds most challenging granite cliffs.</li></ul><br /><h2>Background</h2><p>Californians tends to have a relatively liberal political perspective and a general laidback view on life compared to the rest of the country. While this is not always the case in certain rural areas, most of the populated areas such as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> and much of Southern California would be considered comparatively open-minded. This may refresh some and alarm others but this is part of the California charm. Maybe the biggest example of California's open-mindedness (or hollywood worship depending on how you look at it) is the election of the action film star Arnold Swarchenegger as the State Governer (now known locally as the Governator). </p><h2>Get In</h2><p>You can reach California by car through 4 possible border entrances in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mexico" class="intralink">Mexico</a> (2 in Tijuana, 1 in Tecate, and 1 in Mexicali). Prepare for long waits. <br />Domestically, there are many ways to enter California by car through the borders states of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/oregon" class="intralink">Oregon</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/nevada" class="intralink">Nevada</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/arizona" class="intralink">Arizona</a> and it's best to consult a map. </p><p>The primary entry points via air are Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and <span class="intralink">San Francisco</span> International Airport (SFO). But there are also numerous international and regional airports spread out through California as well. </p><p>All major road and airport entrances (including entrances from other US States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the Central Valley. Often, travellers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. These measures are likely to be increasingly stringent as extreme biosecurity problems arise from travel-carried fruit and vegetables, imported plants and animals, or even from packing material that may carry bioinvader species.</p><h2>Geography</h2><p>Both California's economy and geography are large enough that it could be it's own country. This makes regions which are very distinct from each other in both culture and appearance. California can often be subdivided many ways, but the list below can be used as a starting point to further explorer California's differences:</p><ul><li><strong>North Coast</strong> A beautiful region of northern california where giant redwood trees hide a rugged, lesser explored coastline.</li><li><strong>Bay Area</strong> <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a>, Silicon Valley and the surrounding area hugging the bay and the coast make up an interesting contrast of hightech economy and layed back people.</li><li><strong>Sierra <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/nevada" class="intralink">Nevada</a>s and the Shasta Cascades</strong> make up the border of much of north and eastern California. Mountains, rivers, lakes, vocanoes, and more make this area an outdoorsmen's paradise. </li><li><strong>Central Valley</strong> Made up of the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/sacramento" class="intralink">Sacramento</a> Valley and the San Joaquin Valley makes up the 'middle' of California. It stretches from the north at Shasta all the way to Fresno at the south end. It contains the state's capital, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/sacramento" class="intralink">Sacramento</a>, and the fertile farm land that supports much of California and the U.S.</li><li><strong>Central Coast</strong> The low key coastal region between the bay area and southern california is made up of rolling hills, san dunes, light forests, and dramatic cliffs. This is a great area to get away from it all and experience relaxed, rural California. </li><li><strong>Southern California</strong> This is the typical region visitors think of when picturing California: Idyllic weather, the hub of the entertainment industry, and unreal traffic. This region is bordered by the ocean, the coastal mountains and the Mexican border. <br /></li><li><strong>Desert</strong> The region east of Southern California is sparsely populated and can be very hot. Most tourists will only see this region while driving through it from Southern California to Las Vegas, but the adventerous may enjoy the raw beauty of Death Valley.</li></ul><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Due to California's size and geographic diversity, the weather varys distinctly between regions. Most of California has a pleasent mediterranean climate. This generally translates to warm and dry summers with cool and rainy winters. The mountain regions experience cooler weather during the summer, and heavy snow during the winter. The desert regions can be increadibly hot during the summer (death valley being the hot<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/test" class="intralink">test</a> place on earth) and surprisingly cold during the winter. Coastal regions can have heavy fog in the summer, while the central valley can have heavy fog (regionally called "tule fog") during late fall and winter. </p><p>You should also be aware that California can be very earthquake prone. Generally most earthquakes pass by with little more than a scare, as all buildings in California are required to withstand severe earthquakes. However earthquakes large enough to cause at least moderate damage do happen once or twice a year.</p><h2>Get around</h2><p>California is the third largest state in terms of land size, and is larger than many countries. However, getting around California can be quite simple. In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>. As with all trips in the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>, a car is usually the best way to get around and see all destinations. However the trip from the top of California to the bottom can take well over ten hours. Flying may be a more reasonable option. Many major and low fare airlines link cities within the state of California.</p> 36.8 -119.8 administrator, derek, 125.120.105.167, 220.191.107.45, chrislhendricks, jeremy 0 (WT-en) Ilkirk,(WT-en) Keithdude,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) OliverBuchino,(WT-en) Puffpff,(WT-en) Kakuzat�,(WT-en) Nicole,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Jpatokal,(WT-en) Redbug,(WT-en) Puffdragon,(WT-en) Submarine,(WT-en) Huttite,(WT-en) TVerBeek,(WT-en) PierreAbbat,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Sapphire,(WT-en) Jb17kx,(WT-en) Rpetersen,(WT-en) Nickls,(WT-en) Cacahuate,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) 2old,(WT-en) NJR ZA,(WT-en) Jiang,(WT-en) Celticevergreen,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Karen Johnson,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) DrakesTravels and other Anonymous users. 2008-08-11 15:13:57 4 San Diego 3 California <p>San Diego was established in 1775 as the first Spanish mission in California and it has flourished ever since. Today the San Diego area makes up one of the largest military establishments in the world. But San Diego is much more than a military town, with its great weather, layed back beach culture, world famous zoo, cool downtown gaslight district and more, it is a world class destination within earshot of its megalopolis neighbor, Los Angeles.</p> <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Balboa Park</strong> not only the home of the zoo, here you will find a wide variety of cultural experiences, including: the museum of art, the museum of man, the automotive museum, the botanical building and the natural history museum.</li><li><strong>The Gaslamp Quarters</strong> is the central point of San Diego's downtown. This is the place to go if you want walk around and find wonderful shopping, great restaurants and a nice place to enjoy the night.</li><li><strong>LegoLand</strong> a theme park with a miniature <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> built entirely out of legos is cool to check out, plus there are lots of fun rides for the kids. </li><li><strong>The San Diego Zoo</strong> is a great destination for the whole family. One of the best zoos in the world, it is home to many of the planet's most rare and exotic animals, including the only pair of giant pandas in the U.S.</li><li><strong>SeaWorld</strong> allows visitors a chance to interact with aquatic animals in an exciting way. Through shows, displays and enclosures people can learn about the world's oceans and the creatures that inhabit them. </li><li><strong>Visit La Jolla</strong> - A coastal community of San Diego which includes secluded coves, beaches and ocean cliffs to explore. There are dozens of coffee shops, restaurants and high-end shopping outlets to be had in La Jolla.</li><li><strong>Wild Animal Park</strong> The sister park to the San Diego Zoo. The park is located about 30 miles north of San Diego in Escondido, and covers 1800 acres where animals roam freely. <br /></li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><h3>By plane<br /></h3><p>San Diego International Airport (SAN) is less than 10 minutes from downtown San Diego. The descent into the airport, passing remarkably close to downtown buildings, can be a bit alarming for first-time visitors. It is served by most major West Coast carriers. Be aware that even discounted coach airfares between San Diego and <span class="intralink">Los Angeles</span> (about 120 miles/190 km) can cost nearly as much a trip to the east coast.<br /><br />There are a number of airport shuttle companies that handle transportation to and from the airport. They cost around $15 per person. Metro bus #992 ("the Flyer", $2.25) travels 10 minutes to downtown, and connects to the Coaster commuter train, the Trolley, and the Amtrak station.<br /><br />Private pilots will prefer the nearby general aviation airports, <span class="intralink">Montgomery</span> Field (ICAO: KMYF) in Clairemont Mesa, Gillespie Field (ICAO: KSEE) in El Cajon, or Brown Field (ICAO: KSDM) east of San Ysidro. Some air taxi and air charter firms offer specials to the San Diego area from local airports, including from many smaller <span class="intralink">Los Angeles</span> airports and from the San Luis Obispo area.</p><h3>By train<br /></h3><p>San Diego's Amtrak station is at 1050 Kettner Blvd. It is within walking distance of downtown hotels and situated next to San Diego Bay. Shuttles offer service between the train depot and International Airport. Rail services include 'The Coaster', which is a daily commuter between northern San DiegoCounty and downtown.<br /><br />Trolley service is limited to certain sections of San Diego, although expansions in recent years have continued to improve service. Major stops include downtown, El Cajon, Santee, Mission Valley, Qualcomm Stadium and San Ysidro, the border crossing between the US and Mexico.</p><h3>By car<br /></h3><p>San Diego is easily accessible by car using any one of the three major interstate roadways, the 5, 8, and 15 Freeways.</p><ul><li>The 5 Freeway (<strong>Interstate 5</strong>) begins in San Ysidro, at the US-Mexico border crossing, and continues northward through <a href="/guides/Los_Angeles"><span class="intralink">Los Angeles</span></a> and Central <span class="intralink">California</span> to <a href="/guides/oregon" class="intralink">Oregon</a> and <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>, terminating in Blaine, <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> at the US-Canadian border crossing.</li><li>The 8 Freeway (<strong>Interstate 8</strong>) begins near the coast in Ocean Beach and continues eastward through eastern San Diego and Imperial Counties into <a href="/guides/arizona" class="intralink">Arizona</a>, where it connects with Interstate 10. </li><li>The 15 Freeway (<strong>Interstate 15</strong>) begins in southern San Diego County and continues northward into the <span class="intralink">California</span> deserts, through <a href="/guides/nevada" class="intralink">Nevada</a>, <a href="/guides/utah" class="intralink">Utah</a>, and <a href="/guides/idaho" class="intralink">Idaho</a>, eventually terminating at the US-Canadian border in northern <a href="/guides/montana" class="intralink">Montana</a>. <br /></li></ul><p><br />Additionally, there are numerous other freeways that crisscross the county, making access to most places in San Diego relatively easy.</p><h3>By bus<br /></h3><p>Greyhound has a station in downtown San Diego, on Broadway St. Private charter lines operate service between other <span class="intralink">California</span> cities (especially <span class="intralink">Los Angeles</span>) and Mexico.</p><h3>By boat<br /></h3><p>Current cruise services offer excursions departing from San Diego to Baja Mexico and <span class="intralink">Los Angeles</span>. These include dinner cruises, three-day gambling cruises and 'party excursions' to the Mexican coastal ports of Baja. </p><h2>Weather and Climate </h2><p>The San Diego area can be an incredible place to visit almost any time of the year. With coastal temperatures around 75 degrees (24°C) most of the time, the weather is ideal. The climate of Southern <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> is rather complex, however, and temperatures change rapidly as one travels from the coast eastward. In the summer during the day, the temperature might increase as much as one degree Fahrenheit for each mile going east. In the winter, especially at night, eastern areas are usually relatively cooler. Some valleys and other areas have significantly different weather due to terrain and other factors; this is often referred to as "microclimates".</p><h2>Health and Safety</h2><p>In an emergency (immediate danger to loss of life or limb), call 911.<br /><br />Be aware that if you call from a cell phone, 911 calls are currently directed to the <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Highway Patrol, which can result in delays in contacting city police. (911 calls made from land-line telephones are directed to the appropriate local agency.)<br /><br />In many cases when within the city limits it may be more appropriate to directly dial the San Diego non-emergency number, (619) 531-2000. For example, to report a crime in progress when you are not in direct danger, it is probably best to call the San Diego Police (or other local municipality) directly.<br /><br />San Diego is a relatively safe city, but use the same precautions as you would in any large metropolitan area. Avoid walking in Barrio Logan, Downtown, and especially Southeast San Diego at night. If you do, avoid walking down dark alleyways or approaching unknown people. Avoid the Normal Heights and Hillcrest area late at night due to the sudden increase in violent crime and robberies. Most people do not encounter any problems if they avoid buying illegal drugs or prostitution.</p><h3>Police<br /></h3><p>San Diego is served by a professional police force as well as a county sheriff department; additional protection is offered on the major highways by the <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Highway Patrol (CHP).</p><h3>Fire Department<br /></h3><p>The city of San Diego fire department is a top-rated service offering fire protection, emergency medical care, hazardous waste cleanup, and search and rescue functions. If you dial 911 for an emergency it is guaranteed that the first responders will be the San Diego Fire Department.</p><h3>Hospitals<br /></h3><p>There are numerous public and private hospitals in San Diego. These range from state funded institutions such as UCSD-Hillcrest and Thorton to private, world-renowned hospitals of Scripps La Jolla and the Children's Hospital. First-rate, world-class medical care can be found at any of these hospitals, as well as interpreters for more than a dozen languages.</p><h3>Beach Safety<br /></h3><p>Rip currents are notorious in San Diego for their strength and sudden appearance. Do not go out in the water without lifeguard supervision or at night. At La Jolla Shores, rip currents can be so strong that people standing (not swimming) in waist-deep water have been pulled out over their heads -- sometimes with deadly results (especially for non-swimmers). Except for sunbathing, avoid low tide like the plague at this beach. (This means the largest of the two daily tide cycles. Check newspaper weather page for Scripps Pier, or view the Weather Channel.) All of the major beaches have lifeguards on duty in the summertime, with only the more popular beaches having lifeguards year round.<br /><br />Many of the ocean cliffs are made of a compressed sandstone and are prone to collapse, especially in rainy weather. Follow all signs. Access to the beaches is safely made by using any of the public stairways provided; they are well maintained (except at Black's Beach) and free. Always supervise children very closely at places such as Sunset Cliffs and the Torrey Pines Glider Port above Black's Beach. It may be necessary to hold their hand at all times. If you have unruly kids, don't go there.<br /><br />Heavy rain may cause rising bacteria and chemical levels in the ocean waters. Care should be taken to read the newspapers or call the county health office to see if the water is safe for swimming. Generally most people keep away from the beaches for 24 to 72 hours after rain.<br /><br />Thefts do occur at the beach, do not leave any purses or other personal items of value alone on the beach or in an open car. Vehicle burglaries are especially high in most beach communities.</p><h3>Smoking<br /></h3><p>Smoking is banned in all restaurants, bars, public offices, and other places by order of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> law. There is a county wide ban on smoking in all state parks and there is city wide bans in San Diego, Del Mar, and Solana Beach that forbids smoking on public parks and beaches. Smoking is bad!</p><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><ul><li><strong>Seaport Village</strong> - Visit this beautiful 14-acre waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment complex recreating a harbor side setting of a century ago. It includes 54 one-of-a-kind shops, 13 casual dining eateries, and 4 fine-dining waterfront restaurants. Enjoy four miles of meandering cobblestone pathways bordered by ponds, lakes, fountains and colorful, lush landscaping and a quarter-mile slate boardwalk along the San Diego Bay. Located downtown on West Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway. </li><li><strong>Whale-watching</strong> - <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> gray whales migrate south along the coast each February. </li><li><strong>Scuba diving</strong> - San Diego has some great dives including the Yukon, Ruby E and others in Wreck Alley, kelp beds and much more. In addition several dive boat operators have regular runs to the Coronados Islands off the Mexican coast where you can dive with sea lions. Please be aware that diving here is usually considered cold water diving and the visibility is not always the greatest.</li><li><strong>Surfing</strong> - The coastal towns surrounding San Diego have some of the most consistent suf in all of southern <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">california</a> </li><li><strong>Hangliding</strong> - At the edge of cliffs towering above the Pacific Ocean, the Torrey Pines Glider Port in La Jolla allows anyone to soar over one of the most pristine sections of coastline in southern <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>. Training and tandem glides with an expert are offered. </li><li><strong>San Diego Maritime Museum</strong> - San Diego is steeped in nautical history and the Maritime Museum chronicles that history. Located across from the US Navy's North Island Naval Air Station (offering panoramic views of navy air craft carriers) the museum is home to a collection of 19th century sailing ships and the B-39, a former Soviet Union attack submarine. </li><li><strong>USS Midway Museum</strong> - Located just a short walk from the San Diego Maritime Museum is the USS Midway (CV-41), a former aircraft carrier of the US Navy. The Midway is home to a collection of former naval aircraft housed on her expansive flight deck. Guided tours and displays offer the public a unique look into the life aboard and of a powerful old warhorse. </li><li><strong>Old Town San Diego</strong> - Stepping into Old Town is taking a trip into the past. Preserved buildings and icons of the Spanish heritage of San Diego and the Old West will amaze visitors. From 19th century cannons to the haunted Whaley house there is much to explore and see in Old Town. Shopping and restaurants dot this historic district and living history performances help to make the past come alive.</li><li><strong>Point Loma Lighthouse, Cabrillo National Monument</strong> - From the sky high vantage point of Point Loma visitors can get the picture of a lifetime. The Naval Air Station, downtown San Diego, the Coronado Bridge and the distant mountains make for a panoramic picture you will never forget. The lighthouse is a short walk and allows stunning sunset views of the Pacific Ocean and off-shore islands. Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo's expedition for Spain of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> in 1542. </li><li><strong>Fort Rosecrans</strong> - Also located on Point Loma, Fort Rosecrans is a former WWII military outpost which contains bunkers, weapons emplacements and the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery (Arlington of the West). A visit to Fort Rosecrans is a somber reminder of the price of freedom.</li></ul><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li><a href="/guides/Mexico"><strong>Mexico</strong></a> is just over the border - Don't forget your passport..</li><li><strong>Julian</strong> is a small town on the fringe of San Diego County and the <a href="/guides/Southern_Desert">Southern Desert</a>. The place is famous for its pies, but more than that, its just a great place to get away from the megalopolis of the rest of Southern California and enjoy a small mountain village thats a kick back to life a hundred years ago. With unique seasons ranging from falls temperate weather and beautiful change of color, to winter snow falls, spring flower blooms, to the hot summer months, Julian offers pleanty of diversity for a nice side weekend getaway. </li><li><strong>Disneyland</strong> Who on earth has not heard of the original fantasy world of Disneyland. In <a href="/guides/orange_county" class="intralink">Orange County</a> about an hour and a half from San Diego (with no traffic), its not a matter of if, but when you are visiting</li><li><strong>Knotts Berry Farm</strong> The first full theme park in the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> is alive and well. Besides the exciting thrill rides, theres the old west ghost town and other shops all charming in their own way </li><li><strong>Catalina Island</strong> Take a relaxing day or weekend trip to visit the small town of Avolon on this naturally preserved island. By boat the trip is a couple of hours leaving from Long Beach.</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a></strong> About a 2 hour drive from San Diego gets you to the entertainment capital of the world. </li></ul> 32.72 -117.16 Iggy, 216.70.177.248, emilyanncox, mage26, 76.176.96.24, jeremy 0 (WT/en) Episteme,(WT/en) GuzmanDiego,(WT/en) Maj,(WT/en) Rainer Wasserfuhr,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT/en) Jonboy,(WT/en) Bnhall,(WT/en) Eggroll,(WT/en) Airchartersandiego,(WT/en) NJR ZA,(WT/en) Mark,(WT/en) Bleyddyn,(WT/en) Texaswebscout,(WT/en) Yann,(WT/en) Xltel,(WT/en) Eco84,(WT/en) Rogerhc,(WT/en) Redbug,(WT/en) T�relio,(WT/en) Steffen M.,(WT/en) Cjensen,(WT/en) KyleP,(WT/en) Jake73,(WT/en) OldPine,(WT/en) Nils,(WT/en) Ilkirk,(WT/en) Dhum Dhum,(WT/en) PierreAbbat,(WT/en) Srf,(WT/en) ClairElan,Template namespace initialisation script,(WT/en) TobinFricke,(WT/en) Repayne,(WT/en) Nutella,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT/en) W66LinkBot,(WT/en) InterLangBot,(WT/en) Kelly,(WT/en) MMKK,(WT/en) Wonderfool,(WT/en) Christopher Mann McKay,(WT-en) Bobhope,(WT/en) TimShell,(WT/en) Nzpcmad,(WT/en) Rspga49,(WT/en) Rafull,(WT-en) PerryPlanet,(WT/en) Justfred,(WT/en) Letsatv,(WT/en) Simone,(WT-en) MMKK,(WT/en) Psychofish,(WT/en) Paul Richter,(WT/en) Mikemee,(WT/en) Wrh2,(WT/en) Aprodromou,(WT/en) Jbc2000,(WT/en) Evan,(WT/en) Rmx,(WT/en) Branddobbe,(WT/en) Rninja,(WT/en) SirRocko711,(WT/en) Huttite,(WT/en) Blackberrylaw,(WT/en) Astronomatt,(WT/en) PerryPlanet,(WT/en) Haydesigner,(WT-en) Texugo,(WT/en) Cacahuate,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Eco84,(WT/en) Tsandell,(WT-en) Howefortunate,(WT/en) Silntbob and other Anonymous users. 2010-04-30 19:50:15 5 Los Angeles 3 California <p>Lights, camera, action! <strong>Los Angeles</strong> and the surrounding area is the entertainment hub of the world- not to mention the second largest city in the U.S., so its no wonder there are endless things to do here. Shop Rodeo drive, go to the Universal Movie Studios, spend a day at Disneyland, hangout at the Baywatch beaches of Malibu, or go movie star hunting in Hollywood Hills-In the city of angels, there is plenty of glamour and entertainment for everyone.</p> <h2>Highlights </h2><ul><li><strong>The Getty Center </strong>(aka the J. Paul Getty Museum) is well worth a visit. They also have an extensive arts and photography collection. Though the best art may be the location - at the top of the Santa Monica mountains, you have a spectacular view of both the L.A. basin and the Pacific Ocean, as well as the beautiful buildings and the rose gardens. Entrance is free though you will pay $8 for parking or is served by Metro Bus 761.</li><li><strong>Griffeth Park</strong> is a beautiful 4,000 acre wilderness in middle of LA. On Mount Hollywood sits the <strong>Griffeth Park Observatory</strong>, where you will see better stars than anything found amongst celebrities. Besides this great planetarium, just northeast you will find the open air <strong>Greek Theatre</strong> where you can listen to classical music under perfect view of the night sky. </li><li><strong>Hollywood</strong> Thats right, your now in the entertainment capital and while your here you have to visit its three most fascinating boulevards: Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood Boulevard, and Melrose Avenue. All three are worth seeing. Hollywood Blvd. for its entertainment history (the famous stars of the walk of fame are here); Sunset Blvd. for its clubs and nightlife; Melrose Ave. for its shopping, nightlife, and eclecticism</li><li><strong>Malibu</strong> You can try to get a sneak peek of the sprawling celebrity homes or you can relax on one of the many beautiful beaches and try your hand at surfing.<br /></li><li><strong>Sana Monica</strong> is a very lively beach village. The Third Street Promenade is a festive open pedestrian shopping walk, with great cafes, restaurants, street performers, and you name it. Close by is the always fun Santa Monica Pier where you can ride amusement rides over the ocean.</li><li><strong>Universal Studios</strong> Tour the worlds largest movie studios and get your thrill on with Disneyland type rides themed after the movies. Besides the amusment park the <strong>city walk</strong> is located just outside the parks entrance and is basically free (besides the expensive parking). Feel immersed in a comic strip-- over-the-top colorful architecture, talented street performers, dozens of restaurants (all price points), novelty shopping, an IMAX theater, and a Nascar simulator. The outdoor "mall" is usually packed on weekends and summer nights, which adds to ehe energy and atmosphere. </li><li><span class="vcard"><strong>Venice Beach</strong> People watching along the boardwalk is something to put on your "things to do before you die" list. Think of the scene as a Bohemian-Mardis Gras-Beach Blanket Bingo-Circus. If that doesn't make any sense, well neither does Venice and that's the charm. Every summer day and every weekend, join the parade of humanity strolling amongst amazing and bizarre street performers, obsceney bulging body builders (at Muscle Beach), eclectic shops and street vendors, panhandlers, and beautiful, scantily clad, people desperately seeking attention. Go ahead and stare at it all. That's the point.</span> </li></ul><h2>Background </h2>Even before O.J. drove the Bronco or "The Terminator" became governor, Frank Lloyd Wright said, "Tip the world over on its side and everything loose will land in Los Angeles."<br /><br />The Los Angeles metro area has been a "boomtown" since the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1876, first attracting "the folks" from the Midwest with a blessedly warm and dry climate--and becoming a gateway to a remarkable diversity of immigration from throughout the Pacific Rim and Latin America.<br /><br />L.A. is a sprawling megalopolis; one could start in one end of L.A. and drive for more than two hours without leaving the county's influence. The metro area includes smaller cities, such as Santa Monica, Burbank, Pasadena and Long Beach, which were founded around the end of the nineteenth century and retain distinct identities. Geographically, there is very little logic as to what is part of the city of L.A.; for example, Hollywood is not a separate city--it is part of the City of Los Angeles--but adjacent West Hollywood and Beverly Hills are not part of the city.<br /><br />The city's primary newspaper is the Los Angeles Times. The free LA Weekly comes out on Thursdays and is a good source for concerts and other local information. Local areas may have their own free papers as well.<br /><br /><h2>Get Here</h2><h3>By plane<br /></h3><p>Los Angeles is served by no less than five major commercial airports, and more than a dozen private airports.<br /><br />Los Angeles International (IATA: LAX) is the major gateway. The airport is mindbogglingly huge, with no less than nine terminals, and the only way to get from terminal to terminal (other than walking) is to use the free "A" shuttle buses that run in a loop between the terminals.<br />LAX Terminals</p><p>Terminal Airlines</p><ol><li>America West, Southwest, US Airways</li><li>Northwest, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, Hawaiian, KLM, Virgin Atlantic</li><li>Alaska, American, Horizon, Midwest Express</li><li>American Airlines, Qantas (Sydney)</li><li>Delta, Air Jamaica, China Southern, Spirit Airlines</li><li>Continental, Aero<a href="/guides/mexico" class="intralink">mexico</a>, some United international flights</li><li>United Airlines</li><li>United Express (SkyWest)<br /></li></ol><p>TBIT aka Tom Bradley International Terminal, serves most international carriers<br /><br />There are also 2 executive terminals for commercial, private, and corporate aircraft, Mercury and Landmark. Both are served by air taxi and air charter firms such as Great Circle Aviation to LAX and going to other destinations such as <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> and San Luis Obispo. Air charter firms have much shorter check-in times (closer to 10 minutes) with the departure time customized for each flight and set by the passengers for that trip, and no long security lines, but they often charge a premium for the time savings.<br /><br />In LA an auto<a href="/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a> is nearly essential, and connections to and from the airport are poor. There is no direct train service, although there are free shuttle buses to Aviation Station on the Metro Green Line, and hourly LAX FlyAway shuttles to Union Station. Taxis to downtown LA cost $30-35 and take 30 minutes in good traffic, but can be far slower in rush hour. On your return to the airport, be sure to show up two hours before your flight as queues for security are often notoriously long and time-consuming.<br /><br />The others are Long Beach Airport, Bob Hope (Burbank) Airport,<a href="/guides/orange_county" class="intralink">Orange County</a>/John Wayne Airport and far flung Ontario airport east of L.A. Even though LAX is often cheapest, avoiding LAX will save a lot of hassle because the other airports are small and not as busy (especially Long Beach), but you will typically be farther away from your destination which will entail a lot of driving.<br /><br />Then again, going anywhere in L.A. is going to require a lot of driving. If you're going to Disneyland or any of the <a href="/guides/orange_county" class="intralink">Orange County</a> beaches (Laguna, Huntington, Newport), consider the <a href="/guides/orange_county" class="intralink">Orange County</a>/John Wayne airport. For any of the airports, it is probably best to use the numerous buses and shuttles to get to and from the airport, if you are staying in the area. Locals do this to avoid dealing with the hassles and cost of parking.<br /><br />Private pilots will prefer smaller general aviation airports such as Santa Monica (ICAO: KSMO), Van Nuys (ICAO: KVNY), Hawthorne or one of the dozens of other small airports in the area. LAX does not cater to small general aviation; Burbank (ICAO: KBUR) does but is high traffic; Long Beach (ICAO: KLGB) does but has a very complicated runway system and high traffic. Much of Los Angeles is Class Bravo or other controlled airspace, but due to the number of airports and the generally good weather Los Angeles makes a fantastic flying destination. Private pilots should also be prepared for flight delays when flying to LAX (including IFR ground holds} or delays in arrival or departure sequencing with busy jet traffic, and should consider alternatives such as Hawthorne (10 mi from LAX) as an option to leave an airplane and catch an airline flight.</p><h3>By train<br /></h3><p>The main Amtrak station is at Union Station, 800 N. Alameda St. next to the Hollywood (US-101) freeway in downtown Los Angeles. The train station also has a Metro Red Line subway station (platforms in station's basement) and Metro Gold Line light rail station (on platforms 1 and 2, parallel to the Amtrak and Metrolink trains), while local city buses stop at various locations around the terminal, including some in the MTA (Patsaouras) bus plaza at the east portal of the station. The train station is patrolled by private security staff and people lingering too long in the seats may be asked to show a ticket. Taxis are available at the west exit and the station is within short walking distance to the Civic Center and Olvera Street. Chinatown and Little Tokyo are also nearby.<br /><br />Union Station is spectacular (opened 1939), but there are several stops within the County that may be better located to your destination. L.A. is big, make sure you get the right stop. Unfortunately, while Union Station has the best bus and light rail options it may be far from other landmarks. Burbank Amtrak Station is next to the Burbank airport where options include Metrolink, bus and rental cars at the Air Terminal.<br /><br />Metrolink trains are significantly less expensive than Amtrak; for example, LA to Oceanside $12.50 Metrolink, $19 Amtrak; the Metrolink trains run less frequently; some routes are shared where a ticket allows you to ride either train.</p><h3>By bus<br /></h3><p>The Greyhound terminal is at 1716 E 7th St, near I-10 along S. Alameda Ave., in the heart of the city's vast, notorious skid-row district. This is a very dangerous part of the city, filled with drug addicts and other mentally unstable people; one should use the greatest caution here even within the bus station during daylight hours; do not even consider walking from downtown from the bus station (take a bus or taxi).<br /><br />Fortunately, other terminals are in far safer areas and have better access to public transportation. From the north, the North Hollywood station is located at 11239 Magnolia Bl. and is one quarter mile south of the Metro Red Line North Hollywood station. The Hollywood station is at 1715 N. Cahuenga Bl. and is one-quarter mile west of the Metro Red Line Hollywood/Vine station.<br /><br />Of note for passengers coming from the east is the El Monte station, at 3501 N. Santa Anita Ave. The station is co-located with a MTA and Foothill Transit bus station, and frequent express bus service to Downtown Los Angeles is available upstairs. The El Monte station also houses a substation of the local county sheriff. Also, from the east, the Pasadena Greyhound station, located one quarter mile west of the Lake Avenue Metro Gold Line station, is an option.<br /><br />From the south, Greyhound passengers should use either the East Los Angeles station, located at 1241 S. Soto St., or the Compton Station, located at 305 N. Tamarind Ave. The East Los Angeles station has multiple lines operating to downtown nearby, while the Compton station is across the street from a Metro Blue Line station.</p><h2>Get around</h2><p>Los Angeles' massive sprawl and dysfunctional public transportation makes getting around rather painful, especially during weekends where service can be more erratic. The only rational way of getting around is to rent a car, in which case you'll get a crash course in the complex freeway system and spend hours stewing in traffic jams.</p><h3>By bus</h3><p>The L.A. bus system is extensive but slow. Many Angelenos rely on the bus as their primary mode of transportation. Within the central area (from Downtown to the coast, below Sunset Blvd and above Interstate 10) the buses are frequent and ubiquitous enough to get around without a schedule. The drawback is that they are stuck in traffic just like cars. This means you may experience delays waiting for a bus, but during the morning and afternoon hours bus travel is only slightly slower than car travel once you board. The best routes for getting across town (east-west) are the #2 or #302(limited) on Sunset Blvd, #720 "Rapid" express service on Wilshire Blvd, and #33 or #333(limited) on Venice Boulevard. Be sure to check night schedules; bus service (but not rail service) runs 24 hours but many routes change and have extremely reduced frequency in the late hours. Fares are currently $1.25 per boarding (no transfers) or $3.00 for a day pass (also good on Metro Rail); you can buy both from any Metro station or Metro bus driver. Bring a street map, as MTA buses sometimes change their routes unpredictably in order to make up lost time.</p><h3>By rail<br /></h3><p>The Metro Rail subway and light-rail system has grown considerably over the past 15 years and is increasingly useful in getting around. A single trip fare, good for one direction and 1 line is $1.25 which can be purchased from the vending machines at the station. Alternatively, you can avail of a $3/day pass (good until 3am), a $14/week pass or $52/month pass which equals unlimited access. The 1-day pass can also be availed of through the vending machines or the buses while passes for longer durations can be obtained from Metro Customer Centres scattered around Los Angeles or online at the Metro website. Be aware that the light rail system stops at 1am and starts again at 4am.<br /><br />Rail lines were designed with commuters in mind, so tourists may find the five line route structure to be a bit bizarre, with many popular tourist destinations requiring multiple transfers, often involving buses. For example, a twenty-five mile trip from Pasadena to LAX airport involves travel on four lines and a shuttle bus and takes well over two hours. For other routes the subway can be a good option with travel from North Hollywood to Long Beach possible in about 45 minutes. Additionally, despite its shortfalls public transportation is often preferable to the gridlock that occurs on LA-area streets and highways.<br /><br />The rail is operated by the same agency as the bus system, so their maps include the rail lines. The fare structure is also the same as for the bus system. The Metro works on a 'trust' system: you buy your tickets from machines, then get on and ride... no turnstiles, no barriers. However, do not even think about entering the system without a valid ticket or pass; Metro police are part of the L.A. Sheriff's Department who randomly check for valid tickets on the trains or platforms, and the fines for not paying or failing showing a valid ticket or pass are at $250 and up to 48 hours of community service. If you ride several times chances are you will be asked to show your ticket at least once. Be careful; if your trip involves more than one line, you have to either buy separate tickets for each line or use the Day Pass.<br /><br />The Metro Rail system is composed of 5 lines:</p><ul><li><strong>Red Line</strong>, a subway that runs from Downtown (Union Station) through the near west side to the Hollywood area then into the San Fernando Valley. From there (North Hollywood Station) you can take the Orange Line (Busway system) to the west end of the valley.</li><li><strong>Orange Line</strong>, uses special sleek articulated "bus-trains" on rubber tires.