The leather Vertical Security Purse was perfect for my last trip to New York City. With steel cables sewn into the shoulder straps it felt safe around crowded areas like the airport and tourist attractions. The back pocket design was practical allowing me easy access to my airline tickets and identification. The flap in the front folded readily so I could retrieve items from a small zippered pocket without opening the main compartment.
The Metropolitan Museum, more accurately a collection of museums, was a must for art lovers in the New York area. With two million artifacts spanning 5,000 years of art history, the sheer size of the Metropolitan Museum was daunting. It was the kind of place best enjoyed in multiple viewings and visits. There are only a small number of museums in the world with such large and diverse collections. Of those, few allow visitors as much room to admire and enjoy their extraordinary collections. When we visited The Metropolitan Museum, there were tours, audio guides, several eateries and souvenir shops to enhance the experience.
Visited by more than five million people a year, the Metropolitan Museum was a bustling art reservoir. In spite of large crowds, the afternoon we were by there was plenty of space to enjoy the fine art; we were even able to approach individual sculptures and paintings to observe a detail or identify a signature. This was noteworthy because getting within a couple of feet of major artworks at other comparable museums can be a tricky.
: Dinner at Alain Ducasse’s New York restaurant was well prepared and well served. It was as close to authentic gourmet French food as we have had in the U.S. For those able to appreciate the nuances of an elaborate gourmet meal; and willing to spend the time and resources – dinner could easily exceed $300 per person – to enjoy it, ADNY would be an obvious choice.
In a city where several seatings a night are the norm, ADNY stood out for its one seating policy. It allowed diners to savor and stretch out the multiple course dinner over several hours. The professional, discreet, and customer oriented staff combined with the delicious food and ambiance provided the setting for a wonderful evening. The intimate ambiance and details like handbag stools, an after dinner sweets and candy trolley, a discreet and knowledgeable wine steward, and a souvenir brioche upon departure can make ADNY ideal for a special occasion or important meeting.
: In a city where basic accommodations cost a king’s ransom, and many hotels take their guests for granted, we found the hotel refreshing and a good value. It is in a fabulous location in the prestigious eighth arrondisement. We were pleased by the quiet room and large bathroom (including a whirlpool bathtub and separate shower). The high speed connectivity was particularly welcome. We also prized the on-sight fitness center and spa including an inviting swimming pool. There were two well rated restaurants an elevator’s ride away, and some of the better room service food we have had in a while.
For a step in a different direction, Morikami offers a wonderful alternative to the usual tourist attraction. In a beautiful setting, coupled with art exhibits, classes and other special activities and festivals, it provides restful escape from the everyday.