New York Getaway

The greatest thing about this hotel is that it's in the middle of everything! It's in a great neighborhood, and also you are very close to a lot of great restaurants. There's a Starbucks probably two blocks down (not like there isn't one on every corner or anything). The accommodations are very nice, and we had a great room--no problems at all. The room isn't anything special, but for two twenty-somethings shopping all the time and seeing shows and sightseeing, it's a great place to hang your hat.

We found this restaurant near our hotel and it was a real treat. I absolutely loved the atmosphere. It is also a bar, so there was a Yankees/Red Sox game on, and it was truly an exciting experience to be in a New York bar, eating dinner and watching a Yankees game (I'm a huge fan). You have to hear this: 1 1/4 steamed lobster with baked potato and corn on the cob for 12.95! That's their Lobster Special! It's insane--and very good too! I mean, if that's not such a find on your New York vacation, I don't know what is.

Here's my take on Bergdorf. I was so incredibly excited to go there, because if you are an avid shopper of luxury items, it’s like a mecca. It’s absolutely stunning, and I loved it, and you don't experience snooty workers. I felt like the poorest person in there, and I was walking around with Tiffany bags!!!!

Central Park amazes me, because the minute you step into it, the whole city is hushed. It is soooo peaceful. My last visit was in July, and it was so lush and green. My friend and I had the brilliant idea that we would cross the park from the Natural History Museum to the Met because they are pretty directly across from each other, divided by the park.

If you are in a hurry, don't take that advice. The paths are very curvy, and, yes, you do see some amazing sights, but by the time you are on the other side, you are about 20 blocks away. We walked around many sights that I've seen in movies, and it was very exciting. It’s just a beautiful way to relax and enjoy nature in a very crazy city.

Before I begin, there's the admission part. Admission is "suggested," meaning you don't have to pay the actual admission, but it’s recommended because it goes towards research, exhibits, etc. My friend and I were going to pay the student rate (if you have a student ID, you pay a discounted rate), but the guy we bought tickets from had a crush on us and let us pay, like, a dollar apiece. So flirt if need be.

I really like science and natural history museums, so it’s a very interesting place. Again, you will be searched before you enter, just like any place in NYC. My favorite part was the dinosaurs. I thought it was absolutely fascinating. I loved dinosaurs as a child and had never seen a dinosaur fossil before! Just so you know, there are some exhibits that are anatomically correct, and if you are one of those parents who do not feel their child is ready for that, avoid those sections. Other than that, it’s a great family outing!

This may sound silly, but I remember when I was 4 years old watching Big Bird at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and being absolutely fascinated with the Egyptian exhibits. So, being almost 22 at the time, I was amazed again by the exhibits of the Ancient Egyptians. That was by far my favorite. I also enjoyed the medieval and renaissance art exhibits and the Impressionists. There is definitely something for everyone here!

Also, please don't touch anything, as the employees are like vultures, and if you even look like you will touch the glass, they flip out on you! If you really are there to explore, make sure you set aside an entire day - there is just too much to see!