The names of Atlantic City’s streets are familiar to anyone who has ever spent an afternoon playing Monopoly. Now that you’ve left childhood games behind, you may be acquainted with the hedonistic pleasures that make Atlantic City the Tri-State area’s grown-up playground. Although its gaming casinos have put it prominently on the map, don’t be fooled into thinking it is a one-note town. It is a haven for fine dining, tax -free outlet shopping, top-notch entertainment and a slew of events that are garnering national attention, from the upcoming Atlantic City Food and Wine Festival to the Atlantic City Film Festival slated for this fall.

A New Way to Get to Atlantic City
Whether you visit Atlantic City to roll the dice or stroll the boardwalk, you can save time, money, and greenhouse gas emissions the next time you visit—without skimping on comfort. Hampton Luxury Liner is now offering daily coach bus service to Harrah’s Resort and Caesars from several convenient locations in Manhattan, along with one in Plainview, Long Island. They are well known for transporting New Yorkers to the Hamptons and Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, without the hassle, expense, and carbon footprint that comes with driving. 1.4 million gallons of gasoline are saved every year in the U.S. as a result of using public transportation, so if you haven’t hopped on the car-free wagon, this is your chance to.

The Trip is Part of the Fun
Driving to Atlantic City often means being stuck in traffic on the Garden State Parkway. A ride on the Hampton Luxury Liner will allow you to kick back and watch Live DirectTV satellite on one of five flat screen televisions—or bring your laptop along and enjoy the free Wi-Fi. There’s a snack bar on board when hunger strikes, and a library to indulge your kindle-free literary side. Leave the stress of city life where it belongs and start to relax as soon as you sit back and recline in your comfy leather seat.

The Price is Right to Stay the Night
For all of these first-class amenities, you pay a mere $50 for same-day round-trip service. Or, turn it into a bargain-priced overnight getaway, which will cost you $75 round-trip. If you purchase an overnight ticket, you are eligible to receive a deeply discounted room at Harrah’s Resort. You can spend the night in one of Harrah’s newly renovated rooms, steps from the beach, boardwalk and in the middle of the action that Harrah’s casino slots and gaming tables offer, for only $49 per night, Monday-Thursday. Sunday night the cost is $69 for your room, a bargain by any standard. For these prices why not travel and stay in style? Whatever number the wheel lands on, getting to Atlantic City is now part of the fun.

To make a reservation for a stress-relieving ride from NYC to Atlantic City, visit hamptonluxuryliner.com/harrahs.

For thrill-seekers, adrenaline junkies, and anyone who envies birds for their ability to fly, there is a new opportunity for you to soar at high speeds among the tree tops just two hours from NYC. Over Memorial Day weekend, New York Zipline Adventures opened what will become the longest zipline operation in North America at the popular winter ski destination of Hunter Mountain. Currently, two tours are available for the zipping throughout the Catskills’ forest canopy, over streams, waterfalls, and wildlife on a 1/2-inch steel cable.

This newest attraction at Hunter Mountain allows visitors to live out any Me-Tarzan-You-Jane or Avatar-inspired ambitions while enjoying stunning views across six different ziplines, four sky bridges, and one awesome rappel. The third tour, which will open in the fall, will be the longest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America, featuring ziplines almost 600’ above the forest floor and over 3000’ in length. Until then, guests can experience the Mid-Mountain Tour, which lasts approximately two hours, and is led by professionally trained guides. You will be able to “zip” from tree to tree, landing in specially built platforms high up in the canopy. (If you have never ziplined before, this type of tour is a great place to start.) The Adventure Tower is another exhilarating activity that challenges participants to make it to the top of a 60’ tower by climbing, crawling and balancing their way through a series of cargo nets, rope bridges, and other obstacles that will test ones nerves while potentially helping overcome any fear of heights.

The company behind New York Zipline Adventures operates several world class tours in places like New Hampshire and Jamaica, but the collection of adventures at Hunter Mountain is poised to be their best yet. As one zipliner said on opening day, “This is truly awesome. It’s an adventure of a lifetime!”

How to get there: Visit Hunter Mountain’s Bus Lines page for specific information on various other pick-up and drop-off points in New York City. If you have rented a hybrid in NY, check out the driving directions page. (Hunter Mountain, Rt. 23A west, 800.486.8376, ext. 2200, huntermtn.com, @huntermtn)

Hunter Mountain offers a variety of other summer activities including hiking, camping, a Skyride, and a number of festivals throughout the year. Go to HunterMtn.com for more info on summer & fall festivals like the German Alps Festival, August 14 & 15, the Int’l Celtic Festival, August 21 & 22, the Microbrew & Wine Festival, September 25 & 26, Oktoberfest I & Colors in the Catskills Motorcycle Rally, October 2 & 3, and Oktoberfest II, October 9 & 10.

