Michigan

Overview of Michigan

The northern state of Michigan consists of two peninsulas that extend into the Great Lakes, actually touching four out of five of the magnificent bodies of water that contain 80 percent of the United States' fresh water. Michigan's Lower and Upper Peninsulas are divided by Lake Michigan and linked by one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, stretching across the Straits of Mackinac. The glorious freshwater shoreline, extending for 3,000 miles (4,828km), is also made up of Lake Superior, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie.

In Michigan you're never more than six miles (10km) from a river or stream, and never more than 85 miles (137km) from one of the Great Lakes, making the state an obvious favourite with boaters. Most of Michigan is well forested, with the Upper Peninsula home to a variety of wildlife, and boasting trout fishing lodges and winter ski resorts. The southern part of the Lower Peninsula is mainly characterised by rural farmlands and industry, but the west coast offers several popular beach resorts.

With all this water and forest, hunting, fishing and sailing are major drawcards for sportsmen in Michigan, but the other main attraction in the state is its large industrial city, Detroit, birthplace of the motor car: the city that put the world on wheels. The legendary names of the original automobile manufacturers like Ford and Chevrolet still resound loudly in Detroit, which offers numerous institutions and attractions paying homage to the car. It is a gritty, fascinating city, hit hard by economic woes in the past decade but with a resilient character that keeps its population famously proud despite recent hardship.

Although it is the spot where the development of Michigan truly began back in 1701, when it was founded as a trading post, Detroit is not the capital. The attractive Victorian State Capitol stands in Lansing, chosen in 1879 for its location in the centre of the Lower Peninsula, which made it less vulnerable to invasion by British forces from Canada. Back then Lansing was a simple sawmill settlement, but today it is home to about 120,000 residents and vies with Detroit as a major motor manufacturing centre.

Key Facts

Language:

English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.

Passport/Visa:

It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Visa is required for short visits unless travelers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.

As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Currency:

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.

Electricity:

Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.

Travel to Michigan

Climate

The Great Lakes influence the climate in Michigan by generally warming the winters and cooling the summers, creating more moderate temperatures in relation to nearby regions, but that doesn't mean that the winters are mild. The lakes also create more humidity and moisture throughout the year. Snowfall is heavy in winter and Lake Erie is often iced over. The north of the state generally experiences cooler weather than the south, but the climate in Michigan is unpredictable and changes rapidly, particularly during the spring and autumn months. In mid-summer (July) temperatures in Michigan can rise as high as 86°F (30°C), while in mid-winter (January) temperatures average below freezing point.

Health Notes when travelling to United States of America

There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential.

Safety Notes when travelling to United States of America

Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, however, travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened, particularly at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk. There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November.

Customs in United States of America

Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and punishment. The age at which you may legally buy and consume alcohol is 21 years.

Duty Free in United States of America

Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,600 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola, Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country.

Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period.

Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.

Doing Business in United States of America

In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, however in states such as California dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr, Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated. Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.

Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in the States should be mindful of this fact; never make assumptions about someone's position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business structure, in which 'the boss' is the ultimate decision-maker. Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion. Concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture 'time is money', and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. Get to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open manner, and don't take offence if someone questions or challenges you outright.

Communication in United States of America

The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas, and wifi is widely available.

Tipping in United States of America

A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but don't tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties, tip 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if the service is good.

Passport/Visa Note

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Canadians:: The most important requirement on entering the U.S. is providing proof of Canadian citizenship. A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove Canadian citizenship and the right to return to Canada. However, several other documents can serve, depending on the mode of transport. Generally, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada, though there are some exceptions.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:: UK nationals require a passport valid for duration of stay. Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. The VWP includes tourism, certain types of business visit and transit to another country.
Entry requirements for Australians:: Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. If visiting the US for fewer than 90 days, Australian nationals may be eligible to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:: Passports must be valid for duration of stay. Irish nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:: Passports must be valid for duration of stay. New Zealand nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
Entry requirements for South Africans:: South Africans must hold a passport valid for duration of stay. A visa is required.

