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Ari

Ari (also Alif, Alifu) is an atoll in the Maldives. It is divided into two parts, North Ari (Alif Alif) and South Ari (Alif Dhaal).

Understand
Ari is the original Dhivehi name of the atoll, while Alif Alif and Alif Dhaal are administrative codenames for the northern and southern parts of it.

North Ari Atoll

 * – capital of North Ari Atoll
 * – the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives
 * – the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives
 * – the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives
 * – the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives
 * – the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives
 * – the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives

South Ari Atoll

 * – capital of South Ari Atoll
 * (Island of Moon)

Get in
Most of the inhabited islands can be reached by the public ferries from Male, run by MTCC company. Trip lasts from 3 to 6 hours and costs Rf 51. There are also private companies that run fast ferries with prices about US$45-65 (as of 2016) but the trip duration time gets decreased to mere 1-2 hours.

Resorts can also be reached by seaplane from Male, which takes 20-30 minutes.

Villa International Airport Maamigili

Buy
Banks and ATMs are available only at atoll capitals: Rasdhoo and Mahibadhoo.

Connect
All inhabited islands of the atoll have mobile coverage provided by two national mobile operators (Dhiraagu and Ooredoo), both offer 3G/LTE type of connection.

title: Ari


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Wikivoyage:Joke articles/Arial

Arial (Goudy: Helvetica), on Lower Caisse, is a smaller and quieter town than hurly-burly Bodoni, but travellers will get a chance to experience the real San Serriffe on a visit to this town.

Founded in the 19th century by a colony of Swiss Utopians fleeing persecution in their own country, Arial has a Nordic look with somewhat more steeply sloped tin roofs to the buildings. The city is worth visiting for its period architecture and its white spaces.

By parachute
US navy aircraft regularly overfly the city. If you hitch a ride with them, you can drop in. This is by far the most convenient way of entering the city.

By helicopter
Helicopters can be hired from Poor Richard in Port Clarendon. As there is no helipad, you will have to rappel down once you reach your destination.

See

 * Mission San Serriffe. The oldest building in the country, the mission was built during the brief and ill-fated Spanish colonization period of the country.  The Mission's "leaning" attitude is one of the few remaining examples in the world of the "Italic Style" popular in Spain during the early 1500s. Islanders often come here for shelter during thunderstorms to pray for a blue skies to return.  Sometimes their prayers are answered, particularly during years when the El Niño weather pattern is operating.

Do

 * Pray for blue skies with the indigenous population wherever you may find yourself during a downpour. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture as this is one of the most popular pastimes on the island.
 * Jump Once a year on 31st June, you can participate in the Mission Jump. This bungee jump takes places off the Mission San Serriffe. Though you should beware of Rod Transparent objects, as they have caused problems in the past.

Eat

 * Aharoni is the pasta delicacy of the area, while bolder travellers may like to try the famous Magneto ice cream.

Drink

 * Should you ever find yourself out and about Arial, completely thirsty and in need of a drink, visit the newly built pub, the Parchment.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Wikivoyage:Joke articles/Arial


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Ariège

Ariège is in the Occitanie region of France. It is a little known area that stretches from Haute-Garonne in the west, to the Principality of Andorra in the south, and borders the Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales in the east. It is a stunning area, well worth visiting for a huge variety of outdoor activities as well as sightseeing and exploring Cathar History. Neil Lands, author of History, People and Places in the French Pyrenees (1980), wrote that Ariege was probably his favourite region in the whole Pyrenees, "mainly because it is full of little hidden valleys with those castles and towers which I happen to like very much". It remains generally very under-visited (except for July and August when the French are on holiday) and fairly under-populated, giving those who come here a great feeling of space and tranquility.

Villages

 * — a very small settlement to the left from the road from Ax les Thermes to Andorra with a very good peaceful camp site and great walks and mountain scenery
 * — a very small settlement to the left from the road from Ax les Thermes to Andorra with a very good peaceful camp site and great walks and mountain scenery
 * — a very small settlement to the left from the road from Ax les Thermes to Andorra with a very good peaceful camp site and great walks and mountain scenery

Understand
The Ariege is not a wealthy region, having historically been based around the farming industry and mining iron ore (the Vicdessos valley). The villages are generally small, and many are fairly run down and in need of a bit of TLC. The population is an ageing one as, apart from the tourism industry, and the mining of talc (Rio Tinto has a talc quarry at the town of Luzenac), there are few employment opportunities. Younger generations seem to head off for Toulouse, but return here to their family homes for holidays, and eventually to retire.

The regional capital is the medieval town of Foix, whose 10th century, 3 turreted castle sits atop of a rocky outcrop and lords over the town. This is the ancestral home of the Counts of Foix who at one time controlled the fortress of Carcassonne, as well as sharing responsibility, with the Bishop of Urgel (in Spain), for the running of Andorra for 7 centuries, until 1993 when it was established as an independent democratic parliamentary co-principality. The castle was once a prison but today is a museum of prehistoric and medieval archaeology. It is open from W-Su from October to April, but closes over lunch.

The streets of Foix are very pleasant to wander around- lots of cafe's and small shops. Market day is on a Friday and apart from it being difficult to find a parking space, is well worth going to for delicious cheese, saucisson, fresh veg and bread.

Another town worth visiting for the Saturday market is St Girons, as there are many craft stalls, and homemade wares for sale.

The spa resort of Ax les Thermes is about a 40-min drive from Foix, towards the Andorran border. It is a good base for walkers and cyclists alike, plus gives telecabine access to the ski town of Ax Bonascre and its ski slopes (le 3 domaines). Ax still has thermal waters flowing through the town, and the spa centre is under renovation. You can however dip your feet for free in the open air Basin des Landres which is a very pleasant way to spend half an hour or so.

Get in
Toulouse Airport (Blagnac) is the main site for travel in and out of Ariege. Foix is only an hour's drive from Toulouse and the fact that Easy Jet and British Airways run flights in and out, mean that there is a lot of choice of destination to come from in the UK. Carcassonne Airport (Salvaza) is also only about an hour and a half from Foix and is used by Ryanair who also offer budget flights.

Get around
You really need to have a car to explore the Ariege properly as there are so many little valleys and small villages to see. The place to hire a car is probably when you fly in, either to Toulouse or Carcassonne. Foix does also have rental places though, as does St Girons. There is a very good train service from Toulouse to Ax les Thermes, stopping first at Foix, which does in fact go on to the Spanish border town of Latour de Carol, where you can change trains and continue on into Spain (the line goes to Barcelona). Also, there is a possibility if you are in Toulouse to take a day tour that will take you to the most famous sights in the region and that is organised by Ophorus

See
Ariege houses the famous castle of Montsegur, with its rather bloody history of the Cathar massacre. The chateau stands on a high pog, 1000 m above the valley, and high above the village of Montsegur. The Albigensian Crusades, that had started in 1208, continued into a second generation of crusaders, who, led by Simon de Montfort junior, began a siege against a group of Cathars living and hiding behind the walls of Montsegur. After 9 months under siege, the Cathars were defeated and given 2 weeks to surrender and convert to Catholicism. Over 200 knights and their families were burnt alive when they rejected these terms, and the place is still called 'The Field of Burning'. Now the castle is only a shell, but it is worth climbing the 150 m (ascent) to walk around the ruin, as it is very atmospheric, and the views across the valley are stunning. It is open all year round apart from in December/January. The walk is fairly steep and takes about 35 – 40 minutes. Good walking shoes are ideal as it is rocky and can be slippery in places.

While you are in the area, go and visit the medieval town of Mirepoix, which used to be a Cathar stronghold before being destroyed and then rebuilt as a bastide in 1279. The main square is very pretty, with many overhanging walkways and historic buildings. It is a little bit touristy, and almost every other resident is English (there is a big English settlement here), but that certainly helps those who don't speak too much French.

The area has numerous caves to visit, including Labouiche, near Foix, which has an underground river boat ride (3 km long), and the Grotte de Niaux, where you can see some fantastic cave paintings of bison, horses etc. dating from 10,800 BC. The nearest town to Niaux is Tarascon sur Ariege. Also worth driving through is the famous Mas d'Azil, one of the most famous prehistoric (Paleolithic) sites in the world. The Azilian Age (app. 8000 BC), characterized by small flint tools, colourfully decorated pebbles, and finely carved harpoons, borrows its name from the cave. The area was excavated by Edouard Piette in the 19th century and he interpreted his findings of bone carvings as indicating that man had domesticated reindeer and horses. Occupations at the site range in date from 17,800 to 6500 years BC.

Itineraries
There are several activity holiday companies in the area that have week long group holiday itineraries - search under the relevant activity and the pyrenees, as your keywords for the search.

Do
The Ariege is a haven for outdoor mountain activities. The walking and trekking options are almost endless, and whilst there are not the highest Pyrenean peaks in this region, there are some stunning routes that keen walkers would be foolish to miss. One advantage of the Ariege is that the road network goes fairly high, allowing people to walk to the highest peaks in a day trip. There are some good guide books available, e.g. 'L'Ariege... a pied' which you can buy locally and costs about €12. The GR10 also runs through Ariege, as well as the Chemin de Bonnes Hommes and many others. For those who want to explore the area with an English speaking guide, you might try http://www.marmot-tours.co.uk as they organise week long group holidays in the area. They cover different levels of walking, plus other activity holidays such as mountain biking, road biking and cross country skiing in the winter.

For cyclists among you, the Tour de France come to Ariege almost every year. In one year, Stage 15 ended up at the Plateau de Beille, an infamous 16 km climb from the village of Les Cabannes up to what is a fantastic cross country ski station in the winter, and a great place for some walking in the summer. At 1800 m it has fabulous views of the Andorran / French border mountains and in summer is normally a fantastic temperature (a few degrees cooler than the valley). There are numerous other cols for cycling up for keen road cyclists.

Cross country skiers are spoilt with a choice of two ski stations, the one at Plateau de Beille (60 km of pistes) and the Domaine du Chioula (another 50 km or so of tracks). The altitude of Beille means that it has an excellent snow record.

