NEW YORK is one of those cities that everyone recommends visiting in a specific season. The winter is magical with streets filled with sparkling lights, ice rinks and snow. Summer and spring bring life to Central Park and bars get crowded in the evenings. Yet many would argue it is autumn in New York City that is the most charming season of all.
The journey starts before my plane takes off from Heathrow airport. Grabbing a glass of champagne in the United Airlines Lounge will take off the edge of even the most nervous flyer and, in my case, makes me even more excited to change time zones, scrolling through various films and entertainment options while watching the sunset through my window on the United flight.
Executive Room Bathroom
I’m staying at the Langham Hotel while I am here, which sits right in the middle of Manhattan on Fifth Avenue, an ideal location to easily access every corner of the island, with Rockefeller Center and Times Square being just minutes away.
The Empire State Building greets me as I draw my curtains in the morning, and a dazzling view of the city’s skyline provides enough excitement to start my day in the Big Apple. The exclusive Club at the Langham offers an impressive selection of breakfast treats and all-day refreshments including a never-ending supply of coffee, a necessity when fighting jet lag.
Presidential Sutie
On the first floor of the hotel, you can find Ai Fiori, a French and Italian-focused restaurant recognised for its vast selection of modern Mediterranean dishes and fresh pasta plates. The space is buzzing nearly every day of the week, with full tables of returning locals and hotel guests. Ai Fiori is a wonderful spot for a quiet evening date or dinner with friends.
SUMMIT ONE Vanderbilt Transcendence Both Levels
During even the shortest of trips be certain to explore some of its world-famous museums and galleries. Head to MoMA to see the collection of pieces from thousands of brilliant artists, including Frida Khalo, Matisse or Picasso. The museum also curates some of the most remarkable exhibitions focusing on a variety of mediums. This winter’s highlights include Wolfgang Tillmans: To look without fear ,which includes a unique selection of the artist’s photographs, videos and multimedia installations. Or, slightly more unconventional, Never Alone: Video Games and Other Interactive Design, which explores the digitalised gaming universe.
The New York Langham Club
Afterwards, make your way to West Village to pay a visit to The Whitney Museum of American Art to wander around the newly opened Edward Hopper’s New York exhibition. Be sure to take a walk on The High Line, starting right next to the museum. The former elevated rail track stretches across the west side of the island and takes you on a charming journey along the Hudson River.
For spectacular views of New York head to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt – a multi-sensory exhibition, which, beyond breathtaking views of the city, has been designed to play with the viewer’s perception by blending art, technology and architecture into one immersive experience.
ONE Vanderbilt
To end the day, visit the Lincoln Center just before the sun sets behind the skyscrapers. The recently reopened David Geffen Hall is the gem of the complex and home to the New York Philharmonic. Book a ticket for a spectacular musical experience at the newly redesigned hall or watch the live screening at the spacious main lobby accompanied by a glass of wine.
Everywhere you walk in New York is an exciting new adventure. The city’s endless possibilities will leave you longing to explore its every corner.
by Olga Petrusewicz
New York City Tourism & Conventions is the official destination marketing organisation and convention and visitors bureau for the five boroughs of New York City. nycgo.com
The Langham, Fifth Avenue has rates starting from $695 USD + tax per night per room. langhamhotels.com/en/ the-langham/new-york/
Return fares from London Heathrow to New York/Newark start at £499 (Economy), £1,208 (United Premium Plus) and £3,188 (United Polaris business). Book at united.com
CityPASS is available from $119 per adult and $101 per child citypass.com/new-york