California

California is a state of great contrasts. Its highest point, Mount Whitney, is nearly 15,000 feet above sea level, and its lowest, Death Valley, is 282 feet below sea level. Its population of almost 40 million is greater than any other state in the country. Nearly 10 million people live in Los Angeles County alone, yet there are enormous stretches of desert and forest that are barely populated. California's wealth of attractions include: The pristine beauty and grandeur of Yosemite National Park and Joshua Tree National ParkThe unique and ancient sequoias, which draw visitors from around the worldThe golden sand dunes of Death Valley and the Mojave DesertSan Francisco, one of the most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities in the worldLos Angeles, the commercial center of the state with the glamour and mystique of HollywoodSan Diego and its pristine beaches and popular zooThe Golden Gate Bridge, an internationally recognized symbol of CaliforniaWorld-famous wineries and lush vineyards.