Tag: Destinations

There are numerous ways to get around the beautiful island of Jamaica. From buses to cabs or route taxis, you’ll find a large number of transportation options – many of them informal.

Here’s all you need to know about getting around Jamaica.

Is it safe for tourists to drive in Jamaica?

Jamaica’s 4200 sq miles are well connected and easily navigated by car. All major towns have paved roads, albeit with varying degrees of potholes. Any foreign visitor should remember two essential tenets of driving here: everyone drives on the left, and motorists (especially taxi and bus drivers) are more aggressive on the road and use a “defensive” style of driving. 

Jamaica is not a particularly walkable country, with major towns or points of interest quite spread out. For example, the 35-minute walk from Liguanea to Half Way Tree in Kingston is challenging in the blazing Caribbean heat, with security factors to consider if you walk at night.

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Are rental cars expensive in Jamaica?

If you plan to do lots of sightseeing in Jamaica, renting a car is ideal. Unfortunately, car-rental prices in Jamaica have lately skyrocketed, and are among the highest in the Caribbean. It’s easiest to rent your ride at the airport (most companies offer unlimited mileage), where you’ll find both established local companies like Island Car Rentals alongside international players like Hertz and Avis.

If you don’t want to take the wheel, you can charter your own driver for your trip (best arranged through your hotel). Another option is the Knutsford Express, an extremely popular and affordable private bus service that connects major towns and tourist spots across the island.   

Is there public transport in Jamaica?

Yes. Jamaica’s public transport system consists of a network of buses and cabs that link towns large and small across the island. There is, however, no set timetable or schedule for when they arrive – you just have to embrace island time and wait for the next departure (on average, you can expect to catch a bus or taxi within 15 to 20 minutes). Most major towns have designated bus parks or transport centers. 

Tip: in some towns, including Negril, motorbikes are a popular form of public transport. They act like route taxis and take passengers to and from specific points around the town. 

How do I pay for public transport and cabs in Jamaica?

Paying for public transportations in Jamaica depends on whether you are taking the national JUTC bus, a private cab or a route “coaster” bus. 

JUTC bus is the national bus system that can be found in the major cities of Kingston and Montego Bay. You can pay with cash or purchase a top-up transport card at various spots islandwide. If you take a taxi, whether a charter cab or a route taxi, you pay your fare at the end of your journey in cash.

Coaster buses form the wider bus network in Jamaica, often filling gaps where JUTC buses don’t go. There is usually a conductor on these buses who collects fares from each passenger. Either wait for the conductor to request all fares in cash at once, or pay just before you exit at your stop. 

Is public transport safe in Jamaica?

Public transport in Jamaica is relatively safe and affordable. Just remember to always board public transport at main bus parks or terminals, be careful at night and make sure you have cash in small denominations rather than larger bills. For route taxis, avoid taking empty cars and try to travel with a mix of men and women as passengers. 

Are cabs expensive in Jamaica?

It depends. There are two types of cabs or taxis in Jamaica: charter taxis and route taxis. Operated by taxi companies, chartered cabs are more expensive. You call ahead to book (charter) a cab, with the fare set by the company before your ride arrives. By contrast, route taxis run like buses and are the much cheaper option, with a fare only slightly higher than the bus.

Is there Uber in Jamaica?

Uber does exist in Jamaica, but it’s not as widespread as in the USA. Drivers are concentrated in cities like Kingston and Montego Bay. Keep in mind that where there is Uber coverage, it’s certain there will be a (cheaper) bus or taxi option. 

What’s the best way to get around Jamaica?

If you’re planning to travel around the island, the best way to get around is by car or SUV. Consider renting a vehicle from one of the many reputable rental companies across the island. While you don’t need a car to travel around Jamaica thanks to public transport options, your own ride will be far more convenient and comfortable. 

Accessible travel in Jamaica

While many hotels, parks, cruise ports and buildings across the country can accommodate people with mobility issues, there are unfortunately few accessibility options related to transportation. The best option is usually pre-booking a charter taxi or a private tour to get around the island.

On public transportation, accessibility is extremely limited, with buses unable to accommodate passengers in wheelchairs. Even if you’re able to get on the bus, there are almost no designated areas for your wheelchair. The rapid speed at which route taxis load and unload with passengers makes it very challenging for persons with accessibility needs.

Some charter-taxi companies, however, can provide accessible options; be sure to mention your specific requirements when you arrange the ride to ensure they send an appropriate vehicle. Additionally, some private tours provide accessible transport options, with tourist attractions around the island welcoming visitors with accessibility needs to varying degrees.

Every fall, across the country, farmers and their friends and family gather to sort the ewes and rams that spent the summer free-grazing

Since the 13th century, artists have been reinventing the art form that covers churches, palaces and train stations

Park officials had no idea that the installation of live nature cameras at Brooks River ten years ago would lead to the wildly successful Fat Bear Week

Taiwan is an island of foodies where snacking is the national pastime, no matter the time of day (or night). The very definition of a melting pot, Taiwan’s incredible cuisine draws upon Chinese Fujian, Cantonese, and Hakka flavors, the foraged fare of Taiwan’s indigenous Peoples, and a sprinkling of Japanese and American influence, too.