</li><li><strong>Blue Line</strong>, runs from a subway connection with the Red Line Downtown at 7th and Figueroa Streets at street level or higher (with some interesting views) through south Los Angeles, southward to Long Beach.</li><li><strong>Gold Line</strong> light rail, runs from Downtown (Union Station) north to East side of Pasadena.</li><li><strong>Green Line</strong> runs from LAX east to the city of Norwalk along Interstate 105, connecting with the Blue Line at Rosa Parks Station in Watts. It runs west to a location just south of LAX, then on to a remote part of Redondo Beach. <br /></li></ul><p><br />Attractions that are easily reached via the rail system, for those with plenty of time to spend on the train, include: Universal Studios, Hollywood, Thai Town, the Griffith Observatory (via a brief bus transfer on Vermont), Koreatown, the Wiltern theater, Westlake, Downtown (including the Financial District, Disney Hall, City Hall, Broadway, Little Tokyo, Chinatown, the Convention Center, and the Staples Center), Old Town Pasadena, the Watts Towers, LAX (via a free shuttle bus at Aviation Station), downtown Long Beach, and, via a frequent shuttle bus from downtown Long Beach, the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific.<br /><br />Distinct from the Metro is the Metrolink commuter railroad system, whose city terminus is Union Station. This commuter rail system reaches as far as Ventura, Lancaster, San Bernardino, and Oceanside (northern <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> County), but has several severe limitations for the visitor — most notably, most lines are shut down on week-ends, and stops service to the suburbs very early in the evenings during the week, although very limited Amtrak services run on the <a href="/guides/orange_county" class="intralink">Orange County</a> and Ventura County Lines even when regular Metrolink trains don't. Last but not least, your Metro Day Pass isn't valid on Metrolink, so you'll need to buy separate tickets, which aren't cheap either: a one-way from Union Station to Anaheim will set you back $6.75, although return and weekend discounts are available. Like the Metro Rail, the Metrolink uses the honour system where no barriers are required to enter the system and similarly, random inspections to ensure that every passenger is in possession of a valid ticket are conducted often. You can use cash or credit card to purchase your metrolink ticket.</p><h3>By car<br /></h3><p>While many attractions are easily served by rail, and others are adequately served by bus, you will need a car to fully enjoy your visit. Yes, traffic is bad, but if you want to experience L.A., you need to get a car. Some of the most interesting parts of town can be very exhausting and time-consuming to reach via public transportation. For example, if you want to visit Malibu, any beach cities other than Santa Monica and Venice, the Korean Friendship Bell (with views of the port), the Chinese communities in the San Gabriel Valley, or any part of <a href="/guides/orange_county" class="intralink">Orange County</a>, you are strongly advised to travel by car. There are also many spectacular natural areas surrounding the L.A. metropolitan area that you can only reach by car. See the article about Driving in Los Angeles County for more information. If you are mostly going to be between the ocean and downtown, drive on arterial streets such as Wilshire Blvd. and Sunset Blvd. to get around instead of the freeways. This not a way of avoiding traffic but a way to see more of the city's sights and lessen the chance of getting lost by taking the wrong exits on the freeway.<br /><br />If you are going to be driving around, make sure you have access to extensive street and freeway maps, a Thomas Bros Guide (a large spiral-bound street atlas), AAA offers good free maps to members from any state, or a car with an onboard navigation system. (One map in particular from AAA that even locals find useful is a pocket guide to the area's extensive freeway system.)<br /><br />The freeways in L.A. can be confusing and overwhelming, and typically the speed of the freeway during the non-rush hours is much higher than the speed limit. If you have two or more people in your vehicle, regardless of your purpose, you may use the "Carpool Only" lanes (some require 3 people, but these will be clearly marked). There's also lots of construction work going around since the beginning of 2004 (especially late at night), so watch out for that too. Listening to a radio station is helpful for any long trip through L.A. since most stations regularly disseminate traffic information during the daylight hours. KNX 1070 AM and KFWB 980 AM are the most frequent and cover the metropolitan area, including Orange and Ventura counties and the Inland Empire. Note that freeways are sometimes broadcast by the segment name (i.e. Santa Monica Freeway) in addition to their route number (I-10). Proper freeway names can also change depending on these segments (I-10, for example, contains both the Santa Monica and San Bernardino Freeways.) Be wary of certain interchanges, especially the East L.A. Interchange and the loops in Downtown L.A. Although these are well signed, they can still be confusing. When receiving directions or traffic reports, keep in mind that both locals and traffic reports will refer to highway numbers with the definitive article (e.g. "the 10" instead of "I-10").<br /><br />Although L.A.'s traffic jams are legendary, the freeway grid provides for an effective movement of traffic and a variety of alternatives. Be sure to have an alternative route planned out in advance; many freeways run parallel to each other and serve as viable alternatives, especially in long-distance trips! Traffic accident reports on the radio will give the name of the freeway interchange or cross-street. Traffic is often so far away that you won't be affected even on the same freeway and direction. If possible, use a passenger as your navigator. You may also check SigAlert for current traffic information before your trip. If you are traveling more than 10 or 15 miles on the freeway network, ask a local for the best route at that time of day.</p><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><ul><li>Watch a <strong>Dodgers Baseball Game</strong> Who wouldn't want to grab a Dodgers Dog and get a nice sunburn watching a nice game of baseball? Don't forget to wait until the 2nd or 3rd inning to show up, as the locals do.</li><li><strong>Fredericks of Hollywod</strong> The original racy longerie store has a celebrity longerie hall of fame.<br /></li><li><strong>Mann's Chinese Theatre</strong> has the famous hand and foot prints of celebrities, and in general is a great place to see a show.</li><li><strong>Mulholland Drive</strong> is worth a drive if you have your own transport. It's the setting for endless movies and first kisses, and provides great views over the city. The easiest way to enter is to head north up Highland Ave into the Cahuenga Pass - you'll come to a turnoff to your left that is signed. Beware of speeding cars near this intersection.</li><li><strong>Ripley's Believe it or Not</strong> The cool and the bizarre<br /></li><li><strong>El Pueblo</strong> Also known as Olvera Street, this is the historic center of LA and the city derives it's name from the mission established here (Mission De La Nuestra Senora La Reina de Los Angeles - the Mission of our Lady the Queen of the Angels). The oldest building in the city lies here and is open to visitors, as are a number of Mexican restaurants and shops; it is across the street from Union Station. </li><li><strong>Union Station</strong> A historic downtown site and the main railway hub for the city.</li><li><strong>Watch a Kings Hockey Game </strong>A fun sporting alternative that needs your support as its not the most popular game in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a></li><li><strong>Los Angeles County Museum of Art</strong> (LACMA). Has great permanent and changing exhibitions. </li><li><strong>George C. Page Museum</strong>. Located across the street from LACMA.</li><li><strong>La Brea Tar Pits</strong> An actual tarpit with a museum featuring fossils that have been found in the area. Located across the street from LACMA.</li><li><strong>Watch a Lakers Basketball Game</strong> Arguably the most popular sports team in the city. Check to see if prices have dropped since the lineup changed... during their string of championships you'd have to have taken out a second mortgage on your house to pay for the seats.</li><li><strong>Watch a Clippers Basketball Game</strong> an alternative to the Lakers. You can usually get tickets easier and most of the time the tickets are cheaper as well</li><li><strong>Magic Moutain</strong> On the very edge of the greater Los Angeles County, this theme park is the place to go if you'd like to explore a more adventurious side compared to Disneyland or Universal Studios </li><li><strong>Museum of Contemporary Art</strong> Located downtown and hosts excellent changing exhibitions. </li><li><strong>Petersen Automotive Museum</strong> Has a great display of rare cars, and the intersection outside is the site of the Biggie Smalls murder.</li><li><strong>Museum of Tolerance </strong>learn about and confront socail issues that have plagued the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a></li><li><strong>Museum of Television and Radio</strong> has surprise surprise a lot of collections related to the television and radio industry</li><li><strong>Rodeo Drive</strong> shopping street of the Rich and Famous</li><li><strong>Hollywood Bowl</strong> a great sounding natural ampitheatre and the place to catch the LA Philharmonic</li><li><strong>Exposition Park</strong> a cultural gathering place with three wonderful museums: the <strong>Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County</strong>, the <strong><a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Museam of Science and History</strong>, and the <strong>Califorina Afro-American Museum</strong>.</li><li><strong>Queen Mary</strong> a giant luxery liner from the 30's in the Long Beach Harbor that now operates as a hotel and tourist attraction</li><li><strong>Aquarium of the Pacific</strong> Located in Long Beach, it is one of the largest aquariums in the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>.</li><li><strong>Beach towns of the South Bay</strong>. Both Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, and Manhatten Beach are all fun party towns right on the coast.</li></ul><h2>Shopping</h2><p>Los Angeles has a well-known, diverse and unique shopping traditions and destinations. Strip malls and shopping malls will dominate your shopping trip as they are nearly inescapable in many of your destinations. For example, the Hollywood & Highland mall is a popular meeting point for those gazing at the Walk of Fame and Mann's Chinese Theater. Other malls you may bump into are the Grove (next to the Farmer's Market) and the Beverly Center, which is quite unlike other shopping malls as it is multilevel with a nice view of Los Angeles from its food court patio.<br /><br />Lacking any significant public square, Los Angeles funnels its commercial life onto its streets. Among the most popular street is Larchmont Blvd. which caters to the wealthy elite of Hancock Park with one-of-a-kind boutiques. Melrose Avenue, especially in the West Hollywood portion, one-ups Larchmont Blvd. with celebrity presence.<br /><br />Broadway in Downtown will take you out of the comforts of overly manicured shopping centers and drop you onto its chaos. With merchandise geared towards the city's millions of Latinos, twenty dollars would probably get you a new wardrobe. Broadway once was the city's premier boulevard and looking up above the gritty flea markets and you would see the opulent theaters that defined luxury in early 20th-century Los Angeles.</p><h3>Celebrities<br /></h3><p>Celebrities are no different from everyone else although they do have more money to spend and would tend to avoid the masses when it comes to shopping. Fred Segal in West Hollywood and Santa Monica is a prime destination for stars. Due to its association with notorious starlets such as Lindsay Lohan, Kitson in Melrose has attracted celebrity attention.</p><h3>Specialty<br /></h3><p>Downtown is the destination for some focused retail therapy. Want flowers? Why there's a Flower District in Downtown! Jewelry? Fashion? Seafood? Toys? Yep, there are entire districts in Downtown dedicated to these particular products. You can buy art in Gallery Row up and down Main Street or see artists at work in the Artist District. They are located mostly just east of the towering Financial District. Beware though as they exist along with the notorious Skid Row.</p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Los Angeles has great weather year around. In the summer the weather is usually rather warm inland (up to 100F) yet still pleasent near the coast. There can be moderate rain in the winter, but even in the dead of winter the temperature rarely drops below 50 (F) during the day and many winter days are in the 60s and 70s (F).</p><p>Los Angeles tends to be smoggy (polluted) and on some days its extra smoggy and you can see the brown film easily. You should watch out for high smog alert days as you can be at a higher health risk then. </p><h2>Health and Safety</h2><p>Los Angeles is similar to other major metropolitan areas in that travel within certain parts of the city at night should be conducted with caution and only in groups. In downtown Los Angeles, even men should not walk around alone at night. Most areas are safe in the daytime, but traveling in groups is still a prudent precaution. Most homeless individuals are harmless; they will likely only ask you for money and if you refuse, they will simply go on to the next person. Certain areas of Downtown, such as Skid Row (which is where the Greyhound station is located), are dangerous regardless of the time of day and should be avoided altogether if possible. Street gangs (such as the Bloods and Crips) generally confine themselves to certain areas and should be of little concern to the typical traveler, who is unlikely to venture into the areas where the gangs are.</p><p><br />In the unlikely (although not as unlikely as in the rest of the country) event of a major earthquake, duck and cover and stay where you are during the shaking, then go outside once the shaking stops. Buildings and other structures are unlikely to collapse. Your largest threats come from breaking windows and falling objects such as ceiling tiles and bookshelves. Try to get under a table, desk, or doorjam to reduce your exposure to these threats. You are more likely to be injured if you try to run during the shaking.</p><h2>Nearby</h2><p>There are so many things within a few hours drive of the greater Los Angeles area. Just make sure you set out before the traffic kicks in. </p><ul><li><strong>Disneyland</strong> Who on earth has not heard of the original fantasy world of Disneyland. Technically it's in <a href="/guides/orange_county" class="intralink">Orange County</a>, and its not a matter of if, but when you are visiting</li><li><strong>Knotts Berry Farm</strong> The first full theme park in the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> is alive and well. Besides the exciting thrill rides, theres the old west ghost town and other shops all charming in their own way </li><li><strong>Catalina Island</strong> Take a relaxing day or weekend trip to visit the small town of Avolon on this naturally preserved island. By boat the trip is a couple of hours leaving from Long Beach.</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a></strong>. If the kids didn't have enough at Disneyland, then you can always take them to Legoland, the <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> Zoo or Sea World all in <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> County. Besides the theme parks land there are pleanty of great things to do in Los Angeles' mellower southern neighbor.</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/santa_barbara" class="intralink">Santa Barbara</a></strong>. The beautiful resort coast town is the gateway between central and southern <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">california</a> and the perfect place to begin pampering yourself and wind down from the urban concrete of the rest of southern <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a></li><li>Farther out <a href="/guides/Las_Vegas"><strong>Las Vegas</strong></a> the sin city capital is only about 4.5 drive or 1.5 hour plane trip<br /></li></ul> 33.97 -118.24 Pyk, 71.103.66.46, 76.176.14.221, 209.142.39.40, jeremy 0 2009-05-24 09:30:12 6 San Francisco 3 California <p>San Francisco is one of those endlessly charming places that can have a relatively small town feel in a large culture-filled city. This bustling, cosmopolitan city is well-known for its diverse ethnic and political communities, hilly terrain, world-class restaurants, and scenic beauty. Ride a trolly downtown, hangout in Golden Gate Park enjoying the views of the famous bridge, or take a stroll down to Fishmermans Wharf and watch a vibrant Pacific Ocean port in action. This picaresque city is sure not to be missed.</p> <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Alacatraz</strong> Decommissioned island prison in the bay. Take a tour and listen to an audio tape in English, Japanese, Chinese or other languages. The most interesting aspect of the tour is that you can go into the prison and see what it is like to be imprisoned. It might be more interesting if you've watched the movie "Escape from Alcatraz" and seen what happened in Alcatraz when it was operating as a prison. Tickets for the Ferry to Alcatraz are available at the Alcatraz Cruises website</li><li><strong>Fisherman's Wharf</strong> is both a "tourist trap" and a place to see amazing street entertainers, eat excellent seafood, watch sea lions, and go to the, Aquarium Marine Museums and exhibits. Working fishing boats still come into the small harbor at Jones and Jefferson, the endpoint of the Muni Historic F-streetcar. There are also small day and party boats available. The fresh breeze from the bay can provide a bracing setting.</li><li><strong>The Golden Gate Bridge</strong> is one of the most famous bridges in the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> and has been called one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. The bridge spans the Golden Gate, a strait between San Francisco and Marin County to the north, and is one of the major road routes into and out of the city.<br />Vehicular traffic in both directions share a single deck; yellow pylons are used to allot lanes to one direction or the other depending on traffic conditions. Observation areas and parking lots are provided on both the north and south sides of the bridge; the best way to enjoy the bridge is to park and walk across, not least because you don't have to pay a toll. Note that winds are high and it can be cold and foggy; dress appropriately. <br />The masterwork of architect Joseph B. Strauss, whose statue graces the southern observation deck, the bridge took seven years to build, and was completed on May 27, 1937. Not actually golden in color -- a common misconception -- the bridge is painted a deep red-orange. Erroneous legend has it that the bridge is continuously painted, with crews starting at one end and, on getting to the other end, turning around and starting over again. In fact, the bridge is only painted once every few years, with some touchup done continuously.</li><li><strong>Golden Gate Park</strong> Once an area of sand dunes, Golden Gate Park is a roughly two-by-four mile long urban oasis, with windmills, bison, museums, and a carousel hidden among its charms. At 1,017 Acres, it is 174 acres larger than <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>'s Central Park, so unless you rent a bike, you'll want to plan which area you want to visit, especially along the East (Stanyan street) to West (the Ocean) axis. During the summer to October a free shuttle bus circulates. On Sundays only bicycles are allowed on most park roads. The number 5 bus runs along its North boundary, and the N streetcar two blocks south of its South boundary. The Conservatory of Flowers is at 2nd Avenue (4 small blocks West of Stanyan). To the South, are tennis Courts, a children's playground and its Carousel, and playing fields for Frisbee. At 8th Avenue is the Shakespeare Garden with roses and other flowers mentioned in his plays. The de Young Museum has recently reopened (see "Hide in a Museum"), although the Aquarium and Planetarium of the <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Academy of Sciences, and the Music Concourse at 10th Avenue are currently being completely rebuilt. West of the de Young it is the Japanese Tea Garden at 12th Avenue, and South (at 9th Avenue) is the Strybing Arboretum. Boating on Stow Lake is at 18th Avenue. The Marx and Speedway meadows for picnicking and music festivals are near 30th. Ave. Horse riding, around the Polo field is available at 34th Avenue (currently - 2005 - closed to the public), model boating is at 35th Ave., fly-casting at 36th Avenue, and a Petanque bowling field is at 38th Ave. At 38th Avenue is also the Bison Meadow, where buffaloes roam. Golf and Archery is played at 47th Avenue. Finally, beyond 48th Avenue are the Dutch windmills that were used for Park irrigation in the past and the Beach Chalet for lunch, drinks, or dinner overlooking the Pacific Ocean and admiring brave surfers.</li><li><strong>Chinatown</strong>, centered around Grant Street from Bush to Columbus is part tourist trap, part an exhibit of local life. Good eating places remain, and the side streets especially have stores one wouldn't find in a mall. Stockton Street, the street paralleling Grant to to west is the main street where most locals do their shopping for groceries. Be sure to sample some of the Dim Sum and other specialties offered in the many bustling shops. However, many local Chinese prefer to eat and shop in the new Chinatowns located in other neighborhoods such as the Inner Richmond neighborhood or on Clement Street between 2nd and 12th Avenues. The Muni #1 (<a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>) and #2 (Clement, does not run at night) buses get people from one Chinatown to the other.</li><li><strong>Ride a San Francisco Cable Car</strong>, or take the F-train, an electric street car running from Fishermen's Wharf along the Embarcadero, down Market street, up to The Castro.</li></ul><h2>Background</h2><p>San Francisco is located on the tip of a peninsula between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific coast. It has a population of around 800,000 and is 7 miles by 7 miles (11 km by 11 km) in size. San Francisco is blessed with a mild climate. In most months, you can expect the temperature be in the 60s or 70s. Be prepared for cool weather, even in the summer. The hackneyed quote -- often mistakenly attributed to Mark Twain -- ("The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.") is a bit exaggerated, but it's true that the hot<a href="/guides/test" class="intralink">test</a> selling items in San Francisco's tourist shops are always sweaters. Don't be afraid of a cool Pacific air or fog, though. Everybody's Favorite City's refreshing air and radiant skies are reason enough to visit.</p><p>San Francisco was founded in 1776 by the Spanish and has been a vibrant city ever since. Known today for its mixing of cultures, its liberal outlook, and its beautiful sights, it remains one of America's top tourist destinations.<br /><br />A good book on the tumultuous early history of San Francisco is Herbert Asbury's ("Gangs of <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>") "Barbary Coast", which details the years from the gold rush in 1849 to the earthquake in 1906.<br /><br />The name of the city used to be Yerba Buena.<br /><br />San Francisco is just one of the cities which makes-up the entire San Francisco Bay Area. The areas to the east of the Bay Bridge, north of the Golden Gate Bridge, and cities and towns south of San Francisco are technically separate localities, each with their own city government and public transportation systems. Moreover, San Francisco is a city-county in itself, that is, none of the other nearby cities are part of that county.</p><h3>Culture</h3><p>It is important to remember that San Francisco is one of the most open-minded and progressive big cities in the country. With this open-mindedness comes a variety of languages, skin tones, sexual orientations, and hair colors; it is all a part of the joy of San Francisco, and as a visitor it is something that you have to learn to accept and welcome. </p><h2>Get Here</h2><h3>By plane</h3><p>There are three airports in the San Francisco Bay Area:</p><ul><li><strong>San Francisco International</strong> (IATA: SFO) located about 10 mi (16 km) south of the city),</li><li><strong>Oakland International</strong> (IATA: OAK) in the East Bay), </li><li><strong>San Jose International</strong> (IATA: SJC) in Silicon Valley, about 1 hour south of San Francisco. <br /></li></ul><p>Oakland and San Jose tend to offer more discount airline flights, while San Francisco Airport attracts more international flights and can be more convenient for those staying in the city.<br /><br />San Francisco and Oakland Airports are connected to downtown SF by the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, which costs about $5. Taxis are considerably more expensive: a taxi from SFO to the city can easily cost upwards of $40, and over $60 from OAK. Shared vans will cost around $14. If you plan to drive from a car rental area near the SFO airport to downtown San Francisco, you can take the 101 freeway.<br /><br />Note that taxi and van prices from San Jose to San Francisco are significantly higher.<br /><br />Passengers arriving in SFO can walk (5 minutes from United's terminals) or take a free airport shuttle (AirTrain) to the BART station. From Oakland Airport, you must take a bus to the BART station. The cost of this bus is $2, and it takes 10-15 minutes. From Oakland Airport BART has direct trains to San Francisco, with a 5-15 minute frequency.<br /><br />BART trains head directly to downtown San Francisco, from where taxis and the MUNI can take travelers to their final destination.<br /><br />The San Jose airport is served by a free shuttle to both VTA Light Rail and Caltrain. Passengers arriving in San Jose can use Caltrain to reach San Francisco directly. Caltrain also links with the BART system at the Millbrae intermodal station. Be aware that public transportation within the South bay is not as developed as around San Francisco.<br /><br />Private pilots should consider Oakland (ICAO: KOAK) rather than SFO, as the separate general aviation field there is more accommodating to light aircraft.</p><h3>By train<br /></h3><p>Amtrak serves the Bay Area with long-distance and intercity trains, but none of its trains actually enters San Francisco. Instead, passengers must transfer at the Amtrak station at Emeryville in the East Bay to an Amtrak <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Thruway bus that crosses the Bay Bridge to San Francisco's Amtrak stop at 101 The Embarcadero (near the Ferry Building). Travelers on some Amtrak routes can also transfer to BART trains at the Richmond or Oakland Coliseum stations (see below). Alternatively, riders approaching the Bay Area from the south may transfer to Caltrain at San Jose's Diridon Station for a direct ride to Fourth and Townsend Streets in San Francisco. Amtrak can be contacted at +1 800 872-7245.<br /><br />Amtrak routes serving the Bay Area are:</p><ul><li><strong>The <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Zephyr</strong> runs daily between Chicago and Emeryville with connections to/from the east coast.</li><li><strong>The Coast Starlight</strong> runs daily between Seattle, Portland, Emeryville, and <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a>. Travelers from <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> should take the Pacific Surfliner to <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> and connect with the Coast Starlight. To reach San Francisco, either transfer to Caltrain in San Jose or to the Amtrak bus in Emeryville.</li><li><strong>The Capitol Corridor</strong> runs 12 times daily (9 on weekends and holidays) between <a href="/guides/sacramento" class="intralink">Sacramento</a> and Emeryville. Some trains also serve San Jose but Caltrain (see below) is a better bet between San Jose and San Francisco. The most convenient transfer to San Francisco is actually to BART at Richmond's station, north of Emeryville, while the Oakland Coliseum station is another option on trains continuing south of Emeryville.</li><li><strong>The San Joaquins</strong> runs 4 times daily between Bakersfield, Stockton and Emeryville. Travelers on the San Joaquins can continue on to San Francisco via the Amtrak bus at Emeryville or by transferring to the BART at the Richmond station. <br /></li></ul>Caltrain operates a regional rail service from San Jose to its San Francisco terminal at Fourth and Townsend. The service also runs between San Jose and Gilroy during rush hour. Caltrain is very useful for travel between San Francisco and cities of the Peninsula, Silicon Valley or South Bay. On weekdays Caltrain provides two trains per hour for most of the day but run more during commute hours, including "Baby Bullet" limited services that cruise between San Francisco and San Jose in 57 minutes; on weekends and public holidays trains run hourly, except that after 10PM only one train runs, leaving at midnight. The 4th & Townsend terminal is served by Muni Metro (see 'Get around' below) giving connections to the rest of the city. Fares vary depending on how far you go. Tickets must be purchased before boarding the train from ticket vending machines at all stations or from ticket clerks at staffed stations. Tickets are checked on the trains and anyone found without a ticket is liable to a substantial fine. Caltrain can be contacted at +1 510 817-1717.<br /><br />Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) provides a regional frequent rail service connecting much of the East Bay and Contra Costa County with San Francisco and the San Francisco Airport through the Transbay Tube. BART operates five routes, of which four reach San Francisco; there are three or four trains per hour on each route. In the East Bay and outer parts of San Francisco BART runs mostly on elevated track; in downtown San Francisco it runs in a subway under Market Street, and several underground stations provide easy access to downtown areas and simple transfers to Muni Metro, also running in a sub-Market subway. BART also meets Caltrain at Millbrae. Bicycles are allowed on BART except between the Embarcadero and Oakland City Center stations during commute hours. Fares vary depending on distance traveled. You should check the map at your departure station and buy a ticket for at least the correct amount. The minimum amount that a trip will cost is $1.40. You will need to insert your ticket into barriers when entering and exiting the system. If there is still value left on the ticket when you exit, the ticket will be returned to you and you can re-use it, increasing its value as necessary. BART can be contacted at +1 415 989-2278.<br /><h3>By bus<br /></h3><p>Greyhound has frequent intercity service from San Francisco. The station is inside the Transbay Transit Terminal, First and Mission streets.<br /><br />Several regional bus systems serve San Francisco from the immediate suburbs:</p><ul><li>AC Transit, from Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, and other East Bay cities</li><li>samTrans, from San Mateo County</li><li>Golden Gate Transit, from Sonoma and Marin counties</li><li>Vallejo Transit, from Vallejo <br /></li></ul><h3>By boat<br /></h3><p>In many ways a boat is the ideal way to approach San Francisco. The city's spectacular site is best appreciated from the water, and from the deck of a boat the bay and its bridges and islands can be viewed as a whole. Cruise ships and private yachts are regular visitors to San Francisco, but the passenger ferries that regularly link other Bay Area cities to San Francisco are probably more practical for most visitors.<br /><br />Ferries run to San Francisco from Larkspur, Sausalito and Tiburon in Marin County, from Vallejo in Solano County and from Alameda and Oakland in the East Bay. In San Francisco the ferries dock at one or both of Fisherman's Wharf and the Ferry Building. For more information:</p><ul><li>Golden Gate Ferries, serving Larkspur and Sausalito, can be contacted on +1 415 923-2000 </li><li>Blue and Gold Fleet, serving Sausalito and Tiburon, can be contacted on +1 415 705-5555 </li><li>BayLink Ferry, serving Vallejo, can be contacted on +1 707 648-4349 </li><li>Alameda Oakland Ferry, serving Alameda and Oakland, can be contacted on +1 415 705-5555 </li><li>Harbor Bay Ferry, serving (a different location in) Alameda, can be contacted on +1 510 769-5500 </li></ul><h3>By car</h3>There are four major highway approaches to San Francisco. 101 North comes up the eastern side of the SF peninsula and is the most direct route from the south, although it often backs up with traffic. I-280 North is a more scenic route into the city, but it is a little more out of the way than 101. I-80 approaches the city from the east over the San Francisco Bay Bridge. From the north, take 101 South over the Golden Gate Bridge.<br /><br /><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><ul><li><strong>Lombard Street</strong>. The (nearly) twistiest street in America, between Hyde & Leavenworth (a similar street is located along Vermont Street, next to McKinley Square in the Potrero district). You can get a view from it on the Powell & Hyde cable car line.</li><li><strong>22nd Street</strong>. Between Vicksburg and Church and Filbert Street. between Leavenworth and Hyde - At a 31.5% grade, these streets share the honor of steepest streets in San Francisco.</li><li><strong>Angel Island</strong> Island in the bay that housed Asian immigration (exclusion) camp, becoming the "Ellis Island of the West". Ferry over and rent a bicycle or walk around this beautiful island that is now a park.</li><li><strong>Palace of Fine Arts</strong>. Located in the Marina District the Palace of Fine Arts is a Beautiful building. It was designed by Bernard Maybeck and was completed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. The architecture is that of Roman and Greek. Beautiful woman sculptured into the building dramatically holding up the pillars. Although the Palace of Fine Arts has fallen slightly ill to lack of repair it is still a major site to behold.</li><li><strong>Coit Tower</strong>. Built in 1933 on top of Telegraph Hill, a former signaling point for sailing ships, Coit Tower is dedicated to the San Francisco firefighters. Its shape is reminiscent of a fire nozzle. At 250' high, it is a healthy hike from the Embarcadero (steps at Greenwich and Montgomery) or from North Beach. Muni bus #39 goes from <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> Square to the top.</li><li><strong>Twin Peaks</strong>, Twin Peaks Boulevard (north of Portola Drive, just east of Laguna Honda). The small parking area at the northern tip of Twin Peaks Boulevard (875' above sea level) has the best view of San Francisco and the Bay Area that you can get within the city limits. Not many services, and the tour buses can get backed up here during the day, but it's a great place to really appreciate the City from above. Temperatures up there can be quite a bit lower than in the rest of the city, so bring a jacket. Muni bus #37, a scenic ride from the Haight-Ashbury or Castro and Market streets, gets you close, so you only have to climb about 120' up.</li><li><strong>Treasure Island</strong>. A human-made island half-way between San Francisco and Oakland connected to Yerba Buena Island which the Bay Bridge passes through (The widest tunnel in the world). Excellent views of San Francisco & Oakland skylines can be had from driving around this recently deactivated Navy station. Accessible by Muni bus line 108.</li><li><strong>Mission District</strong>. Containing one of the oldest structures in the City - the Mission Dolores Church - as well as superb City views from Dolores Park, the Mission is an offbeat tourist destination where Hispanic families mingle with Hipster night-owls, artists, lesbians, and just about every one else in this eclectic neighborhood. The walls of many buildings are painted with a fantastic collection of murals about Mexican culture.</li><li><strong>Presidio</strong>. The Presidio was founded in 1776 and was the longest-running military post in the U.S. before closing as base in 1994. It is now a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, or Parks at the Golden Gate. At the end of 2005, about 2,500 people lived in the Presidio, a unique situation of housing in a national park. Part of their drinking water comes from Lobos Creek (Rio de los Lobos), the last free-flowing creek in San Francisco. </li><li><strong>Alamo Square.</strong> At Steiner and Hayes, it has the famous Painted Ladies row of Victorian houses on its east side, but many other pretty Victorians throughout its surroundings. The Hayes street Muni bus #21 goes along its south side. If you enjoy walking and don't mind modest grades you can get there by walking west from Hayes Valley or north from the Lower Haight.</li><li><strong>The Civic Center</strong> has impressive Beaux Arts buildings and the celebrated Asian Art Museum, but the main reason for going there are its music and theater venues. On an historic note, the Charter for the United Nations was signed in the War Memorial Veteran's Building at the corner of Van Ness Avenue and McAllister Street. Nearby Hayes Valley along Hayes Street (West, past Van Ness Avenue) is a neighborhood known for its sophisticated yet funky shops, bars and restaurants.</li><li><strong>Moscone Center.</strong> The Yerba Buena Gardens, above the Moscone Center, at Mission and Third streets provide a nice urban oasis. There is a carousel, a museum, and play places for kids, movie houses, various exhibit spaces, and the Museum of Modern Art across the street. A big garage at Mission between Fifth and Fourth streets makes it quite accessible for drivers. The Moscone Center itself houses major exhibits and conventions. Half of all Muni lines come with a few blocks of the area. The conference center itself is home to a number of major (especially IDG) expos that occur each year, including Apple Computer-related expos such as Macworld and Apple's WWDC, and LinuxWorld.</li><li><strong>Lincoln Park</strong> defines the extreme Northwestern corner of San Francisco. It provides majestic views of the Marin Headlands, the Golden Gate Bridge from the Ocean side, and the Pacific Ocean itself. At the extreme western end the well known Cliff House provides both semi-casual and a more formal eating and drinking place. The #18 Muni bus goes from the center of the park via the Cliff House to Golden Gate Park, while the very frequent #38 Geary buses terminate in between. Drivers will want to take the El Camino del Mar Drive through the small Seacliff area on the northwest side to view some fancy mansions between Lincoln Park and the Presidio.</li><li><strong>City Pass.</strong> A relatively cheap and easy way to cover many attractions of the city is a so-called "city pass". This is a passport to the most exciting tourist spots of the town and allows you to explore them by yourself whenever you like. For a fare of $49 (adults) and $39 (children 17 and under) you get the chance to visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), the Exploratorium, The Legion of Honor, the <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Academy of Science (OR if you wish the Asian Art Museum instead) on 9 consecutive days starting with the use of your first ticket. The pass also includes a Bay Cruise and seven days of Cable Car and MUNI fares. Official CityPass SF website</li><li><strong>Harbor Tours.</strong> One of the best ways to see San Francisco is from the waters of San Francisco Bay. There are many companies offering San Francisco harbor tours of varying durations and prices but they all provide marvelous views of the bay, the bridges, the island of Alcatraz and the city. Only specific island tours are allowed to land at Alcatraz, but the typical harbor tour will circle the island at a slow crawl, giving you plenty of opportunity to photograph the now-inactive prison from the water. Also consider taking a ferry from San Francisco across the bay to Tiburon, Sausalito, or Alameda. Same views for a fraction of the price.</li><li><strong>Critical Mass.