USA, Canada & Mexico Know Before You Go

A step by step guide to your Trafalgar trip. Your insider’s journey begins…

Thank you for choosing Trafalgar to show you the insider’s view of the USA, Canada and Mexico. A wealth of experience has taught us that your journey begins well before you leave home. So we have compiled this guide to provide you with as much information as possible to help you prepare for your travels. We look forward to welcoming you on the trip of a lifetime! Your insiders at Trafalgar.

Manhattan, New York Before you go…

Travel Documents Mexico Guided Vacations A couple of weeks prior to your vacation you will receive your International visitors are required to carry a valid machine Trafalgar wallet with your travel documents and literature. readable passport and MUST be valid for a minimum period These documents are valuable and contain a wealth of advice of 6 months beyond the last day of your trip, regardless of and essential information to make your vacation as enjoyable how long you intend to stay. All US citizens require passports as possible. Please read them carefully before your departure. to return to the USA (a birth / naturalization certificate and driver’s license is no longer sufficient). Holders of American, Passports and Visas Australian, Canadian, British/EU Member Country, New Guests traveling across any US, Canadian or Mexican border Zealand and Israeli passports do not need a visa to visit must be in possession of a machine-readable passport that Mexico. Holders of other passports should check with their must be valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion local Mexican Consulate for details of visa requirements. You of your trip. It is the responsibility of each guest to ensure can see a list of countries and get the latest entry information they have a valid machine-readable passport as well as any from the Mexican Consulate’s website. necessary visas. Some itineraries may require multiple-entry For participating countries (see paragraph above) in place of visas. Before you travel, be sure to check with your local US, a visa, a Mexican Visitor’s Permit (known as an FMM) will need Canadian and/or Mexican Consulate to confirm the specific to be completed. This is a simple form, which can be picked and possible changes to passport and visa requirements for up from the check-in counter at the airport and completed the countries you intend to visit. The operators and/or their on the airplane before you land. You can also obtain this form employees and their agents are not responsible for passport, when you land in Mexico and fill it out before you queue to visa requirements, entry, health or other requirements of the have your documents checked and stamped by the officials countries visited or for any loss sustained by you for failing to at the airport. comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of the countries visited. Please be sure to check with your local US, Canadian, and/or Mexican Consulate or Embassy before you travel to confirm Note: Effective January 20, 2010, passengers traveling from the specific and possible changes to visa requirements for selected countries under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are the country or countries you intend to visit. You can find a now required to complete the Electronic System for Travel directory of the world’s Embassies and Consulates at Authorization (ESTA) application to confirm eligibility to www.embassyworld.com travel to the United States of America under the VWP. For more information, please visit https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov Travel Insurance and contact your Travel Agent or applicable government We strongly recommend that you take out a comprehensive authorities to obtain necessary travel information. travel insurance policy that covers you the entire time you are Canada Guided Vacations away from home. Your policy should cover the following: International visitors to Canada must carry a valid machine- • Trip cancellation or curtailment readable passport. All US citizens require passports to enter • Loss or damage to property and baggage Canada and return to the USA (a birth/naturalization certificate • Loss of cash, traveler’s checks, etc. and driver’s license is no longer sufficient). Citizens of some • Medical costs and personal accident (Even US and countries are exempt from visitor visas such as Andorra, Canadian residents traveling within North America should Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, check their policies to ensure coverage outside of their Belgium, Botswana, Brunei, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, local area.) Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Please ensure you pack a copy of your policy, contact phone Iceland, Ireland, Israel (National Passport holders only), Italy, numbers and instructions on how to claim in the unlikely event Japan, Korea (Republic of), Latvia (Republic of), Lithuania, that it is necessary. Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, Trafalgar’s Express Check-In Poland, Portugal, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Trafalgar’s Express Check-In is an online check-in facility that San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Solomon Islands, Spain, allows you to provide all your essential details and preferences Swaziland, Sweden, Slovenia, Switzerland, United States, and to Trafalgar, prior to your departure, so that you don’t have to Western Samoa. Please visit www.canadainternational.gc.ca fill in any additional forms on the first day of your vacation. In for more details and updated information. order for your Travel Director to receive your information, we recommend that you complete Express Check-In at least 15 yourself with appropriate insurance. days prior to your departure date. If it is already less than 15 days before your departure, please complete the registration Packing form, print it and hand it to your Travel Director on the first When traveling as a couple, pack each suitcase with day and day of your guided vacation. Check-in takes 5-10 minutes. evening clothing for each person, so that in the unlikely event From Australia go to: one of your suitcases is mislaid on your flight, you’ll still be www.trafalgar.com/express/aus_index.htm able to manage. From New Zealand go to: www.trafalgar.com/express/nz_index.htm Ensure that your personal and vacation details are written on a From UK go to: label inside each suitcase (including name, address, telephone number, departure and return flight details). Write only your www.trafalgar.com/express/uk_index.htm name and destination address on outside labels. From Europe go to: www.trafalgar.com/express/eu_index.htm Make sure that your luggage is in good secure condition, and From South Africa go to: use a TSA approved lock for US security checkpoints. When www.trafalgar.com/express/sa_index.htm carrying fragile items, use a rigid style suitcase for protection. From Asia go to: Check in only your own suitcases. Do not carry items packed www.trafalgar.com/express/gsa_index.htm by other people. Never accept packages or articles from Luggage anyone unknown to you to carry on board the aircraft. There are strict airport security regulations on items that may Luggage Allowance be carried on board aircraft such as liquids/gels and metal This is restricted to one large suitcase per objects. Visit the Transportation Security Administration’s person with dimensions not exceeding website at www.tsa.gov for information on these and other 30x19x10” (76x45x25 cm) and a maximum restricted items and how they must be displayed at airport 30” weight of 50 lb (23 kg). Hotel porterage security checkpoints. of this luggage is included in your We suggest you pack only essential items for daytime use vacation price. in your hand-baggage, both for your flight and while on

19” the coach. For example, your camera, medicines, anything that you use frequently or is particularly valuable. Expensive Hand Luggage jewelry, clothing, etc. should be left at home for your peace Hand luggage should be one piece per of mind. person and small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf Climate compartment. This is your responsibility and Depending on where you are traveling, North America should be carried on/off the coach with you. features many different climates. Please note that luggage with an adjustable The Western US handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach and July, August and September are the hottest months of the cannot be accepted as carry-on luggage. year in the Western United States. Daytime temperatures in desert areas, including Las Vegas, can exceed 110F (43C). Your understanding and cooperation is appreciated, particularly Once the sun sets, however, temperatures may drop as low as it is necessary for your safety and comfort. If a second as 50F (10C). suitcase is carried, or if it exceeds the permitted weight and / or dimensions, it is subject to capacity of the coach and may be Western Canada declined or incur a fee. Please see the full booking terms and This stunning region provides a contrast of temperatures, from conditions on the inside back cover of the brochure your trip the hot, arid interior of British Columbia to the cool nights of relates to. the Rockies’ resorts. In the shoulder seasons (April/ May/June; September/October) early morning and evening temperatures Airlines may have additional restrictions and may impose are typically 38-50F (4-10C) and day time temperatures additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please are typically 58-70F (14-20C). In July and August, daytime contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information temperatures are typically 70-94F (20-32C). Snow is likely in regarding airline’s checked baggage policies. April, May and October. Please note that airport porterage at the beginning and end of Guests traveling during the shoulder seasons on vacations your guided vacation is not included. Loss or damage to luggage that incorporate the Canadian Rockies will need to bring a or any of your belongings is at your own risk, so please protect warm, windproof and waterproof jacket. A warm sweater/ jumper, hat and gloves are also recommended. recommend casual, lightweight, drip-dry clothing that requires little or no ironing. Laundry facilities are available at most of the The Northeast places we stay, however, take sufficient clothing to last for about Temperatures typically range between 60-80F (15-32C) during a week. If your itinerary visits National Parks or if you are traveling summer months and 50-60F (10-15C) in the fall; however, be in Mexico, you may need to walk up steep hills or over rough and prepared for the occasional extremes. A jacket and sweater uneven ground, so comfortable walking shoes are advisable. Below are recommended for travel during the fall. is a list of items to consider packing for your Trafalgar vacation: The Southern States Clothing Just about any time is the right time to visit the South. Swimsuit Undergarments Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) Sandals Socks temperatures range from 60-80F (15-32C). Cool casual wear is Hat Sleepwear recommended with a light sweater and jacket. Light showers Shorts/skirts Jeans/trousers in the summer and occasional heavy downpours in the spring Warm jacket Pullover/cardigan and fall make a raincoat and umbrella a good idea. Waterproof jacket Shirts/blouses Good walking shoes Hawaii General Items Temperatures average 82F (28C) year round, with an average high of 85F (30C) in August. Winter is mild with an average low Spare batteries/charger Camera/memory cards of 78F (26C). Casual light cotton clothing and aloha shirts for Medications Power plug adapters/converter men and muumuus for women are accepted everywhere. & prescriptions Toiletries Collapsible umbrella Mexico Insect repellent Suntan lotion The climate varies according to altitude and time of year. Coastal Travel sewing kit Pocket calculator areas and lowlands are hot and steamy with high humidity, while Plastic bags Travel alarm clock the central plateau is temperate even in winter. The climate Water bottle Sunglasses of the inland highlands is mostly mild, but sharp changes in (screw top lid) temperature occur between day and night. The cold lands lie Sachets of Money belt or holster above 6,600 feet. Rainfall varies greatly from region to region and washing powder time of year, but is generally most intense from mid-August to Essentials mid-September. The rainy season is more moderate in the north and progressively more intense the further south one travels. All Passport & Visas Travel insurance policy other areas have rainless seasons, while the northern and central (where applicable) areas of the central plateau are dry and arid. There is some snow Traveler’s Checks/Cash Credit cards in the north in winter. The dry season runs from October to May. Trafalgar documents Airline tickets Mexico’s Copper Canyon is warm year round, however it can be NB Do not pack your passport (if an international visitor) or quite cool during the winter months, especially at night. The canyon money in your suitcase. rim may experience freezes from November through March; the Tip: Weed out your wallet prior to leaving. Only take the bottom of the canyon may get cool enough for a sweater. During essential identifiers like your drivers license and just two credit the rest of the year, it is hot below and cool above. June through cards - one to carry another to be locked in your hotel room September is the rainy season, when the canyons are lush. Rain safe. Do not carry your social security number on you. usually falls late afternoon, so you can still enjoy most of the day, but bring a light rain jacket. Most essential is comfortable footwear, Special Notes for Rail/Cruise Vacations which will allow you to enjoy each day’s sightseeing activities. Train Vacations – For guests joining itineraries featuring In the Yucatan region, you can expect days of 70-90F with nights the Rocky Mountaineer rail journey in Canada, please note dropping down to 60-70F. The rainy season spans from June that guests traveling in RedLeaf service will need to bring to October with the most intense rains occurring in August – an overnight bag as your main luggage will not be available September. In the Colonial cities of southern Mexico, you can during the train journey. Please ensure your overnight bag expect days of 60-80F with nights dropping down to 50-65F. is large enough for your clothing, toiletries, medication and While drier than the south, there is still a notable wetter season other personal items required until you reach your destination. that spans from late July to early October with the peak falling in Guests traveling in GoldLeaf service will have access to late August/early September. their main luggage during the overnight stay. Details on the inclusions at the RedLeaf and GoldLeaf Service Level will be What to Bring provided upon boarding the train. Passengers traveling on VIA Rail in Canada and the El Chepe train to the Copper Canyon This will depend upon your personal preferences, where you are in Mexico will require an overnight bag for your train journey. traveling to and the time of year you are traveling. We generally Your main luggage will not be available while traveling on the with your travel agent or consulate to ensure that vaccination train. Please ensure your overnight bag is large enough for requirements have not changed. your clothing, toiletries, medication and other personal items required until you reach your destination. Make Friends Before You Go Please note that both Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail offer When you travel with Trafalgar you will have the opportunity to an entirely smoke-free experience. The non-smoking policy meet new and interesting people from around the world. You extends to all cars, vestibules, washrooms, lounges and can meet up with your fellow traveling companions by visiting private spaces. Trafalgar’s Online Community. Read posts from fellow travelers in our Online Forum and register for My Community, your Cruise Itineraries – For guests cruising in Alaska, you will need private travel group portal. to bring a warmer jacket for various outdoor activities. Most Visit www.trafalgar.com/community and click on the links at evenings, smart casual clothing is suitable for the dining room the bottom of the page. – ladies in dresses, skirt/slacks and sweater/blouse; gentlemen in collared shirts/sweaters and slacks. On festive formal Budgeting evenings such as Captain’s Night, ladies usually wear a cocktail Trafalgar itineraries include many features that will save dress or gown and gentlemen wear a suit and tie or tuxedo. you money on your trip – if you study your itinerary pages There are usually two formal nights per week. in the Trafalgar brochure you will see how many highlight visits and other sightseeing is included, as well as meals Health and entertainment. However, you’ll find you have plenty of Our trips are not rigorous expeditions, but they can be time to explore independently during your vacation, so we physically demanding. Trafalgar assumes no liability regarding recommend you budget for the following extra expenses provision of medical care. Members are urged to check per person: their insurance coverage to be sure it is adequate. For remote excursions, each trip member will receive a medical Personal Expenditure questionnaire, which must be completed and signed. In As a rough guide, we suggest that you budget US/C$30-60 general, you must be in good health to participate on one of per day to cover incidental expenses such as non-included our adventures; it is vital that persons with medical problems meals, drinks, laundry, tips, souvenirs, gifts and optional make them known to us well before departure. sightseeing. However, this also depends on how much you The Travel Director and/or Trafalgar have the right to spend on shopping as there’s plenty to tempt you in the US, disqualify any member from the group at any time if Canada and Mexico! considered medically necessary or to avoid endangering the group, or if the participant in question is physically unfit Optional Excursions for the rigors of the trip. Refunds are not given under Experience has shown us that most guests participate in such circumstances. these excursions and you should therefore budget for them in advance. Please read your travel documents prior to the start Travelers should have a personal supply of any special of your vacation for prices and information on any optional medications that they may need and bring a copy of the excursions you may wish to participate in. prescriptions. For easy access when traveling, please keep all your medication in your hand luggage, not in your suitcases. Money Carry prescription drugs in their original package to avoid customs questions if traveling internationally. If traveling from another country, try to arrive at your first destination with at least a small amount of local currency It must be understood that Trafalgar is not a medical facility in cash for initial expenses. Please note that US dollars and therefore has neither expertise nor responsibility are accepted virtually everywhere in Canada and Mexico, regarding what medications or inoculations you require although the exchange rate may not be the most favorable. guidance on. Please consult your private physician for your safe participation in the trip. Bank Machines – ATMs/ABMs are available throughout most parts of North America. Most accept Star, Cirrus, Plus If you have any existing medical conditions, dietary or Interlink systems. There may be a charge to use ATMs in requirements or disability that should be brought to our some areas. While a convenient way to obtain cash in different attention, it is essential that you inform us via your travel areas, you should not totally rely on bank machines during agent. Medical and hospital treatment in the US is very your vacation. expensive, so adequate medical insurance is a must. Traveler’s Checks – Traveler’s Checks are still the safest way Vaccinations to carry money while on vacation. Always bring checks in Generally inoculations are not necessary for travelers in US dollars, as foreign currency checks are very difficult to North America. However, we recommend that you check exchange in the US. Smaller denominations ($10 and $20) are easiest to use. Although US Traveler’s Checks are widely • Ensure you memorize your Personal Identification Number accepted throughout Canada and Mexico, there will be an (PIN); do not write it down. additional conversion charge. You may choose to bring both • Ensure that your credit card is kept in view at all times when US and Canadian Traveler’s Checks if you plan on traveling in paying for goods and services. both countries. • Retain all copies of sales vouchers until you have verified them against your statements. Credit Cards • Make sure your credit card is carried on your person. Credit Cards are widely accepted throughout North America and • Never leave your credit card unattended in your hotel room, can be used in most shops, restaurants and other establishments. a vehicle or any other place. Visa and MasterCard are most widely accepted. American • Report immediately the loss or theft of your credit card. Express and Discover Cards are also accepted, but not as frequently. While credit cards are a great way to pay for expenses Banking Hours along the way, it may be difficult to use them to obtain cash at US and Canadian banks are normally open Monday to Friday, local banks. In addition, if you are traveling through more remote 9 am – 4 pm and some on Saturday mornings. Banks do not areas, there may be difficulties using credit cards. Please ensure usually exchange foreign currencies or Traveler’s Checks; likewise, you have enough cash or Traveler’s Checks to carry you through there are relatively few exchange bureaus outside of airports in your trip. If you make any purchases by credit card, you may the United States. Banks in Mexico are normally open Monday be charged based on the exchange rate at the time the credit to Friday, 9 am – 4 pm, although some branches remain open card company invoices your account and many banks charge an until 7 pm. Banking services for currency exchange and Traveler’s exchange fee. Please remember to keep a copy of your credit Checks are only offered between 9 am – 1.30 pm. Most hotels will card details, traveler’s check numbers and emergency contact cash a daily amount of Traveler’s Checks in US dollars for guests. numbers in your suitcase, just in case. Your Travel Director will be able to assist you with information about the banking facilities in each area you visit. The following offers some useful tips on using credit cards on your vacation: Mail • Call your credit card company to advise them you will be traveling, as some companies will block the credit card when Prior to departing you should stop your mail or arrange for a they notice unusual charge activity. neighbor to collect it. A full mailbox can be a treasure trove for hackers and identity thieves.

Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC While you are traveling...

Note: This section applies to guests traveling on a Trafalgar Hotels guided vacation, not those traveling with an affiliated guided On every Trafalgar itinerary, you will stay in some amazing places, vacation company. specially chosen for you to experience the real North America. Your Travel Director and Coach Driver Ranging from resorts and lodges in special locations, to hotels at the center of the action in towns and cities; each night’s stop Throughout your Trafalgar guided vacation you will be is as varied as the places you will visit. On certain occasions, for accompanied by a professional Travel Director and experienced operational or local reasons, it may be necessary to change Coach Driver. A Trafalgar Travel Director is more than just a your hotel accommodations in a particular location. If this guide. They are seasoned and experienced travelers, specially does occur, you will be notified of such changes as soon selected for their in-depth knowledge of the regions you will visit. as possible. They will enrich your experience with informative commentary on the history, culture and natural landscape of the region and Hotel Accommodations reveal the hidden places that only an insider would know. They Prices are per person and based on two persons sharing a will also introduce you to your traveling companions and make two-bedded room with private bath and/or shower. Triple you feel welcome. Trafalgar’s Coach Drivers are fully licensed, occupancy is based on three people sharing one room with qualified and experienced professionals who are selected for two beds. Triple rooms may not be comfortable for three their impeccable driving skills and record. adults sharing and roll-away beds are not included in triple Your Vacation prices. Quad occupancy is based on four people sharing one room with two beds; roll-away beds are not included. Quad Trafalgar’s philosophy is that it’s your vacation and you should occupancy is strictly reserved for families traveling with young have the freedom to enjoy yourself as you wish. However, a great children and is not available for four adults sharing. deal of planning goes into your itinerary to ensure you see all the main sights in the places visited. Trafalgar ensures you enjoy a No-Smoking Policy full sightseeing experience in all major towns and cities visited on Trafalgar operates non-smoking vacations in North America. your itinerary. Local sightseeing is conducted by qualified Local Additionally many hotels in North America are now 100% Guides who are eager to share their vast knowledge and love of smoke-free. This smoke-free policy includes all guest rooms, the local history and culture. In other places, your Travel Director restaurants, lounges, meeting rooms, public spaces and will give you a brief orientation drive or walk to familiarize you employee work areas. Smoking in a non-smoking room will with the locality, usually on the way to your hotel. result in a fine of up to US$350 per room. Optional Excursions The following hotel chains are completely non-smoking: • Marriott (Courtyard, Marriott, Renaissance, Residence Inn) While we include many sightseeing activities in the price of your • Hilton (Doubletree, Hilton) vacation, we offer a range of optional visits, activities and local • Starwood (Sheraton, Westin, Four Points) meals to enhance your experience throughout your trip. Your travel documents include a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary Hotel Check-in & Check-out with full details and costs of the optional excursions available. Optional excursions can be booked through your Travel Director Arrangements are made to ensure that check-in and check- at the beginning of your guided vacation. Payments for these out at hotels run smoothly, and your Travel Director will advise optional extras can be made in cash, traveler’s checks or credit you in advance of the procedure before arriving at each hotel. cards. Please note that optional excursions and prices may On departing the hotel, always remember to return your room vary due to seasonal conditions and minimum participant key to reception before boarding the coach! requirements, and are subject to change without notice. Personal Hotel Expenses Trafalgar Noticeboards Any additional costs incurred during your stay at the hotels (for example, laundry, telephone calls and bar bills) are your During your trip, your Travel Director will normally post a daily responsibility. Please ensure that your account is settled on notice with details of the program schedule in the hotel lobby. the evening before you leave to ensure a smooth and speedy Please check this regularly for the most up-to-date information departure the following morning. and be ready at the specified times. Your Motor Coach Modern, air-conditioned coaches have been carefully selected by Trafalgar with your comfort, safety and scenic viewing in mind. Your Trafalgar team will explain all the safety features of Water your coach at the beginning of your trip. For the comfort of USA and Canada all travelers, Trafalgar enforces a no-alcohol and no-smoking policy on board the coach. Our coaches are equipped with Tap water is perfectly safe to drink throughout the United DVD and/or CD players. States and Canada, with few exceptions. You may wish to carry a small bottle of water with you throughout the day to ensure Please note that antiseptic, bandages and other over-the- you are sufficiently hydrated. Bottled water is available for sale counter medications such as aspirin are not carried on the on motor coaches in the USA and Canada. coach. Your Travel Director will be able to direct you as to where these items may be purchased locally should you Mexico need them. In Mexico, always drink bottled water or purified water (agua purificada) and request purified ice in your drinks. If you are Porterage unsure, ask. In general, people in Mexico are quite aware of Your coach crew is always there to lend a hand and to the importance of drinking pure water and ice, but it never liaise closely with hotels to ensure efficient handling of hurts to check in advance. When eating, please ensure your luggage. that the plate you’re served on is dry and the servers aren’t Seat Rotation touching the food with their bare hands. In addition, when Where appropriate, our seat rotation scheme ensures you get brushing your teeth, it is recommended to use bottled water. to know your fellow traveling companions and enjoy the views from a different vantage point each day. Keeping Healthy Life on a guided vacation may be quite different from your A Clean Coach normal lifestyle, with early mornings and late nights, changes Your driver is responsible for the coach inside and out. Please of weather, temperature, food, water, etc. making it easier assist by eating and drinking on board as little as possible. for you to catch the common cold, the flu or aggravate No Smoking an existing medical condition. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and make sure to wash your hands often, For the comfort of all travelers, smoking is not permitted on especially before eating and after using the restroom. We board our coaches, but smokers need not worry – frequent encourage you to bring a travel-sized hand sanitizer for those comfort and relaxation stops are made along the way. occasions when soap and water aren’t available or convenient. Onboard Restroom If at any time on your guided vacation you require a doctor, Coaches on all itineraries in North America are equipped with please inform your Travel Director who will arrange this for restrooms. While you are free to use this facility whenever you. Ensure that you keep receipts for the doctor’s visits, required, your Travel Director will suggest that you make use medicines and any other expenses incurred, as you will need of the facilities available at our frequent comfort stops. them to claim on your insurance. Meals Shopping Your vacation cost includes the meals indicated in your Your Travel Director can direct you to local markets and specific itinerary. Breakfasts on our itineraries consist of a shopping areas but cannot guarantee to find you the lowest full American breakfast served at the hotel (unless otherwise price. However, North America is a shopper’s paradise full of noted on your itinerary). Lunches are generally not included unique and interesting items. Business hours for shopping in in your vacation price, but we will ensure that you have North America are usually seven days a week, 9 am – 8 pm in inexpensive and healthy options across the continent. From most major cities. Smaller places may close on Sunday. hamburgers to salads – almost any type of lunch is available at In Mexico, some hotter, non-tourist regions may close the right price – allow US/CA $10-15 per day. Included dinners between 2 pm and 4 pm. You may want to check locally for feature a variety of menus to reflect local cuisine. From a more information. gourmet meal on the lavishly restored Napa Valley Wine Train to an authentic cowboy-style barbecue on a Wyoming ranch, Various tax concessions and duty-free shopping may we strive to give you a real taste of North America. be available to international visitors; however, they may vary depending on the amount spent. You must present There are times when dinner is not included so that you will documentation (passport and/or visa) that you are a foreign have free time and the opportunity to sample your own choice national or non-resident. Your Travel Director will be pleased of local cuisine. Your Travel Director will always have a number to assist with information, but Trafalgar cannot be responsible of suggestions, just right to fit your taste and budget. When for any subsequent queries. not specified on an included meal, drinks are always at your own expense. Tipping How do I join? We are confident that by the end of your trip you will have come Use your credit card to set up an account at to appreciate the important role your Travel Director and Coach www.Trafalgar.eKit.com or call 24-hour customer service. Driver have played in giving you the best possible vacation Join before you go and receive a Trafalgar eKIT joining bonus! experience. If you have been pleased with their services, you may How do I use it? wish to express this satisfaction with a gratuity, as is customary Your account number and PIN gives you access to all the throughout the world. Since this is a matter of a private and phone and web based services. To make a call, simply use the individual nature, you should seal your tip in an envelope to toll-free access numbers for the country you are in, which you present to each of them separately at the end of your vacation. will find listed on your eKIT card, or at www.Trafalgar.eKit.com Suggested tipping rates (per person traveling) for your Trafalgar How long does it last? team in North America are US/C$5-6 per day for your Travel eKIT is a rechargeable service – simply recharge your Director, US/C$3 per day for your Coach Driver, and US/C$2 for a account using your credit card at www.Trafalgar.eKit.com Local Guide (when applicable). or call their 24-hour customer service. Ask about the monthly Your guided vacation price includes tips and service charges for recharge bonus. your included meals, accommodations (excluding room service) Is it competitive? and porterage, but at other times we suggest the following as a guide to general tipping practices in North America: Yes – you may find cheaper phone cards in major cities – but you can only use them in the country of purchase and may not • Room service waiter: US/C$1-2 be in a language you understand. • Taxis: 10% of the fare on the meter • Cocktail server/bartender: 50c per drink The advantages of eKIT: • Restaurant server: 15-20% of the total bill. It is appropriate • It can be used from 70+ countries. to include the tip in the total when paying by credit card, • You can call over 200 countries. or to leave a tip on the table with the bill when you leave. • You can recharge the card as you travel. • You can use any balance remaining once you get home. Photography Bring extra batteries and memory cards. Depending on the Emailing Home destination, use re-sealable plastic bags to protect camera E-mail is now a cheap and easy way to keep in touch. Internet equipment from dampness. Never leave a camera in a hotel cafes are available in many cities throughout North America, room or elsewhere unattended. and many hotels offer Internet services to their clientele at a cost much lower than making a phone call. In Mexico, most Staying In Touch cities have at least one Internet cafe. Look for signs reading Phoning home from hotels can be very expensive since all Accesso a Internet or Cibernautica or Cibercafe. Charges hotels add a service charge to the cost of any phone calls you range from approximately US$1-3 per hour depending on the make from your room and this charge can be very high. It is location. Internet access charges in hotels can be significantly always cheaper for you to use public telephones (pay phones). more expensive. Alternatively, you could use an eKIT phonecard. Tip: Be careful with hotel computers. Do not access financial What is eKIT? data on hotel or public computers or on public wi-fi networks. eKIT is your global phone card and web communication Security service designed to keep you in touch with family and friends while you’re traveling. North America is generally a safe and friendly place with people as warm and helpful as any on the globe. In today’s eKIT provides: world, security is an important consideration while traveling. By using common sense, most unpleasant situations can be • Low cost international calls avoided. We recommend that you: • Send and receive voice mails • Free email service • Carry copies of all your important documents in your hand • Send SMS text messages from the web luggage. Include a copy of your passport, credit card • An online travel vault for secure storage of important numbers and Traveler’s Checks, as well as airline tickets documents (e.g. passport number) and other documents. • 24-hour customer service. • Never accept packages or articles from anyone unknown For more information check out the Trafalgar eKIT phone card to you to carry on board an aircraft. in your travel wallet or go to www.Trafalgar.eKit.com • We recommend you use a hotel security box for These recommendations will help you make your Trafalgar valuables, passports, money, etc. as hotels will not vacation as hassle-free as possible. If you are unsure about accept responsibility for these items left in your room. security while on vacation, your Travel Director will provide you with the best advice. • If you plan to use taxis on your own in major cities, contact the front desk of your hotel in order to arrange a Public Holidays and Changes secure mode of transportation. During local or national holidays, certain facilities such as • Stick to areas with a lot of people; however be aware in museums, sightseeing tours and shopping may be limited, crowded areas that may tend to attract pickpockets. so we sometimes have to make slight itinerary adjustments. • Never leave your luggage and other personal items Also, local holidays, closing days and other circumstances unattended when in public places such as airports, hotel may change the day of the week that is planned for lobbies and restaurants. scheduled meals, sightseeing and other included activities. • Carry your valuables in a special money belt or in a bag Guest Feedback that you can carry strapped across your front. Your feedback is always welcomed. Towards the end of • Upon arriving at each hotel, locate the nearest fire exit, your trip, your Travel Director will hand out a feedback directions to which must be posted in each guest room. questionnaire. We ask that you answer the questions, make • Visit www.tsa.gov for the Transportation Security any relevant comments and hand it back to your Travel Administration’s (TSA) website. There are preparations Director. The questionnaires are sealed and returned to our you can make before you arrive at airports to help Head Office. Every sheet is read and a summary of each you move more quickly and efficiently through vacation is given to management, and where necessary, security processes. appropriate action is taken to rectify any problems. • If you need to make cash withdrawals, ATMs in bank lobbies are less vulnerable to devices that capture your credit card information - as they generally have camera surveillance.

Airline Telephone Numbers The following phone numbers are for your use while on vacation. All international flights must be confirmed 72 hours prior to departure from the USA.

Airline Code Phone No. Airline Code Phone No.

Aer Lingus EL 800-223-6537 Iberia IB 800-772-4642

Air France AF 800-237-2747 KLM Royal Dutch Air KL 800-447-4747

Air New Zealand NZ 800-262-1234 Lufthansa LH 800-645-3880

Alitalia AZ 800-223-5730 Northwest NM 800-225-2525

American AA 800-433-7300 Qantas QF 800-227-4500

Austrian OS 800-843-0002 Scandinavian Airlines SK 800-221-2350

British Airways BA 800-247-9297 United Airlines UA 800-241-6522

Continental CO 800-525-0280 US Air US 800-428-4322

Delta DL 800-221-1212 Virgin Atlantic VS 800-862-8621 United States of America

Capital: Washington DC Land Area: 3.79mi² (9.83km2) Population: 307,007,000 Elevation: 23 ft (7 m)

Since it first declared its independence from Britain July 4, 1776, the United States of America grew from its original 13 colonies to a federal constitutional republic of 50 states – adding Alaska and Hawaii as its 49th and 50th states in 1959. The USA is now the third most populated country in the world, ranking fourth in area. From its stunning Grand Canyon and Rocky Mountains to its cosmopolitan cities, the United States is home to a diverse range of geographic attractions and people.

District of Columbia Washington, D.C. The centers of all three branches of the US federal government are in Washington, as well as the headquarters Population 599,657 of most federal agencies. Washington, D.C. also serves Washington, D.C., officially the District of Columbia, is the as the headquarters for the World Bank, the International capital city and administrative district of the United States Monetary Fund and the Organization of American States. of America. It came about as a political compromise when It is also the site of numerous national landmarks and in 1779, the leaders of the new nation couldn’t agree on museums. From its iconic monuments and buildings to its the new capital city. New Englanders wanted the capital historic neighborhoods and free museums, the capital of the to be in the North and Southerners wanted it to be in the United States offers so many interesting attractions, it’s hard South. So newly elected President George Washington to know where to begin. convinced everyone it should be built halfway between the North and South.

