The first list of A-Z Destinations took us to “L” – Lancaster and Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It might surprise you to find that other Amish groups have also settled in or spread to Alabama, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Maryland, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Maine, and Ontario, Canada.

Amish Mennonites, descendents of the Swiss, began moving to Pennsylvania in the 18th century and settled mainly in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

Their practices reject pride, arrogance, and haughtiness while placing value on humility and “Gelassenheit” – calmness and composure.

Horse and buggys on main streets, Amish handmade furniture and fresh produce – and usually in a beautiful and rural setting. All things “good” to recommend for a country vacation destination – with a disclaimer or two.

I grew up in Southern Maryland which has a fairly large Amish population. Although the Amish are a generally kind and friendly people – they do not care for overly forward approaches from strangers. Their purpose in life is also not to provide a side-show for gawkers. Chances are, while you are enjoying your Amish Country break, they are simply going about their daily activities in the clothes they normally wear and by the transportation they normally use.

So while observing and appreciating the differences in the Amish culture, please be considerate.

Also, when traveling through an area known for its Amish population please remember that many Amish travel not only in horse-drawn buggys, but by bicycle. Use caution and keep an eye out for cyclists and PLEASE do not traumatize the horses by blowing your car’s horn or by cutting sharply in front of a horse-drawn carriage. Remember there are families – often with infants and small children, riding inside.

Here are some State links to get you started planning your Amish Country vacation:

- Amish Country Bike Tour – Delaware
– Illinois
– Indiana
- Kentucky
- Farmer’s Market - Easton, Maryland
– Ohio
– Pennsylvania
-Tennessee

Further info:
Great resource for all things Amish
State Guide to Amish Settlements

In a “faster-faster” world we live in, a trip to Amish Country can be a nice way to make a planned effort at a slower and more relaxing vacation.

There has long been a debate about the relative merits of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Each city has a proud history and plenty to offer its inhabitants and visitors. So which is better? Both cities have their upsides and downsides, making it difficult to establish the answer to the question.

Size and Population

Glasgow with over a million inhabitants is a much larger city than Edinburgh, which has a more modest population of 500,000. Glasgow has much more of an industrial past than Edinburgh, so the population is more traditionally working class than Edinburgh, which has a very middle-class demographic. Many of Glasgow’s industries have now closed down, although there is still some ship building on the Clyde and the local economy now mainly comprises service industries. Edinburgh’s economy is largely financial, although tourism is also very important. Edinburgh also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Scotland. Glasgow is a larger city and has a more working-class profile, as well as suffering from more unemployment and this means that there are more deprived areas than in Edinburgh.

Culture and Nightlife

Edinburgh and Glasgow offer a wide range of cultural activities, with both having excellent museums. Glasgow is the home to Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet, while Edinburgh is the host of the renowned annual festival, which attracts visitors from around the world. This means that hotels in Edinburgh city centre can be almost impossible to find during the month of August. Visitors should try to avoid this period if they are not interested in the festival. If they do want to travel to Edinburgh at this time, they should make sure to book well in advance. In terms of nightlife, Glasgow has a reputation of being trendier, with better bars and clubs. There are good restaurants in both cities.

Shopping and Architecture

In terms of shopping, Glasgow wins hands down. It has a far wider range of shops, from designer outlets such as Versace to well-known high-street brands. Many Edinburgh residents will make the journey to Glasgow to do their shopping.

In terms of their architecture, Edinburgh is a very attractive city with lovely old buildings, while Glasgow also has some very impressive old buildings but with much more in-filling with modern structures. Both cities have plenty of green spaces.

Tourism

Edinburgh can sometimes feel as if it is a city entirely populated by tourists, particularly during the summer months. It is the second-most popular tourist destination in the UK after London. However, Glasgow is the third-most popular so it also counts as an attractive tourist destination. As it is a much bigger city, visitors don’t dominate in quite the same way as in Edinburgh.

Infrastructure

Both cities have an airport and good bus and taxi services. Glasgow has the added advantage of having a subway, which can make it easier to get around. Both have good rail and road networks.

In truth, the city you prefer will depend on your interests and preferences. Edinburgh is a more classical city, where life is lived at a slightly sedate pace. Glasgow is a more modern, vibrant city with a younger, urban feel.

I was curious to find out what’s happening with State Fairs around the country. Unfortunately, some states have been revenue-impaired and in 2011 actually cancelled their State Fair for the year. This is really a shame and for tourism, a real tragedy. What better way to introduce your state and all it has to offer to so many people than through your state’s fair each year.

