Away's Favorite Photos from Travelers in 2012

advertisement

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park
For a long time it's been the place to stay in Manhattan. Overlooking Central Park, the Ritz offers the kind of personal, impeccable service luxury travelers come to expect. Guest rooms are decorated with traditional English-countryside décor and bathrooms are enormous marble affairs with luxurious Frederic Fekkai amenities. Other plusses include a fabulous Swiss-themed spa and a fantastic restaurant.

Avon Salon and Spa
The main parlor at this posh spa is 18th-century French chic, with high ceilings, muted lights, and plenty of candles. Popular for mother-daughter pampering days, Avon offers teen styling along with a full spa menu. Clients are treated like royalty—the staff is attentive, well trained, and friendly. At their acclaimed sculpting salon, no eyebrow escapes the perfect arch.
Avon Salon and Spa: 212.755.2866, www.avonsalonandspa.com

Christie's
Academy Award fashions, rare paintings, ancient pottery, vintage wines, and (every so often) a celebrity estate like the Kennedy's are up for grabs to the highest bidder at this famous auction house. Viewings are free and open to the public, but if you want to snag some riches, get to the preview and study the catalogue.
Christie's: 212.636.2000, www.christies.com

Hôel Plaza Athénée
Located in New York's most exclusive neighborhood, this sophisticated European-style hotel epitomizes luxurious elegance, with an Old-World ambiance prevailing in the classy lounge. The lobby is nothing short of exquisite, with marble floors, hand-painted murals, and antique furniture. Unsurprisingly, the staff is superbly attentive. Spacious guestrooms feature high ceilings, plush fabrics, and warm color schemes.

Museum of Modern Art
Already famous for amassing the world's greatest collection of art from late 19th century to the present day, MoMa recently outdid itself with a monster $650-million renovation. Under the leadership and vision of Japanese architect Yoshio Taniguichi, the exhibit space was doubled. Patrons can now view Monet's Water Lillies and Klimt's The Kiss in even more spectacular environs, alongside a wide variety of high-end rotating exhibits.
Museum of Modern Art: 212.708.9400, www.moma.org

Metropolitan Opera
One of the world's premier opera companies, the Met's top-notch extravaganzas are nothing short of spectacular. From premieres to classics, the opera features big-name stars like Placido Domingo and Jessye Norman. Ask your concierge for help securing tickets for productions that showcase the greatest stars on stage. The season runs September through April.
Metropolitan Opera: 212.362.6000, www.metopera.org

New York Philharmonic
The country's oldest orchestra is also one of its greatest—many say the greatest. Under the distinguished direction of conductor Lorin Maazel, performances within New York's world-famous Lincoln Center are downright heavenly. In the summer, the New York Philharmonic presents lively, inspiring, and relaxing concerts in Central Park that enhance even the most elegant of vacations.
New York Philharmonic: 212.875.5030, www.newyorkphilharmonic.org

New York City Ballet
This is the one of world's best ballet companies. The troupe focuses on great American works, and whether you are witnessing a classic or a modern performance, you can expect brilliant choreography with divine, athletic dancers. The highlight of the annual season is the Christmastime production of The Nutcracker, which sells out months in advance.
New York City Ballet: 212.870.5570, www.nycballet.com

Christine Chin Spa
You might have to wait for an appointment at this celebrity haunt, the favored hangout of Hilary Swank and Penelope Cruz. Always bustling, the focus here is on perfect brow waxes and meticulous, invigorating facials. Microderm abrasion, body waxes, and pedicures are also popular.
Christine Chin Spa: 212.353.0503, www.christinechin.com

The Maritime Hotel
This hot new West Chelsea hotel offers an unusual sleeping experience—rooms are done up like cruise ship cabins, complete with five-foot porthole windows looking out onto the Hudson River. Digs are tiny, but the inventive designs manage to squeeze in every possible modern amenity. The lobby takes its inspiration from the South Seas, and the entire place exudes a sort of at-sea trendiness.