Destination Spotlight - Maine, USA

New England is composed of six states of which Maine is the most northerly.  Repeatedly voted by Americans as one of the most desirable locations to move or retire to, Maine boasts over 540,000 acres of state and national parks where you can explore the great outdoors. 

There are 4 very distinct seasons here.  The cold winters are legendary but extremely beautiful with clear blue skies and deep snow.  Spring usually follows around April and, as the snow begins to melt, it’s not known locally as “mud season” for nothing!  Summer is an extremely popular time to visit and explore the great outdoors – hiking, trekking, fishing, sailing are just some of the popular activities on offer.  But, if all that activity leaves you in need of some relaxation, there are also a number of beautiful windswept beaches from which to pick. Remember the Kevin Costner film, “Message In A Bottle”?  Well, that was filmed along the coast in Maine.  In fact, the beautiful scenery of Maine has been the backdrop of many Hollywood films.  But it is Fall which is New England’s busiest tourist season.  The spectacular show of brightly coloured foliage is best in Maine from the end of September to mid October and attracts many “leaf peepers” from all over the world.  If you decide to travel at this time of year, be sure to book your accommodation and car hire well in advance. 

The State National Parks along the coast and around the inland lakes offer many beach spots with picnic and play areas – although bear in mind, many of these are also extremely popular with American visitors during July and August when many New Yorkers head out of the city and hire a house on the coast for a month or two.  You’ll also find some beaches are privately owned or classed as “neighbourhood” beaches but there’s still plenty of choice.

Cumberland County in southern Maine is the most populous, containing the cities of Portland, South Portland and Westbrook.  The population of Portland doubles each summer when the large cruise ships dock but it is still of a size where people are welcoming and know one another.  The Old Port is a bustling centre with daily boat trips from the waterfront (including whalewatching trips in season), a fresh fish market and a selection of quaint shops and smart restaurants.  Up Route 1, most visitors find their way to Freeport, a popular outlet village.  The large (and original) LLBean store is worth a visit but you’ll also find Gap, Ralph Lauren, Timberland, Nine West, Levis, Banana Republic, Dansk and many more.

Mainers are often described by other Americans as reserved but hospitality abounds here and there is a great sense of community.  And throughout the summer you’ll find a choice of festivals celebrating the Maine way of life.