Finding Balance And Beauty On The Connecticut Shoreline
Living Local In A Tourist Town
Finding Balance And Beauty On The Connecticut Shoreline
Living in a tourist town is a unique experience. The streets that many visitors see as a weekend getaway are the same ones I drive every day. The restaurants they book months in advance are the places I go to almost every weekend. And the spas and shops they explore with wide-eyed wonder, well, that's where I work, lead, and build relationships year-round. As a local and a Spa Director, I see both sides of our town—the vibrant pulse of the tourism season and the quieter, more intimate rhythm of daily life. There’s a special kind of pride in being part of a place that so many people travel from all over the world to experience.
WHAT TOURISTS SEE—AND WHAT WE LOCALS KNOW
To our guests, the town is all about charm and escape. They see beauty, service, and luxury. And I love that—they should experience the best of what we offer. But behind the scenes, it’s the locals who make that magic happen. The bartenders, servers, boutique owners, artists, massage therapists, aestheticians, and hospitality pros—people who wake up early, stay late, and care deeply about their craft.
Being a local means knowing the stories behind the storefronts and those who manage the best restaurants, shops, and local watering holes. I make it my mission to know the Who’s Who in town. This comes in handy when a guest asks me for a restaurant recommendation, I always offer to call the manager and make their reservation for them. Whether it’s Paige at Bravo Bravo, Peter at Milestone, Aot at Bleu Ginger, or Kristen at Mariner, it means so much to me to have these hard-working folks work their magic and get my guests a table. And I know the people I’m sending will get the VVIP treatment.
THE BALANCE BETWEEN HOSTING AND HOLDING SPACE
The real challenge—and the beauty—of living on the Connecticut shoreline is finding balance. We open our arms to guests, making them feel welcome, seen, and relaxed. But we also have the responsibility to protect the soul of the town. We make time for each other, support local events, and stay grounded in what makes this community special beyond the tourism rush. In my business at Cerulean Beauty & Spa at the Mystic Marriott Hotel, I’ve learned that hospitality isn’t just about service—it’s about connection. Whether I’m treating a visitor or a local regular, the goal is always the same: to create a moment of calm, a sense of confidence, and a reason to come back.
A MESSAGE FROM A LOCAL
To fellow locals: I see you. I appreciate you. You’re the heart of this town, and your work matters more than you know.
To our guests: Thank you for choosing to visit us. We’re proud to share our home with you and appreciate your business. While you’re here, take a moment to look beyond the brochure—to the people, the stories, and the soul of the place we call home. That’s where the real magic lives.