From Manhattan to the Jersey Shore
FROM MANHATTAN to THE JERSEY SHORE
…A Dramatic Duet Vacation
by Leigh Cort~
Nearly a century of history separates them as well as the legendary Hudson River and 75 miles. They are as diverse from each other as a glass of fine claret or an icy sauterne. But there is something finely correlated to the distinctive experience that each Inn offers. And a surprising ‘discovery’ that guests ultimately learn at both destinations.
The Spring Lake Inn (circa 1888) in magnificent Spring Lake, New Jersey oozes with European-style hospitality, one block from the Atlantic Ocean…where history and contemporary amenities blend into an unforgettable experience. The Inn is unpretentious yet elegant – warm and inviting yet offering privacy when guests need time & space to unwind. Built as the Grand Central Stables of Spring Lake, the Inn is on a beautifully manicured residential street, a quiet, solitary street…one minute stroll to a private 2-mile boardwalk. From sumptuous breakfasts served in the grand dining room to afternoon tea, their 80 ft. Victorian porch is irresistibly alluring. Each of the 16 large guestrooms and suites feature fireplaces, 4-poster beds, sleigh beds, Jacuzzis, refrigerators and digital cable TV. Fine dining, boutique shopping and spa pampering are only blocks away.
The 1871 House is a New York City bed and breakfast that doesn’t offer breakfast, but offers apartment-style luxurious accommodations with a country inn atmosphere. It feels like a secret hideaway from bustling Manhattan from the moment you enter its intimate lobby. Located in the most posh upper East Side neighborhood of East 62nd Street, one can take a three minute stroll to a collection of restaurants and enjoy breakfast. The Inn is a 5-story townhouse built in the architectural style of the much-loved New York City row house, or ‘brownstone’ designed in a simplified ‘Italianate’ fashion. The 1871 House offers 8 one-of-a-kind spacious suite/apartments, beautifully furnished with antiques, Oriental rugs, sitting areas facing grand fireplaces, wood floors and all offering coveted views of the ‘city scene’ or the garden.
The amazing similarity of these two jewels is that they are both owned by professional couples who are raising their young families while running award-winning historic inns. Lia and Warren Raum (1871 House) and Barbara and Andy Seaman (Spring Lake Inn) all balance their lives between guest check-ins and children’s play dates, between guiding their guests to a special restaurant for dinner and preparing their own family dinner on schedule.
Spring Lake Inn Lobby
To the guest, one would think that they were the primary concern of the Seaman’s and Raub’s during their stay. From making reservations to check-in, the experience at both Inns is warm and friendly, very personalized and proficient. When you arrive at either property, the adventure begins. Their staircases beckon you to take your time and climb to the top just to make sure you’re in shape. It’s a great way to workout without going to the gym…and an integral design feature of both homes. There will always be someone to carry your luggage for you but attempting it yourself is recommended. The rest of your visit will be easy once you master the stairs!
Madison Avenue Suite – 1871 House
The Turret Room – Spring Lake Inn
Classic. Charming. Luxurious. Just when you think you’ve been to the beach enough or to the City too often, a new discovery appears that turns your head. Both Inns achieve their ‘sense of place’ and a feeling of belonging, whether for an overnight or a lengthy stay. Dining, shopping, sightseeing or just romancing and relaxing, celebrate life on either side of the Hudson River…or plan a duet for an unforgettable change of pace!
Spring Lake Inn (732) 449-2010 www.SpringLakeInn.com
1871 House (212) 756-8823 www.1871House.com
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