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Vacations come in all shapes in sizes. Sometimes an intimate getaway with your special someone is in order, and sometimes the duty to amass the immediate family as well as grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and a few favorite pets becomes too compelling to ignore any longer. Getting everyone together is important, and it should be fun as well. Make the best of your upcoming family reunion by setting it against the backdrop of scenic ocean landscapes, idyllic small towns, and peaceful countryside. Make Maine the gathering spot that will impress everyone, keep them busy, and provide the perfect complement to the bonding that will surely take place.

Why Maine? With its maritime roots and agrarian background, this state is down-to-earth yet sophisticated in an accented, zest-for-life kind of way. The people are friendly yet set in their ways, and the physical surroundings are rock-steady in their simple and understated beauty. Plan a tour of one of the four scenic byways and you'll see what we mean; from archeological points of interest to recreational set-ups perfect for picnics or a game of Frisbee, you'll be able to enjoy, among other things, the coastline, the old-growth forests, and an impressive range of shops, restaurants, and wildlife sightings.

If getting even closer to the water is what floats your boat, sign up for a whale watching cruise or hop aboard a yacht for some sightseeing. The peninsulas and outlying islands of Maine are picturesque, and inland lakes and ponds will whet your appetite for waterskiing or a leisurely pontoon cruise. Don't let 5,500 miles of coastline and 6,000 fresh bodies of water go to waste while you're here, and don't worry, boat shoes and polo shirts aren't necessary to have a good time.

In a land that sees its fair share of cold and dreary weather, come summertime, you know that there's going to be an air of celebration. The locals know how to squeeze every drop of wonderful-ness from their short and sweet springs and summers, so follow their lead and live like there's no tomorrow. A number of festivals and special events will get you in the mood, and will expose you to unmatchable delights like fresh blueberry pie, lobster bakes, and a number of art and music events. Native American and French influences, along with an eternal connection to the sea and the distinctive landscape, combine to make the Maine experience unlike any other.

All of these diversions will keep you and the diverse members of your group as happy as can be. And, as there are literally hundreds of vacation rentals sprinkled throughout the state, you'll be sure to find one that is perfect for your needs and well within reach of all your planned activities. Even if you don't make a detailed itinerary for everyone (that could be more of a headache than it's worth) there are enough options to make impromptu adventures a sure thing.

What could be the best part about this trip, besides the family togetherness, of course, is the lodging situation. If you decide to go all out and rent place that is big enough to hold everyone thanks to ample bedrooms, futons, fold-out sofas, dining space, bathrooms, etc', you'll bring everyone close enough to interact regularly but not too close for comfort. The kids can make friends and discover their common interests as they play sleepover, and the adults can enjoy coffee on the porch and catch up on old times. Warmth and conversation will fill every room, and as you take it all in you'll be happy that you took the time to reserve such a friendly place.

You know that you could plunk the family down anywhere and you'd probably have a great time, but why not reunite in style? Enjoy a beautiful part of the country and top it off by booking a Maine Estate or Vacation Rental for your lodging pleasure. Room galore, a big yard, access to hikes, bikes, and frolics in the sea'no one will leave the party feeling that they missed anything. Get the ball rolling; your family is counting on you.