Overview of Virginia
Photo credit: Shenandoah National Park
Following the rivers inland, the early pioneers found rolling hills and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains towering over valleys in the western part of the state. Today, 400 years later, a great deal of Virginia's wilderness areas remain pristine and untouched, making it the perfect destination for lovers of the outdoors, as well as for those intent on discovering some living history.
Virginia has not just preserved its historic relics, it uses them as settings for living historical displays. Historic parks and some entire towns such as Williamsburg act as time machines to transport visitors to a bygone age, where bewigged gentlemen stroll the streets and craftsmen ply their trades along cobblestone streets.
The state has also preserved numerous battlefields and monuments associated with the Civil War, with its capital, Richmond, being the seat of the Confederacy. Many of Virginia's sons have played a vital role in politics during the centuries. The state has produced eight United States Presidents, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, whose homes are open to the public.
Even Virginia's popular seaside resort city of Virginia Beach is steeped in history, so visitors who come to enjoy the state's many miles of Atlantic Coast sandy beaches cannot help but absorb some of the region's historic importance along with their suntans. Virginia's worth as an enjoyable destination can be proven by the fact that tourism is a main source of state revenue.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.
- Passport/Visa:
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.
As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.
Travel Advisories
Travel to Virginia
Climate
The Virginia climate is a coastal one, mild and humid, with the four seasons experienced slightly differently in the different regions. The Tidewater regions, where Virginia's major rivers drain into the Chesapeake, are low-lying and experience more moderate temperatures, with warm to hot summers and mild winters.
As one moves westward and altitudes increase, temperatures tend to drop and winters tend to be far colder, particularly in the more mountainous regions and the northeastern areas, with heavy snowfall in the Appalachians. Summers, however, tend to also be mild and pleasant, and the average summer temperature statewide is close to 80F (27C). Winter temperatures in January, usually the coldest month, are usually about 30F (-1C).
Severe weather, including tornadoes, tropical cyclones, hurricanes and winter storms, impacts the state on a regular basis. There is an average of seven tornadoes per year in western Virginia, most occurring between May and August. Hurricanes striking coastal Virginia tend to be on the decline as they come north from the Gulf of Mexico, and flooding from torrential rains is the biggest concern.
Health Notes when travelling to United States of America
There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential. Visitors must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if they are non-U.S. citizens.
Safety Notes when travelling to United States of America
Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, though travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened, particularly at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk. There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November.
Customs in United States of America
Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and punishment. The age at which alcohol may be legally bought and consumed is 21 years.
Duty Free in United States of America
Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,600 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola, Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country.
Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period.
Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.
Doing Business in United States of America
In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, though in states such as California, dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr, Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated. Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.
Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in the States should be mindful of this fact; foreigners should never make assumptions about someone's position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business structure, in which 'the boss' is the ultimate decision-maker. Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion. Foreigners should concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture 'time is money', and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. It's best for foreigners to get to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open manner, and to avoid taking offence if someone questions or challenges them outright.
Communication in United States of America
The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas, and WiFi is widely available.
Tipping in United States of America
A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but travellers shouldn't tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties, the tip should be 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if the service is good.
Passport/Visa Note
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.
As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
The most important requirement on entering the U.S. is providing proof of Canadian citizenship. A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove Canadian citizenship and the right to return to Canada. However, several other documents can serve, depending on the mode of transport. Generally, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada, though there are some exceptions.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals require a passport valid for duration of stay. Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. The VWP includes tourism, certain types of business visit and transit to another country.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. If visiting the US for fewer than 90 days, Australian nationals may be eligible to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Passports must be valid for duration of stay. Irish nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
Passports must be valid for duration of stay. New Zealand nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans must hold a passport valid for duration of stay. A visa is required.
