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CAMP OR GLAMP
IN SEASIDE MAINE
Seaside camping just got a retro-chic upgrade at Sandy Pines Campground in Kennebunkport. Located a half mile from Goose Rocks Beach, the campground — formerly known as Salty Acres — had a $5 million-plus makeover that features resort amenities mixed in with an authentic Maine camping experience, including a rustic general store, lobster pound, farm stand, old fashioned ice cream cart, family-centric outdoor activities and more. The park’s 320 spacious campsites cater to tent campers and RVs along with the option of purchasing a park model “tiny home.’’ All sites feature a picnic table, fire pit, electricity, cable, water and sewage, varying per site type. Sandy Pines welcomes up to two dogs per site (with current vaccination paperwork) for an additional per night fee. Reservations are now being accepted for the June 24 debut opening. 207-967-2483, sandypinescamping.com/
BABYMOON DEAL
IN COASTAL NEW ENGLAND
Parents-to-be may want to take advantage of the new Babymoon Package offered at Cliff House Maine. Perched atop the bluffs of Cape Neddick, with spectacular water views from every room, the newly renovated resort is a spectacular spot to enjoy one last getaway together before the little one arrives. Package includes two-night stay in luxe accommodations, welcoming mocktail (and partner’s cocktail) on arrival, $200 spa credit that can be used for prenatal massage or other treatments, and $50 breakfast food and beverage credit, including breakfast in bed option. Activities available both on and off-property include golfing, hiking, fishing or kayaking; swimming at indoor and outdoor pools; diverse onsite dining options at both Nubb’s Lobster Shack and signature restaurant, The Tiller; and snuggling by the resort’s intimate fireplace. Rates from $369. 855-210-6901, www.destinationhotels.com/cliff-house
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COUNTRY MUSIC
EXTRAVAGANZA IN DAYTONA
Love country music? The 2nd annual Country 500 Great American Music Fest is taking place at the Daytona Speedway on Memorial Day weekend (May 26-28). Single-day tickets are available, however those who don’t want to miss a minute of music will be able to camp out in the infield, literally inside the festival for the entire weekend. (Spaces limited; reservations required.) The Country 500 artist line-up includes superstars Blake Shelton, Kid Rock, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn, Thomas Rhett, Hank Williams Jr., Martina McBride, Kip Moore, and many more. Travel packages and on-site glamping deals are available online. Tickets from $85. 844-500-FEST, www.country500.com
CELEBRATE SOLDIERS AND VETERANS IN D.C.
Celebrate freedom and democracy at two free concerts in Washington, D.C. Taking place on the West Lawn of the US Capitol on Memorial Day Weekend (May 28) and Independence Day (July 4), the events are designed to acknowledge and honor soldiers and veterans, and make a difference by promoting personal and national healing. The National Memorial Day Concert features Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, along with the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of maestro Jack Everly, and more surprise guests. www.pbs.org/national-memorial-day-concert/home/ The July Fourth event will also feature a parade of superstars as well as a fireworks extravaganza. People begin gathering around 3 p.m., bringing picnics for a festive afternoon before the concerts start at 8 p.m. Each show is 90 minutes long. If you don’t make it to D.C., the concerts are broadcast live on PBS. www.pbs.org/a-capitol-fourth/home/
everywhere
COMFY AND STYLISH
WALKING SHOES
Walk through all of your summer adventures with the TruFlex Slip On, Rockport’s comfortable and stylish new shoe line for travelers on the go. With no laces to untie and tie, truFLEX Slip-On models are especially user-friendly when passing through airport TSA screening. Other benefits include a lightweight midsole that provides shock absorption to reduce foot and leg fatigue; and leather lining for moisture absorption and abrasion resistance. The high-density EVA spine, pillow-soft insole, and malleable flex-groove outsole work together to support the foot, providing shock absorption at the heel and rebound at the forefoot. Available in a variety of colors for men and women. $120. www.rockport.com/rockport/womens-truflex
AWARD WINNING GEAR
Peak Design’s newly released series of photo/travel/tech bags, the Everyday Line, have earned a slew of top awards including Gear-of-the-Year awards from Popular Photography and National Geographic. But you don’t have to be a photographer to use and appreciate this stylish minimalist line that includes expandable backpacks, messenger bags, totes, slings, and pouches. Features include ultra-strong Kodra fabric that is durable and weatherproof, custom-designed hardware, and maglatch for secure and one-handed bag closure. Backpacks, available in sizes 20L and 30L, have three flexfold dividers that can be added or removed to customize organization, one anchor key tether, two weatherproof side zips, and dedicated sleeve for up to a 15-inch laptop, tablet, and documents. Backpacks $259.95-$289.95. Other items $34.95-$219.95. www.peakdesign.com/product/bags/
NECEE REGIS
