Online help

Last month The Guardian started a six-part series exploring the USA. I was very excited about it and will be looking out for it every month. I will be able to get fantastic travel tips and will certainly add it to my entries from now on. They will be "Note to self" entries so I won't forget it when I'm there.

There is an online contribution page for people who have been to where Jacob Steinberg is going. I will be dipping in and out for tips on where to stay, eat, visit etc. The website is https://witness.guardian.co.uk 

The Guardian website

West Virginia

Charleston

If you were born in the sixties like me you will probably remember the American series Daniel Boone. Charleston was featured in the series as it was home to the frontier hero who gave his name to the series. Charleston has changed a lot since then and is today the modern and sophisticated capital of West Virginia.

Daniel Boone TV series

The State Capitol, with its gleaming 23-karat gold dome and classic 20th-century architecture, is very impressive. Most of the city's major landmarks are located right around the Capitol, making it easy to see everything.

Charleston State Capitol

I was told that If you are into history and culture you will want to spend some time at the Cultural Centre, which includes a state museum, reference and archive libraries, a theatre and plays host to special events throughout the year.

The Cultural Centre

For those who prefer outdoor endeavours, more than a hundred miles of spectacular scenery await you on the Midland Trail scenic highway, also known as U.S. Route 60.

Midland Trail

Time permitting, I would like to check out the Kanawha Forest with more than 9,000 acres of exploration and recreation just south of town.

Kanawha Falls

Initially we would only go to Charleston on our way to the Carolinas but while I was doing some research I came across Harpers Ferry. The place looked so beautiful that I wanted to include it in our trip while in West Virginia.

Harpers Ferry

From their official website I found this description of Harpers Ferry: "A visit to this quaint, historic community, at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, is like stepping into the past. Stroll the picturesque streets, visit exhibits and museums, or hike our trails and battlefields. Spend a day or a weekend. We have something for everyone, so come and discover Harpers Ferry!"

National Historic Park

Shenandoah Street

St Peter's Church

Dry Goods Store

However, it might be easier and quicker to go there once we reach Washington. We might even be able to drive along the Potomac river all the way there.

Potomac River