MAPS

INTRODUCTION

United States of America is the third largest country in the world in population and the fourth largest in area. China and India are the only countries with more people. Only Russia, Canada, and China have larger areas.

The United States covers the entire midsection of North America, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west. It also includes Alaska, in the northwest corner of North America; and Hawaii, far out in the Pacific. The United States is often called the U.S., U.S.A., or America.

Buoyed by victories in World Wars I and II and the end of the Cold War in 1991, the US remains the world's most powerful nation-state.

The economy is marked by steady growth, low unemployment, low inflation, and rapid advances in technology.

The biggest cloud over this affluent society is the distribution of gains—since 1975 most of the increase in national income has gone to the 20% of people at the top of the income ladder.

A Short BackgroundBritain's American colonies broke with the mother country in 1776 and were recognized as the new nation of the United States of America following the Treaty of Paris in 1783.During the 19th and 20th centuries, 37 new states were added to the original 13 as the nation expanded across the North American continent and acquired a number of overseas possessions. The two most traumatic experiences in the nation's history were the Civil War (1861-65) and the Great Depression of the 1930s. Buoyed by victories in World Wars I and II and the end of the Cold War in 1991, the US remains the world's most powerful nation-state. The economy is marked by steady growth, low unemployment and inflation, and rapid advances in

technology.

TOPOGRAPHY & CULTURE

GeographyCovering a large part of the North American continent, the United States of America shares borders with Canada, Mexico, the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Oceans, the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico.The State of Alaska, in the northwest corner of the continent, is separated from the rest of the country by Canada, and Hawaii lies in the central Pacific Ocean.One of the largest countries in the world, the USA has an enormous diversity of geographical features.

ClimateThe climate is mostly temperate, but tropical in Hawaii and Florida, arctic in Alaska, semiarid in the great plains west of the Mississippi River, and arid in the Great Basin of the southwest; low winter temperatures in the northwest are ameliorated occasionally in January and February by warm chinook winds from the eastern slopes of the Rocky

Mountains.

CultureToday American culture often sets the pace in modern style. For much of its early history, however, the United States was considered culturally provincial and its arts second-rate, especially in painting and literature, where European artists defined quality and form.American artists often took their cues from European literary salons and art schools, and cultured Americans traveled to Europe to become educated.

LOCAL LIFE

PeopleAt the end of the 20th century, the United States was a nation of 270,311,758 people (1998 estimate) living and working within an area of 9.6 million sq km (3.7 million sq mi). This population count makes the United States the third most populous country in the world, after China and India. Nearly 5 percent of the earth's inhabitants live in the United States. Historically, this nation has attracted vast numbers of immigrants from around the globe. Yet the United States remains less densely populated than other large countries or other industrialized nations-in 1998 there were 28 persons per sq km (73 per sq mi).

LanguageThe language spoken is English, with significant Spanish-speaking minorities.

United States of America -- Boston

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is located in the east of the state on Boston Bay at the mouth of the Charles River. Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States. It is the largest city in New England and Boston is a good base from which to explore the regions' other historic towns.

United States of America --Chicago

Chicago has been called a lot of things over the years. Carl Sandburg called it the "city of big shoulders," a tribute to the steelworkers and meat packers of earlier days. However, today many say it's an arts-lovers' city, with its ethnic fairs, renowned Art Institute and Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and more than 200 public sculptures by artists including Picasso, Miro and Chagall.

United States of America > Las VegasLas Vegas, or 'The Meadows' if translated in Spanish is located in the southern tip of Nevada. It is the largest city in Nevada and one of the major gambling and entertainment centers in the

world.

United States of America > Los AngelesLos Angeles, the second most populated city in the USA has also been called, as 'The New Eden', 'The New Jerusalem', 'The New Babylon' and 'Lotus Land'. The city experience tremendou move of history that it was called with such nicknames; from a boomtown to Tinseltown. The city has no shortage of opportunities to shove its best facets. Every New Year's day the Tournament of Roses Parade - marching bands, celebrities and 'flower- floats' make their way down the Pasadena's Colorado Blvd.

SIGHT SEEING

United States of America -- New YorkDynamic, crazy and mesmerising, New York City is the ultimate in urban cool. Considered by many to be the most exciting city on the planet, the gregarious metropolis that is New York exudes a unique brand of magic and a bold confidence - here everything is possible and anything can happen. Located in the southeastern corner of New York State, New York City comprises five distinct boroughs: Manhattan, The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island.New York evokes a whole gamut of emotions but boredom is certainly not one of them. The city is packed with things to do and places to see and each street and neighbourhood can offer a different sight and flavour although most tourist sites are found on Manhattan Island.

