Our travelers usually shy away from repeating a destination. “What‘s new this year, Mary?” is often asked. Actually, I’ve felt that way for a long time…UNTIL I returned to Mackinac Island, Michigan, recently.

I have been to Mackinac Island on a few occasions, but the last time was almost 25 years ago. I enjoyed Mackinac then, and immediately forgot that. Upon returning a few weeks ago I loved Mackinac Island and The Grand Hotel more today than ever before. It was even more special than I remember.

How do you view a destination from a fresh and new viewpoint, even though you have been there before? The number one thing is hospitality, along with the general feel that the area gives to you.

We drove from Chicago to Traverse City, Michigan, to the Shepler boat docks and our ferry ride to the Island. Wow, they were so organized! We pulled our car into their private parking lot where one of their team pulled the luggage from our car, tagged it, and believe it or not, that was the last time I saw my bags until I found them already in my room at The Grand hotel. And remember, they have no cars on the Island! As we were on the vessel to the Island (20 minutes,) it was exciting to begin to view The Grand Hotel from the water as well as seeing all of the Victorian Homes. We moored at Shepler’s dock and walked right into the village. I began to hear the clomp, clomp, clomp of the horses and our carriage was ready to take us to The Grand Hotel. Many of the buildings on Mackinac Island are white and they are so clean and refreshing. And the flowers were the best I have ever seen. Yes, they even rivaled Keukenhof Gardens in Amsterdam during Tulip Time.

The jewel of Mackinac Island is The Grand Hotel, which opened in 1887. The interior of the hotel has been redone and it looks like a glorified, upscale summer cottage. The porch (longest in North America) on The Grand Hotel has rows and rows of geraniums in their flower boxes and the interior mirrors this look. Bright pinks and reds greet you in the carpets, furniture and the general look. All of the rooms are different and most have been updated into summer cottage bedrooms. All of course have their own bathrooms and all the amenities that go with island living.

Included in our two nights at The Grand Hotel were our breakfasts and dinners. A suit and tie was requested at the dinners, which was fun and special. The food was gourmet quality and served impeccably.

During the day, we took a carriage ride around the Island and visited Fort Mackinac, did some shopping and just explored the area. It was very easy to return to Mackinac Island and The Grand Hotel. No cars bustling around…just bicycles and horses and carriages.

Yes, I have been to Mackinac Island and The Grand Hotel before…and would I return…you betcha!

Let’s return to some of our favorite destinations! You’ll be glad you did.