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Tracey's Travels

• Anguilla: A to Z Adventures of the Louche and Lazy, Pt. 1

Is there any better vacation than the one you take when you're in between jobs? The folks from the old job have stopped bothering you, the folks from the new job haven't started bothering you, you're looking forward to that raise, and you don't yet have to worry about blowing your entire retirement savings on flip-flops to match your beach coverups. You're free as a bird!

(Well, not totally free, because once that new job starts, it's a lot like a marriage: You're together nearly 24/7, you sometimes fight about money, only one person ever seems to know where that file -- or, you know, the scissors or the Advil -- is, and "I have a headache" is your daily default, not just an occasional white lie.)

Still, I had three glorious in-limbo weeks of loafing and lethargy ahead of me, and decided to do it in high style, which entailed splitting our time between two fabulous villas . . .

. . . and having the cheeseburgers brought to me .

Indeed, I packed enough sand, sea, and binge-eating into those three weeks that, in the time it would take to read a day-by-day recap, you could just fly to Anguilla yourself (which obviously isn't the worst idea). And so, in lieu of a full day of travel, a handy A to Z guide to the adventures of the idle not-so rich.

A is for AURORA Let's face it: Nobody likes change. And so when I learned that CuisinArt Resort would become the new Aurora, I balked. Would they jettison the very un-Caribbean jewel tones in the lobby? (Hopefully yes.) Would they retain the resort's justly-famous frozen mojitos? (Also hopefully yes.) When we visited, would they completely "forget" that we'd spoken the day before and require an hour of wrangling just to use two loungers on the otherwise empty beach after we dropped over $200 at lunch? (Sadly, also yes.)

Still, if you are idle and rich, it's hard to beat Aurora for chi-chi decor, cushy loungers, craft cocktails, and celestial prices.

Aurora still maintains CuisinArt's hydroponic garden, so salads are the way to go at lunch.

And they taste even better when it doesn't take three tries to get your order right. That's where the cocktails come in.

But maybe avoid the guac and . . . potato chips ?

Post-lunch, we enjoyed some frozen mojitos and our hard-won loungers.

And look, ma: No more jewel tones!

B is for BLANCHARD'S BEACH SHACK

Blanchard's has a lot going for it, chief among them being griddled hot dogs, a gorgeous stretch of beach, griddled hot dogs, excellent fresh-brewed iced tea (which has just about as much alcohol as their drinks), and griddled hot dogs.

In fact, if it weren't for BBS's refreshing iced tea, I can't guarantee that I wouldn't have another, um, hydration incident .

B also stands for Ben's, home of my favorite pizza on the island.

B also stands for "Best keep your hands off my pie, and my potatoes, and my profiteroles."

C is for CHEESEBURGERS I know, I know, you're tired of all my ravings about FBI's cheeseburgers. But this is a rave about SandBar's cheeseburgers, which are juicy and salty and perfectly slider-sized so you can just pop 'em in your mouth like Tic-Tacs.

Indeed, SandBar's sliders are so good, they give FBI's burger a run for its money. (Much like you can call your sibling an idiot, but will promptly deck anyone else who does so, only I am allowed to favorably compare anyone else's burger to Ferryboat's.)

D is for DOLCE VITA One of our favorite restaurants on the island, "Dolce Vita" is Italian for "Mangia! Until it hurts."

That face you make...

When your plates look like this, but Abbi will still ask why you didn't like your meal due that one bite of pasta standing between "pleasantly full" and "bring me a stretcher." Thank god he made us that digestif.

E is for E's OVEN E's is our favorite "date night" place because we both always order the same thing -- the moist but crunchy coconut-crusted grouper with curried beans in a decadent banana-rum sauce -- so there's no reason to fight (over that, anyway).

Of course, it's easy to roll into E's in a good mood if you've had a few martinis across the street at Anguilla Salts and Sands beforehand.

Just how good are these salts? We needed some yard work done last summer . . . and the gardener asked to be paid in AS&S salts in lieu of cash.

F is for FBI Longtime readers of this blog know that the only thing I love more than digging into an FBI cheeseburger is digging into an FBI cheeseburger while poking fun at Christian.

That's obviously harder to do from afar, especially with him being so busy up at the North Pole.

Still, there aren't many places where I feel comfortable enough to slip behind the bar and spike my own drink.

Heck, some people even have a special shirt just for visits to FBI.

Of course, we stopped by a few times for lunch, too . . . to try to get off the naughty list.

G is for GREAT HOUSE One of the oldest resorts on the island, Anguilla Great House was built in 1985, and if your brain works anything like mine, you automatically think that 1985 means 15 years ago.

Great House's piña coladas are as legendary as a flock of seagulls (how's that for an 80s-themed beach pun?), but their spectacular seafood crepes are the real unsung heroes: Huge chunks of seafood are enclosed in a paper-thin crepe and swimming in a lobster bisque-like sauce, only crepes > bisque because the crepes are served with a fork, the tines of which provide a decent defense if anyone catches a whiff and starts to make noises about trying "just a bite."

Hang on to that fork for the colada-curious, too.

H is for HIBERNIA We don't ever need an excuse to go out to eat, but when we heard about the special dinner to benefit Hibernia's orphanage in Myanmar , we jumped at the chance to revisit an old favorite while also doing some good in the world. I mean, just look at that little face!

Not me, the children .

Everything we tried was exquisite, as befits this stunning spot.

And I didn't even take a dip in the decorative pool (this time).

I is for IRIE LIFE

What was that again about blowing through your retirement savings to buy flip-flops and coverups?

J is for JOHNNY CAKES There are as many different johnny cakes on the island as there are goats that run away when I try to pet them, and everyone thinks their favorite johnny cake is the best one. But I am here to tell you that Roy's really is the best one, because it is pillowy and lightly salted and served with soft, creamy butter. Butter is always better.

K is for KALE Kale -- that curly stuff they use to decorate salad bars -- has somehow managed to actually become salad. And the best way to make it palatable is the same way you'd make anything that tastes like a tree trunk palatable: Add fried goat cheese.

L is for LOCKRUM POINT VILLA

Anguilla is chock-full of gorgeous villas, none more so than Lockrum Point Villa.

Its strategic location -- close to FBI everything, while feeling like you're a million miles from anything -- is second only to the villa's chic designer decor, sumptuous four-poster beds, and sunny private pool.

Inside, the combined living and dining area, with its soaring West Indian-style ceiling, is just as dramatic as the views outside.

In the spacious bedrooms, textural details abound.

I loved this crisp white bedding so much, I tracked it down and bought it for my bedroom at home.

Before bedtime, Lockrum Point's wild, windswept setting just east of Blowing Point affords unparalleled views of St. Martin, the crash of waves to lull you to sleep at night, and complete privacy for midnight skinny dips.

Or impromptu photo shoots.

And don't even get me started on these showers.

Inside and out.

------------------------- We still have a little over half the alphabet to go! CLICK HERE for PART 2 !

Posted by TraceyG 13:16 Archived in Anguilla Comments (13)

• Anguilla: A to Z Adventures of the Louche and Lazy, Pt. 2

Missed Part 1? Start with Letter A here !

M is for MALLIOUHANA Malli is stunning at any time of day, but sunset in their aptly-named Bar Soleil is next-level.

Especially if you happen to be lucky enough to catch a candy-striped sunset.

. . . is for NO CREDIT

Coals Man is not playing.

O is for OLAS Though only open since 2019, Eulandy's dynamite drinks and terrific tacos have quickly established Olas' as a must-do on Shoal Bay.

In fact, my only complaint about Olas is that they could use some additional loungers and umbrellas. It's only fair: If you're going to serve a caipiroska that's this good -- and this potent -- you've got to provide people with a place to lie down and sleep it off afterwards.

P is for PICANTE

P is also for, "Please do not touch my corn."

And "Pound that tequila."

And "Plenty of cheese."

And "Pigs."

P also stands for "private pool," which is the only polite place to bare your bikini bod after a few visits to Picante. The one at Lockrum Point Villa ensures complete privacy for your porcine ways.

Q is for QUACK, QUACK

R is for RAIN For the first time in recorded human history, the day we departed was the worst weather day of of our trip, not the best.

A rainy day on Anguilla is still better than a sunny day anywhere else, but a rainy travel day is a level of suckage that I would only wish on the kind of people who take the lounger right next to me when there's a whole row of empty ones.

S is for STRAW HAT Lest you think that I subsist solely on cheeseburgers and rum (ahem), behold our lunch at Straw Hat, where the Greek salad is so good that I make the occasional foray into vegetalia.

I even had fruit!

And look, more veggies!

In fact, we enjoyed our lunch at Straw Hat so much that we came back a few days later.

Lettuce marvel at the fact that I ate salad twice in three weeks.

T is for TASTY'S My point of view is that Tasty's is a great place for a dinner date.

Tasty's point of view is that this is a cool new place to hang.

And everyone shares the point of view that Chef Dale is an island treasure.

U is for UNCLE ERNIE'S Uncle Ernie's has come a long way from being a little beach shack on Shoal Bay East.

Now it's a little beach shack on Shoal Bay East avec panache français .

Plus service with a (beautiful) smile.

The beachy cuisine leans more béchamel than Ranch.

As for Shoal Bay East, it's beautiful in any language.

On this visit we learned that Veya's calamari with nuoc cham is no longer on the menu, which nearly brought me to tears. We reluctantly ordered the crudo with yuzu and Thai basil, which also nearly brought me to tears . . . but for a whole different reason.

For dessert, we shared some Key lime pie in a jar, and one of us may or may not have asked for a second helping of Veya's heavenly basil mashed potatoes.

You know how that Angel is.

W is for WILDLIFE You've got to love a sign that says "Animals Ahead" without specifying which kind. Aardvark? Armadillo? Anteater? The options are endless.

X is for XTRA WATER PICS I mean, can you get really get enough of that blue, blue water?

Y is for YELLOW Bring your sunglasses to Leon's.

And your own straw to match your drink.

If you are going to eat the garnish off a salad bar, be ye not as foolish as I was and get it with a frisbee of fried goat cheese on top next time. (See: Letter K).

If you set out to pet a chicken, you will almost never be fast enough to catch one. Fall asleep for 10 minutes, however, and the chickens will come to you .

Z is for ZEMI Gorgeous architecture, great food, a stunning beach, sexy pools, caring service, and a relaxing spa? No wonder Zemi is named for a deity -- it's pretty much heaven.

The Thai House Spa offers massages, mud wraps, body scrubs, facials, mani-pedis, and other treatments using natural herbs, oils, and polishes.

It is good to do nothing, and then to rest.

Or, you know, eat some more.

----------------------- Next up, a no-holds-barred blowout birthday someplace completely new: Antigua! Click here to subscribe , and you'll be the first to know how that, um, 35th birthday went down.

Posted by TraceyG 16:22 Archived in Anguilla Comments (14)

• Anguilla, Part 1: Newbies by the Numbers

What happens when two longtime visitors to Anguilla bring two newbies along for a week . . . besides the crushing pressure of planning the perfect trip?

A whole lot of incidents, injuries, and ill-considered decisions, which are best summed up in this handy tally:

Large ducks mounted: 1 Large ducks destroyed: 1 Times Trina went home with a stranger: 1 Times Scott went home with a stranger: 1 Times Tracey sampled a stranger's dinner: 2 Fake accents employed: 2 Injuries (cuts/scratches/scrapes): 15 Injuries (bruises): 11 Injuries (Angel): 0 (for the 22nd year running) Hexes placed upon Angel for his lack of injuries: 1 Stabbings (by a particularly sharp plant): 2 Sun rashes: 3 Swim platforms exposed to ladybits and sloshed with frozen mojitos: 1 Times we mashed de place up: 1 Bug bites (Tracey): 2 Bug bites (Trina): 7 (all localized to right butt cheek) Bug bites (Scott): 11 Bug bites (Angel): 348 Goat pettings: 0 Attempted goat pettings: 42 Faces melted by Carolina reaper & ghost pepper sauce: 2 Stories we heard about someone named Snakey: 2 New British greetings invented: 2 Resort pools crashed: 3 Cheeseburgers consumed: 8 Pizzas consumed: 6 Bottles of wine consumed: 9 Number of rum punches consumed: We can't count that high (and even if we could, we can't remember) Pounds of homemade scalloped potatoes consumed: Until nauseous

I should have known when Delta Airlines slashed our newbies' connection time at JFK to just 45 minutes -- then sent them a red, boldfaced warning which read (I'm paraphrasing only slightly here), "Hey, you're probably not going to make the connection that WE idiotically scheduled for you, so you might want to re-book at your own expense" -- that this trip was not going to be tranquility wrapped in blue, but calamity soaked in rum. But as my sister Trina and her husband Scott skidded breathlessly into the early boarding line with us at JFK and we scurried onto the plane bound for St. Maarten, I still held out a sliver of hope.

And in fact, the rest of the travel day ran like clockwork: An easy transfer from plane to dock, complete with icy bottles of water and chilled towels soaked in lemongrass oil(!); an uncharacteristically bump-free boat ride over to Anguilla complemented by a round of rum punches; a breeze through Customs; and the Jeep we'd rented waiting in the parking lot, just as Ronnie Bryan promised.

I mean, Catherine (of the fabulous Anguilla Villa Company) was even waiting at the villa wearing a fabulous tropical-patterned dress that (1) I immediately commented on and (2) she admitted to wearing just for me. Smoooooth , I tell you.

As we have on trips past, we stayed at Coconut Palm on Mead's Bay, not wanting to risk any surprises at a new-to-us place with our new-to-island peeps.

After months of agonizing, I knew I'd made the right choice when Trina and Scott sequestered themselves in the suite downstairs, leaving me and Angel with the entire upstairs to ourselves. (This was pre-Covid, when people sequestered themselves on purpose.)

But we didn't come all this way to hang around the house; I had an entire island to show off, and just one short week to do it. And so we made a beeline for one of our (literally) nearest and dearest, Malliouhana.

Soon the long day of travel began to catch up with us.

Luckily it was nothing that a couple of glasses of Minuty at Leon's couldn't fix.

That evening we decided to stick close to home for dinner, so we headed down the beach to Waves.

We ordered a round of drinks, and pretty much everything on the menu.

It was a quiet night at Waves, with just a handful of bored locals at the bar. And so, when they cranked up the music and asked if we wanted to mash de place up, who were we to say no?

The next morning we explored Coconut Palm and hung around the pool for a bit.

Soon our stomachs began rumbling, so we got ready for lunch.

I picked Ocean Echo on Meads' for Trina and Scott's first lime. I'd say they got the hang of it.

Soon the sweet smell of curry wafted down the beach, so we willed ourselves out of the water and up to the restaurant for lunch.

It was a tough choice -- eat a second pizza, or get back in the water? I think I chose wisely.

Later that afternoon, we spotted it. Like a mirage, it bobbed unsuspectingly in the distance: A gigantic blow-up swan that was just begging to be boarded.

Or, as Scott put it, "You guys are gonna mount that big duck?"

Yes, Scott. Yes, we are.

We bounded off down the beach, energized to complete our conquest.

Only later did we realize that we'd wasted precious energy jumping around like idiots, because that swan was far .

Like, really far.

Indeed, it is no accident that we look like we are drowning in this photo. Did I mention how far it was?

Finally, sweet relief! We grabbed onto the swan for dear life and clambered aboard . . . to find not an Instagram-worthy rosé party, but a couple of children sitting in a puddle of warm water that had collected in the middle.

But it wasn't until we'd, um, swanned off and headed back to shore that we realized that the "water" in that swan was suspiciously warm. Bet you never see that on Instagram.

The next day, we noticed that the swan had disappeared. I guess they had befowled it.

That evening we enjoyed the sunset at Coconut Palm before heading out for dinner.

I really wanted Trina and Scott to enjoy the island on their own for a bit, so we dropped them off in Sandy Ground while Angel and I headed up to Falcon Nest.

But not before yelling, "Don't do drugs!!!" -- Almost Famous style -- as they exited the car.

We ordered up our "usual" - two gigantic lobsters, a rum punch, and a Presidente -- and set to work.

As we were finishing dinner, we bumped into friends Sue, Dina, and Denise enjoying a pasta feast. They politely asked me if I'd like to try it, and anyone who regularly reads this blog knows what a bad move that was.

At least Denise had her head on straight. Here she is thinking, "Don't even look up. Don't make eye contact. Just eat your food before she does."

For their part, Trina and Scott had enjoyed a tapas dinner at SandBar, then walked down the beach for a couple of nightcaps at a new spot on Sandy Ground, Lit Lounge.

The next day we decided on lunch at Elodia's, which Angel likes for their strong rum punch and I like because they do not shame me for ordering off the kids' menu. But first, a stop at the scenic overlook on Back Street.

At Elodia's, Angel and I played in the water while Trina and Scott perfected their limin' technique.

Soon it was time for lunch.

We were just on our way to be seated when we ran into my friend Karen, who was in Anguilla with her parents, who also happen to read this blog. I was honored when Karen said it would make her father's trip if I stopped by to say hello and, after chatting with the three of them for nearly an hour, I was even more honored to have been so easily welcomed by this warm, charming bunch with such a great sense of humor. (Case in point: When Angel came by to gather us up for lunch, Karen's dad took one look at his dark sunglasses and shaved head, and exclaimed, "Oh, look, another celebrity: Mr. Worldwide!" How an 80-year-old man knows who Pitbull is is anyone's guess, but what you don't need to guess is whether Angel was referred to exclusively as Mr. Worldwide for the rest of the trip.)

After lunch, we settled sleepily into our loungers to while away the afternoon.

Of course, we couldn't leave Shoal Bay without introducing Trina and Scott to a local Anguillian favorite, the guavaberry colada. Tropical Sunsets makes an O.G. version that's just Pepto-y enough to satisy even the most discerning palate.

That evening we decided to go fancy for sunset at the Four Seasons.

The place was packed -- particularly for August -- but we lucked into a table with a great sunset view.

Trina and I took a stroll while the guys held down the fort.

We'd timed it perfectly in order to make our dinner reservation at Picante.

I tried to introduce Trina to my beloved seafood enchiladas, but she rebuffed them.

Instead, her and Angel had a staring/swearing/sweating contest, melting their faces off with Picante's Carolina reaper & ghost pepper sauce, made with peppers home-grown by the chef's mother-in-law.

I, of course, was not foolish enough to burn off all my taste buds so early in the trip.

Thankfully they took things down a notch at dessert, with some cool, creamy vanilla ice cream and Picante's justly-famous frozen lemon-lime pudding with the little chili-lime salt shaker on the side.

But you just know those two hotheads went crazy with the chili salt. ____________________________________ Part 2 soon come! Click here to subscribe and you'll receive an email when the new post goes up!

Posted by TraceyG 12:59 Archived in Anguilla Comments (5)

• Anguilla, Part 2: Newbies by the Numbers

By this time we were roughly halfway through our trip, and already we had mashed de place up; mounted a floating, pee-filled duck; eaten half of a stranger's dinner; endured bug bites, sun rashes, and melted faces; and consumed enough rum punch to forget all about the bug bites, sun rashes, and melted faces.

So it seemed like a good time to take our lives into our own hands.

Our friend Rob Willsher, he of the tireless will to find my missing ring , runs the island's best dive shop, Vigilant Divers, and, in a moment of gratitude for everything he'd done for us, I temporarily lost my mind and inexplicably agreed to give scuba diving a try.

We were literally that "How It Started / How It's Going" meme.

Angel did really well, but I was a disaster. First there was the fact that I literally could not stand upright, since the gear weighs 50 lbs. . . . and I weigh 100 lbs. Second was the fact that my thin-skinned body is basically a collection of dowel rods wrapped in tissue paper.

The worst part, though, was that as Angel and I were thrashing about in the water fighting for our lives, Trina and Scott were enjoying a serene, leisurely brunch at Straw Hat.

One of them even had the audacity to order a hot dog while I gasped for my last dying breaths. Next thing you know they'll be scarfing down FBI cheeseburgers at my funeral.

It is a testament to Rob's patience and professionalism that he still agreed to have lunch with us at Straw Hat after we essentially spent the morning sucking up two tanks full of oxygen in order to dunk our heads under water and then wail, "Save yourself! Go on without me!"

We were joined by Trina and Scott (who apparently never left after breakfast), Rob's wife Julie, and Straw Hat owner Anne Parles.

Rob may look like a tough guy, but he dines like the British royalty that he practically is, lunching on an elegant chicken salad and a crisp, grassy Sauvignon Blanc.

Rob regaled us with stories of his road-trip adventures in America -- all of which involved him sparring with the likes of Maury Povich and ended with us in tears of laughter -- and, as the Sauvignon Blanc flowed freely, we decided to create two new British greetings in his honor ("Beef kippers to you!" and "Great candied pears!").

That evening was a Wednesday, which could only mean one thing: Wing Night at FBI.

What appeared to be a new waitress in an AXA Brewery tank flitted from table to table, occasionally popping in behind the bar as well. When she stopped by to check on our table, we got to chatting and, after another round of rum punch, the talk inexplicably turned to which one us had the funniest baby pictures. I thought it was me (I had front teeth the size of tombstones that you could park a truck between); Trina thought it was her (she looked exactly like a Cabbage Patch kid until she was well into high school); and Amy? Well . . . Amy won.

At least she turned out gorgeous. Trina and I are still waiting.

Later Amy mentioned that she'd just gotten a new puppy to keep her existing dogs company, and did we want to come by and see him since she lived just up the hill? I certainly wasn't risking a walk in the dark -- I'm clumsy enough in the daytime and without any rum punch -- but Trina was all in, and although I'd normally be loathe to let her set off in the dark in a foreign country with a complete stranger (to see a puppy, no less -- the oldest trick in the book!), I figured it would be fine since Amy worked at FBI and Scott was going along, too. And so they set off into the Anguillian night.

Later, when Marjorie asked where they'd gone, I explained that they'd gone up to her new employee's house to see some dogs.

"You mean that blonde girl I saw earlier?" she asked. "She doesn't work here."

Luckily Trina is too small to make a skin suit out of anyway, and so her and Scott returned to FBI safe and sound and covered in puppy saliva.

The next day we decided to head over to Zemi Beach House for lunch, to show Trina and Scott how the other half (and shameless interlopers) live.

We enjoyed a delicous lunch of fish tacos, watermelon and feta salad, tomato gazpacho, and more.

After lunch we headed to the upper-level pool for a swim.

Not a bad day for a bunch of interlopers. ------------------------- There's still one more part!! Click here to subscribe and you'll be the first to know if we mount any more large, seafaring blow-up animals.

Posted by TraceyG 17:37 Archived in Anguilla Tagged vigilant_divers Comments (4)

• Anguilla, Part 3: Newbies by the Numbers

That evening our friends Hal and Donna invited us over to their villa in Island Harbour for sunset cocktails.

I wore a very special outfit: Donna made this dress for me, using a sarong I found at Irie Life. Made it! Me, I can barely use scissors without adult supervision.

After drinks we drove the short distance over to Ben's for dinner.

See that pointy plant in the foreground? It had no sooner stabbed me right in the crotch when I heard a muffled "oooof" behind me, only to turn and see Trina nearly impaled through the groin by the same sneaky shrub. (It is only with great restraint that I do not make any bush puns here.)

Sadly, she hasn't been able to sit upright since.

I knew I was having Ben's excellent pepperoni pizza, and came prepared in case I needed a slice for the road.

The next day we decided to check out Cap Juluca. Obviously they'll let anybody in this place.

Mother Nature ensured that we didn't overstay our welcome.

Ferryboat Inn may not be as fancy as Cap Juluca, but the burgers are better and that guy Christian is somewhat ok, too, now that he's married to Jenn.

Someone who is more than just ok is Marjorie, who made an entire casserole dish full of homemade scalloped potatoes just for me. Which I proceeded to inhale at a rate that would make Joey Chestnut break out in a sweat.

Of course, we made sure that we weren't the only ones who ate well at FBI that day.

Later, the guys dropped me and Trina off at CuisinArt while they checked out Christian's new venture, AXA Brewery. [NOTE: AXA Brewery is currently closed but should be back up and running soon. Save water, drink beer!]

Meanwhile, over at CuisinArt, Trina and I were busy contorting ourselves into their egg chairs and making people jealous of our frozen mojitos.

It had been a long day -- even more so for those of us who downed a bushel of potatoes at lunch -- so we picked up dinner at B&D's for a well-deserved night in.

The next morning Trina and Scott kept to their routine of breakfast at Straw Hat, while Angel and I made a pit stop at Shoal Bay West.

We split up for lunch, too, with Trina and Scott at Blanchard's Beach Shack and Angel and I just down the beach at Ocean Echo.

For lunch, we feated on Caesar salad, shrimp curry, and pepperoni pizza before retiring to our rafts.

The four of us couldn't stay apart for long, though, and met up that afternoon at the Dune Preserve.

But the swim platform at CuisinArt beckoned, and after our encounter with the Pee-king Duck, we were powerless to resist. And so we sloshed aboard, chistening everything in our paths with frozen mojito.

Trina was triumphant, while I pretended not to know her. I'm sure Scott can relate.

It was our last night on island, and I had a perfect night planned -- sunset and Sancerre at Coconut Palm, followed by dinner at our beloved Dolce Vita.

Abbi surprised me with a gargantuan veal parm, and Angel and I surprised Trina with an early birthday celebration.

The next morning we were set to depart on the ferry back to St. Martin. It was a Sunday, so we negotiated a deal: If Ferryboat would open that morning just for us, we'd provide the sausage and egg sandwiches and the entertainment (a.k.a. Trina in any sort of hat).

Although Marjorie was at church and didn't join us, she still did the Lord's work the night before and prepared some rum punch for us to take to go.

Now that is how you travel first-class.

-------------------------------- Where to next? Burgers, bourbon, and bumpkins in the Hudson Valley; a very special birthday trip to Antigua; summer on Anna Maria Island . . . and TWO MONTHS(!!) in Anguilla. Click here to subscribe and you'll be notified when a new post goes up!

Want to know what we're eating in the meantime? Follow me on Instagram @escape.from.new.york. Hope to see you there!

Posted by TraceyG 12:37 Archived in Anguilla Tagged dolce_vita ferryboat_inn Comments (6)

• St. John, USVI, Part 1: Chicken(s) of the Sea

As longtime readers of this blog already know, Angel and I are experienced Caribbean travelers. And as such, we have endured our share of only-in-the-islands hardships. There was that warm Chardonnay served in plastic cups in Abaco . The private beach dinner in Anguilla sans the tiny decorative pineapples I'd requested. And, probably most horrific of all, that Christmas Day on Tortola when I almost didn't get to eat lunch.

But none of these prior calamities could have prepared us for our pre-Covid visit to St. John.

Beautiful St. John, with its striking green mountains and stunning beaches. Peaceful St. John, with its chill vibe and charming people. Scenic St. John, with its steep switchbacks and sweeping overlooks.

And utterly terrifying St. John, with spiders the size of saucers and billipedes (that is not a typo) the size of hot dogs and bumblebees so huge they look like flying avocados. St. John, with its nightly cacophony of frogs? howler monkeys? Tasmanian devils? that sound like an angry flock of seagulls fighting over a single French fry. St. John, where the charming cottage we rented featured a screen door that never managed to bang around the same way twice, leaving us unwitting participants in a nightly guessing game of "Is it just the wind...or is it a masked intruder hoping to find more than just the 16 pairs of shoes I brought?"

There is an old adage that a particularly bad scare can so startle a person's heart as to shave one year off their life expectancy. After surprises on St. John ranging from finding an enormous waterbug on my face towel (apparently it's possible to scream so loud that you startle them ) to an unidentified creepy-crawly in my hair (more screaming, plus some wild Elaine Benes-style thrashing) to taking a pitch-black outdoor shower at night during a blackout (in the interest of preserving my few remaining shreds of sanity, I refuse to even speculate) . . . I am pleased to announce that I am inexplicably still alive given that, according to the old adage, I should have died approximately nine years ago.

