We are honored to feature a good friend, long time colleague, and accomplished writer Carolyn Rothseid, sharing her first post on Go Here, There and Everywhere!

After 30 years I said YES! again, but NO to renewing vows at the Elvis Chapel. Yes to a sorely needed vacation closer to home was a much better idea for a second honeymoon. But where? Definitely somewhere on the water. Not too far. Not too crowded. Great food & wine. Total relaxation. We packed up the car (and the dog, of course) and set out for the very, very end of Long Island.

We set out for Montauk, the un-hampton Hampton. After a few hours on the highway, stopping through the towns, one more charming than the next, proved to be a fun way to start to refuel us. Water Mill winery, Bridgehampton home-grown produce market and East Hampton homemade donuts were amazing. Plus, exploring where Jackson Pollock lived was a heavenly path as we made our way out to THE END, as Montauk is affectionately nicknamed.

Sunshine still bright, our waterfront suite on the lake – actually an inlet of Long Island Sound with ripples of waves and fishing boats in the distance was the perfect spot. Dare I say for romance with that inviting fireplace? Off season at the seashore is our fave.

Blissful walks along the empty beach took us back to our first honeymoon. An anniversary dinner at a 4-star seafood restaurant was a fantastic surprise. Wasn’t expecting candlelight and music.

The next few days we were lovebirds out for exploring. Hiked trails along the dunes, admired surfers at famous Ditch Plains and toured the Lighthouse built with George Washington’s approval. Who knew?

In search of the perfect lobster roll, we found the varied culinary styles astonishing and all incredible. Maybe we’ll come back for the popular Chowder Festival in the fall. In love with MTK’s relaxed vibe, we found a piece of paradise with a place for the dog to run.