One of the smaller states, Maryland nevertheless contains a great deal of diversity within its borders. While the Atlantic shoreline and Chesapeake Bay have quaint villages and unspoilt islands to explore, the area around Washington DC has become a centre for technology with military and civilian government establishments. A slim western ÔpanhandleÕ part of the state includes the forested Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains and numerous resorts.

Baltimore is a bustling city, with a vibrant, restored harbourfront, many fine shops, galleries and museums, and historic Fort McHenry, where in 1814 Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the words of AmericaÕs national anthem. The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum has recently reopened and is home to the oldest and largest collection of railroad artefacts in the Western Hemisphere.

Annapolis, MarylandÕs charming capital and the Ôsailing capital of the USAÕ, has cobblestone streets, buildings of great historical interest, and the famous US Naval Academy, where visitors may view midshipmen on parade. MarylandÕs colonial history is also recalled at St Michaels, home of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, and at St MaryÕs City, founded in 1634 as MarylandÕs first capital.

Ocean City is a delightful family resort with three miles of boardwalk fronting a wide Atlantic beach, an amusement park and all the fun of the seaside. Nearby Assateague Island is the home of the famous Chincoteague wild ponies. Civil War history buffs should request a copy of the Maryland Civil War trails brochure before their visit.