New York insiders tips

As we have let you know in vivid detail it was bitterly cold during our stay in New York. Now, New York is always one of the most fun cities on earth, but just like in the Netherlands, it’s simply a bit more enjoyable when it’s warm. Slowly but surely, spring is coming, and in a few months you can stroll on terraces or in the park; a great reason to book a ticket to New York. And for those who indeed plan to do so, I have some nice insider tips & tricks here. I spoke with Britt Hijkoop. Britt works for NYC & Company, the official PR agency for New York, and she knows everything about the city.

Trendy neighborhoods

Meatpacking District, “the biggest hippest hottest of the moment,” according to Britt. You stumble over new restaurants and trendy clubs here; a lot is happening. The Whitney Museum is worth a visit, just like The Highline. Our friend Diane von Furstenberg was one of the first to join team Meatpacking and has her store, headquarters, and showroom there. “A typical Meatpacking girl is incredibly fashion-y, thanks to the endless stream of impressive stores that are now here. Of course, there are also more affordable alternatives, but those who really want to be inspired by the most beautiful and the most expensive will find plenty here.” But, don’t forget to look beyond just Manhattan. Williamsburg New York is where all the trendy New Yorkers want to live. Just a bit more space and peace than in Manhattan and with a view of the New York skyline. “In Williamsburg, there’s a bit of a hipster vibe; many small shops and cozy restaurants.”

Real New Yorkers

They walk everywhere or take the subway. “If you don’t want to act like a tourist, you take the metro or go on foot. I rarely take a taxi because you just get stuck in traffic anyway, and you might as well walk.” Oops, your Amayzine editors were getting in and out of yellow cabs all day long, note to self: we’ll do that differently next time. “Moreover, walking, you always discover new places, so my advice is: go walk. Especially when the weather is nice.”

Dating in New York

Imagine you’re going with friends, you meet a divine man on the corner of the street (yes, that really happens in real life) and he invites you for a romantic date. What can you expect? “Well, the dating scene is quite dominated by apps.” Hm. Goodbye romantic idea. “New Yorkers are always busy, and everyone is very focused on their work, so meeting people often happens via apps. Tinder, but also Hinge and Happn are booming. Actually, there’s a new app almost every day.” So, are you paying attention? Install those apps if you’re in the mood for a dating adventure.

Restaurants

They are popping up like mushrooms. But Britt has a few that should be on your list. Martha, for example, in the Martha Washington Hotel, and Little Park in TriBeCa. Or, with the delightful name Birds & Bubbles, a restaurant where you get chicken and champagne. A perfect combination, it seems to me. But also here; venture out of Manhattan. “You might not think of it right away, but there’s an incredible amount of new and fun things in Harlem.”