Currency
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
| Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
0.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar |
0.93 EUR Euro |
0.80 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling |
152.99 JPY Japanese Yen |
1.37 CAD Canadian Dollar |
0.91 CHF Swiss Franc |
|
1.52 AUD Australian Dollar |
39.40 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia |
443.91 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge |
93,075.00 LBP Lebanese Pound |
4.86 LYD Libyan Dinar |
6.86 BOB Bolivian Boliviano |
|
0.00 NPR Nepalese Rupee |
0.00 OMR Omani Rial |
0.00 QAR Qatari Rial |
1.35 SGD Singapore Dollar |
10.82 SEK Swedish Krona |
0.00 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar |
|
0.00 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar |
58.11 DOP Dominican Peso |
0.00 HRK Croatian Kuna |
16.95 MXN Mexican Peso |
610.53 XOF West African CFA Franc |
0.00 PGK Papua New Guinean kina |
|
0.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar |
0.00 FJD Fiji Dollar |
0.00 HNL Honduran Lempira |
133.87 DZD Algerian Dinar |
0.00 MMK Myanma Kyat |
0.00 BWP Botswana Pula |
|
3.72 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol |
938.44 CLP Chilean Peso |
386.84 AMD Armenia Dram |
23.29 CZK Czech Koruna |
17.63 MDL Moldova Lei |
139.89 ISK Icelandic Krona |
|
12,582.40 UZS Uzbekistan Sum |
3.72 ILS Israeli New Sheqel |
0.71 JOD Jordanian Dinar |
0.00 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar |
38.15 UYU Uruguayan Peso |
0.00 MUR Mauritian Rupee |
|
0.00 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba |
10.88 NOK Norwegian Krone |
4.03 PLN Polish Zloty |
3.75 SAR Saudi Riyal |
0.00 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee |
36.79 THB Thai Baht |
|
3.66 AED U.A.E Dirham |
5.09 BRL Brazilian Real |
4.63 RON Romanian New Leu |
7.81 HKD Hong Kong Dollar |
610.53 XAF Central African CFA Franc |
25,405.70 VND Vietnamese Dong |
|
878.36 ARS Argentine Peso |
0.00 XCD East Caribbean Dollar |
0.00 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal |
10.06 MAD Moroccan Dirham |
0.00 BHD Bahrain Dinar |
1.00 PAB Panamanian Balboa |
|
1.70 AZN Azerbaijan Manat |
3,920.00 COP Colombian Peso |
88.42 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som |
362.00 HUF Hungarian Forint |
10.89 TJS Tajikistan Ruble |
16,073.70 IDR Indonesian Rupiah |
|
47.95 EGP Egyptian Pound |
1,358.84 KRW South Korean Won |
7,456.52 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní |
4.74 MYR Malaysian Ringgit |
508.31 CRC Costa Rican Colón |
1.67 NZD New Zealand Dollar |
|
277.87 PKR Pakistani Rupee |
91.39 RUB Russian Rouble |
18.51 ZAR South African Rand |
3.13 TND Tunisian Dinar |
0.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar |
1.82 BGN Bulgarian Lev |
|
32.33 TRY Turkish Lira |
57.28 PHP Philippine Peso |
32.31 TWD New Taiwan Dollar |
1,164.84 NGN Nigerian Naira |
0.00 XPF CFP Franc |
0.00 GHS Ghanaian Cedi |
|
0.00 JMD Jamaican Dollar |
0.00 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder |
0.00 BND Brunei Dollar |
108.90 RSD Serbian Dinar |
7.24 CNY Chinese Yuan |
6.94 DKK Danish Krone |
|
3.49 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat |
83.42 INR Indian Rupee |
||||
Euro to U.S. Dollar
1 EUR = 1.07 USD
Canadian Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 CAD = 0.73 USD
U.K. Pound Sterling to U.S. Dollar
1 GBP = 1.26 USD
Australian Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 AUD = 0.66 USD
New Zealand Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 NZD = 0.60 USD
South African Rand to U.S. Dollar
1 ZAR = 0.05 USD
Airports in Virginia
Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Richmond International Airport
http://www.flyrichmond.com
Location: Richmond The airport is situated nine miles (14km) southeast of Richmond.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Contacts: Tel: +1 804 226 3000
Getting to the city: The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) offers public buses to Richmond. Taxi, shuttle, and limousine services are also available outside the baggage reclaim area.
Car rental: Desks for rental car agencies are situated on the lower level of the terminal building. Represented are Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, National, Dollar, Thrifty, Payless, and Hertz.
Airport Taxis: Airport Taxi, Galaxy Cab Co. and Mimi Taxicab operate at the airport and taxis are available from the first flight departure to the last flight arrival every day. Taxis are found in the centre section of the lower level next to the North and South parking garages. Rates vary according to destination and taxi company.
Facilities: A bank located in the main lobby on the ground floor offers full service banking including foreign currency exchange. Airport facilities also include ATMs, several bars, cafes and restaurants, shops, WiFi, conference rooms, an inter-faith chapel and a Visitor's Information Center.
Parking: The hourly lot charges $2 per hour; the daily rate is $12. The economy lot is connected to the terminal via a free shuttle service and charges $7 per day.
Norfolk Airport (ORF)
Norfolk International Airport
http://www.norfolkairport.com
Location: Norfolk The airport is located less than 10 miles (16km) northeast of central Norfolk.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Contacts: +1 757 857 3351
Getting to the city: There is no public transport offered to Norfolk Airport; however, taxis, shuttles, and rental cars are available and some local hotels offer free shuttle service to guests.
Car rental: Rental cars are available from Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz and National. The rental car offices are located in the Arrivals Terminal.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available. The companies include Andy's Cab Co., Black and White, City Wide Cabs, Coastal Ride, Duke Cab Co. East Side Cabs, Eden Cab Co., Norfolk Checker, Oceanside Executive, Southside Cab Co., Waterside Taxi Company Inc., and Yellow Cab of Norfolk.
Facilities: Airport services include ATMs, a bank, currency exchange, mail drops, conference facilities, a lost and found, USO services, mother's rooms, and a variety of retail shops and dining options.
Parking: Short-term parking is charged at $1 every 30 minutes, with a maximum of $24 per day. Long-term parking is $1 per 30 minutes up to $10 per day.
Roanoke Airport (ROA)
Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport
http://www.flyroa.com/
Location: Roanoke The airport is located five miles (8km) northwest of Roanoke.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Contacts: +1 540 362 1999
Getting to the city: The Smart Way Bus stops at Roanoke Airport every one to two hours between 6.35am and 8.35pm Monday to Saturday, making a number of stops between Roanoke and Blacksburg. Some local hotels offer free shuttle transfers for guests.
Car rental: Rental cars are available from Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, and Alamo. Offices are located on the first floor, near baggage claim.
