What a wonderful prelude to Valentine’s Day, just the two of us! Nestling in for a weekend at our fave New York hotel, The Mark, set within the UES (Upper East Side) amidst tree-lined blocks of private residences and stately town houses.

I love its specific location just off Madison on 77th street…not too far uptown but sheltered from the hustle and bustle of midtown…with Central Park just around the corner. Euro-chic and cool elegance (thanks to the talents of French designer, Jacques Grange) are the hallmark of the intimate interiors, set off by the lobby’s dramatic black and white striped marble floors.

Completing the main floor is the capacious and noteworthy The Mark Restaurant and Mark Bar by Jean Georges and Caviar Kaspia at The Mark (open from 7:00am to 1:00am). These three give you an idea of why this hotel is considered one of “the most stylish meeting spots on Madison Avenue”, as is the Frederic Fekkai Salon on the second floor.

By this point you’re probably coming to realize that this is no typical “upscale” hotel. The fact that The Mark attracts guests that are both well dressed and well behaved speaks volumes, as do the guest rooms that provide just the sumptuous and tranquil atmosphere that this clientele desires!

Treat yourself…both to The Mark and its surrounding yummy restaurants and shops; especially in February, when New York is so peaceful.

As for our time when not at The Mark…we strolled on Madison, lunched at the French bistro, Le Charlot, and were amused by this toast to Valentine’s…

Studied in awe the paper thin residential buildings that have popped up along West 57th (such a contrast to the historic and handsome Plaza Hotel),

and chanced upon an iconic Manhattan scene…a dog walker! This is definitely a job for which one has to be in shape!

Stopped by dear friends on East 79th for drinks, before dinner at Le Bilboquet on 60th…enjoyed the 17 block walk home, window shopping all the gorgeous offerings.

Visited the “Secret World of Elephants” exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side (don’t miss their IMAX film and the Hayden Planetarium Space Show) before heading downtown to see the new Hudson Yards. In the planning for 30-40 years, it is now in place with every building a phenomenom of geometric architecture. With a name you’ll never forget, the Electric Lemon restaurant within the Equinox Hotel provides the perfect lookout at this new “city” on the Hudson.

Their signature whimsical carrot cake is in such marked contrast to the surroundings, both in and outside, that I’m breaking one of my own rules and including a food image.

Hope you, too, had a wonderful Valentine’s!

Feature Photo Credit: The Mark Hotel