It’s been almost a month since I made the journey across the US from Los Angeles to Maine, and WOW, what a culture shock. Maine is absolutely beautiful along with its residents, but there has been A LOT to learn. Here are 5 significant things about Vacationland that have stood out against anywhere else that I have been.
Very Few People Live in Maine
There are only 1.32 million people who live in the entire state of Maine. While that may seem like no small number to those who have grown up here, for me, in comparison, I just moved from Orange County, California. In that county alone, which is one of the smallest in the state of California, there are approximately 3.19 million people. That is nearly three times as many people in Maine.
Maine Traffic is Nearly Nonexistent
Maine is ranked near the top of the best states for driving. Where I just moved from, California is consistently ranked the absolute worst in America. This has been the most SHOCKING difference. It takes me 5 minutes to get to work and I can cross any street with ease. Granted, tourism in the summer in Maine makes the roads a little more hectic here but pales in comparison to the everyday life of driving in SoCal.
David Bugenske
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David Bugenske
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David Bugenske
Mainers REALLY Love Their Lobsta
Or “lobsta!” It is EVERYWHERE! I’m not complaining either. Maine is the #1 state for lobster harvesting. Mainers bring in 110 MILLION pounds of lobster annually. WHAT?! Do you know how many screaming lobsters in a pot that is?! Lobsters provide almost a billion dollars a year for the state.
Ticks in Maine Really Tick Me Off
While there is A LOT to love about Maine, the tick thing is a little concerning. I’ve heard mixed reports on the ticks issue here. While some say to be very careful, other residents have shared that they’ve never had a tick on them in their lives.
It seems to be more of an issue for those who love the outdoors and own pets, which I am both. I have a vet appointment next week for our dogs and I don’t think I’ll be wearing shorts while hiking this summer. It’s amazing how my hypochondria emerged because of a tiny bug. Maine, by the way, is the 7th worst state for these bloodsuckers.
David Bugenske
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David Bugenske
You are BEAUTIFUL, Maine!
Ok, some make the argument that where I just moved from is the most beautiful state in the country. While I agree that California is beautiful, it’s hard not to argue that Maine should be higher on the list. California has a lot to offer and is worth visiting. I’ve been fortunate enough to see almost all 50 states in this great country, and after just a month in Maine, I’m going to rank this state at #1. I can’t wait to explore everything that she has to offer. If you need me this summer, I’ll most likely be in Acadia, covered head to toe to avoid those ticks.
KEEP READING: Here are the best places to retire in America
LOOK: Here are the best small towns to live in across America
Max McClung scored 12 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter, and the Windy City Bulls went on a 15-2 run in the fourth quarter to pull away for a 121-106 win over the Maine Celtics in an NBA G League game Friday night at the Portland Expo.
Kevin Knox II added 30 points, 21 in the second half.
Amari Williams led the Celtics with 26 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Jalen Bridges made six 3-pointers and finished with 22 points, but the Celtics dropped to 2-8 in their last 10 games. Maine has lost four straight games at the Expo.
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A collective of environmental, arts and Indigenous-led organizations is collaborating to produce We Are the Watershed, a two-day event aimed at reconnecting humans with nature and revitalizing the health of waterways, estuaries, and the bay in Peskotomuhkatikuk (traditional Passamaquoddy territory). Events, including theatrical performances, music, culinary experiences and an exhibition of submitted artwork, will be held on May 1 and 2 at Eastport Arts Center (EAC). A publication of written and visual works will also be released with proceeds to support conservation efforts and spreading awareness of their impacts.
Submissions sought: Written and visual works are currently sought from artists and creatives on both sides of the border across Peskotomuhkatikuk for the publication, which will be sold by donation at the May event. Proceeds from the sale will be dedicated to related community-building efforts, public engagement, and continued restoration efforts. The deadline for digital submission for the publication is April 1.
Physical works can be dropped off at EAC Sunday, April 26 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to be a part of the exhibition, which will run May 1 through 15. Artists under 18 will receive 100% of the proceeds if they opt to put their pieces up for sale during the exhibit, which will run May 1 through May 15. Artists over 18 will receive 70% of the proceeds with the remainder going toward promoting awareness of and supporting conservation efforts for the Passamaquoddy Bay.
The Eastport Arts Center
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Every week through Apr 01, 2026. Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
