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	<title>Country Homestead</title>
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	<link>http://www.country-homestead.com</link>
	<description>Some Of The Nicest Places To Travel And Visit</description>
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		<title>Best Travel Destinations for the Little Ones: Family-Friendly Vacation Spots</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/best-travel-destinations-for-the-little-ones-family-friendly-vacation-spots/</link>
		<comments>http://www.country-homestead.com/best-travel-destinations-for-the-little-ones-family-friendly-vacation-spots/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Apr 2012 16:24:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Guest</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.country-homestead.com/?p=42</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Planning a vacation with your family, especially when you have children, can be slightly expensive, challenging and tricky. Of course, you wouldn’t want to leave your little ones alone at home so you need to do some research to find the most kid-friendly travel destinations in the country. Also, you must look for a travel [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Planning a vacation with your family, especially when you have children, can be slightly expensive, challenging and tricky. Of course, you wouldn’t want to leave your little ones alone at home so you need to do some research to find the most kid-friendly travel destinations in the country. Also, you must look for a <a title="travel insurance coverage" href="http://www.allaboardbenefits.com/">travel insurance coverage</a> that includes children so you won’t worry about anyone when minor accidents happen. Here are some of the best vacation spots for children and the entire family.</p>
<ol>
<li><strong><em>National Parks -</em></strong> These offer inexpensive family-oriented vacations. You can camp out at some of the most popular national parks in the US or in Canada.</li>
<li><strong><em>Family cruises -</em></strong> If you have sufficient funds, cruising with the whole family is your best bet. You can choose from a plethora of destinations and activities that will bond the memebrs of the family together.</li>
<li><strong><em>Bahamas -</em></strong> For the sea lovers, the Bahamas is a perfect place to spend quality time with the family. Some resorts offer special Kids Club with many activities to keep the children occupied while their parents enjoy the surf and the sand.</li>
<li><strong><em>Barcelona, Spain -</em></strong> The tour here is inexpensive and the area offers a lot of activities to do as well as sights to see. Of course, the food and accommodation are great.</li>
</ol>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>A Little Travel Planning Never Hurts</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/a-little-travel-planning-never-hurts/</link>
		<comments>http://www.country-homestead.com/a-little-travel-planning-never-hurts/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Sep 2011 21:25:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourist Activities]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.country-homestead.com/?p=37</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Traveling by car can be fun or a chore. Which one your trip turns out to be can depend on certain factors; hopefully the following tips may help you enjoy your trip more. 1. Begin to write a checklist as you plan your travels. Have you stopped the mail, paper, milk delivery? Do you have [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Traveling by car can be fun or a chore. Which one your trip turns out to be can depend on certain factors; hopefully the following tips may help you enjoy your trip more. 1. Begin to write a checklist as you plan your travels. Have you stopped the mail, paper, milk delivery? Do you have a neighbor watching your home? Do they have a key, an <a href="http://www.childrenteachingmama.com/">emergency</a> number and your itinerary? Have you refilled your medicines? 2. Make sure the car is in the mood for travel. It needs to get it&#8217;s fluids checked, it&#8217;s tires balanced and the proper amount of air in them. Remember to check the spare tire as well &#8211; nothing is more <a href="http://kaeleenwescoatoneill.com">annoying</a> than a flat spare when you need it. 3. Decide if you are traveling to relax or to impress the fashion police. This will help you determine what clothing you must take. It isn&#8217;t necessary to take your whole wardrobe for a weekend away to relax. If you&#8217;re going to a 5-star resort then you will probably need to pack differently. 4. Less is more when packing. The less you have to carry into and out of motel/hotel rooms the happier you will be. A good rule is one suitcase for clothing and a shared suitcase for toiletries. 5. Always have a jacket or warm wrap in the car. You never know when the weather will play a nasty <a href="http://supportformoms.com">trick</a> and decide to change seasons without out any consideration for your plans. 6. Remember to take a pair of good walking shoes. Who can enjoy sightseeing when their feet hurt? A pair of comfortable shoes and one pair of dress shoes should be enough. 7. For those who like to sleep when riding or can&#8217;t live without their own pillow, remember to take it with you.8. Double check the electronics you are taking with you and make sure you have their chargers. Do you have camera batteries and is the memory card full or empty? 9. Unless you&#8217;ve made this trip so often that you can almost drive the route in your sleep, maps or a GPS unit can save you a lot of time and wrong turns. 10. Bring something you enjoy doing as a quiet activity such as a book, knitting, puzzle book, magazine, etc. Allow yourself a few minutes each day to unwind so that you come back home relaxed instead of totally worn out.<br />