Currency

Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar
1.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar	0.90 EUR Euro	0.69 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling	108.90 JPY Japanese Yen	1.31 CAD Canadian Dollar	0.99 CHF Swiss Franc
1.38 AUD Australian Dollar	25.11 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia	337.71 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge	1,505.84 LBP Lebanese Pound	0.71 LYD Libyan Dinar	6.86 BOB Bolivian Boliviano
107.88 NPR Nepalese Rupee	0.38 OMR Omani Rial	3.64 QAR Qatari Rial	1.38 SGD Singapore Dollar	8.29 SEK Swedish Krona	6.63 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
9.98 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar	45.83 DOP Dominican Peso	6.72 HRK Croatian Kuna	18.63 MXN Mexican Peso	586.30 XOF West African CFA Franc	3.16 PGK Papua New Guinean kina
1.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar	2.11 FJD Fiji Dollar	22.64 HNL Honduran Lempira	110.53 DZD Algerian Dinar	1,191.31 MMK Myanma Kyat	11.19 BWP Botswana Pula
3.37 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol	693.53 CLP Chilean Peso	478.10 AMD Armenia Dram	24.17 CZK Czech Koruna	19.98 MDL Moldova Lei	124.29 ISK Icelandic Krona
2,938.75 UZS Uzbekistan Sum	3.85 ILS Israeli New Sheqel	0.71 JOD Jordanian Dinar	0.30 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar	31.35 UYU Uruguayan Peso	35.52 MUR Mauritian Rupee
28.51 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba	8.34 NOK Norwegian Krone	3.92 PLN Polish Zloty	3.75 SAR Saudi Riyal	146.02 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee	35.62 THB Thai Baht
3.67 AED U.A.E Dirham	3.59 BRL Brazilian Real	4.05 RON Romanian New Leu	7.77 HKD Hong Kong Dollar	587.63 XAF Central African CFA Franc	22,474.70 VND Vietnamese Dong
13.95 ARS Argentine Peso	2.70 XCD East Caribbean Dollar	7.83 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal	9.77 MAD Moroccan Dirham	0.38 BHD Bahrain Dinar	1.00 PAB Panamanian Balboa
1.50 AZN Azerbaijan Manat	3,117.81 COP Colombian Peso	68.30 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som	279.76 HUF Hungarian Forint	7.87 TJS Tajikistan Ruble	13,683.10 IDR Indonesian Rupiah
8.88 EGP Egyptian Pound	1,191.10 KRW South Korean Won	5,669.42 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní	4.16 MYR Malaysian Ringgit	538.75 CRC Costa Rican Colón	1.47 NZD New Zealand Dollar
104.74 PKR Pakistani Rupee	66.80 RUB Russian Rouble	15.60 ZAR South African Rand	2.12 TND Tunisian Dinar	2.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar	1.75 BGN Bulgarian Lev
2.95 TRY Turkish Lira	46.62 PHP Philippine Peso	32.62 TWD New Taiwan Dollar	196.50 NGN Nigerian Naira	107.15 XPF CFP Franc	3.91 GHS Ghanaian Cedi
124.92 JMD Jamaican Dollar	1.80 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder	1.38 BND Brunei Dollar	110.56 RSD Serbian Dinar	6.58 CNY Chinese Yuan	19,898.50 BYR Belarussian Ruble
6.65 DKK Danish Krone	3.44 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat	67.26 INR Indian Rupee

Exchange Rate for
Euro to U.S. Dollar

1 EUR = 1.12 USD

Exchange Rate for
Canadian Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 CAD = 0.76 USD

Exchange Rate for
U.K. Pound Sterling to U.S. Dollar

1 GBP = 1.44 USD

Exchange Rate for
Australian Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 AUD = 0.72 USD

Exchange Rate for
New Zealand Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 NZD = 0.68 USD

Exchange Rate for
South African Rand to U.S. Dollar

1 ZAR = 0.06 USD

Airports in Michigan

Saginaw Airport (MBS)
MBS International Airport
http://www.mbsairport.org

Location: Saginaw The airport is situated in Freeland, Michigan, serving the nearby cities of Midland, Bay City and Saginaw.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Getting to the city: Taxis, shuttles and rental cars are available at the airport.

