Archive for the 'United States of America' Category

As promised, here are the rest of the photos from my glamorous photo shoot at the Elysian Chicago with the super talented Kyle Hepp.  In case you missed the first set of photos, you can view them here.

The following photo is my husband’s favorite from the photo shoot.  Is it okay if I mention quickly that I have the sexiest husband in the world???  Even after six and half years of knowing him I still get butterflies when he kisses me.

Curious, did anyone realize that I am wearing my wedding earrings and shoes in the photos?

Which is your favorite photo?  It might be a while before I do another photo shoot with Kyle, but I can promise you there will definitely be more in the future!  Thankfully, I did not have to say goodbye to her just yet, as we had a special dinner date planned in the “most romantic restaurant in Chicago”. . .

If you are a follower of My Beautiful Adventures, then you know that one of my most favorite people in the world as a person and as a photographer is Kyle Hepp.  She has shot a boudoir session of me in Santiago, Chile and my wedding in Buenos Aires, Argentina.  Well, when I discovered that she would synchronistically be shooting a wedding in Chicago the exact same time my husband and I would be there as well, I asked her if she would kindly do a photo shoot with us and she agreed.  Lucas and I had both purchased something special to wear at the NYE Ballroom Blitz that we would be attending at the Hyatt Regency Chicago and we thought our outfits would photograph nicely and that these photos would be a beautiful reminder of our first New Year’s Eve together.  In case you missed it, Kyle also did a blog post about the photo shoot in our Deluxe Suite at the Elysian Chicago.

The following photo is my favorite from the photo shoot.

Which is your favorite photo?  More photos to come soon. . .

It is no secret that I have an obsession with New Year’s Eve.  I usually start planning at least six months in advance where and how I will be celebrating the beloved holiday, however this past year was unique since now I would be planning for two instead of one and I was not sure if my new husband would have his Green Card in time to leave the country or not.  Thus, when the Hyatt Regency Chicago invited us to their glamorous NYE Ballroom Blitz we accepted immediately.

We decided to arrive in Chicago a few days earlier than the party, just in case there was bad weather and we would have flight issues — a definite possibility for that part of the United States in December.  Our first hotel stay was at the Elysian Chicago, which was introduced to me via Kiwi Collection.

From the facade of the hotel alone I knew it was going to be special.  I love hotels that give you the feeling that you have walked into another world once you have passed through their front doors.

After we unpacked and spent some time luxuriating in our Deluxe Suite, we dined at the hotel’s casual restaurant Balsan.  The meal was destined to be delicious, since they serve baguettes as their bread option.

Instead of water, my husband and I chose to celebrate our trip to Chicago with fruit-infused caipirinhas.  We could not be more excited to finally, after six and a half years, be in the same place together for New Year’s Eve!

Lunch consisted of a creamed cauliflower soup and a goat cheese salad.  We decided to eat light, as later in the evening we had reservations at the Argentinean restaurant Folklore and we knew that we would be eating as though it was our last meal ever, because we both have a strong affinity for Argentinean food (especially since my husband is Argentinean).  Also, we had two dear friends joining us, one of them being the amazing Traveling Ted.

Our first day in Chicago could not have been more perfect (or so we thought).  Thanks to the Hyatt Regency Chicago, I was about to cross something huge off of my Bucket List!

Elysian Chicago: Chicago, Illinois

First Impression

I was smitten from the moment I walked through the Elysian’s front doors, as I was now in the land of ultimate luxury.  I could not wait to explore the entire hotel, however I was most eager to see my Deluxe Suite.  I was completely taken aback as I entered the room.  For a hotel in a major city, when space is extremely limited, it was almost impossible to believe just how large the room was!

Location

Having never been to Chicago before, I had no idea what part of the city to stay in.  Thus, I took a chance with the Gold Coast neighborhood, which is where the hotel is located.  This historical area is filled with designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and high-rise penthouses all within walking distance.  The Elysian fits in perfectly with its glamorous surroundings.

The Room

The bedroom in the Deluxe Suite is designed with a strong aura of simple elegance.  The bed was so comfortable that I never wanted to leave it — in fact I hardly left my room for the three days I was there.  My excuse as to why I hardly saw any of Chicago: the Elysian.

