#nyc terrace deck building

[sakuranym]

Contemporary Patio in New York

A large, modern front yard patio container garden design example with decking and an addition to the roof

[bysumex]

New York Nighttime Magic: Tips photographers 👉 https://bysumex.com/new-york-nighttime-magic-tips-photographers/

New York City transforms into a dazzling wonderland at night, where every street corner holds a bit of magic. For photographers, this is the golden hour—when the city’s vibrant energy comes to life under the glow of neon lights and towering skyscrapers. Here are some tips and top locations for capturing the best nighttime shots in NYC:

📸 Tips for Night Photography in NYC:

Use a Tripod: To avoid blurry shots in low light, a tripod is essential. It allows for long exposures, capturing the motion of the city while keeping stationary objects sharp.

Play with ISO: Start with a low ISO to minimize noise. If needed, gradually increase it to balance light sensitivity with image quality.

Long Exposure: Capture the hustle and bustle of the city with long exposure shots. This technique is perfect for getting those streaks of car lights or the flow of people.

Focus Manually: Autofocus can struggle in low light. Switch to manual focus to ensure your shots are crisp and clear.

Experiment with Angles: NYC offers endless perspectives. Get creative by shooting from different heights, whether it’s from a rooftop, street level, or even the reflection in a puddle.

Use Reflections: Look for reflections in puddles, windows, and other surfaces to create interesting compositions that capture the city’s lights in unique ways.

Mind the White Balance: Streetlights can cast a yellow hue over your images. Adjust your white balance to capture the true colors of the city.

🌆 Top Locations for Night Photography in NYC:

Brooklyn Bridge: Capture the iconic bridge with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop. The view from the Brooklyn side, especially near Dumbo, is breathtaking at night.

Times Square: The heart of NYC, Times Square is a photographer’s paradise with its vibrant lights and bustling crowds. It’s the perfect spot for capturing the essence of the city that never sleeps.

Empire State Building: For an unbeatable view of the city, head to the Empire State Building’s observation deck. The panorama of NYC’s glittering skyline is unmatched.

Top of the Rock: Another excellent vantage point is the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. You’ll get a fantastic view of the Empire State Building and Central Park.

Central Park: At night, Central Park offers a serene contrast to the city’s hustle. The Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace are especially photogenic with soft lighting and reflections on the water.

Roosevelt Island Tramway: Ride the tram for a unique perspective of the city. The aerial view of Midtown Manhattan at night is a hidden gem for photographers.

Lower East Side: For a more gritty, urban vibe, explore the Lower East Side. The neon signs and murals make for vibrant, edgy photos.

One World Observatory: The views from the One World Trade Center at night are awe-inspiring, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city lights stretching far into the distance.

New York City at night is a photographer’s dream, full of contrasts, colors, and the electric energy that makes it one of the most photographed cities in the world. So grab your camera, head out into the night, and capture the magic!

When photographing New York City, especially at night, choosing the right lens can make a significant difference in capturing the city’s iconic skyline, street scenes, and vibrant energy. Here are some of the best lens options for NYC photography:

1. Wide-Angle Lens (14-24mm or 16-35mm):

Why? A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the grandeur of NYC’s skyline, expansive cityscapes, and architectural shots. This lens allows you to fit more of the scene into your frame, making it perfect for shooting in tight spaces or for capturing the full scale of tall buildings and broad streets.

Recommended: Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8, Canon 16-35mm f/2.8, Sony 16-35mm f/2.8.

2. Standard Zoom Lens (24-70mm):

Why? A versatile standard zoom lens offers flexibility, allowing you to shoot wide-angle cityscapes, street scenes, and close-ups without changing lenses. The 24-70mm range is perfect for capturing the diversity of NYC, from wide shots of Times Square to more intimate street portraits.

Recommended: Canon 24-70mm f/2.8, Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8, Sony 24-70mm f/2.8.

3. Prime Lens (35mm or 50mm):

Why? Prime lenses with a fixed focal length offer excellent sharpness and low-light performance, making them ideal for street photography and night scenes in NYC. The 35mm lens is great for environmental portraits and wider street scenes, while the 50mm (“nifty fifty”) is perfect for classic street photography and portraits with a natural perspective.

Recommended: Sigma 35mm f/1.4, Canon 50mm f/1.2, Nikon 50mm f/1.8, Sony 50mm f/1.4.

4. Telephoto Lens (70-200mm):

Why? A telephoto lens is ideal for capturing distant details, such as the tops of skyscrapers, bridges, or compressing perspective for a unique view of the city’s architecture. It’s also great for isolating subjects and creating beautiful bokeh effects in portraits.

Recommended: Canon 70-200mm f/2.8, Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8, Sony 70-200mm f/2.8.

5. Ultra-Wide Lens (10-18mm or 12-24mm):

Why? For extreme perspectives and dramatic shots, an ultra-wide lens can capture the vastness of NYC’s streets or the interior of grand buildings like Grand Central Station. It’s a creative tool for emphasizing the scale and grandeur of the city.

Recommended: Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6, Nikon 12-24mm f/4, Sony 12-24mm f/4.

6. Fast Aperture Lens (f/1.2 or f/1.4):

Why? Lenses with fast apertures (like f/1.2 or f/1.4) are invaluable for night photography in NYC. They allow more light into the camera, enabling you to shoot in low light without raising the ISO too high, which helps maintain image quality with minimal noise.

Recommended: Canon 50mm f/1.2, Sigma 35mm f/1.4, Sony 85mm f/1.4.

Each lens offers a unique perspective on New York City, allowing you to capture its many facets, from the towering skyscrapers to the intimate street scenes. Depending on your photography style and what you aim to capture, these lenses will help you get the most out of your NYC photo adventures

#nyc #travelphotographer #travelblogger

[eyssant]

New York: The City That Never Sleeps

New York City (NYC), often referred to simply as New York, is one of the most iconic and vibrant cities in the world. Known for its towering skyscrapers, cultural diversity, and bustling streets, New York is a place that offers something for everyone. This article will delve into the rich history of New York, highlight some must-visit places, and provide tips on the best times to explore this incredible city.

History of New York

Early History

New York's history dates back to the early 17th century when it was first settled by the Dutch. In 1624, the Dutch established a fur trading post on the southern tip of Manhattan Island, calling it New Amsterdam. The settlement quickly grew, becoming a bustling port due to its strategic location. However, in 1664, the English seized control of the colony and renamed it New York in honor of the Duke of York, who later became King James II of England.

Growth and Development

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, New York City continued to grow in size and influence. It played a crucial role during the American Revolution, serving as a battleground and later as the first capital of the United States. The construction of the Erie Canal in 1825 was a pivotal moment, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes and facilitating the flow of goods and people, which spurred economic growth.

The Modern Era

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a massive influx of immigrants from around the world, making New York a melting pot of cultures. Landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, which welcomed millions of immigrants arriving by sea, and the construction of iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, symbolized New York's status as a global metropolis. The city's financial district, centered on Wall Street, became the economic hub of the world.

Places to Explore in New York City

Central Park

Central Park is an urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Spanning 843 acres, it offers a variety of activities, including boating, horseback riding, and picnicking. Visitors can explore famous attractions like Bethesda Terrace, the Central Park Zoo, and the iconic Bow Bridge. The park's lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere provide a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often referred to as "The Met," is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. Located on the eastern edge of Central Park, The Met houses an extensive collection of art spanning 5,000 years, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary pieces. Highlights include the Temple of Dendur, the European Paintings Gallery, and the Costume Institute.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, stands proudly on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Visitors can take a ferry to the island, tour the statue, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline. Nearby Ellis Island, once the busiest immigration inspection station in the United States, now houses a museum dedicated to the history of American immigration.

Times Square

Known as "The Crossroads of the World," Times Square is an iconic destination that draws millions of visitors annually. This bustling commercial and entertainment hub is famous for its bright neon lights, giant digital billboards, and Broadway theaters. Visitors can enjoy world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment, making it a must-see attraction.

The Empire State Building

An enduring symbol of New York City's architectural prowess, the Empire State Building offers stunning views from its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. Visitors can learn about the building's history, marvel at the Art Deco design, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the city.

Conclusion

New York City is a dynamic and diverse metropolis with a rich history and countless attractions. Whether you're interested in exploring world-class museums, strolling through iconic parks, or experiencing the vibrant nightlife, New York has something to offer. If you live in a different time zone, keep a time zone converter ready for getting NYC time while planning your travel. So, pack your bags and head out to explore this bustling metropolis, making the most of your time and creating great experiences in the city that never sleeps.

