This is a freelance article sent in by site reader Sally Port.
Planning a trip to Historic DelMarVa from Overseas
The history, culture, and landscape of DelMarVa and Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester make it a joy to explore, as anyone who has visited can tell you. Whether it’s stepping back in time by visiting historic sites, tasting the delicious local cuisine, or getting into the great outdoors by hiking a trail or going on a long walk along the beach, here, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Better yet, this is an eco-friendly area, one that works with nature and brings the visitor closer to it. Additionally, this is a land that is almost “off the map”, as it were, one that is out of reach of the homogeny that has captured the majority of the United States. Here, it is different. Here, you can visit a real version of America. Here’s how you can do it if you’re coming from abroad.
Getting Here
DelMarVa and the counties of Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester might not yet be on your radar, you might not have even heard of it, but you will know it soon! Getting here is a breeze; we might be ideologically a galaxy away from elsewhere, but in distance terms we’re pretty close. We’re just a 2 hour drive from Philadelphia Airport and Baltimore Airport, 2.5 hours from Dulles International Airport in Washington, and 3.5 hours from New York City. From those places, it is straightforward to DelMarVa. Though there are some long-range buses that stop in the region, it is much easier to have a rental car, especially as you’ll need one to make the most of your trip once you’re here.
Pre-Travel Tips
DelMarVa is a unique place, and you’ll want to spend as much time as possible exploring the area once you get here. As such, it’s advisable to take care of the logistical business before you fly, especially as you might end up some distance from the services you need once you’re here. This means exchanging your local currency in to US dollars before you fly, ensuring you have printed out any hotel bookings or car rental agreements, and buying adequate travel insurance, especially if you’re planning on doing any rigorous hiking while here. Also, pack wisely. What you bring will depend on the season, of course, but general advice is to bring warm weather clothes if visiting in the summer and layers and waterproof clothing during the cooler winter months.
Where to Stay
Where you’ll stay depends on many factors, including which places you want to visit, budget, and how many people are travelling in your group. With so many hotels, inns, and B&Bs available, you’re sure to find the perfect place. If you have any extra cash to play with, try and spend at least a couple of nights in one of the historic B&Bs of DelMarVa as they’re pretty special.
What to Do
Like everything else, what you get up to depends on many other factors, such as your interests, whether you’re travelling with children, and how long you’re spending in the DelMarVa counties of Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester. Here are a few starting points to get your trip going.
Assateague Island
Assateague Island is a must do for visitors to DelMarVa. An adventurers dream, the island is famous for its feral horses, birdlife, lighthouse, and number of fine beaches. It’s also a great place to spend the afternoon exploring, with plenty of coves and bays. Bring a camera and have fun!
Hike
There are plenty of places to hike in these counties, so make sure you pack your hiking boots! There are dozens of sites waiting to be explored, so see what pulls you in on the day and dive right in.
Hit the Water
DelMarVa boasts some of the best fishing in the United States, so it’d be rude not to get out on to the water and try to come some for yourself. If you’re not a fisher but still want to get out there, rent a kayak or boat and spend a leisurely day away from shore.
Chesapeake Forest
While here, make sure you stop by Chesapeake Forest, a beautiful area where you can hike, canoe, bird-watch, fish, and hunt. In the winter, and if weather permits it, try your hand at cross-country skiing – it’s a beautiful spot for it, and it will provide a calming, utterly unforgettable experience.
