Coast with a rich heritage
landscape is intensively cultivated. Back in 1908 author Lucy Maud Montgomery published Anne of Green Gables, the first of a series of stories based on the life of young orphan Anne Stirling.
That first book sold 50 million copies worldwide and the movies, TV and stage shows have generated a major industry. Couples come from as far away as Japan, where it is a set schoolbook, to get married in Green Gables farmhouse and the museum hosts themed events throughout the summer.
Down the coast in the US, Bar Harbor, Maine, is one of New England’s premier summer resort towns and has long-standing links with America’s wealthiest families.
The Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, and Astors have all owned enormous properties here and John Travolta has a home nearby.
It’s not just a playground for the rich and famous though. It also attracts artists and creative types.
I enjoy wandering around the many galleries just off main street and buy a couple of prints to remind me of my visit. Then I head to the great outdoors and take a tour through Acadia National Park to see why so many outdoor enthusiasts flock here.
With almost limitless paths for hiking, biking and, in winter, skiing and snowshoeing, we spot eagles and falcons circling above. Venture farther into the park and you may see furry mammals, not to mention moose.
Our last port of call was Boston, which I was expecting to be similar to Quebec. Both are seats of learning and culture packed with classical architecture underpinned by serious history.
There are marked differences though. Boston is more bustling and lively. The ad hoc patchwork of old and new makes for a rather confusing street layout so my navigation of Boston’s historic landmarks was made much easier by following the Freedom Trail.
The two and a half mile red-brick route snakes from Boston Common, the oldest park in North America, to the 18th century, 44-gun frigate, USS Constitution, winner of battles with British warships.
We stop at the Granary Burying Ground where Benjamin Franklin rests, alongside 5,000 other prominent Bostonians. We also visit the only house on the trail, once belonging to the revolutionary, Paul Revere.
Revere and his family lived in this distinctive simple wooden property until 1800 and its original fireplaces, rafters and floors alongside furniture and household items still remain.
Along the trail signs and captions tell how Boston led the war for American independence. History lesson over, a final sign indicating Logan Airport, confirms my homeward journey is just beginning.
THE KNOWLEDGE
Holland America (0843 374 2300/ hollandamerica.co.uk) offers a seven-night Canada & New England Discovery cruise from £1,729pp (two sharing), full board. Price includes return flights from the UK and one night pre- cruise hotel stay. Departs May 16, 2015