Eat
The local mountain cuisine is easy to find in the local restaurants: some excellent tartiflette, cassoulet and Catalan influenced dishes. The local cheeses, moulis and bethemale (both hard cheeses) are delicious.

Drink
The Ariege is not a wine growing region, so it brings in wine from the nearby Aude. Most local are Corbieres, Cahor and Fronton wines. There is not much white wine available in the area, but plenty of very good red and rose. Limoux, just over into the Aude, is the home to Blanquette de Limoux, which is a fantastic bubbly and very economical (about €6 a bottle)

Sleep

 * Polfages Self-Catering Gites, Polfages 11420 Villautou (Aude), Fully modernized self-catering gites, secluded gardens with panoramic views, table tennis, swimming pool. Horse riding available for experienced riders. Children welcome. Weekly rates from £295.

title: Ariège


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Arica

Arica is a seaside resort town of 223,000 (2016) in Northern Chile. It's quiet, relaxed and safe, with several nice beaches and sun virtually every day of the year. Its mild weather has made Arica known as the "city of the eternal spring" in Chile while its beaches are frequented by Bolivians. This city is the northern gateway to Peru and Bolivia.

Understand
Arica has a mild, temperate climate with one of the lowest annual rainfall rates anywhere in the world. You will rarely find any clouds in Arica, although the sky can sometimes be darkened with a sort of fog called camanchaca.

The city was an important port already during Spanish colonial rule. Chile seized the city from Peru in 1880 during the War of the Pacific, being recognized as Chilean by Peru in 1929. A substantial part of African Chileans live in or trace their origins to Arica.

Near the city is the Azapa Valley, an oasis where vegetables and Azapa olives are grown. Economically, it is an important port for Chilean ore. It is also a center of rail communication with Bolivia and has its own international airport. Arica has strong ties with the city of Tacna, Peru; many people cross the border daily to travel between the cities, partly because many services (for example, dentists) are cheaper on the Peruvian side. Arica is connected to Tacna in Peru and to La Paz in Bolivia by separate railway lines.

By bus
Numerous buses arrive daily from centers further south in Chile. Buses from/to Iquique hourly, 7,000 pesos, taking 5 hr. Also frequent connections from/to Santiago. From/to San Pedro de Atacama 2 companies run a daily service (at night): Tur-Bus (13,000 pesos, 11 hr) and Espresso Norte (10,000 pesos, with a change in Calama).

Daily buses come in from Bolivia, La Paz, Cochabamba and Oruro. If you wish to come from Oruro, you will also have to get a bus to Patacamaya to transfer to the bus to Arica, there are no direct buses. In general, it is best to go from La Paz—they have direct buses, otherwise the transfer can be very confusing.

Colectivos (shared taxis) arrive and depart continually from Peru during the border opening hours of 08:00–22:00, taking passengers from the International Bus Terminal (about 100 m from the main bus terminal) in Arica to the International Bus Terminal in Tacna, Peru. They take 1½-2 hr and as of 2014, colectivos cost 4,000 pesos, or 18 Peruvian soles, and leave as soon as they are full (4 or 5 passengers); the driver also helps you through immigration and customs. Buses cost less, but take much longer. From the Terminal Rodovario (alongside) buses come in from other centers in Peru. There are no direct buses from Arequipa, Cusco or Puno to Arica. From Tacna however, buses go regularly to Arequipa, Lima, and Puno. For Cusco, it is necessary to change buses in either Arequipa or Puno.

By train

There are trains from La Paz (Bolivia) and Tacna (Peru).

By plane

Connections to/from Santiago and La Paz, Bolivia.

On foot
Walking will get you most places in town

By bus
Buses run along the major avenues for those in a hurry. They are also handy for getting to and from the bus station. The usual fare is 320 pesos.

Radio taxis (colectivos) average 550 pesos per trip.

Do

 * Surfing – Good around Arica, including boogie boarding. The beaches north of town are good for beginners, while more experienced surfers go south of el Morro. There is a surfshop in the centre, but it's best to bring your own board.
 * Beaches – Swimming and sunbathing on the beaches north of town. Summer is the main season, in winter you will have the beaches for yourself. Water is cold.
 * Hiking – "Playa Corazones" area
 * Nearby valleys – Visit the olive trees plantations

Eat

 * Chifa Maxi, Baquedano 494. Delightfully slow and nonexistent service at this authentic Chinese place with vegetarian options. Popular. Take away available.
 * La Casa del Coctel, San Martin 495, +56 58 250400. Excellent cheese empananas in downtown Arica. Fastfood from 500 pesos.
 * La Nanu, Av. Santa Maria 1182, +56 58 312399. Great empanadas (21 different kinds). Between the bus station and the centre. Also pizza. Good for vegetarians.
 * Lider Supermercado, 18 de septiembre 401. Well stocked supermarket in a convenient location. Good for stocking up on cheap mineral water, as the tapwater in the area is not recommended for drinking.

Go next

 * Iquique
 * Santiago
 * San Pedro de Atacama
 * Lauca National Park – Chungará Lake is the main attraction in this wilderness park surrounded by volcanoes and adjacent to the border with Bolivia. Tour operators and touts will try to grab you on the pedestrian streets in the center, but hiring a car or getting on a bus to Bolivia and getting off in Parinacota on the Chilean side or Lagunas on the Bolivian might work out cheaper.

 * Tacna, Peru

title: Arica


text:
Aridea

Aridaia or Aridea is a city in Central Macedonia, Greece.

Understand
Aridea is the third largest settlement in Pella regional unit, after Edessa (2nd, also the capital), and Giannitsa (1st). It is built in a large plateau, called "Almopia" (Αλμωπία). Its name is a portmeau of "Άλμα+όψη" (Jump+view), as its ancient citizens were thought to be a tribe of giants. Generally, its economy largely relies on agriculture (mainly alfalfa, asparagus, clovers, poplar and stone fruits such as peaches, nectarines, plums, apricots and cherries, as well as pears, quinces and potatoes in the Archangelos village). Tourism is mainly focused on the nearby Pozar Springs. Aridea's nickname is the "Karatzova" (Καρατζόβα), which means "black plateau" in Turkish. It's unknown why it was named so. Its population includes ethnic Macedonians, Vlachs, Moglens, Pontic Greeks, Karamanlides, and people of mixed ethnic heritage. Some citizens are also half-locals and half-refugees from Asia Minor and Pontus.

Get in
About 1½ hours by car from Thessaloniki. You can get here through the National Road 2 from Thessaloniki to Mavrovouni, then the Pella Provincial Road 2 to Apsalos, and the Pella Provincial Road 1 to Aridea

Get around
There are 5 provincial roads to connect you to the nearby settlements and monuments.

1. Edessa- Apsalos - Aridea. (Pella 1)

2. Aridea - Exaplatanos to Skra and Axioupolis Evropos Notia and Lagadia. (Pella 6)

3. Aridea - Pozar Baths. (Pella 7)

4. Aridea - Tsakona - Polykarpi. (Pella 8)

5. Aridea - Sosandra - Promachos. (Pella 9)

See

A ride on the town is also a good idea. There is a square called the "Setskou Square", near the Church of St. Nikandros, (You can recognize it from the large clock on the bell tower.), the Natural History museum which operates on the old train station and a pedestrian road called the "Kyprou Street.", surrounded with pubs, bars and restaurants. Notable examples include Placebo and Aeriko.

Some villages are officially preserved traditional settlements, and are worth visiting. These include:

 * 1) Garefi. The village is known for the cultivation of pepper, of the Karatzovitiki type, and produces sweet smoked pepper and bukovo. The village organizes a festival of Karatzovite Peppers
 * 2) Archangelos: The village belongs to the Vlachomoglenite villages and is the largest of them. Its inhabitants are engaged in agriculture, and especially in the production of cherries, chestnuts and potatoes
 * 3) Aetochori: It has been characterized as a traditional mountain settlement. An attraction of the village is the old church of Agios Dimitrios, with its high four-story bell tower with a height of 15 meters.
 * 4) Perikleia
 * 5) Notia
 * 6) Langadia

Do
Some of the hotels and hostels also have swimming pools that allow non-customers

Buy
Almoopia's historic trademark product was the Karatzovitiko pepper made from Florina peppers, but also a local variety of sweet or semi-hot peppers, the "Bahovo" variety grown in the villages of Garefi and Promachoi, but now it's almost extinct and most growers in the area grow this variety only on personal gardens for themselves, but it's also likely to find them in a local grocery store.). Local beans are also popular. They are kidney-shaped and perfect for dishes such as fasolada. Bukovo and paprika are also produced. Of course, you can try the local fruits and vegetables, such as asparangus, fruits of the Prunus genus, chestnuts, walnuts and potatoes; the latter grown mainly in a village called Archangelos.

Eat
The villages of Loutraki and Orma, both close to Pozar have some good restaurants. The town has nearly all kind of restaurants.

Go next

 * Edessa waterfalls

title: Aridea


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Arieșeni

Arieseni is a city in Alba County in Romania.

Get in
By bus from Alba-Iulia, Oradea, Cluj-Napoca or Timisoara.

Do
Treking in the mountain where you can visit lots of beautiful places like waterfall, peaks and lots and lots of caves. Ski on 3 slopes in Vartop-Arieseni and Vartop-Nucet.

Buy
"Tulnice" and other wood objects made by hand by "moti" people.

Eat
Traditional food like "balmos", traditional pie "placinta pe lespede" and a lot of foods made from natural ingredients.

Drink
You can drink:
 * "afinata" - a very popular drink made from blueberry
 * "ciresata" - a traditional drink made from wild cherries
 * "palinca"

title: Arieșeni


text:
Ariel

Ariel (Hebrew: אריאל) is an Israeli settlement in "Area C" (Israeli-managed territory in the West Bank), within the north-central West Bank (Judea and Samaria). It is approximately 40 km east of Tel-Aviv and 30 km east of Petah Tikva. It is beside the Palestinian town of Salfit.

