by TopView Sightseeing & Kev Berry

I love traveling alone! Not having to follow anyone’s schedule but your own is the best. Following your own impulses while walking around a city you don’t know too well can often provide great memories. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when booking a trip to The Big Apple, but have no fear, I am the loneliest New Yorker of all, and I’ve got The Ultimate Guide to Traveling Alone in New York!

First of all, let’s talk about getting around. While the subway makes the city fly by, if you’re in no rush, I suggest walking as much as you can. The best way to get to know any city is on foot, and in New York, there’s so much to explore with surprises around every corner. Central Park provides seemingly endless opportunities for exploration, and even after years of exploring the park, this writer has barely even scratched the surface. Take a walk up the broad tree-lined mall to Bethesda Fountain, and from there take any of the winding paths north and see what you find! 

Head over to the Museum Mile on Central Park West and pop in at any one of the stunning museums and check out the art and artifacts on display! If you’re downtown, check out the shopping scene in SoHo, where the stores are impeccably designed to give patrons an eye-popping experience. (Not a big fan for walking too much? Consider taking a bus tour to save you some legwork.)


After all that walking, you’ll probably be pretty hungry. With such an exciting food scene in the city, making a choice can be tough. The Counter, a build-your-own-burger bar with an unbelievable happy hour, at 41st and Broadway is a great spot for a quick pre-theatre bite. 

Gazala’s Place on 9th Avenue is a killer Middle Eastern joint with a BYOB policy and an insanely affordable wine store directly across the street. If you’re looking for a bite in less familiar territory, head up to 148th and Broadway, where Harlem Public will wow you with their beers, signature cocktails, and wild burgers; or down to Fort Greene, where Smoke Joint will satisfy your barbecue cravings with their unbelievable brisket, pulled pork, and a slew of sides to choose from, like mac and cheese or housemade slaw. If you’re craving a New York slice, Bleecker St. Pizza is the absolute best, and their Nonna Maria pie is a must-try.

At the end of the day, you’ll be pretty tired. The Pod Hotel Times Square has small rooms for single travelers on a budget. It’s brand-new and almost every single room has a great view. If you’re interested in exploring one of the outer boroughs of the city, try renting an AirBnB in BedStuy, Crown Heights, or Astoria, and check out their hopping nightlife and brunch scenes on the weekend.
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Landing in New York City for a solo vacation can be daunting. But if you put on your shoes, start walking, and follow your impulses, and this guide, I guarantee you’ll have a killer trip.

In celebration of Pride 2014, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park is offering a Summer of Pride Package to create a special getaway for those who are proud to love freely.

The package includes overnight accommodations at the lower Manhattan property and daily breakfast at 2West Restaurant. In addition, guests receive the following:

·         $50 spa credit to the Ritz-Carlton Spa

·         Complimentary Wi-Fi

·         2500 bonus Rewards points

·         Complimentary Pride Welcome Gift for guests who stay over Pride Weekend

The Summer of Pride Package starts at $400 per night and is available throughout the summer, for Thursday through Sunday stays from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.

For more information: The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park

Read the Connextions Magazine review of The Ritz-Carlton, Battery Park in Issue 11.

Read the Connextions Magazine review of the kick-ass 2West Restaurant!

As featured in Connextions Magazine Issue 14.
by Manny Valesquez-Paredes

The Sagamore - a family vacation resort

The Sagamore is located in the picturesque town of Bolton Landing and opened its luxurious doors in 1883. It was fully reconstructed in 1930 after experiencing two fires, one in 1893 and another in 1914. Due to financial difficulties in 1981, The Sagamore closed its doors and one hundred years after its doors first opened, it was restored to its former grandeur and reopened. The Sagamore is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and a recipient of the prestigious AAA Four-Diamond Award.  While the Sagamore is noted for their luxurious accommodations, don’t let that scare you from bringing the toddlers for a fun-filled adventure in the adirondacks.  

