Alabama

In the words of a brilliant and very famous song by the iconic Lynyrd Skynyrd - 'Sweet Home Alabama, where the skies are so blue’. If you listen to the lyrics of this wonderful song, it perfectly sums up the state of Alabama. The north is home to breathtaking mountains and scenic lakes, whilst the gulf coast in the south is awash with sugar white beaches and warm, clear seas. If you are a golfer, then Alabama has some of the best golf courses anywhere.

Alabama was the heart of the civil rights movement which started in the mid 20th century. Home to some of the most pivotal moments in history, you can really get a feel for the heroic actions of people such as Rosa Parks and the courageous Freedom Fighters, who were so instrumental in changing peoples perceptions. The museums & exhibitions take you on a journey through an era of triumph and tragedy, but these wonderful places allow you to celebrate moments in history which not only changed the state of Alabama, but the USA and the world, all for the better. Alabama has such a rich history, so why not visit some of its most famous sites, like the grounds of historical battles such as the Battle of Horseshoe Bend of the Battle of Mobile Bay.

From the foothills of the Appalachians right through the the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, there is adventure to be discovered everywhere in Alabama. There are 22 state parks covering 48000 acres, offering the visitor everything from towering mountains, caves, caverns, river valleys, trails and waterways. Activities include fishing, camping, hiking and generally enjoying the epitome of the great outdoors. Each season in Alabama brings a stunning change to the flora & fauna, which only enhances your overall experience of this beautiful state. When it comes to beaches, then the soft, sugar white sands of the Gulf Coast take some beating. Add in the warm turquoise waters and you have the picture postcard setting we are all dreaming of at present!

The food and drink scene is Alabama is magnificent. From fine dining inspired by the French to the freshest seafood from the Gulf waters and barbecue so tender it literally falls apart in your mouth. Make sure you try a classic such as Chris’s Hot Dogs in Montgomery, where they have been serving classic American hot dogs covered in Chris’s famous chilli sauce since 1917. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q is a legendary barbecue restaurant that is a must for all barbecue enthusiasts - named World BBQ Champion in 2017, you can be assured of the finest food anywhere. Dine on the water at Cobalt’s, for the freshest seafood, amazing vistas and the fabulous happy hour.

Avid golfers will recognise the name Robert Trent Jones, one of the foremost golf course designers ever. Alabama is home to 11 of the 26 courses on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. With 215 sunny days a year, golfers can take advantage of some truly stunning golf courses, all in perfect condition and in idyllic locations. As well as golf, Alabama has a thriving sports scene - soccer, motor sports, cycling and especially college American Football are all huge in this wonderful state.

The music that has originated from Alabama has ‘shaped the soundtrack of American Music’ according to many. You will find live music everywhere, ranging from soul, jazz, country, rock’n roll and blues. There are iconic venues mixed with quaint bars and restaurants where you can sit back, relax and let the music take you to another place. In my opinion, there is simply nothing better than watching a classic blues band playing live, whilst enjoying a local beer and some delicious barbecue.