By Glenn Arnette, III

Manchester New Hampshire

A Living Historical Treasure in America!

It’s a marshmallow world, accented with gourmet cupcakes and topped off with a delicious glass of fine wine.  That is just the beginning of Manchester, N.H. Who would have thought this old historical cotton mill town would become a livable, lovable and warm community. It is a secret that is exploding with charm and becoming a destination for tourists and businesses ready to invest. There is so much to Manchester and its culture speaks for itself.

The quaint streets of Manchester, New Hampshire.

Cultural landmarks include the historic Palace Theatre, the Currier Museum of Art, the New Hampshire Institute of Art, the Franco-American Center, the Manchester Historic Association Millyard Museum, the Massabesic Audubon Center, the Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center, the Lawrence L. Lee Scouting Museum and Max I. Silber Library, and the SEE Science Center where you can see the magnificent lego creation on the bottom floor of the facility recreating the buildings and the conditions of the waterfront as it was many years ago.  Do not miss this! Then you have the Valley Cemetery, since 1841 the resting place of numerous prominent citizens, is an early example of a garden-style burial ground. And that is just the beginning of this travel discovery.

Charlene Courtemanche, senior executive assistant of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

Speaking of travel, Manchester has an exceptional airport which makes it so convenient to New England and other areas.  My goodness, I have always flown into Portsmith, but that will not happen again! Now it will be the Manchester / Boston Regional Airport!

Manchester’s rich history of textile production, its pristine setting upon the Merrimack River, and certainly the political importance during presidential campaigns have helped to make Manchester a vibrant and cultured city. Manchester is located only an hour outside Boston, but its small-town feeling makes it exciting for any visitor. So whether you are looking to learn about the Industrial Revolution, sample cuisines from around the world or attend one of the premiere antique shows in New England.  Manchester is the perfect place to do all of these things.

It is so strange for me to remember all of my travel experiences because I travel so much, but there is truly something very special about Manchester. I only wish I could have stayed longer! The many people I had the opportunity to meet proved to me that Manchester is a proud community who welcomes visitors with open arms. It is a family community small enough to live, work and play with family values, excellent schools and a future for all ages.

I do want to thank Planet Marshmallow for their creations in hand-crafted deliciousness. My goodness, you will not believe the marshmallows, the flavors and the clever packaging of those delightful treats for gift giving.  This is a must for those special people when having a birthday, holiday or anniversary. For information, call them at 603-625-8111 or email them at customerservice@planetmarshmallow.com.

Manchester has the Ignite Bar and Grill, just to mention a place to enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner.  With reasonable prices and delicious food, you are guaranteed by the owners they will deliver a standard of customer service that goes beyond expectations.  For a special treat try the fried pickles and the Ahi tuna.  How about Raspberry Pecan Chicken or the Piled High Ribeye Steak? Too die for!  www.ignitebng.com or call 603-644-0064.

The magnificent Lego creation on the bottom floor of the SEE Science Center where you can see the recreation of the buildings and the conditions of the waterfront as it was many years ago.

Now the fun stop is Vino Aromas!  Enjoy platters or sandwiches or wraps with a special glass of wine.  This wonderful spot is the gathering place for the movers and shakers, business people or patrons heading for the theatre. The décor gives you a feeling of California or better still Europe.  What a treat!  Visit www.vino-aromas.com or call 603-626-8466.

Then there is that little popular place known as the Queen City Cupcakes.  First of all, go early or you will stand in line hoping you might have to opportunity to purchase one of their specialty cupcakes.  This is a must and purchase at least a dozen to take home.  Delicious!  One visit will bring you back over and over.  Visit them on the web at www.qccupcakes.com or call 603-624-4999.

When you are in New England, remember Manchester is an important place to visit.  My thanks to Charlene Courtemanche, Senior Executive Assistant and Office Manager of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce for inviting us in for the day.  She is perfect for the position and is a walking encyclopedia in the history of Manchester.  Also, we had the chance to meet Robin Comstock, the president and CEO who was most gracious, allowing us to have Charlene as our personal guide while there.

My final travel recommendation for the day:  Manchester, New Hampshire is a must!  It is a rebirth of one of America’s greatest cities and one place that will make an impression of all those who visit. Your first stop should at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce for all of the information and brochures you might need.  Then exit into the world of enjoyment!  www.manchester–chamber.org  call them at 603-666-6600.

Don’t forget to check out the Palace Theatre for the latest in theatrical or concert presentations!  www.palacetheatre.org or call 603-668-5588.

Until next time, visit www.worldtravelbyglenn.com for additional travel stories.