Washington Monument, Washington, D.C. Alaska Capital: Juneau Land area: 656,425 mi² /1,700 141km2 Location: Pacific Northwest Population: 683,478 Largest city: Anchorage Main industry: Oil, eco-tourism, mining, finance

Anchorage where allowed. The stunning glacial landscapes and other geological wonders also make Denali a favorite for hikers Population 286,174 Elevation 102 ft (31 m) and photographers. Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and home to approximately 50 percent of the entire population of the state. The city is Fairbanks situated on a triangular peninsula bordered on the east by the rugged Chugach Mountains, on the northwest by the Knik Population 35,252 Elevation 446 ft (136 m) Arm, and on the southwest by the Turnagain Arm. Anchorage Before Fairbanks was founded, Koyukon Athabaskan people can trace its origins to the railroads, as it began as a tent city lived, fished, and hunted in the area with the Tanana and other in 1915 for construction workers on the Alaska Railroad. In rivers serving as trade routes with other Athabaskan people its first year, Anchorage grew to a population of 2,000; most and Eskimos. By the early 1900s, gold rush prospectors were of them railroad workers. By 1920, the town site became spreading out into Alaska in search of gold. The discovery incorporated and future growth came in spurts punctuated by of gold led to the development of Fairbanks. It began with farming in the 1930s and military build-ups in the late 1940s. a trading post started by E.T. Barnette who was forced to The discovery of oil from the 1960s to the 1980s gave rise to disembark on the shores of the Chena River in 1902. The Anchorage as we know it today. Suffering extensive damage Fairbanks Gold Rush led to the development of an established during the 9.2 earthquake in 1964, the city was rebuilt and is mining community and it became an important commercial the focal point of Alaskan business and social life. Blessed center within a short time. In 1903, Fairbanks was incorporated with the surrounding natural beauty, Anchorage is a modern as a city and named after a popular Senator, Charles W. city on the edge of the old frontier. Fairbanks, who soon became vice president under Theodore Roosevelt. Eventually the gold was mined out and Fairbanks Denali National Park settled into 50 years of modest growth marked by rail and highway construction. Elevation 2,073 ft (632 m) Denali National Park and Preserve, located in Alaska’s interior, The discovery of oil on Alaska’s North Slope in the 1960s is named for 'the great one' in the Athabaskan language – provided the next boom for Fairbanks. It became the that is North America’s highest peak, officially known as Mount transportation center for the Trans-Alaska oil pipeline project. McKinley after former US president William McKinley. Beneath Since its beginning, Fairbanks has been a vital commercial the spectacular mountain which towers at 20,320 feet (6,194 center for the interior of Alaska. It is also home to the meters), Denali National Park is one of the world’s greatest University of Alaska Fairbanks, the oldest college in Alaska. places for viewing wildlife and bird species. Visitors watch for grizzly bears, moose, caribou, dall sheep, foxes and wolves Haines roaming in the park and birdwatchers can spot over 130 Population 1,811 Elevation 36 ft (11 m) species of birds throughout the year. Wintertime recreation The surrounding area around the present town of Haines includes dog-sledding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling was once called 'Dei-Shu' or meaning 'End of the Trail' and was home to the to the Tlingit Indians. In 1884, the area was renamed Haines in honor of Mrs. F.E. Haines, the fundraising chairman for the construction of a mission. During the late 19th century, the Klondike Gold Rush changed the region and the population increased greatly. Mining and fishing became key industries in Haines. Due to Haines’ geographic location, many lakes and varied terrain, the area attracts many migratory birds. Haines is also home to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve where hundreds of people flock to take part in the Bald Eagle Festival. Haines is also famous for other attractions such as salmon fishing, hiking and helicopter and boat excursions to the Tongrass National Mt. McKinley, Alaska Forest and Glacier Bay National Park. Juneau Seward Population 30,987 Elevation 56 ft (17 m) Population 3,171 Elevation 0 ft (0 m) Named after prospector Joe Juneau, Alaska’s capital city Seward is located on the east side of the Kenai Peninsula. It was one of the first towns founded in Alaska after the US was named after William H. Seward, the US Secretary of State purchased the land from Russia. The largest city on the who arranged the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. The scenic Inside Passage, it boasts a blend of gold rush history, town is situated on Resurrection Bay, which is one of Alaska’s nature and native culture. Its premier attraction, Mendenhall year-round ice-free, deep-water harbors. In 1902, Seward was Glacier, is receding at a rate of 25 feet (7.6 meters) per year, chosen as the starting point for the railroad. And, a few years towers more than 100 feet (30.5 meters) above the surface of later, the Iditarod Trail, which was used to transport freight Mendenhall Lake. north to Nome. This began a boom period for Seward as a major port transporting goods into Alaska’s interior. The 1964 Ketchikan earthquake and tidal waves that followed ravaged the boat Population 7,515 Elevation 0 ft (0 m) harbor and 90 percent of the town’s economy. While fishing Ketchikan is the fourth largest town in Alaska and home to and shipping are still important to the town’s economy, some of the most fascinating native culture in the world. tourism is now the city’s lifeline. Many cruise ships visit the Perched on the shores of Ketchikan Creek and the Tongass port and Seward is the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Narrows, you will find excellent fishing, museums like Tongass Historical Museum and Dolly’s House, parks and Skagway cultural centers like Saxman, Totem Bight and the Totem Population 892 Elevation 33 ft (10 m) Heritage Center. This town is deeply rooted in native culture Skagway was the gateway for Alaska’s 1897 gold rush, when and boasts the largest totem collection in the world, dance the clamor of ‘Gold in the Yukon’ spread throughout the and craft demonstrations, and artifact exhibits. world and thousands of prospectors rushed to Skagway. Before the enthusiastic prospectors could leave town for Dawson, deep in Canada’s Yukon, they were faced with the temptation of 80 saloons, painted ladies and the quick fingers of gamblers and thieves. Today, those wild days are gone - but the memories linger on.

Denali National Park, Alaska Arizona Capital: Phoenix Land area: 114 006 mi² /295 276km2 Location: Southwest Population: 6,500,180 Largest city: Phoenix Main industry: Mining, manufacturing, tourism

Flagstaff The Grand Canyon region possesses five of the seven ecological zones found in the Northern Hemisphere. Population 60,611 Elevation 6,910 ft (2,106 m) The geology of the Grand Canyon is of great scientific Located in Northern Arizona, Flagstaff lies on the edge of the importance as there is no other place in the world where such Colorado Plateau alongside one of the largest Ponderosa Pine a vast panorama of time is displayed so clearly. Each stratum forests in the United States. Known for its varied terrain and of rock from the Colorado River flowing on the canyon’s floor neighboring some of America’s most famous sightseeing to the top of its rim distinctly marks a period of the earth’s landmarks, Flagstaff welcomes visitors from all around. history dating from 2 billion years ago. Flagstaff was originally discovered by an exploration party during the mid-1800s. Setting up camp in the area, the Kayenta pioneers marked the location by stripping the limbs from a pine tree and created a flagstaff landmark. The area remained Population 4,922 Elevation 5,640 ft (1,719 m) an ideal resting place for wagons migrating to California. In Located within the great Navajo Reservation, the town of 1876, the first official settlement in Flagstaff was established, Kayenta is the gateway to one of America’s most famous and the city soon grew when the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad landscapes, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. In 1919, Company merged, bringing many railroad crews to the area. John Wetherill established the area as a trading post. Originally, the town was known as Oljeto, but was later Today, Flagstaff still remains an important railroad and changed to Kayenta, named after a spring nearby. The transportation hub, but has also developed a strong tourism uranium and coal deposits within the area were important sector due to its close proximity to major sightseeing resources and sustained the town’s economy. Today, Kayenta’s attractions such as Grand Canyon National Park, Lake Powell, Navajos welcome travelers coming to experience this remote, Sedona, Monument Valley and Native American Reservations. yet amazing region. The beautiful landscape and high altitude location – 6,910 feet (2,106 meters) – create an ideal setting for hiking, biking and Lake Powell year-round outdoor activities. In addition, Flagstaff is a Elevation 3,637 ft (1,108.55 m) popular tourist stop along the historic Route 66. Surrounded by hundreds of miles of parched desert Grand Canyon National Park landscape, spectacular Lake Powell is actually a reservoir, created by the damming of the Colorado River at Glen Elevation 8,000 ft (2,440 m) at the top of the South Rim Canyon. Despite an angry outcry from conservationists, The Grand Canyon of the Colorado River is one of nature’s construction of the Glen Canyon Dam began in 1960 and was masterpieces. In form, size and geological significance, few completed in 1963. It took another 17 years for Lake Powell to things approach it. The Canyon is 277 miles (446 km) long; it fill to capacity. With its surrounding red rock towers, blue- averages 10 miles (16 km) in width from rim to rim; it is 5,700 green water perfect for fishing and boating and beaches of feet (1,737 meters) deep measured from the North Rim, which rosy sand, it is the American West’s most popular water is about 1000 feet (305 meters) higher than the South Rim. playground. Today, most people agree that Lake Powell is an amazing sight, drawing almost as many visitors as the Grand Canyon, its down river neighbor. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park provides perhaps the ultimate and most enduring images of the American West. Whether you have been here before or not, you are almost certainly familiar with the unique ‘supernatural’ landscape which has served as the backdrop for countless movies. Huge monoliths and spires of natural sandstone rise up hundreds of feet from the flat and desolate landscape, with sheer walls that Grand Canyon, Arizona capture the light of the rising and setting sun, transforming it into fiery tones. Evocative names reflect the shapes the Scottsdale sandstone has taken under the erosive forces of nature: The Population 245,500 Elevation 1,257 ft (380 m) Mittens, Three Sisters, Camel Butte, Elephant Butte, the Situated in the beautiful Sonoran Desert just outside Thumb and Totem Pole are some of these most awe-inspiring Phoenix, Scottsdale enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine natural monuments. Although the Navajo have been living each year. This contemporary center is built on three rich here for generations, human habitation in Monument Valley cultures: Native American, Spanish and Western Pioneer. dates back much further. Within the park are more than 100 Each society left its imprint on the city, which can be ancient Anasazi archaeological sites, ruins and petroglyphs experienced in the food served, the architecture and the art dating from before 1300 AD. displayed in the many galleries and public spaces. Phoenix Sedona Population 1,601,587 Elevation 1,117 ft (340 m) Population 11,598 Elevation 4,326 ft (1,319 m) Situated in the ‘Valley of the Sun’ at the foot of Camelback First settled by pioneers in 1877 and named after the first Mountain, Phoenix is the capital of Arizona. It was settled by postmaster’s wife, the town of Sedona holds the claim of an ancient tribe known as the Hohokam, who tamed the the most beautiful setting in the Southwest because of its desert with irrigation ditches and then mysteriously drop-dead gorgeous scenery. Bright red-rock buttes, disappeared. During the 19th century, Phoenix developed eroded canyon walls and mesas rising into blue skies from a village supplying hay to the north central Arizona contrast with forests of juniper and ponderosa pine, dark district to a bustling town filled with prospectors. Cowboys against the rocks. Word of Sedona’s beauty did not begin to and miners frequented the town and saloons and gambling spread until Hollywood filmmakers began using the region’s houses multiplied. The resulting lawlessness was squashed by red rock as backdrop to their Western films. Next came two public hangings at the turn of the century. Now the artists, lured by the landscapes and desert light. Although it thriving capital of Arizona, countless suburbs and ranch-style is still much touted as an artists’ community, Sedona is now homes retain the western look, while Spanish Colonial and a thriving tourism center. Sedona’s high altitude, weather, Indian Pueblo architecture give clues to the origins of this city. pine trees and rivers provide an ideal respite from Arizona’s Places of interest include Arizona State University and Chase summer heat. Ballpark, home of baseball’s 2001 World Series champions, the Arizona Diamondbacks. Visitors may want to explore the Desert Botanical Gardens, where the state symbol, the Saguaro Cactus, grow tall. The city is ringed by Native- American reservations whose influence is apparent in the handicrafts, jewelry and art found in local shops and museums.

Sedona National Park, Arizona California Capital: Sacramento Land area: 163,707mi² /424,001km2 Location: West Coast Population: 36,961,774 Largest city: Los Angeles Main industry: Agriculture, oil, mining, electronics, entertainment, tourism

Anaheim Cambria Population 353,643 Elevation 157 ft (48 m) Population 6,232 Elevation 43 ft (13 m) Anaheim is known worldwide as the home of the original A secluded town located halfway between Los Angeles and Disneyland® Park. Founded by 50 German families in 1857, San Francisco, Cambria features impressive cliffs and Orange County’s second largest city was primarily a suburban spectacular coastline scenery. Cambria was settled during the rural area until the 1950s. Hundreds of World War II late 19th century, attracting miners, farmers and fishermen. servicemen, discovering this sunny, welcoming area during Over the years, this quaint seaside village has drawn visitors basic training, relocated here after the war to build new lives. with its serene environment and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors Industries like aerospace were also finding a home in Orange enjoy exploring the unique art galleries and charming County, creating good jobs and spurring residential downtown restaurants. development. Anaheim was further transformed when The Stanford Research Company pointed Walt Disney to Anaheim Carmel as the ideal place to develop his dream theme park. The park Population 79,191 Elevation 223 ft (68 m) opened to thousands of visitors in 1955. Over the decades, Situated on the Carmel Bay in Central California on the 'The Happiest Place On Earth' and the city have changed and southern bend of the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea grown. Anaheim’s attractions include not only the ever is 120 miles south of San Francisco, 350 miles north of Los ® ® popular Disneyland Park and Disneyland California Angeles and 26 miles north of Big Sur. Fifty years after Adventure Park, but top sports and entertainment venues Columbus discovered America, Spanish explorer Juan including Angel Stadium of Anaheim and Honda Center. One Rodriguez Cabrillo sighted the white sands and green pines of of America’s top tourism destination, it draws over 40 million Carmel. Two centuries later, in 1771, Father Junipero Serra visitors per year. established Mission San Carlos de Borromeo on a knoll overlooking the Carmel Bay—the jewel and the heartbreak of Bakersfield his ministry. In the early 1900s, the village of Carmel began its Population 351,443 Elevation 403 ft (122 m) growth around an eclectic group of young artists, writers and Bakersfield is a city near the southern end of the San Joaquin intellectuals and Clint Eastwood served as mayor for a term in Valley in Kern County, California. It is roughly equidistant between the mid-80s. Fresno and Los Angeles, which are 110 miles (180 km) to the north and south respectively. It is the 9th largest city in California and has Death Valley National Park a very diverse economy. It is the most productive oil producing Elevation 11,049 ft (highest) (3367 m highest) county, and the fourth most productive agricultural county (by The United State’s hottest, driest and lowest National Park. In value) in the United States. Other industries include natural gas this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer and other energy extraction, aerospace, mining, petroleum heat make Death Valley a land of extremes. Yet, each extreme refining, manufacturing, distribution, food processing, and has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter corporate/regional headquarter. The valley's spectacular snow. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers. Lush landscapes provide unrivaled natural beauty which is why many oases harbor tiny fish and refuge for wildlife and humans. visitors drive through in spring just to view the orchards in bloom. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life survives in Death Valley.

Garberville (Redwood Country)

Population 2,400 Elevation 535 ft (163 m) Garberville is a small quaint community situated on the banks of the Eel River in Humboldt County. It is conveniently located in the heart of the Redwood Empire and minutes from majestic old growth redwood forests along the Avenue of the Giants. This world-famous scenic drive has over 50,000 acres Rodeo Drive, California of redwood groves. California continued...