</strong> On the last Friday of each month, bicyclists (in San Francisco, and about 200 like-minded cities world-wide.) gather at the north end of Market Street on the Embarcadero and ride en masse to some destination, militantly demonstrating their right to occupy the roads. If you are driving in SF on a Critical Mass day, you will want to listen for radio traffic reports, but if you are stopped by the mass the best thing to do is maintain a good sense of humor and remember that it will all pass in about 5 minutes. Tempers can and do flare...</li><li><strong>Hide in a Museum.</strong> When the morning is foggy, you may want to visit a museum. Golden Gate Park has the most famous museum, the M.H. de Young Museum, rebuilt and reopened in 2005. It is on the number 5 and 44 bus lines, its garage entrance is at the North Edge of the park, at 10th Avenue and Fulton street. Its former Asian collection is now permanently housed in the Asian Art Museum, located in the Civic Center. The Legion of Honor Museum is in Lincoln Park, at the Western end of El Camino del Mar Avenue, in the North-west corner of the Outer Richmond district. The #18 bus route, always near the Pacific Coast, ends there as well. These museums are open Tuesdays through Sundays, and are open late on Thursdays, but it is best to check. The new Museum of Modern Art is located downtown near the Moscone Center, across market from Union Square at Mission and Third Streets, on the Muni #30 bus and many other routes.</li><li>For old and young kids the free <strong>Marine History Museum</strong>, by the Municipal pier at the North end of van Ness Avenue and Columbus street, just west of Fisherman's wharf, is a fun place. Except it's currently closed for renovations. Walking to the end of the Municipal Pier gets you close to Alcatraz, and you can see both the Golden Gate and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay bridges. You can go on board of several historical ships, including the 1886 Balclutha clipper ship, a walking-beam ferry, a steam tug, and a coastal schooner, at the Hyde-street Pier nearby. Over a hundred smaller vessels are also exhibited there.</li><li><strong>Discount Performing Arts.</strong> San Francisco has a Half-Price Ticket Booth located right in the middle of Union Square, where tickets for most San Francisco theater performances can be purchased the day of the performance for half-price. Run by Theatre Bay Area, all service fees collected from the sale of tickets by TIX Bay Area goes right back into the theater community. </li><li><strong>Go to a concert, a play, a Jazz or a folk-song performance</strong>. There are performances most days to choose from, as by the San Francisco Opera the San Francisco Symphony in Herbst Theater (where the U.N. charter was signed) in the Old First Church, and for musicals in the Orpheum or the Golden Gate Theaters, all located in or near the Civic Center. The museum of the Legion of Honor, located in Lincoln Park overlooking the the Golden Gate (North end of 34th Ave.), has organ concerts which can be heard in many of its galleries, Saturdays and Sundays at 4:00 pm, as well as music performances in its Florence Gould Theater, as by the the San Francisco Lyric Opera. For the fall and spring Jazz festivals look into the SFJAZZ calendar. San Francisco also has many Jazz Clubs, best found by browsing the web, as. Contemporary bands are featured at The Fillmore auditorium and less frequently at the large Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in the Civic Center. There is an annual blues festival in late September, at various locations. Many, but certainly not all, and no free events are listed by the City Box Office. There are at least two great free bluegrass music festivals each year - during February on the Marina and late September or October in Golden Gate Park. </li><ul><li><strong>Plays </strong>are performed at the Geary (by the American Conservatory Theater), Curran, and the Marines Memorial theatres; those are near Union Square, and at the three small New Conservatory theaters in the Civic Center. </li><li><strong>Musicals</strong> from Broadway and <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> are shown at the traditional Golden Gate and Orpheum theaters on Market, near the Civic Center. For outrageous fun princes and paupers go to Beach Blanket Babylon in North Beach. Teenagers are welcome at the Sunday Matinees. It considers itself the longest running musical reveue in theater history. </li><li>See the Unauthorized Rolling Stones, a San Francisco Institution play, or local musical genius Rudy Colombini play in one of the local clubs.</li><li>Consider Rudy Colombini's Center for the Musical Arts, 1353 Bush St. Music museum, cafe, nightclub, and performing arts space and his San Francisco Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame, 1335 Bush St. Exhibits focused on musicians from San Francisco and who changed the San Francisco music scene. <br /></li></ul></ul><h2>Shopping</h2><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><h2>Health and Safety</h2><p>As with many other major cities in the world, San Francisco also has its share of problems. The distinct areas that one should be cautious in are around the southeast and midwest sections of the city, such as Bayview-Hunters Point, Western Addition (Fillmore), Tenderloin (northwest of Civic Center), Lakeview, Sunnydale, and parts of the Mission district. The South of Market (SoMa) district used to be considered somewhat shady; however, recent development have transformed it into a rather hip neighborhood with plenty of art galleries (such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, or SFMOMA) and clubs.</p><p><br />San Francisco attracts a large homeless population, the largest per capita in America. If someone begs from you, you may either politely say that you do not have any change or just keep walking, and he or she will generally leave you alone.<br /><br />Pickpocketing can be expected, as with any other large city. Be especially cautious on crowded MUNI buses and during the busy holiday shopping season.</p><h3>Smoking</h3><p>Smokers beware: as in the rest of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, smoking is illegal in bars, restaurants, and other public places. Bay Area people can be particularly vocal about your personal habits. Be aware of nonsmoking areas, and try to be courteous about smoking in other places. They will probably not bother you about standing and smoking outside a restaurant or bar. However, smoking is not dead in San Francisco —there are a small number of bars that take advantage of loopholes in the law, and cater to the short-of-breath. The Zeitgeist (a motorcycle-themed dive bar) on Valencia in the Mission District is one of the better known. The Eagle (a gay biker/leather-themed bar) and the Lone Star (a gay bear-themed bar) both feature large outdoor smoking patios.<br /><br />On the other hand, smoking marijuana is remarkably well-tolerated by American standards. If you are visiting from elsewhere in the U.S., you may be very surprized to find that pot is really not considered to be a problem by San Franciscans, and even by The City's police. In fact, a law was passed in 2006 officially making marijuana THE lowest priority for the SFPD. This does not mean that you should smoke pot just anywhere -- as with cigarettes, it is considered improper etiquette to smoke weed in crowded areas. However, if you're at a concert, it is impolite not to share your green (don't worry; there will be plenty passed your way in return). Also, please be advised that coastal Northern <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> produces some of the finest and most potent pot on earth. You may be alarmed by its intensity. </p><h2>Get around</h2><h3>On foot</h3><p>Walking can be an enticing option to get from one neighborhood to another, so long as you are aware of where you are and keep your street smarts-- San Francisco is a city of friendly neighborhoods, but it is also "big city" --be aware of your surroundings and keep in mind the dangers that commonly accompany a city of San Francisco's size. Streets which often go straight up and down hills may make driving difficult, but make for breathtaking views (as well as good exercise) for the pedestrian. There are many stairway walks scattered throughout the city when the streets are too steep. You can find maps that include hiking trails, bikeways, and the grade pitch of all streets marked in varying colors by how steep each segment is, that can help you orient to city walks suitable to your ability and temperament. Note that locals rarely use the designations "street" or "avenue," except in differentiating the numbered streets and avenues. Numbered roads designated "Street" are located south of Market in Downtown, Castro, Noe Valley, and Mission. Roads designated "Avenue" put you in the Richmond and Sunset districts.<br /><br />Highlight walks include:</p><ul><li><strong>Chinatown</strong>: Grant from Bush to Broadway.</li><li><strong>Beach</strong>: Along Ocean Beach (Richmond, Sunset),</li><li><strong>Telegraph Hill</strong>: Greenwich and Filbert steps on the east side of Telegraph Hill, both strenuous and unforgettably beautiful, with cottages and a flock of wild parrots to enjoy along the way up to the Coit Tower.</li><li><strong>North Beach</strong>: Columbus from North Point in Fisherman's Wharf, through North Beach, and then onto Montgomery (the two intersect at the TransAmerica Pyramid) to Market</li><li><strong>Haight Ashbury</strong>: Haight between Stanyan and Divisidero</li><li><strong>Cow Hollow</strong>: Union Street between Bush and Fillmore is one of the finer residential neighborhood shopping streets</li><li><strong>Mission</strong>: Mission between 15th and Cesar Chavez streets. Note: The mission district is a bit unsafe. Take care and caution walking through this area.</li><li><strong>Pacific Heights</strong>: Fillmore between Pine and Broadway.</li><li><strong>Fillmore</strong> between Geary and Turk</li><li><strong>The Castro</strong>: Castro Street between 17th and 24th Streets <br /></li></ul><h3>By public transit<br /></h3><p>San Francisco's Municipal Railway or Muni runs a network of local transport that covers most areas of touristic interest well. An all day Muni Passport good on all Muni vehicles, including Cable Cars costs $11. Other passports and passes are available for longer periods: a 3-day pass costs $18, while a 7 day pass costs $24. The passports come in the form of scratch cards; be sure to scratch off the appropriate dates before using. Passports, as well as maps of the public transport system, can be purchased from the information booths at San Francisco airport, the Cable Car ticket booth at Market and Powell, and many other locations. Muni can be contacted by calling +1 415 673-6864. A portable wallet-sized map of San Francisco, called PocketBay, and all its public transit (MUNI, BART, Caltrain) is also available at stores around the city or through their website.<br /><br />90 minutes of travel on the Muni system (Metro, F-line, Buses), except the Cable Cars costs $1.50 (since September 1st '05); be sure to get and keep a transfer ticket when you pay for your first ride; you may be asked to show your transfer ticket (or pass) by fare inspectors at any time. Cable Cars are $5 per one-way, single-vehicle ride, or $10 per day. You can not transfer to or from the bus or street cars, but you can transfer to another cable car. Before 7AM and after 5PM, Seniors pay $1. San Franciscans who use the cable cars for commuting to work can buy MUNI passes at a reduced cost.<br /><br /><em><strong>Components of the Muni are:</strong></em></p><p>Streetcar at foot of Market</p><ul><li>Muni Metro is a modern light rail system. It connects to BART and the CalTrain terminus at 4th and King and serves much of the city. Tickets can be purchased from ticket vending machines before boarding; if the stop does not have such a machine and you do not have a ticket, you must board through the front door and buy one from the driver.</li><li>Streetcar Line F uses historic streetcars, some from other US cities and painted in the colors of those cities that once operated cars of that type, and others from the Italian city of Milan. The line runs from Fisherman's Wharf south along the waterfront Embarcadero to the ferry building at the foot of Market Street, then up Market Street on the surface to the Castro district. Board through the front door and buy tickets from the driver. <br /></li></ul><p>Cablecar at Powell & Market</p><p>The world-famous Cable Cars run on three lines in the steep streets between Market Street and Fisherman's Wharf. These cars are a fun ride, especially if you get to stand on the running board, if a bit impractical for everyday use (though residents of Nob and Russian Hills do, in fact, use them on a daily basis). The cable car is such an attraction that, especially on weekends, it takes longer to wait in line to ride up Powell St than it does to walk the short but sloping distance. Board through any door or just grab a pole on the running boards; tickets are checked and sold by a uniformed conductor. Do not buy tickets from anyone off the car except for clearly marked ticket booths - scam artists are common. </p><h3>Other public transportation options include:</h3><ul><li>Buses--both diesel and electric--serve the rest of city. Board through the front door and buy tickets from the driver.</li><li>BART has eight stations in San Francisco, making it a nice way to get between well-trafficked parts of the city, especially downtown and the Mission. BART gets you also across the Bay to Berkeley and Oakland and to the airport. For more information on BART, see the 'Get Here' section above. </li><li>CalTrain has four stops within San Francisco. Other than the 4th and Kings terminal, these are at 22nd St., Paul Ave., and Tunnel Ave, none of which are particularly attractive for visitors. Of interest to visitors who wish to travel Caltrain outside of city is the University Avenue station in Palo Alto, across the street from the campus of Stanford University. For more information on CalTrain, see the 'Get in' section above. <br /></li></ul><h3>By bike</h3><br />If you have strong legs, bicycles can be a convenient form of transportation in San Francisco. The City is fairly small -- about 7 miles square (18 km²) -- and it's fairly quick to get from one end to the other. But much of the terrain is hilly and hard to pedal up. Do not be misled by maps depicting the city's strict, regular street grid, as even the straigh<a href="/guides/test" class="intralink">test</a> of San Francisco's streets might include steep hills or even staircases instead of a roadway.<br /><br />Downtown, SoMa, and the Sunset and Richmond districts are relatively flat. There are a number of bike paths and bike routes on city streets; the San Francisco Bike Coalition keeps a lot of information about them.<br /><h3>By taxi</h3>Taxis in San Francisco are, for a large city, surprisingly inefficient and expensive, starting at $3.10 just for getting in the door. Except for taxi stations at or near downtown business hotels, or cruising just a few major arteries, taxis can be hard to find and hail -- and calling for a cab can mean a 30-45 minute wait, if the cab shows up at all. Now, if you're anywhere near Union Square and are holding shopping bags, just by standing on the curb and hailing passing cabs will usually get you one quite quickly. It is significantly easier to catch a taxi on weekdays, not including Friday night. If you are heading to the airport, your best bet is to call ahead with a specific pickup time to one of the many taxi companies (Yellow by far has the most cabs and they all accept credit card).<br /><h3>By car</h3>Perpetually-clogged traffic, a confusing system of one-way streets, expensive parking, and a fleet of meter-maids who enforce parking laws with zeal can make driving in downtown extremely frustrating; visitors to the city should seriously consider alternatives to auto<a href="/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a>s when possible. In addition traffic from the Golden Gate bridge uses surface streets either along CA-1, 19th Avenue or US-101 on Lombard and Van Ness.<br /><br />The most difficult problem with your car in San Francisco will be parking. Parking throughout the city is extremely scarce. Most parking garages, particularly downtown are also quite expensive. San Francisco has some of the stric<a href="/guides/test" class="intralink">test</a> parking laws and enforcement in the country. For day trips into the city, consider a park-and-ride at a Peninsula Caltrain station or at an East Bay BART station.<br /><br />Finding your way around<br /><br />Cross streets: As San Francisco streets are numbered (100 per block) from the beginning of the street, It is best when asking directions to ask for a cross street or neighborhood name. For instance, if you are at the intersection of Haight Street and Clayton Street, and you ask the driver of the 33 Stanyan bus "Does this bus go to Market Street?" it will get you a yes, but the bus won't get you downtown, it will get you south from that intersection to Market and 18th in the Castro district.<br /><br />Numbered streets and avenues: San Francisco has both numbered streets, in the Mission, the Castro, Noe Valley, and SoMa, and numbered avenues in the Sunset and the Richmond. Mixing numbered streets and avenues when asking directions may leave you miles from your destination. This can be confusing, as San Franciscans will not say "Street" or "Avenue" unless it is required to avoid ambiguity. Thus, "I live on Fifth Avenue" but "I live near Fifth and Geary." Street signs generally don't have "Street" or "Avenue" either; they just say "GEARY" or "MASONIC".<p> </p><h2>Nearby</h2><br />For laid-back, involved-with-your-fellow-travelers kind of travel (cooking is shared, the sleeper busload camps ensemble), check out the Green Tortoise. GT runs buses up to Seattle and down to Baja <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>; to Black Rock City, Yosemite National Park, a National Parks loop including the Tetons, Yellowstone and more, and a coast-to-coast run to <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>.<br /><br />Bikes can be rented from around the northern waterfront (Pier 41/Fisherman's Wharf/Aquarium Park area) or near Golden Gate Park for trips to Marin County via the Golden Gate Bridge. Golden Gate Transit also serves the North Bay from San Francisco, and has bike racks on most buses.<br /><h3>Destinations suitable for day trips include:</h3><ul><li><strong>Berkeley</strong>. Home to the University of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, Berkeley and one of the nation's most progressive communities. Also a hub of liberal political activism for the past several decades. It is also home to quite a few superb restaurants.</li><li><strong>Healdsburg</strong>. Charming Wine Country town located among some of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>'s grea<a href="/guides/test" class="intralink">test</a> wine appellations: Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Vally, Russian River Valley and Chalk Hill. Relaxed yet sophisticated atomosphere, Headlsburg offers excellent restaurants, shopping and wine tasting. About 70 miles North of the Golden Gate Bridge.</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/napa" class="intralink">Napa</a> Valley</strong>. The main wine growing region in the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>, a trip to the many wineries makes for a fun day, while those wanting a longer adventure can relax in any one of the many spas, bed and breakfasts, or other lodging options.</li><li><strong>Muir Woods</strong>. A 560 acre forest of old-growth redwood trees located in Mill Valley, Muir Woods is a pleasant respite from the city.</li><li><strong>Point Reyes National Seashore</strong>. Located just north of San Francisco along highway one, Point Reyes is a beautiful seashore that is particularly nice to visit when gray whales are migrating along the coast, usually best in mid-January and then from March through May.</li><li><strong>Santa Cruz</strong>. Located on the coast north of Monterey, this funky town is home to surfers, a lively college campus, and a popular boardwalk. The Santa Cruz Mountains north of town are a great place for outdoor recreation such as hiking.</li><li><strong>Yosemite National Park</strong>. Tours from San Francisco make for a wonderful day trip. Make sure to visit the amazing Giant Sequoias.</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/sacramento" class="intralink">Sacramento</a></strong>. Visit the state capital and gold country<br /></li></ul> 37.77 -122.42 Forever26, jeremy 0 (WT-en) Chipuni,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) BreezyB,(WT-en) RuTemple,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Huttite,(WT-en) Noahbart and other Anonymous users. 2009-01-24 02:23:48 7 Santa Barbara 3 California Santa Barbara is located geographically less than 100 miles from hyper-metropolitan Los Angeles but feels light years away from the noise and congestion of its huge neighbor to the south, which helps explain why the upper crust of Southern California have long favored the coastal retreat as both a getaway destination and the perfect place for a second (or sometimes first) home. With a temperate climate and lush natural environs, the "Riviera of the West" is perfect for a day trip, with its wide, perfect beaches, highly rated wineries, and a large variety of shopping and dining choices, or a much longer stay, with a highly active local culture of volunteerism and fund-raising (not to mention the very high number of wealthy people) that enables the town of just 90,000 residents to enjoy the sort of cultural and social amenities that are usually found only in much larger cities. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Fiesta, Summer Solstice, Holoween, and New Years Eve </strong>are all huge days to party. Somewhat similar to a smaller Mardis Gras in New Orleans, these festivals are marked by big parades during the day and huge partying downtown (and IV) during the night.</li><li><strong>Hiking</strong>, from the Mesa to the Santa Ynez Mountains, the unique geography of Santa Barbara provides amazing opportunities to see panoramic views and abundant wildlife. Hiking guides and maps are easily obtained at any local bookstore, well-equipped newsstand, or selected stores in tourist-heavy locations such as downtown. Examples include the Douglas Family Preserve, a great off-leash open space that often serves as the backdrop for numerous weddings, and East Camino Cielo Road off of Highway 154, which has several spots one can park and find a little trail to hike on, or even just sit and enjoy the view.</li><li><strong>Beautiful Beaches</strong>. Along the Waterfront, Santa Barbara's most popular beach, East Beach, is a pristine stretch of blindingly white sand framed by postcard quality palm trees, surrounding hills and nearby harbor. For less crowded beachcombing, try nearby Leadbetter Beach, or further up the road, isolated Arroyo Burro (known to locals as Hendry's Beach,) where dog lovers bring their pets to frolic in a no-leashes-needed surfside dog park. Hendry's Beach is also home to a nudist beach, where one can often see a frolicking nude man pass by. Even more isolated is Butterfly Beach, tucked away in a cove beneath the high-toned Biltmore Hotel in Montecito.</li><li><strong>Golf</strong>, Santa Barbara has numerous private and public golf courses located in and around the city. Hidden Oaks, Twin Lakes, and Ocean Meadows are 9 holes courses that provide budget prices for a round of golf. For those wishing to play 18 holes without spending a lot, the Santa Barbara Golf Club located at 3500 McCaw. provides reasonably priced rounds. For those wishing to spend more, Sandpiper Golf Course, located north of Goleta on Hollister, or Rancho San Marcos, located about 15 miles up the 154 provide a world class golf experience.</li></ul><h2>Background </h2><p>Although the common perception of Santa Barbara is as a playground for the rich and famous, the reality is more middle-America than you might think, with an average income only slightly higher than <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> as a whole, and a diverse ethnic makeup and heritage. Notable for its <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Mission-style architecture (a long-standing local ordinance ensures that all commercial construction follow the Mission theme, which results in a plethora of red-tiled roofs and faux adobe supermarkets), local residents are intensely proud of their city's roots and traditions, and a number of hugely popular festivals throughout the year celebrate the many cultures found within the city limits. </p><h2>Get Here</h2><p>Santa Barbara is served by a relatively small, but popular airport, Amtrak train station, and Greyhound bus lines. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, small but charming, provides access to LAX through a shuttle service that flies between the two airports several times per day. There is also service to San Fransisco, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Denver and other destinations. The airport itself is located in the city of Goleta. Amtrak, housed in a historical landmark on lower State Street, provides service on both the Pacific Surfliner route (San Luis Obispo to <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a>) and the Coast Starlight (Seattle to <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a>). The Greyhound station is also located in downtown, near the local bus transit center.<br /><br />If arriving by car, be aware that there is only one major highway in or out of Santa Barbara, US 101; downtown Santa Barbara can be accessed via the Garden St. exit, while the beaches can be found off the Cabrillo St. offramp. Traffic patterns here are almost the complete opposite from the famous <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> grid lock, as the 101 in Santa Barbara often can come to a grinding halt on Sunday afternoons</p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Santa Barbara is blessed with near perfect weather year around. It is often called the mediterranean of the west to quantify the wonderfully mild weather all year. There's really no bad time to go to Santa Barbara, but early summer can have some mornings with fog that won't burn off until noon or so. Also mid to late winter will experience some rainy days, but comparitively you'll be hard pressed to find many other places with so many wonderful days. </p><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><p>In general Santa Barbara is the type of resort town that you are more likely to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and relaxing atmoshpere then attending many tourist attractions. Now that said there are still pleanty of things to do here. </p><ul><li><strong>Paragliding</strong> Instruction of beginner and intermediate pilot. Fly solo from the training hill at Elings Park. </li><li><strong>Surfing</strong>. Can have world class surf in the winter but here is no surfing in SB during the summer due to blockage from the Channel Islands.</li><li><strong>Parasailing</strong>. Leaves from the tip of the pier, a parailing trip will both give you a thrill and afford a great view of the city.</li><li><strong>Charter a boat</strong>. Leave from the harbor and go sailing or fishing or maybe rent a jet skii for a thrilling though sometimes cold ride.<br /></li><li>J<strong>oin the fisherman along the pier</strong>.</li><li><strong>Visit the college town of Isla Vista</strong>, see neat beaches, enjoy some local eats, visit the UCSB campus and if your into it, stick around at night for the infamous IV parties</li><li><strong>Karpeles Museum</strong>, this library is the world's largest private holding of important original manuscripts & documents. Among those items on permanent display in the museum is an original Stone copy of the Declaration of Independence, a replica of the globe used by Columbus (sans the Western Hemisphere), handwritten scores by a dozen leading composers, and the computer guidance system used on the first Apollo lander flight to the moon.</li><li><strong>Santa Barbara Mission</strong> Self-guided tours available daily from 9am to 5pm. Known as "The Queen of the Missions," Santa Barbara's "Old Mission" is a superb example of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>'s Franciscan Spanish architecture. The tenth <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Mission to be constructed, Mission Santa Barbara today is both a scenic wonder and a fine anthropological study of original native culture in the surrounding area. Well worth a visit, be sure to take note of adjacent pottery kiln and tanning vat ruins. $4 for adults.</li><li><strong>Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History</strong> This large, well-presented natural history museum is - literally - a hidden treasure. Highlights include eleven exhibit halls focusing on regional natural history, and a life-size Blue Whale skeleton. $6 for adults. Admission is free on the last Sunday of every month except September.</li><li><strong>Stearns Wharf</strong>, located at the end of State Street along the Waterfront this picturesque 1872 wharf has the longest deep-water pier between <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> and <a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> and tons of history. Badly damaged several times by fire, Stearn's Wharf has been repeatedly rebuilt and restored and today features more than a dozen shops and restaurants, and one of the best views in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> from the end of its pier. The Wharf was also once owned by Hollywood legend James Cagney. Free.</li><li><strong>Santa Barbara Museum of Art</strong> A remarkably well-provisioned museum considering the size of the town it resides in, Santa Barbara's main art museum features a strong collection of Roman antiquities, as well as an impressive lineup of classical <a href="/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>an and modern art. Frequently rotated exhibitions are among the strongest in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>. Adults: $7. Free admission on Sunday.</li><li><strong>Santa Barbara Zoo</strong>. Small but well-represented with over 600 animals, the zoo has provided entertainment for all ages since 1963 and is the largest zoo between <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> and <a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> (unless you count the Monterey Aquarium). Adults 13-59: $10. Children 2-13 and Seniors 60+: $8. Children under 2: Free. <br /></li></ul><h2>Shopping</h2><p>Santa Barbara is a shopping paradise. State Street alone offers more than a mile stretch of everything from trendy boutiques to popular chain stores like Borders Books and Barnes and Noble. El Paseo (812 State St.,) on downtown State Street, is an upscale mall that bills itself as "<a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>'s First Shopping Center," while lushly themed and nearby Paseo Nuevo (651 Paseo Nuevo) offers Nordstrom's, Macy's, and more then 50 specialty shops. Whatever you're looking for, you'll likely find it on State Street. There is plenty of parking downtown with the first 75 minutes free in most lots (except at the beach). A good bet is the parking structure on Ortega. Walking or taking a bus in is also a good bet, but taxis are extremely expensive. </p><h2>Get Around</h2>There are numerous methods for getting around once in Santa Barbara. The city limits are cozy enough that simply walking from one destination to another is quite possible, but there is also a healthy public transit system in place here. The Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (SBMTD) runs buses all over Santa Barbara proper, as well as neighboring Goleta and Montecito. Their website lists all current routes and fares. The SBMTD also runs a special shuttle service between downtown and the waterfront, leaving every fifteen minutes during the day. Along the waterfront, many businesses offer bicycle or inline skate rentals for exploring the beach areas, and "rickshaw" taxis are also a common sight.<br /><br />Budget and Hertz outlets are present at the airport terminal for easy car rentals, but several other rental agencies are located in Santa Barbara; call around for best rates.<br /><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li><strong><a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a></strong> is only a little over 2 hours drive from Santa Barbara (with no traffic) if your ready for for a faster pace than Santa Barbara is offering.</li><li><strong>The Channel Islands State Park</strong> off the coast of Santa Barbara is a wonderful trip for the adventurous traveler. Boats leave out of the Ventura Harbor 40 minutes south of Santa Barbara.</li><li><strong>Los Olivos.</strong> About 50 miles north of Santa Barbara on Highway 154. This is a cute little one horse town with about 20 local winery tasting rooms lined up on Grand st. A great place to go wine tasting without having to drive a zillion miles from winery to winery.</li><li><strong>Solvang.</strong> Located approximately 40 miles north of Santa Barbara in the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is a gingerbread town. What must have started several decade back as a small "Little Denmark" tourist trap has grown into an entire town and surrounding community obsessed with its own overwhelming Danishness. Every sign, roof, light post and pothole is Danish-themed here, and reports of wandering bands of drunken men in plastic Viking helmets are firmly founded in reality. Take Highway 101 north/west to Buellton (the home of the original Pea Soup Anderson's), exit at the Highway 246 offramp and follow the destination signs to Solvang. If you're up for a twisty drive, take Highway 154 (also known as the San Marcos Pass) back to Santa Barbara at sunset and enjoy an unforgettable view. </li><li><strong>Lake Cachuma</strong>. Beautiful Lake Cachuma Recreation Facility is located approximately 20 miles north of Santa Barbara and offers RV hookups, tent camping, and yurt camping. The Lake also provides fishing, boating, sailing, and lake cruising. No swimming and/or body contact with the water is allowed because the lake is used as a reservoir by the city of Santa Barbara. The Lake's location along highway 154 (the San Marcos Pass) makes it an excellent rest stop on the way up to Solvange from Santa Barbara. </li></ul> 34.42 -119.7 25barks, jeremy 0 (WT/en) Ilkirk,(WT/en) Dhum Dhum,(WT/en) PierreAbbat,(WT/en) Botanic garden,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT/en) Maj,(WT/en) Jonboy,(WT/en) Italianpottery,(WT/en) Frankenspock,(WT/en) Doryl,(WT/en) Redondo,(WT/en) JimDeLaHunt,(WT/en) Rspga49,(WT/en) Nzpcmad,(WT/en) Justfred,(WT/en) Wrh2,(WT/en) JKomut,(WT/en) Redbug,(WT/en) Peterfitzgerald,(WT/en) Evan,(WT/en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT/en) N1ywb,(WT/en) Jagzone,(WT/en) Cjensen,(WT/en) Bcnstony,(WT/en) OldPine,(WT/en) Tsandell,(WT/en) Justsomechick,(WT/en) DrakesTravels,(WT/en) Cluth and other Anonymous users. 2008-11-11 16:08:33 8 Sacramento 3 California <p>When travelers think of California they tend to think of Los Angeles or San Francisco, but this sophisticated city has its own vibrant history. As the capital of California, there are pleanty of things to see and do, plus Sacramento is centrally located in Northern California, making it just a short drive to visit the beautiful napa wine country, ride the many slopes of the Lake Tahoe ski resorts, or go hunting for your own gold in the sierra nevada mountains.</p> <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Visit Sutter's Fort </strong>located in midtown Sacramento between K and Strees and 26th and 28th streets. It was built by John Sutter and is a <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> State Park. Activities and programs depict life in 1850's <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>.</li><li><strong>Walk around Old Sacramento</strong> riverfront area; a kick back to the past with 26 acres of great shops and restaurants built in 1800 motif. The boardwalk style sidewalks and horse-drawn stagecoaches give the small section of town a unique flavor.</li><li><strong>Go to the Railroad museam</strong> The largest railroad museam in the world is located in the Old Sacramento area. Also near the museam you can get tickets to take a forty minute ride on one of the historic steam locomotives. </li><li><strong>Try gold mining</strong> in nearby Columbia State Park. Tourists can buy pans of sand to give it an easy try or you can really get into it by heading to one of the nearby rivers and really giving it a go.</li><li><strong>Enjoy the slow life</strong> in the preserved mining towns nearby. Both Sutter Creek and Jackson rose during the gold rush era and the pioneer past is still evident. As you stroll through one of these towns you are likekly to be you charmed by the escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. </li></ul><h2>Background</h2><p>Sacramento is the capital of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> and is the oldest incorporated city in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>. </p><p>Sacramento experienced explosive gowth when gold was discovered in 1848. The gold rush that followed was the largest human migration in history. What remains of this historical time has shaped this city and make up much of the attraction that Sacramento is today. </p><p>Present day Sacramento continues to be an affordable and desireable place to live; it is one of the fastest growing cities in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>.</p><p>Sacramento has a population of 460,000 in the city and nearly two million in the metropolitan area. The people of Sacramento are warm and friendly. The pace of life is somewhat slower than in other large cities in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>.</p><h2>Get in</h2><h3>By plane</h3><br />Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is the main airport for Sacramento, located 15 minutes north of downtown along Interstate 5 at the Airport Boulevard exit. Air service is available to Hawaii, Mexico and all regions of the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>. Taxis from the airport to downtown are estimated at $27 one-way.<br /><br /><h3>By train</h3>Amtrak runs two long distance trains and two regional trains through Sacramento.<br /><ul><li> The Coast Starlight runs from Seattle and Portland through Sacramento to <a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> (via Emeryville), Oakland, San Jose, <a href="/guides/santa_barbara" class="intralink">Santa Barbara</a>, and <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a>.</li><li>The <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Zephyr runs from <a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> (via Emeryville) through Sacramento to Reno, Salt Lake City, Denver, Omaha, and Chicago. </li><li>The Capitol Corridor is a regional train that runs from the Bay Area to Sacramento making major stops in Martinez, Richmond, Berkeley, Oakland, Fremont, and San Jose. Carefully consult the schedule when buying tickets for this since some of the daily runs are by bus instead of train. </li><li>The San Joaquins is a regional train that runs from Sacramento south into the San Joaquin Valley making major stops in Stockton, Fresno, and Bakersfield. <br /></li></ul><h3>By car</h3>Sacramento is conveniently located at the intersection of Interstate 5 (a north-south route) and Interstate 80 (an east-west route). It is also located at the western terminus of US Route 50.<br /><ul><li> From the <a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> Bay Area, take Interstate 80 east.</li><li>From Reno and North Lake Tahoe, take Interstate 80 west.</li><li>From South Lake Tahoe, take US Route 50 west.</li><li>From Redding and the Pacific Northwest, take Interstate 5 south.</li><li>From the San Joaquin Valley and Southern <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, take Interstate 5 north. <br /></li></ul><h3>By bus</h3>Greyhound has A major hub downtown and numerous satellite stations throughout the Sacramento area. <br /><h2>Get around</h2><h3>By foot</h3>Historic Old Sacramento, the Riverfront, and the <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> State Railroad Museum are all within an easy five minute walk of the Amtrak train station.<br />The Capitol is a half-hour walk from Old Sacramento.<br /><h3>By car</h3>For going nearly anywhere else in the Sacramento area, you will want a car.<br /><h3>Light-rail</h3>The Regional Transit light-rail is useful in downtown and some of the surrounding areas.