You don’t need to go upmarket in Taiwan to eat the best food either – you’ll have some of the most profound dining experiences on the street, grazing past rows of mom ‘n’ pop stalls that fry, grill, or steam just one or two xiao chi (small eats) to perfection. Here’s our food primer to get you started on traditional food in Taiwan.

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Slurp up a steaming bowl of beef noodle soup

Taiwanese beef noodle soup (台湾牛肉面) unites braised beef and chewy wheat noodles in a slow-simmered broth, with a tickle of Sichuan spice and a tang of pickled mustard greens. It’s not surprising to learn that this cuddle in a bowl was created by folks pining for a taste of home – veterans of China’s civil war who had crossed the sea to Taiwan, bringing their regional recipes with them. Today, niurou mian is Taiwan’s de facto national dish (it has its own festival) and has even been credited with reversing the island’s long-held taboo on eating beef.

Where to try it: Yongkang Beef Noodles, Taipei.

Get your boba on in a big way

Boba cha, also known as bubble tea, pearl milk tea, or zhenzhu naicha (珍珠奶茶), is the drinks craze Taiwan gifted to the world. Served at roadside stands and in chain outlets, the classic edition shakes up tea, milk, ice, sugar, and chewy pearls of tapioca. But these days it can be made with blended fruits, pureed taro, sweet potato balls, and even cheese – the more Instagram-worthy the better. But what almost all the boba variants have in common is a cocktail-style shake over ice before serving and an extra-wide straw to hoover up all those springy, syrupy ‘bubbles’ of tapioca along with the tea.

Where to try it: Chun Shui Tang, Taipei.

Embark on a snack safari after dark

Taiwanese have got it right – snacking just feels way more fun at night! At night markets all over the island, dozens of vendors – each typically family-run – dish up cheap, moreish mouthfuls under the glow of bare bulbs: think soups, sausages, squid skewers, sweet treats, stinky tofu, and stuff stuffed inside other stuff. Some night market snacks are food icons in their own right, like gooey oyster omelets (蚵仔煎), ‘salt-crisp’ fried chicken tossed with basil leaves and five-spice, and shaved ice desserts (剉冰) topped with red beans, mango, taro balls, and bathed in sweet condensed milk.

Where to try it: Miaokou Night Market, Keelung.

Savor the finest Shanghai-style soup dumplings

Din Tai Fung served its first-ever steamer of hand-pleated xiaolongbao (steamed pork dumplings filled with soup) in Taipei in 1972 and it endures as some of the most famous food in Taiwan. The original Xinyi Road branch is still going strong, with daily queues attesting to the quality and simplicity of its Shanghai fare. It also features warming wonton soup and pork cutlet over egg-fried rice. In 2010, the brand picked up its first Michelin star, not in Taipei but Hong Kong. Now truly a worldwide icon, the Taiwan-born chain has over 170 branches across the globe.

Where to try it: Din Tai Fung, Taipei.

Discover indigenous Taiwanese cuisine

Despite being overwhelmingly Han Chinese, Taiwan is home to half a million indigenous islanders from 16 officially recognized Peoples. These aboriginal Formosans have evolved a cuisine derived from the foraged fare of mountain veggies, seafood, and wild game. In Taiwan’s remote regions, you’re sure to come across wild boar served with onions and greens, steamed rice stuffed into bamboo tubes, and millet wine – once the tonic of tribal rituals. You might also encounter dishes of betel-nut salad, bird’s nest fern and even flying squirrel; everything that the forests and mountains have traditionally provided.

Where to try it: Taiya Popo, Yilain.

Bar hop through Taipei’s craft beer and cocktail scene

Taipei has taken to craft beer in a typically stylish and idiosyncratic way. En-vogue bars from the likes of Taihu, Sunmei, and Zhangmen (all home-grown brands) pour creative brews in thimble-sized glasses, harnessing the bold flavors of local ingredients like kumquats, longan honey, and smoked plums. Craft cocktails are booming too, with speakeasy-style joints like Ounce Taipei mixing masterful creations in a moody dark-wood setting.

Where to try it: Driftwood, Taipei.

Queue up for that scallion pancake

Done well, Taiwan’s spin on green-onion-and-fried-egg pancakes (蔥油餅; congyoubing) is food heaven on a shoestring – crisp, pillowy, and just oily enough to cure a hangover. Often sold from the humblest of carts, the best street food purveyors will have a line of hungry diners waiting. If you also see a cook of advancing years at the wok, you know you’re on to a good thing. Join that queue.

Where to try it: Raohe Street Night Market, Taipei.

Have a Hakka-themed banquet

Making up 15-20% of Taiwan’s population, the Hakka people are a Han Chinese subgroup with their own language, customs, and food. Heavy on the pork, tofu, and soy sauce, Hakka dishes are salty and strong-flavored without being spicy. Historically, the Hakka were farmers used to long days in the fields, so their food needed to be suitably hearty. The rural district of Meinong in Kaohsiung is overwhelmingly Hakka and a great place to try specialties like stuffed tofu, bantiao (glutinous rice noodles), braised pork hock, and the rich delight that is lei cha (ground tea).

Where to try it: Meinong Traditional Hakka Restaurant, Meinong.

