I have a feeling there are many ladies out there making their Christmas lists because I’ve had several people email me this week asking for recommendations for spa resorts in New England. If you know me, you know there’s almost NOTHING I like better than a relaxing spa treatment, and especially when it is at a fabulous resort. The following are 10 spa resorts I’ve been dying to try in New England. Santa, if you’re reading this, they are all on my list and I haven’t been naughty!
While in Santorini, we had one night to slip away for some time alone. Although Mykonos was my first choice, the distance from our island would eat away at our time so we decided to go to the small island of Ios. My only apprehension was that Ios is known as the party island of the Greek Isles and hundreds of 20-year-olds flock to the island to party the night away. Being that we were celebrating my 40th, it was the opposite of what I was looking for. I was happy to find that these partiers spend the entire day sleeping off their hangovers and the island would be all ours!
Read about our night away HERE.
The Port Inn, Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth, New Hampshire is one of my favorite coastal towns in New England. The town is dear to my heart because we had our wedding reception in town and since then have created many family memories here. Portsmouth is only an hour north of Boston and just over the bridge from Maine.
When looking for a hotel in Portsmouth, location is key. The Port Inn is centrally located and has amazing accommodations for the entire family. Please click below to read all about our stay at the Port Inn.
The seacoast town of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a must-see destination in New England. Historic buildings, quaint shops, and charming galleries are around every corner. With over 100 locally owned businesses, it is the perfect town to enjoy a stroll during any season. Portsmouth is only an hour north of Boston and just over the bridge from Maine. Every night of the week you can find live music and there are several theaters in town.
However, many people come to Portsmouth for one main reason…the food! This port town has become a culinary destination for people searching for trendy dishes and creative cocktails. With so many places to choose from, your only dilemma will be deciding which to try first. Restaurant Week has become an experience every foodie awaits, and 2016 will not disappoint.
My latest piece on Huffington Post!!!
It’s all about the Italian phrase “Dolche far niente” …the sweetness in doing nothing. I crave that gift of pleasant idleness that happens on vacation and would love to bring it home with me.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/christine-johnson/embrace-the-sweetness-in-_b_12575008.html
(In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month…)
When I was 5 and my brother 7, we lost our mother to ovarian cancer. That changed my life forever. Three years ago my daughters were just about to turn 5 and 7 and I knew I had to contribute some way to raising awareness about cancer (all cancers) and help with fundraising for research. When I decided to do the Susan G Komen 3 -Day walk in Boston I never knew how much it would change me.
New Hampshire has many special places to view the colorful change of foliage. At Castle in the Clouds, in Moultonborough, you will be transported back to the early 1900’s to the home of Thomas Plant. However, do not rush straight up to the castle, take your time and make a few stops along the way.
What is the first stop? Well…
The day is finally here and I’m all packed up to go away all by myself for the first time. No husband and no kiddos. I’ve put my bags in the car and grabbed the wine I’ve been chilling in the fridge. When suddenly…Ring Ring Ring. “Hi Mrs. Johnson. This is the school nurse. Would you mind coming in to pick up your daughter? She seems to have a bit of a bellyache.” You’ve got to be kidding me! I can’t make this stuff up. With a sigh, the wine goes back in the fridge and I’m on my way to pick up my little cherub from school.
Kennebunkport is one of the prettiest towns in Maine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend, a relaxing getaway, or a fun-filled family adventure, this is the town to look at. Here is an Itinerary for a Day in Kennebunkport Maine:
The best place to fly in is Portland (PWM) Airport (21.6 miles away)
Manchester (MHT) (57.3 miles), Boston (BOS) (74.4 miles)
CLICK HERE TO FIND AN AMAZING FLIGHT
The town of Kennebunkport, Maine, is a peaceful coastal town and Saint Anthony’s Franciscan Monastery is a wonderful way to begin your day. The grounds are open to the public from sunrise to sunset and the Friars welcome visitors. The grounds are tranquil and is a beautiful place to start your day in a calm way. Children are welcome, however you will want to discuss with them that using quiet voices is expected here so you do not disturb other visitors. The grounds have two lovely outdoor chapels. We are not especially religious but I do love visiting churches. I did not realize how little knowledge of religion my youngest daughter had until I saw her bow at the altar and whisper, “May the force be with you.” Oh boy!!!
Squam Lake Natural Science Center
As soon as we walked into the Squam Lake Natural Science Center, we knew it would be unlike any animal park we’ve been to. My girls immediately let their creativity take over and pretended to be wildlife explorers scouring the forest for animals. At the Science Center you don’t find an animal in a cage, you walk to each exhibit through beautifully maintained trails until you reach the animal in a lovely natural habitat. There are 232 acres of fields, forests, and wetlands. You can tell great lengths are taken to see that the animals are well cared for. Most of these animals are rescued and will spend the rest of their lives in their safe, protected new home. Let me show you some of our favorite moments of our day.