[taruntravell]

Top Things You Must See in NYC

New York City (NYC) is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with an abundance of iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and diverse neighborhoods. Here are some top things you must see and experience when visiting NYC:

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry to Liberty Island to see the famous Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy. Nearby, visit Ellis Island to learn about the history of immigration to the United States.

Times Square: Experience the bright lights, giant billboards, and bustling energy of Times Square, known as "The Crossroads of the World."

Central Park: Explore the expansive Central Park, offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Enjoy walking, jogging, picnicking, or visiting attractions like the Central Park Zoo and Bethesda Terrace.

: Head to the top of this iconic skyscraper for breathtaking views of the city's skyline, especially at sunset or nighttime.

Broadway: Catch a Broadway show at one of the famous theaters in the Theater District. NYC's Broadway productions are world-renowned for their exceptional performances.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): Discover an incredible collection of art spanning various cultures and periods at one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world.

9/11 Memorial & American Museum: Pay your respects at the World Trade Center site, where the Twin Towers once stood, and learn about the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Explore one of the most influential modern art museums, featuring an extensive collection of contemporary masterpieces.

Brooklyn Bridge: Walk or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge to enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.

The High Line: Experience a unique urban park built on a former elevated railway line. It offers great views, beautiful gardens, and public art installations.

Rockefeller Center: Visit this iconic complex that includes the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Radio City Music Hall, and the famous ice-skating rink in winter.

Wall Street and the Financial District: Take a stroll through the heart of the financial world, see the Charging Bull statue, and visit the New York Stock Exchange.

The Guggenheim Museum: Admire the unique architecture of this museum and explore its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.

One World Observatory: Enjoy panoramic views of NYC from the top of One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

Chelsea Market: Wander through this food hall and shopping destination, offering a variety of delicious cuisine and unique shops.

These are just a few highlights, and NYC has so much more to offer. From diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem to countless restaurants, shops, and cultural events, you'll find that New York City is a city that never fails to leave a lasting impression on its visitors.

[wohind]

Roof decks gardens nyc is a well-known name in the world of building, which has been serving the people with its high quality and innovative designs. We provide you a wide range of roof decks gardening services to meet your demand.

[skaarj551]

Rockefeller Revisited by Dominic Kamp Via Flickr: Last time I visited the Rockefeller Center was back in 2008. I compared the old photos I took to the new ones and noticed that the skyline had changed quite a bit. Of course there is the new WTC but also, the building in the front center is new. As there was no sun shining the last time, I can finally cross that off my list!

[strasticsocial-blog]

The 5 best midcentury modern homes for sale right now

In our House of the Day column, we cover a plethora of gorgeous homes, from elegant Gilded Age mansions to show-stopping new builds. But time and time again, some of our favorite homes for sale are of the midcentury variety.

They range in style and authenticity; some homes built in the 1950s and 1960s have been tastefully updated, while others are time capsules for the midcentury purist. We also write about midcentury modern homes from around the country—not just in ultra-hip epicenters like Palm Springs—and at all price points. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new pad or just like to window shop, here are five swoon-worthy midcentury homes on the market to check out right now.

Guests are welcomed to the Sarasota School home through an interior courtyard with pond. Photo by Glenn Johnson of Coastal Photography

Restored midcentury gem near the beach

Price: $1,695,000

Details: One of the latest Sarasota School houses to catch our eye is this three-bedroom, three-bath home in Sandy Hook, a private beachfront neighborhood on the island of Siesta Key. Siesta Key is packed with gorgeous midcentury architecture by Paul Rudolph, Victor Lundy, and Frank Folsom Smith, but this 2,550-square-foot home was designed by Siebert Architects—Sarasota’s oldest architecture firm.

The 1962 home has all the midcentury details we love, like long horizontal lines, glass walls, clerestory windows, and terrazzo floors. A covered interior courtyard features a pond, skylights, and a large dining table for entertaining, and exposed beams throughout the house contrast with the bright, airy windows. See more, over here.

Designed and built in 1965 by architect Allan Gelbin, the home follows Frank Lloyd Wright’s theories on organic architecture. Photos by Austin Eterno

A Connecticut home by a Frank Lloyd Wright apprentice

Price: $625,000

Details: This five-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home in Weston, Connecticut, was designed and built in 1965 by architect Allan Gelbin. Gelbin was an apprentice to Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin East in Spring Green, Wisconsin, from 1949 to 1953, before establishing his own practice in 1957 in Connecticut.

The focal point of the design is an expansive living room and dining room that features a stone fireplace. Clerestory windows let in light, while wooden ceiling panels and built-in bookshelves add coziness. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows showcase a wraparound deck and views of the 2.25-acre property, and the master suite also offers panoramic views and access to a terrace. You can see more photos, this way.

The A-frame style living room features walls of glass, a fireplace, exposed beams, and amazing ocean views. Photo by Marc Weisberg

Oceanfront home by Frank Lloyd Wright apprentice

Price: $14,900,000

Details: Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright apprentice Frederick Liebhardt in 1958, this four-bedroom, eight-bath oceanfront home is located above Windansea beach, an iconic surf spot made famous in the 1960s in Tom Wolfe’s nonfiction collection The Pump House Gang.

Liebhardt designed the home as a personal residence for his mother, and the house has seen two subsequent renovations—one remodel by midcentury modern architect Henry Hester and a more recent one by Hill Construction and NYC designer Eddie Lee. The house is now 6,338 square feet with a stunning A-frame living room. Huge walls of glass provide unobstructed ocean views, and the way the home is situated on its one acre lot means that you can’t see your neighbors. Find more photos, over here.

This Swiss Miss home in Pennsylvania was designed in 1958 by noted midcentury architect Jules Gregory. Michael Hirsch for Kurfiss Sotheby’s International Realty

Dazzling A-frame in Pennsylvania

Price: $3,495,000

Details: Midcentury modern homes might be known for their butterfly roofs, but the style also popularized the Swiss Miss A-frame. And while you might expect A-frames in mountain towns or midcentury hotbeds like California, check out this three-bedroom, four-bath home in New Hope, Pennsylvania. Built in 1958 by noted midcentury architect Jules Gregory, the low-lying home is bifurcated by a steep, dramatic A-frame roof that rises straight from the ground.

Inside, the A-frame creates a dramatic double-height living room with floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the 1.42-acre property. Recent renovations brought a more contemporary feel to the space; gloss-black hardwood floors contrast with white walls, beams, and counters. Other perks include a 16-foot kitchen island, large closets, and a rear patio with bar, BBQ, fire pit, and pool. See the interiors, over here.

The living room features floor-to-ceiling windows—a Sarasota School trademark—and an Ocala brick wall. Photo by Glenn Johnson, Coastal Photography

Beachfront midcentury time capsule

Price: $1,900,000

Details: This four-bedroom, four-bath rarely seen home was the writer’s studio of Walter Farley—author of the Black Stallion book series—and was designed by Sarasota architecture icons Ralph Twitchell and Jack West. It’s a time capsule in the truest form, with original details like Ocala block construction, clerestory windows, and mahogany louvers that let in the ocean breeze.

 Reference -  https://www.curbed.com/2020/2/14/21136376/midcentury-modern-best-homes-for-sale

[architectnews]

Summit One Vanderbilt prepares to open as NYC's latest observation deck

An observation deck featuring glass elevators and "levitation" boxes is due to open next month at the top of KPF's One Vanderbilt supertall skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan.

Summit One Vanderbilt will become the latest sky-high experience offered by NYC's skyscrapers when it welcomes its first visitors on 21 October 2021.

Summit One Vanderbilt occupies four storeys near the top of the KPF-designed tower

New images have been released of the 65,000-square-foot (6,040-square-metre) space, occupying four floors near the pinnacle of recently completed One Vanderbilt, designed by architecture firm Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF).

It features a variety of attractions, including the Levitation glass-bottomed "sky boxes" that offer views directly down onto Madison Avenue 1,063 feet (324 metres) below.

The observation deck offers views across Manhattan and beyond

Fully transparent glazed elevators, called Ascent, also rise up the side of the building from a terrace to over 1,200 feet (364 metres).

Inside is a walk-through art experience designed by Kenzo Digital and titled Air.