Car rental: Car hire companies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and National.

Airport Taxis: Taxi companies operating at the airport include Hey Yo! Taxi, Stargazer Transportation, and Griffin Taxi.

Facilities: Airport facilities include ATMs, baggage carts, cable television, infant-changing stations, lost-and-found facilities, a snack bar and newsstand, and vending machines.

Parking: Short-term parking is free for 15 minutes and $2 per half hour thereafter, up to a daily maximum of $12. Long-term parking costs $2 per hour, $8 per day.

Bishop International Airport (FNT)
Bishop International Airport
http://www.bishopairport.org

Location: Flint The airport is situated about five miles (8km) from downtown Flint.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Getting to the city: Public bus 11 travels between the airport and downtown Flint every 30 minutes. Adult bus fare is $1.75. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

Car rental: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo, Dollar and Thrifty are represented at the airport.

Airport Taxis: At least three taxi companies service the airport. Generally taxis can be found waiting outside the terminal, but they can be ordered by phone if necessary.

Facilities: Airport facilities include a business centre, an ATM, a bar and lounge, two restaurants, shoe-shine services, and a few shops.

Parking: Short-term parking costs $2 per half hour, up to a daily maximum of $15. Long-term parking costs $4 per hour, up to a daily maximum of $10. In the Economy Lots the daily rate is $8, and a free shuttle transports passengers to the terminal every five minutes.

Detroit Airport (DTW)
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
http://www.metroairport.com

Location: Detroit The airport is located 20 miles (32km) southwest of downtown Detroit.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from March to November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 734 147 7678.

Transfer between terminals: 'Terminal-to-Terminal' vans provide a free shuttle service between the two terminals.

Getting to the city: SMART public buses connect to central Detroit from the lower level near the Ground Transportation offices at the North Terminal. Taxis and sedan services are also available. There are car hire companies represented at the airport. It takes approximately 20-30 minutes to the city centre by car/taxi and about 45 minutes by bus.

Car rental: Car hire companies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, and National.

Airport Taxis: MetroCars and MetroCabs are available from the airport, and should take approximately 20-30 minutes to the city centre.

Facilities: The main concentration of restaurants, bars, cafes, and fast food outlets are in the McNamara Terminal, although the other terminal also has bars and eateries. There are numerous shops located throughout the airport, including duty-free. ATMs, wireless internet and bureaux de change are available in both terminals. The on-site hotel offers conference and business facilities. Disabled facilities are good; those with special needs should inform their airline in advance.

Parking: There is plenty of parking at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, starting at $4 per half hour. Daily rates are available for $14 in the Green Lot, the cheapest long-term option. There is a free shuttle service from the parking lots to the terminal buildings.

Lansing Airport (LAN)
Lansing Capital Region International Airport
http://www.flylansing.com

Location: Lansing The airport is located three miles (5km) northwest of downtown Lansing.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: (517) 321-6121

Getting to the city: Capital Area Transit Authority (CATA) provides a fixed route bus service to Capital Region International Airport seven days a week along Route 14.

Car rental: Car rental companies at the airport include Avis, Budget, Hertz, and National.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are located across from the main entrance. Courtesy phones for booking taxis are located in the baggage claim area.

Facilities: Airport facilities include an information centre, an ATM, a cafe and pub for refreshments, a private lounge for frequent flyers, meeting rooms, and a lost and found.

Parking: Parking is free for the first 15 minutes in both parking lots. Short-term parking costs $2 for the first hour, and $3 for each additional hour, up to a daily maximum of $14. Long-term parking costs $2 per hour, $10 per day, and $50 per week.

Kalamazoo International Airport (AZO)
Kalamazoo Battle Creek International Airport
http://www.azoairport.com

Location: Kalamazoo The airport is situated three miles (5km) southeast of Kalamazoo.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Getting to the city: Kalamazoo Metro Transit buses service the airport, departing every hour between 7am and 10pm Monday through Saturday. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

Car rental: Car rental companies at the airport include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and National.