Airport Taxis: City Cab offers a taxi service from the airport; it is advisable to call to book in advance.
Facilities: Airport facilities include ATMs, workspaces, mail drops, a pet relief area, a news and gift shop, vending machines, and various shopping and dining options. Disabled facilities are good.
Parking: Parking at Roanoke Airport is free for the first 15 minutes. Short-term parking is an extra $1 per half hour, up to $16 per day. Long-term parking is $1 per half hour, up to $9 per day.
Charlottesville Airport (CHO)
Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport
http://www.gocho.com
Location: Charlottesville The airport is located ten miles (16km) north of Charlottesville.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Contacts: +1 434 973 8342
Getting to the city: There is no public transport to Charlottesville Airport. However, a dozen local hotels offer free shuttle transfers for guests, and taxis and rental cars are available. A parking shuttle operates in the parking lots day and night.
Car rental: Rental cars are available from Avis, Hertz, National, and Budget.
Airport Taxis: Yellow Cab provides metered taxi service from the airport, but flat rates are charged to a number of destinations; the fare to downtown Charlottesville is about $25.
Facilities: Terminal facilities include ATMs, conference facilities, and a number of shopping and dining options.
Parking: The first 30 minutes in the short-term lot are free. After that the rates are $2 for the first hour and $1 per 30 minutes thereafter, up to a daily maximum of $13. The long-term lot charges $13 per day, while the economy lot charges $9 per day. There is a parking shuttle for transport to the terminal from outlying parking lots.
Richmond
Photo credit: Anderskev
Richmond has played an enormous role in American history, particularly as the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. Today, visitors can discover a host of monuments, battlefields and museums harking back to the days when Jefferson Davis and Robert E. Lee held out against the Union.
But this isn't a city stuck in the past and there are numerous modern attractions including an active nightlife, plenty of restaurants and outdoor concerts. Strolls along the attractive Canal Walk and the restored Haxall and Kanawha Canals are a great way to relax. There's also the option of catching a boat, with some tours including an historical narration, or there you can simply hire a car and get around by yourself.l
The cityscape is an interesting combination of modern high rise office complexes housing financial institutions, Fortune 500 Companies, government offices, hospitals and universities, and the more charming cobblestone, gas-lit streets flanked by 19th-century warehouses, and a 300-year old farmers' market, filled with the scent of ripe fruit and fresh flowers.
Getting around in Richmond
The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) runs the public bus system that serves the Richmond metropolitan area. The bus routes access most of the major cultural attractions in Richmond and are therefore useful for tourists. Richmond is well supplied with taxi companies, with cab ranks outside most major hotels, the airport, Amtrak and the Greyhound terminal; ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft are available.
The city also offers plenty of walking tours and is relatively compact and easy to negotiate on foot. It is worth hiring a car to explore the outlying regions, but not entirely necessary if staying in town, traffic is usually fairly light and parking relatively easy to find which makes driving in Richmond a pleasure.
Climate in Richmond
Richmond has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Late May heralds the start of warm summer days, and the peak summer months between June and August can be very hot and humid, with temperatures ranging between 65F (18C) and 100F (38C). Some relief from the summer heat is provided by rain showers, with July the wettest month of the year. Days stay warm to mild through to October, when autumn is marked by nights once again becoming chilly. December and January are the coldest winter months, with temperatures ranging between 28F (-2C) and 51F (11C). Light snowfalls occur from the end of November, but most snow falls in January.
Sightseeing in Richmond
The capital of Virginia, Richmond is not only rich in American history, but is also a modern urban space where visitors will find something to suit every taste.
In terms of history, Richmond certainly delivers. Home to some incredible museums and historical sites, such as St John's Episcopal Church, The American Civil War Museum and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, those with an interest in the American Revolution and the Civil War will be very happy here. The State Capitol is a favourite with visitors.
For those with less interest in history and more in the arts, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts houses a world-class collection of classical American and European sculptures and paintings. Visitors will also enjoy the River District where trendy restaurants can be found occupying century-old warehouses and bands entertain crowds on the lawns of Brown's Island. For lovers of science and the more left-brain thinkers among tourists, the Science Museum of Virginia will not disappoint.
Whatever their interests, there is something to keep all visitors to Richmond entertained and those travelling with kids will find the city very family-friendly.
Richmond Attractions
Capitol Square
Photo credit: Anderskev
Website: http://www.vacapitol.org/square.htm
Museum and White House of the Confederacy
Photo credit: Rifleman 82
Website: acwm.org/white-house-of-the-confederacy/
Richmond National Battlefield Park
Photo credit: Sarah Stierch
Website: http://www.nps.gov/rich
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Photo credit: Morgan Riley
Website: vmfa.museum
St John's Episcopal Church
Photo credit: Billy Hathorn
Website: http://www.historicstjohnschurch.org
Virginia Science Museum
Photo credit: David Bjorgen
Website: http://www.smv.org
Shenandoah National Park
Photo credit: AlbertHerring, Virginia State Parks staff
Website: http://www.nps.gov/shen
Lexington
Photo credit: Cville dog
Website: http://www.lexingtonvirginia.com
Mount Vernon
Photo credit: Martin Falbisoner
Website: http://www.mountvernon.org
Monticello
Photo credit: Moofpocket
Website: http://www.monticello.org
Airports in Richmond
Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Richmond International Airport
http://www.flyrichmond.com
Location: Richmond The airport is situated nine miles (14km) southeast of Richmond.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Contacts: Tel: +1 804 226 3000
Getting to the city: The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) offers public buses to Richmond. Taxi, shuttle, and limousine services are also available outside the baggage reclaim area.