Our nightly Battle of the Bugs began on the Sunday before Christmas, when we foolishly arrived with suitcases full of clothes and brightly wrapped presents instead of cans of Bop and beekeeper suits.

None of this, of course, was the fault of Sago Cottage, a charming, spotless West Indian style cottage in Calabash Boom.

We didn't want to venture too far on our first night on island, so we headed down to Coral Bay just in time for sunset at Aqua Bistro.

What beats fried calamari, tacos, rum punch, and a Bushwacker for dinner?

Obviously that was a rhetorical question.

Angel awoke bright and early the next morning, while I planned ahead for a cottage with no window blinds.

Finally I roused myself enough to get dressed and take in our fragrant surroundings.

Soon it was time for lunch, so we headed down the mountain to Skinny Legs.

Skinny Legs is proudly blender-free, but that didn't stop us from ordering up a Painkiller, a rum punch, and then the deadly Melee -- a blend of all six Cruzan rum flavors and a thimble full of fruit juice.

After lunch we decided on a swim at Cinnamon Bay or, as we were calling it after that Melee, Cimmaninn.

After that, things got wild.

That evening we dressed casually for dinner at The Longboard, only to find that the wait was more than an hour. Too hungry to hang on, we instead somehow managed to luck into an outdoor table at one of the best -- and most popular -- restaurants on the island, Extra Virgin.

Although we had reservations for later in the week and hate to repeat a restaurant on vacation, Extra Virgin's gracious service, fabulous drinks, and excellent food definitely warrant doubling or even tripling up.

The next morning we awoke to a gorgeous sunrise. Not on purpose, of course. We're not psychos.

We do sometimes dress alike, though, which I guess is close enough.

For lunch, we decided to drive into town to check out the Banana Deck.

This place serves greasy cheeseburgers, extra-cheesy fried mozzarella sticks, and Caesar dressing with enough mayonnaise in it to choke a wild donkey. In other words, I loved it.

For his part, Angel had the grilled fish sammie with a spicy BBQ sauce that damn near melted his face off . . . which means he loved it, too.

After that lunch, we thought it best to sequester ourselves at one of the more private beaches to avoid prying questions like, "Mommy, did that lady swallow a beach ball?" So we headed off to Oppenheimer Beach in hopes of snagging one of the very few parking spots.

Success! Oppenheimer turned out to be one of our very favorites of the trip.

It certainly didn't hurt that we had it all to ourselves.

When we'd finally had our fill of the sea, we headed back to Sago Cottage, stopping along the way to sample a Tropical Whiskey Punch at the Danforth and dodge some goats before cozying up in the hot tub in time for sunset.

That night was Christmas Eve, and we'd booked dinner at Rhumb Lines.

The wait for our food was a long one thanks to the holiday, but eventually we feasted on potstickers, Szechuan tuna with "Puff Daddy" noodles, and a delicious shrimp Pad Thai.

The next morning, I opened my Christmas presents, thanked Angel for his thoughtfulness, and then ran off with another man. Well, motored, actually. What can I say? The heart wants what it wants, and what mine wants is pizza.

We showed up at the dock ready to jam.

We spent most of the morning on the slide, even reenacting "A Christmas Story," since it was Christmas day.

Soon it was time for one of the catamaran crew members to make the run over the to the floating pizza shop, Pizza Pi, to pick up lunch. They don't normally take passengers with them, of course, but I can be very persuasive. Or pathetic. Whatever.

At first Angel had no idea where I'd gone, but it didn't take him long to figure out that where there's a pizza, there's a Tracey.

There might even be some rum punch.

--------------------------------- Ready to Lime Out? Click here for PART 2! To be notified of future posts, click here to subscribe and you'll receive an email whenever a new one goes up!

Posted by TraceyG 14:50 Archived in US Virgin Islands Tagged coral_bay virgin_islands usvi st_john aqua_bistro calabash_boom skinny_legs sago_cottage Comments (6)

• St. John, USVI, Part 2: Chicken(s) of the Sea

After a Christmas Day sail full of pepperoni pizza and rum punch, there was only one thing left to do afterwards: Grab some margaritas.

We ended up at Greengo's, a festive spot in Mongoose Junction.

By this point in our trip, I had almost made peace with the creepy-crawlies that were intent on terrorizing me wherever I went. At home, I styled myself as a modern-day Rambo, a can of BOP in one hand and an electric bug zapper in the other. At night, I rolled myself into a tight burrito made of bedsheets and topped with a thick layer of Deep Woods OFF. I steadfastly refused to use any light that didn't have a lightswitch after a particularly traumatizing incident involving a waterbug on a lampshade, and on occasion I even encountered an insect small enough to dispose of myself with my flip-flop, instead of my usual method of dropping a stockpot over the multi-legged beast and screaming bloody murder for Angel. In other words, I had the situation mostly under control.

Until we arrived home from Greengos and all hell broke loose.

There was a blackout . And to be honest, I'm not sure which was more terrifying: Having to use the outdoor shower in the pitch dark, or having to go to Christmas Dinner without the benefit of a mirror or a hairdryer.

Luckily our dinner was quite the distraction: a round of Copa Cabanas with Plantation overproof rum, lime, orange, and pineapple juice; tuna tartare; decadent Coquille St. Jacques; and the Caribbean version of a turducken: Lobster stuffed with shrimp stuffed with crabmeat, all topped with a creamy, citrusy sauce.

The next day we set off for the Art Bar in Cruz Bay. There, I treated Angel to a rum tasting to occupy him while I shopped their selection of beautiful hand-made jewelry.

We'd so enjoyed our earlier dinner at Extra Virgin that we decided to give their new sister restaurant, 1864, a try for lunch.

There, we enjoyed moules frites, a fabulous smashburger, and 1864's excellent focaccia.

Soon the beach beckoned again, so we set off for a soak.

After an afternoon in the hot sun, we'd worked up a thirst.

New Favorite Drink Alert: the R&R, made with St. John Brewers' draft root beer mixed with Cruzan vanilla rum.

The afternoon had turned cloudy, and by the time we got back to Sago Cottage, it had started to drizzle. Not that we let that spoil our fun.

By evening it was raining in earnest, so we decided to snuggle in with a couple of pizzas from Pizzabar in Paradise and a bottle of red wine, enjoying the sound of the rain drumming on the tin roof.

We spent the next morning taking in the spectacular view from the cottage.

Eventually we decided to check out nearby Salt Pond Bay, which is where we learned that "a trail good for all skill levels" still means that you should actually wear shoes.

Somehow we managed to make it to the beach with our ankles intact.

Happily, the day began to clear up, so we made a beeline for the Paddle-In Tiki Bar at Maho.

There, we discovered the Friend of the Devil, a Painkiller with bourbon instead of rum. I have no idea how I'd never thought of that before, but it's never too late to make a good cocktail even more deadly.

It's just a shame they were so stingy with the nutmeg.

Lunch was at High Tide, where we enjoyed crunchy coconut shrimp, spicy blackened fish, and a Caprese sandwich served with a tasty little pasta salad.

For dinner, we stuck close to home with some BBQ at Oasis, where we might as well been this potted plant for all the attention the bartender paid us.

And they were out of the mac & cheese, which is a far greater crime than just ignoring me.

The next morning dawned bright and sunny, which was perfect for what I had planned for our last full day.

We piled into the Jeep and set off for Hansen Bay and what would be one of the highlights of our trip, Lime Out.

I was practically giddy at the thought of not just tacos and Painkillers at Lime Out, but floating tacos and Painkillers, and so I was crestfallen when we learned that the pedal boat we planned to rent to get over there was not available, having filled with water from the rain the day before. But those tacos beckoned, and so Angel and a kind stranger managed to lift the massive pedal boat and drain it so we could pedal over to Lime Out.

Finally, having pedaled our little hearts out, we arrived at Lime Out, tied up our ride, and clambered "aboard."

We whiled away the afternoon with cocktails, tacos, and new friends.

Soon it was time to pedal back.

Of course, it's not every day that you find yourself pedaling away from a floating taco bar in the middle of a secluded bay at sunset and hear someone call your name, and I'll admit that my first thought was that I was hallucinating from one too many Painkillers. But there was Sandra, the caretaker who'd led us to Sago Cottage when we first arrived on St. John, and her partner Ronald on their sailboat, waving and inviting us aboard as we pedaled by.

Ronald went ashore to pick up Angel from returning the pedal boat, leaving Sandra and I alone to take silly selfies.

Sunset from a sailboat with new friends and a belly full of tacos and Painkillers? Not a bad way to end our last day.

It was our last night on island, so we headed back to what had quickly become a new favorite, Extra Virgin Bistro.

The next morning we soaked up the view one last time, said goodbye to our goat friends, and grabbed a quick lunch at the Westin before dragging ourselves to the nearby ferry dock.

On the way back to St. Thomas, we were treated to a rainbow spanning the horizon, a symbol of hope in many cultures. Angel's hope was that we'd return to St. John someday.

Mine was that I'd never see a billipede ever again.

------------------------------ You may have spent the pandemic baking bread, organizing your closets, and learning to play the ukulele, but I spent it watching Tiger King and not blogging. But now I'm back, baby, and there's at least a year's worth of trips to catch up on! Up next? Anguilla, Antigua, and anyplace else that will permit disease-ridden Americans to enter the country. Click here to subscribe and you'll be the first to know when a new post goes up!

Posted by TraceyG 12:54 Archived in US Virgin Islands Tagged terrace st_john tiki greengos the_terrace st_john_brewers pizzabar_in_paradise art_bar 1864 maho lime_out Comments (6)

• Cape Town, South Africa: From A to Z, Part 1

Like most people, I love to travel but hate to fly. The crowds, the jostling, the lines, and, worst of all, the hours of unrelenting boredom relieved only by the occasional bag of pretzels (stale) or temper tantrum (mine). And so, when I learned that a trip to Cape Town would require a 14-hour nonstop to Johannesburg, followed by another 2-hour flight to Cape Town, I jokingly thought, "Man, this place better have literally everything . I want beaches and mountains and wineries! I want chi-chi restaurants and waterfront bars and postcard views! I want rolling vineyards and world-class wines and great food and a vibrant downtown and historic architecture and sweeping vistas and . . ."

Impossibly . . . Cape Town had all of it.

In fact, Cape Town is the only city I've ever visited that's so scenic, drivers pull onto the shoulder of a busy highway, jump out of their car, and literally risk death just to take a selfie.

I, of course, would never do something so silly just for a photo.

And as if all that weren't nearly enough . . . they also have penguins .

In the end, Cape Town was such an embarrassment of riches that in the time it would take you to read a day-by-day, chronological recounting of our trip, you could have just flown there yourself. And so, here's my (mostly) A to Z list of the most beautiful, breathtaking, and beguiling reasons to visit Cape Town. [NOTE: This trip was pre-Covid. I wouldn't spend 14 hours on a plane now unless, well, it was going to Cape Town.]

AZURE We decided to have Christmas Eve dinner at Azure, the five-star restaurant at Cape Town's 12 Apostles Hotel. Twelve apostles, twelve days of Christmas, seemed appropriate.

Azure overlooks both Camps Bay and Lions Head Mountain, and even though just one of those would constitute a spectacular view anywhere else in the world, this is Cape Town, where such views are the norm. It's like Malibu and Tuscany went on a wine-fueled bender, resulting in the world's most beautiful baby.

And you know the food is good when it can distract you from the postcard views outside.

Plus, the dessert was smokin'.

BUITENVERWACHTING One of the things I loved most about Cape Town was how far in advance they take restaurant reservations...that is, until September rolled around and I found that my first and second choices for Christmas lunch were already booked. That, however, turned out to be one of the best things that's ever happened to me, because otherwise I'd never have discovered Buitenverwaching [Bite-en-ver-VACHT-ing] and their delicious, decadent, top-five-meals-in-my-life Christmas spectacular.

I originally thought we'd dine outside on the patio, but the gracious reservationist, Lanita, recommended the glass-enclosed terrace for a better view. She did not steer us wrong.

Our seven-course lunch included mozzarella espuma; marinated tuna with pan-fried baby gem lettuce and black garlic; quail saltimbocca with curried popcorn jus, chorizo, and truffles; and braised beef with crispy morels and taro crema.

All paired with Buitenverwachting's excellent wines, of course.

So much wine, in fact, that I could have sworn they served my dessert in a little Santa sled.

In fact, the only bad thing I have to say about Buitenverwachting is that they continue to torture me with emails regarding all of the other spectacular-sounding food and wine events they're hosting, so much so that we have considered moving halfway around the world to Cape Town just so we can become regulars here.

I mean, it's not the world's worst plan.

CHAPMAN'S PEAK Chapman's Peak is located on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. The western flank of the mountain drops precipitously into the Atlantic Ocean and a road, known as Chapman's Peak Drive, hugs the near-vertical face of the mountain. Obviously this is not dangerous at all.

Part of the road is carved directly into the mountain, which handily combines acrophobia and claustrophobia for those who are short on time.

DELAIRE GRAFF ESTATE In the U.S., Graff is known for outsized diamonds and Oscar-night jewels. But in over-the-top Cape Town, Graff is known as a paradise for wine enthusiasts, foodies, spa-goers, and art collectors . . . and those inclined to pick up a $1.2 million diamond over lunch.

Delaire means "from the sky," and it's a fitting name for a vineyard nestled on the Helshoogte Mountain Pass, which links two of South Africa's most famous wine-growing regions, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

Our day at Delaire began with lunch on the terrace, where we enjoyed excellent food, stellar views, and solicitous service.

Breathtaking as they are, the mountains aren't the only African works of art around here.

Though the day's weather was perfect, it was easy to see how cozy the indoor dining room would be in winter.

After lunch, we retired to the wine lounge for a customized tasting.

The wines were fantastic; so much so that we placed a very large order to be shipped home. Otherwise we'd definitely have picked up a 10-carat diamond on our way out.

ERNIE ELS One of the highlights of the wine-country town of Stellenbosch is La Gratitude, a gorgeous 17th century Cape Dutch style mansion that houses apartments, offices, and a restaurant owned by South African pro golfer Ernie Els.

Upstairs, the private Founder's Club is a chic, clubby spot to retire with a whiskey after dinner.

But on this day, the warm, sunny weather dictated that we retire to the garden.

Oh, look, it's my living room window.

FETA CHEESE AND FANCY COCKTAILS Trust me, I wasn't expecting feta to be on the list of reasons to visit Cape Town, either. But when you split your time between New York City and the Hamptons, where feta is stingily doled out with tweezers in pieces that are both the size and price of pearls, you know a world-class bargain when you see one.

I was, however, expecting fancy cocktails from this cosmopolitan (heh-heh) city, and Cape Town did not disappoint. One of our favorite spots was The Bungalow, a chic beachfront spot in Clifton.

Another was Ginja in the V&A Waterfront, a stylish spot with killer views of Table Mountain.

And still more feta.

GUARDIAN PEAK Guardian Peak's philosophy, "Live with Wine," is built on the winery's belief that wine and food should be inseparable in our daily diet. Huh. Apparently I've been on a diet my entire adult life.

Nestled under the towering peak on Stellenbosch Mountain for which it is named, Guardian Peak's stunning estate includes a winery, restaurants, expansive terrace, and well-stocked shop.

After a customized tasting, we moved indoors to a window-side table for a multi-course lunch.

Yes, "ladies"-sized cuts of beef. Obviously they haven't met this lady.

HIKING LION'S HEAD MOUNTAIN I usually prefer to do my hiking in ballet flats and white pants , or on a bike so I don't have to walk . But when I heard that Lion's Head rewarded a beginner-level hike with sweeping views of the entire city, I bought a pair of cute boots and decided to give it a go.

As we drew nearer, the enormity of the mountain, and the stupidity of our task, became clear.

But it was a beautiful day -- Christmas Day! -- and so we foolishly stumbled off into the bush with no water, no sunscreen, and no sense.

Obviously I had no business being on a sheer vertical rock face with nothing but a flimsy chain between me and death by clumsiness...but the views made the risk worth it.

And did I mention the ladders? I mean, if using one just to clean your gutters is dangerous, then using one to climb up a mountain is downright suicidal.

Sure, it was an unconventional way to spend Christmas morning, but that was nothing compared to the penguin-palooza to come. --------------------------------------------

Posted by TraceyG 16:05 Archived in South Africa Tagged twelve_apostles cape_town south_africa stellenbosch chapmans_peak azure buitenverwachting constantia delaire delaire_graff la_gratitude guardian_peak lions_head Comments (7)

• Cape Town, South Africa: From A to Z, Part 2

JOY The oldest residential neighborhood in Cape Town, Bo Kaap is known for its charming, joyfully colorful houses.

Formerly known as the Malay Quarter, Bo Kaap is the historical center of Cape Malay culture in Cape Town and the oldest surviving residential neighborhood in the city.

KHAYELITSHA A shameful relic of apartheid, Cape Town's Khayelitsha district was formed in the early 1980s when Xhosa-speaking Blacks from the Eastern Cape moved westward to Cape Town in search of work. The apartheid regime sought to solve this "problem" by establishing new Black neighborhoods -- including Khayelitsha, which means "new home" in Xhosa -- on the outskirts of Cape Town, then forcefully relocating the Black population to these districts. In reality, the Xhosas' "new home" is the world's fifth-largest slum.

Heartbreakingly, cardboard boxes and corrugated-metal shipping containers, which stretch as far as the eye can see, still serve as home to almost 400,000 people.

To help the residents of Khayelitsha or one of Cape Town's other districts, visit Arm in Arm in Africa .

LA PETITE TARTE If Khayelitsha is the worst of Cape Town, then the city's trendy De Waterkant neighborhood -- an area once inhabited by slaves but now home to both Blacks and whites -- shows that cultural diversity makes an area more vibrant and interesting. Today De Waterkant features cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafés, a diverse popuation, and a great little bistro, La Petite Tarte.

It's like they knew I was coming.

La Petite looks like a shabby chic farmhouse, minus the stray cats and plus the extra charm.

La Petite's menu was so good that we couldn't just order just one entrée. Which is how we ended up having bobotie, a Croque Monsieur, and a chicken pot pie for lunch.

What is bobotie, you ask? Pronounced "ba-BOH-tee," it's a classic South African baked casserole of curried ground beef with a creamy, custard-like egg topping. So kind of like a spicy Shepherd's pie, if Shepherd's pie was one of the best things you'd ever tasted.

We even behaved ourselves.

Just kidding.

MOUETTE La Mouette, which means "the seagull," is housed in an Tudor building in Sea Point that was once home to the town's mayor.

It was the perfect choice for Christmas dinner, suffused with soft amber light and warmed by cozy fireplaces.

The visually stunning five-course tasting menu didn't hurt, either. Who wouldn't want parmesan custard(!!!) with cauliflower and hazelnut crumble; braised short ribs with celery root tacos; burrata with honeycomb and arugula oil; and herbed gnocchi with edible twigs and and truffle snow, all topped off with a gorgeous passionfruit curd with coconut and mango sorbet for dessert?

Most charming of all? The chef had saved all of his original, handwritten recipes from his early days as a cook, then framed them for display when he finally got his own restaurant.

Now that's the kind of place I can (celery) root for.

OWL COTTAGE We knew we'd be doing a lot of driving on this trip -- from Sea Point to Stellenbosch, Clifton to Constantia, and points in between -- and so we chose our home base carefully. That turned out to be the chic seaside suburb of Hout Bay.

We decided to stay at Owl Cottage, a charming bungalow in the Victorskloof area with a veranda overlooking the sea and Chapman's Peak, and a sweet, flower-filled patio out back.

Inside, the cottage was bright and spacious.

And my sister made sure it was decked out for Christmas, with a pair of homemade, safari-themed stockings.

They were perfect for smuggling home a couple of blocks of feta.

PENGUINS After lunch on Christmas Day, I got the best Christmas present of all time: A trip to Boulders Beach in False Bay to the see the penguins.

African penguins are obviously adorable, but they are also hilarious, clumsily waddling about, falling asleep at inopportune times, and adopting a little spread-eagle stance when it's time for a rest.

ROUNDHOUSE On our first night in Cape Town, we knew we'd be exhausted from the flight and ready for some pampering. And so we chose The Roundhouse, an upscale spot nestled under Table Mountain and overlooking Camps Bay.

Founded in 1786, the Roundhouse was originally built as a guardhouse for the Dutch East India Company, as the location was ideally situated to keep watch of enemy ships. Today it is ideally situated to have a great arrival-night meal, which on this night included cured trout with miso and tahini puree; steamed kingklip with burnt apple and fish-bone cream; beef in Rooikrans (an evergreen also known as acacia cyclops) coal oil; lamb belly with carrot and cashew puree; and Karoo Farm ostrich with caramelized milk, turnip, and sunchoke.

Dessert #1 featured buffalo yogurt with carrot and satsuma sorbets and white chocolate caramel, while Dessert #2, which was described only as "coconut, rose, lychee, green tea," featured ice cream "soil" and a swirl of dry ice.

STELLENBOSCH Affectionately referred to as "Stellies," Stellenbosch is South Africa’s second oldest town and the epicenter of the Cape Winelands region.

It's also great place to wonder why you don't just move here already.

TOKARA Tokara Estate is situated over 1,300 feet above sea level on top of the Helshoogte Pass outside Stellenbosch. I have no idea how to pronounce "Helshoogte," but after a wine tasting here, the variations are endless.

The drive alone to Tokara is worth the trip.

In addition to wine, Tokara offers tastings of its four different types of extra virgin olive oil.

V&A WATERFRONT The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is the oldest working harbor in the southern half of the world. It also offers one of the most stunning vistas in the city, which is saying a lot in a place like Cape Town.

No, we didn't ride the Ferris wheel. When I miraculously made it down from Lion's Head alive, I decided not to push my luck with any more high-risk activities.

WHISKEY World-class whiskey in wine country? You bet your bitters there is.

Home to one of the largest whiskey collections in the Southern Hemisphere -- over 500 whiskies from nearly every producing region in the world -- Bascule Bar in the Cape Grace Hotel complements the hotel’s nautical vibe, located as it is down a narrow stairway leading to what might well be the hull of a ship.

You can even get your own whiskey locker.

X, Y, Z Look, I got nothing for these letters. We played no xylophones, we ate no yams, and we covered the zebras in my safari posts . So how about some more penguins?

Posted by TraceyG 13:43 Archived in South Africa Tagged cape_town penguins south_africa stellenbosch roundhouse bobotie bo_kaap la_petite_tarte bar_bascule owl_cottage host_bay la_mouette tokara Comments (1)

• Sabi Sands, South Africa: Come On and Safari With Me (Pt. 1)

Over the past few years, as we've watched more and more of our friends hit the Big Five-Oh, Angel came to realize that no matter how big a blowout celebration was held, a birthday still lasts, well, one day -- or maybe a week, if one is lucky -- and then it is forgotten, like so many sets of keys and pairs of glasses and other things that (I hear) one misplaces when one reaches the other side of 50.

And so, the least selfish man on the planet suddenly and uncharacteristically declared that when he turned 50, he planned to keep the party going . . . all year long. "The Year of Angel," as it came to be known, gradually took shape, ranging from a bourbon tour of Kentucky (with detours to the Louisville Slugger factory, the Muhammad Ali museum, and Churchill Downs, all a gift from his generous friend Robert), to Yankees spring training in Tampa with his baseball buddy Brian, to a birthday-night dinner in Anguilla , to a cigar-and-mojito fueled trip to Havana , to the, er, wildest trip of them all: An African safari.

Our adventure began with a short, scenic flight from our home base in Cape Town to Nelspruit Airport in Mpumalanga, and if you think that's easy to say, then you didn't have nearly as many sundowners on your safari as I did on mine.

From Mpumalanga, we boarded a tiny bush plane bound for the Arathusa Airstrip.

That's air strip , not air port .

After exhaustive research in which I ruled out (1) all of the ultra-luxurious lodges that look like Ralph Lauren ads and cost more per night than my monthly take-home pay, and (2) those that allow very small children -- obviously a natural fit given that safaris feature large and sometimes deadly wild animals, a guide carrying a loaded rifle, and the expectation that everyone will be quiet -- we settled on Arathusa Safari Lodge.

Luxurious enough to offer essentials like hot showers and air conditioning, but rustic enough to require an armed escort to our suite at night, Arathusa has just thirteen suites, nine of which face a waterhole (now dry due to South Africa's ongoing drought) and four of which are remotely located within the bush.

Sought after due to its prime location within the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, which itself is adjacent to the vast, unfenced Kruger National Park, Arathusa also featured a comfortable outdoor bar and lounge, a large swimming pool, and -- incredibly, given its far-flung location -- some of the best food we've ever had on any vacation, anywhere.

We booked early and had our choice of suites, ultimately deciding on Marula, one of the four remote bush suites and the furthest one from the main lodge. Given the suite's luxe furnishings and private swimming pool, you might not think we were really roughing it, but that's only because you didn't see how far Marula was from the lodge's cocktail bar.

Thoughtful touches, like a soaking tub for two and an outdoor shower, completed the suite.

And what Marula lacked in privacy when showering indoors, it made up for with the private dipping pool and secluded patio.

We weren't completely alone, though.

Upon our arrival, we had been greeted at the airstrip by one of the guides, who ferried us over to Arathusa just in time for lunch.

Most people who spend time in the bush are fearful of contracting malaria or being mauled by a wild animal; I, of course, was worried that I might starve to death (and had packed a bag full of granola bars just in case). And so I should have known -- when Arathusa staff didn't even let us see our suite before whisking us off to lunch -- that my fears were not only unfounded, but ridiculous: Arathusa fed us so heartily, and so frequently, that I am pretty sure Angel once faked a headache just to avoid stuffing down a three-course lunch mere hours after the mid-morning snack, which itself had been preceded by breakfast and a pre-breakfast snack. Me, I'm down with any place where lunch is the fourth meal of the day.

That afternoon was our first game drive.

Concerned that the late December summer foliage would obscure our viewing, we'd brought along a high-powered zoom lens . . . which turned out to be almost completely unnecessary.

Though it was only our first drive, we were thrilled to spot three of the Big Five . . . and their babies.

We also saw the first of many, many impala, a medium-sized antelope native to Africa.

We came to prefer the evening game drives to the morning ones for several reasons -- no 4:30am wake-up call; the opportunity to bask in the late afternoon heat; and returning to the lodge in the soft blue twilight -- but the main one was . . . sundowners.

Scheduled roughly halfway through each evening game drive, sundowners are the South African version of happy hour.

And that is how I had the best gin-and-tonic of my life, at a makeshift bar in the bush, under the late afternoon warmth of the African sun.

The second half of our inaugural drive was just as awe-inspiring as the first.

That evening, exhaustion from the long day of travel started to catch up with us, but Arathusa had a little surprise in store before we could return to the lodge: Dinner in the bush, under a dark sky blanketed with stars.

It was the experience of a lifetime.

CLICK HERE TO READ PART 2!

Posted by TraceyG 05:28 Archived in South Africa Tagged safari kruger kruger_national_park sabi_sand sabi_sands arathusa safari_lodge Comments (11)

• Sabi Sands, South Africa: Come On and Safari With Me (Pt. 2)

The next morning -- early, early morning -- was our first pre-dawn game drive. We roused ourselves at 4:30am, which was just enough time to shower, brush our teeth, and get over to the lodge for Pre-Breakfast 1.

We set off on a completely different path from the day before (as we would do for every game drive), spotting kudu, waterbuck, and the ubiquitous impala along the way.

Pre-Breakfast 2 was served mid-safari at roughly 7am.