Airport Taxis: A ground transportation counter is situated in the baggage claim area of the terminal, providing information on taxi companies and fares. Taxis are available at the airport and usually do not have to be ordered in advance.

Facilities: Airport facilities include free wifi, a restaurant, a gift shop, an information centre and a lost and found.

Parking: Short-term parking costs $2 each half hour up to a daily maximum of $15. Long-term parking costs $4 per hour up to a daily maximum of $9 and a weekly maximum of $63.

Marquette Airport (MQT)
Sawyer International Airport
http://www.sawyerairport.com

Location: Marquette The airport is situated 19 miles (31km) south of Marquette.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Getting to the city: A Marq-Tran bus shuttle services the airport roughly every hour, operating from around 6am to 7pm on weekdays, and between 7.30am and 5.30pm on Saturdays. The buses travel to downtown Marquette and Gwinn. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

Car rental: Car rental companies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, National and Thrifty.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport.

Facilities: Facilities are limited at this small airport, but an ATM, postal services, vending machines, a snack bar and a lost and found are provided.

Parking: Parking is provided right outside of the terminal building. The first two hours of parking are free and every additional two hours cost $1 to $2, up to a daily maximum of $5. Weekly parking costs $35.

Pellston Regional Airport (PLN)
Pellston Regional Airport
http://www.pellstonairport.com

Location: Pellston The airport is situated two miles (3km) northwest of downtown Pellston.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Getting to the city: Taxis, shuttles and rental cars are available at the airport.

Car rental: Car hire companies at the airport include Avis, Budget and Hertz.

Airport Taxis: Taxi, limousine and shuttle companies operating at the airport include Mackinaw Shuttle, Straits Taxi Service and Up North Rides.

Facilities: Pellston Regional Airport is small but very attractive, with rustic charm and pleasant waiting areas. There is a restaurant, an observation deck, and conference facilities at the airport.

Parking: Free parking is provided at the airport.

Traverse City Airport (TVC)
Cherry Capital Airport
http://www.tvcairport.com

Location: Traverse City The airport is situated five miles (8km) southeast of downtown Traverse City.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Getting to the city: Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) provides an airport bus service, with single fares costing $1.50. Rental cars and taxis are also available.

Car rental: Car hire companies represented at the airport include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and National.

Airport Taxis: Taxi companies servicing the airport include Traverse City Taxi, Cherry Capital Cab, and TC Taxi.

Facilities: The airport is small, but facilities do include gift shops, as well as food and beverage vendors.

Parking: Short-term parking costs $2 each half hour, up to a daily maximum of $12. Long-term parking costs $2 each hour, up to a daily maximum of $8. There is a cell phone lot for pick-ups.

Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City, situated in Michigan's Cheboygan County at the top of the state's Lower Peninsula, is linked to the Upper Peninsula by one of the world's longest suspension bridges. The city has become Michigan's most popular vacation destination, offering many historical and cultural attractions and acting as a gateway to the scenic Upper Peninsula with its hiking trails, state parks and recreation areas, and sandy beaches.

The city itself has a rich history, having been first settled after French explorer Jean Nicolet negotiated with the local tribes in 1634. It became a fur-trading post and later the site of a busy fort and trading store. By 1882 the settlement had become a flourishing town; today it is a popular shopping destination, with many unique stores and restaurants lining its main street, and boasting more than 50 hotels and holiday resorts. Regular ferry services connect the city with historic Mackinac Island, just offshore.

The most popular time to travel to Mackinaw City is during summer (June to August), when cool breezes from the ocean moderate the summer heat, making conditions ideal for beach-going and outdoor activities. The population of this small town swells enormously during high season, so if you want to avoid the crowds holiday in Mackinaw City in spring or autumn, when days are mild and nights cool.

