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- Chincoteague & Assateague Islands: Natural Beauty, a Lighthouse, and Misty of Chincoteague
Chincoteague & Assateague Islands: Natural Beauty, a Lighthouse, and Misty of Chincoteague
A Lighthouse, Artists, and Misty of Chincoteague
In partnership with
The Islands of Chincoteague and Assateague:
Natural Beauty, a Lighthouse, and Misty of Chincoteague
Today, we learn about the culture and history of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. Due to rising sea levels, these islands are slowly disappearing. The National Parks Service is doing their part to protect their habitat by restoring the marsh and beach, as well as providing proper enclosures to protect the wildlife. Understanding the value of these islands helps all of us to protect them by making small changes in our lives at home.
Tomorrow, we will take a deep breathe and enjoy the ultimate Relaxation itinerary. These tables are handy to keep - a blister or torn muscle may convert your Cultural plans into Relaxation plans. Let’s go check out the latest graffiti.
- Cris
Travel style: | Culture | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 |
Exploring Chincoteague's Heritage and Local Culture | Wildlife, History, and Art on Assateague Island | Island Ecology, Historical Stories, and Artisan Crafts | Environmental Awareness |
Day 1: Exploring Chincoteague's Heritage and Local Culture
 During the afternoon, stroll through downtown Chincoteague to see the galleries, shops, and homes that are the current culture of the island. Is your home decorated in a beach theme or a country theme? You will find hand carved ducks, paintings of birds, and beach decor. My personal favorite is the sea glass jewelry made from local sea glass by Gertraud Fendler. Do you consider ice cream to be culturally significant? Me too! Find your favorite flavor, based on local ingredients, at the Island Creamery. | Spend the morning at the Chincoteague Island Museum of History to learn about the island’s origins, from the Native Americans to the arrival of European settlers. The exhibit about Misty of Chincoteague, the beloved pony made famous by Marguerite Henry’s novel, will capture the attention of children (or people who read the book as a child).  |
Please support our Sponsors, who keep Espresso Boarding free for everyone. Autumn weather makes me crave delicious soups and warm vegetables. Check out the menu of options from our Sponsor. I will be back in an hour or so once I finish my order.
Coming Soon to Your Doorstep: Seasonal Plant-Based Meals from Purple Carrot
Are you sick of the evening scramble to put a tasty and nutritious meal on the table? Purple Carrot has got your back with fully plant-based, chef-crafted meals delivered right to your door.
Purple Carrot offers three time-saving options that let you skip the stress of meal planning and grocery shopping and spend more time doing what matters, whether that’s helping your kids with their homework or squeezing in a quick workout.
Choose from prepared meals that are ready to enjoy in two minutes or less or meal kits featuring delicious recipes with the exact amount of ingredients you need - meaning nothing gets wasted! You can also shop their “plantry” to find a curated selection of plant-based grocery items - perfect for days when you want to get a little more creative in the kitchen.
Can’t pick just one? You don’t have to! Purple Carrot plans are fully customizable. Each week, you can choose from any combination of meal kits, prepared meals, and grocery items.
Plus, if you need a break, you can skip a week or cancel at any time, so your food won't go bad while you head off on a well-deserved vacation.
Now is the perfect time to try Purple Carrot. This summer, they’ve launched 5 new seasonal prepared meals that are light, vibrant, and perfect for enjoying outside or on the go.
Day 2: Wildlife, History, and Art on Assateague Island
Start at the Assateague Island Visitor Center to learn about the island’s ecosystems, history, and the Assateague ponies. This is a great designated meetup point if your groups gets separated and has clean bathrooms.  Visit the historic Assateague Lighthouse, built in 1867. It’s a cultural and historical landmark for both islands, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. |  Bike along the Wildlife Loop to view the famous Assateague Ponies in their natural habitat. You can also drive along this loop but cars and horses should be kept far apart.  |
Honesty, Reality, and Standards
Truth: I have standards.
The Car is Full: How to explain to your child why they can’t take a horse home from this trip.
Wardrobe Essentials: This is what I wear when riding.
Day 3: Island Ecology, Historical Stories, and Artisan Crafts
Historic Island Home Tour
Take a tour of one of Chincoteague’s historic homes, such as the Captain Timothy Hill House, which dates back to the 1800s. Learn about the maritime history and early settlers of the island. As you look for walk-in closets (don’t exist) and his-and-hers bathroom sinks (ha! not here), you will ponder how much space we really need to be content and happy.
Beach Bonfire
Spend a peaceful evening on Assateague Island Beach with a beach bonfire. This is a great way to connect with the natural beauty of the area, unwind, and enjoy stargazing in the dark skies of Assateague. The culture of these islands is centered around preservation and protection of the horses, birds, plants, and non-human wildlife that is privileged to live here. This is also a memory that your spouse and children will cherish. Roasting marshmallows, noticing the stars, and just talking with each other could be quite novel.
Day 4: Environmental Awareness
Wildlife Photography Walk
Capture images of wild ponies, birds, and coastal scenes during a guided Wildlife Photography Walk through Assateague Island. Learn the names of the many birds and receive tips on how best to photograph them. Your friends will think that you borrowed someone else’s photos because they look so good. Serious photographers (or people who want to learn) may prefer the 3-day photography experience.
Tomorrow, we will explore the relaxation appeal of Chincoteague and Assateague. The idea that “nature heals” will be central to our experiences.
See you tomorrow.
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