Take Five from the Daily 9-5: Warm Up @The Best Hot Chocolate Spots in The City

'Tis not the season to be scrounging on the extra calories, but I beg of you, don't go to Starbucks for the hot chocolate this Holiday Season. Sure they have the festive red and white paper cups, but they have not refined the hot chocolate making precision as well as the following New York eateries. Run into the City and try one of these hot chocolate drinks and you'll be sure to get into the Holiday Spirit!

1. Hot Chocolate in The Palm Court the Plaza Hotel

Christmas time in the City is all about tradition. While you take your yearly trip into the city to check out traditional sites such as Rockafeller center, the Swavorski Star, and the Holiday window displays at Fifth Avenue's flagship department stores, stop into The Plaza Hotel for a cup of their perfectly steamed hot chocolate. As world-renowned as spots such as Bergdorf Goodman and Tavern on the Green, this spot is sure to fit into your classic New York City Holiday outing.

Also, be sure to check out The Shops at The Plaza. The newly redesigned center is on the basement floor of the hotel and features the amazing photography of Peter Lik at the Peter Lik Gallery and clothing boutiques such as Nicole Romano and Emanuel Ungaro.

Located at Central Park South

2. Dylan's Candy Bar

If you're looking to feel like a kid in a candy store this Holiday Season, go no further than Dylan's Candy Bar. Created by Dylan Lauren, a.k.a. Ralph Lauren's daughter, the three level shop is filled from ceiling to floor in all things sweet, becoming a candy haven for people of all ages! On the top floor you can find her deliciously rich, and uniquely flavored hot chocolate drinks, perfect for an outing with the kids!

Located at 1011 3rd Avenue

3. Serendipity 3

Home to some of the best comfort food in New York and a record-breaking $25,000 gold-infused chocolate mousse, this spot is an Upper East Side favorite for locals and a host of celebrities. While I know many of us aren't about to drop 25k on a dessert, why not gather up a group of friends to share in on the humongous frozen hot chocolate- an original twist on a classic favorite!

Located at 225 East 60th Street

4. City Bakery

Home of THE BEST chocolate and vegan chocolate chip cookies in the world, City Bakery also makes one of the creamiest hot chocolate recipes I've had the pleasure of trying! Topped with a thick, homemade marshmallow, you are sure to feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Don't forget the side order of their chocolate chip cookies!

Located at 3 West 18th Street

Take Five from the Daily 9-5 @The Bryant Park Holiday Market

Now that the Holiday Season has officially taken off, and our stomach's are coated with Holiday cheer from the massive amounts of Thanksgiving stuffing, it's now time to start our Holiday shopping!

And, yes, this is the grueling, once a year task we all begin with a big *sigh*. If any one is like me, with fall semester final exams, a hectic work schedule, and a daily commute into the city, you know we have little time to worry about giving the perfect gift this Holiday season!

Then we procrastinate and we procrastinate until it comes down to final countdown. We just find ourselves spending more money and buying gifts we never really intended to buy for our loved ones. This is why I have found a quick and easy stop for busy Hoboken commuters to find the most unique and cheap gifts your family and friends are sure to love!

Amongst the festive Bryant Park Ice Skating rink and The Bryant Park Cafe, you will find Bryant Park's Holiday Market; a endless marketplace of one-of-a-kind boutiques selling everything from fine art to houseware to sports gear.

What to look for at the Market:
Sabon: soaps, suds, and scrubs to give you that spa pampered feel
(Hint, hint Mom and Dad)

Brooklyn Made: Brooklyn bound gifts fit to suite your favorite hipster
Holiday Tree: Unique decorations to adorn your family's tree for generations

Kizmet Yoga Gear: All the gear you need to kickstart the new you in 2011

New West Knifeworks: featured in November's Details Magazine, the multifunctional knife for every cut


Whether you chose to sneak a peak during your lunch hour or gander under the brightly lit holiday lights after work with Lily O' Brien's famous hot chocolate shots.