Top photo, courtesy of daskos99; 2nd photo, courtesy of NY Zipline Adventures.

When the piping hot pavement and overcrowded parks replace a love of Manhattan with the annual summer in the city claustrophobia, don’t duck and cover in the Hamptons. Consider Scotland instead.

There is such a place in the Hudson Valley that’s got everything but the bagpipes. Just 40 minutes north of NYC, Castle on the Hudson is that mysterious, medieval-style stone hotel, tucked away in 11 hilltop acres overlooking the Hudson River. You may have seen the clouds tiptoeing over the century-old towers as you crossed the Tappan Zee Bridge into Tarrytown. The crashing waves and salty sea breezes aren’t going anywhere, but there is an upcoming event here you don’t want to miss.

In 1910, the second stage of the castle was completed under the direction of General Carroll, the son of a Civil War General. The property with the highest point in Westchester County still has paneling, found in the Oak Room, which was brought back from the General’s house in St. Germain near Paris. Since 1981, the luxury hotel has been designated a historic landmark. In addition to its rich history, peaceful honk-free setting, five-star restaurant, spa, goose-down comforters, bocce and tennis courts, if you plan your visit on June 18th and 19th, there will be enough diversion to make two days feel like a week’s worth of vacation.

The Couples Retreat and Dinner Dance includes a barbecue by the pool, an evening movie on the great lawn, a cocktail reception, three-course dinner and party in the Great Hall, plus two delicious breakfast buffets. To mix up the feasting and dance floor twisting, go for a horseback ride at the nearby Rockefeller family preserve, get out for some hiking or mountain biking, or play a game on the giant outdoor chess board.

And just think about all the fare you’re saving by not flying to Scotland.

How to get there: Take Metro North/Hudson Line to the Tarrytown stop. Assuming you’ve called ahead, a Castle on the Hudson shuttle will be waiting to pick you up. Call 800.616.4487 or 914.631.1980 to make a reservation. To book online, click here. The Couples Retreat is $1200 for two nights. Review their calendar for upcoming events.

(Castle on the Hudson, 400 Benedict Ave., Tarrytown, NY, castleonthehudson.com)

“A particular fine place for a romantic rendezvous, the cuisine in the renown Equus is splendid.” —America’s Elite 1000

Guestroom

Outdoor dining on the terrace at Equus

Castle on the Hudson Pool

"A Five Star Fairy Tale, —Amir Alexander Hasson, a guest from Boston.

Castle on the Hudson

Rising from southeastern Connecticut’s rolling green hills, a few short hours from New York City, is an unrivaled entertainment destination. Foxwoods Resort Casino is North America’s largest casino with 340,000 square feet of gaming space in a complex that covers 4.7 million square feet. The property comprises over 30 restaurants, 24 retail shops, nightclubs, spas, and numerous world-class performance venues. And that’s not all.

One summer weekend, find yourself sitting on a new exclusive offManhattan-Foxwoods charter on Peter Pan Bus heading to an oasis in Mashantucket that is both calming and exhilarating. It’s where Frank Sinatra christened a theater, and Tom Collichio now celebrates seasonal cuisine.
In the spring of 2008, a $55 million renovation brought celebrated restaurateur David Burke’s award-winning steakhouse, two über hip lounges Shrine and Scorpion Bar, designer boutiques like Judith Ripka and Bulgari, a 21,000-square-foot G-Spa, an outdoor swimming pool, and the 4,000-seat MGM Grand Theater, which hosts a wide range of all-star acts, from Cirque du Soleil and Diana Ross, to the Steve Miller Band and Jerry Seinfeld. (They even host famous novelists.)

Let the Games Begin
The casinos boast more than 7,000 slot machines and over 530 table games offering 17 different varieties including blackjack, craps, baccarat, Caribbean stud poker, pai gow poker and roulette. With the only World Poker Tour certified poker room on the east coast, Foxwoods remains the premiere destination for poker fans worldwide, hosting events such as the World Poker Finals and Foxwoods Poker Classic each year. For more information about these and other gambling activities, visit the gaming page.

Feast Your Eyes on Foxwoods
With your $25 bus ticket, you can choose between a $15 food coupon or free festival buffet, in addition to a $15 Keno and entry ticket into the month’s current promotion. But did we mention Tom Collichio’s Craftsteak is here? If it’s not grass-fed beef that meets your fancy, try Michael Schlow’s delicious Italian fare at Alta Strada, the French-Asian fusion Paragon, or the traditional Mexican tequila cantina at Scorpion Bar. And later this summer, Foxwoods will open a bowling restaurant called High Rollers, so you may want to come back again—if only to tell the story of the time you ate, gambled, shopped, ate, swam, golfed, ate, gambled, bowled, had a great night’s sleep . . . and did it all again the next day. For more information on the delicious dining options review the list at foxwoods.com.

