New York is a state of great escapes, and Pam Hendry knows it well.
The Brisbane-raised social media creative calls The Big Apple home, creating and strategising at Brooklyn-based sponcon agency with clients—including her sister, artist C.J. Hendry. The joy of New York isn’t just the artistic inspiration, but also how easy it is to explore further.
“You have the pace and excitement of being in the city, but you’re also able to take a short trip out and unwind in nature. New York State has a magic dust sprinkled on it that no other place does.”
Her go-to beach escape? Long Island. Greenery, open space, windswept dunes and sea transport her instantly.
“I stop off at one of the chic little grocery stores to pick up a coffee, a bakery treat and go sit by the water and soak in the sun,” she says.
The bakeries of Long Island are “phenomenal” (with blueberry muffins that live in her head rent-free), as is the ultra-fresh seafood, like lobster rolls and oysters. To find the best eats, she suggests following the crowds.
“If people are spilling out onto the street, that's a go-to," she says.
Hendry loves to hit the beach with friends and a well-stocked picnic basket. Her top hidden spot lies just off Sag Harbour: Shelter Island, an idyllic oasis of art, gourmet shops and quiet beaches for a refreshing dip.
While it’s a short train ride from New York City, Hendry drives so she can soak up the romantic world of the Hamptons—browsing houses like a gallery.
“You see it in the movies,” she says. “I was so blown away with how incredibly beautiful it was… it didn't feel real.”
When she wants to head for the hills, Hudson Valley is another “automatic reset”: a wonderland of hikes and river swims, the great outdoors and quaint towns with markets to browse.
“The locals are always so friendly and curious, it's a gentle pace you begin to absorb.”
She gushes about the abundant seasonal produce (she couldn’t resist buying fresh honey in Millbrook). Autumn colours bring pumpkin pies, enjoyed at one of the many quintessential American diners. But one of the best ways to taste the Hudson Valley? Cook it yourself. Hendry rates booking a holiday house or charming historic inn with friends and family and settling in.
“I personally love picking up local produce,” she says. “Making a fire, roasting marshmallow, nothing beats it. Cooking meals together, playing games, it gives you space to connect and enjoy the simple things.”
“There's so much beauty out of the city,” she says. “Take a moment and explore a bit further.”
Discover even more tastes and experiences waiting for you on a New York State holiday here.
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Images: Pam Hendry.