Rip apart the world’s tastiest roast chicken

Weng yao ji (earthen kiln chicken) is the ultimate Taiwan road trip feast. Marinated mountain chickens are roasted whole in wood-fired urns that resemble giant tandoors, resulting in the perfect symphony of juicy, flavourful meat and crisp, golden skin. The go-to purveyor is Thumbs Up Chicken (spot the yellow fiberglass mascot outside), a raucous family restaurant chain with branches orbiting Taipei, where hundreds of birds are roasted daily, torn apart by gloved diners and gobbled up alongside mouth-watering stir-fries and icy bottles of Taiwan Beer.

Where to try it: Thumbs Up Chicken, Yilan.

Try an ice-cream spring roll

One of the more fusion of Taiwan’s snacks, this burrito-like street food is assembled while you wait, a crepe folded around three scoops of fruit ice cream, shards of peanut candy, and sprigs of cilantro that cut through the sweetness with a floral zing. Called run bing (潤餅), the dish is a playful dessert riff on a savory spring roll of the same name originating from Fujian on the mainland and traditionally filled with shredded turnip, sausage, peanuts, and cilantro.

Where to try it: Ruifeng Night Market, Kaohsiung.

Vegetarians and vegans

Buddhist roots run deep, so most towns will have a few vegetarian and vegan eateries serving healthy Taiwanese food or utilizing ‘mock meat’ made of tofu or gluten to mimic well-known meat or fish dishes. Buddhist vegetarian restaurants are easy to find. Just look for the large savastika (an ancient Buddhist symbol that looks like a reverse swastika) hanging in front of the restaurant.

 

The Bahamas are a byword for beach-vacation bliss. Scattered like emeralds between Florida and the Caribbean, this Atlantic archipelago comprises more than 3000 subtropical islands and cays, most uninhabited.

Lushly subtropical, they’re fringed with teeming coral reefs and world-famous beaches, offering as much to divers and hikers as they do to sunseekers in search of banging beachside bars.

Here are the best eight places to visit in the Bahamas.

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1. Nassau

Best place for nightlife

Nassau is the unchallenged nightlife capital of the Bahamas. Historically a haven for pirates and smugglers, the city’s treasures now attract travelers.

Ground zero for any Nassau night out is the Fish Fry on Arawak Cay, just west of the center of town. Shacks slinging fried fish, freshly cut conch salad and sky juice (a local favorite drink of gin, green coconut water and condensed milk) mingle with bars booming out reggae and rake-and-scrape (the local sound) from 7pm every evening.

Once your night’s started, head back downtown for rum punch and sandy toes at the clapboard bars of Junkanoo Beach, a Black Beer’d Stout at Pirate Republic microbrewery or even a dress-up-nice cocktail at Sky Bar.

Planning Tip: If you want an early kick-off, John Watling’s Distillery – a working rum factory in a gorgeous 18th-century estate – opens at 10am.

2. The Biminis

Best place for game fishing

One of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite fishing grounds, the tiny Biminis are only 80km (50 miles) from Florida. Sitting on the edge of the Gulf Stream, they’re magnets for game fishers seeking the marlin, sailfish and swordfish that swarm these waters.

Head for Alice Town, North Bimini, and base yourself among the best selection of hotels and restaurants. Stay at the Bimini Big Game Club for a taste of 1950s luxury and guided game fishing jaunts and make sure to visit the gloriously eccentric Dolphin House, part museum and part loving tribute to the wild dolphins of the Bahamas.

Hungry? Stuart’s Conch Stand in Bailey Town does some of the best conch and lobster salads in the islands.

Planning Tip: The billfish these waters are famed for are most plentiful in summer.

3. Harbour Island

Best place for celebrity spotting

Known as “Briland” to locals and regular visitors, lovely little Harbour Island is a favorite haunt of celebrities such as George Glooney and Jessica Alba. A short water-taxi ride from parent-island Eleuthera, it’s famous for colonial architecture and stunning sandscapes such as Pink Sands Beach, rose-tinted with crushed coral.

Briland is blessed with boutique accommodations like Pink Sands Resort and Runaway Hill, formerly a grand private seafront estate that was built in the 1940s. You’re always just a serene stroll away from fine restaurants like Malcolm 51 and Rock House Restaurant or the sandy floors and sunsets at Gusty’s Bar.

Planning Tip: Bahamas Ferries‘ fast boats get you from Nassau to Harbour Island in two hours and in greater comfort than a flight to Eleuthera.

4. Elbow Cay

Best place for historic architecture

The British history of the Bahamas is most evident in Elbow Cay. The prettiest of the gorgeous Abacos islands, its epicenter is Hope Town, founded by British loyalists in 1785 and distinguished by bougainvillea, brightly painted cottages and the iconic Elbow Reef Lighthouse.

Its sheltered bay bristling with masts, Hope Town is also a yachting haven. Happily, its car-free streets are blessed with winsome hotels like the Abaco Inn, both exemplars of the pastel clapboard architecture that’s strictly maintained here. Knowledgeable local operators like Sundried T’s and Froggies Out Island Adventures rent surfboards and guide diving and snorkeling expeditions on surrounding reefs and beaches.

