A (Half) Marathon Weekend in the Big Apple

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity and privilege to travel to New York City to participate in the 2025 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon. Come along and join me as I recall the joy and excitement that I experienced in the City.

Day 1: Friday

• Arrival & Check-In:
  We arrived at LaGuardia Airport and took an Uber to the elegant Loews Regency Hotel (check out my property report for more details on this fabulous accommodation). After a smooth check-in, we quickly got ready for an exciting night in New York City.

• Dinner:
  Dinner reservations were set for two at the charming Chez Josephine, where we indulged in the “catch of the day” served with a perfectly prepared risotto and paired with a fine glass of wine. A fresh cup of coffee rounded out the meal beautifully. Dusk was just starting to set as we were finishing up. An early dinner to accommodate our VIP room experience at the Moulin Rouge meant that we missed much of the ambience at the restaurant such as the live pianist and the soft glow of candlelight.

• Broadway Show:
  Post-dinner, we walked to our first Broadway experience of the weekend: Moulin Rouge at the beautiful Al Hirschfeld Theater. We enjoyed exclusive access to the VIP Room for pre-show drinks and snacks and mingling with other VIPs before being escorted to our premium seats in the “Can-Can” section. The show was incredible, offering an up-close and immersive experience with dancers surrounding us during the performance for a unique perspective of the show. The show was completely mind-boggling and awe-inspiring; a true stimulus for the senses. Afterward, we met several cast members outside the theater and collected autographs on our Playbills and chat briefly.

• Times Square Stroll:
  The night ended with a magical stroll through the dazzling lights of Times Square, followed by a cab ride back to the hotel for a restful night.

Day 2: Saturday

• Breakfast:
  We started the day with an exclusive complimentary breakfast at the Regency Bar and Grill, a delightful way to fuel up for the day ahead.

• Race Expo & Coney Island:
  After a fine breakfast at the home of the NY Power Breakfast, we walked to the NYC Half Marathon Expo to pick up my race number and grab some energy gels. From there, we grabbed a couple of coffees from Starbucks and hopped on the train to Coney Island. Although it was off-season and the amusement parks were closed, we enjoyed a peaceful stroll along the boardwalk and admired the iconic rides waiting to spring back to life.

  Lunch was a must-have at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs, a quintessential Coney Island experience. Unfortunately, the Freak Bar at the Coney Island Museum was unexpectedly closed during the day, but it didn’t dampen our spirits.

• Evening Activities:
  Back in Manhattan, we freshened up at the hotel and took a quick nap before heading out for an evening of shopping along 5th Avenue. Dinner was a pre-race tradition at my favorite spot: The Halal Guys food truck at the corner of W 53rd and 6th Avenue. The delicious meal left me feeling energized and ready for race day.

  That night, I prepared my racing gear, attaching my bib to my shirt—finalizing my pre-race preparations.

Day 3: Sunday - Race Day

• Morning:
  After a solid night’s sleep, we took the train to Prospect Park for the start of the 2025 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon. The morning was cold and blustery, but after a quick warm-up and a pre-race pit stop, it was time to line up.

• Race Course:
  The race begins on Washington Avenue, near the Brooklyn Museum. The highlight of the start was one of the residents along Washington Avenue hanging out of her window cheering for us while taking video…her son hanging out of another window blowing an obnoxiously loud blow horn. After starting, we passed through the Park and then long the streets passing the famous Brooklyn bodegas (another great experience to discuss on another day). For the first time in the history of the NYC Half Marathon we crossed into Manhattan via the Brooklyn Bridge. It was quite a spectacle of inspiring architecture and all of the runners were captivated as we crossed. After several miles along FDR Drive, it was time for the highlight of the run…running along 42st and the joy of turning right, right into the center of Times Square. This marks one of the two times each year that Times Square is closed to traffic (the other being New Years Eve). After a mile or two of cheering crowds as we ran up 7th Avenue we entered Central Park via the opening in front of The Plaza Hotel. As we wound along the paths of the Park, additional cheers helped provide that last bit of energy needed to succeed. Crossing the finish line in Central Park with a near personal record time was an exhilarating moment, and it felt like a significant step forward in my training for the upcoming Boston Marathon.

