New York, New York – always a great idea

When I mentioned, last week, that this was the time of year for a European city break, I had forgotten New York. How could I forget New York, you might ask? And you’d be entirely right in thinking I may as well have forgotten a limb.

That is the problem with travel planning or even talking about planning travel, there are just SO many fantastic places to go, and I frequently negotiate with my travel partners that: “this year it’s my choice and next year it’s yours.”  So, I am definitely going to New York. And quite soon too.  Which is extremely exciting, as it’s just a spectacular time of year to visit, what with the leaves starting to turn in Central Park and the silvery light really showing up the silvery quality of the city. Plus the cafes and restaurants are welcoming but it’s not icy. And I definitely need a new coat this year!  It’s probably the perfect autumn city break – subject to my changing my mind when I decide on next year’s destination…

Anyway I need to get on to booking some shows, and of course some accommodation – but where to stay?

Value Chic in the Heart of Town?
CitizenM New York is just one minute from Times Square. Like the city, it’s big bold and confident, but it’s also great value.The wall to wall windows really help to immerse you in the bustle, the art is bright and exciting and the rooftop bar has spectacular panoramic views. Food wise CanteenM is open 24 hours for snack-style dining. The beds are big and the common space comfortable and welcoming. Rooms start from around £150 per night.

Good Value on Wall Street?
Gild Hall, A Thompson Hotel is stylish and masculine with plenty of luxurious extras at an affordable price point. As well as the 120+ rooms there’s a split-level library, a rustic-glam bar and restaurant and, dare I say it, plenty of sex appeal. Rooms start from around £140 per night.

Bold, Brassy and in a Great Location?
Room Mate Grace has bold wallpaper, lots of mirrors and a colourfully illuminated indoor pool with underwater music and a swim-up bar.  And you’re just a block from Times Square. The 139 rooms are neat sized and modern, with a very varied offering when it comes to sharing – from bunk rooms to rooms with a double and a single, there’s an arrangement to suit you.  Plus there are great spa facilities.  Despite the crazy 70s glamour it doesn’t take itself too seriously, but is a fabulous place to stay with easy access to the theatres and main sights.  Rooms start from around £160 per night.

Minimalist Cool in the Meatpacking District?
Gansevoort Meatpacking is hip and industrial, but with a lively, 60s vibe. The 45-foot long rooftop pool has sweeping city views and there are floor to ceiling windows in all the rooms. This is a great place to stay if you want to embrace this city’s 24hour culture. The restaurant, The Chester, is lively and the standards and high; the pool and lounge are open all hours, and the best rooms have great balconies overlooking the city. There are also excellent transport links.  Rooms start from around £175 per night.

Old New York in the Heart of Greenwich Village?
The Marlton is an atmospheric hotel with ‘chic petite’ rooms all featuring parquet floors, brass fixtures and marble bathrooms. The building is historic, and bohemian – it once hosted Warhol and Kerouac – but an atmospheric old New York style remains. If your budget allows, the suites are quite spacious and have large terraces and fabulous city views. The oak-panelled cocktail bar is everything you want it to be and the restaurant offers a true downtown New York experience.  Rooms start from around £150 per night.

Practical Details
You don’t need me to tell you the best time to be in New York, you’ll already have your own idea.  In the movies it’s often depicted as being bitterly cold and snowy – which it is in winter, but in a magical way – but it can also be sweltering in the summer – August is especially humid. So spring and autumn – when the leaves in Central Park are turning spectacularly, are probably the best times as far as the weather is concerned. Which is now, now, now!

New York has multiple international airports: John F. Kennedy and LaGuardia are both in Queens and Newark is in New Jersey. Most UK flights arrive at JFK – there are over 80 airlines using it as a hub.  From the airport it’s about $50 in a cab into Midtown Manhattan, most cabs do it as a flat fare and it can take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on traffic. The AirTrain is great value, fairly simple to navigate and takes between 60 and 75 minutes.