Remember to pick up some of the most delicious eateries for last minute stocking stuffers:
The Sweet Shop
Sigmund Pretzel Shop
Max Brenner, Chocolate by the Baid Man
Kettle Corn NYC
Country Herbs & Many More


So, this year try something different and less stressful. Rather than waiting until last minute to find the perfect gift for your loved ones, get a head start this Holiday Season @the Bryant Park Holiday Market!


Check out the website for a complete list of Shops @the Holiday Market .

A New York City Thanksgiving Weekend in Review

While most of my fellow commuters head westbound in bumper-to-bumper traffic to visit their families this Thanksgiving weekend, some Hobokeners are taking advantage of the Thanksgiving fesitivities happening in their own backyard!

From the Thanksgiving Eve blowout parties to the BlackFriday blowout sales, I'm here to break down this All American Holiday in the City!

1. It has long been a tradition to catch up at a local bar with hometown friends when we visit our parent's house for the Holiday Weekend. These days, it's not far from typical to gather your High School friends and catch up over Bottle Service at the some of hottest clubs. And, where else can you treat your friends to a VIP experience than New York City?

Featured Thanksgiving Eve venues include:

Webster Hall featuring music by Paul Oakenfold and Roger Sanchez

Located at 125 E. 11th Street

Amnesia featuring DJ Camilo, DJ Enuff, and a performance by Serani!

Located in West Chelsea at 609 West 29th Street

Sky Room an outdoor Hotel Rooftop Lounge with stunning views, featuring an Open Vodka bar from 10-11pm and DJ RYO

Located at 330 West 40th Street

So, have a shot of "Wild Turkey" in the greatest city in the world, but just watch the Holiday hangover, it doesn't make a good impression on your grandparents!

2. Possibly the most PATH convient event to partake in this Holiday Season; wake up to the delightful performances and the vibrant energy of the Macy's Day Parade! Having once performed in the Parade myself, the parade is a magical experience where families and friends gather together in New York to give thanks together while ringing in the celebration of the upcoming Holiday Season.

This year's parade included performances from some of the music industry's most coveted artists including: Kayne West, Jessica Simpson, India Arie, Kylie Minogue, and Keri Hilson.

3. While Thanksgiving has always been a holiday about giving thanks for the many blessings in our lives, over the past couple years Americans have been giving thanks for the simple things in life; our families, homes, jobs, and the ability to put a Thanksgiving feast on the table. Yet, in recent years, individuals have not been as fortunate to partake in the Holiday Season, which is why I give thanks to local volunteers who dedicated a cold New York Thanksgiving to serving the less fortunate in annual food drives including:

- The CB2 "Can Do" Food Drive

- The Island Harvest Food Drive

- The Turkey Donations Flood Food Bank

- The Weld Food Bank & Many more

4. While most Americans continue to digest their hefty meals from Thanksgiving dinner, many are preparing to bear their tryptopahn-enduced comas to partake in the yearly tradition of Black Friday. Shoppers nationwide throw on their sneakers and kick up the caffine intake to score some of the best shopping deals of the Holiday Season.

So, don't spend your Black Friday like most Americans, preoccupied with finding parking amongst other unrelenting Black Friday shoppers, join me to see what deals smart shoppers are checking out across our abandoned city.

- Check our the Famous Toys 'R Us to score deals on the hottest toys for the kids.

- Department stores like Macy's, Saks Fifth Ave, Barney's and Bloomie's all share in bargain deals on designer duds.

- Discount stores like Forever 21, H&M, and Century 21 hit all time lows.

- And, don't forget the Electronics stores such as J&R and Best Buy!

Also, Join foursquare and check into your favorite department stores in the city to scoop up the best deals in the city.

Avoid the TSA Patdowns at Airport Security, the bumper-to-bumper westbound traffic, and the obnoxious in-laws to enjoy the Holiday pleasures of New York City beyond your day-to-day work commute!

Oprah Magazine's Five Ways to Increase the Wonder in your Life

Oprah Magazine is always finding ways for her readers to "live their best life". Throughout her years on Network Television and her recent venture into print with Oprah Magazine, Oprah has inspired millions to discover new things, reach for the stars, and make each day better than the last.

