Columbia, Tennessee
Christmas in Columbia

 The City of Columbia (population est. 38,224) is located approximately 45 miles south of Nashville in the heart of Maury County. Maury County is rich in history. There are major civil war battlefields within a few miles. Columbia sits at the crossroads of where the Civil War was fought. During the Civil War Columbia changed hands six times. Several small battles and skirmishes were fought here. In spite of the many battles fought here Columbia was never destroyed. Thus there are numerous Pre Civil War Mansions and homes still in tact today. Our city offers something for everyone, whether your interest is historical homes, sports, antiques, or shopping. Columbia is known for its small town charm and hospitality.

Columbia is also the ancestral home of the eleventh president of the United States, James K. Polk. The Polk home is located just two blocks from the center of town.

James K. Polk Ancestral Home

 

Rippavilla Plantation

The Athenaeum Rectory

 Grab your camera and head off to Nashville to visit and experience Music City U.S.A.

Popular sites  in Nashville are  The Grand Old Opry www.opry.com , The Hermitage (home of President Andrew Jacksonwww.thehermitage.com/ The Opryland Hotel famous for it’s holiday lights and displays, Frist Museum www.fristcenter.org/site/default.aspx,  Country Music Hall of Fame www.countrymusichalloffame.com pictured below.

 Nashville is also the home of the Tennessee Titans Professional Football League and the Predators (Ice Hockey) teams. And if you are a car enthusiat then you may want to visit the Saturn Manufacturing Plant located in nearby Spring Hill, Tennessee http://www.saturn.com/saturn/aboutus/ourstory/index.jsp

 SUMMARY:

• Program Dates:  Arrival is scheduled for December 18, 2007 and departure on January 2, 2008.
• Transportation:  Nashville (BNA) is the nearest airport. Bus service into Nashville, Tennessee Greyhound Bus Lines

       200 Eighth Avenue .South 615-255-3556

• Activities:  The activities are aimed at family and youth interests.
• Size of Program:  We will host a maximum of 3 CIH students.
• Weather:  The weather is generally chilly with chance of some snow Housing:  You will be staying in the private homes of First Presbyterian Church members.  Accommodations are available for singles and married couples.
• Costs:  You will want to bring some money for attractions, activities and snacks, at least $100 per person.  Most expenses are covered by First Presbyterian Church and the host families.  You will need about $75 additional money for activities like extra shopping
• Connectivity:  While most host families have Internet access, the connectivity ranges from dialup to wireless broadband.  Feel free to bring your laptop, if you desire, but check with your host family for specific options.