Luxpresso – 
Central Park. Image courtesy: Reuters
Make this holiday season unique, just like New York’s current Spring-like temperate weather (most New Yorkers are running around in a light jacket and braving Central Park in T-shirts for their daily run!). The City, often sprinkled with snow, is a known shopper’s paradise, boasting sparkling windows and shimmering displays that adorn stores and streets from Uptown all the way to Battery Park. Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue boutiques are overcrowded and busy with tourists, out-of-towners and last minute shoppers hoping to complete their wish list! Streets are congested and cabs are nowhere in sight. This year, the city seems more manageable as many are enjoying the warm weather and strolling!
One of New York’s great treasures, The Pierre (a Taj Hotel), is an ideal place to start a holiday vacation in the city. Located on 61st and 5th, this New York jewel is elegant and classic with a modern mix of French sophistication and contemporary Indian accents. Holiday decorations fill the lobby and find their way around the hotel to celebrate the season’s best. Known for its uber luxury services and dining experiences, The Pierre overlooks Central Park and its backdoor is nestled close to the upscale modern emporium, Barneys (and the store’s buzzy lunch place, Fred’s). The hotel is also a few blocks away from Midtown and close to Bergdorf Goodman and other exclusive shops. For visitors and global travellers, New York’s Taj location welcomes guests with joy and excitement during the holidays. After a long (or short flight), the Jiva Spa is ready to pamper and prepare guests for a busy few days or weeks.
Here are a few things we suggest for your holiday to do list – mix and match any of these for a bespoke stay:
• Fifth Avenue (and Madison Avenue) walking tour – start at the Pierre and end up at Macy’s at Herald Square. On the way, look out for the magnificent Serpenti light sculpture by Bvlgari and colourful Fendi display!
• Shows – The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center, Radio City Christmas Spectacular or something new on Broadway
• Head to Rockefeller Center with its iconic holiday Christmas tree, ice rink and observation deck.
• Go to Bloomingdale’s on 59th street to see its global-inspired windows (lunch or coffee at David Burke’s on the first floor and a small pastry from Magnolia’s)
• Lunch at Bouchon Bakery at the Shops at Columbus Circle
• Dinner at Nobu on 57th (a few steps away from Fifth Avenue – don’t forget to see Saks Fifth Avenue’s Snowflake Spectacular and Henri Bendel’s celebrity 3-D depictions)
• Cocktails at the Empire Hotel (the rooftop has a retractable glass top and stays warm during cold December evenings)
• Music and bites at the Flat Iron Room (nice way to unwind and relax!)
• Serendipity 3 for its signature Frozen Hot Chocolate
• Two E Bar/Lounge for an after dinner drink or snack before retiring to your beautifully redecorated room at The Pierre
Union Square, a popular “town square” of sorts with a medley of upscale restaurants, cafes and more, is a favorite stop. India’s famous freedom fighter and national hero, Mahatma Gandhi is honoured here in a quartet of sculptures. Close by is Eataly, the Italian marketplace and mega-grocery store with its whimsical theme, Season’s Eatings (and the best gelateria in the area!). Another neighbourhood worth exploring is Meatpacking District and its well decorated restaurants, clubs and hotels. This go to place for young professionals and the fashionable set includes Pastis for a modern French fare and The Standard Hotel with a holiday Ice Rink beneath the High Line. Not to be missed – shopping in Soho (especially for post Dec 25th store wide sales) and cocktails at the Mercer Hotel (maybe a celebrity sighting!).
New York is the stuff dreams are made of, especially during the holidays. In December, the city is all about sparkles, grand decorations and enchanting windows. After a few days of shopping, dining and relaxing, repacking won’t be easy. Hopefully, as you drive away from The Pierre and say goodbye to Central Park, you will cherish the twinkle in your eye and the excitement in your heart, New York’s parting gift to you and yours.
(c) Luxpresso – Read entire story .