Some info was either not available, or not available yet, or the dreaded “TBD” – to be determined. I’ll update as/when I find.

Good news for those living or traveling in Florida… the Florida State Fair kicks off the season in Tampa starting February 9 and runs through February 20, 2012!

Alabama: August 24th – September 3rd, 2012

Alaska: August 23rd – September 3, 2012

Arizona: October 12 – November 4, 2012

Arkansas: October 12 – October 21, 2012

California: July 12 – July 29, 2012

Colorado: August 24 – September 3, 2012

Connecticut: None
State Agricultural Fairs Listings

Delaware: July 19 – July 28, 2012

Florida: February 9 – February 20, 2012

Georgia:
North – September 20 – September 30, 2012
Georgia National Fair – October 4 – October 14, 2012

Hawaii: Early August (TBA)

Idaho:
Western: August 16 – August 26, 2012
Eastern: September 1 – September 8, 2012

Illinois: August 9 – August 19, 2012

Indiana: August 3 – August 19, 2012

Iowa: August 9 – August 29, 2012

Kansas: September 7 – September 16, 2012

Kentucky: August 16 – August 26, 2012

Lousiana: October 25 – November 11, 2012

Maine: July 27 – August 5, 2012

Maryland: August 24 – September 3, 2012

Massachusetts: September 14 – September 30, 2012

Michigan: August 13 – August 19, 2012

Minnesota: TBA

Missouri: August 9 – August 19, 2012

Montana: July 17 – August 4, 2012

Nebraska: August 24 – September 3, 2012

Nevada: TBD/TBA

New Hampshire: No “State” Fair listed, but…
Hopkinton State Fair (NH): August 30 – September 3, 2012

New Jersey: August 3 – August 12, 2012

New Mexico: TBA

New York: August 23 – September 3, 2012

North Carolina: October 11 – October 21, 2012

North Dakota: July 20 – July 28, 2012

Ohio: July 25 – August 5, 2012

Oklahoma: September 13 – September 23, 2012

Oregon: August 24 – September 3, 2012

Pennsylvania: TBA
County Fair Listings

Rhode Island: August 15 – August 19, 2012
Washington County

South Carolina: October 10 – October 21, 2012

South Dakota: August 30 – September 3, 2012

Tennessee: TBA

Texas: September 28 – October 21, 2012

Utah: TBA

Vermont: August 31 – September 9, 2012

Virginia: September 27 – October 7, 2012

Washington: August – Dates to be announced

West Virginia: August 10 – August 18, 2012

Wisconsin: August 2 – August 12, 2012

Wyoming: August 11 – August 18, 2012

I’ve linked each State to the best site I could find for State Fair info….

Happy Planning 2012…

This 5 bedroom Historic Mackinac Island Michigan Cottage is located in one of Michigan’s premier vacation spots. Built in 1891, its location high on the East Bluff overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, harbor, town, and Mackinac Bridge provide some of the most spectacular views on the island. The house has been updated over the years, but it truly retains most of its turn-of-the-century charm.

The house sleeps 10 in 5 bedrooms with 2 stories and over 2200 square feet of room to move. It features a large living room and adjacent den and dining room, making it open and roomy for large groups. The large, deep porch has great old wood porch furniture to relax in, and enjoy the spectacular view. The majority of the first floor has walls and ceiling of narrow heart of pine bead board. This is virtually unchanged since the house was built. It’ll remind you of the cozy cottage your grandparents might have had!

Note: This was also the very scenic location for one of my favorite films of all time…”Somewhere in Time” with Jane Seymour and the late Christopher Reeve.

Option #2 is a 7 bedroom historic home near beach and village and is located in Barnstaple, Massachusetts.

Location, location, location…

Built in 1754 and formerly a stagecoach stop for the Cape, this vacation rental offers privacy on 3 acres plus is just 7/10th of a mile to the ocean and swimming. It is within walking distance to the Village of Barnstable and the restaurants, shops, village variety store and performing arts theater. The harbor boast wonderful views of Sandy Neck island. This harbor also has a large whale watch boat that leaves frequently for daily trips and deep sea fishing boats that can be rented out.

This house is about 2 miles to Hyannis center and all the malls, theaters, restaurants and ships to the Vineyard and Nantucket Islands. Within easy day trips there are many museums, historic sites, bike trails, ghost tours, and all forms of water sports.

