New York City - Summer 2022
NYc for the weekend in July, avoid traveling during the summer if large crowds, scorching heat and pungent smells don’t appeal to you
New York City is always fun for a short trip. The cocktail scene is next level and Korean and Japanese restaurants are tasty and pretty authentic. I always stay in the Koreaway/Murray Hill area for easy access to Korean food after a night of drinks ;) As a native Bostonian, I grew up with regular trips to NYC and have visited the famous tourist attractions. I try to avoid the crowds and tourist areas now but I made an exception this time as my friend wanted to check out SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. SUMMIT One is a newer attraction near the Vessel so we decided to visit both during this trip. Read more to learn about my girls-getaway and travel by train.
Travel by Amtrak’s Acela Train
I thought it would be fun to travel by train to NYC to avoid the airport craziness and arrival point is right near Koreaway. We decided on the Acela train for a more comfortable and faster ride, takes about 3 hours and price is similar to direct flights if booked a few months in advance. There’s only business and first class tickets. We booked business class but the first class cars looked nice! I would definitely book first class next time to compare.
Lodging - Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel
The location was great at the Renaissance NY Midtown Hotel but the room was small and narrow. One of the reasons why I only visit NYC once every few years is because the lodging prices are insane, similar to a 5-star all-inclusive nightly rate for a much smaller room and bare amenities. But this is the cost of admission…no complaints about the hotel/room.
Food
We made reservations at Her Name is Han, the Chemistry Room by Sushi Lab and Nami Nori. The food at Her Name is Han was very authentic Korean but portions were small. Also the soju “cocktails” were tiny relative to the price…the omakase at the Chemistry Room was interesting but not worth the price point IMO but their cocktails were spot-on! My favorite omakase in NYC is still Sushi by Bou (Times Square location) for the flavors and price. Nami Nori is a Korean-owned handroll-style sushi restaurant. This is a new sushi trend that’s hitting NYC, SF and Boston - worth a try!
Drinks
We went to a few rooftop bars and Korean bars. Drinks are always good but be prepared to pay $20ish per drink. NYC drink scene is definitely for the flavors and atmosphere. I don’t have any recommendations for drinks as you can’t go wrong with any of the 4+ star bars in Google Maps and Yelp.
Tips
Do NOT jaywalk! Cars will not stop for you, please adhere to the walk signs.
Be aware of your surroundings to avoid the aggressive homeless and drunks at night.
Be careful of your possessions when exploring the city, keep your purses next to your body and wallets in your front pocket.
Be prepared for the local attitude - cold but helpful when needed. New Yorkers are known to be rude but I think it’s more of “don’t bother me unless you need help/have valid questions.” I’ve always found locals to be helpful but not necessarily friendly.
