SUMMER'S MUST-VISIT: HIGHLINE PARK

One of the most asked about attractions in the city these past few years has been The High Line, a repurposed old rail track that has a boardwalk built up around it. There's art, plants, trees, water fountains and peaceful areas to sit down to rest, read a book, people-watch or have something to eat.

The history of the structure dates back to 1847 when the tracks were on the street level, delivering dairy, meat and produce to factories and packing plants on the West Side near the Hudson River. The trains crashed so often with traffic (first horse carriages, then cars) that 10th Avenue was dubbed “Death Avenue” and because of that, the tracks were elevated in 1934 to avoid accidents.

The last train went through in 1980 and The High Line was left to the weeds until a massive rezoning effort and the nonprofit "Friends of the High Line", which runs the park, turned things around and made it into a hugely popular attraction. It now runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street, between 10th and 12th Avenues.

At 13th Street in the Meatpacking District, look west for a line of large metal brackets on top of an adjacent building. The brackets once anchored meat hooks along one of the High Line’s widest sections, where trains pulled off to unload. It was once home to more than 250 slaughterhouses.

The High Line is free to visit and summer hours are from 7am-11pm daily. Early morning is least crowded. To see maps, history, event calendar, tour info and more, visit:www.thehighline.org

The Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden

 Discover one of the oldest buildings in Manhattan and one of New York City’s hidden treasures, The Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden, located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.

Constructed in 1799 as a carriage house and converted into a day hotel in 1826, the Museum transports the visitor back to the Mount Vernon Hotel, a country escape for New Yorkers living in the crowded city at the southern tip of Manhattan. Back then, the commercial shipping and business districts of New York City lay below City Hall, while private residences extended as far north as modern day Chelsea, and it was common for upper and middle class residents and visitors to take day trips to the then- rural setting that is now midtown Manhattan.

This unique museum brings a bygone era of old New York alive and has a fine collection of American furniture and decorative arts, costumes, quilts and textiles, and works on paper including early American and New York City historical archives and documents, such as old newspapers, log books and bar ledgers. 

The Colonial Dames of America own and operate the museum, having purchased it in 1924 to use as their headquarters. Intimate guided tours of the Museum's nine period rooms, representing the circa 1830 Mount Vernon Hotel, run throughout the day and last about 45 minutes. The guides are very passionate and knowledgeable about the history of the hotel and the old New York City so make sure to ask lots of questions while on the tour.

Since you are in this part of the town, board the nearby Roosevelt Island tram for a scenic glide over the East River. Once you get to Roosevelt Island walk south along the promenade, past the ruins of the Renwick Smallpox Hospital, and Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park. 

Address: 421 E 61st St. (between 1st Avenue & York Avenue). 

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am-4pm. Admission is $8 for adults and includes a guided tour.

The One World Observatory

There's a new attraction in town that includes breathtaking views of the city from 1,250 feet above ground. The One World Observatory opened to the public at the end of May 2014, and includes the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors.

The One World Observatory offers expansive, 360-degree views in all directions, taking in the iconic sights, surrounding waters and panoramic views of the city and beyond. Manhattan is laid out in front of you while another window features an aerial view of Ellis Island the Statue of Liberty. 

The Global Welcome Center includes a generated world map of visitors and two videos. "Voices" features stories from the people who built the Freedom Tower, while "Foundations" highlights the construction of the tallest building in the United States.

Even the elevators have a unique twist to them. Called the "Sky Pods", the elevators race to the 102nd flood in less than 60 seconds and feature LED screens that broadcast a time-lapse view of NYC development from the 1600s to 2015. City Pulse global ambassadors will guide guests through important landmarks and the history of the city. 

Visitors can enjoy the view from 9am to midnight, the last ticket is sold at 11.15pm during the summer. More info and book your tickets here.

To get there from the Salisbury Hotel via subway: Walk to 57th St. & 7th Avenue, and take the downtown R train to Cortlandt Street.

MEET THE TEAM : AL

 Al, our Bell Captain, was born in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico and came to New York when he was just 6 months old. He loved playing basketball as a young boy in the Bronx. He started his employment at the Salisbury Hotel 32 years ago and mentions that the best thing about working here are the friendly and professional people he works with. 

Al likes to spend his free-time with his family and enjoys cooking Japanese cuisine such as Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes containing a variety of ingredients), Nabe (hot pot dish), Udon (noodle dish) and Zosui (rice soup). Why Japanese cuisine? That's because he loves traveling to Japan. Al has been there multiple times and seen Fuji, Kyoto, Kobe, Osaka, Use, Arashiyama and many, many other places. 

