I grew up in midcoast Maine, and for many reasons it will always be my favorite place. You cross the bridge and you immediately notice some distinct features that make this place so special. The sign reads: “Maine. Welcome Home. The Way Life Should Be.” I grew up in Maine and clearly have some bias, but I have found the words on this sign to hold significant meaning and truth about the great New England state of Maine.
I did not fully appreciate the benefits, beauty, lifestyle, and greatness of Maine until I left for college. Don’t get me wrong, the Pioneer Valley is beautiful, but it just does not compare to Maine.
The words “Welcome Home” deeply resonated with me after I left Maine for my college life in Massachusetts. The first time I crossed the bridge back into Maine during my first year away, I truly felt at home. Maine will always be my home just as it will be to anyone who has ever spent time there, whether you visit in the summer, once for a business conference, or are a born and raised full-time resident. This is just one of the qualities that makes Maine so wonderful. You become part of the community. Who wouldn’t want to live in a state that makes you feel at home?
On top of the great Maine community, I have yet to find another location that offers such beauty that has yet to be taken over completely by tourists. There are many beautiful places in this country, but so many of them have been taken over by the constant presence of people at any given time. Maine has some of the most beautiful spots and they are still secluded. Even when visiting Acadia National Park, the carriage trails very rarely have more than two other people riding along. These trails have some of the most breathtaking views you can find anywhere. Maine isa nature sanctuary and there are still many locations that have yet to be inhabited by tourists that can provide you some serenity.
One of the best things about Maine is how distinct its seasons are. Winter is as one could expect for a northern state, but summer is just as good. The Maine lakes and rivers make for some of the most beautiful lake days and white water rafting. The beaches rival those of the Jersey Shore and Virginia Beach. Each season is special and makes living in Maine fantastic. From skiing in January to surfing in July, Maine offers it all.
I grew up in coastal Maine so I am very biased, but I have come to find this the best state in the nation. The location is amazing: 4 hours from Boston, 4 hours from Canada, and no matter where you live in Maine you are only 20 minutes from a beautiful lookout. The cities aren’t too big and they also aren’t too small. We have L.L.Bean, Acadia National Park, Portland, the best seafood, and much more. Growing up in Maine was one of the greatest experiences that I did not fully appreciate until I left. Even if you do not live in Maine, that does not mean you can’t visit. Just a weekend in the perfect state will make you feel at home there and hopefully leave you wanting to go back.
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