As a Romanian turned New Yorker, I quickly learnt that the European 1st of May that marks the beginning of summer and hence the first trip to the beach is in fact Memorial Day in the United States. And so, unlike last year’s Memorial Day weekend, I made plans ahead to leave the city for the Hamptons.
There are several ways to get into the Hamptons: either via Long Island Railroad or the Hampton Jitney. Unfortunately, I missed both on Friday evening, and so the only option left was the more expensive Hamptons Ambassador. For $45, I felt transported into a plane for the duration of two hours, but with more space. I was pleasantly surprised to discover a bus service that serves snacks and drinks, including an entertainment center.
The accommodation
Through friends, I learnt about sharing a house with other people using the popular DavidShapiro.net. I was initially reluctant to spend three days with a group of people I mostly did not know, but having seen the house before, I was sold.
Delightfully secluded into the woods, boasting a heated pool and a Jacuzzi was just what I needed from a relaxing weekend stay. Added to that were the happy hours and three daily meals, which made the house stay so much more convenient. David, the host, was always by our side for anything we needed, and the food provided was tastier than I had expected. As a person that hasn’t used house shares often, I realize they are not only more affordable, but a great way to make new friends.
The vineyard
Unlike other years, this Memorial Day weekend was chilly and gloomy. And so, our dreams of swimming in the pool and tanning on the beach were miles away. Instead, we planned on visiting the Parish Museum and the vineyards.
My absolute favorite was Wolffer Estate Vineyard, a splendid estate and winery perfect for wine and cheese tastings on a rainy day.
Rivaling European wineries, the rustic, Tuscan-style building with its warm ochre walls, houses a lavish tasting room with imported stain glass doors, iron chandeliers and an expansive romantic portico.
“The state-of-the-art winemaking facility is equipped with massive, computerized stainless-steel tanks, a laboratory, riddling rooms, a bottling line, and a cellar to hold the wines before distribution. In keeping with the European tradition, the barrel rooms are constructed of high-vaulted caves where wines are aged in imported French oak barrels.”
The architecture
From colonial to beachfront contemporary, the Hamptons architecture has always been nothing short of grandiose and elegant; think The Great Gatsby. With its perfectly coiffed lawns and surrounding rolling hills, it’s pure heaven to drive around the Hamptons, pass by crisp white fences and striking horse ranches. Sadly, property prices are steeper than anywhere else, so for the NYC residents and tourists alike, house sharing or weekend trips are the best alternative option.
One can spend a few hours strolling around Southampton and Bridgehampton – lovely towns filled with charming cafes and posh boutiques – while admiring the pastel-colored shingle-style houses. For the best espresso, don’t miss Sant Ambroeus for an authentic Italian experience.
The nightlife
If there is one thing the Hamptons are best known for, it’s the nightlife. From upscale venues such as Southampton Social Club, Georgica Restaurant and Trata to laid-back patios on the side of the road such as Cyril’s Fish House and Clam Bar, the Hamptons is the best place outside the city to mingle with the cool kids. I loved sipping on the slushy traditional BBC drink at Cyril’s, as well as dancing the night away at Greek funhouse Trata.
None are your typical NYC bars; expect trendy Hampton and jetsetter types dressed impeccably in the latest summer trends; there is no room for the casual or the mundane. So be advised and pack accordingly 🙂
Also a favorite is Sunset Beach in Shelter Island to hang out on the beach and enjoy the sunset.
Have you ever been to the Hamptons? What is your favorite thing to do there?
