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TRAVEL Explore Long Island
Summer 1922 You are Cordially Invited to an Evening at the Residence of Mr. Jay Gatsby
Gatsby Mansion
Situated in Long Island’s East Egg only a short drive away from New York City, Jay Gatsby’s mansion bears a striking resemblance to the Hôtel de Ville in Normandy, France, and has been coated in smooth, gleaming white stucco. This impressive structure is built in the Neo-Renaissance style, with multiple towers blanketed in ivy and a set of steps leading to the reception area, each row built out of the finest marble imported from Europe. Among the many features of these grounds are forty acres of perfectly manicured lawn, a well-maintained garden, and ample automobile parking space for the hundreds of visitors who wish to enjoy Mr. Gatsby’s acquaintance, or perhaps more so his lively parties.
Beach &Gardens
Mr. Gatsby’s estate reaches the shore of the bay, directly across the water from East Egg’s older neighbor, West Egg. Although it is said the amenities of the ground have fallen into disuse by the owner, the occasional lucky guest may still be able to enjoy the acres of private beach or take a ride in Mr. Gatsby’s newly purchased hydroplane. The gardens, however, are open to visitors during any of Jay Gatsby’s famous social gatherings. They are filled with birds, hawthorn and plum blossoms, and many other exotic plant species that Mr. Gatsby has collected in his many years of travel to foreign lands. All of these are maintained by a team of expert landscapers, gardeners, and florists.
Interior
When visiting Gatsby mansion, the real question is whether the exterior features or the interior features are the most impressive. In the center is a sizeable round marble swimming pool, one of the many used during parties to perform water acrobatics. Near this swimming pool is this music room, which features a stunning three story tall pipe organ. On the other end of the mansion is where Mr. Gatsby’s many automobiles are housed. Each of these vehicles has been curated by Mr. Gatsby, including a shiny yellow convertible that is said to be the envy of many. He is undoubtedly up-to-date with the newest of inventions, so be sure to visit regularly if you plan to witness the current trends in autos.
Parties
Any New Yorker would know that the biggest and best parties occur at Gatsby’s. These parties are not for the faint of heart, and include the most dazzling displays of wealth and success. His most recent party last weekend featured a full orchestra, swimmers, singers, music, fireworks, and special guest Vladimir Tostoff, whose Jazz History of the World recently debuted at Carnegie Hall. The liquor runs freely at these parties, but never fear, any damage incurred will be covered by the gracious Mr. Gatsby. Although this may not be the best time to acquaint oneself with Mr. Gatsby, one can enjoy free food and liquor, or take some time to explore the magnificent grounds.
Food & Drink
Only the finest of food and drink are served at Gatsby’s. The buffet tables are well-stocked with hors d’oeuvres and spiced baked hams. Mr. Gatsby’s talented ensemble of master chefs have also taken the creative liberty into fashioning pastry pigs, dark gold turkeys, and interesting salads for guests to enjoy. For those more interested in drink than nourishment, the bar offers service and variety rival to even the most popular New York speakeasies. It is filled with gins, liquors, and cordials, many of which are of old age. If you do not have time to stop by the bar, you can sip some of the free-flowing champagne or have a glass of orange juice fresh-squeezed from one of Mr. Gatsby’s newfangled machines.
Boarding
On rare occasion, guests have been provided the privilege of boarding in one of the luxurious suites of the mansion. In these rooms are rose and lavender silk and soft linens, fresh cut flowers, large hardwood closets, and bathrooms featuring sunken baths among the many of its modern amenities. When asked about his experience boarding at the Gatsby mansion, one boarder commented on the excellent service provided by Mr. Gatsby’s entourage of butlers and maids, and the availability of leisure activities such as enjoying the music room. However, the rooms are so fine that it would not be surprising if one wished to stay inside all day instead.