<br /><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><ul><li><strong>The Crocker Art Museum </strong>is located at 216 O Street. It is the oldest continuously operating museum in the West. It is home to a premier collection of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> art. Entrace is $6. http://www.crockerartmuseum.org</li><li><strong>The <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> State Capitol</strong> is open for visitors daily. Much of the building dates back to the early to mid 1800s and went through a big rennovation in 1975.</li><li><strong>The Sacramento Zoo</strong> is a mid-size zoo located in William Land Park. A combination ticket with Fairy Tale Town makes for a fun day for families with young children.</li><li><strong>The Traditional Jazz Festival</strong> An annual affair over the Memorial Day weekend. Bands come from all over the world to play this gig. You can hear everything from Billie Holiday to Scott Joplin to Paco Gatsby in venues set up throughout the Sacramento area.</li><li><strong>The American River Cycling Trail</strong> is a world class pleasant ride through lush parkland, along the river and past lake Natoma, 44 miles (70 km) of auto<a href="/guides/mobile" class="intralink">mobile</a>-free pavement from Folsom, Ca to Downtown Sacto, where old town provides plenty of refreshment with bars and restaurants. Lock your bike outside Fanny Anne's and have a big sandwich and a cold beer before riding back. Plenty of picnic-spotted parks offer water and shade, convenient parking, and you may spot the occasional deer or wild turkey. Be alert in the area of the bridges near downtown after dusk. There are walkers and joggers all along the trail so it's bad manners to ride too fast.</li><li>If you are visiting in August or early September, you cannot stop in Sacramento without stopping by the <strong><a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> State Fair!</strong> The Cal Expo fairgrounds come alive every summer as the State Fair becomes a "city within a city" that hosts nearly one million visitors. Folks come from near and far for the memorable delights of this 152-year-old extravaganza that includes exciting exhibits, amazing attractions, live entertainment, and the Magnificent Midway.</li><li><strong>The Crocker Art Museum</strong>, opened in 1873, houses 19th-century <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>n and European art. <br /></li><li>The nearby <strong>Towe Ford Museum</strong> displays every model made during Ford's first 50 years. <br /></li><li>The new <strong>Golden State Museum</strong> brings <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>'s rich history to life with a mix of traditional exhibits and state-of-the-art technology.</li></ul><h2>Shopping</h2><p>Westfield Downtown Plaza is located at 547 L Street. It contains a Macy's department store an numerous smaller shops.</p><p>Arden Fair Mall is located at 1689 Arden Way. It is the largest mall in the Sacramento area.</p><h2>Nearby</h2><p>Part of the beauty of Sacramento is its central location — within 90 minutes by car:</p><ul><li><strong>Lake Tahoe</strong> — a gorgeous lake on the Nevada border; there are a myriad of great skii resorts and you can find gambling on the Nevada side</li><li><strong>Reno</strong> — a little bit o' gambling just over the border in Nevada</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a></strong> — does it need an introduction?</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/napa" class="intralink">Napa</a> Valley</strong> — gorgeous landscape and the most famous wine-tasting in the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a></li><li><strong>Santa Cruz</strong> — a laid-back beach town, with tons of surfers and the Beach Boardwalk </li></ul> 38.58 -121.49 Kathi 0 (WT/en) Episteme,Template namespace initialisation script,(WT/en) Maj,(WT/en) RFujitani,(WT/en) Jonboy,(WT/en) MMKK,(WT/en) Mark,(WT/en) Eherbel,(WT/en) TazzyTazzy,(WT/en) Rspga49,(WT/en) Yann,(WT/en) Emmyr13,(WT/en) Eco84,(WT/en) Wrh2,(WT/en) DaveSmith,(WT/en) AVLann,(WT/en) Peterfitzgerald,(WT-en) Cacahuate,(WT/en) Melody728,(WT/en) Cjensen,(WT/en) Uneasyrhetoric,(WT/en) Texugo,(WT-en) Texugo,(WT/en) Cacahuate,(WT/en) OldPine,(WT/en) Nils and other Anonymous users. 2009-01-16 06:07:49 9 Napa 3 California <p>The town of Napa and the surrounding Napa Valley region is the main wine growing area in the United States and one of the major wine regions of the world. It is also known for its gourmet restaurants, cafes, and spa-treatment.<strong><br /></strong></p> <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Go to a wine tasting</strong> (or two) at one of the many Napa Valley wineries.</li><li><strong>Take a Balloon</strong> ride over the beautiful napa valley with views all the way over the bay area. Contact Bonaventura Balloon Company, Phone 1-800-FLY-NAPA.</li><li><strong>Ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train</strong>. Gourmet dining year-round aboard lavishly restored 1915 Pullman dining and lounge cars. Enjoy relaxing while journeying through the picturesque Napa Valley</li><li><strong>Bathe in the hot springs and/or have a mud bath</strong> in Calistoga. These day spas are some of the best in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> and all of the U.S.</li><li><strong>Copia: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts</strong> </li><li><strong>Old Faithful Geyser of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a></strong>, in Calistoga</li><li><strong>Petrified Forests</strong> just west of Napa Valley is the site of a giant volcanic eruption long ago and has created the largest forest of petrified trees in the world<br /></li></ul><h2>Background</h2><p>Napa Valley, a world famous wine area, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>. More than five million visitors come each year, often overcrowding the roadways on summer weekends. Peak times are the summer months and the harvest "crush" during September and October. Napa Valley is home to more than two hundred wineries. With wine as a focus, great dining naturally emerged to compliment it. The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St. Helena supplies a steady stream of well-trained chefs, supplementing the already prestigious chefs drawn by Napa Valley's reputation and locale. </p><h2>Get in</h2><h3>By plane</h3><ul><li><a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> International Airport (SFO), 650-821-8211 </li><li>Oakland International Airport (OAK), 510-563-3300 </li><li><a href="/guides/sacramento" class="intralink">Sacramento</a> International Airport (SMF), 916-929-5411 </li><li>Napa County Airport, 2030 Airport Road, Phone: 707-253-4300. No scheduled service. Useful for private planes. <br /></li></ul><h3>By car</h3><strong>From <a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a>:</strong><br /><br /> Highway 101 North over the Golden Gate Bridge (toll), to Highway 37; <br /> Highway 37 East towards Vallejo/Napa, to Highway 121; <br /> Highway 121 North towards Napa to Highway 29 North to Napa. <br /><br /><strong>From <a href="/guides/san_francisco" class="intralink">San Francisco</a> or East Bay:</strong><br /><br /> Interstate 80 East Over Carquinez Bridge (toll), to Highway 37; <br /> Highway 37 East towards Vallejo/Napa, to Highway 121; <br /> Highway 121 North towards Napa to Highway 29 North to Napa. <br /><strong><br />From <a href="/guides/sacramento" class="intralink">Sacramento</a> and points East:</strong><br /><br /> Interstate 80 West to Highway 12 West; <br /> Highway 12 West / Jamison Canyon Road toward Napa to to Highway 29 North to Napa. <br /><h2>Get around</h2><ul><li><strong>Downtown Trolley</strong>: Phone +1 707 255-7631, [5]. Daily except Tu 11AM-7PM (F,Sa until 10PM). Stops at 14 locations, including the downtown Napa plaza, Napa Town Center, Napa Premium Outlets, Napa Valley Expo, Copia, Wine Train, Fuller Park in Old Town and the public library.</li><li><strong>Shayne One Limosuine Service</strong>: 253 #B Walnut St., Phone: +1 707 258-9999, [6]. Full day tours (4-5 wineries) from Napa $49 per person. <br /></li></ul><h2>More things to See and Do</h2> <ul><li><strong>Napa Firefighters Museum</strong>, 1201 Main St, Phone: +1 707 259-0609. W-Su 11AM-4PM (Call first). Free.</li><li><strong>Labyrinth at the Methodist Church</strong> 625 Randolph Street at Fifth Street, Phone: +1 707 253-1411. M-F 11AM-2PM. Cool replica of the labyrinth in Chartres Cathedral. Walking the labyrinth is considered a sacred act. Donation.</li><li><strong>Napa Valley Symphony</strong>, 860 Kaiser Rd., Phone: +1 707 226-6872. </li><li><strong>Napa Valley Opera House</strong>, 1030 Main Street, Phone: +1 707 226-7372, Fax: +1 707 226-5392, [11]. Not just opera. </li><li><strong>Westwood Hills Park</strong>, Browns Valley Road and Laurel St., Phone: +1 707 257- 9529. Nice views of the valley from this park's trails. Children's nature library. </li><li><strong>Napa River Adventures</strong>, Streblow Dr. at Kennedy Park, Phone: +1 707 224-9080, [12]. Guided cruises on the Napa River in quiet electric motor boat ($40). Also kayak rentals.</li></ul><h2>Shopping</h2><p>Napa Premium Outlets off Highway 29 - famous name outlet stores at great savings.<br /> </p> 38.3 -122.29 jeremy 0 (WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Cjensen 10 Mobile 3 Alabama <strong>Mobile</strong> is large, diverse port city. Here the southern culture and heritage is present in much of the community and you will find life to be charmingly old-fashioned. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Mardis Gras.</strong> It may be best known in New Orleans, but the country's first Mardis Gras celebration was in Mobile and this mother of all Mardis Gras is still one heck of a party.</li><li><strong>Bellingrath Gardens</strong> is just south of mobile; this beautiful home and garden was the life work of the wife of Walter Bellingrath, the Coca Cola Company pioneer.</li><li><strong>Fort Conde</strong> once guarded the citizens of Mobile during America's early beginnings. Today it has been recreated in near perfect form to view along with a small museum and welcome center. To add a little flavor the the fort tour, sometimes guides come dressed up in Colonial garb and tell tails of Mobiles early days.</li><li><strong>Battlefield Park</strong> has tourings of the American WWII battleship USS <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> and the WWII submarine the USS Drum. Interestingly the the USS <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> was originally scheduled to be destroyed after a year and a half trip that saw no damages from enemy fire. Instead though, school children in the state contributed a better part of a one million dollar donation to have it towed to Mobile for permanent retirement instead. </li></ul><h2>Get Here</h2><h3>By air</h3><strong>Mobile Regional Airport (MOB)</strong> is the main airport servicing Mobile. <strong>Mobile Downtown Airport (Brookley Complex)</strong> also exists but mainly serves private and cargo traffic.<br /><br /><h3>By car</h3>Interstate 10 from New Orleans or Jacksonville. Interstate 65 from Birmingham or Nashville.<br /><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Mobile is far enough south that the climate is considered subtropical.  Its humid in both the summer and winter, with summer experience much warm rain and winter producing cold rain.  Spring and fall are the best time to visit as the temperature is usually relatively mild then. </p><p>Mobile is in the gulf region so occasionally large hurricanes have been known to get dangerously close to the area. </p><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><ul><li><strong>Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception</strong>, is a masterpiece of neo classical architecture from 1835. The church is the only southern church, which, could be called a small basilica</li><li><strong>Bragg-Mitchell Mansion</strong>, Hours Tuesday-Friday 10:00-16:00; The Bragg-Mitchell Mansion is a combination of neoclassical and Italian architecture. The house is furnished with antiques and curtains. Admission: Adults $5.00 Seniors $4.50 Students/Children $3.00 Children under 6 Jahre fr<strong>ee</strong></li><li><strong>Museum of Mobile </strong>has a pretty good collection of Mobiles History. From the birth of Mardis Gras, to Civil War struggles, the towns history is well represented here. Next to the Museum of Mobile is the <strong>Gulf Coast Exploreum</strong> with hands-on science learning and a giant IMAX theatre.</li></ul><h2>Get Around</h2><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li>The <strong>beaches of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a>'s Gulf Coast</strong> are second to none and are relatively close to Mobile. Unlike the Pacific beaches these are sugar-white and unlike <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida's</a>, they are clean and uncrowded.</li><li><strong>Fort Morgan</strong> was originaly built to protect the important Mobile Bay. Theirs a museam onsite, but maybe the coolest thing to check out is the validity of the constant rumors that the place is haunted.</li><li><strong>Fairhope.</strong> Visit this romantic costal escape named one of the top southern towns in all america. The town is really a resort and artistic community, but it was originally founded over a hundred years ago by a group of travelers looking to create their own utopia society. A look into the town now reveals a charm that might have you believe the founders got pretty darn close to their goals </li></ul> 30.694 -88.043 administrator, 60.176.175.201, derek, 125.120.105.167, chrislhendricks, 220.191.107.45, 60.176.174.179, jeremy 0 (WT-en) Sapphire,(WT-en) Eherbel,(WT-en) Bz3rk,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Unger,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) Huttite and other Anonymous users. 2008-08-11 16:25:49 11 Alabama 2 United States Alabama, like much of the South, has a reputation for "southern hospitality". Here you will find people who will often go to extrodinary lengths to help friend and stranger alike. While the state can be a study of differences culturally, your more likely to notice the wonderful mix of charming old fashion towns opposite the modern urbanized cities. Sometimes called the Beautiful state and often remembered from the song <em>Sweet Home Alabama</em>; a visit to Alabama will show you what locals already know, it's a great state to call home. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Talladega Superspeedway</strong> is not only home to some pretty important NASCAR races, it is also the home of the <strong>International Motorsports Hall of Fame</strong>, which has over 150 cars and counting! The <strong>Texaco Walk of Fame</strong> is located nearby in the town of Talladega, and is a growing tribute to the influential members of stock car racing.</li><li><strong>The Civil Rights Museum</strong>, located in downtown Birmingham, chronicles the civil rights struggles of African-Americans through out history. In neighboring <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/montgomery" class="intralink">Montgomery</a> the beautiful <strong>Civil Rights Memorial</strong> inscribes the names of those that died during the civil rights movemnt</li><li><strong>Bellingrath Gardens</strong> is just south of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">Mobile</a>; this beautiful home and garden was the life work of the wife of Walter Bellingrath, the Coca Cola Company pioneer. </li><li>The <strong>beaches of Alabama's Gulf Coast</strong> are second to none. Unlike the Pacific beaches these are sugar-white and unlike <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida's</a>, they are clean and uncrowded.</li><li><strong>Robert Trent's Golf Trail</strong> 324 holes over 18 excellent courses over seven locations in the state. A vacation set around travelling to each of the magnicent courses will be heaven to any avid golfer!</li><li><strong>Go Caving</strong>. Cathedral Cavern State Park has the one of the world's largest cave entrances and also one of the worlds largest stalagmite. Russel Cave National Park contains fascinating early Native American Drawings dating back 1000s of years. If these caves natural attractions are not enough you can go to the DeSoto Caverns Park where you can watch an amazing laser light show in the caves and ride amusement park rides ouside.</li><li><strong>Hiking in Sipsey Wlderness</strong> Found in northwestern Alabama, this is the third largest Wilderness area east of the Mississippi. The wilderness has an abundance of waterfalls, and the color of the water in the streams is opal blue. Naturally, the Sipsey Wilderness has a good deal of camping, hiking and canoeing options.</li><li><strong>Find someone else's treasure</strong>. The Scottsboro Unclaimed Baggage Center is an intriguing if not unusual shopping destination. Here you'll find where much of the country's lost baggage ends up and in typical American way they've turned it into a shopping experience. Go ahead, browse through some one else's unclaimed good, you never know what kind of deal you'll find. </li></ul><h2>Background</h2>Known primarily for it's unusual status as the original capitol of the Confederacy and the birthplace of the Civil Rights movement of the 1960's, Alabama can be a study in contrasts. But while racial divisions still exist in the state, they are much more muted than is generally believed. The attitudes and problems of the old south are mostly held today only by the old and the uneducated.<br /><br />Today many (though certainly not all) Alabamians speak with thick local accents, non-native English speakers may have difficulty interpreting the dialect.<br /><h2>Get in</h2><h3>By Air</h3><p><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/birmingham_" class="intralink">Birmingham </a>(BHM) is the major international airport in the state. You can also fly into <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/huntsville" class="intralink">Huntsville</a> (HSV) and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">Mobile</a> (MOB). </p><h3>By Car </h3><p>Alabama is accessible by five interstate highways: I-10 crosses the state from east to west near <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">Mobile</a> in the south; I-20 enters Alabama from the east, traverses Birmingham, and joins I-59 as it traverses Tuscaloosa and exits the state in a southwesterly direction; I-59 enters northeastern Alabama, continues southwest through Birmingham, and exits the state toward the southwest; I-22 enters Alabama from the northwest and ends in Birmingham; I-65 enters Alabama from the north, traverses Birmingham, and ends in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/mobile" class="intralink">Mobile</a>; I-85 enters the state in the east and ends in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/montgomery" class="intralink">Montgomery</a>. </p><h3>By Train </h3><p>There is one daily Amtrak service through the state: trains 19 (southbound) and 20 (northbound) run from New Orleans to <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> DC and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a> City. The trains stop in Alabama at Anniston, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/birmingham_" class="intralink">Birmingham </a>and Tuscaloosa. Coach and sleeper service is available, with checked baggage, a restaurant car, a café and a lounge. See Amtrak for more information.</p><h2>Geography</h2><p>Alabama ranges from mountainous in the northern part of the state (along the Appalachain Mountains) to mostly rolling hills and plains in the middle and southern part of the state.</p><p>The large Tennessee River snakes through the northern part of Alabama and is the source for many of the streams and lakes throughout the rest of Alabama.</p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p> In the summer Alabama can be increadibly hot and humid. Rainfall is surprisingly high during the summer due to all of the thunderstorm activity. Fall is probably the nicest time of year in Alabama. There is much less rainfall then any other season and the weather will stay mild for much longer periods of time then any other season. Winter is often rainy and in the mountains snowy. Occasionally there will be bouts of warm dry weather during the winter, but these days are no where neary the frequency of colder rainery ones. Spring can be a fairly pleasent time, but the weather changes very rapidly. Towards the beginning of spring cold rainy weather can often still be lingering from winter and towards the end of spring hot and humid summer type days will become more frequent, so it maybe hard to know if the next week will be winter-like, summer-like, or somewhere in between. </p><h2>Get Around</h2><p>The best way to get around Alabama is by car. It can take about 5 to 6 hours to drive from the northern state border to the southern state border; it can take about 4 to 5 hours to drive from the west end to the east end. </p> 33 -85.8 216.70.177.248, 189.129.4.149, 216.70.177.248, 125.120.105.167, chrislhendricks, 220.191.107.45, jeremy 0 (WT/en) Nurg,(WT/en) Episteme,(WT/en) Dhum Dhum,(WT/en) Streyeder,(WT/en) Jamesbrownontheroad,(WT/en) Wrh2,(WT/en) Jorge1767,(WT/en) OliverBuchino,(WT/en) ZachGarner,(WT/en) Maj,(WT/en) Celticevergreen,(WT/en) Evan,(WT/en) Jpatokal,(WT/en) Unger,(WT/en) Cjensen,(WT/en) Mark,(WT/en) Fastestdogever,(WT/en) Beachinbob,(WT/en) OldPine,(WT/en) Nzpcmad,(WT/en) Rspga49,(WT/en) Xltel,(WT/en) Gobbler and other Anonymous users. 2008-07-01 22:09:49 12 Oregon 2 United States <strong>Oregon</strong> is an American state in the Pacific Northwest located between California and Washington. It features rugged rocky coastlines, dense forests, fun cities, western mountains, and even a desert in the southeastern part of the state <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Crater Lake National Park</strong> Deepest lake in the world above sea level, Oregon's only national park </li><li><strong>Mount Bachelor</strong> skiing and snowboarding (November through May) </li><li><strong>Mount Hood</strong> excellent snowboarding & skiing (this glacier is open year round), snowshoeing, alpine slides, hiking, backpacking, camping </li><li><strong>Willamette National Forest</strong> Offering numerous outdoor recreation activities including hiking, sailing, and camping at Waldo Lake </li><li><strong>Wallowa Lake</strong> One of Oregon's finest lakes. Beautiful scenery, camping, boating, fishing, hiking, eating, and lodging in the quiet town of Joseph. </li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><h3>By plane</h3><p>The three largest commercial passenger airports in Oregon are: </p><ul><li><strong>Portland International Airport (PDX)</strong> in Portland this is the only international airport in Oregon </li><li><strong>Mahlon Sweet Field (EUG)</strong> in Eugene </li><li><strong>Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)</strong> in Medford.</li></ul><h3>By train</h3><h3>By car</h3><p>Oregon has two Interstate Highways: </p><ul><li><strong>Interstate 5</strong> connects Medford, Eugene, Salem, and Portland, running north to the Canadian border of British Columbia, and south through the Willamette Valley all the way to <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a>, <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, therefore connecting Canada and Mexico via 3 west coast states. </li><li><strong>Interstate 84</strong> connects Portland, The Dalles, and Pendleton, running east to Boise, <a href="/guides/idaho" class="intralink">Idaho</a> and Salt Lake City, Utah. </li></ul><p>Federal and state highways effectively serve the remainder of the state, arranged in a grid-like lattice, but warped by mountain ranges: </p><ul><li><strong>Highway 101</strong> winds along the Pacific coast and goes through the main street of most every town along the way </li><li><strong>Highway 99</strong> is the predecessor to I-5, but goes through many towns in the Willamette Valley. At Junction City (just north of Eugene), it splits as 99E and 99W which meander along the respective sides of the Willamette River; both terminate in Portland. South of Eugene, it is the same as I-5. </li><li><strong>Highway 97</strong> is the main Central Oregon north/south route. When I-5 is closed by winter storms, this is usually a good alternate as it is east of the Cascades and subject to much less precipitation. </li><li><strong>Highway 26</strong> goes from the northern coast through the coast range, through Portland then over the south flank of Mount Hood then generally follows an east-west path tracing the north Oregon border 50-75 miles south almost to the <a href="/guides/idaho" class="intralink">Idaho</a> border at Vale. </li><li><strong>Highway 20</strong> goes from the north central coast in Newport to the eastern border roughly midway through the state. </li></ul><p>Oregon is one of two states in the U.S. (along with New Jersey) where, to preserve attendants' jobs, self-serve gasoline stations are not allowed by law. It is one of few states technically without speed limits, though exceeding a posted speed is a case of "guilty until proven innocent", the latter of which is unusual. </p><h3>By foot</h3><p>The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (which runs from Canada to Mexico) passes through Oregon along the Cascade Mountains. With almost no civilization along its route and very few highway crossings (four in the northern 150 miles of the trail), it is exceptional for experiencing nature while avoiding civilization. </p><h3>By bus</h3><h3>By boat</h3><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Due to it's diverse geography the climate and wheather vary greatly. You can expect blistering heat in the summer (except on the coast which is temperate), heavy rains in the winter (freezing nights and snow in the mountains), and everything inbetween for the spring and fall.</p><h2>Health and Safety</h2><h3>Police</h3><h3>Fire Department</h3><h3>Hospitals</h3><h3>Crime</h3><h3>Smoking</h3><h2>More Things to See and Do</h2><li>Raft the Rogue River, Grants Pass. Spend four days rafting the Class III rapids of the Wild and Scenic Rogue River. Camping and lodge trips are available. </li><li>Enjoy the outdoors by camping at Devil's Lake, Ft. Stevens, Tillamook State Forest or Detroit Lake State Recreation Area. </li><li>Nearly 40 miles of coastline Dunes at the<em> Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area</em> between Florence and Coos Bay: get sand in your hair by driving ATVs or dune buggies. </li> 44.2 -120.8 administrator 0 (WT-en) Steffen M.,(WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) KeithH,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Mnd,(WT-en) Sulvettn,(WT-en) Garrc143,(WT-en) Paul Richter,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Johnycanal,(WT-en) Sandowt,(WT-en) Alarconm,(WT-en) Xltel,(WT-en) Rmx,(WT-en) Dagwench,(WT-en) EminCo,(WT-en) Tarstan,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Tsandell,(WT-en) Jb17kx,(WT-en) Hikndarron,(WT-en) Insideout,(WT-en) Bellst,(WT-en) JustinG,(WT-en) Beautifulwindstorm,(WT-en) Frudocks,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) Piecj219,(WT-en) Creightg,(WT-en) Celticevergreen,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) Casedx2110,(WT-en) Hutnh212 and other Anonymous users. 2008-08-11 16:31:38 14 Washington 2 United States <p>The Northwestern most state in the contiguous United States, Washington State (not to be confused with the U.S. capital Washington D.C.) consists of rugged coastline, mountains, volcanoes, and hundreds of coastal islands to explore. The Cascade Mountains bisect the state, with the damp forested coastal areas to the west, and pineforests, deserts and irrigated farmland of the Columbia River Plateau to the east. </p> <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Mount Rainier National Park</strong> 14,410 feet volcano. Contains more snow and ice than all other Cascade range volcanos combined. </li><li><strong>Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument</strong> </li><li><strong>North Cascades National Park</strong> Home to 50% of all glaciers in the lower 48 states </li><li><strong>Olympic National Park</strong> Temperate rain forest, rugged Olympic Mountains and wild coastline </li><li><strong>Olympic Peninsula</strong> Coastal region nestled between the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca including Port Townsend, Sequim and Port Angeles. </li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><h3>By plane</h3><p><strong>Seattle-Tacoma International Airport</strong>, (Airport code: SEA), called "SeaTac" by locals, connects Seattle to all regions of the world.</p><p><strong>Spokane International Airport</strong>, (Airport code: GEG). Most flights go to Seattle, Portland (Oregon), Boise, Oakland (across from San Francisco), Salt Lake City, Denver, Phoenix and Minneapolis. One flight to Chicago. </p><p><strong>Portland International Airport</strong>, (Airport code: PDX) is just one mile across the state line in Oregon. For SW Washington this is the nearest major airport. One non-stop from Tokyo. </p><p><strong>Vancouver International Airport</strong> (Airport code: YVR) is in Canada 27 miles (44 km) from the border. You will have to go through US customs at Blaine, Washington. For US residents, going through customs twice probably isn't worth it, unless you want to see the Vancouver area also. For Canadians wanting to go to the San Juan Islands, it's the best choice. Also has lots of international flights. </p><h3>By train</h3><p><strong>Amtrak</strong> has 3 routes into Seattle's King Street Station. These routed are <em>Amtrak Cascades</em>, <em>Coast Starlight</em> and <em>Empire Builder</em></p><h3>By car</h3><h4>From British Columbia (Canada)</h4><p>Interstate 5 and the Peace Arch crossing is the main port-of-entry to Washington from Canada, though expect to be in queue for awhile when crossing here. An alternative to crossing at the Peace Arch, is to take the Pacific Crossing via British Columbia Provencial Route 15, which typicaly has much shorter queues, and is the commercial truck crossing. It continues on as Washington State Route 543, and runs right onto Interstate 5. Both crossings are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.</p><h4>From Oregon</h4><p>Interstate 5 (and Interstate 205) provide access from the greater Portland area. Interstate 82 / US 395 provides access from eastern Oregon to the tri-cities area of Eastern Washington. For a more scenic entry, try taking US Route 101 along the Washington and Oregon coast, but be aware for the numerous speed traps in the small cities. </p><h4>From Idaho</h4><p>Interstate 90 is the main route in via Coeur D'Alene, but US 2 provides access to the northern parts of Idaho and Washington. </p><h2>Geography</h2><p>From coastal beaches to expansive mountain ranges to rain forests, as with most of the west coast of the United States the geography is greatly varied and impressive.</p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Lots of rain (there are temperate rainforests in the state), and geneally cool to cold most of the year. The summer months have quite enjoyable and temperate weather in the day and cool nights. The Cascade mountain range is known for it's unperdictable weather and heavy winds.</p><h2>Culture</h2><h2>Get around</h2><p>Greyhound Bus Company has the largest bus route system in the state, mostly along the Interstates 5 and 90. </p> 47.3 -120.8 administrator, emilyanncox, chris 0 (WT-en) Ilkirk,(WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Repayne,Template namespace initialisation script,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Ookla,(WT-en) Mnd,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT-en) WindHorse,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Redbug,(WT-en) Johnycanal,(WT-en) Kal0,(WT-en) Kitsap,(WT-en) Xltel,(WT-en) Huttite,(WT-en) GeorgeWashingtonInn,(WT-en) Admrboltz,(WT-en) TVerBeek,(WT-en) MMKK,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Cacahuate,(WT-en) Gutsche,(WT-en) Frudocks,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) Jmabel,(WT-en) Celticevergreen,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Velvetmonkeywrench,(WT-en) SHC,(WT-en) Casey,(WT-en) JimDeLaHunt and other Anonymous users. 2008-08-11 16:35:11 15 Idaho 2 United States Idaho is a rugged state, with many large  snow-capped mountains, great skiing possibilities, whitewater rivers, forests, high desert, numerous lakes, and plenty of wilderness. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Snowboard or Ski</strong> At Sun Valley one of the best ski resorts in the U.S.</li><li><strong>Yellowstone National Park</strong> Second only to Yosemite as the most majestic National Park in the lower 48 states, but weirder, more colorful, and more spectacular, filled with hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles. Mostly within Wyoming, but the most notable feature, <em>Old Faithful</em> is probably most easily reached from <em>Idaho Falls</em> via West Yellowstone, Montana - though the park road is only open in summer (May to early November). </li><li><strong>City of Rocks National Reserve</strong> Located on the southern edge of the state. Popular with hikers and rock climbers for its maze of massive boulders (some over 100 meters in height). </li><li><strong>Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail</strong></li><li><strong>White Water River Rafting </strong>Excellent on both the Snake and Salmon Rivers</li><li><strong>Craters of the Moon National Monument</strong>  Volcanic park with vast fields of seemingly lifeless lava, fun lava tubes to explore </li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><h3>By plane</h3><p>Flights come in to all cities, plus some of the towns. Alaska Airlines and its subsidiary Horizon Airlines are the best, but United, America West, and Southwest Airlines serve Idaho as well. </p><ul><li>For South Idaho, you might fly in to Boise, or drive in from Salt Lake City. </li><li>If you're going to Yellowstone, you'd probably want to fly in to Idaho Falls then drive up to the West Yellowstone park entrance. </li><li>If you are going to Northern Idaho Coeur D Alene book a flight to Spokane,<a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>. </li></ul><a name="By_car"></a><h3>By car</h3><p>You could also drive to North Idaho from Seattle or more easily from Spokane. </p><h2>Geography</h2><p>High mountains (some over 12,000 feet), numerous lakes and rivers, deserts, forests, and expansive canyons, for the outdoorsy types Idaho is idyllic.</p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>In the mountains the wheather is extremley unpredictable and may change without notice. That being said expect warm temperate summers (one of the best times to take part in the abundant outdoor activities) and long cold winters. Idaho is a dry state which tends to make the hot or cold days seem much more moderate.</p><h2>Culture</h2><h2>Get around</h2><h3>By car</h3><p>There are two segments of freeway that cross the state, I-90 for roughly 60 miles across the panhandle in the North, and I-84 for a couple hundred miles in the South. The rest of the roads are two lanes, and often curvy and hilly (but scenic!). A few "highways" aren't even paved. You know you're from Idaho when your elderly grandparents think it's normal to arrive at Christmas (or even just for a weekend visit) after driving 400 miles through blizzards and along winding two lane river roads. </p><p>To the East, the Continental Divide (West of which rivers flow to the Pacific, East of which rivers flow to the Atlantic) meanders down the spine of the Rockies, and defines the border with Montana. A handful of passes cross the Divide. In the winter, check with the highway department for pass conditions -- many passes are closed from the first snow until mid-April. </p><p>There is no convenient way to get from North Idaho (Moscow) to Eastern Idaho (Idaho Falls), since there are no roads that go directly through the rugged mountains (and the "Idaho Primitive Area.") Instead, you would have to drive 300 miles to Boise, then another 300 miles East to Idaho Falls. Or you could drive North to I-90, East through Montana, then South to Eastern Idaho. Either way, you'll drive 600 - 700 miles when it's something like 300 miles as the crow might fly. </p><a name="By_plane_2"></a><h3>By plane</h3><p>Flying is an expensive but wonderful way to get around and see the majestic scenery. Backcountry flights are available from many airports in the state, and you get to fly through canyons and into remote airstrips that are nearly unreachable any other way. Examples are McCall Aviation and Selway Aviation in Central Idaho. If you just want to go city-to-city, call Horizon Airlines. </p> 45 -113.5 administrator 0 (WT-en) PierreAbbat,(WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Epolk,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Ookla,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Jake73,(WT-en) Jpatokal,(WT-en) K. Kellogg-Smith,(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald,(WT-en) Johnycanal,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Vmabshire,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Xltel,(WT-en) Jimc,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) Huttite and other Anonymous users. 2008-08-11 16:41:34 16 Arizona 2 United States <p>Located in the southwestern United States, it is comprised of mainly of desert, and is boardered by; California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Mexico.</p> <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><a href="/guides/Sedona"><strong>Sedona</strong></a> This diverse geologic area has been voted "The most beautiful place in America."</li><li><strong>Four Corners National Monument</strong> Vist four states all while standing still at this national monument</li><li><strong>Navajo National Monument</strong> Get in incite into precolonical <a href="/guides/north_america" class="intralink">North America</a></li><li><strong>Ski or Snowboard </strong>Flagstaff is near some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state (however it is a desert state so take it for what it is worth)</li><li><strong>Scottsdale</strong> Relax and play golf in this enchanting desert town</li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><h3>By Air</h3><p>Phenoix Sky Harbor International, Tucson International, Laughlin Bullhead International, Nogales International are the major international airports that service Arizona. While Flagstaff Pulliam, and Scotsdale offer many popular domestic options.</p><h2>Geography</h2><p>Vast desert in the south while the north is comprised of mountainous and plateau regions</p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Typically dry, hot desert in the southern lowlands, and coniferous forest in the upcountry north and east. Summertime temperatures are routinely above 110 during the day in the desert, but much cooler in the higher elevations. Mild winters in the low country, but the upcountry gets cold and frequently receives snow. </p><h2>Culture</h2><h2>Get around</h2> 35 -112.5 blackberries38, 216.70.177.248, chris 0 (WT/en) Hypatia,(WT/en) Dhum Dhum,(WT/en) Episteme,Template namespace initialisation script,(WT/en) StephenM,(WT/en) Jonboy,(WT/en) Mtvcdm,(WT/en) Jb17kx,(WT/en) MMKK,(WT/en) Gharper,(WT/en) Coz,(WT/en) Mark,(WT/en) Dougvacation,(WT/en) 2old,(WT/en) ArizonaTourism,(WT/en) Wrh2,(WT/en) Redbug,(WT/en) Vmabshire,(WT/en) Peterfitzgerald,(WT/en) Celticevergreen,(WT/en) Evan,(WT-en) Redondo,(WT/en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT/en) Rmx,(WT/en) Jpatokal,(WT/en) Cjensen,(WT/en) Andromeda321,(WT/en) Sapphire,(WT/en) Jkloninger,(WT/en) Cacahuate,(WT/en) BoNoMoJo,(WT/en) Jake73,(WT/en) Fastestdogever,(WT/en) OldPine,(WT/en) Tsandell and other Anonymous users. 2009-05-10 13:20:13 18 New York 2 United States <p> </p><div>New York state was one of the original 13 British colonies. While the megacity of manhattan often overshadows the rest of the state; there are incredible historical sites throughout the north. Outside of its densely populated southeast corner, New York is largely agricultural countryside. </div> <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_York%20City"><strong>New York City</strong></a> (Manhattan) Sometimes considered the capital of the world, from it's iconic statue of liberty and empire state building to it's relaxing central park, you haven't seen urban amazement until you've been there.</li><li><strong>Eastern <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Long_Island">Long Island</a></strong> An escape from the urban landscape just an hour or two away. From the exclusive celebrity hangout of the Hamptons to the incredibly charming town of Montauk at the tip of the point, eastern Long Island is the the hip place to hideaway.</li><li><strong>Niagra Falls </strong>Straddling the border of the U.S. and Canada, these waterfalls make up one of the seven natural wonders of the world.