mackinac island part 1

mackinac island 2013

1. it took us 8 hours or so to get to mackinac island since we took the scenic route suggested by my parents. 

2. michigan is really a pretty state to drive through with its rolling hills and natural forests. plus, they had smooth, paved roads to drive on.

3. we stopped for lunch at manistee and ate at a local pub called tj's. i had the best sandwich there called the italia.  i re-created it tonight and it was almost as good.

4. once we hit mackinac city, we missed the ferry by a few minutes so we went to another local bar for a few drinks waiting for the next one to show up.

5. our hotel was right on the water and as soon as you got off the ferry. a guy took our luggage on a bike and dropped it off to our hotel for us.

6. there is no automobiles on the island which made it just that much cooler. you either walk, ride a bike or a horse and/or carriage.

7. mike went and got starbucks before our bike ride the next morning. he's such a yuppie.

8. mike got the honeymoon suite not because it was our anniversary but because it was the only room left. they gave us a bottle of sparkling wine and wine glasses.

9. mike also rocked my dooney and bourke purse.

10. photos 11 + 12 [from top to bottom] is the grand hotel. i heard the rooms weren't all that but its super huge and the lounge area was also decked out with tons of seating. the horse and carriage flower sculpture was on their lawn.