Hollywood Santa Monica, Hollywood and more. Over three-quarters of all movies made in the United States are produced in the Population 123,345 Elevation 354 ft (108 m) metropolitan area. Movies, music and television companies During the 1870s, the Los Angeles neighborhood now known have made Los Angeles the entertainment center of the West as Hollywood flourished as an agricultural community with a (some say the world). The city thrives on tourism, world trade variety of crops ranging from grain to bananas. In 1886, it was and diverse industries such as oil, electronics, aircraft and purchased by real estate mogul Harvey Henderson Wilcox and aerospace engineering. began its transformation into a prosperous community with the construction of paved streets and new homes. Mammoth Lakes In 1910, Hollywood was annexed into the city of Los Angeles, Population 7,392 Elevation 11,053 ft (3,369 m) and, a year later, Hollywood’s first filming studio was Situated high in the Sierra (11,053 ft/3,369 m), just southeast established. The movie industry expanded as other movie- of Yosemite, Mammoth Lakes is surrounded by glacier-carved, makers headed west to Hollywood and additional film and pine-covered peaks that soar up from flower-filled meadows recording studios were established in the area. In order to and crystal clear lakes. It is an alpine region of sweeping meet the demands of this growing community, many clubs, beauty and one of California’s favorite playgrounds for hiking, theaters, banks and restaurants were constructed. biking, horseback riding and skiing at Mammoth Mountain Ski Today, many of the filming studios and radio stations have Resort, one of the largest ski areas in the US. moved and are located in other regions of Los Angeles County. However, with ongoing revitalization projects, there Monterey are new glamorous sites to see including the Hollywood & Population 30,641 Elevation 26 ft (8 m) Highland complex, which features shopping, dining and the Originally settled in 1770, Monterey was one of the West Kodak Theater, the official home of the Academy Awards Coast’s first European settlements, and the capital of California Ceremony. Old favorite landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, under Spanish, Mexican and American rules. A major whaling Grauman’s Chinese Theater, the Hollywood Walk of Fame and center in the 1800s, Monterey became the sardine capital of the mansions of the old-time stars continue to dazzle the the Western Hemisphere. The gritty lives of the residents were star-struck. forever captured by local author John Steinbeck in his 1945 novel Cannery Row. Monterey is now a pleasant seaside Lake Tahoe community, with magnificent vistas, historic architecture, Population 23,567 Elevation 6,225 ft (1,897 m) stately Victorian houses and a vast array of boutiques, stores, When Mark Twain first saw Lake Tahoe, he declared it "the art galleries and restaurants residing in converted sardine fairest picture the whole earth affords." Surrounded by the factories along the bay. majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe is stunningly beautiful. Famous for its crystal clear deep blue water and Napa Emerald Bay, it is the largest alpine lake in North America and Population 75,297 Elevation 20 ft (6 m) straddles the California and Nevada border. Visitors flock The Napa Valley is the heart of California’s wine industry and year-round to the communities around the lake for its home to world-class wineries such as Sterling and Robert Nevada-side casinos at Stateline and world-class ski resorts Mondavi. (The city of Napa is the county seat.) The valley is including Heavenly and Squaw Valley USA, site of the 1960 relatively condensed – it is only 25 miles (40 km) long and Winter Olympics. narrow. The landscape is quintessential wine country with rolling, mustard flower-covered hills and vast stretches of Los Angeles vineyards. The combined attractions of bucolic scenery and Population 3,831,868 Elevation 126 ft (38 m) everything wonderful about wine make the Napa Valley the In 1781, Don Felipe de Neve, Governor of Alta California, ultimate Wine Country experience. marched to the site of the present city and with solemn ceremony founded the Pueblo of Nuestra Senora la Reina de Palm Springs Los Angeles, 'The Town of Our Lady, the Queen of the Population 45,573 Elevation 487 ft (148 m) Angels.' The new town’s population consisted of 22 children, Often described as a small city with the cultural amenities of an 11 men and 11 women. In 1845, the Treaty of Guadalupe urban area, the shopping, entertainment, dining and recreational Hidalgo ended the Mexican War and California was acquired opportunities are first-class. Whether it’s a round of golf in the by the United States, with Los Angeles becoming a thriving winter or a massage at a first-class spa resort, Palm Springs is frontier town. In 1892, oil was discovered on the grounds of a the place to enjoy life. Palm Springs lies on the western edge of private home and soon oil derricks appeared everywhere. the Coachella Valley in central Riverside County approximately Today, Los Angeles occupies a land area of 464m2 (1,202 km2), 107 miles east of Los Angeles. It is within the ecological area including independent communities such as Beverly Hills, known as the Colorado Desert, rising behind the downtown is the California continued... impressive Mt. San Jacinto, elevation 10,831 feet. Recently there Santa Barbara has been a fascination with mid-century modern architecture Population 86,353 Elevation 49 ft (15 m) - something Palm Springs is proud to have as part of its mix of The first people to fall in love with Santa Barbara were the eclectic design styles. Because it is only a two-hour drive from Chumash Indians. The Chumash made their homes here, Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties, there are a large sustaining themselves from the fish-rich waters of the Pacific number of second homes in Palm Springs. Ocean in front of them and the game-tracked mountains behind. San Diego Later, Father Junipero Serra, traveling with Captain Jose Ortega and Governor Felipe de Neve, made his way up from Mexico Population 1,359,132 Elevation 72 ft (22 m) and established a royal presidio here in 1782. Four years later, the San Diego, built around one of California’s beautiful natural mission was founded – the first of three (including Santa Inez in harbors, is a recreational paradise. In addition to the cultural Solvang and La Purisima, Lompoc) in what is now Santa Barbara attractions and world-class zoo at Balboa Park, leisure County. The Santa Barbara architectural style is famous around activities include miles of sandy beaches and inviting bays for the world. Although distinctly influenced by the architecture of basking in the sun, swimming, sailing, waterskiing and cycling. Spain, it’s actually a blend of styles, including Spanish, Considered the birthplace of California, San Diego Mediterranean, and Moorish/Islamic. was first discovered in 1542 by Juan Cabrillo, who landed at Point Loma and claimed what is now California for the Spanish Santa Monica Crown. California’s first mission was founded here by Father Population 87,664 Elevation 105 ft (32 m) Junipero Serra in 1769. Today, San Diego is home to the The community of Santa Monica, the vibrant seaside city on Los largest naval station on the West Coast. Its bay holds a third of Angeles’ coast, was first established in 1769 when the Spanish the US Navy’s Pacific Fleet, as well as being the west coast explorer Gaspar de Portola arrived. The area was known for its training ground for the elite S.E.A.L division. free-flowing natural springs which inspired Father Juan Crespi, a Franciscan in de Portola’s expedition party, to name the region San Francisco 'Santa Monica' in honor of Saint Monica, who wept over her son. Population 815,358 Elevation (max) 925 ft (282 m) In 1875, Santa Monica started to develop as a city. Soon, the Resting on 40 hills at the tip of a narrow peninsula, famous beach side Arcadia Hotel and grand Miramar Mansion San Francisco is bound by the Pacific Ocean and San (which later became the Miramar Hotel) were constructed, Francisco Bay, one of the largest land-locked harbors in the attracting the rich and famous. The popular Santa Monica Pier world. In 1775, Spanish explorers established a mission opened in 1909, attracting thousands of visitors with its seaside dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi here. Then, in 1849, gold was attractions and entertainment. Today, Santa Monica still attracts discovered in California and soon San Francisco was a wild visitors from around the world with its relaxing beach tent city of thousands of rough, tough transients. Mercantile atmosphere, exciting nightlife and a variety of leisure activities. establishments, small industries and the shipping of goods to Visitors enjoy shopping and dining along the tree-lined 3rd the Orient were established and prospered. In 1906, a great Street Promenade and exploring the historic pier’s amusement earthquake struck and the resulting fire raged unchecked for park rides and food stands. The hip city also offers many cultural three days, destroying most of the city. The city started diversions with over 75 museums and art galleries. rebuilding before the ashes cooled. Today, San Francisco’s most important industry is tourism and it often earns awards Sequoia National Park from travelers voting it as their favorite city in the world. It’s Elevation 1,370 to 14,494 ft (417 m to 4417 m) considered such a wonderful city that, as acclaimed author Sequoia National Park is in the southern Sierra Nevada and was Rudyard Kipling lamented, “Tis hard to leave." established on September 25, 1890. The park spans 404,063 acres (631.35 sq mi; 1,635.18 km). Encompassing a vertical relief of nearly 13,000 feet (4,000 m), the park contains among its natural resources the highest point in the contiguous 48 United States, Mount Whitney, at 14,505 feet (4,421 m) above sea level. The park is famous for its giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman tree, one of the largest trees on Earth. The General Sherman tree grows in the Giant Forest, which contains five out of the ten largest trees in the world. The Giant Forest is connected by the Generals Highway to Kings Canyon National Park's General Grant Grove, home to the General Grant tree among other giant sequoias. The park's giant sequoia forests are part of 202,430 acres (81,921 ha) of old-growth forests shared by Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Parks. Indeed, the parks preserve a landscape that still resembles the southern Sierra Nevada before Euro-American settlement.

California continued...

Shell Beach Yosemite National Park Population 7,655 Elevation 56 ft (17 m) Elevation 4,000 ft (1,200 m) The main attraction in the little town of Shell Beach is the vista Known for its striking waterfalls and granite domes, Yosemite of the Pacific Ocean. Here you can fish from the cliffs, sit on a National Park is situated in central California on the western slopes park bench and look out at the expansive ocean, explore the of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The park is much larger than sandy beaches and coves, or bring a picnic basket or your most people realize – its popular valley floor occupies only seven take-out sandwich to dine outdoors with sweeping views. of its 1,200 square miles (3,100 km2). The natural history of Yosemite spans millions of years, starting from the ancient age when a warm Sonoma shallow sea spread across what is now the Sierra Nevada and Population 9,863 Elevation 85 ft (26 m) Great Valley of California. After a long sequence of earth upheavals Like its neighbor Napa, Sonoma Valley is acclaimed as followed by erosion, glaciers gouged Yosemite Valley into a California’s premier wine and culinary country. Among its bounty U-shaped trough. The first of at least three glaciers extended it counts hundreds of award-winning wineries and vineyards down the Merced River as far as El Portal, while the last left a along with California’s finest specialty produce and dairy moraine of rock debris damming the river back into Yosemite products, such as shiitake mushrooms and goat and Jack cheese. Valley. Glacial action rounded and polished domes such as Liberty Cap and Lembert Dome. Climbers from around the world come to The city of Sonoma and its mission are also noted in California scale Yosemite’s El Capitan and Half Dome. history. In 1823, Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma was established by Father Junipero Serra, the only California mission opened after Mexican independence from Spanish rule. On June 14, 1846, Sonoma was declared the capital of the 'Bear Flag Republic' in a revolt against Mexican control of California. The town’s status as the nominal capital of California lasted 25 days, ending with California’s annexation by the United States – two years before California achieved statehood in 1850.

Sonoma Valley, California Colorado Capital: Denver Land area: 104,100mi² /269,620km2 Location: Mountain West Population: 5,024,748 Largest city: Denver Main industry: Agriculture, oil, mining, electronics, manufacturing, tourism, finance

Denver Mesa Verde National Park Population 610,345 Elevation 5,280 ft (1,609 m) Elevation 6,100 - 8,400 ft (1,900 - 2,600 m) Located in a spectacular setting at the foot of the Rocky Mesa Verde (Spanish for 'green table') National Park is the Mountains, ‘Mile High’ Denver is one of America’s fastest largest archaeological preserve in the United States. It offers growing cities, and one of its most exciting. Denver entertains an unparalleled opportunity to see and experience a unique nearly nine million visitors each year with people coming to cultural and physical landscape with some 4,000 known enjoy its outstanding cultural attractions, museums, shopping, sites dating from 600 AD to 1300 AD, including the most dining and nightlife. impressive cliff dwellings in the Southwest. The earliest-known inhabitants of Mesa Verde built subterranean pit houses on Durango the mesa tops. During the 13th century, they built elaborate Population 15,000 Elevation 6,512 ft (1,988 m) stone villages in the sheltered alcoves of the canyon walls. Durango has a long and rich history that both history buffs Archaeologists believe the residents occupied them for only and curious folks of all ages will enjoy. Durango was founded about two generations and moved away for reasons yet to in 1880 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad. By July of be confirmed. 1882, tracks to Silverton were completed and the train began transporting both freight and passengers. The Durango- Silverton Railroad was originally constructed to haul silver and gold ore, but passengers soon realized that it was the view that was truly precious. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad celebrated its 125th year of continuous operation in 2006 and continues to be a favorite attraction on a Colorado sightseeing vacation. From local history and railroad museums of historic downtown Durango to the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, Durango is truly where the old west survived, and where the new west thrives.

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado Florida Capital: Tallahassee Land area: 104,100mi² /269,620km2 Location: South Population: 19,317,568 Largest City: Jacksonville Major industry: tourism, agriculture

Orlando Key West Population 238,300 Elevation 82 ft (25 m) Population 24,909 Elevation 18 ft (5.50 m) A favorite Central Florida vacation destination, and once a The southernmost point in the U.S., Key West, Florida is quiet farming town, Orlando now welcomes more visitors than famous for watersports, lively nightlife, turquoise beaches and any other place in the state. The reason, of course, is Walt historic sites such as the Ernest Hemingway House. The laid Disney World, along with Universal Orlando and SeaWorld back lifestyle, southern charm and Caribbean flavor are what Orlando. But there's much more to Orlando than thrill rides make Key West what it is today. Figures throughout history and costumed characters. How about a hot-air balloon ride? have visited Key West, some making it their permanent home Indoor skydiving? Parasailing? for a while, others enjoying the tropical climate while they escape the harsh winter. There is something for everyone in Space Coast Key West. It is home to some of the finest saltwater fishing Stretching 72 miles along Florida's East Coast, the Space around as well as the freshest seafood dinners! Relaxing Coast is best known as the home of Kennedy Space Center, charter rides to view dolphins in the wild or to kayaking in the Orlando's closest beaches and some of the best surfing in the backcountry off Key West can’t be beat. country, but this is only a taste of what you'll find on the coast! Located just 35 miles east (56 km) of Orlando – the Space Marco Island Coast is a nature-lover’s paradise and a burgeoning center for Population 16,413 Elevation 0 ft (0 m) the arts and much more! As the only place in the country Marco Island is the largest of Florida's Ten Thousand Islands, where visitors can witness a space shuttle launch, the Space located on the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida. It has been Coast offers once-in-a lifetime experiences for its guests. described as magical, mystical and alluring. The attraction is Nature enthusiasts can kayak close to wildlife; beach lovers tropical sun-washed white sand beaches and a casual easy can enjoy endless options throughout the destination; surfers paced lifestyle. Sunshine, frolicking dolphins, and all of the can live the dream of the ideal wave. water and sun sports that go with the beaches are available. Miami St Petersburg Population 408,750 Elevation 6 ft (2 m) Population 244,997 Elevation 44 ft (13 m) Whether you're into sports, sunshine or salsa dancing, Miami Along with beautiful beaches, St. Petersburg attracts visitors sizzles all year long with exciting entertainment venues and with the Salvador Dali Museum, Fort De Soto Park and the St. attractions, world-class hotels and restaurants, great beaches Petersburg Pier. The city, located close to Clearwater, is known and nightlife that never sleeps. While South Beach, chock full for its warm weather and breezes that blow off Tampa Bay. of hip nightclubs and pastel-hued buildings, gets all the press, other sections of Miami are just as hot and offer culture, recreation and more. Spend the day soaking in the sights and sounds of Little Havana or soaking up the rays at Haulover Beach Park. Explore the Art Deco District or take the kids to the zoo and at the end of the day, chill out at any of the area's cool bars and nightclubs.

Art Deco buildings, Miami Hawaii Capital: Honululu Land area: 10 932mi² /28 314km2 Location: Pacific Population: 1,295,178 Largest city: Honululu Main industry: Agriculture, tourism

Hawaii (The Big Island) The Poipu area is known for its beautiful beaches, Princeville for its surf and golf courses, and the rugged Na Pali Coast Population 175,584 for its breathtaking terrain. Kauai is also a land of the great Hawaii, or ‘The Big Island,’ has been the first for many historic canyons, rainbow-filled valleys, dense rainforests, jagged cliffs events in the islands. Here is where the Polynesians originally and rivers. Truly picturesque, Kauai displays Mother Nature at arrived to settle the other islands; it’s where Kamehameha her best. the Great began his conquests; and, it’s where Christian missionaries first tried to convert local populations to their Maui beliefs. Agriculture and tourism play a large role in the commerce of Hawaii. Sugar cane, coffee, oranges, papaya and Population 145,157 a host of other fruit and decorative flowers are raised on the As the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui island. Tourists regularly visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park encompasses a vast array of geography, history and activities located on the southeast side of the island. Kilauea Volcano, for the visitor. Haleakala Volcano is one of the world’s largest as the focal point of the park, is one of the most active dormant volcanoes and welcomes hikers and cyclists to its volcanoes in the world. Visitors can actually view Kilauea’s lava desert-like landscape. The waters and beaches of Maui are flow close-up, as it slowly creeps down the slopes and into ideal for snorkeling, diving, surfing and sunbathing. Named the Pacific Ocean. Due to its sea-level coast and towering for a mythical god, Maui was the seat of the Hawaiian mountain elevations, Hawaii encompasses a varied ecosystem. Monarchy from 1790 until 1843. By 1840, Kamehameha the At lower elevations, there are lush canyons and waterfalls, Great had been trading with whaling ships for several decades while along the slopes of its volcanoes, snow can be found along the west coast of the island at Lahaina. during the winter and desert-like terrain in the summer. Now As whaling died down in the late 1800s, agriculture took dormant and the site of one of the world’s most important over as the dominating industry on the island. Sugar cane observatories, Mauna Kea, at 13,796 feet (4205 meters) and pineapple became staple crops early on, followed by above sea level, is considered the world’s tallest mountain if other fruit crops and flowers. Today, cattle ranches and measured from its base on the sea floor – taller than thoroughbred horse farms dot the Maui landscape. The Mount Everest. majority of the island’s population lives on the west coast; many of whom cater to Maui’s booming tourist trade. Kauai Population 65,689 Oahu Kauai, the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, is called the ‘Garden Population 905,034 Isle’ for its incredible lushness. Old Hawaii is very noticeable Oahu, the third largest and most populated of the Hawaiian here, with its unhurried atmosphere, small towns and roadside Islands, is fittingly known as 'The Gathering Place.' Honolulu, general stores. However, as you travel through this enchanting located on its southeast coast, is its largest city and the capital island, you’ll discover a wide variety of sights and activities. of the state of Hawaii, the USA’s 50th state. Oahu was formed from the cooled lava of two separate shield volcanoes with a broad valley or saddle between them. Its beautiful beaches and natural attractions include Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Kaneohe Bay, Kailua Bay and the North Shore, world- renowned by surfers for its giant waves.

Oahu beach, Hawaii Hawaii continued...

Keauhou Waikola Population 2,500 Elevation 13 ft (3.96 m) Population 5,000 Some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii are near Keauhou, Waikoloa is located on Anaehoomalu Bay. As well as its a town on the west coast of Hawaii's Big Island. The local beautiful sands for traditional beach relaxation, family games beaches – which tend to be less busy than those on the Kona and water play, the clear, clean waters of the area are perfect coast – also offer swimming, boating, fishing and scuba diving. for snorkeling and seeing first-hand the wonderful array of If it's not a beach day, you can head to the Keauhou Garden marine life in its natural environment. Close to the shoreline, of the Kamehamas and take a stroll through the native plants the Waikoloa Anchialine Ponds are lava formed pools, fed by or check out the cultural attractions, restaurants and shops of a mixture of fresh and salt water through the rock and teeming the Kailua-Kona area. This area’s coastal area is frequented with small marine life. These pools represent an important by manta rays. You can also sometimes see honu (Hawaiian part of local custom and a carefully laid out trail forms an green sea turtles) in the shallow tide pools. It’s easy to see why interesting and informative walk through the area. Hawaiian royalty, including the “Merrie Monarch” King David Kalakaua, adored this area.

