HOW TO SELECT THE BEST HOTEL FOR YOUR STAY IN NEW YORK

Preparing for your vacation is the most exciting yet confusing thing you do. As much we love to take a break from our daily routine tasks and leave for vacations, but we don’t want to enter the difficulty of selecting a hotel to stay.

Selecting the best hotel is essential for your vacation as the hotel is the core of your travel plans. Depending on whether you’re travelling for business or personal vacation, here is a list of what should you consider while you plan your stay at New York Hotels.




LOCATION

The location is the most important factor while planning your visit at the hotel as the location should be convenient enough to go around the city without getting into traffic or travelling a lot. The best hotels are situated in the centre of the towns and are near to many tourists’ spots, clubs, restaurants and other business avenues.

PRICE

Before planning our vacation, we decide on the budget we have to finance the holiday. The price of the hotel is one of the essential factors as we don’t want to spend too much on the hotel only which leaves us with little budget for rest of the vacation plans.

AMENITIES

While your stay in New York, you will need many accessories which are will be provided by the hotel included in the original rate or charged separately. 4 and 5-star hotels are adding amenities and features in their package to provide exceptional services to the clients, but many hotels still charge the customers for different features. Before selecting a hotel, you need to check the rates of exclusive amenities and make your decision accordingly.

STARS TO HOTELS

A number of stars provided to the hotel are a great sign of deciding about the quality of the hotel, the services they will offer and the rates they will charge you for your stay. The stars are also an easy way to compare different hotels which fall under the one-star section and decide on the features they provide. All the hotels are fighting to increase their star rating as it gives them a chance to increase their rates. Find more on the best 5 star hotels in New York on trip advisor.

FACILITIES AND FOOD

Like mentioned, with increasing competition, hotels are struggling on providing different features to the customer which can attract them and provide them with customer loyalty. People have started spending more time in the hotels and their on-site facilities, and therefore, different hotels offer separate facilities including swimming pools, restaurants, breakfast, spas, restaurants or golf courses. These add up to the entertainment of the vacation and is preferred by clients much. The trend of hosting different events in hotels for the customer entertainment also adds to the list.
Next time you’re travelling for your stay in New York, look for these steps and make your vacation memorable and entertaining, in the budget.

SAFETY

New York is not as dangerous as people think. New York, and especially midtown Manhattan, is one of the safest big cities in the U.S. In fact, fewer crimes are committed per capita in New York than in 20 other U.S. cities. Furthermore, the rate for violent crimes has plummeted in the last few years and is still on the decline.

A few common-sense tips:

- Don't handle money in public; and leave flashy possessions at home, they only attract attention.
- Be aware of your location. Try always to know where you are and where you are going.
- If you are walking alone, try to stay near other people, i.e.; attach yourself to groups of people walking in the same area.
- Don't let yourself believe that staying in a "good" neighborhood protects you from crime. Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Don't leave your possessions unattended, not even for a second.
- Keep your belongings, such as your purse or wallet, firmly attached to your person. Be wary of pickpockets and purse-snatchers, especially in crowded areas.
- Don't ever be afraid to cross the street if a situation doesn't feel right or to shout for help if somebody is bothering you.
- Don't take the subway late at night or very early in the morning, especially if you are unfamiliar with the stations and the subway itself.

Find more tips on safety here

Remember to buy a travel insurance. Depending on where you live you can read more on these links:
Reiseversicherung für USA (Germany)
Rejseforsikringer (Denmark)
Insubuy
AXA Insurance


AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION

Hotels do not provide their own shuttle services, unless you are paying for a room that has a car and driver included in the rate (i.e., the Pinnacle Suites at the RIHGA Royal).


AirTrain: There are pros and cons to using AirTrain from JFK or Newark airports to Midtown (or vice versa). The pros are that it's inexpensive, and trains are not slowed by traffic which is a very common problem around New York. The con is that you have to wait for 2-3 different train connections, and then walk from the train through the station out to the street to get a cab to/from your hotel in Midtown (all the while schlepping your luggage). It's so much easier just climbing aboard a cab or shuttle at the airport and being delivered right to your hotel (and vice versa).

