Tag Archives: America

THOROUGHLY MODERN MISS: Casablanca Hotel, New York

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When our taxi dropped us off in the heart of glittering Times Square, New York, we thought he must be mistaken with the address of our hotel. However, located on 43rd Street, the Casablanca Hotel really is a stone’s throw from New York’s most famous and iconic tourist attraction.

Struggling from the street with our heavy bags, we were warmly welcomed by the concierge, who checked us in quickly and gave us a helping hand to book the very last table at one of the hottest restaurants in town – which we were extremely grateful for! We were shown to our room – a seriously comfortable king-sized bed fitted with 100% Egyptian cotton sheets sat in the centre of this traditional and cosy room. With a large flat screen TV mounted on the wall, this African inspired haven couldn’t be more perfect for our last night in NYC. An array of Baroness Cali Tarocco bath amenities lined the bathroom. These products, famous for their powerful antioxidants and rich Vitamin C content were a joy for our tired and weary New York battered skin.

The inspiration taken from the movie ‘Casablanca’ is clearly felt throughout this lovely boutique hotel. The warm Moroccan colours transport you away from the bustle of the City to tranquil North Africa. I was also pleasantly surprised at how quiet the hotel was – despite the loud honking of taxis, chattering of tourists and bright flashing lights on the outskirts of the hotel, the Casablanca manages to retain its serenity at all times.

A continental breakfast buffet is served every morning in Rick’s Café. Guests can also indulge at the wine and cheese reception evenings, held daily from 5pm-8pm. Complimentary hot drinks, fresh fruit and cookies are also available 24 hours a day for guests that need a quick refuel.

I never thought it would be possible to find such an oasis of calm in the heart of Times Square, however the Casablanca Hotel offers just that and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone heading to the bright lights of New York City.

http://www.casablancahotel.com/

Written by a Thoroughly Modern Miss, Susie Hemsted.

New York’s Best Nail Bars

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There aren’t many cities that have truly embraced the nail art trend… Londoners are taking cautious steps towards the new fad (with WAH leading the rest), apparently Japan are wildly creative with their designs and possibilities… I knew little of NYC’s opinion of the fabulous fingertip fashion. Spending five days in the Big Apple, I had the opportunity to try the latest trends in nail art and scour the streets for the best beauty bars. Here’s my top three:

Primp and Polish

Brooklyn-bound hipsters will find comfort in this blissfully calm and laid-back nail salon. I was impressed by the sophisticated decor and design, stools and plush reclining chairs are lined up ready for pampering. Boys and girls alike visit P&P for all kinds of treatments, but the classic mani’s and pedi’s seemed to be most popular. My friend indulged in a pedicure and assured me it was the best she had ever experienced, luxurious and invigorating, perfect for her weary sight-seeing feet. I went for a nail art manicure with the Queen of Designs, Kieu Bui. After a lovely exfoliation, massage and extensive cuticle work, Kieu got to work on some NY themed nails: stars, stripes, cocktails and the piece de resistance, an abstracted Statue of Liberty. The girls gathered round as she drew expertly on my nails, with precision and flair… it was a mini-masterpiece. I absolutely loved this nail bar and the district of Williamsburg that surrounds it… we spent the ideal Saturday morning, adorning our nails at Primp & Polish, drinking delicious coffee from Black Brick (just round the corner) and browsing in the boutiques.

http://www.primpandpolish.com/

 Valley

Hidden in the heart of the Nolita area on Elizabeth Street, this cute and glam venue offers the best waxes and manicures in the neighbourhood. It is located among the hippest stores in town – the girls visiting this salon are clearly regulars and all their chattering resembles a scene from Gossip Girl. Nail Art is a must at Valley, everyone has it and the wackier the design, the better. A quiet but efficient girl called Ayumi filed, soaked and buffed my toes before applying pink gel polish and decorating with glitter and an immaculately drawn American flag. I noticed plenty of other beautiful patterns and emblems, one girl even had a miniature picture of her beloved dog painted onto her thumbs. They have become known here for their elaborate glitter patterns and, trust me, it is hard to resist the trolley of bottled sparkles. The coolest nail bar in Manhattan and a must try for nail art fanatics.

http://valleynyc.com/

Beauty Bar

The all singing, all dancing Beauty Bar is more bar than beauty but wins its place on the list for the original concept and fun vibe. I was initially a little disappointed to see garish Halloween decorations up but aside from this minor discrepancy, I was wholly impressed. This is a retro girl’s dream and offers a manicure and martini for just 10 dollars. Unfortunately having already had both my hands and feet painted to the extreme, I didn’t have the chance to try out the beautician’s skills… but next time definitely. Have your nails painted, grab a partner and dance the night away.

http://thebeautybar.com/New_York/

With so many cool nail bars in New York, it is difficult to know who to trust: for nail art Primp & Polish and Valley are unbeatable and for fun Beauty Bar is the New Yorker’s favourite.