Travel: New Bern, N.C.

After a career as coach and a physical-education teacher on Long Island, N.Y., Jack Polo, 61, moved down the East Coast and settled in New Bern, N.C. He and his wife Jane now tie up their sailboat to a dock in their own backyard. More than a dozen public and private golf courses dot the vicinity, and because of the mild Carolina climate, Jack can tee up even in winter. The average temperature of 62.2[degrees] is a boon to gardeners; something is in bloom the year round.

There are many good inns and hotels in the area, and New Bern...