Afterwards, our talented tracker, DeBeers, led us to a Cape buffalo and a stunning, elusive leopard, rounding out in just two safari drives the Big Five we'd hoped to see.

As well as the baby elephants I couldn't see often enough.

After the game drive, it was time for our third meal of the day, Official Breakfast.

When we arrived back at our suite after stuffing ourselves silly, we discovered that some visitors had been monkeying around the place.

That afternoon was spent lazing around the pool in hopes of seeing a passing elephant (me) and passing out cold from lack of sleep (Angel).

On the evening game drive, another surprise: Animals we never expected to see in Africa, like turtles, owls, saddle-billed storks, and technicolor lizards.

And a few we did expect, like hares, mongoose (mongeese?) and vultures.

Plus zebras which, amid all the green, looked suprisingly more exotic than any other animal we saw on safari.

As well as the "usual" kudu, hippos, and lions.

Dinner that night was held outdoors in Arathusa's boma, a wooden enclosure traditionally used to house livestock.

After dinner, we hung around the bar for a bit . . . because the armed guard who escorted us back to Marula each night had spotted some leopards near our front door.

Which has to be the best excuse I'll ever have for ordering another round. --------------------------- CLICK HERE TO READ PART 3!

Posted by TraceyG 05:04 Archived in South Africa Tagged safari game_drive kruger_national_park big_five sabi_sands arathusa Comments (3)

• Sabi Sands, South Africa: Come On and Safari With Me (Pt. 3)

Another morning brought another pre-dawn wake-up call, and another surprise: Rare African wild dogs, an endangered species with only four remaining populations in Africa, one of which is in Kruger.

The painted dogs were beautiful, but can anything beat the cuteness of a baby giraffe who thinks you can't see him?

Later, more lions and some wildebeest, though -- lucky for the wildebeest -- not at the same time.

That afternoon, we joined one of the rangers on a nature walk around the Arathusa property.

I won't lie: I think I'd rather have seen a rabid wild dog than this giant termite mound . . .

And whatever the heck this is.

Our last evening safari didn't disappoint: We saw leopards and zebras; Angel got to ride back to the lodge in the tracker seat; and one of us went, well, full bush.

Our last dinner under the boma was a celebration of food, wine, and the friends we'd made along the way.

We were scheduled for one last morning game drive before checking out. It started out a bit drizzly, so we donned a couple of oversized rain ponchos and headed off into the bush.

Eventually the drizzle changed over to a much-needed heavy rain, and we returned to the lodge, chilly and soaked, for a fireside breakfast.

I told you we were roughing it out there.

Posted by TraceyG 05:40 Archived in South Africa Tagged safari game_drive kruger_national_park sabi_sands arathusa Comments (7)

• Birthday Weekend: A Treen Grows In Brooklyn

What's better than a waterfront food festival with a view of the Manhattan skyline and over 100(!) vendors representing the city's best restaurants?

Attending that food festival on a glorious 80-degree October day . . . with my sister Trina . . . who was in town for the weekend to celebrate my birthday.

Of course, that meant the entire weekend was something of a food festival, but first things first. After a quick change of clothes (meaning that Treen changed into my clothes and I changed into hers), we headed over to Williamsburg, an uber-hip Brooklyn neighborhood that would be a food and drink paradise even without Smorgasburg.

It is no exaggeration to say that we tore a hole through the place, feasting on everything from cheeseburgers and cheese steaks to BBQ pulled pork sandwiches and banana pudding . . . and a heck of a lot in between.

Of course, we didn't eat all of that one sitting. We took a cocktail break . . . and then went back .

As beautiful as Hotel Delmano is, the day was even more so, and so we snagged two sidewalk seats for a little people-watching with our libations.

Trina and I agreed that our favorite was The Alibi, made with pineapple-infused tequila, cinnamon, vanilla, lime, and molé bitters.

And after two rounds, we discovered that even the bathrooms at Hotel Delmano are beautifully designed.

After our return to Smorgasburg for Round 2, it was back to Manhattan . . . to get ready for dinner.

We decided on a low-key evening of chips & guac, Mexican street corn, and frozen hibiscus margaritas at Fonda, followed by dancing until the wee hours at an 80s club in Manhattan's edgy Alphabet City neighborhood.

Opened in 1979, the Pyramid Club is not an 80s- themed club but an actual club born in and still firmly planted in that decade, never having changed its decor, its prices, or its commitment to the East Village gay and drag scene in the last 40 years.

We had a really good time. Some of us more than others.

The next morning it was time to shake off the night's excesses with some pizza. But not just any pizza: The crispy, crunchy, burnt-just-right-on-the-ends square pizza topped with 'roni cups at Emily in the West Village.

After lunch Angel headed off to run some errands, while Trina and I decided to enjoy the gorgeous weather with a stroll from the West Village down to TriBeCa.

Eventually we found ourselves near the piers.

We weren't just meandering, though; we had a destination in mind: Grand Banks, an oyster bar aboard a historic wooden schooner, the Sherman Zwicker, which offers spectacular views of lower Manhattan.

After the sun set, we headed over to Bubby's, a TriBeCa comfort-food institution that I used to frequent when I clerked downtown.

That evening we had plans for a birthday dinner at one of my favorite restaurants, Left Bank, which I love for its ever-changing menu of seasonal favorites and cozy atmosphere.

After we finished our entrees, Angel revealed a secret: Those "errands" he ran after lunch consisted of driving to the Hamptons to pick up a cake that I'd long admired at our local grocery store, King Kullen -- a traffic-filled odyssey that, mid-afternoon on a gorgeous fall Sunday, took roughly six hours round-trip. When I asked him why he didn't just pick up the cake at one of the dozens of other, closer King Kullens on Long Island, he explained that he didn't want to risk that the same cake from a different store might look even a tiny bit different from the one I liked.

He even made (yes, made ) matching wrapping paper for my gifts.

A sister who flew to NYC for the weekend just to force down 7,000 calories a day with me, plus a husband who spent 6 hours in the car to get me the perfect birthday cake?

Posted by TraceyG 05:43 Archived in USA Tagged new_york nyc williamsburg new_york_city brooklyn fonda east_village hotel_delmano smogasburg pyramid_club Comments (8)

• Anguilla, Pt. 1: Like Peas In a Pod

If you have to undertake a recon mission, Anguilla is a pretty good place to do it.

So when I finally convinced my sister and her husband to join us for their first-ever trip to Anguilla (after what we both agree was 20+ years of non-stop nagging), I knew a recon mission was in order. It had been 6 long months since our last visit, but it was only 6 short months until theirs. And so someone had to come down ahead of time to make sure the resorts were still open and the beaches were still there and the cheeseburgers still tasted the same . . . right???

And as luck would have it, generous friends stepped in to make our unexpected trip less of a burden, offering up not just free places to stay, but places with warm hospitality and spectacular views and private swimming pools. And so Mission: Newbies was born.

We made our way to the west end of the island, where a friend had invited us to stay at her beloved home, Octagon Villa, in her absence -- a bold move if ever there was one. I mean, knowing that I've walked into others' homes uninvited and critiqued their decor , what might I do with an actual invitation : Commandeer an entire bedroom just for my shoe collection? Bolt ironing boards to the floor in every room? Not just raid the fridge, but strap the thing to my back and carry it home?

It turns out I did none of those things, but only because it took the entire duration of our stay for me to learn the layout of the house. That's because, true to its name, Octagon Villa is a gated compound of eight individual pods surrounding a large, private swimming pool, with each free-standing pod containing one room of the house.

This unique layout is absolutely perfect for those travelling with kids or with another couple, since the amount of privacy is unsurpassed. It's also perfect for folks like me who love indoor-outdoor living, as even moving from the kitchen to the living room affords a quick trip outside. (And the walkways are covered, for folks like me who are allergic to rain.) If, however, also like me, you hear the phrase, "Your other left" with alarming frequency, it may take a little getting used to, as my days were spent something like this:

Me: Think I'll go to the kitchen for a diet Coke. Me (opening door to Pod 1): Whoops. Living room. Me (opening door to Pod 2): Shoot. Master bedroom. Me (opening door to Pod 3 and giving the washing machine the side-eye): Dammit! You know, I'm not really thirsty after all.

Angel, whose sense of direction is superb, of course had a field day with this, calling out "In the bedroom!" every time I yelled for him, then giggling as I made my rounds of every room in the house before finally finding (and vowing to strangle) him.

Having settled in after an early-morning arrival, we set off for the one thing I actually can find: Ferryboat Inn.

There, we planned to meet up with Rob and Julie, who had become fast friends after they spent nearly a week helping us look for my ring on our last trip; now, they'd agreed to spend an afternoon admiring my new bling and watching me gobble down cheeseburgers. Gluttons for punishment, I tell you.

They even played hide-and-seek with us.

By the time lunch was over, I was a little tipsy, a lot stuffed, and my face hurt from laughing so hard, so we decided to spend the balance of the afternoon doing nothing more than hanging around the villa. There, we discovered a bunch of other features to love, including a pool so private you could go au naturel in it (not that I would do such a thing -- ahem), a panoramic view of Shoal Bay West from the roof deck, and one of the lushest gardens I've ever seen in Anguilla.

It even had a chicken. In a tree .

I know it's hard to top a chicken in a tree, but Octagon also has three ginormous bedrooms, each of which is roughly the size of an airplane hangar.

Indeed, the rooms were so large and comfortable that eventually I gave up trying to find the other pods, since each bedroom already had everything I needed: A huge attached bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a color-coordinated mini fridge and coffee maker.

In fact, Octagon is stocked as though the Zombie Apocalypse -- or my Boy Scout husband -- is coming any minute: Virtually everything in the house comes in triplicate, quadruplicate, and more, from coolers to candles, blenders to bottled water, dinnerware to dry goods . . . you could be happily holed up here for years and never run out of anything.

But the outside world beckoned, and so we set off for a late afternoon visit to the Dune Preserve.

Dune Preserve reminds me of the tree houses and pirate ships we used to play on as kids, with the welcome addition of alcohol.

The day had gotten away from us, so we raced back to the villa for a quick change of clothes, then set off for dinner at E's Oven.

Back at Octagon, we took a quick dip in the pool, then headed off to bed.

And it only took me two tries to find my bedroom.

------------------------------------ CLICK HERE to read Part 2!

Posted by TraceyG 05:44 Archived in Anguilla Tagged ferryboat_inn e's_oven octagon dune_preserve Comments (8)

• Anguilla, Pt. 2: A Fashion Emergency

We decided to spend the next day at Ocean Echo.

The day was windy and the waves were bigger than we are used to, but it was too cold for these big babies anyway (March . . . brr!), so we spent most of the day occupying ourselves with other pursuits.

This poor guy. He never knew how close I came to grabbing that pizza and making a run for it.

That evening our friends Diana and Carl had invited us over for cocktails and snacks at their place on Barnes Bay.

Diana is always impeccably dressed like a chic Parisian woman and Carl looks roughly 20 years younger than his actual age, but for some reason we really like them anyway.

In addition, they were fabulous hosts, even kindly arranging to cap off our visit with this spectacular sunset.

We had already made separate dinner plans, so Angel and I headed over to nearby Picante to get our faces melted off.

We tried a few new things on this trip -- Theron's spicy chili, the grilled chipotle prawn burrito, a basil mojito -- as well as Old Faithful, the seafood enchiladas.

The next morning, a disaster of unprecedented proportions befell us: Due to a fender-bender near Four Seasons, the power went out.

No power meant no iron, and no iron meant that I had to scare up an outfit that didn't look like it had been balled up and shoved into the bottom of a hamper (or, you know, into a suitcase too small by half). By some miracle I'd hung up the dress I'd worn to Ferryboat, and so I suffered through the ultimate indignity -- not only did I have to be seen in public in a dress that hadn't been freshly ironed, but I had to be seen in public in a dress I'd just worn two days earlier .

Decked out in my vêtements vulgaires , we headed over to Cap Juluca, where I hoped that my messy bun and artfully rumpled dress gave off an air of "too rich to care," rather than "I just showered in a swimming pool and am wearing yesterday's clothes . . . again."

Oh, did I not mention that no power also meant no water pump for showers? Thank heavens for that very private swimming pool.

Luckily most folks at Cap are too busy looking at the stunning beach and stylish renovation to notice a fashion faux pas.

Or they just dismissed me as some weird picture-taking blogger . . .

Or that nitwit who went for a swim in the decorative pool. Whichever.

Renovated Cap has several new restaurants, including an updated Pimms, a poolside cafe, the casual, waterfront Cip's, and the Cap Shack beach bar.

Eventually we headed back to the villa to see if the power had been restored, and sweet baby Jesus, I was saved! I happily headed out to lunch in a clean, freshly-ironed dress.

Clad, at long last, in clean pressed clothes, we made the short trip across the salt pond for lunch at a longtime favorite, Tratttoria Tramonto.

At our usual corner table, we tucked into penne with basil pesto; a wild boar prosciutto panini with parmigiano, arugula, and white truffle oil; and the most gorgeous tomatoes I think I've ever seen (or tasted).

After lunch, we alternated among reading, napping, swimming, and sipping.

And, you know, ironing everything left in my suitcase . . . just in case.

------------------------------------------------------------ CLICK HERE to read Part 3!

Posted by TraceyG 06:15 Archived in Anguilla Tagged anguilla picante cap_juluca ocean_echo trattoria_tramonto Comments (7)

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• The Best MICHELIN Guide Hotels for a City Escape in New York City

Because everyone needs a break from the urban hustle and bustle.

NYC NYC hotels Editor's Pick

New York City by The MICHELIN Guide

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Even the most urbane city dwellers need a break from the hustle and bustle of New York — whether it’s a day at the beach or checking into a bucolic bolthole upstate. As soon as you pull into the driveway at Troutbeck in Armenia, New York, the stress of the city quickly vanishes. Since the 1770s, the property has served as a country estate, a tavern, and an arts club attracting all sorts of intellectuals and writers from David Thoreau to Mark Twain. Today, this stylish country inn features 17 elegant rooms with canopied beds (outfitted in Frette linens), Tivoli radios, and MALIN+GOETZ bathroom products. There are various cozy sitting areas and reading rooms filled with games and art books where guests can spend hours perusing with a coffee or cocktail in hand. For more active types, the 250-acre property features a swimming pool, tennis courts, a modern barn with wellness classes, and an elegant walled garden. It’s hard to believe that the Rockaway Hotel in Queens is only an hour from Manhattan’s city sidewalks. This 53-room breezy beachside hotel (think rattan chairs and blond wood everywhere) has become the hub for both diehard surfers and the area’s burgeoning creatives. While the hotel boasts an impressive collection of contemporary art, there’s also an outdoor heated pool with loungers on the rooftop, offering views of both the ocean and the city. There’s also a yoga deck and spa with an infrared sauna. Eastwind , a Scandi-style hotel just minutes from Windham ski resort mountain in the Catskills, will satisfy all your glamping fantasies. The lodge features seventeen rooms and A-frame wood cabins—some with wood-burning stoves. After a day on the slopes (there are also trails for hiking and biking in the summer months), kick back at the small cocktail bar with a cocktail and game of chess. There’s also fire pits (with s’mores kits), hammocks, and a sauna for even deeper relaxation. For more urban escapes, read below.

Autocamp Catskills Saugerties

It’s hard to think of a hospitality concept better suited to the times than AutoCamp — purveyors of luxe Airstream trailers and stylish freestanding cabins, set in adventure-ready locations beloved by experience-hungry young travelers. AutoCamp Catskills, just outside of Saugerties, brings the luxury-boutique camping experience to upstate New York; accommodations include the aforementioned trailers and cabins as well as upscale “X Suites” and summertime-only canvas tents.

Eastwind - Hotel & Bar Windham

With outdoor recreation more popular than ever, we knew the Catskills, just a two-hour drive from New York City, couldn’t stay unfashionable forever. But it’s a bit surprising just how quickly a place that hasn’t been hip since our grandparents were kids has managed to reinvent itself. Eastwind Hotel & Bar, in the town of Windham, is a case in point. It’s co-owned by a German/Lithuanian couple who saw a bit of his own childhood in the landscapes and lodges of upstate New York, and who redesigned this 1920s-era lodge (and its outlying A-frame cabins) with an eye toward Scandinavian modernist style.

Journey East Hampton East Hampton

Montauk may be where most of the action is in today’s Long Island boutique-hotel scene, but we get the feeling that suits Journey East Hampton just fine. This is a hotel that’s less about chasing the next nightlife hot spot and more about providing an elegant escape for a clientele that’s more interested in a proper, private getaway — one that’s as cozy as it is stylish, and one where the experience is tailored to the guest, thanks to some thoughtfully personalized service.

The Rockaway Hotel Rockaway Beach

New York City isn’t known for its beaches, but the Rockaways are the exception, and the Rockaway Hotel brings a bit of downtown style to this ocean-facing stretch of deep outer Queens. Designed by the same Morris Adjmi responsible for Brooklyn’s Wythe Hotel, it’s as hip as anything in town, and while summertime is when its beach-and-pool scene really shines, it’s relevant as a nearby getaway year-round. Its restaurant, bar, and café are still in the works, as is the spa, but for now it’s a welcome respite from crowded Manhattan and Brooklyn and an optimistic taste of a stylistic resurgence for the city’s beach communities.

Troutbeck Amenia

Troutbeck didn’t just wake up one morning and decide to style itself a creative retreat — it’s been walking the walk for well over a century, having welcomed Mark Twain, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Henry David Thoreau, and many others along the way. And while this estate, in Amenia, two hours from Manhattan, has seen some changes over the years — Benton Cottage dates back to 1760, while the 17th-century Manor House was rebuilt in 1919 — it’s perhaps most remarkable for its continuity.

Hero image: Eastwind - Hotel & Bar

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World-class art museums, Broadway brilliance and one of the world’s most recognisable skylines: there’s a story on every street corner in New York City. From lox bagels on the Lower East Side to bodegas in Brooklyn and even breakfast at Tiffany’s, New York is ever-evolving – and it’s time for you to discover why.

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The best weekend getaways from NYC

Escape the hustle and bustle with these weekend getaways from NYC

While we can never quit NYC, with its  amazing restaurants , internationally-recognized bars and world-class museums , the crowds, the hustle and the pace, however, can lead to some serious stress and, well, sometimes we need a weekend trip.

Fortunately, the location of our fine city affords easy access to many other exciting, yet more relaxed destinations. These weekend getaways from NYC offer fun, relaxation and a little something different not too far from home.

Whether you’re taking a car or public transportation, these destinations are easily accessible in five hours or less. Enjoy nature, chill by a lake, take in some art or do a little shopping. From quaint towns to beachy locales, a weekend away will be just the thing to recharge. If you don’t have a whole weekend to spare, consider one of these day trips from NYC . Looking for a longer getaway? A road trip from NYC might be for you. But these weekend getaways are just right, opening up a whole new world in upstate New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and more.

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Weekend trips from NYC

1.  Bear Mountain, NY

1hr 15 mins from NYC

In the time it would take to make it across town during rush hour, adventurers can get to Bear Mountain for an easy escape from city madness.

Do this: The state park, situated in the mountains rising from the west bank of the Hudson River, which offers a bevy of hiking and biking trails, as well as picnic groves, lake and river fishing access, a swimming pool and a zoo.

Stay here: Bear Mountain Inn , originally built in 1915, hosted Eleanor Roosevelt, Harry Truman and Dwight Eisenhower back in the day, and has been extensively renovated to include 15 luxury guest rooms, plus a spa and a restaurant. 

2.  Asbury Park, NJ

1hr 30mins from NYC

The summertime gay community in this shore town has actually been active since the 1950s—and over the past few years, the scene’s really heated up.

Eat here: MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos, a favorite among both visitors and locals. 

Stay here: Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel , which was originally designed by noted Beaux Arts architect Whitney Warren.

3.  Beacon, NY

Beacon is steeped in history (Beacon Mountain, the tallest point of the Hudson Highlands, played a significant role in the American Revolution), but besides its storied past, it’s also packed with modern-day culture. The city has an arty, indie spirit that attracts…arty, indie people.

Do this:  A former Nabisco box-printing facility on the banks of the Hudson, Dia:Beacon holds collections from the 1960s to the present. Exhibitions meld with works on long-term view from artists including Walter De Maria and Dan Flavin. 

Stay here: Sitting at the base of Mount Beacon—a mile and a half from the town’s center—the Swann Inn of Beacon is a charming bed-and-breakfast. Situated in an 1866 Gothic house, it has five uniquely decorated rooms, which all have retro-cool vibes that would make Wes Anderson blush, including the Red Parlor Suite, a romantic respite complete with a friggin’ front porch). 

4.  New Hope, PA

1hr 45mins from NYC

New Hope is Bucks County’s jewel, unhurried and unassuming, with indie boutiques, seasonal-focused eateries and forget-all-your-troubles B&Bs galore. Between hopping to different quaint spots, be sure to get back to nature. We suggest cruising on a rented bike down the Delaware Canal towpath.

Do this: With 134 acres featuring hundreds of species of native plants (including more than 80 that are rare or endangered) and stunning woodlands and meadows throughout, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve offers guided walks in addition to talks and workshops (“Focus on Ferns,” anyone?). 

Stay here: A AAA Four Diamond winner for eight consecutive years, The Inn at Bowman’s Hill is damn swoonworthy. Rooms, like Fountain View and Orchard Retreat, have heated tubs for two—if that’s your bag. For platonic pals, there’s the Penthouse Suite, with its private deck and panoramic views of the property. 

5.  New Paltz, NY

1hr 45 mins from NYC

Beyond all the worth-the-trip views of riverside bluffs and verdant trees, New Paltz is the most historic on this list, with preserved houses that were around 100 years before we even became the U.S. of A. So, yeah. Pretty old.

Do this: Learn about the lives of the 17th-century Huguenot settlers , as performers (dolled up in duds from the period) take you through 30 buildings over 10 acres, including seven historic homes and a reconstructed 1717 church. (Want to retain the back-to-basics spirit as you take in the National Historic Landmark District? Leave the selfie stick at home.) 

Stay here: Mohonk Mountain House , set in the Shawangunk Ridge on Lake Mohonk, is sporting and sophisticated, a sort of East Coast version of The Shining grounds (without all the killing and stuff). Whether you choose one of the classic, wood-paneled rooms and suites or one of its private cottages two miles away, your nightly rate gets you access to a range of complimentary activities like boating and swimming, not to mention meals in its dining room. 

6.  Lake Placid, NY

The beloved lake is just the beginning: This prime Adirondacks spot features art, shopping, hiking, swimming and one killer mountain. 

Do this: If you're already planning to go out to admire all the greenery upstate New York has to offer, visiting The Wild Center is a must if you want to experience truly unreal nature views. That is, as long as you aren't afraid of heights. Why? Oh, because when you go, you'll be walking an elevated trail across the Adirondack treetops. No big deal!

Stay here:  The seven-acre, 131-unit Mirror Lake Inn can’t be beat. Every room looks over the lake, and the cozy fireside accommodations (along with two restaurants and a spa) will keep you in your robe late into the day. Or check in to the aesthetic and cozy Eastwind Lake Placid .

7.  Hudson, NY

2hrs 20mins from NYC

You’ve probably heard a lot about Hudson , and here’s why: food and antiques. The place does both extremely well—it’s a prime option for rustic fine dining (Ca’Mea) and rare retro finds (just about any storefront on Warren Street). But the other big reason why droves of New Yorkers and, fittingly, DIY businesses and developments are staking their claim on the town is because it’s all ensconced in a gorgeous Hudson River–side environment, dotted with quaint historic homes.

Eat here: The communal, high-end restaurant Wm. Farmer and Sons has a cozy-yet-urban energy, serving up bar snacks, small plates and big plates that make use, whenever possible, of local ingredients. 

Stay here:  The Hudson Whaler beautifully blends old-timey flavor with contemporary amenities. Set in an Art Deco building, the hotel has 16 well-appointed guest rooms with sleek, sculptural furnishings that match the Deco tone, as well as free Wi–Fi, an iPad lending library, Keurig coffeemakers, pillow-top mattresses and Lather Aromatherapy bath products.

8.  Phoenicia, NY

2hrs 30mins from NYC

Tucked into the Catskills, this Ulster County hamlet is a real melting pot, the kind of place where you can expect to see a conservative old-timer and a Brooklyn lumbersexual sipping Buds along the bar in perfect harmony. For every no-nonsense staple (Phoenicia Diner), there’s a hipster newbie (the Graham & Co.). The mellow, no-frills, hippie-dippie local culture makes it easy for anyone to relax here.

Do this:  Explore downtown Phoenicia, go whitewater tubing on Esopus Creek, or explore Kaaterskill Falls. Phoenicia has plenty of adventures, from mild to wild. 

Stay here: Located directly on Esopus Creek in the heart of the Catskills,  Phoenicia Black Bear Campground  is rustic without being primitive. Choose your own adventure: There’s swimming, biking, horseback riding and more nearby. 

9.  Shelter Island, L.I.

2hrs 30 mins from NYC

A midsize island just a seven-minute ferry ride from Greenport, NY, and surrounded by Shelter Island Sound and Gardiner’s Bay, Shelter Island is all about unwinding, with historic plantations, unassuming cafés, kayaking and, of course, those views that will make your pals rageful that they didn’t join you.

Do this: With more than 2,000 acres of tidal creeks, mature oak woodlands, fields and freshwater marshes, Nature Conservancy’s Mashomack Preserve is one of the richest habitats in the Northeast. Edged in white by 12 miles of coastline, Mashomack attracts birders and botanists looking for ospreys and a number of rare plants—and regular people like us who just want our Facebook feed to look awesome. 

Stay here: Every room at the perennially popular Sunset Beach Hotel has a private sundeck with water views (and loads of Kiehl’s products in the bathrooms, yay). Sunset Beach’s area, with its curving shoreline and spectacular light, is pretty darn similar to the French Riviera.

10.  The Berkshires, MA

3hrs from NYC

Think of the Berkshires as the Hamptons, minus the nightlife and plus all the art, theater, dance, music and small-town simplicity you could want. Yes, the mountainous region in western Massachusetts has luxury, but it’s served in a laid-back setting. And given its jaw-dropping bucolic backdrop, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities, either.

Do this: One of the country’s largest centers for contemporary art, MASS MoCA , which is set in a converted factory building, focuses on large-scale, immersive installations that more conventional museums just can’t handle. There’s just as much focus on performing arts as there is on visual here; each year touts more than 75 performances of music (Wilco’s Solid Sound Festival has been held here), dance, films, theater and more.   Another surefire bet for the performing arts is Shakespeare & Company in nearby Lenox. The thriving regional theater company mixes traditional Shakespearean productions with contemporary works across multiple, indoor and outdoor stages. And do we need to mention that weed is legal here? Try paying a visit to the closest cannabis dispensary to the New York state border: the chic and friendly Rebelle located in Great Barrington.

Stay here: Oriented toward health, wellness and pampering, Canyon Ranch , which is centered around the century-old, lovingly restored Bellefontaine Mansion, has a lot to offer: tennis, aerobics, guided hikes and bike rides, canoeing, croquet and more than 40 seminars and classes daily such as “Finding Forgiveness.” After all that fresh air and, er, learning, relax in the spa while enjoying the signature Canyon Stone Massage or the candlelit Euphoria body treatment. 

11.  Cape May, NJ

Rediscover your inner summertime kiddie at this seaside destination, which has some of the East Coast’s most unspoiled beaches. The unpretentious fun peaks on Fourth of July weekend—when a full-on carnival and an impressive fireworks display bring in throngs of people—but the good times continue throughout the season, with boardwalk vendors and even dolphin-spotting tours.

Do this: Yup, Jersey Shore Alpacas sounds like an MTV spin-off (and it’d be an awesome one). At this small alpaca farm in Green Creek, a quaint town right next to Cape May, mingle with the critters—well taken care of by owners Jim and Tish Carpinelli—during Open Farm Saturdays, when you can meet the cute creatures at the fence and feed them (carrots are provided). 