A Room With Many Views
Guests of Foxwoods are accommodated in more than 2,000 beautiful Zen-appointed guest rooms and suites in four hotels that overlook an unobstructed green horizon. Two multiple AAA Four-Diamond award-winning hotels grace the property with Grand Pequot Tower Hotel and MGM Grand Hotel; both are equipped with luxurious spas, restaurants, retail venues, fitness centers and pools. The recently renovated, modern Great Cedar Hotel offers 312 rooms, easy access to the resort concourse, an indoor pool and world-class traveling exhibitions. The quaint, New England charm of Two Trees Inn is located just across the street; featuring 280 guest rooms, an indoor pool and fitness room, a gourmet casual dining restaurant and complimentary shuttle to and from the casino.

How to get there: For summer 2010, Foxwoods is running a special Peter Pan bus charter leaving from Manhattan at 34th street just west of 8th Avenue. You have several dates to chose from: June 19, July 17, July 24th, July 31, and August 7. Each bus ticket is $25 roundtrip. Call the Foxwoods bus line for reservations and more trip details at 888.287.2369. Check the entertainment calendar for current awesome events like the Legends concert, Lionel Ritchie, and the Titanic Exhibit.

While we applaud the New York City Parks Department for their efforts to bring us a little slice of the wild outdoors with kayaking on the Hudson, let’s be frank—it’s not exactly an adrenaline rush. Lucky for us city folk, as well as those with a healthy fear of murky water, adventure is not so far away. Take a break from the hiking and biking this summer and get rolling on some whitewater rapids with Whitewater Challengers a little farther up river from home.

Whitewater Challengers, a local and eco-conscious adventure outfitter, offers whitewater rafting near NYC on five rivers in upstate New York and Pennsylvania, all within a day’s journey from the city. “Our big group couldn’t wait to return to Whitewater Challengers the next summer because of the wonderful staff, facility and, well, awesome ride,” said Ruth Hall, an avid whitewater rafter and New Yorker. “Their adventure program was a great outdoor experience, and provided a weekend of fun on and off the river.”

It’s up to you to decide the location, duration, and intensity of your river rafting adventure. Their most popular trip, Lehigh River Gorge in the Poconos, is also the closest, whereas the Adirondacks and Black River Canyon (near Watertown, New York) destinations are more of a hike at five to six hours from Manhattan. The Lehigh River location is also the site of Challengers’ campground, which features access to hiking, mountain biking, and a new Zipline ride, plus outdoor movies, disc golf and a cozy campfire.

Rapids are ranked into classes of varying degrees of challenge, and each of the featured river trips is listed with their corresponding whitewater rating. Class I refers to the mildest rapids; Imagine a pleasantly bumpy ride over gentle cascades. While Class V, the most challenging category, could be best described as hang-on-for-dear-life.

As part of their commitment to crafting adventure activities that leave little or no environmental footprint, Whitewater Challengers participates in two special programs dedicated to carbon offsets. The company purchases “carbon credits” to offset the emissions associated with your whitewater rafting trip, and for every one new tree patrons pledge to plant, Challengers will plant three.

How to get there: Rent a car (a hybrid if you’re feeling green!) in Manhattan. Then choose either the Lehigh or Hudson River, and visit the Whitewater Challengers directions page for more information. Cost: $49.95/adult; $44.95/child (up to age 14); $7.50/pp per night)/Camping

(Whitewater Challengers, 4480 State St., White Haven, Pa. 18661, whitewaterchallengers.com)

Nova Scotia, or “New Scotland,” bears a striking resemblance to its namesake, both in its landscape—defined by lush highland hills, rugged cliffs and crashing seas—and in its culture, which still clings to Scottish roots, nearly 400 years after Scottish nobleman Sir William Alexander was granted his plot of land. Though Gaelic culture may sometimes feel like a rarity in the modern world, in Nova Scotia it is alive and well. Here, you’ll find tartan shops and Gaelic welcome signs, weekend céilidhs (traditional Gaelic music and dancing parties)—mixed in with some Acadian French traditions.

Dance a Jig in Cape Breton
Cape Breton Island is the Celtic heart of Nova Scotia. The rugged highlands may call out to you through their beauty alone, but what sings even louder is the toe-tapping Celtic music that streams from kitchens, pubs, and community centers, and infuses the entire island with a unique and infectious vitality. First on your list of to-dos in Cape Breton: find a Ceilidh—and that should not be hard to do. Just follow the music to the nearest concert hall or kitchen, and get to grooving. Then, if it’s possible to get your fill of fiddles, head to Chéticamp to get a taste of the Acadian-style tunes.