Car rental: Desks for rental car agencies are situated on the lower level of the terminal building. Represented are Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, National, Dollar, Thrifty, Payless, and Hertz.
Airport Taxis: Airport Taxi, Galaxy Cab Co. and Mimi Taxicab operate at the airport and taxis are available from the first flight departure to the last flight arrival every day. Taxis are found in the centre section of the lower level next to the North and South parking garages. Rates vary according to destination and taxi company.
Facilities: A bank located in the main lobby on the ground floor offers full service banking including foreign currency exchange. Airport facilities also include ATMs, several bars, cafes and restaurants, shops, WiFi, conference rooms, an inter-faith chapel and a Visitor's Information Center.
Parking: The hourly lot charges $2 per hour; the daily rate is $12. The economy lot is connected to the terminal via a free shuttle service and charges $7 per day.
Norfolk
Photo credit: Joey Sheely
Its waterfront location makes Norfolk a pleasure for those who value seaside splendour. Offering much in the way of maritime attractions, Norfolk makes for a good break away in the sun and offers much more than just a beautiful shoreline. Norfolk is also home to a lively arts community, boasting some top notch galleries, museums and an impressive opera house.
Visitors often marvel at the unique attractions found in Norfolk. Not only home to the Naval base where visitors can enjoy guided tours and learn about Naval life, visitors can also take some time out to enjoy the likes of the Waterside Festival Marketplace. Overlooking the Elizabeth River, those who pop by can find live entertainment, an attractive array of dining options and superb shopping opportunities. Tourists of the region can also wander through the historic district of Ghent and discover old-world Norfolk as it once was. The downtown area is also a favourite; having flourished over the years it makes for a memorable visit.
Also known as a budget-friendly destination, visitors of Norfolk will no doubt enjoy what the region has to offer, and will save a couple of dollars in the process.
Getting around in Norfolk
Hampton Roads Transit provides transportation within Norfolk and surrounding cities (including Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton and Newport). Multi-day passes are available. The Tide Light Rail system extends east-to-west through downtown Norfolk, making 11 stops. Trains stop every 10 to 30 minutes depending on time of day, and operate from 6am to 11pm Monday to Thursday, 6am to 12am on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 10.55am to 9.50pm on Sundays and holidays. Taxi stands are located throughout the city; ride-hailing apps such as Lyft and Uber are options. Water taxis are also available from the Norfolk and Portsmouth waterfronts on weekends during the summer.
Climate in Norfolk
Norfolk and the Virginia Beach area have a humid subtropical climate. Winters (December to February) are mild, with light snowfall averaging around 5.8 inches (147mm) annually; temperatures generally stay between 32F (0C) and 52F (11C). Summers (June to August) are hot and humid with warm evenings, averaging temperatures between 67F (19C) and 87F (31C). Spring and summer are the wettest periods, although rainfall is fairly constant all year long. Norfolk is in a fortuitous location in that it is south of major winter storms and north of hurricanes, and thus is at less risk of storms than most cities on the East Coast of the US.
Sightseeing in Norfolk
Largely influenced by its watery environment, visitors to Norfolk will find some superb attractions to enjoy. The city has a beautiful shoreline; a given considering it is home to the world's largest naval base. The beach at Ocean View is a popular choice for those looking to take some time out, but there are many superb beaches to choose from. There are also some outstanding maritime centres, museums and nautical memorabilia shops on offer in the region, not to mention the mammoth navy base. But belying its naval reputation, Norfolk is also home to a vibrant arts community, boasting a variety of dynamic art galleries, including the world-class Chrysler Museum of Art, numerous theatres and a grand opera house.
The historic district of Ghent is a popular choice for those looking for something a little different. There are traditional wooden houses, tree-lined boulevards and old churches to see, all resembling the Norfolk of a time gone by. For lovers of history, antiques, art and architecture, this district is certainly worth the visit.
Those in search of some fun after dark won't be disappointed should they stop over in the downtown area of Norfolk. Here great restaurants and chic bars can be relished long into the early hours. For more music and culinary fare, the Waterside Festival Marketplace is also a good bet for live entertainment and some great dining opportunities. From here travellers can also embark on a tour of the harbour and surrounding areas on an elegant tall ship or paddlewheel ferry.
Norfolk Attractions
The Chrysler Museum of Art
Photo credit: Gosscj
Website: http://www.chrysler.org
Nauticus
Photo credit: Ewelch1
Website: http://www.nauticus.org
Airports in Norfolk
Norfolk Airport (ORF)
Norfolk International Airport
http://www.norfolkairport.com
Location: Norfolk The airport is located less than 10 miles (16km) northeast of central Norfolk.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Contacts: +1 757 857 3351
Getting to the city: There is no public transport offered to Norfolk Airport; however, taxis, shuttles, and rental cars are available and some local hotels offer free shuttle service to guests.
