Nantucket
This Massachusetts island off Cape Cod is nicknamed the ‘Grey Lady‘ (because it often rains) maintains six wonderful properties that represent the island’s preserved heritage, including the oldest house (built 1686), the Old Gaol and Quaker Meeting house built in 1838 to serve the island’s most prominent religion. Photo by: stephenk1977
The island has an area of just 124 sq km. The main settlement is also called Nantucket which lies beside the harbour at western end. Other notable localities are Madaket, Miacomet, Polpis, Siasconset, Surfside and Wauwinet. Photo by: fireandicefuel
Much of the northeastern seaboard aims to offer the sort of idealized, laid-back beach holidays admist traditional New England architecture that have almost become part of the American Dream. Inexorable commercial pressures have made such simple pleasures harder to find, but Nantucket delivers in sprades. Photo by: fireandicefuel
When to go: Most attractions are open in summer season only from June to October, though the island is beautiful all year round. Population: 10, 200. How to get there: A choice of three ferry services from the mainland or light aircraft to the busy Nantucket Memorial Airport. You should know: A key acronym on Nantucket and neighbouring Martha’s Vineyard is BYOB (bring your own bottle). If you want to eat out (or drink in), bring your own bottle – no booze for sale there! Photo by: fireandicefuel