For a little back-story on Celtic music and other Gaelic traditions, make a trip to Highland Village, the only living-history museum for Gaelic folklife in North America, where costumed guides will lead you through a historic village. Then visit Fleur-de-lis and Marconi Trails and in Metro Cape Breton, where the Fortress Louisbourg will show you what 18th century life was like on the French side of the island. To fully experience both Gaelic and Acadian, simply follow their trails: adorable Acadian fishing villages dot the Fleur-de-lis and Marconi Trails, while the lively Celtic music rings along the Ceilidh Trail. To really immerse yourself in the music, try to make it up for Celtic Colours, a roving music festival that draws top musicians from around the world every October.

Hang your hat at Creignish Bed and Breakfast, a ‘recycled school house’ cum guesthouse—and, if you wish, art school. With only four rooms, this rustic, seaside spot is both homey and happy, with easy access to hiking and biking trails, and inspiring scenery all around—hence the offering of art workshops ($45 per night).

Live History in Halifax
Pirates and Indians and colonialists, oh my. If it’s history you seek, Halifax has you covered. The province’s capital has been defined by its waters since the Mi’kmaq dubbed it Che-book-took, which translates as “great long harbor.” Today, it is still a major port city and naval base, plus a college town and a treasure trove of cultural enjoyments.

The heart of Halifax is a meanderer’s dream, its tree-lined streets, populated with galleries, tempting restaurants, libraries and a myriad of museums. The waterfront is bustling yet tranquil and the historical landmarks abound. Since the main significance—and appeal—of this seaside town lies in its port, any visitor must make a pilgrimage to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to explore the port’s history, from shipwreck treasures to its role in helping rescue those aboard the Titanic.

For a more modern historic experience, visit the specialty shops in Historic Properties, which were once the warehouses of 19th-century privateers. And by warehouses they mean gorgeous Victorian-Italianate façades, not some cement eyesores. But the most visited historic site in Canada is Halifax’s Citadel National Historic Site, a key naval station of the British Empire, dating back to 1828. The star-shaped masonry structure is anything if not impressive: both for its incredible architecture and idyllic grounds, and for its role in Canada’s evolution from colony to nation.

A trip back in time would not be the same at a new-fangled resort. The Waverly Inn, an antique-festooned Bed and Breakfast in an 1866 home has entertained such luminaries as Oscar Wilde, P.T. Barnum, and George Vanderbilt (starting at $129 per night). The Haliburton House Inn has a more modern feel to it, but its 29 rooms—housed in three heritage houses—maintain an air of the unique in everything from their varying sizes to their layouts and décor (around $165 per night).

Seek Out Ghosts in Annapolis Royal
Annapolis Royal, was Canada’s first permanent European settlement. Originally dubbed Port Royal, it was founded in 1605 by French explorer Samuel de Champlain. The British won the settlement in 1710, and changed the town’s name to Annapolis Royal in honor of Queen Anne. The tiny town is marked by flowing rivers, verdant open spaces, and the romance of a long history. Fort Anne, which marks the heart of town, is Canada’s oldest national park, once one of the most embattled territories in the history of the New World, and now one of the most serene, surrounded by peaceful countryside and refined town. A museum in what was once the quarters of British officers tells the tumultuous history through trinkets and relics.

Saint George Street runs parallel to the waterfront, and then winds past to the other end of town, crossing Prince Albert Road, which is a segment of Route 1, the famous Evangeline Trail, which parallels the Bay of Fundy Coast. The natural beauty is astounding, but it’s the long history that really sticks. It seems everything in this hamlet has some historical significance, and in such a place there is heritage to be found, and ghosts as well. If you’re the type to be captivated by the ethereal, don’t miss a chance to tour the oldest English graveyard in Canada with Candlelight Graveyard Tours.

The Dragonfly Inn, an 1870 home on a lush plot of land on the Evangeline Trail, is as adorable as it sounds, and a breath of fresh air (rooms start at $119). In town is the Garrison House Inn, a circa 1854 heritage property with comfortable rooms, cool sea breezes and an elegant restaurant (rates start at $79).

How to get there: Fly into Halifax International Airport. There are shuttles from the airport to many hotels. Since the province is so large and taxis can be a bit pricey ($50 from the airport into Halifax, this is one place where it might make sense to rent a “green” car for navigating between the regions. The bright side is that once you reach whatever destination you have in mind, you won’t be needing much of the car, since there are so many places to walk and bike and hike.

Highland Village Milling Frolic

At the Mahone Bay Classic Boat Festival

Fort Anne National Historic Site from the town of Annapolis Roya

Highland Village Milling Frolic

Halifax Piper

Guard at Annapolis Royal

The most affordable option isn’t always the healthiest one, and the healthy option is usually the least affordable. That’s true with most things, from your health to the health of the planet. Solar panels on your roof are expensive, but a double down sandwich from KFC, not so much.

So it’s nice when two masters are served, as is the case with Megabus, a bus travel business connecting the Northeast and Midwest using fuel-efficiency and low cost prices.