5. Lucayan National Park

Best place for underwater caves

Mangroves meet underwater caves in one of the Bahama’s greatest natural attractions: Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama. Named for the original inhabitants of the Bahamas and populated by raccoons and native birds like the Bahama woodstar hummingbird, this 16-hectare (40-acre) swath of protected wilderness encompasses all six naturally occurring Bahamian vegetation zones. Ben’s Cave and Burial Mound Cave are just two of the most easily accessed of its underwater cave system, one of the world’s longest.

Bahamas EcoVentures is our pick for walking tours with expert guides, while Grand Bahama Nature Tours leads fantastic kayaking expeditions around the park’s mangrove-fringed coast.

Planning Tip: Grand Bahama International Airport flies direct to Miami, Fort Lauderdale and several other North American cities.

6. The Exumas

Best place for diving and seeing swimming pigs

The Exumas, a central-Bahamian archipelago, is known for secluded resort luxury and incredible diving. At its heart lies the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, the Bahamas’ richest reef ecosystem. The 283 sq km (109 sq mile) expanse encompasses more than 300 islands and cays, pristine fringing reefs and idyllic sailing waters.

Dive Exuma, the only PADI-certified dive shop in Great Exuma’s capital George Town, is the experienced, professional outfit we recommend to explore this undersea fantasia.

If you want to see Exuma’s famous swimming pigs, you can’t go past Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a beachside haven of bungalows, kayaking and stress-free comfort that’s as close as you can get to Big Major Cay’s Pig Beach.

7. Blue Holes National Park

Best place for swimming in karst sinkholes

Andros, the “Big Yard,” is the largest island in the Bahamas, and one of the wildest. Its 5960 sq km (2301 sq miles) of mangrove, pine forest and reef are dotted with “blue holes,” deep karst sinkholes that sustain unique ecosystems and provide perhaps the island’s greatest spectacle.

More abundant here than anywhere else on earth, they’re the focus of the 16,1870-hectare (40,000-acre) Blue Holes National Park. Trails and information boards lead travelers to the park’s more accessible sites, such as Captain Bill’s Hole, where you’ll find both a swimming deck and bathrooms.

Others, including Cousteau’s Hole (named for the famous undersea explorer), are less accessible but equally inviting to hikers and swimmers. Small Hope Bay Lodge, set against the mangroves in nearby Andros Town, offers 21 luxurious units and activities including blue-hole dives and snorkeling “safaris.”

Planning Tip: There’s no public transport on the Bahamas’ biggest island. Rent a car at Andros Town Airport.

8. Conception Island

Best place for getting away from it all

Conception Island is a secluded pocket of paradise that seems almost entirely untouched by humans. It’s the centerpiece of Conception Island National Park, an oasis of thriving mangroves, vivid coral gardens and abundant wildlife. Conception Island Wall, a gorgeous playground of coral heads, sponges and colorful critters, starts at 14m (46ft) in waters of exceptional clarity.

These waters and the beaches they wash are home to abundant green turtles, fish nurseries, conch and crawfish. Conception’s unpeopled forests are also an important sanctuary for migratory birds.

With a dramatic rocky coastline broken by scenic beaches, a rich seafood tradition and ski resorts and state parks rising into the hills, Maine is known as Vacationland for good reason. Summer and early fall are great times of year to enjoy the state’s natural beauty, but if you can handle the cold, winter offers a whole different view and set of activities.

Whether you come for the summer sun, the fall colors or year-round history, this month-by-month guide, covering the weather conditions and key events, will help you choose the best time for your visit to Maine. 

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For fresh seafood and outdoor adventures, come from June to September

Maine’s Vacationland comes alive in the summer months, as holidaymakers gather across the state. From the sandy beaches of southern Maine to the forested hiking trails in the north and the seafood shacks all along the coast, there’s plenty to enjoy, and plenty of people will be enjoying the experience alongside you.

The crowds bring high prices, so you’ll need to book well in advance at hotels and campgrounds. The summer is fairly short and sweet in Maine – the weather is generally hot and humid from late June through August. Bring an appetite as the summertime seafood bonanza makes for delicious mealtimes.

October and May are the best months for seasonal color and avoiding crowds

Maine’s shoulder season is one of the best times to Maine if you prefer a quieter experience and lower prices. Early October brings rainbow-colored foliage, apple picking and cooler weather, while May is a great time to enjoy Maine without the summer crowds, with many seasonal businesses opening their doors for the season around Memorial Day. Bring a warm coat as some parts of the state can still see snow in spring or fall, especially in the north and at higher elevations.

November to April is chilly in Maine, but great for snow sports

Winter is the low season for coastal and southern Maine, but the high season in western and northern areas, where outdoor recreation in the snow is the main draw. Maine is home to some of the best ski resorts on the East Coast, and northern Maine is popular for snowmobiling. Many hiking trails are groomed for the snow season, and can be traversed using snowshoes or cross-country skis.