Kalalau Valley, Hawaii Illinois Capital: Springfield Land area: 90,204mi² /149,998km2 Location: Midwest Population: 12,910,409 Largest city: Chicago State Main industry: Agriculture, coal, chemical products, transportation, petroleum

Chicago Springfield Population 2,853,000 Elevation 597 ft (182 m) Population 117,352 Elevation 597 ft (182 m) The history of Chicago parallels the history of the westward The most famous past resident of Illinois’ state capital is the expansion of the United States. The first non-military settlers great American President Abraham Lincoln, who helped began arriving in the 1830s, and Chicago quickly grew into bring the nation back together after the Civil War. He lived a bustling port, connecting the Great Lakes to the Mississippi in Springfield from 1837 until he went to the White House in River through a system of rivers and canals. Connected to San 1861. The city of Springfield is dotted with historic attractions Francisco by the railroad in 1869, Chicago quickly became the centered around US President Abraham Lincoln, including the hub for transportation and trade between the East and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, a National Historical Park, expanding West. the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site, the Old State Capitol State Historic Site, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Today, Chicago continues to be a major hub for transportation Library and Museum. in the U.S. with highways connecting it to most major cities across the country and Canada. It has three airports, including O’Hare which is one of the world’s busiest, handling nearly 67 million passengers per year. Chicago has become famous for its architecture, especially its skyscrapers. Downtown is home to some of the tallest buildings in the world, including the landmark early record breaker, the Sears Tower. The city boasts 50 colleges and universities, the Midwest Stock Exchange and the Chicago Institute of Art, one of the finest art museums in the country. Stretching along the shore of Lake Michigan for over 27 miles (43km), Chicago is known for strong winds blowing across the lake, earning its nickname, ‘The Windy City.’ Louisiana Capital: Baton Rouge Land area: 51,843mi² /134,273km2 Location: South Population: 4,492,076 Largest city: New Orleans Main industry: Agriculture, salt production, oil, natural gas, fishing

Lafayette constant struggle with floods, epidemics and food shortages from its early days. The French were attracted to this area in Population 111,915 Elevation 46 ft (14 m) the 1700s by its deep, swift harbor. Named for the regent of Lafayette is the ‘capital’ of Acadiana, the official name of France, Philippe Duc d’Orleans, New Orleans served as the the area known as Cajun Country. The Cajun history is a sad capital of the French territories in America from 1723 to 1763. one, but it produced an original and fascinating culture and With limited communication with the government in Paris, people. Lafayette has long been known for its great food, levies still rose and New Orleans became a territorial capital. music and festivals. Lafayette is also a place with a multitude As if in defiance of its crude surroundings, the nucleus of of historic attractions, majestic plantation homes, vibrant Creole society was patterned after the court life of Versailles, gardens and leisurely bayou (swamp) tours. It is the ideal place New Orleans became part of the United States with the to experience the Cajun and Creole cultures and antebellum Louisiana Purchase from France in 1803. This year also marked lifestyles of the Deep South. the start of the now famous celebration of Mardi Gras (Fat New Orleans Tuesday). With two floats and a theme, the first organized Mardi Gras paraded through the streets. Nowadays, it is one Population 354,850 Elevation -6.5 ft (-2 m) of the largest such celebrations in the world. New Orleans, Louisiana's largest city, is also known as 'The Big Easy.' Originally built upon a steamy bog area between the Mississippi and sea-sized Lake Pontchartrain, survival was a Maine Capital: Augusta Land area: 35,387mi² /91,652km2 Location: New England Population: 1,318,301 Largest city: Portland Main industry: Agriculture, shipbuilding, fishing, machinery, electronics, tourism

Bar Harbor/Acadia NP Population 5,183 Elevation 440 ft (134 m) Once the summer playground of wealthy and famous Americans, Bar Harbor was celebrated as a quiet coastal resort village. Today visitors flock to this island paradise to experience the brilliant fall foliage and to explore Acadia National Park, the first national park established east of the Mississippi. The park encompasses over 47,000 acres (19,020 ha) of granite-domed mountains with woodlands, lakes, ponds and coastal seashore. Such diverse types of habitat make Acadia a haven for wildlife and plants. Entwined with the natural beauty of Acadia is the story of its people. Evidence suggests that native people first lived here at least 5,000 years ago. Subsequent centuries brought explorers and settlers of European descent, and, arising directly from the beauty of the landscape, tourists and conservationists. Portland, Maine Massachusetts Capital: Boston Land area: 10,555mi² /27,337km2 Location: New England Population: 6,593,587 Largest city: Boston Main industry: Textiles, electronics, publishing, fishing, education, tourism

Boston The region also has a rich array of art, science, and history museums, including the famous Quadrangle, a group of Population 645,169 Elevation: 141 ft (43 m) four distinctive art, science and history museums, including Boston was first settled in 1630 by a group of Puritans who the National Memorial erected in honor of Dr. Seuss, the city’s had fled religious persecution in England. As the cultural most famous son. and economic capital of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, it quickly became the most important city in the New England Cape Cod colonies. After the American Revolution, Boston merchants quickly opened trade with the Orient and India. The Industrial Population 220,000 Elevation 306 ft (93 m) Revolution brought growth to Boston, and the population Cape Cod, often referred to locally as simply the Cape, is located swelled in the 19th century as immigrants arrived from Ireland in the easternmost portion of the state of Massachusetts, in the and Italy. Since World War II, an influx of computer and Northeastern United States. The Cape's historic and maritime high tech companies have opened in Boston, bringing new character and ample beaches attract heavy tourism during the investments to the downtown area. Boston is also the home to summer months. Cape Cod was formed as the recessional over 20 colleges and universities, including Harvard University, moraine of a glacier, resulting in a peninsula in the Atlantic the oldest in the US. Its historical importance and many Ocean. In 1914, the Cape Cod Canal was cut through the base or charming attractions make Boston one of the most visited isthmus of the peninsula, forming what may be loosely described cities in America. as an island. Cape Cod is one of the biggest barrier islands in the world, shielding much of the Massachusetts coastline from Springfield North Atlantic storm waves. Cape Cod is a popular destination for beachgoers from all over. With 560 miles (900 km) of coastline, Population 155,575 Elevation 70 ft (21 m) beaches, both public and private, are easily accessible. Springfield is home to the Basketball Hall of Fame, which celebrates the glory of the game that was invented here. Mississippi Capital: Jackson Land area: 48,434mi² /125,444km2 Location: South Population: 2,951,996 Largest city: Jackson Main industry: Agriculture, oil, textiles, electronic & transportation equipment, fishing

Natchez Population 16,045 Elevation 217 ft (66m) Situated on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, Natchez is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the Deep South. It is noted among America’s historic cities for its wealth of architecturally significant buildings and antebellum mansions, preserved as evidence of the opulent life of the city’s plantation society when cotton was king. With more than 500 structures dating to the era before the Civil War, Natchez is a museum in itself. Spend the evening at Natchez Under-the- Hill, a colorful area of shops, restaurants and casino gaming. Missouri Capital: Jefferson City Land area: 69,709mi² /180,693km2 Location: South Population: 5,987,580 Largest city: Kansas Main industry: Agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism

Branson St. Louis Population 8,502 Elevation 778 ft (237 m) Population 356,587 Elevation 466 ft (142 m) The city of Branson was founded in 1882 and was considered St. Louis was originally settled by French explorers due to its an important stopping point for those traveling along the important location near the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. banks of the White River. Tourism to Branson began to The founders named their settlement St. Louis, after Louis IX, flourish in 1907 after the book 'The Shepherd of the Hills' by King of France. The United States later acquired St. Louis in Harold Bell Wright was published. Readers were fascinated 1803 as part of the Louisiana Purchase from France. In 1804, by The Ozarks and traveled to this region to experience the President Thomas Jefferson sent explorers Lewis and Clark to culture and lifestyle portrayed in the story. Today, Branson still chart the new territory from St. Louis. Many explorers followed welcomes millions of visitors annually and over the years has the same route and St. Louis became an important stop for transformed into one of the largest centers for live musical those heading to the newly open frontier. The first steamboat entertainment in America. Branson is home to over 30 theaters arrived in St. Louis in 1817, creating a new mode of travel via specializing in a variety of music, dancing and dinner shows the Mississippi River. performed throughout the year. St. Louis has several nicknames, including the 'Gateway City' or 'Gateway to the West.' One of the city’s most famous icons is the St. Louis Arch, commemorating President Thomas Jefferson’s westward expansion of the United States. Completed in 1965, it stands 630 feet tall. Visitors can ride the tram to its observation deck for picturesque views of the city.

Montana Capital: Helena Land area: 147,046mi² /380,849km2 Location: Mountain West Population: 974,989 Largest city: Billings Main industry: Agriculture, cattle, ranching, mining, oil, lumber, tourism

Billings Whitefish Population 105,845 Elevation 3,123 ft (952 m) Population 13,709 Elevation 3,028 ft (923 m) The most populous city in Montana, Billings has the honor Located in the Northern Rockies, adjacent to the peaks of of being the 'most citified' place in the state. Founded as Glacier National Park and Whitefish Mountain Resort, the a railroad town in 1882 and named for the president of the town is surrounded by hundreds of lakes, including Whitefish Northern Pacific Railroad, it earned the nickname of Magic Lake, and scenic rivers. The location of the valley keeps it safe City because of its rapid growth. Still a crossroads for the from extreme climate changes encountered in other portions railroads and an oil town with three oil refineries, Downtown of Montana, making it ideal for year-round recreation. Billings has been renovating, and restoring its grand historic The emergence of Whitefish as a recreation town is as buildings, boasting new banks, contemporary business unique as the beauty for which it is famous. Whitefish is centers and restaurants. With its proximity to Yellowstone not a fabrication of outside investors, but an outcome of National Park and the area where the Battle of Little Bighorn the residents themselves. Over 50 years ago, the Whitefish (also known as Custer’s Last Stand) was fought, the city draws population bonded together with a common vision. Pooling travelers from around the world. Billings also has its share of their money and making decisions together, the Whitefish scenery – from the heights of the city you can see the Pryor Mountain Resort, Whitefish Lake Golf Club and the town of Mountains, the Bighorns and the majestic Beartooths. Whitefish are a reflection of their dreams, initiative and Helena hard work. Population 74,801 Elevation 3,875 ft (1,237 m) Cradled in the foothills of the Montana Rockies, surrounded by pristine forests, alive with history and culture, lies Helena, ‘the heartbeat of Montana.’ This charming, sophisticated and beautiful Victorian city is both the capital of the state of Montana and the county seat for Lewis and Clark County. Helena was founded with the July 14, 1864 discovery of gold in a gulch off the Prickly Pear Valley. In 1870, Henry D. Washburn, having been appointed Surveyor General of Montana in 1869, organized the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition in Helena to explore the regions that would later become Yellowstone National Park. Mount Washburn, located within the park, is named for him. By 1888, about 50 millionaires lived in Helena, more per capita than any city in the world. This large concentration of wealth made for a large amount of culture, much of which still exists and is also evidenced in the varied architecture of the city and its Victorian neighborhoods. The official symbol of Helena is a drawing of ‘The Guardian of the Gulch,’ a wooden fire watch tower built in 1886, that still stands on ‘Tower Hill’ overlooking the historic downtown district. Nevada Capital: Carson City Land area: 110,567mi² /286,369km2 Location: Southwest Population: 2,643,085 Largest city: Las Vegas Main industry: Tourism, mining, hydro-electric power

Las Vegas Population 567,641 Elevation 2,001 ft (610 m) Las Vegas, once a desert on the route to California, began as a Mormon settlement in 1855 and boomed fleetingly during the silver rush. When the silver mines played out, Las Vegas survived on ranching. The coming of the railroad in 1905 stabilized the valley and an era of slow growth ensued. In the following years, the city developed as an agricultural center. The legalization of gambling in Nevada in 1931 paved the way for change, and after World War II a great deal of investment capital was poured into the development of Las Vegas as a resort center. Nowadays the neon lights, theme hotels and casinos featuring America’s top entertainment acts sizzle 24/7. Lured in part by hopes of easy money at the thousands of slot machines and table games, more than 37 million visitors a year come to Las Vegas, making it one of the U.S.’ top 10 visitor destinations in the US.

Las Vegas, Nevada New Hampshire Capital: Concord Land area: 9,351mi² /24,219km2 Location: New England Population: 1,324,575 Largest city: Manchester Main industry: Textiles, lumber, tourism, electronic equipment, software

North Conway/White Mountains The White Mountain National Forest encompasses 773,000 acres (312,816 ha) of rocky, forested terrain, over 100 Population 2,069 Elevation 525 ft (160 m) waterfalls, dozens of back country lakes, and miles of clear North Conway is the commercial center of the White brooks and cascading streams. Its highest point is the Mountains, the recreation capital of northern New England. 6,288-foot-high (1,916 meters) brooding peak of Mount It is beautifully located amongst gentle, forest-covered Washington, often cloud-capped and mantled with snow both mountains with the blustery heights of Mount Washington early and late in the season. to the north. The village of North Conway is attractive with its Victorian frontier-town architecture, colorful shops and distinctive train station. New Mexico Capital: Santa Fe Land area: 121,593mi² /314,926km2 Location: Southwest Population: 1,819,000 Largest city: Albuquerque Main industry: Mining, oil, natural gas, tourism

Albuquerque Santa Fe Population 528,497 Elevation 5,312 ft (1619 M) Population 70,000 Elevation 7,260 ft (2,134 m) Situated between the Sandia Mountains and the Santa Fe, which means ‘Holy Faith’ in Spanish, is New Rio Grande River, Albuquerque was settled by the Mexico's fourth largest city behind Albuquerque, Las Cruces Spanish in the 18th century and today is New Mexico’s largest and Rio Rancho. Situated at 7,000 feet in the foothills of the and most populous city. The city gained national southern Rocky Mountains, it was founded between 1607 and and international attention in 1945 with the creation of nuclear 1610, making it the second oldest city as well as the highest technology at nearby Los Alamos Nuclear Laboratory and and oldest capital in the US. In 1912, it officially achieved Sandia National Laboratories. This resulted in a population statehood and today its unique offerings of art, culture and influx of scientists and military personnel which gave the city ancient traditions make it a world-class tourist destination, the technology base that it still maintains. drawing more than 1 million visitors each year. In 2005, Santa Fe became the first US city to be chosen by UNESCO as a Along the famed Route 66, visitors enjoy a full range of Creative City, one of only nine cities in the world to hold this accommodations, restaurants, shopping and historic designation. attractions. Every October Albuquerque plays host to over one million visitors for the world’s largest hot air balloon fiesta Santa Fe has long been a center for arts and culture. Due to and the classic 'Kodak Moment.' sales, it now ranks as the country's third largest art market with nearly 300 galleries and dealers. There also are more than a dozen major museums showcasing an array of art, culture, history and traditions, as well the world-class Santa Fe Opera. In recent years, the city has also earned a reputation with food-lovers. Whether you're hankering for basic New Mexican food, creative Southwestern cuisine, or authentic Italian, French, Asian and other world cuisines, the city offers more than 200 choices. New York Capital: Albany Land area: 54,475mi² /141,090km2 Location: Mid-Atlantic Population: 19,541,453 Largest city: New York City Main industry: Finance, international trade, publishing, fashion, farming, tourism

New York City immigrants poured in from abroad and their efforts helped produce great wealth. Population 8,400,000 Elevation 33 ft (10 m) New York is a city of contrasts and superlatives. The most The 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001 destroyed the city's World densely populated city in the US is known for its towering Trade Center with the falling of the twin towers. Today, The skyscrapers and taxi-jammed streets. Yet more than 17% National September 11 Memorial - twin reflecting pools of its total area (314mi2/813km2) is devoted to parks and bordered with bronze panels displaying the names of all who playgrounds like beautiful Central Park. New York’s port and perished when the towers fell - sits in the footprint of where harbor – its mile-wide entrance leading to the famous Statue the twin towers stood. As the Freedom Tower continues of Liberty – is the busiest in the world, clearing some 26,000 construction, the spirit of the city remains as strong as ever. ships each year. Once ridden with crime, it is now considered one of the safest large cities and ranks as the top visitor destination in the US. The first European visitors arrived at what is now New York in 1624. Holland claimed the territory, and, in 1626, a Dutchman named Peter Minuit brought 200 of his fellow countrymen to occupy the promising piece of real estate on the fine harbor. As the story goes, he negotiated the purchase of Manhattan Island with the Native Americans for $24 worth of beads and other trinkets. A strategic area during the American Revolution, New York City is where George Washington, first President of the United States, took his oath of office on April 30, 1789 after the US had achieved independence from Britain. Following the end of the Civil War in 1865, New Manhattan skyline, New York York City grew and developed more rapidly. Hardworking

Yellow Cabs, New York Oklahoma Capital: Oklahoma City Land area: 98,386mi² /254,820km2 Location: Southwest Population: 3,825,657 Largest city: Oklahoma City Main industry: Agriculture, oil, natural gas, machinery, electronics

Oklahoma City world-class National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. For nightlife and outstanding dining, visitors can explore the Population 560,333 Elevation 1,201 ft (396 m) exciting Bricktown Entertainment District. Reconstructed from In 1889, Oklahoma City was first settled when unassigned Oklahoma City’s first wholesale commercial district, it prairie lands were claimed in an event known as ‘The Land features local nightclubs, shops and restaurants featuring Run.’ Approximately 10,000 pioneers settled in the areas local specialties. surrounding a Santa Fe Railroad Station. Within several years, the population doubled and Oklahoma City was established as the official state capital. Today, Oklahoma City maintains a balance of its historic western roots and the excitement of big city adventure. Visitors can enjoy a glimpse into the past at the Oregon Capital: Salem Land area: 98,386mi² /253,820km2 Location: Pacific Northwest Population: 3,825,657 Largest city: Portland State Main industry: Timber, paper products, farming, mining, electronics