AirTrain between Newark Airport & Manhattan
Rather than replicating directions, we'll just direct you to the official Port Authority site. The rail line that connects Newark terminals is one end of your journey, and Penn Station (32nd & 7th Ave) is the other. You change trains in the city of Newark, NJ.

AirTrain between JFK Airport & Manhattan
Go to the Port Authority site for full information. You'll catch AirTrain in JFK which will take you to the hub where you can connect with the LIRR at Jamaica Station ; the E, J/Z subways at Jamaica Station; the A subway at Howard Beach Station.

Take AirTrain to connect to the following MTA trains and subways: the LIRR at Jamaica Station ($4.75 off-peak to $6.75 peak to Penn Station); the E, J/Z subways at Jamaica Station ($2 to Midtown); the A subway at Howard Beach Station ($2 to Midtown)
Cabs: NYC taxis are the most direct and most convenient way to travel, especially for 2 - 3 people. Outside baggage claim, there will always be a taxi stand and all you need to do is get in line. Typical fares from the airports are $25-$35 from LaGuardia, and $45-$55 from both Kennedy and Newark. Of course, traffic congestion plays a role in the cost of a cab ride. You will also need to pay bridge and tunnel tolls (a few bucks) between the airport and Manhattan (keep your receipts). All NYC cabs should have an official "medallion" on the right front hood.

If a "black car" limo driver offers you a ride because they're not busy, be aware that this is not exactly legal but can be a great way to travel compared to a taxi! Be sure to negotiate a fare in advance of entering the limo. We'd suggest the above cab fare averages as a starting point.

Bus: The city bus is the least expensive, and it travels only to and from the Port Authority Bus Station on 8th Avenue and 42nd Street. You may have to take a cab to/from your hotel from/to Port Authority. The bus service can take up to 2 hours; so if time is money, try other means of transportation. Bus plus a cab fare will end up costing about as much as Super Shuttle.

Shuttle: These are large vans that provide pick-up and drop-off service for most major hotels in Midtown. The cost is approximately $17 to/from each airport. In the airport, go to the Ground Transportation Desk near the baggage claim and they will steer you in the right direction. Wait time for shuttles runs up to 20-30 minutes and delivery to your hotel can take 60 to 90 minutes. Reservations are not required, but if you don't have a reservation and the first shuttle is full you will have to wait for the next one. You can book online now and save the hassle. If two to four of you are traveling together, we find taking a cab or limo is a more efficient alternative. But if you're traveling alone, the shuttle is a great way to save money.

Black Car (limo): See Car Services for information on using limo (or "black car") services. Riding in these vehicles is a big step up from riding in a cab, and they aren't always that much more expensive. We recommend them for executives, for multiple riders sharing the fare (up to 4 riders usually), and especially for special occasions. Before or after a stressful, tiring flight you'll find it's very easy to justify (at least in YOUR mind!) the extra expense and personalized service.

Exploring New Horizons with the Polestar 2: A Travel Guide with an Emphasis on Car Insurance

Traveling by car offers a sense of freedom and adventure that is hard to match. For those who own a Polestar 2, this experience is heightened by the vehicle’s cutting-edge technology, comfort, and environmental considerations. As you plan your next road trip in this electric marvel, understanding the importance of having comprehensive car insurance cannot be overstated. Here's a detailed guide to making the most of your journeys with the Polestar 2, with a special focus on the necessity of proper insurance coverage.

Why Choose Polestar 2 for Travel?

Electric Efficiency: The Polestar 2, renowned for its electric propulsion system, provides an efficient and quiet ride, making it ideal for long-distance travel. Its range of approximately 292 miles (470 kilometers) on a single charge (depending on the model and driving conditions) means you can cover significant distances with fewer stops for recharging.