Understand
Ari'el was established in 1978 as settler community based on the ideas of Revisionist Secular Zionism, in particular the political philosophies of Ze'ev (Vladimir) Jabotinsky, a noted early 20th-century Zionist Jewish leader. It quickly grew during the 1980s, and then absorbed many immigrants from the former Soviet Union in the 1990s. It has a population of 20,000 (2018), including permanent non-resident students.

Ariel's population contains around 8,000 ex-Soviet immigrants, many of whom are not Jewish by Jewish religious law. The remaining inhabitants are predominantly secular, although more traditional than in the coastal secular communities. Around 20% of the town's population are classed as Orthodox, with minute numbers of Haredi (or "ultra-Orthodox") Jews. It is also home to a large public college and an important industrial area called the Barkan, producing many Israeli kosher food exports in particular. The settlement's residential and commercial growth has been slow and relatively unsuccessful, due to its secular nature, low birth rate and its distance from the main economic, cultural and religious life of the Israeli coastal plain.

Ariel's location was chosen in large part for military reasons. It is located in the geographical center of the northern West Bank, equidistant between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordanian border, providing a strategic base for the Israeli army. Its large population also helps create a "settlement bloc" in the part of the West Bank overlooking the heavily populated Israeli central region.

By bus

 * From Tel Aviv Central Bus Station, buses 86, 186 and 286. 86 is the express bus, bypassing other Israeli settlement communities.
 * From Rosh Ha'Ayin North Train Station, Bus 100.
 * From Jerusalem Central Bus Station: Buses 462, 463 and 464 (Egged Ta'avura).

By car

 * From Tel Aviv: Take Route 5 eastward until it ends at a large traffic circle. About 35 minutes.
 * From Jerusalem: Head northwards past Ramallah on Route 60. Follow signposts to Beit-El. About 45 minutes.

Get around

 * There are no local bus routes, but you can take any of the intercity buses and get off elsewhere in the city. Tell the driver your destination or else pnimi (internal) so you get the lower internal bus fare.
 * Hitchhiking (Tremp)
 * Ariel is long and narrow (it follows the crest of a long mountain ridge), so it could be a long walk from one part to another.

See

 * Samaria Mountain Ranges: These hills contain the locations of the most famous Bible stories. Magnificent view of the Israeli Coastal Plain and Gaza Strip.
 * Shuchnat HaKaravanim (Caravan Neighbourhood): Contains Jewish travellers, Biblical wannabees, hippies, former Israeli settlers from the Gaza Strip and the town's main yeshiva.
 * Shuchnat HaKaravanim (Caravan Neighbourhood): Contains Jewish travellers, Biblical wannabees, hippies, former Israeli settlers from the Gaza Strip and the town's main yeshiva.

Do

 * See former settlers from the former Gush Katif Jewish Settlement Bloc of the Gaza Strip: Witness their experiences of Israeli Police and life in one of the most violent places on Earth through their stories of hope, despair, history, Judaism and what they view as national redemption. Tips accepted.
 * Ariel Country Club: Range of sporting activities, including swimming.
 * Target Shooting: One of Israel's biggest shooting galleries, located at the Eshel HaShomron Hotel, adjacent to Ariel Junction.
 * Target Shooting: One of Israel's biggest shooting galleries, located at the Eshel HaShomron Hotel, adjacent to Ariel Junction.

Buy
Usual Israeli fare is available.

Eat

 * Pizza 2 for 1 in Mercaz Ha'Ir (City Center).
 * Cafe-Cafe (Badatz Kosher Mehadrin), located in the Ariel Sport Center.

Drink

 * There are many Russian vodka bars in town.
 * Coffee shops

Go next

 * Sodom and Gemorrah Park.
 * Nablus (Biblical Shechem). Non-Israeli tourists must take their passports with an Israeli entry stamp (or bring the separate paper that the tourist stamp was given on), to show Israeli soldiers at the checkpoint to re-enter Israeli territory after visiting since it is in Area A of the territory and under Palestinian Authority Control. Hitch a ride, or take Palestinian licence-plated taxi, from Ariel Junction to Nablus.

title: Ariel


text:
Arima

Arima is one of 3 Boroughs in Trinidad. Its name is derived from the Arawak language, and it means "water".

Get in
Arima lies in central northern Trinidad, at the eastern edge of the densely populated East-West Corridor. It is located appr. 10 km east of Piarco Airport and 30 km east of Port of Spain. Public transport (buses and maxi taxis) connect Arima with both.

Get around
There are many taxi and maxi taxi stops in Arima, but there is also public transportation provided by the Government. The Public Transport Service Company (PTSC) runs many bus services throughout the town. The main bus depot is the PTSC Terminal Bus Stop on Pro Queen Street.

See
Before Christmas time there is an upsurge in "parang" music which is a mixture of French and Spanish folk music. There is also an abundance of parks, many dedicated to the Amerindians who once lived in the area. Santa Rosa RC Church may be another place of interest, being a historical site.

Do
A trip to the Santa Rosa Park may be in order, the best horse-racing track in Trinidad and Tobago. Larry Golmes Stadium, in the O'Meara Estate, is a stadium mainly used for track and field and football activities.

Eat
Apart from vendors selling fried bake and shark, "doubles", and various drinks, Arima has an array of food outlets and restaurants. Fast food chains abound and Chinese food restaurants are almost everywhere. For cheap, fast food, KFC, Subway, Royal Castle, and Burger King are in good supply. The Chinese food is relatively good, but there are no high society dining options in Arima.

Drink
There are several clubs in the Arima area.

 * Joseph's For those who like to shoot pool and have a few drinks.
 * The Living Room, corner of Queen and Sorzano St. They hosts artistes occasionally.
 * The Paddock for those who like to sip drinks in a smoke free environment

Go next

 * Port of Spain

title: Arima


text:
Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen (有馬温泉) is a hot spring town in Kobe, Japan.

Understand
Arima Onsen is one of Japan's Three Old Hot Springs, with a recorded history going back to the Nihon Shoki, published in 631. The waters of Arima come in two flavors: the Gold Spring (金泉 Kinsen) is yellow-brown thanks to iron and salt, while the Silver Spring (銀泉 Ginsen) is colorless but mildly radioactive.

Administratively, Arima Onsen is a part of Kobe, but it's on the other side of Mount Rokko and thus a separate city for all practical purposes.

Tourist information site
The local tourist association has a Japanese-only guide site.

Get in
There are two ways to get to Arima Onsen from Kobe or Osaka: the cheap and practical way, or the fun but expensive way.

The practical way is to take the Hanshin, Hankyu or Sanyo Line to Shinkaichi (新開地) just west of Kobe, then transfer to the Kobe Railway Arima Line to terminus. Alternatively, if you're coming in on JR, get off at Kobe's Sannomiya Station or JR's Shin-Kobe Station, take the Kobe Subway or Hokushin Kyūkō Railway to Tanigami (谷上), and connect there to the Kobe Arima Line. In either case, make sure to transfer at Arimaguchi Station to the (one stop only) Arima Onsen Line. The whole trip will cost around ¥900-1000 and take about 45-60 minutes.

The fun way is to take the Hankyu line to Rokko station and continue up Mt. Rokko on the cablecar (10 min, ¥590/1000 one-way/return). Connect with the bus loop line (10 min, ¥260) to the Rokko Arima Ropeway, then take the ropeway down to Arima Onsen (12 min, ¥1010/1820 one-way/return). The Rokko Arima Katamichi Jōshaken (六甲有馬片道乗車券) combination ticket (¥1750 one way) works out marginally cheaper, and also lets you ride around the top of Mt. Rokko; foreign visitors can get it for ¥1000 (passport and proof of short stay required), but not on site, only in a limited number of places (Hanshin service centers in Sannomiya Station, Kansai Airport, Osaka, and Kyoto). This route is more scenic, but best avoided with heavy luggage.

Get around
It's quite easy to get around town on foot, though the uneven terrain may prove tiring to some. The JR train station has a large map of the area, but it is neither to scale nor oriented to the north.

See
Arima Onsen is famous for geisha performances, held at the many yearly festivals. In the local dialect, geisha are known as geigi (芸妓).

Do
Arima Onsen is one of Japan's famous hot spring towns, so you should pay a visit to one of the many baths. There are three public baths (admission is ¥500-700) and a number of private ones. There are two hot springs from which all baths in Arima onsen get their water. One is full of iron giving it a brownish color and can be enjoyed in Kin No Yu, the other one is clear and slightly radioactive (don't worry) and can be enjoyed in Gin No Yu.

Take the ropeway up Mt Rokko and enjoy a view over Kobe and Osaka.

Eat
Tajima beef

Sleep

 * Guesthouse ENN, Check-in: 15:00, Check-out 10:00, private room or dormitory. Middle of the village, 5 minute walk from either Gin No Yu/Kin No Yu public baths. Very friendly couple running it speak basic English. Offer shared Japanese style dinner (¥2000) filling and delicious. From ¥4000 for a bunk.
 * Guesthouse ENN, Check-in: 15:00, Check-out 10:00, private room or dormitory. Middle of the village, 5 minute walk from either Gin No Yu/Kin No Yu public baths. Very friendly couple running it speak basic English. Offer shared Japanese style dinner (¥2000) filling and delicious. From ¥4000 for a bunk.

title: Arima Onsen


text:
Arinsal

Arinsal is a village in Andorra, a small mountainous country in the Pyrenees mountains at the head of a valley. The old village part is clearly evident, but because it is also a ski resort it has grown a lot and has quite a number of hotels catering to this trade. As a result though outside the ski season the place is pretty much closed up including some of the bars and restaurants.

This resort is very popular with English-speaking skiers.

Get in
The main road up from La Massana which itself is up from Andorra La Vella.

Get around
There is a bus service between Arinsal and Andorra La Vella, passing through La Massana. It is not very regular so it is worth checking the timetable before planning any trips. The cost is reasonable.

The road continues up out of the village and stops about another 1 or 2 up at another hotel. Then there is a semi-private road that winds up the mountain for about 4.5-6 km (3-4 miles) to the top station of the cable car lift.

