Hello friends, readers, and fellow travelers!
Have you ever wanted to plan a fun girls’ day but just couldn’t decide what to do? That was exactly the case for Abby and me! While Nick was away on a fishing weekend with his fraternity brothers, we decided to make the most of the time and do something fun for ourselves.
We started brainstorming ideas around New England, but ultimately, we landed on New York City. Of course, when you factor in flights, transportation, and a hotel, it can get pricey. So instead, we planned a one-day trip from Portland, Maine to NYC—and it turned out to be the perfect getaway!
Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, New York City never gets old. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—I love New York City. Honestly, if it were more affordable, Nick and I would move there in a heartbeat. 💕
☀️ Morning: The Start of Our Day Trip
5:20 AM – Arrived at the Portland Jetport.
🅿️ Parking was quick and only $15!
6:20 AM – Flight from Portland to Newark, NJ ✈️
8:05 AM – Landed in Newark (after a slight weather delay 🌧️).
Instead of taking an Uber ($100!), we went the smart route with public transportation 🚆 — $33 per person round trip.
☕ Coffee Stop
9:00 AM – First things first: caffeine. We grabbed coffee at Le Cafe Coffee. It was so good and exactly what we needed. $10 per person.
🥯 NYC Bagel Break
9:30 AM – Time for the most important meal of the day: BAGELS.
We tried Pop Up Bagels, where you pick three warm bagels and one cream cheese. It was a fun, shareable twist! $7.50 per person
After breakfast, we took the subway to Brooklyn for our spa day. $2.90 per person and super easy to navigate! 🗺️
💆♀️ Midday: The Ultimate Spa Experience
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM – We spent the next three hours at Blissful Headspa NYC, and let me tell you—it was magical.
We booked the full experience:
✨ 60-minute Scalp Herbal Steam
✨ 60-minute Facial
✨ 60-minute Full-Body Massage
We were a little nervous about the three-hour length, but it honestly flew by. The space was beautiful, calm, and aesthetically perfect. And if you book with a friend, expect a cozy couples’ treatment room.
🌿 Treatment Highlights:
- Massage: Deep and relaxing—my whole body felt lighter! 💆♀️
- Facial: Personalized, hydrating, and left my skin glowing ✨
- Head Spa: My favorite! Warm oils + scalp massage = pure bliss 🫧🛁
They even blow-dried our hair and showed us our scalp under a magnifier—such a cool and unexpected touch!
💡 Treat yourself. If you’re ever in NYC, book this 3-hour experience—you’ll walk out floating.
🚶♀️ Afternoon: Exploring & Snacking
2:00 PM – We took the subway back to Bryant Park to stroll around. It’s a totally different experience depending on the season, but if you’re there during the holidays, it’s pure magic 🎄✨
🔗 Want some winter magic? Check out my Christmas in NYC blog!
🍸 2:30 PM – Appetizers at Boqueria
We stopped by Boqueria for a light snack and drinks. Their espresso martinis were strong and smooth, and the cheese plates were everything we needed to recharge.
🌇 Evening: A Dazzling Finale
🥟 5:00 PM – Dinner at Din Tai Fung
Our final meal of the day was at Din Tai Fung, and WOW—what a way to wrap things up.
The xiao long bao (soup dumplings) were perfectly filled and expertly folded. We also ordered:
- 🔥 Spicy Wontons
- 🧄 Garlic Green Beans
- 🥒 Cucumber Salad
- 🍫 Chocolate Mochi Dumplings with Sweet Cream (yes, it’s as good as it sounds)
📝 Pro tip: Make a reservation or arrive early—this place gets packed for a reason!
🌃 6:30 PM – Times Square at Night
Before heading out, we took a walk through Times Square. No matter how many times I’ve been, it always feels electric. The lights, the people, the energy—there’s nothing like it. 🗽✨
🛫 7:30 PM – Headed Home
We made our way back to Newark via public transit (easy and cost-effective again) and caught our 10:00 PM flight home to Portland, ME.
📌 Tips for a Smooth Day Trip
🚇 Use public transit – It saves time and money.
📅 Book in advance – Spa and restaurant reservations are key!
📸 Take pics, but be present – Don’t miss the moment while trying to capture it.
🗽 Final Thoughts
One day in NYC can be everything you need—a little food, a little luxury, a little exploring. Whether it’s a girls’ day out or a quick solo adventure, this city always delivers.
So lace up your sneakers, grab your favorite person, and get ready to fall in love with New York all over again. 💛🗽🖤
🌄 Next Up: Day trip to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor!
Stay tuned for our next adventure—a day trip to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor!
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TravelingbeebryantRN & Flicks_withNick 
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