HERE
BOUTIQUE B&B DEBUTS IN VINEYARD HAVEN
If staying at a B&B makes you shudder with thoughts of teddy bears and lace, think again. The new 7-bedroom Nobnocket Boutique Inn (formerly the Doctor’s House Bed and Breakfast) has been transformed by Annabelle and Simon Hunton into a contemporary lodging experience. Located on a bluff overlooking Vineyard Haven Harbor, the almost 2-acre estate — circa 1908 — was originally owned by the town’s doctor. Though the Arts and Crafts period house may be reminiscent of an old English Manor with perennial gardens, the interior’s complete contemporary redesign steps into the 21st century with luxury rooms, private en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and other upscale amenities. A home-cooked breakfast includes fresh baked pastry and fruit, homemade granola, and choice of French toast, omelets, and more. In June, a mid-week (Sun-Thu) Run of the House special offers the best available room for $295/night. Rates Oct. 16-May 26, $160-$230; May 27-Oct. 15, $325-$475. 508-696-0859, www.nobnocket.com
ANTICIPATING SUMMER IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
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Enjoy some northern hospitality with the Springing into Summer Festival sponsored by the Jackson New Hampshire Chamber of Commerce (May 29-June 12). Local businesses in Jackson, Bartlett, Intervale, Harts Location, and Glen are opening their doors with special lodging deals and dining experiences, drink and food tastings, gift-giveaways, stargazing nights, a new Doorways, Porches & Sidewalk Stroll, creative art classes, and more. The highlight of the festival is the Exquisite Gardens of Jackson Tour, a self-guided tour of more than 12 private and community gardens (Sat. June 11, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., rain or shine). Beverages and light refreshments will be served at every garden. Advanced ticket purchase suggested. Adults $10; children $5. E-mail kathleen@jacksonnh.com to request a brochure. 603-383-9356. www.jacksonnh.com
THERE
EXOTIC ITALIAN AUTO EXHIBIT IN NASHVILLE
This month, the Frist Center for the Visual Arts in Nashville debuts an exhibition that is certain to make exotic car lovers swoon. Bellissima! The Italian Automotive Renaissance, 1945-1975, curated by award-winning automotive writer, Ken Gross, celebrates the spirit of Italian innovation and creativity. The exhibition features a selection of extraordinary cars and motorcycles, including vehicles by Alfa Romeo, Bizzarrini, Ducati, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Lancia, and Maserati. The 19 coach-built and concept cars, and three motorcycles on display, may surprise even the most knowledgeable car aficionados. Highlights include the ultra-rare Alfa Romeo BAT models 5, 7, and 9 from the 1950s; a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO; and a 1970 Lancia Stratos HF Zero. Each vehicle in the exhibit comes from private collections and museums. Exhibit dates: May 27-Oct. 9. Adults $12. 615-244-3340, fristcenter.org
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MOTOR VALLEY LAUNCHES WEBSITE
Speaking of exotic Italian cars, the Emilia Romagna Tourism Board invites visitors to discover Italy’s long automotive history with the launch of the newly redesigned and easy-to-use website, MotorValley. Located in Northern Italy, the Motor Valley — as it is affectionately called — is home to a world of automotive titans including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Ducati, Pagani, 11 private collections of historic vehicles and 14 museums devoted to ultimate driving machines, including the Ferrari Museum of Maranello, the newest museum dedicated to Enzo Ferrari in Modena, and the Ducati and Lamborghini Museums near Bologna. Visitors to the website will find one-to-four-night tour packages and special offers that celebrate the region, pairing car factory tours with gastronomic experiences, legendary races, spa excursions, and shopping expeditions. www.motorvalley.com
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EVERYWHERE
REVIEW SITE FOR GUIDED TRIPS
Planning a guided trip for your family and friends? Unsure of how to evaluate the thousands of tours on the market? Stride Travel recently launched its site, which enables users to search and read reviews for nearly 6,000 pre-planned trips, including traditional group tours, private guided trips, safaris, independent adventure packages, and small ship and river cruises. The site makes it easy to search and compare different pre-planned travel experiences from more than 400 global travel companies in more than 130 destinations. Users can also read reviews from a community of travelers and experts, compare itineraries, and book directly with a preferred travel supplier, including global brands such as Intrepid Travel, Explore, G Adventures, and Rothschild Safaris. www.stridetravel.com
ALL TERRAIN BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS
Those who must have music on an outdoor adventure — and you know who you are — should consider Yatra Aquatune Speakers. Waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and built to float, the compact Aquatune 5712 speaker utilizes Bluetooth technology to provide up to 12 hours of wireless listening for the adventurous traveler. Bump up the power specs from 5 watts to 9 and 12 respectively with Aquatune’s 5712 and 9612 models, perfect companions for backpacking, camping, kayaking, and allother rugged activities. $39.99-$79.99. www.shopyatra.com