Maine Stay Inn and Cottages

Kennebunkport Maine Takes on Little Rock

January 25th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Every year the Professional Association of Innkeeping International hosts a conference helping educated Innkeepers on how to be (and stay) the best they can possibly be, so this year we headed from Kennebunkport Maine to Little Rock, Arkansas for a week of schooling. Yes, we are having fun, and yes, we are doing a little shopping (though it’s the wholesale variety), but the primary purpose is to educate ourselves on the changes facing the hospitality industry and how to stay on top of those changes. It is our committment to our guests and to keeping our Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast positioned on the “cutting edge” that brings us away from the inn each and every year.

So the ladies have left Walter in charge (just wait for that update when we return!) back in Kennebunkport Maine and headed South, but aren’t hoping to work on our tans – not even for a second! Honestly, today was jam-packed with courses ranging from food plating to internet marketing (and everything in between), as well as time dedicated to working with vendors on some of your favorite amenities found at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast. As anticipated, there has been much talk about sophisticated and user-friendly website, as well as excellent (but not doctored) photography – check. And facebook – check, check. And even a little bit about Twitter. Soon, though, the Maine Stay will join Google+, which will certainly be fun new exploration. We’ve attended seminars on all sorts of topics and learned about the newest eco-friendly cleaning supplies. Though my head is spinning with all the new information and great ideas to implement once we return to Kennebunkport Maine, I am so anxious for tomorrow and to learn even more - just you wait for us to bring these things back North!

Tags: innkeeping
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Great Antiquing Near Maine Bed and Breakfasts

January 22nd, 2012 by mainestayinn

One of the many things I take for granted is the amazing opportunities for antiquing in a community known for its Maine Bed and Breakfasts. People ask all year long about the best places to shop for antiques, and while I have been to quite a few, I usually blow through, just picking up a particular item I know is just waiting for me. For instance, we regularly use an all-natural beeswax based furniture polish on the wooden furniture at our Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast. And I can get 16 ounces of this magical citrus-scented goo for just $8.50 at Arundel Antiques, located at the corner of Route 1 and Log Cabin Road, which

Antique weathervane from a local summertime antique show!

conveniently turns into Kennebunkport’s Maine Street just 6 miles from its front door. So yes, that means it’s just six miles from our front door! Plus, we’re talking six miles of straight-shot driving with just one stop sign – no city style driving here. Or how about Antiques on Nine, which carries my favorite silver and brass sea animal statues and fantastic tote bags made from woven rugs? Luckily for me, but not my wallet, that’s just a two minute drive from the Maine Stay – I couldn’t ask for closer if I tried!

But today, I was on a mission, and while I didn’t find exactly what I was looking for, I had the opportunity to explore at least six of our local antique shops. Boy, are they fantastic! While some offer truly incredible pieces of furniture in the finest condition, others feature immense collections of cups and saucers, books, or dolls. Plus, many offer some of both and a little of everything in between! So this afternoon, after all of our rooms were cleaned and breakfast prep squared away, my mother and I headed out to do some shopping. Now I am not sure that we would have ordinarily ventured out on such a cold day when we had so much to do at the inn, but we had a tip from one of our wonderful guests that inspired our mission. Unfortunately the piece she spotted was just a hair to narrow for the Keurig coffee maker. Shucks! Despite the disappointing outcome of the expedition, I realized what gems are located so close to the amazing Maine Bed and Breakfasts located in Kennebunkport Maine, and no matter the season, antiquing is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon!

So the next time you are at a loss for how to spend your much needed vacation time, take a swing by some of our incredible antique shops. And if you happen to find a circa 1860s piece that is no more than 36 inches wide and at least 13 inches deep with at least two drawers that could house our coffee and tea bar, give us a holler! I am more than ready for my next antiquing trip in Southern Maine!

Tags: antiquing, Shopping in Kennebunkport
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Tips for a Romantic Getaway in Kennebunkport Maine

January 18th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Whether you are ready or not, Valentine’s Day is on it’s way, and the Maine Stay has been busy brainstorming ideas for how to make your romantic getaway to Kennebunkport Maine extra special. Frankly, you’re on the right track if you are planning a Maine Bed and Breakfastvacation, but sometimes you just need to take things to another level. We’ve got you covered! One of the most important things is selecting the right room or suite for your getaway. If breakfast in bed sounds like something that will make

An epicurean delight for your romantic getaway to Kennebunkport Maine!

your special someone go ga-ga, then one of our Cottage Suites is up your alley, but if the romantic and luxurious details that come along with Victorian architecture is your thing, then you’re better suited for the main house. You’ll be sure to earn bonus points with a cozy gas fireplace or a deep jacuzzi tub.

