As you drive north on I-95 heading up from Boston’s Logan airport (there are not a lot of non-stop flights into Portland), you start to notice the scenery changing. More trees, less cars, fewer buildings…and a subtle serenity begins to slowly take over. Regardless of the temperature outside, I always like to roll the windows down and take a big, deep breath of fresh air. And then the sign – Maine The Way Life Should Be. I’m instantly relaxed as my blood pressure drops and I get that feeling that’s difficult to describe. It’s not just home, it’s a way of life.
Growing up in Maine is something that made me who I am today. I often tell people about what it was like and they look at me like I must be fabricating a story. We left our doors and windows unlocked, I never saw theft or crime, there weren’t problems with drugs or the stereotypical urban life stories I hear from my other friends. Instead, we grew up cycling, camping, hiking, playing hockey, and generally enjoying the outdoors. We didn’t care what kind of clothes kids wore, what kind of car you drove, or how fancy your home was. It just didn’t matter.
Maine is also where I learned the value of hard work. Growing up in New England and enduring the cold winters was not something we ever thought about – it was just a fact of life. That meant chopping wood all summer to fuel the wood stove in the winter. It also meant gardening, learning how to can fruits and vegetables for the winter months, and running out the door on “snow days’ to earn money shoveling driveways and walkways. As a young age, the entrepreneurial spirit just came naturally as my buddy Patrick and I gradually took over other boy’s newspaper delivery routes. We found a way to attach baskets to the front, back and sides of our ten speed bikes, and carry twice as many papers as the other kids.
Maine is an exceptional state with a variety of features that make it a fantastic place to live or visit. Here are some of the highlights:
1. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities:
- Coastal Landscapes: Maine is renowned for its stunning coastline, featuring rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque lighthouses. The Acadia National Park is one of the top attractions in the U.S., offering beautiful scenery with opportunities for hiking, biking, and boating.
- Mountains and Lakes: Beyond the coast, Maine boasts beautiful mountains, including Mount Katahdin, and countless lakes, making it a paradise for nature lovers. It’s a popular spot for camping, kayaking, and fishing.
- Four Distinct Seasons: From vibrant autumn foliage to snowy winters perfect for skiing and summer days filled with boating, Maine offers outdoor activities for every season.
2. Quality of Life:
- Peaceful, Safe Environment: Maine is one of the safest states in the U.S. with low crime rates, making it a great place for families or retirees looking for a slower-paced, tranquil environment.
- Small-Town Charm: The state is known for its quaint towns and friendly communities, like Portland, Bar Harbor, and Camden. Each offers a unique blend of historic charm, boutique shopping, and local cuisine.
3. Seafood and Culinary Scene:
- Lobster: Maine is famous for its lobster, often regarded as the best in the world. The state’s coastal waters provide abundant fresh seafood, including clams, oysters, and mussels.
- Farm-to-Table Movement: Portland has become a foodie destination with a thriving farm-to-table culinary scene, offering locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
4. Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Lighthouses and Maritime Heritage: Maine’s iconic lighthouses, such as Portland Head Light, reflect its rich maritime history. The state also has numerous museums and historical sites showcasing its colonial past and its role in the shipbuilding industry.
- Art and Literature: Maine has a strong artistic community and has been an inspiration for many writers, including Stephen King, who was born and resides in Maine. The state hosts a variety of cultural events, galleries, and artist colonies.
5. Affordability:
- Compared to other Northeastern states, Maine offers a relatively affordable cost of living. Housing, in particular, tends to be less expensive in Maine than in neighboring states like Massachusetts or Connecticut.
6. Environmental Stewardship:
- Maine takes pride in its commitment to conservation and sustainable living. The state is known for its clean air, protected natural areas, and initiatives to promote renewable energy and preserve its forests and waterways.
Maine combines natural beauty, a high quality of life, and rich culture, making it an attractive destination for both visitors and residents. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, fresh seafood, or a peaceful retreat, Maine has something to offer.
There is a noticeable friendliness many out-of-staters notice the first time they visit Maine. People still look you in the eye, say hello, and offer a firm handshake. There are a few other traditions such as honking the car horn when you pass friends and neighbors on the road. There’s also the “nod” when driving and passing a friend in an oncoming car. I can only describe it by saying this; the forefinger ONLY lifts from the right hand on the steering wheel WHILE AT THE SAME TIME the driver lifts his head slightly and opens his mouth as if taking in a breath. You have to see it to know what I mean.
Last but not least the food. Especially the seafood. I never realized how lucky we were growing up with such an abundance of fresh, cold water fish. Everyone knows about the lobster, but the mussels, scallops, haddock, cod and bluefish are just a few of the tasty plates you can find at any local spot.
I spent most of my youth looking forward to the day when I would be old enough to leave Maine and see the world. Nowadays, I spend most of my time thinking about when I can get back there to retire, or semi-retire, and enjoy life the way it truly should be.