Curator’s statement
My weekend staycation at Hotel 50 Bowery was the beginning of my solo travel journey. I’ve read that when starting solo travel, one should begin small. Go to a movie and out to dinner solo. I’ve been there and done that and for my 40th birthday, I booked the Bowery Suite for the weekend. Because it was a special milestone for me, the reservation team allowed me to have my closest 15 friends come to my suite to meet and head up to the rooftop lounge area to join in the festivities. After the night was over, I slept beautifully. I woke up to the most stunning and panoramic views of the city, including overlooking the Manhattan Bridge.
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Where to stay in New York City
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Things to do in New York City
The Crown Rooftop Lounge has stunning panoramic city views with options to stay indoors/outdoors. Great appetizers and good drinks.
Local eateries and nightlife abound in the heart of Chinatown. This varies from great bars, clubs, lounges to late-night eats.
You are also within walking distance to popular NYC sites such as the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges and SoHo shopping district. You can take an easily accessible train ride to Financial District (FiDi) to historical sites such African Burial Ground Monument, 9/11 Memorial Pools & Museum, Wall Street, Charging Bull and Museum of the American Indian.
Places to eat & drink in New York City
Tasty Dumpling: All of the NY supreme/civil/criminal court personnel come here for good reason. You can get dumplings (steamed or fried) for cheap and it’s very tasty. Avoid coming here during weekday lunch as the line is typically out the door.
Joe’s Ginger: This spot has dumplings as well but more of the soup kind. Very good.
Need to know
Chinatown used to get negative reviews years ago because of the in-your-face seller/buyer black market. But since the revitalization and clean up of the area/proximity it’s becoming a nice buzzing day and night spot that has a lot of Asian culture and fare. In fact, I went to high school and worked in the area, so I’m well aware of the drastic changes it has gone through. Whether you are walking by in the day or stepping out at night, it’s a great place to be and if you see me after work with my colleagues around the area, say hello!
Travel Advisor
Crystal Foster
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