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From: £2695
Dixie is the nickname for either all or part of southern USA. There isn't a defined region, borders or boundaries, but often Dixie refers to states below the Mason–Dixon line that seceded and made up the Confederate States of America.
Our Dixie Discovery holiday combines the lively, southern music cities of New Orleans, Memphis and Nashville with the laid-back states of Mississippi and Alabama. Some of the USA's best kept secrets are found in Dixie and you'll be amazed at the quality of the beaches, the food and the hospitality. Finish with a real Georgia peach - Atlanta - the state's capital.
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Welcome to Atlanta, Georgia!
This vibrant and historic city played an important part in both the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.
It's the home of Coca-Cola, CNN and Delta Airlines. Margaret Mitchell, the famous Gone with the Wind author, also called Atlanta home and you can tour it on 10th and Peachtree.
Distance: 194 miles
The birthplace of Alabama in 1819, a major cotton trading centre in the mid 1800's and today the Space Capital of America, Huntsville has a range of museums, arts and cultural attractions, gardens and the US Space and Rocket Centre, which includes the US Space Camp. Visitors can take guided tours of the centre.
Distance: 120 miles
Drive to Nashville, home of Country Music in America and the Grand Old Opry. Visit the homes and museums of these music giants, or visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. Dance to today's hot country sounds at the Wildhorse Saloon or sail aboard the General Jackson Showboat on the Cumberland River.
Distance: 209 miles
The distinct Southern flavour and history of Memphis are embodied in the blues, a uniquely American art form. At the beginning on the 20th century, W.C. Handy developed the blues on Beale Street. In the 1950's Elvis Presley rode to stardom on a wave of rhythm and blues.In 1977 Congress declared the city Home of the Blues. Memphis was the site of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Visit Mud Island, a 52-acre park celebrating the Mississippi River and home to Memphis Belle, famed B-17 World War II bomber.
Distance: 187 miles
Set out early for The Big Easy, an engaging amalgam of cultures and contradictions. Explore the French Quarter, where old brick and iron-tatted buildings reflect both French and Spanish influence. Stroll along the narrow streets of this walking neighbourhood, visit the antique shops and jazz clubs and experience Cajun and Creole cooking at its best.Travel on the famed Streetcar Named Desire, walk through the historic garden district or sail on the Mississippi for an afternoon or evening cruise.
Distance: 142 miles
Travel to Alabama's Gulf Coast and its 32-miles of pristine sandy Beaches.Mobile, a seaport situated at the mouth of the Mobile River , is the largest town on the Gulf. It is one of the oldest cities in the US and celebrates its 300th birthday in 2002 having been colonised by the French in 1702. Mobile is also the original home of Mardi Gras, with the first event taking place in 1703. The colourful carnival takes place two weeks before Lent each year while jazz is the main ingredient of the city's three-day BayFest music festival held each autumn.
There's a lot to discover in this area and you'll be glad to have a few days to explore. The USS Alabama Memorial Park is definitely worth a visit. The ship began her World War II adventures in the North Atlantic in 1943, then later that year, went to the South Pacific seas. We'd also recommend heading across Mobile Bay and spending some time in the sweet town of Fairhope. Known for it's green spaces, art galleries, shops and seafood restaurants - it's an ideal way to spend a few hours. Then continue on to Point Clear - the Eastern Shore's westernmost point of land. You'll adore the antebellum homes, boutiques and specialty shops. There are also plenty of great dining options and you might have already guessed, seafood is the specialty.
Distance: 216 miles
Travel today to Alabama's historic capital, Montgomery, renowned in the Deep South for its charm and ambience. The city contains many landmarks and museums dedicated to the fight for freedom, none so poignant as the Civil Rights Memorial where a circular black granite table records the names of those who died in the struggle.
The region also has a strong history associated with the American Indians with Tuscaloosa taking its name from Choctaw Indian Chief Tushkauloosa, meaning Black Warrior. Among the attractions is Moundville Archaeological Park which includes a reconstructed Indian village.
Distance: 163 miles
On your last day enjoy the scenery en route to Atlanta before heading back home. However, your journey doesn't have to end here. Why not extend your adventure and explore Boston before leaving America, or perhaps head to New York city for some shopping?
Call the travel experts at Bon Voyage to discuss your ideal Dixie Discovery Tour.