Al's home borough, the Bronx, is also a great place to visit if Japan is too far for you. It is the only New York borough that's physically attached to the mainland and it's most famous for these three attractions: the beautiful New York Botanical Gardens, The Bronx Zoo and The Yankee Stadium. 

NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN

Hop on the train to the Bronx and spend some quiet time in the nature.  The Botanical Garden spans some 250 acres of Bronx Park and includes a 50-acre forest, featuring some of the oldest trees in the city.

THE BRONX ZOO

The Bronx Zoo is one of New York's most popular attractions, with more than 4,000 animals housed on its 265 acres. Common favorites, including gorillas and polar bears, reside at the nature park. Keep an eye out for the daily penguin and sea lion feedings, plus other rotating activities and demonstrations. 

THE YANKEE STADIUM

The Yankees are one of the most famous sports teams in the world. On a guided tour you'll be able to admire the enormity of the most expensive baseball stadium ever built, and admire the ballpark from Monument Park - an open-air museum where the retired numbers and plaques honoring Yankee greats like Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle and Lou Gehrig are displayed.

ARTHUR AVENUE

Arthur Avenue - The Bronx's own Little Italy Just south of the Botanical Gardens, Arthur Avenue runs north to south through the Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx. The area is known for the high quality and great value of its fantastic assortment of Italian-American restaurants, delis, grocers, pasta-makers, butchers, fish markets, bakeries, gourmet coffeehouses and other shops and services.

THE BRONX MUSEUM OF THE ARTS

 Founded in 1971 and featuring more than 800 works, this multicultural art museum shines a spotlight on 20th- and 21st-century artists who are either Bronx-based or of African, Asian or Latino ancestry. 

THE EDGAR ALLAN POE COTTAGE

Pay homage to Poe in the very house where he wrote literary gems including “Annabel Lee” and “The Bells.” From 1846 through 1849, the cottage housed the writer and, until her death from tuberculosis, his wife, Virginia. It is now overseen by the Bronx County Historical Society.

RIDE YOUR WAY AROUND NYC

Once you've walked around Manhattan so much that you just cannot walk no more (we hear this all the time from our guests), don't stay in the hotel room. Rent a bike to get around! There are multiple bike rental companies right around the corner from the Salisbury Hotel, but for a completely hassle-free experience we recommend Citi Bikes. They have thousands of bikes at hundreds of stations around NYC available 24/7, 365 days a year.

You can purchase either a 24-Hour or a 7-Day Access Pass at the kiosks located at the docking stations. You are then provided with a ride code. Type the code into the keypad on a dock with an available bike. You may ride for 30 minutes without incurring any overtime fees. Ride as many times as you want during your Access Pass. 24-Hour Access Pass is only $9.95 and 7-Day Access Pass $25.00

The closest place around the Salisbury Hotel to get your Citi Bike is 56th St. and 6th Avenue or Central Park South and 6th Avenue. See all the bike docking stations on this map. There's tons of them!

MADISON AVENUE SHOPPING

Madison Avenue is home to some of the most extravagant shops in the entire world. Approximately 150 luxury designer clothing boutiques, jewelers and hair salons call the glitzy avenue their home including Ralph Lauren, Baccarat, Carolina Herrera, Vera Wang, Mulberry, Giorgio Armani, Jimmy Choo and Christian Loubotin. Madison Avenue's advantages is Fifth Avenue's higher profile, which keeps crowds at bay. Named after Madison Square, which was named in the honor of former President James Madison, this historical avenue embraces the diversity of New York by maintaining lots of character and enchantment. Most of the shopping on Madison Avenue is located between 57th and 80th Street. That is just a short hop from the Salisbury Hotel!

Take a look at this brilliant map that shows the businesses along Madison Avenue. If you get hungry, try Fred's that is located at Barneys department store (660 Madison Avenue at 60th St.). They're open for lunch, dinner, and cocktails daily with brunch on weekends. Or on your way back to the Salisbury Hotel stop by The Plaza Food Hall that we have mentioned previously on our blog post about the "Best Food Markets in NYC".

Ralp Lauren flagship store at 867 Madison Avenue (72nd St.)

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: KELI LAING

 We got to chat with our shining star of the front desk, Keli, and ask her few questions about her true passion for acting and theatre, including her tips for theater lovers.