See
There is great mountain scenery all around and it is a really good location for starting out on any hiking or climbing trip.

The highest mountain Pic de Coma Pedrosa in Andorra at 2942 metres (9,665 ft) is located in this area.

Do

 * During the ski season which is approximately December to March or so, you can go skiing. There is a cable car up to the Arinsal ski area which is in the centre of the village. Arinsal and nearby Pal offer good skiing for the novice and the intermediate skier, and first time skiers often head for Arinsal and Palfor their first holiday or two before heading for Soldeu and Pas de la Casa. Arinsal is a little different from Soldeu and Pas de la Casa too in that it has quite a few full-time residents and the villages are 'year round' while the others are fairly seasonal. For this reason Arinsal and Pal can be the perfect answer to those who are embarking on their first ski holiday as there is more than just skiing, Ordino and her first class sports centre is easily accessed for example, and if you decide skiing isn’t for you, you do have other choices too. Arinsal-Pal piste map
 * Arinsal is good too for snowboard activities with a freestyle area.

Buy
There are ski and snowboard shops in and a couple of supermarkets, but for the best shopping head for Andorra la Vella.

Eat
There is a very good range of restaurants in Arinsal. If you want to try the local Catalan cuisine, there are several options including El Bosc, 360, and The Rocky. For international tastes, there is Surf (Argentinian Steak), Cisco's (Mexican), El Moli pub & restaurant (pizza, pasta, burger, salad, Thai curries, kids' menu) and Quo Vadis (Pub Grub & Italian).

Drink
Arinsal has many bars to choose from, and most are family friendly.

Sleep

 * Hotel Arinsal, +376 835 640.
 * Princesa Park, +376 736 500.
 * Aparthotel Crest, +376 835 866.
 * Hotel Palarine, +376 835410.
 * Hotel Arinsal, +376 835 640.
 * Princesa Park, +376 736 500.
 * Aparthotel Crest, +376 835 866.
 * Hotel Palarine, +376 835410.

Go next
The capital Andorra La Vella is reachable by public transport, and the duty free shopping and department stores.

title: Arinsal


text:
Arisaig

Arisaig is a village on the coast of Lochaber in the Scottish Highlands, with a population of about 300. It stands on the "Road to the Isles", the traditional route from the south via Fort William to Mallaig and thence to Skye. You can still travel this way, though most traffic now reaches Skye via the bridge. Arisaig is now on a bypassed loop of the road and is more peaceful as a result.

By train
ScotRail run four trains M-Sa (one on Sunday in winter, two in summer) from Glasgow Queen Street along the scenic West Highland Line via Arrochar (for Loch Lomond), Crianlarich (where a portion divides for Oban), Fort William, Glenfinnan, Beasdale and Arisaig to Mallaig. The last train south is around 6:30PM to reach Queen Street by midnight.

The Jacobite steam train runs Apr-Oct between Fort William and Mallaig, and stops by request at Arisaig. It's a six-hour excursion (depart 10:15AM, return by 4PM) allowing two hours in Arisaig. May to mid-Sept there's also an afternoon train (2:30 - 8:30PM), so you could have six hours here, time for a boat trip to the Small Isles, by going in the morning and returning on the afternoon excursion. Trains also stop at Glenfinnan for the obligatory photo of the viaduct. These excursions connect with the Caledonian Sleeper from London. See their website and Fort William for more info.

Under your own steam, using the regular train service, you can day trip here from Fort William leaving at 8:30AM or noon and setting off back around 4:20PM or 6:30PM, for only £15 adult return, about a quarter of the Jacobite fare.

is the most westerly on the Great Britain rail network. It's just a platform halt with no facilities, buy your ticket on board if your journey starts here. There is step-free access to Platform 1 and a "barrow" level crossing to Platform 2 towards Fort William.

is another request stop eight minutes before Arisaig, which may be more convenient for Loch nan Uamh. It's just a platform halt with no facilities, the former station house is privately owned. During World War II this area was used for training "special ops" agents in paramilitary skills, and at Beasdale station they practiced leaping on and off moving trains.

By bus
Shiel Buses 500, 502, 505 and 534 run from Fort William three times M-F and once on Saturday, taking an hour via Glenfinnan and Lochailort, and continuing to Morar and Mallaig. The bus stop in Arisaig is by the village shop.

Bus 501 runs from Lochailort and Arisaig to Mallaig once on schoolday mornings, returning in the afternoon, with an extra run on Thursdays.

By road
Arisaig is just off A830 the "Road to the Isles", coursing west from the A82 at Fort William to Mallaig. Much of the A830 has been improved, so it's fairly quick driving, but there are a few tight bends.

Get around
The village is small, but you need wheels to explore the area.

Arisaig Marina operate a foot-passenger ferry April-Sept to the Small Isles of Eigg and Muck.

See

 * is a woodland garden east edge of the village, open daylight hours.
 * is where Bonnie Prince Charlie embarked for France on 20 Sep 1746. He'd been on the run for six months since his defeat at Culloden, and this was the sixth attempted rescue by ship with winter approaching and the redcoat dragnet tightening. He left with some 100 supporters, with upbeat promises to return; but France would not commit troops to a further invasion and in 1747 made peace with Britain.
 * was built of concrete 1897-1901 to carry the railway past the head of the loch. At the larger Glenfinnan Viaduct 15 miles east, there was a legend that a horse and cart fell into one of the bridge pylons during construction and became entombed. Modern imaging could find nothing there, but in 2001 the horse and cart were detected within the central pylon here. Alas, it was too late to save the poor horse.
 * was built of concrete 1897-1901 to carry the railway past the head of the loch. At the larger Glenfinnan Viaduct 15 miles east, there was a legend that a horse and cart fell into one of the bridge pylons during construction and became entombed. Modern imaging could find nothing there, but in 2001 the horse and cart were detected within the central pylon here. Alas, it was too late to save the poor horse.

Do

 * Arisaig Sea Kayak Centre lead trips around the coast.
 * Golf: Traigh GC is midway between Arisaig and Morar. It's nine holes, twice around is par 68.
 * Arisaig Americana is a music festival in June. The next is probably 31 May - 2 June 2024, tbc.
 * Arisaig Highland Games and Clan Ranald Gathering are held in July / Aug at Traigh Farm by the golf course, with the next on 31 July 2024. The separate agricultural show is no longer held.

Eat

 * The Old Library is the best option, see "Sleep".

 * Or try nearby Mallaig, which has a couple of seafood restaurants.

Drink
Try the hotels.

Sleep

 * Arisaig Bunkhouse next to the hotel is simple but clean. Twin (room only) £50.
 * Arisaig Bunkhouse next to the hotel is simple but clean. Twin (room only) £50.

Connect
As of July 2023, Arisaig and its approach roads have a patchy 4G signal from EE, O2 and Vodafone, but nothing from Three. 5G has not reached this area.

Go next

 * The road north leads to Mallaig, for year-round ferries to Armadale on Skye, to the Small Isles and to Knoydart.
 * In summer the Small Isles can be reached direct from Arisaig by a foot-passenger ferry. Eigg is probably the most pleasant to explore.
 * The road east leads through Glenfinnan with its famous railway viaduct, thence to Fort William.

title: Arisaig


text:
Arita

Arita (有田) is a town in Saga, Kyushu, Japan.

Understand
Arita is known as the home of Imari porcelain, internationally the most famous type of Japanese pottery. (The separate town of Imari is simply the port they were shipped through on their way to the outside world.)

If you search using the kanji, don't confuse the town with Arida (有田) City, Wakayama.

Tourist information site
The local tourist association has a guide site with integrated machine translation.

Do

 * Arita Hall Ceramic Puppet Performance. Based on the local folktale of the Giant Snake of Kurokamiyama, the world's first joruri (ballad drama) performance by ceramic puppets is held in the Arita Hall. The colourful stage is painted in the three styles of Kakiemon, Ironabeshima and old Imari.
 * Arita Hall Ceramic Puppet Performance. Based on the local folktale of the Giant Snake of Kurokamiyama, the world's first joruri (ballad drama) performance by ceramic puppets is held in the Arita Hall. The colourful stage is painted in the three styles of Kakiemon, Ironabeshima and old Imari.

Go next

 * Imari
 * Karatsu
 * Genkai
 * Takeo
 * Matsuura
 * Hirado
 * Hasami
 * Sasebo
 * Omura

title: Arita


text:
Arizona

Arizona, also known as the Grand Canyon State, is in the American Southwest. Admitted as the 48th State of the Union in 1912, Arizona is home to the Grand Canyon as well as a variety of terrain, climates and cultures. To the west are California and Nevada, to the north is Utah, to the east is New Mexico, to the northeast is Colorado, and to the south is the Mexican state of Sonora. It is one of the Four Corners states.

Cities

 * — The capital of Arizona has a vibrant downtown, active Latino communities in South Phoenix, artsy and young Roosevelt Street and the upscale Biltmore area.
 * — Home of the Northern Arizona University Lumberjacks, Flagstaff is the gateway to the northern reaches of the state with most people headed to the Grand Canyon's South Rim passing through Flagstaff.
 * — Home of the Arizona Mormon Temple, and home to a burgeoning Asian community that brings along with it an international culinary flavor.
 * — Home to the world's oldest rodeo.
 * — Gorgeous red rock canyons and New Age folks dominate one of the most beautiful areas of Arizona.
 * — If golfing, shopping and the spa lifestyle are what you're into you'll be right at home in Scottsdale. In addition, there are great desert biking and hiking trails in the McDowell Mountains and an active greenbelt.
 * — Home to the largest university in the United States, Tempe knows how to party and is bursting with youthful energy.
 * — Culinary delights and beautiful mountains occupy Arizona's "second city" of Tucson, nicknamed "The Old Pueblo" & "Baja Arizona".
 * — A nice town to pass through, and gateway to the desert dunes of southern California along the way to San Diego, California.

Other cities of are listed in their regions that they are in.