The flat-screen TV and iPod docking station were the perfect amenities in the already perfect room.

The Bathroom

You know that you are in a luxury hotel when there is a TV in the bathroom mirror.  It might be ridiculously indulgent, however I loved being entertained while relaxing in the bathtub or getting ready to go out.  I also very much enjoyed the designer bath products and terry-cloth robes.

The Extras

The Deluxe Suite had another room attached to the bedroom that functioned as a kitchen/living room/office.  In an appointed nook there was a sink, an ice maker, a refrigerator, and a microwave.

My absolute favorite part was the fireplace, which immediately turned on and filled the room with warmth with a press of a button, and that was a necessity since I was visiting in December.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

Every luxury hotel should care about the details like the Elysian does.  No matter where you looked, there was a special touch that added sophistication and class to make certain that you would want to return over and over again for years to come.

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Golfing has always been a special part of my life, even though I do not necessarily follow the sport or play it regularly.  However, my Mother was the first woman to work at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia and I have very fond memories from my childhood searching for errant golf balls in the surrounding woods and catching tadpoles in the lakes scattered around the courses.

While I personally do not golf when I am on vacation, many people enjoy getting active with their clubs and plan their trips completely around golf courses.  Some of the best are located in the United States and the following three cities are perfect examples.  However, there are excellent golf courses in other cities as well — some are even a part of the upcoming 2012 LPGA tour schedule.

Las Vegas Golf

When most people think of Las Vegas, they think “party capitol.”  That is in fact true, but outside of the Strip lies an abundance of golf courses that are worth skipping the casinos for.  One of the best is the Arroyo Golf Club, which affords players not only challenging courses, but also spectacular views of Red Rock Canyon, one of Las Vegas’ most famous landmarks, and sweeping panoramic views of the cityscape.  Another place that is worth checking out is the Badlands Golf Club.  It is set amongst some of Nevada’s most breathtaking desert scenery and offers an exciting day out for all players, regardless of  being a novice or having a low handicap.

Myrtle Beach Golf

Can you imagine anything more relaxing than zoning out on the golf course to the sound of the ocean in the background?  Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has quickly become a golfer’s paradise — attracting thousands of players every year and for good reason.  The Myrtle Beach area is recognized as the leading packaged golf vacation destination in the world, as it has over one hundred courses to chose from.  Legends Resorts is home to six of the finest golf courses in the state, as well as the country, including the famous TPC.  It is the former home of the Senior PGA Championship and is a both a masterpiece to look at and a joy to play.

Augusta Golf

Golfing will always and forever remain immensely popular in Augusta, Georgia thanks to the Masters at the Augusta National Golf Club.  It is easily one of the most exclusive golf clubs in the world, attracting players such as Presidents of the United States.  The course is a tough test of skill, though renowned for its beauty with the greens lined with flowers and hundred year old trees.  It is not the only grand course in the city, thus if you are not able to gain access to its greens there are plenty of other places to make a tee time.

South Beach, known as SoBe to the locals, is a tropical paradise of white beaches, turquoise water, and beautiful people.  It is very lively; people walking, biking, jogging, and playing sports in the nearby beaches.  It is bulging with restaurants, bars, and events waiting to be experienced so there is always something to do here, be it day or night.

Ocean Drive

When most people think of South Beach, they most likely envision Ocean Drive.  This popular strip runs along the Atlantic Ocean and on the other side of it are trendy bars, lounges, restaurants, and hotels.  We spent a bit of time here just meandering about, people watching, and popping into whatever site caught our eye.  The hostesses and waitresses will come out and try to sell you on their spot, but make sure you pick the most comfortable for you and of course, the most appetizing.  South Beach’s spots are flowing with delicious food.

Nightlife

Miami is home to the famous Winter Music Conference (WMC) and Ultra Music Festival, two of the world’s largest electronic dance music events.  I am an avid fan of this music and when I attended both events, I feel in love with the vibe of this city.  WMC and the Ultra Music Festival are held in mid-March every year, so the weather is the prime and dance music is blasting from all around you, making you constantly want to move.  SoBe also provides a never-ending list of nightclubs and lounges to experience year-round from Mynt on Collins Avenue, Mansion on Washington Avenue, and Mango’s Cafe on Ocean Drive that plays salsa and Latin music has that spiciness that makes it so popular.

