If you are traveling internationally, you may buy items without having to pay either the sales tax (called value added tax) or the customs duties assessed by the United States – primarily on liquor and tobacco but also with many other products. The savings from duty-free shopping can be significant. At Duty Free Americas in Calais (40 Main Street), and in Vanceboro (119 Water Street), shoppers can find discounted prices on premium spirits, wine, beer and tobacco as well as designer fragrances, cosmetics, fashion watches, crystal, jewelry, leather goods, gifts for children, and more. Currency exchange is available. Phone: Calais store at 207-454-3476 or 207-454-3404; Vanceboro store at 207-788-3989.

Clocks, with Labradors on the Side

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Once upon a time in the far off enchanted land of Bar Harbor there lived a clockmaker known all over the land for his expertise and knowledge of the intricate workings of clocks, watches and barometers. Gentlefolk who lived too far away to visit his charming place of business, shipped their broken but beloved time pieces from all over the world for the clockmaker to work his magic and return these treasures to a state of precise timekeeping. This clockmaker goes by the name of Alexander H. Phillips and his place of business is 110 Main Street. You can visit him there from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays to learn of his history and talents and to see a sample of his wares. (the store is also home and guest petting parlor to Finn and Whiskey, a yellow and a chocolate Lab.) Phone: 207-288-3684.

Rocky Shores, Craggy Mountains

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With all due respect, the ultimate expression of Down East Maine’s beauty has to be Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, a must-see place whether you live just down the road or in southern Texas. Among the park’s offerings is the 27-mile Park Loop Road system, offers outstanding views of the park's ocean shoreline, coastal forests, and mountain silhouettes. It’s all in front of you; just putter along and try to blink occasionally. Phone: 207-288-3338

We’ll Keep the Light On

With its jagged and rocky coastline, Maine in the runaway leader as the New England state of abundant lighthouses. West Quoddy Head Light, in West Quoddy State Park in Lubec, has the additional appeal of offering a visitor center and museum. And the Isle au Haut Light in the town of the same name is among a small handful of New England lighthouses that operate a bed-and-breakfast in the keeper’s house. That’s our idea of romance.

Wooden Artwork Makes Personal Keepsakes

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A beautiful and unusual shop in the town of Eastport is Wood on Water, which specializes in wood-burned and hand-painted giftware and furnishings. Woodburning is the art of using an electric pen to etch designs into wood and other natural materials. Once the image is burned onto the wood, color may be added. Customers of Wood on Water may order gifts with customized images and designs. Some popular choices include keepsake boxes, treasure chests, and lap desks, custom chair rails, baseboards, wildlife scenes, and local or antique maps. Perhaps you have an image of your pet, a favorite flower, or a family symbol. This is the place for unique and personal gifts. Phone: 207-853-WOOD.