Glass-bottomed "sky boxes" overlook Madison Avenue directly below

Combining lighting, sound and production design, the multi-sensory journey will immerse visitors in spaces that infinitely reflect the views of the city.

"In addition to its remarkable materiality, Air is a living, breathing entity, expressed through its multisensory use of sound, lighting and production design," said Kenzo Digital.

"It's a story that evolves with each successive space, bringing visitors deeper and deeper into the experience until finally, they become part of it," the studio added.

Interiors for Summit are designed by architecture studio Snøhetta, and include the Nordic-themed Après lounge and cafe that will serve light bites and cocktails.

Visitors can also experience Air, a multi-sensory artwork by Kenzo Digital

"Summit One Vanderbilt is an immersive and sensory space embracing the cityscape of New York," said Snøhetta director Anne-Rachel Schiffmann.

"Between integrated art, sound and lighting, and the observatory's expansive views, our approach to interior design allows visitors to understand their place in the larger city."

Air infinitely reflects the architecture and surrounding views

Summit One Vanderbilt joins several public viewpoints atop New York's iconic skyscrapers, following The Edge at 30 Hudson Yards that opened March 2020.

Visitors can also ascend to the peaks of the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Rockefeller Center and soon, the Chrysler Building to enjoy views over the city.

City lights become a distorted pattern across the interior space at night

Another attraction to recently open in the Big Apple is the Thomas Heatherwick-designed Little Island, which juts over the Hudson from the Meatpacking District.

The post Summit One Vanderbilt prepares to open as NYC's latest observation deck appeared first on Dezeen.

[connorrenwick]

Lee Broom Transforms NYC Penthouse Into Sustainable Masterpiece

We’re longtime admirers of British designer Lee Broom and while London is the city he calls home, he spends a lot of time in New York City for both work and pleasure. Wanting a place to return to in the evenings after long, hectic days, Broom acquired a duplex apartment occupying two floors of the White Street in Tribeca. The light-filled penthouse spans 3,000 square feet giving him a spacious backdrop to work with, as this project marks his first interior design project since 2015. While Broom is primarily known for his modern lighting, he was inspired to design an entire collection of furniture and accessories just for the penthouse, all of which will be launching this year. The space evokes a sense of welcoming calm while perfectly exhibiting his impeccable aesthetic seen through beautifully curated vignettes. “The thing that appealed to me about this penthouse was that, rather than being one expansive space, it had many different rooms and areas to explore, which gave me the opportunity to create vignettes within each space that all have their own personal style yet still work within an overarching design scheme. This is in contrast to my apartment in London which is very open plan,” says Broom.

A Hanging Hoop Chair in brushed brass and black Kvadrat wool hangs near the windows, perfect for gazing out into the city. If the chair looks familiar, you might remember Beyoncé swinging in one in her ‘Already‘ video from her ‘Black is King’ visual album.

This particular apartment really appealed to me – it is a light-filled, 3,000-square foot space, with expansive high ceilings and flowing natural light. The whole building had already been extensively and sustainably restored, so from a renovation perspective the treatment was more cosmetic, however we added some new structural details such as the chimney breast and fire surround and removed doors and archways to open up the space.

The living room features a monochromatic color palette accented with brushed brass, gunmetal and matte black. “The focal point of the living room is the new White Street sofa designed specifically for this environment. It is an architectural, streamlined, modular piece which can be arranged in multiple configurations and is connected by sculpted armrests, corner and side tables, each produced in white or black ash wood,” shares Broom. “The sofa fabric is a soft ivory bouclé which is a nice contrast to harder, wooden end sections. And with its expansive and curved back, the sofa appears to almost float, anchored only by its connectors. It’s all about balance.”

Throughout the living room, various Lee Broom lights are incorporated, including the Carousel XL chandelier in polished gunmetal, Lens Flair in matte black, and Crescent table lamp. “Also showcased in this room are the new Tribeca Tables, a series of sculptural side and coffee tables, which mirror the same floating concept as the sofa, appearing to defy gravity. Crafted in black silk marble and travertine, its smooth round tabletop cantilevers over a monolithic square base, balancing perfectly,” says Broom. “The tables also have a stepped detail that reflects the local architecture, in particular the Long Lines building, a 1970s brutalist skyscraper that is visible form my apartment.”

Refraining from typical pendants that hang above kitchen islands, Broom displays two Tube Lights in Carrara marble and brushed brass. Keeping to the building’s commitment to sustainability, all of the wood used in the kitchen is over 300 years old and the marble is from Vermont’s underground marble quarry.

With views of the terrace and One World Trade, the dining room is decked out with dramatic blue moiré walls and grey velvet pleated drapes, alongside polished and brushed stainless steel accents, like the new Lee Broom Musico chairs and circular Musico dining table.

A white Split mirror and Drunken Side Table accent a seating area in the corner of the dining room.

A vintage bar from the 1980s that was custom designed by Steve Chase for the Chase Residence in Laguna Beach, California, finds a new home with Broom.

A vintage 1960s bed made of stainless steel and brass ended up being too large for Broom’s home in London but luckily it’s perfect for his primary bedroom in New York.

Orion Lights in polished gunmetal hang above an archived sofa Broom designed in 2011.

Photography by Stephen Kent Johnson. Styling by Michael Reynolds.

via http://design-milk.com/

from WordPress https://connorrenwickblog.wordpress.com/2021/05/27/lee-broom-transforms-nyc-penthouse-into-sustainable-masterpiece/

[28northgroup]

8 Homes with Summer-Ready Outdoor Spaces

Summer is upon us and as we begin to transition out of lockdowns and back to “normal” life, many homeowners are starting to reevaluate what they look for in a home, including the importance of having outdoor spaces to retreat to with friends and family. The convenience of living in a major metro is giving way to an appreciation for privacy, space, and outdoor activities. From coast to coast, we’ve gathered a collection of homes across the Americas that define outdoor enjoyment in sophisticated style.

Spicewood, Texas

This timeless classic located on Lake Travis has everything you need to enjoy a summer at home. With a “Walk to the Lake” shoreline, private boat dock, and access to the community amenities that include a lazy river swim park, 150 slip large yacht marina, and clubhouse, this home is just about as perfect for summer as it gets. Modern interiors meet a classic ranch architecture, this 5 bedroom, 7,973 square foot home has something for everyone. 

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Summer doesn’t get better than at this one-of-a-kind resort residence nestled in the heart of historic Old Town, Niagara on the Lake. Reminiscent of an olde English estate, this sprawling ranch bungalow, and outdoor oasis includes a 39′ x 18′ inground heated pool with pergola waterfalls, remote-controlled safety cover, outdoor kitchen, pump/pool house, and two storage sheds. For those looking to escape the major metros of the Americas, this charming classic features everything you may need spread out on almost an acre of land. Own a piece of Niagara on the Lake’s historic past while you enjoy walkable proximity to wineries, shops, trails, award-winning restaurants, and breathtaking sunsets. 

Nashville, Tennessee

This turn-key estate is primely situated on one of the most beloved streets minutes from Downtown, Green Hills Mall, and the Nashville International Airport. Nestled in a 2-acre private gated sanctuary, this European chateau includes an outdoor pool and amenities that define pure summer luxury. The interior comes complete with a bar, gym, and private music studio, all combining to make for the perfect summer in Music City. 

Long Beach, New York

Located directly on the Atlantic and only 40-minutes from Manhattan, this award-winning home has expansive horizon views of Long Island’s most beautiful beach from every angle. Designed by famed NYC architect West Chin, it redefines indoor-outdoor living as the 3-ton retractable glass ocean-facing wall opens in seconds to invite the sand, waves, and ocean breeze indoors. Whether gazing at the ocean from the upper balconies or lounging in the privacy of the lower level’s deck complete with salt-water pool, outdoor kitchen, cabana and fire pit – the home defines ocean living and modernity. 

St. Helena, California

If summers in a vineyard are more your style, this stunning Napa Valley contemporary masterpiece is for you. Gorgeous terraces wrap around much of the 4 bed, 7 bath main residence offering exquisite indoor/outdoor living. Within the open and voluminous interior, the chef’s kitchen and dining area transition to the main outdoor terrace as the floor-to-ceiling glass gracefully rises for spectacular views and sunsets over the pool and spa. This breathtaking masterpiece includes the main residence, guest home, wellness pavilion, tennis/sport, and bocce courts, putting green and private pools. 