In the magazine's monthly "feeling good"section, the the December Issue zeros in on ways to increase the awe in your life by taking time to feed into your happiness.

Featured in the section, O Magazine lists the five ways to increase the wonder in your life. Following the magazine's advice, I have found corresponding activities to do in The City to help spice up your life and add some spice to your daily routine!

Oprah's first tip is to "Shake Things Up". The column suggests that we need to stimulate our senses by breaking free from our daily routine. The Magazine says, "You have a mental template for getting up in the morning, drinking your coffee, and driving to work, but not for listening to a piece of music you haven't heard before or sightseeing in Thailand."

To Shake Things Up on your daily commute from Hoboken, take the Downtown ferry instead of the PATH. Although this may sound like a simple change to your daily commute, it always helps to jump start your mornings by doing something new and simultaneously stimulating. Breathing in the brisk morning air while taking in the New York Skyline on a moderately clear day is never short of breath-taking even when we live in Hoboken.

Located at the Downtown Hoboken terminal Price: Adults $8.50.

Next, Oprah encourages us to "Go Outside".

The Magazine notes, "Just being outside can conjure up feelings of wonder and give you perspective. Better yet, plan a hike or a camping trip in a spot that's known for its vast spaces or natural beauty"

We all know being adventurous in the cold New York City is not as appealing as being curled up on the couch with some hot chocolate. Instead, get a taste of some natural beauty inside by visiting the Museum of Natural History Butterfly Conservatory. Surround yourself with one of a kind experience with countless butterflies from an array of different species to make your heart-strings flutter!

Located at 79 Street And Central Park West

In the Magazine's third tip, Oprah suggests that we surround ourselves with the energy of plenty of people by attending a Rock concert or a political rally- anything that makes you feel alive! To "Crowdsource", the Magazine suggests that "ecstatic social experiences have a way of lining everybody up emotionally, and that's very powerful."

For that Crowdsourcing experience, check out Prince's upcoming performances in December at New York Madison Square Garden.

For more information about this upcoming concert please visit: Gardenboxoffice.com

Next, Oprah encourages us to stop in our tracks and "Turn Your Gaze Upward". The Magazine suggests, "If there's anything that illuminates just how much we still don't know about the universe, it's looking up at the nighttime sky."

Yet, since our New York skies are sadly clouded by pollution and towering skyscrapers, try visiting the astounding Hayden Planetarium at the Museum of Natural History for an cosmic experience.

Located at 79 Street And Central Park West

For the final way to add some wonder to your life, O Magazine suggests that we all "Find a Daily Dose of Inspiration"

As an avid patron of the arts, I must say that New York is probably the most culture and art infused city in the world- a melting pot of different ideas and backgrounds looking to make a cultural impact on this beautiful city. While I can't suggest just one art museum or cultural event to attend, I've listed a few of my favorite below:

1. Museum of Modern Art

2. The Met

3. The Guggenheim

4. Museum of Native American History

Whether it be one of these special activities or a adventure to suit your unique personality. Since new plaves are always opening and changing in New York City, try to shake things up and don't get stuck in your boring work rut!

In Five Minutes or Less: Commuters Get Candid @The PATH

While I personally started this blog to further my experience of New York- stifled by my daily routine- there's nothing that I''d rather do than inspire fellow commuters to jump outside of their 9-5 jobs and explore what this amazing city has to offer.

I'm no expert on New York living, I'm a commuter just like the rest of you! in order to understand my audience a little more, I've decided to ask PATH commuters to get candid about their lifestyle in Hoboken. So, don't just hear it from me, hear it from other local Hoboken commuters, who, like us all must bear the burden of a long commute.

While I am breaking my own rules about proper PATH form by invading other's personal space, I found it most candid to drop in on some Hoboken commuters and ask them about their daily commute, their latest New York adventures, and how to bear those pesky commuting blues!

