Maine- a Wonderful Vacation Destination

If you are looking for relaxing break, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, I urge you to consider visiting the State of Maine for your next vacation. Aptly known as Vacationland, Maine is one the most popular destinations for tourists. However, there are so many different areas of interest for tourists in Maine, which, apart from the coast in late July and August, large crowds are rare, even in the summertime.

Despite being a small state with an even smaller population (about one million people live here year round) Maine offers a variety of activities and attractions that rival many other tourist destinations. Geographically Maine has several different features that lend themselves to different interests and activities. To the north is a great expanse of pristine forest and lakes, with only the towering pine trees and moose for company. To the south is the state's largest city, Portland, which boasts an impressive number of shops, restaurants, museums, and other urban attractions. To the east is the famous Maine coastline, with its rocky shores and small beaches tucked among the inlets and bays. To the west lies the end of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by the lower foothills. Here ski resorts, such as Sugarloaf and Sunday River boast Olympic quality conditions, as well as Olympic gold medalists, like Seth Wescott.

Activities, like everything else in Maine, are ruled by the seasons. In the summer you can go boating on the lakes, sailing on the Atlantic, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and just about anything else you can think to do out of doors. In the autumn, the surrounding countryside is awash in blazing shades of crimson and gold, brilliantly contrasted against blue October skies. Apple picking, hayrides and other old-fashion country entertainment is available throughout the state. In the winter months, vacationers can drive to Rangeley or the Moosehead Lake region, where they can snowmobile on the well-groomed trails and the huge expanse of frozen lakes. Skiing (both downhill and cross-country), snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice fishing are all popular activities in winter.

For those not physically inclined, there are many historical museums and landmarks throughout the state. At the Norlands-Washburn Living History Center, in Livermore, Maine visitors can tour the beautifully restored Italianate house and attached barn, complete with livestock. For great bargains and discounts, Freeport Maine is one the leading shopping centers in the Northeast. Home to the famous LL Bean Company, Freeport has become a destination for shoppers, who can also stop by GAP, Banana Republic, and Cole Haan outlet stores.

Maine is a wonderful place for a family vacation or a romantic get-away, or if you just need a break for a weekend. The people are laid back and friendly, and the atmosphere inviting and relaxing.