President Obama and his family for the third straight year are on vacation in Martha’s Vineyard, which is usually described as a “posh resort.” But according to tourism officials, the 58th largest island in the US with an estimated 15,000 year-round residents offers something for all budgets.
The Obamas plan to spend 10 days on the island, which has drawn criticism for those speaking for the jobless who can’t afford a vacation of any size budget.
Martha’s Vineyard is no stranger to presidents. Clinton stayed here and so did Ulysses S. Grant. Of course, they were not there during a time of upheavals in several countries and a dismal economic outlook right here in the US.
But Obama supporters point out this is not really a vacation.
Republican strategist Ron Kauffman, an advisor in the administration of George H.W. Bush, said vacationing presidents get constant policy updates, particularly on matters of foreign affairs. "The truth is you never get away from the work," he said. "Most domestic issues can be put off for a week or so, but foreign policy you can't."
Most families probably can’t afford to stay at the Blue Heron Farm, however, a 28-acre estate the Obamas rented in 2009 and 2008. The estate includes a five-bedroom main house, a Cape Cod guest house, a swimming pool and a half-court for basketball. But its cost is reporedly about tens of thousands of dollars a week.
But any families can afford the bicycling done by the Obamas. The President reportedly cycled by in rolled-up jeans and a bike helmut along with wife Michelle and daughters Sasha and Malia. Their trip took them to Manuel F. Correllus State Forest. Admisison is free. Open sunrise to sunset.
As for the bikes, it’s not known where the Obamas got theirs but prices are far from outrageous. Martha’s Bike Rentals start at $15 a day for kids’ models and $25 for an adult mountain bike.
Obama also plays golf while he’s here. Apparently his favorite course is one located four miles out to sea on an island, the Farm Neck Golf Club, which is open to the public. This time of year, it’s a highly affordable $150 for 18 holes; for those who can’t afford that price, there’s a half price $75 if you play at twilight or 4 to 6 p.m.
Located seven miles off Cape Cod in Massachusetts, Martha's Vineyard is only accessible by boat or plane, a fact that does make it sound expensive. The cheapest way to get to the island is a ferry from Cape Cod.
For less than $20 round trip, The Island Queen and the Steamship Authority offer daily non-stop passenger service to Martha's Vineyard from several towns along the Massachusetts coast.
Despite the area’s upscale reputation as a summer destination for the wealthy, many of its top attractions are either free or low cost -- even for travelers on a low budget, according to tourism promoters.
"A Martha's Vineyard experience is available at any price point," Nancy Gardella from the area’s chamber of commerce, told ABC News.
She and others say there are some tips, however, on when it’s best to visit.
The area is at its busiest this month but visiting before or after the peak season helps save money on lodging.
"Because of the Gulf Stream, our waters are the warmest in September, so it's a great time to be on the beach during the day with weather well into the 70s and cool breezes in the evening," said Gardella.
Once you're on the island, instead of renting a car, bike rentals are available at the ferry ports. Martha's Vineyard also offers public transportation with bus service throughout the area.
Hotel options run the gamut. They range from five-star luxury hotels and bed and breakfasts to the Martha's Vineyard Campground and a youth hostel.
"There is lodging that's available at every price point," Gardella said.
White House officials told The Boston Globe last year that the Obamas like Martha’s Vineyard in part because of its natural beauty, beaches, and food. Those may be the same reasons the rest of America likes it as well.
By David Wilkening
(Source: travelmole.com August 2011)
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