Once I discovered whether or not the candidate was an "authentic" Hoboken resident, I tackled down three commuters to ask:

1. Why live in Hoboken rather than The City?

F (23) It’s a tiny bit cheaper for a tiny bit bigger of a place.

M (25) Hoboken is a lot more affordable, and has a well-established community feel to it.

F (28) Family and friends live in the area, so it's nice to be close to them.

2. Is it typical for you to go out in New York city or in Hoboken after work?

F (23) Both, I to enjoy a relaxing happy hour with my friends after a long day in the office. It’s actually becoming a problem...

M (25) I work late hours so definitely Hoboken.

F (28) Hoboken; Way cheaper and more fun!

3. Tell me about your most recent and exciting New York City excursion:

F (23) A few months back, I had a Manhattan party at my friend's place as an homage to my favorite city in the world. This entailed playing a great list of songs dedicated to NYC and serving Manhattans to drink.

M (25) Most recently I went to MOMA on a date, then to Warwick’s (old-fashioned hotel and bar nearby).

F (28) Dinner and drinks with my really good friends.

4. What's your favorite thing to do near a New York PATH stop (Christopher, 9th, 14th, 23rd, 33rd, WTC)?

F (23) Have a drink at a local bar after work and then jump on the PATH to get to my apartment.

M (25) Either dining in the Meat Packing District or shopping nearby.

F (28) I work in the Flat Iron district, so I'll go to the design district. Plus, there are some good places for Tapas in the area!

5. Are you more likely to do something adventurous in the city after work or on the weekends?

F (23) Due to the fact I have to get up early for work and want to put on my best performance in the office, I usually save my big partying for Fridays and Saturdays.

M (25) Definitely on the weekends.

F (28) On the weekends.

6. Where are you more likely to go out for a great time on a Friday or Saturday night, the City or Hoboken?

F (23) Although Hoboken can be fun—it’s a meat market!—it’s pretty small, so going out in Manhattan is typically more enticing to me. I also have more friends who live in the city, so I’m even more inclined to spend my weekend nights there.

M (25) Hoboken.
F (28) I go out in the city for the big occasions.

Frankly, the busy commuters were not as congenial as I would have liked, caught in the hustle and bustle of commuter traffic, but they got their point across (in five minutes or less).

The most rewarding thing about publishing this blog is inspiring fellow commuters like myself. By learning why we continually suspend ourselves from the pleasures of New York City adventures, we can learn how to turn it all around. Remember to expand your horizons and take New York experiences as they come!

Take Five from the daily 9-5: The Quicky Shopping Escape @Limelight Marketplace

What happens when a once famous New York Nightclub location goes bust? Well, it's turned into my favorite new market. Recently opened in May 2010, The Limelight Market is conveniently located off the 23rd Street PATH stop, at 20th and 6th to be precise. Known as the former location of Avalon and Limelight Nightclub, the space will soon resemble one of my favorite spots in the city, Chelsea Market, but in a much more PATH friendly location.

The one-time church secures three stories of shopping pleasure. The first floor is dominated by some of most delicious bakery stops including world famous buttercream cupcakes and creamy Italian Gelato, while it also boasts Petrossian, a specialty caviar I discovered while in studying in London over the Summer. With strong willpower, I skipped the tempting aroma of fluffy baked goods and ran up to the second floor to check out the clothing and beauty boutiques- this is where my willpower ends. While the second floor has beauty vendors such as The Soap Shop and cosmetic line True Devil, I found an awesome deal on some trendy threads ($25 for a winged sweater to be precise). With my day set, I remember why I love New York so much; the unique, uncompromised shopping and eating experiences like no other city! Although New York boutiques charge some of the most outrageous prices for designer duds, there are always those one-of-a-kind finds we can't find anywhere else!

So, to discover some unique, one of a kind shops (with great prices) and some surprisingly great customer service with vendors who know what they're talking about, visit Limelight Marketplace.