Advanced Features: With its intuitive infotainment system powered by Google’s Android OS, drivers have access to real-time navigation updates, traffic conditions, and more, directly from the dashboard. This connectivity ensures that you can plan your route effectively, locating charging stations conveniently along the way.

Comfort and Design: The Polestar 2 doesn’t compromise on comfort or space. The minimalist Scandinavian design maximizes interior space, making it perfect for travelers with luggage. Additionally, the high-performance audio system and climate control features provide a pleasant and comfortable environment, regardless of external weather conditions.

The Importance of Car Insurance for Your Polestar 2

While the joys of traveling in a Polestar 2 are many, it’s crucial to safeguard this experience with the right car insurance. Here are several reasons why:

Protection Against the Unexpected: Road trips often come with their share of surprises. Comprehensive car insurance ensures that you are covered in the event of theft, accidents, natural disasters, and other unforeseen incidents. This type of coverage is especially important for electric vehicles like the Polestar 2, where repair costs can be higher due to specialized parts and technology.

Liability Coverage: Accidents can happen to even the most cautious drivers. Liability insurance is essential as it covers damage that you might cause to other vehicles, property, or individuals. This protection is not just a legal requirement in many regions but also a crucial financial safeguard.

Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vehicle is insured can enhance your travel experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey and exploring new destinations. With insurance, you can rest assured that you’re protected against major financial and legal headaches.

Adapting Insurance to Electric Vehicles: Owners of electric cars such as the Polestar 2 should consider insurance policies that cater specifically to the needs of EVs. Look for plans that cover potential battery malfunctions, charging accidents, or issues related to the electric drivetrain.

Planning Your Road Trip in the Polestar 2

Pre-Trip Inspection: Before setting off, ensure your Polestar 2 is in top condition. Check the tire pressure, fluid levels, and ensure that the software is up to date.

Route Planning: Utilize the Polestar 2’s navigation systems to plan your route around available charging stations. Apps like Google Maps and PlugShare can be invaluable for this purpose.

Pack Appropriately: Even though the Polestar 2 offers ample space, packing efficiently can save you from unnecessary clutter. Consider essentials for charging your vehicle, like adapters and power cables, in addition to your luggage.

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather conditions and road updates along your route. Advanced planning can help you avoid bad weather and roadworks, making your trip smoother.

Traveling with the Polestar 2 opens up a range of possibilities for adventure and leisure. By ensuring that you have robust car insurance, you not only protect your vehicle but also secure peace of mind, making your travels truly enjoyable. Whether you’re cruising down scenic byways or navigating bustling city streets, the Polestar 2 equipped with the right insurance is ready for the journey.

Visit These Vineyards in Bordeaux

In many areas of the world, people can travel through wine country and stop at any of the vineyards and wineries that pique their interests along the way. However, over in Bordeaux, all vineyard and winery visits must be scheduled in advance. This may seem like an inconvenience to some people, but it is actually best, as they get to plan ahead and limit their travel to only the ones that they want to see the most. Plus, they can guarantee that they get a set amount of time to really see how things are done in the location that they are visiting and can try the fabulous wines of their choice without rushing.

Here are the vineyards everyone must visit in Bordeaux:

Château Pape-Clément

This vineyard is the oldest one that has been continuously planted within Bordeaux, which makes it quite popular amongst those who visit this area. They harvested their 700th vintage wine crop not that many years ago, so they definitely know what they are doing with the wine making process. There are at least thirty hectares of both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and everyone can grab photos of them as they glisten under the shining sun. Of course, they also grow and harvest other grapes, just in smaller amounts, to use in some of their other wines. If you drive a Tesla it also possible to charge it at the vineyard.

https://www.chateau-pape-clement.fr/

Domaine de Chevalier

This winery and estate are owned by Olivier Bernard, and he lives there as well. Inside, there is a bottling facility that is used by his multiple estates, which ensures that it is almost always in use. Visitors that schedule the tour will learn about this estate and all the owner’s other estates, while also seeing the cement vats and the oak egg. A few people may even catch a glimpse of the unique cellar.

