Tag Archive for Maine

Great Memorial Day Getaways with the Family (or Without!)

May 1, 2013 / / Comments Off

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Guess what?! Memorial Day is just around the corner, meaning the unofficial start of summer is finally, mercifully upon us. Here in Boston we’ve endured another typical New England winter, with January’s snow, slush, and ice giving way to March’s mud, chilly rain, and steel-grey skies.

But–but!–lawns are finally greening up, flowers are blooming, and we’re ready to plan some summer getaways.

To that end, Sniqueaway will be highlighting sales with Memorial Day availability, such as the Stage Neck Inn in York, Maine, and The Inn of Fifth in Naples, FL. Keep an eye out for more Memorial Day offers in the coming days.

Portsmouth, NH; photo courtesy of Shutterstock

 

Here are a few great options for the upcoming long weekend:

Washington, D.C. – To honor the patriotic side of this very patriotic holiday, there’s no better place to go than D.C. Expect a few crowds, sure, but fair weather for exploring the city’s sights.

Cape May, NJ – Beach towns all over the country start their season Memorial Day weekend, and this gem of the Jersey shore is a great spot to ring in another summer.

Santa Cruz, CA – “Summer” is relative here (expect wake up to chilly, foggy mornings) but this seaside surf haven kicks into high gear on Memorial Day–rides on its famous boardwalk are open until 11pm.

Portsmouth, NH – One of our favorite local towns, Portsmouth embodies everything we love about New England: Crisp, salty sea air; historic architecture; eclectic cuisine, and tight-knit community feel.

Austin, TX – Memorial Day is the de facto kick-off for boating season in Austin, making this a perfect chance to hit the water (and grab some of Austin’s famous BBQ, of course).

Seattle, WA – Everyone thinks Seattle has terrible weather, but the reality is that summers are fantastic–think temps in the 70s and less rain than we get here in Boston! Memorial Day, and May in general, is a great time to visit this beautiful, vibrant, and unique Pacific Northwest city.

Chicago, IL – Chicago, like Boston, emerges from its winter doldrums with much fanfare. The city’s beaches officially open, and on Sunday the 26th, Lakshore Drive closes (temporarily) for cyclists to enjoy.

Sanibel Island, FL – May is considered for this quiet Gulf Coast retreat–the snowbirds have gone but summer’s humidity is (usually) still holding off, meaning visitors in May get the best of both worlds.

Category: In Season / Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Our Favorite Seaside Towns

March 15, 2013 / / Comments Off

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Camden, Maine, has everything you want in a coastal village. Scenic views from Mt. Battie, a quaint and bustling downtown featuring unique shops, outstanding local seafood, and welcoming Inns and B&Bs like the Camden Maine Stay Inn.

But while Maine may have a lock on charming seaside escapes, it’s hardly the only place travelers can go to get a little oceanside R&R. Here are a few of our favorite coastal getaways:

Clockwise from top left: Carmel shopping, Motif #1 in Rockport, aerial view of Friday Harbor, sunset over Sanibel Island. Photos courtesy of carmelcalifornia.com, Shutterstock, and visitsanjuans.com.

Friday Harbor, Washington – It’s not uncommon to spot an orca or two on your way to Friday Harbor, located in the San Juan Islands between Washington and British Columbia. The town is tranquil, friendly, and a little bit rugged, and features a vibrant arts scene and, of course, plenty of coffee shops.

Rockport, Massachusetts – A walk down Rockport’s famed Bearskin Neck is a must-do. Lined by shops, galleries, and lobster pounds, visitors are rewarded with a memorable view of the Atlantic at the Neck’s end. Don’t miss Motif #1, a famous red structure decorated with buoys, which is said to be the most photographed building in the world.

Sanibel, Florida – This is not Walt Disney’s Sunshine State. Much of Sanibel is set aside as a nature preserve, and its beaches are famous for the pristine and prized seashells that regularly wash up. Oh, and don’t miss the fabulous sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.

Carmel, CA – Mix a little bit of posh and a whole lot of California you get Carmel, a fog-bound hamlet just south of Monterey. The shopping and dining on Ocean Ave is outstanding, and the long sandy beach is perfect for a stroll. Architecture fans will enjoy spotting Carmel’s unique and often quirky homes near the sea.

Category: Around Town / Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dining in Kennebunkport: More than Just Lobstah

October 11, 2012 / / Comments Off

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(White Barn Inn Dining room, photo courtesy of the White Barn Inn)

Photo courtesy of the White Barn Inn

We love Maine. Love, love, love. There’s a lot that makes Maine special—moose, dramatic coastline vistas, L.L. Bean—but the state is perhaps most famous for lobster. From traditional steamed lobster to lobster rolls, people flock to the state for a taste of this snappy little crustacean.

But Maine cuisine is about more than just lobster. The Inn at English Meadows puts guests in the heart of Kennebunkport, home to several enticing restaurants (not to mention the Bush family compound). Here are three fine dining establishments we think are worth trying on your visit.

White Barn Inn – One of the most celebrated restaurants in New England, this restaurant, situated in two meticulously restored barns, is a splurge to remember. The prix-fixe menu changes with the seasons, but is full of clever preparations and New England flavor.

Old Vines Wine Bar and Tapas – Old Vines brings a hint of Spain to Maine. Small plates like Broiled Maine Shrimp and Chorizo are accompanied by an extensive wine list.

On the Marsh – Set in an historic home with views of the adjacent tidal marsh, On the Marsh is a romantic destination with an exquisite menu that changes regularly.

Category: Wine & Dine / Tags: , , , , , , , ,
 
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