Car rental: Rental cars are available from Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz and National. The rental car offices are located in the Arrivals Terminal.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available. The companies include Andy's Cab Co., Black and White, City Wide Cabs, Coastal Ride, Duke Cab Co. East Side Cabs, Eden Cab Co., Norfolk Checker, Oceanside Executive, Southside Cab Co., Waterside Taxi Company Inc., and Yellow Cab of Norfolk.
Facilities: Airport services include ATMs, a bank, currency exchange, mail drops, conference facilities, a lost and found, USO services, mother's rooms, and a variety of retail shops and dining options.
Parking: Short-term parking is charged at $1 every 30 minutes, with a maximum of $24 per day. Long-term parking is $1 per 30 minutes up to $10 per day.
Shenandoah Valley
Photo credit: Karen Nutini
Known as the Daughter of the Stars, the Valley can essentially be divided into three; the North, South and Central Valley regions. The Northern Valley area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with exciting opportunities to tackle the Shenandoah River by canoe or kayak, hike the Appalachian Trail or cross-country ski in the mountains.
The Central Valley offers exciting skiing, golfing, snowboarding and fishing opportunities, as well as a chance to explore historical sites, farmers markets and the spectacular Shenandoah Caverns. The Southern part of the Valley boasts several mineral springs, the 215ft (66m) Natural Bridge, historic towns such as Lexington, and the bustling cities of Roanoke and Salem.
Virginia Coast
Photo credit: SchuminWeb
Virginia Beach also has some interesting sightseeing attractions, particularly the Virginia Marine Science Museum, the most popular museum in the state. Historic landmarks include the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse dating from 1791 and Adam Thoroughgood House, built around 1680. There is also the First Landing Seashore State Park (where the Jamestown settlers came ashore) offering nature trails and boating. The Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater hosts a number of productions throughout the summer.
Virginia Beach is located at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, and is near to a number of interesting towns, including Chesapeake, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Suffolk. Its close proximity and resort town infrastructure make it an excellent base for exploring all of the towns and hamlets of the Virginia coast.
Near Virginia Beach, the three east-Virginian towns of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown make up a unique historical attraction where the clock has been turned back 200 years or more. The first British settlers in the 'New World' founded Jamestown in 1607. In nearby Yorktown in 1781 Americans won their independence during the last major battle of the Revolution.
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation looks after 88 original buildings in the town, while 300 others have been reconstructed, including two taverns, a parish church, the courthouse and capitol building. Various local tour companies offer guided tours of the Historic Triangle, and group tours are available.
Chincoteague Island
Photo credit: Susanne Bledsoe/U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Chincoteague is connected by a bridge to the large barrier island of Assateague, empty but for pristine stretches of beach, a historic lighthouse, and herds of wild ponies. Along the Assateague National Seashore, in the absence of vendors and noise, beachgoers bask in the sunshine, read books under umbrellas, and enjoy the peaceful beauty. At the height of summer, the event for which Chincoteague is best known takes place: the annual pony swim, poignantly captured in Marguerite Henry's children's classic, Misty of Chincoteague. Each year, to manage the wild population, ponies are rounded up by local firemen. These 'saltwater cowboys' then swim the ponies across the Assateague channel to Chincoteague, where they are auctioned off to buyers eager to own one of the unique breed.
Virginia Attractions
Overview
Virginia is steeped in history and visitors to the Old Dominion are spoilt for choice when it comes to taking a look into the past. The state is justifiably proud of its place in American history, having produced eight American presidents. Tourists can explore the homes of two of them at Mount Vernon and Monticello, both top attractions.
The city draws in many tourists each year, offering world-class museums as well as natural wonders such as the Luray Caverns, the Natural Bridge and Shenandoah National Park. Once home to the first English settlers on the continent, Virginia also contains fascinating colonial history, including a number of Civil War battlefields. These are most popularly explored within the Richmond National Battlefield Park while many districts of the colonial capital of Williamsburg have been restored to their 18th century splendour.
For something less quaint, the state capital Richmond provides wonderful shopping opportunities as well as some great restaurants specialising in local produce and some award-winning wines. Those with a penchant for the outdoors will also find plenty of diversions in Virginia with its many hiking trails and a beautiful shoreline to occupy visitors during the summer months.
Capitol Square
Photo credit: Anderskev
Website: http://www.vacapitol.org/square.htm
Museum and White House of the Confederacy
Photo credit: Rifleman 82
Website: acwm.org/white-house-of-the-confederacy/
Richmond National Battlefield Park
Photo credit: Sarah Stierch
Website: http://www.nps.gov/rich
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Photo credit: Morgan Riley
Website: vmfa.museum
St John's Episcopal Church
Photo credit: Billy Hathorn
Website: http://www.historicstjohnschurch.org
Virginia Science Museum
Photo credit: David Bjorgen
Website: http://www.smv.org
Shenandoah National Park
Photo credit: AlbertHerring, Virginia State Parks staff
Website: http://www.nps.gov/shen
Lexington
Photo credit: Cville dog
Website: http://www.lexingtonvirginia.com
The Chrysler Museum of Art
Photo credit: Gosscj
Website: http://www.chrysler.org
Nauticus
Photo credit: Ewelch1
Website: http://www.nauticus.org
Mount Vernon
Photo credit: Martin Falbisoner
Website: http://www.mountvernon.org
Monticello
Photo credit: Moofpocket
Website: http://www.monticello.org
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He attended the University of Virginia, but accumulated gambling debts and was forced to leave, enlisting in the Army where he served for two years.