Lincoln Road

Lincoln Road is easily the area’s premiere shopping center and is full of beautiful people.  It is an open-air pedestrian mall, lined with boutiques, cafes, retail stores, and shops.  It also hosts the Art Center South Florida, so there is an abundance of artwork to be seen.  If you can make a day out of exploring this area, I do suggest it.  Miami’s fashion scene is among the best and is the largest Latin American fashion event in the US.  There are many shops here that I could spend days in.

Art-Deco District

I loved seeing South Beach’s historic art deco district.  Located in the heart of SoBe, you cannot miss it.  I have not seen another place in the US that even resembles it.  The pastel colored buildings and their geometric shapes contrast brightly against the sky, sand, and ocean.  The streets are lined with umbrellas and tables from the local businesses too; it really is so picturesque!

Lummus Beach

This beach is a dream.  The sand bar is just off the turquoise water where we would lie down and sunbathe while listening to the waves and people around.  There were people frolicking in the water, occasional vendors stopping by, and sometimes a drink or ice cream cart milling about.  Lummus Park is lined with palm trees to bike, skate, or jog around as well.  Do be sure to apply some sunscreen though.  Miami’s heat and humidity can get intense after a while.  One of the nights we were there, we watched the sun at Lummus Beach and it was stunning.  I suggest catching a sunset here while in SoBe.

South Beach has so much to satisfy a curious tourist.  Check out the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau to see what events catch your attention and go to Miami South Beach Hotels via Miamihotels.org to book your stay.  You will not regret it!

It seems I am always planning my next Disney vacation.  Even when I am at Walt Disney World, I am constantly making mental notes about what I want to do on my next visit.  Luckily, my next trip is just weeks away.  Shhh, do not tell the kids, as they do not know yet!

The Magic Kingdom

When you say Disney World, the first image you are likely to think of is Cinderella’s Castle nestled in the heart of the Magic Kingdom.  The sight never fails to take my breath away.

I like to get to the park gates about 30 minutes before it opens.  Now, I am normally a night owl.  However, when I am at Walt Disney World, I seem to magically wake up before the crack of dawn.  Early birds are rewarded, by getting to see, and sometimes be a part of, the official “Rope Drop” ceremony, where cast members and Mickey Mouse himself welcome you to the park.

Main Street, U.S.A

Main Street, U.S.A. is one of the happiest places in the entire resort.  I cannot help but be filled with high hopes and expectations for this day when I am there.  After all, those around me have likely been planning for this very moment for months, if not years.

First thing in the morning the streets are not as crowded.  The shop keepers are out, waving at guests with those over-sized Mickey gloves as they make their way to their favorite attractions.  The streets are damp, perhaps from the dew of the morning, or maybe it is the Florida humidity, and if you get to the end of Main Street in time, it takes on a golden hue as the street catches the rays of the rising sun.

This is also the best time of day to get your picture taken in front of Cinderella’s Castle.  I rarely like pictures of myself, as I like to be the one  who takes the photos.  But, if I must be in the picture, I like to have it taken first thing in the morning, while my make-up is fresh, my hair has not been disheveled by Space Mountain, and my clothes are still relatively clean.

Adventureland

At the end of Main Street, U.S.A., most people head to the right and off to Tomorrowland; I like to take a left and go straight for Adventureland.  The first major attraction you will see is the Jungle Cruise and it is unlikely to be open until 10AM or later.  I bypass it and go straight to Pirates of the Caribbean where there is no wait.

After we ride “Pirates,” we like to go directly to Splash Mountain.  I love the happy songs and the watery plunge into the Briar Patch.  When you disembark from your log, take a look at the photo gallery.  Even if you do not buy the picture, everyone in your party will get a good laugh seeing themselves as they take the big plunge.

Next, go straight to Thunder Mountain Railroad.  It is the “wildest ride in the wilderness” after all.  Thunder Mountain is always a family favorite; tame enough for the younger riders and those of us with weaker stomachs, though fast enough that my teenager enjoys it as well.

Liberty Square – Quick Take

Once you are finished with Thunder Mountain, head directly for The Haunted Mansion.  Enjoy singing ghosts and dancing spirits.  Just “beware of hitchhiking ghosts.”

