Shopping and Entertainment
It’s no secret that New York City is one of the top fashion capitals of the world. For years, 5th Avenue has reflected that with its’ array of high-end and infamous storefronts, from Saks Fifth Avenue to TopShop to H&M. Today, the fashion world goes way beyond 5th Avenue. The Garment District is no longer the only hub of fashion, nor the only place for good shopping in the city.
Century 21
With multiple locations throughout the city, Century 21 has made a name for itself as theplace to go for good deals and a wide selection. A hub for discount clothing, shoes, linens and much much more, there’s no real specialty to the store since they pretty much have everything. Most of the items you see are department-store designer leftovers, with deals usually ranging from 40-60% off.
SoHo
What was once an artists’ haven has now morphed itself into essentially New York City’s outdoor mall. With the open layout and large windows of these former factory buildings, the shops in SoHo have more freedom and are less confined by the usual boundaries of cramped Manhattan realty. You will find shops of all kinds throughout the neighborhood, both in traditional spaces and even on street-corners as well. The most densely filled area is along Broadway. Starting at the intersection of Broadway and Houston, head south on Broadway until you hit the borders of Chinatown at Canal.
Brookfield Place
Located inside of a towering waterfront office complex, Brookfield Place provides an impressive amount of indoor shopping, as well as a delicious food court. Without technically being a mall, it comes pretty close. Large windows letting in lots of natural light, beautiful architecture and plenty of open seating areas. Besides shopping, the complex offers many special events throughout the year- ice skating in the winter, beer tastings, live orchestras and film screenings.
Madison Ave
There’s a reason window shopping exists and nowhere is that more evident than along Madison Avenue. The fifteen block strip from 57th Street to 72nd boasts familiar designers such as Ralph Lauren, Mulberry, Calvin Klein, Kate Spade, Prada, Chanel and Giorgio Armani. Definitely the place for more expensive purchases, be prepared to be a bit dazed by the price tags. But at the end of the day, the attraction of the area is really the remarkable window displays.
Culture
New York’s incredibly multi-ethnic population defines the city’s culture as one of the most ecclectic anywhere. The city’s theater, dance, literature, music, art and cuisine are all reflections of the mix of traditions brought in by millions of immigrants. At the turn of the last millennium, 36 percent of New York’s population was foreign born, although no single ethnicity dominates and most are honored by official holidays denoting important milestones in their heritage.
Indian, Russian, Irish, Italian, Asian and Latin American districts exist, and the famous New York City parades celebrate the vast diversity. Respect that there will be lines, don’t intentionally steal someone’s cab, avoid mentioning 9/11, and respect personal space and you’ll fit right in.
Romantic Holidays
Chester: The Glenmere Mansion
If you want to feel like royalty for a weekend, stay at this Hudson Valley hideaway where legit kings and queens have rested their heads. That’s right, this adult-only country estate was once a private retreat for members of the royal family. There are only 18 rooms and suites — and a grand piano player willing to take requests — so you’ll feel as if it’s your own private mansion.
New Paltz: Mohonk Mountain House
The only decision you’ll have to make at this all-inclusive resort is how many of the activities you want to try. On the list of options is an indoor pool, an ice rink, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and tubing, not to mention additional extensive offerings like a cocktail tasting in a stunning Victorian castle. Most meals are served buffet-style, and afternoon tea and cookies are available in a fireside lounge.
Saugerties: Smythe House
There are bed-and-breakfasts, and then there are bed-and-breakfasts with meals made by legit chefs. Your hosts here, Mr. and Mrs. Smythe, are both alumni of the Culinary Institute of America and welcome guests to their Victorian home for exceptional meals. Start your day right with a personalize gourmet breakfast in bed, then mosey out to the Catskills Park to work up an appetitive for your next meal.
Rochester: Edward Harris House
Indulge yourself with culture and rejuvenation at this fully restored 1896 bed-and-breakfast. The boutique inn offers guests a romantic sanctuary right next to the heart of the Rochester Arts/Cultural district, which is packed with urban village shops, fine dining, cafes and galleries to explore. Seriously — they’re all just one block away!