• Post-Race Lunch:
  After the race, we returned to the hotel to freshen up before heading out to Cassidy’s Pub for a celebratory pint (or two) of Guinness and a hearty shepherd’s pie to replenish energy.

• Afternoon & Evening:
  The afternoon included a visit to the Nintendo Store and a relaxing walk along the High Line, where we enjoyed the cool breeze and some quiet moments together. Exhausted but fulfilled, we ended the day with lovely dinner at the Regency Bar and Grill, then retired to our room for a well-deserved rest.

Day 4: Monday - Travel Day

• Departure:
  After packing up our purchases and reflecting on an unforgettable weekend, we hopped in our Uber and made our way back to LaGuardia Airport to head home. This weekend in New York City was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and racing success—a truly memorable experience.

This trip perfectly combined the excitement of the NYC Half Marathon with the vibrant energy of New York City, from Broadway shows to iconic dining spots and serene strolls. Whether you’re traveling for a race or a weekend getaway, NYC offers something for everyone! Contact me today for help in planning and coordinating your next visit to the city that never sleeps.

Top 10 Hidden Perks of Luxury Hotels on the FORA Travel Global Network

TravelByPhilip is powered by FORA Travel and with this partnership, my clients are able to secure certain hidden perks in their travels.

Check out the top 10 perks TravelByPhilip may be able to secure for you on your next trip!

1. Early Check-in and Late Checkout Flexibility

TravelByPhilip, through our partnership with FORA Travel, has access to FORA's partnerships with hotel brands across the world. Those partnerships often allow clients to enjoy early check-ins and late checkouts at premium properties like The Greenwich Hotel or the Loews Regency Hotel in New York. This flexibility can add hours of relaxation or exploration to your trip without extra charges.

2. Personalized Welcome Amenities

Through our partnership with FORA Travel, our clients can receive customized welcome gifts tailored to their preferences. For example, at Passalacqua in Italy, guests are greeted with locally sourced artisanal products, such as olive oil or handmade ceramics, perfectly suited to their tastes.

3. Direct Line to Hotel Management

Booking with TravelByPhilip ensures priority access to hotel management, which is invaluable for special requests. We have direct lines of communication to local hotel staff around the world. At Raffles London at The OWO, for instance, this can mean securing reservations at one of their nine dining venues or personalizing spa treatments at the Guerlain Spa.

4. Complimentary Room Category Upgrades

FORA's relationships often secure significant room upgrades. At Round Hill Hotel and Villas in Jamaica, clients can enjoy upgrades to private hillside villas with stunning ocean views, adding a luxurious touch to their stay.

5. Priority Restaurant Reservations

Exclusive dining access is a game-changer. At The Woodward in Geneva, TravelByPhilip clients can secure reservations at the Michelin-starred L'Atelier Robuchon, ensuring a world-class culinary experience with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

6. Spa Treatment Priority

Properties like Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa provide access to geothermal springs and wellness treatments. TravelByPhilip, powered by FORA Travel, clients can also enjoy priority bookings and exclusive perks like complimentary daily wine tastings.

7. Local Experience Access

FORA's vast global network of luxury hotel brands unlocks unique local experiences. For example, at The Mandarin Oriental Munich, clients can enjoy a private shopping experience and exclusive access to the Bavarian Frühlingsfest, a spring celebration filled with local delicacies and festivities.

8. Airport Transfer Upgrades

TravelByPhilip clients often receive complimentary upgrades to luxury vehicles for airport transfers. At Hacienda AltaGracia in Costa Rica, this could mean arriving in style in a private SUV, setting the tone for a luxurious stay.

