We visited back in 2003 (with our dogs, during off-season) and loved everything about it, even though we're not beach people. This time, it will be just DH and me, and we'll be driving from northwester Jersey, not Maryland.

We'd like to visit Hyannis Port, Provincetown and Chatham again, but would also like to hit the Boston area and enjoy some historical landmarks. I'm not sure if we should stay on the Cape and do day trips or change locations mid-way through. We didn't get to visit Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket - not sure if we should do that this time around.

Any suggestions from seasoned travelers? We're looking for salty air, quirky shopping, history and lobster :)

Thanks!

Sue

We stayed a couple of nights in Boston and that gave us plenty of time to see what we wanted to see, the USS Constitution, Faneuil Hall, the Freedom Trail, Old North Church, Paul Revere's house and the Bull & Finch Pub (Cheers). Plus lots of time to sample some very good chowda!

On the cape we stayed at a bed & breakfast right across the street from the waterfront. Did a little touring and a little beachcombing.

Then a couple of days at a B&B on Nantucket. Did some shopping, rented mopeds and toured the entire island. I would definitely recommend Nantucket.

Being a travel agent, I never throw travel stuff away. I still have several tour books and maps I'd be happy to lend you if you're interested. Just e-mail me if you'd like me to pop them in the mail to you.

Linda

I would recommend spending at least one night in Boston if you want to visit there. It's just a little too far from the Cape for a day trip and you'd waste most of your day traveling.

Provincetown is kind of "I don't know." I love the drive there. It feels like you're driving to the end of the earth, which you kind of are! However the town has gotten sooo touristy.

Be sure to spend some time in the town of Sandwich and visit the Glass Museum. There really is a lot to see in that area, especially if you enjoy history.

I love the drive along 6A. There are charming shops and lovely old homes. The town of Brewster is nice, although their beaches aren't as nice as Chatham's.

I guess I would spend a couple nights in Boston, a few on the Cape and then go and stay on Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard. That way you will spend less time getting where you're going and more time sightseeing -- and eating and relaxing.

Enjoy!

I'm embarrassed to admit this, but I'm clueless regarding the hotel discounters like Priceline, etc. I know lots of people use them, but I'm worried about getting stuck with a penalty for canceling or changing dates. Can anyone advise? I'd love to book places now since we'll be traveling in season but prices could change too.

Most, if not all the nicer B & Bs and hotels in Provincetown have 3-5 night minimums and can be pricey. If you are planning your visit during carnival week (aug. 16th-22nd), things book up very, very quickly. We like the Crowne Point Inn - the standard rooms are very small, we usually book the upgraded rooms. The Carriage House and Carpe Diem are wonderful and a bit less pricey. All have great locations.

Front Street (expensive) and Bayside Betsys (moderate) are our favorite places to eat. There are many fabulous restaurants and shops run the gamut from artsy boutiques and galleries to tee shirt shops.

In Chatham, the Chatham Bars use to be the place to stay - friends have given it mixed reviews lately. If you want to treat yourself, the Wequassett Inn Resort is top notch. Great shops and restaurants there as well.

In Boston, try to get to the North End (little Italy). On summer weekends there's a really fun farmers market. Transit is fairly easy once in town. I can't recommend a particular hotel, but I'd be happy to do some legwork for you - let me know what you're hoping to see and some idea of your budget!

I'm not a B&B kind of person. I like my privacy. It's nice to come home after a day of sightseeing and flop on the sofa in your own place. I like to sit on the deck in my bathrobe to read the paper and drink my coffee in the morning.

I also enjoyed a seal watch from Chatham. I'm worried about going on a whale watch because I get seasick so easily. It's such a pain.

We've decided against splitting our trip up so we can plop down in one place and just do day trips around the Cape. (We'll devote a separate trip to Boston.) Staying at the same B&B in Hyannis Port we visited previously; they gave a generous discount for returning and staying 10 days. I was shocked to get a reduced rate for in-season travel, but I guess everyone is hurting for business.

I can't wait! Please post any other suggestions you have!

-Robin