As fuel prices continue to skyrocket and the cost of air fares are steadily climbing, people are looking for alternative ways of traveling. Many are turning to the convenience of group travel on a luxury motor coach as the answer. Not only is it less expensive, but it allows the traveler to fully relax while someone else does the driving and plans every detail as they sit back, enjoying the scenery and making new traveling friends.

Mountain Memory Tours, (www.mountainmemorytours.com) serving Knox, Sevier and surrounding counties, is providing that option for a group of Knoxville and Smoky Mountain residents as they anxiously await having ``good times in the Badlands” of South Dakota.

The Knoxville-based motor coach company being used for their journey west is Mayes Bus Lines, which Ted says, ``is always dependable and has earned their good reputation of providing excellent coaches and being great to work with.”

As tour directors, Lyn and Malcolm plan to provide a wealth of information throughout the trip and entertainment exclusive to the Western United States.

Highlights of the trip include Mount Rushmore which is a powerful symbol of America’s heritage and Crazy Horse Memorial, which honors the American Indian and will be the world’s largest mountain carving when completed. The group will experience an authentic chuckwagon meal, see gunfights in the streets of Deadwood, witness free-roaming buffalo at Custer State Park and visit western icons such as Wall Drug and the Corn Palace.  They will even have opportunities to try their luck at casino’s if they choose. ``We’re hearing the same comments from many of our travelers,” Lyn remarks. ``The comfortable pacing and surprise stops that are promised along the way is what makes Mountain Memory Tours unique.” Lyn also says, ``we are all looking forward to this adventure which offers new discoveries, national treasures of epic proportions, magnificent scenery and a whole lot of fun from start to finish.” For details call (865) 453-1888.