11. Pack your sense of humor and adventure. No one likes a grumpy traveler. If you take a wrong turn, enjoy the adventure and laugh at yourself instead of becoming angery.12. The most important tip of all is, just before you leave home, make sure the stove is turned off, you have your money and all the doors are locked.</p>
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		<title>Borneo Wildlife Safaris</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/borneo-wildlife-safaris/</link>
		<comments>http://www.country-homestead.com/borneo-wildlife-safaris/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 05 May 2011 15:33:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourist Activities]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.country-homestead.com/?p=33</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Most of the safaris and wildlife tours in Borneo are tailor-fitted to the guests preferred itinerary. This means that you can choose to go only to the places want to visit or be brought by an experienced guide to all of the best locations. You can share your preferences to you guides and they will [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Most of the safaris and wildlife tours in <a href="http://www.tourborneo.com">Borneo</a> are tailor-fitted to the guests preferred itinerary. This means that you can choose to go only to the places want to visit or be brought by an experienced guide to all of the best locations. You can share your preferences to you guides and they will be more than happy to fulfill it. Here are some of the tour plans and for you to choose from.</p>
<p>If you have done your own research about <a href="http://www.tourborneo.com">Borneo Wildlife Tours</a> and pretty much have an idea of where you want to go, you can try the customized Safari Tour Package. Borneo offers guest the chance to choose the destinations according to their likings. Other than being able to choose the places you want to be included in the tour, you can also schedule the dates and select your preferred lodging. Borneo will have them fully planned to your convenience.</p>
<p>Small Group Wildlife Tours and Safaris in <a href="http://www.tourborneo.com">Borneo</a> is best for solitary travelers or a small group of friends who want to experience the country&#8217;s wildlife without spending too much. Borneo hosts one to two small group wildlife tours and safaris each year. The tour features a visit to the natural habitats of orangutans and a short trip to beach to complete your perfect vacation.</p>
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		<title>What To Expect From Bed &amp; Breakfasts In Iowa</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/what-to-expect-from-bed-breakfasts-in-iowa-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.country-homestead.com/what-to-expect-from-bed-breakfasts-in-iowa-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 10 Apr 2011 21:55:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Bed & Breakfast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[accommodations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[altoona]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[B&B]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prairie meadows racetrack]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steamboat river]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[victorias vinyard]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.country-homestead.com/?p=26</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whether you are on a romantic getaway, travelling for business, or in a biking expedition, Iowa has a number of bed and breakfasts that can provide you with comfortable, safe, and convenient accommodations. These B&#38;Bs range in style from historic properties that are restored to their old glory; farmhouses converted and furnished with modern amenities; [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/bed_and_breakfast_porch.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-27" title="bed_and_breakfast_porch" src="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/bed_and_breakfast_porch-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>Whether you are on a romantic getaway, travelling for business, or in a biking expedition, Iowa has a number of bed and breakfasts that can provide you with comfortable, safe, and convenient accommodations. These B&amp;Bs range in style from historic properties that are restored to their old glory; farmhouses converted and furnished with modern amenities; to buildings newly constructed for the sole purpose of providing luxurious accommodations to guests. With this in mind, you are actually spoilt for choice.</p>
<p>Here is a sampling of the B&amp;Bs operating in different areas in Iowa. Each establishment offers comfortable accommodations and, of course, sumptuous breakfasts.</p>