Sometimes, though, you need just a little something extra to surprise your partner. A favorite bottle of wine or champagne is always a fave, and while we can’t sell you one, we’re more than happy to pick one up for you at the local wine store in Kennebunkport Maine (don’t forget to provide us with the security code on the back of your credit card or they won’t take it!). A stunning floral arrangement or simply a single rose always make a meaningful statement. Although, if you’re anything like me, the way to my heart is absolutely through my stomach, so a delicious treat is definitely a sure-fire winner. A delectable spread of fruits and cheeses makes a great treat before heading out to dinner at one of the amazing restaurants in Kennebunkport Maine or as an alternative to sugary treats for those who lack my incredible sweet tooth. But often dessert just calls, and a platter carefully crafter for you makes another special surprise. Sometimes, though, you just need a little of both! Our Romance Package lets guests of our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast have the best of both worlds – a fruit, cheese, and dessert sampler or fruit and cheese with sparkling cider. No matter what you choose, your romantic getaway to Kennebunkport is sure to provide lasting memories with your special someone!

Tags: romantic getaways, Valentine's
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Healthy and Delicious Breakfasts at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast

January 13th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Although January might be National Diet Month, at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, we would rather start the year off right with healthy (and delectable) gourmet breakfasts that will leave you begging for more. Every morning we include some kind of fresh fruit starter, using as much local produce as possible. Granted, the Maine winters are not exactly conducive to growing lots of fresh fruits, but the fall’s plentiful harvest of local apples is still filling the shelves and stockrooms of Kennebunkport Maine grocery stores and food suppliers. Fortunately, several local growers also raise strawberries in greenhouses that, while smaller than their summer counterparts, are just as delightful! So you’ll wake up in our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast to a wholesome serving (or more) of fresh fruit.

One of our favorite recipes that will be sure to keep your waistline in check is Sauteed Spinach and Grape Tomatoes with Poached Eggs. To prepare for this hearty and healthy morning meal, mince a clove of fresh garlic as finely as possible. Gently warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a nonstick frying pan. When it gets hot, add the garlic, along with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Then add grape tomatoes, sliced lengthwise – usually allowing 4-5 whole tomatoes per person. Cook just until the

Healthy breakfast at Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast

Nutritious and Delicious!

garlic is fragrant and tomatoes are beginning to release their juices. Remove from heat and transfer to a small bowl. In the same pan, quickly and very lightly saute fresh baby spinach, until just barely wilted. Allow at least 3 ounces of spinach per person. If you can’t fit all of it in the pan, allow parts to cook before adding more, producing spinach with varying levels of doneness. Meanwhile, bring a pan of water to a simmer. Add a few generous glugs of colorless vinegar before sliding eggs into the water. Cook until whites are set and yolks still liquid (Voile! A poached egg!). On a plate, top spinach with warm tomatoes and a few shavings of parmesan cheese, followed by two eggs and a twist of ground black pepper. Serve with lean ham, freshly baked whole grain bread and you’ve got a delicious, nutritious, and resolution-friendly breakfast! It’s never the same as when it is served to you at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, but with this recipe you’re sure to come close!

Tags: breakfast, breakfast recipes, recipes
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Planning a Worry Free Getaway to Kennebunkport Maine

January 11th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Tonight’s weather forecast for Kennebunkport Maine shows that winter may actually be on its way, as we are expecting a dusting of snow tonight. And here that means 3-6 inches of the white stuff. That is enough to make lots of people run for cover or out to the grocery

Snow and Ice won't keep you away from Kennebunkport Maine

Snow and ice is no match for us in Kennebunkport Maine!

store for ample supplies of milk and bread (french toast, anyone?), but not here. It truly is remarkable – in Kennebunkport Maine a half of a foot of snow is just old hat. But when we moved here to become innkeepers at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast I was skeptical. I mean, when I was growing up, if six inches of snow fell at just the right time, school might be cancelled. And that was still New England! Honestly, though, traveling in Maine when it is snowy outside is no trouble at all. No, you really don’t need chains on your tires or a truck with four wheel drive. You don’t really even need snow tires! The plow drivers and road salters have got you covered.