Before Megabus, what was there for the urban nomad? Cramped, gas guzzling Chinatown buses that introduce us to our least sociable selves, with one too many unexplained passenger pick-ups at rest stops off I-95.

What with the inconveniences we collectively live through at airports, and the long travel times promised on most train schedules, travel buses have been long overdue a makeover.

“Megabus has reinvented motorcoach intercity travel,” said Dale Moser, president and COO of Coach USA. “We are committed to delivering safe, affordable, reliable and the greenest travel to the public.”

For Megabus, that means a fleet of double-decker buses, equipped with free Wi-Fi, reclining seats, and cord outlets. Cord outlets! It’s enough to tame even the most epic of beard men. Megabus routes include east coast stops in Boston, Philadelphia, D.C., Atlantic City, and Baltimore, and as far west as Chicago and St. Louis.

Riding Green
One of the more green things you can do in this world is carpool, and bus travel is the ultimate carpool. Instead of 81 individual cars all going to Boston from New York—all burping emissions—it’s just one double-decker bus on the highway, taking passengers city-to-city, barely a carbon footprint to speak. “Traveling on Megabus conserves fuel, decongests highways and city streets,” said Moser. “And is the cleanest form of travel offered today, all by taking cars off the road!”

In particular, Megabus buses are equipped to meet fuel efficiency standards—from a GPS system that monitors how long an engine idles before it should be shut off to their Smartire technology, which warns against low tire pressure, something that increases demand for fuel and oil. Remember the inexplicable tire-gauge controversy during the ‘08 election? That’s this.

On the Cheap, On the Fly
We don’t live in Europe. A fact we are reminded of every morning when we try to order a small espresso at Dunkin Donuts. We don’t have the cheapest air travel in the world and who wants to spend scary sums of money refilling gas anymore?

Enter the world of relaxing, inexpensive bus travel. A round trip from New York to Philadelphia on Megabus will cost no more than $22 bucks, and if you’re really smart, take advantage of the deals that one can only quickly describe as “insane.” Think $1 city-to-city express service and 50 cent internet reservation fees. Best of all, once you’ve boarded there’s nothing left to think about. Sit back and watch the country go by.

These low costs facilitate another rewarding aspect of bus travel, spontaneity. It’s liberating to know that you can decide when you wake up to be in Toronto by the end of the day with very little effort or money.

It’s democratic, and to their credit, Megabus has made it green and clean. What’s more, just about every one of the lovely travel destinations, events, and weekend getaways we write about, and review on the site, are a bus ride away. So be your best green selves in your travels and make that a Megabus ride away.

Frothy white waves butting up against rugged seaside cliffs, soft sandy beaches, lush forests and valleys, and then more ocean. . . You may want to spend all waking hours in Nova Scotia out of doors. And it’s highly probable you will.

Adventures
If you’re a sailor, a surfer, or any sort of seafarer, you’ll find no dearth of adventures in Nova Scotia. Take a boat out whale watching, or kayak out through misty coves to mysterious islands around Tangier or in search of shipwrecks.

Get the adrenaline rush of riding a tidal bore, the massive waves created when more than 100 billion tons of water flows into the Bay of Fundy at high tide. Perched on your Zodiac, you’ll hear its primeval rumble before you see its crest, the liquid rollercoaster that will lift you skyward and then drop you, drenched and giddy, back down again. Tide comes in twice a day. After a day of river rafting, stay the night at Palliser Motel (starting at $79 per night), and dine in its restaurant overlooking the bores, taking satisfaction in the waves you just conquered.

If “two if by sea” becomes too much, take to the land with hikes along the cliff footpaths, or a bike ride up and down the hilly and breathtaking Cabot Trail on Cape Breton.

Wonders of Nature
Nature abounds and surrounds in Nova Scotia, but even here there are a couple of highlights. Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected wilderness area in Atlantic Canada, spanning five counties. Its coastal area is populated by quiet fishing villages and some of the oldest French settlements of the New World. Inland you’ll find Kejimkujik National Park, the only inland national park of Canada in the Maritimes, with nine major rivers and more than 120 lakes canoe routes, and phenomenal hiking trails. The entire area was designated by UNESCO for its commitment to sustainable development and conservation—it is home to a good many endangered species, including the southern flying squirrel.

Yet another ideal place to connect with nature is Brier Island in the Bay of Fundy. The small basalt island is the westernmost point of the province, situated where the Gulf of Maine and the Bay of Fundy meet. Life is slow and friendly on this rugged island, where fishing boats come and go, and whales swim, and seals sun themselves on the rocks at Seal Cove. Geology buffs will enjoy the rock formations, and a wealth of quartz, jasper, amethyst. The island is accessible by two short ferry rides from the end of Digby Neck, and well worth a few days of nature-communing and relaxing. You can find comfortable beds—and ocean views—at Brier Island Lodge (rooms start at $89). A word of warning: one look at this nature-lover’s paradise and you may never want to return.