Breathe and Re-energize

Given average winter attendance, the path I just led you down should take about two hours on a weekday and perhaps two-and-a-half on a weekend.  It is nothing short of satisfying to know that we have enjoyed four out of the five biggest rides in the park, all before lunch, and all with little or no wait.

Once you exit The Haunted Mansion, it will be time for an early lunch.  You will be at the door of my favorite counter-service restaurant in all of Walt Disney World, the Columbia Harbour House.  You will not find typical theme park fast food fare here.  We enjoy the Anchors Aweigh tuna sandwich and the Broccoli Pepper Corn Sandwich.  However, my favorite entree is the Lighthouse Sandwich, a hummus sandwich topped with a tomato slaw.

Fantasyland

Once our batteries are recharged, we like to head for the relative calm of Fantasyland.  I say relative, because in addition to throngs of families with very small children, Fantasyland is in the process of a multimillion dollar renovation. However, you can still ride many of your favorite attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.  Be prepared for some of these attractions to be closed periodically during construction.  Check your park guide map at the beginning of the day to see what attractions are affected by the renovations.

Liberty Square – Again

After you have strolled through Fantasyland, our party is faced with a tough decision: should we head to Tomorrowland or do we go to the slower paced, but still fascinating Liberty Square?  If I am not outvoted, and sometimes I am, I like to take this time to go to Liberty Square.

Having already enjoyed The Haunted Mansion, The Hall of Presidents is the only other major attraction to see.  I think I liked it better when I was a kid, but the tour of American history is fast-paced, kid friendly, and genuinely entertaining.  It is also home to Ye Olde Christmas Shop, a Christmas wonderland 365 days a year.

And no, I did not forget about the Liberty Square Riverboat.  It usually forgets me!  Every time I have been to the Magic Kingdom for the past five or so years, the boat seems to be closed for the day.  Call it bum luck, although one of these days I will ride the Liberty again.

Tomorrowland

I have my reasons for waiting until the evening to venture into Tomorrowland.  The lights of Tomorrowland really create a magnificent atmosphere.  The Astro Orbiters fly high overhead, and in my opinion, it is the best way to see the Magic Kingdom from a height only the birds get to enjoy.

Of course, most of the kids want to head straight for Space Mountain.  Even if you do not have a FastPass for this ride, the new interactive queue experience makes waiting an attraction.  My own competitive nature means that a day at the Magic Kingdom is never complete without riding Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.  Guests shoot laser beams at targets to rack up points and provide much needed power to the toy universe.  However, as my kids get older, their point totals are quickly approaching my own.

My final must-see of the day is the Monsters Inc., Laugh Floor, what I consider the hidden gem of Tomorrowland.  A cast of friendly and funny monsters need your laughs to power the city of Monstropolis.  If you are lucky, and twice I have been, you will get to be a part of the show.  It is a great way to relax your tired feet for twenty minutes and get a laugh too.

Back to Main Street, U.S.A.

As the day ends, I like to stroll down Main Street, U.S.A.  Note this is an extremely busy time on the street, as it leads to the only public exit of the park.  Coming from Tomorrowland, you will pass by the Main Street Bakery and, yes, that is the smell of chocolate chip cookies being piped out into the street.  It lovingly lures in weary guests with the promise of a sugary treat or some much needed coffee to keep you going until you collapse in your hotel.

This is the time of day I like to head into the Emporium, the biggest souvenir store in the Magic Kingdom for a little last-minute shopping.  Most of the items that you will find at the smaller gift shops throughout the park, you will find here at the Emporium.  These shops are often open up to an hour past the published park closing time.  So, let the crowds leave the park while you shop.  Then you can stroll onto the Monorail or ferry boat back to your car or resort after a full and fun day of magic.

Do not miss out on the adventure and start booking your stay at Magic Kingdom now!  Check out Orlandohotels.org for accommodation options near the park.

By Melanie Clatfelter.

In my previous guest post, I talked about some great ideas of ways you could spend your Hawaii vacation.  Well, for those who have planned a little farther ahead and have already decided on Oahu as your island destination, I am going to suggest a few more great ways you can spend your valuable time there!

