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- Destinations
- North America
- United States of America
- Vermont
Vermont
Vermont is a small, highly attractive state in New England,
sandwiched between New York and New Hampshire, and bordering on the
Canadian province of Quebec in the north. The impressive Green
Mountains create a north-south spine running most of the length of
the state, the majority of which is covered by dense forest, and
the glittering Lake Champlain stretches across the northwest. With
52 state parks, top-class outdoor activities, spectacular fall
foliage and local delicacies, it is no surprise that tourism is
Vermont's biggest industry.
Vermont was originally inhabited by small groups of
Algonquin-speaking Native Americans, including the Abenaki and
Mohicans. The Iroquois later edged out most of the smaller groups,
claiming the area as a hunting ground. In 950 AD, the Viking
explorer Olaf Tomsson is said to have settled in the northern part
of the region, only to be pushed out by the Abenaki. Large-scale
European settlement began much later in the mid-1600s, when French
explorer Simon de Champlain claimed what is now known as the Lake
Champlain region as part of New France. The British soon ousted the
French and new settlers brought new conflicts, giving rise to the
Green Mountain Boys militia (begun by New Hampshire settler Ethan
Allen) who fought the British in the Revolutionary War. Vermont
became the 14th state to join the Union in 1791.
Vermont is popular year round, but the abundance of world-class
ski resorts means that winter is a peak season, with a focus on
cross-country and downhill skiing, snowshoeing and snowboarding.
For those who prefer the warmer months, summer offers a wide range
of activities from hiking, fishing, camping and watersports, to
traditional New England clam bakes, lake cruises and rambles
through small towns. The breathtaking fall foliage, when the sugar
maples are a riot of golds, oranges and reds, draws many a 'leaf
peeper.' Take the time to sample some maple syrup (Vermont is the
state's leading producer of the sweet treat), indulge in the famed
Vermont Cheddar cheese, or visit the birthplace of Ben and Jerry's
ice cream.
Although Montpelier is the state capital, Burlington is
Vermont's biggest city, situated on the eastern shore of Lake
Champlain. The city is attractive, lively and historically
significant, and was once one of the leading ports in the country.
A restored waterfront with views of the Adirondacks, bustling
markets, a moderate climate and friendly locals make it an
essential stop on any visit to the Green Mountain state.
Information & Facts
Climate
Vermont's climate is changeable, with greater differences
between summer and winter temperatures than most parts of New
England. The northern region, including what is known as the
Northeastern Kingdom, tends to experience the coldest winters in
the state, with temperatures averaging about 10°F (6°C) colder than
in the south. Summer temperatures average around 70°F (21°C).
Snowfall in winter is heavy and most rainfall occurs in the summer.
Spring tends to bring what is known as the mud season, when frozen
ground thaws, resulting in thick mud.
Language
English is the most common language but Spanish is often
spoken in south-western states.
Money
The US Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into
100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are
widespread and credit cards and travellers cheques are widely
accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid
hassles. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
Time
GMT -5 (GMT -4 from March to November).