Relaxation
It starts with a rocky bluff jutting out into the ocean and adorned by a postcard-perfect lighthouse. And then there are surf-worthy waves and lounge-worthy sands, waters the warmest they get north of the Carolinas. The territory is almost completely surrounded by water, and that’s not counting the placid lakes you’ll encounter in its interior. So if it’s seaside bliss you’re looking for, let your search stop here.

Head out to the sleepy southern coast, with its granite boulders and busy fishermen, where you truly feel like you just might be at the edge of the world. Once prime territory for pirates, the area is dotted with small towns and a long, rich history—and it’s easy to navigate without a car. Take scenic strolls along white sand beaches and through wooded forests, visiting the historic towns along the way, mingling with the friendly, laid-back locals, and dining on the catch of the day.

Then get in a round or two of golf at one of more than 60 courses in the region, or cast your line in one of its 6,500-plus lakes or rivers. And don’t forget to save at least a day for lounging on one (or several) of the regions incredible beaches.

For a true treat, venture out to Cape d’Or. The “Cape of Gold” is not the easiest place to get to, but a peaceful retreat most certainly worth the trek. At the lighthouse is the view of all views: sharp cliffs, green forests on the gentle promontory, and the most adorable inn and restaurant, which was once the lighthouse keeper’s house. The Lighthouse on Cape d’Or is truly an experience, with basic rooms (starting at $80 per night) and unparalleled views. This is what they mean when they say “get away from it all.”

How to get there: Fly into Halifax International Airport. There are shuttles from the airport to many hotels. Since the province is so large and taxis can be a bit pricey ($50 from the airport into Halifax, this is one place where it might make sense to rent a “green” car for navigating between the regions. The bright side is that once you reach whatever destination you have in mind, you won’t be needing much of the car, since there are so many places to walk and bike and hike.

Sailing on Bras D'or Lakes

Gulf Shore Beaches

Whale Watching on Brier Island

Nova Scotia

Peggy Cove

Kayaking in Nova Scotia

One looking for a new Getaway—that freeing space in time where responsibility does not exist—might do well to travel ashore to a province in Atlantic Canada called Prince Edward Island. You ask for it—beaches, golf, cuisine, culture, adventure—you got it.

Imagine
Dr. Elizabeth Emory, expert scholar on Anne of Green Gables, calls Prince Edward Island “the end of the world and the beginning of the world.” The magical home of the mischievous redhead who epitomizes childhood does exist, and still has the same delightful essence, even 100 years after Anne Shirley first came on the scene.

The green, sloping fields, the salty fresh air, the red cliffs and winding red roads. The land itself is like no other, and the people of PEI know it. Life slows down here; the pace is gentle, friendly, homey. It is not an exaggeration to say it may even be life-changing. It’s certainly a place of calm, of comfort, of renewal. Whether you’re frolicking through the lavender fields, traveling back to 1732 at Roma, a National Historic Site with entertaining reenactments, or peddling along one of the island’s sundry bucolic trails, you have the feeling that time has slowed, that life is easy, and happy.

Experience
For a not-so-large island (175 miles from tip to tip), there is no shortage of things to see and do on Prince Edward Island. By very nature of it being an island, PEI has, of course, its share of beaches. But these aren’t just any beaches: here there are red and pink sands on the south shore, picturesque lighthouses, and the beach that sings—literally, walking on the white sands of Basin Head produces a sound akin to song. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset stroll, or the squirting holes that call to clam-diggers, PEI has a beach for you.

One might very well argue that the island is equal parts sand and green for the long stretches of beach that surround the island rolling green hills cover its center. Many of these rolling green hills make up the more than 30 golf courses that have earned PEI the title of Canada’s number one golf destination. Golf fiend or casual putter, there is a golf vacation for every skill level or budget, and since so many courses are crammed onto such a small island, it’s easy to play a little golf and still have time for other island experiences from antique shopping to deep sea fishing.

Listen
A lively music culture may not seem synonymous with a peaceful, bucolic island, but on Prince Edward the two go hand in hand. In addition to the music and dance performances that take place at the Confederation Centre for the Arts in Charlottetown, PEI is host to a long parade of music festivals all throughout the warmer months. The songs get underway in May, with an annual Highland Gathering hosted by the College of Piping and the tunes keep coming on through October, with the Jazz & Blues Festival, the Cavendish Beach Music Festival, and countless outdoor concerts in between. A particular highlight is the Charlottetown Summerfest (June 30- July 4), with its abundance of family fun and a special Cirque du Soleil performance.