January is snowy and busy in the ski resorts

By January, winter sports are in full swing across the state of Maine. All of the ski mountains are open and, depending on the snow quality, many cross-country skiing trails are open as well. In the cities, it’s time to get cozy by the fireplace at happy hour and admire the snow from inside.
Key events: New Years’ Day Lobster Dip in Old Orchard, Snodeo in Rangeley

February sits under dark, cold skies

The days are dark and the weather is cold in February, but there are lots of winter festivals and fun outdoor activities to enjoy. Kennebunkport comes alive for the Paint the Town Red celebrations and many hotels throughout the state host ice bars.
Key events: US National Toboggan Championship at the Camden Snowbowl, Paint the Town Red in Kennebunkport, Acadia Winter Festival in Acadia National Park

March is Restaurant Week in and around Portland

March in Maine still feels very much like winter across most of the state. You’ll start to see a peek of spring in the south, but skiing and snowmobiling are still popular activities in northern parts of Maine. Portland and surrounding towns celebrate Maine Restaurant Week in early March, and many of the state’s best restaurants have special menus and deals. The third weekend of the month is reserved for another Maine tradition – Maine Maple Sunday, where maple sugar shacks open across the state selling sweet treats.
Key events: Maine Restaurant Week in Portland, Maine Maple Sunday across the state

The mud doesn’t dampen the party mood in April

April is Maine’s unofficial fifth season – mud season. The snow is melting in the mountains and ski resorts throw massive parties to celebrate the end of the season. The weather is unpredictable – one day it might snow, and the next it’ll be 70°F (21°C). Whatever the weather is doing, April is when Mainers come out of hibernation and enjoy the early signs of spring, putting on their shorts as soon as the mercury hits 50°F (10°C).
Key events: Reggae Festival at Sugarloaf Mountain, Parrothead Fest at Sunday River

May brings the first hint of the pending summer crowds

The days are warmer, and the flowers begin to bloom in Maine after the long winter. May is when many of Maine’s seasonal businesses open early before the summer crowds arrive. Reservations are easy to arrange at the best restaurants, and Acadia National Park is quiet.

Memorial Day is the unofficial kick-off to the summer, but tourists don’t typically arrive until the Fourth of July, making May one of the best months to visit if you don’t want to wait hours for a table or compete with crowds on the hiking trails.
Key events: Bug Light Kite Festival in South Portland, Taste of Bar Harbor Food Festival in Bar Harbor, Memorial Day parades and events throughout the state

June sees the weather warm as people hit the beaches

June brings summer weather without the crowds. Temperatures vary but are typically in the mid-70s, and the schools let out for the summer. Restaurants, hiking trails and beaches are becoming a bit more crowded but visiting is still a relaxing experience.

June is also the start of black fly season, so if you’re hitting the woods for some outdoor adventures be prepared with insect repellent and stay covered up. Events and festivals take place throughout the state, and June is strawberry picking season.
Key events: Pride Portland, Windjammer Days in Boothbay Harbor, Portland Wine Week in Portland, Kennebunkport Festival in Kennebunkport 

July sees plenty of Independence Day spirit

The Fourth of July holiday marks the start of the high tourist season in Maine. The weather becomes hot and humid, and crowds gather at Maine’s beaches and country campgrounds. You’ll need to book accommodations and restaurant reservations in advance. On the plus side, the seafood is fresh off the boat, and many towns across the state celebrate America’s Independence Day with parades and fireworks.
Key events: 4th of July events throughout the state, Yarmouth Clam Festival in Yarmouth, Maine Potato Blossom Festival in Fort Fairfield, North Atlantic Blues Festival in Rockland

August is peak summer with peak crowds

The dog days of summer are here in Maine. Tourist season is at its peak, and the southern beaches are crowded. Traffic can be heavy on the weekends, especially when heading to Acadia National Park. Summer in Maine only lasts a short time, so ignore the crowds and enjoy the hot weather while it lasts because more snow will be here before you know it.
Key events: Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland, Machias Wild Blueberry Festival in Machias, Great Falls Balloon Festival in Lewiston, Belfast Harbor Fest in Belfast.

September brings late summer warmth and quieter resorts

September is probably the best month to visit Maine. After Labor Day, the crowds get smaller, but the weather is still balmy. The ocean is usually warm enough for swimming and water sports, and the fair season kicks off, with lots of craft and agricultural fairs. Farmers’ markets are overrun with delicious summer produce and apple picking season starts.
Key events: Common Ground Fair in Unity, Camden Windjammer Festival in Camden, Maine Open Lighthouse Day throughout the state, Cumberland County Fair in Cumberland

October brings a blast of fall color

The leaves in Maine explode in a kaleidoscope of colors in October. Tourists come from near and far to see the fall foliage that typically peaks in early October, but it’s still quieter than the summer peak. Fair season ends with Maine’s oldest and largest fair, the Fryeburg Fair. October is the perfect time to visit Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor before everything closes for the season. Temperatures are mild, but snow isn’t uncommon in northern part of the state.
Key events: Fryeburg Fair in Fryeburg, Freeport Fall Festival in Freeport, North American Wife Carrying Championship at Sunday River

November sees the first signs of winter

November is one of those in-between months in Maine. It’s not entirely fall and not quite winter, though the days are much cooler and it gets dark early. It’s a great time to enjoy local restaurants and breweries though. If Mother Nature cooperates, ski resorts may open for early-season skiing.
Key events: Harvest on the Harbor in Portland, Lighting of Nubble Lighthouse in York, opening day at the Sunday River and Sugarloaf ski areas

December is holiday time in Maine

The holiday season kicks off strong in early December. The small coastal town of Kennebunkport turns into a scene from a Hallmark movie and Portland celebrates the Christmas Boat Parade of Lights. Mainers cross their fingers for a white Christmas, and the temperatures drop below freezing, so wrap up warm.
Key events: Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport, Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Sparkle Celebration in Freeport

Maine has a reputation for being cultured, foodie, outdoorsy and steeped in history. It’s also known for being, particularly if you check into historic seaside hotels and dine out on lobster dinners. But a vacation in Maine doesn’t have to cost a fortune – you can hike, swim, cross-country ski and enjoy the arts scene, all for free.

