There’s so much more to explore in Long Island
While many locals escape New York City and head to the Hamptons in the summer to relax, Alfredo Gonzalez of Discover Long Island knows that it’s a different story for visitors who are more likely to combine the two destinations in one trip.
“We don’t compete with New York. We actually want New York to be there. If New York City wasn’t there, we wouldn’t be there. So we have become the perfect extension to all those New York City programs,” shared Gonzalez, the International Sales Specialist for Discover Long Island, during a recent visit to Toronto. “We know that no one internationally is going to spend 14 days on Long Island or 14 days on New York City. So we work together to complement that travel experience.”
Larger than many may realize, Long Island spans across 190 kms and includes the Gold Coast, South Shore and South Fork, home to The Hamptons, and even its own wine country in North Fork.
TOP: Alfredo Gonzalez of Discover Long Island and Charmaine Singh of Reach Global Marketing in Toronto. BOTTOM: The Long Island map showcases just how vast the destination is.
“New York State, it’s the second largest wine-producing state in the country, right after California. The New York wines, especially the Long Island ones, are recognized globally,” he said. “There are sixty-plus wineries and it’s a beautiful thing to do.”
While there are many mansions along the coast in areas like Sagaponack and East Hampton, he stressed that there are also hotels and affordable accommodation options. One of the top draws for locals and visitors alike, is the beaches, which are also accessible via public transit.
“I live on the beach in Florida, and I will tell you that from Long Beach all the way through Fire Island to the South Fork to the end of Montauk, those beaches are more expansive, cleaner access, not crowded,” he shared. “Granted, the water might be a little chillier than it is in the hot tubs of Florida, but the beaches are absolutely gorgeous.”
Beyond the beach, travellers can explore communities, visit a lavender farm, take in the sunset at Montauk Lighthouse or stroll the car-free Fire Island.
“I want to make sure that you know that things are changing dramatically in the United States right now. There’s a world of opportunity,” he said.
Pointing out the JFK airport is on Long Island, Gonzalez highlighted that many Canadians have been to the destination without even realizing. While air access is strong, he noted that the drive market is also big for the market.
As for travel advisors, he urged the trade to consider a Long Island extension to any NYC booking or to suggest getaways to the destination since many of their clients are likely already booking trips to the area themselves.
“We want you to know first and foremost how much we appreciate the Canadian market,” he added. “We appreciate you, and by the way, we need you back.”
While Long Island, Tennessee also claims the same fame, there are reports that the Long Island ice tea was indeed invented in Long Island, New York. Perhaps a visit — and a taste test — will help you decide if there’s any truth to the legend.
