We first met Laia Cebrian at the opening of our Barcelona store. While getting to know her over the past year, there’s something we’ve noticed: she doesn’t stay in one place very long. From sandy beaches in Cambodia to the hidden gems of her home country, the Spanish blogger has quite the been-there bucket list. “When you travel, not only do you soak up different cultures, but you get to know yourself. That’s pretty special”, she says.
With so many dreamy destinations under her belt, it’s hard to imagine a place that Laia is unfamiliar with. But as it happens, New York was one of them. “I went there when I was eleven, but frustratingly, I don’t remember much.” So, she had to go back.
We joined her journey to the Big Apple as she soaks up the ultimate lunch spots and the best views around. (Warning: reading will cause wanderlust).
#AdventuresOfAnthro:
Exploring New York
with Laia Cebrian
Edited by Harriett Monaghan
Best Time of Year to Visit
“Whether you’re on a budget or not, I think the best time of year to visit NYC is in the winter. Though its cold, the crisp, frosty days are absolutely beautiful. Other bonuses are that the flights are cheaper and there are far less tourists to contend with.”
What to Pack
“If you’re travelling to New York in the winter, layers, layers and more layers. It’s freezing! A beanie hat and warm coat are good protection from the bitter Atlantic chill. The longer the coat, the better as it’ll cover your legs too. Stop yourself from packing too much, though. The capital is great for souvenirs and I always like to stock up on treats for friends and family.”
Where to Stay
“The Bernic Hotel is clean, comfortable and the views are absolutely amazing. It’s also very central, so you’ll find all of the city’s most iconic spots right on your doorstop.”
Where to Wander
“I love to get lost in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. As neighbourhoods go, it’s definitely one of the coolest. There are independent boutiques on every corner and there are trendy bars in abundance for evening ventures.
I know it’s obvious, but I have to mention Times Square. Just like Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, it’s busy but an essential part to a New York trip. Head there at around 1am and there’s no one else around – just you and the lights.”
Where to Shop
“East Village is full of interesting shops, both vintage and well-known brands. If you want the best of the best, try Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall. It’s full of all the American brands you love and at really good prices.”
“Whether you’re on a budget or not, I think the best time of year to visit NYC is in the winter. Though its cold, the crisp, frosty days are absolutely beautiful. Other bonuses are that the flights are cheaper and there are far less tourists to contend with.”
What to Pack
“If you’re travelling to New York in the winter, layers, layers and more layers. It’s freezing! A beanie hat and warm coat are good protection from the bitter Atlantic chill. The longer the coat, the better as it’ll cover your legs too. Stop yourself from packing too much, though. The capital is great for souvenirs and I always like to stock up on treats for friends and family.”
Where to Stay
“The Bernic Hotel is clean, comfortable and the views are absolutely amazing. It’s also very central, so you’ll find all of the city’s most iconic spots right on your doorstop.”
Where to Wander
“I love to get lost in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. As neighbourhoods go, it’s definitely one of the coolest. There are independent boutiques on every corner and there are trendy bars in abundance for evening ventures.
I know it’s obvious, but I have to mention Times Square. Just like Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, it’s busy but an essential part to a New York trip. Head there at around 1am and there’s no one else around – just you and the lights.”
Where to Shop
“East Village is full of interesting shops, both vintage and well-known brands. If you want the best of the best, try Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall. It’s full of all the American brands you love and at really good prices.”
Where to Sightsee
“Get up high to really take in all the scale of Manhattan. I recommend going to The Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building for the best birds eye views around.”
Where to Eat
“La Esquina! Authentic Mexican food and a stylish interior to boot. That being said, I like to pack in as much sightseeing as possible, so whenever I can, I’ll find something to eat on the way to where I’m headed. Don’t be averse to trying chains, either. America is known for its fast food and it’s something they’ve mastered. One of my favourites is Shake Shack and there’s no reservation in sight.
Chelsea Market is definitely worth a trip too. Whether it’s fresh juices, pastries or gourmet cheese you’re after, they have everything you can think of under one roof.”
Where to While the Night Away
“Jet lag really gets me, so I often don’t go out drinking and dancing when I’m travelling. That being said, Times Square is packed with lots of bustling and vibrant places to explore if you have the energy. If dancing isn’t your thing, the theatres on Broadway offer an unforgettable experience. We went to see The Lion King and I’ve been thinking about it ever since.”
“Get up high to really take in all the scale of Manhattan. I recommend going to The Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building for the best birds eye views around.”
Where to Eat
“La Esquina! Authentic Mexican food and a stylish interior to boot. That being said, I like to pack in as much sightseeing as possible, so whenever I can, I’ll find something to eat on the way to where I’m headed. Don’t be averse to trying chains, either. America is known for its fast food and it’s something they’ve mastered. One of my favourites is Shake Shack and there’s no reservation in sight.
Chelsea Market is definitely worth a trip too. Whether it’s fresh juices, pastries or gourmet cheese you’re after, they have everything you can think of under one roof.”
Where to While the Night Away
“Jet lag really gets me, so I often don’t go out drinking and dancing when I’m travelling. That being said, Times Square is packed with lots of bustling and vibrant places to explore if you have the energy. If dancing isn’t your thing, the theatres on Broadway offer an unforgettable experience. We went to see The Lion King and I’ve been thinking about it ever since.”
Where to Photograph
“NYC is very instagrammable! Whether it’s the architecture or the people, there’s always something ready to catch your eye. If you’re looking for something particularly special, Pietro Nolita is an Italian restaurant that does delicious food and cocktails, and the décor is a must-see. Inspired by the eighties, everything from the walls to the seats are perfectly pink. “
Best off-the-beaten-track Gem
“Often when travelling to a new city, people will head to the hustle and bustle. I do the opposite, as the quiet corners are often the best. For a view of all of Manhattan, you need to go to Brooklyn Bridge Park. Wander right up to the river’s edge and take in the Manhattan skyline too – it’s such an iconic view.”
Follow @laia.cebrian to see where the next trip takes her and tag us on your travels using #AdventuresOfAnthro
“NYC is very instagrammable! Whether it’s the architecture or the people, there’s always something ready to catch your eye. If you’re looking for something particularly special, Pietro Nolita is an Italian restaurant that does delicious food and cocktails, and the décor is a must-see. Inspired by the eighties, everything from the walls to the seats are perfectly pink. “
Best off-the-beaten-track Gem
“Often when travelling to a new city, people will head to the hustle and bustle. I do the opposite, as the quiet corners are often the best. For a view of all of Manhattan, you need to go to Brooklyn Bridge Park. Wander right up to the river’s edge and take in the Manhattan skyline too – it’s such an iconic view.”
Follow @laia.cebrian to see where the next trip takes her and tag us on your travels using #AdventuresOfAnthro