MAINE, A VACATIONLAND TO BEHOLD!

Traveling the globe is at a standstill and most people are staying put in their countries due to the coronavirus pandemic. Who knows when countries will open up again for travel? It could be another year, or two. So...if you're longing to leave your dwelling place for a bit whether it's in a big city, mid sized city, small town, in the desert, mountains, or near the sea, or perhaps in the countryside, there are places to travel to. Seven continents, over 195 countries, but most countries aren't inviting tourists as of now. So what do you do? You can embrace the attractions in your country for the time being. I'm in North America and I can't even enter one of my favorite countries (Canada) so thanks to a dear friend's invitation I'm in MAINE, USA. 

MAINE IS A STATE TO BEHOLD, ITS A VACATION PARADISE!

MAINE, is one of American's most beautiful states, its scenery is breath-taking. This New England state boasts miles of Atlantic Ocean shoreline, hundreds of islands, a partial desert, inland lakes, mountains, a national park, and so much more. It's no wonder that MAINE is referred to as Vacationland. My friend Frank who lives in New York City invited me on a MAINE adventure and I couldn't refuse. We began our journey through Maine in lovely Ogunquit and made it as far as Belfast. Our days were blessed with glorious sunny weather, amazing food, fabulous accommodations, and plenty of sightseeing. MAINE is New England's largest state and to really experience it to the fullest one needs a whole month, but even a few days in MAINE will reward you with an unforgettable vacation that will linger in your heart for months to come.

A WEEK IN MAINE: (This blog post features Days 1, 2, and 3, in MAINE)

Once you enter the state of MAINE, from the state of New Hampshire or a Canadian province you'll feel an instant rejuvenation. The fragrant scent of pine trees, the fresh sea air, verdant valleys with cows and sheep, white steeped churches, and sparkling lakes. Roadside lobster shacks beckon those who love seafood, and Maine's wild blueberries are some of the best in the world. How about a slice of blueberry pie? From mountain peaks to coastal waters, Maine offers all kinds of sporting activities from sailing to hiking to swimming, kayaking, and cycling. Acadia National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States and nearby Bar Harbor is one of the quaintest towns in the state.

Year round residents are lucky to live in such a stunning state, part time residents come back every summer and months in between to bask in the glory of Maine, and tourists arrive in droves to enjoy the Vacationland state. There's something about MAINE that makes it stand out and everyone should add MAINE to their list of states to visit in the U.S.A. Whether you prefer to visit cities like Bangor or Portland, peaceful islands, mountain towns or seaside resorts, MAINE is life the way it should be.

Day 1 and Day 2  YORK MAINE & OGUNQUIT MAINE

Arrive in York, Maine, a seaside town that feels very much like England. This bustling town that attracts Boston folks, is an idyllic place to spend a day or a week. York is a well known summer resort town and boasts three 18 hole golf courses, four sandy beaches, and Mount Agamenticus, a lovely park reservation. 

                           The iconic Goldenrod is famous for its salt-water taffy!

While in YORK, don't miss out on "The Goldenrod," known for its famous Goldenrod Kisses salt-water taffy. In business since 1896, this establishment is also known for its marble soda fountain and delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals.The Cliff Walk is a short one mile walk that leads from the York Harbor Beach and features colorful wildflowers. Volleyball lovers will appreciate playing the game on a sandy beach.York's Wild Kingdom is a small family oriented amusement park and zoo. One of their featured rides is a ferris wheel. York, has countless accommodation options and "Union Bluff Hotel" deserves an honorable mention. Situated on Short Sands Beach and in operation since 1868, this classic hotel stands out like a golden jewel. 

Nearby Oguinquit, known as "Beautiful Place by the Sea" has one of the best beaches on the southern coast of Maine. It's a quaint village, perfect for walking. Not to be missed is the stunning Marginal Way,a scenic and popular seaside walk. Have your camera phone ready to take award winning photo's.For a cultural experience, the Ogunquit Playhouse rewards audiences with top notch plays. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Ogunquit Playhouse has featured many stars on its stage;Lucy Arnaz, Ethel Barrymore, Bette Davis, Lorenzo Lamas, Rex Smith, and Sally Struthers are just a few of the many stars to grace the stage. Chocoholics flock to "Perkins Cove Candies," for local handmade chocolates such as sea salt caramels, clusters, truffles, and turtles.

Just on the border of Ogunquit, in Wells, Maine is "Majestic Regency Hotel." For under $75.00 a night you'll get a comfortable room with complimentary breakfast, and five acres of open land dedicated to rest and relaxation. There's a basketball court, full size tennis court, croquet and bocce ball,shuffleboard, and an outdoor swimming pool. There's a picnic area, on line gas grills, and a bonfire pit.Wells and Ogunquit trolleys make frequent stops in front of the Majestic Regency Hotel. The staff here is very friendly too. Just a short walk from the hotel is "Brown's Clam Shanty," known for classic Maine seafood. Enjoy the famous fried clams, sea scallops, haddock, lobster rolls, and more. Pancake lovers adore "Egg and I" for bountiful breakfast choices and the ever popular blueberry pancakes.

                         You'll enjoy the swimming pool at Majestic Regency Hotel

DAY 3,  PORTLAND, AND SEBAGO LAKE

One night in Portland is worth doing. Portland is an excellent walking city with plenty of attractions.

Excellent restaurants are scattered throughout Portland and you'll find some of the best eating establishments in this region of Maine. In the heart of Portland is the HYATT HOUSE. This comfy hotel with plenty of amenities is a great place to stay. About a 20 mile drive from Portland is the second largest lake in the state, known as Sebago. If you're looking for excellent boating and swimming options, head to Sebago Lake State Park. The city of Portland is nestled in nature. It's great to be in a city where you can eat sushi one minute and gaze at the lovely waterfront the next. Portland is a gateway city to many parts of Maine.

                                   One of New Englands, grandest cities is Portland