Travel: M’s the Word, Part I

Maine: Portland was my primary stop in Maine. It’s been a while, so I cannot recall many of the specifics of my stay there, but I do recall taking the Casco Bay Lines ferry to one of the islands. Not a whole lot to “do” on the island, but it was cool to walk the perimeter and enjoy the coast, to see the homes and imagine what it would be like to live on this little island, and to visit the shops.

Casco Bay island

On a drive up the coast, you may find some fun and random things to do -- go antiquing, watch a drive-in movie, or find a cozy little restaurant to try the Maine lobster. I must admit that I haven’t had lobster before or since my trip to Maine, but it seemed like the right thing to do while I was there.

frowning fish at the National Aquarium

Maryland: I don’t care what anyone says, I love Baltimore. Sure, parking in the city is horrible, but have the hotel’s valet service park the car in their secure lot, and then WALK! I felt perfectly safe wandering around (by myself, no less) the Inner Harbor area -- yes, keep your eyes open and your wits about you, as it can be easy to turn onto a rundown street where you probably shouldn’t be. But if you stay where the crowds are, there is plenty of food, shopping, and sights to see. My favorite stop -- the National Aquarium.

Driving across the Maryland Chesapeake Bay Bridge is pretty awesome too.

Massachusetts: Boston was a hoot. Most of our time was spent just wandering, checking out historic trails, marketplaces, and museums (e.g., the Museum of Fine Arts was definitely worth a look). We also made sure to visit Cheers.

On our way out of town, we made a short stop in Salem, getting a history lesson at the Salem Witch Museum. I remember it was a cold and creepy day, perfect for contemplating the hideousness of the Salem witch trials.

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Check out this recent Lonely Planet article on the benefits of travel:
How Travel Makes You Smarter, Sexier, and More Productive