</li><li><strong>The Palisades</strong> On the western bank of the Hudson river, there are cliffs that rise sharply, Picture. These cliffs are known as the majestic Palisades. They range from 300 to 500 feet. They start in the Northern portion of Jersey City, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_Jersey">New Jersey</a> and stretch all the way to Nyack, New York. There are numerous number of look outs, trails and camp sites located along the Palisades. The palisades can be easily reached from Manhattan via the George <span class="intralink">Washington</span> Bridge. Palisade Interstate Parks start north of the Bridge.</li><li><strong>Finger Lakes Region </strong>of Central New York is a collection of fabulous clear-water lakes and the Villages that were settled after the American Revolution. Arriving from the East you will first find Skaneateles Lake and Skaneateles Village, a StoryBook Village on the North shore of the Lake. Bookended by two parks, the Historic shopping district is a step-back in time and charm.<br /></li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><p>There are many ways to enter New York by car through the borders states of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_Jersey">New Jersey</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Connecticut">Connecticut</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Massachusetts">Massachusetts</a>, and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Vermont">Vermont</a> and it's best to consult the map. </p><p>The primary entry points via air in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_York%20City">New York City</a> (<strong>JFK</strong> and <strong>LGA</strong>) and in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Albany">Albany</a>, but there are numerous international and regional airports spread out through New York. </p><h2>Geography</h2>New York is a large state so it's geography is difficult to characterize generally. The northern edge of New York contains the rugged the Adirondack Mountains and the lowlands bordering the shores of Lake Ontario. Below the Adirondack Mountains the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers flow down through lowlands and evenually link up before flowing to the ocean. West of the Hudson makes up more mountains-the Appalachians. East of the Hudson begins the costal plains spreading out towards the Atlantic Ocean. <br /><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>New York has a very seasonal climate, marked by warm summers and freezing cold winters. Temperatures in the winter can go down to as low as 10°F (-12°C) and in the summer, temperatures can go as high as 100°F (38°C). New York can be prone to snowstorms and nor'easters, which can dumping much snow over a relatively short period of time. In the coastal regions there is a slight chance of hurricanes, but they tend to be weak if they do make it this far north.</p><h2>Culture</h2><p>Much like everything else in New York, the culture is diverse. <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/New_York%20City">New York City</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Long_Island">Long Island</a>, and up-state New York all have markedly different cultures. </p><h2>Get around</h2><p>Depending on where you are at in New York, public transportation ranges from great to non-existant. Within New York City transportation options include the subway, buses, and the popular cabs. Areas close to New York city, such as <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Long_Island">Long Island</a>, also have fairly good train systems. But once you you reach rural areas upstate your only way to get around will be in your own car. </p> 42.8 -76 administrator, 76.1.185.219, 208.39.156.250, tonicurtis, derek, 125.120.105.167, chrislhendricks, 220.191.107.45, jeremy 0 (WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Nicole,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Ravikiran r,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT-en) Geoflaneur,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Flip666,(WT-en) Raffael,(WT-en) Xltel,(WT-en) Huttite,(WT-en) TVerBeek,(WT-en) SC,(WT-en) Johnwaters37,(WT-en) Gobbler,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Nzpcmad,(WT-en) Chris j wood,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald,(WT-en) Pjamescowie,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Mcornelius,(WT-en) Nicksand,(WT-en) SHC,(WT-en) Javedlodhi and other Anonymous users. 2008-08-11 22:32:27 19 Orange County 3 California <p>Orange County (nowadays known as "the OC") is a collection of cities that probably best exemplifies Southern California. While the enitre area is one giant piece of asphalt that means theres pleanty to do. Best known for Disneyland in Anaheim, but theres also pleanty of other attractions, some wonderful beach towns, and at least a million strip malls in between.</p> <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Disneyland</strong> Who on earth has not heard of the original fantasy world of Disneyland and it's certainly one of the most popular attractions in <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>. Known as the "Magic Kingdom", or the "Happiest Place on Earth", there are shows, rides, restaurants, hotels, etc, etc, but then again you already knew that. </li><li><strong>Knotts Berry Farm</strong> The first full theme park in the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> is alive and well. Besides the exciting thrill rides, theres the old west ghost town and other shops all charming in their own way</li><li><strong> Little Saigon</strong> is the largest Vietnamese community outside of Vietnam, and a trip down Bolsa Ave in Westminister will take one directly into its heart.</li><li>Visit "Surf City U.S.A" in <strong>Huntington Beach</strong> and try your hand at a wave or two. Or just do what everyone esle does, bronze on the beach and pretend your cool. </li><li><strong>Newport Beach</strong> a rich and hip beach city famous for its lavish lifestyle and beautiful surroundings. This is the OC that you know from TV.</li><li><strong>Laguna Beach</strong> is known for its extensive artist community, seaside village atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and resort hotels.</li></ul><h2>Background</h2><p>Comprising of 34 incorporated cities and various unincorporated regions, it has a total population of more than 3 million, and is the fifth largest county in the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>. The population of these cities range from over 300,000 (Santa Ana and Anaheim) to merely 6,200 (Villa Park). Bordering <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> on the north and stretching towards <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> in the south, and Riverside County on the east. Orange County is bounded on the west by the Pacific Ocean and the east by the Santa Ana Mountains. The area enjoys beautiful beaches and warm weather year round. Orange County has a reputation for being more conservative than the rest of <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a>, with fiscal conservative attitudes dominating in well-off cities and some social-conservative attitudes being prevalent in some of Orange County's thriving ethnic subcommunities.<br /><br />Orange County is in the Pacific Time Zone and observes Daylight Savings Time.<br /><br />Santa Ana is the county seat. </p><h2>Get Here</h2><h3>By car</h3><p>Several freeways provide access to Orange County.</p><ul><li><strong>From the south</strong>: Interstate 5</li><li><strong>From the north</strong>: Intestates 5 and 405 <br /></li></ul><h3>By air</h3><ul><li><strong>John Wayne Airport (SNA)</strong> - 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, +1 949 252-5200. Several major and regional airlines fly into John Wayne airport. Most of the major car rental companies also have locations at this airport. </li><li><strong>Fullerton Municipal Airport</strong> - 4011 W. Commonwealth, Fullerton, +1 714 738-6323, email: fulairport@ci.fullerton.ca.us. Fullerton Municipal is a general aviation airport with fuel and overnight parking facilities. <br /></li></ul><p><em><strong>Airports near Orange County</strong></em></p><ul><li><strong>Ontario International Airport (ONT)</strong> - 1940 East Moore Way, Ontario, +1 909 937-2700. Located 33 miles (53 km) from of Santa Ana, Ontario is about a 38 minute drive south to Santa Ana.</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> International Airport (SAN)</strong> - 3665 N. Harbor Drive, <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> +1 619 400-2400. Located 89 miles (143 km) from Santa Ana, about a 90 minute drive north to Santa Ana. </li><li><strong><a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> International Airport (LAX)</strong> - 1 World Way, <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a>, +1 310 646-5252. Located 40 miles (64 km) from Santa Ana, about a 46 minute drive south-east to Santa Ana. </li><li><strong>Long Beach Airport (LGB)</strong> - 4100 Donald Douglas Dr., Long Beach, +1 562 570-2678, Fax: +1 562 570-2603 e-mail:lgbarpt@longbeach.gov. Located 20 miles (32 km) from Santa Ana, about a 25 minute drive east to Santa Ana. <br /></li></ul><h3>By Train</h3><ul><li><strong>Amtrak Pacific Surfliner </strong>- Toll free: +1 800 872-7245. The Pacific Surfliner runs from <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> to San Louis Obispo. It has five stops in Orange County: San Clemente, Irvine, Santa Ana, Anaheim and Fullerton.</li><li><strong>Metrolink </strong>- Toll free: +1 800 371-5465. Two Metrolink lines run into Orange County, one between Union Station in Downtown <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a> and San Juan Capistrano and the other from San Bernardino to San Juan Capistrano. Each line has several stops in Orange County. A third line, the 91 Line runs from Riverside County to Union Station in Downtown <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a>. It has one stop in Orange County, in Fullerton. <br /></li></ul><h2>Get Around</h2><p>Orange County Transit Authority - +1 714 636-7433. OCTA lines cover all areas of Orange County. Fares - Regular: $1.25, Seniors (65 & over) and persons with disabilities: $0.50; Day pass - $3.00, Seniors (65 & over) and persons with disabilities: $1.00, 7-Day Pass - Regular: $15.00, Seniors (65 & over) and persons with disabilities: $5.00. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><h2>Health and Safety</h2><p>For emergencies in Orange County, dial 911 toll-free from any phone including payphones. Note that dialing 911 from a cell-phone will place you in contact with the <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> Highway Patrol. </p><h2>Things to See and Do</h2> <ul><li><strong>Severin Wunderman Museum</strong> in Irvine holds the world's largest collection of artwork by Jean Coctea</li><li><strong>Play Go</strong> - Little Seoul in Garden Grove is one of the only places in Southern <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> to offer several Go parlors catering both newcomers and seasoned pros</li><li>Watch an <strong>Angels Baseball Game</strong></li><li><strong>Nickel Nickel</strong> - On weekend nights, the Huntington Beach video game arcade where everything costs only nickels to play is packed with teenagers</li><li> <strong>Balboa Island</strong> - Next to Newport Beach, Balboa Island has its own unique beachfront vibe, and a vibrant boardwalk featuring amusement park rides and other attractions.</li><li><strong>Top of the World</strong> - So named because as the highest peak in the area it provides a spectacular view of the ocean, Top of the World in Corona Del Mar has been a longtime favorite destination for Orange County's romantically inclined. Sunsets and sunrises from this location are both incredible.</li></ul><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li><strong>Catalina Island</strong> Take a relaxing day or weekend trip to visit the small town of Avolon on this naturally preserved island. By boat the trip is a couple of hours leaving from Long Beach.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a></strong>. If the kids didn't have enough at Disneyland, then you can always take them to Legoland, the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> Zoo or Sea World all in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> County. Besides the theme parks land there are pleanty of great things to do in <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a>' mellower southern neighbor.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a></strong> About a 2 hour drive from <a href="/guides/san_diego" class="intralink">San Diego</a> gets you to the entertainment capital of the world.</li><li><strong>Mexico</strong> You are roughly 2.5 hours from the border, then the real adventures begin<br /> </li></ul><p> </p> 33.79 -117.93 renderman, 70.230.198.29, chrislhendricks, jeremy 0 (WT-en) Epolk,(WT-en) Tsandell,(WT-en) Ron,(WT-en) Vickifunes,(WT-en) Mdmartin,(WT-en) Nzpcmad,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Goodralph,(WT-en) Akubra,(WT-en) Evanwohrman,(WT-en) NJR ZA,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Ocstandard,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) Rmx,(WT-en) TVerBeek and other Anonymous users. 2008-11-30 18:12:19 20 Nevada 2 United States An airid state in the western United States, situated between California and Utah. The state is mostly dry with the southern part of the state located within the Mojave desert. Nevada's primary attraction to most tourists is Las Vegas AKA the entertainment capital of the world. <h2>Highlights </h2><ul><li><strong>Death Valley</strong> the lowest place in the western hemisphere, you are sure to be impressed by the desert's heat and bare beauty. </li><li><a href="/guides/Las_Vegas"><strong>Las Vegas</strong></a> AKA the entertainment capital of the world, go walk the strip, see a show or try your luck gambling at one of their many world famous hotels</li><li><strong>Ski or Snowboard</strong> Hit the slopes around <a href="/guides/Lake_Tahoe">Lake Tahoe</a> for some great skiing and even better night life</li><li><a href="/guides/Lake_Tahoe"><strong>Lake Tahoe</strong></a> provides recreatoinal snowsports in the winter, beautiful summers on the lake , and year round entertainment <br /></li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><p>Many accesspoints are available by car via <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> or <a href="/guides/Utah">Utah</a>. By air you can fly internationally into McCarran Intl. airport in Las Vegas, Reno/Tahoe International,<font face="Arial,Helvetica"> Laughlin/Bullhead city International airport, of theh smaller domestic airport of Carson.</font> </p><h2>Geography</h2><p>Dry hot desertsin the south, large snow covered mountains of the Sierra's, beautiful hot springs, gyser's, and deep canyons makeup the states varied topography. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Generally hot and dry summers, winters in the desert are generally mild throught the day but can get suprisingly cold at night. The mountain regions have cold winters and generally nice summers. </p><h2>Culture</h2><h2>Get around</h2> 38.6 -117 administrator, emilyanncox, chris 0 (WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) LADave,(WT-en) Nzpcmad,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Yosemite,(WT-en) Jafo,(WT-en) Toiyabe,(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald,(WT-en) 2old,(WT-en) Nils,(WT-en) NJR ZA,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Schzmo,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) W66LinkBot and other Anonymous users. 2008-08-11 23:14:18 21 Utah 2 United States Located in the Southwest region of the united states, it boarders; Nevada, Colorado, Idaho, Arizona, New Mexico, and Wyoming. Utah is noted for its rugged terrain, and plentiful outdoor activities. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Skiing or Snowboarding</strong> Utah is know as having some of the best snow in the country, check out park city and the resorts around the area</li><li><strong>Lake Powell</strong> Great in the summertime for all sorts of lake recreation</li><li><strong>Four Corners </strong>the only place where four states meet, located at southeast corner with <a href="/guides/arizona" class="intralink">Arizona</a>, Colorado, and New Mexico</li><li><strong>Great Salt Lake</strong> shallow, salty lake in northwestern portion of state northwest of Salt Lake City</li><li><strong>Zion National Park</strong> popular area of sandstone cliffs, gorges, gullies, bluffs, plateaus, mesas, and other strange and colorful formations</li><li><strong>Arches National Park</strong> largest concentration of natural arches in the world, just northeast of Moab, as well as other strange sandstone formations, such as pinnacles, cliffs, mesas, and gorges</li><li><strong>Other outdoors activities</strong> Whether it is hiking, canyoneering, mountain biking, or white water rafting Utah has you covered </li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><p>Salt Lake City (SLC) has the only international airport in the state, while Cedar City and Saint George offer a range of domestic options. Roads into the city make travel by car very accessible but watch out for the snow and ice in the winter. </p><h2>Geography</h2><p>Varied from the snow capped Rocky Mountains, deep canyons, and various natural geologic formations. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Utah has four distinct seasons and widely-variable climate zones. The southern valleys, especially the southwest, are hot in the summer, with temperatures often exceeding 100°. This temperature may also be reached occasionally in the north. Temperatures in the mountains are typically mild in the summer, great for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities, with temperatures in the 60's, 70's, and 80's. In the north, temperatures are in the 80's and 90's. Only occasional scattered, but powerful, thunderstorms relieve the heat during summer, although it is dry heat, making it more bearable than it otherwise would be. Winter can be cold in the north, and especially in the mountains and high mountain valleys, although temperatures below 0&deg are rare except in the higher valleys. Below freezing temperatures are expected in the north, but usually only occur overnight in the southern valleys. Spring and fall see mild temperatures that is perfectly suited for outdoor and recreational activities, with temperatures in the 70's and 80's in the south and the 50's, 60's, and 70's in the north. By this time, temperatures may be cold in the mountains.</p><p> Precipitation-wise, only about 5-10 inches of rain falls throughout most of the state, although totals reach 15-20 inches along the Wasatch Front and up to 50 inches in the mountains. Snowfall is rare in the southern valleys, averaging no more than 10 inches a year, but is common throughout the rest of the state. The Wasatch Front sees 40-80 inches while the mountains receive 200-500 inches. First significant snowfall in the mountains usually occurs in October in usually sometime in late November or December in the valleys, while last significant snowfall in the mountains occurs in May in the mountains (although snow may stick around into July), while the last significant snowfall in the valleys can usually be expected in March or, sometimes, early April. Rain in summer is often accompanied by scattered but powerful thunderstorms. </p><h2>Culture</h2><p><strong>Mormons</strong> or members of <em>The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints</em> make up a good part of Utah's population. The beliefs and practices of these people are one of the stronger influences for public policy. Drinking and smoking isn't permitted by their church, and the drinkin laws are well-known for being strict and somewhat archaic. Sunday is considered a day of rest, and so most stores will be closed on Sunday. These stereotypes hold more weight in smaller cities and towns, and in some areas (especially Park City and Salt Lake City) the number of non-Mormons do outnumber members of the LDS faith. The people are generally friendly, but may be taken aback by cussing, smoking or drinking in their presence. </p><h2>Get around</h2> 39.6 -112 chrislhendricks 0 (WT-en) Peterfitzgerald,(WT-en) PerryPlanet 2008-09-09 13:35:40 22 New Mexico 2 United States Situated in the American southwest, New Mexico has a distinct culture which emanates from its large Native American population and its time as both a Spanish and Mexican colony. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Skiing<em> </em></strong>Taos New Mexico is known for having the best snow in the state, boarders beware this is one of the few mountains left in the continent that you will not be allowed to ride.</li><li><strong>Carlsbad Caverns National Park </strong>Explore some of the deepest caverns in the world at this UNESCO world heritage site</li><li><strong>Navajo Nation</strong> Enjoy this culturally rich area of north west New Mexico</li><li><strong>White Sands National Monument</strong> Over 200 square miles of fine white sand located in south east New Mexico</li><li><strong>Food</strong> New Mexico is known for its delicious and unique food, this is a result of the many different influences (Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American) on the state, very flavorful albiet a bit spicy for those mild at heart. </li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><h3>By air</h3> <p>The state's only major airport is in Alburquerque, in nearly the exact center of the state. Santa Fe has limited service connecting to Denver. Several of the state's minor cities such as Carlsbad, Farmington, Roswell, Hobbs, and intermittently Gallup and Taos have commuter air service. </p><p>For travel to the southern part of the state, particularly the southwestern region, consider flying intoEl Paso in extreme west Texas. Las Cruces, second largest city in the state, is much closer to El Paso than to Albuquerque. </p> <h3>By car</h3> <p>Interstate highways 10 and 40 cross the state east/west, the former entering between El Paso and Las Cruces and paralleling the southern border, and the latter following the route of historic Route 66 through the middle of the state. Interstate 25 enters the state in its northeast corner near Raton, passes through the eastern plains, crosses the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at Glorieta Pass near Santa Fe, then follows the Rio Grande south through Albuquerque to its terminus at I-10 in Las Cruces. </p><p>Although New Mexico has a fairly long border with Mexico, there are few ports of entry. Most traffic inbound from Mexico enters the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> at El Paso and then continues to Las Cruces and beyond. In addition to the usual Customs, etc., at the national border, there are checkpoints along the major highways out of Las Cruces at which vehicles may be searched for illegal immigrants. (If you're considering bringing an illegal in, don't; penalties are serious and enforcement is stepping up, if still uneven.) The small town of Columbus has a border crossing with Mexico that is open 24 hours a day. Santa Teresa NM, adjacent to El Paso and south of Las Cruces also has a port of entry. Although this border crossing is only open from 6AM-10PM, it forms a handy bypass of Ciudad Juarez and El Paso and is an important route for international commerce and travel. </p><p>In practice, traffic inbound from neighboring states is generally not subjected to inspection for controlled items, apart from the usual weigh stations, etc., for commercial trucks. However, commercial traffic heading <em>out of</em> New Mexico for <a href="/guides/arizona" class="intralink">Arizona</a> may be inspected on the <a href="/guides/arizona" class="intralink">Arizona</a> side of the state line, owing to concerns about the introduction of agricultural pests.</p> <h2>Geography</h2><p>Covered by the deep canyons and rivers of the Great Plains in the east, snow capped Rocky Mountains in the centeral region, as well as desert basins and rugged mountains in the south. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>New Mexico is a semi arid state. Snow and cold tempatures can be expected throught the winter in the north, and he south is charachterized by lower amounts of percipitation and intense heat in the summer months. </p><h2>Culture</h2><p>Heavily influenced by by the prominance of Native Americans, Spanish, and Mexicans New Mexico has a diverse culture. Speaking Spanish is not necessary but may help in certain regions. </p><h2>Get around</h2> 34.7 -106 chrislhendricks, chris 0 (WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,Template namespace initialisation script,(WT-en) JanSlupski,(WT-en) Ralthor,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Cacahuate,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) DanielC,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) Mikito,(WT-en) Bbb314,(WT-en) Pjamescowie,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Rspga49,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) PerryPlanet and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-09 13:17:55 24 Florida 2 United States Known as "The Sunshine State", Florida became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates over a century ago, and has gained ever greater popularity since. Now Florida is home of The Mouse, Jimmy Buffet, South Beach and NASCAR auto racing. The states entire identity is now built around tourism and it only takes one trip to Florida to see why. With great weather and a million things to do, Florida can be a great place to visit or call home. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Visit Disney World</strong> (<a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Orlando">Orlando</a>). One of the best and most well known family attractions on the planet.</li><li><strong>Everglades National Park</strong>, protecting more than 1.5 million acres, is the 3rd largest national park in the lower 48 states, behind Yellowstone National Park (2nd) and Death Valley National Park (1st).</li><li><strong>Go shopping at Sawgrass Mills</strong>. The metropolis area of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Fort_Lauderdale">Fort Lauderdale</a> deffinately has lots of malls but this mall is by far the biggest. With over 300 retail outlets alone, it is one of the world's largest malls for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It also is the second most visited tourist attraction in Florida (after Disney World).</li><li><strong>Get Hot in Miami</strong>. Enjoy the warm weather, lounge around at the beach with all the hot people, and of course get down with the sizzling hot nightlife. <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Miami">Miami</a> is one of the trendiest places on earth, so you might as well jump in and partake in the headonism.</li><li><strong>Drive down the U.S. 1 to the Florida Keys.</strong> It's one of those roads where you need need the top down so you can feel the fresh ocean breeze. The route to Key West is the ultimate vacationer’s paradise, where it’s as easy to fill your day with activity as it is to do nothing at all. </li></ul><h2>Background</h2><p>With 16 million citizens and 170,000 square kilometers of land, Florida is as large and as varied as a medium-sized country, and as such can’t be seen in a weekend. It has been said that to truly understand a culture (and Florida has several), one must spend months immersed in it. With Florida this is a dangerous proposition. Many people who come to visit end up staying for the rest of their lives - not that that's a bad thing. Just about everyone on the planet has spent time in Florida, so if you can’t swap stories about the lines at Disney World, the mosquitoes in the Everglades, the cold spring water at Ichetucknee, or the superiority of the white sand beaches of the Panhandle, well, I’m sorry my friend, but you’re just out of the loop. </p><h3>Language</h3><p>English is the official language of the state. However Spanish is widely spoken throughout the state. In some parts of South Florida, Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. The people of the Florida Panhandle, North Florida, and The Everglades and Lake Okeechobee region will usually speak in a southern accent. One will also come across a speaker of the southern dialect in rural parts of Central Florida.</p><h3>History</h3><p>Florida is both old and new at the same time. Evidence suggests that Native Americans were living all around the state as much as 10,000 years ago; some archaeological remnants are worth exploring. The oldest continuously settled city in America, St. Augustine, sits on a bay thirty miles south of Jacksonville. At the same time, the oldest houses in Miami and Naples date from the first part of this century. </p><p>Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon made landfall on Florida's Atlantic coast in 1513, though the exact location is a matter of very vigorous debate (and de Leon himself was convinced that Florida was in fact a "vast island"). On his second voyage to La Florida Ponce de Leon attempted a settlement in the vicinity of present day Naples. After a short time he was repulsed by the Caloosa indians native to the region. In that short time the spaniards introduced cattle, horses, pigs and goats, to what would become the US, for the first time.Pedro Menendez de Aviles founded the city of St. Augustine in 1565. There was a settlement at Pensacola prior to this, but the settlement disappeared and modern Pensacola was not founded until over 100 years after St. Augustine. Britain gained control of Florida in 1763, then promptly lost it twenty years later at the end of the American Revolution. The area remained under control of the Spanish until John Quincy Adams negotiated it away from them around 1820. </p><p>Spain had long had troubles in Florida and the area had never been heavily settled; the Seminole tribe resisted conversion to Catholicism and all attempts at domination by the Spanish; America would have the same problems. A series of extremely brutal and bloody wars resulted first in the Seminole nation's agreement to leave Florida for land out west, and finally in the virtual extermination of the tribe in the Second Seminole War. The treatment of the Seminole surely ranks among the worst treatment of any Native American nation by the United States. </p><p>Florida became a state in 1845, but nearly all the population was concentrated in Pensacola and Jacksonville. Miami did not yet exist, and the only thing south of Lake Okeechobee was Everglades. Florida joined the Confederacy in 1861, though some parts of the state remained generally loyal to the union. Only two battles of any importance were fought in the state, and as Florida was the least populated state in the Confederacy there were only a few Florida regiments active in the fighting. A battle at the town of Olustee, thirty miles west of Jacksonville, is reenacted every spring. </p><p>Florida, like the rest of the South, did not prosper after the War. Not until wealthy oil magnate Henry Flagler came to the state did much of anything happen. South Florida was considered a wasteland, the Everglades a thing to be drained in hopes of creating new agricultural land. Flagler arrived on the scene in the 1890's, and with his Florida East Coast Railroad created major tourist towns, first at St. Augustine, then Daytonia (later Daytona Beach), then at Palm Beach. A hard freeze in 1895 convinced Flagler to extend his lines even farther south, into Miami and ultimately to Key West. The old U.S. highway 1 to Key West sits atop the old Florida East Coast roadbed. Flagler tried to build a railroad from Key West 90 miles across the Strait of Florida to Havana; he got six miles of causeway built before a hurricane came through and blew it all away in the early 1900's and ended the dream of a rail link to Cuba (imagine how different the world would be if he had succeeded!). </p><p>It was the FEC that got Florida moving. Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami Beach, and other posh society towns sprang up to service the American elite on their winter vacations. Immigrants from points south were attracted to South Florida's Caribbean-esque climate. Land speculation ran rampant through the 1920's, then collapsed with the onset of the depression. </p><p>But Florida's fate was sealed. Tourism would remain the state's major industry up to the present day. The 1959 revolution in Cuba sent waves of Cuban refugees to Key West and Miami; subsequent revolutions and economic trials have brought Haitians, Dominicans, Central Americans, and many others to Miami in search of a better life. The rest of the state has grown, too, much as the whole South has grown. Today Florida is the fourth largest state in the U.S. and among the fastest growing.</p><h2>Getting Here</h2><h3>By Plane</h3><p>All of the state's major cities have airports. The largest airports are <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Miami">Miami</a> (<strong>MIA</strong>), <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Orlando">Orlando</a> International (<strong>MCO</strong>), <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Fort_Lauderdale">Fort Lauderdale</a> (<strong>FLL</strong>) and Tampa. These airports will be served by almost every U.S. carrier. Ft. Myers, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Jacksonville">Jacksonville</a> (<strong>JAX</strong>), Orlando-Sanford (<strong>SFB</strong>), and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/West_Palm%20Beach">West Palm Beach</a> airports are a bit smaller but also have a large amount of American and international carriers flying to them. Smaller airports like Key West, Naples, Daytona Beach, Pensacola, Pannama City and Melbourne do recive some major airlines but mostly regional and commuter flights </p><p><strong>From <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Europe">Europe</a>:</strong> Miami, Orlando and Sanford will be your most likely points of transit. Miami is served by every major European carrier. Orlando has many British airlines flying there. Orlando-Sanford, which is near Orlando, is a main point of entry for European charter airlines. Tampa and Ft. Myers all have service to Europe. Tampa has service to London Gatwick with British Airways and Ft. Myers to Germany with LTU Airways. </p><p><strong>From <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/South_America">South America</a> and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Central_America">Central America</a>:</strong> Miami is called the gateway to the Americas. It is the largest hub for airline travel to Latin America. Miami and Ft. Lauderdale have service to Central and South America. Orlando also has some Central American airlines serving it. </p> <p><strong>From the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Carribean">Carribean</a>:</strong> Miami again will be your most likely spot of transit when traveling from the Carribean. Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando also get some Carribean flights. Coming from The Bahamas, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Melbourne, Orlando, and Tampa all have non-stop flights serving the area, with Miami and Ft. Lauderdale having the majority of flights. </p> <p><strong>From <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Asia">Asia</a>:</strong> No Asian airlines fly to Florida with the exception of El AL Airlines, the official airline of Israel, which flies to Miami. From Asia you will most likely stop at a major West Coast city. </p> <p><strong>From <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Africa">Africa</a>:</strong> At this time no African airline flies to Florida. From Africa a stop in New York or a major European city will be needed. But South African Airways will soon be starting service to Miami International Airport. </p> <strong>From <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Canada">Canada</a>:</strong> Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa, Ft. Myers, and West Plam Beach all have non-stop service to Canada. <h3>By Train</h3><p>Rail service via Amtrak is an option as long as you live along the Silver Meteor/Silver Star routes from New York through Washington to Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, or Miami, or along the Sunset Limited route from L.A. through Houston to Pensacola, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Jacksonville">Jacksonville</a>, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Orlando">Orlando</a>, Tampa, or <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Miami">Miami</a>.</p><p>One very cool option for people living in the Washington, D.C., area, is to drive to Lorton, Virginia, and put yourself and your car on board the Auto Train to Sanford. There's not much to see in Sanford, but it's almost in the center of the state and is especially near Orlando and Daytona. It's a fun experience (and not a half-bad way to move, either), although it can be a bit expensive. </p><h3>By Car </h3><p>If you're looking to drive in, the three main interstate highways are I-95, I-75, and I-10 if you're coming from the Northeast, Midwest, and West/Southwest respectively. Though unless you live in the southeastern United States, you might as well fly. With gas prices the way they are these days and the ease of air travel, the era of the seventeen-hour family voyage down I-95 from Philadelphia and New York are over.</p><h3>By Bus</h3><p>Greyhound provides tons of bus service to and amongst most cities in Florida.</p><h2>Getting Around</h2><p>Florida is big, but more importantly it is extremely spread out. If your itinerary includes stops in Pensacola and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Miami">Miami</a>, you'll want to book a flight between the two or literally be driven crazy. Train service is desultory at best and bus service, though somewhat better, is scattershot and difficult to figure out. The reason why Americans drive everywhere is because we have no other choice. Those who like to pilot their own planes should note that virtually every town of respectable size has a general aviation airport. </p><p>Florida's major interstate highways include I-95, which runs north to south along the east coast, I-10, which runs from Jacksonville in the east across the panhandle to the west, and I-75, which enters the state from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> and runs south through Tampa and along the Gulf coast. U.S. Highway 1 is a historic and scenic highway which originates in Key West and continues up the east coast.</p><p>The system of interstate highways makes getting around the state fairly easy; speed limits generally run 70 mph in rural areas but drop to 65, 60, 55, or even 50 mph in congested urban areas. Interstate 10 connects Pensacola in the west with Jacksonville in the East; I-95 runs from Jacksonville along the coast to Miami; I-4 connects Daytona Beach, Orlando, and Tampa; and I-75 connects Fort Lauderdale with Naples, Tampa, Gainesville, and points north. </p><p>Florida is also known for its toll roads, and has a ton of them. The Florida Turnpike Enterprise manages the majority of these roads. The main Florida Turnpike line stretches from I-75 in Wildwood, FL, through Orlando and offers a more direct connection to South Florida cities such as Miami and Ft. Lauderdale from I-75 and Orlando. Most toll booths are coin operated; however, there is a stretch of the mainline Turnpike through the emptiness between Orlando and Ft. Pierce that is based on a ticket system. Other Turnpike roads include the Polk Parkway (SR-570) in Lakeland; the Suncoast Parkway and Veterans Expressway (SR-589) in the Tampa area; the Seminole (SR-417), Southern Connector (SR-417), Beachline (formerly Beeline, SR-528), and Western Beltway (SR-429) Expressways in Central Florida; and the Homestead Turnpike Extension and the Sawgrass Expressway (SR-869) in South Florida. </p><p>Also of note is the Orlando/Orange County Expressway Authority in Central Florida. This regional expressway organization manages most of the toll roads in and around Orange County. These roads include the busy East-West Expressway (SR-408), Central Florida GreeneWay (SR-417), Western Expressway (SR-429), the Beachline (formerly Beeline) Expressway (SR-528), and the section of Goldenrod Road (SR-551) near the airport. </p><p>When driving on the expressway systems, be sure to always have at least 75 cents in change. While most mainline toll plazas have attendants who can give change for paper money, many exit ramp toll plazas only have change-only coin bins. The SunPass transponder (the OOCEA offers the E-pass transponder in Central Florida; the two systems are interchangeable and work together on all toll roads in Florida) is used at every toll plaza in the state. People who have SunPass do not have to stop and pay tolls. If you do not have one of these, do not go into the SunPass lanes! Also note that many toll roads in Central Florida are being upgrated to Open Road Tolling, meaning through traffic does not even have to slow down if they have a SunPass or E-pass transponder; traffic that does not have a transponder must exit the freeway and pay a cash toll. If you would like to purchase a transponder, you can get E-pass transponders at CVS stores in Central Florida and SunPass transponders are available at most Publix stores and Turnpike rest areas. Typical cost is $25 for the transponder and a minimum initial deposit of $25 (to go towards tolls). Transponder tolls on many Turnpike roads are cheaper than cash tolls and both the Turnpike and the Expressway Authority offer discounts on frequent drivers, so if you are planning to drive a lot in Florida purchasing one of these transponders may be a great idea. </p><p>Currently, the Florida Turnpike Enterprise has a no-tolerance policy. One toll violation will result in a citation. The Expressway Authority is a lot more lenient, and typically will let up to three violations in a 30 day period pass before citing violators. In any event, if you get stuck without money at a change booth, DO NOT WAIT IN THE LANE. The best thing to do is to drive through. And you should NEVER stop in a SunPass or E-pass lane, as you will cause an accident. </p><p>However, while the interstates and expressways are the fastest ways to get from one destination to the next, you'll see a lot more of the real Florida from the vast network of U.S., state, and county roads. Get off the interstates whenever you can and take in the scenery. Some of the state's most fascinating tourist attractions are only to be found by driving the back roads. Maps of Florida are easy to find; pick one up before leaving to help in navigating the back roads. </p><p>Signage in most of the state is quite good; green signs will note the distance to cities down the road, tell you when to turn to get to a particular town, and in urban areas most streets are well marked. In South Florida the names of roads have a tendency to change without warning and for no particular reason, but most things worth seeing will be easy enough to find despite this minor irritation. Driving is on the right; right turns at red lights are legal except where prohibited by signs.