From York to Fort Fairfield and everywhere in between, you’ll find loads of free (or inexpensive) activities to keep you busy in Maine year-round, meaning you can save your money for special experiences such as special seafood dinners and the odd overnight stay on the shore.

Whether you fancy a hike on the rocky coastline in search of local wildlife, or front-row seats at a mashed-potato wrestling match, you’ll find plenty of fun for free Maine – just keep your camera ready! Here’s a guide to the top free things to do in Maine.

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1. Tour Maine’s lighthouses

Most of Maine’s lighthouses are free to explore, including the famous Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, commissioned by George Washington and probably the most photographed lighthouse in the country. Pack a picnic and enjoy the adjacent 90-acre Fort Williams Park with its stunning ocean views and old forts. Not far down the road, you can swing by the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and Big Light in South Portland.

As you head up the coast, you’ll find more lighthouses in the Midcoast region, such as Owl’s Head Lighthouse and Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse in Rockland and the famous Marshall Point Lighthouse in Port Clyde (you might recognize its profile from the movie, Forrest Gump). West Quoddy State Park in Lubec is the easternmost point in the continental United States and home to West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, a distinct candy-striped tower commissioned by Thomas Jefferson.

Planning tip: While many lighthouses are free to visit, staying in a lighthouse costs a little more. One of the more affordable options is the Little River Light on an offshore island near Cutler, built in 1876 and still used to keep this stretch of coast safe for shipping. 

The best beaches in Maine

2. Visit Stephen King’s house

Horror fans won’t want to miss Stephen King’s spooky mansion on West Broadway Street in Bangor. This stately red mansion and its creepy wrought-iron fence evoke the author’s most famous works, and the supernatural-looking wooden tree carving in the front yard is worth the stop alone. Unfortunately, you probably won’t catch a glimpse of the famous author (as he resides mostly in Florida), but you never know! There are plans to eventually open the house to the public as a museum.

Looking for more free stuff to do in Bangor? Snap a selfie with the Paul Bunyan statue, look for wildlife in the 80-acre Bangor City Forest, or walk or bike along the Penobscot River Walkway. Fort Knox (the other Fort Knox) and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge are a 25-minute drive from Bangor, offering incredible views of the Penobscot River and tons of history. 

Planning tip: If you’re on a literary kick, other famous homes you can visit or see from the street include Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s residence in Portland, EB White’s home in Brookline, and Harriet Beecher Stowe’s house in Brunswick.

3. Sunbathe on southern Maine’s beaches

Southern Maine is largely taken up by York and Cumberland Counties and it provides a home for most of the state’s 1.3 million people. It’s easy to understand why – York County is home to some of Maine’s best sandy beaches. Long Sand Beach in York and Ogunquit Beach a little further north are two of the most beautiful beaches in New England, perfect for vacations during Maine’s short, warm summers.

Old Orchard Beach toward Scarborough is one of Maine’s busiest beaches during the summer, thanks to its nostalgic pier and amusement park. As you head north, sandy beaches begin to disappear, replaced by Maine’s signature rocky coastline, but you’ll still find a few sandy spots for a dip in the Atlantic as you drift up the coast.

Planning tip: Maine’s southern beaches get extremely busy in the summer; consider visiting out of season, when the long, lovely strips of sand take on a different character, inviting long, contemplative walks.

4. Stroll the First Friday Art Walk in Portland

Maine’s largest city is the state’s cultural hub, home to world-class restaurants, hip breweries, cool coffee shops and more. It’s easy to spend hundreds of dollars here just on food and beer, but there are lots of free things to do to help you balance your budget.

Portland’s First Friday Art Walk happens on the first Friday of every month, and many of the city’s art galleries and studios open to the public for free, often providing free snacks and wine. For more art, the Portland Museum of Art (PMA) in the heart of downtown has a permanent collection of over 18,000 artworks by art greats from Andy Warhol to Claude Monet, and entry is free late on Friday afternoon.

Planning tip: As well as European greats, the PMA is home to one of the largest collections of works by Winslow Homer – considered to be one of the greatest American painters of the 19th century – who spent much of his life in Maine. PMA owns Homer’s studio in Prouts Neck and tours are available for an additional fee.

5. Take a hike through the Maine forests

Maine is home to thousands of miles of hiking, biking and nature trails. As well as various sections of the Appalachian Trail, take time to explore the free-to-visit Alewive Woods Preserve in Kennebunk, a 625-acre nature preserve with 2.5 miles of easy hiking trails.

