The List - NYC Spots

On my latest trip to my favourite city, I discovered some new spots and visited old favourites. Below is a round-up of my favourite NYC hits for brunch, cocktails, shopping and caffeine. Enjoy! x

1. Sweet Science - Sometimes bars look scary in the daytime. Sweet Science, in Brooklyn is a cozy day spot for brunch with graffiti art and natural light. Try: the black bean burgers.
2. Jack's Wife Freda - I've read about this trendy SoHo brunch spot, and had been meaning to check it out. The food is South African Israeli Jewish inspired. Try: the Mediterranean breakfast. Note: it's a bit loud on Sundays, and you may have to wait in line. Do some shopping before!
3. Warby Parker - I've been a fan of Warby Parker since their initial launch. Warby provides affordable eye wear and donates a pair of glasses to someone in need with every purchase. My friend Cam is an optometrist at the Upper East Side location and I loved their library-inspired space.
4. Dunwell Donuts - I brought this place up before, but I can't seem to walk by without grabbing a vegan donut. This time I was up on that vanilla and chocolate sprinkles flavour.
5. Stumptown Coffee - Coffee is my jam in every city I visit. When heading to New York, I no longer visit tourist attractions, but instead try to find new cafes. Stumptown has a few locations, and I chose to visit their shop located in The Ace Hotel. Notes: great coffee, cool lighting.
6. Roebling Tea Room - I have a pen pal (more on that later) and we met at The Roebling Tea room in Williamsburg for a catch up and cocktails. The bar/restaurant/tea room is moody and lush, with the most perfect windows. I loved, loved, loved it.
7. The Ace Hotel - I found myself in the lobby of The Ace Hotel (see photo below) and I did what any aspiring writer on vacation does: I found a spot, opened my laptop and typed until I forgot what time it was. I was surrounded by other people doing the same thing, and I felt like I was transported to some hipster college library. I'd definitely consider staying at the hotel in the future.

Welcome to New York

I go to New York, the way a person recharges at a spa.

Every time I visit, it feels like I never left. I see the same friends. I stay at the same place in Brooklyn. I insert myself into the daily swarms of people heading everywhere, and nowhere. I eat sandwiches, and bagels and stay out too late, and then eat another sandwich, and sip on too many cups of coffee. And just like that, I feel inspired again.

New York isn't a juice cleanse, it's a sugar rush.

On Sunday, Jules and I headed over to Central Park, as I found out that one of my new favourite bands City of the Sun was playing a live show by the Bethesda Fountain. I've been to Central Park before, but because of its size, I realized I had never been to that specific area before.

The New York City Ban

The last time I visited New York was seven months ago.

It was Labour Day weekend, and it marked a full year since my previous summer spent living in Brooklyn. During my visit, I felt different about the city that I was attached to. I tried to push myself away from the experience; the way you do when you love something, but you know it no longer serves you. On that visit, I came to the realization that I wasn't going to find my way back there.

I needed a reality check. I had only lived there for a summer, not a century. I was still a tourist in most regards. When I got home from that trip, I imposed upon myself a New York City ban. I didn't book my usual trips for Halloween or New Years Eve; I stayed put. I focused on local ambitions. I found my own place. I committed to my job.

Once I was settled in Toronto, I felt that I could book a trip back, without having to push anything away. I was ready to embrace my favourite city, like the moment when you finally become friends with an ex, and you can see them without wanting to be with them. At least that's how I hoped I would feel. This time, I knew I'd have something of mine to come home to.

Before I left, I booked a hair appointment and welcomed brighter strands for my usual spring refresh. I mean, when you know you're going to run into your ex, you want to look your best right?

What More Could You Want?

We were sitting inside at a bar on a rainy holiday Monday and Julia turned over to us and went into a mini-monologue about how grateful she is, right now, in this moment. 

She pointed out that we are all healthy, happy, in good company, and in New York City; what more could we ask for?

She then got a bit embarrassed as she knew she was gushing, but I was so happy she did. 

