I travel to New York frequently and I've come to rely on the website PopUp New York, popupnewyork.com , for ideas of places to check out. The site features videos so you can preview a destination before you visit. Plus PopUp tells you which subway lines to take to each place, which can be very helpful for out-of-towners. I've watched videos on the Alice Austen House on Staten Island, The Panorama at Queens Museum of Art, The High Line, and NYC artist De La Vega's museum....all were interesting and informative.

Thanks for your recommendations. Tea isn't really cosmopolitan, but the last time I went to tea at the Mayflower I asked the waiter for clotted cream, and he said, "what's that?" I love Tea & Sympathy, been there several times, but I don't like it in the winter. It's crowded as is, and in the winter, with bulky coats, scarves, and gloves, it's too much. Not to mention, I don't fancy waiting for a table outside in this weather.

The Tenement Museum is on my to-do list, and going to Russ & Daughters. I think I'll also visit the Russian Tea Room. Has anyone been able to view their menu online? It's not coming up for me. Lunch one day will either be Tai Pol or the Gotham. And this year I'm going to make it to the Hell's Kitchen flea market. All that remains is what to do on Sunday. The default is the Met, because it's open Sunday morning, but then what will I do between that and when I have to be at Penn Station at 2:30?

Stop in at Madeline Albrights pin collection and slash at MAD

Just be aware that Tia Pol is a tiny place with seating that is less than comfortable; you may have to wait for a table there as well.

I mention that only because of your comments about Tea & Sympathy.

Lunch during the week at Tia Pol is not a problem but at other times it does get crazy.

Sunday morning: If you're going to the Met would you be interested in any of the scavenger hunts there? You could take your time and eat at the museum before heading to Penn Station. Or, just stay in your hotel room as long as possible, ask for late check-out, get room service and then a leisurely walk to Penn. (where u staying? don't know)

Two more: Hit some golf balls off the Chelsea Pier.
And: Take a trapeze lesson. (you'll have to google it, but I know it's available to those who are interested. not for me!)

Warren, are you aware there's been a chef change at Tia Pol? http://tr.im/KPQH (scroll to bottom)

If you are going to ABC Carpet, stop by Fishes Eddy which is basically across the street.

If you are on the UES, you should stop at Cafe Sabarsky for fabulous dessert and coffee. It is in the Neue Galerie. 5th Ave/86th.

You could also go to the Frick, my fav museum in NYC.

Thin, who owns an Asprey umbrella, slippers, and bathrobe

Warren, are you aware there's been a chef change at Tia Pol? http://tr.im/KPQH (scroll to bottom)

She gas been gone a while and her old partners are still running the joint.

LOVE Fishes Eddy, and I can't wait to try Cafe Sabarsky.

Thin, I'd like to know how the Asprey accessories are working out for you.

I usually stay at the Parker Meridian, but they NEVER let me do a late check out and you know what. I don't like the rooms. I hate not having a table (why does their desk block the window??) and the radio never gets a good reception. But I love the location and the price. Oh, and Norma's. That's my usual Sunday breakfast. If I could finagle a late check out, I'd go to their spa on Sunday.

Have a good time in NYC. I will be going in (from my home in Philly) next Wednesday to have lunch with my ex-hairstylist, Jimmy.


My Asprey umbrella was stolen. I will only use a stolen umbrella. Read EM Forster's "Howards End" to understand. It is a kind of superstition.

Thin