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

Overlooking Lac-Tremblant. and located in the internationally renowned ski resort Mont-Tremblant, Canada, this 3-acre lot is a true masterpiece for year-round living. The home includes 3 buildings; the main house, a guest apartment conveniently located above the garage, and a private the aquatic pavilion with its own private living space overlooking the spectacular waterfall and private access to the lake. Summers on the water and winters on the slopes, this home is a year-round entertainer’s dream.

Boucherville, Quebec

If regal is more your style, this castle-like home in the prestigious Boisé sector of Boucherville might be right up your alley. From its estate-like curb-appeal to the imposing stone façade and exquisite master bedroom, this property delivers a real sense of grandeur all the way through to the backyard oasis featuring an inground pool, outdoor bar & kitchen, hot & cold spa, sauna outdoor lounge, day beds, and swings. 

Saddle River, New Jersey

This strikingly ornate palace is filled with exquisite European craftsmanship, modern amenities, and is only minutes outside of New York City. A summer dream, this architectural classic features impressive indoor and outdoor gunite swimming pools and jacuzzis, a regulation-sized indoor racquetball court, and an outdoor lit tennis court. The interior is no disappointment either, with a billiard room, library, state of the art home theater, temperature-controlled wine cellar, sauna, steam room, plunge pool, gym, and more. Four floors of 32,500 square feet include a 2,200 square foot ballroom and an adjacent great room, atrium, and dining room provide for endless opportunities for entertainment.

Originally posted on evrealestate.com: View it Here

[laraehrlich-blog]

Original content owned & copyrighted by Green Global Travel.

Water collection and storage is nothing new. Humans have been harvesting rainwater for centuries… millennia, actually.

In fact, many of the Philippines—provide great models for rainwater harvesting systems.

Learning methods for harvesting rainwater could ultimately prove to be the key to future life on earth. Frighteningly, less than 1% of the world’s water can be used by humans for drinking, and the planet has been working with roughly the same amount of fresh water for millions of years.

But as the global population increases, so does the demand for water. Unfortunately, many of the natural water systems we’ve historically relied on for drinking water— aquifers, creeks, lakes, and fresh water is a really big deal, no matter where you live. But  modified food production, and industrial waste, municipalities must use a slurry of chemicals to make water potable again.

Luckily, Mother Nature supplies us with plenty of fresh water right at home. This handy guide will teach you what rainwater harvesting is, how it benefits the environment, various water catchment methods, and how to make a DIY rainwater harvesting system of your own.

READ MORE: to Save Water: 15 Water Conservation Methods

TABLE OF CONTENTS

is Harvesting? 

of Harvesting

Water Harvesting Benefits the Environment

Harvesting Methods

to Make a Tank 

a Filter

Harvesting System

Machu Picchu Terraces image by skeeze from Pixabay

Is Harvesting?

harvesting is the simple act of collecting and storing rainwater when the getting is good so it can be used in times of drought.

With ancient times.

Even people who don’t need drinking water often use rainwater collection tanks to water their gardens. This is particularly true in regions where droughts or dry seasons are common, and access to municipal water is limited, unreliable, or expensive.

There are many different methods for rainwater harvesting: Every rooftop, hard surface, or sloped landscape provides the potential to capture and store rain rather than merely let it drain away.

Since we have to have shelters and READ MORE: 60 Going Green Tips You Can Use Every Day 

Bret & Mary’s Water Catchment & Harvesting System

of Harvesting

While collecting rainwater is often seen as an environmental act, there are quite a few advantages of rainwater harvesting on a personal level:

Harvesting rainwater can reduce water bills significantly by supplying free water for READ MORE: is Permaculture Gardening?

“rain barrel kit” by bunnicula is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

Water Harvesting Benefits the Environment

collection systems can also do a lot to help the ecosystem and community in which we live. With a system of our own, we can start making a local and global difference right at home. Here are five examples of how harvesting water benefits the environment:

Rain harvesting reduces stormwater runoff, which means less of our fresh water is going into drainage/sewage treatment systems. That means less wildlife habitat

, drinking water, and bathing water. READ MORE: The Real Erin Brockovich Fights Water Pollution

Bret & Mary’s Harvesting System from a runoff drain pipe

Harvesting Methods

There are several different methods of harvesting rainwater. Some involve tanks or cisterns that hold the water for easy access, while others hold the water until it soaks into the earth.

Some models for the home are designed to be small-scale, holding as little as one 40- to 55-gallon drum at a time. More involved rain catchment systems, such as you might find on a rainwater gardens, that spread it and hold it until the earth is better able to absorb it.

This also eliminates the need to irrigate with municipal water. Rather than draining all that valuable rain away, water catchments keep some of it for the plants to enjoy. To help with replenishing groundwater, some people lead hard surface runoff to a recharge pit.

With acreage comes even more potential for rainwater harvesting. Earthworks can take advantage of natural drainage paths by disrupting them, spreading the water over sloped landscapes with swales that are attached to dams that hold water in bulk.

Ponds and READ MORE: The Ultimate DIY Aquaponics Beginner’s Guide

Bret & Mary’s Harvesting System with overflow drain

to Make a Tank

The common urban/suburban water catchment system collects rainwater from the roof and stores it in an attached tank, either above or below the ground.

One inch of rain on a 2000 square foot roof supplies over 1200 gallons of water, or around 13 bathtubs’ worth The average rainfall for the contiguous United States is over 30 inches a year, which is more than 36,000 gallons per roof! All of that water has to be held somewhere.

A rooftop rain harvesting system generally involves a tank ranging anywhere from 40 to hundreds of gallons. Sometimes these tanks are built underground our of concrete, which requires serious excavation and installation cost. On the positive side, they can be very large.

Above-ground metal tanks are less expensive and difficult to install, but they do tend to rust over time. Bladder tanks, like gigantic bags, are commonly used in tight spots, such as under a deck.

But food grade barrels, which are widely available and inexpensive. The rain barrels pictured in this post used to hold roasted red peppers and olives.

These are often connected in order to provide more rainwater storage space. Or they can be installed individually beneath each downspout to provide access to water in several locations. Similar, larger capacity systems can be built with repurposed IBC totes as well.

There are only a few steps to install a rain harvesting barrel”

A hose or pipe, the same size or larger than the gutter outlet, should connect the gutter to the top of the barrel. This involves cutting a small hole in the top of the barrel and making a rainwater filter for debris (which we’ll talk about in the next section).

The barrel should be set on a platform, lifting it up off the ground. We recommend using concrete blocks, stacking two to three pairs on top of each other.

A spigot should be connected to the side near the bottom of the barrel, so that all of the water inside can be accessed.

An overflow outlet, the same size as or slightly larger than the gutter outlet, should be put on the side near the top of the barrel. This outlet can involve a hose that leads the excess water to somewhere like a rain garden or recharge pit.

READ MORE: Permaculture Gardening Guide (12 Tips for a Productive Garden)

“nyc-travails-1080772” by jwilly is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

a Filter

Depending on the degree to which you hope to collect rainwater, there are different methods for rainwater harvesting. Similarly, the way in which we want to use the water– whether it be for irrigation, cleaning, or drinking– will determine the degree to which we filter the water.

For simple outdoor watering use, a rainwater filter made from everyday plumbing parts and around-the-house types of materials will suffice for collecting debris. A four-inch rubber boot or even an old plant pot can be plumbed to sit comfortably atop a rain barrel, with the gutter flow leading to it.

Inside the boot or pot, you can fit a piece of recycled hosiery or a paint sprayer filter to keep out any large debris that might be washed off the roof, such as leaves, twigs, or bugs. As long as the  filter is cleaned regularly, collected rainwater will flow easily without it getting clogged up. 

ever, if drinking the water is the ultimately goal, then some additional filtering is necessary. Though rainwater is very clean, having gone through the natural water cycle and debris filter, it does pick up unsavory stuff on the route from roof to tank.

Making water potable for drinking requires an extra purification system. For emergency situations, it’s good to have a basic water purifier such as a build a simple one with repurposed buckets. For a household water source, it’s better to bring in professionals.

READ MORE: 15 Ways to Reduce Waste & Move Towards Waste-Free Living

“water tank pics 2” by jwilly is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Harvesting System

Any rooftop rainwater harvesting project has the same basic components: a roof to catch, guttering to collect, hoses to distribute, filters to clean, storage tanks to hold, and outlets to access rainwater.