I find that sometimes people get uncomfortable around emotion, and others notice. It's the moment when you think, oh wait, should I say that out loud? 

The answer is always yes.  

The smallest things - like realizing that in my favourite park there are bursts of red. Artist Orly Genger created the below red rope installations in Madison Square Park, and while waiting in line at the Shake Shack my eyes were drawn to red balloons. 

The simplest things bring the most joy. The power of a warm colour, the giggling gossip when reuniting with good friends and the ability shake off the wetness of an umbrella, and instead reflect on the goodness around you. 

Keep on gushing people. 

Have a great weekend! x

Everyday Beauty - Julia

While it is no secret that I love New York, a large reason for my reoccurring trips is to visit Brooklyn dweller, fellow Italian suburban expat and best lady pal Julia.

Julia's beauty lies in her compassion for others. This past year she lopped off her hair for cancer, and travelled to Rwanda to conduct eye exams. She's incredibly smart, (occupation: optometrist) but also street smart (read: a Jedi master of the New York City transit system). If you meet her in person she'll either squeeze you with a hug, or excitedly shake your hand - all while welcoming you into her space.

On a physical level, her smile makes you feel like you should try smiling more in case you look that good by association; while her short do accentuates her delicate features and cheekbones, without a lick of makeup. She's like a pint of champagne - all effervescent and bubbly, without the ornamental stemware.

Besides, she prefers to ask what's on tap anyways.

Below is the shoot, taken in Bryant Park. Enjoy! x

Spring in New York - Not A Model Travel Diary

This trip to New York was the most confusing because of the season. The warmth of spring felt almost like summer, minus the humidity and bareness of the bod. It felt the most like old times compared to my fall and winter visits.

Upon my arrival we floated up to the roof to drink beermosas (exactly what it sounds like) and we all chattered about the gaps of information and anecdotes that you don't get via distance communication.

I discovered that in Greenpoint you will find a secret Thai restaurant in the basement of a bar. And only there will you inform your friend while she heads to the bathroom that you absolutely need to order dumplings, right now, at 1:30 a.m., before you head to the next place.

During the day, we ate pizza like we were in Naples, but more like the West Village. I also took Jules to my favourite secret (or not so secret) surf shop turned cafe patio that I used to frequent on my weekdays off in the summer. Ridiculously attractive surfer males, included. Always.

The weather brought Motown singers expanding their lungs on the sidewalk streets, and pink litter from cherry blossoms that reminded me of confetti from a church wedding.

Just like any other city that experiences the brunt of the four seasons, spring forces everyone back outside to rejuvenate and in my case, reunite.

Below is my first photo diary of spring 2013 in NYC. Enjoy! x

A Note to the Weekend..

I purchased the vintage tumblers (above) at a thrift shop in Chicago.

Usually I don’t go for the home section when in a thrift shop, but the moment I saw this pair I had to have them. The price (2 for $10?!) was ridiculous, and they featured real images from The New York Times! THE FREAKING TIMES, also known as my favourite newspaper.

Currently they are just used for decoration, but one day I’d like to imagine pouring homemade gin cocktails in them while griping about a long day. As the glasses clink I will toast, “Cin Cin” pronounced, chin chin) as Italians say.

But for now, let's toast to the weekend.

To the end of April, apparently as T.S. Eliot said, the most cruel of months. To sleeping in and languid breakfasts. To positivity. To bottomless cups of coffee and sunlight slicing through scattered blinds. To immense gratitude. To my amazing cousin Diane who celebrates her 30th birthday today and to New York, where I will be spending this weekend visiting good friends and favourite hangouts.

To keep in touch, follow me here, here & here. Be back soon! x

New Year - Great Expectations

My last days of 2012 have been spent in the city that changed me this year. 

It only seemed fitting that I came back to New York, or more specifically Brooklyn for the end. I created the above illustration while waiting at the airport for a few hours of weather delays. When I reflect on another year gone, I believe that there was a slight alteration of my inner self (as hokey as that sounds) for many different reasons. Nonetheless, I feel different from the girl who began this year 365 days ago. 

