A New England Road Trip

In case you didn't know, New England includes the states: Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. I have found that most people have no idea what New England is, but to me it is a well-known fact. My mother grew up in Massachusetts, so every summer of my life we have made the drive up to the Northeast to visit family. I love this region of the U.S. and look forward to visiting every year. To me, New England feels familiar and comfortable, like a warm hug (although it certainly isn't a warm region weather-wise). I spent about a week exploring Maine and Massachusetts this year, so I thought I would share my adventures with you. 

maine

Maine might be one of my favorite places on Earth. I would move there in a heartbeat if it weren't for the harsh, endless winters. I spent a couple days in Maine and the first day was dedicated entirely to Portland. I know everyone always talks about Portland, Oregon, but the Portland in Maine is underrated. The city is old and winding, which lends it a particular quirky charm. It is not a large, skyscraper type of city and instead features brick and cobblestone pathways next to wharfs and views of the water. 

Wandering around cities or towns just to experience the setting and vibe of the place is my favorite activity. I popped into a few shops along the way, such as my favorite Portland bookstore (Sherman's Books and Stationery) and a spice store called Skordo where I found the best-smelling natural orange extract to make cakes with. I also popped over to Two Fat Cats Bakery to pick up a pie and I definitely recommend it for all you dessert-lovers. Portland is an extremely picturesque and walkable city. The food is great and the people are friendly. There is such a nice, relaxing vibe to Portland that I haven't found replicated in many other places. 

My second day in Maine was spent outdoors. Communing with nature fills my heart in a way I can't begin to describe. One of my favorite places on earth is Two Lights State Park. There are cliffs towering over the waves and bees buzzing everywhere. However, it is also very slippery and I managed to fall on some barnacles. I ended up scraping up my leg pretty badly, but I am all healed now and the good news is that I didn't drop my camera when I wiped out. Despite the fall, I can't wait to return. Something about this place feels so grounded and magical. 

massachusetts

A few centuries ago, my ancestors ventured across the ocean from the UK and settled in Massachusetts. My mother's side of the genetic pool has largely stayed put ever since, despite it being so long since the Pilgrims first landed. While I spent time here with family, I also paid a visit to Boston. Boston is such a unique city. It winds down strange paths and offers up a lot of history. I spent most of the day in the North End and Quincy Market, where I visited Magnolia's Bakery and demolished a delicious red velvet cupcake. I think red velvet cake is my all-time favorite food. I also got to ride the swan boats in the Boston Public Garden! It was such a quaint and enjoyable experience. There were ducks and swans everywhere so I snapped a million photos of them.

After the swan boats, I made my way to the North End and toured the Old North Church, which was first built in 1723 and acted as the setting for Paul Revere's famous lantern hanging. While I am not religious, the history and architecture of the church was breathtaking. I climbed into the tower and also delved down into the crypts. But the crypts apparently were not spooky enough and I ended the trip by visiting Copp's Hill Burying Ground, which is the second oldest cemetery in Boston. Call me strange, but I enjoy strolling through graveyards because they feel peaceful and this one happened to offer a splendid view of the water. After, I made my way back home and was thoroughly exhausted. I already miss New England. I especially miss the cool summer weather.  

What's your favorite place to visit?