Tag: tours

NYC Experiences: Old NYC Glamour Tours

Post author By Fernanda Mueller
Post date November 7, 2019

Written by Fernanda Mueller

Photos by Fernanda Mueller

New York is one of the most visited cities in the world (the 7th one, according to Global Destination Cities Index 2019). There are many city tours here, but almost all tour guides will take people to the most famous sights and talk about the things you have already read online. The Old NYC Glamour tour is different from all of these tours – it is a deeper historical experience of the city, especially for those who are interested in New York’s vintage scene.

To get to know a place well, there is nothing better than being guided by natives and Tour Hosts Jenny and Pandora were born and bred in New York City. But that’s not the only reason why they can show you all the hidden spots in the city. They are actresses and performers inspired by the Old Hollywood and Broadway world.

“We’ve performed together on the same stages, and we’ve always talked about places in New York: where that murder happened, or this glamour star lived… People don’t know about this,” Jenny explains.

What you will see on the Old NYC Glamour tour

The experience starts at the Algonquin Hotel, where members of the Round Table, a group of writers, critics, actors, used to meet for several years, starting in 1919. This group was known as “The Vicious Circle.” Another curious fact about the hotel is that the New Yorker magazine was founded there, on the second floor.

Jenny and Pandora take the guests to locations associated with Hollywood and Broadway stars and the New York high society, telling hidden secrets and stories that most people don’t know about Katherine Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Grace Kelly, among others. It ends at the house where Audrey Hepburn’s character, Holly Golightly, from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, lived. The tour is also interesting for those who love architecture since they show you historical buildings along the way.

Besides being dressed in vintage clothes, Jenny and Pandora act out scenes from old movies and books to make the experience more real. And there’s even a stop for drinks at the traditional Monkey Bar! For about two and a half hours, you will go back in time and feel inspired by the glamour of New York.

For booking the tour, you can access the Old NYC Glamour Airbnb’s page. The special holiday tour is also available now.

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Tags acting, broadway, city, Downtown, Family, Featured, Fernanda Mueller, fun, glamour, NYC, performance, Style, tourism, tourist, tours, travel

Culture Living

Spring has Sprung at the Battery Conservancy

Post author By Nikki Link
Post date April 4, 2017

While open to the public every day of the year, the Battery Conservancy embraces spring with a lineup of exciting events and activities for New Yorkers of all ages. America’s largest perennial garden is the perfect oasis in Lower Manhattan to get away, and enjoy the warmer weather.

On May 8th at 8am, nature enthusiasts can join NYC Audubon, an organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of wild birds in the five boroughs, for a bird walk. Lead by experienced birder and naturalist Gabriel Willow, participants will have the opportunity to observe the diverse species that call the Battery their home. Those interested can RSVP here.

On June 8th, the Battery will host it’s 22nd Annual Gala. This year, the festivities will celebrate Hermès, as well as the cultural richness of Lower Manhattan. Cocktails will be served at 6:30pm, and dinner will commence at 7:30pm. Those interested in reserving a ticket for this enchanting night can contact Elizabeth Steeves.

Beginning April 13th, weekly walking tours through the soon-to-be lush gardens of the Battery will be available. Participants will learn about the park’s history, visit important monuments and landmarks, and get a small break from the hustle and bustle of the Financial District. Not to be missed is the Seaglass Carousel, designed by the George Tsypin Opera Factory, for an otherworldly aquatic-inspired experience. Those interested can RSVP here.

The Battery Conservancy Volunteer Opportunities

Downtowners looking to give back to their community can join the Battery’s Horticulture Team. Volunteers help permanent staff maintain the beauty of the gardens by completing a minimum of 8, 2.5 hours shifts over the course of the calendar year on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Those plagued with a black thumb who still wish to help out can become a Battery Greeter, and help welcome visitors to the park. Information on both opportunities can be found here.

Urban Farming at the Battery Conservancy

The Battery also prides itself on being an organization that educates students on the importance and potential of urban farming. Groups from pre-K to 12th grade can be registered for self-guided or staff-guided field trips. Visits include everything from hands-on farming lessons, learning the history of NYC’s urban ecosystem, and tastings, if seasonably appropriate. More information on registration can be found the conservancy’s website.