</p><h2>Geography</h2><p>The total area of the state of Florida is 58,560 square miles (151,670 km²). </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Being a coastal area, frequent precipitation is common. While the rains are often brief, they are common, and plan for rain at least one or two of your days in Florida. Torrential daytime rains (often accompanied by a fantastic show of lightning and thunder) are a relatively common occurrence in the summer months. Many attractions such as Disney World have multiple attractions available even during downpours.</p><p>Always be on the lookout for the weather, as Florida is known for those "afternoon showers" which pop-up rather fast in the summer, and leave sunshine in their wake! Also <strong>be aware that the Florida sun is really strong, so be sure to wear sunscreen/suntan lotion, especially at the beach.</strong> </p><h2>Health and Safety</h2><p>Florida has a high occurrence of hurricanes. Beware of lightning in the north central part of the state, especially Dixie County, the state's lightning capital. Volusia County is known for a high number of shark attacks, so be careful when in the ocean there. Also, there is a high occurrence of tornadoes in Florida. </p> 28 -82 Italo, 60.176.175.201, derek, 125.120.105.167, chrislhendricks, 220.191.107.45, jeremy, 76.176.96.24, 0 (WT/en) Ilkirk,(WT/en) Hypatia,(WT/en) Dhum Dhum,(WT/en) Episteme,(WT/en) PierreAbbat,(WT/en) Mayor pez,Template namespace initialisation script,(WT/en) Maj,(WT/en) Infrogmation,(WT/en) Jonboy,(WT-en) TravelSagg,(WT/en) Reellis67,(WT/en) NJR ZA,(WT/en) Mark,(WT/en) 2old,(WT-en) Gamweb,(WT/en) Nicole,(WT/en) Yann,(WT/en) Xltel,(WT/en) Gobbler,(WT/en) Travelgirl,(WT/en) Wrh2,(WT/en) Tatata,(WT/en) Gamweb,(WT/en) Willy,(WT/en) Redbug,(WT/en) TVerBeek,(WT/en) Evan,(WT/en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT/en) Cjensen,(WT/en) Felixboy,(WT/en) Fastestdogever,(WT/en) OldPine,(WT/en) Flowergirl,(WT/en) DrakesTravels,(WT/en) Intercepter,(WT/en) Christian-cyril and other Anonymous users. 2008-11-28 02:46:48 25 Montana 2 United States Montana is the fourth largest state in the U.S. It features the towering heights of the Rocky Mountains as well as the flat areas of the Great Plains. Montana shares its boarders with Canada, Idaho, North and South Dakota, as well as Wyoming. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Yellowstone</strong> Often said to be the greatest the National Parks in the U.S. this is a must see if visiting Montana...Don't forget to make a reservation if you plan on camping, especially in the summer and spring</li><li><strong>Glacier National Park</strong> If you are the outdoorsy type this if for you; plentiful hiking, fishing, horseback riding, back country camping, and even cross country skiing in the winter</li><li><strong>Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area</strong> Another haven for campers, hikers, and fishermen</li><li><strong>Skiing and Snowboarding</strong> There are plenty of options for big mountain riding in Montana; Big Sky being one of the most popular ski destinations in the area <br /></li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><p>The best way to travel Montana is to drive, it is the fourth largest state in the U.S. and public transportation is sparce in this rugged state. For flying into the state your best options are; Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) and Missoula International Airport (MSO).</p><h2>Geography</h2><p>The Great Plains of Montana are home to rolling hills, valleys, and rivers, while the Rocky Mountain portion of the state is rugged and home to clear lakes as well as snow capped peaks reaching almost 13,000 feet. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>The state varies greatly as to tempature but expect it to be warm to hot in the summer months and downright freezing in the winter time. Tempatures in the negatives are not uncommon in the mountains in the winter. </p><h2>Culture</h2><p>Montanans treasure their state, loving it for the recreational opportunities, wide open spaces, and the friendly nature of their neighbors. They, in general, welcome tourists and travellers, and will be glad to let you in on cool places to go, the best hike to take, or their favorite fishing hole. </p><p>Be advised, however, that any disrespect of land and nature will not be tolerated. When enjoying everything Montana has to offer, please respect the lands, waterways and wildlife by following common sense. Don't litter, pollute or otherwise upset the landscape any more than you must, and though it is a cliche, do not feed the wildlife. </p><h2>Get around</h2><p>This is a spacious state and your best way to see it in all its beauty is by car, rental cars will be available at any of the major airports. </p> 46.5928 -112.035 chrislhendricks, chris 0 (WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) OliverBuchino,(WT-en) Mcdav,(WT-en) Time 101,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) StuartEdwards,(WT-en) V�sk,(WT-en) Lysstwrt,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Gjetost,(WT-en) Huttite,(WT-en) Epolk,(WT-en) Gobbler,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Jb17kx,(WT-en) Cacahuate,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) DrAwesome,(WT-en) NJR ZA,(WT-en) BNLfan53,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Jelse,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) TrekkerDMS and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-09 13:43:26 26 Wyoming 2 United States Is a state in the north central region of the U.S. which is intersected by both the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Skiing and Snowboarding</strong> Jackson Hole is known to have some of the best snow and most challenging terrain in the states, this is a big mountain rider's dream.</li><li><strong>Yellowstone</strong> Camping, fishing, hiking, and other outdoors activities. This national park is partially located in north east Wyoming and is arguably the most beautiful national park in the U.S.</li><li><strong>Grand Teton National Park</strong> Just north of Jackson, this national park is known for its hiking, climbing, and beautiful views of majestic snow capped mountains.</li><li><strong>Devils Tower National Monument</strong> The first national monument in the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>, this volcano core eriely towers over 500 feet and is located in north eastern Wyoming. <br /></li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><p>Roads are generally well kept and great means of access from neighboring states, however careful durring the winter months as there are many road closures and tough driving conditions sue to snow and other harsh weather. By air there are a number of small regional airports around the state but the largest and most economical airports are Evanston Wyoming Airport (EVW) and Rock Springs - Sweet Water Airport (RKS). </p><h2>Geography</h2><p>This state is charachterized by the Great Plains broken up by the Rocky Mountains. It is the second highest state in the U.S. with some peaks in excess of 13,000 feet. Wyoming is also home to many large rivers such as the Snake River and the Green River. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Wyoming is typically a cool-cold state, at the lower elevations in the summer months you can expect considerable heat. However most of the state is at high elevation which means temperate-cool summer months and downright freezing winters int he mountains. </p><h2>Culture</h2><h2>Get around</h2>The two best options for travel here are short plane flights into small regional airports, however these can get pricey. A car will allow you to travel Wyoming with the greatest ease, just be careful of the harsh winter driving conditions which often exist. 43.4529 -107.578 chrislhendricks, derek, 125.120.105.167, chrislhendricks, 220.191.107.45, 60.176.172.220, 209.142.39.40, chris 0 (WT-en) Cheyenne,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Absinthe,(WT-en) Gobbler,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Sapphire,(WT-en) Jake73,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Jafo,(WT-en) InterLangBot,(WT-en) Mikito,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Xltel,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) Huttite,(WT-en) TVerBeek and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-09 13:53:05 27 Colorado 2 United States The Rocky Mountain State, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts especially skiers and snowboarders. Colorado hosts some of the most beautiful and rugged mountain scenary that you will find anywhere. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Skiing and Snowboarding</strong> Whether it is Aspen, Telluride, Breckenridge, Steamboat, or Vail some of the best ski resorts in the world are located here. Take your time and explore great skiing and snowboarding oppertunities which await you at the many great resorts in Colorado.</li><li><strong>Hiking </strong>The best way to take in all of Colorado's beauty is by hiking one of their many majestic mountain trials</li><li><strong>Mesa Verde National Park </strong>Located in southwestern Colorado is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is noted for its cliff dwellings and archeological richness.</li><li><strong>Whitewater Rafting</strong> Along the Colorado River are many oppertunities to do some white water rafting exist accomodating everyone from first timers to experienced thrill seekers</li><li><strong>Mountain Climbing</strong> This is the highest state in the U.S. and home to many peaks over 14,000 feet, be warned hiking mountains this high is no easy task but the reward can be some of the most breathtaking views in the world.  <br /></li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><p>Roads in and out of the state are all well maintained, be warned that winter driving conditions can be tough to near impossible durring storms. By air Colorado's main hub is Denver International Airport (DEN) which offers the most frequent and best priced flights (usually), other airports include Colorado Springs Airport (COS), Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) for quick access to the ski resort, and Grand Junction/Walker Field Airport (GJT). </p><h2>Geography</h2><p>This is the highest state in the U.S. and contains many of the Rocky Mountains' highest peaks, Colorado's geography is charachterized by extremely rugged snow covered mountains as well as large winding rivers such as the Colorado River. Colorado is also home to the Great Plains which is mainly flat and dry land, while the Colorado Plateau is the western part of the state is home to rolling hills, valleys, and smaller flat toopped mountains than those of the Rocky Mountain Range. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Temerate summers days across the state with cool nights. Winter tempatures are mostly cold while high elevations have unperdictable weather that can be extremely cold and harsh. </p><h2>Culture</h2><h2>Get around</h2><p>Rental cars are available at all major airports in Colorado and shorts flights are readily available throughout the state. While the major cities (Denver, Boulder, Loveland, Longmont, Broomfield) are linked by bus transportation using RTD. </p> 39.725 -104.945 chrislhendricks, 125.120.105.167, 60.176.172.220, jeremy, 60.176.174.179, chris 0 (WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Doug-b,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Pr writer,(WT-en) IthacaTraveller,(WT-en) Nicole,(WT-en) Johntravel,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Andrew C. Bowman,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Jafo,(WT-en) Redbug,(WT-en) Hypatia,(WT-en) Gobbler,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Andromeda321,(WT-en) Barndoor,(WT-en) Hikndarron,(WT-en) Cacahuate,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) Kameragrl,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Flickety,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) W66LinkBot,(WT-en) DrakesTravels and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-09 14:01:26 28 North Dakota 2 United States This sparsely populated state is located in the North Central portion of the U.S. It shares its northern boarder with Canada., with Montana to it's west, Minnesota to the east, and South Dakota to it's south. <h2>Highlights <br /></h2><ul><li><strong>Lewis and Clark Historic Trail</strong> Visit this historic trail which marks where the west was opened up for the U.S.</li><li><strong>Rugby</strong> This is where the geographical center of <a href="/guides/north_america" class="intralink">North America</a> is...Exciting!</li><li><strong>Theodore Rosevelt National Park</strong> Located in the "badlands" region this is the number one tourist attraction in North Dakota, it is charachterized by interesting rock formations and its rugged terrain. Be sure to get a look at a Bison (Buffalo) while you are here, it is <a href="/guides/north_america" class="intralink">North America</a>'s largest land mammel. <br /></li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><h3><span class="mw-headline">By air</span></h3> <p>Scheduled airline service is available in Bismarck, Devils Lake, Dickinson, Fargo, Grand Forks, Jamestown, Minot, and Williston. </p><a name="By_car"></a><h3><span class="mw-headline">By car</span></h3> <p>Interstate 94 runs east-west through the southern side of the state. Interstate 29 runs north-south on the eastern edge of the state. </p><p>US Highway 2 runs east-west through the northern side of the state. US Highways 85, 83, 281, and 81 run north-south through the state. US Highway 52 runs northwest-southeast through the state. </p><p>For those of you arriving from Canada, 24-hour customs stations are available at SK 39 (US 52) in Portal, MB 10 (US 281) at the Peace Gardens, and MB 75 (I-29) near Pembina. </p> <a name="By_train"></a><h3><span class="mw-headline">By train</span></h3> <p>Amtrak's Empire Builder line serves Fargo, Grand Forks, Devils Lake, Rugby, Minot, Stanley, and Williston. </p><h2>Geography</h2><p>A relatively flat state charachterized by lakes, rolling hills, and streams throughout most of the state, while the badlands of the southwest are charachterized by large and unique rock formations. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Ranging from hot and humid summers to freezing cold winters, North Dakota is home to extreme variations in tempature due in part to its remoteness from any large body of water. </p><h2>Culture</h2><h2>Get around</h2> 47.67 -100.4 chrislhendricks 0 (WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Gobbler,(WT-en) Tsandell,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Nzpcmad,(WT-en) Ktrout,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT-en) Stavp,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) KruMalee,(WT-en) Alexwcovington,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Hypatia,(WT-en) Xltel,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) Huttite and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-09 14:07:10 30 South Dakota 2 United States This state is one of the least densley populated states in the U.S. Located in the North central portion or Great Plains region of the U.S. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Mount Rushmore National Memorial</strong> Just outside of Rapid City, here you will find the faces of four former U.S. presidents carved into the side of a stone mountain</li><li><strong>Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail</strong> Come see where the gate of the west was first opened to the U.S.</li><li><strong>Badlands National Park</strong> Charachterized by its strangely beautiful lunar lanscape, it is one of the most populat tourist attractions in the state</li><li><strong>Jewel Cave National Monument</strong> The second largest cave in the world is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota</li><li><strong>Wind Cave National Park</strong> Located in western South Dakota here depending on atmospheric pressure you can witness air being sucked into or blow out of the cave </li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><p>South Dakota is served by two major airports, Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), in the southeast, and Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), in the west. Sioux Falls Regional Airport is served by airlines Northwest, United, Delta and Allegiant. Rapid City Regional is served by airlines Northwest, United, Delta and Allegiant. Aberdeen, Watertown and Pierre also have scheduled commercial air service. </p><p>Two major interstates cross the state, Interstate 90, which runs from Seattle <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> to Boston Massachusetts, and Interstate 29, which runs from Kansas City Missouri north to Winnepeg Manitoba, Canada. Additionally, federal highways running east-west include 12, 212, 14, and 18; north-south highways 85, 385, 83, 183, 281 and 81 also traverse the state. </p><p>South Dakota is not served by Amtrak passenger rail. </p><h2>Geography</h2><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>South Dakota has a contenential climate due to its distance from major bodies of water. This means hot summers and freezing cold winters. South Dakota is also home to high winds. </p><h2>Culture</h2><h2>Get around</h2><p>You best bet is to rent a car as this state is sparsely populated and without major forms of public transportation. </p> 44.85 -100.4 chrislhendricks 0 (WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Gobbler,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) OliverBuchino,Template namespace initialisation script,(WT-en) Janki,(WT-en) Lsmeyer,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Mikito,(WT-en) RuTemple,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Lather,(WT-en) Xltel,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) Spottacus,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) W66LinkBot,(WT-en) TVerBeek and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-09 14:22:53 32 Europe 0 Earth Europe may be the worlds second smallest continent, but it is unique and diverse, holding a place of extreme importance, both in todays world and throughout history. The grand empires of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome were the early signposts, but the centuries since that time have seen the rise and fall of more great powers. Perhaps the era of Europe's greatest dominance began several centuries ago, as European nations set out to explore, colonise, and Westernise the rest of the world. Even now, decades after the official end of colonisation, Europe enjoys the power birthed and fostered during previous centuries. As a result, to travel to Europe is to study greatness in contrast: Compare the wealth and power of Western Europe with the comparatively underdeveloped Eastern Europe. Enjoy the warmth of Southern Europe; or take in breathtaking winter scenery in Northern Europe. Witness some of the world's most modern buildings in some of the world's oldest cities. In the end, travelling through europe is a bit of a right of passage, and something you should take in, not just head to the usual tourist haunts. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Drive the Autobahn</strong> pretend your a race car driver at crossing the German super highway at breathtaking speeds.   </li></ul><h2>Getting In</h2><h3>By plane<br /></h3><p>Europe has lot's of airconnections with all the other continents, except for Antarctica. Indeed, for some connections from <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/asia" class="intralink"><font color="#003366">Asia</font></a> to the America's it makes sense to pick up a flight to Europe and then head on. The largest air travel hubs in Europe are, in order, London (LON: LCY, LHR, LGW, STN, LTN), Frankfurt (FRA, HHN), Paris (CDG), and Amsterdam (AMS) which in turn have connections to practically everywhere in Europe. However, nearly every European city has direct long-distance flights at least to some destinations elsewhere, and other smaller airports can make sense for specific connections: for example, Vienna (VIE) has a very good network of flights to the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/middle_east" class="intralink"><font color="#003366">Middle East</font></a> and Eastern Europe, while Helsinki (HEL) is the geographically closest place to transfer if coming in from East <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/asia" class="intralink"><font color="#003366">Asia</font></a>.</p><h3>By train<br /></h3><p>The Trans-Siberian Railway from Beijing and Vladivostok to Moscow is a classic rail journey.</p><h3>By car </h3><p><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/asia" class="intralink"><font color="#003366">Asia</font></a> and Europe share the longest continent border of the planet, though most people will cross from/to <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/asia" class="intralink"><font color="#003366">Asia</font></a> in Istanbul, where a bridge spans the gap between the continent. </p><p>To <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/africa" class="intralink"><font color="#003366">Africa</font></a> the most used route is without doubt the crossing of the Street of Gibraltar, which is easily done, but there are also ships between France and Algeria and from Italy to Tunis, Lybia and Egypt.</p><h2>Culture </h2><h3>Language</h3><p>Regions</p><p>Europe defies easy categorization, with its compact size and complex history. The following are five (loosely defined) regions in Europe:</p><ul><li><strong>Western Europe</strong> - Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland and France; </li><li><strong>Northern Europe</strong> - Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark; </li><li><strong>Central Europe</strong> - Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland; </li><li><strong>Eastern Europe</strong> - Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, Estonia, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink"><font color="#003366">Georgia</font></a>, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Romania, Russia and Ukraine; </li><li><strong>Mediterranean Europe</strong> - Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Macedonia, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Portugal, San Marino, Serbia, Spain, Turkey and Vatican City. <br /></li></ul><h3>European Union</h3><p>Europe, prior to the conclusion of the Second World War, was a region ravaged by large-scale wars. National leaders realized after World War II that closer socio-economic and political integration was needed to ensure that such tragedies never happened again. Starting with humble beginnings, the EU's first form was the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). The founding group was Belgium, West Germany, Luxembourg, France, Italy and the Netherlands. Impressed with the results of the union the six countries pressed on and in 1956 signed the treaty of Rome, with the ultimate goal of creating a common market — the European Economic Community (EEC). In 1967 the union was formalized further with a the creation of a single Commission, as well as a council of ministers and a EU parliament.<br /><br />Post-1967 the EU continued to grow; Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom joined in 1973. Greece joined in 1981, Spain and Portugal in 1986 and Austria, Finland and Sweden in 1995. The EU pressed on with economic integration and launched the Euro(€) across several nations on 1 January 2002.<br /><br />In 2004 a further 10 countries joined the EU. These were: Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia.<br /><br />In 2007 a further 2 countries joined the EU. These were: Bulgaria and Romania. </p><h2>Geography <br /></h2><h2>Health</h2><h3>Hospitals and Emergencies</h3><h3>Food and Water</h3><h3>Smoking </h3><h2>Communications</h2><h3>Phone</h3><h3>Internet</h3> 53 10 zurka, flora, derek, 125.120.105.167, 220.191.107.45, 216.70.177.248, 60.176.172.220, chrislhendricks, 66.27.105.170, emilyanncox, jeremy 0 (WT-en) Mark,(WT-en) Ilkirk,(WT-en) Ronline,(WT-en) Repayne,(WT-en) JanSlupski,(WT-en) Tobias Conradi,(WT-en) Colin Angus Mackay,(WT-en) Palazov,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT-en) WindHorse,(WT-en) Bradyn,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Gorilla Jones,(WT-en) Jpatokal,(WT-en) Takatam,(WT-en) Nils,(WT-en) Puffdragon,(WT-en) Staieram,(WT-en) Aidan,(WT-en) Rmx,(WT-en) Wojsyl,(WT-en) Ddwiki,(WT-en) ManOnABus,(WT-en) CandleWithHare,(WT-en) Dillonstars,(WT-en) Dhum Dhum,(WT-en) Sapphire,(WT-en) Patrick,(WT-en) Nzpcmad,(WT-en) Xania,(WT-en) DenisYurkin,(WT-en) Professorbiscuit,(WT-en) WikiTravelMaster,(WT-en) Cacahuate,(WT-en) DanielC,(WT-en) Dpaajones,(WT-en) Chasit,(WT-en) MD,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) Wiki74,(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald,(WT-en) Alicaluda,(WT-en) Akubra,(WT-en) Rnt20,(WT-en) Pjamescowie,(WT-en) Carlskyjr,(WT-en) Ahoerstemeier,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) RJK,(WT-en) Upamanyuwikitravel,(WT-en) AtilimGunesBaydin,(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill,(WT-en) Karen Johnson,(WT-en) Dimitris,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) Nicefrenchguy,(WT-en) Episteme,Template namespace initialisation script,(WT-en) Filemon,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Tatata,(WT-en) Klafubra,(WT-en) Maiko90,(WT-en) Ravikiran r,(WT-en) Sihi,(WT-en) Tgraham,(WT-en) Yzerfontein,(WT-en) Flip666,(WT-en) Yann,(WT-en) Aegeanfighter,(WT-en) Matthewmayer,(WT-en) Wrh2=WankerRejectHermapohdite,(WT-en) Zenogantner,(WT-en) Huttite,(WT-en) TVerBeek,(WT-en) Dheerav2,(WT-en) Tsandell,(WT-en) Elgaard,(WT-en) Barndoor,(WT-en) Wandering,(WT-en) Shalom Alechem,(WT-en) Honister,(WT-en) Nojer2,(WT-en) Nickpest,(WT-en) Sunofeast,(WT-en) Fuzheado,(WT-en) HappyV,(WT-en) NJR ZA,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Freundesstern,(WT-en) Brains4ever and other Anonymous users. 2010-01-01 19:26:44 33 Huntsville 3 Alabama Huntsville is the birthplace of the modern space program and the third largest city in Alabama. Located north of the Tennessee River only 20 miles from the border with Tennessee. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>U.S. Space and Rocket Center Museum</strong>, One Tranquility Base, Huntsville (<em>I-565 Exit 15</em>), 256-837-3400 Open 9am-5pm every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day, and New Years Eve and Day. A number of attractions, especially of interest to space-amazed kids and kids at heart, are available at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Museum. Although the museum is aging a bit, there is still something for everyone, and a good mix of education and entertainment. Additional details available at the web link. $18.95 for both IMAX and the museum (<em>Kids 3-12 $12.95</em>). Museum only or movie only tickets available.</li><li><strong>Find someone else's treasure</strong>. The Scottsboro Unclaimed Baggage Center is an intriguing if not unusual shopping destination. Here you'll find where much of the country's lost baggage ends up and in typical American way they've turned it into a shopping experience. Go ahead, browse through some one else's unclaimed good, you never know what kind of deal you'll find. 45 minutes East of town in Scottsboro (256-728-8193)</li></ul> <h2>Background</h2><p>Huntsville was founded in 1805 by a Virginia man named John Hunt. For the first 140 years of its history, the city was a sleepy cotton town. In 1950, the US Army transferred Dr. Werner von Braun and his team of German rocket scientists to Redstone Arsenal. Within a decade, the city became a center for rocket design and construction. In 1960, NASA opened the Marshall Space Flight Center, which has played a significant role in the Redstone (named after Redstone Arsenal), Gemini, and Apollo manned space programs.<br /><br />Today, the city continues to be a center for missile defense and aerospace technologies, with companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman having major operations here. Cummings Research Park, the second largest research park in the country, is home to many of these companies.<br /><br />According to the Census Bureau 2005 estimates, Huntsville is home to 166,313 residents. The Huntsville metro area, with 517,006 residents, is the third largest in <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a>, after <a href="/guides/birmingham" class="intralink">Birmingham</a> and <a href="/guides/mobile" class="intralink">Mobile</a>. Madison, Athens, Decatur, and a number of smaller cities are generally considered part of the Huntsville metro area. Huntsville is the county seat of Madison County </p><h2>Get Here</h2><h3>By car</h3><p>Huntsville is accessible from nearby Interstate 65, approximately 20 miles west of downtown. An interstate spur, Interstate 565, runs from I-65 eastward for 21 miles, to and through downtown Huntsville.</p><ul><li><strong>I-565:</strong> Spur route to I-65, providing access to <a href="/guides/birmingham" class="intralink">Birmingham</a>, AL, Nashville, TN, and Decatur, AL.</li><li><strong>US 72:</strong> providing access to Chattanooga, TN (via Interstate 24), Memphis, TN, and Athens, AL.</li><li><strong>US 431:</strong> providing access to Guntersville, AL and Anniston, AL.</li><li><strong>US 231:</strong> providing access to Fayetteville, TN and Arab, AL. <br /></li></ul><h3>By plane<br /></h3><p>Huntsville International Airport (HSV) is located off of Interstate 565, 15 miles west of town. Passenger aircraft fly to/from such cities as Dallas, Atlanta, <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> (D.C.), Tampa, Cincinnati, Orlando, <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>, Memphis, Detroit, Charlotte, Chicago, and Houston. Huntsville is served by the following carriers:</p><ul><li>American Airlines and American Eagle, with service to Dallas and Chicago.</li><li>Delta Airlines, American Southeast Airlines and Comair (Delta Connection), with service to Atlanta, Dallas, <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>, D.C., Cincinnati, and Orlando.</li><li>Continental Express, with service to Houston.</li><li>Northwest Airlink, with service to Memphis and Detroit.</li><li>US Airways Express, with service to Charlotte and <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>, D.C.</li><li>United Airlines, with service to Denver and <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>-Dulles (beginning April 19, 2007). <br /></li></ul><h3>By train<br /></h3><p>There is no passenger train service to Huntsville.</p><h3>By bus</h3><p>The Greyhound depot is at the corner of Holmes Ave. and Monroe St. in downtown Huntsville. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><ul><li><strong>Summer</strong>- Average high: 89F (32C); Average low: 67F (19C). Summers are hot and humid, but the thermometer rarely goes above 100F. Strong thunderstorms do come out of nowhere in the afternoons.</li><li><strong>Fall</strong>- Average high: 73F (23C); Average low: 51F (10C). Autumn is quite comfortable in Huntsville. First frost normally happens around Halloween. Strong tornadoes do occur in November.</li><li><strong>Winter</strong>- Average high: 52F (11C); Average low: 32F (0C). Snow is a possibility, but never a guarantee. Most snow in Huntsville is on the light side (less than 2 inches). However, any snow amounts more than 1/3" can close roads and schools.</li><li><strong>Spring</strong>- Average High: 72F (22C); Average low: 49F (9C). Being in a "tornado alley", Huntsville gets many tornado warnings in the spring, so be careful. <br /></li></ul><h2>Health and Safety</h2><h3>Police</h3><p>In an emergency, dial 911.</p><ul><li><strong>Huntsville Police Department</strong>. For non emergencies inside city limits, use 722-7100. The main precinct is located north of downtown off of North Memorial Parkway.</li><li><strong>Madison County Sheriff's Department</strong>. For non-emergencies outside of Madison or Huntsville, use 532-3416.</li><li><strong>Madison Police Department</strong>. For non emergencies in Madison city limits, use 722-7190.</li><li><strong><a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> State Troopers</strong>. For highway emergencies anywhere in <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a>, dial *HP (*47). <br /></li></ul><h3>Fire Department</h3><h3>Hospitals</h3><p>There are two major hospitals in Huntsville.</p><ul><li><strong>Huntsville Hospital</strong>, 101 Sivley Road, 265-1000. A public hospital located downtown on Governors Drive. and the Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children, [78]. Located just east of the main hospital. </li><li><strong>Crestwood Medical Center,</strong> 1 Hospital Drive, 882-3100. A private hospital located off of Airport Road in South Huntsville. <br /></li></ul><p><br />Other hospitals in the Huntsville region:</p><ul><li><strong>Athens-Limestone Hospital</strong>, 902 <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> St, Athens, (256) 233-9292.</li><li><strong>Parkway Medical Center</strong>, 1874 Beltline Road, Decatur, (256) 350-2211.</li><li><strong>Decatur General Hospital</strong>, 1201 Seventh Street, Decatur.</li><li><strong>Highlands Medical Center</strong>, 380 Woods Cove Road, Scottsboro, (256) 259-2444.</li><li><strong>Marshall Medical Center North</strong>, 8000 <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> 69, Guntersville, (256) 571-8000.</li><li><strong>Lincoln Medical Center</strong>, 106 Medical Center Blvd., Fayetteville, TN, (931) 438-1100. <br /></li></ul><h3>Crime</h3><h3>Smoking</h3><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><p>While not widely known as a tourist destination, Huntsville does have a number of attractions of interest:</p> <ul><li> <strong>Wilcoxon Municipal Ice Complex</strong>, 3185 Leeman Ferry Road, 883-3774. Year-round public ice skating rink. Open most afternoons to the public, but check website for hours. Admission is $6.50 per person. Located behind Joe Davis Stadium.</li><li><strong>Canoeing on the Flint River</strong>. Several canoing expeditions are available. The Flint River is located in East Madison County, about 7 miles from downtown.</li><li><strong>Robert Trent Jones-Hampton Cove Golf Course</strong>, 450 Old Highway 431, Owens Crossroads, 551-1818. This 54-hole golf course is part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, which has nine world-renowned golf courses across <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a>. Located in Hampton Cove off US 431.</li><li><strong>Space Camp/Aviation Challenge</strong>. Space Camp is a week-long astronaut training program for kids and teenagers. Shorter programs are available. It is celebrating its 25th anniaversary in 2007. Located at the US Space and Rocket Center. </li></ul><h3>Museums </h3> <ul><li><strong>Huntsville Museum of Art</strong>, The Museum of Art is located in Big Spring Park. It features seven exhibit halls which host many regional and national art exhibits every year and the museum's own 2,500 piece collection. There is a large gift shop and a coffee shop with a patio that overlooks the park. Open daily until 5PM (except Thursday). Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, military, and students, $3 for children 6-11, and free for members and children under 6.</li><li><strong>Burritt on the Mountain</strong>, 3101 Burritt Drive, 536-2882. Located on Round Top Mountain off of US 431 and Monte Sano Boulevard. Features a large early 20th Century mansion, a late 19th Century farm and a petting zoo. There are also nature trails, including one that is handicapped-accessible. Open Tues-Sun year-round, though hours vary between winter and summer months.</li><li><strong>Clay House Museum</strong>, 16 Main Street, Madison, 325-1018. A 1850s Antebellum home and art museum in downtown Madison. Open Wednesday through Saturday.</li><li><strong>The EarlyWorks Museum Complex</strong>: </li><ul><li><strong><span class="intralink">Alabama</span> Constitution Village</strong>, 109 Gates Avenue, 564-8100. See where the state of <span class="intralink">Alabama</span> was born in 1819. Village includes a cabinet shop, law office, and a post office. During the Holidays, "Santa's Village" is held here. Open Wednesday through Saturday, March through October, and special hours in November and December. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for children and seniors.</li><li><strong>Historic Huntsville Depot</strong>, 320 Church Street, 564-8100. Mid-1800's era railroad depot used as a prison for Civil War soldiers. Various festivals are hel here throughout the year, including the Rocket City BBQ Festival in May. Open Wednesday through Saturday, March through October. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for children and seniors. </li><li><strong>EarlyWorks Children's History Museum</strong>, 404 Madison Street, 564-8100. The South's largest hands-on children's history museum. See a 46-foot keelboat, play on giant instruments, and listen to stories told by the "Talking Tree." Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9AM to 4PM. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for children, and $4 for toddlers. </li></ul><li> <strong>Harrison Brothers Hardware</strong>, 124 South Side Square, (866)533-3631. Founded in 1879, it is the oldest continuously-running hardware store in <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a>. Located on the Courthouse Square downtown. Open Mon-Sat.</li><li> <strong>North <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> Railroad Museum</strong>, 694 Chase Road, 851-6276. Located in the Chase community in Northeast Huntsville. Features the smallest union station in the country and 90-minute train rides on select Saturdays. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, April to December. Ticket prices for the train excursion are $12 for adults, $8 for children 12 and under. Prices may vary for special events.</li><li><strong>State Black Archives and Museum</strong>, Wilson Bldg, <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> A&M University, 851-5846. Located on the campus of <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> A&M University in North Huntsville/Normal. Open Monday through Friday. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children, and free for toddlers and A&M faculty and students.</li><li><strong>Sci-Quest</strong>, 102-D Wynn Drive, 837-0606. North <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a>'s only hands-on science museum. Features more than 125 exhibits and an Immersive Theater. To get there, take I-565 Exit 15 to Old Madison Pike. Take a right on Wynn Drive. Sci-Quest is on the left, behind Calhoun Community College. Open Tuesday-Sunday. General admission is $9 for adults, $8.50 for seniors, $8 for children.