We spotted star Meg Ryan recently at the Homeport Restaurant in Menemsha, on Martha's Vineyard. Menemsha is the small fishing town featured in the movie "Jaws." But its real claim to fame comes from spectacular sunsets & fishing docks. Ryan has rented James Taylor's home in Menemsha for the month of July.

Over on Nantucket the scene is a little more frenzied. Vanessa Noel's hotel has been full-up (all 8 tiny rooms) & her shoe boutique's jumping. Word has it Noel will be opening a deluxe spa across the street. Not every business owner is happy about her New York style coming to Nantucket. Sour grapes perhaps?

Everyone's talking about Yann Martel's book, "Life of Pi." A good choice when you tire of those steamy beach reads. An adult yarn about a boy, lifeboat & tiger. Unbelievable, but it works. We especially liked the part about the deserted island. One that will not be covered on our pages. Because it's fictitious, thankfully!

The island of the moment is Hvar. Part of Croatia, off the Dalmation coast. Has the feel of Italy & Greece. Limited accommodations, difficult to get to. But all that keeps it real. Being less expensive than the other two makes it even more tempting.

Heard about Frette's new linen collection called "Yachting?" With Maritime colors & various stitching, reminiscent of boat knots & cables. To renew your yacht decor. Or, for you landlubbers, "Yachting" would add a little New England island style to your vacation home.