And a top choice for nature lovers…

In Sebastian, Florida, this 1909 5 bedroom Historic Waterfront Home provides an unobstructed view over the Indian River. Wildlife and nature lovers will watch dolphins play, manatees swim, and some incredible bird life fly by while sipping a cool beverage. Witness the very rare and seasonal White Pelicans who frequently live on the neighboring docks. You’ll also see many of Florida’s protected and endangered wildlife such as the Florida Osprey, Sandhill Cranes, Wood Storks and Snowy Egrets.

The entire house has it’s original hard wood floors, walls and high ceilings. Three bedrooms with river views and two baths are upstairs including the master which has it’s own in-suite bath. There’s another balcony on the second floor for even better views of the river. The main level has one bedroom, one bath, two living rooms, an office and a large dine-in kitchen which has recently been upgraded with all modern appliances and is fully stocked with everything you could possibly need.

The wrap around porch on the kitchen overlooks the large 20X40 pool, hot tub (winter only) and a seeded pond. Pool area includes a large stainless steel gas BBQ, table for 8, chairs, loungers, and umbrellas. On-site is a grass volleyball court and basketball backboard. This property just keeps on giving and just one hour from Orlando’s airport!

This 5 bedroom, “Southern Comfort” Beach House is a Mediterranean-style house with a gorgeous pool and waterfall set in a tropical landscape, ocean views from the balcony, and a charming self-contained in-law suite!

Just indoors from the pool area is the open-plan living room and dining area. One entire wall of the living room opens up to the outside, so you can merge the two areas. Featuring hardwood floors, ultra-comfortable sofas, and a TV with VCR and DVD player, the living room is the perfect place to unwind after a long day at the beach or sightseeing in historic St. Augustine, just minutes away.

For those needing less space, take a look at this 2 bedroom Beach-Front Condo.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea from several rooms in this oceanfront luxury condo. Beautifully appointed, immaculately maintained, and perfectly situated on one of northeast Florida’s best beaches, it’s the ideal sun-and-surf getaway!

This open-plan and spacious 2-story condo is set just beyond the lovely natural sand dunes of Crescent Beach, where sea and shore birds sail past and the sunrise puts on a private show for you every morning. The Intracoastal Waterway is not far in the opposite direction, so if you like, you can not only enjoy dawn breaking each morning, but also catch the sunset each evening!

It’s not fair for me to have all the fun! There are 63 more vacation rental properties available – in price ranges from $70 per night to $1250 per night. Something here for every vacation budget!

And if you can’t find your perfect “pad” there…

This 5 bedroom Lake House Log Home offers over 8,000 square feet of living space. Set on 160 acres, this private lakefront setting offers a private dock, paddle boat, kayak, canoe, sauna, hot-tub, game room, fishing, and nature all around for your Summer 2012 vacation.

During the winter months still remaining this season, consider a getaway that is perfect for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, sledding, ice-skating on pond, skiing 30 min. away (Shawnee Peak.) Stay cozy by the fire or hop in the hot-tub at this Otisfield, Maine vacation rental.

For accommodation at one of the America’s most favorite destinations, consider this vacation rental option – a 5 bedroom Nashville Area Luxury Log Home on 18 Acres.

Nestled in the gently rolling hills of Williamson County Tennessee just minutes from Leipers Fork, the winding country roads leading to this secluded estate are picture-postcard perfect. No wonder so many celebrities call this unique part of the Nashville area home!

The close proximity to Nashville’s legendary Music Row also makes it the perfect temporary residence for recording artists and entertainment professionals looking for a little peace and quiet during their Nashville stay. The pastoral setting also makes Lyric Springs Retreat House perfect for events, retreats, family reunions or weddings.

Perfect for skiers, hikers and nature-lovers…

How about a 3 bedroom Log Cabin in the Virginia Mountains? Along with being in close proximity to Washington, DC, this cabin is newly built and spacious! Natural pine plank walls throughout, hardwood floors, beamed cathedral ceilings and loads of windows will afford breathtaking views for any season. Escape the stress of the city – for a long weekend or a whole week!

This, all within the desirable “kettle” of Massanutten Mountain’s Four Season Resort. Enjoy the features of rustic log cabin living, with modern amenities. Surf the internet or kick back and enjoy the HDTV Surround Sound experience.