</li><li><strong>Veterans Memorial Museum</strong>, 2060-A Airport Road, 883-3737. Features military exhibits, memorabilia, and vehicles dating back to the Revolutionary War. To get there, take Memorial Parkway South to Airport Road. Take a right; museum is on the right. Open Wednesday through Saturday, 10AM to 4PM. Admission is $5 per adult, $4 for seniors, $3 for students under 18.</li><li><strong>Weeden House Museum</strong>, 300 Gates Avenue, 536-7718. A house built in 1819, the same year <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> became a state. Located in the Twickenham Historic District. Open weekdays from 11AM to 4PM. Tours are $5 for adults and $2.50 for children.</li></ul><h3>Parks</h3> <ul><li> <strong>Big Spring Park</strong> Huntsville's signature park, located downtown. This is where Huntsville was founded more than 200 years ago. Features various gifts given to the city by countries like Japan (the Red Bridge) and Norway (the lighthouse). Restaurants, hotels, and the Von Braun Center are nearby. Recently underwent an expansion near the Embassy Suites hotel.</li><li><strong>Huntsville Land Trust Trails</strong>, 907 Franklin Street, 534-5263. A 3,400 acre network of nature preserves around the city. One of the most popular attractions is the Three Caves quarry on Monte Sano.</li><li><strong>Huntsville Greenways</strong>. A network of bikeways, trails, and bike-friendly roads across the metro area. Currently only 18 miles have been completed, but will eventually grow to over 200 miles. Aldridge Creek Greenway in Southeast Huntsville is the most popular bikeway, but it becomes impassable after heavy rains.</li><li><strong>Ditto Landing</strong>, 800-552-8769.- Public park along the Tennessee River, with boathouses, greenways, and a campground. Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM to 10PM, Sat-Sun 6AM to 10PM.</li><li><strong>Green Mountain Nature Trail</strong>, South Shawdee Road, 883-9501. A mile-long nature trail that wraps around a 16-acre lake. Features a covered bridge, picnic area, and a "Braille trail." Located off Green Mountain Road in Southeast Huntsville. Open every day.</li><li><strong>Monte Sano State Park</strong>, 5105 Nolen Avenue, 534-3757. Large state park located on Monte Sano. Features 14 miles of hiking and biking trails, a large picnic area, cabins, a Japanese garden, and a campground. Take US 431 to Monte Sano Boulevard and follow the signs.</li><li><strong>Huntsville Botanical Garden</strong>, 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, 830-4447. A 110-acre garden with woodlands, meadows and ponds. Features the nation's largest Butterfly House, which is open from May to September. In 2006, a Nature Center and Children's Garden opened. In November and December, the Botanical Garden is home to the Galaxy of Lights. Open 7 days a week except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $5 for children under 18. Hours and admission vary between summer and fall/winter/spring months.</li><li><strong>Hays Nature Preserve</strong> and <strong>Goldsmith Schiffman Wildlife Sanctuary</strong>. The largest city-owned park and preserve, with ten miles of trails through swamps and wooded areas. Horses and bikes are allowed on some trails. Located off US 431 south of Hampton Cove.</li></ul><h3>Historic Districts</h3> <ul><li> <strong>Twickenham Historic District</strong>. The Twickenham and Old Town historic districts, located just east of downtown, feature large homes that were built as early as 1814. In June and July, free guided walking tours of the area start at 10AM each Saturday. </li><li> <strong>Five Points Historic District</strong>. Five Points is an early 20th Century "mill village" northeast of downtown. In recent years, it has become one of Huntsville's trendiest neighborhoods, with small shops, art galleries, and restaurants lining the streets in the area. </li></ul><p> </p><h3>Festivals</h3> <ul><li> <strong>Panoply of the Arts</strong>, 519-2787. Arts festival in Big Spring Park held on the last weekend in April. Includes art exhibits, music and dance performances, and the <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> State Fiddling Championship.</li><li><strong>Big Spring Jam</strong>, 551-2359. Every year, over 250,000 people attend this music festival that attracts big-name bands in country, rock, blues, and jazz. Held the last weekend in September.</li><li><strong>Whistle Stop BBQ Festival</strong>. Held the second weekend in May at the Huntsville Depot. Features music and a Barbecue cookoff.</li><li><strong>WEUP Black Arts Festival</strong>, 837-9387. Held in June at WEUP-AM/FM's studio on Jordan Lane in Northwest Huntsville. Features local black musicians and artists.</li><li><strong>Galaxy of Lights</strong>. A drive-through Christmas lights show held at the Huntsville Botanical Garden. Open from 5:30PM to 9PM nightly from mid-November to New Year's Eve.</li><li><strong>Santa's Village</strong>. Held at <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> Constitution Village. See Santa, the elves, and the reindeer. Open from 5PM to 9PM nightly from Thanksgiving to December 23rd. </li></ul><h2>Shopping</h2> <ul><li> <strong>Madison Square Mall</strong> - an enclosed mall with 140 shops and restaurants. Tenants include Sears, JC Penney, Dillard's, Belk, and Parisian. Located on University Drive (US 72) near Research Park.</li><li><strong>Parkway Place</strong> - an enclosed mall with 70 upscale shops and restaurants. Tenants include Parisian, Dillard's, Abercrombie, Banana Republic, and Carrabba's Italian Grill. Located off of Memorial Parkway at the Drake Avenue exit. </li><li> <strong>Bridge Street Town Centre</strong> - an open-air upscale lifestyle center with 60 shops and restaurants and a 12-story Westin hotel. Expected to open in September 2007. Tenants will include Barnes and Noble, Old Navy, PF Chang's and Cantina Laredo. Located at the Research Park Boulevard (AL 255)/Old Madison Pike interchange. </li></ul><p> </p><h2>Get Around</h2><p>Huntsville is very car-oriented. Public transportation is not popular in Huntsville, but does exist. The city offers 13 different bus routes, including a Tourist Trolley, which loops past most of the city's attractions and shopping areas. Turnovers between buses can be between fifteen minutes in downtown and one hour in outlying areas. There are also two free weekend evening routes that serve Downtown, Five Points, and the Medical District.<br /><br /><em><strong>Fares</strong></em></p><ul><li>One way: $1.00</li><li>Seniors, students, children under 6, one way: $.50</li><li>Tourist Loop: $2 (all day pass)</li><li>Downtown Weekend Trolley: Free <br /></li></ul><p><em><strong>Hours</strong></em></p><ul><li>Mon-Thurs: 6:00AM to 6:00PM</li><li>Fri: 6:00AM to 2:00AM (Downtown Trolley only after 6PM)</li><li>Sat: 7:00PM to 2:00AM (Downtown Trolley only)</li><li>Sun: No service</li></ul><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li><strong>Cathedral Cavern State Park</strong> has the one of the world's largest cave entrances and also one of the worlds largest stalagmite. 30 minutes east of Huntsville on US 72 (209-728-8193).</li><li><strong>Gorham's Bluff </strong>an hour east of Huntsville has beautiful views of of the valley that the Tennessee River bisects</li><li><strong>The Birthplace for Helen Keller</strong> is 1 hour west of Huntsville near the Shoals region. A spectacular and moving story.</li><li><strong>Hiking in Sipsey Wlderness</strong> Found in northwestern <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a>, this is the third largest Wilderness area east of the Mississippi. The wilderness has an abundance of waterfalls, and the color of the water in the streams is opal blue. Naturally, the Sipsey Wilderness has a good deal of camping, hiking and canoeing options.</li></ul> 34.7303 -86.5861 chrislhendricks 0 Michele Ann Jenkins, Andrew Haggard, Jim Gordon, Tom Holland, Colin Jensen, Ian Kirk and Niels Elgaard Larsen, Wikitravel user(s) Jonboy and Anonymous user(s) of Wikitravel. 2008-09-10 14:06:18 34 Birmingham 3 Alabama With more than 1.1 million people in the metropolitan area, Birmingham is the cultural and economic heart of Alabama. Although the state of Alabama has a reputation of being very rural, this is not true for the Birmingham metro area where you will find a fully modern and urban city. Birmingham is often recognized for its world class hospital and university but thats not all it has. From racing fans to civil rights buffs to museum affectionados, Birmingham offers a lot of things to a lot of people. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Talladega Superspeedway</strong> is not only home to some pretty important NASCAR races, it is also the home of the <strong>International Motorsports Hall of Fame</strong>, which has over 150 cars and counting! The <strong>Texaco Walk of Fame</strong> is located nearby in the town of Talladega, and is a growing tribute to the influential members of stock car racing. Located about an hour east of Birmingham.<br /></li><li><strong>The Civil Rights Museum</strong>, located in downtown Birmingham, chronicles the civil rights struggles of African-Americans through out history. </li><li><strong>Vulcan Park </strong>is a beautful place to view the 5 story high Vulcan statue and get a glimpse of the city. A musuem is also found here.</li><li><strong>DeSoto Caverns Park</strong> is 40 miles outside of Birmingham but its worth the drive as you can watch an amazing laser light show in caves and ride amusement park rides ouside</li></ul><h2>Background</h2><p>Birmingham is the largest city in the state of <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> in the South of the <a href="/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> of America. But the City of Birmingham is actually relatively young. Founded in 1871 at the crossing of two railroad lines, it soon became the South's industrial center. Named for England's giant industrial city, Birmingham became a commercial hub as well. </p> <p><strong>"The Magic City"</strong> became known as a thriving and quickly growing community in what had once been a "poor, insignificant Southern village." </p><p>The <strong>Civil Rights era</strong> of the 1960s left lasting impressions of racial conflict, police dogs and fire hoses turned on nonviolent protesters, and the bombing of homes and churches. The <strong>Birmingham Civil Rights Institute</strong> and places of reflections such as <strong>Kelly Ingram Park</strong> symbolize the healing process from within and present a much different picture of a transformed city. </p><p>Today, Birmingham is a banking and medical center. The <strong>University of <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> at Birmingham</strong> and associated hospitals are nationally renowned for their medical programs, research, and services.</p><h3><span class="mw-headline">Birmingham Neighborhoods</span></h3> <ul><li> Southside </li><li> Forest Park </li><li> Downtown Loft District </li><li> Homewood </li><li> Mountain Brook </li><li> Vestavia Hills </li><li> Hoover </li><li> Trussville </li><li> Roebuck </li><li> Leeds </li><li> Irondale </li></ul> <h2>Get Here</h2><h3>By plane</h3><p>Birmingham International Airport (BHM) is served by nearly all major domestic airlines. </p><h3>By train</h3><p>Birmingham is served by Amtrak's Crescent train, which runs daily and serves <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>, Philadelphia, Baltimore, <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>, Charlotte, Atlanta, Birmingham and New Orleans (and vice-versa). </p><h3>By car</h3><p>Birmingham is linked to the rest of the US by the interstate highway network. The principal interstates and highways serving the city are: </p> <ul><li> Interstate 459 </li><li> Interstate 65 </li><li> Interstate 20 </li><li> Interstate 59 </li><li> Interstate 22 (completion expected in 2011) </li><li> US Higway 31 </li><li> US Highway 280 </li></ul> <p>Please note traffic, as in most metro areas, is fairly terrible at rush hour - which can last from 7-9am and 4-6pm. In particular, the interchange of I-59 and I-65 downtown (malfunction junction) and Highway 280 East are especially problematic. </p> <h3>By bus</h3><p><strong>Greyhound Bus Lines</strong> provide bus service to Atlanta from many locations throughout the US. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><h2>Health and Safety</h2> <p>Common sense rules should apply for most of the city center, i.e. travel in groups - especially late at night, don't look like a tourist, avoid dark alleyways, etc. </p><p>However, it should be noted that Birmingham's historic Five Points South area is one of the most popular night/weekend spots. The areas wonderful restaurants, pubs, and dance clubs are among a few of the attractions you'll find there</p><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><ul><li><strong>Hear national acts</strong> perform in the three day City Stages Music Festival (early summer)</li><li><strong>Enjoy independent films</strong> in historic venues during the three day Sidewalk Film Festival (late September)</li><li><strong>Stroll through the Loft District </strong>viewing works by hundreds of local artists during Birmingham ArtWalk (early September)</li><li><strong>Magic City Art Festival</strong> (end of April)</li><li><strong>Doo dah Day</strong> (end of April)</li><li><strong>Southern disComfort </strong>(Scooter Rally) (beginning of November)</li><li><strong>Birmingham Bowl</strong> (mid December)</li><li><strong>Meet <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> authors</strong>, publishers and illustrators at Birmingham Public Library's annual <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> Bound (April <br /></li><li><strong>Birmingham Zoo</strong> is a good medium sized zoo with a few rare animals. <br /></li><li><strong>McWane Center.</strong> has an Imax theatre and a great hands learning exhibits for the kids. </li><li><strong>Birmingham Botanical Gardens </strong>contains a great display of southern plants. </li><li><strong><a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a> Theatre</strong></li><li><strong>Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens</strong></li><li><strong>Birmingham Museum of Art</strong> has a great collection of 17th-20th century <a href="/guides/europe" class="intralink">Europe</a>an art. It's the south's biggest public art museum. </li><li><strong>Stroll down the 5 Point South Business District or the Lakeview Distrit</strong> each has great entertainment, restaruants, and clubs. </li><li><strong>Southern Museum of Flight</strong></li><li><strong>VisionLand Thee Park</strong> has a one of those old big wooden roller coasters, plus modern rides. </li><li><strong>DeSoto Caverns Park</strong> where you can watch an amazing laser light show in the caves and ride amusement park rides ouside</li><li><strong>Oak Mountain State Park</strong> is just outside of town. It's one of the largest parks in albama and has all kinds of outdoor activities like mountain bike riding, horse riding, fishing, swimming and golf. </li><li><strong>Ruffner Mountain Nature Center</strong></li><li><strong>Barber's Motorcycle Museum</strong> has a great collection of old motorcycles from throughout the 20th century. </li><li><strong>Sloss Furnace National Historic Landmark </strong>is a monument to the steel industry in the early 1900s and is homed to one of the best restored steel plants in the country. Here you will see how stell is made and here interesting stories about the dangers and fatalitys of working in the steel plant.</li></ul><h2>Shopping</h2><ul><li><strong>Riverchase Galleria</strong> (one of the largest indoor malls in the US)</li><li><strong>Colonial Brookwood Village</strong></li><li><strong>The Summit Lifestyle Center</strong> (one of the largest lifestyle centers in the US)</li><li><strong>Century Plaza</strong></li><li><strong>Patton Creek</strong></li><li><strong>Wildwood Center</strong></li><li><strong>Western Hills Mall</strong></li><li><strong>Eastwood Village </strong>(under construction)</li><li><strong>Soho Square</strong></li><li><strong>Caufield Square Promenade</strong> (under construction)</li><li><strong>Colonial Promenade at Fultondale</strong> (under construction)</li><li><strong>Colonial Promenade at Alabaster</strong></li><li><strong>Colonial Promenade at Trussville</strong></li><li><strong>Colonial Pinnacle at Tutwiler Farm</strong></li><li><strong>Hayes Market Place</strong></li><li><strong>The Village at Lee Branch</strong></li><li><strong>Watermark Place </strong><br /></li></ul><h2>Get Around</h2><h3><span class="mw-headline">By foot</span></h3> <p>Within the downtown areas of Birmingham (notably separated by railroad tracks into a "north" and "south" side, walking is a reasonable way to get around within each section; but not from getting to one from the other. Also, keep in mind summer temperatures and heat indices can reach 100°F and 110°F respectively. </p> <h3><span class="mw-headline">By bus</span></h3> <p>Do not expect to use public transportation reliably... If you are staying in the city, the Dart/Bus system may work fine for you, but otherwise you'll be spending a lot of time waiting and coordinating. </p> <ul><li> DART Bus Trolley </li><li> MAX Bus System </li></ul><h3>By car</h3> <p>Your best bet is to rent a car, or drive your own. However, please note traffic, as in most metro areas, is terrible at rush hour - which can last from 6-9am and 4-6pm. In particular, the interchange of I-59 and I-65 downtown (malfunction junction) and Highway 280 East are especially problematic. </p><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li><strong>Ruffner Mountain</strong> good fun for the family to pack a lunch and go hiking</li><li><strong>American Village Historical Park</strong><br /></li><li><strong>Anniston Musum of Natural History</strong> has stuffed animals from the last two centuries. In Anniston, about an hour east of Birmingham (256-237-6766)</li><li><strong>Bernan Musuem of World History</strong> also in Anniston you will find lots of interesting war memoriabila.</li><li><strong>Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge</strong><br /></li><li><strong>Tuscalloosa </strong>is an hour west of Birmingham. Their you will find the <strong>Univerity of <a href="/guides/alabama" class="intralink">Alabama</a></strong>. The Paul Bryant Museum is on campus near the stadium for for the interested football fan. The town is best knowsn for the giant <strong>Mercedes-Benz </strong>assembly plant and visitor center. </li></ul> 33.5 -86.77 chrislhendricks, 66.27.75.200, jeremy 0 (WT-en) Episteme,(WT-en) Sapphire,(WT-en) DenisYurkin,(WT-en) Chris j wood,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) AVLann,(WT-en) Tim Chambers,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT-en) Evan,(WT-en) Eherbel,(WT-en) NJR ZA,(WT-en) Capnjenkins,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Temple-thm102,(WT-en) Uabewing,(WT-en) Plin,(WT-en) Rspga49,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) Rentastrawberry,(WT-en) Alarob,(WT-en) TVerBeek and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-10 15:55:00 35 Montgomery 3 Alabama Montgomery is the capital of Alabama and has historically played in important role in both state and national politics. It was the first capital of the Confederate States of America, and hosted the inauguration of Jefferson Davis as President of the Confederate States. Later on it was the battlefield for the civil rights movement with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. leading non-violent protests and the Montgomery bus boycott sparked by Rosa Park's arrest. Today much of Montgomery still feels like a blast from the past with both the architecture and the cutlutre still having a distinctly quaint feel.<br> <h2>Highlight</h2><ul><li>Alabama State Capitol Building, 600 Dexter Avenue, Phone: +1 334 242-3935, Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.  a restore buidling from the 1800.  In front is where Jefferson Davis was sworn in as the confederate president.  Across the street is the First White House of the Confederacy</li><li>Civil Rights Memorial is a beautiful waterfall monument inscribing the names of those that died during the civil rights movement. 400 Washington Avenue, Phone: +1 334 956-8200.</li></ul><h2>Get Here</h2><h3>By plane</h3><br />Montgomery Airport, 4445 Selma Highway, Phone: +1 334 281-5040. The Montgomery Airport is a small airport with US Air Express, Delta Connection, Northwest Airlink, and Continental Express operating out of the airport.<br /><br /><h3>By car</h3><br />The two major interstate higways that server Montgomery are I-85, which connects Montgomery withBirmingham and I-65.<br /><br /><h3>By bus</h3><br />Greyhound 950 W South Blvd., Phone: +1 334 286-0658. Hours: The bus station and ticketing is open 24 hours/ 7 days.<br /><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><br />Summers can be incredibly hot due to all the humidity.<br /><h2>Health and Safety</h2><br />For emergencies dial 911 for medical and police assistance.<br /><h3>Police</h3><h3>Fire Department</h3><h3>Hospitals</h3><h3>Crime</h3><h3>Smoking</h3><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><br /><ul><li>Alabama Shakspeare Festival, 1 Festival Dr.</li><li>Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, One Museum Drive, Phone: +1 334 240-4333, (Hours:Tuesday - Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM Thursday: 10 AM - 9 PM Sunday: 12 PM - 5 PM. Admission: Free.</li><li>Blount Cultural Park, 6055 Vaughn Road, Phone: +1 334 274-0062,. Hours: Sunday - Saturday:6:00 AM - 10:00 PM.</li><li>Hank Williams Museum, 118 Commerce Street, Phone: +1 334 262-3600. Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM.</li><li>Alabama National Fair</li><li>Rosa Parks Library and Museum, 251 Montgomery Street, Phone: +1 334 241-8615, Hours:Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM.</li><li>Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, 454 Dexter Avenue, Phone: +1 334 263-3970. Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Rev. Martin Luther Kind, Jr. preached at the church for six years. Admission: Adults: $5, Children: $3.</li><li>Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Phone: +1 334 240-4900.</li></ul><h2>Get Around</h2><h3>By Bus</h3><br />Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) operates the bus and trolley system in Montgomery.<br /><h3>Walking</h3><br />The main historical section of town is small enough that you can explore much of it on foot.   <br /><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li>Birmingham is only an hour and a half drive from Montgomery. Light years apart from Montgomery, the Birmingham metro area is a fully modern and urban city. Birmingham is often recognized for its world class hospital and university but thats not all it has. From racing fans to civil rights buffs to museum affectionados, Birmingham offers a lot of things to a lot of people.</li><li>Monroeville is 30 minutes north of Montgomery. Avid bookreaders will be inerested in a tour of the town as its both the background for the classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird and the authors home.</li><li>George Washington Carver Museum at the Tuskegee institute  is 45 minutes east of Montgomery and is dedicated to the scientist who convinced many southern farmers to forsake cotton and begin planting peanuts.  His work with peanuts columinated in the discovery of peanutbutter; he was also instrumental in other industries such as textiles.</li><li>Eufaula is 90 miles southeast of Montgomery and is home to the Shorter Mansion noticed most recently in the big feature film Sweet Home Alabama</li><li>Selma is just west of Montgomery and has the National Voting Rights Museum; the town is also well known for the famous Selma-to-Montgomery Civil Rights March.</li></ul> 32.3667 -86.3 chrislhendricks, , derek, 125.120.105.167, 75.26.44.213, 220.191.107.45, 76.176.155.79, jeremy 0 (WT-en) BreezyB,(WT-en) Sapphire,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) Fastestdogever,(WT-en) Jlday1256,(WT-en) TVerBeek and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-10 15:58:00 36 Savannah 3 Georgia Savannah is one of the most charming cities in the entire United States. History is still very much alive in its streets and stately squares. Savannah's historic waterfront is lined with more than 100 unique shops and galleries, fabulous restaurants, seductive nightspots, and elegant inns and hotels. It's charm lies in that it can equally provide the perfect quiet romantic evening or a lively night out and about. It's beauty awaits you with its tree-filled squares and perfectly preserved old buildings; captivating you with its past and haunting natural beauty, caressing you with its warmth and Southern hospitality. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong>Historic District </strong>is a 2. 5 mile National Landmark. Those in search of history and the allure of the Old South will satisfy their quest while strolling through these lovely squares of Savannah. You can exploring the interesting history of Savannah , by walking tour, a trolley tour, or the ever favorite horse drawn carriage tour.</li><li><strong>City Market</strong> is the place to be for entertainment, dining, and retailing in downtown Savannah. The anchor attraction that gets both tourists and Savannah residents is the Art Center. This group of working studios are mixed along side the food, entertainment, and retail businesses and you can often pick up great student art for prices easy on the wallet. After you pickup some art, don't forget to stop at one of the little street cafes to talk with the locals, tourists and art students, to really get a feel for the Savannah culture.</li><li><strong>Forsyth Park</strong>, one of the main squares in the center of town, is ringed with bed and breakfasts and crowned with a beautiful fountain. They filmed "The Movie" here, so stay on the square, admire the Spanish moss, and imagine yourself next to John Cusack under the dripping Spanish moss.</li><li><strong>Stay at a Savannah B&B historic mansion inn</strong> for high drama and beautiful scenery.</li></ul><h2>Background</h2><p>Savannah is an historic riverside city in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a>. The city of Savannah dates back to the year 1733 when it was shaped by James Edward Oglethorpe and a band of English settlers. </p><p>Later when General William Tecumseh Sherman marched in, the mayor of Savannah gave Sherman's men run of the city in exchange for leaving it untorched. As a result, Savannah is one of the few major cities in the South with antebellum charm and architecture remaining intact. Savannah has one of the largest historic districts in the country.</p><p>The history of Savannah still remains to be one of the greatest elements of the city as well as the great hotels, nearby beaches, and of course the liveliness of the city in the popular shops, restaurants, and "hot" nightspots. A walking tour or guided wagon tour of the historic area is well worth it to see the beauty and history of the old town. </p><p>Southerners joke that in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/atlanta" class="intralink">Atlanta</a>, the first thing locals ask you is your business; in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/Charleston">Charleston</a>, they ask your mother's maiden name; and in Savannah, they ask what you want to drink. It's partly that ethos that keeps the city tourism industry flourishing, along with a little help from what locals call "The Book:" <em>Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil</em> (also a feature film). The local art school, Savannah College of Art and Design, also keeps the city peopled with liberals and awash in accessible, affordable art.</p> <h2>Get Here</h2><h3><span class="mw-headline">By car</span></h3> <p>I-95 and I-16 are both readily acessible to the city. </p> <h3><span class="mw-headline">By Plane</span></h3> Savannah/Hilton Head Island International Airport (SAV) has direct flights serving this area.<br /><h3><span class="mw-headline">By Bus</span></h3> <p>Greyhound has a station fairly close to the center of town at 610 W Oglethorpe Ave.</p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><h2>Health and Safety</h2><h3>Police</h3><h3>Fire Department</h3><h3>Hospitals</h3><h3>Crime</h3><h3>Smoking</h3><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><p>When present in Savannah , whether it is as a visitor or a resident, the beauty of the surroundings is absolutely breathtaking. The city’s twenty-one beautiful squares, the park-like havens that make it such a wonderful place for strolling and relaxing, are Savannah ’s world-renowned claim to fame. The town squares serve as the unique centerpieces of stately old homes, graceful churches, and many shops and galleries. These tree-filled sanctuaries were a key part of James Oglethorpe’s plan for creating Savannah . In addition, the historical monuments, and the all around natural charm of the city provide a stunning yet relaxing atmosphere that would appeal to anyone. This gorgeous scenery makes Savannah an inviting place for many tourists as well as residents. Unlike many place, Savannah is not a town full of attractions, instead its a town that IS the attraction. </p><ul><li><strong> River Street</strong> , a cobblestone walk along the waterfront with tourist-targeted shops. Don't forget to hit up one of the quaint local candy shops. And while youre down here don't miss hopping on one of the paddlesteamer ferrys to take a beautiful cocktail filled ride across the river. </li><li><strong>Grayson Stadium</strong> Home of the Savannah Sand Gnats (minor league baseball)</li><li><strong>The historical churches</strong> in Savannah portray a variety of architectural styles to check out, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, with its twin spires and Gothic features; Christ Episcopal Church, a Greek Revival building housing a rare Revere Bell; and Temple Meckve Isreal, the only Gothic synagogue in the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>.</li><li><strong>Attempt to find Forest Gump's bench</strong> yep, its in Savannah, but do you know where? </li><li><strong>Visit Flannery O'Connor's childhood home</strong>. She played in the square and kept chickens here, and for Southern literary buffs, the small house is a must. Check out the book store nearby. </li><li><strong>Go on one of the many ghost tours </strong></li><li><strong>Bonaventure Cemetery</strong>. Fans of The Book will find Johnny Mercer's grave here, along with Conrad Aiken's and other Southern notables. The view of the river is wonderful, and the Spanish moss creates a delightfully spooky atmosphere. </li></ul><h3><span class="mw-headline">Arts</span></h3><p><strong>Places</strong> </p><ul><li> <strong>Lucas Theatre</strong>. SCAD uses it for a number of events including the Savannah Film Festival. The college’s support also allows for a wide range of community uses: the Lucas has presented top-line entertainment including opera from London and Italy, <span class="intralink">Europe</span>an orchestras, country stars, traveling repertory companies and film series. These events bring in an average of more than 1,000 people per week. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Savannah College of Art & Design</strong>. SCAD was founded in 1978 by Paula S. Wallace, Richard Rowan, May Poetter and Paul Poetter — is an independent, accredited and nonprofit school dedicated to the visual and performing arts, design, the building arts and the history of art and architecture. SCAD enrolls close to 7,000 students from all 50 states and nearly 80 countries. Take a tour of the place and you'll be sure to get your creative juices flowing.<br /> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Telfair Museum</strong>. The Telfair Museum of Art traces its history from 1886 when the Telfair family home opened to the public as an art museum and school. Now comprised of the original building, the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences, a National Historic Landmark building, and the Owens-Thomas House, also a National Historic Landmark, the Telfair is currently constructing a third building in downtown Savannah. </li></ul> <dl><dd>Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie, the 64,000-sq. ft. Jepson Center for the Arts will be a state-of-the-art museum facility. It will feature expanded gallery spaces, expanded educational resources, much-needed art storage facilities, sculpture gardens, an auditorium, café and museum store when it is opened to the public in March 2006. </dd><dd>Over the years the Telfair has become an invaluable confluence of arts, culture and history that reaches out to its audience through a diverse schedule of exhibitions and programs. Currently among the city's most-visited attractions, the museum is expected to become even more popular with the opening of its third venue, the Jepson Center for the Arts</dd></dl><strong>Festivals</strong> <ul><li> <strong>Savannah Film Festival</strong>. Held in late October/early November. The festival features more than 50 films, selected from more than 600 entries in the categories of feature, short, animation, documentary and student competition, which are submitted from all over the world. The featured screenings represent a variety of independent filmmakers, while a cross section of workshops, lectures, receptions and special events gives the festival participants an opportunity to meet colleagues active in all areas of film production. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Savannah Music Festival</strong>. "Southern, Soulful and Sophisticated." The Festival's distinctive line-up showcases indigenous music from the Deep South, originally conceived chamber music, and a wealth of internationally renowned musicians representing an abundance of musical styles and genres. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Savannah Tour of Homes</strong>. This annual spring event offers self-guided walking tours through private homes and gardens in Savannah's National Landmark Historic District. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Sidewalk Arts Festival</strong>. Held in the Spring. The sidewalks of Savannah's charming Forsyth Park come to life with remarkable original artwork and live music. This event is free and open to the public. The Sidewalk Arts Festival draws thousands of visitors to view temporary chalk masterpieces created on the sidewalks of the historic park. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>St. Patrick's Day</strong>. Held on March 17th, this is considered by many to be the second largest party in the country! </li></ul> <h3><span class="mw-headline">Historic Squares</span></h3> <ul><li> <strong>Calhoun Square</strong>, Calhoun Square was laid out in 1851, one of the last squares. It is on Abercorn Street with the cross streets being Taylor and Gordon. It was named for John C. Calhoun a well known South Carolina politician. Massie School and Wesley Monumental Methodist Church are on this square. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Chatham Square</strong>, Chatham Square was laid out in 1847, one of the last squares. It is on Barnard Street with the cross streets being Taylor and Gordon. It was named for William Pitt, the Earl of Chatham. On the Southeast corner of the square is Gordon Row, fifteen four story townhouses built as rental housing. The Barnard Street School, now one of the buildings of the Savannah College of Art and Design is on the Northwest corner of the square. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Chippewa Square</strong>, This square was laid out in 1815 and named for a battle in the War of 1812. In 1820, this square was a center of nighlife as the William Jay designed theater (still there although greatly altered) was on this square. The classical First Baptist Church and the Charles Cluskey designed Moses Eastman House at 17 W. McDonough are also on Chippewa. North of the square is Independent Presbyterian Church on Bull St. at Oglethorpe. The center of this square is James Edward Oglethorpe's monument. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Columbia Square</strong>, In the center of this square is the Wormsloe Fountain, placed there in 1970 as a memorial to Augusta and Wymberly DeRenne, descendants of Noble Jones. Davenport House, the house saved in 1955 by seven women who went on to found Historic Savannah Foundation, is located on the North side of this square. It is also the site of current preservation activities. The Frederic Ball House and the former law offices on the Western side of the square next to the Kehoe House. The Stone House, dating from the 1820s has been restored. The Universalist Church, on the Southwest corner of the square, is the former Sheftall House. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Crawford Square</strong>, This square was laid out in the 1840s and named to honor William Harris Crawford who was Secretary of the Treasury under President Madison and once thought to be a prime contender for President of the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>. It is the only square that is still fenced as all the squares were at one time. Crawford Square is on Houston Street between Perry and Hull Streets. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Elbert Square</strong>, This square is one of two lost squares, represented by a small grassy area today. It is located on <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/montgomery" class="intralink">Montgomery</a> St. directly across from the Westside entrance to the Civic Center. The square was named for Samuel Elbert, planter and Revolutionary soldier. In 1969, the "Flame of Freedom" was placed here but subsequently moved to Liberty Square in front of the Courthouse. The square was laid out in 1801. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Ellis Square</strong>, This square was one of the original four squares, laid out in 1733. It was always referred to as Marketplace Square because that was its use. The square was named for Henry Ellis, second Royal Governor. This entire square, on Barnard Street between W. Bryan and W. Congress Streets, is now covered by the city parking garage. On the West side of the square, the City Market complex extends for two blocks over to Franklin Square. This is the site of the Old City Market which was demolished in the early 1950s. The loss of this structure upset residents to the extent that efforts began to prevent further losses of irreplaceable buildings. The City is currently investigating means to restore Ellis Square. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Franklin Square</strong>, This square is located on <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/montgomery" class="intralink">Montgomery</a> Street between Congress and Bryan Streets. It was named for Benjamin Franklin who had been the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Colony's agent in London. It was laid out in 1791 and for many years the City's water tower was here so it was referred to as Water Tower or Reservoir Square. The First African Baptist Church is located on the West side of the square and the end of the City Market complex is on the East side. Franklin Square was restored in the 1980s. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Greene Square</strong>, This square was named to honor Gen. Nathanial Greene, second in command to George <span class="intralink">Washington</span> in the American Revolution. On the Southwest corner, the Meyerhoff house is built of Savannah Gray Brick and a sign on the house notes that these bricks were made at the Hermitage Plantation. <ul><li> The Second African Baptist Church, dating to 1802 is on the West side of the square. At this church, Sherman made his famous "Forty Acres and a Mule" promise to the newly freed slaves. Also on this square is the 1801 wooden building that was the Savannah Female Orphan Asylum </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Johnson Square</strong>, This is the City's first square, laid out in 1733. It was named for Robert Johnson, Governor of South Carolina when the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> colony was founded. The public mill and oven were located on this square and it was the site of the earliest church, Christ Church, which is still there; but not in the original building. The Savannah Bank Building, now First Union, was the City's first "skyscraper." It was built in 1911 on the Northeast corner of Bull Street and Bryan. This is the banking square and many of the City's banks are located here. In the center of the square is the Nathanial Greene Monument. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>LaFayette Square</strong>, This square, located on Abercorn Street between Charlton and Harris Streets was laid out in 1837. Until 1846, the City jail was located here; but when it was moved, Andrew Low purchased some of the land and built in 1849 what we now refer to as the Andrew Low House. This house, on the West side of the square, is next to the Battersby-Hartridge House, the only Charleston style house in the City. <ul><li> The Hamilton Turner House is also on this square as is the Flannery O'Connor House. This home is where the renowned <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> author lived as a child. It is open to the public. </li><li> On the North side of the square is the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and its school buildings. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Liberty Square</strong>, This is one of two lost squares. It was located on <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/montgomery" class="intralink">Montgomery</a> Street in front of the present County Courthouse. It was laid out in 1799 and named to celebrate the freedom and independence gained through the Revolution and to honor the "Sons of Liberty" who had fought for independence. The "Flame of Freedom" is now on this site. </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Madison Square</strong>, This square was named to honor President James Madison and laid out in 1837. It is on Bull Street with Harris and Charlton providing boundaries. On the West side of the square there is St. John's Episcopal Church and its parish house, the Green-Meldrim House which is open to the public. On the corner of Charlton and Bull, there is the Scottish Rite Temple designed by Hyman Witcover who was also the architect for the present Savannah City Hall. Across from that is the Savannah Volunteer Guards Armory, now one of the Savannah College of Art and Design's buildings. The DeSoto Hilton Hotel, on the Northeast corner, was built in the 1960s after the orginial DeSoto was torn down. <ul><li> The site was originally the Oglethorpe Barracks, c. 1834, the site of early military parades. </li><li> The center of Madison Sqaure is the Sgt. Jasper Monument. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Monterey Square</strong>, In 1847, the Irish Jasper Greens, a Savannah military group, returned from the Mexican war and this name (Monterey) was given to honor one of the battles in that war. All of the buildings on this square except one (the United Way building) are original to the square. <ul><li> Temple Mickve Israel is here with its museum which is open to the public. </li><li> On the Southwest corner, at 3 W. Gordon, is the Noble Hardee House, completed in 1869 as a double house but later converted into a single dwelling. Also on this square is the Mercer-Wilder House and the 1857 built Oglethorpe Club building. </li><li> The Pulaski Monument is in the center of Monterey Square. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Oglethorpe Square</strong>, This square is on Abercorn Street between State and York Streets. It was laid out in 1742 and named for the founder of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a>, James Edward Oglethorpe. In its earliest days it was referred to as "Upper New Square." <ul><li> On the East side of this square there is the Owens-Thomas House, which many feel is the finest example of Regency architecture in the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a>. Originally the Unitarian Church, now the Baptist Center (Jingle Bells Church), sits on the square. </li><li> On the Sourthwest corner is the Urban Health Center, originally built in 1907 as the Marine Hospital. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Orleans Square</strong>, This square, located on Barnard St., between Perry and Hull Streets, was laid out in 1815 and named to honor the heroes of the War of 1812. The German Societies placed a fountain and benches in this square in the late 1980s. <ul><li> The house with the massive columns on the East side of the square was built in 1844 for Aaron Champion. It is known as the Champion-McAlpin House which is owned by the Society of Cincinnati in the state of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a>. Across the square is the Civic Center, completed in 1970. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Pulaski Square</strong>, This square on Barnard Street between Harris and Charlton Streets was laid out in 1837 and named for Count Casimir Pulaski, the highest ranking foreign officer to die in the American Revolution. <ul><li> The red brick Jewish Education Alliance building on the East side of the square is now a dormitory for the Savannah College of Art and Design. The house on the Northwest corner of Barnard and Harris is new housing, completed in 1993. The house across from it is the 1839 house of Francis Bartow, a Confederate hero. It is now several apartments. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Reynolds Square</strong>, Located on Abercorn Street between Congress and Bryan Streets, this square was named for James Reynolds, a <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Royal Governor. <ul><li> On the Northeast trust lot, the Filature House was located. This center of the silkworm effort was the first large building in the colony and used as a meeting center before it burned down in the mid 1800s. The Corps of Engineers building is now on that site. </li><li> The Pink House is one of the few houses to survive the Great Fire of 1796. Across St. Juilian Street from it, also on the West side of the square is the Oliver Sturgiss House. He was a partner with William Scarbrough in the Steamship Savannah venture. The Southwest trust lot on this square was the site of the parsonage in the earliest colonial days. The Christ Church Parish House is on the Northeast corner. </li><li> The square also houses the John Wesley Monument. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Telfair Square</strong>, From 1733 to 1883, this square was named St. John's Square and was one of the most fashionable residential areas. It was renamed to honor Edward Telfair, three time governor of Georiga (1786-1792) and his family. Located on Barnard Street between York and State Streets. <ul><li> The Telfair family home, now the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences is one of the oldest art museums in the South. The Trinity Methodist Church and the Federal Buildings which were completed in the 1980s are on this square. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Troup Square</strong>, This square, located on Habersham between Charlton and Harris Streets, was laid out in 1851. It was named for George Michael Troup, Congressional Representative, Governor, and Senator. There was only one other square, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> Square, named for a person who was alive when so honored. <ul><li> On the West side of the squarethere are the high stoop McDonough Row Houses, built in 1882 that were the object of one of the first historic restoration efforts in the 1960s when federal funds became available for historic preservation activities. </li><li> Kennedy Row, low stoop brick houses on the West side of the square, were built in 1872 and also rehabilitated in the Troup Square Renewal Project. </li><li> Also on the West side of the squre, there is a dog fountain that was reinstalled in the 1980s. </li><li> The Armillary Sphere in the center of the square was created in the 1970s and represents an ancient astronomical device. It originally had gold continents inside and twelve Zodiacs on the rim; but were removed to prevent theft or further vandalism. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Warren Square</strong>, This square, laid out in 1791, is on Habersham Street between Bryan and Congress Streets. It was named for General Joseph Warren, killed in the 1775 battle of Bunker Hill. The city parking garage covers the two western Trust Lots. <ul><li> The Spencer House, built in 1791, on the West side of the square, underwent a total resoration in the 1980s. A private philanthropist has completely redone the double house on the Northwest corner of Habersham Street in 1993. </li><li> On St. Julian Street between this square and <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> Square there are some of the oldest houses in the historic district. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong><a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> Square</strong>, This square, on Houston Street, is near the site of the old Trustees Garden. It was named for George <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>. For many years, until the mid-twentieth century, this square was the scene of the biggest New Year's Eve bonfires, many often taller than the houses around the square. <ul><li> The Seaman's House, operated by the Port Society to serve the needs of visiting seaman, is on the Southwest side of the square. </li><li> The Mulberry Inn, also on this square, was originally a cotton warehouse, built in the 1860s, then a Coca-Cola bottling plant before being converted to an inn. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Whitefield Square</strong>, This square, on Habersham between Taylor and Gordon Streets, is named for the Rev. George Whitefield, an early minister in the colony, friend of John Wesley, and founder of the Bethesda Orphanage in 1740. Done in 1851, this was the last of the City's squares. Around the square there are wooden Victorian houses, a later style in the historic district. <ul><li> On the North side of the square are two very tall, modern buildings: the Red Cross and the Rose of Sharon apartments. Also on this square is the First Congregational Church. </li></ul> </li></ul> <ul><li> <strong>Wright Square</strong>, This is one of the oldest of the City's squares, laid out in 1733. It is on Bull Street between State and York Streets. It was originally called Percival Square to honor Viscount Percival, later the Earl of Egmont. It was renamed to honor James Wright, <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a>'s last Royal Governor. <ul><li> It was commonly called "Court House Square," as from its earliest days to the present, it has held a courthouse on the site. The present yellow brick courthouse, on the east side, was designed by William Gibbons Preston and was renovated in 1992 for continued use by County offices. </li><li> Next to the Court House, also on the east side of the square, on a Trust Lot, is the Lutheran Church of the Ascension, built in 1844. Also on the square is the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/united_states" class="intralink">United States</a> Post Office, built in 1899 of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Marble. Around the top of the building there are panels of all different types of marble quarried in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a>. </li><li> On this square, Tomochichi was buried in an elaborate funeral service in 1739. His monument remained as done by the early colonists until it was demolished in the early 1880s to make way for a monument to William <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a> Gordon. The members of the Colonial Dames in <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> were responsible for placing a huge boulder of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> granite in the Southeast side of the square in memory of Tomochichi. </li></ul> </li></ul> <br /><h2>Shopping</h2><p>For those of you who love to shop, get your wallets ready because Savannah knows a thing or two about shopping. Savannah ’s Historical District offers a variety of shopping with its numerous boutiques, galleries, and shops offering an endless assortment of antiques, artwork, apparel, and gifts. Many other shops are grouped together in enticing clusters in the bays of the old cotton warehouses along River Street and amid the iron bridges of Factors Walk, in the vintage stores of City Market that once sold fresh produce and farm goods, on bustling and revitalized but quaint Broughton Street, and the arty retail pocket around Jones and Whitaker Streets. Other shoppers’ delights are tucked away, sprinkled, and almost hidden among the residences and stately churches. Fortunately, your shopping experience does not have to end in the downtown area because you can make your way down to the Southside, which is full of various stores and shopping centers and is the site of two upscale malls, the Savannah Mall and the Oglethorpe Mall, named for, you guessed it, James Edward Oglethorpe. If this still is not enough for you, you can even make your way to Tybee Island for some shopping with an oceanside twist. The shops at Tybee Island offer a variety of beachwear and vacation items that will enhance your experience in the sun and surf </p><h2>Get Around</h2><p>Chatham area transit has bus services and a free trolleybus around the historic district. </p><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li><strong>Tybee Island</strong> - 18 miles east of Savannah, Tybee has a long sand beach, and various beachfront bars, restaurants, and hotels. Finding a hotel or parking can be difficult in the high summer season. <br /></li><li><strong>Hilton Head Island</strong> is just over the border in South Carolina but is actually fairly close to Savannah. Hilton Head a beautiful, semi-tropical 12 mile barrier island. It is a vacation playland with famous beaches and great golf courses that overlook the Atlantic Ocean.</li><li><strong>Golden Isles</strong> ranges from an hour south of Savannah and goes all the way to the <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida</a> Border. These beautiful barrier islands are the quintessential natural white sand beaches, With perfect lounging oppurtunities, great golf and all kinds of water sport oppurtunities, this is one of the best resort getaway destinations in all of <a href="http://www.travature.com/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a>. </li></ul> 32.0833 -81.1 chrislhendricks, 66.27.75.200, 60.176.175.201, derek, 125.120.105.167, chrislhendricks, 220.191.107.45, jeremy 0 (WT-en) Ilkirk,(WT-en) Catanese,(WT-en) Nzpcmad,(WT-en) Cjensen,(WT-en) Jonboy,(WT-en) Calvin85hobbes,(WT-en) Bbudik1001,(WT-en) Maj,(WT-en) Eherbel,(WT-en) Bigbonton,(WT-en) Radio-x,(WT-en) Wrh2,(WT-en) OldPine,(WT-en) Sandoichi,(WT-en) TVerBeek,(WT-en) TWade and other Anonymous users. 2008-09-10 16:00:44 37 Atlanta 3 Georgia The capital of Georgia and the states largest city. It is also one of the South's most vibrant citys with ambitious growth. For those looking for a New York or Chicago type experience in this part of the country Altanta is the place to visit. Tall compact buildings alternate with old mansions in an international mix of modern commerce. In a busy city like this, the higlights are deffinately the food, the shopping and the nightlife. <h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li><strong><a href="/guides/Georgia">Georgia</a> Aquarium</strong> The largest aquarium in the world with over 100,000 animals representing 500 species from around the globe all in 8 million gallons of water. This is one popular place and so there are a few number of tickets for walk up guests each day. The Aquarium is selling out many time slots far in advance, so whether you’re using your annual pass or purchasing daily tickets, advance reservations are the way to go. Open Monday - Sunday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; $24.00 (adult); $17.00 (child age 3-12); $20.00 (senior age 55+)</li><li><strong>World of Coca-Cola</strong> 55 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive (<em>adjacent to Underground Atlanta</em>), telephone (770) 578-4325 extension 1465. Pay good money to receive the word from the marketing department of the world's largest soft drinks company. Open M-Sa 9am-5pm; Su 11am-5pm. $7 (adult); $5 (senior); $4 (child). This attraction will move to a new location adjacent to the <a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Aquarium during May 2007.</li><li><strong>Stone Mountain</strong> - The town of Stone Mountain (just outside Atlanta) is the most popular tourist attraction in <a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a>. It's host to Stone Mountain Park, a wooded park with dozens of attractions surrounding a giant granite dome. Be sure to catch the spectacular fireworks and laser show which happens at sunset every Saturday night throughout the summer months and is free to watch. Besides the park the Stone Moutnain Village has some cute little shops to check out and for a bit of history theres also the Stone Mounain Railroad Depot and Memorial Hall. </li></ul><h2>Background</h2><h3><span class="mw-headline">History</span></h3><p>Atlanta was originally founded as <strong>Terminus</strong> in 1836, the name reflecting its function as a railway terminus, and renamed <strong>Atlanta</strong> in 1847. Atlanta remains a key junction point of the US rail system, with several lines connecting in a complex of junctions within the downtown area. </p><p>During the American Civil War, the city became the target of a major Union invasion in the American Civil War as part of Union General William T. Sherman's March to the Sea. Union forces entered Atlanta on September 2nd, 1864 and Sherman ordered Atlanta burned to the ground on November 11 in preparation for his march south. As a consequence almost all of buildings in Atlanta date from after 1864. </p><p>In the late 20th century, Atlanta has grown to be a major commercial center and is the home of several major enterprises, including Delta Airlines, Coca-Cola, Home Depot, UPS and CNN. At the same time, Atlanta became one of the major centers of the American civil rights movement. Martin Luther King was born in the city, and his boyhood home on Auburn Avenue in the Sweet Auburn district is preserved by the National Park Service as a National Historic Site; his final resting place is in the tomb at the center of the reflecting pool at The King Center. </p><p>In 1996, Atlanta hosted the 26th Olympic Summer Games of the modern era. Sadly the games were marred by a terrorist attack on the Centennial Olympic Park, which killed 2 and wounded many more. Subsequently the games were also criticised for poor transport facilities and consequent traffic congestion, and are regarded by many (usually those far outside Atlanta) as the least successful games of recent times. However they have left a legacy of civic improvements and sporting facilities which benefit the visitor. </p><h3><span class="mw-headline">Visitors</span></h3><p>Atlanta is essentially a place to live and work. There are many interesting things to see in the city and it is well worth the trip from nearby citys for the big name concerts and excellent dining. </p><p>Because of this, Atlanta has become a major conference and exhibition city. Most of the venues are in the area around Peachtree Center, and when there is a large show in town, it can sometimes seem as though every other person in the city is wearing a nametag. </p><h3><span class="editsection">Atlanta</span><span class="mw-headline"> Neighborhoods</span></h3><ul><li><strong>Buckhead</strong> </li><li><strong>Dunwoody</strong> </li><li><strong>Midtown</strong> </li><li><strong>Virginia-Highland</strong> </li><li><strong>Morningside</strong> </li><li><strong>Grant Park</strong> </li><li><strong>Poncey-Highland</strong> </li><li><strong>Brookhaven</strong> </li><li><strong>Candler Park</strong> </li><li><strong>Inman Park</strong> </li><li><strong>East Atlanta</strong> </li><li><strong>West End</strong> </li><li><strong>Garden Hills</strong> </li><li><strong>Kirkwood</strong> </li></ul><h2>Get In</h2><h3><span class="mw-headline">By plane</span></h3><p>Atlanta's principal airport is <strong>Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport</strong> situated 8 miles south of downtown Atlanta. </p><p>It should be noted that Hartsfield is largely set up as a hub airport, with much of its traffic being transfer rather than arrival or departure traffic. The airport has a single groundside terminal, connected to 5 mid-airport concourses by underground walkways and rail transit. The concourse furthest from the terminal (concourse E) is dedicated to international flights and all immigration and customs formalities are conducted there. This makes international arrival procedures rather cumbersome. Passengers arriving from overseas will need to clear immigration controls, reclaim hold baggage from a baggage carousel, clear customs, check hold baggage back in, ride the underground transit to the main terminal, reclaim hold baggage again from another carousel, and finally exit the airport. </p><p>Hartsfield airport is the terminus of the southern branch of the <strong>MARTA</strong> rail system (see 'Get Around' below), and for travellers going to locations in downtown, midtown or northern Atlanta this forms a good and economic way of getting there. Most MARTA stations have taxi ranks to aid completion of the journey, and some hotels (especially in the Sandy Springs area) have free shuttles which will collect from their nearest MARTA station on telephone request. Alternatively the airport has the usual complement of taxi ranks, airport shuttle vans and car hire offices. </p><p><strong>Park Atlanta</strong> provides long-term private parking for Hartsfield Airport. </p><h3><span class="mw-headline">By train</span></h3><p>Atlanta is served by <strong>Amtrak</strong>, <em>+1 800</em> 872-7245. Amtrak's Crescent train, which runs daily and serves <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>, Philadelphia, Baltimore, <a href="/guides/washington" class="intralink">Washington</a>, Charlotte, Atlanta, <a href="/guides/birmingham" class="intralink">Birmingham</a> and New Orleans (and vice-versa). Southbound, the train leaves <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a> just before 3PM, calls at Atlanta at around 9AM and reaches New Orleans by 8PM. Northbound, the train leaves New Orleans at around 7AM, calls at Atlanta at around 8PM and reaches <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a> by 2PM. </p><p>In Atlanta, the train calls at the Amtrak station at 1688 Peachtree St. N.W., which is several miles north of downtown. MARTA Bus route 23 stops in front of the station. However, as much of the city is not accesible by MARTA, you may need to budget for a taxi to complete the journey. </p><h3><span class="mw-headline">By bus</span></h3><p><strong>Greyhound Bus Lines</strong>, <em>1 800</em> 229-9424, provide bus service to Atlanta from many locations throughout the US. Buses arrive at, and depart from, the Greyhound terminal at 232 Forsyth Street, which is on the southern edge of the downtown area and directly beneath MARTA's Garnett Station (see 'Get Around' below). </p><h3><span class="mw-headline">By car</span></h3><p>Atlanta is linked to the rest of the US by the interstate highway network. The principal interstates serving the city are I-75 (serving traffic from Chicago and Detroit to <a href="/guides/florida" class="intralink">Florida</a>), I-85 (connecting the Mid-Atlantic to New Orleans) and I-20 (connecting <a href="/guides/california" class="intralink">California</a> and <a href="/guides/texas" class="intralink">Texas</a> to <a href="/guides/south_carolina" class="intralink">South Carolina</a>), all of which cross through Downtown. </p><p>I-285 (commonly called the Perimeter by Atlantans, and the Atlanta Bypass on overhead signs) rings the city at a distance of about 10 miles out, crossing and connecting with all the above freeways as well as the airport. </p><p>Despite their sheer width (maxing out at 9-lanes per direction -- some of the widest roads in the world), Atlanta's highway system is reduced to a crawl (if not complete stop) during rush hour. Atlanta rush hour rivals that of <a href="/guides/los_angeles" class="intralink">Los Angeles</a>, in that is generally runs from 7AM-10AM in the morning and 4PM-8PM in the evening during the work week. Because of this, Atlanta's surface streets have become overcrowded as well during peak times, and a 3-mile commute can be an hour-long affair. </p><h2>Weather and Climate</h2><p>Atlanta is located on the Piedmont Plateau, at an approximate elevation of 741 to 1,056 feet above sea level. The city is thus somewhat cooler than other places in the US South, a fact that certainly helped the growth of the city before the introduction of air conditioning. </p><p>Atlanta experiences a very wide range of temperatures. Temperatures in winter can drop into the single digits on occasion, and most winters bring some snowfall. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching 90°F/32°C. Rainfall is high in late winter and early spring, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Overall rain varies from 267.0 to 417.0 (mm/month).</p><p>Spring and autumn are by far the best times to visit. </p><h2>Health and Safety</h2><h3>Police</h3><h3>Fire Department</h3><h3>Hospitals</h3><h3>Crime</h3><h3>Smoking</h3><h2>Things to See and Do</h2><h3><span class="mw-headline">Downtown Atlanta</span></h3><p>Downtown Atlanta is the central area of Atlanta, which, despite the rise of Midtown and Buckhead, still contains much of the commercial activity of the city. All the places to see here are within 10 minutes walk of each other, and within a similar walking distance of any of the MARTA stations at Five Points, Peachtree Center or Omni-Dome-World-Congress Center. </p><ul><li><strong>Centennial Olympic Park</strong>, The focal point of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, Centennial Park has now become the center for tourism. The <a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Aquarium, the new World of Coke (under construction), the CNN Center, Phillips Arena and <a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Tech are all in walking distance. </li><li><strong>CNN Center</strong>, Marietta Street (<em>adjacent to Centennial Olympic Park</em>), telephone (404) 827-2300. The world headquarters of CNN shares the CNN center with a large tourist oriented shopping mall and food court. Here you can eat food from around the world whilst watching CNN's multi-channel output to the world on large screens. In addition studio tours are available, which include demonstrations of the technology used and visits to viewing galleries overlooking the newsrooms and newsreaders of CNN, CNN Headline News and CNN En Espanol. Tours run 9am-5pm every day. Admission to the center is free; tours cost $12 (adult); $11 (senior); $9 (child). </li><li><strong>Underground Atlanta</strong> - <em>+1 404</em> 523-2311 Fax: <em>+1 404</em> 523-0507 A shopping and entertainment district under Downtown Atlanta. </li><li><strong>The King Center</strong> and <strong>Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site</strong>, 449 Aubum Avenue, NE Atlanta, GA 30312, telephone 404-526-8900. The memorial of Martin Luther King Jr. Which was established in 1968. The place shows Martin Luther King, Jr's nonviolent Social Change works. The historic site features a museum and preserves the neighborhood that includes Dr. King's birth home and Ebenezer Baptist Church. This is one of the place you should visit in downtown Atlanta. <a href="http://www.nps.gov/malu/" title="http://www.nps.gov/malu/" class="external free"></a></li><li><strong>Philips Arena</strong>, Home to the Atlanta Hawks and Thrashers as well as the <a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Force. Philips also hosts concerts and other major events. </li></ul><h3><span class="mw-headline">Midtown Atlanta</span></h3><p>Midtown Atlanta is the area immediately north of Downtown. It has significant commercial activity, but it is also a major restaurant and arts quarter, with much 'urban living' apartment coverage. All the places listed are within 15 minutes walk of each other, and within a similar walking distance of the MARTA stations at Midtown and Arts Center. </p><ul><li><strong>Arts Center</strong>, Home of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the High Museum of Art, the Alliance Theatre, and the Atlanta College of Art. </li><li><strong>Atlanta Botanic Gardens</strong>, 1345 Piedmont Avenue NE, telephone (404) 876-5859. Relatively small but interesting botanic gardens, with displays of local plants and the Fuqua Conservatory of tropical and desert plants. Accessible by car but parking is limited, at weekends park at Old Colony Square adjacent to the Arts Center and catch the shuttle bus provided. By transit, catch MARTA rail to Arts Center station then catch bus 36 (27 on Sunday) or walk via the Arts Center courtyard, 15th Street and Piedmont Avenue (15 min walk). Open Apr-Sep Tu–Su 9am–7pm; Oct–Mar Tu-Su 9am–5pm. $12 (adult); $9 (senior); $7 (student). </li><li><strong>Fox Theatre</strong>, 660 Peachtree St. NE, telephone (404) 688-3353 for tour information or (404) 817-8700 for the box office. A fabulous and historic Moorish style cinema and theatre dating from the 1920s and now designated a National Historic Landmark. Tours available M,W&Th 10am; Sa 10am and 11am. $10 (adult); $5 (senior/student). </li><li><strong>Margaret Mitchell House</strong>, 990 Peachtree Street, telephone (404) 249-7015. A museum dedicated to Margaret Mitchell, the author of <strong>Gone With The Wind</strong> and based in her original home. Open every day (except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Thanksgiving Day) 10am-5pm. $12 (adult); $9 (senior/student); $5 (child). </li><li><strong>Piedmont Park</strong> Atlanta's largest park at over 189 acres. Great for spending a sunny week-end dog walking, sleeping, reading a book or picnicking. Parking is tough to come by so try to look out by finding street parking or pay about $2-5 at the public parking lots on Juniper (1 block to the West). Not visiting Piedmont Park on your trip to Atlanta would be like not visiting Central Park on a trip to <a href="/guides/new_york" class="intralink">New York</a>. </li><li><strong>Shakespeare Tavern</strong> It is a place out of time; a place of live music, hand-crafted period costumes, outrageous sword fights with the entire experience centered on the passion and poetry of the spoken word. With an authentic British Pub Menu and a broad selection of British and Irish ales and premium brews, the Shakespeare Tavern is a place to eat, drink, and nourish the soul. </li><li><strong>Crescent Avenue</strong>, Area off Peachtree near the Margaret Mitchell house. Just north of the Federal Reserve Building at 10th St. Lots of hip nightclubs and restaurants located in renovated homes on side streets. With Virginia-Highland, has taken much of the nightlife from the Buckhead area which mostly attracts hip-hoppers now. </li></ul><h3><span class="mw-headline">Intown Atlanta</span></h3><p>These are areas within the City of Atlanta that are commonly referred to as "intown" by Atlantans. </p><ul><li><strong>Zoo Atlanta</strong>, Grant Park, telephone (404) 624-5822. This zoo specializes in primates and <a href="/guides/africa" class="intralink">Africa</a>n animals but also has a (breeding?) pair of Giant Pandas and a children's zoo. Open every day 9:30am-4:30pm; Sa-Su during daylight saving time 9:30am-5:30pm; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. $17.99 (adults); $13.99 (seniors); $12.99 (children). </li><li><strong>Cyclorama</strong> Home of the world's largest painting, "The Battle of Atlanta" and home of the historic Civil War locomotive, "<a href="/guides/texas" class="intralink">TEXAS</a>" (hero of the "Great Train Race") Located next to Zoo Atlanta in Grant Park. </li><li><strong>Atlanta History Center</strong>, the Atlanta History Museum, the Swan House, (an opulent 1920's mansion), and the Tullie Smith House, 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW. </li><li><strong>Fernbank Science Center</strong> and Museum of Natural History. Planetarium, dinosaurs, IMax theatre. Great for kids. </li><li><strong>Virginia-Highland</strong>, Area east of Piedmont Park in the center of town known for its nightlife and restaurants. The part of Atlanta most like a real city (along with Midtown and Little Five Points). Pedestrian friendly and packed sidewalks till late at night. Go east on 10th street past the park. Do a quick zig-zag to the right at the Grady High School football stadium, then a left at Virginia Ave. Keep going about another mile on Virginia Ave. to the intersection of N. Highland Ave. </li></ul><h3><span class="mw-headline">Sports</span></h3><ul><li><strong>Braves Baseball</strong> -- If you're heading down to "The Ted" (the local nickname for Turner Field), take MARTA to the Five Points station and hop on the $1 Braves Shuttle. This is MUCH easier than parking, and MARTA makes a great designated driver should you want to drink at the game. </li><li><strong>Falcons Football</strong> </li><li><strong>Hawks Basketball</strong> </li><li><strong>Thrashers Hockey</strong> </li><li><strong><a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Force Arena Football</strong> </li><li><strong><a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Tech Athletics</strong> </li><li><strong><a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> State Athletics</strong> </li><li><strong>Emory Athletics</strong> </li></ul><h2>Shopping</h2><p>Atlanta seems to have developed the strip-mall virus, as they pop up more and more intown. Strip malls such as 'The Peach' in <span class="new">Buckhead</span> is just such an example -- housing a Publix grocery, Linen's 'n Things, and Barnes and Noble, along with several of the smaller, independent sellers of all things. The heady perfume of asphalt from the oversized parking lot can make you just dizzy enough to support such retail development in town. </p><p>For those seeking a more sanitized experience of "Downtown Americana" we have Atlantic Station, an outdoor mall disguised as a new urban "city-center" development sitting atop a three-story parking garage. All the standard players have shown up -- the Old Navy, Victoria's Secret, etc. While some Atlantans have declared the development to be fantastic, others call it "Disney Downtown for middle-class suburbanites." </p><p>Some of the more respectable independent shopping establishments include: </p><ul><li><strong>Junkman's Daughter</strong>, 464 Moreland Avenue NE (<em>At Little Five Points</em>), tel: (404) 577-3188. A warehouse full of quirky gifts and funky fashions. Open M-Th 11AM-7PM; F 11AM-8PM; Sa 11AM-9PM; Su 12PM-7PM. </li><li><strong>Criminal Records</strong>, 466 Moreland Avenue NE (<em>At Little Five Points, right next to Junkman's Daughter</em>), tel: (404) 215-9511. The best place in Atlanta for CDs, records, used CDs, comics, toys, posters and magazines. </li></ul><p>Of course, Atlanta has its share of malls: </p><ul><li><strong>Discover Mills</strong> - Duluth - discount/outlet shopping at its best. </li><li><strong>Mall of <a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a></strong> - <span class="new">Buford</span> - huge, simply huge. </li><li><strong>Cumberland Mall</strong> - Atlanta </li><li><strong>Phipps Plaza Mall</strong> - Buckhead, Atlanta - where the blue-bloods refill their Burbery reserves. </li><li><strong>Lenox Square Mall</strong> - Buckhead, Atlanta - standard department-store shopping with a selection of the standard shops. </li><li><strong>Perimeter Mall</strong> - Dunwoody - where you'll see the suburban white kids hanging out in the evening. </li><li><strong>North Point Mall</strong> - Alpharetta </li><li><strong>Arbor Place Mall</strong> - Douglasville - opened in 1999 bringing multi-level upscale shopping to the Douglasville area. The 4th largest mall in the State of <a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a>, and home to over 100 shops and restaurants. </li></ul><h2>Get Around</h2><h3><span class="mw-headline">By foot</span></h3><p>Within the downtown and midtown areas, walking is a reasonable way to get around. All the streets have sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. However, other sections of Atlanta and, outside of the city, can be distinctly unfriendly places for pedestrians. Many streets have neither sidewalks nor pedestrian crossings, and the width and traffic density of some streets make then almost uncrossable; the problem seems to be worst in the most recently developed areas. In some areas you will need to reconcile yourself to using car, taxi or shuttle for journeys of less than one hundred yards. </p><h3><span class="mw-headline">By transit</span></h3><p>Atlanta is served by <strong>MARTA</strong> (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority), <em>+1 404</em> 848-4711, which operates both rapid rail and bus networks in the city of Atlanta and the counties of Fulton and Dekalb. </p><p>The rail network comprises two principal lines making up a cross. The north-south line runs from a southern terminus at Hartsfield airport through downtown and midtown Atlanta, before splitting into two branches serving terminals in north metro Atlanta at North Springs and Doraville respectively. The east-west line runs from an western terminal at Hamilton E. Holmes, via an interchange with the north-south line at Five Points station in downtown Atlanta, to an eastern terminal at Indian Creek. Trains run on all lines every 10 minutes during peak periods, reducing to every 20 minutes on Sundays. </p><p>The bus network comprises over one hundred different bus routes, with many routes operating every 20 minutes or so. One feature of MARTA is the close integration of rail and bus services. Many rail stations have integral bus stations, and in some cases the buses enter the station's 'paid area' thus avoiding the need to use transfers. </p><p>A single ride on MARTA costs $1.75 including transfers. Single use Breeze Cards are sold in vending machines at all rail stations or at RideStores at Airport and Five Points stations. When starting the journey by bus, swipe the card at the fare post next to the driver. When starting the journey by train, swipe the car at the fare gate, your now cash depleted card will act as your transfer. When transferring to a bus, give the operator your breeze card. When transferring to a train, swipe the transfer ticket through the reader on the turnstile. </p><p>Note for Weekend Travel: MARTA has a tendency to run slower on the weekends. Typical wait times are 30 minutes for trains and up to an hour for buses. Be sure to accommodate for this. </p><h3><span class="mw-headline">By taxi</span></h3><p>Until the past few years, Atlanta had poor cab service, cabs being few and far between. It is getting easier in the downtown area along Peachtree St. up to the Buckhead area to flag one down, but your best bet is to go to a hotel or a MARTA train station to get one. </p><p>Lately, it has been possible to call a cab (Atlanta Checker Cab Company for example) and have them do pick ups within 5 minutes around the Midtown/Downtown area. The prices are high (expect to pay $10 within Midtown/Downtown and an extra $10-20 if you're going to Buckhead/North Atlanta). </p><h3><span class="mw-headline">By car</span></h3><p>Cars are the most popular form of transport in and around Atlanta and as such, traffic can be pretty bad. Though the Interstates are wide, rush-hour can bring them to a standstill. Traveling during business hours or on non-holiday weekends, though, can be quite easy. <br />Keep your eyes peeled as you drive, because the average speed on area freeways can exceed 80 miles per hour (this, 80mph, is an unsupported fact, and should be removed), and native Atlanta drivers have learned the art of moving from the far side of the road to make an exit. If you keep your cool and watch the traffic, you'll soon learn the flow. Given a day or two of experience, you'll be driving like a native, though it is unclear whether or not this is a good thing (this is a subjective comment, and adds no value - please remove this sentence) </p><p>Atlanta's fragmented communities and county disputes have produced a local road system that in many areas has not kept up with the explosive growth of the region. When changing counties or city limits roads can change from eight lane to two lanes within a block. Keep a lookout for right and left lane must turn signs. Signal early, most drivers will allow you room to merge if its not rush hour. Picking up a free road map or buying one is a good idea. Make sure you plan your route before you get in the car. </p><h2>Nearby</h2><ul><li><strong><a href="/guides/savannah" class="intralink">Savannah</a></strong> this southern gem is lightyears apart from Atlanta but is actually only a four hour drive</li><li><strong>Six Flags over <a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a></strong> Located off I20 is deffinately the biggest theme park in the area. Only 10 miles west of Atlanta<br /></li><li><strong>Athens</strong> cool college and football town. Also has a surprisingly good museum (<a href="/guides/georgia" class="intralink">Georgia</a> Musem of Art) and the State Botanical Gardens. <br /></li><li><strong>Antebellum Trail</strong> journey down the romantic sout