The Pet Shop Boys knew what they were talking about when they sang: “New York City boy… You’ll never have a bored day!”

I’ve spent so much time in NYC over the years (including living there for a few) that going back feels like a homecoming. There are always innovative new exhibitions, and landmarks I never got around to checking out.

Read on for my 2021 guide to New York’s art and travel attractions, including the most Instagrammable spots in the city. Such as One World Observatory (I’ll never grow bored of this view from the deck)…

… and the trippy SuperReal immersive projections at Cipriani 25 Broadway. (I flew to NYC in late July to report on culture in the city. As you can see, I kept as safe as possible, staying away from crowds and masking indoors.)

And leave it to me to find Mr. Roboto. Read on for a peek inside my stay at Yotel New York, a sci-fi space hotel with a luggage “Yobot” robot!

Let’s take it from the top: I went to the southern end of Manhattan to ascend One World Trade Center. Also known as the Freedom Tower, the skyscraper soars up from the former site of the World Trade Towers, and stands next to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

One WTC was designed by architect David Childs, and completed in 2013. It is currently the tallest building in the United States and the Western Hemisphere, and the sixth tallest in the world.

Photographer Joey Wong and I were keen to take in the sky-high views from One World Observatory, located on the top levels of the skyscraper.

(It was bright up there, so I wore these exact Roberto Cavalli snake sunglasses. They’re the RC 1047 Chianciano oversize frames, with gold serpents on the sides!)

Travel these days requires a fair amount of planning, as many attractions require advance bookings and have limited time slots. Tickets to One WTC Observatory are available online, with various options including skip-the-line VIP passes. 

Address and directions: While the building address is 285 Fulton Street, note that the doors to the Observatory are on West Street between Fulton and Vesey Streets. Once inside, go down the escalator to find the entrance.

From the enormous windows of One World Observatory, New York City looks miniscule. I was reminded of the Jigsaw disco song “Sky High” — as they sang, “We could have touched the sky.”

The tower has a three-story observation deck, located on floors 100–102.

Visitors ride the SkyPod elevators, which climb up 102 stories in only 47 seconds, reaching top speeds of 36.5 km per hour! (And there was no ear-popping or discomfort.) During the swift ride, we saw video footage of the transformation of New York City from unsettled land to a metropolis of skyscrapers.

When you step out of the elevator, you’re greeted by a visual show that ends with a rising curtain, revealing the magnificent views from One WTC.

Then, you’re free to wander around the circular observatory, and take in views from several floors. Here’s one of my favorite perspectives: you can see Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and 8 Spruce Street (the rectangular tower in the center). Formely known as the Beekman Tower, this iconic 76-story skyscraper was designed by architect Frank Gehry.

And can you recognize the tiny figure, outside these picture windows? That’s the Statue of Liberty, raising her green torch over Liberty Island.

Architecture buffs like myself will enjoy peering out the glass, and spotting famous NYC buildings. In the center, you might recognize the 1913 Woolworth Building, which towers 60 stories above downtown Manhattan. It was financed by millionaire Frank Woolworth, and designed by Cass Gilbert.

New York City has other observation points and decks, including the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and The Edge at Hudson Yards. One World has by far the highest viewpoint, providing plenty of opportunities for Instagram-friendly photos like this.

Every ticket option to One World gives you access to these stunning 360° views. However, the VIP pass has benefits including access to the priority lane for security, elevator, and exit. You’ll also get a Flexible Arrival time, so there’s no stress about making a specific timeslot.

One World’s observation deck is indoors, which was a relief on a hot summer’s day.

One of NYC’s most bizarre buildings is the “Jenga tower” on the far left. (The apartment high-rise is actually called 56 Leonard Street in Tribeca.)

Visit One World Observatory for these bird’s-eye views over the Big Apple. More info and tickets on their website.

You can also find One WTC on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. (And don’t miss out on the nearby September 11 museum and memorial pools, as well as the subway station designed by Santiago Calatrava.)

Now, for something new in New York. I dove into a dream world of moving projections at The SuperReal Experience, a 45-minute experience that pays tribute to the city.

