Central Park is divine- bare branches dangling above the winding pathways- or on a colder day, swirls of snow flakes. NYC showcases more well-dressed dogs than anywhere in the world, well perhaps Paris leads the pack in over-dressed dogs, which should be expected! Walking is essential in NY – dozens of blocks from midtown to the Met, through the Park. Although winter walking for a six generation Californian is a challenge in December or January! One must always make a pilgrimage to the Met, after visiting the Frick. A favorite for me is the Neue Gallery: German & Viennese art and the most charming Viennese tearoom, Sarbaski Café. Drop in around three in the afternoon for a well-deserved break, nibble on sacher torte or an apple crisp; dessert is not the only option with your afternoon tea or latte-the authentic German sausage looked delicious too! The talented pianist suffuses the café with delicate renditions of Viennese waltzes- a little slice of heaven, a respite from the hustle bustle of the city streets.

Theatre – is always the best in NY; I love seeing a play before it takes to the road. A Little Night Music is a solid hit, but of course I have access to the best seats, even if the box office indicates sold out, not to worry! Is your child a budding actor or singer- let them take the stage with a child star from The Lion King or other hit show, work with the cast & a vocalist-create a memory that will never be forgotten. New York with kids can be a marvelous experience! Behind the scenes, around the world and in New York, always exclusive!

Feeling hip? Saunter down to the edgier, yet gentrified Tribeca– Robert de Niro’s boutique The Greenwich Hotel exudes European charm, each room is different in décor: an exotic Moroccan ambience, a hint of an Italian or French monastery, luxuriate in front of the drawing room fire; in warmer weather enjoy your terrace or the garden patio.

SPA Escape? The Shibui spa and pool in the lower level of The Greenwich, produces an instant Zen transformation, a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. My heart rate dropped and an instant calmness overtook me on entering the passage to the lantern lit pool, which is shrouded under the roof of a 250-year-old wood and bamboo farmhouse. Full menu of spa treatments and massages, guaranteed calm and stillness in New York! Balmy, soothing serenity, erase the edginess created by the outside world of beeping taxis and screaming sirens.

Private yoga in your room or along the Hudson River.

Restaurants Nearby: Just down the street from The Greenwich Hotel and of particular note, Cercle Rouge Brasserie; the chef, Pierre Landet, if delighted by your charm, personally delivers tasty amuse-bouche directly to your table trés bien, oh la la!

Café Bouley is blocks away, breakfast all day – the yummy chocolate chip pancakes are not to be missed. Tribeca is brimming with marvelous restaurants, all within walking distance of the hotel.