WHERE YOUR PET IS A VIP

LongIsland.com

There are inns that accept pets, others that welcome them, and then there are the ones that treat them like honored guests. One that's in the latter category is the Inn by the Sea in ...

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There are inns that accept pets, others that welcome them, and then there are the ones that treat them like honored guests. One that's in the latter category is the Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, just a short distance south of Portland.

At the Inn by the Sea, the pet-friendly atmosphere begins at the check-in, where your pet gets a treat along with your room-key. And when you get to the room, you'll see doggie food and water dishes (along with more treats), and a special blanket and bed for your "fur-covered friend," as the inn's owner, Maureen McQuade, calls them. During the late fall, winter and early spring, pooches are allowed on marvelous Crescent Beach which fronts the inn's property. And then there's the special "Doggie Menu," prepared by the inn's Audubon Room Restaurant, including "bow wow" burgers and frozen peanut-butter yogurt treats.

But it's not just pets that are pampered at Inn by the Sea. Guests (even those without pets) will find an extraordinary experience at the inn, which is situated on Maine's famously beautiful rock-bound coastline, and within walking distance of the Ft. William Park, site of the landmark Portland Head Light.

The inn offers 43 suites and cottages, each with ocean views, spacious bath, separate bedroom, living area, kitchen and dining area, as well as two TV's and a VCR. All have private balconies, decks, or porches. The main house has one-bedroom suites, while the cottages feature two-bedroom suites, all luxuriously appointed.

The inn's Audubon Room restaurant, whose large picture windows look out onto the Atlantic, has been voted the "most romantic" in the area by the Maine Sunday Telegram. The menu features such entrees as Steamed Maine Lobster (of course) Thai Curry and Coconut Chicken, and New Zealand Lamb.

Winter packages are now being offered, including a "Winter Romance" Package of $289 for one night and a gourmet dinner for two.

For further information on the Inn by the Sea, you can go to their website, www.innbythesea.com, or call (toll free) 800-888-4287. Enjoy!