New England Treasures

I was going to continue discussing my Southern tour, but an acquaintance mentioned a plan to travel the New England area. I have several experiences in this area of the country, including some cities he is considering, such as Portland, Maine.

I had several new issues I was dealing with on this trip. One was a personal decision to avoid entering bars. Fortunately, places such as Gilbert's Chowder House, respected my decision to sit on their deck and drink iced tea:

I was also learning that I did not have to order entrees in restaurants. Here is my meal on Dimillo's Floating Restaurant:

That's an appetizer of crab cakes, with a bowl of clam chowder, and I'll tell you the truth -- a cup would have done the trick! Here is the link to the restaurant:

http://www.dimillos.com/restaurant/

And here is me enjoying some iced tea in Top of the East, in the Eastman Park Hotel, along with a link:

http://www.eastlandparkhotel.com/lounge.htm

Breakfast at Becky's Diner the next morning, an establishment featured on The Food Network shortly afterwards:

Both meals described so far were absolutely scrumptious -- my meal at Becky's was a meaty omelet with loaded hashbrowns. Here is the link to Becky's:

http://www.beckysdiner.com/

Here I am taking a break from my hike around picturesque Peak's Island:

 I also hiked the Eastern Promenade trail, back in the city.

At night, I went to Old Orchard Beach, where there is a pleasant amusement park, and I had dinner at Surf's 6 -- another soup and fishcake meal -- very tasty.

The following day, I drove to Freeport. I am not a huge shopper, but, when in Rome...or L. L. Bean...:

Those more interested in shopping for clothing or outdoors gear would likely find this heavenly, and it is open 24 hours a day! Here is the link:

http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/1000001705retail.html

This was followed by hiking at Bradbury Mountain State Park. Here I am at the summit, with the picture followed by a link for the park:

http://bradburymountain.com/how-can-i-help.html

My trip to the Portland area ended with shopping for souvenirs, and a nice lunch at the Azure Cafe.

This trip was varied and enjoyable, and there is plenty for everyone's taste in the Portland area. My acquaintance, as well as anyone else who chooses to tour New England, should consider making it one of their stops.