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QG: New York City's QuickGuide
Hot Tips From Hotel Concierges
The inside scoop: Some of Manhattan's savviest sources offer tips on how to make the most of your stay.
Enjoying New York City like a local is a snap with inside info from six of the city’s most knowledgeable hotel concierges.
» THE CARLYLE, A ROSEWOOD HOTEL: Stephanie Matthei
35 E. 76th St., btw Park & Madison aves., 1.212.570.7142
New York is one of the world’s leading art capitals, and whether you’re a serious collector or curious novice, “it’s always good to get an overview of the art scene,” notes Matthei. “The monthly Gallery Guide provides details about local galleries, including exhibition openings. You can find it in most hotels or online at www.artinfo.com.” If you spot a “must-have” piece, you can speak with the gallery manager or owner to ascertain the cost. “It is up to the salesperson whether that figure is negotiable.”
» THE KITANO NEW YORK: Raita Sawai
66 Park Ave., at E. 38th St., 1.212.885.7005
Enjoying a spa treatment can be a soothing way to spend time in the city. “The most basic rule of etiquette is to be on time,” says Sawai. “Appointments are booked on a minute-by-minute basis. If you are late, it disrupts the schedule, and the spa might have to shorten the service to accommodate later appointments. You should also alert your esthetician to any medical conditions, product or ingredient allergies—or specific requests you have—before he or she starts. It helps provide the best experience.”
» THE MARK HOTEL: Isabelle Hogan
25 E. 77th St., btw Madison & Fifth Aves., 1.212.606.3122
Since many celebrities flock to New York City for both work and play, spotting a mega-watt star is a relatively common occurrence. But when is it permissible to approach them and in which situations is it strictly off-limits? “If you catch a glimpse of someone famous in the street, it is completely up to you whether or not to address the person and ask for an autograph or picture,” Hogan advises. “In a hotel, the staff members will most likely not allow that kind of access to a celebrity for reasons of privacy and security.”
» W NEW YORK: Marco de los Rios
541 Lexington Ave., at E. 49th St., 1.212.407.2920
Known as one of the world’s fashion meccas, New York is home base for many top designers and their showrooms. Unsold clothing from past seasons can often be found at sample sales, which offer drastic price reductions on chic fashions. How can visitors find out about these deals? “Web sites, such as www.clothingline.com, maintain calendars with details on locations and merchandise,” says de los Rios. “Some designers also send out newsletters to let fans know when they’ll be having a sample sale, so signing up for your favorite’s is a good idea.”
» THE WALDORF TOWERS: Celso Moreira
100 E. 50th St., btw Lexington & Park aves., 1.212.872.4718
Pets are often considered part of the family, and it’s become increasingly common for their owners to tote them along on vacation. “Several hotels in the city are pet-friendly and offer such amenities as treats, special bedding, toys or even massages,” says Moreira. Some retail stores in the city allow pets inside and cater to the animals with water bowls and other considerations. “Restaurants are more complicated due to health laws, but those with outdoor seating can often arrange for tables close to the furry companions.”
» THE WESTIN NEW YORK AT TIMES SQUARE: Joy Mishani
270 W. 43rd St., at Eighth Ave., 1.212.201.2711
Theater lovers and music fans can get behind-the-scenes glimpses at major cultural landmarks in New York City. “Lincoln Center’s once-a-month Saturday morning Meet the Artist program consists of one-hour-long interactive presentations by performers across a range of disciplines,” shares Mishani. “And on Monday nights, when many theater productions are dark, Broadway actors can often be found at Jim Caruso’s Cast Party at Birdland. They stop by to relax and sing their favorite songs.”