Stay here: Cape Resorts . One of the area’s Victorian buildings, the 200-year-old Congress Hall is America’s oldest oceanfront resort. It has 104 rooms, as well as a restaurant, bar and lounge, outdoor pool, spa and a fitness center. But despite the full-service amenity list, the best things here are the simple ones, like the smell of salty sea air outside your open window. (Book an Atlantic-view room for the best relaxation results.) 

12.  Philadelphia, PA

2hrs from NYC by car, 1hr and 23min by train 

Aside from the wild football fans and patriotic Liberty Bell-seekers, the city of brotherly love caters to the artistic set through major attractions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Go to get cultured, but stick around for the amazing restaurants, beer gardens and the cheesesteaks ( duh ) that truly make the city a smash.

Do this: As the crown jewel of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the  Philadelphia Museum of Art should arguably be the first stop on your list. (Yes, even before the aforementioned cheesesteak). Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of 19th-and early-20th-century paintings and artifacts. After peeping the creative works, refuel at Reading Terminal Market . The famous indoor farmer’s market hawks everything from food and housewares to speciality snacks and treats all under one roof. Grab a takeaway treat from notable sellers like Famous 4th Street Cookie Company, Beiler’s Doughnuts and Little Thai Market. Once you’re full, head to Independence Beer Garden (an outdoor brew den) to down a few pints while playing games like giant jenga. What’s missing? Oh, right: End your night with a cheesesteak at any one of these spots.

Stay here:  Rest your head at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco . This is one of the city’s coolest hotels with post-modern meets art-deco inspired decor and a trendy rooftop bar. Added bonus: The hotel is located right next to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

13.  The Hamptons, L.I.

2.5 hrs from NYC

The Hamptons’ gorgeous sandy respites, dunes and relatively untouched landscapes aren’t just for the jet set. The area boasts gratis culture (the Dan Flavin Art Institute ) and no-nonsense places to eat ( Lobster Roll ) and drink (Fellingham’s), plus plenty of other casual nooks for the rest of us.

Do this: Coopers Beach  is the only stretch of silky, fine-grained white sand in Southampton that’s open to the public. So you can look like a baller in your sunset Instagram pic—without having to actually throw down a ton of dough. 

Otherwise, you pay to park at Main Beach in East Hampton or park and walk to Montauk’s Kirk Park Beach. 

Don’t miss a trip to the Montauk Lighthouse for some gorgeous views or a shopping spree in Sag Harbor.

Stay here: Privacy, luxury and amenities reign supreme at the Reform Club . The main building houses seven suites with wood-burning fireplaces (you’ll want to turn them on, even in the summer, just for the fun of it), oversize marble baths and white wainscot walls with original artwork. 

14.  Cooperstown, NY

4hrs from NYC

Cooperstown has way more than baseball, and every true brew head knows this. With four breweries in town, Cooperstown was once the country's hops-growing capital.

Do this: Brewery Ommegang , is located on a 135-acre hops farm and offers daily tours. 

Stay here: The Otesaga , the charming (and reportedly haunted) historic hotel, is celebrating its 106th anniversary. It offers fishing and boating—and serves Ommegang beer, to boot.

15.  Newport, RI

4hrs 30mins from NYC

It’d be easy to dismiss the town as a tourist trap, but what often brings people back to Newport (other than yacht races, tours of a Vanderbilt mansion and smiley locals) are the newish spots.

Eat here: Revolving Door , where regional and national chefs hunker down for several weeks—sometimes up to a month—creating, cooking and serving an inspired prix-fixe menu.

Stay here: The Attwater , a design-driven seven-room boutique hotel off of historic Bellevue Avenue, recently acquired a Victorian manor next door and renovated it from top to bottom.

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Escape to New York: Incredible experiences and adventures await

Discover the finer side of new york city, from one-of-a-kind experiences and distinguished dining to captivating culture..

By Paul Oswell | November 1, 2023

New York is a city that rarely needs an introduction, especially during the holidays. With near-boundless avenues for exploration, festive decorations and plenty of ways to indulge in high-end experiences and dining, it’s a destination of true wonder. Here are our suggestions for the best of the best in New York City, where you’ll find:

Rich cultural moments: Find your ultimate New York moment by attending world-class art exhibitions and premier Broadway shows

Distinguished dining: Exceptional dining rooms abound with many of the world’s best chefs, and menus that showcase the bounty of the season

Exclusive experiences: Enjoy private tours of the city’s top-notch museums, theaters and more

Captivating culture

When New York hosts cultural events, the world watches. The city itself is often the biggest star of the show, with the gleaming towers of its instantly recognizable skyline. It’s hard to imagine A-list events like the Met Gala taking place anywhere else. While you may not be invited to the star-studded event itself, you can still be treated like an honored guest with a private viewing at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Explore incredible art collections like a true VIP with a private hour-long tour led by a trained museum guide for one of the most personalized cultural experiences available.

While attending a Broadway musical or play can be a glitzy event in its own right, several theaters and shows also offer private experiences. These range from backstage tours and meet-and-greets to dinners with the stars, so be sure to check with your hotel concierge to see what’s available.

Location is everything when you’re looking for easy access to cultural highlights. The elegant surroundings of Conrad New York Midtown are within walking distance from the Broadway Theater District, MoMA and Central Park, and your concierge can arrange a multitude of private experiences to further personalize your stay. You’ll also find exquisite artwork within the hotel itself. In collaboration with art consultants, the hotel features a curated art collection , which includes dozens of unique pieces from movements such as cubism, contemporary art and pop art.

A feast for the senses

The Big Apple is an unparalleled destination for fine dining with 69 Michelin-starred restaurants and another 106 eateries recognized with the acclaimed Bib Gourmand status. For the most discerning palates, the tasting menus and chefs’ dinners at Eleven Madison Park, Le Bernardin, Per Se and Masa — the city’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurants — are all exceptional culinary experiences, displaying the highest levels of service, quality and innovation.

To explore some of the city’s finer epicurean elements beyond the Michelin-recognized restaurants, sign up for a champagne class at Flûte Bar where, each month, experts present themed tastings to small private groups.

Italian influences permeate the menu at Dabble , the flagship restaurant at Conrad New York Midtown, where you can savor elevated offerings such as fig crostini and scallop risotto. Pizza aficionados won’t be disappointed with the offerings at ATRIO Wine Bar & Restaurant at ​​Conrad New York Downtown , where the skilled chefs also serve up tempting dishes of octopus carpaccio or pink peppercorn-seared tuna.

Magical memories

With so many unique places to go, holiday-themed events to enjoy and exclusive experiences that are only possible here, the phrase “Only in New York” is almost cliché, but it exists for a reason. Gaze upon internationally renowned artwork at the Museum of Modern Art or enjoy cocktails underneath the massive blue whale that’s suspended midair at the American Museum of Natural History. Get in the holiday spirit by booking the Polar Lounge at Winter Village at Bryant Park to secure an intimate private space to entertain friends after shopping and ice skating. Or take it all in from above by booking the Empire State Building’s enhanced observatory experience, including a limited number of tickets for the exclusive sunrise time slot, where you can watch the city wake up from the 86th floor. For an even more panoramic view of Manhattan, take to the skies with a personalized helicopter tour, where you’ll see a familiar cityscape from an entirely new perspective.

After a long day adventuring in the city, replenish by having the concierge at Conrad New York Midtown arrange a guided transformative sound bath meditation in the comfort of your own suite and experience one of the world’s most exciting destinations in a truly unique way.

Timeless sophistication, peerless elegance and a city on the cutting edge of cultural innovation all define New York. The city is yours to explore, and the elevated experiences you enjoy here will give you memories for a lifetime.

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guide books/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.

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17 Easy Weekend Getaways From NYC

By Alex Erdekian and Hannah Towey

Weekend getaways from NYC can do wonders for the mind and soul. When in the city, most people can’t help but hustle—but a break from subway rides and cramped apartments is something we all need once in a while. (As for visitors, you too can get the true New England experience by pairing your city break with a local-loved side trip, or two.)

Disappearing into the woods, soaking up salty sea air, or getting lost in wine country all have their charms—and thankfully, all of the above are available just a few hours from Manhattan via rail, bus, or rental car . From the Hamptons to the Adirondacks, beaches, islands, and mountains are all easily accessible from New York City. Some of them may leave you wondering why New York's surrounding destinations don't get more buzz in the first place.

Below, the 17 best weekend getaways from NYC. Here's to checking them all of your bucket list. (For the best restaurants, hotels, and more in the city itself, check out our New York City travel guide .)

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

The quintessential beach town: Asbury Park, New Jersey

Just over an hour’s drive

We’ve long held the opinion that the classic Jersey Shore town, Asbury Park, doesn’t get enough attention . Super accessible from the city, it’s just an hour and fifteen minutes by car on the Garden State Parkway, and only thirty minutes longer if you're traveler from Penn Station on a Bay Head-bound North Jersey Coast Line train. From Asbury Park’s bustling boardwalk to its famous mile-long beach, this town offers the perfect blend of relaxation and action. Experience the exciting local food scene by making stops at Reyla (for Mediterranean small plates) or beachside coffee shop Asbury Park Roastery. Consider staying at the Asbury Ocean Club, Surfside Resort and Residences for an elevated beachside experience or the eclectic ​​Asbury Hotel , which has the perfect rooftop.

The suburban sanctuary: Fairfield County, Connecticut

About a one-hour train ride via Metro-North

When you’re pressed on time and need a low-key break from the city, do as commuters do and escape to the ‘burbs. Hop on the Metro-North New Haven Line out of Grand Central and take an hour train to one of Fairfield County's numerous charming towns and cities. From coastal enclaves like Greenwich and Westport to more wooded areas like New Canaan and Wilton, the variety of Connecticut's suburbs may surprise you. Fairfield County doesn’t claim the tri-state’s best beaches, to be sure, but there’s plenty of summer fun to be had along Long Island Sound: take a kayak, sailboat, or ferry between the Norwalk Islands, stroll down one of the area’s many public beaches , or savor local seafood (be sure to order a round of Copps Island oysters) at Knot Norms , Rowayton Seafood , The Whelk , or L’Escale . There’s outdoor attractions beyond the beach, too: New Canaan’s Grace Farms, Stamford’s Cove Island Park, and Darien’s newly-opened Great Island offer acres of walking paths and recreational space. Book a stay at the Inn at Gray Barns or the Delamar Greenwich Harbor hotel, or rent a cozy Airbnb to truly settle in—without settling down.

The rural retreat: Manchester, Vermont

About a four-hour drive (or bus)

When you feel the need to go off-the-grid, the Green Mountain State is always a good idea for a long weekend in nature—whether you’re after winter snow or fall foliage. The idyllic town of Manchester located nearby Stratton Mountain Resort allows for just the right amount of isolation where you can relax in peaceful solitude without sacrificing top-notch restaurants, shopping, and human interaction (should you desire). Pro tip for the driving-averse New Yorkers out there: the Hampton Jitney runs a winter route between NYC and Manchester from December to March, departing on Fridays and returning each Sunday (fares start at $69). Stay at local establishment The Equinox , or drive a few towns over to exciting newcomer The Weston .

The historical jaunt: Boston

About a four hour train ride via Amtrak Acela

New Yorkers and Bostonians may go head-to-head at times, but if you’re looking for a change of scenery without giving up your cosmopolitan comforts, a weekend trip to Boston might just be what the doctor ordered. The Amtrak Acela departing from Penn Station clocks in at just under four hours, arriving at South Station between downtown Boston and the waterfront. Upon arrival, walk along the cobblestone streets of the Freedom Trail and duck into some of the country’s finest restaurants, bars, and historic sites along the way. Take in the architecture of Boston’s South End or explore neighboring communities Cambridge and Sommerville . There’s no shortage of great hotels in Boston —old or new—making the classic New England city an ideal weekend excursion for every type of traveler.

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

The good-time island: Fire Island, New York

About a two-and-a-half hour drive, plus a 30-minute ferry ride

An all-time favorite summer escape, and one that is especially important to NYC’s queer community, is Fire Island. With its many towns and beaches, each boasting their own local flavor, the Long Island barrier island makes it easy to choose the spot to match your vibe. A few popular spots: Cherry Grove is a fun-loving party destination, Kismet is known for its nightlife, and Fire Island Pines is an affluent community with a dining and shopping scene and some of the island’s most expensive addresses. A worthwhile hotel option is the Madison , the boutique bed and breakfast where the cast of Fire Island stayed while shooting the recent film. (A few other spots it featured? The bar Cherry’s which offers harborside drag shows, vintage shop DENIZEN , and the Belvedere Fire Island , a palatial resort for gay men.)

The city break: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

About a two-hour drive; about an hour and fifteen minutes via Amtrak

It may be obvious, but it’s too easily forgotten by New Yorkers: the easy urban getaway to nearby Philadelphia. The city is budding with things to do, whether you’re in search of great new restaurants, fantastic art exhibits, or just a change of pace. A few of our favorite to-dos in Philly include visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, followed by the perfect cheesesteak at John’s Roast Pork . Betsy Blumenthal, former Traveler features editor—and resident Philly expert—recommends the city’s Four Seasons for its spectacular aerial views of landmarks like Independence Hall. (For even more destination tips, check out our comprehensive Philadelphia city guide. )

The posh beach hang: The Hamptons

About a two-hour drive

For many, the Hamptons conjure visions of Upper East Siders summering in their mansions, and flitting between high society parties. A weekend is the perfect stretch of time to slip into that whirlwind before letting the city ground you once again. Classic to-dos like visiting the Pollock-Krasner house in East Hampton (open May to October), designer shopping in the villages, and waterfront dining are always a good idea, as are summery outdoor activities. Pedal around the Atlantic Avenue Beach area with a bike rental from Amagansett Beach & Bicycle Company , savor a hefty lobster roll at the Dock House in Sag Harbor, or find inner peace in bird-filled Hither Hills State Park . A classic East Hampton stay, the Maidstone Hotel is the perfect place to post up (if you don't have an invite to one of the aforementioned mansions, that is).

The eclectic island: Martha’s Vineyard

A five-hour ferry ride

Sometimes an island is the best escape. Martha’s Vineyard, with its lighthouses , arcades and carousels, sandy shores, and vast landscapes fits the bill. To get there, take a five-hour Seastreak Ferry from Midtown Manhattan, fly from JFK airport, or drive to Falmouth, Massachusetts (about 4.5 hours), and pay for overnight parking before grabbing the 30-minute ferry from there. The colorful, fairytale-ish town of Oak Bluffs is one of our favorite East Coast beach towns ; there, an ideal spot to post up is Summercamp Hotel . Deeper into the island, stop at Aquinnah, which feels martian-like with its clay-red lighthouse and cliffs.

The wine tour: The Finger Lakes

About a four-and-a-half-hour drive

New York’s biggest wine region offers plenty of options for sampling its famous riesling—but wine tasting is hardly all the area has to offer. The adventurous can pencil dive into a gorge or wade under a waterfall. Or stay above water: Canandaigua Sailboard offers paddleboard yoga , kayaking, and windsurfing. Between four and five hours from New York City , the Finger Lakes are just far enough to be a true escape. From Ithaca to quaint Skaneateles, there are a number of places that make for an ideal home base. Boutique hotel Argos Inn in Ithaca is one of them. We love the romantic renovated mansion for the original art prints in each room, some by Salvador Dalí.

The nautical overnight: Mystic, Connecticut

About a two-and-a-half hour drive, three hours by train via Amtrak

Mystic’s maritime history gives this town a classic New England feel. Even today, it remains recognizable by the boats that sail the Mystic River and Long Island Sound. History buffs can immerse themselves in the lore with a visit to the Mystic Seaport Museum , where there are reproductions of the Mayflower II. For another take on all things aquatic, visit the Mystic Aquarium , where African penguins waddle and Beluga whales swim. Enjoy the charm of eateries like Nana’s Bakery and Pizza , which mills its own flour, as well as the Oyster Club for fresh and locally-caught fish. Stay a night or two at the Whaler’s Inn , which has historical pull (it’s been around since 1818), yet was renovated in 2021. Its modern comforts include four-poster beds, gas fireplaces, water views, and an excellent farm-to-table restaurant, the Shipwright’s Daughter .

The classic coastal destination: Newport, Rhode Island

About a three-hour drive

There’s so much to see in Newport , one of New England’s most storied summer towns. Do up your weekend T-Swift-style with winding coastline drives, half-pound lobster rolls, and wanderings through Gilded Age summer “cottages” as they were called in the 1920s. During the day, take in sweeping Atlantic Ocean and mansion views on the famed Cliff Walk or boogie board at First Beach. Then, when it starts to get dark, visit the Roof Deck at the Vanderbilt hotel for a sunset drink. For a luxury stay, consider spending a couple nights at the aforementioned Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection . If you’re looking for a homey group spot, check out this two-bedroom cottage a few steps from the beach. However you do it, it'll be easy to see why Newport is one of the best weekend getaways from NYC. 

The quick camping trip: Cold Spring

About an hour-and-a-half train ride or drive

For an easy camping trip that doesn’t require a car, your spot is Fahnestock State Park . The campsite is near the Cold Spring stop on the Metro-North’s Hudson line—a short Uber ride covers the gap from the train station to the park itself. Squeeze everything you need for a night or two into a backpack , and relish in the empowerment and self-sufficiency of being 100% mobile. The hiking trails that run through the park connect to the vast Appalachian Trail, which touches 14 eastern seaboard states from Georgia to Maine . Besides hiking, the park has a beach on Canopus Lake, and fishing on four ponds and two additional lakes. On your way home, stop at Hudson Hil’s for a decadent brunch in the town of Cold Spring (we’re eyeing the Creole omelette) then walk to the train. If you’re looking to expand your journey throughout the region, there are many towns to love and explore in the Hudson River Valley area, including Beacon , Hudson , Kingston, and Rhinebeck.

The off-season gem: Lake Placid

About a five-hour drive

Better known as a winter destination , Lake Placid, home of the 1980 Winter Olympics, has a wealth of outdoor recreation in the summer months, too. At glassy, serene Mirror Lake, visitors can paddle out on canoes and kayaks . On the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails, hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers will pass the shimmering lake, cedar trees, and a population of otters. The Olympic sites include the magical Cloudsplitter Gondola ride, a rifle range, a glass elevator, a speed skating oval, a zip line park, the Herb Brooks Arena, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. If you're craving some time indoors, don't fret: The area’s old-fashioned movie theater at Tupper Lake Municipal Park, Adirondack State Theater, is currently screening One Life. Bed down at Lake Placid Lodge , a former summer camp .

The mountain escape: The Berkshires

About a three-and-a-half hour drive

The Berkshires , in western Massachusetts and northwest Connecticut, is one of those places that offers entirely different types of trips with every passing season. In the summer, the region is known for the anticipated Tanglewood season, in which the Boston Symphonic Orchestra and Boston Pops take residence and perform. In the fall, visitors can drive through some of the world’s most vibrant foliage along Route 2 and 7. Come winter, cold-weather sports are on offer—whether you’re looking to downhill ski or snowshoe. With the thaw of spring, hikes with waterfall views are easy to find at Bash Bish Falls State Park. Year-round, the food and drink scene won’t disappoint either: For an artisan cocktail after the sun goes down, visit Berkshire Mountain Distillers ; to enjoy a plate of shrimp gumbo, visit Nudel ; and to savor the notorious local cheeses, visit the North Adams’ Farmers Market. As far as hotels go, we have a few ideas. Restorative Canyon Ranch, Lenox is a six-time Readers’ Choice Awards winner, while Miraval Berkshires is one of New England’s largest and most renowned spas.

The great outdoors: Lake George

About a three-and-a-half-hour drive

Set in the Adirondacks in upstate New York, Lake George offers lots of open space and a slower pace of life. Take in the natural beauty with a scenic drive on NY-9 or NY-418, admire falcons at Bolton Landing, or shack up in a tent at the Lake George Island campsite . Other summer outdoor activities include fishing, cycling down the Warren County Bikeway, and golfing at the breathtaking Top of the World course. Boathouse Bed and Breakfast is the only B&B located directly on the lake , and has the most serene water views.

The peaceful spot: North Fork, Long Island

For a low key Long Island alternative to the Hamptons, the bucolic North Fork and adjacent Shelter Island are what you're after. Head first to Greenport, North Fork’s largest town which is known for its marinas, fishing boats, neighboring vineyards, and blooming fields of lavender in July. Sound View Greenport is our pick for where to stay in town. Their fisherman-and-farmer-forward restaurant the Halyard is open, too—don't sleep on the summer truffle and fresh cavatelli. Then, take the ferry from nearby North Haven to Shelter Island, where you'll find hiking trails, osprey, and salt marshes at the Mashomack Nature Preserve, and even more land to explore on the protected beaches or in the acres of forest. If you are strategic about avoid common travel times (Friday evening out of the city, Sunday evening to return), you can be in North Fork in just two hours, making it a surprisingly quick weekend getaway from NYC. 

The artist’s haven: Woodstock

The best place to start in Woodstock may be the slopes of Overlook Mountain. The limestone peak, full of red oaks, firs, and (keep your eyes peeled) timber rattlesnakes, features some interesting ruins, like the eerie remains of Overlook Mountain House, which brought tourists to the Catskills in the 19th century and sits just south of the Overlook fire tower. If privacy is what you’re looking for, you might consider this bright and airy studio loft decorated in a farmhouse style. While you’re there, scoop up quality produce at Sunflower Market , or if you don’t want to turn on an oven in the summer heat, snag a table outdoors at Phoenicia Diner . The cult favorite is a treat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Highly recommended: the Phoenicia Smash sandwich (beef griddled into caramelized onion, mustard, mayo, New York cheddar, and pickles on a Brioche bun).

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9 Easy Weekend Getaways From New York City—No Flights Required

Getting out of the city has never been easier—if only for a couple of days..

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While in the Catskills, swing by Minnewaska State Park for beautiful vistas and hiking trails.

Photo by Michelle Heimerman

Looking for a weekend getaway from the greater New York City area? Lucky for you, there are countless appealing destinations reachable via a quick train ride or road trip from the Big Apple, all with plenty of activities, hotels, and restaurants to fill a weekend. These East Coast escapes provide the respite needed—quiet nature walks, visits to local art galleries, a day trip here and there, fresh seafood dinners served in waterfront settings—and are all only a tank of gas away from Manhattan and Brooklyn. Read on for nine of our top picks for the best weekend getaways from New York City.

The laid-back beach town of Montauk is an ideal place for a relaxing getaway.

Photo by Lyndsey Matthews

1. Montauk, New York

• Distance : 2.5 by car or 3.5 hours by train from Penn Station
• Best for : A laid-back beach getaway

A relaxed alternative to upscale beach towns in the Hamptons just to the west, Montauk is best known for its surf breaks, like the ones at Ditch Plains and the Terrace. So pack your swimsuit, sign up for a surfing lesson, and plan on eating as much seafood as you can.

What to do in Montauk

For breakfast, head to Montauk Bake Shoppe for its famous jelly croissant (coffee snobs can get their needs met at Left Hand Coffee ). Don’t miss the sunset views dinner at Duryea’s , a classic seafood shack right on the water overlooking Fort Pond Bay. Close out the night by drinking a beer or two with locals at Shagwong Tavern , a dive bar in the center of the village that’s been open since 1936.

Between meals, take a surf lesson or rent gear at Engstrom Surf , located at Marram Hotel. Beginners are in safe hands with the Engstrom siblings—Leif, Ariel, and Lexi are all world-renowned surfers—who will have you paddling out and attempting to catch waves in no time. If you prefer being on the water instead of in it, you can book a private charter for groups of anywhere from 2 to 100 passengers with Catamaran Mon Tiki for a sunset cruise departing from Star Island in Lake Montauk.

Where to stay in Montauk

Check in to Marram , a quiet beachfront hotel located right on the Terrace surf break. Open-air communal spaces—like courtyard firepits with complimentary s’mores and a guests-only pool deck overlooking the Atlantic—are ideal for those who want to spend the most time outside this summer.

Just off the traffic circle at the center of town—and still 100 feet from the ocean— Daunt’s Albatross has been operated by multiple generations of the Daunt family since 1977. The 24 guest rooms come with kitchenettes perfect for week-long stays as well as Parachute linens and towels, custom-made knotty alder furniture, indigo-hued textiles as art, and sleek flagstone floors. As part of a year-long redesign, the Daunt family acquired the restaurant across the street, the Bird , which now serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.

Read more: The perfect weekend in Montauk

Breakneck Ridge, located along the Hudson River between Beacon and Cold Spring, is a popular (but strenuous) Hudson Valley hike.

Photo by Jeff P./ Flickr

2. Hudson Valley, New York

• Distance : two hours by car via the Taconic State Parkway
• Best for : Scenic hikes and small towns filled with creative energy

For New Yorkers, the rolling hills and dense pine forests of the Hudson Valley offer a welcome escape from the chaos of the city—but the appeal of this beautiful valley lies well beyond its tree-lined hiking trails and inviting swimming holes. The small, postindustrial towns that line the Hudson River are buzzing with creative energy that make it an excellent choice for a weekend trip.

What to do in the Hudson Valley

The towns of Nyack, Saugerties, Kingston, and Hudson are all known for their antique scenes and selection of award-winning eateries and cafés. In Kingston, the homey Brunette wine bar and Savona’s Trattoria on Broadway warrant a detour, and in Hudson, don’t miss Feast and Floret , the reincarnated Fish and Game (which closed in 2020) that’s now an Italian restaurant serving dishes like rigatoncini alla norma and pork ribs with cipollini and Concord grape reduction. Also make time for an all-American feast at Phoenicia Diner , a 1960s establishment that’s been restored (and the menu spruced up) for modern enjoyment.

Absolutely do not sleep on the breweries, some of which host live music now and then. West Kill Brewing on a historic 127-acre dairy farm in the Catskills makes the kind of IPAs you want to bring home by the 30-pack. Woodstock Brewing , right down the street from Phoenicia Diner, has a creative tap list (Baby Dragon pale ale for the win) and treats you like family.

Those interested in spending the full weekend outdoors should pass through Phoenicia, the starting point for popular day hikes to Hunter Mountain and Kaaterskill Falls. Art-focused travelers should spend a day strolling through shops along Beacon’s Main Street before touring Dia Beacon , a 300,000-square-foot art museum housed in a former Nabisco box printing factory. Farther north, Woodstock makes for a fun afternoon of window shopping and dessert eating (go just for Peace, Love and Cupcakes and Bread Alone ).

Where to stay in the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains have so many cozy bed-and-breakfasts and contemporary boutique hotels that the hardest part of planning a trip to the region can be deciding where to sleep. A few of the most ogle-worthy accommodations in the bucolic upstate New York area include the Urban Cowboy Lodge in Big Indian, the DeBruce in Livingston Manor, Scribner’s Catskill Lodge in Hunter, Eastwind Hotel & Bar in Windham, the Graham & Co. in Phoenicia, Wm Farmer and Sons in Hudson, and the brand-new (as of 2022) Wildflower Farms in Gardiner, which was on AFAR’s list of the best new hotels in 2022.

• The ideal weekend in Hudson, New York
• Hotel review: Wildflower Farms Offers a High-End Escape for Nature-Starved New Yorkers

Family-run wineries, orchards, farms, and seafood shacks characterize Long Island’s North Fork.

Photo by Sarah Buder

3. North Fork, Long Island, New York

• Distance : two hours by car; three hours by train from Penn Station
• Best for : Wine, food, and ocean vistas

Local wineries. Bucolic pastures. Farm-to-table food scenes. Oysters and lobster rolls up and down the coast. The North Fork feels worlds away from the concrete jungle of New York City , though it’s only 90 miles out to the northeastern peninsula.