Other destinations

 * — A gorgeous canyon dotted with ancient ruins.
 * — Where four states meet at one point.
 * — A UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the natural wonders of the world, and the world's most famous canyon.
 * — A prehistoric impact crater that was once used for training astronauts for their moon landings.
 * — An iconic desertscape used in countless films and television series.
 * — Filled with beautifully colored mineralized trees.
 * — National Park dedicated to preserving the iconic giant Saguaro cacti.
 * — A 'sky island' with dramatic flora, fauna and climate from the desert valley below.
 * — A 'sky island' with dramatic flora, fauna and climate from the desert valley below.

Landscape

Arizona covers 113,909 sqmi, with about 350 sqmi of water surface including Lake Havasu, Lake Powell, Lake Mead and the Colorado River. The state consists of three primary topographical features: a high plateau in the northeast of the state, averaging between 5,000 to 7,000 ft in elevation; a mountainous region which runs from the southeast to the northwest with peak elevations between 9,000 to 12,000 ft; and low mountain ranges and desert valleys in the southwestern of the state.

The state is defined by the Grand Canyon in the north, the Mogollon Rim (pronounced MUG-ee-own) in the central mountainous region and the Sonoran Desert to the south. Scattered among these regions, features such as the red rocks of Sedona, the tall, wind-swept towers of Monument Valley and the saguaro-filled desert valleys around Phoenix and Tucson add depth and character to the landscape of Arizona.

Another prominent feature of the Arizona landscape, a Ponderosa Pine forest stretches across the state from the White Mountain region around Greer and Alpine across the Mogollon Rim to the San Francisco Peaks north of Flagstaff. This strip of pine also extends beyond the Grand Canyon onto the Kaibab Plateau and into Southern Utah.

Humphreys Peak, part of the San Francisco Peaks, is the highest point in Arizona with an elevation of. Baldy Peak, in the White Mountains, is the second highest point with an elevation of. In the southwest of the state, the Sonoran Desert stretches out of Mexico and into Arizona with elevations as low as about above sea level in the Lower Colorado River Valley.

The Grand Canyon
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon dominates the Northern Arizona landscape. Stretching across the high plateaus and plunging  down into the arid plateau, the canyon was shaped and carved by the constant motion of the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon features three or four eras of geological time as well as several layers of fossil records, several varieties of rock types, numerous caves and several major ecosystems.

Climate
A primary reason for travelers to visit to Arizona, specifically in the low desert regions around Phoenix and Tucson, is the state's mild climate during the fall, winter and spring. The warm weather and low precipitation provide travelers with an enjoyable climate for numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, golf and sightseeing. At higher elevations during the winter, snowfall allows visitors to enjoy winter sports such as cross-country skiing.

During the summer months, temperatures in the low desert regions can reach well above, however the climate at higher elevations, as in Flagstaff, stays mild and allows for enjoyable outdoor activities as well as a break from the summer heat.

Temperatures
High temperatures in the summer months in the lower elevations reach into the "triple digits" of 100 F and above, with 110 F common and record highs above 120 F. At higher elevations, temperatures may still touch 100 F at elevations like Prescott to 80 F in Flagstaff.

During the winter, cold fronts can bring temperatures well below zero in the higher areas of central and northern Arizona, with lows averaging between 15 and 20 F.

During drier portions of the year (traditionally the winter months), temperatures can differ greatly from day to night, sometimes as much as 40 to 50 F. In the low desert valleys during the winter, temperatures during the day could average 70 F, with night temperatures dropping to around 40 F. During the summer, the central portion of the state along with the lower elevations can experience temperature changes up to 30-40 °F from day to night.

Precipitation
Rainfall in Arizona is primarily determined by season and elevation. In the mountainous region, that runs from the southeast to the northwest, rainfall amounts will average between 25 and 30 in (including melted snow) annually, while the low-lying desert region averages only 3 to 4 in annually. The high plateau region in the northeast of the state averages $$ of rainfall annually.

During winter months, November through March, storms occur regularly at the higher elevations in central and northern Arizona and can produce heavy snowfall. Summer months, particularly early July through mid-September, bring the monsoon season to the desert region. Monsoons are strong thunderstorms, typically lasting a short time in a certain area, that produce haboobs, powerful winds and brief periods of blowing dust prior to the storm's arrival. Almost all of these storms occur roughly between mid-afternoon and the middle of the night.

The average number of days with measurable rainfall per year ranges from around 70 days in the northern part of the state to 15 days in the desert regions. The air is usually dry and clear, with low relative humidity and a high percentage of sunshine. April, May, and June usually produce the most clear days, while July and August (in lower elevations), as well as December, January and February (in higher elevations) have the cloudiest weather due to thunderstorms. Humidity is low in comparison to other states, however it is typically higher during the monsoon season.

Despite the common perception of Arizona as a warm state, snowfall does occur annually in high altitude areas such as Flagstaff.

Native American culture
Arizona is home to 22 Native American tribes that contribute to the history, culture and economy of the state. While most tribes welcome visitors to experience their proud history and culture, each tribe does have its own guidelines for visitors. In addition, the 22 reservations operate under their own governmental structure. Tribal laws should be viewed in the same manner as U.S. laws and regulations. Before visiting a tribe, you should consult or contact the individual tribe for additional visitor information. When visiting a Native American tribe or reservation, you should be aware that:
 * Each reservation operates under its own government and its own rules for visitors.
 * Photography and painting may not be allowed. Check with the individual tribe before taking photographs.
 * Dances are typically part of religious ceremonies. Think of these events as you would if you were visiting a holy site, such as a church. Also, be mindful that applause may not be welcome after a dance.
 * Do not climb walls or structures.
 * Sacred areas and graveyards are not usually open to visitors.
 * Reservations and villages should be treated with respect. While most reservations are open to visitors, individual homes are private and should be entered only by invitation.
 * Some arts and crafts sold around reservations may not be authentic. Consult the Indian Arts and Crafts Association for more information about purchasing authentic Native American arts and crafts.

Time zone
Arizona is always on Mountain Standard Time (UTC -7) and does not observe daylight saving time. The exception is for the Navajo Nation, in the northeastern corner of the state, and extending into New Mexico and Utah (which also observe daylight savings). Note the large Hopi reservation is entirely surrounded by the Navajo Nation, but is on standard time like the rest of Arizona.

During the summer months, the state is an hour behind the rest of the Mountain Time Zone (or equivalent to the Pacific Time Zone). This causes confusion as daylight savings now runs roughly from March through early November, so time in most of Arizona is effectively the same as Pacific Time for two-thirds of the year. During the winter months Arizona has the same time as the rest of the Mountain Time Zone. An easy way to remember this rule is: Colorado in wintertime, California in summertime. This does not affect the hour in which most TV programs are viewed for the local over-the-air networks such as ABC, CBS, FOX, etc. The exception is for nationwide live programming, and all cable-only channels.

Holidays
Arizona observes all the federal holidays, and has no additional ones.

Tourist information

 * Visit Arizona website

Talk
As with all states in the U.S., the primary spoken language in Arizona is English. A large population base speaks Spanish. Due to the state's history and its proximity to Mexico, Arizona is home to a large population of Mexican-Americans as well as populations from several other Hispanic countries who typically speak the Spanish language (with some Hispanic cultures using a country-specific dialect) in addition to or instead of English.

Arizona is home to several Native American reservations, with the Navajo Nation being the largest in the state and nationwide. Most of the Native American tribes have their own distinct language, though just about all members of those tribes are fluent in English.

By plane
Arizona's main entry point by air is. Nestled between downtown Phoenix and Tempe, Sky Harbor is served by most major airlines and provides non-stop service to over 100 cities in the U.S., Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, Mexico and Costa Rica. It is a hub & focus city for American Airlines/American Eagle and Southwest Airlines. Additional direct international connections to/from Phoenix are through Dallas Ft Worth International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport or through another city depending on the airline(s). From Phoenix Sky Harbor most travelers rent cars and drive to their destinations in Arizona.

In addition to Phoenix Sky Harbor, several regional airports are throughout Arizona including:
 * in the east Phoenix metro valley (formerly Williams Gateway Airport) which is served by Allegiant Airlines and Sun Country. All other airlines serving the area are at Phoenix Sky Harbor.
 * found south of downtown Tucson, it is Arizona's second busiest airport. It is served by several major airlines, with non-stop service to 20 cities in the U.S. from Tucson.
 * in Las Vegas, Nevada, not in Arizona, serves as the nearest major international airport to northern/northwestern Arizona with multiple commercial airlines. Most travelers would fly to either Las Vegas or Phoenix, rent a car and drive to Flagstaff, Grand Canyon, Lake Havasu, Laughlin/Bullhead City and/or anywhere in northern/northwestern Arizona.
 * south of Flagstaff. It is served by American Eagle from Phoenix and Dallas-Ft Worth.
 * north of Lake Havasu City along SR-95. No commercial flights, only available for general aviation and VIP flights.
 * , in Bullhead City. It is served by Swift Air and Sun Country.
 * serves as a general aviation airport on the northeastern edge of Page, AZ. Commercially it is only served by Contour Airlines from Phoenix.
 * in Yuma served only by American Eagle from Dallas/Ft Worth and Phoenix Sky Harbor.

By car
All parts of Arizona are accessible by federal or state highways as well as 22 'Ports of Entry' from surrounding states and Sonora, Mexico. The speed limit on most rural interstate freeways is 75 miles per hour, which typically drops to 65 or 55 miles per hour near metropolitan areas. The speed limit on most state highways and U.S. routes in rural Arizona is 65 miles per hour.

Arizona law does require that each front-seat occupant wear a seat belt in a car is designed to carry ten or fewer passengers (i.e. not a bus). In addition, children under the age of five must be properly restrained as well.