Culture Entertainment Music Travel

Matt Bongiovi on Runaway Tours, Bon Jovi, Joe Walsh & more

Post author By Downtown Magazine
Post date April 3, 2017

Years ago, the only opportunities to meet your heroes were chance encounters and scheduled autograph signings. Nowadays, things are different thanks to companies like Runaway Tours. Founded in 1989 by Jon Bon Jovi and company president Matt Bongiovi, Runaway Tours carries the goal of “superserving the superfan.” It provides fans with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, going far beyond attending a concert. Ultimately, Runaway Tours plans customized vacation packages that offer exclusive access to artists and other entertainers through events like private shows, Q&As, meet and greets, and private parties, also inclusive of luxury hotel accommodations and detailed travel itineraries.

One example of Runaway Tours’ unique offerings is a trip running from May 6 through 8 at Elvis Presley’s Graceland in Memphis. Hosted by Joe Walsh of The Eagles and James Gang, this weekend gathering will include a private acoustic storytellers performance, Q&A, a tour of Graceland, accommodations at the new Guest House At Graceland, and special photo opportunity with Joe. Said Joe himself of what is to be expected in May: “What you can expect is me playing music, answering almost all questions anyone would ask — except the ones that may incriminate me — a big screen PowerPoint presentation put together and narrated by me, guitar shop talk, slide guitar 101, true stories of road craziness and a discussion of how to destroy hotel rooms and of course playing more music.”

Runaway Tours also regularly partners with the NFL events and has other upcoming outings planned related to Journey, Don Henley and Florida Georgia Line, which a visit to www.runawaytours.com will offer more information on. Downtown had the pleasure of speaking with Matt about what’s coming up for Runaway Tours and also how he wound up in the travel business. The New Jersey native remains an East Coaster all these years later.

How did you first know that you had a knack for tour management?

Matt Bongiovi: Growing up in the industry, it’s what I know. Started working in the management office from when I was 16 after school to going on the road starting as a production assistant. Been blessed to work with one of the biggest bands in the world, and with that comes some of the best in the business as your mentors.

What do you wish more people knew about tour management?

MB: It’s not as glamorous as people think, but it is the best way to see the world.

What’s your favorite part of the job?

MB: Travel, without a doubt. I’ve become a bit of a history nut and the work allows me to walk through history.

Had you met Joe Walsh prior to working out this tour experience?

MB: I have not met him other then phone conversations. He instantly makes you feel like you’re an old friend. Very engaging.

How exactly is Joe involved with the tour? He hosts it?

MB: Joe will be giving an acoustic performance along with doing a Q&A and some storytelling. Hearing war stories from the road from such a legend it surely will be magical.

When was the first time you went to Graceland?

MB: First time I was at Graceland was in 2001. I was driving across country from L.A. to New Jersey and decided it was a must. How can I be in the music business and not pay homage to Elvis?

What else is coming up for your company? Any exciting tours?

MB: We have just added a Don Henley 70th Birthday Experience. We also have an event in Las Vegas with Journey. In the next few weeks we are going to be announcing some amazing events with more iconic entertainers.

Does Jon have any day to day involvement with your company?

MB: Jon is a partner. With everything he is involved in he is hands-on. Having the artist perspective also gives other artists a level of comfort knowing we have their best interest in mind.

I’d assume that your company is named after Jon’s song. Is that one of your favorites by the band? Or was it just a good pun that worked?

MB: “Sleep When I’m Dead” wouldn’t have worked.

When not busy with Runaway Tours, how do you like to spend your free time?

MB: Being a dad. Nothing in the world is more satisfying.

How often do you come to Manhattan? Are you still an East Coast guy?

MB: Through and through. I live in Jersey and have no intentions on leaving. Our corporate offices are in Manhattan so I do get in often.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in New York?

MB: That’s like saying, “Do you have a favorite kid?” Best part of New York City is you can travel the world just in dining experiences.

Finally, Matt, any last words for the kids?

MB: Don’t underestimate the importance of your studies. EVERY aspect of my high school days I can use in my day to day on a tour.