Just an hour north of Portland, Pleasant Mountain in Bridgton makes for a perfect day hike, with rewarding views of western Maine. With kids in tow, the Shoreline Trail in Moosehead region’s Lily Bay State Park is an easy two-mile trail for the whole family, and you may even see a moose if you’re lucky.

For slightly harder hiking trails, the Bethel area is home to Grafton Notch State Park and the Mahoosuc Public Lands. The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, and there are other nearby easier trails if you prefer a shorter day hike.

Planning tip: To avoid crowds on the trails, consider hiking in the spring or in late fall once the summer crowds have departed and the leaf-peepers have returned to the cities. Just bring appropriate outdoor wear for the changeable weather.

10 breathtaking hikes in Maine

6. Jam out at LL Bean’s outdoor concerts

Every summer, famous outdoor outfitter LL Bean hosts Summer in the Park at its flagship store in Freeport. Shop for flannel shirts and duck boots before enjoying a free concert by big names such as Walker Hayes and Brandi Carlile. In addition to regular concerts, LL Bean also hosts free yoga classes, fitness classes, movie nights and more – shaking up its traditional image! All events are family-friendly so even the little members of your family can have heaps of fun. 

7. Cross-country ski, snowshoe and sled in winter

With thousands of miles of cross-country skiing trails throughout the state, snow doesn’t have to stop your fun. Many walking trails across the state can be accessed in winter with snowshoes or cross-country skis, including many routes in Acadia National Park, which are free to use during the winter months. Acadia Winter Trails Association volunteers groom miles of the carriage trails for skiing.

There are 15 miles of free cross-country ski trails to play on in Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. If you’re new to cross-country skiing, you can explore the beautifully groomed trails at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester for less than $20.

Planning tip: Sledding fans (both adults and kids) will find loads of great sledding hills to enjoy. Bring your best sled to Payson Park in Portland, Essex Street Hill in Bangor or Mighty Hill in Gorham.

The best time to visit Maine for seafood, skiing and more

8. Experience the Maine Potato Blossom Festival

For a unique Maine experience, head north into Aroostook County for the Maine Potato Blossom Festival, held annually in Fort Fairfield in July. The festival takes place when the potato fields blossom, and features more than 85 events spread over nine days. There’s a town-wide yard sale, nightly entertainment, a huge parade, fireworks and legendary mashed potato wrestling bouts. Most events are free or low cost and the festival is great family fun.

9. Explore Acadia National Park

Every April, the US National Park Services celebrates National Park Week, and you can visit any of the country’s national parks for free, including Acadia National Park. Located on Mount Desert Island about 3½ hours north of Portland, this was the first national park established east of the Mississippi River and it’s a true highlight of Maine.

Featuring 27 miles of scenic motorways, 158 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads mostly built by the Rockefeller family, Acadia National Park is an incredible place to explore. Watch the sunrise over the country from atop Cadillac Mountain, take a chilly sip in the Atlantic at Sand Beach, or hike to the summit of any of the granite peaks in the park.

Planning tip: While Acadia National Park encompasses a large section of Mount Desert Island, there’s more to this scenic piece of coastline than the national park. Head outside the park boundaries to find free hiking trails and peaceful places to swim.

10. Traverse the state on two wheels 

Maine is a great place to explore on two wheels, with light traffic on the backroads, and plenty of backroads to explore. If you’re in the southern Maine region, hop on your bike and cycle the 22-mile Eastern Trail from Big Light in South Portland to Kennebunk.

For more hardcore cyclists, the multi-day Down East Sunrise Trail from Ellsworth to Ayers Junction covers just over 100 miles on paved or gravel roads. Bond Brooks Trails in Augusta has 6 miles of free-to-use single-track mountain biking trails and Quarry Road Trails in nearby Waterville has more mountain bike trails that are free to all.

Accra is known for giving its guests a cultural experience of a lifetime. With an extensive restaurant scene, exhilarating nightlife and history that lingers through the city streets, running out of things to do in Accra simply isn’t possible. 

While the beauty in Accra lies in the everyday interactions with people and blissful community-oriented spirit, there are sides to this city that are rarely mentioned yet add to its charm. 

Here are our favorite ways to explore Accra. 

Get lost in a traditional Ghanaian market 

The constant honking, smell of fresh fish being distributed, and crowding of colorful market stalls down several blocks will mark your arrival at the famous Makola Market.

An open-air market with any and everything you could possibly need, Makola is a commercial gold mine. Whether you need fabric, household cleaning supplies, or groceries, Makola Market has it all. The sweltering heat hits your face while trying to make purchases and dodging trucks as they aim to pass through the narrow roads filled with merchants – it’s all part of a chaotic yet exciting experience.

Visiting Makola Market is not for the faint-hearted; you’re bound to get lost, but allow yourself to explore every corner. After all, you never know what you’ll find!

Planning Tip: Leaving the market can be extremely difficult as tro-tros (mid-sized minivans) tend to back traffic up and down the roads, making it difficult for Ubers to find you. The easiest way out is to hop in a taxi already headed towards the market’s exit.

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See a French show at Alliance Française

The leading center of French language and cultural exchange in Accra, Alliance Française Accra is also known for hosting film screenings, performing arts shows and concerts. The plot of the performances varies, but the lineup usually displays a seamless balance between showcasing English, French and Ghanaian culture. You can plan on having dinner and a show with a stop at Mama Cuisine, the on-site restaurant.

