Photo credit to Satin Sky Photo.
How long have you been residing in the Hamptons?
Full-time for seven years. My family originally came out to live in the early seventies. A lot has changed since then.
Are you year round?
Yes, though my family and I escape to Antigua in the Caribbean often. We will be there for at least a month this upcoming summer.
What’s your favorite thing about being in the Hamptons?
The close proximity of the ocean. I drive down a few days each week and just sit and read or gaze out at the waves. In the summer, I take long walks in the afternoon and do stretches. It is so soothing.
What’s your favorite month to be out east?
July! I love all the action and there is so much to do. You can never be bored.
Tell me a little more about what you do for a living and how that came about?
I am a writer. I originally received my degree to Teach English as a Second Language, studying abroad for part of my degree, a program in the UK where I fell in love with their pedagogy or approach to teaching. I wanted to settle out east to teach adults and privately tutor school age children.
However, it is when my daughter was born that I knew I wanted to focus on writing, which was what fit perfectly into my busy schedule as a new mom. I now freelance for a number of NYC and Long Island based publications. I also assist businesses with their social media platforms on a freelance basis and will occasionally tutor adults and children in ESL.
What do you want someone from another country to know about the Hamptons that nobody other than a local could tell them?
The Hamptons has so many layers and so much to discover. Keep an open mind when you arrive. I recommend starting with restaurants and businesses on the ‘back roads.’ Check out some of the restaurants in North Sea, Springs, and Amagansett for a select, more ‘authentic’ Hamptons experience.
Best place to eat in all of the Hamptons in your opinion?
If I were to eat at only one restaurant all year, I would dine at Topping Rose House and eat their Crispy Salmon Sushi every day!
Most hyped location to eat or go that you can’t believe tourists fall for?
Anywhere that is crowded in the summer (aka Saturday night restaurant reservations)! Why waste your time waiting 2+ hours to eat? Have a clam bake on the beach, or grab some food to go and enjoy watching the sunset and the waves.
Favorite beach for families?
Havens Beach in Sag Harbor. It has become so much more popular in the last five years, but it has always been ‘our’ beach of choice.
Best restaurant for families with a few children in tow?
The Lobster Roll in Napeaugue always treats us well, also Navy Beach is great. We eat outside and they run around on the sand.
Most charming month in the Hamptons?
December when the villages are decorated for the holidays. It is such a special time.
Best place for ice cream in the Hamptons?
Buddhaberry! We are regulars for a reason.
Best date spot in the Hamptons for when you have a babysitter?
The 1770 House. Reliable, an exceptional wine list, and courteous staff including one heck of a chef!
How many children do you have?
2
Your children’s favorite spots out East?
The Clubhouse for bowling and mini golf (and their gigantic pretzels), Bridge Gardens, Quogue Wildlife Refuge, and the Children’s Museum.
What else do you want people to know about the Hamptons?
There is always something new to learn about and fall in love with, whichever time you decide to visit. From seal watching in the winter to spending the entire day at the beach during the summer.