Before arriving, we had arranged to take a ride on The Morgan, a complimentary scenic boat cruise, which cruises twice a day from May to October. It so happens, our cruise was the last one of the season and we almost missed it because of traffic, but the front desk and Assistant Manager, Tyler, called The Morgan and asked them to wait as we ran to the ship. The Morgan takes visitors through the best scenic views of the Adirondacks.  

Babysitters can be arranged for hourly rates. Weekend activities include culinary demonstrations, wine tastings, history tours, bonfires, mini-golf, and swimming in the indoor heated pool, downhill and cross country skiing, ice fishing, ice skating, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or simply strolling or hiking through the woods and mountains just to name a few. If relaxing and pampering are your style, the newly renovated Spa and Salon caters to rejuvinate.  

We stayed on one of the lodges facing the lake near The Wapanak Castle, which is an historic six-bedroom, four-bath home located on the lake next to The Sagamore’s Historic Hotel, which is also available for up to 12 guests. The castle features five gas-logged fireplaces, a large modern kitchen and dining room, a formal living room and a uniquely decorated family room leading out to the lower deck and lake. The upstairs bedrooms are individually air-conditioned, while ceiling fans and refreshing lake breezes cool the public area.  

We thoroughly enjoyed the majestic views at sunrise from our private balcony, and enjoyed quality time with the kids.

Whiteface Lodge

The second part of our adventure took place in Lake Placid, which is home to two Winter Olympics games (1932 and 1980). We stayed at the award winning Whiteface Lodge.

The Lodge features unique wood creations, or rather - works of art, and much of the timber used on property was hand-milled on-site. Accents, such as handcrafted Adirondack furnishings and beautiful antler chandeliers adorn the interior  spaces creating a wonderfully elegant, luxurious and authentic cabin ambiance.

Each suite is designed to conjure the essence of the Adirondack great camp tradition. All 94 suites welcome guests with handcrafted furnishings, forged accents, and (in most suites) cast-iron fireplaces, as well as fully complemented kitchens, radiant-floor heat, jetted tubs, pillow-top beds, private cedar and mahogany balconies.  Our two-floor suite featured two upstairs bedrooms, including the master bedroom, a third bedroom that was located on the first floor, along with a kitchen and open space dining room and living area. Our kids played hide and seek and found several closets and three bathrooms.

Full access to all of the resort amenities, from platform tennis, to ice skating, indoor pools and hot tubs, Kamp Kanu for the kiddies along with nightly s’mores are all part of the daily complimentary activities.

Whiteface Lodge is a non-smoking, pet-free property. The Premier Lake Placid NY Spa is located in Whiteface Lodge and it is ranked among the Top 100 Spas in North America by Condé Nast Traveler.  This 5,800-square-foot spa blends the rustic beauty of its setting with an extremely relaxing and serene ambiance, featuring saunas and steam rooms. I was able to enjoy some alone time at the steam room, followed by a very relaxing full body, hour-long massage on our first night.  My partner Jose enjoyed a scalp and foot massage.

We visited Kanu, the Lodge’s American cuisine premier restaurant, which offers three- or four-course wine-pairing experiences featuring fresh ingredients sourced from local farms.

One particular morning, we were pleasantly surprised as we awoke to see a blanket of snow that had covered the grounds. Anna, the Lodge’s Concierge, had booked an afternoon of fun and games for our kids in Kamp Kanu, in order for us to enjoy a romantic lunch.  

Enough snow had accumulated overnight so the kids were thrilled to learn the ice skating rink was now open. It was on this trip, that we realized our little boy, Max, at three years old, is a natural on the ice. He put on those skates and was fearless, and all I kept thinking was please let him come back with all of his fingers and no broken bones.  Thankfully, he was successful.

It was an absolutely beautiful vacation.  So much so, that we are considering the Whiteface Lodge as a place to host our upcoming nuptials.  

As always, it is not the destination that counts, but the journey we take and the memories we make.

