Nikky Mendoza's Blog: 9 Things Worth Saving For in NYC

LIFE IN THE APPLE
by Lauren Malamala

Save up to take advantage of the many attractions right here at home.

Experiencing all New York City has to offer doesn’t come cheap. There are several experiences, however, that are worth saving your spare dollars for – plus, this list gives you something to look forward to.

A Show or Concert
Whether it's seeing ABT's Misty Copeland perform, buying tickets to see an A-list comedian live, or splurging on orchestra seats to hear your favorite singer at Radio City Music Hall, live entertainment is one of NYC’s best offerings.

See Misty Copeland perform with American Ballet Theatre. {credit}

Spa Treatments
From the Caudalie Spa at the Plaza to the iconic Bliss franchise, a day filled with massages, steam rooms, facials, and overall pampering is well worth the hefty price tag.

A Ballgame
It doesn’t matter if you’re a Jets, Giants, Mets, or Yankees fan. Any sports fanatic knows that scoring tickets to a New York ballgame is one of those experiences you can’t pass up. Tickets are far from cheap, but it’s fun to watch the Mets from box seats or watch the Knicks play at Madison Square Garden, even if only once in your life.

Score tickets to the Yankees. {credit}

A Gourmet Meal
New York City is home to restaurants owned by some of the world’s greatest chefs. Once in a while, treat yourself to a fancy meal out, be it afternoon tea at the Ritz, a champagne brunch at the Rainbow Room, or the chef’s tasting menu at Per Se. Fine dining isn’t just about the food, but the experience as well.

Designer Purchases
Who wants to window shop their entire life? With designer label goldmines such as Madison Avenue, Fifth Avenue, and iconic department stores like Bloomingdale’s, Barneys, and Bergdorf’s, there comes a point when you’ll want to splurge. Enjoy the fact that we have such easy access to the fashion world’s elite designers. Put $20 away here and there, and save up for those Manolo Blahniks or a new pair of Christian Dior sunglasses. With accessories in particular, you can think of them as “investment pieces” that will last you for years to come.

Save up for that ensemble you spotted in the window at Bloomingdale's.

Car Rental
Locals embrace public transportation, and most only carry a driver’s license so they can purchase alcohol or get into nightclubs. But sometimes, you just want to get behind a wheel and go __ anywhere. Rent a car and enjoy the freedom of visiting other boroughs, driving out to the Hamptons, or simply buying groceries without having to worry about how much you can actually carry back to your apartment.

A Vacation
We love you, New York – but sometimes, we need a break. Make a savings plan so you can take that trip to New Orleans, sneak away to the Western US, or go all-out with an exotic getaway to Bali. When you have a nice chunk of change saved up to travel, the possibilities are endless.

Sneak away to the West, the land of sun and palm trees.

High-Profile Charity Events
I'm not referring to your average food drive. With a wealth of money and celebrities residing in the city, black tie galas and other events to raise awareness for different causes take place year round. Save up for a ticket and you’ll be able to enjoy a dressy night out on the town, socialize with celebs, and network with influential people – all, while supporting a great charity.

A Staycation
If time is an issue, there’s nothing wrong with planning a staycation in your own city. Spend a weekend at one of NYC’s many five-star hotels, order room service, and you’ll be relaxed and refreshed by Monday morning.