Much like April in Paris, Christmas in New York is a bit of cliché, but then again, clichés exist for a reason, right? Take a look at what makes New York and Christmas go so well together, believe me you will #wishyouwerehere.
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” yup that would be Christmas in New York City which boasts OTT extravagant Christmas lights, huge outdoor ice rinks, ever famous Christmas trees and events in every corner of the city. So with plenty to do and see for everyone, let’s dive right into Christmas in one of the glitziest cities in the world.
Why not do the touristy thing and hit the obvious hot spots? From Rockefeller Centre to Central Park, you’ll need to dedicate at least half a day to take it all in, believe me, a whole lot of gawking is involved, but not to worry you won’t look too touristy as even the NY locals are always mesmerised by the city’s transformation. Once you’ve done your touristy hot spot rounds, warm yourself up at Blue Bottle Coffee, conveniently part of Rockefeller Centre, and enjoy an espresso or one of their milk drinks made with Battenkill Valley Creamery milk. Although the café has no seats, you can take your drink out to the food court or enjoy it under the Christmas tree before heading on out to the ice rink.
If you’re in a spending mood and have opted for the shopping side of things, why not check out Union Square’s Holiday Market, among many others in New York. A beautiful European style market which plays host to 150 local and national vendors selling an impressive selection of handcrafted gifts, ranging from jewellery and accessories to leather goods and artwork – Christmas gifts for everyone!
Oh wait, you wanted the classic city break style shopping spree, I don’t blame you. With stores upon stores of every style, type and price range you can shop till you drop in iconic stores such as Macy's, Bloomingdales and FAO Schwarz the oldest toy store in the USA. And while you’re on a spending spree, don’t forget to check out the super cute gift shops in trendy Soho, West, Greenwich and East Village from bohemian and vintage to total artsy and indie, you can’t go wrong.
Now I bet you’re thinking that’s a whole lot of spending and touristy stuff to be doing, when and where on earth do I get to rest? Well worry not, you’re totally spoilt for choice in New York for places to wine, dine and stay the night. From the classic hotels, to budget hotels to the best hotels with a room with a view – you have choice!!
Go for the classic slightly bougie option and check into one NY’s historic almost celebrity like storied residences. Why not try The Chatwal New York; it boasts classic interior art décor which has stayed true to the design of the building’s 1905 beaux arts building, making it one of the most glamorous hotels in the Theatre District. From murals in the lobby recalling New York’s roots and theatrical aristocracy, to elegant rooms featuring vintage Broadway poster, custom toiletries and select rooms with spacious terraces- soak it all in and you’re guaranteed a true New York experience.
Or why not go all out, think of it as a Christmas gift to you, reserve yourself a room with a view where you can admire iconic New York without the need to leave your room. A glass covered-façade and ultra-modern novelty on the low-rise Lower East Side of New York, is a must stay place – Hotel on Rivington With super sleek, minimalist rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of Manhattan and beyond (even in the shower stalls) you get to appreciate the full splendour of New York City during Christmas from your room. So even though you’ll be resting your feet and warming up, getting ready for dinner, you can still enjoy and appreciate a unique Christmas in a unique city from the comfort of your room – what more could you ask for?
So how good does all that shopping, gawking, ice skating, partying and spectacular blur of a Christmas in New York sound? #wishyouwerehere