Gold Beach and canneries as well as the Oregon Undersea Gardens. Its major industries are tourism and fishing. Population 1,907 Elevation 50 ft (15 m) Located off picturesque Highway 101 on Oregon’s south Portland coast, Gold Beach offers plenty of outdoor recreation and magnificent scenery. The town was named by placer miners Population 582,130 Elevation 33 ft (10 m) who found the sands at the mouth of the Rogue River Situated at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia profitable; gold flecks can still be found on the beach today. Rivers, Portland is also known as the ‘City of Roses.’ It is a city of Now visitors come for windsurfing, surf fishing, and the famed quiet charms – the shade of the stately elms in the South Park salmon and steel head fishing of the Rogue River. Blocks, the tranquility of the Japanese Garden, the view from the grounds of Pittock Mansion and the miles of hiking trails in Forest Newport Park. The city’s other claim to fame is as the nation’s micro brew capital – there are so many brew pubs in Portland that the city has Population 9,932 Elevation 134 ft (41 m) been nicknamed ‘Munich on the Willamette.’ The city of Newport is ideally located on the magnificent Oregon Coast. This picturesque beach city offers numerous activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy more than 100 miles of biking and hiking trails and spend the day exploring tide pools, combing the beach for fossils and spotting marine animals in their natural habitats. One of Newport’s most popular attractions is the Oregon Coast Aquarium which showcases more than 15,000 marine species. Newport is also home to two lighthouses, one of which is the tallest on the Oregon Coast. Along the waterfront of this resort community are many restaurants, shops, galleries, charter fishing boats Pennsylvania Capital: Harrisburg Land area: 46,058mi² /119,290km2 Location: Mid-Atlantic Population: 12,604,767 Largest city: Philadelphia Main industry: Agriculture, steel, mining, cars, electronics, pharmaceuticals

Bedford quickly dubbed Philadelphia, Greek for 'The City of Brotherly Love.' By the time of the American Revolution, the city and its Population 2,838 Elevation 1,614 ft (492 m) most prominent citizen, Ben Franklin, were in the center of the Bedford County is located in South Central Pennsylvania. The political activity. In 1774, the Declaration of Independence was countryside is beautiful, the people are friendly and there are written and signed here, starting the fight for independence. many family oriented activities to enjoy. For many years it was In 1787, the Constitution of the United States was written here an important frontier military post. The Espy House in Bedford and the city served as capital of the newly formed United is notable for having been the headquarters of George States from 1791-1800. Washington and his force of 13,000 while putting down the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794, which had started around the Jean Today, the city provides many contrasts between its new Bonnet Tavern. modern exterior and its priceless historic treasures. Glass skyscrapers stand side-by-side with brownstone townhouses; Gettysburg cobblestone lanes intersect with busy wide highways. The centerpiece of the historical part of the city is the seven- Population 8,072 Elevation 558 ft (170 m) square-block Independence Historical Park, which features The small town of Gettysburg was founded in the 1780s at the Independence Hall and the Constitution Center as well crossroads of four main highways. This strategic location was as the venerable Liberty Bell. The city is also known for its instrumental in the town’s early growth and in its involvement many colleges, universities and its world-class art collection in the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. contained in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, whose front Today the town is entirely surrounded by the Gettysburg stairs were made famous in the movie 'Rocky.' National Military Park, whose 25 square acres commemorate the 51,000 lives lost here on July 1-3, 1863. Over 1,300 markers Strasburg Lancaster County (Amish Country) and memorials line the 31 miles of marked avenues, paying tribute to the Northern and Southern soldiers who fought in Population 4,130 Elevation 463 ft (141 m) the battle. So tragic were the events here that on December Strasburg and its neighboring communities form a culturally 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered his most unique region known collectively as Pennsylvania Dutch famous speech, 'The Gettysburg Address,' while dedicating Country. Originally founded by German, not Dutch, the National Cemetery. immigrants, the area is still populated by descendents of the Amish, Mennonite and Brethren believers who settled here in Philadelphia the 1700s in search of religious freedom. Many today eschew the conveniences of modern life, refusing the use of electricity, Population 1,547,297 Elevation 39 ft (12 m) cars and other present-day amenities. They instead live very The city of Philadelphia has always maintained its reputation simply off the land, and demonstrate modesty in their dress as the Birthplace of Independence. Its founding father, and speech. Visitors to the area will be delighted by the local William Penn, escaped religious persecution in England and handicrafts such as quilts and painted furniture, as well as by founded the city and his colony in the 1680s as a community the local specialties like shoo-fly pie and salted pretzels. in which all religious faiths would be tolerated. The city was

Philadelphia City Hall Liberty Bell, Philadelphia Rhode Island Capital: Providence Land area: 1033.81mi²/2677.6km² Location: New England Population: 1,050,292 Largest city: Providence Main industry: Health services, tourism and manufacturing

Newport Population 24,672 Elevation 30 ft (9 m) Home to spectacular coastal scenery, awe-inspiring architecture, a thriving waterfront downtown, and welcoming hospitality, Newport, Rhode Island is considered by many to be a shining gem in the coastal crown of New England. From weekend getaways spent touring the famed Gilded Age mansions that once were the summer playground for socialite families with names like Astor and Vanderbilt to an afternoon of wine tasting through Newport's three scenic vineyards, the options for interesting activities, distinctive stories, and enticing photo opportunities are countless!

Newport, Rhode Island South Dakota Capital: Pierre Land area: 7,121mi² /199,743km2 Location: Midwest Population: 812,383 Largest city: Sioux Falls Main industry: Cattle farming, gold mining, machinery, food and wood products, tourism

Keystone Rapid City (Mt. Rushmore, the Black Hills Population 327 Elevation 4,331 ft (1,320 m) and Crazy Horse) Keystone was originally established as a settlement when gold Population 67,107 Elevation 3,202 ft (976 m) was discovered in the Black Hills region during the 1800s. In Rapid City is the gateway to some of the most striking 1891, William Franklin, Thomas Blair, and Jacob Reed named attractions in America – the inspirational Mt. Rushmore the community after the Keystone Mine. In 1894, Franklin National Memorial, the visionary Crazy Horse Memorial discovered the gold-bearing 'Holy Terror' mine, which he and the tranquil Black Hills National Forest with its named for his wife. As the mining industry flourished, many abundant wildlife. people moved to Keystone. However, due to flooding, Created at the top of a 1,400-foot-tall (427 meters) piece of economic depression and depletion of most of its valuable granite, Mt. Rushmore is one of the largest carvings ever mineral resources, the mining industry declined. created and one of the United States’ most famous landmarks. Today, Keystone has transformed itself into a resort town The sculptor, Gutzon Borglum had intended to carve the four for tourists visiting the Mt. Rushmore National Monument. US Presidents down to their waists, but he died before they Mt. Rushmore now offers a multi-million dollar museum and were completed. theater complex with a visitor orientation center, gift shop and dining facilities. Evening visitors can enjoy a dramatic The four presidents depicted and their achievements are: and moving lighting ceremony that illuminates Mt. Rushmore George Washington, the founder of the Union; Thomas at night. Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence; Abraham Lincoln, the preserver of the Union; and Theodore Roosevelt, the conservator of the nation’s natural resources. The faces are each 60 feet (18 m) high and are carved to perfection with intricate detail.

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota Tennessee Capital: Nashville Land area: 42,143mi² /109,247km2 Location: South Population: 6,296,254 Largest city: Memphis Main industry: Agriculture, chemicals, rubber, plastics

Memphis welcomes visitors from around the world who yearn for a peek into the life of Elvis 'The King' Presley. Population 676,640 Elevation 337 ft (103 m) Memphis, Tennessee’s largest city, is spread out on the Lower Nashville Chickasaw Bluff above the Mississippi River at the mouth of the Wolf River. The first settlers were the Chickasaw Indians. Population 605,473 Elevation 597 ft (182 m) In 1739, the French built Fort Assumption on the Memphis Located on the banks of the Cumberland River, the first site. Then after passing through British hands, the area was settlement in Nashville was established in 1779 and was ceded to the United States. In 1819, Andrew Jackson helped known as Fort Nashborough. The community continued found the town of Memphis and it was incorporated as a city to expand and six years later, the city’s name was changed in 1826. Memphis is a pilgrimage for those wanting to visit the from Nashborough to Nashville. In 1843, a few years after birthplace of the blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll. Its Beale Street Tennessee was annexed to the United States, Nashville was is immortalized in song and story as the place where the late established as the official capital of the state. Today, Nashville W.C. Hardy composed his famous 'Memphis Street Blues' and is the second largest city in Tennessee and is nicknamed 'St. Louis Blues' – some of the first blues music ever written. 'Music City USA.' A major center for America’s music industry, Elvis, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash all it’s home to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry recorded at the historic Sun Records, which is now a museum. – the world’s longest-running live radio program – and some Graceland, the second most-visited home in America, of the top recording studios in the United States. Texas Capital: Austin Land area: 268,820mi² /696,241km2 Location: Southwest Population: 24,282,302 Largest city: Houston Main industry: Oil, natural gas, agriculture, manufacturing

Amarillo Population 189,389 Elevation 3,605 ft (10,099 m) Located on the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo sits at the crossroads of America – almost exactly in the middle of the west and east coasts of the United States. Once a major stop on famous Route 66, Amarillo today produces about 25% of the nation’s beef, and is America’s top producer of helium. Sites such as the Cadillac Ranch and the Big Texan Steakhouse provide Amarillo with some attractions that one has to see to the believe. Utah Capital: Salt Lake City Land area: 84,904mi² /219,901km2 Location: Mountain West Population: 2,784,572 Largest city: Salt Lake City Main industry: Oil, natural gas, mining, steelmaking, farming, tourism

Arches National Park portal city to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The majestic scenery and ancient geology of the canyons Elevation 5,653 ft (1,723 m) attracts photographers, artists, mountain bikers, jeep enthusiasts Natural stone arches and other fantastic rock formations are the and nature lovers looking to capture the great western defining features of Arches National Park. As distinguished from outdoor experience. natural bridges which form when a river slowly bores its way through solid rock, natural arches are the result of the erosive Salt Lake City forces of rain and snow slowly chipping away at the rock. There are more than 1,700 officially listed arches in Arches National Population 183,171 Elevation 4,226 ft (1,288 m) Park and more are discovered every day. Wander through Surrounded by the Wasatch and Oquirrh mountains, Utah’s this maze of incredible rock formations and when you think capital city is a popular destination for outdoor recreation you have seen the most spectacular one, another even more enthusiasts and was host for the 2002 Winter Olympics. amazing appears as you walk around the next bend. Dominated by historic Temple Square, Salt Lake City is the headquarters city for the Church of the Latter Day Saints, whose Bryce Canyon National Park members are known as Mormons. Founding the city in 1847, divinely inspired Mormon leader Brigham Young lead his church Elevation 8-9,000 ft (2,400 - 2,700 m) at rim members here, believing that this area was their destined home Bryce Canyon National Park is a magical landscape, a place and the site where they were to set up their Mormon Kingdom. of inspiration and spectacular beauty. Thousands of intricately shaped hoodoos and fanciful rock formations in various The city is named after The Great Salt Lake located on the outskirts shades of red, orange and rose stir the imagination as they of the town. Covering over 100mi2/260km2, the lake is the second stand as silent cathedrals against the deep blue sky. The saltiest body of water in the world, after the Dead Sea. The salt horseshoe-shaped Bryce Amphitheater is one of the park’s content varies from 15 to 25 percent – so dense that a person could most striking natural bowls, encompassing six square miles float on its surface like a buoy. Because of the lack of a natural outlet, (10 km2) – it is the park’s scenic heart. Visitors can view the the lake traps mineral-laden water from fresh water streams. After magic from many points along the rim. evaporation, salt is left behind in the lake, allowing only blue-green algae and brine shrimp to survive in the lake’s water. Moab Torrey Population 5,148 Elevation 4,026 ft (1,227 m) In the southeastern region of Utah, Moab is one of the only cities Population: 171 Elevation 6,830 ft (2,081 m) on the banks of the Colorado River. Originally settled in the 19th Torrey is in the south central part of Utah eight miles from Capitol century as agricultural land, the area later became a center for Reef National Park. The town was settled in the 1880’s by Mormon oil exploration and mining. During the 1950s, the discovery of pioneers and legend has it that Torrey was named after one of uranium in the region established Moab as the uranium capital Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders, Colonel Torrey. Although the of the world. Today, Moab, with its inviting Main Street shops population of the town itself is 171, it is estimated that as many live and restaurants, attracts over half a million visitors a year as the in the area surrounding Torrey. The elevation makes the summers very pleasant while the winter temperatures can be freezing. Torrey has had many famous visitors, among them John Wesley Powell, Butch Cassidy, Zane Grey, Maynard Dixon and Wallace Stegner.

Zion National Park Elevation 8,726 ft (2,660 m) One of Utah’s eleven national parks and monuments, Zion’s vast 147,000 acres (59,488 ha) is comprised primarily of spectacular cliffs and canyons. The centerpiece of the park is 13 million-year-old Zion Canyon, formed by the Virgin River at a depth of 2-3,000 feet (610 - 914 meters). In addition to the unusual rock formations, Zion Arches National Park, Utah has picturesque hanging gardens, waterfalls and desert terrain. Vermont Capital: Montpelier Land area: 9,625mi² /24,903km2 Location: New England Population: 621,760 Largest city: Burlington Main industry: Maple Syrup, farming, tourism, electronics, forest products

Essex Population 19,500 Elevation 486 ft (148 m) Essex is located between the majestic Green Mountains and Lake Champlain - the sixth largest fresh water lake in the United States. The town of Essex is a modern urban community with a friendly rural character. With its surrounding beauty and the fact that Vermont is the safest state in the U.S. in which to live, Essex is a wonderful place to live and work.

Ludlow

Population 2,449 Elevation 1,020 ft (311 m) Vermont The village of Ludlow and the surrounding Okemo Valley offer a delightful blend of shops, restaurants, events and activities. Chartered in 1761, this small town bordered by bucolic green hills is most noted as home of the Okemo Mountain Ski resort. Virginia Capital: Richmond Land area: 42,769mi² /110,772km2 Location: Mid-Atlantic Population: 7,882,590 Largest city: Virginia Beach Main industry: Farming, US Navy Warships, mining, lumber, government

Colonial Williamsburg Shenandoah National Park Elevation 82 ft (15 m) 4,051 ft (1,235 m) Easily the most visited attraction in Virginia, Colonial With over 60 peaks reaching skyward along the Blue Ridge Williamsburg is a fascinating recreation of the historical city Mountains, it is no wonder the area’s natives named this place which served as the capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780. Shenandoah, meaning 'daughter of the stars.' Over one hundred 18th century buildings have been lovingly Shenandoah National Park stretches 80 miles along the spine restored or reconstructed in their original sites, with costumed of this beautiful range, with the Shenandoah Valley to the west interpreters going about their daily business. Dozens of and the Piedmont to the east. craftsmen can be seen working their trade, including the The passes that cut through the mountains have been used blacksmith, the cooper, the shoemaker and the gunsmith. In for centuries by natives and later pioneers moving west. addition to the extensive collections of furniture, china, glass The mountains are covered in hardwoods and pine with vast and other antiques, Williamsburg’s beautiful grounds contain meadows of wildflowers framing them from below. acres of period gardens and public greens. Washington Capital: Olympia Land area: 71,303mi² /187,711km2 Location: Pacific Northwest Population: 6,664,195 Largest city: Seattle Main industry: Farming, aircraft, lumber, tourism, hydroelectric power, aluminium refining

Olympic National Park was timber. Growth followed quickly with the 1893 completion of the Transcontinental Railroad and the 1897 Klondike Gold Be sure to bring your rain gear when you visit the pristine Rush, for which the city served as a jumping off point. Olympic National Park. With ecosystems varying from the coastline to the mountains, parts of the park average more Much of modern Seattle was constructed in 1962 with the than 140 inches of rain annually. Established in 1938 by hosting of the World’s Trade Fair. The growth of trade President Franklin D. Roosevelt and as a UNESCO World throughout the Pacific Region has benefitted Seattle as it’s Heritage Site in 1981, Olympic National Park is located in the closest US port to the Orient and the gateway for most the far northwestern region of Washington, stretching Western Canadian imports to the US. The Boeing Company, across 923,000 acres from the Pacific coastline to the the world’s largest commercial aircraft manufacturer, Olympic Mountains. remains the area’s biggest employer, although other major businesses have moved to the area, such as Microsoft, Besides your rain gear, bring your camera to capture the Starbucks and Amazon.com, and banking, tourism and scenic vistas of tropical rainforests, alpine meadows, glaciers, computer software companies. While it’s more often sunny lakes and rivers. There is also a wide range of park programs in the summer months, the infamous Seattle rains and mists offering coastal forest walks, inter-tidal walks, guided do have a silver lining, keeping the surroundings clean rainforest walks and hiking on the different trails throughout and green. the park. Since Olympic National Park is located near the ocean and features many lakes and rivers, visitors find it Spokane perfect for water sports such as canoeing, sailing, white-water rafting and water skiing. The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center Population 500,000 Elevation 1,843 ft (562 m) offers a staffed information desk, gift shop and additional As a thriving mountainside metropolis, Spokane boasts exhibits about the park. a population of nearly 500,000, a hearty economy and an entertainment and nightlife scene that is second to none. Seattle As the second largest city in Washington State, Spokane Population 616,627 Elevation (max) 520 ft (158 m) is the epicenter of business activity for the three state, two Washington’s largest city sits on a narrow strip of land province region known as the Inland Northwest. And with between Puget Sound and 18-mile (29km) long Lake nearly $3.5 billion in improvements poured into its downtown Washington. Although early sailors explored the area during core, Spokane is also one of the most sought-after corporate, the 1700s, the city of Seattle was not established until 1851 residential and commercial addresses. The U-District, a when the first pioneer families reached the Pacific after hotbed of technological and higher education growth and crossing the North American continent. The city is named for development, is one of the many strong indicators that Chief Seath 'Seattle' of the native Duwamish and Suquamish Spokane's business economy is flourishing. tribes. Blessed with an enormous expanse of virgin forest combined with a fine natural harbor, Seattle’s first industry A hip, urban culture has embraced Spokane creating an eclectic and unique entertainment scene. From the Best of Broadway and the Spokane Symphony, to a burgeoning wine industry and scintillating sports, virtually any night of the week, you can find Spokane alive with great things to do.