It’s what happens beyond those outlets that determines the complexity of the rainwater harvesting system. Regardless of how complex we’d like to get with it, most of us have the capacity to harvest some rainwater.

A barrel-style rainwater collection system may be rudimentary, but the water would be perfectly fine for our lawn and garden use. If further purified a little at time by boiling, it can even become potable in a pinch. For a total cost of $50 to $60, this water-saving wonder can fulfill a lot of needs. 

More complex rainwater harvesting systems– including underground cisterns, pumps, and purification– are completely possible, but require professionals to install and permits to use them.

But for those striving to CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

  The post to Make a DIY Harvesting System appeared first on Green Global Travel.

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We spent the last three months on Koh Lanta and it was lovely being back on our favourite Thai island. We stayed at Malee Highlands, a new apartment complex on a hill between Khlong Dao and Long Beach with stunning sea and mountain views.

Malee Highlands was created by Swedish couple Mia and Mattias Terngård, who also developed Malee Beach in Long Beach, which we loved. The new area has the same attention to quality with Western-style comforts.

Units are available to rent and buy. The minimum rental is one month, so it’s ideal for digital nomads looking for a comfortable place to live and work, as well as couples and families who are spending an extended period on Koh Lanta.

Construction is still ongoing (in July 2019) so not all the apartments and facilities are finished yet (but the main pool and bistro are open). The biggest downside right now is the building noise, but we did get used to it and it’s not constant.

When Malee Highlands is finished it will be very peaceful as it’s in a secluded location but just a short drive from beaches, shops and restaurants. The sunsets here are phenomenal.

View from the side of Malee Highlands

Sunset from Malee Highlands

Disclosure: We were guests at Malee Highlands in exchange for creating videos, but we were under no obligation to write this review.

Malee Highlands Apartments

There is a wide range of apartments available at Malee Highlands from one to three bedrooms and all have unique features. Some are two stories, while others have private plunge pools or terraces with jacuzzis. All have gorgeous sea views and at least one small balcony to enjoy a glass of wine as the sun sets.

What makes Malee Highlands stand out is the high quality of their apartments. They are beautifully decorated in an almost NYC loft style and have all the comforts of home—a comfortable bed and couch, well-equipped kitchen, flat screen TV, washing machine (very unusual in Thailand), and homely details like cushions and artwork.

They are all key ready so you can move right in without needing anything. This is the first time in Asia that we’ve rented a place without having to buy loads of kitchen equipment.

There’s also fibre WIFI which is the fastest we’ve had in Thailand and made working easy. We had speeds of 106 Mbps down and 95 Mbps up. If we ever had any issues with it, the staff was quick to sort it out for us. There are occasional power cuts in Koh Lanta, but they usually don’t last more than five minutes or so and this is an issue everywhere on the island.

There’s also WiFi in the Bistro if you want a change of scenery (we worked here while our apartment was cleaned once a week).

There’s air conditioning throughout the apartments which we greatly appreciated as temperatures in the warmer months rarely go below 25ºC even at night.

Cleaning of the apartments takes place weekly and linens and towels are changed (for an extra fee).

Our Apartment: Chill House

We stayed in Chill House D4, a two-floor apartment with a bedroom and bathroom on each floor. It sleeps four people but as the second upstairs bedroom is small with bunk beds, it would work best for two adults and two children. There are gorgeous sea views from both floors.

Downstairs

On the ground floor is a kitchen and dining area which leads to a bathroom and the main bedroom. The bedroom is small, but it has been cleverly designed so that each side of the queen bed is accessible by a separate entrance on each side of the kitchen.

Entrance to D4 with access to one side of bed on the left and the other through the kitchen

Each side of the bed has plentiful storage, a reading light, and power sockets for charging phones. The mattress is very comfortable and there are two quality pillows on each side. The lightweight comforters are twins rather than doubles in the European style. There’s a flatscreen TV at the end of the bed.

My initial concern was the lack of natural light in the bedroom. As it’s at the back of the apartment there’s no window, but the benefit of this is that you get sea views in the living areas instead. We found that if we left the sliding doors partly open we got enough light from the kitchen window to wake us in the morning (or close them if you want to sleep in).

All the other apartments have larger master bedrooms, so go with one of them if you want more space and natural light.

The kitchen is small but well-equipped with rare but important essentials like good knives, a blender, food processor, microwave, and toaster oven. There are even all the tools for baking a cake! We didn’t quite manage that but we did bake cookies.

The only thing I lacked was a wok and rice cooker for Thai cooking, but I guess most guests eat out if they want to eat Thai food. We were able to buy them inexpensively on the island.

Unusually for Thailand, there’s a combination washer/dryer which we found very useful. We also appreciated the drinking water machine where we had instant access to hot and cold filtered water. You can get refills of the water jugs on site.

The bathroom is high quality with a proper shower cubicle (no wet floors!) with both regular and rain shower heads. The water pressure isn’t as strong as I’d like, but it’s good enough and they are having to work with the limitations of Thailand.

Upstairs

Upstairs is my favourite room—a bright living room with a wonderfully large and comfortable L shaped couch. Seriously, a proper comfortable couch like this in SE Asia is so rare and it makes me very happy! It also features a number of cushions which I always appreciate and is one of the homely touches that many apartment rentals lack.

There’s another large flat screen TV in the living room (this is where we did our Game of Thrones watching!).

The floor to ceiling windows make the most of the sea views and sliding doors lead on to the terrace where there’s comfortable seating, a table, and a fan. The sunset views here are amazing. A large drying rack is available—clothes dry out here in no time.

The small second bedroom is upstairs and consists of bunk beds, a cupboard, and yet another TV. Each bunk has a reading light and power socket. The bathroom next door is similar to the one downstairs.

Second bedroom in D4 with bunk beds (we added the desk and chair).

The only thing we found lacking in the apartment was a desk (some of the larger apartments do have them). You could work on the dining table, but it’s not particularly comfortable and we wanted to keep it for eating. Simon bought a small desk on Lazada and set it up in the second bedroom. I was happy working on the couch.

Watch Simon’s video tour of the Chill House:

Other Apartments

There’s a variety of apartments at Malee Highlands and we got to know many of them as we were making videos.

Flexi House Mini is the smallest apartment with one bedroom, a small living room, and a balcony. There’s an extra shared pool in the Flexi House and the balconies can be opened up to create one large space, so this could work well for groups.

Chic House Pool is one of my favourites. It has two bedrooms, large open plan lounge/kitchen, and a private plunge pool with amazing views.

Watch our Chic House Pool video:

Next door the Chic House Lounge is larger with two bedrooms plus a third loft bedroom and two terraces.

Chic House Lounge Deluxe is higher up the hill and is probably the most spectacular apartment. There are two bedrooms and a third loft bedroom, lots of space, and a high tech surround sound system and 65” Smart TV. The master bedroom has floor to ceiling views overlooking the sea.

Master bedroom at Chic House Lounge Deluxe

There are two terraces and the upper terrace is incredible. It has 360º views of the sea and jungle, multiple comfortable seating areas, jacuzzi, BBQ and kitchen area.

Watch Simon’s video tour of the Chic House Lounge Deluxe:

Highlands Bistro

The Highlands Bistro overlooks the pool and has even better views than from our apartment, especially at sunset. It was very convenient having a restaurant on site for when we couldn’t be bothered to cook or drive anywhere.

Currently there’s a simple menu of sandwiches, salads, and burgers plus Thai specials. The menu doesn’t look vegetarian-friendly, but they can make most things vegetarian and the staff is very friendly and flexible. They even got in some tofu especially for us.

Khao soi at Highlands Bistro

The dish we ate most often was the khao soi (a northern Thai curry noodle soup) which is excellent and comes with all the typical toppings. The Penang curry is also good and we enjoyed the mango passion shakes and frozen strawberry daiquiri.

Take a look around the bistro and pool (and see that famous sunset) in this video:

Famous Swedish chef Jesper Bogren will be taking over the bistro soon and a new fine dining restaurant will open by the end of 2019, so the food will get even better. 

Pool

There’s a lovely square pool with fantastic sea views next to the bistro. There are sun loungers and umbrellas and it was never too busy during our stay.

One side of the pool is shallower and ideal for kids and the other is deeper and is where I swam lengths. The water temperature is balmy. There’s also a separate shallow pool next to it where you can sunbathe in the water or let small children splash around.

