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We offer holidays to the four corners of the globe. If you want specialist advise please phone our travel team and we will be happy to help.
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- Destinations
- North America
- United States of America
- Maine
Maine
The picturesque New England state of Maine lies in the
easternmost reaches of the United States, bordering on the Canadian
provinces of Quebec and New Brunswick. Similar to its Canadian
neighbours, Maine is a lovely contrast of rugged coastline dotted
with picture perfect lighthouses, fishing villages and sandy
beaches, and an interior covered with lush forest, towering
mountains and mirror-like lakes.
Maine is the largest state in the New England area, but remains
one of the most sparsely populated states in the country, creating
a wide expanse of unspoilt wilderness. The original inhabitants of
the area were Native Americans of the Algonquin group, while
European settlement by the French occurred in 1604. Over subsequent
years, control of the region was fought over by the English, French
and the Americans - evidence of which remains in the large number
of historic forts still standing today. The strong Acadian and
French Canadian heritage of the area can still be felt,
particularly in the Acadian Village in Aroostook county and other
parts of central Maine, while the coast boasts a fierce maritime
heritage.
The warmer months bring a flood of holidaymakers to Maine and
summer homes pepper the landscape. With plenty of outdoor
activities, this is the nature lover's and outdoor enthusiast's
paradise. The state experiences harsh winters, but this brings its
own charms as snowboarding, skiing and snow-shoeing replace the
summer activities of canoeing, kayaking, camping and hiking. In
true New England style, autumn brings a festival of colours to the
foliage and spring is a riot of blossoms. The Acadia National Park,
on Maine's Mount Desert Island, provides an opportunity to enjoy
the spectacular beauty of the state, as well as its wildlife and
birdlife.
History buffs can enjoy plenty of historical sites, including
visits to the house of poet and Maine native Henry
Wadsworth-Longfellow; food lovers can feast on the region's fine
seafood and blueberries, and city lovers can roam the streets of
the capital Augusta and the bustling city of Portland. Maine is
big, beautiful and charming, and is well worth exploring from top
to bottom, whatever the season.
Information & Facts
Climate
Maine has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm
summers. Winter temperatures drop between 20°F and 30°F (about
-4°C), while summer temperatures range between 80°F and 90°F (30°C
and up). The northern part of the state tends to be drier and
colder in comparison to the southern and coastal areas, while the
sea keeps the coastal temperatures moderate. Snowfall occurs in
winter.
Language
English is the most common language but Spanish is often
spoken in south-western states.
Money
The US Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into
100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are
widespread and credit cards and travellers cheques are widely
accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid
hassles. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
Time
GMT -5 (GMT -4 from March to November).