For travelers, exotic locations and foreign cultures are among the draws for booking extended trips around the world. Closer to home, the United States provides some of the most diverse cultural and ecological destinations in the world, as well as a collection of historic sites, attractions and exotic locales.
Less than three hours from Miami, the Florida Keys provide a more peaceful tropical respite than other spots of the state. Visitors can choose from one of several islands, or do an island hopping tour by small plane or helicopter. Each island is surrounded by warm tropical beaches and houses some of Florida's finest hotels. Visitors of the islands have access to swimming and snorkeling, as well as deep sea fishing, scuba diving and an array of boating activities. For land lovers, golf, tennis, cycling and hiking are all readily available. A popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, there are several all-inclusive resorts which feature romance packages, as well as spa getaways and romantic restaurants.
Florida Keys Tourism
2140 S. Dixie Hwy.
Suite 203
Miami, Florida 33133
fla-keys.com
Located along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains provide some of the country's most popular natural tourist locations. Filled with hiking paths, waterfalls and historic sites, there is a little something for everyone. One of the largest protected areas in the eastern United States, visitors can observe an abundance of plants and animals, an estimated 90,000 species of which have yet to be documented. Black bears, elk and white-tailed deer are common. Several historic monuments and manmade sites can be found throughout the park. Nearby towns provide fine dining, lodging and shopping, as well as bike rental, guided tours and car rental.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Road
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865-436-1200 (visitor information recorded message)
nps.gov/grsm
Home to a wild and independent spirit and some of the most rugged land in the United States, Alaska is an ideal vacation for active travelers. Filled with opportunities for hiking, camping and boating, as well as more relaxed spas and hotels, there are several cities and remote locations to visit. Visitors to the area can arrange a variety of outdoor activities and tours, including several wildlife parks and boat trips. Eco-tourism has become popular in the area, increasing the opportunity for visitors to tour the natural beauty of the state while leaving little if any impact on the environment. Options include glacier hikes, dog sledding, kayaking and tours of the wilderness in bush planes.
Alaska Tourism
2600 Cordova Street, Ste. 201
Anchorage, AK 99503
800-478-1255
travelalaska.com