Sightseeing in Mackinaw City

A holiday in Mackinaw City means days full of fun and activity in one of Michigan's favourite holiday destination. The pretty town is a mix of old and new, with some historic attractions like a lighthouse and Fort Mackinac, complemented by numerous modern institutions like a thrilling waterpark, more than 100 shops, laser light shows, and quality golf courses. For nature lovers there are parks and, of course, lovely sandy beaches. Many also travel to Mackinaw City for ferry access to the delightful Victorian outpost of Mackinac Island. A holiday with Mackinaw City as a travel hub provides access to attractions of all kinds and should ensure everybody from toddlers to grandparents is entertained.

Visitors to Mackinaw City can make use of the Mackinaw Trolley Company, which offers two and a half hour tours of the city, pointing out attractions and narrating its history. There are many charter buses all over the city as well as Shepler's ferry, which carries passengers to and from Mackinac Island in a little over a quarter of an hour. Rental cars are available for hire and drivers require a valid driver's licence. Travellers are advised to note that Mackinac Island has banned motor vehicles.

Mackinaw City Attractions

Colonial Michilimackinac

Michilimackinac, about a mile (2km) from the centre of Mackinaw City, was the first stop for new arrivals back in the outpost days, around the 1700s. Today it remains the first destination for tourists visiting the area, being the site of a reconstructed 1715 French fur-trading village and military outpost that was later occupied by the British. The working colonial village is a living history exhibit that fascinates visitors, while within the stockade, archaeological excavations continue at the site. The historic park includes a vivid audio-visual recreation of a soldiers' barracks, a unique permanent underground archaeological tunnel exhibit displaying hundreds of original artefacts, a recreated Native American summer encampment illustrating life on the shores of the Great Lakes in the 18th century, as well as musket and cannon firing demonstrations and workshops illustrating pioneer skills like blacksmithing and open-hearth cooking.

Website: www.mackinacparks.com

Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park

Mill Creek, located on US-23, a few miles southeast of Mackinaw City, was constructed by Scotsman Robert Campbell in 1780, making it one of the first industrial sites in the Great Lakes area. The mill, now faithfully reconstructed, provided sawn lumber for the Mackinac Island settlers. Today, the water-powered sawmill sits in a delightful wooded setting among nature trails and forest management displays, providing an interesting attraction for numerous visitors. Demonstrations are given of logs being sawn, craftsmen in period dress show how houses were built, and a nature programme to encourage visitors to discover the area's flora and fauna is offered. The site includes a picnic area, and there is a cookhouse serving lunches and snacks. The surrounding area includes four miles (6km) of nature trails that bypass an active beaver colony.

Website: www.mackinacparks.com

Mackinac Island

Visitors who step ashore on Mackinac Island from one of the three ferry services from Mackinaw City can be forgiven for believing they have stepped back in time into a Victorian village. The small population of about 500 permanent residents has preserved the island settlement and the surrounding natural beauty to the point that no motor vehicles are allowed on the island; the only way to get around is on foot, by bicycle, or horse and buggy. The island, 80 percent of which is a state park, boasts 140 miles (225km) of roads and trails, ideal for hiking. The longest route is right around the island, following the scenic eight-mile (13km) Lake Shore road. Other popular walks include the Turtle's Back, Tranquil Bluff Trail, and British Landing nature trail. Every year in early June the island comes alive during the Lilac Festival, featuring the world's longest horse-hitch parade, fireworks, hayrides, country line dancing, free outdoor concerts, boat cruises, and garden tours.

Website: www.mackinacisland.org

Fort Mackinac

From its stoic position on Mackinac Island, Fort Mackinac has stood sentinel over the Straits of Mackinac for more than 115 years, having been built by British soldiers during the American Revolution. The original fort has been restored as a National Historic Landmark and is one of Michigan's favourite attractions. Visitors can stroll through the 1780 officer's stone quarters, play dress-up in the discovery room, enjoy an audio-visual presentation in the Post Commissary, view the exhibits, and watch lively demonstrations. The fort is a must for anybody exploring the region and generally receives rave reviews from visitors of all ages.