But once you’re here at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, there’s no need to test the roads unless you want to. You can walk to countless shops and restaurants, and even a few will deliver. So when the mood strikes to hunker down and curl up in front of a glowing fire, just go with it! Don’t stress, however, when the need for fine dining in a luxe atmosphere wins out – you won’t have any trouble. If you are still worried about the weather in Kennebunkport Maine or at home or find yourself worrying about your babysitter or aging pets (or parents) left behind, we’ve got a solution for you! Several years ago, we started investigating reasonable trip insurance companies and stumbled upon iTravelInsured, which offers a wide range of policies, from comprehensive we’re-headed-to-a-remote-nation plans to simple cancellation insurance. We encourage all guests to protect themselves with their trip cancellation plan, because, with options starting at just over $13, you can protect against the unexpected. Plus, your peace of mind is certainly worth more than that! So this winter when planning your winter getaway to Kennebunkport Maine, you can rest easy – we’ve got you covered!

Tags: Kennebunkport winter, winter getaway maine, winter getaways
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A Winter Getaway to Kennebunkport Maine

January 7th, 2012 by mainestayinn

When most people think of a winter getaway to Kennebunkport Maine, they envision snowy scenes, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and outdoor skating. And that is usually very typical of this New England Village starting around the holidays. But this year, things

A scene from last January in Kennebunkport Maine

have been unseasonably warm! In fact, the first few flakes of the winter (not counting this fall’s freak Halloween storm) fell just yesterday, but today’s temps soaring into the fifties wiped away nearly all traces of white. Normally at this time of year, we encourage guests to try their hand a snowshoeing or cross country skiing. Or to take a spin on skates – at the Westbrook or downtown Kennebunk rinks. For some old fashioned fun, sleigh rides followed by steaming mugs of cocoa have beckoned visitors looking for a taste of days gone by. So while old man winter will certainly arrive in Kennebunkport Maine, he is taking his sweet time (honestly, no complaints here – I don’t mind not shoveling!), residents and guests of our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast alike are taking to activities not usually enjoyed at this time of year. Frolicking on the beaches have been a favorite past time, and instead of trekking through snow drifts, people have relished the idea of a stroll along the cliffs of the Marginal Way – with no risk of slipping now! Since the streets have been so inviting, more shops than ever have kept their doors open (both literally and figuratively), welcoming shoppers for their post-holiday bargains. But some guests find themselves itching for stronger tastes of winter, heading to Biddeford or Portland for indoor skating sessions. Occasionally, though, guests find themselves on a hunt for the white stuff and venture out for some downhill skiing or scenic drives to the mountains to get their “fix.” But no matter the weather, Kennebunkport Maine makes the ideal location for a relaxing winter getaway!

Tags: Kennebunkport winter, winter getaway maine, winter getaways
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Ringing in 2012 at Our Maine Bed and Breakfast

January 2nd, 2012 by mainestayinn

We have a lot of fun at our Maine Bed and Breakfast, but one of the most fun times (at least for me) is New Year’s Eve, and this year was no exception. It has taken us a while to work out a menu plan that works well, but this year we seemed to hit the bulls eye! That said, we’ve got oodles of ideas as to how to make next year even better! Steaming soup was definitely a welcome addition, especially for those venturing in from the cold, and fun munchy mixes were all gobbled up – a sure sign of a big hit. Though we don’t call our spread a “dinner” there was certainly more than enough food, both in quantity and variety, that many guests chose to stay in instead of heading out to dine at a restaurant. Honestly, though, our leftovers have kept me full and happy for the last two days! Quite a few visitors to our Maine Bed and Breakfast did choose to patronize one of the many incredible Kennebunkport restaurants to ring in the New Year. Some selected establishments with fun and boisterous events, while others went the relaxing, upscale route, but all reported that they had wonderful experiences – and who wouldn’t? Whether you choose to go out or stay inn (haha, pun fully intended), New Year’s in Kennebunkport Maine is really an event not to be missed.

While only nine of us remained when the ball finally dropped on our little party, a round of “Auld Lang Syne” was sung and glasses clinked, as guests popped the corks on their own bottles of Champagne (don’t forget, the Maine Stay is BYOB). By that point everyone seemed like long lost friends, after an evening of munching, stories, and great silly games. But the merriment certainly didn’t stop there, because our New Year’s Day four course brunch lasted into the early afternoon, as guests lingered, enjoying full bellies and the wonderful company. And a few guests staying in our Cottage Suites opted to have an even more leisurely morning, and chose to have brunch delivered to their door – what a treat! Needless to say, ringing in 2012 at our Maine Bed and Breakfast certainly lived up to my high expectations, and all of us are already looking forward to next year – happy 2012, everyone!

Tags: Holidays in Kennebunkport Maine, new year's eve
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Preparing for New Year’s Eve in Kennebunkport Maine

December 30th, 2011 by mainestayinn

Who needs fireworks with all the fun at the Maine Stay?

