Back Again

Welcome! As I work on our 2008 Annual Guide Issue, which covers each town on the Cape plus Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Plymouth, and New Bedford, a flood of memories from the last few months urges me to share some of the highlights of my explorations:

In May I eagerly returned to the Nantucket Wine Festival, which exceeded my expectations once again. Like a champagne cork popping off a bottle of vintage Veuve Clicquot, the festivities begin with a gala at the White Elephant, where the well-dressed imbibers and nibblers descend politely on representatives of more than 30 fine wineries and an equal number of restaurants to taste their exquisite wares. This is the ultimate grazing experience. During the ensuing days (the festival lasts 5 glorious days)I attended a variety of seminars (pairing cheese and wine, tasting olive oils) cooking demonstrations (Barbara Lynch of No.9 Park in Boston), and even a screening of the Plum TV film "Harvest: Napa-Sonoma." And, of course, I always find time to run into town and shop! If this hasn't enticed you to sign of for next year's festival, visit www.nantucketwinefestival.com to learn more.

June found me day-tripping to Truro to meet Susan Kurtzman, a former NYC ad exec who, as new owner of Jobi Pottery, is breathing new life into a Cape cottage industry that started in 1951. See for yourself what all the fuss is about at www.retrotruro.com.

Late June found me back on Nantucket with my husband for a "Date Night" at the exclusive Wauwinet (www.wauwinet.com). This indulgent package included a lovely room facing the bay, a three-course dinner at Topper's—the resort's five-star restaurant—and, best of all, a couple's massage at The Wauwinet's brand-new Spa by the Sea. I never knew so much pampering could be had in a mere 24 hours, but then it is the island's only Relais & Chateaux property. That speaks volumes!

July was the month I discovered the Cultural Center of Cape Cod, a fabulous spot where the arts in all their diversity are made accessible to people of all ages. A smattering of what is offered includes music classes for kids, rotating art exhibits, poetry readings, dance performances, and even a Table Francaise, for those who parlent francais.

Our summer company outing was a Lobster Roll Cruise out of Sesuit Harbor in Dennis. We chartered the whole boat, which anyone can do, or you can purchase individual tickets to join a group at any given time. It's a fun and delicious way to get out on the water.