What to do in the North Fork

A weekend on the North Fork isn’t complete without some winetasting. Long Island’s terroir has drawn comparisons to French wines—specifically France’s Bordeaux region—and Napa Valley in California because these wine countries share roughly the same latitude. Spend an afternoon exploring vineyards along the Long Island Wine Trail; Kontokosta Winery is the North Fork’s only waterfront winery, located in Greenport, and Castello di Borghese Vineyard and Winery is the region’s oldest vineyard.

To experience the area’s beautiful beaches, charter a boat with Peconic Water Sports and spend the day on the bay, or hop the ferry from downtown Greenport and relax on Shelter Island, a nature-filled refuge between the North and South Forks. Rent a bike on-property at Sound View and head toward Greenport’s main avenue to shop vintage clothes, vinyl records, and antique home decor at superbly curated boutique shops such as the Times Vintage and Lido . For lunch, head to Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market to enjoy shuck-your-own oysters, and don’t miss lunch or dinner at Salumeria Sarto , a tiny, 16-seat Italian restaurant on the waterfront that’s a Salumeria by day and Osteria by night.

Where to stay in the North Fork

Make for North Fork’s largest town, Greenport, which offers a laid-back alternative to flashier Long Island escapes like the Hamptons. Use Sound View Greenport as your base for the weekend—the revamped 1950s motel is now a 55-room waterfront hotel with a private beach, mixing New England modernist with coastal minimalism (think crisp, clean lines everywhere). Its sister property, Harborfront Inn at Greenport , is another family-friendly option.

Read more: The perfect weekend on Long Island’s North Fork

Be sure to visit Seventh Lake while in the Adirondacks—especially during the summertime.

4. Adirondacks, New York

• Distance : 4.5 hours by car via the Taconic State Parkway
• Best for : Exploring a state park filled with old-growth forests

With the everyday hustle and bustle of life in the metropolis, it’s easy to forget that a 6-million-acre state park —larger than Yellowstone , the Everglades, Glacier, and Grand Canyon National Parks combined—can be reached within the boundaries of New York State, just under five hours from Manhattan. The Adirondacks contain state-protected preserves filled with old-growth forests, waterfalls, glistening streams, and sparkling lakes, but because the area isn’t a national park, there’s no entrance fee.

What to do in the Adirondacks

Visitors can canoe or kayak on Lake George, a 32-mile-long body of water nicknamed “The Queen of American Lakes” in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. The state park also has more than 2,000 miles of hiking trails that cater to every skill level, from low-key nature strolls to strenuous summit climbs up the Adirondack High Peaks.

Where to stay in the Adirondacks

For a true Adirondack experience, spend the weekend at a historic “Adirondack Great Camp .” During the early 20th century, industrial behemoths of the Gilded Age vacationed in the Adirondack Mountains, where they built mansion-like log cabins decorated with granite fireplaces and furniture crafted from branches. Today, you can stay in a number of these lodges, including The Point , a great camp built by William Avery Rockefeller on 75 acres of Saranac Lake shorefront nearly a century ago, and White Pine Camp , the one-time Summer White House of President Calvin Coolidge.

For an art and culture-filled getaway, head to the Berkshires, with a stay at the hotel Tourists (left) and a visit to museum MASS MoCA (right).

Photos by Lyndsey Matthews

5. Berkshires, Massachusetts

• Distance : 3.5 hours by car via the Taconic State Parkway
• Best for : An art-filled escape

Adventure and art enthusiasts will find their ideal getaway in the Berkshires, a mountainous area in western Massachusetts that, in recent years, has become a Northeastern epicenter of culture thanks to a rush of entrepreneurs transforming the region’s formerly derelict buildings into contemporary galleries and lodging.

What to do in the Berkshires

Stay the weekend in North Adams, a small city near the Vermont state line that’s home to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) , a 19th-century factory mill complex turned modern center for world-class art. Roam more than 2,000 square feet of the museum’s sprawling exhibition space, then head outdoors to nearby Mount Greylock and traverse hiking trails that lead to the highest point in Massachusetts.

Where to stay in the Berkshires

Check into Tourists , a sleek, ecofriendly lodge opened in 2018 by John Stirratt (the bassist with the Chicago alt-rock group Wilco) in North Adams’s previously rundown Redwood Motel.

• The perfect weekend in the Berkshires
• Hotel review: How Wilco’s Bassist and His Friends Turned a Berkshires Motel Into Tourists, a Dream Summer Getaway

Nantucket isn’t the quickest weekend getaway from New York, but it’s worth the journey.

Photo by Shutterstock

6. Nantucket, Massachusetts

• Distance : six hours by car and ferry
• Best for : Eating-fresh seafood

Nantucket is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to eat (and eat, and eat), buy books , ride a bike to the beach, learn about the whaling industry , fly a kite, all while marveling at the iconic 1700s clapboard homes.

What to do in Nantucket

Head to The Nautilus , which has a location in Nantucket and one in Boston, for its stand-out cocktails and fusion menu (Korean and Hawaiian small plates all the way to Szechuan-style dandan noodles and a mind-blowing Peking duck). Its sister restaurant the Gaslight is popular among locals for its low-key setting, killer yakitori, and live music. Pick up sandwiches from Born and Bread for a beach picnic, or dig into a dish of oysters from Cru while sitting on the waterfront.

Whether or not you’re a history buff, the Whaling Museum is a must-do to learn the basics of Nantucket’s past—the Wampanoag people, notable abolitionists and suffragettes, 19th-century industry and transportation—as well as its legacy in the whaling industry. Private and self-guided walking tours of the island’s historic neighborhoods and architecture are also a highlight. Nantucket is also the perfect place to rent a bike—try Young’s Bicycle Shop on Broad Street or Nantucket Bike Shop —and follow any of these recommended bike paths .

Where to stay in Nantucket

Near Main Street, historic three-story brick mansion Jared Coffin House has gorgeous rooms that celebrate history-making women, like abolitionists Anna Gardner and Lucretia Coffin Mott. Greydon House has one of our favorite outdoor terraces though boutique hotel, Life House is a close contender with its outdoor firepit and relaxed, convivial vibe. Luxurious White Elephant has multiple residences and suites for families, while the Nantucket Hotel and Resort has a terrific pool and kids club.

Getting to Nantucket

From New York City, it’s a deceptively long trip by car: a five-hour drive to Hyannis on Cape Cod, where you pick up the high-speed ferry that gets you to Nantucket in an hour. From late April through early December, Tradewind Aviation runs scheduled flights between Nantucket Memorial Airport and Teterboro, New Jersey; and White Plains, New York. (Private charters are available between Nantucket and Farmingdale and Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.) It takes about an hour and costs $875.

Greenwich boasts four beaches on the Long Island Sound: Greenwich Point, Byram Beach, Island Beach (Little Captain’s Island), and Great Captain’s Island.

Photo by James Kirkikis/Shutterstock

7. Greenwich, Connecticut

• Distance : one hour by train from Grand Central
• Best for : A relaxing coastal getaway

Only an hour by train from Manhattan, Greenwich, Connecticut, is commonly noted as the “Gateway to New England.” For weekend visitors, the affluent community offers many of the cosmopolitan comforts found in New York City (high-end shopping, spas, and upscale restaurants), but unlike the city, Greenwich’s hot spots are set among the green landscapes and relaxing vibe of coastal Connecticut.

What to do in Greenwich

Don’t leave Greenwich without trying fresh seafood at L’Escale , a palatial waterfront restaurant inside the upscale hotel, Delamar Greenwich Harbor . If shopping stays high on your travel agenda, head to the luxury boutiques along the central Greenwich Avenue (nicknamed “the Ave”) and browse the latest trends at stores such as Hermès and Saks. For more laid-back R&R, visit nearby recreational areas like Byram Shore Park and Great Captain’s Island , or head to Greenwich Point Park to enjoy a long sunset stroll alongside the sweeping Long Island Sound.

Where to stay in Greenwich

Book a room in the waterside Delamar Greenwich Harbor hotel; some guest rooms have balconies overlooking the harbor. Or check-in to a luxurious suite at the J House Greenwich . Both hotels are excellent options for a wellness moment, with full-service spas on site.

The quaint seaside town of Mystic is about so much more than pizza.

8. Mystic, Connecticut

• Distance : three hours by car; four hours by Amtrak from Penn Station
• Best for : Pizza, beer, and learning about the town’s nautical history

Even if you’re not obsessed with the 1988 Julia Roberts rom-com focused on Mystic Pizza and set in Mystic itself, come for the same riverside charm that delighted screenwriter Amy Jones. Historic downtown Mystic looks every part a New England village, picture pretty with clapboard homes and storefronts, colonial-era steeples, and old sea captains’ residences. It’s the kind of family-friendly getaway where you’ll slow down, sip cider from a 19th-century mill, check out the iconic aquarium, and eat. And eat. And eat.

What to do in Mystic

Don’t feel guilty about multiple stops at Sift Bake Shop , co-owned by pastry chef Adam Young, a Food Network “Best Baker in America”—or that you’re chasing the sticky bun with an apple cider doughnut and hot cider a short drive away at B. F. Clyde’s Cider Mill . The last steam-powered cider mill in the United States (c. 1881), B.F. Clyde’s feels like a time warp. Make a reservation at Oyster Club or Shipwright’s Daughter for a fancier dinner out without the kids. And, of course, eat a slice or two at memorabilia-heavy Mystic Pizza .

Spend a morning exploring the locally owned shops in downtown Mystic ( Trove Men’s Provisions feels like an old-school haberdashery and Hang the Moon focuses on women-made, ecofriendly, and ethical gifts). Don’t sleep on the town’s most iconic activities: The Olde Mistick Village is fun for the family, especially the year-round Sofia’s Mystical Christmas shop and Deviant Donuts. Nearby Mystic Aquarium is a standout with beluga whales, sharks, African penguins, seals, sea lions, and more—though we imagine we had you at beluga whales.

Where to stay in Mystic The Whaler’s Inn has more than 150 years of heritage—one building was the residence of a shipbuilding family in the 1800s, another was an upscale hotel that opened in 1861. Following an elegant renovation in 2018, the present-day Whaler’s Inn feels like a de facto gathering spot for visitors—centrally located in downtown Mystic, with a wraparound porch and big picture windows overlooking the river. It also has family-friendly rooms, including a suite with bunk beds for the kids.

Public street art in Philadelphia is so widespread that the city has been nicknamed “the mural capital of the United States.”

Photo by Jon Bilous/Shutterstock

9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Distance : 1.5 hours by train from Penn Station
• Best for : Culture, history, and food in a smaller city

It may not seem like much of a “getaway” to travel from one urban destination to another, but the City of Brotherly Love offers plenty of perks for culture-seeking New Yorkers looking to spend a few days in a slightly smaller city.

What to do in Philadelphia

Philly is an exciting food city, offering dishes well beyond the beloved cheesesteak (although plenty of iconic establishments serve the namesake dish). Sample fine foods in the Reading Terminal Market , where stalls sling everything from cured meats to fresh cheeses and mouth-watering desserts. Or book a table at top-rated Philly restaurants such as Laurel in East Passyunk or Zahav in Society Hill.

For history lovers, there’s no end to the landmarks and significant buildings on offer in Philly, such as the iconic Liberty Bell with its infamous crack or Independence Hall , where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed in the late 1700s. Museum enthusiasts should definitely plan to visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art , but the jewel in Philly’s cultural crown is undoubtedly its vibrant street art scene. Don’t leave the city without taking a Mural Arts Philadelphia tour to view buildings that have been transformed by imaginative murals.

Where to stay in Philadelphia

Located on the top 12 floors of the Comcast Center, the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia has a 60th-floor Sky Lobby with sweeping city views, plus 219 serene guest rooms. For something trendier, try the Notary Hotel , which offers luxury lodgings in the former City Hall Annex, or Fitler Club , a private-club-meets-hotel with an unmatched spa.

This article originally appeared online in 2016; it was most recently updated in August 2023, to include current information. Additional reporting by Lyndsey Matthews and Erika Owen.

6 Weekend Escapes from NYC for Solo Travelers

One of the best parts of living in New York City is that it is easy to escape. There are multiple major airports, train lines, ferries and a major interstate ready to whisk a traveler to points far and wide. But sometimes we just need a quick escape. Here are a few breaks for solo travelers, where you can bring an overnight bag to the office on Friday and return on Monday with that post-vacation glow.

Arts and Culture: Chicago

A two-hour flight makes the Second City an easy weekend getaway, and with every major carrier flying between the two cities, fares are often extremely competitive.

Without a traveling partner to split the cost, the hotel bill for a solo traveler can be the biggest expense of a trip. But Freehand Hotel is making the hostel cool — or as cool as it can be. Centrally located in the Windy City's North Loop (in addition to its Miami, Los Angeles and NYC locations), the chic hotel is relatively close to all the major art installations, an El station and Navy Pier.

Plus, as a solo traveler, you may even be able to snag a seat at two hard-to-get-into restaurants, Girl & the Goat or Alinea. Maybe.

Adventure: REI Weekend Trip

Flying solo and adventure travel are not necessarily the best bedfellows. (Ask anyone who has seen "127 Hours".) So letting a reputable booker like REI plan all the logistics and organize a group can get you hiking, climbing or white-water rafting without fear.

A four-day excursion, like this one through the Great Smoky Mountains , manages all the food and lodging for the trip. Women can also seek out trips marketed just for them as well. Return to the city with an endorphin rush that doesn't come from dodging bicyclists.

A Wooded Retreat: Getaway House

When city life is just too much, escape off the grid to the Hudson River Valley. These tiny cabins have all the amenities you need (bathroom, a small stovetop) to disappear for a mini-retreat with nature — with a purposeful lack of Wi-Fi.

The Getaway grounds are just a short two-hour drive north of the city, but a nearby Amtrak station and a local taxi can also get you there. Pack your hiking shoes to explore the Overlook Mountain Trail or the Kaaterskill Falls, both moderate hikes. (Dogs welcome.) Swing by the Phoenicia Diner on your way back into the city to return rested and well-fed.

Beach Bummin': The Confidante Hotel

There's really nothing that a little sunshine can't fix and fortunately Miami is just a three-hour flight away.

The Confidante Hotel offers daily pool parties and frequent happy hours in the lobby for solo travelers to mix and mingle with other hotel guests. For a more relaxed vibe, grab one of the retro-modern beach chairs for ocean views and a local paleta from the Cielito Artisan Pops for a refreshing treat.

The weekends also offer complimentary yoga (on Saturdays) or boxing (on Sundays) classes on the outdoor terrace, perfect for relieving what ails you. Once you're at this Category 4 World of Hyatt property, there's really no reason to leave.

The Splurge: Wave Resort

Grab a seat on the Seastreak ferry bound for Sandy Hook Beach. The $45 ticket will have you on the beach in less time than an average commute — just 40 minutes. Once you've soaked up enough sun, grab the Seastreak shuttle bus to the shore's newest hotel: Wave Resort.

These minisuites are probably larger than your Manhattan apartment and definitely have better views. Once there, all your dining and relaxing can be done on-site. Although the room rates are a bit steep at an average $300 per night, there's no airfare to buy to get oceanside. After a full day of spa treatments and cabana concierge service, sleep will come easily with the sound of ocean waves — the real thing instead of your phone's white noise app.

Writer's Retreat: Troutbeck

The Metro-North commuter rail can easily turn into your escape patch from the city on the weekend. Ride the Harlem line north to the hamlet of Wassaic, New York, where the Troutbeck innkeepers will pick you up for the ride to retreat. At the resort, the 100-year-old building housing the guest rooms has been updated so every guest gets a king-size bed, large soaking tub and writing desk. Let the nature views inspire the next great American novel, to either write or read. (Those poolside lounge chairs look like they'd more likely inspire an afternoon reading session than novel-drafting.) If you decide to share your newfound escape with others, a circa-1790 four-bedroom cottage sleeps 12 comfortably for a private escape with friends. Get back to nature with on-site fly-fishing, hiking, and tennis. The inn's restaurant also uses as much local produce as possible. It's as close as you can be and still be so far away.

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New york city escapes.

Sometimes swapping city skylines for nature is just the reset you need. With Fall already quickly approaching it is the ideal time to plan a long weekend away for some R&R. There are so many places to explore in the state of New York, some closer in proximity than others, but they all have the same goal; Reconnecting with yourself and the nature beyond the city.

Troutbeck – Spanning over 250 acres in Hudson Valley, this place is perfect for your naturist, romantics, and slow traveler. The Manor House, Benton House, and Garden House together can accommodate up to 86 guests across 37 individually designed guestrooms and suites. Whether you’re looking for a sense of adventure or a quiet place to read your book all weekend, Troutbeck caters to every desire. A myriad of options include two US Open surfaced hard courts, fishing, hiking, an ever changing Culture calendar and more. Or situate yourself on one of the numerous hammock spots, relax by the fireplace or utilize the newly constructed Barns to indulge in a variety of wellness amenities. Troutbeck truly offers it all for your weekend getaway.

The Chatwal Lodge – If you’re looking for that elevated escape, look no further than the Chatwal Lodge. Sister to the renowned Chatwal in the heart of New York City, this property is located in the Lower Hudson Valley region of the Catskills Mountains on the Toronto Reservoir, just about two hours away. Your ideal stay at the Chatwal Lodge includes all meals, wine-pairings and spirits as well as all recreational activities. The Chatwal Lodge is your intimate upscale oasis. With just 11 exclusive guest rooms and suites, the Chatwal Lodge will feel like a home away from home. From fly-fishing to stargazing, there is an array of activities to fill your time. Connect with yourself and the nature around you with everything the Chatwal Lodge has to offer.

Wildflower Farms – Just 90 minutes from New York City, there is so much to connect with to escape your hectic work schedule. Wildflower Farms truly encapsulates the essence of the Hudson Valley area. The property features 65 accommodations with a variety of views to fit your liking. Highlights include orchards and a namesake farm, indoor and outdoor dining options, an exquisite pool and the stunning spa, along with miles of endless hiking trails to discover. This property is guided by the beauty of its surroundings and serves as the perfect base for those looking for adventure exploration and looking to connect with the beauty the valley exudes.

Inns of Aurora – Far removed from the busy world, Inns of Aurora is rich in history. Founded in 1789, in the unspoiled Finger Lakes region, Aurora evokes peace and simplicity. Nestled within the picturesque village of Aurora, NY, the five Inns of Aurora, accompanied by a farm-to-table restaurant, a casual pub, a village market, an activities & wellness center, and a demonstration kitchen, coexist harmoniously. The property is conveniently located along Aurora’s elm-lined Main Street, inviting guests to explore this delightful setting on foot. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of the Aurora Inn, the bold colors and modern art of E.B. Morgan House, the easy, eclectic style of Rowland House, the contemporary design of Wallcourt Hall, or the refreshing serenity of Zabriskie House, each accommodation has something for you. You’ll find a variety of unique amenities included in your stay including but not limited to a glass of wine each afternoon, complimentary bikes, yoga classes, kayaks and so much more. Fun fact,: the founder of Inns at Aurora is also the founder of American Girl Dolls.

Habitas on Hudson – Habitas on Hudson is tucked away two hours from New York City, and it is the perfect place to get away from the city and enjoy the sights and sounds of the countryside. The countryside retreat offers plenty of activities that will satisfy adventurers, learners, and food-lovers alike. The ideal place to reconnect with nature and other like-minded individuals. With three unique buildings for various design styles, there is much to choose from, but all encompass a soft and simplistic design that feels quite homey. Don’t forget your furry friends too; they are always welcome. Complimentary daily programming is also included in your stay with a focus on various activities including Art & Culture, Wellness, Adventure, Food and more. There are endless ways to fill your time throughout the stay.

Lake Placid Lodge – No matter what season it is, this stunning getaway in the heart of the Adirondacks, has everything you might be looking for. Lake Placid Lodge is the only hotel located directly on Lake Placid and is only about 10 minutes from the town. The property offers 30 accommodation options from the Main Lodge to Lakeside Suites to One or Two bedroom cabins. No matter which room option you choose, no two are the same. While one of the further options, trust us, it will be worth it.

No matter the season, upstate is calling your name. Ready to book your city escape and receive unique amenities like breakfast included, resort credit and more? Reach out to us today and we will get you started. Email or call us at [email protected] or 714 – 621 – 1040.

Taylor Debord

THE 10 BEST New York City Escape Rooms

Escape rooms in new york city.

• Paint & Pottery Studios
• Game & Entertainment Centers
• Room Escape Games
• Comedy Clubs
• Movie Theaters
• Scavenger Hunts
• Playgrounds
• Sports Complexes
• Bowling Alleys
• Horse Tracks
• Shooting Ranges
• Wedding Chapels
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Midtown West
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Escape the Room NYC

2. The Escape Game NYC

3. Mission Escape Games

4. Exit Escape Room

5. Escape Room Madness (5th Floor)

6. Clue Chase - Bryant Park

7. BrainXcape

8. PanIQ Escape Room NYC

9. Escape Games NYC

10. Tidal Force Vr

11. Escapely

12. Omescape

13. DreamWorks Trolls the Experience

14. Squarena

15. Complete Playground

16. Escape Virtuality

17. Escape Room Madness (6th Floor)

18. Mission Solvers

19. VR World® NYC

20. escape tsq.

21. X-Room NYC

22. Shadrina Anna

23. PartyRun

25. BRATVA: Take Down The Russian Mob

26. The Murder Mystery Company in New York

27. World City Trail

28. the mist.

29. Go Escape

30. Velvet Rope Enterprises, LLC

What travelers are saying.

• DaysTicket.com
• World City Trail - NY Central Park
• Above and Beyond VIP Concierge
• Escape Tours – New York
• The Escape Game NYC
• Mission Escape Games
• Exit Escape Room
• Escape Room Madness (5th Floor)
• DreamWorks Trolls the Experience
• Clue Chase - Bryant Park
• Escape the Room NYC
• Escape Games NYC

• Logo Sticky
• FILTERABLE GETAWAY PLANNER
• DAYTRIPPIN’
• WEEKEND GUIDES
• BLOG & RECENT STAYS
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A Guide to Enjoying the Great Outdoors in Harriman State Park

Erin 2024-03-26T20:11:21+00:00 Weekend Guides |

Did you know: New York’s second largest park is just 30 miles from NYC? Harriman State Park is a haven for hikers, cyclists, and lovers of the outdoors. Known for its 31 lakes, it also features 200+ miles of hiking trails, along streams, woods, and beautiful vistas of the Hudson Valley and NYC. Sound overwhelming? Let us help!

A Guide to the Whiteface Region in the Adirondack Mountains, NY

Erin 2024-02-02T00:33:25+00:00 Weekend Guides |

In the heart of the High Peaks, the Adirondacks' Whiteface Region is a four-seasons destination – but one that shines brightest in winter. Towering mountains, pristine lakes and dense forest characterize this area that was home to not one, but two, Winter Olympics. From the tranquil forest blanketed in snowfall, perfect for hiking — to its famous white-capped peaks that beckon skiers and snowboarders from around the globe — this winter wonderland offers endless adventure. Four towns make up the Whiteface Region: Au Sable Forks, Jay, Upper Jay and Wilmington. Whiteface Mountain is the region's crown jewel, whose 3,166 foot vertical drop is the highest in the East. The mountain is one of five Winter Olympics sites in the area, and the only location on the East Coast to host the winter games. In summer, the mountain remains a tourist attraction, with scenic gondola rides and hiking. NYC residents may be reluctant to book a trip thinking the Adirondacks are too far for a weekend; but the park begins just 215 miles from NYC, easily reached in under four hours. (Or catch the daily flight from JFK to SLK!) From there, we’re heading about an hour deeper into the park, down its scenic roads through idyllic mountain towns, and into the Whiteface Region. Check out our guide below for the best places to hike and explore – plus where to stay, eat and drink during your stay in the area. Where to Stay Around Whiteface: NewVida in Wilmington, NY NewVida Preserve in Wilmington, NY has striking architecture, a bar and restaurant, plus 14 cozy rooms to choose from. Onsite amenities also include a gym and wellness center and 35+ miles of trails. There's no shortage of lodging in the Whiteface Region – but we love an authentic Adirondack lodge with staff and services, especially in the otherwise pretty isolated landscape. Our lodging pick is NewVida Preserve, who's just reopened to the public after years of private ownership. This classic Adirondack lodge hosts 14 beautiful rooms, a restaurant, bar, and bistro – plus a wellness center with yoga, gym, and massage. Located on a 2,000 mountainous preserve, it also features 35+ miles of hiking trails. Throughout the hotel, guests will spot vintage items alluding to Paleface Mountain; this is NewVida's previous life. For three decades, the property operated as a ski mountain with five lifts and 44 runs. While there are plans to restore and reopen some of the runs, for now, guests may explore on foot. While doing so, be on the lookout for Paleface's former bull wheels, ski warming huts, lean to’s and cabins. A King View Room (no. 10) at NewVida Preserve. Photo c/o NewVida Preserve. Back inside NewVida, its new owners have carefully restored and renovated the lodge, preserving its vintage charm while updating the necessities. The dining room and bar ...

Pet-Friendly Getaways in the Catskills

Katrina Thaxton 2024-02-06T23:37:21+00:00 Weekend Guides |

Are you yearning for a pet-friendly getaway in the Catskills where you can explore the great outdoors with your best pal? Look no further: below, we've compiled a list of the pet-friendliest getaways in the Catskills. This bunch of hotels and Airbnbs go a step further than allowing pets – they welcome them, with perks like no pet fees, treats and bowls, bandanas and belly rub vouchers. As you plan your next escape, consider our pet-friendliest stays – ensuring that your getaway is not just a vacation, but a shared experience with your beloved companions. It's a true retreat for the whole family, paws and all! Scribner's Lodge in Hunter, NY Photo: Magrino PR Scribner's Lodge is your year-round escape for city dwellers and their furry friends, nestled among towering mountains, waterfalls, and peaceful swimming holes – with very close proximity to Hunter Mountain. Recognizing the great outdoors is best shared with man's best friend, Scribner's Lodge welcomes dogs through its Pupstater Program, providing toys, treats, a custom bandana and dog tag allowing owners and pets to take a small piece of the Catskills home. They also provide bowls for their stay. Don't forget to inquire about "pup-up" events! Plan your next visit with the Escape Brooklyn feature on Scribner's Lodge. Location: 125 Miles from NYC in Hunter, NY Perk: Guests can spend the entire weekend on the 20-acre property without having to leave for food or entertainment. Its on-site restaurant, Prospect, is fantastic for dinners or cocktails, and breakfast is included in the price of your room. Pet Policy: The Pupstater Program is a $50 nightly non-refundable fee for up to two dogs. Any additional dogs will incur an additional $50 nightly fee. Audrey's Farmhouse in Wallkill, NY Photo: Winnie Au Nestled in historic charm, Audrey's Farmhouse is equal parts rustic elegance with modern luxury. Both their Old Mill and Greenhouses locations pet-fee-free. Open year-round, owners Sally and Doug welcome your furry companions as cherished family members. Known for their impeccable service, they provide a bowl and treat at check-in and can arrange pet-sitting. For any extra doggie essentials such as bowls, waste bags, pup towels, or treats, simply reach out to Guest Services and they ensure these items are placed in your rooms for your convenience. Location: 85 Miles from NYC in Wallkill, NY Of note: Novice hikers, including those with pets, will delight in the brief journey to Awosting Falls: a 60-foot waterfall cascading into a pristine, expansive pool that transforms into a gentle stream. The trek to the falls is a pet-friendly, easy 40-minute round trip from the parking lot, featuring a predominantly flat carriage road. Pet Policy: Bring em if you got em! There is a maximum of two dogs per room; please ensure pets are updated on vaccinations and protected from fleas and ticks. When your pups are enjoying ...

