New England

New England, comprising Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire, still has close geographical and cultural ties to the UK but with a flavour all its own. It is no wonder that so many Britons visit each year, lapping up the charming chocolate-box villages, welcoming locals, abundant local produce and scenery.

The region's inland hills, forests and lakes are a stunning year-round adventure playground, but perhaps especially in October, when the trees are decked with the most outrageous Fall foliage colours, well worth crossing the pond for. New England's varied coastline ranges from the soft windswept dunes of Cape Cod to the thickly forested granite shores of Maine, and chic retreats like Newport or Nantucket vie for attention with small traditional fishing ports where the lobsters are hauled in. The coast makes a great summer destination for families and couples, with long warm days, music festivals, spanking fresh seafood and excellent sailing conditions, and there is always a deserted beach to discover and call your own for a few hours.