9. Children's Program Enhancements

Properties like Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in California cater to families with exclusive perks such as complimentary access to waterslides, family pools, and Baja-inspired dining experiences. FORA clients can also enjoy extended hours for children’s activities.

10. Loyalty Program Fast-Tracking

Booking through the FORA Travel platform often includes loyalty program benefits. At Six Senses Ibiza, for instance, clients can accumulate points while enjoying exclusive perks like daily breakfast, spa credits, and room upgrades. Reach out to us here at TravelByPhilip with any loyalty programs of which you are a member and we can ensure these are included in your reservations for accumulation of loyalty perks/points and include any status that you hold.

Why You Should Use a Travel Advisor for Your Next Vacation

The Ultimate Guide to Stress-Free Luxury Travel with a Travel Advisor

Planning a vacation should be exciting, not stressful. But with endless options for destinations, hotels, and activities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where a travel advisor comes in. At FORA, we specialize in creating personalized travel experiences that go beyond standard itineraries. From Disney vacations to World Marathon Major destinations, we handle every detail so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

What Does a Travel Advisor Do?

A travel advisor is your personal vacation expert, dedicated to making your trip seamless and unforgettable. Here’s what we offer at TravelByPhilip, a FORA Travel affiliate:

• Personalized Itineraries: Tailored to your preferences, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or family fun.

• VIP Perks: Enjoy complimentary amenities, daily breakfast, resort credits, and more at luxury properties worldwide.

• Expert Knowledge: Our advisors are trained in destinations across 100+ countries, including Disney hotspots and marathon cities.

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Why Use a Travel Advisor Instead of Booking Yourself?

It’s tempting to book trips online, but here’s why a travel advisor is worth it:

1. Exclusive Benefits: We have partnerships with thousands of hotels, resorts, and cruise lines, giving you access to perks you won’t find online.

2. Time Savings: Researching and planning a trip can take hours. Let us do the work while you relax.

3. Customized Experiences: Online booking sites can’t match the level of personalization we provide.

4. Expert Advice: Avoid common travel pitfalls with insights from professionals who know the destinations inside out.

5. Cost: Most travel advisors do not charge their clients fees for bookings. We charge our clients no fees for our services. We are paid by the hotel or service provider for our services to you!

How TravelByPhilip, a FORA Travel affiliate, Elevates Your Travel Experience

We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service and unique experiences. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Specialized Expertise: From Disney vacations to World Marathon Major destinations like Berlin, Tokyo, Chicago, NYC, etc, we know how to make your trip extraordinary, because we’ve been there!

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• Emergency Support: Need to make last-minute changes or has something happened during your trip? We’re here to help, even during emergencies.

Ready to Plan Your Dream Vacation?

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a group adventure, TravelByPhilip is here to make it happen. Book a personalized consultation today, send us an email or give us a call, and let us turn your travel dreams into reality.

Contact us now to start planning your next luxury vacation.

Why should you work with a travel agent?

That’s a fair question, and one that I get all of the time. The truth is, travel is stressful and complicated. But, it’s worth it. And, if you can work with a professional to plan, book and provide insight and guidance, why wouldn’t you?

Travel agents, such as myself, have a plethora of experience in what we do. We’ve been there, experienced that and learned valuable lessons on what to do and what not to do. Working with an agent gives you access to that level of expertise.

“But Philip, I can just book this trip through my credit card company…why would I work with you?” Well, the answer to that is two-fold. First, you’re working with a person; an actual person, one on one. A contact. Someone you can reach out to directly in a pinch or someone you can ask questions to. When you book through your credit card, you’re subjected to long hold times, impersonal service and lack of expertise. Travel agents have access to the same, and sometimes even better, travel deals and/or perks that you might be offered through an online booking engine or credit card and it costs you nothing.

Advisors, such as myself, receive commissions from suppliers, such as hotels or airlines, for our services to you. But note, my priority is you, so there’s no need to be concerned about steering you to something you do not want for extra commission.

Contact me today to find out more about how I can assist you with your upcoming travel needs.