United States of America > San FranciscoWelcome to San Francisco, one of the country's most attractive cities, San Francisco, the hilly city is blessed with gorgeous views of the San Francisco Bay and the most famous bridge. The North Beach is sandwiched between Chinatown and Fisherman's Wharf. It's a lively stretch of strip joints, bars, cafes and restaurants that started as the city's Italian quarter and gave birth to the Beats in the 1950's.Down the steep eastern face of the Telegraph hill, is the Coit Tower. One of the city's most famous landmarks, the tower is a prime spot to let loose your postcard-vista voyeurism. The 360° views from here are superb.The compact Castro, to the southeast, is the gay center of San Francisco and one of the best neighborhoods for strolling and watching the streetlife.A decent place for relaxation, Golden Gate Park stretches almost halfway across the wide peninsula, from the Pacific Ocean to the Haight's Panhandle - a multi-purpose destination for everyone. Ranging from gardens lakes to museums and an aquarium.

United States of America > WashingtonThe nation's proud and stately capital, Washington stands on the shores of the Potomac River in the District of Columbia, an administrative region between Maryland and Virginia created specifically to avoid having the capital city in any one state. Get to know the history of American at the Constitution Gardens which feature two war memorials. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial consists of sombre black granite walls inscribed with the names of the Americans who lost in the conflict. The vivid Korean War Veterans Memorial features a sculptured column of 19 footsoldiers.Or, you may like to widen your knowledge of American, a wealth of Americana is on display at the National Museum of American History, a must for lovers of kitsch as well as history buffs.

Disneyland

Disneyland is divided into eight themed areas inside the park. Main Street USA, Fantasy Land, Adventure LAnd, New Orleans Square, Frontire Land, Mickey's TownToon, Critter Country, and TommorowLand. Located at:Southern California, in the city of Anaheim. Anaheim is approximately 27 miles from Downtown Los Angeles. It can be accessed from many local freeways. The only practical way to get to Disneyland is by road (Anaheim is not serviced by trains, and most buses just run on local routes.)

Paramount StudiosThe only major classic studio still located in Hollywood, stands rich in history and tradition while continuing to set the standard for global entertainment. Tour of the Paramount Studios is a guided, 2 hour, historical and informational look behind-the-scenes of a major motion picture and television facility in its day-to-day operation.

Movieland Wax Museum Movieland is located in Buena Park, California. Movieland features over 280 famous stars in authentic sets with thrilling props and costumes, and also the history of entertainment, from the film's earliest stars to television's latest celebrities. Movieland Wax Museum defies the dusty image of a museum by exhibiting more than 300 of the most recognized celebrities in over 150 expertly crafted sets which span over 75 years of exciting movies and

television history.

Museum of Neon Art

The museum is located, downtown Los Angeles. The Museum of Neon Art (MONA) is a non-profit, cultural and educational organization which exhibits, documents and preserves contemporary fine art in electric media and outstanding examples of neon signs. Founded in 1981, MONA is the only permanent institution of its kind in the world.

Butterfly Conservatory

Walk among more than 1,000 brilliant butterflies in free-flight, representing more than 50 species from around the world. Specimens flourish amid a rain forest of lush tropical foliage, waterfalls and exotic birds. The only glass-enclosed butterfly exhibit in Florida, it also features hatching display cases demonstrating various metamorphosis stages.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

This is one of many roller coasters in this city. Exhilarating, comfortable and adventurous, the ride will definitely leave you breathless. The trip up the hill, seems to go on forever, but actually the ride lasts only about three minutes. The coaster has a good mix of elements, including vertical loops, hills, and barrel rolls. Take a ride in this wondrous ride.

SeaWorld California

Get to feed the dolphins, bathe with Shamu- the dolphin, see the world of sharks, get frosty with the penguins, experience an adrenaline rush on roler coaster rides or live under the sea. It's a true experience of encountering with the sea creatures. SeaWorld California is located at SeaWorld Drive, San Diego California.

Rock Springs State Reserve

Rock Springs Run State Reserve is approximately 14,000 acres of a variety of plant communities typically found throughout central Florida's landscape. The property was purchased in March 1983 for habitat preservation, for watershed protection and to provide recreational opportunities in the central

Florida area. St. George Island State Park Occupying 1,962 acres at the end of a long, narrow barrier

island, St. George is a combination of sandy coves, salt marshes, shady pines and oak forests.The natural features of the park includes extensive beaches and dunes, forests of slash pines and live oak hammocks. The ocean and bay support an abundance of marine life, while small freshwater ponds and sloughs provides a limited aquatic habitat. The waters of this area are some of the most productive commercial and sport fisheries in Florida, with a thriving oyster industry at the mouth of the Apalachicola River.