Seattle Skyline, Seattle Wyoming Capital: Cheyenne Land area: 97,818mi² /253,349km2 Location: Mountain West Population: 544,000 Largest city: Cheyenne Main industry: Farming, mining, oil, natural gas, tourism

Clearmont Jackson Population 114 Elevation 3,917 ft (1,194 m) Population 8,647 Elevation: 6,237 ft (1,901 m) Clearmont, a quaint town located in Sheridan County, is home The name that has been given to this area’s town, valley and to the The Ranch at Ucross where visitors can experience life on lake honors David Jackson, a mountain man and trader who a real working dude ranch. The surrounding area is rich in first explored this region in the 1870s. Surrounded on three America’s “Old West” history and beautiful sage-colored hills sides by the Teton Range, the breathtaking valley or 'hole' is scenery. Visitors can participate in a variety of outdoor activities dotted by waterfalls, meadows, lakes and streams. The Snake such as horseback riding, fishing and golf. River winds its way through the valley and the small town of Jackson. With its wooden boardwalks, western shops and Cody saloons and a four-sided antlered-gateway, Jackson still Population 9,435 Elevation 4,997 ft (1,523 m) conjures up images of America’s Wild West. In summer The town of Cody was founded in 1898, named after Colonel months, stage coach rides and daily gun fights in the city’s William ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody, known worldwide for his epic 'Wild square delight the many visitors who use Jackson as their base West Show.' With Cody at the helm, the town became the to explore Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. center of activity for the area’s cattlemen, sheepherders and oilmen, as well as his entertainment ventures. Cody’s most Sheridan famous landmark is the Irma Hotel’s bar – a $100,000 gift from Population 17,197 Elevation 3,743 ft (1,141 m) Queen Victoria to Buffalo Bill in appreciation of his extravagant Sheridan lies in the valley of the Little and Big Goose Creeks. show. Visitors can learn more about Buffalo Bill at The Buffalo Once the prized hunting grounds of the Plains Indians – the Bill Historical Center. The multi-million dollar museum, which Crow, Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Lakota (Sioux) – this was continues to expand, dedicates its galleries not only to Buffalo where Indian leaders Red Cloud and Crazy Horse took a final Bill’s amazing story and show but also includes exhibits of stand to keep the white man from this valley below the Big famous Western Art, Plains Indians and Yellowstone’s Natural Horn Mountains. History. The tradition of Wild West showmanship continues With its location on the Bozeman Trail, Sheridan was the center during the summer months as Cody hosts a nightly rodeo of turbulent 1800s western expansion history. Known for its featuring the area’s best cowboys. Late US President Theodore many battles, the ‘Bloody Bozeman’ Trail traveled north to the Roosevelt was so impressed with the highway from Cody into rich gold fields of Montana. Eight Indian war and battles sites, Yellowstone National Park that he called it the “most scenic 52 most within 35 miles, included Fort Phil Kearny, Fetterman miles in America.” Located in the midst of some of Wyoming’s Battle and Wagon Box Fight (National Historic Landmark most spectacular scenery, Cody is a haven for outdoors lovers near Story) and the Little Bighorn Battlefield (90 miles north of all types. of Sheridan). Grand Teton National Park Today, history buffs relive those war days through the forts, Elevation 7,700 ft (2,300 m) battle sites, museums and interpretive walking trails. Remaining You can’t miss the Grand Teton mountain range towering rich in western heritage, the town’s frontier spirit is manifested over the Wyoming plains at heights of nearly 14,000 feet in a variety of cultural events, including 30 rodeos. (4,267 meters). Sculpted by eons of wind, rain, snow and Sheridan’s Historic Main Street District, home to over 30 glacial action, the mountains are easily the most recognized of buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, comes any mountain chain in America, with their three main peaks – alive with unique specialty shops, and delightful historic trolley the Middle Teton, the South Teton and the Grand Teton. or walking tours. Well-known for hiking and mountain climbing, this national park is 485 square miles (1,256 km2) in size and encompasses eight large lakes and many smaller bodies of water, 12 glaciers, numerous snowfields and extensive forests of fir, pine and spruce. Wyoming continued...

Yellowstone National Park Elevation From 5,282 ft (1,609 m) Geysers, mud pots, hot pools, fumaroles and an abundance of wildlife – you will see all of this on a day’s trip through Yellowstone National Park, the World’s First National Park. Discovered by John Colter in 1808, a member of the Lewis and Clark expedition charting America’s West, this area was originally known as ‘Colter’s Hell.’ When Colter returned to St. Louis, Missouri after the expedition, and told about the bubbling earth that shot out great towers of steaming water, local Missourians thought that he had surely lost his sense of reality. They continued to believe this until another expedition went into the same area and proved Colter to be correct. More than 30,000 elk, 2,600 bison, 6,000 moose and 700 black and grizzly bears roam over the approximate 2,219,000 acres (900,000 ha) of Yellowstone. In 1872 the region was declared a national park, making it America’s first national park. Today, it is surely one of the most visited, as people from around the world continue to pass through, snapping photos of Western wildlife, stopping to view spectacular Yellowstone Falls, and, of course, 'Old Faithful,' the geyser that faithfully erupts every 65-80 minutes.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming Canada

Capital: Ottowa, Ontario Land Area: 3,851 809mi² /9,920 000km2 Population: 34,108,752

The world’s second largest country, Canada is a land of vast distances and rich natural resources. First inhabited by distinctive groups of Indians and Eskimos or Inuit, its first Old World visitors were the Vikings who sailed here from Iceland around 1000 AD. Later settlers came from Portugal, France and England. While it still keeps its ties to the British Crown, Canada became a self-governing dominion in 1867 and is composed of ten provinces and three territories. 90% of its population lives within 100 miles (160 km) of the US Canadian border.

Niagara Falls, Toronto Alberta Capital: Edmonton Population: 3,720,946 Location: Calgary Main industry: Crude oil, natural gas, tourism, agriculture Land area: 248 000mi² /642 848km2

Banff climate, alpine grandeur and famous mineral hot spring pools all add to Banff’s picturesque atmosphere. Population: 6,700 Elevation 4,800 ft (1,463 m) Banff is a resort town located within Banff National Park. Calgary Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies, it’s located near the junction of the Bow and Spray Rivers. Population 988,079 Elevation 3,438 ft (1,048 m) With its scenic Alpine surroundings and quaint downtown, Calgary is Canada’s third biggest city and only an hour’s drive it’s a major destination for outdoor sports lovers and is the to the Canadian Rocky Mountains. It was host to the 1988 base town for the area’s ski resorts – Sunshine Village, Ski Winter Olympics and is home to the Calgary Stampede, the Norquay and Lake Louise Mountain Resorts. It’s Canada’s world’s largest rodeo. Cowboys and Indians have been part second highest town, second only to Lake Louise, also in Banff of Calgary’s heritage since its founding. The Blackfoot Indians National Park. were the first inhabitants, fighting hard to retain their territory as the white man began to explore the area. In 1877, a treaty Banff National Park established a series of reservations for the Indians. The town grew in the early 1900s with thousands of Chinese immigrants Canada’s oldest national park, Banff is renowned for its working on railroad construction, followed by the oilmen who spectacular peaks and valleys which were formed through started Calgary’s important petroleum industry. geological upheavals and glacier movements about 77 million years ago. Evidence of man dates back 11,000 years when Although Calgary’s growth has been rapid, it has been well ancestors of the Cree and Kootenay Indians lived in the area. planned – beautiful parks and pedestrian malls blend with The first white men arrived in the 1800s, and it was their skyscrapers connected by walkways allowing people to move arguments over the area’s natural resources that prompted the around the city even during the most severe winter weather. Canadian government to establish the park in 1885. Jasper National Park Banff National Park is also a wildlife refuge, home to elk, deer and bighorn sheep. One of the most famous attractions of Elevation 6,635 ft (2,023 m) at Sunwapta Pass Banff National Park is Lake Louise, a turquoise-colored lake Established as a national park in 1907, the region which is flowing from melt water of the Victoria Glacier. The lake is now Jasper National Park was once the floor of a giant sea 1.2 miles (1.9km) long, 225 feet (68 meters) deep, and its icy that covered North America. Internal pressure pushed the waters, while too cold for swimming, are ideal for boating in rock above the water and erosion carved its current peaks the summer. and valleys. The park was named after Jasper Hawes, former manager of the Hudson Bay Trading outpost located in the The town of Banff, which is located within the national park, is area. The variety and beauty of the Rocky Mountains and under strict control of the government. Residents do not own numerous lakes are the area’s chief attractions, with Maligne their land but rather lease it from the park authority. Its dry Lake being the largest. One of the park’s most striking features is the great Columbia Icefield, the largest mass of ice in the Rocky Mountains, covering 120 square miles (311km2) and ranging in thickness from 1,970 - 2,950 feet (600 - 900 meters). Its melt water empties into the Arctic, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Lake Louise (in Banff National Park) Elevation 5,690 ft (1,731 m) Situated within Banff National Park lies one of the most scenic vistas in the Canadian Rockies, the icy blue-green waters of Lake Louise reflect the surrounding mountain peaks and the Victoria glacier. Silt and rock flour that is carried by the glacier’s melt waters give the lake its incredible color. Lake Louise, Canada British Columbia Capital: Victoria Population: 4,530,960 Largest city: Vancouver Main industry: Forestry, mining Land area: 357,216mi² /925,186km2

Kamloops A wild and roaring community developed on the peninsula between the Fraser River and Burrard Inlet. Settlers soon Population 70,117 Elevation 1,132 ft (345 m) began to populate other parts of the peninsula and in 1886 Located at the conflux of the north and south branches of the Vancouver officially became a city. The same year, a mighty Thompson River, Kamloops was founded in 1815 as a devastating fire destroyed the city, and its 2,500 residents were trading post for the Hudson’s Bay Company. Fifty years later forced to rebuild. In 1887, the first passenger trains arrived in during the Caribou Gold Rush, 'overlanders' would raft down Vancouver and a few years later the ships of the Canadian the Thompson into Kamloops for their supplies. Once the Pacific fleet sailed into Vancouver Harbour, establishing it as a gold rush went bust and the railroad arrived, the city, whose major world port. name means 'meeting of the waters,' became the cattle and sheep ranching center for central British Columbia. Today the The Port Metro Vancouver is now the busiest and largest in city serves as a lumber center as well as a stopping off point Canada. While forestry remains its largest industry, tourism for visitors traveling into the Canadian Rockies. comes in a close second. Nicknamed Hollywood North, it is the third largest film production center in North America after Lac le Jeune Los Angeles and New York City. Population 7,452 Elevation 4,177 ft (1,273 m) Victoria Located south of Kamloops, Lac Le Jeune is a lake and park known for its abundance of wildlife. Established as a Population 304,683 Elevation 75 ft (23 m) provincial park in 1956 and operated by the British Columbia One of Canada’s most beloved cities, Victoria exudes proper Ministry of the Environment, it provides habitat for beaver, British charm in a most beautiful backdrop. Combine this with moose, birds and other wildlife. The lake is a popular spot native totem poles, hanging flower baskets, a stunning harbor for fly-fishing and fighting rainbow trout. The shoreline and and the surrounding mountains, and it is no wonder the city is park are surrounded by hill terrain and forests – an excellent considered one of Canada’s most popular destinations. location to enjoy the great outdoors and nature in Victoria dates back to the 1840s when it was a Hudson’s Bay the summertime. Company outpost and later served as a rough and tumble jumping off point for British miners. But lured by cheap land Vancouver prices, more and more immigrants started settling the area with their families, growing the city’s commercial importance Population 578,041 Elevation 7 ft (2 m) as well as ensuring its British flavor. The city became the Vancouver, often called the most beautiful city in Canada with capital of British Columbia in 1868. its spectacular scenery and a mild climate, is the Canadian financial, industrial, shipping and cultural center on the West While today Victoria is not as large as Vancouver, it is still Coast. It’s truly a young city with the first recorded sighting popular among visitors to British Columbia. Highlights include by a Spanish explorer occurring in 1791. The following year, the Inner Harbour where whale watching cruises depart Captain George Vancouver sailed into the area while looking during the summer months; the Royal BC Museum with its for the Northwest Passage. Fur traders followed and then incredible collections of Native and historical artifacts; and came the prospectors looking for gold during the rush nearby Butchart Gardens, considered one of the world’s finest of 1858. floral displays. British Columbia continued...

Whistler Yoho National Park Population 8,054 Elevation 2,198 ft (670 m) Yoho National Park is part of UNESCO’s Canadian Rocky Whistler Village and Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort are known Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. Ideal for scenic touring, worldwide as one of the top venues for the Vancouver 2010 visitors can view the amazing Spiral Tunnels and the majestic Winter Olympics. Formerly dependent on logging, the area Takakkaw Falls, the second highest waterfall in Canada. The began its transformation into a year-round vacation getaway in jewel of Yoho National Park, Emerald Lake, is home to some of 1960 when a Vancouver businessman first dreamed of bringing the most breathtaking scenery in the Rockies. The park offers a the 1968 Winter Olympics to Whistler. While the area didn’t variety of interpretive programs including guided walks and win the Olympics bid that year, the lifts started running in 1966 learning activities for visitors. There are also a variety of and soon became a hot spot for skiing enthusiasts. Adjacent recreational activities available such as hiking, camping, Blackcomb Mountain opened for winter activities in 1980. cycling, fishing and mountaineering. Now both winter and summer visitors can ride the world’s highest and longest gondola, the Peak 2 Peak Alpine Experience between Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains, and see the spectacular views of what is now North America’s largest ski area. Besides biking, hiking and outdoor activities, visitors enjoy exploring the village, designed to create a European apres-ski atmosphere, with its outdoor cafes, shopping and nightlife.

