North Carolina's capital, Raleigh, makes up the southeastern corner of the famous Research Triangle, with Durham and Chapel Hill at the other two points. The state's second-largest city is a vital centre of high-tech business and education. Unlike many cities that grew up around ports or stations, Raleigh was planned specifically to be the capital.

At its centre stands the beautiful North Carolina Capitol building, a fine Greek Revival-style landmark, from which wide, oak-lined streets radiate. This careful geometry makes exploring Raleigh quite straightforward, although the city lacks the charming scenes that often develop with more haphazard growth, such as shops on crooked alleyways and old homes on narrow, hidden lanes. Nonetheless, Raleigh remains a pleasant city, with a unique mix of Southern heritage and down-home manners; elite academia and boisterous university life and athletics; and the fast-paced, sleek sophistication of Triangle professionals.

Raleigh has been described as somewhat sleepy in the past, but its nightlife scene has become much livelier in recent years, and its diverse historic districts and neighbourhoods cater to many different tastes. The area surrounding the Capitol is the centre of government, business and history. Despite its daytime bustle, it remains a lovely spot for a stroll, with grand museums and a leafy square. Nearby Oakwood is full of exquisitely restored 19th century homes and gardens. Moore Square, with its old-fashioned lampposts and cobbled streets, is another city oasis. By day, visitors can lounge in the park and must rub for good luck the giant copper acorn sculpture, in honour of Raleigh's 'City of Oaks' nickname. By night, Moore Square comes alive with upscale bars and restaurants, as do pedestrian Fayettesville Street and the chic Warehouse district, popular with Raleigh's 'urban hip' crowd.

Shoppers should head for the posh shops of North Hills or the boutiques of Cameron Village. Those in search of a more colourful atmosphere, however, will find it on Hillsborough Street and in the NC State University district, where a jumble of undergrads, professors and tourists mingle in coffeehouses, restaurants and casual pubs. NC State is the North Carolina's largest university, and its strong reputation for research is often overshadowed by its wildly popular Wolfpack, a leader in intercollegiate sports.

Raleigh is often lumped together with nearby cities Durham and Chapel Hill, and though the three are only about a 30-minute drive from one another, there are different communities. Durham was once one of the most thriving African-American centres in the country. Today, its main attraction is Duke University, one of the top schools in the United States and home of the Blue Devils, another sports powerhouse. Its downtown areas, however, have suffered in the past years, although revitalization efforts are underway. Chapel Hill, meanwhile, has the reputation of a lovely college town, with beautiful old homes; endless independently-owned coffee shops, pubs and restaurants; and a decidedly liberal leaning. It is home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, another top American institution, and the beloved Tar Heels, another top force in college athletics. The three cities, and their massive college sports followings, remain friendly rivals.

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

Travel Health: 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.

Tipping: A 15% 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% of the bill. It is normal to tip staff 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.

Safety Information: 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.

Local Customs: 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.