Richmond, VA. (AP) -- The editor of National Geographic Traveler says rising gas prices won't stop people from traveling for pleasure.

Keith Bellows says people will just explore attractions closer to home.

The magazine is teaming up with the Appalachian Regional Commission to promote driving tours in Appalachia.

A new driving-tour map developed by National Geographic and the commission features 28 suggested routes. All the routes reflect the diversity of the 13-state region that includes West Virginia and stretches from Southern New York to Northeast Mississippi.

The routes include scenic staples like the Blue Ridge Parkway through North Carolina and Virginia, and lesser-known car trips through historic towns, back roads and artisan trails.

The new map will be distributed to 865,000 subscribers in the April issue of National Geographic Traveler. It also is available through the commission and state tourism offices.

(Copyright 2008 by the Associated Press. All rights reserved.)