My husband and I recently celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary and we decided to go to one of our favorite locations, Mackinac Island on the Straits of Mackinac in Michigan. The island is like stepping back in time with no automobiles. The only means of transportation is walking, biking, horseback riding or taking a horse and buggy taxi.
The historical hotel is lovely and has been the setting for movies. You might remember Somewhere In Time. The front porch is the longest in the world at 660 feet. I've stayed here before and often do book signings on the island since I'm a Michigander and many of my books are set in Michigan, including the Island. One of the most popular and a winner of the National Readers Choice Award and racked up two finalist awards. It's still available as an eBook.
Looking from our balcony window we could enjoy the old-world look with the lamps lightening the roadway and horse and carriages bringing guests to the hotel.
No matter when I come to the Island, I find new things to see and it inspires me to write a new novel set in this magical place. I hope to do that soon. I have one story outlined but it's finding time to bring it to life.
Visitors can visit Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes. They can view the old fur trader buildings and see remnants of the Indiana population that lived her for years, such as Skull Cave. The amazing Arch is on the eight mile bicycle ride around the island or seen on a carriage tour. Don't miss this wonderful place if you travel to Michigan or make it your destination.
And while you travel or and just enjoying leisure time. don't miss my newest Love Inspired release A Husband For Christmas at the end of this month . You'll find it in stores everywhere. This is the second book in the Lilac Circle series, stories set around the residents of the cul de sac in the small town of Owosso. Enjoy meeting everyone, and if you missed the first novel, you can find it at most online bookstores.I love to hear from you so drop a line on my website under contact and I will add you to my free book drawing held six times a year. And while there, you are invited to sign up for my bi-monthly newsletter with news, photos, a recipe and devotional along with many features.
7 comments:
What other movies have been filmed there besides Somewhere in Time?
Such a beautiful setting, Gail. I look forward to reading your book. I always love the Christmas stories.
Can't wait to read your Christmas book, Gail!! Thanks for sharing pics of your anniversary trip.
That's been my dream to be able to visit Mackinac Island and experience the horses and all the history! Thanks Gail for sharing all your great pictures. It's great to know how well your husband is doing and that you both are able to have this experience to enjoy. Blessings, Jenny
Thanks for the comments and questions everyone. I think the only other movie filmed on the Island was called This Time For Keeps which starred Esther Williams. The Grand Hotel's swimming pool bears her name. Jennifer, do put Mackinac Island on your bucket list and make sure you visit. It's an amazing island - but one day isn't enough. Visitor's can tour the island in a horse and buggy or they can bicycle around the perimeter which is very interesting, but to really see the island, walking is recommended into the interior and along the roadways. They are dirt roads mainly and it's walking up hill but returning is down so you get a retreat. Staying at the Grand is extremely experience (although the room price features a full sit-down or buffet breakfast and a five course dinner with a rotating menu that offers choices. It's dress-up after 6:30 PM so it means women in dresses or skirts and dressy tops and men in suit or sport jacket and ties. No denim. And they must stay that way all evening. But you can find many other less expensive hotels and nice B & Bs there. I've stayed at a variety of places there. And for writers and readers, don't miss the bookstore in the mall beside the Lilac Tree Hotel. Tell them Gail Gaymer Martin sent you. I've done many book signings there. Have fun.
That settles it! This is definitely going on my bucket list and will certainly look for that bookstore. Thanks Gail!
Sounds like you had a wonderful time! =)
Thanks for sharing your photos.
Looking forward to reading your new book!
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