British Visitors to Missouri/Arkansas

My family group from Portsmouth England had decided that wanted to see something different in the USA. We had previously been to New Orleans, San Diego, New York and other places; for us Branson was a "different" place in the USA - we were not particularly interested in the shows - the area had the appeal. Age group: 2  seniors, 2 in their 40-year-plus, 1 of 11 years old.

First problem was 2 of our party nearly getting left behind in Chicago when caught up in the terminal train-problem with the doors; next problem, one suitcase short on arrival in Springfield, where we collected the hire vehicle; it had to be the case with all the tickets to theme parks in it!

Our attitude changed once we arrived to see the lights along the Branson Strip-what a great surprise; our accommodation at the French Quarter also added a smile to our faces-first class; we had a good feeling about the whole place.

Next day, when having breakfast out, it was a bit of a surprise to be serenaded by some guy playing a guitar-not something we experience in England, especially at breakfast. There was seldom a downside to our vacation, apart from having to return to UK-most of all people make your vacation, not the bricks and mortar, and we felt we had gone back in time-it was such a joy to experience old fashioned courtesy, manners and service, not only in Missouri, but Tennessee and Arkansas-an experience we will never forget.

Quick Tips:

Do as much research as possible on the Internet before arrival, sort out your prospective dining venues, theme park tickets, etc.

Best Way To Get Around:

We used a car-lack of public transport in Branson area.

We have found generally that the Gold Resort standard in the USA is excellent; the French Quarter could not be faulted in accommodation standards or facilities; it was a bonus having a swimming pool which remained open until late at night. There were numerous organised activities.

50s style singing waiters-young singers from the local shows; do a great job of serving and the food is good value; the singing is a bonus and they really are a talented bunch-very good atmosphere.

We did not go to any of the shows apart from the Dixie Stampede which we thought to be excellent value for money; there was lots to do at night-time, go karts, mini-golf, cars, etc., and strolling around was a pleasure. From a European aspect Branson area does not offer a lot for 16-18 year old who may wish to dance the night away, but was told that Springfield is much livelier. For our part, we found Branson most enjoyable, for 2 seniors, 2 in their  40-year-old and 1of 11.

We organised prior to leaving UK tickets for Silver Dollar City/Celebration City and the Water Park which proved to be very good value; Silver Dollar City we found very enjoyable and we were close to Celebration City and good view the fireworks at night.

A big plus for us was being able to take the opportunity to drive to Graceland; we enjoyed Memphis, especially Beale Street; on our return drive back to Branson we went via Hot Springs in Arkansas, stayed overnight, and drove back via the scenic route to Missouri-a wonderful experience.

This was a wonderful vacation and we would have no hesitation in recommending Branson to anyone; our daughter likened it to The Little House on the Prairie mixed with Happy Days! The people were wonderful, courteous and extremely friendly and seemed pleased that we had travelled from Europe to visit Missouri.

We had the bonus of our visit to Memphis and Hot Springs Arkansas; all in all a wonderful experience.