This is why I came here. All good comments, where to begin...

CrazyCanuck - Thanks for the invite and I will certainly be coming down at some point over the next few years. It's a must-do for me. But for the first biking one, I didn't want to bite off more than I can chew. Then there's the added hassle of passports, possible innoculations, customs, etc... I'll certainly be wanting to meet up with you when I finally do get there tho. You really are a crazy canuck! (BTW, I've got a nephew who was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia. So, you and I are practically family. He's a crazy canuck too. Must be something in the water.)

Hammer - I've been to Asheville and you're right, it's gorgeous. I spent many evening hours sitting at Tressa's grooving to the jazz and blues. Cool atmosphere. I would love to go back again. I didn't even consider a training camp as part of my experience somewhere. I love to learn new things. Good suggestion.

Denise G - Above all, I value your comments most highly. (Sorry ladies, but this is the Denise G we're talking about here.) So to respond to your questions:
Yes, I prefer to have a base to come back to. No major touring like you do. (Yet.) More than just cycling but I want to spend most of my days on a bike seeing the sites. Long or short jaunts. I'm a stop and take in the view kinda rider so mileage is of no great consequence to me. I'm trying to stay off the touristy path, if you know what I mean. I like all kinds of terrain like mountains and beach. (ok, still hate riding hills tho ) I'll probably be renting bikes and so I can change up what types of places I can roam. As for an area, I just want to see some of this wonderful country I live in - but not through a window on an interstate. I've roamed a lot on the east coast and some in the mid west. So, I guess, for a truly different experience, the west coast would hold a strong pull for me. As for the weather, it's spring and it's gonna rain and do God-knows-what no matter where I am. I'm ok with that. I prefer to visit a place in it's natural state. Some of the best pics I've ever taken have been during/after total downpours. I actually like playing in the rain. (Hmmm... Mud wrestling on a bike... could be a new sport! Oh, wait, that's cyclocross, huh?)
As for Hawaii, when I go there it will be a combination biking, hiking, swimming, scuba, some other things I can't say on a family forum... type of vacation with an equally outgoing someone I can really enjoy it with. This is a solo trip (for now) so no Hawaii. But, yeah, someday soon I hope. I just gotta find the right person to share it with first. Easier said than done.

HikerChick - very good input. That gives extra possibilities in a wide area of exploration. Thanks!

CA - I plan on utilizing many routes and suggestions on specific rides from those who live in the area I visit so thanks for your comments. Hopefully, I can meet some of these wonderful TE ladies while I'm there. That would be the ultimate adventure.

Southern Belle - I believe Denise Goldberg has used them and can shed more light. She's my personal biker chick hero so whatever she tells ya, trust her.

Thanks ladies, I've been taking notes and look forward to more suggestions. I do accept choc chip cookies or promises of home cooked meals as a bribe, just for future reference.

X.