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On this day in 1622, Indians of the Powhatan Confederacy executed a coordinated, surprise attack on the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia and the surrounding settlements, killing 347 English settlers, almost a third of the colony's population. The English had earlier killed many Indians who had earlier been trading partners with the Europeans and only the most uneasy of truces ever existed between the two peoples. It took many months for the English colony to regain its balance from the attacks. However
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By varying accounts, Sir Walter Raleigh was either a true gentleman or a pirate. He was a poet, a soldier, a favorite of Queen Elizabeth, and an explorer. He was knighted in 1585 and assisted with the settlement of English colonies in Virginia. He married one of Queen Elizabeth's ladies-in-waiting without asking the Queen's permission, and earned a stay in the prisons of the Tower of London as a result, released only after the Queen pardoned him and his wife. After the Queen's death, however, Raleigh truly fell out of favor with her successor King James I and again imprisoned. Raleigh was later released to find the famed "City of Gold" of El Dorado in the New World. During the expedition, Raleigh sacked the Spanish outpost of San Thome. Upon his return to England, he was arrested and tried, largely to appease the Spanish. Raleigh was convicted and sentenced to death. He was beheaded at Whitehall on October 29, 1618.
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President Ronald Reagan appointed Sandra Day O'Connor to the United States Supreme Court, the first woman to hold the position, on this day in 1981. A judge from Arizona, O'Connor was notable for her moderate political views and votes from the bench. She retired on January 31, 2006, replaced by Samuel Alito. She is now the Chancellor of the College of William and Mary in Virginia.
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- First Battle of Bull Run
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On July 21, 1861, near Manassas, Virginia, Union and Confederate forces met in the Battle of Bull Run, the first major land battle of the American Civil War. The soldiers on both sides were inexperienced, from the rank and file to the commanding officers. However, reinforcements from the Confederate side under General Stonewall Jackson soon gave the weight of the battle to the Southern forces, compelling a full retreat by the Union. The nearly 5,000 casualties included more than 800 killed on both sides. The carnage and ferocity of the battle were harbingers of the devastation the War Between the States would bring to the nation.
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President Woodrow Wilson was the last President of the United States to become a widower while in office when his wife died of Bright's Disease. A few months later, his sister introduced him to Edith Bolling-Galt from Wytheville, Virginia. At age 58, President Wilson married the 43-year-old Edith on
- Blackbeard
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On this day in the year 1718, the notorious pirate Blackbeard was killed in battle off the coast of Ocracoke, North Carolina by a crew of British sailors under the authority of the governor of Virginia. Blackbeard, whose real name was Edward Teach, had a fearsome reputation. He
- The Beheading of Sir Walter Raleigh
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By varying accounts, Sir Walter Raleigh was either a true gentleman or a pirate. He was a poet, a soldier, a favorite of Queen Elizabeth, and an explorer. He was knighted in 1585 and assisted with the settlement of English colonies in Virginia. He married one of Queen Elizabeth's ladies-in-waiting without
- West Virginia Becomes a State
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"Voices from the mountains are loyal and true" - those were the words of President Abraham Lincoln on this day in 1863 when West Virginia seceded not from the Union, but from Virginia. Sentiment against leaving the Union ran high in West Virginia, and by a narrow vote, become
- New Orleans hotel owner makes massive $2.7B buy, $75M sale; see changes for French Quarter, airport spots
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Park Hotels & Resorts, which owns the Hilton Riverside in New Orleans, said Monday that it is buying for $2.7 billion Chesapeake Lodging Trust, which owns Le Méridien and W hotels in the French Quarter. Separately, Park, which is based in Tysons, Virginia, said it had sold its 317-room Hilton New Orleans Airport hotel, together with its 274-room Embassy Suites
- Surveying Begins on Cumberland Road
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On March 29, 1803 Congress authorized the construction of Cumberland Road (known today as National Road) from what is present-day Wheeling, West Virginia to Cumberland, Maryland.
- The Jamestown Massacre
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On this day in 1622, Indians of the Powhatan Confederacy executed a coordinated, surprise attack on the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia and the surrounding settlements, killing 347 English settlers
- Five historic hotels with guided tours that bring the past to life
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For travelers who seek out historic hotels, learning about a property firsthand and from an expert is a lovely perk. No brochure or website can make history come alive — or indulge questions — the way a human guide can. In fact, for many travelers, guided tours are the highlight of trips to such iconic properties as the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia, which served as a
- The President Takes A Wife
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President Woodrow Wilson was the last President of the United States to become a widower while in office when his wife died of Bright's Disease. A few months later, his sister introduced him to Edith Bolling-Galt from Wytheville, Virginia.
- The Beheading of Sir Walter Raleigh
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By varying accounts, Sir Walter Raleigh was either a true gentleman or a pirate. He was a poet, a soldier, a favorite of Queen Elizabeth and an explorer. He was knighted in 1585, and assisted with the settlement of English colonies in Virginia
- Hilton Introduces New Micro-Hotel Brand: Motto by Hilton
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Hilton is launching a new brand with smaller, customizable rooms that will only appear in urban locations and have more affordable rates. Motto by Hilton will be the McLean, Virginia.-based company’s 15th brand. With Motto’s introduction, Hilton is entering into the micro-hotel market
- Sandra Day O'Connor Appointed to Supreme Court
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President Ronald Reagan on this date in 1981 appointed Sandra Day O'Connor to the United States Supreme Court, the first woman to hold the position. A judge from Arizona, O'Connor was notable for her moderate political views and votes from the bench. She retired on January 31, 2006, replaced by Samuel Alito. She is now the Chancellor of the College of William and Mary in Virginia.