Planning Tip: Stay updated on what shows are happening via their Facebook or Instagram. While some shows are free, others require you to purchase tickets online ahead of time. 

Soak in views from the tallest building in Ghana 

When it comes to ambiance, you’ll quickly learn that Accra does not disappoint, and it is apparent with Skybar 25, an upscale rooftop bar. The bar has high-class decorations and stunning views of the city from what is said to be the tallest building in West Africa. Have a luxurious dinner with a specially crafted cocktail while enjoying the tunes of the Kentos Music Band. This Ghanaian brass band frequently plays live music at Skybar 25. 

Planning Tip: The bar is in one of the most popular buildings in the city, and tables fill up quickly. Set a reservation 24-48 hours before to avoid delays or being turned away. 

Learn the history of one of Africa’s greatest leaders

Together, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum make one of Accra’s greatest landmarks. The park was commissioned in 1992 to commemorate the life of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah. Nkrumah was instrumental in leading Ghana to independence in 1957 and setting the tone for African unity on the continent with his ideologies.

The walk-through park includes sculptures, monuments, exhibits, and gardens to honor Nkrumah. Today, the site hosts his final resting place and is a great place to learn the history of Kwame Nkrumah and early Ghana. 

Support local businesses at the Labone Green Market 

Every Saturday, the Labone Coffee Shop hosts the Labone Green Market. Local business owners set up mini pop-up shops for the public. As this mini farmers market’s name suggests, the shops sell fresh, organically grown fruits and vegetables and gluten-free products. It doesn’t stop there; vendors also showcase batik, natural skincare options, baked goods, flowers and other wares available for purchase. 

Planning Tip: Vendors at the market only accept cash. It’s best to bring a variety of bills so you are prepared to make purchases. 

Recount the legacy of W.E.B. Dubois 

Once a prominent civil rights activist and passionate Pan-Africanist, W.E.B. Dubois’s contributions toward the advancement of Black people have been notable. Toward the end of his life, Dubois chose to do some work in Ghana and died in the country in 1963. The W.E.B. Dubois Center for PanAfrican Culture is located in the center of Accra. It is his former home transformed into a museum, where each room takes you through the accomplishments and obstacles Dubois faced during his life. 

Document your time in Accra with a photoshoot 

A city with young entrepreneurs, a creative spirit running rampant and vivid scenery almost everywhere you look, Accra is a place where you’ll want to document your experience to look back on forever. Photoshoots in Accra aren’t just about the pictures but the experience of working with creatives in the city like AOD Photos, who are beyond talented and know how to bring creative visions to life. The creativity of the city is bound to show through your captured images.  

Work with a seamstress or tailor to bring your designs to life 

Shopping for elaborate fabric schemes to have custom clothing sewn by seamstresses and tailors is a way of life in Ghana. After all, it’s how all the captivating fashions you see while exploring Accra are most likely created. You can purchase a range of beautiful prints at shops like Eunnan Fabrics and Shalom Fabrics, or head to a local market and see what you can find! 

Global Mamas is a sewing organization in Ghana located in Ashaiman, about an hour away from the main city center. We highly recommend asking around for a local sewing business close to where you are staying or looking out for small shops that can be found near roadsides, where you’ll see sewers working and can ask for their phone number and rates.

Planning Tip: It will be helpful to run the designs for the clothing you want to make by a sewer before purchasing fabrics so that you don’t under or over-buy fabric (sold by the yard in Accra). It’s also best to do this activity towards the beginning of your trip if you aren’t staying long, as it can take time for your seamstress to custom-make your clothing. 

Bar hop through all of Accra’s hottest nightlife venues 

Accra’s nightlife reputation is starting to be recognized globally as one of the best in Africa, and it’s not without reason. Parties begin around 1am and can go on until it’s time to clock into work! Venues tend to have themed nights like Kruna Nightclub’s “Signature Saturdays,” known to be more hype than the other days. It’s common to hop from venue to venue in Accra, ending up at as many as five locations, so wear comfortable shoes!  

Channel your inner potter with a pottery session

At Happy Art Academy, you are given a clump of clay and expected to make magic –with guided instruction from the pros, of course! The Academy runs pottery classes for all ages and assists visitors in making pots, bowls, jars, vases and anything else you desire while crafting your clay. 

Planning Tip: The Academy often runs promos for large groups (10 or more people), so be sure to ask about any running discounts if you’re traveling to Accra with a group.

Visit the Independence Square 

A tour of Independence Square is one of the first sights you should place on your Accra itinerary. The tour will provide you with a much-needed background on the history of Ghana’s independence.

Only gaining independence 65 years ago, in 1957, Ghana’s journey to freedom is one of pure inspiration. Just a few feet away from Independence Square are the Black Star Square, Liberation Day Monument and Independence Arch – all structures that have played their role in the history we look back on today. 

Planning Tip: To grasp the importance of Independence Square, we highly recommend that you book a tour with reputable and knowledgeable tour companies in Accra, like Mooove Africa and Travel Time Africa, who can best explain Ghana’s history. 

For Afro-Panamanians, October offers a chance to celebrate Catholicism and their Blackness