On the Programme: Art and Jazz in New York A Few Days Among the Skyscrapers

Whether you’re walking its streets for the first time or you’re something of a regular, New York is always a good idea. A city of art, food, jazz - and a little bit crazy - the Big Apple never stops surprising us! It is certainly a vast metropolis, but it can also feel friendly and intimate to those who go with the flow. And stay in the right place. That's why you're staying in the heart of Lower Manhattan, at the crossroads of two iconic Downtown neighbourhoods - Bowery and Chinatown - close to SoHo and the Brooklyn Bridge, where there is always something happening. And between wandering freely and exploring by yourself, we have popped a few activities on your schedule. Start with an informal walk through the history of NYC jazz, with a private, local guide who has spent many years in the music scene and now runs their own label. From Harlem to Greenwich Village, he’ll tell the story of jazz, showing you several sites that have played a major role in the rise of this musical genre. Next, head to the MoMA, one of the world’s most famous modern art museums. Spread across 6 floors, it features no fewer than 600 paintings, 10,000 drawings and watercolours, and thousands of photographs, with works by Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Edward Hopper, Roy Lichtenstein, Georgia O'Keeffe and Joan Mitchell. For one hour, you can enjoy the services of a private guide, then you’re free to wander at your own pace through the museum’s galleries and, if you wish, end your visit with a cup of tea in the peaceful garden. The final tour is in Queens, where the Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum displays the works of the renowned Japanese-American sculptor in a minimalist industrial setting. He is known, among other things, for his Akari paper lanterns. In this unusual place, abstract art is experienced in complete serenity, thanks to the superb presentation of work created over several decades. A beautiful garden adjoins the building - a zen oasis nestled among concrete and brick. Throughout your stay, getting around is easy with an unlimited pass for public transport and a Wi-Fi connection. And if you need any advice, last-minute bookings, bikes to hire for the day, or if you wish to extend your trip, you can contact our on site Concierge team at any time. Dealing with the unexpected is what they do!

Your Hotel in Manhattan

With its industrial look and cool vibe, your hotel perfectly reflects the spirit of the city. Typically for New York, the rooms are not huge but they are well-designed. From your window, you’ll have a panoramic view of Manhattan’s skyscrapers. The lobby showcases exposed brick, concrete pillars, and stylish coffee tables scattered with books. Here and there, you’ll find a nod to Chinatown culture: fortune cookies, touches of red, and no fourth floor, as it’s considered unlucky. And right on your doorstep are some beautiful cultural venues, a choice of fine dining options, and the vibrant energy of Manhattan. On the rooftop, a large terrace looks out over the city - magical at sunset.

New York Highlights

For the energetic, start the day with a morning jog along the banks of the Hudson or East River; try a pastrami sandwich at Katz’s; take in the city from one of the many panoramic observation decks; reflect on the past at poignant Ellis Island; tour the exhibitions then sip a cup of tea in the MoMA garden; cycle across the Brooklyn Bridge and browse the flea markets in Williamsburg; explore the arty TriBeCa district; hunt for treasures in DUMBO; enjoy the sea air at Coney Island; attend a gospel service in Brooklyn or Harlem; and end the day with a drink at one of the many bars near your hotel.