- Hotels Prepared for Hurricane Florence Evacuees - and Their Pets
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Hotels outside the destructive path of Hurricane Florence are starting to fill up as residents evacuate their homes to escape the Category 4 storm. Many hotels in the Carolinas, Virginia and elsewhere are preparing for the storm and waiving fees for cancelling reservations and guests traveling with pets. “We are seeing a major increase and demand and doing our best
- West Virginia Becomes a State
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"Voices from the mountains are loyal and true" - those were the words of President Abraham Lincoln on this day in 1863 when West Virginia seceded not from the Union, but from Virginia. Sentiment against leaving the Union ran high in West Virginia, and by a narrow vote, become the only state to form by breaking away from a Confederate state.
- George Washington Named Commander-In-Chief, Continental Army
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True to the manners of gentleman at the time, George Washington never admitted to any ambition and never publicly sought power - but on June 15, 1775, his was the only serious name considered for the post of Commander-In-Chief of the newly created Continental Army. Though the army primarily consisted of New Englanders, Washington hailed from the Southern state of Virginia, and his gaining the position was seen as a move of inclusion towards the Southern colonies.
- Mid-Atlantic Bucket List: Must-see Places in Maryland, D.C, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia
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Every week for a year, from May 2017 to April 2018, The Baltimore Sun's Travel Unraveled newsletter shared a new must-visit destination in the Mid-Atlantic region. Boardwalks, caverns, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and more are are collected from weeks passed.
- 23 Breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Destinations in the U.S.
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Most likely, you have been to a UNESCO World Heritage site in the United States without knowing it. Remember that Griswoldian summer vacation to the Grand Canyon? The high school field trip to Independence Hall in Philadelphia? The college tour of the University of Virginia? Congratulations! That’s three in your pocket. But don’t stop now. You can collect all 23, intentionally or accidentally.
- The Birth of Thomas Jefferson
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On this day in 1743, Thomas Jefferson was born in Albemarle County, Virginia. His family was part of a prominent Virginia family, and he received a classical education in history, literature, and languages. His father died when he was 14, and Jefferson inherited over 5,000 acres of Virginia farmland. Part of his inheritance also included many slaves of African descent. He was admitted to the Virginia bar in 1767.
- Surveying Begins on Cumberland Road
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On March 29, 1803 Congress authorized the construction of Cumberland Road (known today as National Road) from what is present-day Wheeling, West Virginia to Cumberland, Maryland.
- Give me Liberty, or give me Death!
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On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry stood in front of a crowd gathered at St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia. Powerful forces in Virginia, where much loyalty to the British crown remained, were resisting the call to arms on behalf of the American revolution.
- The Jamestown Massacre
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On this day in 1622, Indians of the Powhatan Confederacy executed a coordinated, surprise attack on the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia and the surrounding settlements, killing 347 English settlers, almost a third of the colony's population.
- Hot Springs, Horse Country, and Historic Hotels: Virginia's Countryside Has It All
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In the market for some serious RANDR? Add Hot Springs, Virginia, to the top of your winter destination hit list. You’ll find an intimate setting, a quiet elegance, and no shortage of history, health, and the most heavenly wallpaper
- Hilton Experiments with the Hotel Room of the Future
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The room of the future is being mapped out in a space tucked away near the lobby of a suburban hotel in Northern Virginia
- In (and around) Fredericksburg, Va., Walking the Steps of a Slave’s Trail to Freedom
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It’s two trails, really: one a walking tour in Fredericksburg, detailing the life of former slave John Washington; the other a driving tour of Stafford County, recounting the migration of approximately 10,000 self-emancipated slaves from central and eastern Virginia during a four-month period in 1862
- Blackbeard
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On this day in the year 1718, the notorious pirate Blackbeard was killed in battle off the coast of Ocracoke, North Carolina by a crew of British sailors under the authority of the governor of Virginia
- Virginia Beach Woman says United Airlines Refused to get Son's Medical Supplies after Flight Delayed
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A Virginia Beach woman said she was stuck in Chicago with her 18-month-old son with special needs after her United Airlines flight was delayed and employees refused to get his medical supplies from her checked baggage
- The Birth Of Virginia Dare
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The first child in the New World born to English parents was Virginia Dare, born August 18, 1587
- Airbnb won't Book White Nationalists for Rally
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As city leaders worked overtime Monday (Aug. 7) trying to defuse an increasingly tense situation, the room-sharing company Airbnb quietly booted users planning to use the service to find housing in the Virginia city
- Revolutionary War Cruise will Sail into History in Virginia and Maryland
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American Cruise Line's newest river boat will tell the story of the nation's beginnings with stops at Mt. Vernon, Va., home of George Washington, and Colonial Williamsburg
- Airbnb Won't Book White Nationalists For Rally
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As city leaders worked overtime Monday (Aug. 7) trying to defuse an increasingly tense situation, the room-sharing company Airbnb quietly booted users planning to use the service to find housing in the Virginia city
- This Off-the-Grid Virginia Resort Is the Perfect Place to Stargaze
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From the gated entrance, a mountain road leads to Primland, a towering lodge of wood and glass with a silo attached. Inside, twin fireplaces flank a great room beneath a soaring ceiling. Staffers proudly point out the rich woods in beams and walls, all salvaged from old tobacco barns
- First Battle of Bull Run
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On July 21, 1861, near Manassas, Virginia, Union and Confederate forces met in the Battle of Bull Run, the first major land battle of the American Civil War.