A popular vacation type, especially when calling one of the many luxurious and centralized Oahu hotels home, is the kind where your only form of transportation is the soles of your sandals.  Downtown Honolulu is bursting with life, and with the intersection of Waikiki Beach’s world-famous sands and the crystal clear warmth of the Pacific only minutes away, your days can be packed with different adventures all within walking distance.

The location of The Modern Honolulu enables you to explore a vast variety of activities unique to Oahu by foot.  Here are a few exciting recommendations, ranging from the cultural to the scientific, that are waiting right outside your door.

Hear the Sweet Sounds of the Royal Hawaiian Band

For an afternoon of fun set to the pleasant and sweet sounds of traditional Hawaiian music, catch a performance by the last remaining municipal band in the country: The Royal Hawaiian Band.  Charming listeners since 1836, the band specializes in the preservation of music dating all the way back to the Hawaiian monarchy.  Dance and sway to the rhythm under the clear island sky to such favorites as “Aloha ‘Oe” and “Hukilau.”

A Clear Look at Life under the Sea

Right on the water’s edge of Kapiolani Park is the Waikiki Aquarium, an unmissable attraction for families hoping to learn about island sea life.  The aquarium has live coral reefs filled with tons of colorful, vibrant creatures, as well as exhibits showcasing other marine life, such as the adorable Monk seals.  Spend a day in the aquarium before heading out to the beach and try your hand at snorkeling.  For  more wildlife fun, head next door to the Honolulu Zoo as well.

Surf Lessons to Feel the Rush

With its forgiving shore breaks and warm water, the waters of Waikiki Beach create the ideal environment for beginning surfers.  While you may be frustrated at first, you will never forget the rush that sweeps over you when you stand up on a wave successfully.  As they say, practice makes perfect and with Diamond Head Crater towering in the distance and the breeze at your back do not be surprised if you wind up practicing for hours.

You will not have trouble finding things to do and see while staying in Honolulu.  Making downtown all the better are the wide variety of shops, hotels, and eateries waiting to serve you.

Modern life passes before us quickly in a digitized, automated blur.  Thus, it is no surprise most folks find themselves exhausted simply from trying to keep up with it all.  What if you had the opportunity to slow life down and savor every moment?  Imagine relaxing at an island resort in a pocket of Paradise.

From the majestic falls throughout the islands to the magnificent coral reefs speckled with hundreds of species of fish, Hawaii boasts some of the most sought after natural beauty in the world.  What is more, with the proximity to the cosmopolitan cities of Honolulu and Hilo, you can enjoy contemporary pleasures like fine dining, shopping, and world-class, luxurious resorts like the Lotus Honolulu, at the same time.  Ready to get away from the grind and concrete jungles of the mainland?  Pamper yourself whilst also getting back in touch with nature via a trip to Hawaii today!

Settle In

As one of the world’s most visited locations, Hawaii offers a multitude of high quality and affordable accommodations.  Acquaint yourself with the many options of Hawaii hotels conveniently located next to both the exciting urban areas and lush nature while you hit unparalleled shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities.

Rock Your World

It is not all white sand and multicolored flowers in Hawaii.  Over 70 million years of volcanism and change are on display across the islands.  Take the quiet route with an invigorating hike up Oahu’s Diamond Head trail, where the reward at the top is a 360-degree vista of paradisiacal luster and tumbling waves.  Or take a crash course in geology with a visit to the Big Island’s Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can get a grasp on how the wondrous state of Hawaii was born eons ago.  Walk alongside lava beds and steam vents or take a drive around the entire park to put into perspective the wild biodiversity of these volcanic locales.

The World Below

If the last time you got up close and personal with sea life was either at a restaurant or via Finding Nemo, it is high time you strapped on a snorkel mask and flippers and took a dive under the majestic blue.  Check out the bustling life at Hawaii’s healthiest reefs framing the Big Island, explore the hundreds of varieties of fish in Hanauma Bay, and learn how to safely swim alongside dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays with some of the easily accessible experts.  You will never look at the ocean the same again.