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Keli Laing. By day, I am a front desk agent at the lovely midtown, Manhattan boutique hotel, The Salisbury. By night (and my days off), I am an aspiring actress, writer, and director who just so happened to finally write, direct, and produce her very first showcase.

Tell us more about the play that you wrote and directed?

It's called 'For The Love Of It...' and its a play about following your heart's true desires. Broken up into three one acts, the audience gets to take a look at the lives of several New Yorkers who are dealing with the trials and tribulations of life and love in the Big Apple. 

How does New York City inspire you? Are there any special places you go for inspiration?

This is where it's at! This is where you come to be inspired. By all the different walks of life you pass by every day. By all the different businesses that continuously go up in the hopes to making a difference in life. By all the different classes and courses that are offered here to better sharpen any skills and/or talents you may have or want to have. Yes, life moves super fast here, but that is because everyone you're surrounded by is working hard. Even if you try to avoid it, after a while something sparks something in your mind to give "something" a try. 

What would you recommend for theater lovers to see and do in New York City during their trip?

Definitely go down to a TKTS booth. There are several to check out. That is where you can find great discounts on Broadway and off-Broadway shows. However, you must go the day of and it is first come first serve. I also recommend looking up whats playing at some of the independent movie theaters throughout New York. There's so much beauty in those independent films. 

If you're in town on April,19th, come see my play in downtown, Brooklyn! Tickets are available at www.ticketriver.com/event/15107

ON OUR BLOCK: NORMA'S

If you're looking for breakfast, brunch or lunch to remember, we recommend you head out to Norma’s right across the street from the Salisbury Hotel. Located inside the Parker Meridien, it is probably best known for its $1,000 omelette (eggs, lobster, and caviar), but don't be afraid, they do serve affordable dishes as well. 

Norma's has become favorite with kids for its oversized servings of pancakes topped with fresh fruits and berries; waffles smothered in caramel sauce; and chocolate French toast. There's plenty of savory stuff as well, like the rustic eggs Benedict with artichoke and porcini-truffle sauce. Meals begin with a free shot glass of the day’s smoothie. Fresh-squeezed orange juice is offered in lieu of water and refills on juice are free.

NORMA’S

Le Parker Meridien New York, 119 W 56th St.

Mon-Fri 7am-3pm

Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm

VALENTINE'S DAY IN NYC

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and NYC offers everything you need, and much more, for the perfect Valentine's Day Weekend. There are tours, tens of romantic restaurants to choose from and all the chocolate and candy you can eat. Here's few of our picks for the best times.

Romantic Movie Moments Tour

For a perfect date idea or a girl’s day out, join the ride through the city’s romantic side. On the Romantic Movie Moments Tour (approximately 2,5 hrs), a local New York City actor will bring to life some of the most alluring movie locations featured on the big screen. Movie lovers will become enchanted seeing locations from films including When Harry Met Sally, Serendipity 3, You’ve Got Mail (including a stop at Cafe Lalo, pictured below), Love Affair, Sleepless in Seattle, Sweet Home Alabama and Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Purchase tickets directly here with On Location Tours or ask our front desk to arrange. 

One if by Land, Two if by Sea

Fine dining in a landmark Greenwich Village carriage house surrounded by flowers, warmed by dual fireplaces and smooth live piano music. This fixed-price-only American restaurant is known to be one of the city's most romantic. 

17 Barrow Street (near Seventh Ave South.)

The House

The House is a magnificently restored 1854 carriage house located in the historic Gramercy Park. It feels like you've stepped back in time in the fireplace-warmed parlor and an intimate, second-story dining room marked by skylights, portholes, and a gorgeous crescent window. 

121 E. 17th St.

Ms. Myzel's Chocolate

Get sweets for your Valentine at this old-style candy store, Ms. Myzel's. Great variety of handmade, European-style chocolate. They also specialize in licorice, featuring 100 flavors directly from Europe. Located just two blocks south from the Salisbury Hotel at 140 W. 55th Street (between 6th-7th Ave).

Other good candy stores worth checking out in NYC include Economy Candy Market, Dylan’s Candy Bar, Sockerbit Sweet & Swedish and Papabubble.

