Laminate flooring does one thing really well...it imitates wood flooring.  All this variety is due to the photographic process used to create the design layer of laminate flooring - a high resolution image of actual wood that's vividly realistic.  The image is printed and glued to the core of fiberboard backed by a bottom layer that is treated to prevent moisture damage.  It is all covered by a tough, clear top wear layer that resists scratches and dings.  However, if you have your heart set on real wood but you are attracted to the benefits of laminates, then wood laminate flooring may be the answer.  It is a laminate flooring product with real wood veneer instead of image and wear layers.  It will take an occasional refinishing, depending on the thickness of the veneer.