Mackinac Island Leads Poll Of Best Under-The-Radar Romantic Destinations
MACKINAC ISLAND (WWJ) - Is Mackinac Island the world's most romantic destination off the beaten path? All signs seem to be pointing toward "yes."
Mackinac Island is currently leading 19 other cities in a poll by USA Today to find the best under-the-radar romantic destination in the world.
Alison Abraham, assistant director of Mackinac Island Tourism, said the island has the best sunsets you'll ever see.
"It is very romantic here. From the second you step off the ferry docks onto the island, you're greeted with the smell of fudge," said Abraham. "There's no cars so you can hop on a bicycle, or if you're feeling really romantic you can grab a tandem bicycle. A lot of people, they only explore the downtown area but you'll find some incredible romantic places on the island if you venture out from downtown."
According to the poll:
Michigan's Mackinac Island is known as "an island suspended in time," according to those who frequent it. Sweeping coastal views, unspoiled beaches, romantic carriage tours and rugged outdoor activities combine with fine dining and luxurious lodging to ensure a memorable stay. Water sports fans will appreciate boating, sailing, fishing and kayaking while landlubbers can hike, bike, ride a horse around the eight-mile perimeter of the island, shop at trendy boutiques or enjoy ongoing art shows. When day is done, nightclubs come to life with live performances and local pubs host a popular pub crawl, which goes into the wee hours.
Other cities in the running include: Porto, Portugal; Lugano, Switzerland; Reykjanes, Iceland; Rothenburg ob der Tauber; Annapolis, Md.; Lucca, Italy; Block Island, R.I.; Cartagena, Colombia; Budapest, Hungary; Bainbridge Island, Wash.; Istanbul; Lake District, England; Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico; Out Islands, Bahamas; Mendoza, Argentina; Chiang Mai, Thailand; Langkawi, Malaysial Lijiang, China; and New Caledonia.
Mackinac Island is currently in first place -- and you can keep it that way. Voting ends August 3 at 11:59 a.m. One vote per person per day.
