How to do the Hamptons

It’s happened. The once impregnable fortress of style, elegance and luxury that is the Hamptons is about to be ransacked by clan Kardashian. The baying hoardes will use the new Kourtney & Khloe Take the Hamptons, due to be aired this fall, as their Trojan horse. The no doubt endless stream of plastic surgeons and hip-hop parties that will infest this quiet stretch of American arcadia will be unceasing. However, it’s not too late, there’s still one more chance to holiday in the Hamptons in the style that it deserves.

Stay somewhere with character, , Aesthetics are vital. No one will take you seriously if you’re staying in some glossy, cellophane mansion based on the Disneyland castle. Equally, if you’re in some Lincoln style log cabin, everyone will be talking about you for all the wrong reasons. Choosing a summer house with the right degree of design zeal is essential. This will mark you out as someone who knows what they’re doing and not looking for the social leg-up of a “holiday in the Hamptons”. Hampton Rentals have a range of impressive and elegant properties that will suit any budget, from a 1930s saltbox to a 60s beach house. Whether it’s battered blue floor boards with willow rush matting or an ancient 30s style “cottage”, the right kind of summer house will allow you to truly enjoy one the most exclusive holiday destinations in the world.

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Summer rentals available from Hamptons Rental

Do the beach in style, , The pace of life in the Hamptons can at times, be a little slow. However, ignore the temptation of the jet skis and speedboats to spice things up; you’ll only get wet. The long, isolated beaches around the Long Island Sound provide the perfect place for a change of pace. Why not experience the speed and thrill of a VW Dune Buggy? It will leave you spellbound as you cruise effortlessly down the deserted beaches at Montauk or Westhampton dunes, the wind rushing through your hair, the sun streaming down on to your face. Why not make a day of it and grab a cocktail and lobster roll at the Monatuk Surf Lodge? Sitting by your parked up buggy with a Martini in your hand and the beach in front of you, you’ll be the envy of the whole town.

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Beach advice available from Fodor’s

Hit the water on Vertigo, , This isn’t St Tropez. Dragging along some 70ft motorised monster will only make you look like the fool that you are. Grab the lifejacket, fetch your dry suit and find the best yacht you can lay your hands on. Vertigo, one of the latest charters from the New York based Burgess Yachts, provides the perfect charter. With its combination of ever changing tides and strong, erratic currents, the waters around Long Island and the Chesapeak Bay present some of the most challenging in the world. With it’s breathtaking design and cruising speed of 13 knots, you’ll make easy work of the tidal currents and choppy seas. exude an air of adventure and sophistication as you cut past the speedboat and dingy’s of the Hampton first-timers.

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Available for charter from Burgess Yachts

Grab fresh, , The best seafood restaurants in the world are on your doorstep. From the Bell and Anchor to The Lobster Roll, the Hamptons is a plate that offers up a loving mouthful of seafood delight. Be careful though, with such a big choice it’s easy to get lost amidst the big boys and the wannabe’s. Avoid the big lights of Southampton and East Hampton and keep it simple; head straight to Fresh, the newest feature in Birdgehampton Harbour. With its clever combinations of rustic vegetables and the freshest fish from the Chesapeak bay, this health food slanted restaurant will fill you with a spring in your step and the quality of food that you truly deserve.

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Bookings and more information avaliable at www.freshhamptons.com

Chill out, , You’re on holiday. Dress like you’re on one then. Around the cafes on the East shore, the number of people wearing blazers, shirts and trousers is noticeable. This isn’t the office. You’re here to chill out and let your hair down, not continue as if you were in the office. Chuck away the office uniform and fetch a blue linen shirt and pair of Love Brand & Co swimming trunks. Put on a pair of plimsolls and you’ll soon feel as relaxed as you look.

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Swimming trunks available from Love Brand & Co

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