The Wonder of Waterfalls

How does one state get so lucky?  Hawaii has some of the world’s most beautiful and easily reached waterfalls in the world.  Take it easy at the Pools of Oheo, which spawned a deep appreciation for the land we all enjoy.  Upon glimpsing the rare beauty, active conservation, and protection efforts were made by locals and politicians to ensure everyone would get a chance to visit, so make sure you take advantage of this.  Up for something a little more rigorous?  Challenge yourself to take the epic backpack trail along the famous Na Pali Coast of Kauai or just do the day hike to the towering waterfall in the Hanakapiai Valley.  The sparkling mist will be well worth the sweaty trek.  Who knows?  You may even be tempted to embark on a top 10 Hawaiian waterfall adventure.

Get Your Groove On

From classic luaus to reggae lounges and hot dance clubs, the pulse of Hawaii is evident in the omnipresent music.  Move to your own rhythm any day of the week with the Aloha State’s abundance of nightly entertainment.

Join the spirit of the island living and start planning your trip to Hawaii today.  Your body, mind, and soul will respond with a resounding, MAHALO!

There are many luxury hotels in New York City.  But how do you choose one over another?  If you are looking for the services of a big chain, then you can select from the best of the best, such as the Ritz to the Four Seasons to the Mandarin Oriental.  However, if you are looking for something a little more alternative that still maintains the highest possible quality, New York is also an ideal place to stay in a boutique hotel.  Here are four unique luxury hotels, only in the Big Apple.  You can find even more 5 star hotels in New York, including their latest rates, at Luxury Hotels.

The Strand

The Strand is one of the most recent additions to New York’s boutique hotel scene and offers brand-new contemporary luxury in Manhattan’s trendy Midtown Fashion District.  It features 177 guestrooms, each one with custom furnishings inspired by mid-century Bogart elegance.  Thanks go to designer Lisa Knight for the rooms and Lydia Marks for the Hamptons-patio look (she also did the sets for the “Sex and the City” movies).  In addition, the Strand is accented by a collection of vintage photography from the archives of Condé Nast.  You can head straight from your room to the rooftop bar.  Be aware, though, the bar has become popular ever since it was featured in New York magazine’s “Best of New York.”  From there, you are afforded stunning views of the Empire State Building.

The Muse

The Muse has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation, which has certainly paid off.  The result is a chic, timeless design and stunning elements, such as the lobby’s dual-sided “fireplace” and the dreamlike forest of tress. “Imagine an urban oasis,” reads the hotel’s advertising slogan.  You will find it here with creativity, service with style, and function with form.  The Times Square hotel offers travelers a welcome haven, a fashionable NYC boutique hotel with 200 uniquely styled guestrooms, and suites that are sinfully spacious by New York City standards.

The Library Hotel

 The Library Hotel is one of Midtown Manhattan’s most celebrated concept luxury hotels in New York City.  Fashioned from a landmark 1900 brick and terra cotta structure, this boutique treasure has been beautifully restored into a small luxury New York City hotel of the highest caliber.  An oasis of modern elegance, the Library Hotel in New York and its attentive staff provide a thought provoking experience to sophisticated Midtown Manhattan leisure and business travelers with a passion for culture and individual expression.  Each of the ten guestroom floors at the Library Hotel in New York City are dedicated to one of the ten major categories of the Dewey Decimal System: Social Sciences, Literature, Languages, History, Math & Science, General Knowledge, Technology, Philosophy, The Arts and Religion.

Tribeca Grand

5 star hotels in New York are not hard to find, but most of them are usually big chains.  The Tribeca Grand, on the other hand, is a bit more unique.  It is the sister property to the Soho Grand Hotel, and opened in 2000 as the first major hotel in an area home to important celebrities, as well as a thriving mix of restaurants, shops, financial, and independent film companies.  The interiors are eye-catching and technological amenities expensive, offering visitors an exclusive luxury lifestyle hotel experience with 24-hour guest services.  Rooms and suites feature flat-screen televisions, Sony Sound Docks, 24-hour concierge, and 24-hour room service.  Bed and bath linen are by Frette and toiletries by New York’s “Malin and Goetz.”  Adding to the list of amenities offered, guests of the Tribeca Grand have access to the latest from Apple’s stylish line of digital lifestyle products, from iPads and iPods to a selection of rooms outfitted with fully loaded iMacs.  A pioneering vision in true Tribeca style, to say the least.

If you do decide to leave your hotel every once in a while, check out www.nycgo.com to find out about current events.