NYC for the Ladies

As featured on India Today.

Your entourage is all you need for this magical experience in the Big Apple.

As you step into the beating heart of NYC, you envision movie familiar spots, like the iconic Tiffany's window where Holly Golightly peers intently - from Breakfast at Tiffany's, and perhaps picture King Kong climbing the Empire State building. Maybe if you stroll around the corner, you might bump into the set of Central Perk cafe where you spy on the 'Friends' cast lazing on the centre couch. It can be very overwhelming if you're 'reel' savvy, but I urge you to keep those references where they are - that is in the movies and discover New York - for what it is.My first New York Subway ride saw a shirtless man wearing neon spandex tighter than Aerosmith's lead singer, and sitting next to him was a young boy in corduroy shorts with a starchy shirt holding his class assignment. That to me is New York - eclectic differences co-existing which reflects in the things to do as well. Read on for fun things to do in the city that never sleeps. Bar Hopping

The meat packing district is trendy with bars dotted in one continuous stretch. From laid-back pubs, clubs, and rooftop bars you have plenty to choose from. The Brass Monkey is great place to start with a roof top bar under fairy lights, then head on over to The Standard Hotel for the view and end it with dancing at the Jane Hotel (history 101: the hotel also historically linked to housing sailors after the Titanic sank)

Markets Eataly is a sprawling Italian Market with a variety of Italian food courts - from beer gardens to seafood restaurants and even a vegetarian restaurant that serves mean mushroom lasagna. Chelsea Market is a winding market with a rustic touch. Filled with stalls for independent retailers and restaurateurs - Chelsea Market is a trendsetting locale indeed.

Scenic Walks While you should not miss out on Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge and the epic Times Square where the bright lights are best in the night - a lesser known spot is The Highline - an abandoned sky line that was turned into a garden walkway in the middle of the concrete jungle.

Off the radar monuments The New York Public Library has a gorgeous collection of maps amongst other exhibitions and archives. The MET museum harbours a never ending collection of art and finally do not miss the Grand Central Station for the sheer architectural splendour.

Splurges When in New York do not think twice about having a girly high tea at iconic Plaza Hotel. Nothing could be more sensational than conversation, gourmet treats and tea in their elaborate restaurant - The Palm Court. From the service to the exotic selection it truly takes you back to New York glamour in the classic era. When in New York, one must experience Broadway - whether its stand-up comedy or a musical, it's easy to disappear into another world of song, dance, and drama and elaborate sets. Shopping of course is best saved for Fifth Avenue if you want designer labels - and the big department stores like Macy's, Bloomingdales and Niemen Marcus are one to experience as well.

Signing off Gossip Girl style - XOXO

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