Starting May 19th, restaurants, museums, theaters, and retail outlets are back in full swing. For those who have had the second dose of the vaccine, and waited the full 2 weeks, it is possible to go out without a mask. This new rule applies not only outdoors but indoors as well. Governor Cuomo's announcement came shortly after the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention released the new guidelines at the federal level. Technically these new rules apply only to vaccinated people but it is unclear how the vaccination status will be checked and on whom will fall the burden of controlling and implementing such rules. At the moment it does not seem to be a burden on companies, which will, in any case, be free to establish their own policies regarding face covering and vaccine requirements. Will the VaccinePASS or a document certifying vaccination be required? We'll find out soon!
However, masks are still required in schools, public transit (the Subway has resumed service 24/7), and health-provider offices and facilities. And be ready to still see many private companies, offices, stores, etc. requiring masks while indoor. Again for companies, they can decide the rules to apply to their guest.
NEW Video: 10 Things not to miss around Downtown NYC
Finally, we are back talking about traveling. Many of you have asked me when you can come to NY or the US for tourism (international visitors.) At the moment, there is still no certain date for when the US borders will re-open to all Foreign Visitors. But considering the progress made recently, it will be SOON. In the meantime, if you are from one of those countries that are subject to the presidential declaration (i.e. all European counties) and cannot travel, here is the first Video on "Exploring New York" - Follow me to Downtown Manhattan to find out what are the 10 things not to be missed, a quick roundup to introduce you or take you back to the oldest area of New York: Lower Manhattan with the FiDi and WTC.
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New Rooftops ready to Welcome Us
These Summer Temperatures are taking us outside. The desire to be outdoors with friends after a year of closures and separation is leading us to our beloved Rooftops around New York. For a cocktail with friends or an after-dinner drink, to enjoy the sunset, or for a romantic dinner. Rooftop restaurants are the most popular during the summer season, some tips you can find in our article "Happy Hour Makes you happy!" While here you will find the latest openings (2020-2021), the brand new New York Rooftops that you can experience on your next trip:
The Newcomers
Rooftops in Manhattan
The Glass Ceiling: located by Madison Square Park, the neighborhood called NoMad (North of Madison Square Park). Opened this year, indoor and outdoor seating, overlooking the Empire State. Also in NoMad, I remind you of the Mondrian Terrace on the 15th floor of the Hotel.
The Ready @ Moxy East Village: Glass walls and retractable roof offer panoramic views of the East Village and beyond. Brand new in town, reservations are required.
The Sandbar Rooftop in Chelsea - is located on the 23rd floor of the Hilton. For those of you who know and love the atmosphere of the Hamptons, here you will find it! Beach furniture with lifeguard chairs and swings created from salvaged wine barrels. Cocktails and pizza!
Ampia Rooftop You can find this Rooftop in the Financial District, which opened last year and is now ready to welcome you with a very Italian menu. The Italian Chefs, husband and wife, are the owners of 7 restaurants here in NY, all with Italian delicacies. I recommend tasting their famous gnocchi.
I remind you that (for most Rooftops) you must be 21+ to enter- Irene T. - NYC Tour Guide