Sunset at the pool

Future Plans

Mia and Mattias have big plans for Malee Highlands. They will be adding an adults-only pool, chill-out deck, spa and ice pool, gym, children’s playroom, and a fine dining restaurant. We can’t wait to return in a few years and see all the changes.

Location

From Malee Highlands it’s about 1km down the hill to Khlong Dao beach where you can find shops and restaurants. The walk takes about 15 minutes but the climb back up in the heat is not much fun as the hill is very steep. I did often run it but had to go out just after sunrise.

It’s best to have your own transport. It’s only a few minutes motorbike ride to the beach. Cars are also available to rent and this is a good option for families.

The office can help you arrange motorbike or car rental which is really handy as you don’t need to leave a passport as you would if you booked direct, and they had it delivered to us very quickly. We paid 7500 THB for a three month rental of a Scoopy in low season.

Khlong Dao, Long Beach, and Saladaan can all be reached within 10 minutes by motorbike (5 minutes for Khlong Dao).

Malee Highlands also has a free shuttle at designated times and stops, so you could manage without transport.

Costs

Apartments at Malee Highlands start from 21,000 THB (US$686 / €609) a month. Rates vary widely depending on the time of year and are lowest from mid-April until the end of July. WiFi is included but cleaning, electric, water, and laundry are extra.

Check the latest rates on the Malee Highlands website. 

We really enjoyed our stay at Malee Highlands. The apartments are homely, comfortable, and well-equipped, and we loved the views. We look forward to returning when all the work is completed.

If you’d like more information about the island, see our Koh Lanta guide.

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[krystangreen-blog]

Alicia Keys captured the essence of New York City in her song Empire State of Mind when she wrote, “Now you’re in New York, these streets will make you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you.” Likely, you too will find yourself enraptured by this city’s buoyant energy the moment you step off the plane.

If you’re already familiar with things to do in New York City, you’ll want to dig deeper into the city that never sleeps with each visit. But for those new to NYC, you’d be remiss if you came here and skipped any of these classic must-do experiences.

Sightsee for Less

Save with the New York Pass

Includes FREE entry to 100+ top New York attractions.

Take in the View from the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building provides spectacular views of New York City. Your experience begins at the 34th Street entrance and Visitors’ Center where you’ll pass through security and buy your tickets before boarding second-floor elevators that take you to the top.

Highlights of your visit include the 80th floor Dare to Dream Exhibit depicting the iconic 102-story Art Deco building’s 13-month construction in 1930-31. The 86th floor is New York’s highest open-air observatory and the world’s most famous where 360-degree views include Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty. The 102nd-floor wraparound top deck offers panoramic views up to 80 miles away. Your experience ends in the stunning 5th Avenue Lobby.

Some tips for your visit – skip the line with an Express Pass, beat the crowd by arriving before 11 a.m., and use the second-floor bathrooms before getting in line for elevators. Note that kids under six are free. The second floor ESB store is open whenever the building is open. Shops and restaurants line ground level along 33rd and 34th streets, and 5th Avenue.

The Empire State Building is open 365 days from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Meet Lady Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is the most recognizable icon of the United States, a symbol of freedom and democracy. There are a number of ways to experience Lady Liberty in New York Harbor, both free and paid.

You can see the Statue of Liberty for free from the Staten Island Ferry that leaves Manhattan’s Battery Park every half hour. The 25-minute ride through New York Harbor passes by the Statue offering riders great views. Or, you can stay on land at Battery Park and enjoy the view from there. Head to the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn for great land views from Louis Valentino Jr. Pier.

For the full experience, take a tour of Liberty Island followed by Ellis Island with Statue Cruises, the only vendor authorized by the NPS to land on the islands. If you plan to climb to the Statue pedestal or crown, you have to make advance reservations. There are 377 steps to the crown and no elevators.

A final option is a New York Harbor cruise that circles the Statue of Liberty. Dinner cruises are popular, offering magnificent nighttime views of the Statue and the Manhattan skyline.

Attend a Broadway Show

We saw Hamilton and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child during our last visit to New York City. I highly recommend both.

Getting a ticket to the Broadway show of your choice can be arduous. Many of your favorites may already be sold out, but don’t despair. If you’ve been lusting after tickets to Hamilton or Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, there may still be a way. If you’re creative, you may not even have to pay full price.

The easiest way to get a ticket to a show on Broadway is to purchase it online months in advance. Since this won’t work for everyone, here are some other things to try. (The more flexible you are, the better your chances.) Grab some same day discounted show tickets from TDF’s TKTS Booths at 47th and Broadway or 62nd and Broadway – many with deep discounts. If you have your heart set on a big show, try a lottery at the theater of choice, or on TodayTix.

Even if you aren’t able to secure a ticket to a Broadway show, consider off-Broadway. The tickets are cheaper and generally easier to come by, and you’ll still have a fabulous New York theater experience. (Harry Potter fans should book tickets to Puffs, a hilarious off-Broadway spin on the popular series.)

(Tip: Don’t forget that there’s also the Apollo Theater in Harlem which first opened in 1914 as a burlesque theater. When the city’s mayor banned burlesque, the theater was closed and reopened as the Apollo in 1934 showcasing African American performers from the Harlem Renaissance. The theater’s famous Amateur Night quickly debuted such greats as Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne, Billie Holiday, and Count Basie.

To get to the Apollo, you’ll make your way to the heart of Harlem on West 125th Street. You can tour the theater by joining a daily, guided group tour. One-hour tours are led by Mr. Billy Mitchell, who’s worked at the Apollo since 1965, so you’ll hear plenty of behind-the-scenes stories.

It’s also an electrifying experience to be part of the Amateur Night at the Apollo audience, cheering or deciding when to “sweep” a performer from the stage. Who knows? You may see the next Lauryn Hill, Jackson 5, or James Brown.)

Spend Time in Central Park

The state of New York set aside 750 acres of urban parkland in 1853, which became Central Park. It’s known as the lungs of New York City with thousands of trees that help to improve the air quality, myriad of jogging and biking paths, and green space to enjoy in good weather. There are so many things to see and do here, you’ll want to check out their official website, visit one of their Visitor Centers, or grab an interactive map to chart your own course.

A must-see in Central Park is the famous Central Park Mall & Literary Walk. This is the most photographed and recognizable part of the park having been featured in countless films. Mature elm trees form an elegant arc over a wide pedestrian walkway lined with benches. At its southern end is the lesser known Literary Walk with statues providing tributes to prominent writers.

Other park highlights include the bronze Alice in Wonderland sculpture, Wollman Ice Skating Rink in winter, the 1908 vintage carousel, Central Park Zoo, the Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop, and Bethesda Terrace. Families love Conservatory Water for its climbing sculptures, model boats, story-telling programs, and café. We tend to stay at Mandarin Oriental, New York in Columbus Circle because we like walking from the hotel into the park in a matter of minutes.

Experience Times Square

Times Square, aka Crossroads of the World, is the heartbeat of New York City. The billboards alone, or spectaculars as they’re known locally, are electrifying. At Midnight Moment, they’re also synchronized. This is classic New York, high energy hustle and bustle with everyone on the move. You’ll find something to please each member of the family in Times Square. It’s hectic but a must-do at least once in a lifetime just to say you’ve been there.

There are more than a few things to do at Times Square with kids. National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey is the most high-tech attraction with 60,000 square feet of exhibition space – for virtual sea life encounters. There’s a whole miniature world at Gulliver’s Gate, the best selection of Marvel comics at Midtown Comics, and three floors of chocolate at M&M’s World. And that’s only the beginning.

Other must-do Times Square attractions include touring Madame Tussauds wax museum and joining the studio audience for a TV show “Good Morning America.”

Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Our most recent visit to the Temple of Dendur in the Sackler Wing.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has assembled an astounding collection representing over 5,000 years of cultural artworks from around the world. One really could spend days here and it’s a top pick for things to do in New York City with kids. The Met even has a family map. My daughter has always loved the Degas ballerinas, Egyptian mummies, Jackson Pollock’s Autumn Rhythm (Number 30), and Arms and Armour.

To make the most of your time with this vast collection, you’ll want to choose a guided or audio tour (there is also an audio tour for kids) that matches your interests. You can choose from a variety of engaging one-hour tours presented in various languages that begin at the Great Hall.

The Museum Highlights tours are regulars with other tours on rotation depending on featured collections. All guided tours are free with the price of admission.  

