One does not simply arrive in Maine and become a Mainer. It takes years of practice – from how to speak to what to eat to general mannerisms – to get things right. And that doesn’t even take into account the fact that most people won’t consider you a Mainer unless you’re not actually born here. According to some diehard Mainers, if you came into this world just across the state line in New Hampshire and moved to Maine just a few months later, you’ll always be “from away.” But, that’s okay. We’re happy to have you. As long as you’re doing things right. Here are a few of the ways you might be missing the mark and how to do Maine right so that you blend right in.
For an extra dose of Maine pride, check out these 12 sentences perfectly sum-up life in Vacationland. Longtime Mainers will recognize them all!
athrasher / Flickr
You meant to get to a lobster shack in Freeport, but the view in front of you is Katahdin. Everyone in Maine knows that The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer is the only way to get around in Maine.
moominmolly / Flickr
Maine’s wild blueberries don’t look a lot like the ones you buy in the grocery store. They’re smaller and have more variance in shape and size. These are the ones you want for a true Maine blueberry cobbler.
jessgambacurta / Flickr
Nope. Not worth it. If you want to shop the store without the hassle of tourists, you’re going to want to show up an odd time of day. Since the store is open 24-hours a day we recommend heading in around 11 p.m. for some solid, uninterrupted shopping time.
adwriter / Flickr
The original Bean Boots will do you just fine. Skip the colors and the lining, opting instead for the regular tan and brown. They’re a classic for a reason.
rickcogley / Flickr
The best idea is to keep the ones you’ve got running as long as possible.
pavdw / Flickr
For the weather to be remarkably bad, things need to be pretty once-in-a-lifetime. A regular ol’ blizzard doesn’t make a lot of Mainers flinch. So, before you comment on the weather make sure it’s as bad as you think.
sensibleabode / Flickr
We don’t say “say-co” or “cal-ay.” It’s sock-o and callus. Practice it in your head as you review your Gazetteer to get there.
bookgrl / Flickr
It’s an Italian. Despite having no actual Italian ingredients, the Maine Italian is a thing of lunch beauty. It got it’s name from the Maine-based Italians who created it and the original is from Amato’s.
minivanmafia / Flickr
No! Do not pass go! Do not collect $200! Spring in Maine means mud and you’re better off just waiting until mud season is over to even begin worrying about what your car looks like.
icebergprinciple / Flickr
Maine lobster rolls are meaty and juicy, requiring only warm butter and the perfect roll.
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