All of us at the Maine Stay have been busy getting ready for a very special New Year’s Eve celebration in Kennebunkport Maine and are more than excited about tomorrow’s festivities. In fact, much of the staff of our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast spent the day in our teeny tiny kitchen, working on concocting nibbles for everyone to enjoy tomorrow night. Homemade baked chips, dip, and veggies will tempt those starting early on their New Year’s resolutions, while gluten-free Chex mixes (both sweet and savory) will be perfect for noshing while socializing with guests and staff alike. Wraps and baked roll-ups are the ideal one-handed snack while playing cards or just mingling. And given the chilly evening temps we’ve experienced lately, anyone strolling in our door will be certain to warm up quickly with a cup or bowl of steaming soup. Don’t fret – there will be plenty of freshly baked goods for dipping, meaning no bowl-licking is be required. Now my inner foodie asks, “What could possibly be more important than what’s on the menu?” I could go on and on talking about the crunchy munchies and fantastic finger foods being served at our Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast, but what I am really excited for is the company! So many wonderful guests (both long-term Maine Stay veterans and newbies alike) checked in during the past few days, and I can’t wait to spend tomorrow evening relaxing with all of them. Plus, we’ve got oodles of great games lined up for old fashioned fun. Now, while Kennebunkport Maine might not be known for its nightlife, the Maine Stay is certainly getting ready for a long night of fun and food before and after the ball drops.

Tags: Holidays in Kennebunkport Maine, new year's eve
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Merry Christmas from Kennebunkport Maine!

December 23rd, 2011 by mainestayinn

Dreaming of a white Christmas in Kennebunkport Maine

All of us at the Maine Stay Inn wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a very happy holiday season. With Christmas Eve upon us and Hanukah already underway, there is so much merriment to be had in Kennebunkport Maine and all across the globe. The staff at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, whether religious or not, are spending the next few days with their friends, families, and loved ones. Our family is incredibly fortunate to be able to spend time reconnecting with one another, and hope sincerely, regardless of faith, that you all have the same opportunity. But if you find yourself unable to do so, we hope that the holiday spirit, infused with joyousness, charity, and cheer, will find its way into your heart.
Unlike many Christmases past, this one approaches with no snow on the ground and little chill in the air. However, Kennebunkport Maine is decorated to the nines as always, with a plethora of Christmas trees, millions of glimmering lights, and generous amounts of fresh and faux greenery. In the evening the twinkling lights reflect off calm waters and light the picturesque streets that characterize our New England village. We feel so fortunate to enjoy the holiday season in this charming town and hope that you will have the chance to visit and enjoy the beautiful sights from around Kennebunkport during this holiday season. Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good night!

Tags: Holidays in Kennebunkport Maine
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Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast Solves Last Minute Shopping Dilemmas

December 20th, 2011 by mainestayinn

With the last minute shopping frenzy at its peak, our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast can offer simple solutions for your gift-giving conundrum that will keep you out of the mall and the doghouse. Truthfully, the inspiration for this blog came from a guest

Happy Holidays from Our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast!

email today, as she was planning a special romantic getaway for herself and her husband as a Christmas gift. What better way is there to show someone you love them than to plan a trip? It says “I love and appreciate you so much that I just want to spend quality time with you.” It’s one of those gestures that always evokes ooohs and aahhhs. So if you are seriously behind the eight ball for your holiday shopping, it’s time to go big – plan that getaway and add a little something special to make sure that you get bonus points. Think couples massages, facials, or even flowers and a favorite bottle of wine.

But if you simply haven’t found that meaningful gift for a special loved one, a gift certificate is a fantastic option. Plus, our annual holiday gift certificate sale is running for just a few more days, which means that you won’t break the budget! A gift certificate to our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast ensures that the recipient can enjoy a much needed (and deserved) getaway whenever they’re ready. Whether they need a restful night away from work and families or an active beach vacation, they’ll enjoy everything about Kennebunkport Maine. Not everyone has saved their big shopping for last, so if you’re looking for a little something extra, we’ve got you covered! Everyone knows (and loves) our fabulous linens by Cuddledown, so now is the perfect time to recreate your bed and breakfast experience at home. Craving one of our cozy bathrobes from Turkish Towel Company? Give us a holler and we’ll ship one out to you. Stocking stuffers? How about our hand-thrown and microwaveable mugs from Deneen Pottery, dripless candles, or luscious soaps. So it’s time to stop stressing – give us a ring and we’ll help solve your Christmas shopping dilemmas! Happy Holidays!