Website: www.mackinacparks.com

Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

About an hour's drive north of the Mackinaw Bridge, situated in one of the most scenic spots on Michigan's Upper Peninsula, lies the intriguing Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, alongside the historic Whitefish Point Light Station on the shore of Lake Superior. The museum is the only one of its kind, dedicated to highlighting the perils of maritime transport on the Great Lakes. It brings to life the dramatic shipwreck legends of the area with artefacts and exhibits telling stories of the ships and sailors who came to grief on the treacherous lakes. The lighthouse on the site is the oldest active lighthouse on Lake Superior. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the restored 1861 Lightkeepers Quarters, a duplex building with period furnishings, descriptive panels and artefacts from the days when keepers and their families lived here.

Website: www.shipwreckmuseum.com

Detroit

The sprawling industrial city of Detroit, the oldest city in America's Midwest, began life as a trading post when French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac landed on the banks of the Detroit River in 1701 and established a fort. He was later removed because of bad conduct, but unlike its outpost commander, the settlement of Detroit was flourishing. In 1796 Detroit officially became American, and by the early 19th century had already earned a reputation as a centre for the manufacturing industry, particularly kitchen ranges. As most people now know, however, Detroit did not go on to become the stove-making capital of the world. The city is renowned as the automotive centre of the globe, birthplace of the motorcar and home to some of the nation's top brands. Originally automobile empires were established by Detroit families like Ford, Olds, Chevrolet and Dodge, which have become household names, thanks to the invention and perfection of the motor vehicle production assembly line, which began in Detroit.

It is not only hard work and industrial enterprise that drives Detroit, however. The city in southeast Michigan is also famous for the Motown record label, founded by former autoworker Berry Gordy Jr, which has introduced the world to stars such as Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, the Temptations and Diana Ross, to name but a few.

Modern 'Motown' Detroit is a little decayed and shabby, having suffered a decline in fortunes, but efforts are being made to increase the city's appeal as a tourist destination, and there are several attractions worth seeing. In the downtown area new hotels and restaurants are appearing to complement the sports stadium, and there is a focus on the arts, particularly in the city's historic theatre district. The Renaissance Center, a group of seven interconnected skyscrapers, provides the best views of downtown Detroit.

Getting around in Detroit

There is not much in the way of public transport in Detroit, and the Motor City is still geared resolutely towards the car. Driving is not too challenging and parking is relatively easy to find, but rush hours should be avoided. To hire a car drivers must be 21 years old and have a valid driver's license; sometimes an International Driving Permit is also required. However, should one choose to rely on public transport, the People Mover is an elevated monorail that provides a quick and easy way to get around most of the downtown area, while DOT buses operate a meagre inner-city service and the SMART buses serve the suburbs, but service is sparse on weekends. Taxis are a convenient form of transport and can easily be found or ordered by phone.

Climate in Detroit

Detroit has a humid continental climate with warm, humid summers and very cold winters. Mid-summer average temperatures can rise as high as 83°F (28°C), while in the coldest month, January, the mercury usually stays well below freezing point. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly over the year with a few inches being recorded each month. Snow usually falls between November and April.

Sightseeing in Detroit

Sport, the history of the automobile, the distinctive Motown sound, and a rather unique downtown riverfront, are some of the reasons why people choose to holiday in Detroit, the bustling major metropolis of the state of Michigan. Motor City has fallen on rather hard times, but efforts are being made to revitalise the great city as a tourist destination.

Travel to Detroit to worship at the automotive shrines of the Cadillacs and Fords, to catch a show in the renowned Woodward Avenue theatre district, to experience the vibrancy of the Motown legend, to watch a game at the Comerica Park Stadium, to eat, drink and be merry in Greektown, but also to tick a major box in your exploration of the great cities of the US, and to see one of the most powerful industrial centres in the world. Detroit may have become something of a symbol of urban decay in the US, but even this dilapidation is fascinating to some visitors, with photographers lured by the street art and the greenery that has overgrown parts of the city.

Hordes of visitors descend on Detroit for the North American International Auto Show, held each January, but unless you are car obsessed or work in the industry it is more pleasant to visit the city in the summer months, between June and August.