Vancouver, Canada New Brunswick Capital: Fredericton Population: 751,755 Largest city: Saint John Main industry: Forestry, mining, farming, fishing, tourism Land area: 27,590mi² /71,450km2

Fredericton St. John Population 56,245 Elevation 66 ft (20 m) Population 90,016 Elevation 141 ft (43 m) Situated on the banks of the St. John River, Fredericton is the Located at the mouth of the Saint John River and on the Bay capital city of New Brunswick. Originally used as seasonal of Fundy, St. John is the largest city in New Brunswick. Due to farmlands by Aboriginals in the area, the region wasn’t its location and having an ice-free harbor during the winter, St. permanently settled until 1732 when a group of French John became an important port city. Much of the city’s history Acadians, fleeing the British forces in Nova Scotia, migrated and economy revolves around shipbuilding, fishing and trade. there. However, in 1758, the area also became under English At The New Brunswick Museum, today’s visitors can experience jurisdiction. With its strategic location between the Bay of the history of shipbuilding and learn its tremendous impact Fundy and the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Fredericton was ideal on the area. Another popular attraction is the phenomenal for military installation, and it became the official provincial Reversing Falls, set at the mouth of the St. John River. Due to capital of New Brunswick in 1785. strong tidal fluctuations, the flow of the river is reversed and the Fredericton is now known as a center for the fine arts. Tourists river’s current flows upstream for several miles. and local residents enjoy visiting the Beaverbrook Art Gallery and The Playhouse, which hosts plays and musicals year- round. It’s also home to the annual Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival which attracts jazz and blues artists from around the world. Moncton Population 97,065 Elevation 230 ft (70 m) Moncton, the second largest city in New Brunswick, is surrounded by many tourist attractions, including Hopewell Rocks National Park, Fort Beausejour, Shediac Bay and the quirky Magnetic Hill, Canada’s third most-visited natural attraction. The city was named after the British solider Lt. Colonel Robert Monckton, who led the capture of nearby Fort Beausejour in 1755. The town flourished as a center for ship building, and later became the headquarters of the Intercolonial Railway of Canada in 1871. It became an official city on April 23, 1890. As the geographic center of the Maritime Provinces. Moncton is still known as the ‘Hub City’ for its railroad history. Nova Scotia Capital: Halifax Population: 942,506 Largest city: Halifax Main industry: Fishing, tourism Land area: 20,594mi² /53,338km2

Baddeck Cape Breton National Park Population 907 Elevation 291 ft (89 m) Prince Edward Island Baddeck is located on Cape Breton Island, a province of Nova Cape Breton Highlands National Park is known for its Scotia. The town is set on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake and spectacular highlands and ocean scenery. Its highlands are was known as the Canadian home of the famous telephone the most striking feature of northern Cape Breton. Steep inventor, Alexander Graham Bell. Bell and his family visited cliffs and deep river canyons carve into a forested plateau Baddeck in 1885 and later built a summer home on Beinn bordering the Atlantic Ocean. One third of the Cabot trail, a Bhreagh. They contributed to the development of Baddeck world-famous scenic highway, runs through the national park by providing steady jobs for the townspeople and promoted along the coasts and over the highlands. Established in 1936, science, technology and culture. Baddeck is also known as the National Park covers 20% of northern Cape Breton and is the gateway to the famous Cabot Trail, named after European one of the largest protected wilderness areas in Nova Scotia. explorer John Cabot. This scenic highway features stunning Within the park, several dozen species of rare or threatened views of Nova Scotia’s rugged coastline and passes through plants and animals can be found, as well as old growth forests Cape Breton Highlands National Park. of international importance. Halifax Population 282,924 Elevation 476 ft (145 m) Halifax is the provincial capital of Nova Scotia and the most populated city in the province. Founded in 1749, Halifax was originally established as a military settlement for the British. However, after the Halifax Explosion in 1917, it was reconstructed and became a modernized port city due to its geographic location. Today, the city is diversified with both historical landmarks such as the Halifax Citadel and ultramodern glass tower buildings. On the waterfront, visitors can enjoy exploring the bustling port community and view the historic ships docked in Halifax Harbor.

Peggys Cove, Nova Scotia Ontario Capital: Toronto Population: 13,210,667 Largest city: Toronto Main industry: Motor Vehicles, iron, steel, banking Land area: 354,342mi² /917,741km2

Kingston Ottawa Population 109,437 Elevation 230 ft (70 m) Population 860,928 Elevation 230 ft (70 m) Considered one of Ontario’s prettiest towns, Kingston lies on The history of Canada’s capital stretches back to the earliest the shores of Lake Ontario where the St. Lawrence River joins days of exploration when Samuel de Champlain founded a the lake. Its strategic importance was recognized by Count trading post where the Ottawa and Rideau Rivers met. For Frontenac, who founded the trading post in 1673. After the almost 200 years, the area remained isolated, accessible only completion of the Rideau Canal, connecting the St. Lawrence by water, until Loyalists fleeing the War of 1812 established with Ottawa, Kingston became a center of shipping and trade. a small community. In 1826, the Rideau Canal was built, As the gateway to the Thousand Islands recreation area, it has originally as a defense against the Americans, but its true grown into a popular tourist destination and is also home to importance was as its use as a shipping route through to the prestigious Queen’s University. St. Lawrence. Queen Victoria declared Ottawa the Capital of Canada in 1857, a decision that angered the people of Niagara Falls Toronto, Kingston and Montreal, who felt the city was 'too Niagara Falls is one of the most spectacular and famous sights backwater' for a nation’s capital. in North America. The US/Canada border bisects the Niagara Nevertheless, the city today proudly upholds it position as the River and the waterfalls, and a bridge over the river connects seat of power, with the imposing Parliament Buildings sitting the towns of Niagara Falls, Ontario and Niagara Falls, New high above the Ottawa River. York. The Canadian side of the falls is 177 feet (54 meters) high and has a crest 2,200 feet (671 m) long, forming a deep curve Toronto and earning the nickname Horseshoe Falls. The American Population 2,503,281 Elevation 249 ft (76 m) falls are higher at 183 feet (56m), but are only 1,075 feet (328 The Huron Indians introduced French explorer Etienne meters) wide and somewhat less spectacular due to a rock Brule to their 'meeting place' in 1615. This spot, which slide in 1954 that left a number of boulders at the base. Until would become Canada’s largest city, was not settled until the 1840s, there was only a small pathway which led to the 1814 and would not be named Toronto until 1839. During falls. Tourists did not begin arriving until the railroad made the the 19th century, the city boomed with increased traffic on area accessible to large groups of people. Lake Ontario and the arrival of the railroad at the end of the By 1885, the Ontario Legislature established a commission to century. By the end of World War II, the city was growing preserve the natural beauty of the falls on the Canadian side quickly and attracted many immigrants from around the of the border. Throughout its history, Niagara Falls has been world. Because of its strategic position on Lake Ontario and a place for daredevils who have tried to go over the falls in its proximity to raw materials, Toronto has become a very barrels and rafts, or even cross them by riding a bicycle on a prosperous and cosmopolitan city. tightrope. Some of these pranksters survived, but many did Today, metropolitan Toronto is still one of the fastest growing not. Today, Niagara Falls is a combination of honky-tonk side cities in North America. With the CN Tower, the world’s 2nd shows, honeymoon hotels and awe-inspiring natural beauty. tallest freestanding structure, dominating the skyline, the cityscape is very futuristic. Nearby, the Skydome is one of North America’s only domed stadiums with a retractable roof. Along the waterfront, old factories and warehouses have turned into a shopping, dining, and theater center which attracts locals and tourists alike. Prince Edward Island Capital: Charlottetown Population: 142,266 Largest city: Charlottetown Main industry: Agriculture, Tourism, Fishing Land area: 2,195mi² /5,684km2

Charlottetown Population 38,801 Elevation 161 ft (49 m) Charlottetown, centrally located on the shores of the Charlottetown Harbour, is the capital and largest city on Prince Edward Island. It’s a city rich in culture, playing a significant role in Canadian history. The first European settlers in the region were French; however after the Treaty of Paris was signed in 1763, the region came under British rule. Charlottetown was officially established in 1765 and was named after Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III of England. In 1864, elected officials came together in Charlottetown and discussed the union of colonies, which eventually led to the formation of Canada. Today, the city still takes pride in preserving its heritage and is known as the 'Birthplace of the Confederation.'

Prince Edward Island Quebec Capital: Quebec Population: 7,907,375 Largest city: Montreal Main industry: Maple syrup, dairy products, fruit and vegetables, foie gras Land area: 527,079mi²/1 365,128km2

Montreal French, making it the largest French-speaking city in the world next to Paris. The French influence is very evident throughout Population 1,906,811 Elevation 764 ft (234 m) the city – from its bilingual signs, to its cuisine and the ‘joie de The city of Montreal is situated on an island, the Ile de vivre’ of its citizens. Montreal, at the point where the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers meet. The island’s most notable feature is Mont Royal, Quebec City rising 765 feet (233 m) above the island, which today is a beautiful park accessible only by foot and horse Population 491,142 Elevation 575 ft (175 m) drawn vehicles. Quebec’s first inhabitants were First Nations Peoples who migrated across the Bering Land Bridge thousands of years The first European to come across the island was the French ago. In 1534, explorer Jacques Cartier claimed this territory explorer Jacques Cartier, who discovered a settlement of for France. However, it was not until Samuel de Champlain Hochelaga Indians living there. A trading post was set up on established a fur trading post in 1608 that Quebec City would the island by 1611. The city remained under French control become the first permanent French settlement in North until the French and Indian War (the Seven Years War), when America. Britain and France fought 150 years for control it was captured by the British and ceded to Great Britain by over the new land with Quebec City becoming a major France in the Treaty of Paris in 1763. During the American battleground. Following the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in Revolution, Montreal was captured by the American forces 1759, the English took control of Quebec City and completed and occupied for nearly seven months. the walls around the city in 1775. In 1887, Quebec City Today, Montreal is Canada’s second largest city, and although became the capital of the Province of Quebec as it entered it lies 990 miles (1,600 km) from the ocean, it is one of the the confederation. In 1985, Quebec City became North country’s major seaports. Confined to the Ile de Montreal, the America’s only urban area to be named a World Heritage Site. city has had to move skyward in order to accommodate its Today, Quebec City is a busy seaport, an important center of growing population. services and research, and a cultural hot spot. Despite its multicultural heritage, Montreal, like the rest of Quebec, is very French. Two-thirds of its population speaks

Château Frontenac, Quebec Mexico

Capital: Mexico City Land Area: 761,629mi² /1,972 550km2 Population: 103,400,165

With its Ancient pyramids, beautiful Spanish colonial cities, white-sand beaches, spectacular scenery, friendly people and delicious cuisine, Mexico welcomes visitors with its plentiful attractions. The country features more than 2,000 archaeological sites, including 31 that have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. United States’ southern neighbor, Mexico is a federation, of 31 states.

Chichen Itza, Yucatan Mexico

Alamos the white-sand beaches. Cancun is also considered the gateway to the Maya world, a short drive to such Population 13,000 Elevation 1,346 ft (410 m) archaeological sites as the pyramids of Tulum and Coba. Surrounded by the Sierra Madre Foothills in northwestern Mexico, Alamos is one of the country’s most beloved colonial Chichen Itza cities. Alamos was claimed as a Spanish colony by Francisco Vasquez de Coronado in 1540 but it wasn’t until the 17th Located in the northern-center of the Mexican state of century that developers realized they were literally sitting on a Yucatan, Chichen Itza is one of the most famous and silver mine. The city quickly boomed to its colonial height and extensively-studied archaeological Maya centers in Mexico. mansions began to line the streets to reflect the steady influx Over 1,500 years old, the Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen Itza of silver fortunes. Eventually the mines were depleted of their was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988. wealth and many of the early settlers chose to move on. But Throughout the site, there are great examples of Maya-Toltec shortly after World War II, the city was revitalized with a new civilization through stone monuments and artistic works filled population concerned with restoring the beautiful colonial with cosmological symbolism. The structures at Chichen Itza structures to their silver-era magnificence and returning are divided into three distinct sections due to the differences Alamos to its status as a colonial treasure. in architectural style. The north area of structures is considered to be Toltec in style. The central group of Alamos is picturesque and cherished by the people in Mexico. structures appear to be from the early period. The southern Graced with 188 National Historic Monuments, it is currently area of the site is known as Chichen Viejo (Old Chichen). The in position to become Mexico’s next UNESCO World most impressive and famous structure of the site is the step Heritage Site. pyramid known as Temple of Kukulkan or sometimes referred to as El Castillo (The Castle). The pyramid is constructed with Campeche 365 steps representing the solar year. Population 211,671 Elevation 33 ft (10 m) During the spring and autumn equinox, the structure’s corner Located on the southwest region of the Yucatan Peninsula, tiers cast a shadow in the shape of a feathered serpent along Campeche is a harbor town which gives visitors a glimpse into the west side of the north staircase during sunrise and sunset. Mexico’s colonial past. Campeche was discovered in 1517 In the evening, visitors can enjoy a different perspective of the during an exploratory expedition led by the Spanish. Due to temple when the site is illuminated with an amazing light and its strategic location to the Caribbean Sea, Campeche had sound show. become one of the main ports of New Spain for importing and exporting goods, making the city a prime target for pirates. Copper Canyon/Posada Barrancas The city spent much effort and resources and constructed Elevation 5,770 ft (1,760 m) hexagonal city walls to defend its residents from these attacks. The Copper Canyon (Sierra Tarahumara) is truly one of the Today, visitors can view the forts and military architecture of Western Hemisphere’s great scenic and cultural wonders. The downtown Campeche, which was designated a UNESCO Copper Canyon is actually a series of six distinct canyons World Heritage Site in 1999. running through the northern region of Mexico. The overall canyon system is nearly four times larger than the Grand Cancun Canyon in the United States. With their copper green color for Population 705,000 Elevation 33 ft (10 m) which they were named, the canyons are breathtaking. The Located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, Cancun is railroad line operating through the canyons and mountains is situated in the northern region of the Yucatan Peninsula and impressive – the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad, or ChePe, runs borders the Caribbean Sea. It is surrounded by vast ecological along Canyon Urique between Chihuahua and Los Mochis on reserves and is home to the second largest reef system in the Gulf of California. It runs along some 405 miles of rails with the world. 39 bridges and 86 tunnels. As the trains stop through several small villages along the railway, visitors will have the chance to Cancun was once a small fishing village until the Mexican meet the local Tarahumara Indians laying out their food, crafts Government deemed the area an ideal location for a new and other wares for sale. tourist destination. During the 1980s and ‘90s, the city steadily grew with the development of new hotels and resort facilities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of nautical activities such as boating, scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing, in addition to relaxing on El Fuerte Paquime/Casas Grandes Population 30,000 Elevation 590 ft (180 m) Paquime (sometimes referred to as Casas Grandes) is one of El Fuerte is located in the Mexican state of Sinaloa and is the most important archaeological sites in Northern Mexico. often referred as the gateway to Mexico’s Copper Canyon Located in the northwest region of the Mexican state of and the Sea of Cortez. The region was founded by the Chihuahua, this area was designated a UNESCO World Spaniards in 1564, but the city suffered attacks from Indians. Heritage site in 1998. It was once an important trade and In 1610, a fort was constructed to defend the area; it now cultural contact center between the Pueblo culture of the remains an important city landmark. southwestern United States and northern Mexico and the El Fuerte was the first capital of Sinaloa and is considered more advanced civilizations of Mesoamerica. The civilization one of the most beautiful cities in the state because of its peaked during the 14th and 15th centuries as the earth- enchanting colonial atmosphere. Constructed during the toned ruins show evidence of an intricate water system and 18th and 19th centuries, visitors can view historical structures architecture adapted to the physical climate of the region. such as the Municipal Plaza, Posada Hidalgo, and The Plaza Today, significant restoration has been done to the site, but de Armas. there are some areas that remained unexcavated. Visitors Merida can learn more about this ancient civilization at the adjacent museum and visitors’ center featuring intricate exhibits and Population 734,153 Elevation 33 ft (10 m) displays. The center also offers an opportunity to purchase Merida is the capital city of the Mexican state of Yucatan and local native arts and crafts of the region. is one of the largest cities located on the Yucatan Peninsula. Discovered by the Spanish in 1542, the city was built on the San Carlos Maya city of Tho, once the thriving center of Maya culture Population 7,000 Elevation 33 ft (10 m) thanks to its strategic geographic location near both land San Carlos, a subdivision of the port city of Guaymas, is and sea. Merida became independent from Spain’s rule in located on the coast of the Sea of Cortez in the northern 1821 and the city was able to prosper and develop due to Mexican state of Sonora. This coastal desert region is known the production of henequen (sisal fiber). for its rugged surrounding mountains and cactus, beautiful During the 17th and 18th centuries, many grand estates beach scenery and warm waters, ideal for nautical activities were constructed and are magnificent examples of Spanish such as canoeing, sailing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also colonial architecture. Constructed with white limestone walls enjoy relaxing on Algodones Beach (Cotton Beach) and white paint, these structures earned Merida the characterized by white sand dunes, coves and beach resorts. nickname, 'White City.' Carefully preserved today, some of The area is also known for the first modern cultured pearl these buildings still line the city streets and have been farms in the Americas. transformed into banks and office buildings. Visitors can also experience Merida’s colonial past at the Central Plaza’s Uxmal Cathedral and the historic Paseo de Montejo, modeled after Situated in the Mexican state of Yucatan and southwest of the Champs Elysees in Paris. Merida, Uxmal is an impressive archaeological site in the Puuc hills and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site Playa del Carmen in 1996. Uxmal means 'built three times,' and is considered Population 100,383 Elevation 49 ft (15 m) one of the best restored and maintained Maya sites due to Situated on the coast of the Mexican state of Quintana the quality of its original construction. Once a great religious Roo and south of the Maya site of Tulum and Sian Ka’an center, the site’s original carvings indicate that its priests had biosphere reserve, Playa del Carmen is characterized as a a significant interest in astrology. The House of the Magician relaxing beach escape, an alternative from the more bustling is considered one of Uxmals’ most impressive structures. Cancun. Once a sleepy seaside village, 'Playa' as the locals According to ancient legend, this 100-foot-tall pyramid was call it, has been discovered by travelers drawn to its beautiful built in just one night. Also impressive is The Governor’s Caribbean beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for scuba- Palace and its spectacular examples of stone carvings diving, snorkeling and a variety of other aquatic activities. depicting astrological symbols. Visitors can also experience Visitors also enjoy shopping on Playa del Carmen’s Fifth the magic of Uxmal at night when a light and sound show Avenue lined with shops and vendors selling jewelry and illuminates the ruins. local handicrafts. There are many quaint restaurants and cafes in Playa del Carmen which are perfect for sampling Yucatan cuisine.

Note: The information provided in this document is intended to give a general overview of the destinations you will visit. Information provided is subject to change without notice and is dependent on a variety of factors. USA, Canada & Mexico USA, Canada & Mexico USA, Canada & Mexico USA, Canada & Mexico

Big Sur Coastline, California