We’ve had a rainy start to summer 2012, but that hasn’t stopped us from getting the lowdown on the best foods, activities, fashions and of course, travel destinations to visit before the season comes to an end.

Everyone knows New England has some of the best beaches on the East Coast, but what if sand and surf isn’t your thing? Our summer travel feature will take you to hidden mountain gems, entertainment filled casinos and historical landmarks for some great R&R – all only a few hours from Boston.

But, of course, to shoot our annual summer fashion feature we had to hit the high seas, and this year we ended up at the breathtaking Cliffside Beach Club in Nantucket, MA. This resort offered us the perfect backdrop to feature the summer’s hottest swimsuits.

Keeping with our summer theme, we caught up with three of our favorite seafood experts, Jasper White, Greg Jordan and Daniel Bruce to see what ocean dwelling creatures they enjoy transforming into culinary masterpieces. To make things a little more thrilling, we decided to showcase the chef’s prized ingredients in a way you have never seen them before. Check out page 54 to see what I mean! And to wash down those fish feasts, we staked out some of the best people watching patios around to relax and enjoy a handcrafted summer cocktail.

I hope you enjoy this issue as much as I do. Take some time out to visit all of our fabulous summer picks while the weather is warm; it won’t last long! We always look forward to bringing you the best in food, wine, fashion, entertainment and culture.

— Peace!