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Idaho: A Vacation of a Lifetime

Expert Author JeanPierre Prieur

Is it no wonder they call Idaho the Gem State. This laid-back way of life can seem appealing to anyone. This state has a low crime rate and is a great place to raise children. Everyone knows Idaho is famous for potatoes; that is because they do spuds better than anyone. More than 30 percent of America's potatoes are grown right in this state.

Boise is the state capital and the largest city in Idaho. It sits right on the Boise River, overlooking the Rocky Mountains. There is plenty of room to move in Boise, as it is not overly crowded. This area's climate is semiarid; you will get to experience all four seasons. Dubbed "The City of Trees," this laid-back western town has made the top 10 for the greatest places to live. There are many things to do in Idaho; make sure you have plenty of time to see all the sights.

If it is skiing you like, then the Bogus Basin is for you. This area is less than an hour drive from Boise. Bogus Basin has been a favorite since 1942. They offer traditional cross country skiing or, for the adventurous, snowboarding and snow tubing. Since this area does get a traditional winter with lots of snow, it is great for skiing.

Nestled in the Sawtooth Mountains is Redfish Lake. This lake was named after the sockeye salmon that once overpopulated this area. At one time, this lake had so many fish, it actually had red spots all over it from the salmon. This lake is perfect for spending a day fishing, boating or swimming. The climate in Idaho is perfect for cooling off by the lake on a hot summer day.

One of the most spectacular sites is the Shoshone Falls; this magical place is often referred to as the Niagara of the West. The mystical waterfall is 212 feet in height, giving a spectacular, picturesque appeal. The water flows into the Snake River and is 45 feet higher than the grand Niagara itself. This waterfall has been attracting tourists for centuries; it has been around since the ice ages.

Palouse is an area northwest of Walla Walla. It is known to be the land of fertile hills. The land extends from southeast Washington to north central Idaho, as well as some of Oregon. This area is famous for growing wheat and legumes. One area, known as the Palouse Hills, is a fascinating section with an awe-inspiring landscape. This area is also popular with tourists, with amazing carved hills and a lush countryside.

Most people come to Idaho for skiing at the Idaho City Park N' Ski Area, but now the area is a popular attraction during the summer as well. The city is now renting the yurts, or cabins, during the summer to help boost the economy. This area provides breathtaking hiking and bike-riding up the side of a mountain. Mountain biking is not only great exercise but is also a perfect way to see what Mother Nature has to offer.

If golfing is your thing, Idaho has you covered. Teton Springs is a popular 18-hole golf course. This course is simply beautiful: It has creeks and lush plantation, which are grand to look at while enjoying the day playing golf. This course was designed by Byron Nelson, a legend to golf. Many have said that this is the best golf course in the Rocky Mountains. The staff here is also amazing and can give lessons to ensure you have the perfect swing.

Don't just take our word for it; Idaho is the place to be. Here are what some travelers had to say about their Idaho vacations:

"There were so many things to do that we ran out of time. This was a friendly place to be. Life was simple here. The Shoshone Falls were captivating. Our favorite restaurant in Boise was the Shige Japanese Cuisine; the food was remarkable."

"My family stayed in a wonderful hotel in Boise. The staff was so accommodating and made sure that we were well taken care of. I enjoyed the room to breathe in this area. We had two weeks of pure heaven. We ate at several restaurants, but our favorite was, by far, Los Betos. They had the most authentic Mexican food we could find anywhere in the West, and the prices were great."

Article written by Jean-Pierre Prieur, Internet Marketing Coordinator for the hotel management company Hotel Managers Group. Hotel Managers Group proudly manages many Hotels in California, Utah, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, Idaho.
For your stay in Boise Idaho, Hotel Managers Group invites you to stay at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Meridian.

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