Sunshine in the City

April in Paris has nothing on May in New York City. The "city that never sleeps" lights up in May as spring bulbs and flowering trees ex- plode with color in Central Park. Restaurants move their cafe tables out onto the sidewalks and farmers markets and festivals set up all over Manhattan.

For a weekend, book a room at the iconic Plaza Hotel, located just steps away from Central Park. When it opened its doors more than 100 years ago in 1907, the newspapers declared it “ the greatest hotel in the world.”

The Plaza has played host to the most wealthy in the world, from the Vanderbilts and the Rockefellers, to actors, scions of business, artists, ambassadors and princes have all called The Plaza home be it for a night.

It has been written about in novels and featured in countless films. Built by financier Bernhard Beinecke, and hotelier’s Fred Sterry, and Harry Black. It replaced a hotel on the same site by the same name. To this day the hotel has been preserved or restored to most of its original look. The jewel of the Plaza may be The Palm Court with its magnificent stain glass ceil- ing. Once covered over now restored to its glory. High tea in the Palm Court is truly a memorable experience. From the moment you walk in the iron doors through the orchid lined foyer under a magnificent chandelieryou know you are in for a treat. It just may be the icing on the cake for any visit to the city.

For an elegant dinner within walking distance of the hotel, Benoit New York is our favorite. A contemporary French bistro by world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Led by Executive Chef Laetitia Rouabah, Benoit delivers a quintessential Parisian bistro experience with a twist. The restaurant defines authenticity through its inspired French fare, expert culinary techniques, and first-class hospitality. In addition, the Wine Bar's team of sommeliers shed light on a selection of vari- etals from France and the United States. Innovative offerings include Vermouth and dessert pairings, a rotation of original wine flights, as well as "Vin à la Ficelle" - a practice common in France but rarely seen in New York. The space was designed in collaboration with Dekar Design, reimagining Parisian cafes to be more comfortable and residential, yet modern. From the ambiance, location, service and food Benoit will be your plus favori.

After strolling through the park, shopping on Fifth tea and dinner you will be ready to head back to your room. Just as comfortable as it is elegant the rooms are well appointed. The gold mosaic tiling in the bathrooms is beautiful, and The Plaza is one of the only hotels in the world with 24-karat gold sinks and fixtures. The bath products are all from the legendary French perfume house Guerlain, which also run the hotel spa.

The Plaza lives up to its Hype. It has been the scene of some of the most famous events and wildest parties, like Truman Capotes legendary Black and White ball in 1966. So the next time you’r in New York I’ll see you at the Champagne Bar.