<p>it is rare to have mild winters here in our part of the midwest. there is a cold wind that blows that is unlike anything you will find in nh. granted, folks here like to head to florida for a few months a year, too!</p>
<p>you certainly have cold, as do we, but throw the wind into the mix and it can be brutal in our neck of the woods!</p>
<p>We have friends who have retired to the Peterborough NH area…and other friends who retired to York Maine. Both are very happy. The York folks have the beach right there and easy accessibility to Portland ME or even Boston. Both families like that they can fly out of Manchester NH airport on SW Airlines.</p>
<p>We have spent the last 11 summers in the Lakes Region of NH. We chose this place for the outdoor recreation opportunities and hope to spend the early part of our retirement here. </p>
<p>There is zero ethnic diversity but a wide range of economic and socio/political diversity. We never cease to be amazed at the fascinating, engaged and aware people we meet.</p>
<p>Portsmouth/ Dover is an easy 1 hour drive, where we get our fine dining, athletic/cultural venue, and better shopping needs met.</p>
<p>For the rest of the year we are in Gulf Coastal Florida. God only knows what is in store for our pristine beaches. Make sure you love more than the topography of any area you choose.</p>
<p>Have fun on your search. It sounds like you have a lot of opportunities to explore.</p>