Founded in 1796, Cleveland became an industrial town with the opening of the Erie-Ohio Canal that linked the Ohio River to Lake Erie, and the city's vast iron and coal supplies made it one of the most important steel and shipbuilding centres in the country, a sprawling mass of oil refineries, mills and warehouses along the shores of Lake Erie. Industrial success poured money into the city and wealthy tycoons built the downtown area that today has outgrown its 'steel town' image and is a bustling place, a city of green parklands and lively neighbourhoods with a vibrant atmosphere. Once the heavily-polluted victim of much mockery, its industrial character has moved beyond the city limits and the downtown warehouses and factories now house trendy clubs and restaurants, while museums, and sporting and cultural events attract many visitors to the city.

Located on the southern shore of Lake Erie at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, Cleveland has a growing cultural presence that has been enhanced by newly added attractions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, the enormous Great Lakes Science Center and six-storey OMNIMAX Theatre, and the professional sports arenas and stadiums of the Gateway District that host major sporting events as well as live entertainment. These are welcome additions to a city already boasting a world-class orchestra, a celebrated art museum, lively theatre district and the restored lakefront area. Neighbourhoods buzz with restaurants and shops, and the Flats, once the industrial heart of the city occupying both banks of the Cuyahoga River, is now the booming entertainment and nightlife district of Cleveland. The historic Warehouse District is downtown's oldest commercial quarter and is a national Historic Landmark with over 70 fine examples of Victorian architecture. Once housing merchants' and manufacturers' goods, the old warehouses are now home to music clubs, galleries and trendy dining spots.

Some miles out of the city centre are two theme parks with some of the world's tallest and fastest roller coaster rides at the Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, and the Six Flags Worlds of Adventure in Aurora.

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.