Though there are many interesting people, places and things to see in Alabama, it can be difficult for the average traveler to hit all of the hot spots.

Fortunately, for the past year, those who would like to get to know their state better have had a handy travel guide in Alabama Magazine.

January marks the first official year of circulation, publisher Bishop Chavers said, but the ideas and legwork were in place well before the first issues hit the stands.

The conception began in March of 2010, and a prototype was published in August of the same year. The first official issue, Chavers said, was on shelves as a January/February edition.

Chavers, who was born and raised in Columbus, Miss., said she felt the state needed a publication that highlighted the people and places that make Alabama special.

“There’s not another statewide lifestyle magazine for Alabama, so there was a void that needed to be filled, so we did it,” she said. “It’s been a lot of fun and the reception has been great.”

The magazine covers a wide variety of topics from fashion to architecture and interior decorating. There is also a special feature known as the Alabama insider that focuses on a product produced in the state, music, or art.

“What we try to do is reach a broad group of readers, both the men and the women, the older generation as well as the younger,” Chavers said. “We want to reach people of all walks of life.”

In every issue, Chavers said writers also focus on a specific city or town in Alabama. The upcoming January/February 2012 issue will feature Selma.

“What we try to do with those is let everybody know what’s great and wonderful in our state so you can know right next door there is fabulous museums, history tours and other things people can visit,” she said.

Chavers said she was contacted by Patty DeBardeleben, whose description peaked the curiosity of the staff.

“Selma is great,” she said. “We love Sturdivant Hall. We also learned all about Charlie Lucas and all about the bridge and everything else that is wonderful there. We met some fabulous people from there and were really excited about the visit.”

The magazine, which is based out of Homewood, is published bi-monthly with 30,000 issues distributed.

Producing the magazine is fun, Chavers said. But, she added, it is also an educational experience.

“I learn something new about Alabama every day, I really do,” she said. “It’s really fascinating to know what all is in your backyard, whether it is a cave, a beautiful museum you haven’t visited yet, or a fun adventure. There is so much to do here in Alabama, and there are so many great things to see.”

For more information, call (205) 960-7170 or visit http://alabama-magazine.com.