PORTLAND, Maine — As summer approaches, the state of Maine is gearing up to welcome tourists from all over the world.
According to the Maine Office of Tourism, 68 percent of all out-of-state visitors come to the state during the summer. Many of these tourists will visit the various islands off the coast of Maine.
One such island is Diamond Cove, which is home to the Diamond Edge Restaurant and Marina and the Inn at Diamond Cove.
Both establishments are preparing to open their doors on May 25 and are expecting a busy season ahead.
Crystal Ingerson, the director of sales for the Diamond Edge Restaurant and Marina, described the atmosphere as "hustling and bustling" and "very exciting."
"It's all hands on deck," Ingerson said. "We have every last team member out here sweeping, vacuuming, [and] cleaning the kitchen. It's great. It's a team experience to get everyone out here before the season."
The Inn at Diamond Cove was recently inducted into the National Trust for Historic Preservation as one of the most Historic Hotels in America.
However, the staff is also learning that new additions bring some challenges.
"Learning logistics of getting supplies out here and getting everything set up has been a learning experience, but I love it," hotel manager Gena McGill said. "I love this island. It is beautiful."
The inn and restaurant work with the Exchange Visitor Program (J-1), which brings in the majority of their employees from all over the world.
"We have a lot of seasonal staff that comes from all over the world. It really becomes a melting pot, and we get to experience so many different cultures," Ingerson said.
The staff also offers housing on the island and on mainland properties. This means daily ferry trips to keep the island running smoothly.
Ingerson said Diamond Cove is a "remote island" and a "different experience than other islands in Portland."
She advises tourists to expect a resort experience and embrace the culture of the historic island.
The Inn at Diamond Cove will remain open until the beginning of October.
With the summer season fast approaching, the island is sure to be bustling with activity as tourists from all over the world come to experience the beauty and culture of Maine.