Detroit Attractions

The Henry Ford Museum

Henry Ford, the son of a farmer, built his first car in Detroit in 1896. There was nothing too amazing about this feat, because cars had been around for some time. What was unique to Ford's invention was the moving assembly line, which enabled him to literally put the world on wheels. Henry Ford's legacy is found at every turn in his hometown, Detroit, so it is unsurprising that the city's most popular and prominent tourist attraction was founded by him in 1929. The Henry Ford Museum is spread over more than 36 hectares (90 acres) in Dearborn, just outside of metro-Detroit, and encompasses five different venues. Together they bring the whole American experience to life, using exhibits, demonstrations, programmes, and re-enactments to showcase American life and its people. Ford amassed most of the exhibit collection, including tens of thousands of ordinary objects, items associated with illustrious Americans, and numerous inventions documenting technological advances. Among the exhibits is the limousine in which John F. Kennedy was assassinated, Edgar Allan Poe's writing desk, and George Washington's camp bed. For lovers of Americana this attraction is a joy.

Website: www.thehenryford.org

Automotive Hall of Fame

Car buffs the world over are drawn to Detroit's Automotive Hall of Fame, close to the Henry Ford Museum in Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn, which is the public programme and exhibition centre for the worldwide motor vehicle industry. The venue features entertaining and enlightening exhibits about the people who drive the industry. Visitors can indulge in interactive events like designing their own car and taking part in safety demonstrations. Even those who do not consider themselves petrol heads should enjoy a visit to this attraction; one can hardly explore Detroit without gaining some insight into the car manufacturing industry upon which the city was built.

Address: 21400 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn

Website: www.automotivehalloffame.org

Detroit Historical Museum

The Detroit Historical Museum, in downtown Detroit, allows visitors the chance to tour the scope of the city's history, from Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac's landing on the banks of the Detroit River through to the city's emergence as an industrial capital. In the museum it is possible to walk through the streets of Old Detroit and explore 19th-century shops. Visitors can also find out about Detroit's role in the Underground Railroad that helped slaves escape from the South. The interactive Glancy Trains toy train exhibit delights young and old. The museum is an interesting time travel exercise and provides a good general overview of the city's history, with some fascinating exhibits.

Address: Detroit's Cultural Center, 5401 Woodward Avenue

Website: www.detroithistorical.org

Detroit Institute of Arts

One of America's largest fine arts museums, the Detroit Institute of Art boasts more than 100 galleries, displaying a collection of about 65,000 works, ranging from mummies to Matisse, and Asian antiquities to American Impressionists. The Institute of Arts is conveniently situated in downtown Detroit, along with many of the city's top attractions. The highlights of the permanent exhibition include masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, Bureghel the Elder, Botticelli, Van Gogh, Cézanne, Picasso, and Caravaggio. From January till May the Film Theatre screens an impressive selection of international films and shorts, and the museum hosts regular temporary exhibitions and special events.

Address: 5200 Woodward Avenue

Website: www.dia.org

Motown Historical Museum

Detroit's famous Motown sound originated in two simple buildings on West Grand Boulevard, downtown, at Hitsville U.S.A. Visitors can see the original control room and recording studio where stars like the Jackson Five, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder made hit records between 1959 and 1972. The museum also contains some costumes worn by the stars and Motown founder Berry Gordy's apartment, still as it was in the 1960s. This attraction is great fun for music fanatics, particularly lovers of this particular genre, and captures the spirit of the period in Detroit very well.

Website: www.motownmuseum.com

Ludington

Michigan boasts some wonderful sandy beaches on its western coastline, winding along Lake Michigan. Some of the best of these, with miles of sand and wild dunes, are near the ferry port town of Ludington. The Ludington State Park offers 14 miles (23km) of hiking and biking trails in beautiful virgin forests and dunes, miles of sandy beach, and three campgrounds. There are several other popular beach resort towns along Michigan's west coast, within easy reach of Detroit, which are known collectively as 'The Riviera of the Midwest'. Silver Lake resort boasts its world-renowned living sand-dunes and the what is known fondly as the world's smallest newspaper. Grand Haven has a magnificent boardwalk along its spectacular beaches lined with restaurants, marina facilities and shops. Holland, as one might expect, has a Dutch flavour inherited from its founder, a Dutch clergyman. St Joseph, in the south, has a famous lighthouse and a French fort to explore.

