The name ’New England’ is somewhat misleading, for this remarkable region typifies Old America. Comprising of six states, New England brings together the offerings of superb beaches, majestic mountains, crystalline lakes and acres of lush forest that erupt into an explosion of colour every autumn. There are splendid towns and quaint villages, fabulous food and excellent recreational facilities.

Boston Massachusetts is an ideal base or starting point for a New England holiday. The city is compact enough to discover mainly on foot or public transport, a mecca for shopping and a centre of historic importance. Beyond Boston are more marvels, like the incomparable Cape Cod. Swinging out into the Atlantic like a giant hooked arm, the Cape offers sandy shores, spectacular sightseeing and the inviting opportunity to board a boat to the exclusive holiday islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

Maine is the largest state in New England, in fact it is almost as big as the other five states combined and an amazing 90% of it is covered by forest, but the real appeal of Maine is the spectacular rugged coastline – nearly 3,500 miles of jagged headlands, secret coves and charming fishing villages.

The beautiful forests and lakes of New Hampshire offer numerous opportunities for memorable summer vacations in the great outdoors. Welcoming and comfortable, this is an area of small towns, white-steepled churches, covered bridges and the majestic White Mountains.

Vermont is without doubt one of the prettiest states in America. The Green Mountains form the spine of Vermont and provide some of the best skiing in the country. Below the peaks, friendly little towns and cosy country inns guarantee the best in hospitality.

Moving south through the region you’ll find Connecticut – different again to its northern neighbours. Conveniently close to New York City, the state assumes some of the Big Apple’s cosmopolitan chic while still retaining its distinctive New England character.

The smallest state in the union is Rhode Island, which claims to be ’America’s First Resort’. Situated at the entrance to Narragansett Bay, Newport attracts some of the best and wealthiest yachtsmen in the world.