The 8 Do's and Don'ts of Commuter Etiquette

As a Hoboken commuter, I am often ammused, while simultaneously baffled by some of the outrageous characters I encounter on the MTA subways of New York. But, once in a while I also encounter some rather strange personalities on the PATH system as well. To avoid the "what were they thinking?" stares, I've composed the following list of tips and PATH-appropriate etiquette for daily commuter.

1. DO Prepare for your commute

Trekking all the way back to your apartment from the PATH or the city because you forgot something for work is never fun. If you are as scatter brained as I am, pack the night before to ensure you have everything you need for the next day.

2. DON'T turn your commute into a Marathon

Mornings can be rough, but made even rougher with the prospect of being late for work, a class, or an appointment. Plan time accordingly and always leave extra time for peace of mind. Trust me, you look ridiculous when you're running to catch the train and get caught in the closing doors.

3. DON'T put makeup on during your commute

One of my biggest pet peves, personally, is when a girl puts on her makeup on the PATH. From foundation to liner, I've seen it all. Aren't women scared of coming out looking like a clown or poking yourself in the eye accidently? Wake up five minutes earlier or save it for the bathroom..

4. DO avoid any outlandish behavior

Yes, it may be entertaining to put on a show for you and a couple of friends after a night of drinking in Hoboken or the city. But, there's nothing more obnoxious than a bunch of drunk baffoons singing "Captain Jack" on a 1am Path ride!

5. DO practice safe traveling

While we all love to get a little roudy in the city after a long work-week, there's nothing worse than getting on the PATH completely obliterated. Sitting on a crowded, fast-moving train is not a desirable because the spins may be a common side effect. Moreover, if you need to take a cab, it's worth the money for emergencies, late night PATH trains can take up to an hour at late points in the night.

6. DO know your boundaries

Even with your obvious protective gear- IPod, IPad, Kindle, Newspaper, sunglasses- there are always the one's who avoid the tell-tale signs of the "leave me alone" gear and never cease to bother you. To those of you who can't get the hint, remember that between the hours of 6am and 9am, it's best to stay to one's self before the others have had their much needed coffee fix.

7. DO bring all the necessary hardware

In addition, the commuter essentials make the daily commute go by so much more pleseantly. Draining obnoxious conversation with some Led Zeppellin makes the experience almost worth having. For some real peace of mind check out these noising eliminating headphones by BOSE - they are worth the large price tag.

8. DO check advisories

Whether you listen to the radio, watch your local new station, or check online news in the morning, there's nothing worse the underestimating your day's commute because of a delay in service. Do yourself a favor and get PATH advisories sent to your cell phone, it's free and convenient.

While we continue to dread our daily commutes into the city, there are ways to bring about a more enjoyable experience for ourselves and others!

Take Five from the Daily 9-5: Spiked Cider @Greenwich Cafe in Bryant Park

It's that time of year again. 'Tis the season in New York where mass consumerism overrides the enjoyable sentiment during the Holiday Season. Yet, if you can take a break from catalogue browsing and department store madness, there are some amazingly cheap and fun New York adventures to be had during the Holiday Season.

This week, as we quickly dive into the Holiday spirit, marked by Starbuck's switch to the red and white coffee cups immediately following the fall festivities surrounding Halloween, I was inspired to create a post dedicated to a peaceful enjoyment of this approaching Holiday Season smack in the middle of Manhattan...

Although many of us dread working in the tourist-polluted streets of Times Square, one can find salvation one avenue east at Bryant Park this the Holiday Season. Last night, after an exhausting workday at Conde Nast, a co-worker and I found ourselves at Bryant Park's Southwest Cafe while looking to catch up over a couple of drinks. Located on the western side of Bryant Park, we found this cozy spot, perfect for sparking a great conversation and warming up with a spiked Apple Cider by the fire or beneath the mesmerizing white christmas lights. And, if you have more than five to spare, the Bryant Park ice rink is just a dash away and a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

So while the last thing you might want to do after a long workday in the congested Times Square area is sit outside in the bitter cold, consider warming up by the fire to wind down after a hectic workday

For more information on Bryant Park please visit their website.