Affording A Holiday Weekender in NYC

If you can’t beat the wanton consumerism of the holidays, reluctantly, join it.

That’s what I plan to do next weekend when I take my sister to the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Musicals are definitely not my cup of chai, but, in the spirit of the season, I’m sure we’ll enjoy it.

I booked tickets this morning ~ premium seats too since I’m sure this is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

As humiliating as it might be we’d also like to attempt ice skating at 30 Rock.

As for overnight accommodations, as much as I’d like to bench out with the “Occupy People”, I’m sure my family are looking for a place with better creature comforts. So, the search begins for an affordable option in close proximity to staying in Midtown.

Great Tip: First came Craigslist and now there’s Squidoo.com! I just discovered their Travel & Places section where writers create lists (they call them lenses) of their favorite places to eat, shop, walk and stay anywhere in the world, especially NYC. Very helpful.

The easy part is dining out in the Big Apple. I practice ordering only appetizers or small plates and tap water. This way I can dine lightly, save money and get in as many venues as possible in a day. There are also no smelly leftovers to take back to your hotel.

I visit restaurants during the off-hours when the rush is over and wait till I’m back in the hotel suite to pop a cork.

The granddaddy of all small plates is Spanish tapas as enjoyed recently at Tia Pol under the High Line.

Silky hams, spicy chorizo, unusual but tasty veal tongue, all creative and perfect for a light lunch. If you order anything with a broth make sure your server doesn’t take away the dish. Use it for dipping other selections into like bruschetta and olives.