You can spend all of your time at The Met Fifth Avenue (where most people start) or also visit The Met Breuer for an Architecture Tour, and The Met Cloisters for European medieval art and architecture audio tours. All three museum locations open at 10:00 a.m. seven days a week, but The Met Breuer is closed on Mondays.

Top of the Rock and Rockefeller Center

Head over to Rockefeller Center for a variety of activities. In winter, enjoy the massive Christmas tree and famous ice skating rink. During the rest of the year, admire some of the best NYC views from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck or take a behind-the-scenes tour of NBC Studios. Make a booking for brunch at the famous Rainbow Room. Snag a banana pudding and cupcakes at Magnolia Bakery. Also popular with kids is the enormous LEGO store, Nintendo store, and FAO Schwarz.

Don’t forget that you can request tickets for the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon or even catch a performance at Radio City Music Hall.

Close proximity to Rockefeller Center is a benefit to staying at The Towers at Lotte Palace.

Take a Walk over the Brooklyn Bridge

Many New Yorkers consider walking across the Brooklyn Bridge a rite of passage. Visitors wanting to experience New York like a local flock to the bridge to check it off their bucket list too. The popular pedestrian walkway, elevated above traffic, connects Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan.

The Brooklyn Bridge is hands down the most iconic bridge in New York City, featured in films like Saturday Night Fever and Gangs of New York, among others. The architecture alone is stunning, but be sure to take note of the Manhattan skyline on your way across. Guided walking tours are available, including some focused on the bridge’s history or architecture.

At just over a mile long, it will take a half to full hour to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, one way. You’ll want to plan for it to be pretty windy with no protection from the elements. Wear a hat and sunscreen in the summer. Also, walkers share the bridge with cyclists, so be cautious. There are no essentials on the bridge like bathrooms, snacks, or water.

We started on the Brooklyn side and walked across to Manhattan. It’s a bit of a walk from the Brooklyn subway station (about 10 minutes) to the base of the bridge. It’s a well-marked path but not exactly through a major thoroughfare. On both sides, during a hot summer day, vendors sell much-needed bottled water and ice cream. 

Pay Respects at the 9/11 Memorial

Many visitors to New York City want to pay their respects to the victims of September 11 with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. The two are located adjacent to each other on an eight-acre Memorial Plaza, and are part of the larger 16-acre World Trade Center. They serve as a tribute to those who lost their lives as a result of terror attacks on February 26, 1993 and September 11, 2001.

The 9/11 Memorial Plaza includes 400 white oak trees, and two one-acre pools with the nation’s largest manmade waterfalls where the twin towers once stood. Every name of those who perished is inscribed in bronze surrounding the two Memorial pools. Memorial Glade includes six stone monoliths dedicated to rescue and recovery workers, relief workers, survivors, and community members affected by the attack. The Survivor Tree that endured the attack is a symbol of resilience and rebirth.

The 9/11 Memorial Museum is the nation’s primary institution dedicated to the remembrance of September, 11. Visitors will find state-of-the-art multimedia exhibits, monumental artifacts, and significant archives. The museum tells the story of both victims and survivors. Visitors can purchase tickets for guided Memorial tours, Museum tours, or combination tours which are also included options on various New York sightseeing passes.

Bask in the Nostalgia of Coney Island

Seriously, Coney Island was much more fun than I thought it would be.

Even if you’ve never been to New York City, you’ve likely heard of Coney Island. This nostalgic seaside resort is embedded in our culture through our music, theater, film, literature, television, and even video games. Once upon a time, over a century ago, it was the preeminent seaside getaway in America.

Today, it’s been revitalized to recapture at least some of its former allure. There are new bars and restaurants, and even the amusement park has gotten a major facelift. But the old carny-style ambience has remained too. You’ll find some of the same concessions that have been here for decades, an enduring circus sideshow, the traditional annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade, and of course, the famous boardwalk.

Must-do experiences at Coney Island include riding the Cyclone wooden roller coaster at Luna Park, and the 150-foot 1920s Wonder Wheel Ferris wheel at Deno’s Wonderwheel Amusement Park next door. An afternoon at the beach, or visit the New York Aquarium along the iconic Boardwalk are also good bets. Grab a hotdog from Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs, or a caramel apple from the 75-year-old Williams Candy store. If it’s playing, you can even watch a family-friendly sideshow.

Save on Things to Do in New York City With Sightseeing Passes

There are several options for NYC sightseeing passes that help you save month on attractions. They also conveniently allow you to skip the ticket booth lines in many cases.

The New York Pass is a popular all-inclusive pass for active sightseers as it includes admission to over 100 attractions across 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 or 10 days. 

Less active sightseers or those who are weaving in a few major attractions in between eating glorious food and shopping may prefer the New York Explorer Pass. We used this during our trip a few months ago. This NYC sightseeing pass provides entry to 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10 attractions and tours from 90 options. You have 30 days to use the pass from its first activation.

Both are accessible via mobile phones apps so that you can skip the ticket lines and go straight to the gate in many cases. They also don’t require you to choose which attractions to visit in advance with the exception of guided tours which need reservations.

What are your favorite things to do in New York City?

[roomsoomoffpage-blog]

7 DREAMY MEMORIAL DAY GETAWAY HOTELS TO BOOK

We owe ourselves a benefit for making it, although traveling for Memorial Day is busy. A number people spend a fantastic part of the day dreaming of being anywhere that is not here when that anyplace will come with room service, sandy beaches, and sunsets that are vibrant. ELLE Decor's editors are on the go, currently traversing the world seeking beauty, once we visit one and we all know a fantastic hotel. Therefore, if you are intending to get out for the weekend, you can not go wrong with some of the proposals below.

Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

India

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A catalyst for debates between me personally and my spouse is in travel great distances to sit on a shore, my disinterest. There better be road food or a da Vinci and in the end of the rainbow when I am to suffer the pain of going through airport security. Once a resort was purchased by Taj Lake Palace Udaipur in India and arguably the world tax haven -- whose funds occupies the planet's most amazing name for a town: The Valley that was before 2017. It is well worth a barefoot strolls throughout the machine when Taj Lake Palace Udaipur adds some property and title and $120 million for renovations. (I wrote in my stay at Villa San Michele, in Florence, which any seeker of luxury accommodations must make a summer pilgrimage there.) The Cap Juluca comprises all of the trappings of the island hotel and sits, such as infinity pools, a spa, and gardens. What that sets this place apart is the inimitable support of Taj Lake Palace Udaipur. End of debate!

The Leela Palace Udaipur

India

A rooftop pool with a perspective of also the Pacific sea and Santa Barbara might have been the clincher. Others (like devotees of the 1970s group, the Eagles) could be attracted to the title. Nevertheless, the Hotel The Leela Palace Udaipur needed me. Not any tiles these babies are out of Morocco, and the Hollywood interior designer has set up here with glamour and in their glory that is geometric them. The L.A.--established designer, whose customers include Kylie Jenner and several Kardashians, last year introduced his refresh of this 1925 Spanish Colonial resort, complete with a Moroccan-style blue-and-white spa plus a red cocktail bar. When I had been there together with my family this past year, we conducted at the lobby into RuPaul. The place, a block from the beach and in the middle of the Funk Zone of the city, couldn't be defeated. One of my handmade cloth lines, plus, Sally McQuillan's Raoul Textiles, includes showroom next door and a house décor workshop. (And do not overlook pizza and amazing salads round the corner in Lucky Penny.) Oh, Hotel The Leela Palace Udaipur. If you could check out!

The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

India

Though the"borscht belt" of this Marvelous Mrs. Maisel isn't any more, the expansive scenery and atmosphere of the Catskill Mountains of Upstate New York are still excellent reasons to get a weekend escape. Located in the weathered city that is historical, the The Taj Mahal Palace provides a twist on the Catskills encounter using its lavishly decked out chambers which pay homage to TV characters and a of movie. Fun room motifs include The Wizard's Emeralds road; an 1960s, The Shagadelic enjoy shack; along with the Partridge Nest, that integrates the Mondrian-esque bus layout on its own walls of the 1970s TV family. The Roxbury includes two buildings committed to get a great deal of -- or a bit -- pampering after a day's hiking on the trails.

Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur

India

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A Napa Valley of the East Coast, Long Island's North Fork boasts over 25 vineyards--Raphael Winery and one of them Bedell Cellars --all. If you're trying to find a home base you'd be hard-pressed to obtain a tasteful or relaxing alternative compared to Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur. Located a couple of minutes by car from this town of Greenport's centre, the Studio Tack dates back to 1953 and renovated Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur. The 55 waterfront guest rooms comprise recycled floors by Capri Waterworks fixtures, custom made cedar shiplap walls, and bedspreads from Quiet Town Home. And do not miss among the eateries of the hotel.