<p>Hearten B &amp; B in Algona is an early 20th century house renovated to provide lodgings for guests. Built in 1913, it was home to the first surgeon of Algona. Today, if you are a guest, you will experience comfortable accommodations equipped with spacious beds and a whirlpool.<span id="more-26"></span></p>
<p>In Altoona, Victoria&#8217;s Vineyard offers bed and breakfast as well. The establishment is nestled within an 80-acre farm that has a hardwood forest. The onsite vineyard is where the place got its name. It is also conveniently located just minutes from Prairie Meadows Racetrack and the Adventureland Amusement Park.</p>
<p>Amana is a historic village that was previously home to late 19th century German immigrants. Annie&#8217;s Garden and Guest House is just a few minutes&#8217; walk from Amana museum, shops, and dining establishments. This bed and breakfast offers spacious rooms and a patio surrounded by a garden, where guests can unwind after a full day of exploring the sites of Amana.</p>
<p>The uniquely named ‘The Inn of the Six-Toed Cat’ in Allerton is a restored 1909 hotel that is decorated with period antiques and features nearly 20 feet of embossed tin ceiling. Guests can sit at the establishment&#8217;s porch swing while enjoying the scenery around the property.</p>
<p>Mason House Inn of Bentonsport was built by Mormons in 1846. The steamboat river bed and breakfast provides guests with large-sized beds that ensure a good night&#8217;s rest. Guests will also be delighted to know that there is a cookie jar in every room.</p>
<p>The Black Horse Inn is another bed and breakfast that has an authentic historical background. The inn is one of a dwindling number of establishments that has been operating since before the American Civil War. It is located near Dubuque, in the Mississippi River bluff country.</p>
<p>As a general tip: appreciating the diversity of personalities that you will get to meet in a B&amp;B is the key to enjoying your stay in this kind of establishment, which often give travelers the feeling as if they never left home.</p>
<ul> <strong> </strong></ul>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>COMMENTS</strong></span></p>
<p>We are planning to visit Iowa next month and the suggestions provided in this article will surely be a big help. The internet indeed houses a wealth of information from <a href="http://www.samarajames.com/" rel="nofollow">beautiful diamond earrings</a>, great home furniture, and top bed and breakfast accommodations.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Life In The Prairie States Of America</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/life-in-the-prairie-states-of-america/</link>
		<comments>http://www.country-homestead.com/life-in-the-prairie-states-of-america/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 30 Mar 2011 01:50:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Prairies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[illinois]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[minnesota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[missouri]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nebraska]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prairie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rural living]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.country-homestead.com/?p=23</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Although Illinois is officially designated as America&#8217;s &#8220;Prairie State,&#8221; the 11 other States that comprise the region known as the American Heartland can all be officially called prairie states. The nickname can be attributed to the prairies that covered most of the region. For reference, here are the 12 states that are located in the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/prairie_grass.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-24" title="prairie_grass" src="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/prairie_grass-300x206.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="206" /></a>Although Illinois is officially designated as America&#8217;s &#8220;Prairie State,&#8221; the 11 other States that comprise the region known as the American Heartland can all be officially called prairie states. The nickname can be attributed to the prairies that covered most of the region. For reference, here are the 12 states that are located in the country&#8217;s heartland (which is also known to most of us as the American Midwest):</p>
<p>- Illinois</p>
<p>- Iowa</p>
<p>- Wisconsin</p>
<p>- North Dakota</p>
<p>- South Dakota</p>
<p>- Ohio</p>
<p>- Nebraska</p>
<p>- Minnesota</p>
<p>- Missouri</p>
<p>- Kansas</p>
<p>- Indiana</p>
<p>- Michigan</p>
<p>So, what is life like in the prairies? Categorically, the area is also known as the breadbasket of America, owing to the large-scale cultivation of wheat, corn, and soybeans. The crops contribute a large part of the food supply of the entire country. In the past, the Midwest was mostly agricultural. Settlers worked the land from one generation to the next. These days, however, many cities in the Midwest are now urbanized. However, there are still areas where residents retain their agricultural/pastoral way of life.<span id="more-23"></span></p>
<p>Small towns in Midwestern United States usually have a low incidence of crimes. Real estate companies have consistently reported over the years that the safest places where one can raise a family are located in the Midwest. There are even some Heartland towns where residents don&#8217;t lock their doors at night, owing to the general feeling of safety that they have for their community (we don&#8217;t recommend this practice for our readers, however, particularly those living in the city).</p>
