The reasons are obvious. A healthy environment. Small-town charm. Countless year-round recreational opportunities such as skiing, hiking, fishing and golf. World-class sporting events, a rich Olympic history and numerous cultural activities. A major lake - Champlain - just 30 minutes away.

And Lake Placid, despite its rural setting, is still just a couple hours away from major metropolitan centers like Montreal, Ottawa and Albany.

Throw in good schools, medical facilities, restaurants and a general friendliness among residents, and you've got everything you're looking for.

The Lake Placid area is much more than a vacation spot.

Sure, it's a nice place to visit.