Cape Ann in Massachusetts

Massachusetts, one of the original 13 colonies that later became the United States of America, is a scenic and historic state.

It is located in the northeast corner of the United States and is one of the six states making up the region of New England. Massachusetts is famous for the dramatic colors of its fall foliage and many people flock here in autumn for 'tree peeping'.

Further east, along the scenic Atlantic coastline, Cape Cod is a prime tourist draw with its rugged beaches, historic lighthouses and picturesque fishing villages. There are popular resort islands nearby, such as Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. "The Vineyard", as it is often called, was immortalized in the 1970s blockbuster Jaws.

Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and home to Harvard University, the New England Aquarium and the newly-opened Institute of Contemporary Art. Boston is rich in history, home to the famous Boston Tea Party and the site of the Siege of Boston and the Battle of Bunker Hill. There are many reminders of British colonial rule still visible in the city, most notably in the 'Shaker' style buildings.

Massachusetts has a typical New England climate - warm and humid in the summer, cool in the spring and fall and downright cold in the wintertime.

The main gateway to Massachusetts is Logan International Airport in Boston. From there, visitors can rent a car or access the rail system. In most urban areas it is easy to go wherever you want to go using mass transit, but if you intend to explore the countryside and get out of the cities then a car is a must.