GLITTERING NEW YORK during the holidays was something I took for granted when I lived there. Now, it’s a coveted experience that feels like a gift. The Rockefeller tree, mind-melting window displays, sidewalk tree lots, colored lights wrapping fire escapes—New York at Christmas is aesthetic poetry.
Here are highlights from our trip along with a few insights:
For four days, Kim and I immersed ourselves in holiday dazzle, including seeing the stunning Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. The production has evolved over time and now incorporates technical elements that offer an interactive experience—as if the Rockettes need any help. Their precision steals the show in every respect—a spectacle you should certainly add to your list.
» GET TO RADIO CITY at least an hour before your scheduled show time. Order a drink and soak in the Art Deco venue, which opened in December 1932 as part of Rockefeller Center. The Rockettes were once the “Roxyettes,” named after showman Samuel “Roxy” Rothafel. They became the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes in 1934.
In every city, I love haunting exceptional hotels, and New York has an impeccable roster. While checking into a corner suite at The Plaza is dreamy, sometimes it’s more practical to have tea there instead. Stroll through its famous lobby, which celebrities and world dignitaries have graced for 115 years and counting.
» THE LUDLOW AND BOWERY hotels layer the history, artistry, and edginess of the Lower East Side. Cozy up to the lobby fire at either spot with a coffee or cocktail.
There are infinite moments in New York that will take your breath away. The challenging part is to not have your phone out at every turn. The mashup of nature and human intelligence is like God’s snow globe shaken to create the most magical of moments.
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