Tag: New York city

Toasting New York’s Newest Island: Little Island

I’m excited to come see shows at Little Island, while overlooking a sunset on the Hudson. I know that the build-out was controversial, but I’m thankful for donors like Diller who have dreams for the city and the funding to see them into fruition. I think that this idea was beautifully realized and will be a welcome addition to the ever-expanding west side of the city for many decades to come (or at least 20 years!).

Toasting Governors Island

Only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, this ferry-only accessible island is New York’s summer playground – literally. It is 172 acres of gardens, lawns, rolling hills, recreation areas, playgrounds, and concessions. You could spend the day lounging in a hammock overlooking a garden of lavender and butterflies, or you could bring your friends out for a day-long championship of ultimate frisbee, or you could take a date and picnic on a lawn overlooking Manhattan, or you could geek out on American History by scouting out all of the historical plaques, buildings, and museums, or you could bring your family and slide down New York City’s longest slide (57 feet!), or you could simply hang out at the Island Oyster Bar and while the day away with cocktails and oysters. Whatever you decide to do, Governors Island is relaxing, rejuvenating, beautiful, picturesque, and loads of fun.

What to Pack for Your First Trip to New York City

One of the coolest things about New York City is that everyone has the option to live out loud. You will see a wide variety of life – from hair colors to tattoos to piercings to bright colored clothes to monochromatic – everyone has their own unique style, and New Yorkers don’t judge.

Through my experiences, the city has become less and less formal as time has passed. In the early 2000s, you’d never see somebody on Madison Avenue in a track suit. But, times have changed, formalities have loosened, and COVID has created a whole new world of “normal.” People here are far more comfortable now than I’ve ever seen before.

That said, you can also wear your finest out to dinner anywhere in Manhattan, to grab brunch in Soho, or to get cocktails in Flatiron, and you’ll fit right in.

Toasting Beacon and the Hudson River Valley

Many of us think about the Hudson River being a barrier between New York City and New Jersey. And, it does serve that purpose…ahem…create that commute. However, north of the city, the Hudson River Valley boasts the Palisades, a castle, West Point, yacht clubs, hiking, and the most adorable towns and small cities. This is our favorite day trip out of the city!