Maine [1] is the easternmost state in New England. Its rugged, indented coastline and glacier-carved, forested interior give this state its unique character and have shaped the character of its people.
Regions Maine's sixteen counties can be divided into eight tourist regions: Along the coast:
Inland:
CitiesSome of Maine's major cities are:
Other destinations
UnderstandMaine is a northeastern state, but one of the most sparsely populated states in the USA. Its northern reaches, known as The Great North Woods, are largely pristine wilderness. The coastal regions, supported over the years by fishing, lobstering and tourism, are more heavily populated, particularly in the southern, more temperate part of the state. Although the water is decidely cool, Maine's mostly rocky coastline and nearly 60 lighthouses make for some beautiful scenery. That, a comfortable place to stay, and a Maine lobster may be all you need. TalkThere are native French speakers in the St. John Valley of far northern Maine, and a strong Acadian tradition in central Maine, especially Lewiston-Auburn. Visitors to Maine are said to come "from away," and are commonly told, "You can't get the-ah from he-ah." Eastern Maine is referred to as "Down East" because the area is down wind from the rest of the east coast on the prevailing westerly breezes. Get inMaine shares land borders with New Brunswick, Québec, and New Hampshire. For visitors from overseas or the rest of the United States, Boston is the major gateway to Maine. There is bus service from Boston to Maine's major cities, and the Amtrak Downeaster offers train service from Boston's North Station to Portland. A car is required for travel around the state. Many visitors rent a car in Boston and take Interstate 95 northward to Maine. It takes about two hours to drive from Boston to Portland, and another two hours to drive from Portland to Bangor. Several airlines provide direct flights to Portland and Bangor from most major cities in the northeastern U.S. Bay Ferries offers high speed ferry service from Yarmouth, Nova Scotia to Portland and Bar Harbor. Get aroundA car is necessary for getting around in Maine. Public roads are rare in the area north and west of Bangor. Private land owners maintain the few roads available in these north woods, and permits are required for access. See
Do
Skiing
Buy
Eat
DrinkMicrobreweriesMaine produces some of the highest quality beers in the country. When in the Pine Tree State, go for a tour or look for titles by these fine breweries:
ContactMaine's telephone area code is 207. As far as cell phone use goes, Maine is geographically one of the least-covered states in the country. Coverage is good along the Southern Coast, in the Portland area, and along US Interstate 95 from the New Hampshire border to Bangor -- as well as some other areas such as Camden and Rockland. Stay safeHikers should carry and know how to use a map and compass and dress in layers for changeable weather. Maine has one of the lowest crime rates in the United States. Violent crime is rare, but visitors to Maine or anywhere should safeguard their possessions. Risk of death from animals is usually remote, but black flies and mosquitoes may drive one mad. Automobile collisions with moose can be deadly for both the moose and the occupants of the vehicle. It is best not to drive too fast in areas frequented by moose. Many, but not all, areas with high risk of moose-auto collisions are marked with signs. Drivers from warmer climates should avoid driving on snow or ice covered roads. Get out
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