travel &   lodging

AIRPORTS Newark International Airport (in New Jersey) is a 30-45 minute cab ride into the city. The fare runs from $41 to $45 to Manhattan (What the locals call New York City), plus tolls and tip. La Guardia Airport is 20-30 minutes from the city. Fares typically run between $30-$40. If you take the mid-town tunnel into the city, there is a $5.50 toll. When going downtown, which is where the hotels and Rare NYC are located, this is usually the fastest route. JFK Airport (John F. Kennedy) is 30-45 minutes from the city. There is a flat fare of $45 to Manhattan, plus tolls and tip. This airport is the furthest from the city, but depending on where you are flying from, may be the best place for a direct flight. TAXIs & TRANSPORTATION If any characters approach you in baggage claim offering rides or taxi service, simply say “no-thanks” and head for the taxi line outside. They usually overcharge and take advantage of out-of-towners. When you get into the taxi, tell the driver you are going to Manhattan and give them cross streets. For example, if you are going to the Tribeca Grand Hotel, say: “Hi, I’m going to Manhattan. 2 Avenue of the Americas and Church Street.” That’s all you need to say. This lets the driver know that YOU know where you are going, and they won’t take you the long way and charge you more. Other Options…check with information on bus services to various points in the city MTA.info. When leaving your hotel or the RAREacademy to go back to the airport, we recommend using a car service, which will pick you up where you want and when you want. New Day Car Service 212-228-6666 is the one we use most.

HOTELS Tribeca Grand and Soho Grand Hotels Both are very cool hotels! Spacious rooms for NYC, great vibe, artsy and welcoming! If you don’t mind spending a little more, then we suggest you splurge and stay at one of these top notch hotels. The Tribeca Grand is directly across the street from the RAREacademy, while the Soho Grand is at most a 10 minute walk away! Websites: Tribeca Grand   Soho Grand Holiday Inn The Holiday Inn in Downtown Manhattan (138 Lafayette Street) is in a great location. It’s close to ChinaTown, Little Italy, Soho and Wall Street, and is a 5 minute walk to the RAREacademy. What more could you ask for? Website: Holiday Inn - Manhattan - Downtown/Soho Cosmopolitan Hotel - Tribeca The Cosmopolitan Hotel - Tribeca is perfect for those seeking a more private place away from the city’s tumult. But don’t worry; it’s a short walk to fun places like Chinatown, Soho, and of course, the Rare Salon! Website: Cosmopolitan Hotel - Tribeca Hilton Garden Inn The Hilton Garden Inn New York/Tribeca just opened it’s doors in winter 2009. Located 1 ½ blocks from RARE it is convenient as well as moderately priced. Website: Hilton Garden Inn