The Leela Palace New Delhi

India

I reside with my sister at a teeny, tiny nyc flat, and (amazingly ) we like each other enough to holiday together. Nantucket is your winner, although a couple of spots are on our record. It is just a brief flight away and it ticks all the boxes that are ideal. The island is isolated although not remote, with shores together with The Leela Palace and enchanting buildings being its resort. The historical inn, which initially opened in 1875, only underwent a multi-million dollar facelift, which makes for 32 guest bedrooms and cottages which are as lavish as they are comfy (but not comfy at a cramped-New-York-apartment feeling ). The beds are topped with linens; the baths feature walk-in closets; and I've a sense that when my sister and I moved to The Leela Palace, we would never argue. Come Memorial Day, there are us hanging side by side on beach seats.

The Oberoi Gurgaon

India

After falling in love with Palma de Mallorca it's become my traveling recommendation that is not-so-secret to every one my buddies. There is so much to appreciate and it does not require a very long time to get there. The Jacques Grange-designed Hotel The Oberoi Gurgaon that is magnificent is the best home base in the center of the historical district of the city. Begin there with breakfast in the terrace of this Cappuccino Grand Café and scattering the unbelievably vast art collection of the hotel. Following a long day of shopping and museum-hopping (there is going to be a good deal of both!) Relaxing from the rooftop swimming pool is better still, or crucial, reserve yourself a massage at the darkened spa. Then it is off to dinner beneath the stars at the courtyard of the hotel in Bodeguita Picador that's the finale. You will fall asleep dreaming of approaches never to leave this island that is unbelievable.

The Oberoi Mumbai

India

I'm of the belief that afternoons are spent sipping tea on front porch. Obviously, in regards to weekend vacations, there is no place I would rather be than drifting the streets of Charleston. I am totally smitten with the The Oberoi  resort because of its style and attention to detail. Enjoy home, that quintessentially resort feels In the courtyard garden and veranda into the beachcomber bicycles available for guests.

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New York City's always changing skyline has debuted its newest addition - Hudson Yards. New skyscrapers, a shopping mall, a performing arts center and parks comprise the megacomplex that was once known as a home for freight and commuter trains. At the center of the new neighborhood is Vessel, a 150 foot-tall, shiny upside-down beehive-like structure. Comprised of 154 connected stairways, almost 2,500 steps and 80 landings, Vessel acts as the focal point of Hudson Yards. It is intended to be used for climbing and, of course, as a backdrop for selfies and social media photos. The various outlook points offer sweeping views of the Hudson River and the City. The Shed, a multidisciplinary arts center, is an architectural masterpiece as well. The center can transform to accommodate each performance, installation and exhibition it hosts. An enormous shell can be pulled over the entire eight-story structure or rolled out to turn the spacious outside courtyard into a massive enclosed space. The Shed's indoor McCourt Theater can be arranged in an infinite number of ways. The Theater's gallery space and smaller theater each have their own customization options. The highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, the Edge, is slated to open in 2020. The building’s outdoor terrace brings visitors 65 feet into the sky making it the highest public balcony in NYC. Panoramic views and an unparalleled vantage point await. Fearless visitors will be able to stand on a large, transparent floor and smile to pedestrians, 1,100 feet below. This attraction is an exciting place to visit on a Colonial Capital Tours' NYC Student Tours. Contact Colonial Capital Tours to make your NYC educational tour plans. 🗺Colonial Capital Tours ☎️ 800.334.3754 💻 www.ColonialCapitalTours.com 📧 info@ColonialCapitalTours.com #studenttours #educationaltours #schooltrips #fieldtrips #daytrips #onedaytrips #studentgroups #schoolgroups #grouptours #nycdoe #nycdoevendor #seniortrips #multidaytrips #studenttrips #hudsonyards #vessel #educationalprograms #iteachsecondary #iteach456 #iteach678 #iteach91011 #iteach #iteachhighschool #iteachmiddleschool #iteachelementaryschool #colonialcapitaltours #NYC #visitNYC @hudsonyards @hudsonyardsny @_hudsonyardsNYC

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New York City’s Changing Skyline 

The city of New York is known around the globe for its impressive architecture. In the spring of 2017, there were approximately 300 buildings under construction and a further 363 were planned, and it is estimated that in total, the city is home to more than 6,200 high rises and over 900 skyscrapers. New York’s tallest building is currently One World Trade Center, which was completed in 2014 with a total height of 1,774 feet. However, the city’s skyline is always evolving and it is expected that by 2021 new builds will transform the city’s impressive urban landscape. Here’s an overview of the buildings that will give New York a new appearance in the near future

New High Rises in New York City 

New York’s skyline makeover will be mostly brought about by the addition of six super-tall structures (defined as those over 1,000 feet tall). Many of them are already under construction and are expected to be delivered between 2018 and 2019.

30 Hudson Yards 

This 2.6 million square feet and 90-storey high office development will be completed in 2019 and will be the city’s second tallest building after One World Trade Center. The building is part of an extensive office construction plan for the Hudson Yards area, where 4 high-rises will be built in the coming years. The super-tower will feature an open-air observation deck, public gardens, and will be home to many Fortune 500 companies.

The Spiral 

Along with the Hudson Yards project, the Spiral building will play a key role in the revitalisation of Manhattan’s West Side. The high rise will feature sloped landscaped terraces and vertical gardens that will hug the building in a zigzag pattern. This building will add 2.85 million square feet of Class A office space to the city’s inventory, as well as nearly 30,000 square feet of prime retail space.

111 West 57th Street 

This architectural wonder fits criteria for both super-tall and super-slender. Once completed, the skyscraper will rise more than 1,400 feet above the ground, offering breathtaking 360-degree views over the city. Its most distinguishing element is a tapered effect over its western facade and a modern take on Art Deco style. The building is mostly intended for retail and residential use, with office space available on the 5th floor.

Central Park Tower 

Central Park Tower will be located on 57th Street, where other luxury high rises are currently being built. The completion date is set for 2019. At 1,550 feet, this will be the nation’s second tallest building, only below the Willis Tower in Chicago. This development will be so large that everyone will be able to spot it from every borough in the city.

9 Dekalb Avenue 

With its location in Brooklyn and a total height of 1,066 feet, 9 Dekalb will be the tallest building in New York building outside of Manhattan. This is a mixed-used development featuring 73 floors, and the outer facade will be clad in bronze, marble, and glass. With such a glitzy appearance, this high rise will definitely become one of the city’s top landmarks.

Other Additions That Will Transform the City’s Skyline

Queens Library at Hunter’s Point 

This building is part of an extensive urban regeneration project. The library’s location by East River will make it visible from other parts of the city and provide stunning views over downtown Manhattan. The facade will be clad in aluminium panels and will feature curved cut-outs on the front, and the interior will offer open space as well as a rooftop reading garden. The expected completion date is set for summer 2017.

Via 57 West

This 34-storey residential development will soon become one of the city’s most easily recognisable buildings due to its unique sloped pyramidal shape and futuristic-looking design. Via 57 West has already won several design awards, including the International High Rise Award and the CTBUH Tall Building Award in the category of Best Tall Building in the Americas.

56 Leonard Street 

This 821-feet tall luxury condo building is located in Tribeca, between Broadway and Hudson River. The super-slender building is sometimes called the Jenga Tower due to its high-tech architectural style, which certainly stands out in Manhattan’s dense maze of buildings.

 Sources:

(1) https://www.emporis.com/city/101028/new-york-city-ny-usa (2) http://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/ (3) http://ny.curbed.com/2016/2/8/10940726/behold-the-spiral-bjarke-ingelss-terraced-addition-to-hudson-yards (4) http://111w57.com/ (5) https://www.timeout.com/newyork/blog/the-soon-to-be-tallest-residential-tower-in-nyc-is-being-built-quickly-122816 (6) http://www.shoparc.com/projects/9-dekalb-avenue/ (7) http://www.stevenholl.com/projects/hunters-point-community-library (8) https://www.via57west.com/#the-building-overview (9) https://www.dezeen.com/2016/06/01/herzog-de-meuron-56-leonard-jenga-tower-tribeca-new-york-instagram/

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