A Guide to Kingston, NY

Erin 2024-04-08T23:29:05+00:00 Weekend Guides |

Ninety miles north of NYC, the Hudson River Valley town of Kingston, NY is situated at the base of the Catskill Mountains on the Rondout Creek. As the original capital city of New York, it’s loaded with history and incredible architecture — plus, a very vibrant art community. Like many Hudson Valley towns, its history, natural beauty and affordability has recently drawn in the creative types who have relocated and made Kingston their home — and are, in turn, opening restaurants, shops, studios and other small businesses. Read on for our guide to Kingston, New York, with recommendations on where to stay, eat, drink, shop, hike, and more. Where to Stay in Kingston, NY: Hotel Kinsley Hotel Kinsley's Wall St Suite is a loft-like space featuring original ornate moldings, king bed, full living/seating area, and a marble tile bathroom with a walk-in rain shower and luxurious oversized soaking tub. We love boutique hotel Hotel Kinsley, who offers guests beautiful rooms throughout four buildings in Kingston’s Stockade District. Dating to the 19th century, each building is stylistically and architecturally distinct; each pay homage to the Kingston’s past as well, heavily rooted in generations of art, travel, and nature. The buildings are closely nestled throughout the oldest part of the city, with its characteristic colorful facades and Federal-style architecture. The first of the four buildings to open was Kinsley’s flagship, 301 Wall Street; since then, guest rooms have opened in three additional buildings. The flagship is a restored 19th century bank building that also houses Kinsley's airy restaurant, with towering ceilings, a mezzanine for private dining or meetings, and the coziest cocktail bar. Above Restaurant Kinsley's kitchen, a large mural by artist Happy Menocal serves as a focal point, the same artist whose work is used throughout Hotel Kinsley’s cheerful website. Above Restaurant Kinsley, ten guest rooms are located on its upper floors. Guests enter through the bar, check-in inside the bank's original vault, then head upstairs via a historic elevator. From the rooms to the restaurant to the bar, the interiors are stunning, each space totally unique but cohesive in the use of color palette and texture — thanks to the handiwork of interior designer Robert McKinley. Things to Do in Kingston, NY: Shopping, Galleries, and Exploring Town Wall St in Uptown Kingston, NY is lined with boutique shops, galleries and restaurants. Much of Kingston’s appeal is being at the epicenter of “Upstate” culture in the Hudson Valley. Exploring town, and the region, is a must! The town is comprised of three distinct neighborhoods: Uptown (also called the Stockade District), Midtown, and the Rondout (downtown.) Uptown Kingston is the most architecturally distinctive, with colorful painted buildings facades along Main and North Front Streets – plus some exceptionally preserved historic buildings in the blocks surrounding. In this part of town, don't miss staples like Kingston ...

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Goldie Point in Barnegat Light, NJ

Erin 2024-04-03T22:21:23+00:00 Recent Stays |

100 miles from NYC, midcentury beach getaway Goldie Point is wonderful year-round, but would like you to know about "Secret September" and "Summer’s Not Over October." Currently it's September, the weather is still hot, the water is warm, and the masses of tourists are totally gone. A few months later, experience what the owners call “Wes Anderson Winter,” where the season and stillness create the perfect environment for recovery and wellness at the beach — in total solitude.

Mountain Terrace in Parksville, NY

Erin 2024-03-26T20:06:50+00:00 Recent Stays |

Perched on a hill and surrounded by tall trees, Mountain Terrace is akin to staying in a luxury treehouse. Three bedrooms sleeps six guests at this beautiful Airbnb in Parksville, NY with two floors, two bathrooms and two living rooms. At the heart of the home is Mountain Terrace's porch: wrap-around style, with west-facing views to watch the sunset each day. A grill and large dining table are perfect for meals al fresco, under the surrounding swaying treetops. At night, head to the bonfire for stargazing outside the private yoga studio, also available for guest use.

Moody Pond House in Warren, CT

Erin 2024-03-15T00:45:52+00:00 Recent Stays |

Less than 100 miles from NYC, find the magical Moody Pond House: a brand new, modern home tucked away on 18.5 acres in the impossibility picturesque Warren, Connecticut. Named after the gorgeous pond on the property, the popular rental home offers a cushy, private retreat year-round.

Catskills Cloud House in Phoenicia, NY

Erin 2024-04-05T16:16:59+00:00 Recent Stays |

This gorgeous farmhouse has just been renovated into the perfect rental – especially for those wanting a quick, easy getaway without a car. Hop on the Trailways Bus and arrive into the small town of Phoenicia, where the house is just a 5 minute walk from Main Street. Walk into town for meals, or prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner in the beautiful kitchen and dining area. The trailhead for the Tanbark Trail is walkable from the house, as is the beautiful Esopus River for fishing, tubing, or just taking a cool-off dip.

Canopy Hill House in Roxbury, NY

Erin 2024-02-06T18:35:42+00:00 Recent Stays |

Perched high on a hill with incredible views of the mountains, Canopy Hill House is an exceptional Airbnb in Roxbury, NY. The modern farmhouse exudes both tranquility and character, with thoughtful touches for guests like its noteworthy coffee setup, plus Made In and Melsen supplies in its remarkably beautiful kitchen. To help guests relax, bath salts and yoga mats are provided.

Cherry Hill in Accord, NY

Erin 2023-12-19T17:40:27+00:00 Recent Stays |

Midcentury vacation rental Cherry Hill sits atop a hill with panoramic views of the Shawangunk mountain ridge. Drink in the views from its large hot tub — or opt to watch sunset from the living room, whose large stone fireplace is adjacent to a wall of windows overlooking the mountains. Stunning oversized windows throughout, multiple dining spaces and patios, a well-equipped kitchen and two cozy fireplaces makes this home the perfect destination for a retreat from the city any time of year.

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From Mood-Board to Move-In: Customizable New Build Homes by Welcome

Erin 2023-10-11T19:35:27+00:00 Design |

Looking to build a brand-new, personalized home? Based in Upstate and Westchester, New York, Welcome promises that homebuyers can go from mood-board to move-in with just a few clicks. Armed with a mood board and a color palette, we worked with Welcome’s designers to easily create an Escape Brooklyn-inspired dream escape — seen below — within Welcome’s Modern Cabin 3.

With many active build projects along the East Coast, Welcome has taken the homebuilding process entirely online, and has streamlined into just a handful of simple steps. Here’s how it works:

• Use their interactive map to choose your perfect plot of land. All plots have been analyzed by Welcome’s proprietary AI land-vetting technology, so you know they’re conducive to a build!
• Use their interactive digital design studio to design your home. For any given Welcome home, there are over 200,000 design combination options. No “cookie cutter” vibes, ever.
• Make an offer on the land and construction costs. This offer secures your home, as well as a builder. Once your offer is accepted, you sit back, relax (in a cabin somewhere, perhaps?), and let them handle everything else – from permitting, all the way through move-in day.

Whether you’re seeking a forever home, a weekend getaway, or an investment property, check out Welcome to see some of their active build projects in the Upstate and Westchester areas. To play around in the digital design studio as we did, head to welcomehomes.com/models — just proceed with caution, because it’s a little addictive.

For transparency, Escape Brooklyn is a real estate advertising service and may have been paid for this ad. We carefully curate potential paid advertisers; all features are hand-picked and thoughtfully considered.

Love Lamb: Cruelty-Free Sheepskins Made by Hand in Delaware County, NY

Erin 2023-10-11T19:05:27+00:00 Design |

Visit an upstate home, and odds are you’ll see a sheepskin elegantly draped over a chair or bench. They’re everywhere, and for good reason: warm, soft, and organic, they’re an easy final touch for the Upstate hygge vibe we all covet.

Before & After: Camp Caitlin

Erin 2023-10-11T19:04:10+00:00 Design |

Caitlin Cowger, owner of Camp Caitlin, has a piece of advice when it comes to buying your Upstate dream home: “Don’t look for the house of your dreams. Renovate the house of your dreams.”

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Goff Hill Cabin in Livingston Manor, NY

Katrina Thaxton 2024-05-01T17:44:12+00:00 Real Estate |

Nestled in the serene landscape of Livingston Manor, NY, Goff Hill Cabin blends classic log cabin charm with modern design. Meticulously curated by the owner of Long Weekend – who was recently featured in Dwell Magazine – Goff Hill Cabin appeals to design enthusiasts looking to immerse into nature on its vast 18.8 acre lot. Two distinct parcels encompass not only the main cabin, but also a detached two-story garage, and a private hiking trail.

Two bedroom, two bathroom cabin | 1,260 square foot home on 18.8 acres | Living room with cozy wood stove | Wraparound deck | Primary bedroom with skylight balcony and ensuite bathroom | New metal roof | Mudroom addition | Two-car garage | Winding hiking trail and nearby forests and rivers | Asking $550,000

Begin on the covered front porch and enter through the front door into a newly added mudroom, perfect for all weather and outdoor gear with hooks, storage and seating. Through the doorway is Goff Hill Cabin’s great room, with an open plan living and dining space, plus a minimalist fully-equipped  kitchen. These three spaces are tied together by a cathedral vaulted ceiling that allow plentiful natural light, kept cozy with a wood burning stove. Just off the kitchen, a private bedroom is on the first floor, next to the shared full bathroom. Sliding glass doors lead to a large wraparound deck partially covered for grilling, and a sundeck for sunbathing and entertaining.

Head upstairs and notice the design forward touches, including the wood privacy design and the home’s landing nook – a space just right for a comfy reading chair. Continuing upstairs, find the bright and spacious primary bedroom with a large balcony skylight. This large window can operate as both a skylight and balcony, giving you easy access to fresh air and treetop forest views. Its ensuite bathroom offers bright, tranquil spa vibes with a soaking tub and walk-in shower.

Back downstairs, breeze through the door off the dining area, down to the unfinished walkout basement that houses a pellet stove and the washer/dryer. This space has the potential to expand the square footage of the house and transform into a home gym, office or guest apartment with private entrance.

At Goff Hill Cabin, two parcels encompass 18.8 acres that abut NY state land, giving you maximum privacy and space to hike, explore or four-wheel. With a private hiking trail, seasonal springs throughout and a few rough outbuildings, Goff Hill Cabin is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Beyond the house, a …

Roe Pond Estate in Livingston Manor, NY

Katrina Thaxton 2024-04-24T03:37:29+00:00 Real Estate |

Step into the serene haven of Roe Pond Estate in Livingston Manor, NY: a vast 6.2 acre plot where a private pond becomes a personal oasis. Extending beyond its size and scenic vistas, this timeless gem is perfect for family gatherings or as the ultimate playground for weekend getaways.

Five bedroom, four and a half bathroom house | 3,376 square foot home on 6.2 acres | Expansive windows throughout | Open living area and dining room | Deck with forest views | Second floor primary suite with walk-in closet, deck and en suite bathroom | First floor guest suite with ensuite bathroom | Office | Second-floor living area | Finished basement with bonus space | Scenic round pond | Basketball Court | Private road | Two-car garage | Asking $749,000

Listed by Arlena Armstrong-Petock at Country House Realty. For showings or inquiries, contact [email protected]   or call/text 412-760-0176.

Open house: Sunday, April 28 , 10am-2pm at 656 White Roe Lake Rd, Livingston Manor, NY 12758.

Nestled in the heart of Livingston Manor, a spacious haven awaits offering a blend of relaxation and entertainment. Entrance through the grand foyer leads guests to the living room where panoramic vistas stream through expansive windows. Beyond, a sprawling kitchen serves as the epicenter of gatherings, while five bedrooms and a bonus basement ensure ample space for all.

On the first floor, two bedrooms – including one with a luxurious en suite bathroom – grace the main living space. An airy, open kitchen boasts a pantry and a deck with breathtaking views, ideal for savoring morning coffee or al fresco meals during sunset. Up the stairs, the home’s primary suite with a deck, walk-in closet and en suite bathroom. It’s accompanied on this floor by a large office, two additional bedrooms, and a cozy second living area ideal for quiet moments or intimate gatherings. The finished basement, complete with a walkout, offers versatile space for guests, a studio, or gym. With an attached two-car garage leading into the basement, convenience is paramount.

Outside, envision relaxing afternoons by the serene private pond, interrupted only by the occasional splash. The basketball court nestled in the lower yard invites hours of outdoor enjoyment or serves as the perfect backdrop for al fresco entertaining. An expansive yard serves as a blank canvas for hosting elegant garden parties or spirited bonfires under the starlit sky — a picturesque setting awaiting personal touch.

Secluded, yet conveniently situated, this property offers a tranquil escape just moments from the vibrant pulse of town life. Embark on leisurely trout fishing excursions along the banks of Willowemoc Creek , or …

Modern Farmhouse With a Pool in Rhinebeck, NY

Erin 2024-04-21T13:53:56+00:00 Real Estate |

Set on 2.25 acres overlooking miles of Hudson Valley beauty, this tranquil abode serves equally well as a full-time residence, or weekend getaway. Facing due south and flooded with year-round natural light through generous picture windows, the interior was gut renovated in 2020 and is a testament to simple, modern design.

Three bedroom, three bathroom farmhouse | 2,049 sq ft home on 2.25 acres | Additional 1,100 sq ft of unfinished basement | Designer kitchen features a professional-grade Viking gas range stove and oven, and Liebherr refrigerator | 40’ x 16’ x 8’ heated saltwater gunite pool with automated cover | Six person hot tub | Beautifully designed perennial landscaping | Fenced yard with large entertaining patio | Brand new water system with high pressure tank, UV light, and reverse osmosis filter | Atop quiet Burger Hill, offering stunning views of the Hudson Valley | 7 minutes from Rhinebeck Village, 12 to Rhinecliff Amtrak | Asking $1,749,000

Listed by Bianca Ladipo, Continental Real Estate Group. For showings or inquiries, contact [email protected] or call/text (224)-612-3085.

Open house: Saturday April 20 & Sunday April 21, 12:00-4:00PM at 3 Tappen Place, Rhinebeck, NY 12572. Agents may request a scheduled viewing Wednesday April 17, or Friday April 19 from 2:00-6:00PM.

The interior was gut renovated in 2020 and is a testament to simple, modern design. From the front door, enter into a foyer, with the living room located on the right and home office to the left. Toward the back of the home, an open kitchen is ideal for entertaining with a three barstool island. From there, the space seamlessly flows into a sun-drenched great room and adjoining sunroom, perfect for plants and a daybed. For moments of quiet contemplation, a cozy den awaits, complete with exposed beams and a wood burning fireplace set into modern white brick that simply demands daily use in the winter. A small library doubles as a private home office.

Upstairs, the primary bedroom and an en suite bath offers gorgeous views facing north, south, and west. Two additional bedrooms with spacious closets are well suited for guests or family and share a bathroom featuring a full bath.

Back downstairs, the chefs and entertainers will love the kitchen, with a professional-grade Viking gas range stove and oven and Liebherr refrigerator. The water system was fully replaced in 2021 with a high pressure tank, UV light, and reverse osmosis filter with a spigot conveniently placed to the kitchen sink.

During winter months, a propane backup generator is critical for safety, especially if the homeowners may be out of town. An already-installed Starlink means the home has both power and WiFi stability throughout any weather conditions.

Outside, the back yard is a true oasis, with a sprawling tiered patio that’s built for entertaining. The show-stealer, of course, is the home’s heated saltwater pool – steps away from the freestanding 6-person hot …

Fieldhouse in Clinton Corners, NY

Erin 2024-04-11T05:12:07+00:00 Real Estate |

Ninety miles from New York City, architect designed Fieldhouse is located on ten rolling acres in Clinton Corners, NY. Inspiration for the architectural form of the residence comes from the property’s stunning pasture views, complete with distant Catskills peaks, in counterpoint to the surrounding woodland backdrop. Previously an equestrian paddock, the property interiors with natural textures and a luxurious modern simplicity.

Cochecton Pump House in Cochecton, NY

Erin 2024-03-21T16:47:22+00:00 Real Estate |

This incredible, turnkey business in the Delaware River Valley, less than 120 miles from NYC, is ready to go with a three bedroom house included in the sale.

From an overgrown ruin, a new life has been breathed into this solid, concrete and brick structure built by Standard Oil in 1879. Fast forward 145 years – Cochecton Pump House has created an entirely one-of-kind restaurant, bar and event space; it’s also received an Excellence Award by the Preservation League of New York State . Tucked into the upper Delaware River valley, it’s conveniently located between two hotbeds of the Sullivan Catskills renaissance – Narrowsburg and Callicoon.

Historic building dating to 1879 | Turnkey business, currently with liquor license (new owners will have to reapply as a formality) | Approximately 3,600 square feet | Two modified containers: one for bar/ordering, the other a fully equipped kitchen | Sale includes three bedroom, one bathroom home | High ceiling from an 1890 firehouse | Approx 1900 sq ft home on ~3 acres (after subdivision) | Home is adjacent to business for staff housing | Asking $750,000

Listed by Erik Freeland, @catskills_living , at Country House Realty. Original listing with more information here . For showings or inquiries, email [email protected] or call (646) 942-7099.

After three seasons, the Pump House has quickly become the talk-of-the-town local attraction. The sensation of eating some food, having a drink, and hanging with friends as the blue hour descends into a magical mix of blue and gold light creates an atmosphere that is truly incredible.

For history buffs, the pump house was built by John Rockefeller’s Standard Oil in 1879. There was a six inch pipeline originating in western PA; crude was piped along the Southern Tier of NY. The steam-powered pumps kept the oil flowing to a refinery in Bayonne, NJ in order to supply NYC.

Nowadays, there’s a myriad of possibilities at the Cochecton Pump House: live music, performances, weddings, dog shows, movie showings, private functions – the list goes on! Clients include a great mix of locals, tourists, second home owners and day trippers from NYC. Regular events bring in a steady flow of customers. Events from weddings, private parties, movie nights, pop-up restaurants, local beer competitions: a new owner is only limited by their own imagination.

A parking lot and handicap accessible walkway leads down to two fully equipped repurposed containers. One container takes food orders and serves local tap beers, wine and frozen drinks. The functional and equipped kitchen is in the other. There is a well on site and ample electric. A tidy and efficient bathroom trailer sits conveniently adjacent to the main area.

The home, thought to have been built in the late 1800s for the engineer in charge of the pump house, has three bedrooms, one bath and a finished attic. (See it in slides 13-19.) A renovation could …

Blueberry Ridge in Narrowsburg, NY

Erin 2024-03-20T05:48:41+00:00 Real Estate |

Set into the rural backdrop of Narrowsburg, NY, Blueberry Ridge House stands as a cozy cottage just 100 miles from NYC. Unwind in this welcoming 2 bedroom plus guest suite and 1.5 bath home with a sprawling backyard for gardening, lounging or picnics. Whether you’re enjoying a morning cup of coffee on the front porch or under the vast expanse of the night sky, this charming retreat is an undeniable gem in the Catskills.

2 bedroom (+ flex space in finished basement staged as guest suite), 1.5 bathroom cottage | 1,920 square foot home on 6.43 aces | Cozy living room with wood burning stove | Dreamy farmhouse kitchen | Airy dining room with sliding doors to al fresco balcony | Short term rental friendly | Large back yard with fire pit | $25k price reduction (in the form of a credit at closing) with a signed 2-year agreement with Red Cottage | Asking $550,000

Listed by Jill Borenstein at Catskill Mountain Houses. For showings or inquiries, email [email protected] or call/text 631-495-9534.

Open house: Saturday March 23, 2024 from 12-2pm at 225 Lake Ridge in Narrowsburg, NY. Please RSVP to the email above.

This quaint yet spacious cottage radiates warmth with an abundance of windows and a cozy open floor plan. Built in 2010 by the well-known building team at Catskill Farms, the open living-kitchen-dining space, creates a bright friendly room, with maximum ease for entertaining. The dreamy farmhouse kitchen is a perfect spot to relax or host friends, and is definitely the heart of the home. Across the room, the living space is anchored by a bold stone fireplace with wood-stove insert that keeps the house warm and toasty in the colder months. Move through the dining room to the sliding glass doors for convenient access to a deck for al fresco dining. The first floor offers plenty of space to unwind and relax with and a convenient half bath, too.

Upstairs, both queen bedrooms fit nicely with a shared full bathroom that boasts crisp and classic white tiling, and a coveted double sink, a large shower and newly appointed finishes.

Downstairs from the living area, is the fully finished walkout basement – a flexible space currently configured as a spacious 1 bedroom suite, with a lounge and study space, washer/dryer, and a separate entrance through sliding glass doors to the backyard lower stone patio and fire pit.

Outside, listen to the sounds of nature in the backyard of this private, peaceful property. Totalling 6.43 acres, Blueberry Ridge House sits toward the front of the property, just behind a u-shaped driveway creating more privacy from the quiet road. Enjoy a meal outdoors or host a gathering on the back deck just overlooking the firepit and lawn. The large grassy backyard offers a private space for relaxing and is perfect for gardening, sports or simply lounging in the sun.

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Three Scenic Towns In New York's Hudson Valley Perfect For Seniors

• Tarrytown: A peaceful haven with charming streets for strolling and easy access to cultural experiences.
• Rhinebeck: A historic village filled with quaint shops, scenic landscapes, and rich local history to explore.
• Beacon: A tranquil retreat surrounded by breathtaking vistas, art galleries, and outdoor adventures for all ages.

Imagine being surrounded by rolling hills, quaint villages, and stunning views of the Hudson River. Now sprinkle in some friendly faces, a slower pace of life, and activities perfect for exploring. That's the magic of the Hudson Valley in New York State, and it's the ideal spot for seniors looking for a charming escape.

The Hudson Valley boasts a rich history, evident in its well-preserved towns and grand estates. Explore historic sites like West Point , a former military academy, or wander the charming Main Streets lined with antique shops and art galleries. Beyond the cultural treasures, the valley's natural beauty takes center stage. Hike through lush forests or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic riverfront.

From historic main streets to beautiful natural landscapes, these three scenic towns in New York’s Hudson Valley are picturesque and perfect for seniors.

Tarrytown: A Tranquil Escape For Active Seniors In Westchester County

Median age: 42.9 years.

Nestled along the eastern banks of the Hudson River in Westchester County, New York, lies the charming village of Tarrytown . This historic gem offers a perfect blend of tranquility and cultural richness, making it an ideal getaway for seniors seeking a delightful and fulfilling vacation or retirement experience.

What makes Tarrytown special?

Unlike bustling cityscapes, Tarrytown offers a peaceful environment. Imagine quiet streets lined with mature trees, scenic walks along the waterfront, and the gentle murmur of the Hudson River. Parks like Pierson Park and Patriots Park provide ample green space for relaxation and leisurely strolls.

Tarrytown boasts a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, ensuring guests have easy access to all their daily needs and a chance to socialize when the mood strikes.

A brief glance at Tarrytown history

Steeped in history, Tarrytown offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Visit the historic Lyndhurst mansion , a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, or explore the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, the final resting place of literary legend Washington Irving.

• Tarrytown is delightful on its own , but it's worth mentioning that Sleepy Hollow is a close neighbor.

Museums like the Tarrytown Historical Society and the Rockefeller Archive Center provide a window into the region's rich heritage. For the artistically inclined, the Tarrytown Music Hall , a restored Art Deco theater, hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, from classical music to Broadway productions, providing a touch of cultural enrichment.

The Music Hall goes beyond just films. They often host live performances, concerts, and even comedy shows. Check their calendar before visiting to see if there's a unique event happening that aligns with specific interests.

Why Tarrytown is perfect for seniors

Besides being a walkable paradise with an entire downtown area specifically designed for strolling, Tarrytown offers the best of both worlds – a peaceful haven with the option to explore further.

Major highways provide easy access to nearby cities like White Plains and even New York City, perfect for day trips or visiting family. This convenient location allows one to enjoy the tranquility of Tarrytown while having the option for a wider range of cultural and entertainment experiences when desired.

Hudson Valley Road Trips: Exploring The 10 Best Routes & Must-See Attractions Along The Hudson River

Rhinebeck: a charming escape for seniors in new york's hudson valley, median age: 58.1 years.

Nestled in New York's scenic Hudson Valley , Rhinebeck is a charming village that beckons seniors seeking a peaceful and enriching getaway. Imagine strolling down quaint streets lined with shops and cafes or exploring historical sites steeped in rich history.

This friendly community offers a perfect blend of relaxation and gentle exploration, making it an ideal vacation spot or even a permanent home for active seniors.

What makes Rhinebeck special?

Rhinebeck boasts a delightful downtown area perfect for exploring on foot. Seniors can easily navigate charming streets lined with unique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Imagine grabbing a delicious cup of coffee and browsing local crafts, or enjoying a leisurely lunch outdoors – all within easy reach.

This walkable environment fosters independence and a sense of community. Nature lovers will find themselves surrounded by rolling hills, verdant forests, and the majestic Hudson River, with its scenic stops all along the way . Guests can hike scenic trails, bike through the countryside, or soak up the fresh air.

Head to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds to unlock hidden vacation gems! This venue, located just outside town, often hosts unique events throughout the year. Guests should check the Dutchess County Fairgrounds website before their trip to see if anything piques their interest.

A brief glance at Rhinebeck history

Rhinebeck's story stretches back to the late 17th century when Dutch settlers arrived, drawn by the fertile land along the Hudson River. The town's name reflects its founders' heritage — "Rhine" for the Rhine River in their homeland and "beck" meaning stream. Today, Rhinebeck has transitioned from agriculture to tourism, but its historical charm remains.

Explore the Dutchess County Historical Society to delve deeper into Rhinebeck's fascinating past. This local gem offers exhibits, artifacts, and resources that bring Rhinebeck's history to life. Guests can also visit some grand estates like the Staatsburg Estate and Vanderbilt Mansion to experience a glimpse into the lives of Rhinebeck's prominent families.

Why Rhinebeck is perfect for seniors

Rhinebeck's serene and scenic surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for seniors looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. The town's proximity to the Hudson River and its picturesque countryside offers ample opportunities for leisurely walks, scenic drives, and peaceful moments of reflection amid the beauty of the great outdoors.

Besides cute shops and local museums, the town plays host to a range of events, festivals, and cultural performances throughout the year.

These programs allow seniors to immerse themselves in the local community and connect with fellow residents and visitors. Overall, Rhinebeck's combination of natural beauty, historic charm, cultural richness, and senior-friendly amenities makes it the perfect destination for seniors looking to relax, rejuvenate, and explore at their own pace.

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These Are The Three Prettiest Fall Towns In The Hudson Valley

Beacon: a beacon of charm for the perfect hudson valley escape, median age: 41.2 years.

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Hudson Valley, Beacon, New York, offers a unique blend of history, art, and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal vacation destination for all types of travelers, especially seniors.

Imagine strolling through a charming Main Street lined with art galleries and cafes, followed by exploring a world-renowned contemporary art museum – all within walking distance. Beacon offers many attractions and experiences, making it an ideal getaway for visitors of all ages and interests.

What makes Beacon special?

One of the most compelling reasons to visit Beacon is its stunning natural surroundings. Beacon is one of many beautiful towns along the Hudson River , surrounded by picturesque mountains and rolling hills, Beacon boasts breathtaking vistas and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, take leisurely bike rides along the riverfront, or relax and soak in the serene beauty of the landscape.

Once a year, Beacon hosts Open Studios weekends. During these weekends, local artists open their studios to the public, offering a glimpse into their creative spaces and artistic processes. Check the Beacon Open Studios website for specific dates and participating artists.

A brief glance at Beacon history

Originally inhabited by the indigenous Wappinger people , Europeans first settled the area that is now Beacon in the late 17th century. One of the most significant chapters in Beacon's history occurred in the early 20th century with the establishment of the Nabisco (National Biscuit Company) factory.