 * I-8.svg & Arizona 85.svg (I-8) runs east to west, running from I-10 to Yuma. I-8 splits from I-10 south of Phoenix (by Casa Grande) and provides the quickest access to Yuma as well as San Diego, California.  However, in the other direction, it does not go to Phoenix directly.  At Gila Bend, Hwy 85 connects I-8 with I-10, for travel to the west side of Phoenix and downtown (or Phoenix to San Diego).  For the eastern suburbs, I-8 merges with I-10, and it's possible to reverse direction going from I-8 east to I-10 west (exit #178B) or vice versa (I-10 exit #199).  Despite the signs, I-10 goes mostly north-south between Tucson and Phoenix, and backtracking is very minimal.
 * I-10.svg (I-10) runs east to west across southern Arizona and connects travelers with the major cities of Tucson and Phoenix. I-10 originates out of the east from Las Cruces, New Mexico and out of the west, from Palm Springs, California and Los Angeles.  I-10 is a major interstate and does carry a large amount of car and truck traffic.  During the week, portions of I-10 can experience very heavy traffic, usually around the Tucson and Phoenix metropolitan areas.
 * I-15.svg (I-15) runs through the northwestern corner of Arizona, going through the Virgin River Gorge between Mesquite and St George. Take U.S. 89 from Salt Lake City and points north.
 * I-19.svg (I-19) runs south to north in south central Arizona and provides access from Tucson to Nogales as well as entry into Sonora, Mexico. I-19 splits from I-10 just south of downtown Tucson. Because I-19 is a major route to and from Mexico, border patrol checkpoints are common along the interstate; however these checkpoints typically do not take long to pass through. The border crossing at Nogales can be a busy entry and exit point; be patient while waiting to cross the border and have proper documentation ready to present. See 'Stay safe' for additional information.
 * I-40.svg (I-40) runs east to west across northern Arizona and connects travelers with the cities of Kingman, Flagstaff, and Williams. I-40 comes into Arizona from the east after passing through Albuquerque, New Mexico and from the west after passing through Barstow and Needles, California.  I-40 is positioned above the Mogollon Rim in elevation and is affected by heavy snowfall during winter months.
 * US 93.svg runs southeast to northwest across northwest Arizona and connects travelers from Wickenburg] to I-40 and [[Kingman and onto Nevada and Las Vegas area. U.S. 93 is the route that the majority of local residents and tourists use to travel to and from Las Vegas and can become very busy on most weekends. The stretch northwest from Wickenburg to Kingman is deadly, as it is mixed two- and four-lane, with a lot of head-on collisions as drivers pull out to pass thinking they're in a two-lane stretch. U.S. 93 once ran across Hoover Dam on the Arizona / Nevada border, but the highway was rerouted in 2010 over a newly built bridge just downstream of the dam. (Incidentally, drivers on the new bridge cannot see the dam.) The old highway is still used by dam employees and visitors, but can no longer be accessed from the Arizona side of the river.
 * US 60.svg runs (in a general) east to west across central Arizona, entering the state just south of I-40 from New Mexico. U.S. 60 runs through the White Mountains and the towns of Eagar and Springerville on its way to Globe and Phoenix. From Phoenix, it continues northwest to Wickenburg, then southwest to the route's western terminus at I-10.
 * US 160.svg runs northeast to southwest across northern Arizona entering the state from Colorado and New Mexico near the Four Corners and ending by joining with U.S. 89 near Tuba City.
 * US 89.svg runs north to south through northern Arizona and connects travelers from Utah with Page and Flagstaff. In addition, U.S. 89 is the main route for travelers to access the South Rim, North Rim (via Alt-U.S. 89) and the east entrance of the Grand Canyon.
 * US 89.svg ALT (also, US 89A) runs through northern Arizona, starting near Fredonia, Arizona and Kanab, Utah, and connects to U.S. 89 south of Page. Alt-U.S. 89 is the main route to access to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

By bus
Bus service to Arizona is available via Greyhound with several stops available including Flagstaff, Glendale, Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma.

By train
Amtrak serves a couple of routes through Arizona. Phoenix, the principal city and capital, is not served by Amtrak trains instead the nearest station is south of Phoenix in the town of Maricopa and is connected to Phoenix, Tempe and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport by an Amtrak Thruway Shuttle.

The following Amtrak routes serve Arizona: Amtrak, offer two routes through Arizona:
 * The Southwest Chief runs from Chicago to Los Angeles with stops in Winslow, Flagstaff, Williams and Kingman. For much of its route, the Southwest Chief follows historic Route 66, and offers an interesting perspective of the historic road and its surroundings.
 * The Sunset Limited runs three times a week from New Orleans to Los Angeles via San Antonio and El Paso. Additionally, Amtrak's Texas Eagle service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. Both trains stop in Benson, Tucson, Maricopa and Yuma.

Get around
As with most western states, the easiest way to get around Arizona is via car. The federal and state highway system offers travelers easy access around Arizona whether you are driving your personal car or a rental car. While most major cities in Arizona do offer public transportation, including Greater Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Sedona, state-wide public transportation is very limited.

By car
Nearly all major attractions and tourist destinations in Arizona are accessible via car.

 * I-17.svg (I-17) runs south to north across central Arizona and connects travelers with the major cities of Phoenix and Flagstaff. I-17 is the main route north from Phoenix to Sedona, Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon.  It provides easy access to Sedona via AZ 179 as well as Prescott, Jerome and Montezuma Castle National Monument.  Because I-17 is the major route north, it carries a large amount of car and truck traffic, especially during busy weekends and holidays. It can get shut down due to accidents, weather and forest fires. During the week, portions of I-17 can experience very heavy traffic due to commuters. Additionally, because the road crosses the Mogollon Rim, its northern section is frequently affected by heavy snowfall during the winter months.
 * Arizona_88.svg The Apache Trail (Hwy. 88) is a 42 mi long scenic drive through the Sonoran Desert. It goes out to Theodore Roosevelt Lake (usually called just Roosevelt Lake) and the mining town of Globe.  Along the way are ample views of yuccas, saguaros and desert lakes.

Renting a car
Renting a car in Arizona is very similar to any other state. Rental cars are available at most major airports, especially the main entry points of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Tucson International Airport.

By bus
Bus service to Arizona is available via Greyhound with several stops available including Flagstaff, Glendale, Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma.

Information on transit can be found from APTA.

By plane
American Eagle operates limited intrastate offer flights (within Arizona) from Phoenix Sky Harbor to Tucson, Flagstaff and Yuma. Contour Airlines only offer flights between Phoenix and Page, AZ.

National parks

 * - UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most internationally recognized topographical features.
 * - National Park dedicated to preserving the iconic giant Saguaro cacti.
 * - National Park dedicated to preserving the iconic giant Saguaro cacti.
 * - National Park dedicated to preserving the iconic giant Saguaro cacti.
 * - National Park dedicated to preserving the iconic giant Saguaro cacti.

National forests

 * Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest – primarily in the Mogollon Rim area.
 * Tonto National Forest – just north of Greater Phoenix.
 * Coronado National Forest – spread across South Central Arizona, Southeast Arizona, and Eastern Arizona.
 * Coconino National Forest – in the north of the state, near Flagstaff.

State parks
The Arizona State Parks offer an array of options for outdoor enthusiasts:

 * near Benson
 * near Benson

Do

 * US 66 (AZ historic).svg Historic Route 66 – Historic Route 66 runs east-west across northern Arizona.

 * Arizona Scenic Road Marker.svgUS 93.svg Joshua Forest Scenic Road (U.S. 93) – from Wickenburg northwest to Wikieup.

 * Arizona Scenic Road Marker.svgUS 191.svg Coronado Trail Scenic Byway (U.S. 191) – An Arizona Scenic Route and National Scenic Byway, US 191 travels north-south through the Apache–Sitgreaves National Forest, running all the way from the Mexico border near Douglas to the Utah state line near Mexican Water. Between Morenci and Hannagan Meadow the road is dangerous with no shoulders and many hairpin turns along steep mountainsides. Also called the "Devil's Highway", as US 191 formerly was US 666 as the 6th numbered spur from US 66, but also fitting for the deadly stretch between Morenci and Hannagan Meadow.

Eat

Although, like most large metro areas, Phoenix is home to a wide variety of eateries of myriad ethic and cultural influences, Arizona is best known for its great Southwestern style food, including great traditional Mexican cuisine, particularly of the northern or Sonoran variety, upscale Mexican fusion eateries, and working neighborhood catering trucks and street-side burrito stands. Arizonans have claimed that they brought chimichangas (deep-fried burritos) to the U.S.

On the wilder side, cactus is also edible and can be eaten fried or in salads.

Drink
Large amounts of water are a necessity during the summer months. The amount of water suggested varies from person to person, but dehydration or exhaustion can occur if one is not vigilant; especially in areas without air conditioning. Summer days can be so warm that most convenience stores sell fountain drink cups in sizes up to a half gallon.

Buy
The official currency of Arizona is the U.S. Dollar (USD).

Credit cards are widely accepted in Arizona, as are debit cards.

Be aware that ATMs found outside banks often charge substantial fees to withdraw cash in Arizona, as much as US$8 to US$15 fixed fee per withdrawal irrespective of the amount, plus a currency conversion fee when withdrawing cash from an account in EUR or other foreign currency. Carefully check the overview presented by the ATM before committing to the transaction.

Disease
Like many western states, Arizona has had cases of hantaviral pulmonary syndrome (an average of three confirmed cases each year in recent decades; usually, two of them survive). There is no cure for the disease; treatment mainly consists of supportive therapies while the body tries to overcome the virus itself. Realistically, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, but sensible precautions should be applied. The main defense against the virus is prevention. Do NOT venture into a wild animal's den or handle any dead animals, particularly rodents, as rodents seem to be the primary vector of the illness. For more information on prevention and transmission, read the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention webpage on hantaviruses.

Cases of bubonic plague have been reported among animals in portions of Northern Arizona. On average, about one person per year gets infected. Like hantavirus, it is of little concern to the traveler, but the sensible precautions about avoiding fleas and any rodents or wild animals, especially if they are sick or dead, should be applied as well. Unlike hantavirus, plague is easily treated with antibiotics if treatment is begun soon enough.