By Contributing Writer David Duran (@TheeMuki)
Originally & exclusively published in Connextions Magazine Issue 14.

Most have heard of Jazz at Kitano in NYC, being that it's one of the premier night spots to hear some of the best jazz performers in the city, but did you know that just outside of the intimate lounge, is a gorgeous, luxury boutique hotel property? The Japanese owned and inspired hotel turned 40 this year, and although it has been a landmark property to residents on Park Avenue for decades, this once mostly business traveler hotel, is excited to show off all it has to offer to every type of Manhattan visitor.

The hotel is a perfect blend of traditional Asian hospitality with contemporary convenience. Upon entering the grand lobby, guests are treated to world-class works of art. Sculptures dominate the main floor while acclaimed art graces each wall. The service at the Kitano is unlike any other. Everyone is warmly greeted and made to feel at home the moment they enter from the fast-paced and often stressful streets of the Manhattan.

Guests can enjoy Kaiseki cuisine at their signature restaurant, Hakubai, located just below the lobby in a very traditional Japanese setting. Kaiseki is a distinctive and delicate cuisine with roots in Zen Buddhism and the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Prices for a full Kaiseki dinner are $98 or $170 per person.

One unique feature of this property is located on the 17th floor. The Tatami Suite, a one-bedroom suite that provides an authentic experience of Japanese hospitality and culture. The suite features all-natural wood floors, tatami mats and shoji paper screen. Guests can either book the room with two twin beds or request the traditional futons. Within the bathroom there is a soaking tub and separate washing area, customary to Japanese culture. The 805 sq. foot suite is a one of a kind experience, most likely not the best fit for the average traveler, but is an example of the hotel’s ties to Japanese customs.

There are many other suite types to choose from, but ones that stood out were the Townhouse Suites, located on floors 4 through 6. These split-level layouts, with king-sized bedroom and separate living room are situated in the historic Rockefeller townhouse. The suites are unique and overlook East 38th Street.

The remaining accommodations are large for NYC hotel standards and have all the modern conveniences that any traveler would ever need, and some extra that you might not necessarily need, but will appreciate nonetheless. Each of the 149 guest rooms is equipped with a Toto toilet, a combination bidet and toilet. With each toilet costing $1500, after using them, guests will value their worth.

Trump International Hotel & Tower® New York, the Forbes Five-Star flagship of the TRUMP HOTEL COLLECTION™, invites all couples to make their wedding day uniquely Trump. With one-of-a-kind service and luxurious amenities, its customizable wedding-day options make for a memorable celebration custom-tailored to the happy couple. On their big day, couples can exchange vows in Central Park’s picturesque outdoor setting and capture their special day in an outdoor photo shoot. After the big “I do,” the newlyweds will depart their ceremony in style with a complimentary 45-minute horse-and-carriage ride through the park – the hotel’s gift to the couple when they confirm their wedding.

Post-ceremony, newlyweds will start their stylish new lives together with a personalized wedding reception with all of the bells and whistles. Whether it’s a formal brunch for 10 or intimate dinner for 30, guests will enjoy the finest in dining with custom menus catered by three-Michelin-star-restaurant Jean-Georges. The hotel’s in-house florist is available to customize all of the couple’s floral needs, and as always, the Trump Attaché will be on hand to customize the guests’ experience, and fulfill any and all requests.

As the wedding day comes to an end, the couple will segue right into their honeymoon with overnight accommodations in the hotel’s luxurious guestrooms and suites, many with park views. A couple’s massage can also be arranged at the hotel’s newly renovated Trump Spa or in-room for privacy and pampering after the big day. Weddings based on a party of 30 guests are priced from $11,500.

For more information or reservations guests may call (855) TRUMP-00 (878-6700) toll-free. Pricing does not include applicable taxes, fees and gratuities. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions may apply.

