Compelling reasons to live on Martha’s Vineyard

Image source: VineyardGazette.com 

It’s dubbed the 100-square-mile home of celebrities, ship captains, and people in between -- Martha’s Vineyard is a New England island that boasts beaches, farms, and enticing destinations in one fantastic location. It’s portrayed as charming and idyllic, but it needs to be said that Martha’s Vineyard also makes for a great place for permanent residence. Here are some reasons why.


There’s enough room for creativity and artistry

The place offers all the ingredients for a creative worker to channel their energies into creating something beautiful and lasting. There are plenty of local theater productions, there’s robust local news reporting, and events to showcase one’s artistry abound.


It’s as laidback as it can be

People on the island aren’t there to impress others; tailored suits or designer dresses are hardly showed off. In their place are an unerring island vibe and a casual environment where people know each other and can get their wardrobe at the thrift shop.

Image source: BostonMagazine.com  

It’s a whole lifestyle

Residents don’t really miss out on anything by living on Martha’s Vineyard. They have inspiring coastal cottages, beaches and dogs, and a sense of community. The shops are open, and the local restaurants and markets offer local, fresh gastronomic delights (think seafood!). There are activities to choose from, including pottery, the regular cocktails, and exploring the outdoors.


It’s small and beautiful

The island has no stoplights, and many secondary roads are one-lane only. It’s extremely walkable, and with most parking lots cramped it’s advisable to navigate the place on foot. The message here is Martha’s Vineyard remains a small-town dream.


Adam Smith is a retired banker who now live on Martha’s Vineyard. He loves to travel to Europe and is currently vacationing in Paris. For similar reads, visit this page.

Best destinations in France other than Paris

France is, for a lot of would-be or first-time visitors, all about Paris. While a trip there is, of course, something that should be part of everyone’s itinerary when in the country, there are many other touristy spots in France that you shouldn’t miss. Let’s look at must-visit places in the country other than the City of Lights. 

Image source: europeanbestdestinations.com

Marseille 

This majestic port city is a bastion of French history and culture, showcasing the country’s rich and diverse multicultural heritage. In 2013, it was designated as the European Capital of Culture. Take a stroll down the city’s old city streets and take snapshots of the charming architecture, then visit the museums and enjoy authentic French cuisine. 

Champagne 

The region’s name speaks for itself. Champagne is the only area for producing wine that is given the “champagne” title, especially those made in the wine-tasting town of Épernay. Aside from its rich history and respect in the winery industry, the province is also home to many quaint towns and villages like Troyes and Reims. 

Nice 

It’s pronounced like “niece” but it’s nonetheless more than just a nice alternative to Paris. It was once the frequent getaway locale for the British aristocracy. Nowadays, Nice is a top Mediterranean destination for its great year-round weather, nightlife, seafood, and beaches. 

Image source: erasmusu.com

Hey there, Adam Smithhere. I’m a retired banker with a bachelor’s degree from Berkeley. When I’m not visiting Paris and other places in Europe, I’m enjoying the comforts of home at Martha's Vineyard. More of my travel posts and musingshere.

A Few More Unforgettable Cities To Visit

We’ve all heard of the great cities of the world like New York, London, Paris, and Tokyo.  In line with that, I’d like to add another three to the list.  Though these cities may not be as high-profile or as cosmopolitan as the aforementioned, they have enough character to be some of the most interesting places on Earth.

Venice:   While many cities in the world use canals instead of streets as their main thoroughfares, no other city has the mix of history, class, and romance of Venice.  This is definitely one of my top three Italian cities, alongside Turin and Florence.

Image source: lonelyplanet.com

Cape Town:  This South African port city is amazing.  It’s picturesque.  It’s historical.  And it’s home to some of the greatest sporting events in the world.  From huge cycling tours to world-renowned yacht races, Cape Town has been a venue for the best in sporting competition.

Image source: socwall.com

Kyoto:   While Tokyo and Osaka can lay claim to being the consummate Japanese cities of the future, the former capital, Kyoto, is where the heart of the country truly lies.  The richness of Japanese history and culture can be seen in this city nicknamed Old Japan.  And when one traverses its streets, one can feel the spirit of Japan everywhere.

Adam Smith is a retired banker who loves traveling around the world. For more about him and what he does, check out this page.