Why Did Pilgrims Travel to the New World?

Experience New England's Heritage Through Modern Travel Amenities

Author

Alex Mustaros
November 27, 2024

I hope you're doing well and having a wonderful time during the holidays. Before anything else, I want to wish everyone who celebrates this special day a Happy Thanksgiving.

I found myself deeply engaged in learning about this important celebration here in North America, trying to understand why a group of people would decide to take such a perilous journey when the odds of crossing the Atlantic Ocean were far from favorable.

So, here's a little bit of history that might surprise you.

For generations, the story of the Pilgrims has been romanticized as a tale of idealistic seekers crossing the Atlantic in search of a better life and religious freedom.

Charming holiday pageants depict peaceful voyagers stepping onto Plymouth Rock, ready to build their dreams in a new world.

The historical reality was far more harrowing.

In 1620, these religious Separatists were literally fleeing for their lives. Under King James I, those who rejected the Church of England faced imprisonment, torture, and execution.

Having already sought refuge in Holland, the group knew that even there they weren't beyond the Crown's reach.

The decision to board the Mayflower wasn't just about seeking a better life – it was about survival.

During their 66-day crossing, 102 souls endured brutal storms, disease, and near-shipwreck. Almost half of those who made it to Massachusetts' shores would perish in the first winter. Yet from this crucible of hardship emerged something extraordinary: America's first colony was founded on the principle that one could worship according to one's conscience.

Today's Destination: Massachusetts

Where historic legacy meets refined luxury, Massachusetts captivates the discerning traveler with its endless treasures.

From the revolutionary streets of Boston to the gilded mansions of the Berkshires, from the pristine beaches of Cape Cod to the artistic havens of the North Shore, this New England gem offers an unparalleled blend of cultural richness and natural splendor.

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Top Experiences

In a state where history and luxury intertwine, these carefully curated experiences offer privileged access to both Massachusetts' storied past and its sophisticated present.

Boston: Food and History of The Freedom Trail Private Tour

Learn about Boston’s history and its culinary scene all at once on this group walking tour. Make your way through the North End and the surrounding area before walking part of the Freedom Trail, which snakes past notable historical sites in the city. Learn about the history and heritage of Boston from your guide and sample a variety of local food.

  • Explore Boston’s North End and surrounding markets.

  • Learn about the history of the city from your guide.

  • Walk part of the Freedom Trail.

  • Taste a variety of local food samples.

Cape Cod Private Sailing

Charter a luxury yacht for a sunset cruise along the Cape, complete with fresh lobster dinner and premium wines.

Berkshires Cultural Immersion

VIP access to Tanglewood Music Festival, followed by a private tour of MASS MoCA with a curator.

Martha's Vineyard by Private Plane

Fly from Boston for an exclusive island experience, including a private beach picnic and tour of the famous gingerbread cottages.

History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour

Learn about the mysterious history of Salem on this guided walking tour of the city. Follow your local historian guide through Salem, listening to 400 years of history and admire the old architecture that dates back hundreds of years.

For a spookier experience, select the nighttime tour led by lantern light and discover the truth about the 1692 Salem Witch Trial hysteria.

LODGING Experts

In Massachusetts, luxury accommodations are destinations in themselves, ranging from restored Gilded Age mansions to modern urban retreats, exclusive island compounds, and historic lighthouses. Each property offers a unique narrative, serving as custodians of history and pioneers of modern luxury, where every detail enhances your journey.

Ocean House

Ocean House, Watch Hill

Though technically in Rhode Island, this iconic resort is a favorite among the Massachusetts elite.

  • 67 rooms and suites, 33 with ocean views

  • Features: Private beach with butler service

  • Notable: 8,000-bottle wine cellar with private tasting room

  • Insider Tip: The Tower Suite offers 360-degree ocean views.

  • Web: https://www.oceanhouseri.com/

XV Beacon, Boston

A sophisticated boutique hotel in a historic Beaux Arts building.

  • 63 rooms, including 7 suites

  • Features: Private roof deck, original cage elevator from 1903

  • Notable: Custom-designed Frette linens, 24-hour Lexus house car service

  • Insider Tip: Request room 901 for the best city views and largest terrace.

  • Book here

Blantyre, Lenox

This Relais & Châteaux property offers Gilded Age glamour with modern amenities in the Berkshires.

  • 24 rooms, including 11 cottages

  • Features: 110-acre estate, wine cellar with over 10,000 bottles

  • Notable: New champagne salon featuring rare vintages

  • Insider Tip: Book the Crimson Suite for its original 1902 bathroom fixtures.

