With nearly 100 outlet stores in nearby North Conway, and dozens of specialty and gift shops in our villages, there's something here for everyone, especially around the holidays.

• Settlers' Green Outlet Village. Over 50 stores to choose from including Banana Republic, Bass, Nike, Eddie Bauer, Lindt, Yankee Candle and Zales.

• White Mountain Outlets. Located on Rte 16, shop from top brand names including Ralph Lauren, Clark/Bostonian, Samsonite, Liz Claiborne and L.L. Bean.

• North Conway Village. Great gifts from places such as Zeb's General Store, Beggar's Pouch, Handcrafter's Barn and the Bavarian Chocolate Haus! Stop for coffee at the Met and peruse the art there, or maybe lunch at any of the great restaurants in the village.

• In the other direction, visit Bridgton, a traditional residential Maine town. Buy Maine maple syrup and other gifts at the Cool Moose Gift Shop, browse the books in the excellent Bridgton Books or visit a Maine department store institution - Reny's - where you never know what bargains you'll find!