http://www.domainedechevalier.com/

Château Mouton Rothschild

This winery can be found slightly to the northwest of Bordeaux and numerous varieties of grapes are grown there for different wines. This is one of the only vineyards in the area that still chooses to ferment their wine in oak vats before placing them in oak casks to finish the maturing process.

https://www.chateau-mouton-rothschild.com/

Château Maison Noble de Saint Martin

This winery used to be a castle until it was almost destroyed during the French Revolution. It was restored to its full beauty during the 19th century and is now used to create delectable wines. Visitors can take a tour, or they can simply sit back and relax while tasting some award-winning wines.

https://www.maisonnoblesaintmartin.com/

These are some of the best vineyards and wineries in the Bordeaux region, but everyone will need to decide which one interests them the most. Then they can schedule a visit to find a new wine or two that they can order by the case and have sent back home to savor in the future.

The Top 3 Unique Hotels in Europe

Europe can’t help but be an interesting place. It has history, various landscapes and a whole melting pot of different cultures. It only seems fitting then that this continent have some pretty intriguing hotels to go along with all the rest of its unique features. If you want a well rounded experience on your next trip to Europe, try checking out some of these unique hotels.



Strahov Monastery: Prague
Named a national historic landmark, this former monastery is now a working hotel. Located in this 17th century building are 12 rooms open to guests. While the building may be historic, the rooms have been renovated to include flat screen TVs, a mini bar and fast internet connections. There are stunning views of the Prague Castle as well as the Old Town.

Aydinli Cave House: Turkey
This boutique hotel is family owned and located within the caves of Cappadocia. Aside from its truly unique location, each room is decorated in an earthy style that perfectly resembles the location. Around the hotel, carvings can be found and each part of the hotel was once used for different purposes like grape crushing for wine. Guests will experience a buffet of traditional Turkish foods and have the option of joining in on traditional Turkish cooking lessons, a kilim-weaving tour and belly dancing shows.

V8 Hotel: Germany
If you are a car lover, you’re going to love this hotel. It offers over 30 rooms which have all been decorated according to a car theme such as the Cadillac drive in movie theater from the 1970s. Other room themes include a garage and car wash as well. The hotel also offers cooking classes, a brewery, a restaurant and a hall that features classic cars. A stay here is unique for anyone but especially interesting for all of those car lovers out there.

The Top Hotels in Venice

After wandering the antiquated alleys and secret passageways around Venice, you will probably look forward to resting up at your hotel. The city is full of gorgeous canals, delicious gelato and stunning architecture, but when the time comes to head back to your place of comfort, you may be grateful for a comfortable place to stay. If you are in need of hotel suggestions for you upcoming trip to Venice, check out these top places.



Hotel Ai Reali
If you are looking for a hotel with an elegant twist, this one is your place. Keeping with the traditional Venetian style, the interior design has been carefully planned out to emulate the artistic vision of the city itself. It’s located in walking distance to Rialto Bridge, has free WIFI, a restaurant and a garden. Rooms feature wooden floors, free toiletries and in some cases, views of the canals. There is a bar, a buffet breakfast and the natural life going on outside in this location at the heart of the city.

Canal Grande
This boutique hotel offers an experience of history, classic design and a modern take on the city. The rooms are both luxurious and equipped with ample space while the hotel itself is set in the heart of the city where you can head out on the terrace and get a view of the Grand Canal. Guests can enjoy the meeting rooms, bar, 24-hour room service and a private dock for catching water taxis around the city.

UNA Hotel Venezia
While this hotel is located in a peaceful setting, it is just perfectly positioned within walking distance from St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. The rooms all feature WIFI, flat screen TVs and even a pillow menu that offers different sizes and types of pillows for your maximum comfort. Enjoy the buffet breakfast, lounge, bar and the free coffee, tea and prosecco on offer before dinner.