Vermont
From the first day of existence, Vermont has always had a major independent streak. The first state to outlaw slavery, Vermont actually refused to join other states in the formation of the United States. Eventually becoming the fourteenth state in the Union, Vermont maintains a strong independent streak with the first same sex marriage laws, the only socialist party Senator in Congress and laws severely limiting the use of billboard advertising. Overall, Vermont is a state where strong community values are expressed and privacy is appreciated.
Burlington
Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington is the biggest city in Vermont with a population of roughly 45,000. Located close to Montreal, Canada, the city has an odd, charming Canadian atmosphere, but with an interesting catch. The city is also the home to the University of Vermont, which carries with it a strong college influence. This mix gives the city a unique feel with development being restricted and walking spaces and parks favored over mass housing developments. As with all cities in the Northeast, the onset of fall turns Burlington in a city bursting with colors.
Stowe
Stowe is a small town in Vermont, but I have to mention it. Located in forested, rolling hills, Stowe is the single best place to watch the leaves turn in fall in the United States. To say there is a burst of color is to understate the situation completely. It is simply amazing, so much so that I recommend it for people keeping a list of 100 things they want to do in their life.
The town of Stowe is a classic, historic Northeastern location. The center of the town is a historic village and, frankly, the place you should try to live. Due to its location next to a major ski resort, the town has seen an explosion of condos and less interesting housing around the perimeter. Still, Stowe is definitely a place worth considering in the Northeast....read more about Vermont »
Smugglers' Notch
No smog, no pollution and an abundance of fun, isn't that what you want when you plan a vacation? Look no further than the majestic corner of Vermont known as Smugglers' Notch Area or, as the locals like to call it, "Smuggs."
Just driving along The Smugglers' Notch Scenic Highway (SR 108) and observing the misty light filtering through the trees is sufficient to beckon you to park your car and meander about. For nature lovers and artists this truly is a treasure. If there were such a place as heaven on earth, Smugglers would qualify.
A word of caution, however, don't let go of the steering wheel as you wind your way around the large boulders that protrude onto the narrow passageway. It can be hair-raising! Oh yes, I forgot to tell you, watch out for the ghosts of the past.
Legend tells us that the Notch derived its name as far back as the early 1800's, when President Thomas Jefferson prohibited trade with Britain. Vermonters were up in arms when they were told that trading with the British would no longer be tolerated. Their livelihood depended on importing silks and drugs from Montreal. What were they to do? Of course, smuggle and hide the contraband within the caves of the Notch. Apparently, many years later, during the era of prohibition, the Notch was used as a storage place for smuggled liquor.....read more>>
STOWE
Nestled between two mountain ranges is perhaps the most picturesque town in New England - Stowe. The draw and attraction for many to Stowe is Mount Mansfield, and the mountain dominates the landscape.
After the snow melts, families have an endless assortment of things to do on their Vermont vacations, including swimming, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, and scenic driving tours. Mount Mansfield itself provides hiking trails for the fit and energetic, or you can take in amazing views from your own car as you drive to the summit ridge on the historic toll road.....read more about Vermont »
Lake Champlain
The northern half of Lake Champlain contains a wonderful patchwork of Islands. The largest of the Islands are interconnected with each other and the Vermont mainland by Route 2 in the south and Route 78 in the north. Following Route 2 from south to north will take you through the picturesque towns of South Hero, Grand Isle, North Hero, and Alburg just a few miles from the Canadian border.
The Lake Champlain Islands’ terrain is flat to gentle rolling hills, which means bicycling is a popular way to get around on vacation. In most areas you’ll have unobstructed views of Vermont’s Green Mountains to the east, and New York’s Adirondacks to the west.
.....read more about Lake Champlain Vermont »
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