After a fantastic breakfast at Peaches in North Conway, we stopped at the old train station, as we saw some old diesel trains preparing to depart.There was a coach load of OAP's waiting to get on (I think September is a popular time for bus loads of OAP's due to the autumn colours in the New England states) and so pulled up to take some photos and have a look in the small museum at the station.We then popped in to the Weather Discovery Centre, as our motel had recommended it, and it was free.It was a fantastic little museum, which showed us a film about Mount Washington.We had no idea that this was the windiest place on earth, and we got to go in a simulator to experience what it is like up there.There were also lots of hands on toys and gadgets, and Graham spent a long time playing with the wind machines that controlled a small boat in some water!

We then drove into Maine, and to Portland, where we would be staying the night.We headed to Portland Head Light House and museum, and spent much time looking out at the ocean.As soon as we got out of the car, the smell of the sea made us think of home (Cleethorpes)!We went into the lighthouse, but could not go up it as it is a working lighthouse.The museum was great.Not too big, and just enough information not to be boring!Next we drove to Bug Lighthouse.This was not as impressive, but had great views of Portland, and whilst we were there some old sailing boats went by full of tourists.We then drove into the central city area, and spent a little time walking down the cobbled streets, looking at the beautiful old buildings, most of which seem to have been turned into Irish Bars!The cobbles are apparently from England, as the empty ships that came over to collect things for export, would be filled with stones to weigh them down, so they used them to cobble the streets.

That evening we met our next couchsurfing host, Rick, and had some locally brewed beer called Shipyard, which had bought for us to try.We then went out for dinner to a great place called Rosie's which had draught beer and cider.I don't think I've had cider since I left England, so I was very happy indeed!We had a fantastic meal and then went home and spent the evening chatting and drinking, and hope that we have inspired him to do some more travelling!

The next morning, after breakfast, we set off to Portsmouth, in New Hampshire.We just drove through, and stopped briefly at a beach on the outskirts to take in the views and have a paddle.It was so warm out, but the water was so cold!We then drove through Hampton, admiring the large summer houses, expensive cars, and watching people playing beach volleyball.We felt a little under dressed to stop, so continued our journey, through Massachusetts, into Rhode Island, and down to Providence.

Maggie x