American culture is diverse, baby-new, and ancient, depending upon where you travel. Head to the Southwest, and you’re in Santa Fe, an elegant Spanish pueblo founded in 1610. Go to San Francisco, gateway to California wine country, and you’re in a city that has attracted wild-eyed dreamers since 1776. (A familiar year, yes?) Old towns tumble down, new ones arise, and all are built by dreamers. Discover them.
You recall your grandmother’s family stories and decide to hit the road for Amish country. (The old schoolhouse feels faintly familiar.) Your mother grew up in Seattle, and she wants to see the house where she was born. Sadly, it’s now a frat house, but you have a terrific time exploring the San Juan Islands off Washington State. Go find your American roots—it’s an enlightening surprise!
Yes, America does have ancient civilizations. Alaska has been inhabited by the Aleutian Islanders for 3,000 years. The Arizona Hopi (they have a connection to Stonehenge) have lived here for 2,000 years as have the Acoma Puebloans in New Mexico. There are many more bands, and all are living records of ceremonies, magical thinking, medicinal herbs, and family traditions. You are invited to experience them.
The story of America is rich with heroes and scoundrels, and the geography of America shaped them. Quakers, Irish, Scots, and English were formed by the snow-drifts and red-gold leaves of autumn—also by the heat and Spanish moss of the South. Let’s look at those who were left behind in the first myth, and discover the women, emigrants, and gold-seekers that westered. Everyone, from yellow to black, from Mexican to Mormon, and more, are fascinations that make us want to howl our love for this diverse home, America.
America is a country of innovators and artists that have, and continue to, influence the global community. Imagine a space lab and observatories where you can track the stars. Exploratorium’s with hands-on experiments. International collections of musical instruments and costumes. Of course, local art scenes mirror the personality of every town, and there are extraordinary finds to bring home!
Wineries and rolling vineyards are a sumptuous pleasure. Breweries and Spirits are yours, too. Imagine harvesting the food for your meal. Catching a salmon in Alaska. Local cheeses that you won’t find at home. The eclectic nature of a down-home diner and good eats. Elegant and distinctive fare. Choosing travel based on what delights you might be your dream become reality.
