As one of the western states Utah has a lot to offer with its colorful terrain, assortment of national parks and recreational activities. It boasts multihued mountains, plateaus and desserts as part of its landscape. Thousands of visitors are drawn to this state each year.

Utah, the 13th largest state in the country, was admitted to the union in 1896. Most of the state’s residents, known as Utahns, live in urban areas. Among these urban areas is the state’s capital and largest city, Salt Lake City. Utah, which means “People of the mountains,” is known for its religious and hardworking people hence the state’s motto “Industry.”

Activities

Each year Utah attract thousands of tourists looking to indulge in outdoor recreational activities. And Utah delivers just that. Among the outdoor activities are skiing, golfing, hunting, kayaking, fishing, whitewater rafting, houseboating, biking and hiking. Whatever you choose to do there’s an adventure waiting for you. For nature lovers the state offers a wide mountain terrain and beautiful scenery as most of the state’s land is uninhabited.

Museums

Utah is rich in history and culture as evident in the variety of heritage and art museums throughout the state. Many cities have museums that focus the state’s history, traditions, natural resources and art. Some of these museums include the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers Museum, John Hutchings Museum of Natural History, Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts, Fort Douglas Military Museum, Hellenic Cultural Museum, Museum of Utah Art & History, Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Springville Museum of Art, Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum and the John Wesley Powell River History Museum. Whatever your area of interest you’re sure to find a museum suited for your tastes.

Shopping

While outdoor activities are popular in Utah there are also plenty of places to shop. Those looking for shopping in Utah will find a variety of venues including quaint stores, specialty shops, malls and outlets. The state’s largest mall is the South Towne Center in Sandy, Utah.

Sports

Utah has all the competitive action sports enthusiasts need. Those in town for a basketball game can watch the Utah Jazz play at the EnergySolutions Arena in Salt Lake City. Football fans can watch the Utah Blaze, the state’s newest professional team. The state also has a professional soccer team, Real Salt Lake as well as a hockey team, the Utah Grizzlies. There two minor league baseball teams as well as a variety of college sports.

Accommodation

There are plenty of places to stay during a trip to Utah. In addition to the traditional hotel accommodations Utah offers lodging at charming bed & breakfasts. For those looking for destination lodging try campgrounds and ski resorts. Popular hotels in Utah include the Stein Eriksen Lodge, the Garden Cottage Bed And Breakfast, Marriott Salt Lake City Center and the Canyons Resort.

Transport

If you are looking for a way to get around and enjoy all that Utah has to offer there are a variety of travel methods to suit your needs. Options include renting a vehicle, using a private transit service or taking advantage of the state’s public transportation system.

While the past is prevalent, the future has never looked brighter for Montenegro. This small, pristine country lying between the shores of the Adriatic and the foothills of the Balkan Mountains has seen its fair share of invaders and conquerors. At one time or another Romans, Greeks, Celts, and Ottomans (just to name a few) have all laid claim to this small nation, and not until very recently, June 3, 2006 to be exact, did Montenegro finally become an internationally recognized, independent country. These days, the invaders are a friendlier, less hostile group, made up of Europeans, Americans, and other holiday-makers. And why not? Montenegro is booming. Cheap (but rising) prices and incredible real estate bargains, mixed with stunning architectural wonders and gorgeous natural scenery have brought Europeans out in droves looking for the newest hot spot.

Montenegro, with a population of roughly 600,000, and an area just a little more than half the size of Israel, still boasts enough natural diversity, that even in this tiny country, travelers will be sure that Montenegro is much larger that its actual size. From snow skiing in the Durmitor mountains (the highest peak, Bobotov Kuk, reaching an impressive 2522 meters) to the roughly 300 km of coastline, Montenegro is a year-round destination for fun in the winter snow or summer sun.

The beaches are particularly impressive as in many inlets and bays the mountains descend into the Adriatic in an impressive fashion, leaving the water crystal clear, and giving the beaches a Mediterranean feel. The following are where you can find a few of the better beaches, and some wonderful towns:

• Budva: Probably the most popular and metropolitan area along the coast, and boasts 17 lovely beaches. The city also has a beautifully preserved Old Town section full of narrow streets, historic monuments, and shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants.

• Petrovac: A small town near Budvar featuring many ancient historical artifacts, small museums, and the Fortress Kastelo, built in the 1500s by the Venetians. The beaches here are second to none. Rocky cliffs drop down into crystal turquoise water, and finding a private cove to dip into is quite easy.

• Kotor: This city is located at a gorgeous deep blue bay, and boasts incredible medieval architecture to go along with its idyllic beaches. In fact, the city was named a UNESCO World Natural and Historical Heritage Site for its cultural treasures. Kotor is an absolute must-see for any traveler to Montenegro.

• Herceg Novi: The closest thing the country has to the tropics. With its blooming mimosa trees, abundant greenery, and numerous sun-filled days, tourists will enjoy taking in the medieval fortresses, museums, and other architectural wonders the town has to offer. Here boats rock peacefully in the harbor, and fishermen bring their catches in at the end of the day. Just outside town are plenty of secluded beaches to enjoy the sunny weather.

Although the jet set has known about Montenegro for years—Sophia Loren and Richard Burton came here quite often in years past—the recent independence and tourism interest has finally put this small gem back in the public consciousness. Offering great views, palpable history, and a diverse natural setting, Montenegro should be a popular destination for years to come!