How to travel to N.Y.C. For Business Like a Grown Up
Traveling alone can be stressful if you are still relatively new to your profession. The pressure to “act professionally”–whatever that means, right?–can leave you feeling like a total phony.
Even the most experienced pros sometimes feel this way. There are easy ways to combat these all-too-common feelings of insecurity. It would help if you created an environment that encourages you to do your best work, regardless of whether you are visiting for interviews or meetings to pitch your idea or product. You won’t be able to crash on the couch of your friend for more than two weeks.
Think about it. An old college friend might be willing to lend you her couch bed. But she also has two other roommates and a cat who thinks your Club Monaco jacket is a litter box. And, to make matters worse, you should have brought a lint roller. Do you sound familiar? It’s not uncommon. While Couchsurfing may save you some money, the stress from your temporary living arrangement could be detrimental to your presentation or interview.
What’s the solution? Also known as Wall Street. Although it is not a hotel, it is not your friend’s 5-floor walkup. It is a luxury extended-stay residence in New York City’s Financial District. This area is bustling thanks to new additions like Westfield Mall, Brookfield Place, and Le District again. AKA Wall Street is near all the subway lines that you might need. You don’t need to be concerned about safety when walking around FiDi at night. Lower Manhattan has a lot of police presence, incredibly close to One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Museum & Memorial.
AKA Wall Street’s appeal extends beyond the neighborhood. The basic amenities and accommodations are among the best in N.Y.C. My first action upon arrival was to take a bath in my suite’s large, luxurious bathroom. While enjoying the Bvlgari products and basking in my elegance, I accidentally cut my hair, ruining the entire experience. AKA staff quickly brought me bandages and antibiotics to my room, so I didn’t have so much wet hair running to Duane Reade. This is the picture I took for Instagram just before my little mishap.
The suite’s rest was equally beautiful, clean, and well-maintained. The kitchen was fully equipped with all the necessary pots and pans. I even had a Keurig to make my morning coffee. The large bedroom had a king-size bed, a huge TV, and ample storage space. Other valuable items I found hidden in the apartment were a safe, an iron, and a robe. You can find everything you need on the second floor: a business center, laundry room, and a gym.
However, my favorite part about AKA Wall Street is its private rooftop that overlooks the Freedom Tower. Here residents can work or enjoy a cocktail while watching outdoor cinema. AKA Wall Street boasts the best of both worlds: The only Outdoor cinema in the Financial District. I wanted to extend the duration of my stay. The next morning I was well-rested and ready for the day. It might seem impossible to get a good night of sleep in Manhattan’s bustling central district, but thanks to AKA Wall Street’s sound-proof windows, you won’t hear any street noises below.