<p>Compared with other areas in the United States, the Midwest region has a very low unemployment rate. The region is slowly recovering from the migration of their youth to other places that they feel are more fitting for their ambitions, lifestyles, and sense of adventure. Many young people who graduate from universities or colleges seek employment in other regions, thus creating a &#8220;brain drain&#8221; for their hometown. Midwestern States have now put effort into revitalizing their city centers to make them attractive for their young people, encouraging them to stay in their hometowns rather than seek jobs in other areas.</p>
<p>Owing to its geographical location, the Midwest is known for experiencing the severe weather conditions during the winter months. People visiting these regions might be stunned by their Midwestern winter experience, but long-time residents have already adapted to the vagaries of the season. Despite the coldest winters, America&#8217;s Midwest is also known for breathtaking natural sceneries that are well worth visiting. Some local residents would prefer living here just because of the view through their windows: an endless plain bathed in the golden light of a sun making ready to set behind gently rolling hills. To many of them, the Midwest is a slice of paradise.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Getting The Right Trip Souvenirs</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/getting-the-right-trip-souvenirs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.country-homestead.com/getting-the-right-trip-souvenirs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Mar 2011 19:54:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourist Activities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[handcrafted]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[memorable]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[places visited]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel etiquette]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.country-homestead.com/?p=29</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When traveling, it is always nice to take home a token that can help you recall the memorable events associated with the place that you have visited. Also, it is good etiquette to bring a keepsake for loved ones and friends who were not able to make the trip with you. Picking out souvenirs to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When traveling, it is always nice to take home a token that can help you recall the memorable events associated with the place that you have visited. Also, it is good etiquette to bring a keepsake for loved ones and friends who were not able to make the trip with you.</p>
<p>Picking out <a href="http://www.greatplacestoyou.com/"><strong>souvenirs</strong></a> to take back home can sometimes be a daunting experience. Let&#8217;s face it; many places have tourist traps where you will be enticed to spend money on keepsakes that you really didn&#8217;t intend to buy. You might also end up buying items that can potentially give you problems with your baggage allowance later on. Or, you will find yourself purchasing quite a number of a particular item since it comes at a bargain price. Once you get home, however, you discover that these items bring clutter instead of nostalgic recollections.</p>
<p>To avoid getting the wrong keepsakes, make sure that you get information as to the items that a particular place is known for. These items should be in your priority purchase list. Furthermore, never give in to the temptation of buying an exceedingly bulky item. Clay water jars handcrafted by local artisans might be the specialty items in the area, but if a jar weighs 50 pounds, you might be better off with a tiny replica.</p>
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		<title>Biking Through Iowa&#8217;s Rural Areas</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/biking-through-iowas-rural-areas/</link>
		<comments>http://www.country-homestead.com/biking-through-iowas-rural-areas/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 20 Mar 2011 05:43:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourist Activities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biking trail]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[council bluffs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[countryside]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iowa biking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prairies]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.country-homestead.com/?p=20</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Iowa&#8217;s rolling hills, prairies, picturesque waterways, gently rolling hills, and lush forests all provide an ideal setting for hiking, jogging, skating, and&#8211;most of all&#8211;cycling. The state&#8217;s world-class trail system consists of 1,400 miles of paved multi-use trails, which is the longest trail system in America. Iowa&#8217;s bike trails are set amidst breathtaking natural sceneries and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/biking_iowa.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-21" title="biking_iowa" src="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/biking_iowa-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a>Iowa&#8217;s rolling hills, prairies, picturesque waterways, gently rolling hills, and lush forests all provide an ideal setting for hiking, jogging, skating, and&#8211;most of all&#8211;cycling. The state&#8217;s world-class trail system consists of 1,400 miles of paved multi-use trails, which is the longest trail system in America.</p>