But no matter the time, there is music to be had. To find out what’s going on during your visit, check out The Buzz, the free monthly arts paper available everywhere. If festivals are your thing, you can find a full list of them here. From jazz to bluegrass to bagpipes, there’s a jig to be danced for every set of fee that sets foot on the island.

Taste
It starts with seafood. Think oysters, lobsters, mussels, fresh produce from island farms, then puddings, cakes, warm fluffy doughnuts. In short, Prince Edward Island does food—and does it well. And in keeping with the island’s love of festivals, food is represented with a few of its own, including the International Shellfish Festival in September, and Fall Flavours, a nirvana of local preserves, beers, and overall eating frenzy. The beauty of the festival, too, is in the discovery, and in the process—the 150-plus events invite foodies to “Pick and Press” and to savor island flavors through informational and delicious workshops. It’s an ideal way to get a flavor (gratuitous pun) for the island.

Rest
Places to sleep on the island run the gamut from campsites on the beach to plush hotels. The Dundee Arms is one of the latter, a gorgeous 1903 mansion in Charlottetown that also happens to swing on the greener side (from $150 per night). Of the same era is the Briarwood Inn, a homey 1911 heritage home equipped with free wi-fi, charming renovated cottages and a lodge on the verdant property (from $59.95 per night). Or for a truly unique experience, one might consider a farm vacation on Springwood farms, where packages (from $240 per night) get you lodging, meals, and time on the farm to participate in or observe hay “making,” sheep tending, and other farm chores. Or, you can simply relax on the farm swing. Whatever you choose, it’s a great way to recharge far away from the noise of the city.

How to Get There: Taxis and several tour buses are available to take you from the Charlottetown Airport to your desired destination on the island. Acadian Bus Lines offers daily bus service from Moncton, New Brunswick to Borden-Carleton, Summerside and Charlottetown with connections available from most destinations in North America, and a number of companies offer shuttle services by van to and from Charlottetown (and selected other Island locations) and Halifax. These companies operate from various locations and on different schedules; contact each for details about their specific services. Once on the island, a car may be helpful, but there are plenty of opportunities for biking, hiking, and other means of getting around.

East Point Lighthouse

Lavender fields in PEI

Cedar Dunes at Sunset

Crowbush course on Prince Edward Island

Dundee Arms, PEI. Photo by Jill and Jason.

Briarwood Inn, PEI.

Lakeside Lobster Feast in Prince Edward

Cavendish Beach Music Festival in PEI

At Raspberry Point Oyster Farm in PEI. Photo by Jill and Jason

A bearded skipper in North Rustico, PEI. Photo by Jill and Jason.

Seaside town of North Rustico, great for deep sea fishing activities. Photo by Jill and Jason.

Covehead Lighthouse in Prince Edward

Once a favorite of America’s elite, from FDR to Hollywood starlets, New Brunswick faded from glamorous getaway of the early 20th century to the territory between Québec and Nova Scotia. This obscurity makes its unspoiled wilderness and sleepy fishing villages all the more enticing. From lively fiddle music to delicious seafood, from art galleries to the natural art of its stunning landscape, New Brunswick, Canada living is all about joie de vivre.

Wonders of Nature
The most famous natural wonder in the expansive wilderness of New Brunswick might be those (not so) little things called the Appalachian Mountains, for their eponymous trails, wildlife, and magnificent vistas. But if it’s possible to top 400 million year old mountains, then Fundy National Park, with its cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and pristine wilderness may just take the cake.

The Bay of Fundy is home to the highest tides—think 50 feet—in the world, a sight so incredible it’s in the running to become one of the new seven natural wonders of the world. At the Hopewell Rocks—called “Flowerpot Rocks” because of the trees that grow atop them—one can literally walk along the ocean floor exploring coves carved out by 100 billion tons of water, and in the same day (and very same place) kayak among the pillars that peak out when the tide comes in.

That’s to say nothing of the Fundy Trail, an eco-haven protecting the Fundy Escarpment, one of the last stretches of coastal wilderness still existing between Florida and Labrador. With a paved parkway hugging the cliffs, and a network of trails for biking and hiking, the park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, from Precambrian rocks to incredible beaches and a breeding habitat for Right Whales.

For a true treat, spend a night in the Hearst Lodge. The rustic yet luxurious five-room property where the newspaper mogul once enjoyed the great outdoors is now an all-inclusive resort offering one-night stays ($124.99 per person) and daytime eco-adventures among the beaches, bogs and ravines of Fundy.

As if high tides and ancient mountains were not enough, New Brunswick’s natural largesse also includes a vast and incredible sand dune, one of the few remaining on the northeastern shoreline of North America. The eight-mile stretch of white sands known as La Dune de Bouctouche may shape-shift after every major storm, but it has extended across Bouctouche Bay since the last ice age. An environmentally crucial (and delicate) area, the dune, and the feathered friends who call it home (including the endangered piping plovers), are preserved and protected by the Irving Eco-Center and are truly a sight to be seen.