MEET THE TEAM: MOHAMMED

 We are pleased to introduce to you the man behind the scenes at the Salisbury Hotel. Haniff Mohammed migrated to New York City from Trinidad & Tobago with his wife and 4 daughters when opportunity presented itself. He has been with the Salisbury Hotel for 20 years and started as a Security Officer, then a Timekeeper. Currently he works in Guest Services and as a Fire Safety Director as well as responding to many other matters vital to keep the hotel operations running smoothly. This includes running the freight elevator and receiving deliveries. But most important duty of his is to amuse us all with his funny jokes which he never seems to run out since there's a new one every day. 

Why do you think NYC is one of the most popular places to visit?

NYC has every aspect of life you can imagine. Just take a look around when you're on the subway. There are so many diverse nationalities. For example in my home borough Queens, there are over 138 different languages spoken which is more than in any other area in the United States. We also have the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: gateway for millions of immigrants to the United States as the nation's busiest immigrant inspection station from 1892 until 1954. Historically quite remarkable place to visit. NYC also has over 80 wonderful museums to visit. See a full list of them here.

What would be the one thing you'd recommend everyone to see while here?

My personal favorites are the Empire State Building, the 24 hour buzz of Times Square, Yankee Stadium and Washington Square Park, well-known for its arch, honoring George Washington.

What do you enjoy doing on your free time?

We have many West Indian cookouts at the Delaware Riverside with friends in the summer time and I also love to travel. My most recent travels have taken me to England, India and Israel.

BEST SHOPPING WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE

One good thing about staying right in Midtown Manhattan is that almost everything is within walking distance. There's so many museums, great restaurants as well as a plethora of shopping options to keep you entertained. Here are few of our favorite department stores (and one shopping center), all within a short walk from the Salisbury Hotel.

Bergdorf Goodman

Bergdorf Goodman is a luxury goods department store just one short block away from the Salisbury Hotel. Bergdorf Goodman houses the two best department store restaurants in town. BG Restaurant is a seventh-floor stunner: robin’s-egg blue whisper chairs and chinoiserie wallpaper, and Goodman's, located in the basement level. Read more about Bergdorf Goodman here.

754 5th Ave. at 57th St.

Henri Bendel

This upscale women's specialty store was founded by its namesake in 1895, and attracted clients like the Astors and the Vanderbilts by importing designer wares and reportedly staging New York City's first-ever fashion show. Since 1990 is has been located at Fifth Avenue near 56th St. in a four story landmark building and still exudes the atmosphere of an exclusive boutique. 

712 5th Avenue. at 56th St.

Barneys

The company began in 1923, when Barney Pressman opened his first store in Manhattan with $500 raised by pawning his wife's engagement ring in order to lease a 500-square-foot space. Barneys now operates multiple locations, but their nine-floor flagship store in Upper East Side presents all of its wares with style, whimsy and a strong brand identity. If you need a bite to eat, try Fred's, an excellent top-floor restaurant and bar filled with fashionistas and power-players.

660 Madison Avenue near 61st St.

The Shops at Columbus Circle

The Shops at Columbus Circle is a shopping mall in the Time Warner Center. It includes mostly upscale stores selling luxury brands, including Armani Exchange, L'Occitane, Hugo Boss, Thomas Pink, Tourneau, J.Crew and Stuart Weitzman. The mall also has several restaurants such as the Michelin 3-star Per Se, Masa (allegedly the most expensive restaurant in New York), Bouchon Bakery, Williams-Sonoma, and Whole Foods Market.

10 Columbus Circle at 59th St. (Broadway)

Bloomingdales

The brothers Bloomingdale opened their East Side Bazaar in 1872 and 15 years later moved uptown to their current location at 59th Street and Lexington Avenue. The store expanded steadily and by the 1920's Bloomingdale's converted an entire city block. A NYC landmark since its opening and one of the most famous department stores in NYC, the Bloomingdale's is home to dozens of designer clothes and accessories you can only find here. It is the perfect place to find unique clothes and accessories, as well as toys, kitchenware and more. Weekdays before lunch are the least crowded times to visit. There's also six restaurants and cafes to make sure no-one gets hungry while shopping. Try Le Train Bleu that has an elegant dining room, outfitted like a railway car.

59th St. and Lexington Avenue.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Occupying an entire city block directly across from Rockefeller Center, Saks Fifth Avenue has been one of the city's preeminent high-end department stores since it opened in 1924. The eight floor houses Saks Fifth Avenue’s Cafe SFA, a full-service cafe and bar. The view alone is worth it: Rockefeller Center Promenade and rooftop gardens on one side, and along the other wall of windows, the neo-Gothic spires of St. Patrick’s Cathedral across East 50th Street.

611 5th Avenue near 50th St.