You may hear words pronounced a little differently (hint: baah haabah translates to Bar Harbor) and the deeply rooted traditions and influences of maritime, French, and Native American life might be a bit intimidating, but Maine is in fact one of the friendliest and welcoming places you can visit. Settle down for a spell during any season you please for a foray into this fun-filled and fabulous corner of the country.

One of the best ways to experience Maine is from the perspective of a vacation home guest. By renting a unique log chalet atop a hill that overlooks one of the regions famous bays or charming islands that hug the shore, youll be seeing the countryside at its best. Maine is definitely a bit rugged and untouched by typical tourist trappings, so realize this and then embrace it. You wont exactly be roughing it by choosing to book a cottage or a cabin, but you will be setting off for a bit of an adventure.

By this, it is meant that youll be breaking away from the usual hotel experience that just doesnt quite belong in this setting. Maine has mountains, hills, forests, beaches, and parks that are better enjoyed when youre in your most individualistic and free-spirited mood. Walk the trails, watch for moose and birds, marvel at the ancient arbors that tower above you, and realize that this is a one-of-a-kind experience that deserves more than just an average place to lay your head at night.

Picture yourself, and your traveling companions of course, unlocking the door to a cabin that oozes charm and authenticity. The walls are solid and look like they were built by lumberjack, and the faint scent of pine greets you as you enter. Instead of fighting over who gets stuck on the sofa bed, the kids will be running around to each of the bedrooms, gladly realizing that theyll all have plenty of space this time. After unpacking your bags (into actual closets), meet in the family room to discuss your trip and all that you plan to do during these few privileged days. Theyre sure to fly by, so hang on tight.

You might begin with something simple, like taking a stroll around the area. Your property blends right into the wilderness, but you dont feel isolated due to the fact that several towns are just a short drive away. Take a load off on the deck while you transition into vacation mode, and then pile in the car for a visit to Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, or Northeast Harbor (there are lots of harbors here). Have a seafood dinner, grab an ice cream cone, and get a feel for this whole new world.

Your subsequent days will be filled with choices; Acadia National Park is just a few miles away, and will interest everyone in the group with its sheer beauty alone. Maine is enamored with the sea and with its many freshwater lakes, as you will be too after chartering a boat or setting off on a cruise of the coast. The salty air has a certain energy to it that is found no where else, and youll even feel its benefits from your vacation rental.

You may find it a good idea for your family, and your familys budget, to stop by a local grocery store and pick up a few staples. The kitchen in your chalet is modern and well-laid out, and has amazingly inspired you to whip up a special meal. The grill out back and the patio chairs will make a party out of your culinary efforts, and everyone will eat, drink, and be merry with Maine as the backdrop. Lobster will become everyones favorite meal, thanks to the unbeatable freshly caught samples that beat out the offerings of the fanciest restaurants back home.

When darkness falls, the sleepy heads can retire to their beds, shutting the door behind them until its time to enjoy another day. For the hyper ones not yet ready to slow down, a game room will allow for a fun outlet and will encourage interaction that normally takes a back seat to the television and real world responsibilities. Theres a TV and DVD player here too, but try to keep those turned off as you focus on the things that are really important. Like a boys vs. girls game of charades. (Or whatever it is that gets everyone riled up and laughing).

Your Maine vacation will be as busy or as laid-back as you want it to be, especially when you have a convenient and amenity-filled place to call your home away from home.