Romantic New England
Road trips really should have two things: great things to see, and wonderful romantic, budget places to stay. I mean you are sitting in a car for the better part of a day, weekend, or whole week, and unnecessary frustration when you are supposed to be on vacation is just no good for a relationship.
I will be your tour guide to romantic New England, where the love of my life grew up, and where I fell in love with nature. Pack your bathing suit and bring your tent – you're in for a road trip!
Skyscrapers and landmark parks
Boston is beyond beautiful, especially Boston Public Garden. With absolutely perfect tulips, sweeping weeping willow trees over a pristine pond, and musicians at almost every corner to serenade you and your love, it is definitely worth the stop in.
Within walking distance is the theater district and historic landmarks, such as the Green Dragon – the meeting place of our forefathers. I recommend you stop in for some of Sean's Happy Juice. Trust me, it is not to be missed! You won't believe it's alcoholic. Then grab a bite to eat at the original Cheers, we wouldn't want you driving drunk.
Sand, sun, and a sensational overnight stay
New Hampshire literally has it all. Point your compass northeast toward Hampton Beach, and in about an hour you will arrive at quite possibly the most romantic Bed and Breakfast – the Victoria Inn, by reservation. Try and arrive relatively early for as much complimentary wine as you can handle.
Each room is furnished with lovely antiques, soft comfortable settings, and cozy home-like brick-a-brack. Wake up to the scent of fresh coffee and an excellent breakfast, prepared right there in their very own kitchen. Then walk 15 minutes to the beautiful Hampton Beach. There's enough to do there to keep you busy for a whole day – but don't delay too long, there's still so much to see!
Purple Mountains Majesty
Why not find your own rock? Ruggles Mine near Isinglass Mountain at the town of Grafton lets you mine for your own precious and semiprecious stones. In case you don't have your own equipment, they have plenty there for you to rent and use.
The best part – whatever you mine, you keep for free. Well, with the exception of your admission and rental fees, but if you can carry it out it's yours. I have walked out with some pretty fantastic amethyst and agate more often than not, stones that would have otherwise cost an arm and a leg. Well I almost did take off my leg but that's another story!
Now to the Green Mountains
Finally, make sure you have sufficiently gotten away from everything – and I mean, everything. Woods Island State Park at St. Albans Bay, Vermont is just plain gorgeous. It is a truly different experience in a state that is typically famous for its bed and breakfasts.
Although if you would rather a nice soft bed after all that mining, go ahead to Bull Run Farm bed and breakfast in Springfield Vermont. They only have two rooms available for guests, so it is a very quaint and relaxing setting – but also in high demand. The scenery on the way back, either place you go, is sure to take your breath away.