When I think of 2013, the only word that comes to mind right now is disruption. Breaking apart routines. Carving something new. Repeat adventures. Forceful discipline from laziness. Growth. 

The first day of a year brings with it the hope that this time, anything can happen. Wait, everything can happen. Last night, I sat with my friends in our old apartment and we ordered Chinese food and watched Great Expectations. Before the movie even started, I thought about what a great expectation entails. Anything great, any sort of expectation can generally lead to disappointment. Yet, I still believe it's best to think towards greatness than to lower your standards to prevent heartache. 

This year, take what you dream and perhaps make it something bigger than "lose weight in 2013." (Although if that's important to you, that's okay. But try for one extra non-physical addition to your list) 

Happy New Year from Not A Model! Thank you for reading & hope it's the best one yet. x

New York, again

I wrote the below post, before Hurricane Sandy. I took a flight about 5 hours before the entire city shut down. To all the East Coasters that have been affected, stay strong & keep your spirits up!

This past week, I had to go to New York again for a work trip. I'll admit I was a bit hesitant because I felt that I had finally adjusted from my summer away and was in better spirits lately.

But this was for my other life, my PR life. I arrived at my solo hotel room and put on a cozy bathrobe and got into a bed fit for three. I bought packaged peanut butter crackers from Duane Reade and flipped through reruns that I never watch anymore.

I walked the streets of Manhattan with the quickest step and smirked at strangers. I went for lunch alone, at a restaurant I've been wanting to try despite my lack of a guest. And it was fantastic because I sat at the bar and ordered homemade cherry citrus soda, a whole wheat organic mushroom pizza and I didn't have to make tiny talk with anyone.

And then I went back to Brooklyn because once I get the adult solitude out of my system, there is nothing like hanging out with the girls who make me laugh from the bottom of my gut to the deepest creases of my crinkled eyelids.

And I was happy over nothing again. Over waiting for the subway underground while a busker hummed on acoustic guitar. Over the tattooed barista who said he hasn't seen me in awhile because I used to go to his cafe every morning. Over a tree exploding with amber leaves. Over taking the L train.

On my way back from Manhattan, I took the wrong train and had to transfer twice. You would think by now I would pay more attention. But I didn't. And the transfer left me with seven different flights of stairs to climb, with three pieces of luggage. But it was okay because every time, a new person offered to help carry my bags.

And on the final climb, at my old summer subway stop, a nice guy offered to help. Once we reached the top of the stairs, he gently placed down my bags and said:

"Welcome Home!"

And my heart dropped because he was both right and wrong.

63 Days

What do we do with the last days of summer?

Do we carry them with us on our beach-chapped skin or write the memories in the paper pages of our minds until the next sun-soaked chapter?

The days when all of a sudden we feel the slight shiver in the air and the sun doesn't beat down so strong. The atmosphere gives our bodies a chance to cover up, layer down. It says, "Hey eat that extra piece of cake, your bikini will make friends with the sock drawer instead."

Plath described this time of year like this: “…the best of the summer gone, and the new fall not yet born. The odd uneven time.” 

After living in New York for 63 days, I'm officially home.

I'll miss the late, latest nights with the best girls, the morning recaps over brunch, sunset rooftop dinners, the way I could discover an entire city just by hopping underground, the slices of pizza that are always bigger than your face, the way that my stomach flipped every time I drove across the Brooklyn bridge, or sat across from the Manhattan skyline; how the energy of this city never calmed down, never stopped coursing through the bodies of those who chose to embrace it.

The ending of a summer, or any sort of ending is like when you were a kid and your mom told you that it was time for bed. Even though you couldn't keep your eyes open for one second longer, even though you knew that it was time, you still shouted:

"Five MORE minutes!"

Below are a few of the last days of summer outfits. The kind that you instantly pack-up once September hits, or change up the variations with darker accessories and bottoms.

Oh and the roof, gosh will I miss that.