  • Web: https://www.blantyre.com/

Chatham Bars Inn, Cape Cod

Historic luxury oceanfront resort with a private beach and a fleet of boats.

  • 217 rooms, including 12 adult-only spa suites

  • Features: Quarter-mile private beach, 8 luxury boats

  • Notable: Private 8-acre farm for farm-to-table dining

  • Insider Tip: Book a spa suite for unlimited access to the adults-only facilities.

  • Book here

The Newbury Boston

Recently renovated landmark overlooking the Public Garden.

  • 286 rooms and suites

  • Features: Rooftop restaurant Contessa

  • Notable: Wood-burning fireplaces in 42 rooms

  • Insider Tip: Corner suites ending in '01' offer the best Public Garden views.

  • Book here

For EPI-CURIOUS Only

New England's culinary scene has evolved beyond traditional dishes, blending colonial traditions, farm-to-table innovation, and global influences. Massachusetts now offers dining experiences where celebrated chefs use both ancient techniques and modern creativity, creating meals that celebrate taste, tradition, and innovation.

Topper’s

TOPPER'S at The Wauwinet, Nantucket

Spectacular waterfront dining with an award-winning wine cellar.

  • Grand Tasting Menu: Seven Courses

  • Wine collection: Over 1,500 labels

  • Signature dish: Native Lobster Tail with Black Truffle Emulsion

  • Features: Private beach dining available

  • Sunset boat arrival service from Nantucket Harbor

  • Insider Tip: Book the "Wine Tower" private dining room for groups of 6-8.

  • Web: https://www.wauwinet.com/dining/toppers

Wellness Kitchen at Canyon Ranch Lenox

Innovative healthy cuisine that proves nutritious can be delicious.

Deuxave, Boston

  • Contemporary French cuisine with New England influences

  • Tasting menu: $185 per person, wine pairing additional $155

  • Chef's Table experience: $250 per person

  • Signature dish: Nine-Hour French Onion Soup & Duck Breast à l'Orange

  • Notable: Wine Spectator Award of Excellence

  • Insider Tip: Request Table 80 for the best view of both the dining room and open kitchen.

  • Web: www.deuxave.com

Events in Destination

Massachusetts has a busy schedule of events throughout the year. In the summer, there are music festivals in the Berkshires. During winter, people gather in historic homes for holiday celebrations. Spring brings flower shows, and autumn features harvest events. These activities help visitors experience the true spirit of New England.

Boston Wine Festival

Boston Wine Festival (Through March)

Daffodil Festival, Nantucket (April)

Tanglewood Music Festival (July-August)

  • Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, its training academy, and the Boston Pops, is one of the world's most beloved music festivals.

  • Website: www.bso.org/tanglewood

  • Insider Tip: Book the "Seranak Experience" for private pre-concert dining.

Martha's Vineyard Food & Wine Festival (October)

  • The four-day festival draws food lovers nationwide to savor Martha’s Vineyard's seafood and fresh farm ingredients.

  • Website: www.mvfoodandwine.com

  • Insider Tip: Reserve the Vintage Cellar event early - it sells out months in advance.

Upcoming Events Around the World

For travelers interested in recognized global experiences, we've compiled a list of top events happening in the next 90 days. These include famous sports events, special art exhibitions, major fashion shows, and cultural festivals. These events offer unique and memorable experiences that combine history, luxury, and culture.

Art Basel Miami

Art Basel Miami Beach (December 5-8, 2024)

America's premier international art fair. Leading galleries from five continents show significant works by masters of modern and contemporary art and the new generation of emerging stars.

Australian Open (January 13-26, 2025)

The Australian Open, held annually at Melbourne Park, is the first of the four Grand Slam tennis events each year, preceding the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open.

St. Moritz Snow Polo World Cup (January 26-28, 2025)

Polo on snow, which started in St. Moritz nearly 40 years ago, has become a global trend, with tournaments held in places like Aspen, Cortina, and Kitzbühel. However, the St. Moritz event remains the most prestigious, offering the highest prize money. Six "high goal" teams compete on the frozen lake for the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz Trophy.

Venice Carnival (February 3-13, 2025)

The Carnival of Venice is a yearly festival in Venice, Italy, known worldwide for its fancy costumes and masks. It finishes on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday.

Frieze Los Angeles (February 19-23, 2025)

The sixth edition of the fair returns to Santa Monica Airport from February 20-23, 2025, featuring around 100 galleries, installations, nonprofit partnerships, and pop-ups from renowned Los Angeles restaurants. The Galleries section welcomes innovative ideas from galleries showcasing international artists.

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