About Trump International Hotel & Tower® New York

Soaring above Central Park and Columbus Circle, the majestic Trump International Hotel & Tower® New York – the only Forbes Five-Star/AAA Five-Diamond hotel with a Five-Star/Five-Diamond restaurant, Jean Georges – is an icon delivering the highest level of service, style and exclusivity. The 52-story structure features 176 luxurious guest rooms and suites, complete with European-style kitchens, marble bathrooms, and spectacular views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. Amenities include a 6,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, in-room dining by the Three-Michelin-Star Jean Georges, the personalized service of the Trump Attaché™, 55-inch HDTVs in each room, and much more. In 2010, the hotel completed a magnificent renovation led by Ivanka Trump, and was selected as one of Travel + Leisure’s “500 World’s Best Hotels,” and included in Condé Nast Traveler’s “Gold List” and Elite Traveler’s “Top Suites of New York City.” Trump International Hotel & Tower New York, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, is located at One Central Park West, New York, NY 10023. For more information, please call (855) TRUMP-00 (878-6700) or visit www.TrumpHotelCollection.com. Connect with Trump International Hotel & Tower New York on Facebook and Twitter.

Luxurious Living & Outstanding Personal Service

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park hotel offers a convenient location and contemporary interior design coupled with spacious luxury suites and unbeatable personal service.

Unlike typical New York hotels, which offer slow elevators that take you to a cramped room on the 44thfloor, The Ritz-Carlton offers 298 spacious guest rooms and 39 luxurious suites, ranging from 425 square feet up to 2,500 square feet.  The award-winning property features expansive windows and telescopes in each of the rooms with a Statue of Liberty view.

The Ritz Carlton in Battery Park offers same-sex wedding packages, including a stunning photographic backdrop of the Hudson River and The Statue of Liberty. 

Click here to read the full article.

Purple Roofs is a gay and lesbian travel directory listing more than 4,900
accommodations worldwide.  We also list travel agents and tour operators, send
out a monthly email newsletter, and have a gay travel blog with travel articles
about the gay and lesbian travel world.

Click here to view the Purple Roofs website.

Warm Up at THE OUT NYC this Winter with Hot Deals! 

Urban Resort steps from Times Square offering up to a 25% discount for January and February

To kick-off 2013, THE OUT NYC is offering guests discounts of 15%, 20%, or 25% through February 2013. Now is the perfect time to visit THE OUT NYC and Manhattan to get the New York experience without the crowds of the holiday season.  




Valid through February, THE OUT NYC’s discount includes:

·15% discount off a one and two nights stay

·20% discount off a three and four nights stay

·25% discount off a five (or more) night stay  

*Pre-discount rates for THE OUT NYC start at $179 per nightand are based on availability, exclusive of taxes. Blackout dates apply. This offer is not combinable with other promotions or packages.

Guests can experience some of the THE OUT NYC’s key amenities that helped distinguish it has a2012 Fodor’s 100 Hotel Award winner. Some highlights include the just-opened Spa at THE OUT NYC that features a 5,000-square foot wellness center with luxury treatment rooms, hot tubs, cabanas and a private gym; a Winter Wonderland alpine snow lodge complete with ice skating rink, seasonal cocktails and fondue; KTCHN Restaurant where Executive Chef Dale Schnell serves modern American cuisine, fixed in tradition and inspired by the seasons; and XL Nightclub which has featured performances by the likes of Cher Lloyd and Carmen Electra. 

Conveniently located within walking distance of “must-see” NYC landmarks including Times Square, the Empire State Building and Central Park, THE OUT NYC also serves as a great home base for sightseeing in Manhattan.

For further information or to make a reservation, contact the hotel at (212) 947-2999 or visitwww.theoutnyc.com.    

ABOUT THE OUT NYC
THE OUT NYC, located on 42nd Street between 10th and 11th Avenues, encompasses a 105-room hotel, the 14,000 square foot XL Nightclub, Cabaret & Lounge by John Blair, Beto Sutter, and FV Events, a late-night restaurant called KTCHN, three courtyards, a business/conference center, function space, and a wellness center. Rates start at approximately $250.