Metrozoo

MetrozooOne of the world's great zoos is right here in Miami-Dade County. Metrozoo houses more than 700 wild animals in a cageless environment. Large, open-air exhibits provides the ideal setting in which visitors can experience some of the world's most beautiful and endangered wildlife. To educate and entertain the public, Metrozoo has two informative shows, the Ecology Theater, which focuses on Florida's native animals, and the Wildlife Show, which spotlights a variety of birds, reptiles and mammals.

National Aquarium

The nation's first public aquarium. The 70 tanks house sea turtles, American alligators, sharks, piranha and 1,200 other specimens of marine life. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Christmas day. Located at:US Dept. Commerce Bldg. #B-07714th & Constitution Ave. NWWashington, DC 20230Phone: (202) 482-2826Fax: (202) 482-4946

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

The domed memorial overlooking the Tidal Basin houses a Rudolph Evans bronze statue of Jefferson and inscribed writings of the founding father on the domes interior. Open daily. Located in Washington.

The Alaska ZooThis is the safest and most convenient way to see a vast collection of Alaskan critters - including bears, birds, moose, fox, river otters, harbor seals, sheep and many others. Two of the zoo's not-so-Alaskan residents include three Siberian tigers and Maggie, the harmonica-playing elephant. Tel:346-3242.

Sea World

This spectacular theme park is divided into several catogaries, they are Wild Artic, Adventure Show, Discovery Cove, Terrors of the Deep, Pacific Point Preserve, Sea World Animal, Sea World Night Magic and others. Also adding breathtaking lasers, fireworks and a thrilling musical score. Located in Orlando, Florida. Sea World opens at 9,00 a.m., 365 days a year, closing time may vary by season. Call (407)351-3600 for specific daily information.

Water Mania

Water Mania is Florida's water theme park, situated in Kissimmee, Florida. The park provides a refreshing experience in the warm heat of Florida sunshine. The newest attraction is Barnacle Bob's Bumper Boats, designed for the little ones, aslo Mr. Kool's Partyland, a colorful gazebo with decorations and picnic tables. Other attraction are The Anaconda, The Abyss, Cruising Creek, Bumper Boats, The Rain Forest, The Screamer and the Double Berzerker. The park is an alcohol free park.

The Statue of Liberty

Location: Located in New York City, the monument consists of two small islands, Liberty Island and Ellis Island, that lie in the Upper New York Bay.The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island.Ellis Island was once the location where most immigrants entered the United States. The Statue of Liberty is a monumental sculpture that symbolizes freedom throughout the world. Its formal name is Liberty Enlightening the World.

Description:The statue depicts a woman escaping the chains of tyranny, which lie at her feet. Her right hand holds aloft a burning torch that represents liberty. Her left hand holds a tablet inscribed with the date “July 4, 1776” (in Roman numerals), the day the United States declared its independence. She is wearing flowing robes and the seven rays of her spiked crown symbolize the

seven seas and continents.

Height:

The Height: e Statue of Liberty is 46 m (151 ft) high. Its base and pedestal increase the height of the monument to 93 m (305 ft).

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Disney MarketplaceLocated in the heart of Downtown Disney, on the Buena Vista Drive. The Disney Marketplace hosts unique, diverse shops and restaurants, in a pleasant waterfront setting. Water taxis ride is available for Disney resort guests to and from the nearby Disney hotel properties. It's an ideal place to shop for Disney soveniers, just in case you missed shopping in the Walt Disney World.

Located at:Buena Vista Drive, Lake BuenaVista, FL 32830(Downtown Disney)

SHOPPING

Alcatraz Cafe and GrillAlcatraz Cafe and Grill is all about burgers, ribs and sandwiches. With a historic decorations enhanced by special displayed artwork set in dim lights, is definately great for groups, private parties, anniversaries and other romantic evenings. If weather permits, enjoy outdoor seating.The restaurant is easy and relaxed. You'll be able to take in the ocean view from many seats within this restaurant.Location:39 Pier San Francisco,California 94133-1006Ph: +1415.434.1818Hours: Daily 11:00am-9:00pm 

29 Newbury StreetOffering patrons a new American cuisine, this casual restaurant has an urban/art deco décor enhanced by contemporary artwork. This restaurant attracts an artist crowd. Also, 29 Newbury Street is great for groups, anniversaries and other romantic evenings.Open for lunch and dinner, with early Sunday brunches. A full selection of alcoholic beverages are served at the seated bar. Location:29 Newbury StreetBoston, Massachusetts 02116-3105Ph: +1617.536.0290Hours:Mon thru Sat: 11:30am to 11pm Sun: 11:30am to 10pm

