I have not seen anyone recommend a place that I liked very much on my New England visit years ago - Newport, Rhode Island. It is an old sailing community between New York City and Boston that has also attracted many wealthy New Englanders over the years. Like Charleston, South Carolina, its central town area is relatively unspoiled. You can walk along the Cliff Walk past some beautiful, large opulent homes. Or else you can tour some of the homes - especially the Breakers built as a summer home by Cornelius Vanderbilt. I also particularly enjoyed the Touro Synagogue, the oldest Jewish synagogue in the US.

Here are some web sites where you can learn more:

http://www.newportri.com/default.htm http://www.gonewport.com/

Have a great trip!

Mark Los Angeles, CA