Intimidated by the Big Apple?  Trust me... there's no need to be.  I'm from small town America and made my way into the big city at 16 years old, the weekend after I was privileged with my drivers license.  Not eveyrone has been this adventurous, even many of my family members, who live less than 4 hours away, have never even been to the world's best city! (My opinion, of course.)

It's not just a concrete jungle like the media portrays it to be.  It's urban design is unlike any other.  Mixed with parks and recreation, along with office and retail space, all on one small island, packed with millions of people, there's more tourist options than you can imagine.  Whatever tickles your fancy, you are sure to find it in NY.

Let your kids imagination run wild and show them the sights they have only seen in photographs.  We've mapped out a trip for you and your family that will make you feel safe in the City and offer you AND your little followers, the time of your life.

The view in the photo above, can be seen from the hotel we are recommending.

NYC-JC is a hotel with extended stay suites, owned by my very good friend Jarl Haugedal.  This hotel is located in Jersey City, which is directly across from downtown Manhattan, along the Hudson River. 

Rates are reasonable, and if you mention Connextions Magazine, you can get yourself a 20% discount.  The rates do not increase with additional guests, so bring ALL the kids along! 

Modern amenities and decor, along with a full kitchen and laundry facilities in each room, make this accommodation perfect for a trip with kids.  They can have their bowl of cereal before bed!  The Hudson Market is located in the same building as the hotel, so you can stock your fridge, grab a breakfast bagel in the morning, and on the way home, make sure to get yourself a sweet treat... the creme brule is to die for!

www.nyc-jc.com

What's the best part about staying at NYC-JC?  Well, that's a tough question, since I am partial to ALL the offerings of this hotel, but for those of you who have never been to NYC, you will be happy to know you never have to drive your vehicle directly into the city.  Park in the hotel garage and take the path train into Manhattan.  The path train is 2 blocks from the hotel, and delivers you in less than 2 minutes, to the World Trade Center. 

Not comfortable on a subway system?  Not comfortable riding through a tunnel under the Hudson River?  No problem, take the kids on a ferry ride, which is only 1 block from the hotel. 

Another notable mention is that the Statue of Liberty is located just minutes from the hotel.  Many people come to NYC to see visit Miss Liberty... why?  When she's actually located in New Jersey.

There are SO many sights to see that entrepreneurs are making a good living, just delivering daily events to tourists and residents alike.  We have listed just a few of our favorites:

Empire State Building
Visit the most photographed landmark on Earth, according to scientists at Cornell University.  It will cost $25 per person for a ride up to the observation deck, and they are open every day, rain or shine from 8am to 2am.  http://www.esbnyc.com/

My personal favorite is the Skyride!  It is New York's only virtual tour simulator where you sit in a chair and fly across the skyline and under the Hudson.  Narrated by Kevin Bacon, the ride lasts 30 minutes and it is a MUST-SEE for kids AND adults!  I don't know who enjoyed it more, me or the kids.  For tickets and info: http://www.skyride.com/

Times Square

A visit to NYC isn't complete without a stop in Times Square.  This is what they kids think of when they picture New York.  You can find a dozen tourist shops on every block and this is a great place to stop for lunch because all the familiar favorites are located here.  Be prepared for a wait, no matter which restaurant you choose, but the kids will never forget it!

Bronx Zoo

Administered by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Bronx Zoo is one of the best zoological parks in the world. There's over 265 acres, full of exhibits, so plan on spending the entire day.

Ticket prices are as follows: $29.95 adult/$19.95 ages 3-12 but if you buy tickets online, you can save 10%.  They also offer military discounts.

http://www.bronxzoo.com/

After an exhausting day in the city, you can rest easy when you land back in Jersey City for the night and enjoy the peace and quiet.

If you are flying in, NYC-JC offers car service from all the major airports.

HAPPY TRAVELS!