<p>Iowa&#8217;s bike trails are set amidst breathtaking natural sceneries and historical sites. Most trails also run through a number of communities. This provides an opportunity for bikers to experience the local culture and sample authentic Midwestern cuisine if they happen to stop over at one of the communities along the trail. In this regard, here are several trails that are worth riding in Iowa.<span id="more-20"></span></p>
<p>The Fort Dodge Nature Trail in Webster County meanders through city parks and the countryside. The diversity of the landscape, which includes breathtaking views of the rolling hills located nearby, is truly a welcome respite for bikers who usually navigate through populated areas of the big cities. The trail also encompasses several bridges built over Soldier Creek. Shelters with benches built on the bridges serve as rest stops.</p>
<p>A 19-mile trail system is found in Council Bluffs. This trail is paved with concrete and asphalt.  Bike lanes are used to interconnect numerous trails points in the system.</p>
<p>The 20-mile-long Chichaqua Valley Trail is set from Bondurant to Baxter. This converted railbed trail runs through forested banks and timbered bluffs along the Skunk River, as well as through several communities situated within the region. A bridge over Skunk River is part of the trail as well. Bikers can pause at this spot to admire the grandiosity of the river and the valley it has created in its several millennia of existence.</p>
<p>At present, Iowa&#8217;s recreational trail system is still expanding. Numerous trails are either being proposed or currently under construction. These trails all aim to accommodate the recreational and fitness needs of the communities they serve. Some trails interconnect with other systems that provide access to trails in neighboring Midwestern states.</p>
<p>Bicyclists using the Iowa trails to travel through the rural areas are expected to follow the State&#8217;s rules of the road. Using a helmet while riding is required and also driving on the right-hand side of the road (following the flow of vehicular traffic).</p>
<p>What endears Iowa&#8217;s rural areas to many bikers is the fact that they can explore these places without worrying about their safety. Their choice is well-grounded, considering that Iowa has consistently been named as one of the top ten safest states in America.</p>
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		<title>What To Expect From Bed &amp; Breakfasts In Iowa</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/what-to-expect-from-bed-breakfasts-in-iowa/</link>
		<comments>http://www.country-homestead.com/what-to-expect-from-bed-breakfasts-in-iowa/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:41:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Bed & Breakfast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[annies garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bentonsport]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[guest house]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hearten B&B]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mason house inn]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.country-homestead.com/?p=12</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whether you are on a romantic getaway, travelling for business, or in a biking expedition, Iowa has a number of bed and breakfasts that can provide you with comfortable, safe, and convenient accommodations. These B&#38;Bs range in style from historic properties that are restored to their old glory; farmhouses converted and furnished with modern amenities; [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/bed_and_breakfast.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-13" title="bed_and_breakfast" src="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/bed_and_breakfast-300x220.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="220" /></a>Whether you are on a romantic getaway, travelling for business, or in a biking expedition, Iowa has a number of bed and breakfasts that can provide you with comfortable, safe, and convenient accommodations. These B&amp;Bs range in style from historic properties that are restored to their old glory; farmhouses converted and furnished with modern amenities; to buildings newly constructed for the sole purpose of providing luxurious accommodations to guests. With this in mind, you are actually spoilt for choice.</p>
<p>Here is a sampling of the B&amp;Bs operating in different areas in Iowa. Each establishment offers comfortable accommodations and, of course, sumptuous breakfasts.</p>
<p>Hearten B &amp; B in Algona is an early 20th century house renovated to provide lodgings for guests. Built in 1913, it was home to the first surgeon of Algona. Today, if you are a guest, you will experience comfortable accommodations equipped with spacious beds and a whirlpool.<span id="more-12"></span></p>
<p>In Altoona, Victoria&#8217;s Vineyard offers bed and breakfast as well. The establishment is nestled within an 80-acre farm that has a hardwood forest. The onsite vineyard is where the place got its name. It is also conveniently located just minutes from Prairie Meadows Racetrack and the Adventureland Amusement Park.</p>
