Sarina Fazan had the chance to go to New York at the end of December, a magical time of year for the Big Apple. The judge Michelle Sisco and her daughter Sophia joined Sarina and Sammie as long time family friends. The girls started horse riding together at age 8.

The trip began on December 27, the day after Michelle’s birthday. It was only fitting first night was dedicated to her. Sarina was able to set up a surprise dinner at Quality Bistro, where cozy ambiance and great food come together in the heart of New York. The waiters even brought a surprise dessert for Michelle. This French-inspired steakhouse by Michael Stillman is located in Midtown Manhattan. The Bistro prides itself on "over-the-top" classic dishes, a spacious dining area, and 19th-century European inspired themes to bring a touch of old-world class to New York.

After dinner, the four of them discovered a magical wonderland inside Lillie’s Victorian Establishment, where Sammie and Sofia reunited with a group of high school friends. With Sammie now at Florida State University and Sofia at the University of Georgia in Athens, it was the perfect opportunity for them to catch up. Beautifully decorated, Lillie’s Victorian felt like something straight out of a fairy tale.


Named for the British socialite Lillie Langtry, Lillie's Victorian stands out for its authentic 19th-century Irish antique decor, and dramatic flair. While the owners tend meticulously up keep throughout the year, Christmas is when it truly shines.


Despite the cold weather, the four went shopping among bright lights and long lines. Fortunately, the good holiday spirit was still in the air, and the crowd had an infectious positive energy. The highlights are Princess Polly. A trendy Gen Z clothing store, Edikteda Gen-Z clothing with pop culture influences, and Zara, famous for "Fast Fashion" at reasonable prices. Brandy Melville is usually a can't miss, but the lines were too long, and the cold was no doubt bothering Sammie and Sophia.


After so much running around, the four women returned to their hotel, The Sheraton in New York Times Square. Of course, Times Square so close to New year’s was very crowded, but that's part of the experience of New York. Built in 1964 in preparation for the New York World's Fair. Morris Lapidus, a famous architect, designed the hotel to offer more scenic views to the guests. Over the years, The Sheraton has hosted notable events, such as the Tony Awards, the NFL Draft, and the New York Democratic Convention.


The next day was the last day for Michelle and Sophia, and Sarina wanted to make the most of it. Bergdorf Goodman of New York City has a great lunch spot, Goodman's Bar which was surprising to find in a men's store, but still a delight. Bergdorf Goodman was founded by Herman Bergdorf in 1899, and the second story holds the bar that won 2020 Retail Renovation of the Year competition. The establishment aims to be a sophisticated lounge, upscale, but welcoming.


From there, they made their way along the famous 5th avenue, still lit up with Glitz and glam of Christmas, for a little window shopping. For anyone visiting 5th avenue (Or just want to snag the look) go Boho with Free People or visit Urban Outfitters sibling store Anthropologie and of course, the iconic Saks Fifth Avenue. The famous luxury department stories has been going strong since 1924.


Sammie is a huge fan of Sushi, and the four were able to make a trip to Nobu. Classy and upscale, Nobu feels welcoming and warm. Famed actor Robert De Niro came up with an idea for Japanese-Peruvian fusion and convinced successful restaurateur Drew Nieporent to join him. The menu comes from Celebrity Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa (better known as Nobu) and in 1994, Nobu was created.

Dinner was a wonderful upscale Italian place; Bond 45 Sarina was particularly fond of. A popular Italian restaurant in New York City's Theater District, Bond is best known for its theatrical decor, founded in 2005, by restaurateur Shelly Fireman, the name pays tribute to the historic Bond Clothing store (Which was formerly adjacent) and the early 20th-century Hammerstein Theater.


Finally, they topped the night off with a Broadway Show of the Great Gatsby. Of course, being Broadway, it's a high-quality stage show, full of glamorous costumes and great songs. Fun fact: Broadway started its run in 1732. The first musical wasn't until The Black Crook, debuting in 1866.


The third day was a special day for Sarina and Sammie. A bonding mother and daughter time both of them will always cherish. Sammie proved her prowess as a social media connoisseur, finding some great recommendations from social media. Going on a tip from a friend, Sammie found the Liberty Bagels for a Macha tea. The line was long, but worth it. Liberty Bagels prides their use of traditional recipes for kettle-boiled, hand-rolled bagels. In 1995, Alex Vulcus and Victor created a business that combined authentic recipes with modern ideas (Such as rainbow bagels) to make a unique experience.


Sammie has many treasured memories of going to New York with her father. It's a truly magical city where every trip is a different experience. While Sarina is grateful for the time she spends in New York, it's not the places we go, but the people we go with.


If you can't afford New York, you can go with those you love down to the local areas and still make special memories.