Martha's Vineyard - Just off the Coast of Massachusetts, But Far Enough for a True Escape       

Martha's Vineyard, the 58th largest island in the United States is roughly 88 square miles in size, and an island that should be on everyone's vacation list. The island is isolated from the East Coast of the States, and is only accessible by boat or by air. There are plenty of diverse places to stay on the island ranging from the quaint and cozy to the luxurious and pampered. A large percentage of the homes on the island are seasonal homes of those who devote their holidays to the quiet lifestyle of the island. Martha's Vineyard is just eight miles off the Cape Cod Peninsula of Massachusetts.       

Visitors have been coming to the island for decades, including many famous celebrities from different parts of the world. Popularity with the famous has earned it the label “Hollywood East”. When you visit you may run into some of your favorite stars, too. Maybe even get an autograph; it's not impossible and happens quite often on the island.           

Few know that Martha's Vineyard played a critical role in the deaf community in the early 1700's, spawning a community catering to the deaf settlers of that time; it became a utopia for the hearing impaired. At one point one in four children on the island was born with hereditary deafness. So much of the Vineyard's population was afflicted that residents developed a sign language. The sign language called Martha's Vineyard Sign Language (MSVL) later merged with the mainland signs creating what we know today as American Sign Language. The genetic problem gradually declined over the centuries and the last deaf Vineyard native passed in the 1950's.       

For a less-publicized view of the island's divine beauty, head inland to Waskosim's Rock Reservation and its 185 acres of spacious fields, forest trails and murky marshes. A mile-long hike takes you to Waskosim's Rock, a giant boulder that once was the dividing line between the English and Native American Wampanoag Indian tribe settlements in the mid 1600's. Although you are not allowed to climb the rock, its history prevails making it a location to stop in on during your stay on Martha's Vineyard. The rock is not marked but you'll know you're there when you get to the huge rock with a separation in the middle, that's how the locals will describe it.       

When the urge to escape to a romantic oasis suddenly strikes, Martha's Vineyard Bed and Breakfast will give you just the scene you are craving. It's conveniently located just minutes from downtown South Haven, making it an easy-to-reach destination. The Inn is located on five park-like acres of land with a private pond with a spouting fountain, and you are able to take a stroll through the private vineyard. Even though the inn pampers its guests with every imaginable comfort, some prefer to sleep in a hammock outside in the whimsical grounds. It could be the most enjoyable time of your visit to Martha's Vineyard. At least you will think so as you're nestled near the fireplace in your cozy room.       

As the host to so many events, Martha Vineyard attracts tourists from every aspect of life. Wine and food festivals are a big part of the island's classy annual events. The island's musical prowess is shown every August during the enormous Jazz Festival, a time that music can be heard anywhere on the island. It's not just the jazz music that makes the festival so memorable but it actually encompasses the whole jazz mood of life. Jazz-themed art exhibits, book signings, film presentations and engaging experiences can be found throughout the cities' streets. This is an island-wide celebration you don't want to miss.