I lived in Massachusetts for 20 years and never knew the beauty of the Berkshires until I went on a travel writing assignment for Trazzler this past week. It had never occurred to me to visit the area before, but I loved it. Here’s why.
Spirit of cooperation. There is a dearth of chain stores and a plethora of small, independent businesses. Almost everywhere I went I noticed that the small businesses—inns, shops, restaurants, farms, galleries—actively promoted each other and sold local products. It’s a sustainable, friendly model that I would be glad to support as a tourist or resident.
Seasonal, local food. An innkeeper told me that the farm-to-table dining movement originated in the Berkshires. And beyond restaurants, there are plenty of opportunities to visit farms and see directly where your food comes from.
Outdoor activities. Hiking trails, scenic views, and natural wonders abound.
Olivia's Overlook. Photo by Joanna Eng.
Creative culture. My trip was filled with an eclectic mix of galleries, museums, public art, and live music. Even when I wasn’t looking for art, I found it everywhere, including town recycling bins.
Brain food. At every stop, there was something to learn: how my beer was brewed, why this area of woods has fewer trees, the political history behind the song they’re about to sing, the origin of the marble in that fireplace.
