Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
of the DelMarVa peninsula in one perfectly preserved ecosystem, is the highlight of the
sanctuary.
There are also five walking trails, two of which are accessible to travelers with disabil-
ities, as well as observation towers overlooking the entire affair. Across the water you
may see the lights and factories of New Jersey, an industrial yin to this area's wilderness
yang.
VIRGINIA
Beautiful Virginia is a state steeped in history. It's the birthplace of America, where Eng-
lish settlers established the first permanent colony in the New World in 1607. From there,
the Commonwealth of Virginia has played a lead role in nearly every major American
drama, from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars to the Civil Rights movement and
September 11, 2001.
Virginia's natural beauty is as diverse as its history and people. Chesapeake Bay and
the wide sandy beaches kiss the Atlantic Ocean. Pine forests, marshes and rolling green
hills form the soft curves of the central Piedmont region, while the rugged Appalachian
Mountains and stunning Shenandoah Valley line its back.
The nation's invisible line between North and South is drawn here, somewhere around
Richmond; you'll know it as soon as you hear the sweet southern drawl offering plates of
biscuits and Virginia ham. With something for everyone, it's easy to appreciate the state's
motto: 'Virginia is for Lovers.'
VIRGINIA FACTS
Nickname
Old Dominion
Population
8.2 million
Area
42,774 sq miles
Capital city
Richmond (population 205,000)
Other cities
Virginia Beach (population 447,000), Norfolk (population 245,800),
Chesapeake (population 228,400), Richmond (population 210,300), Newport
News (population) 180,700
Sales tax
5.3%