Cultural Wonders
As varied and fascinating as New Brunswick’s wealth of natural glories is, its dramatic history and jovial people rival nature for top billing on the wonder list. Originally, the land of the Mi’kmaq and Maliseet Aboriginals, it was colonized in the 1600s by the French Acadians, a people largely defined by their expulsion upon refusal to pledge allegiance to the British in the following century, after which they scattered to the wilds of New Brunswick, and some as far as Louisiana. “Cajun” is a derivation of Acadian, and that same vibrant spirit that characterizes New Orleans still permeates throughout New Brunswick.

The lively spirit of the Acadian people, in tandem with its tumultuous history, makes for energetic gatherings and festivals. The National Acadian Day, known as Tintamarre, takes place each August and draws visitors from around the world to the sea-side community of Caraquet. As can be expected, the celebration is raucous and festive, marked by bells, horns, spoons clapping, and any other noise that can be mustered to honor the spirit of L’Acadie. The nearby Village Historique Acadien, an impeccably curated rendition of a historical Acadien village, tells the tumultuous and fascinating history of the joyous, resilient people and is also worth a visit.

For more Acadien spirit mingled with some crisp maritime flavor, head over to Shippagan, the colorful fishing port in the northern Acadien part of the province. Another must do is a visit to the Shippagan Aquarium and Marine Centre, the largest public aquarium in the Atlantic provinces, where you can see the royal blue lobsters (yes, royal blue—thanks to a pigment mutation), touch tank, and friendly Harbor seals.

A less Acadien, but equally alluring spot is the provincial capital, Fredericton, a quaint town on the St. John River, dotted with fountains, willows and redbrick storefronts. Here, austere Georgian and Victorian houses are made even prettier by vibrant flowerbeds. The cultural heart of the city is its Historic Garrison District, a downtown area that’s abuzz in the summer with free entertainment, from outdoor concerts to cinema under the stars. Year-round, visitors can enjoy adorable craft shops, many of which abide in casemates that were once used for storing artillery. Whether you want to stroll through art galleries, row along the river, or just spend a day at the beach, Fredericton has got you covered.

Wonderful Eats and Sleeps
That this territory is bordered on three sides by ocean signals one thing: seafood aplenty. Lobster, mussels, scallops, salmon. . . you name it, you’ll get it. And in the form of chowder, quiche, even au-gratin. For fish the Acadien way, try Acadien Fish Pancakes. Also try any dish with fiddlehead, a tasty fern that livens up soups, dumplings, and more. To find restaurants where you can sample these tasty treats and more, visit diningfeed.com.

Lodging is truly a treat. There are adorable bed and breakfasts to be had all through Acadien country, like Gîte L’Isle-du-Randonneur B&B, a cozy ancestral Acadien home dating back to 1850, with balconies overlooking the water (from $79, breakfast included). For a full list of bed and breakfasts in the region, visit bbcanada.com. In keeping with the cultural richness, a stay in a Victorian inn in Fredericton is recommended The 10-room Carriage House Inn is an 1875 Victorian Queen Anne style mansion in the heart of town (starting at $95). A full list of Fredericton accommodations can be found at tourismfredericton.ca.

How to get there: New Brunswick has three major airports, in Fredericton, Moncton and Saint John. Once in the sprawling territory, the easiest way to get around is by renting a car (see our green car guide) and driving between towns. Most of the towns themselves offer many things to do such as hiking, biking, canoeing, and otherwise getting around car-free.

St. John River. Photo courtesy of the Fredericton Tourism Board

There are over 70 miles of bike trails in Fredericton, New Brunswick

St. John River

Seal at the Shippagan Aquarium in New Brunswick. Photo courtesy of Mark Blevis

Exploring near Hearst Lodge in Fundy National Park. Photo courtesy of the park.

Rowing in Fredericton

Outdoor movie night in Fredericton.

"Labourage de la terre." Historic Acadien village. Photo courtesy of the tourism board

Acadien Village

Carriage House Inn, Acadien Country. Photo courtesy of the Inn

St. George, New Brunswick, Canada. Photo courtesy of Marc Guitard

Bouctouche, New Brunswick, Canada. Photo courtesy of Marc Guitard

Tuna at the Blue Door Restaurant in Fredericton. Photo courtesy of nickaroundtheworld

St. Martin's, New Brunswick, Canada. Photo courtesy of Marc Guitard.

Farmland near Saint John River in Queenstown, New Brunswick, Canada. Photo courtesy of Marc Guitard.

Beach on Fundy Trail. Photo courtesy of Liz Reader

Green's Point, New Brunswick, Canada. Photo courtesy of Marc Guitard.

Fundy footpath, New Brunswick, Canada. Photo by Marc Guitard.