The factory, which produced iconic products like the Oreo cookie, became a major employer in the area and played a vital role in shaping the town's economy and community life.

Today, Beacon is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and cultural institutions showcasing the work of local and international artists. The Dia Beacon Museum , housed in a former Nabisco factory, is a major cultural landmark, exhibiting contemporary art in a stunning industrial setting.

Why Beacon is perfect for seniors

Beacon's tranquil setting in the scenic Hudson Valley provides a peaceful retreat for seniors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Surrounded by picturesque mountains, rolling hills, and the majestic Hudson River, Beacon offers ample opportunities for leisurely walks, scenic drives, and serene moments of contemplation amid nature's beauty.

Seniors can immerse themselves in the local arts community, attend cultural events and performances, or appreciate the beauty of the town's historic architecture and public art installations.

Situated just a short drive or train ride from New York City, Beacon offers a convenient escape from urban life without sacrificing accessibility or amenities. Seniors can enjoy a relaxing getaway without the stress of long-distance travel, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or extended stays.

10 Super Cheap Things To Do In New York's Scenic Hudson Valley

With its picturesque landscapes, charming communities, and rich cultural offerings, the Hudson Valley in New York State invites seniors seeking a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Whether exploring the historic streets of Tarrytown, strolling through the serene surroundings of Rhinebeck, or immersing themselves in the vibrant arts scene of Beacon, seniors are sure to find a perfect blend of relaxation, enrichment, and exploration in these scenic towns.

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WELCOME TO AT ESCAPES

We offer fun-filled tours with top notch local experts who will guide you every step of the way. You will experience it all through the eyes of the locals. Our promise – white glove concierge service and beautiful memories and friendships which will last a lifetime.

GINA CASELLA

Gina Casella, the President/Managing Director of AT Escapes has been going back and forth between the US and Italy ever since she was a child. Adriana Trigiani Tours later became AT Escapes, a full service boutique travel company, whose offerings include customized travel across the globe and small group tours in New York and throughout Europe. Gina couples her knowledge and creativity to develop travel experiences which allow you to indulge, be pampered, kick back and relax.

The only words were…best vacation ever!

Gina and her team arranged every meticulous detail of our trip. The night after our return to the States, the four of us reflected over dinner of the adventure we just finished. The only words were…best vacation ever! Rome, Naples, Capri, Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, they all took our collective breath away. Food, tours, wine, the views, transportation, food, private tour guides, hotels, cooking classes (did I mention food?)….spectacular. And everything taken care of, so much so that even this type A personality was able to let go and enjoy the ride(s) without worry. Gina is now in charge of every future vacation we go on.

An unexpected magical moment of the trip was during an agritourism visit. This little woman Maria – who I believe her only known word of English was “cheese” – making the homemade ricotta and mozzarella, reminded me so much of my dearly departed Aunts. While I’m not sure that she smelled of cookies (my memory of my Aunt Mary), nor am I certain she is the rock of her family (like my Aunt Rosie was to ours), she did however remind me so much of the two of them combined – the PERFECT marriage of quiet strength and sweetness – that I just soaked it all in and got a little emotional. She noticed, asked what was going on and after I tried to explain she pulled me over for a hug and picture.

For just a few precious moments, at a quiet little farm in Sorrento, I was transported to my teens enjoying time with my wonderful Aunts again. Of all else, that is the memory I will forever keep of this trip.

Joe, Leilani, Alia & Jillian Southern Italy 2022

We couldn’t have planned a better trip

The trip was wonderful! Both of the hotels were absolutely perfect. We couldn’t have planned a better trip. Our Tuscany castle hotel was a dream and the hotel in Positano was awesome. We had stunning views and were across the street from the wedding venue. The staff were asking about you! All of the car transfers were timely and professional. Thank you so much for planning such an incredible trip.

Danielle and Michael Boghosian Italy 2022

The trip on a whole was simply breathtaking

Gina planned our entire trip this past June down to the very last detail and we couldn't be happier. She's awesome to work with, and she truly cares about making the experience all your own. It was a fantastic two weeks spent in Venice, Florence, Rome and Positano with Chianti, Pisa, Pompeii and Capri mixed in. Our itinerary was amazing, the hotels were beautiful, the transportation was flawless and our tour guides were great. The trip on a whole was simply breathtaking, and Gina made it happen! They say you get what you pay for. Well, we got what we paid for and so much more!! We couldn't thank and recommend Gina and AT Escapes enough!!

Anna Marie & Frank Marasa Italy 2022

our trip was seamless

We had a spectacular trip to Scotland and Ireland! Once again, you created an unforgettable trip for our family. Our drivers in Scotland- Paul and Jimmy- were delightful and our wonderful guide Alan gave us such a comprehensive tour of Edinburgh. As a resident of the city, his perspective provided us with an truly enlightening experience.

We enjoyed our Ireland tour and Davey did an amazing job both as our driver and guide, he was so interesting. The comfort of the Sprinter bus as we traveled all over Ireland was so appreciated. Davey’s stop at Barack Obama Plaza was such a treat, we enjoyed that surprise.

We were all wowed by our stay at the stunning Dromoland Castle, thank you so much for suggesting we stay there. It was our favorite part of the trip. From beginning to end, our trip was seamless. With travel as difficult as it can be today, knowing that we can rely on Gina and AT Escapes to have every detail taken care of makes the decision to travel easy. We will never take a big trip without AT Escapes!

Diane LaRue Scotland and Ireland 2022

You left no stone unturned

I just don’t know how to thank you for planning this trip of a lifetime. You left no stone unturned-we were delighted with all your details. The transfers, accommodations, activities etc. The upgrade on the ferry was so very kind of you. It made for a pleasant journey. The cooking experience was truly a highlight of our trip-fabulous~!! We made mention several times on how we had angels with us because everything was perfect. That angel was YOU!!! (:

Thank you again for creating this memory that will last forever.

Carlyn Cuccurullo Greece 2022

fantastic from start to finish

Gina planned our 10 day trip to Italy which was fantastic from start to finish. A friend had referred Gina to me with the promise that she would not steer me wrong. Those words rang true, with every activity and accommodation perfectly planned and executed during our travels. Gina is different from other travel agents I’ve used in that she has an extensive network of professionals on the ground, so wherever you go you’re given the Gina treatment with careful attention and tremendous service. From the drivers to the tour guides to the hotel owners, every person we came into contact with was friendly, punctual, knowledgeable and went the extra mile for us. I have never felt so taken care of as I was on this vacation, and the result was truly the trip of a lifetime.

Jennifer Hart Italy 2022

a dream come true

Our trip to Sicily was a dream come true, thanks to Gina and her team at AT Escapes. Gary’s grandparents all emigrated from Sicily to the US, and we were excited to visit the country of his heritage. Gina put together a fabulous 10 nights, staying in five main cities. We appreciated her communication during the planning and that she asked for our input when necessary.

The hotels were excellent; they were beautiful, staff was awesome, and the locations were perfect for activities. Gina had suggestions for restaurants, attractions and activities for the time we had to ourselves in each city. The local guides Gina arranged were so knowledgeable and personable with excellent English. Our private driver, Dominic, made our trip extra special with his knowledge of the language, country and culture, and his personality.

As frequent travelers, we were used to making our own plans for our trips and being on our own. However, we could have never put together the experience Gina planned for us, and we are already talking about where we will have her plan trips for us again! Viaggiare!

Cindy Amoroso Sicily 2022

a trip of a lifetime!

I wanted to thank you again for helping us plan a trip of a lifetime! Everyone and everything that we experienced was AMAZING! We especially LOVED our cooking experience in Santorini, I am so glad you convinced me to book that experience. Our accommodations were fabulous, we made so many memories and did not worry about any details thanks to YOU. You are the best! Can’t wait to plan another trip with you .

Magda Karras Jackson Greece 2022

What an amazing and memory-filled trip

What an amazing and memory-filled trip to Barcelona, Spain with my oldest grandson and then meeting my youngest grandson and daughter for a sampling of Italy (Venice, Florence, Rome, Pompeii, Positano , Capri, and Ravello.) Gina did a great job customizing this trip for both of my grandsons first trip to Europe by making sure we did both history and cultural/fun tours/ activities and also had time on our own to explore. This is my second trip with AT Escapes and both have been great!! Ready to go again!! Thanks again Gina for all your assistance in making this trip such a memorable time for me to spend with my family.

Becky Hamblen Spain & Italy 2022

all of your arrangements, as usual, were perfect.

Ireland was great and all of your arrangements, as usual, were perfect. Thanks for everything.

Zeno Family Ireland 2022

It was absolutely heaven

Thank you, thank you, thank you for an amazing vacation experience in Mykonos, Santorini, and Athens! It was absolutely heaven and your detailed planning and itinerary made it all possible. Highlights were our cooking class and the sunset boat tour (which had some unexpected adventure built in :) ). Our driver in Santorini, Anestis, was also the epitome of professionalism and hospitality. I even thoroughly enjoyed the Acropolis tour since our guide was so knowledgeable and well spoken.

Thank you again, and I’m sure we will stay in touch for our next adventure. Will give you more of a heads up before that one, I promise. Maybe Italy? 😊

Jessie and Mike Greece 2022

make your next trip one you will remember forever!

When my wife Angela and I got engaged, we were deciding on where to plan our honeymoon trip. We are both Italian and had dreams of going to Italy at some point in our lives. We were referred to Gina and AT Escapes by family members and friends that have used Gina’s services and highly recommended her.

Gina was an absolute pleasure to work with. She asked us questions based on our preferences / tastes and she created a full itinerary that packaged everything together. Flights, transportation, destinations, lodging, tours, restaurant recommendations, and travel requirements were all included and made the whole planning process as painless as it could be.

Angela and I were blown away by the beauty that Italy offered. A big reason for that was because Gina’s package highlighted the best parts of each city/area we visited (the Sculpture of David in Florence, the Colosseum and Vatican in Rome, the private boat tour circling Capri, the Lemon Tour/cooking class in the Almalfi Coast, and much more). The tour guides, the drivers, the concierge at the hotels, and staff at restaurants were all more than accommodating.

This was truly an unforgettable experience and we have Gina and her team to thank for making this trip as special as it was. We highly recommend her as she will make your next trip one you will remember forever!

Anthony & Angela Catullo Italy 2022

nothing short of amazing!

I just want to thank you again! Gina, our trip was nothing short of amazing! You planned the trip so perfectly for us, one would think that we were old friends. There is nothing that we would have changed. Also, mid to late October ended up being a wonderful time to visit. The temperature was never uncomfortable and there were no overwhelming crowds. Also, we aren’t typically the type to enjoy having a tour guide, but our time with Gabriele and Molly hold some of our most endearing memories. The Amalfi Coast and Tuscany have a piece of our hearts! Forever grateful for you and your expertise! Until we plan again!

Bonnie & Jeff Amalfi Coast and Tuscany 2021

our travel planners for life!

Gina and her AT Escapes team are our travel planners for life! From our game changing honeymoon across Italy to our perfect Barcelona birthday getaway, Gina customizes each trip to your specific wants. Her local connections allow you to get access and experiences at places you wouldn’t have known about otherwise, and her ability to craft the perfect itinerary allows you to take it all in without the stressful work of planning each and every day. I can’t recommend Gina and her team enough and hope to work with her every year!

Dana Mento & Jennifer Horan Barcelona 2021

The most perfect experience

Start to finish, our trip to the Amalfi Coast and Tuscany was amazing in every way. They thought of absolutely everything for us. We will forever remember the people we met during our travels from the drivers to the tour guides to the hotel staff, all set up by Gina. Even when we lost our passports, she took care of everything for us. This trip was rescheduled 3x due to Covid and Gina graciously helped us every step of the way. I would never want to travel without At Escapes. We are so grateful for the beautiful memories.

April and Eric Amalfi Coast and Tuscany 2021

WE WILL BE BACK

Gina and her team at AT Escapes went out of their way in every aspect of our trip to Italy and Greece. Our trip was delayed a year due to the pandemic, but that did not seem to phase the team at AT Escapes. They reworked our travel arrangements multiple times and made sure we capitalized on any available vouchers. All necessary information about traveling to Europe was provided in an organized and timely fashion. Gina was very easy to get ahold of and was always available to answer any questions we had for our first time traveling abroad. Our tour guides and drivers were some of the nicest and knowledgeable people we have come across. Our hotels were clean, had amazing views, and centrally located. Already thinking about our next trip!

Jenna and John Greece and Italy 2021

Our trip could not have been any better, it was perfect!!

Thank you so much for making our first trip so enjoyable! We can’t wait to go back, hopefully next year! Gabriele is one of a kind, you found a gem! Molly was fantastic too! Looking forward to working with you and your team again.

I’ve already given your information to a handful of people and let them know what a great job you did.

Thank you again!

Sincerely, Bobby and Carrie Amalfi Coast and Tuscany 2021

PERFECT Greek Honeymoon!

Could not thank Gina and AT Escapes enough for putting together the perfect honeymoon for us. You truly made this a trip of a lifetime – your knowledge of each location (Athens, Paros, Mykonos, Santorini) and having connections on the ground in each city made every detail unforgettable with personal touches.

Planning any trip, let alone a honeymoon can be stressful, but Gina put together the perfect itinerary and took care of everything from drivers, tours, excursions, hotels, guides etc.

Typically I am not one to book a guide while on vacation – but Gina paired us with local guides that showed us the ins and outs of each island tailoring the experience for what we wanted to do and see which made it feel like we were shown the islands by a friend/family instead of general tour.

The itinerary was well thought out from the flow of island to island, as well as down time each day for my wife and I to enjoy the little moments. I can not wait for the next Greek adventure – and maybe Italy….expect a call back soon.

Marc and Ashley Boghosian Greece 2019

Visiting Iceland was on our bucket list

Visiting Iceland was on our bucket list, so for our 40th anniversary my husband and I decided this is where we wanted to go. Not knowing where to begin, I reached out to Gina at Escapes Travel for guidance. I am so happy that I did!! She put together a great itinerary with attention to detail. Iceland is a beautiful country. If you appreciate nature and all it's wonder and beauty, Iceland is the place to go! Loved the culture, the people and the food was amazing too!!

Buona giornata Josephine

It was worth every penny

Thank you for a fabulous trip. Every guide was someone I’d like to have as a friend. Their English was great, they were incredibly knowledge (especially Alex) and so willing to share all they knew. The hotel you booked us was the best hotel of our trip, and I was constantly amazed when our guide would find us at a train station or a crowded venue like the Vatican. It was worth every penny. Thank you for your time and patience with us.

Barbara and Harry Kutner Customized Tour 2019

LOVED every minute of it!

I cannot say enough about our experience with Gina at AT Escapes Travel. This was our second trip to Italy in 3 years and it left us breathless. From the moment you arrive, you are met with a representative/guide who greets you and removes any doubt as to what you need to do. You immediately feel at home and can begin enjoying your experience.

Gina listens to you and understands what you are looking for. She is willing to do whatever it takes to insure that you are happy. She is available to her clients at home and abroad. She treats everyone like family. Her expertise with hotels, tours, food... is second to NONE! I have and will continue to refer her to anyone that is looking for a unique and incredibly beautiful experience. We returned a week ago and I’m already dreaming of planning my next adventure with Gina. I know it will be magical! Rome, Florence, Amalfi, Venice, Sicily...LOVED every minute of it!

Enza, Matt, Matthew & Christopher Pinto Customized Tour May 2019 (Previous travels with AT Escapes: Italy)

We look forward to the next one!

Gina and her team from At Escapes made our honeymoon in Italy absolutely perfect. We couldn’t have imagined how well planned everything was. Each and every tour was thoughtfully charted and our tour guides were wonderful in each town. Every element of our trip was magical and we are already planning to work with Gina and her team again when we head to Sicily in two years. Thank you Gina for everything we look forward to the next one!

Dana Mento Customized Tour 2019

Absolutely PERFECT

Gina made our dreams come true in Italy. Guides were well informed, friendly and always on time. Everywhere we went we were given the royal treatment. All hotels were perfectly situated. Not a detail was missed. Thank you Gina and team.

Nick and Nadine Customized Tour 2019

Trip of a Lifetime!

AT Escapes transformed our family trip to Italy from a dream to a reality! Gina and her wonderful staff were very professional, personable, and caring. We rate our experience from the extremely knowledgeable tour guides to the drivers and everything in between 5 stars. Our itinerary was well thought out and our tours were spectacular. We visited Venice, Rome, Reggio, Calabria, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast.

The coordination of tours and transportation could not have been better! We've told our friends who are planning trips to book with AT Escapes for all their travel needs! We had very high expectations for our trip of a lifetime and AT Escapes exceeded them all!

Lipari Family Customized Tour May 2019

This tour offers everything!

The Amalfi Coast as presented by AT Escapes was the perfect getaway. I loved the relaxation as much as I did the personalized tours. Pompeii was a surprise favorite for me as I learned so much from our personal tour guide. The cooking class and winery visit were inspiring and delicious. And the boat tour around Capri was the perfect outing. And did I mention shopping? This tour offers everything! I can't wait for the next adventure!

Cynthia Price 2019 - Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, & Capri Tour (Previous travels with AT Escapes: Italy, Spain and Gibraltar)

It Never Gets Old…

Traveling with AT Escapes is like reconnecting with an old friend you’ve not seen in a while…you just pick up where you left off from the last visit! Our trip to The Amalfi Coast was filled with all the highlights we’ve come to expect from an AT Escapes adventure…the “must-see” sights, the unique and very local flavors, and the unexpected experiences that can only happen because the itinerary allows freedom to explore. As always, a trip with lasting and treasured memories!

Meg Hunt and Rebecca West 2019 Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, & Capri Tour (Previous travels with AT Escapes: Italy, Spain, Gibraltar and Greece)

We can't wait to use AT Escapes again!

AT Escapes made our Italy trip dream a reality! Gina and her staff were helpful, personable, and treated my husband and I like they've been friends with us for years. Our experiences from the tour guides to the hotels and everything in between was second to none. Our itinerary was well thought out and we were able to check everything we wanted to do off our "list"! If it wasn't for AT Escapes services, there would have been no way we would've been able to do everything we wanted! We've already told our friends who are planning trips to look no further than AT Escapes for all their travel needs! Gina and her staff did not disappoint and we can't wait to use AT Escapes again!

Alex and Brad Handel 2018

Everything was perfect

I just wanted to thank you for all you did to make our trip to Barcelona and Florence so wonderful.

Everything was perfect, from the drivers to the hotels to the outstanding private tour guides. You made our vacation such an unforgettable one!

You did such an amazing job, always responding quickly to any questions or changes that we had to make. We will be returning to Europe, and wouldn’t think of making our plans without AT Escapes. We can’t say enough great things about you and your team, except “Brava!”

Diane and Scott LaRue July 2018

I recommend this tour

We absolutely loved the Greenwich Village Food Tour. I never would have ventured into that neighborhood on my own and I certainly wouldn’t have known where to find those fabulous places if it hadn’t been for the tour. I will recommend this tour to everyone I know.

Laura Greenwich Village Food Tour

Incredible attention to detail

Our tour was so well planned and thought out by you: with such incredible attention to every detail… I realize that our trip was so unique in that we had a small group and were able to travel in style… We were able to see parts of Rome that the average tourist would have undoubtedly missed.

Terri-Sue Rome & Capri Tour

Wonderful tour

Gina, Thank you so much for planning the most wonderful tour to the Tuscany region of Italy. The hotels that we stayed in were truly first class. The sights that we saw were spectacular, but it was your personal touch that really made the whole trip so good. The cooking class that we took was so yummy and the chef spoke only Italian – but you were right there to translate for us.

Gloria Tuscany Tour

An exceptional experience!

Everything was so well-organized. I especially loved having the free time to explore and enjoy the sights, the sounds, and the people of Positano and Capri. Our hotel was top-notch, and the owners were like family. Everything we did was perfect, from the dinners to the winery to the trip to Capri. I don’t think we could have assembled a more perfect group if we tried. I think a huge part of that is that we all had a love of Adriana’s books in common. We had so much fun everytime we were together. You, Gina, and even Isabella were always there to answer a question, help with a side trip, or just have fun with the group. I couldn’t have asked for a better trip. It far exceeded my expectations, and I’m definitely signing up for another one. This wasn’t your average tour; this was an exceptional experience!

Joanna Positano Tour

Our Diamond tour was AMAZING!! Your tour guides that we had were beyond knowledgeable, loved their jobs, emphatic, polite, friendly, fun, and just knew so much about all the places we were actually able to see in 10 days! Our hotels were top notch to the degree when we arrived in Sorrento and walked into our room and out to our balcony …..I cried! BREATHTAKING!

It was one of the best birthdays we have ever had and we will never forget just how magical you made it for Michael and myself leaving no detail for us to worry about and I felt more than comfortable in all of the hotels, the surrounding vicinities and all of your staff being so far from home…. I cried when I left Emila.

I could never have planned SUCH a trip as you had put together for us Gina and I am beyond OCD with almost everything and try and leave NO detail out....with you on deck I did not need to worry down to going over our itinerary numerous times and us hounding you with questions...GRAZIE, GRAZIE, GRAZIE!! XOXO

JJ and Michael Customized tour – October 2016

We made friendships of a lifetime!

Yet another flawlessly executed vacation with Gina and AT Escapes! Our recent trip to Greece was one of the best trips we have ever been on! We enjoyed the history and beauty of Athens and the picturesque relaxation of Santorini!

Our drivers and guides were exceptional! We spent a lot of our down time hanging out with them outside of their tour responsibilities! We made lasting friendships! The hotels were fantastic and we received service that far exceeded our expectations everywhere we went. I am still dreaming of all of the delicious Greek meals!

Can’t wait for our next AT Escape!

The Zoghbys Greece 2016

A dream come true

The Greece tour was a dream come true for me. Gina, our leader, was wonderful! She arranged a pampering, fun-filled,informative vacation. In Athens and Santorini we were accompanied by tour guides that were both knowledgeable and entertaining. The hotels we stayed at were 5 star. The service given to us by the staff was first-class.

Watching history unfold in Athens was truly remarkable. The temples of the gods, the first Olympic stadium and museums were breathtaking. Watching the beautiful sunset on our private chartered dinner cruise in Santorini was something I'll never forget. I can't leave out all the wonderful people I met on this tour. They certainly helped to make this journey magical!

Lorraine Radice Greece Tour - August 2016

Thank you so much Gina!

We had an awesome time in Italy. We will definitely be going back soon.

You did an outstanding job setting up our trip for us. Thank you so much Gina!

Tina and Joe Catroppa Customized Tour - December 2016 (Rome and Tuscany)

Possibly the best trip I've ever taken

I have been home an entire day and I all ready can't wait to return - possibly the best trip I've ever taken.

Every detail was taken care of, wonderful hotel, beautiful scenery and marvelous cooking classes. The highlight, though, is the marvelous people that we spent the week with.

Marianne Cleary Cooking on the Amalfi Coast - May 2016

Great week in Positano

I had a great week in Positano and visiting Amalfi, Capri, and Sorrento. Emilia was a wonderful guide, and her warmth and personality made for a fun time. My two travel companions -- Marianne and Flo -- were a delight. We're planning a get-together in NYC sometime soon.

The hotel was lovely. The views from my room and the breakfast room were just stunning,

It was a week filled with great company, great food, fun cooking classes with lots of laughter, awesome and breathtaking scenery, and warm, friendly people. I hope to return to the Campagna region and spend more time in Naples and, of course, return to the Amalfi Coast. Several of my friends who were following my Facebook postings are asking about AT Escapes. Of course, I am highly recommending they explore what you have to offer. Hopefully, I'll join another AT Escapes trip again.

All best Gina, and thank you for arranging such a great trip. I’m still smiling :)

Linda Scenna Cooking on the Amalfi Coast – May 2016

We had an incredible two weeks!

Our guides were so knowledgeable and brought everything to life. Every day was a special treat with each moment of our trip carefully planned. Can't wait for our next trip.

Gina, you made a great trip even better by exceeding everyone of our expectations.

Judy and Jay Weintraub Customized Tour - 2016 (Venice, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast,and Capri)

Thanks for everything!

I definitely recommend all the drivers, and tour guides that AT Escapes arranged for us. The drivers were always on time with safe vehicles and they were flexible to meet our needs! Our tour guides in Rome and at Pompeii were knowledgeable and friendly. Our entire trip was perfectly arranged and enjoyable beyond belief. Thanks for everything!

Kristen Shugrue Customized Travel 2015

Once in a lifetime family vacation

Thank you Gina for an amazing once in a lifetime family vacation. I didn't know what I didn't know. You and your team of guides did an amazing job from start to finish preparing me and my family for an exciting adventure to Italy. From the pre trip calls to helping us select tours and cities to visit, your patience and willingness to work with us was both profesional and courteous.

There were moments where I was really nervous traveling with such a diverse group. My mother in law with her special needs getting around Italy to keeping the teenagers engaged all came together with solid planning and well thought out advice. I couldn't image traveling back to Italy without my first call to you Gina! Next trip we are leaving the kids and the in laws at home. I hope to talk to you real soon.

The Morris Family Customized Tour - (Florence, Rome, Amalfi Coast) 2015

You'll be making plans to return before you even leave

From expert guides who made the sites come to life to picking hazelnuts and squash blossoms to use in dinner recipes that you'll help prepare, you'll be making plans to return before you even leave.

Susan Winiecki, Richmond magazine Diamond Tour (Tuscany, Rome, Capri) - July 2015

Amazing Adventure

People ask me about the highlight of my trip to Italy. I just can't decide! The incredible food! The surprise visit from Adriana! The wonderful docents who added so much to the cultural experience! My fellow travelers who became instant friends! Or the private boat ride through the grottos with a glass of wine in hand! It's impossible to choose! One amazing adventure, for sure!

Marianne Rossi - Diamond Tour (Tuscany, Rome, Capri) - July 2015

It was truly memorable

Life is always a journey and you can make it more of an adventure when you travel with this fantastic group. Sevilla was gorgeous and the Alhambra is a design inspiration. After we left there we traveled to Gibraltar and ventured to the top of the "rock" where we could see the tip of Africa.

Our time in Gibraltar was hosted by a remarkable group of natives who guided us and we enjoyed the “locals" favorites. Yes!! we even saw the monkey's. It was truly memorable and can’t wait for the next adventure....

Michele Cataldo South of Spain and Gibraltar - May 2014

Gina, we cannot express how wonderful our trip turned out. You captured exactly what we were looking for in Tuscany, Assisi and Rome. The wineries and tours were fabulous!

We fell in love with Tuscany! And we met the priest in the small town in Chianti who renewed our vows in Italian during the 11:00 Sunday mass. What a wonderful way to celebrate our 40th anniversary. All the people in church came up to us after mass to wish us “auguri"!

Our tour of Assisi was inspirational. The guide you booked for us was a very nice person and so knowledgable.

The Majestic hotel in Rome was perfect and the driver to the airport was so charming. We have so many pictures that I will send you just a few. Thank you for making this trip a dream come true.

Laura and Ennio - Customized Tour, Tuscany and Rome - 2014

They Did It Again

After you’ve had a truly wonderful “first experience,” you’re hesitant to believe that another opportunity will live up to the same standards. Our trip to the beautiful southern part of Spain and Gibraltar did that and more! Once again, Gina Casella was able to create an itinerary that made this adventure all we had hoped it would be. We experienced the full flavor of the region in every definition of the word. No matter how many times we travel with Adriana Trigiani Tours, each trip is always like the first experience - wonderful in every way!

Meg Hunt and Rebecca West - South of Spain and Gibraltar - May 2014

No detail was overlooked!

