You may have heard that Utah is a dry State and there are no bars in Salt Lake City. You heard wrong - the only thing you can't do is have two drinks on the go at once. Salt Lake city is a has all the amenities you would expect, and best of all, great access to some of the best skiing in the world.

Anyone who has never visited the United States before might find Salt Lake City a bit of a culture shock, but if you like America you'll love Salt Lake City. The streets are wide - designed to be wide enough to turn an ox-train without having to back it - and everyone drives a truck with enough power to run a developing nation. The city itself is worth a look round; visit a restaurant and you'll be glad you eat beef (vegetarians note). Most of all, though, Salt Lake City is a great place to stay if you want to try a different ski area every day during your trip. Otherwise, head up into the hills for the ski-to-door experience.

During the Games, the Olympic Committee will be staying at the Grand America Hotel. If its sister hotel, the Little America Hotel is anything to judge by, even such experienced connoisseurs of luxury should enjoy the experience.

The Olympic Village will be in Salt Lake City, as will venues for Figure Skating, Long and Short Track Speed Skating and Ice Hockey. 10,000 journalists and members of broadcast media will also be based in Salt Lake City.

Opening and Closing Ceremonies will take place in the Rice-Eccles Olympic Stadium, and there will be a medal ceremony downtown each night during the Games for the day's gold, silver and bronze medallists.