A Day in New York City

I know I'm not "breaking the mold" here with visiting NYC, but on a recent work trip, I was able to extend a day and spend some time on my own doing what I think I'd do if I actually lived there - and I had a great time.  So here's my guide if you have a few hours and want to get out on your own.  Each hyperlink will take you to that place's website!

• Hotel: 11 Howard - This place is the best! By far my favorite hotel in NYC for so many reasons. First of all would be the amazing location in SoHo, just steps away from all the great shopping, and super close to soul cycle which was great for my morning workout too :) Secondly, the service here - was just incredible. The same people opened the door for you then checked you in, offered you free water (whenever you want - score!) and were just overall so helpful and nice. I even walked into my room to see a bottle of chilled champagne and chocolate - when I realized this was for a couple on their anniversary I called the front desk to say it must be a mistake and they just laughed and said keep it anyways - so of course I had champs and chocolate by myself that night. The room was small which is normal for anything in NYC, but so minimally classic in decor and functionality, I just loved it. Gold finishes, rich fabrics, small touches like a plant in the bathroom and a tablet next to the bed with the weather, news, and anything else you'd want from the hotel - it was the cutest. Next time I have to try Le Cou Cou and The Blonde - both inside 11 Howard's walls. They also partner with the Global Poverty Project and donate if you book directly with them - how cool is that?!

• Location: SoHo - I don't think I really need to explain this, its my favorite neighborhood in the city just because of the streets, cafes, boutiques and overall vibe. Just the right amount of hipster and classic style with a NYC flavor.

• Food/Drink: Canal St Market // Cha Cha Matcha - OK Canal St Market is one of the coolest little gems, it has a ton of different food options, a lot asian inspired, and coffee, kombucha, tea, juice etc. But the other really cool thing is, on the other side of the market are a bunch of local vendors selling artwork, jewelry, clothes, home decor and more - with music bumping and the creators there to answer any questions about their work. It was great to shop while waiting for food to be made, and by the way the food was deeeelicious. Cha Cha Matcha is one of those instagrammy famous places but I actually do love Green Tea Matcha Lattes and theirs did NOT disappoint. The only thing I missed out on was the ice cream creations which looked amazing, but it was 9am and freezing so, forgive me. I will definitely be back!

• Shop: Collab - OK I cannot find this boutique online or even any info about it (someone help me!?) but its called Collab and featured small designers' lines, plus thoughtfully designed gifts, gadgets and accessories. It was a really cool space and the workers were the nicest people ever. I picked up a jacket by Type Alpha which I had never heard of, but since then I have checked out the brand's other pieces and they are awesome! Jacket pictured below :)