Bron, you can take it from me, many of the Mudcatters who have offered to put you up and show you around are wonderful people.
My group (Baggyrinkle)went to New England in June this year and the hospitality was second to none. You appear to be travelling a bit farther afield than we did, but I am sure that you will find our American friends will make your trip memorable. We are looking forward to coming over again - hopefully in 2004?

Have a good one.