We were searching for a tour of Italy for the summer of 2014. After looking at many different companies, I stumbled upon a notice for a website for Adriana Trigiani Tours, and the magic began. We chose the Diamond Tour - Florence, Rome and Capri - and we had 8 of our own family members, and we met up with 6 more people for a total of 14. We have traveled with tour groups with other companies, and there honestly is no comparison to the experience we had with Adriana Trigiani Tours. Touring with Adriana Trigiani Tours is like touring with your family - the small group size and the personal interactions create an experience like no other! Each day there were surprises, and enough flexibility in our schedule to make sure everyone could see and do whatever was important to them - Gina could and did make magic happen every day of the trip.

After such an extraordinary time on that tour in July, I decided to travel with my mother-in-law on the Val d’Orcia tour just a few weeks ago. This trip was centered in a rustic villa in Trequanda, and we traveled with a group of 3 other women, along with a driver and a guide. Words cannot do justice to the week spent touring Tuscany like a local, with laughter, food, wine and tours of historical highlights of the area. From Pienza to Siena, and the thermal pools of Bagno Vignoni - and sometimes just a stop along a road for majestic views of the Val d'Orcia region - or the cooking class at the villa with a renowned Danish chef, brought up from Rome so we could create a meal of fresh pasta and other Tuscan dishes - no detail was overlooked! We cannot wait to see, and are very much looking forward to what our next experience will be traveling with Adriana Trigiani Tours.

Kathy - Diamond Tour and Val d’Orcia Tour - July & October 2014

Grazie, grazie

Words and pictures do not tell the whole story of the wonderful adventure you and Gina took us on. Now there are so many moments in my day that wander off to the streets of Florence; the aroma of sumptuous food and wine; the sights of beautiful Capri…it warms my heart to be included on such a remarkable journey, and to have shared it with so many wonderful new friends. Grazie, grazie….my heart remains in Italy.

Erica, Diamond Tour

Perfectly paced

Everything was paced perfectly. Not so much walking that we were exhausted at the end of the day… I now have a new “family”. What a great and funny group they were. We had so many laughs and as you know, still keeping in touch with each other… I think having a small group made all the difference.

Diana Tuscany Tour

Impeccable planning

Over the Top, would be the best way to describe every facet of our recent trip to Italy. The planning was impeccable, and a necessity to make the best of our nine glorious days. Traveling with Gina and Nikki is like traveling with your best friends, the ones that know where to stay, where to eat and show you the best time possible.

The tour group was small, so we all became friends and truly enjoyed each others company… Gina’s association with the finest Restaurateurs in every city we visited was always evident at the dinner table when the food was presented. Every time we ate a meal, my thoughts were, it couldn’t get much better than this, but it always did. She is so well liked and respected wherever she goes, that you feel like you are having dinner with long lost friends that just don’t know what to do for you first…

I will leave you with this thought. Every time I saw other tour groups with large crowds in total chaos, I knew I was the Lucky One to have chosen Gina, Nikki and Adriana Trigiani tours. Pat Diamond Tour

A five star tour

Adriana Trigiani tours gave me the trip of a lifetime. I would go anywhere with Gina and Nikki. This tour is a five star tour. The hotels we stayed at were comfortable and nice. The restaurant choices for the group dinners were amazing, I’m certain if I would have done this trip alone I wouldn’t have found these amazing local places. We were greeted by all the locals warmly. The places we visited on the tour were great! I loved each location equally for their own characteristics.

Florence I thought was the perfect small big city. I loved the architecture, the shopping, the food, the wine. In Rome I loved the history. I loved how this city has preserved all of the ancient structures and basically built a city around its artifacts. I was truly in awe of the Coliseum. The Vatican was beautiful and amazing. And i cant forget the food and the wine. Capri, well, wow! I think I left a little of my heart behind. Absolutely beautiful. Our first walk to the garden, I don’t know if you noticed but I could have stayed up there and stared out at he water for hours in end. I have never seen anything more beautiful in my life. And the food and the wine.

Tara Diamond Tour

A first-rate tour

Our trip to Positano Italy was more than I had imagined. The location is like a storybook seaside village built into the side of a mountain. It is very unique, very picturesque. The food is delicious. We enjoyed everywhere we ate. One of the highlights was the cooking classes. Cooking with the Chefs in their kitchens was a great experience. We cooked with the freshest vegetables right from their gardens. The mozzarella, chicken and fish fresh that day. The hotel was charming and the staff very accommodating. Thank you Gina and Nikki, it certainly was a first-rate tour.

Lorraine Positano Tour

White glove experience

Adriana Trigiani Tours give you everything you want most in a vacation……beautiful and interesting destinations, comfortable lodgings, knowledgeable tour guides, world class meals, safe transfers and so much more. And, because of the small group, you get the added benefit of being able to create lasting friendships with your fellow travelers. On our recent Florence/Rome/Capri tour, Gina and Nikki made us feel like royalty the entire time. If you want a true “white glove experience”, an Adriana Trigiani Tour is the only way to go!

Susan Diamond Tour

It’s bellisimo!

From the moment you arrive and are greeted by Adriana Trigiani Tours, you will discover new worlds and new experiences that can’t be matched. From an Italian Renaissance history professor sharing about art at the Uffizi in Florence to a behind-the-scenes tour of a winery and an afternoon repast in the Chianti region to a hands-on cooking class in a chef’s villa, you won’t want the trip to end. Adriana Trigiani Tours offers experiences and memories to last a lifetime. It’s bellisimo!

Cynthia Tuscany Tour

Full of new discoveries

Every detail was well thought out — from the amazing choice of hotels, to the outstanding restaurants and food… I have traveled to Italy before — however this tour was full of new discoveries.

Michele C. Tuscany Tour

It was the perfect balance

This trip was the perfect trip. It was complete with a wide variety of things to do and see that are truly highlights of the areas we visited. This tour had the perfect amount of sight seeing and free time. It was the perfect balance! Built in to just 10 days we covered a lot of ground yet hit the best highlights to give you the perfect perception of Italy. I really cannot say enough about this trip. Now that I’m back home, in my same old routine again, I’ve decided I need to start saving my pennies because I would love to experience Adriana Trigiani Tours again. It truly is an experience like no other. Tara Diamond Tour

Memories That Will Last a Lifetime…

Thoughts of Italy bring to mind the great works of art by Michelangelo and Raphael or the scientific genius of Galileo, and of course, the food and the wine of Tuscany. Traveling to Italy with Adriana Trigiani Tours, however, brings all of these to life as you experience in full measure the beauty of the Renaissance, the brilliance of scientific intellect, and the flavors that define this remarkable country. In all of our travels, never have we so thoroughly enjoyed a trip as much as we did our tour of the Tuscan region with Gina Casella and Nikki Padilla expertly guiding us through this wonderful adventure of sights, sounds and tastes that truly are Italy. We cannot imagine touring any country with anyone but Adriana Trigiani Tours!

Meg and Rebecca Tuscany Tour

A great way to make new friends

This was my second trip and it was as exciting as the first one. Gina and Nikki make every effort to see that all is taken care of. I love the fact that it is kept to a small group it gives you more of a family feeling. A great way to make new and lasting friends.

Diana Positano Tour

Thanks for everything

We had an exceptional time at the tour. What we all really appreciated was the mix of points of interest in Adriana’s books combined with the history of Greenwich Village combined with the fun facts, excerpts from the books and, of course, the stops in the shops. Nikki was a true delight – energetic, knowledgeable, animated and informative! Thanks for everything…you made it perfect!

Gina NYC Book Tour

Knowledgeable and attentive tour leader

The hotels were clean, accommodating, and centrally located!… Gina, our tour leader, was knowledgeable, attentive and truly concerned about making sure our trip to Italy was one we would never forget.

Lorraine Rome & Capri Tour

Everything was wonderful!

Everything was wonderful! Our tour director saw to our every need. Accommodations were 5-star… In addition, we were afforded some special experiences, such as a cooking lesson in the home of a local Florence chef, touring and having lunch at a local winery… Since our group was small (ten people), we were able to spend some quality time with everyone,making friendships that will last a lifetime.

Sallie Tuscany Tour

As anticipated, the tour was truly tops on our list of ‘Great Moments in New York.

Carol NYC Walking Tour

I’ll always cherish the memories

Whether you have been to Italy before or if you are thinking of going for the first time, Adriana Trigiani Tours is a perfect way to experience all the beauty this country offers… Not once did we feel rushed, overwhelmed, or ignored - as some of those larger tour groups can leave you feeling… I’ll always cherish the memories and friendships created from this trip, but the most important, was the chance to share it with my mom

Michele Tuscany Tour

An Experience Like No Other

An Experience Like No Other In May 2023, the Evangelista family traveled with AT Escapes to Italy. They spent two weeks traveling to some of the most remarkable places the country has to offer, such as Venice, Rome, Florence, and Capri. Some highlights of their trip included picking lemons on the Amalfi coast, wine tasting

In the Midst of Legends and Myths

In the Midst of Legends and Myths Guest post by Cindy Amoroso. She visited Sicily with AT Escapes, and shared her experiences and photos from the trip. I must admit that ever since ninth grade English class, I’ve been fascinated by Greek and Roman mythology. I read all the myths, Homer, and the modern versions and

In Awe of Mt. Etna

In Awe of MOunt Etna Guest post by Cindy Amoroso. She visited Sicily with AT Escapes, and shared her experiences and photos from the trip. I had never seen an active volcano, let alone hiked on one.  Or watched the smoke billowing from the top. Or eaten honey harvested on its slopeside orchards. Or eaten a

Stunning Sicilian Vistas

Stunning Sicilian Vistas Guest post by Cindy Amoroso. She visited Sicily with AT Escapes, and shared her experiences and photos from the trip. Have you ever wanted to spend time at the seashore, in awe of the many hues of blue and turquoise?  How about hiking a volcano?  Do you enjoy vistas of golden wheat or

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Useful Information

Hear from our satisfied clients.

Couldn’t Have Done it Without YOU

Thank you so much for helping us plan an awesome vacation to France this past September.  We managed to see so much of France thanks to your expertise. 

Starting with Normandy, moving on to Paris and ending in the gastronomic city of Lyon, loved it ALL! Our tour guides, drivers and hotels were fantastic, couldn’t have done it without YOU! Thanks again for another memorable trip! 

Magda and John Jackson

France - September 2023

Trip of a lifetime

On September 14th my husband and I, along with two of our dear friends, celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary in Scotland. It was the trip of a lifetime, planned and executed by AT Escapes. Everything from the hotels, to the tour guide & driver, to the breathtakingly beautiful countryside was perfect! Thank you Gina, for making our dreams come true!

Sallie Patterson

Scotland 2023

The Perfect Two Weeks

We highly recommend Gina and AT Escapes to plan your trip to Italy. Gina planned the perfect two weeks for us. It was the trip of a lifetime. Every detail was well-planned and went smoothly. Even when we decided to get a driver to get us to Florence instead of the train, Gina and Fiammetta did a great job making that happen!

The tours, the cooking class, and wine taste were all very fun and well done. Each guide was so personable and knowledgeable. We enjoyed them all. Jumping off our boat into the waters around Capri was such a highlight as well. The hotels were wonderful and very accommodating.

If you are wondering if you should book your trip with Gina and AT Escapes…don’t wonder…do it. You will not regret it. Thanks, Gina!

Amy, Linda, Pat, and Tina Cinque Terre, Florence, Positano, Capri October 2023

Perfect Honeymoon

We cannot recommend Gina and the AT Escapes Team enough! We had the most perfect honeymoon thanks to all their hard work planning and coordinating a custom trip! We can't imagine the amount of time and effort it took to coordinate hotels, drivers, train tickets, excursions, etc! Everything was seamless! 

We really enjoyed all of the tours and excursions they planned for us - boat rides, museum tours, winery tastings, cooking class, and more! All of our tour guides were personable, knowledgeable, and fantastic to spend time with. We are so happy we used AT Escapes and will most certainly be using them in the future!

Maria and Michael DiVito

Highly recommend AT Escapes

Gina made our trip to Italy amazing! Everything was perfectly timed and coordinated.  We spent the correct amount of time in each city and had private & punctual drivers to take us everywhere. 

Gina planned fun things for us to do including a boat ride, private tour of filmmaker's home where a famous movie was filmed and interesting walking tours with very knowledgeable guides.  Our hotels were beautiful and we always had the best rooms! I would (and have) highly recommend AT Escapes for your European vacation!

Carla DiPlacido

Sicily 2023

Our Trip Was Amazing

Gina, our trip was amazing and I couldn’t believe how well coordinated, professional, and special each of our drivers, tour guides, and hotel stay was! Thank you so much for making this trip possible under such a short timeframe. Michael and Katie Marchionda

Everything was perfect!!

We wanted to thank you so very much for an amazing trip to Greece. Our family loved every moment of it. Your recommendations were spot on with the tours, private boat tour and cooking class. They were all very unique experiences that gave us the chance to experience the culture of Greece!

The accommodations were on point and the transportation was always on time and well informed. Everything was perfect!! We will be recommending you to all family and friends, and can’t wait to be in touch to plan our next trip with you!

The Libucki Family

Greece June/July 2023

We loved our trip!

We loved our trip!! Thanks. Our guide and driver were amazing.

London 2023

Definitely the Best

Gina and her complete team AT Escapes are awesome.  This trip was planned prior to Covid and had to be rescheduled several times due to the pandemic.  Gina didn’t give up and made it happen for us though.  Every detail in the planning was personal to us and the complete itinerary was well thought out. 

We made it to 12 places in 2 weeks and didn’t feel rushed at all.  We started in Paris and ended in Italy.  The art/history is amazing in Italy, but the best parts for us was the agritourism tour, private Limoncello and Marmalade experience, and the cooking with lemons class in Amalfi.

Looking forward to more trips in the future, and Gina will definitely be our travel expert again.  I already referred her to 3 people since I’ve been back.  She’s definitely the best!

Blanco Family

France and Italy 2023

I Can't Thank You Enough

We may have left Italy but Italy has not left us. We feel homesick and are having a hard time being back home. Is this normal?

I can’t thank you enough for all the beautiful memories you helped create for my family. Maria Lyn Sulla

Italy - August 2023

A Fabulous Adventure

I just wanted to thank you for planning an amazing trip for Anna Marie and I.  All of our drivers and guides were so friendly and helpful.  We loved cooking with Gabriele.  He was a great guide, chef and wonderful all around person and was so sweet helping Anna Marie. 

While Anna Marie made the most of every moment the trip was impactful in ways I could not have imagined.  Given Anna Marie's history of a brain tumor at the age of 2, it is really miraculous that she has survived for 24 years after all that treatment.  As I watched her live life to the fullest on our trip, I was proud, elated, and excited to share this great adventure with her.  All of your planning made it easy, accessible and created a fabulous adventure!  

Thank you so much,

Trish Gunshore

Amalfi Coast -2023

A Journey of a Lifetime.

How do you put into words something so amazing, so transcending in time, beauty, and experience? You just go and embrace the journey... that’s what AT Escapes provides—a journey of a lifetime.

The itinerary is a stress-free, on autopilot experience that allows you to enjoy the taste of the Italian lifestyle, because all the nuances of planning have been perfectly concealed to embellish the total intimacy and exposure surrounding your trip. Make no mistake - AT Escapes is above the rest for an unforgettable and uncompromising vacation getaway.

Maria and Billy Rosetti

Amazing Honeymoon in Italy!

Gina and the AT Escapes team made our honeymoon everything we could have hoped for and more! It was extremely well-planned and customized to meet our needs. Everything was seamless and took all the stress out of it for us. The hotels, transportation, food, guides, tours, and activities were perfect and so enjoyable. Definitely worth it! We can’t wait to use them again for our next vacation!

Michael McDaniel and Bridget Mc Donald

Italy - 2023

Another Wonderful Trip

Once again another wonderful trip planned by Gina at AT Escapes.

Loved shopping in Milan, tour of Duomo that allowed you to walk on roof which gave you fantastic views of Milan and the Duomo. A day trip to Lake Como was spent with a wine tasting, visiting the cute villages and just enjoying the beautiful scenery of the lake area. Then onto the train from Milan to Paris with my daughter and grandson.

What to say about Paris.  My first visit to  Paris was at age 21 in 1973 and I remember loving the city but a little overwhelmed, and I am sure I saw the city in a totally different way.  Now in 2023 and a little older it is still a beautiful city and I loved it this time also.

The lights (Paris has a 2-hour daylight saving time- I thought it was never going to get dark to see those lights), the sights (so many), the cute cafes (again so many) with wonderful food and drink. And  I can’t  leave out the people of Paris who were friendly, kind and very helpful. ( I have never met a rude person in Paris even though that is what you always hear).

Our hotel which was located in The St Germaine area was ideal. Loved the location. What can I say except Paris is a beautiful city and one that should not be missed even though my love is for Italy. 

Thanks to all the tour guides who are always the best, the drivers, and to Gina & AT Escapes for another wonderful trip.

Becky Hamblen

Milan & Paris June 2023

An Awesome Trip

We had an awesome trip. Thanks to everyone who had a hand in planning our adventure. The rooms we stayed in were amazing, and the views were stunning, to say the least.  Our drivers were very nice and friendly. Our guides were very knowledgeable and helpful. We had an excellent vacation. Thank you again for all your hard work.

Liz and Sandy

Italy - Amalfi Coast 2023

Great First Experience in Italy

The trip was absolutely incredible, I truly had the best time - you put together such an amazing itinerary where we got to experience so much life & culture in those two weeks. Thank you from bottom of my heart for a great first experience in Italy, I will definitely be returning!

The Evangelista Family 

Absolutely Amazing

Words can’t express how happy we are with everything that AT Escapes planned for our recent trip to Italy. Each daily excursion was absolutely amazing. From a wine tour in a magnificent castle in Tuscany, to a tour of a beautiful farm in Sorrento, we couldn’t be happier.

The tour guides were extremely knowledgeable, the drivers were punctual, and everyone on Gina’s team couldn’t have been more accommodating. It was truly the trip of a lifetime and we couldn’t be more grateful to Gina and her team. We are definitely looking forward to planning another vacation in the near future!  The Tropea Family 

Perfetto (Perfect)!!

Perfetto (Perfect)!! Limoncello making, private boat tour of Capri, walking the historic open markets of Palermo are just a few of the many memories we made on this trip. We worked very closely with Gina (CEO) to plan the trip in detail for our father‘s 80th birthday. We traveled from Rome to the Amalfi coast to Calabria and ended in Sicily.

The hotels and tour guides were phenomenal as were the drivers between cities. I’ve already recommended AT Escapes to multiple family members and friends, and we are already discussing our next trip to Italy!!

Frank Luckino

Italy - June 2023

Everything was top-notch!

We went through Gina at AT Escapes for our honeymoon to Italy. After using her I couldn’t imagine ever traveling to Europe without her help! From the transfers, to the tour guides, the activities she set up and the hotels everything was top-notch!

She went above and beyond for us from the first time we spoke. I continuously talk about how fantastic her service was and highly recommend for anyone looking to travel.

Madison and Marty Venafro

AT Escapes met every expectation and provided seamless and stress-free travel. 

This is our second time using Gina and her team at AT Escapes travel.  The first time was a family vacation.  Gina helped facilitate all our interests and tours to create the perfect trip.  We visited Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast. 

All the accommodations were beautiful. Gina planned trips to the wineries, sunset cruises on the sea, and of course historical tours. The tour guides and transportation drivers were all professional and made our trip easy and informative. 

Our next trip, my husband and I used AT Escapes services to plan our ultimate Italian Beach getaway.  This time I asked Gina to plan a more relaxing vacation where we could enjoy the sandy beaches, breathtaking scenery, and of course fabulous food and wine in Sicily.  Gina did just that.  AT Escapes met every expectation and provided seamless and stress-free travel. 

I have recommended Gina and AT Escapes to several family members and friends because I know she delivers the best travel itineraries and knows Europe to provide memories that will last a lifetime.

Michael and Jeanine DiNoia

Sicily - June 2023

We truly felt like royalty

It has always been my lifelong dream to go to Italy. I promised myself that upon my 50 th  birthday, I would make this dream a reality. I became a bit overwhelmed once the planning began, thankfully I was given Gina’s information from a dear friend. Gina took the time to get to know us, what our interests were, things we wanted to see and do, and advised us on all pertinent details all while staying within our budget.

Gina presented my husband and I with an itinerary that surpassed my expectations. All the staff at “At Escapes” truly went above and beyond down to even the smallest details, from accommodations to car service to tour guides, we truly felt like royalty. What I thought would be the trip of a lifetime, turned into so much more, what an unforgettable experience! 

Marc and Kim Campanella

Italy - May 2023

Make your next trip one you will remember forever!

Anthony & Angela Catullo

Our travel planners for life!

Dana Mento & Jennifer Horan

Barcelona 2021

Nothing short of amazing

Bonnie & Jeff

Amalfi Coast and Tuscany 2021

Jenna and John

Greece and Italy 2021

Bobby and Carrie

Barbara and Harry Kutner

Customized Tour 2019

Nick and Nadine

Lipari Family

Customized Tour May 2019

Cynthia Price Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, & Capri Tour 2019

Previous travels with AT Escapes: Italy, Spain and Gibraltar

Meg Hunt and Rebecca West

Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, & Capri Tour 2019

Previous travels with AT Escapes: Italy, Spain, Gibraltar and Greece

Alex and Brad Handel

Diane and Scott LaRue

Greenwich Village Food Tour

Rome & Capri Tour

Tuscany Tour

Positano Tour

The Zoghbys

Greece 2016

Lorraine Radice

Greece Tour August 2016

Tina and Joe Catroppa

Customized Tour December 2016 (Rome and Tuscany)

Marianne Cleary

Cooking on the Amalfi Coast - May 2016

Judy and Jay Weintraub

Customized Tour - 2016 (Venice, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast,and Capri)

Kristen Shugrue

Customized Travel 2015

The Morris Family

Customized Tour (Florence, Rome, Amalfi Coast) 2015

Susan Winiecki, Richmond magazine

Diamond Tour (Tuscany, Rome, Capri) July 2015

Marianne Rossi

Diamond Tour (Tuscany, Rome, Capri) - July 2015

Michele Cataldo

South of Spain and Gibraltar - May 2014

Laura and Ennio

Customized Tour, Tuscany and Rome - 2014

Diamond Tour

NYC Walking Tour

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Our world is amazing, full of wonder, beauty & adventure. Let us take you there…

Wanderlust is in our soul. And designing customized travel experiences for our clients is our passion. With 20+ years of experience in the travel industry and insider knowledge of over 85 countries, Escape Artists Travel offers personalized, worry-free, expert travel planning services for discerning travelers across multiple price points at no extra costs to clients.

From boutique chic to ultra-luxe, whether a road trip or an off-the-beaten path getaway; a solo spa weekend or an action-packed family adventure; a Disney trip for the entire family or an exclusive island getaway for two; a bucket-list destination or sustainable/responsible tourism; a relocation, extended villa rental or a quick overnight trip, Escape Artists Travel is sure to elevate your next travel experience with special rates, insider access, amenities and VIP treatment.

Escape Artists Travel is a member of the exclusive, invitation-only Virtuoso network, which translates to special rates, insider access, VIP treatment and amenities, all at no extra cost to the client. But our knowledge extends beyond the obvious luxury, to authentic experiences, boutique and eco-chic properties, guides, drivers and connections across the globe so that we can custom-design a getaway tailor-made to YOU, and elevate your experience with perks and personal touches all along the way. Just as no two travelers are the same, no two trips we plan are the same.

Our artistry is in listening to our clients, exploring ideas and making recommendations based on personal interests, budget and desires. In other words, you dream, we deliver.

What People Are Saying

Escape Artists Travel saves me so much time, energy and money. Their knowledge of places is endless and their expertise has helped me plan the perfect trips for my family. From start to finish, everything is planned for a memorable & unique trip, but what I love most is that from the time I land at the destination until the time I land at home I do not have to think of a single thing or worry about any details or plans. The most recent trip they planned for us had to be cancelled due to the pandemic. They worked tirelessly and were able to get us full refunds on virtually the entire cost of the trip. Had I planned this on my own I never would have been able to get the money back. I would have been lost without you Escape Artists Travel, thank you!

Escape Artists Travel has planned many memorable vacations for us. They listen with patience and help guide you into a location that is perfect for YOU all while working within our budget. Recently they planned Argentina for my boyfriend’s milestone birthday. It was THE best adventure either one of us has ever been on — hiking, pampering, wine tasting, cultural exploration, culinary delights in every key region of the country. Everything was beyond perfect. Escape Artists Travel takes care of everything, all you do is show up and enjoy. They provide insider tips and connections, local guides who are attentive, curious, knowledgeable, nurturing and passionate about their country and they mindfully choose the places and people that are right for your holiday and the types of hotels and guides that are specific to you. What most people do not know about Escape Artists Travel artistry is that it comes at NO extra cost to the traveller. We value everything they do and cannot wait to have them plan our next adventure.

Preferred Partners

We have spent the last 20 years not only traveling the world but cultivating partnerships with leading luxury and boutique brands in the travel industry — from hotels and guides to private villas, planes and yachts. Our clients benefit from these relationships with special rates, upgrades, amenities and VIP treatment all along the way.

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Escape Artists Travels is an Independent Affiliate of Travel Edge and a member of Virtuoso®.

Working with a travel advisor has never been more necessary as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of travel. As your trusted Travel Advisor we advocate on your behalf, saving you time, energy, and money. Additionally, we are on the pulse of the ever-changing travel restrictions and have high-level resources and contacts across the globe so as to ensure your health and safety, as well as your financial investment, are protected — all at no extra cost to you.

Watch CBS News

2 New York City beaches make Travel + Leisure's "25 Best in the USA." See the complete list.

By Dave Carlin

Updated on: April 29, 2024 / 6:47 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK -- Travel + Leisure magazine's annual list of the 25 best beaches in the U.S. includes a pair of popular ones right here in New York City.

The two beaches are sharing the prestigious space with other sun, sand and surf spots in places like Hawaii, California and Florida.

George Schlereth of Forest Hills said his love for Rockaway Beach predates the hit 1978 song by the Ramones with lyrics that went, "Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach."

"It's a great place to spend the afternoon. It's the best place you could go," Schlereth said.

So what else makes Rockaway Beach such a fan favorite?  

Travel + Leisure praised Rockaway Beach's "Five-mile boardwalk, and surf-worthy waves."

"It's definitely very diverse. People come from all over come here," said Kristen Supple of Far Rockaway.

"Rockaway Beach, because I love like the waves and boogie boarding and they have great ice cream and food," said 10-year-old Jordan Cannetti.

"I used to come here as a kid with my parents and family and it's just night and day. The boardwalk, it's just amazing. Now, the restaurant," his father said. "The parks along the boardwalk are just amazing. Ninja Park is great The pickle ball, the basketball."

"They spent so much money fixing up the Rockaways. They brought in more people, more families down there. The place is packed now," Schlereth added.

And let's not forget the amazing Coney Island   

Coney Island bubbled up to the Top 25 as well, with the editors of Travel + Leisure writing, "Coney Island is a perfect seaside wonderland of nostalgia and kitschy fun."

Kenya Dethan, who is 7, called it her favorite beach.

"I like the nice water. I like going on the roller coasters," Dethan said.

The thing about Coney Island is there is so much to do -- sand and surf, the boardwalk with the amusements, and the food and drinks -- all of it rain or shine.

"Number one in the world, Coney Island," resident David Dingle said. "Best of both worlds. You're at the beach and the stores all together, all in one place. Once you're here, you don't want to go back home."

Also making the best beaches list is the New Jersey favorite for fun, Asbury Park. It's the hometown of music legend Bruce Springsteen and features clubs like The Stone Pony , which keep the town highly rated and rockin'.

• Asbury Park
• Coney Island
• Rockaway Beach

Dave Carlin serves as a reporter for CBS2 News and covers breaking news stories and major events in the Tri-State Area.

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