Weekend in New England
Dateline: 03/21/98
After years of "getting away" to New England at every opportunity, when I relocated to Connecticut 15 months ago from upstate New York and became an official New Englander, one of the first things I did--I'm only slightly sheepish to admit--is to search area music stores for Barry Manilow's second Greatest Hits album (compare prices)--the one with "Weekend in New England." Though the title is a bit obscure, you'll probably recognize the chorus Manilow croons: "When will our eyes meet? When can I touch you? When will this strong yearning end? And when, will I hold you again?"
Are YOU longing to reconnect with a special someone? There's nothing quite like a weekend in New England to restore spirits and rekindle romance. And, in the off-season, a getaway to some of New England's traditional summer tourist spots can be surprisingly affordable.
Newport is a sure bet for melting away March cabin fever. Summer playground for America's wealthiest families at the turn of the century, Newport remains packed with visitors throughout the summer season. Without the restaurant lines and crowded beaches, Newport is perhaps even more charming--a snug, off-season getaway. The Newport County Inns and Bed & Breakfasts Association, a consortium of Newport lodging establishments, is a tremendous resource for selecting one of the many cozy inns or hospitable bed and breakfast lodgings from a wide array--most available at off-season rates! Newport's famous mansions are every bit as enthralling, ocean views from the Cliff Walk are spectacular, and succulent seafood served at one of the fine area restaurants tastes every bit as delicious in the off-season!
Spring, summer and fall are only a stroll away from winter at the Mohegan Sun Casino! The circular casino's "four seasons" decor transports visitors from winter to warmer as they wander the labyrinth of tables and slot machines. There's nothing quite like the flashing lights and ca-chinking of coins to make you feel as if you're in a place far from home. Nearby Norwich, Connecticut, offers a variety of accommodations.
A weekend away at the Publick House historic inn in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, will take you not only to another place, but another time! Bolster yourselves with a hearty breakfast and head for Old Sturbridge Village, a reconstructed colonial town with ongoing traditional craft demonstrations, seven galleries, quaint shops and much more. Visit the Oliver Wight Tavern for lunch and hot mulled cider. Less than half an hour's drive away in Worcester, Massachusetts, you'll find some surprises, including the EcoTarium, where you can cuddle with that special someone under the stars--in the climate-controlled Planetarium! Take a romantic trip back to the days of knights and chivalry at the Higgins Armory Museum. Or, the Worcester Art Museum, in addition to showcasing 50 centuries of art, even has a 13th century French chapel rebuilt there stone by stone!
Barry M. said it best: "Time in New England took me away...." Happy Travels!
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