People who come to the Eastern Shore to get away from the everyday pressures of life often extol on the benefits of the slower pace of life. While it’s true we don’t have to deal with the traffic and hubbub of the city, everyday life can still be a bit of a grind. But when I have the opportunity to go over to Smith Island something happens. You can feel yourself gradually shifting to island time.
There are tours offered from both sides of the bay (Point Lookout and Crisfield) that offer a half day excursion and an opportunity to sample the island hospitality Those that have the privilege of spending the night find that the island makes its own place in their heart.
With our ever growing reliance on technology, it’s nice to get away to a place that seems so far removed from it. Although broadband internet has reached the island, cell phone reception is still dubious. There are a few “magic spots” on the island where you can pick up a signal and a few more where you can get a signal if you are willing to become a human antenna (left foot one inch off the ground, right hand pointing north northwest until the breeze blows through or a cloud passes over). It’s best just to shut the whole thing off, so your phone doesn’t drain the battery searching for an elusive signal.
For some, the thought of such isolation might be intimidating or off-putting. While it’s true that there are no bars or malls or arcades, the island itself becomes a playground of sorts with opportunities for kayaking on the marked water trails, watching the incredible array of wildlife, exploring the island, seizing a quiet moment to catch up on your reading, stargazing the unfiltered night sky and even taking in the highly underrated activity of napping.
It is a wonderful place to disconnect from the routine of daily life and reconnect with yourself…and why not have a slice of Smith Island Cake while you’re at it?
For more information about Smith Island, visit our website at www.visitsomerset.com or contact us at 410-651-2968 or 800-521-9189 or email us at somtour@dmv.com.
