Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina in the United States and has a rapidly growing population, last measured at around 340,000 people.

Raleigh Durham airport is about fifteen minutes northwest of town. A taxi ride can be taken. A circuitous shuttle service will charge a whole lot less if wished.

It is a longstanding traditional American city that still retains a lot of its heritage. Developing the city carefully it has retained a lot of the charm of the older elements, with many old buildings taken back to how they used to be, plus a whole host of open areas with parks and woodland. The modern aspects of the city do not detract from this Victorian splendour though. Rather they build upon it, working with what is already there and always maintaining the cities spirit.

The State Capitol can be viewed and you can also observe the legislative process. Stroll past the graves of Civil War generals at a historic cemetery or meander along cobblestone streets of City Market.

Raleigh has its share of posh cosmopolitan dining spots, but a defiantly down home restaurant in the City Market.

Plenty of accommodation but advisable to book in busy times.

Raleigh is an excellent host for culture. With the free to enter Museums alongside the theatres and opera houses that regularly present fine works there is so much to see and enjoy here. With more than 20 free attractions, this stately and energetic capital city offers an affordable way to enjoy history, culture and the good old outdoors. Spend the day hopping between the three state museums of art, history and natural sciences

With over 150 parks, lakes and green ways in Raleigh alone, there is ample opportunity to enjoy golf, biking, swimming, boating and other outdoor adventures.

Sport is another major part of life here, taking part than watching that is important. Other sports also have a big following, with local leagues in place for football, soccer and basketball to name but a couple. The big name in town, though, is North Carolina State University, and cheering for the Wolf pack in basketball or football is more than just an idle pastime. Golf for example is tremendously popular, probably because of the surrounding beauty that typifies the whole area.

New suburbs and gigantic shopping centres dominate the outskirts of Raleigh, characterized by nicely designed homes blending into a landscape that retains much of its original wooded character.