Solo in the City, XOXO

Well, well, well… look who’s jetting off to New York City on their own! Yes, darlings, it’s me—taking on the Big Apple solo and loving every minute of it. Some people say New York is a city that never sleeps, but for me, it’s the perfect place to slow down, savor every moment, and pour into myself. I’ve learned that solo trips aren’t just about going somewhere new—they’re about intentionally resting, indulging in new experiences, and immersing myself in a place as if I were a local. And trust me, there’s nothing more luxe than doing it all on your own terms.

I started this little NYC adventure at the fabulous Thompson Central Park, where the VIP treatment began the moment I checked in. This hotel is everything. Imagine live music on Thursday nights (total speakeasy vibes), and the “Burger Joint” tucked inside the hotel? Think hidden gem that serves up gourmet burgers with zero pretension—how very Upper East Side, right?

FORA Perks:

How I Spoiled Myself (& Loved Every Minute of It)

Naturally, I kicked things off with a stroll through Central Park. There’s something so calming about wandering the park’s winding paths, people-watching, and getting lost in nature’s beauty in the middle of the city. But I wasn’t just playing tourist—I was on a mission to embrace my inner New Yorker. That meant taking on the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Yes, the Met. Gossip Girl fans will appreciate the subtle homage to all those chic steps moments (Serena van der Woodsen, anyone?), but honestly, I went for the art. I enjoy losing myself in the quiet beauty of a museum, admiring every brushstroke, and appreciating the slow pace.

Oh, and guess who finally overcame their fear of the subway? Yes, your girl. One day in NYC, and I went from “Wait, which line is this?” to riding the subway like a pro. I even spent a day exploring Harlem, visiting the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture—an absolute must if you’re into history and culture. I felt so connected, like I was peeling back a layer of the city that’s often overlooked. And yes, I had my first bodega experience. IYKYK. There’s something so New York about grabbing a quick snack from the local bodega and walking through the city with your hands full of random goodies.

Where I Wined, Dined, and Lived My Best Life

A city like New York deserves Michelin-star-level dining, and you know I wasn’t about to miss out on that. Dinner at Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi? A Afro Caribbean-inspired dining vibe. Located on the Upper West Side, the flavors were bold, and the ambiance was elegant yet relaxed. But of course it didn’t stop there—New York has so much more to offer.

Westlight in Brooklyn was where I went for drinks with a view. Rooftop cocktails while overlooking the twinkling city? Yes, please. And of course, brunch at Red Rooster in Harlem was an absolute must. The food? Out of this world. The energy? Community. There’s something about Harlem that always feels like a celebration, and Red Rooster does it right.

Here’s where else I indulged my inner foodie:

• Lucali – Brooklyn’s iconic pizza spot. Do I need to say more? Thin crust, wood-fired oven goodness. Enough said.
• Parker’s – Just when you thought you couldn’t love the Upper East Side more, Parker’s cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere became the perfect place to sip on expertly crafted cocktails.
• L’Artusi – A chic Italian spot in the West Village where every bite felt like an event.

Gratitude

Solo trips have a way of making me reflect on how far I have come. I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the ability to travel on my own, to create memories that are forever embedded in me. There’s a special joy in being able to explore a city filled with as much history as New York on my own terms, and it is one I will never take for granted. Gratitude for the opportunity to savor every moment like it’s a secret between me and the city itself.

I’m already counting down to my next adventure… XOXO, Chelle.