Minnesota

In some ways, Minnesota is typical of the American Midwest, which is known for its small towns filled with honest people. But with its liberal politics, its rich cultural traditions, its multitude of lakes and its exceptionally friendly residents, Minnesota stands out from its more sedate and conservative neighbors.

Minnesota was settled in the 1800s by thousands of Scandinavian and German immigrants and much of what sets the state apart can be attributed to this heritage. Aside from all the blonde hair, the most noticeable Scandinavian feature is the strong local accent that to some ears sounds Norwegian. Minnesota cuisine is fairly unusual too. A popular meal in Minnesota is a dried fish dish called lutfisk, which is something you have to be born in Minnesota (or Sweden) to love.

While the state may be flat for the most part, its natural features are far from boring. Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 lakes, although in truth there are closer to 15,000. It is said that wherever you go in the state, you are never more than 10 miles from a lake, which makes Minnesota an excellent place to enjoy the great outdoors.

Minnesota is more than just a vast Scandinavian hinterland, however. The 'twin cities' of Minneapolis and St. Paul form a thriving metropolis, rich with schools, restaurants and music halls. The well-developed cultural life has deep roots, and Minnesota has been producing great writers and musicians for over a century, from F. Scott Fitzgerald to the Artist Formerly Known as Prince.