<p>Amana is a historic village that was previously home to late 19th century German immigrants. Annie&#8217;s Garden and Guest House is just a few minutes&#8217; walk from Amana museum, shops, and dining establishments. This bed and breakfast offers spacious rooms and a patio surrounded by a garden, where guests can unwind after a full day of exploring the sites of Amana.</p>
<p>The uniquely named ‘The Inn of the Six-Toed Cat’ in Allerton is a restored 1909 hotel that is decorated with period antiques and features nearly 20 feet of embossed tin ceiling. Guests can sit at the establishment&#8217;s porch swing while enjoying the scenery around the property.</p>
<p>Mason House Inn of Bentonsport was built by Mormons in 1846. The steamboat river bed and breakfast provides guests with large-sized beds that ensure a good night&#8217;s rest. Guests will also be delighted to know that there is a cookie jar in every room.</p>
<p>The Black Horse Inn is another bed and breakfast that has an authentic historical background. The inn is one of a dwindling number of establishments that has been operating since before the American Civil War. It is located near Dubuque, in the Mississippi River bluff country.</p>
<p>As a general tip: appreciating the diversity of personalities that you will get to meet in a B&amp;B is the key to enjoying your stay in this kind of establishment, which often give travelers the feeling as if they never left home.</p>
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		<title>A Visitor&#8217;s Guide To Attractions In Western Iowa</title>
		<link>http://www.country-homestead.com/a-visitors-guide-to-attractions-in-western-iowa/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:36:07 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[canoe trail]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lin groove]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Loess Hittls National Scenic Byway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mill creek lake]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[If you wish to distance yourself from all the noise, smog, and rush of the big city, a vacation to the American Heartland might be what you need. Western Iowa offers some of the most dramatic sceneries painted by nature herself. Witnessing the blaze of a golden sunset over a wide expanse of prairie might [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/western_ioiwa.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-10" title="western_ioiwa" src="http://www.country-homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/western_ioiwa-300x207.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="207" /></a>If you wish to distance yourself from all the noise, smog, and rush of the big city, a vacation to the American Heartland might be what you need. Western Iowa offers some of the most dramatic sceneries painted by nature herself. Witnessing the blaze of a golden sunset over a wide expanse of prairie might just be what your soul requires to remember how good it feels to be alive.</p>
<p>Western Iowa is largely different from the major metropolis. It has gently rolling hills and gentler folks. You can sample authentic Midwestern cuisine while staying here. The region is known for sumptuous pork tenderloin sandwich and creamed corn dishes&#8211;all hearty fare after several hours&#8217; of exploring the prairie and other scenic byways in the area.<span id="more-8"></span></p>
<p>The area has numerous establishments that offer comfortable and safe accommodations for visitors as well. Hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts abound, too. These establishments come in different styles, which can range from the converted farmhouse to newly constructed edifices, which are all set along convenient access points close to local attractions in Western Iowa.</p>
<p>Some of the natural attractions worth seeing include the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway; The Prairie Heritage Center (which provides a scenic view of the valleys and hills surrounding the Little Sioux River); and the state park and recreation area at Mill Creek Lake.</p>
<p>The western region of Iowa is also steeped in history and culture. Various places of interest that you might want to see are Panama and Westphalia, which are old German colonies and features stunning architecture exhibiting the pioneer settlers&#8217; Germanic roots. Elk Horn, meanwhile, is home to the Danish Immigrant Museum, and is also to the only working windmill of Danish design in America. The remains of a thousand-year-old village, Chan-Ya-Ta, is near the community of Linn Grove. Linn Grove itself is nestled in the hills of Buena Vista, right along the historic Inkpaduta Canoe Trail.</p>
<p>You might get the impression that Western Iowa is all about rural activities and nothing ever happens in the region. So you&#8217;d probably be surprised to know that in Sioux City, you can find a bustling downtown center. The Orpheum Theater is one of the city attractions worth visiting. Council Bluffs, which is one of the cities in Southwest Iowa, has three casino resorts. It does debunk the myth that all Western Iowa has to offer its visitors is prairie grass, doesn&#8217;t it? Museums and historical places also abound in various Western Iowa cities. You will be pleasantly surprised at the wonders you will uncover throughout the region when you do come for a visit.</p>
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