Coccidioidomycosis, known locally as valley fever, is a fungus-caused illness that is endemic to parts of the state. It is caused by fungus that grows in the soil, and infections can occur when the soil is disturbed, such as during the dust storms that parts of the state experiences during the summer months. People can reduce their exposure to the fungus by avoiding blowing dust or dirt, and if possible, wearing face masks. If inhaled, it can cause a lung infection that usually appears one to three weeks after exposure. Most people recover without treatment, but a small percentage will require antifungal treatment. Less commonly, the fungus can infect cuts and scrapes in the skin. It is not considered a contagious disease. Pets such as dogs and cats can also become infected.

Arizona / Mexico border
Due to Arizona's proximity to the International Boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border.

 * Know where you are at all times, follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions.
 * Do not pick-up hitch hikers.
 * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle.
 * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails."
 * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas.

Crossing the border
Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of Sonora, Mexico from Arizona every year with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, Sonora can be very dangerous for travelers, and the U.S. State Department encourages travelers to limit travel to the main roads during daylight hours. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs and with the current Mexico travel warnings.

Deserts
A large portion of Arizona's land area consists of extensive desert landscapes, many of which are very remote and can easily become disorienting to a tourist who is unfamiliar with these locations. It is not at all uncommon for temperatures in the Arizona desert to reach 115-120°F (45-50°C) during the summer months, which have the potential to impose deadly consequences to anyone who should become lost or stranded in these areas.

If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, follow desert survival guidelines. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to get return.

Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low laying areas, even if it is not raining in the immediate vicinity.

Driving
Drivers in Arizona should follow the same rules and regulations that apply throughout the U.S.

Road conditions
For information on road conditions or traffic information dial *511 from any phone. Road conditions and traffic information is also available online from the Arizona Department of Transportation or the Federal Highway Administration.

Be aware that Arizona Highway Patrol can and do close I-17, I-40 and other major roads due to high winds or severe snowstorms. During extremely severe weather, it may not be possible to send traffic back to a town, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Dust storms
Dust storms, called haboobs, are caused by high winds blowing dust onto highways and into metropolitan areas. Usually brief, dust storms should be taken seriously because they can quickly decrease visibility. Haboobs can be up to a mile tall, a mile deep, and 40 miles long. Similar as with blizzard "whiteout conditions", multiple-car collisions are unfortunately a rather common occurrence in dust storm "brownout conditions" in the southwest. I-10 between Phoenix and Tucson is notorious for multi-car pile-ups, some including 70+ vehicles. Variable speed limits have been introduced along some portions.

If you see a dust storm while driving:
 * Turn on your headlights and slow to an appropriate speed.
 * If you can safely avoid it, do not enter the dust storm.
 * If you need to pull off the road, get as far to the right as possible, going even beyond the shoulder into the ditch if possible.
 * Turn off the car, headlights and parking lights, set the parking brake, and keep your foot off the brake pedal - go dark, otherwise other drivers may think you're a car in motion and likely rear-end you.

Rain and flash floods
In the summer, typically central and southern Arizona does experience heavy rainstorms, called monsoons. While these storms are usually brief, the heavy rain can cause flooding in low-lying areas. If you find yourself driving during one of these storms:

 * Slow down: road surfaces are slick from the water, but also the oils especially if it's the first rain of the season.
 * If you need to pull off the road, get as far to the right as possible. Turn off the car, headlights and parking lights, set the parking brake, and keep your foot off the brake pedal - go dark, otherwise other drivers may think you're a car in motion.
 * Pay attention to hazard signs and roadblocks. If you see a sign that says "Do Not Cross When Flooded", take it seriously and find another way. Section 28-910 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, commonly known as the "Stupid Motorist Law", states that any motorist who drives around barricades into a flooded stretch of roadway may be charged for the cost of his or her rescue.
 * Don't cross rain-swollen washes. You could get caught in a flash flood, and you don't know what's under the water. That guy out there who seems to be only ankle-deep in water may be standing on the roof of his pickup truck.
 * Most of these summer monsoon rainstorms are accompanied by lightning; some bring hail. Take proper precautions.

Border Patrol checkpoints
The US Border Patrol operate immigration checkpoints along highways near the border. Checkpoints are usually only in the northbound direction and south of Tucson, but legally can be anywhere within 100 miles of a land border or the coast of the USA. When checkpoints are staffed, you will have to pull over. You can get more information from the Arizona ACLU.
 * US citizens: Border Patrol can only ask questions needed to determine if you are a citizen. You do not need to provide any document, though if you do not speak English well, showing documents may make your experience easier.
 * If you are not a citizen: Border Patrol may ask for proof that you have permission to be in the United States (like a visa or work authorization card). They may also be allowed to ask other questions.

Emergency services
In the event of an emergency, dial 911. For non-emergency police or fire assistance, contact the local police or fire department directly.

Mobile cell phone coverage can be extremely spotty outside of urban areas, and while it's usually possible to use a cell phone from the interstate highways, this is nowhere close to universally true. However always try 911 in an emergency: it may connect to another carrier even if you have no signal.

Summer weather
Summer temperatures in some areas of Arizona routinely surpass 100°F (38°C) and visitors should take extra precautions while visiting the state. In Phoenix, daytime high record temperatures of are more frequent. Regular hydration is extremely important.

If outdoors:

 * Rest frequently in shady areas so that the body's temperature has a chance to recover.
 * If unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, gradually increase the pace and limit exercise or work time.
 * Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing; sunglasses to protect the eyes; and a wide-brimmed hat to provide shade and keep the head cool.
 * Take special precaution with infants and young children by dressing them in loose, cool clothing and shading their heads and faces with hats or an umbrella. Protect their feet with shoes.

Avoid heat-related illness:

 * Never leave infants, children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
 * Increase fluid intake, regardless of activity level. Don't wait until thirsty to drink fluids; drink more liquid than one's thirst indicates.
 * Avoid "heat hangover." Continue to drink fluids even after strenuous activity. This will enable the body to maintain optimum hydration, and help prevent the after effects of heat exposure such as headaches and fatigue.
 * Avoid beverages containing alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar as they dehydrate the body.

Abandoned mine shafts
These are very numerous in Arizona, and many remain unmarked. Many mine shafts are as deep as a skyscraper is tall, creating an extremely dangerous hazard. Do not travel along unknown trails and primitive dirt roads by ATV, motorcycle, horseback, etc. or deviate (even by a few feet) from existing well-used ones. For more information, including safety tips, visit the Arizona State Mine Inspector website.

Go next
Arizona's geographic location and the interstate system allow easy access to California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado (via Utah or New Mexico) and the state of Sonora in Mexico.

 * California — America's most populous state borders Arizona to the west, offering easy access to destinations such as Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego and Joshua Tree National Park.
 * Nevada — Destinations that are easy day trips from Arizona's northwestern border include Henderson, Las Vegas and Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
 * Utah — Sharing similar climate and terrain, northern Arizona is close to St. George, Capitol Reef National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
 * Colorado — Located to Arizona's northeast, the towns of Cortez and Durango are good day-trip options, as is Canyon of the Ancients National Monument. You must pass through a little of Utah or New Mexico to get to Colorado.
 * New Mexico — The state's eastern neighbor puts the cities of Albuquerque and Santa Fe within easy driving distance for visitors.
 * Sonora — For those willing to cross the border to the south into Mexico the towns of Hermosillo, Nogales and Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) make for interesting visits.
 * Four Corners Monument — Where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet at right angles. Take US Hwy 89 east of the Grand Canyon, and turn onto US Hwy 160 going to New Mexico. Just across the state boundary, turn left at New Mexico Hwy 597. About from either Flagstaff or Grand Canyon Village.

title: Arizona


text:
Arkansas

Arkansas is a state on the western side of the Southern United States. It calls itself "the Natural State".

The northern part of the state is mountainous and forested, with the northwestern corner being home to the scenic Ozark Mountains and the economically booming Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers-Bentonville area. The western-central area is home to the Ouachita Mountains, while the southern and south-eastern part of the state is part of the Mississippi Delta, with rice and cotton fields and flat, sweeping vistas. Little Rock, the capital, lies near the center of the state.

Cities

 * – state capital, also the seat city of Pulaski County.
 * – northwest town best known as home to the headquarters of Walmart.
 * – a small city of 19,000 in Arkansas' Union County.
 * – a tourist destination town of 2,000 located in Arkansas' Northern Ozark Mountains.
 * – the largest city in the state's northwest, and with the main campus of the University of Arkansas.
 * – second largest city in Arkansas.
 * – the place where President Bill Clinton grew up, but the main attraction is Hot Springs National Park.
 * – a city that shares a border with the city of the same name in Texas.
 * – a city that shares a border with the city of the same name in Texas.

Other destinations

 * Ouachita National Forest is west of Hot Springs.
 * Ouachita National Forest is west of Hot Springs.
 * Ouachita National Forest is west of Hot Springs.

Understand
Arkansas' official nickname is "The Natural State", and that tells you a lot. It has great state parks throughout the state, with wilderness comprising broadleaf forests. The northwest boasts the Ozark Mountains while the south and east of the state has flatter land and shows more of its agricultural heritage. The Mississippi River forms the eastern border of the state and gives a great blues music heritage, great country music elsewhere (Johnny Cash and Glen Campbell were Arkansans) and folk and bluegrass everywhere. There are wonderful state parks with camping facilities and some with cabins. The Buffalo River has majestic scenery and easy canoe float trips (but go in late spring to be sure there is enough water). The summer is hot and humid; spring and autumn are wetter but mostly from intermittent heavy rain showers. Winter brings a little snow, but this time of year can still be humid. Spring is tornado season.

The spelling and pronunciation of "Arkansas" (it is always ar-kan-saw or ark-an-saw, not ar-kansas) reflect the state's heritage. The name is a French pronunciation of a Siouxan word meaning "land of downriver people" and was prescribed by law in 1881. It is still illegal to mispronounce the name (the law contains a clause stating that "the pronunciation with the accent on the second syllable with the sound of 'a' in 'man' and the sounding of the terminal 's' is an innovation to be discouraged"), so be careful!

