If you fancy pure, stylish uptown atmosphere I have one recommendation. Exclusively hidden between Madison and 5th Avenue on the most superb Upper East Side location lies the almost royal looking Surrey Hotel. Beautiful and spacious rooms designed with half old New England stylish tradition and half modern urban rock'n'roll attitude. The interior is thought out by acclaimed designer Lauren Rottet, who found inspiration in the classic NYC townhouses when setting the tone of The Surrey Hotel. No wonder that this discreet UES escape has been a favorite for famous faces like JFK, Bette Davis and Claudette Colbert.

The service is impeccable. When was the last time you got room service brought by a VOGUE L'Uomo model, who besides handsome is sweet and has brains? I thought so. And even though we are situated on a proper Upper East Side address with marble, manners and shiny doorknobs, well there is a enormous image of rock star super model and style icon Kate Moss in the lobby. This UES residence is not just another hotel. This is rock Star meets Liz Taylor for a classy champagne brunch rendez-vous.

And speaking of brunch: Next door is the award winning Café Boulud restaurant that offers a French-cuisine inspired menu based on the famous chef Daniel Boulud's by now almost legendary traditions. Did I mention this hot-spot has a star in the Michelin Guide? Definitely a must-do when visiting The Surrey. The hotel also offers a private rooftop garden for the residents at the hotel only. The perfect spot to chill and have your before dinner cocktail. I can also recommend that you test the Spa. Nothing like a facial or a massage after a long day of walking the streets of Manhattan. I Loved the luxury of my room and the location while I stayed at The Surrey and would love to visit the place again.  -Kristina Korsholm 20 East 76th Street New York, NY 10021-2688 (212) 288-3700

www.thesurrey.com