Merlow

Merlow has a population of approximately 10,000*.

It is part of the Greater Merlow District, and despite being less populated than other towns in the region, it is the site of the District Council.

Merlow is the setting for Storm Front.

About
Merlow is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Herren. Originally settled in the late 1800s, Merlow has retained a low population due to its distance from larger cities. A popular tourist destination due to its stunning views and the variety of activities it offers.

Geography
Merlow is located at the outlet of Lake Herren, in the upper western region where the lake discharges into the Freeman River. It is surrounded by forested areas, with snow capped mountains in the distance.

White Swan
White Swan is the nearest city, north of Merlow, and is part of the Greater Merlow District. It is larger than Merlow in both size and population. Many Merlow locals travel to White Swan for work, tertiary education, and trade. The two towns share a mostly friendly rivalry, often shown in regular sporting competitions.

Saran City
Saran City is a large, bustling metropolis that has some specific ties to Merlow. It is the source of most trade imports, particularly international. The majority of incoming flights to Merlow's Domestic Terminal, come via Saran City. All international flights out of Merlow are made by taking a domestic flight to Saran City's International Airport, and then routed to intended destinations. Merlow is also very popular with Saran City residents as a tourist destination and has been at the top of the Saran City Most Desired Holiday Destination List for the past five years running.

Tourism
Merlow is a popular tourist destination, winning numerous awards over the years for the facilities it offers for tourists. Popular with backpackers, thrill seekers, and families, Merlow offers a wide range of activities. Fishing, sailing, river rafting, sky diving, beaches, helicopter tours, paragliding, quad bike runs, are just some of the many activities that Merlow offers. The Lakeside Lodge is Merlow's premier site for accomodation and tourists, continually winning accolades for its level of service to its guests, with prime location on the edge of Lake Herren.

Merlow SuperDome
The largest building project in Merlow history, the Merlow SuperDome was designed to cater to much larger sporting and entertainment events in order to increase Merlow's profile with promoters, tourists, and potential residents. Construction of the Merlow SuperDome was completed under budget and within schedule. So far performance of the SuperDome has exceeded forecasts, surviving the recent global recession and establishing itself as a national venue.

Orry's
A popular book cafe, known for its popular cuisine, music nights, and book promotion.

UnderRage
In order to entertain younger tourists and the local teen population, a joint initiative by both council and local business was established to provide a safe and fun venue for patrons to socialize. The venue contains two stadium seating cinemas which play only age appropriate content, a cafe, bowling alley, dance floor, and video game arcade.

H2O
The most popular nightclub in Merlow, popular with tourists and locals alike.

Sports
Merlow is also the location for many major sporting events.
 * Ironman Challenge
 * Lake Herren Relay
 * North Lakes Cycle Tour
 * Zoner Marathon [jokingly referred to as the Ten Year Grunt]

Education
Merlow has several lower education schools, two high schools, and one university. Merlow High and the Latter Day Saint Church College are both located in Merlow, though the latter is exclusive and mainly populated by boarding students of the Mormon faith from outside of Merlow. The Greater Merlow District also funded the development of Merlow University in December 1998, north of Merlow, that caters to the entirety of the Greater Merlow District, though most of its students are from outside the area, it is still the main higher education facility for Merlow and White Swan.