Travel Blog

NYC Reawakens!

If you know me, you know that NYC has always held a place in my heart and remains one of my favorite travel destinations. There is something unique about the energy in the city that I don't think is really replicated anywhere else in the world. Over the past year, there has certainly been a change in its atmosphere with Broadway being closed, dining and shopping restrictions, and an overall lack of bustle on the streets. While it is not back to "normal," I can certainly tell you from my visit a few weeks ago that NYC has reawakened and is the perfect destination for you to start considering. With the weather warming, al fresco dining is wonderful and, with proof of vaccination, you can move among the city's wonderful museums, attractions, bars, etc. with no problem. It is exciting to see the city that never sleeps wake up from its nap - ready to delight like never before.

During my stay in NYC, I was also excited to experience three properties that are a part of the Preferred Hotel & Resorts Lifestyle Collection. I decided to stay in 3 different neighborhoods (SoHo, Chelsea, and Nomad) to experience some new perspectives on the city I may not have seen before. The hotels in these neighborhoods that are part of this collection embrace the local flare with the same infusion of elegance and style you would expect. Check out more on these properties below.

Want help planning your vacation? Reach out to me with your questions and let's start planning. The world is waiting for you to explore again!

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Modernhaus Soho

My journey in NYC began at this stunning new property in the heart of SoHo. I had not spent too much time in this neighborhood previously and this was the perfect spot to launch my exploring. The hotel has been fully redone and just reopened last month with a modern and luxurious flair. Art is infused throughout the property and there are interesting and fun accents in the rooms, halls, and in common spaces. The rooms are urban-chic with beautiful blue accents and stunning windows overlooking the city. What really made this hotel stand apart for me were the amenities - the hotel has over 11,000 square feet of outdoor space making for a unique resort experience right in the middle of NYC. The rooftop views from the pool deck are sensational and the onsite bad/lounge, Jimmy, is a place to be seen. There is no shortage of places to grab a cocktail and plan for an evening to enjoy this vibrant neighborhood. For my vegan food fans, I loved La Botaniste Food & Wine Bar only a few blocks away.

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Hotel Hendricks 

My next stop took me to this new hotel located just steps away from Herald Square and Bryant Park. As soon as you walk in, you know this is going to be a uniquely exciting hotel stay with the friendly staff and industrial-chic design. The rooms are comfortable and feature floor-to-ceiling mahogany and Italian millwork with premium fixtures - all designed by Marchello Pozzi. Right outside your door is an exciting neighborhood to explore - steps from Times Square and many Broadway theaters. Once these fully reopen, this would be a perfect jumping off point.

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Maritime Hotel

If you know me, you know my love of cruising so my final hotel in NYC was the perfect spot and brought a smile to my face from the moment I walked in. The nautically inspired, boutique hotel was formerly the home of National Maritime Union and the decor pays homage to this past so beautifully. The porthole windows were a delight and made the view of the Hudson River even more special. The rooms were comfortably appointed and the lounge was the perfect place to plan your day or sink into one of the leather chairs with a book. I especially loved the location of this property near Chelsea Market - the perfect place to spend a few hours shopping, dining, or just people-watching. If you are looking to be a part of the Chelsea scene, CATCH and TAO are located right next to the hotel so you can have a fun night and be back in bed in a matter of minutes. I can't wait to stay at this unique and lovely property again.

Gregory KiepComment
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