Massanutten has hiking and biking trails, fishing nearby, a skate park and a canoe and kayak service. Rentals are available for mountain bikes and skates. Horseback riding is available nearby. A brand new full scale outdoor/indoor water park is now open. During the summer the recreation department offers outdoor volleyball games and softball games for adults and children. Organized kickball, wiffle ball games and other games are offered for the children. During winter, you can ski, snowboard or tube the slopes.

It’s about time to make another “trip” through the alphabet with some fantastic and not always well publicized country vacation destinations. You can find the current “A to Z” list right here.

Any readers who’ve had a great destination experience and who are willing to make any input or recommendations are welcomed to submit their ideas.

Travel guest posts are also welcomed – just pick a letter and send me an email…

In the meantime you can research:

+ Nearly 200 vacation rental options.

+ Find out more about the travels of US Presidents.

+ Or select an extraordinary UK vacation cottage.

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about hotels in United States

TripAdvisor is a leading vacation rental website featuring the world’s largest collection of authentic vacation rental guest reviews. TripAdvisor currently has more than 100,000 vacation rental properties around the world, which offer travelers great value along with the space, privacy and amenities of home.

A great place to start your 2012 vacation research!

Read some thoughts on the vacation home versus hotel options…

“Where was the movie, “War Horse” filmed?

Not only can we answer the question again, but we’ve also found you a perfect vacation rental from which to enjoy the same beautiful countryside! The UK Vacation Cottage of the Month for January is Owl’s Roost – at the edge of Dartmoor National Park.

Owls’ Roost, Tavistock

For a one bedroom one bath cottage, Owl’s Roost packs a lot of amenities in a quaint package. This character barn conversion has exposed beamed ceilings, a luxury bath with separate shower, fresh flowers, tea, and complimentary wine on arrival – and when available (hens willing!), fresh and very local eggs!

The large one bedroom is spacious and boasts a King-sized pine bed – clean linens are also provided.

The luxury bath will give you a great place to unwind after your walks or cycle rides on historic and scenic Dartmoor.

The living room has a large TV along with a DVD player and a CD/radio system. Relax next to the wood stove and review the provided maps and guidebooks of the local area. Free WiFi is available for your convenience.

And it gets even better!

One of your hosts is a fully qualified therapist in Reflexology, Holistic Massage, Healing/Reiki, and Bowen so why not enjoy a relaxing, rejuvenating treatment during your stay? Plan a long holiday at Owl’s Roost cottage for an exclusive country resort experience!

The Owls’ Roost kitchen has everything you’ll need – along with complimentary teas and coffee. With laundry facilities on site – all you need to bring is yourself, a beach towel or two, and some comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. You’ll need those to take advantage of Owls’ Roost’s incredible and scenic location…

Where “Joey” likes to run…

Much of the filming of Steve Spielberg’s “War Horse” took place in and around Dartmoor National Park. Anyone who has seen the film could not possibly miss the natural beauty of this historic area of England.

Fortunately for reader’s of Country Vacations & Resorts, you can not only stay near the filming location, but you can also take a guided “War Horse” walking tour with your host Nick and his “best friend, ” Sky!

Also in easy walking distance, above Tavistock, and right off a adjoining bridlepath is Cox Tor – a 1,450 foot summit from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of your spot at Owl’s Roost and the surrounding countryside. You might even get to see some paragliders if the wind is just right!

So…a luxurious English cottage, countryside good enough to suit a perfectionist like Steven Spielberg, therapeutic treatments, complimentary “goodies,” and the beautiful beaches of Devon nearby…

What more could you ask for from a “accommodating” country vacation?

More from our “Cottage of the Month” series…

I noticed Valentine’s Day products are already in stores which will then be replaced with Easter basket displays followed quickly by July 4th party items – probably by 1 June! Normally I find this sales push quite annoying but for vacation planning – the earlier you start the better.


If you’re running short on ideas for your 2012 vacation, spending some time at http://www.trustedtours.com might help.

They can provide tickets to top US sightseeing tours, world class attractions, museums and other amazing things to do while on vacation. The selection is huge and includes over 500 products in 23 top city destinations including New York City, Boston, San Francisco, San Diego, Las Vegas, Key West, Miami, Chicago, Washington DC and more!

You can also get travel assistance with:

- Sightseeing Tours
- Helicopter Tours
- Whale Watching Excursions
- Airport Transfers
- Bicycle Tours and Rentals
- Dinner Theater Productions
- Rail Tours

If I had school-aged kids, I think I’d plop them in front of the Trusted Tours web site and let them propose some destination ideas for their own summer vacation!