Ann Arbor

The city of Ann Arbor in southeast Michigan, 45 miles (72km) west of Detroit and just north of the Ohio border, is home to the University of Michigan, one of the country's top universities. The city and surroundings have a great deal to offer visitors in the form of historic and cultural attractions. Ann Arbor's downtown area is extremely vibrant with never a dull moment, from live music shows to a plethora of libraries, galleries and museums, restaurants offering everything from romantic dinners to café society, some of the country's best bookstores, and often a street party. Among the many museums of interest is the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, housed in a 100-year-old firehouse, which features more than 250 interactive science and technology exhibits. There are numerous restored 19th-century houses and farms to visit for a taste of life in days of yore, and even an original old main street blacksmith shop still operating in the satellite town of Manchester. Museums in the area cover everything from geology to classic cars, early American manuscripts, dentistry, and old fire-fighting equipment. On the university campus, the Natural History Museum contains the state's largest collection of dinosaur fossils and a planetarium features a 360-degree domed screen offering weekend stargazing shows.

Website: www.annarbor.org

Saugatuck-Douglas

The small resort towns of Saugatuck and Douglas are close enough together to be considered one holiday destination. Popular for weekend getaways from Detroit and Chicago, the towns are located along the shore of Lake Michigan, in the southwest of the state. The area is known for its eclectic and artistic feel, with dozens of art galleries and plenty of good restaurants and bars. Saugatuck-Douglas offers a number of activities for visitors, including fishing, hiking, sailing, golf, bowling, horseback riding, kayaking, dune buggy outings, and lake cruises. There are also some small sandy beaches that offer scenic spots for swimming and sunbathing.

Website: www.saugatuck.com

Airports in Detroit

Detroit Airport (DTW)
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
http://www.metroairport.com

Location: Detroit The airport is located 20 miles (32km) southwest of downtown Detroit.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from March to November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 734 147 7678.

Transfer between terminals: 'Terminal-to-Terminal' vans provide a free shuttle service between the two terminals.

Car rental: Car hire companies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, and National.

Airport Taxis: MetroCars and MetroCabs are available from the airport, and should take approximately 20-30 minutes to the city centre.

Michigan Attractions

Overview

Michigan regularly graces lists of the Top US states for tourists, attracting around 7.5 million visitors annually, and is well-loved by both American holidaymakers and foreign travellers. The primary appeal of the state is its wealth of lakes which make it a playground for boaters, fishermen, and watersports enthusiasts of all kinds. The state is actually said to have more beaches than the entire Atlantic Coast of the US. Michigan is also blessed with swathes of pristine forests, often traversed by nature trails, and boasts some fascinating pioneer history for cultural sightseeing.

Originally settled by various Native American tribes before being colonised by the French and later the British, Michigan has a rich colonial heritage and played a role as a British territory in the American Revolutionary War. The state has taken care to preserve historical sites and travellers can explore faithfully maintained and recreated trading outposts, forts and villages which bring the past to life. These attractions are primarily grouped around Mackinaw City, which is Michigan's primary tourist hub.

Quite apart from the natural and historical wealth, the other big drawcard of Michigan for tourists is the state's domination of the US automotive industry. Detroit has long been the home of American cars, with companies like General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler dominating the state's industry. There are many sightseeing attractions which pay homage to this industrial heritage and petrol heads will be delighted by visits to places like the Automotive Hall of Fame and the enormous Henry Ford Museum.

The Henry Ford Museum

Website: http://www.thehenryford.org

Automotive Hall of Fame

Address: 21400 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn

Website: http://www.automotivehalloffame.org

Detroit Historical Museum

Address: Detroit's Cultural Center, 5401 Woodward Avenue

Website: http://www.detroithistorical.org

Detroit Institute of Arts

Address: 5200 Woodward Avenue

Website: http://www.dia.org

Motown Historical Museum

Website: http://www.motownmuseum.com

Ludington