- Why You Should Visit Charleston, West Virginia
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A city that has time for you is a win. In Charleston, W.Va., you can park your car all day for $3, catch free live music almost every night and be seated right away — sans reservations — at the city’s best restaurant
- The Bloomsbury Bohemians in the British Countryside
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In the early decades of the 20th century, Virginia Woolf and her friends, the artists, intellectuals and writers known as the Bloomsbury Group, left London and went — to work, to spend summers, to wait out the German bombing raids and to conduct their tangled romances — into the bucolic countryside of Sussex and Kent, now two hours by car southeast of the city. Quite a few of these brilliant bohemians were avid gardeners, and in the spring, when this gorgeous region bursts into flower, one can visit the houses they decorated, the gardens they planted and the homes of the artists and celebrated horticulturists who lived nearby, with whom they exchanged ideas about art and landscape design
- The Birth Of Thomas Jefferson
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On this day in 1743, Thomas Jefferson was born in Albemarle County, Virginia
- Surveying Begins on Cumberland Road
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On March 29, 1803 Congress authorized the construction of Cumberland Road (known today as National Road) from what is present-day Wheeling, West Virginia to Cumberland, Maryland. Cumberland Road became one of the catalysts for westward expansion
- Give me Liberty, or give me Death!
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On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry stood in front of a crowd gathered at St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia. Powerful forces in Virginia, where staunch loyalty
- The Jamestown Massacre
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On this day in 1622, Indians of the Powhatan Confederacy executed a coordinated, surprise attack on the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia and the surrounding
- Overlooked by guidebooks, Slovakia is a worthy European destination without the crowds
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Once dismissed as “the West Virginia of Europe,” the country is poised to come into its own
- The 14-Room Presidential Suite Is the Greenbrier Resort's Best Kept Secret
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At The Greenbrier, West Virginia's 238-year-old grande dame resort, the rarely photographed Presidential Suite (designed by Dorothy Draper) hides a few Cold War secrets behind all that chintz
- Blackbeard
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On this day in the year 1718, the notorious pirate Blackbeard was killed in battle off the coast of Ocracoke, North Carolina by a crew of British sailors under the authority of the governor of Virginia
- 36 Hours in Richmond, Virginia
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A new African-American museum, appealing parks and distinctive dining spots are among the lures of this riverside city
- Cell Phone Battery Catches Fire Aboard Delta Air Lines Flight To Atlanta
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A cell phone battery caused an inflight disruption after catching fire on a Delta Air Lines flight from Norfolk, Va. to Atlanta Friday morning. According to The Virginian-Pilot, the fire started about 15 minutes after flight 2557’s departure
- 2 passengers rescued from cruise ship at sea after emergency
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On Sunday, the United States Coast Guard was forced to medevac two passengers off a Norwegian Cruise Line ship as it sailed near the coast of Virginia. According to WAVY.com, watchstanders in Portsmouth, Virginia, were notified that two male passengers aboard the Norwegian Gem cruise ship were dealing with a medical emergency at 2:13 a.m. local time Sunday morning
- Touring the Alexandria, Va., Civil War historic sites that inspire PBS' 'Mercy Street'
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The Civil War history of Alexandria, Virginia, is spotlighted in "Mercy Street" on PBS. The city's sites offer exhibits and events
- 10 Best Croatia Experiences
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For a country a tad smaller than West Virginia, Croatia packs a mighty punch of gorgeous scenery, rich history and flavorful cuisine
- Want To Enjoy Fall? Go To Virginia
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When it comes to fall, there are some states that offer its residents the very best of the season, like foliage, apples, pumpkins and cider. And then there are some states that have so much autumnal goodness that it will make you fall head over heels. Virginia is one of those states
- Software upgrade at radar facility possible source of malfunction that delayed flights
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A technical problem at an air traffic control center in Virginia that caused hundreds of flights to be delayed or canceled along a large swath of the East Coast was possibly caused by a software malfunction
- 12 Best Costa Rica Experiences
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For such a tiny country, Costa Rica sure crams in a lot. Equivalent in size to West Virginia, this rain forest-swaddled Central American country is home to more than 500,000 different species -- about 4 percent of all plant, insect and wildlife species on Earth. Check out 12 unforgettable ways to explore this lush, friendly republic.
- Reno’s incredible revamp (have you seen what’s changed?)
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It’s a Saturday night, and thousands of zombies are dancing to Michael Jackson.s Thriller on Virginia Avenue, Reno.s main drag, right next to my hotel
- Go underground: Exploring Virginia’s caverns
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Thanks to its location alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah Valley sits on a limestone base – the geological equivalent of resting on Swiss cheese
