3 minute read
Love New York? Hate New York. And then there are those moments when you’re standing on an incredibly bustling street with a steaming cup of coffee in hand, ready for the day ahead of you. Hours later, your phone battery is almost dead, your feet ache, and the thought of traveling across town to dine seems like some sort of personal challenge. This is why finding the perfect “base” matters much more than many people realize.
How You Stay Determines The Pacing Of Your Entire Visit
New York City isn’t a single trip. Instead, it consists of countless individual trips. Therefore, the location where you begin each trip, where you stop to eat, how far you are away from the nearest subway station, and whether you can return to your room to rest for a little while before venturing out again all contribute to your overall experience of visiting New York City.
Therefore, having a great “home base” provides relief from a sense of urgency. It allows you to visit places without making every excursion a mission. It also gives you time to relax after visiting several attractions. You may decide to venture out early, return to your hotel to recharge, and still have plenty of energy to dine, drink, or simply stroll around a new neighborhood that was not part of your original plans.
Flexibility Is Under-Appreciated
Choosing a location that isn’t automatically considered part of the “center” may provide more opportunity for a great experience.
Many tourists immediately think they should stay in Midtown because it seems central. While Midtown can certainly be convenient, it is not always the best choice. At times, the best decision would be to find a neighborhood that offers relatively fast access to Manhattan but also offers a chance to really experience living in a unique community.
Brooklyn is particularly attractive for this exact reason. You get access to local restaurants, cafes, parks, stunning skyline views, and a more “lived-in” pace of life. All while remaining close enough to the traditional destinations of Manhattan.
If you are looking for a Brooklyn hotel with pools, this is typically because you wish to add more than just a place to sleep during your excursions throughout the city. You want a destination that adds value to your trip.
The Ideal Base Offers Choices
What defines the ideal hotel is not necessarily its flashiness. What defines the ideal hotel is how easily it enhances your day.
When searching for a hotel, consider how accessible public transportation is. This is important regardless of which borough you plan to travel between. Additionally, pay attention to what types of amenities exist within walking distance. These can range from cafes open until late at night, to convenience stores open at odd hours, or a peaceful area to sit and read.
Consider how you generally approach your travel experiences. Do you tend to pack your schedule full with activity and wish to easily come and go? Then consider staying in a location that facilitates your ability to do so. Conversely, do you tend to favor relaxing morning routines? Then consider staying in an area where there is enough to see and do before leaving for another destination.
