7 places to get off the tourist trail in New York City

Whether you’re about to go on vacation or just coming back from a trip, summer is always a good time to treat yourself to a spa service. It’s when we show the most skin and typically socialize the most, so why not put your best foot forward when it comes to your appearance and wellness. Here are six summer travel-ready beauty treatments in New York City you’ll love.

Last year, New York City welcomed the much-anticipated opening of Aman New York. This Zen-like gem on west 57th Street has been heralded for its spacious suites, which each include multiple high-tech gadgets, fireplaces and luxurious décor. It is one of the most relaxing city properties and also features a spectacular spa, an impressive gym, and perfectly curated dining experiences. Nothing quite prepares you for the sense of calm you feel as you first walk in and guests who have enjoyed other Aman properties will be thrilled to experience the same level of service and artistry. Perhaps lesser known is the fact that Aman New York is also an ideal hotel for families. Below are several reasons that families will feel extremely welcome in this urban oasis.

Get thee to New York's museums and get thee to them now. There's an end in sight to summer's dog days, and with the promise of cooler early-autumn days comes a fresh turnover in the exhibitions on offer throughout the city. Some of the big summer tentpoles—Africa Fashion at the Brooklyn Museum, installations at both MoMA and MoMA PS1—will run all the way into October, so if you haven't made your way to them yet, there's still time. Joining these holdovers are a myriad of newer options, the variety of which ensures that there's something for everyone. Find our guide below. 

If New York has its way, the popular accommodations-sharing company Airbnb will be toast.

An American Airlines flight turned back to New York City after a disagreement ensued between a passenger and a flight attendant. 

From the comfort of these luxurious hotels near the Statue of Liberty, you can marvel at the grandeur of the iconic statue bathed in the golden glow of sunrise or under the twinkling stars right from the comfort of your accommodation. These hotels not only provide an unforgettable visual treat but also place you in the heart of New York City, where you’re just steps away from other major attractions such as the Empire State Building. Visiting the Statue of Liberty should be planned in advance — after all, it is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Opting for a hotel on or close to the water means you can roll out of bed at sunrise and get a little head start before the crowds hit. The hotels here have been selected for location, but also five-star amenities, service, and an overall exceptional rating from guests.

New York City is buzzing with things to do during the summer and in between outdoor events and alfresco soirées, there’s always time to get a great meal here. If you’re looking for an excellent place to dine, there are some great new spots from an intimate Japanese dining experience to a new lively Italian spot. Here are four new New York City restaurants to try:

Serengeti, Maasai Mara, Kruger – everyone who’s ever dreamt of going to Africa will know these safari big-hitters. Famous for their wildlife, they’re also famous for hordes of visitors that flock to them in convoys of Land Cruisers. If you want to get away from the masses, these are the best little-visited African national parks, each with extraordinary wildlife but far fewer humans.

I first encountered the Palisades, a set of massive cliffs overlooking Manhattan from across the Hudson River, out of desperation. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I felt an all-consuming urge to get out and explore. For me, that meant jumping on my bicycle and riding deep into the city and then out of it.

Modern Bangkok, historical Hanoi and tourism-boom town Siem Reap — home to the world-famous Angkor Wat temples — are some of Southeast Asia's best drawcards, and see thousands of visitors every year.

Despite India’s vastness, foreign travellers tend to clump together in a relatively small number of well-known regions or cities, leaving plenty of destinations to the more intrepid few who are willing to take the challenge of escaping the tourist trail. Here’s a selection of our favourites:

Southeast Asia is the quintessential backpacker destination – all noodle stands, grungy hostels and full moon parties, right? Not necessarily. There are still plenty of authentic Southeast Asian escapes. You just need to know where to find them. Start here.