| Portland, Maine by the Casco Bay, is a city where the | | | | and breakfast facilities include 18 and 19 century |
| past and the present co-exist. Portland is the largest | | | | homes set on sprawling grounds. There are places |
| city and the business hub of Maine. Its annual tourist | | | | listed in the Select Registry and are approved National |
| business exceed 3.5 million. The reason is simple. | | | | Historic Landmarks. One inn has been operating for |
| Amidst commercial activities, the city has a wonderful | | | | over 100 years. Many inns offer complimentary |
| cultural flavor including a symphony orchestra, ballet, | | | | European chocolates and cordials, homemade scones |
| theater and art museums. | | | | for early risers, refrigerators with free soft drinks and |
| The Maritime Signal Tower at the Portland | | | | 24 hour pantries. The breakfasts are solid and tasty. |
| Observatory is perhaps the last one of its type in the | | | | Office facilities are available at some of the places. |
| United States. There are also breweries that produce | | | | Many offer free parking and free local calls. Some |
| English and Belgian beers. The fully restored 19th | | | | store sporting equipment like bicycles, canoes and |
| Century Old Port is an exciting shopping area. The | | | | kayaks. They may also have large movie libraries and |
| Western Promenade has a number of stunning | | | | collections of books and games. Rates vary from $35 |
| Victorian homes, and the beaches are beautiful. | | | | during off-season upwards, depending on location and |
| Outdoor activities include swimming, hiking, cycling, bird | | | | amenities offered. Many offer air-conditioning. Check |
| watching, boating and canoeing. One can go out in | | | | regulations on children and pets, smoking, advance |
| boats to haul in live lobsters, and there are cruises for | | | | payment, cancellation charges, taxes, credit cards |
| whale and seal watching as well. In the winter, skiing is | | | | accepted and house rules. |
| very popular and not far from Portland. Excellent bed | | | | |