Here's to a new season. xx

Surfing in Montauk - NYC Diaries

The moment we had to carry the surfboards on our heads, I knew I was in trouble.

"Holy heck, this is heavy," I thought to myself as I followed my roommate Julia and our laid-back surf instructor Jeremy to our surf lesson at Ditch Plains Beach in Montauk, East Hampton.

I've wanted to go to Montauk ever since I arrived in New York. I had read so many articles about the area as the place to be this summer and more importantly the place to surf. We took the Hampton Jitney (love, love the jitney) from Manhttan to Montauk to try and catch some waves for the day. Catch some waves? Ha! That phrase sounds as simple as catching a baseball.

Okay, let's get one thing straight: surfing is not even close to playing baseball. Not even a little bit close.

Thoughts that crossed my mind during my land lesson:

• Wait, we're paddling all the way out where?! 
• Without any sort of life jacket? 
• What colour did I reach in swimming classes again?  

Thoughts that crossed my mind once paddling to sea: 

• This is so cool! Kate Bosworth, eat your Blue Crush heart out. 
• Oh man, why did I watch so many episodes of Shark Week? 
• Ack! My arms are weaker than over-cooked spaghetti.  

Thoughts that crossed my mind while trying to surf:

• Riding this wave is not so hard lying down. Wooo!
• Okay, Amanda, try and stand up. 
• *Slips off board* 
• Ahh! I'm underwater!!! 
• Ahhh I'm going to drown!!!
• Where is my board?! 
• Get up!! 
• Ahh another wave!!
• What did Jeremy say about getting back? 
• *board smashes into body* 
• *knees scape on rocks* 
• Let's try that again. 

All in all, I never fully stood up on the board like Julia, the could-be-pro-surfer who was riding waves like she was secretly raised in Hawaii, but I did the best I could considering my fears and it was more than enough for me.

Afterward, we rinsed off and relaxed on the beach. As we sprawled out on our towels, I relished in the quiet sound of waves curling onto the shore, the whistle of the air twirling around in the sand, the sensation of my skin tightening from the sea-salt and the soreness from my limbs from trying something new.

After being engulfed in the busiest city of them all for an entire summer, I finally could hear my thoughts again. I sank my feet in the sand and decided that the best place to catch a wave will always be in-between my toes.

Mantras - Happy Reasoning

A few weeks ago I visited a neighbourhood called Park Slope in Brooklyn, about 40 minutes outside of Williamsburg. I walked the quiet streets saturated with brownstones and fanning, leafy, sun-drenched trees. I tripped over baby-strollers and walked into knick knack shops. I thought about who lives in these homes and what their lives must be like. I had no direction, no real mission to be there and the afternoon all to myself. There was nothing exciting to report, nothing out of the ordinary and yet I was Mona Lisa smiling.

This week's Not A Model mantra is as follows:

"Be happy for no reason, like a child. If you are happy for a reason, you’re in trouble, because that reason can be taken from you."
- Deepak Chopra

Coney Island - NYC Diaries

One of the first things I wrote on my New York summer bucket list was: Visit Coney Island.

I finally made the trip to South Brooklyn with my roommate Jules for a lazy beach Sunday. Despite overzealously checking multiple weather networks for the forecast, somehow the day ended up being breezy and overcast, with a sky the colour of a giant marshmallow. We still wore our bathing suits but ended up walking around the grounds instead of lying out on the beach.

Coney Island exudes a sense of retro simplicity that seems to get lost at other amusement parks. Everything looks a little bit worn out, a little bit abandoned, a little bit muted. There is nothing shiny or corporate rubbing its nose in your face. It's old-fashioned goodness that attracts families, friends, young people and musicians who need a little escape from the city.

The highlights of the day had to be riding the Cyclone roller coaster (and pretty much losing my voice afterward from screaming like a 90 year old lady who's never been on a rickety ride) AND eating my first hot dog in five years from Nathan's famous.

Below are some photos from the day trip. The only good thing about the clouds is they help capture better photos. Additional photo credit to newbie shutter bug: Julia C.

Enjoy! xx