New York City

I spent some time checking out some hotels in the big apple while simultaneously celebrating a very belated Valentine’s Day with the hubby (need to make the most of your days when you have a sitter!). I saw the Bowery and the Langham, two beautiful hotels with two totally different vibes.

The US Open is the final grand slam tournament in professional tennis and it is hosted every year in New York City. If you love tennis and the energy of Manhattan, then you should absolutely consider attending the US Open for a long weekend!

The US Open starts in late August and runs for two weeks. The tournament is fast-paced, and energetic, and is all tennis, day and night. The US Open is held at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, which is located in Queens, a borough of New York City. It truly makes for a perfect balance of sporting event and fun in the city.

I've attended the US Open three times so far and it is truly one of my favorite tennis events. Steeped in tradition and excitement for the sport, it is absolutely an event every tennis fan should experience at least once!

In this guide, I will share a suggested long weekend itinerary and some tips and tricks to make your visit to the US Open and New York City stress-free and fun!

I recently had the opportunity to tour the Civilian Hotel, a stylish gem in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. Tucked away on 48th street, you are situated just outside the chaos of Times Square, but still have the city at your feet. If you want to venture to Times Square, or take in a show, you are steps away. Or walk just a few blocks further and you will find Rockefeller Center, Lincoln Center, lots of great shopping on 5th Avenue, Hudson Yards and the always beautiful Central Park. This really is the best location for experiencing so many of the wonderful things that New York City has to offer.

I am in the mindset that New York City is always a good idea. There is never not a time when the city that never sleeps won't surprise you with its excitement and electricity. My family's tip is to pack comfortable walking shoes and dive right into the city's art, culture, shopping and incredible dining. Spend your days wandering the eclectic mix of neighborhoods. New York City truly has something for everyone to love and guarantees never hearing "I'm bored!" A major travel win for any parent!

New York City is not only a foodie’s paradise but also a hotspot for Instagram-worthy culinary experiences. Here are some of my favorite finds for the trendiest and most visually appealing spots in NYC for kids and the kids at heart.

As a NYC native, New York City's energy, diversity and endless opportunities have shaped me. The city's fast pace and vibrant neighborhoods taught me the value of acceptance and resilience. From iconic landmarks to the ever-changing cultural scene, NYC will always hold a special place in my heart.

When I'm not globetrotting, I'm a theatrical producer working on Broadway and the West End. New York is a cultural mecca where the exploration never ends! Many unforgettable nights have been spent exploring the best that New York has to offer — there is always something new to see. Pair that with incredible meals, spots for cocktails, museums, shopping and sightseeing… this cosmopolitan holiday is one you'll never forget.

In December 2023, my teenage daughter and I took a last-minute trip to New York City to take in all of the holiday sights. We invited her best friend and the friend's mother to come along. Taking into consideration their budget and the location we wanted, we decided to try the seven-month-old Virgin Hotel in the Nomad district. From the moment we pulled up to valet our car to the moment we checked out two days later, we were treated warmly and efficiently by a personable, youthful staff. I would definitely recommend the Virgin Hotel.