Alabama

Just 250 miles from north to south, Alabama ranges from the fast-flowing rivers, waterfalls and lakes of the Appalachian foothills to the subtropical bayous and white beaches of the Gulf Coast. Most of its industry is concentrated in the north, around rejuvenated Birmingham , and Huntsville , first home of the nation's space program. The sun-scorched farmlands of middle Alabama envelop Montgomery, the state capital. Southern Alabama will take you to the French-influenced coastal strip around attractive Mobile.