Empire City, See how she shines

Just got back from New York City. She is a city that just grabs you and doesnt let go. You love her or you hate her, there is no middle ground. I am Brooklyn born. My heart beats to the beat of this city. See her through my eyes.

We spent the weekend immersed in the sounds and the lights that make this city who she is. I will start at the beginning. We flew in on the redeye, and stayed at the Virgin hotel. We splurged and got the upgrade. The view as you can see, was jaw dropping. If you get the chance, you will never forget it. We got to watch the city light up and shine in all her glory. We didnt need to go to a rooftop on this trip.

Our 1st stop is an early lunch at The Smith. This is not a random choice. We carefully curated our dining options. I do leave room for impromptu. I dont make reservations for all meals so we are not beholden to a schedule, but I do like to book at least one meal a day. The Smith was on the list and we were able to get seated, as we beat the lunch crowd. We enjoy a delicious lunch accompanied by a Cosmo ( hello Carrie). After fueling up, it's a walking tour of Midtwown. Hilights: New York Public Library, Rockafeller Center, Saks Fifth Ave Christmas display, St. Patricks and 5th Avenue in all her glory. My daughter has already decided, she loves this city too. We hop on the Subway. Sidebar, its as safe as any subway in any city.

I've scored tix to The Morgan Library. Its the private collection of JP Morgan. As a bibliophile, this is a treat. It's all very Gilded Age. After a brief respite, we head to dinner at Limani, an upscale Greek restaurant located at The Rock. On this trip it's a nice dinner every night. We were excited to eat here, but personally had a bad experience at this restaurant. Afterwards, we have late night tickets to the Rockettes. If you are in NYC during the holidays, I highly recommend this show. They have been a Christmas tradition since 1932. I have seen it over & over. As we head home around Midnight, its as busy as it gets. This truly is the city that never sleeps.

Its Saturday morning and its difficult to leave our suite, but we've got exploring to do. Our 1st stop is Ralph Lauren coffee, which we take to go and hop on the bus downtown, it feels like 2nd nature. We stop the Oculus before heading to the 911 memorial. Somber, no matter how many times I come, Somber. Never forget. After paying our respects, we head to the Bridge. There is only one bridge for me. Her name is Brooklyn. My heart skips a beat. Then it's South St Seaport & Tin City. If you make it to Tin City. I've got a tip for you. A hidden speakeasy on the 2nd level. House of the Red Pearl. What a gem!

We finish up downtown with Chinatown & Little Italy.

It's time to rest up and doll up. Our driver is coming at 9:30 tonight for our 10 pm reservations, this is the life. I ask myself, why dont I have a driver more often?. Oh wait, I know the answer, I cant afford it. Our reservations are at Nobu 57. Its a hard reservation to get anytime, but on a weekend, and at Christmas, impossible. We had a friend secure this reservation for us and it was an unforgettable experience. The food was sublime. A special treat. for the record, this is not usually how I eat when I travel. My price point is usually half of what this particuluar meal was. We enjoyed multiple courses and cocktails. It truly was a feast for the senses. As I drift off to sleep, I am all smiles.

Its a wet windy Sunday. I'm up early so I walk over to Maman for one of their Lavender Hot Chocolates and an almond chocolate croissant. Scrumptious. As I sit writing in my travel journal, I feel like i'm in a movie scene. Simple little magic moments. I walk over to Eataly to pick up a few treats. i know I can order online, but it doesnt feel as good. I scoop up my daughter, who happens to be one of my favorite travel companions, and we are off to all things Christmas. Grand Central Station, Bryant Park and its Winter Village, Lillies Victorian which is transformed into a Christmas wonderland, Times Square, Herald Square & Macy's.

If you've never seen NYC at Christmastime, it shines even brighter. The holiday spirit grabs you and won't let go. Is it crowded, yes. It is the most visited city in America. But like us, most visitors are very happy to be here. We are chilled and in need of a hot shower and a nap. A part of me wishes these were snowflakes instead of raindrops.

Tonight our last dinner is at Scarpetta. We walk to dinner and the the city girl in me loves the sound of that. We walk to dinner. Dinner is divine. Service impeccable.

Afterwards, we stop for late night cocktails at our hotel bar, Everdene. Everything is as to be expected from Virgin properties, Red and beautiful.

The morning comes too soon. We get late checkout, pack up and head to Ess a Bagel, an oldie but a goodie for bagels with schmear. Sooooo good.

We have walked for miles, talked for hours, and enjoyed alot of delicious food as we soaked up the Big Apple. Thanks for the memories Gotham, old friend. As we head to JFK, both my Brooklyn Heart & my Gypsy Soul are bursting with Joy. I hope you've enjoyed my trip to the Empire City.

I have traveled extensively thorughout the United States & Europe since childhood. Camping, road trips, weekends, Girls trips, business trips & family trips. I love it all, I plan it all. There's always research & a spreadsheet. For myself, for my friends, for my family, it really builds my excitement for our travels near or far. You should know, I work full time, I am not retired or self employed. I am of a certain age. But I have a zest for life and a passion for travel. For 2024, we have a few trips planned already. Where to next?