Natives and residents of Arkansas are called Arkansans, though the older "Arkansawyers" is also still used.

Tourist information

 * Arkansas Tourism website

Talk
English is the prevalent language in virtually the entire state - although Spanish has become much more apparent in Northwestern Arkansas. Many rural (and quite a few urban) Arkansans have distinctive southern accents and dialects, which is generally a source of pride. The Arkansas accent is more akin to an Oklahoma or Texas accent than the "Deep South" accent, though it has elements of both. Speakers of English as a second language may face difficulty with understanding some speakers with strong accents.

The accent of the state is usually considered to be a mix of General American and Southern accents. The Southern accent is more prevalent in the southern and eastern halves of the state, and in Little Rock and in the northern portion of the state (particularly the densely populated northwestern corner), General American English is most commonly spoken.

Relatively few Arkansans are truly bilingual, and menus, signs, and other information is rarely presented in a language other than English; Spanish is by far the most common second language.

By plane
Little Rock National Airport serves central Arkansas, while Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport located near Bentonville serves the Northwest region of the state. Aside from private airports, other airports that may be more convenient can be found in Fort Smith, Texarkana, Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Memphis, Tennessee.

By train
Amtrak serves the state via its once-daily Texas Eagle train that runs between Chicago and San Antonio, with through-cars to and from Los Angeles three times a week. Cities served in the state include Little Rock, Texarkana and Walnut Ridge, just outside Jonesboro. Unfortunately, southbound trains arrive in the middle of the night while northbound ones arrives late evening.

By bus
Bus travel is somewhat limited in Arkansas, but Greyhound runs daily services to Little Rock from Dallas and Houston, Oklahoma City and Nashville via Memphis. Additionally, Jefferson Lines runs daily buses from cities north of Arkansas, such as Kansas City.

Get around
Car travel here, as in most of the United States, is quickest. Interstate 40 crosses the state from Fort Smith to Memphis, passing through Little Rock. Interstate 30 also goes south from Little Rock to Texarkana.

Information on transit can be found here.

See

 * Central High (civil rights museum in Little Rock)
 * Clinton Presidential Library (Little Rock)
 * Crystal Bridges (world class art museum in Bentonville)
 * Eureka Springs and the Christ of the Ozarks (Victorian era spring town)
 * 5 - 10 Museum (first Wal-Mart in the US) in Bentonville.
 * Johnny Cash Museum in Dyess.

Do

 * Climb a mountain (Petit Jean state park, Mount Magazine state park in the Ouachitas, etc.)
 * Paddle down a river (Buffalo National River).
 * See some live music (Wakarusa Music and Camping Festival at Mulberry Mountain in Northwest Arkansas, Toad Suck Daze in Conway, Riverfest in Little Rock - all happen in the spring).
 * Watch some animals (bald eagles and migratory birds at Holla Bend, trumpeter swans at Magness Lake, elk near Ponca)
 * Dig for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park, in between Hot Springs and Texarkana in the Timberlands area.
 * Listen to traditional country music in Mountain View.
 * Visit one of the state's local wineries, some of which have been producing wine since the late 1800s (several near Altus off I-40).
 * Hike the Ouachita National Recreation Trail.

Eat
Arkansas' food resembles that of its southern neighbors. Much truly authentic and worthwhile southern cuisine is made in private homes, cookouts, or church functions, rather than actual restaurants. One exception is barbecue, particularly pork barbecue, which is widespread, and available in restaurants, roadside stands, and even trucks. Another regional staple is fried catfish, often it is served with hushpuppies, cole slaw, and french fries or a baked potato. Catfish is especially prevalent in the lowland and Delta regions of the south and east.

Traditional African-American cooking, or "soul food" is generally very similar to the traditional cooking of white southerners in terms of ingredients or basic dishes. It tends to be spicier, and may make more extensive use of ingredients more affluent whites or blacks shun. Likewise, it is rarely presented in formal restaurants, but at cookouts and church gatherings.

One unusual highlight of the Delta region is "tamales." These are very distinct from Latin American tamales, even though they were originally introduced by Mexican farm workers in the early 20th century. In the northwestern part of the state, recent growth in Mexican immigration has brought more authentic Mexican cooking to the state.

There is plenty of cosmopolitan dining in the state. Little Rock, Eureka Springs, Fort Smith, Northwest Arkansas, all have excellent options in certain cuisines due to large immigrant/foreign populations.

Drink
Iced tea and lemonade are stereotypically southern beverages and are prevalent in the state along with bottled soft drinks. Both are generally served very sweet, though most restaurants will offer an unsweetened version.

Many Arkansas counties are "dry" and do not have retail alcohol sales. However bringing alcohol for private use into a dry county is legal for those over 21 years of age.

Crime
Crime is generally low in most of the state, the main exceptions being the larger cities. Even though many small-town Arkansans view Little Rock as a particularly dangerous and unsafe city, its violent crime rates are in line with other United States cities of similar size. Property crime is more prevalent.

Drunk driving can be a danger, especially in rural areas at night. Arkansas is divided between "wet" and "dry" counties, so many drinkers in the state must drive 10–30 miles away from home for a good time.

Social issues
In terms of race relations, Arkansas has progressed in many respects since the 1950s. However, many small towns in the state, especially in the highlands, are mostly or entirely white, and people of color may attract stares or unwanted attention. People of Hispanic background may be assumed to be recent immigrants. Likewise, some areas of the Delta, and of the cities of Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pine Bluff are almost entirely African-American, and even absent overt racial tensions, poverty is widespread in these areas, and wealthier visitors of any background need to be aware of economic and social tensions. However, some areas in larger towns and cities are decidedly integrated.

Severe weather
Severe thunderstorms and flash floods often occur during the spring and summer months. While generally mild, winter storms can also strike the state – especially in the northwest. Perhaps the most likely environmental danger is the intense summer heat, compounded by the humidity from June through September. Keep well hydrated, and avoid overexerting yourself.

Tornadoes
Arkansas, though not a part of the country's "tornado alley," is frequently affected by tornadoes during the storms which occur throughout the spring and summer seasons. Weather conditions can change rapidly and it is important to stay informed during tornado season as to the current weather outlook while travelling across the state.

If you are planning on traveling to Arkansas during the spring or summer months, refer to the Tornado safety page for important precautionary information.

Go next

 * Texas – The largest state in the contiguous United States borders Arkansas to the southwest.
 * Oklahoma – Arkansas' western neighbor offers the opportunity to explore America's Great Plains.
 * Missouri – The state's northern neighbor is home to St. Louis, the Gateway to the West.
 * Tennessee – Northeast of Arkansas, Tennessee offers natural wonders such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
 * Mississippi – The state's eastern neighbor has Civil War battlefields, scenic parkways, and antebellum charm.
 * Louisiana – Home to New Orleans, this state on Arkansas' southern border offers a unique culture.

title: Arkansas


text:
Arkaroola

Arkaroola or Arkaroola Station is a very small town located in the Northern Flinders Ranges about 130 km from Leigh Creek, in South Australia.

Understand
Arkaroola is a 610 square kilometre Wilderness Sanctuary operated by the descendants of Reg Sprigg. Mr Sprigg purchased the pastoral lease in 1968 and took steps to establish it as a wilderness sanctuary. In 2012 the South Australian government passed legislation providing some statutory protection. Arkaroola is something of a treasure trove for geologists. It is rich in radioactive ores. Early in the twentieth century radium was mined there and shipped to Europe however that venture was not profitable. There has been considerable exploration for uranium at Arkaroola and although no commercial mines have ever been established in Arkaroola itself one of the world's largest uranium deposits was discovered on the plains to the east. Paralana hot springs has the distinction of being a radioactively heated spring and radon gas escapes to the atmosphere in places around the sanctuary. Arkaroola has rugged mountains, towering granite peaks, magnificent gorges and mysterious waterholes. It is home to over 160 species of birds and the shy and endangered Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby. Arkaroola is a sought after destination for bushwalkers and four wheel drivers. The four wheel drive Ridgetop Tour is world famous; it crosses ancient sea beds, razor-back ridges and the peaks of the Flinders Ranges most rugged mountains to the magnificent climax at Siller's Lookout. Arkaroola has been recognized as a Dark Sky Santuary and has two stellar observatories.

Get in
Access is usually by car, while there is a helipad and an airstrip near by they are not usually used. Most visitors travel to Arkaroola by private vehicle via Leigh Creek and Copley, a distance of about 130 kilometres. The road from Copley is unsealed. It is usually in good condition however it takes very little rain to make the road unpassable. It is wise to check road conditions before you leave Adelaide. The average driving time from Leigh Creek is approximately two hours. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended although it is possible to get there using a 2WD. Whatever type of vehicle you take you should ensure you have two spare tyres! The road into Arkaroola is littered with blown tyres. The road can be impassable after rain as there are many floodways that cross the road. Please note it is illegal to drive on roads that have been closed, fines apply. You can travel from Adelaide to Arkaroola in one day. It should take around 7-9 hours and is approximately 700 km.

Get around
Arkaroola is very small and as such everything is within a few hundred metres walking distance.

If you've brought your own 4WD you should have no problems getting around, although some tracks are classed as "Extreme 4WD Conditions" so you must have a sturdy and rugged 4WD, i.e. a RAV4 or a Kluger is not suitable!

Some tracks are classed as 2WD. However there are VERY few 2WD tracks to drive on and strictly speaking you would be much better off in a 4WD, mainly because 2WD vehicles do not have enough clearance between the wheels. While it is possible to take your 2WD along these tracks it is not advisable at all.

See

 * Springs
 * Waterholes
 * Outback

Do

 * Geology
 * There are 3 different astronomy tours conducted at the observatories
 * Outback

Buy

 * Souvenirs
 * Fuel
 * There is a workshop where tyre repairs and other basic mechanical repairs are undertaken
 * there is a very limited selection of food for camping

Eat
One restaurant: serves great food for dinner and continental or cooked breakfasts

Drink
One pub

title: Arkaroola