EATING OUT

Taconic Golf ClubTucked into the extreme northwest corner of Massachusetts, Taconic Golf Club is operated by Williams College but is open to the public. Located at:Taconic Golf ClubWilliams CollegeWilliamstown, MassachusettsTel: +1 413 458 9669Yosemite Cross-Country SkiingCross-Country Skiing Yosemite claims some of the worlds finest Cross-Country skiing, with 350 miles of skiable trails and roads. Most cross-country skiing in the National Park occurs at Badger Pass on the 90 miles of marked trails, which begin from the ski area. 35 km (23 miles) of machine groomed track and skating lanes travel from Badger Pass to Glacier Point and to the Clark Range Vista. Numerous other trails lead to such scenic destinations as: Dewey Point, Washburn point and Ostrander Lake. Instruction and rentals are available at the Yosemite Cross-country School adjacent to the Badger Pass Day Lodge. Ski trail maps and topograghic maps can be purchased at park visitor centers. Cross-country ski school information contact:Tel:+1 209 372 1244.Downhill ski school and conditions contact:Tel: +1 209 372 1000.

RECREATION

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Getting AroundBy Air: Given that it is such a huge country, domestic air travel is a popular means of going anywhere within the US. You can fly the width of the country, from east to west, in five hours and from north to south in two. Every major city has an airport and the fares are low, a result of stiff competition between the huge number of domestic airlines. Night flights are generally cheaper and there are always discounts available for the visitor, so you could do well by checking out what’s on offer. Having said that, fares can be expensive for the less popular routes. By Rail: Traveling by train in the US can be surprisingly impractical and not always comfortable. Ticket prices vary in value, but the earlier you make a reservation, the cheaper the ticket. Almost all the long-distance trains are operated by Amtrak (National Railroad Passenger Corporation), though suburban and some medium-distance services are run by local agencies. Although the US rail network has more than 300,000km (186,410 miles) of track, passenger trains run over only a small part of the system. Outside the densely populated northeast, trains run once-daily over a handful of long-distance routes. By Coach: Greyhound is the main national coach carrier and covers the whole of the USA. It has an extensive and efficient bus network, and its service is supplemented by over 11,000 other tour lines, covering the country with reasonably priced and regular services. Air-conditioning, toilets and reclining seats are available on intercity routes. Facilities for left luggage and food are at hand, usually 24 hours a day. Once disembarked at a bus terminal, passengers are not permitted to wait there overnight for an onward bus (ie no sleeping in the terminal). By Road: Every one in two persons in America can drive a car. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road and the speed limit is usually 55mph (89kph) on motorways, but varies from State to State. Although there are huge distances between cities, the country’s excellent network of motorways reach almost every town, with plenty of amenities along the way, is ideal for cross-country driving.

TRANSPORTATION

Railways: total:  225,750 km mainline routes

standard gauge:  225,750 km 1.435-m gauge (1999)

Highways: total:  6,370,031 km paved:  5,733,028 km (including 74,091 km of expressways) unpaved:  637,003 km (1997)

Waterways: 41,009 km note:  navigable inland channels, exclusive of the Great Lakes

Pipelines: Petroleum products 276,000 km; natural gas 331,000 km (1991)

Ports and harbors: Anchorage, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Chicago, Duluth, Hampton Roads, Honolulu, Houston, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, Port Canaveral, Portland (Oregon), Prudhoe Bay, San Francisco, Savannah, Seattle, Tampa, Toledo

Merchant marine: total:  376 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 10,814,622 GRT/14,416,517 DWT

ships by type:  barge carrier 9, bulk 68, cargo 29, chemical tanker 13, combination bulk 3, container 80, liquefied gas 1, multi-functional large-load carrier 3, passenger 9, passenger/cargo 1, petroleum tanker 98, roll on/roll off 49, short-sea passenger 3, specialized tanker 1, vehicle carrier 9 (2000 est.)

Airports: 14,720 (2000 est.)

Airports - with paved runways:total:  5,174 over 3,047 m:  182 2,438 to 3,047 m:  220 1,524 to 2,437 m:  1,331 914 to 1,523 m:  2,440 under 914 m:  1,001 (2000 est.)

Airports - with unpaved runways: total:  9,546 over 3,047 m:  3 2,438 to 3,047 m:  6 1,524 to 2,437 m:  164 914 to 1,523 m:  1,675 under 914 m:  7,698 (2000 est.)

Heliports: 131 (2000 est.)