New York

The city´s museums and parks offer everything from world-class art to idyllic natural refuges.

And since a day of sightseeing in this town can be downright exhausting, there’s a wealth of relaxing spas and salons to pamper weary travellers.

Pamper

CORNELIA DAY RESORT

663 Fifth Ave, Eighth Fl / 212 871 3050 / www.cornelia.com

Stars like Lindsay Lohan have sampled the facials and massages at this luxurious spa owned by Romanian skincare guru Cornelia Zicu. Perks include a rooftop deck and café, boutique, relaxation library and the city’s only Watsu pool. Nail, hair and waxing services also available. B1

JOHN BARRETT

754 Fifth Ave / 212 872 2700 / www.johnbarrett.com

This posh hair salon occupies the penthouse floor of the Bergdorf Goodman department store. Cuts are pricey but worth the splurge. Excellent eyebrow shaping. B1

Museums & Sights

APOLLO THEATER

253 W. 125th St / 212 531 5300 / www.apollotheater.com

Venture into Harlem to see this legendary theatre where James Brown and Billie Holiday have performed. During Wednesday night’s hilarious Amateur Night talent show, a performer’s success is measured by loud boos or cheers. Off map arrow A1

BROOKLYN MUSEUM

200 Eastern Pkwy / 718 638 5000 / www.brooklynmuseum.org

An edgier alternative to the Met thanks to past exhibitions on graffiti and a new centre for feminist art. Collection includes a sculpture garden and installations on the decorative arts and Asian and African art. Off map arrow C6

THE CLOISTERS

Fort Tryon Park / 212 923 3700 / www.metmuseum.org

A medieval wonderland located on the northern tip of Manhattan. The authentic monastery-like building and its idyllic gardens house religious treasures, rich tapestries and stained glass windows that date back to the 12th through 15th centuries. Off map arrow A1

THE FRICK COLLECTION

1 E. 70th St / 212 288 0700 / www.frick.org

The former mansion of industrialist/art collector Henry Clay Frick is now an art gallery packed with ornate furniture, paintings from the likes of Gainsborough and Vermeer, and a charming garden. Also hosts concerts and lectures. Off map arrow B1

Views, Walks & Parks

BROOKLYN BOTANIC GARDEN

1000 Washington Ave / 718 623 7200 / www.bbg.org

Breathtaking roses, ancient bonsai trees, and delicate orchids bloom in this 52-acre horticultural paradise. Of special note is the springtime cherry blossom festival. Off map arrow C6

CENTRAL PARK

Most of the city may be cement jungle, but it redeems itself with this 843-acre patch of green. Colder months are prime time for ice skating and straight-out-of-the-movies strolls through picturesque foliage; summer sees sunbathers and free opera on the Great Lawn. Other highlights include the Delacorte Theatre’s summertime Shakespeare in the Park productions and countless activities like volleyball and horseback riding. A1 & B