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New Jersey and Connecticut almost feel to me like they are part of New York because of proximity and how many people commute from those states to NYC for work. In fact, if you live in NYC, one of your local airports is actually in New Jersey: Newark Liberty Airport. When I first moved to New York, I thought New Jersey was ugly. It is supposed to be The Garden State, which to me implies beauty. But driving on the highways doesn’t do New Jersey justice. And then I drove through Princeton and was blown away. I have also been to other parts of Jersey and have been able to see why it is called The Garden State, so do yourself a favor and get off the highway! But beware – they do have ticks if you go into the forest. Try some tick spray.

The Jersey shore is also a great, more affordable solution to the Hamptons. Bradley Beach, Asbury Park and Point Pleasant have public restrooms, but they can get very crowded. If you are looking for a Hamptons feel, the much less crowded Bay Head area is gorgeous. I recommend finding a place to rent though…there are no public restaurants. This is very much a community beach!

Don’t forget your sunscreen! I’m allergic to literally everything but have found Thank You Farmer and Vanicream don’t make me itch or break out in hives.

My first time in Connecticut was when I drove through, stopping in Mystic on my way to Rhode Island. I’ve had friends live all over the state, so I have had many opportunities to visit. But like visiting family, it takes away from visiting tourist sites. I’m sad to admit, I have done absolutely no sightseeing there. What I can tell you is that I loved New Canaan, a place I went for a wedding. It has a small town feel with beautiful houses (that most people probably cannot afford, including myself!). Connecticut is nicknamed The Constitution State because the Connecticut Colony wrote and adopted the Fundamental Orders of which many considered to be the first written constitution of a democratic government.