Back To Travel: Our Recent NYC Trip
With the travel quickly ramping back up and people eager to get out, we figured there was no better time to get back to a place I hold near and dear to my heart, New York City. After spending almost all of February 2020 in the city for fashion week and modeling jobs, it has been over a year since I have been back to a place that was on my itinerary on almost a weekly basis. With my new intern in tow, we brought along the pieces from my upcoming collection to shoot with our photographer, Ryan Kell. We were excited for a little get away with the perfect blend of work and play, eager to see friends and colleagues we haven't seen in person due to the pandemic.
Booking travel was an activity we needed a bit of a refresher on. We previously planned a trip to Las Vegas but our plans were disrupted due to the pandemic. Luckily, we remembered Expedia makes it easy to book flights and hotels quickly and efficiently! Expedia knows that a lot of travelers are nervous or uncertain about their next trip, which is why they are focused on helping travelers, whether its sourcing flexible rates or researching COVID-19 restrictions and requirements. Expedia’s search filters helped us find hotels that offered free cancellation or refundable rates, so we were able to have peace of mind in case plans changed! Right now through June 12th is Expedia Travel Week, so thousands of hotels and activities are up to 60% off for travel before January 30th, 2022.
We opted to treat ourselves to a stay at the New York EDITION in Manhattan's Flatiron District across the street from Madison Square Park. The luxury boutique hotel provided spacious rooms with picture perfect views.
Although practically any location in the city is the perfect backdrop to take pictures -- it was nice to be next to one of Manhattan's many parks, but also have quick access to the iconic NYC architecture that provides those Instagram-able photos, like the Flatiron and Empire State Building. It may be worth mentioning that Brian especially was keen on this spot because it was within walking distance to one of his favorite bottomless brunch spots, Tavern 29.
The three day weekend commenced with taking pictures around the EDITION. The weather was a perfect, almost summer like day that was perfect for a photoshoot. With Ryan’s expertise and Brian's ability to hold my excess wardrobe while scrolling through his phone, we were able to shoot all the looks before dark. With work done, we were excited to get back out and try some of New York's amazing restaurants. We opted for a team dinner at Georgios of Gramercy.
Saturday, we had some friends who live nearby meet us in the city for a full day of some of our favorite things -- food, drinks and shopping. To set the tone for the day we opted for Brian's suggestion of Tavern 29. Bottomless mimosas and great food along with a lively rooftop setting made for a great afternoon and rekindling with friends. We had dinner reservations at Catch in the meatpacking district -- while a bit cliche our friends haven't been there before so we thought it would be a good place to keep up the vibes, with their creative cocktails and seafood offerings.
The next day we said goodbye to our friends over a quick bite to eat at Eataly NYC Flatiron and were off to JFK for a quick flight home. We took Ubers to and from the airport, however we did take the subway and taxis. At the time, there were still strict masking policies, just like when flying, which everyone we observed really abided by.
I didn't think I would miss the city as much as I did, it was awesome to be back, and this time not alone getting to bring Brian along! We are already looking forward to getting back for both work and play. We can't wait to go back to some of our favorite restaurants, hit Broadway for a show, and see the Mets play on a warm summer night at Citi Field!
Looking to get back in the New York groove? The EDITION is offering 20% off their rates if you book during Expedia Travel Week and travel before January 30, 2022 – no discount code needed! Just head to Expedia.com and shop the sale before June 12th.
shop our looks:
THANKS TO EXPEDIA FOR PARTNERING WITH ME ON THIS POST. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE MY OWN. PHOTOS BY RYAN KELL.