5 Incredible American Adventures

The recession has inspired many travelers to stick closer to home. But that's not necessarily such a bad thing. North American travelers sticking closer to home aren't just using their vacation days to clean out their closets-they are discovering what generations of Germans, Dutch, Brazilians, French, and Japanese travelers know: North America is an exceptionally fine destination!

"Bicycling in Nantucket is as charming as bicycling in Provence," says Andy Alpine, co-founder of the magazine-directory Specialty Travel Index. "And an all-American deluxe dude ranch can be just as relaxing as a week at Club Med. It's easy to overlook the amazing in your own home country-but it can be a mistake. There are some remarkable travel experiences right here in North America."

While you can find whitewater trips in Costa Rica, African photo safaris, culinary tours of Italy, or yacht charters in the Aegean Sea, you can also find whitewater trips in California, Katmai bear excursions for photographers, culinary tours of New Orleans, and yacht charters in the San Juan Islands - right here in our own backyard!

Here's a look at just a few of the unique North American travel experiences:

Rafting the Grand Canyon

You've thought about it for years-and why not? The Colorado River trip through the Grand Canyon is the best-known rafting expedition in the world. For nearly 300 miles, the river flows freely through a mile-deep gorge of ever-changing views, revealing the history of the earth in its multi-colored layers of rock. The rapids are legendary, ranging from playful "riffles" to "big and splashy" to "absolute thrilling." Side canyon hiking and off-river exploration will take you to places where you can frolic in waterfalls, swim in turquoise pools, stand amazed upon scenic overlooks, or relish the cooling shade of hidden grottos. Maybe-finally-this is your year.
Colorado River and Trail Expeditions

Doing Good on Two Wheels

The majestic views and the incredible colors of the Red Rock country of the American Southwest are a perfect backdrop for a bike ride. You'll ride along rural roads with magnificent vistas, pristine air, and awesome scenery. You'll meet fascinating people that share your joy of riding and make lifetime friendships. And every ride that the non-profit organization Bike2Bike holds in the gorgeous Utah Red Rock Country supports a charitable cause.
Bike2Bike

Guided Hiking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire

Hike along an old railroad bed, beside a rushing mountain stream, to a misty 200 foot waterfall, to secluded swimming holes, and to lofty mountain peaks. Experience the famed Franconia Notch, "The Flume", Lonesome Lake, and the Franconia Ridge. Those looking for a challenge will find the breathtaking ridges of the White Mountains to be both rewarding and exciting. Those in search of gentler walking will find surprising grandeur along the lower trails. Carry only a day pack-your guides will carry most of your lunch items, and you'll sleep in lovely country inns. New England Hiking Holidays has mastered the artful blend of an active outdoor holiday on scenic trails-without giving up on life's little luxuries.
New England Hiking Holidays

Creole Culinary Adventures

Built in the late 1700's for a Spanish colonial diplomat, House on Bayou Road Inn welcomes guests with its West Indies Creole charm. The petite plantation is set on two lush acres and features inviting antique-filled rooms, a pool and hot tub, relaxing screened porches, and true Southern charm. This is the setting for one of New Orleans' most exciting cooking schools, featuring authentic Creole cooking and highly personalized hands-on classes. The teaching staff is composed of some of New Orleans' top chefs and food personalities. In one luxurious long weekend, you'll tour New Orleans, take two cooking classes (afterwards enjoying the fruits of your labors) and enjoy a three course dinner at Brigstens, considered one of the finest restaurants in New Orleans.
House on Bayou Road Inn andEpiculinary

Yacht Charter in the San Juan Islands

The island-studded waterways of the great Pacific Northwest are often overlooked -and they're one of the finest charter destinations of the world. There are so many coves and inlets that you will rarely have to share your anchorage with another yacht. You can set a crab trap, catch a salmon for dinner and anchor by a waterfall or stop for at one of the charming waterside towns, such as Forks, WA where much of the Twilight movies were filmed. Yachts can be chartered that hold anywhere from 6 to 36 passengers.
Interpac Yachts