Maine most certainly lives up to its nickname, "Vacationland." After living two years in Washington, D.C. we've decided to escape to a place that offers quiet coffee shops and cars that stop for you in crosswalks. City life can be adventurous and exhilarating but also exhausting on the same token. Ogunquit offers travelers a much needed relaxing vacation.

The largest attraction in Ogunquit is the expansive beach that stretches as far as the eye can see with no large hotels crowding your view. There are no commercial food stands, bathrooms or bars on the beach to be found. Just you and the beach will be appealing enough at this gem of a beach town. The seagulls look at you out of cuiriosity as if trying to figure out what you are trying to escape.

Ogunquit offers many various lodging arrangements. We opted to stay in a wonderful bed and breakfast called Moon over Maine. Gay owned and operated this 8 room B&B offers a trendy yet hometown feel. Extremely helpful and nice, the owner John, is happy to give advice on where to go and what to see in Maine. Coming to small towns like Ogunquit remind you that so many small business owners still do exist and are constantly trying to make their business ventures successful. It is easy to forget about rural communities and small towns when you live in a large city but these places can often teach you a lot about life, something that I value highly when traveling.

Maine also offers some of the best seafood in the States. Although I am a little biased towards Pacific salmon I am happy to admit haddock, lobster and crab are all amazing in Maine. Most of the time the seafood is caught, brought to the restaurants and served fresh daily. Ogunquit is full of little shops/restaurants that bake their own cookies, breads and fudge. If coming to Maine or you are a seafood lover make sure you try a whole lobster at least once, you won't regret it. I've enjoyed clam chowder at Rose's Cove and haddock at Jackie's too.

Gay and straight travelers alike will find Ogunquit, Maine a welcoming and recharging place to come for a relaxing vacation. I give Ogunquit two thumbs up!