If I had to venture to guess what the most popular question being asked across college campuses this time of year, it would have to be, “What are you doing for Spring Break?” College Spring Break is clearly more than just a topic among students to break the ice; it is also a perennial fascination in American culture. Think: MTV’s 16 consecutive year series. But I’d like to believe that the week doesn’t have to be spent on a remote island in the Caribbean, rather on one that can offer you slightly more than a piña colada. This island, Manhattan, may not have the beaches nor the ninety-degree weather in March as compared to some of the big-name Spring Break destinations. However, what I can promise you is that you won’t have a second to think about being bored. One week is not even enough time to fully sink your teeth into this magical city! Hopefully, my recommendations will be able to steer you in helpful directions and get you started on what to do for Spring Break in New York. There’s not a moment to waste. Let’s get started on our Spring Break inside look and itinerary!

Fashion: When traveling to New York for your trip, it’s important to come with realistic expectations. Is this a Spring Break bikini-style vacation? Sorry, but it isn’t. The upside? You are entering one of the most renowned fashion capitals of the world. Don’t let that scare you, however. Looking good is not so difficult when you have the basic elements in mind for your New York look. With the help of American Eagle, I was able to piece together a sophisticated, yet simple ensemble that is in keeping with the city flair. In New York when you are hopping in and out of subways and running a pretty tight schedule, you should opt for something casual, comfortable and classic. The three C’s of fashion in the CITY. Jot that down. A coat, like this Double-Breasted Trench is definitely an item to add to your wish-list. What’s better? It’s a fashion no-brainer. Throw it on and you are set. If you want to think of what to put on underneath, I suggest something like this cute American Eagle Outfitters Eyelet Corset. It’s flirty and feminine and defines your figure without being tasteless. With regard to dressing the bottom half of your body, I would say a great pair of black jeans or Jeggings is perfect. In New York, black is a staple color rain or shine, spring, winter, fall or summer. Basically, you can never go wrong with black. Now for the fun stuff! Shoes. While it’s nice to be swept off our feet by the wonder of the city, it isn’t fun to walk around in bad shoes. You will return from your Spring Break with a “I love New York” shirt and a not so nice blister on your foot. Yuck! Hence, practicality is a word that should enter your mind when thinking about shoes. I decided that these Cool Black Booties would be a good way to finish my look as they gave me some height and were easy to walk in.

Shopping: Oh where to begin!? As the iconic Sex and the City character, Carrie Bradshaw once said, “Year after year twenty- something women come to New York City in search for the two ‘L’s’ — labels and love.” While the Sex and the City girls may have the budget to splurge on Fendi, Gucci, Prada and the likes, us college women have to be a bit more selective with how we can spend. I love window-shopping on Madison Avenue, but when it comes to actual shopping, my favorite stores are Intermix, Comptoir des Contonniers, Rag and Bone, Barneys, Wink and Big Drop NYC. With regard to buying make-up, it’s a one-stop shop for me: Space NK. Each item in their stores is carefully selected and come from the finest product lines. It’s the boutique experience that other more commercial make-up stores don’t provide. One of the main reasons I enjoy shopping is because you really get a flavor for each of the city’s eclectic and interesting neighborhoods. The stores in Soho feel very different from those on the Upper West Side. While you are perusing the racks in each neighborhood, you feel like you are entering different cities. Pretty cool!

Entertainment: To try to begin discussing what to do for entertainment in New York is a pretty difficult task. This may seem trite, but there truly is so much to do. New York City is a jungle gym of never-ending possibilities! You can do anything from a fun comedy show at Dangerfield’s to a smooth Jazz night at Blue Note, or even get spiffy with a night out to a Broadway show. If you feel inspired from the incredible talent on Broadway and want to sing a little ditty, you might want to check out a fun Karoake spot in Korea Town. Start warming up your voice! For those looking for some “culture,” a museum visit to the MOMA might be the thing for you. In fact, there is a a great Diego Rivera exhibit happening now.

Food: As for restaurants, New York has myriad great places to go. If you want to have a casual meal after a long night out with friends, I would definitely suggest “The Diner” in the Meatpacking District. No frills, good food. Exactly what a city diner is all about. For a special night out, I would reccomend you go to a more chic and hip restaurant. Here is the list of my favorite spots:  Peasant, Saxon and Parole, La Esquina, Stanton Social, Meatball Shop, Extra Virgin, The Smith, Locanda Verde, Catch, Beauty and Essex, Co-op and  ABC Kitchen.

As you can see, New York is both the perfect place to go to for Spring Break (and one you also must return to). So, pack up your things and get ready for the experience of a lifetime. See you soon!