mercredi 9 avril 2014

Plan An Affordable North Dakota Vacation

By Anita Ortega


Although the words 'North Dakota' probably don't spring instantly to mind when you think 'vacation destination', maybe they should. This large state has so many attractions that you and your family could spend years exploring it in two-week spurts. In addition, the cost of spending time in ND is surprisingly affordable, so maybe it's time to plan a North Dakota vacation.

What most of us know about this northwestern state could be put on a postcard: on the front, the Badlands, and on the back, a note from Johnny who's working in the oil fields. This huge state has so much more to offer visitors. ND has more wildlife refuges than any other state. There's great fishing year-round, excellent golf courses, and spectacular skiing. The past is easy to picture as you walk through Knife River Indian Villages historic site or wander around a ghost town.

ND cities have all the shopping, dining, urban downtown tourist areas, and nightlife that you could want. The Dakota Zoo in the capital city of Bismark is always a treat. Many shops feature authentic North American handicrafts; some great gift shops are connected with the casinos. Whether you are traveling for pleasure or with a business group, you should make an effort to see the urban sights.

If you are into scenery, almost nothing beats the Badlands. The barrens were a barrier to travelers, who gave it its name in many different languages. The tall, wind-tortured peaks and dramatic gorges are absolutely breathtaking in more ways than one; it's a real thrill driving through them, and the scenic overlooks give unforgettable vistas of the multicolored rocks. Hiking the trails and visiting the ghost towns will really give you a feel for the topography.

Another draw for photographers is the wildlife which is all around. ND is on the Central Flyway, and its wetlands in the central part of the state attract millions of birds. June is the best month for birdwatchers to catch them in full mating plumage. There are blinds in some refuges to get watchers up close, as well as specially-marked drives and hiking trails.

Many tourists rent a cabin for their stay. You can also stay at a resort lodge, where the emphasis is on comfortable rusticity, or you can find a more conventional motel. There are camping sites in the national and state parks, if you really want to rough it. Hiking, cycling, hunting, fishing year round, canoeing, kayaking, and fossil hunts are popular daytime activities.

There are attractively-priced vacation packages, especially good if you haven't visited this area before. They include accommodations and some meals, as well as access to major attractions and activities. Even golf is affordable in this state.

If you've done the cruise ships and the beaches and want a change of pace, consider heading to ND, where the wild west is still to be found, history is close enough to touch, and you can have all the modern conveniences anytime you want. The 39th (or maybe 40th;the records are not clear) state is a wonderful destination.




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