A few hours outside of New York’s wild bustle breathes New England’s Cape Cod. Many of us carry the notion that the splendor of the Cape belongs solely to the summer-time.

While I have no doubt that its vast beaches glitter in melodious sunshine during that season, I can say with even greater certainty that an autumn getaway to the Cape is nothing short of magical.

A few weeks back, I was quietly daydreaming about multi-colored fall leaves and peaceful mornings as I typed busily at my cubicle, New York City’s traffic roaring outside.

I decided I need to get away to a place close in distance, far in attitude, a place that would offer the kind of quietness I was longing for.

After a great deal of help from Bill DeSousa-Mauk, publicist for the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce,  I was on my way to the Cape with a perfect itinerary. First stop was Orleans, a peaceful town where a spent a good deal of my time.

Where I stayed: The Ship's Knees Inn :Perfection at its finest. Seriously. This beautiful Bed and Breakfast made my trip! The spacious, blue and white B&B offers the comfort of home while still providing guests with the kind of relaxation they’ve been seeking. Rooms are cleaned daily; breakfast is served in the morning and displays a delicious variety of fruit, breads, jams, pastries, coffee cakes, cereals, coffee, teas and juices. There’s a wide patio equipped with a modern fire-pit that was perfect on the chilly nights during my stay. A variety of rooms makes this bed and breakfast perfect for all types of travelers; friends, families, or couples. I stayed in a spacious room with a comfy king-sized bed and a private bathroom (heated). The room also presented a nice sized couch, television, closet, dresser, and two night stands. 186 Beach Road • P.O. Box 756 • East Orleans, MA 02643 1-888-744-7756

Where I ate (and where you should eat too): Abba: Cozy atmosphere, great history, and perhaps most importantly, incredible food! The service was excellent. I didn’t have to look for my server once; I simply sat comfortably amongst white pillows and padded white benches and enjoyed drinks and dinner. With a menu that features a Thai-Mediterranean blend, the options are all very creative and classy in their tastes as well as in their presentation. I enjoyed Abba’s uniquely authentic Pad Thai, which lacked the sweetness of previous Pad Thai my taste buds have explored. Because I was in the Cape I chose the option of adding seafood and I must say I was not at all disappointed. It was perfect. 89 Old Colony Way, Orleans, MA 02653 508.255.8144

Joe's Bar and Grille: Lobster Mac & Cheese and 50% off all wine bottles in the month of October. What else could anyone ask for? Seriously! However, if everyone isn’t as easily moved as I, than I have to say the place has way more to offer than great food and special deals. With a variety of rooms to choose from (four to be exact), Joes has a place for everybody. The owners can be found talking with locals throughout the night, helping out the wait staff, and enjoying whatever great live band is playing, which gives the large establishment a surprisingly intimate feel. Beyond devouring Joe’s Lobster Mac & Cheese I also indulged in the restaurant’s Lobster Slider and Joe's Slow Braised Lamb Shank served with deliciously fluffy mashed potatoes. For dessert I enjoyed (and enjoyed fully) the Malabar Hornblower's Baked Chocolate Pudding. 5 Beach Road, Orleans, MA (508) 255-0212

What to do: Rock Harbor and Nauset Beach are both conveniently close to The Ships Knees Inn. Nauset is a pleasant quarter mile walk and Rock Harbor is about five minutes by car. If you head over to Rock Harbor, be sure to check out the magnificent Church of Transfiguration too . It is beyond incredible! The mosaic masterpieces alone will have you studying it’s inside walls for hours.

Cape Cod truly proved to be an outstanding destination, and while I’m sure it sparkles beautifully in summer’s sunshine, it’s equally as interesting and relaxing in the spring and fall months too. Do yourself a great favor and put it on your 2011 travel calendar!