These immersive digital shows are an exciting new way to experience art (I’ve seen a few worldwide, including Teamlabs Tokyo and Imagine Van Gogh Vancouver). The lighting and visual effects are constantly changing, creating new moods for photography.

SuperReal is located at Cipriani 25 Broadway, inside the former Cunard Building. The event space has decadent Italian neo-renaissance domes and arches, which provide a framework for the projection mapping.

Look up, and all around you — including the floor. SuperReal uses every inch as a canvas for digital effects.

One corner of SuperReal has a bar. Lie down on one of the beanbag chairs, and sip on a drink. If you’re feeling playful, you can bounce the white balloons around the venue.

Music and sound effects accompany the visuals. The vibe constantly changes with each “dream,” from psychedelic 90s to dark thunder and lightning.

I wore “A Tim Burton Film” dress from Forest Ink — appropriate, for this fantastical atmosphere!

The projection mapping encompasses the entire 12,000 square foot grand hall of Cipriani 25 Broadway.

I loved how SuperReal highlighted the building’s majestic architecture, creating virtual realms that blur the lines between reality and illusion.

The original art is accompanied by 360 degrees surround sound. My favorite part: when they blasted Sylvester’s disco hit, “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real).”

Amazing how the high-tech moving visuals exactly match the interior details.

From Art Deco to decadent flowers, the mood keeps on shifting.

Head to the historic 25 Broadway in NY’s Financial District, to see these superb visuals in motion. You can book a time-slot ticket to The SuperReal Experience here.

Finally, a “Yo” to the aliens… I had a blast staying at Yotel New York, a hotel inspired by outerspace! (I hope there’s a press trip to space in my future.)

Yotel NY has a convenient mid-town Manhattan location (not far from 42nd Street Port Authority), and the spaceship design is prime for photo-taking.

Yotel has a sleek modern design, and the rooms are affordable. The NY hotel has 713 “cabins,” and the hallways made me feel like I was a passenger on a rocket to Mars. (Wearing Sleevey Wonders under sleeves as a top.)

I didn’t run into any aliens at Yotel — unless you count the two grinning, horned “deer” statues in the lobby!

Everything at Yotel has a high-tech design. Guests check themselves in at the computer kiosks; it’s a simple process that only takes two minutes, and includes creating your own room key.

Instead of a “lobby boy,” Yotel has a giant white robot to carry and store your luggage! The Yobot’s arm can handle 500 pounds, and maneuver hundreds of suitcases a day.

Using the touch screen computer, you can have the Yobot store your bags in an assigned locker. All you need is the receipt with a bar code to get them back.

Even the vending machines have a futuristic edge. This Vengo dispenser is the size of a picture frame, yet contains items like toiletries and headphones. You can purchase them from the touch-screen with cashless payment.

Yotel NYC’s rooms are ingeniously designed like space-cabins to save space. The shelving is built-in, and the flat bed retracts into a sofa with the push of a button!

The Yotel room pods are designed for maximum compactness, yet you have everything you need for an enjoyable stay — including views of Midtown from the window.

There’s even a neon lighting option, to get you in the mood for an intergalactic disco party! Such a fun stay, at Yotel NYC. 

I leave you with some NYC subway outfit photos. Wearing a vintage Japanese kimono jacket / coverup from Burcu’s Angels Vancouver.

Tim Burton dress from Forest Ink. Anastasia liquid lipstick has been my go-to, as the lip stain stays on when you’re wearing a mask.

Do you have any favorite Instagrammable spots in New York City? (I’ve been living in these Roberto Cavalli snake sunglasses.)

More from NYC to come, including reviews of museums and art shows. And you can enjoy my previous New York travel stories here!

Stay-at-home style, Satanic edition… Hail Goth loungewear!

What’s a Goth to wear these days, if there’s no travel or Gothic events? Let me show you my favorite Goth lounge-wear and easy makeup, which lets me look “done” for Zoom calls and essential outings.

I’ll also continue my NYC flashbacks with a tour of Vessel at Hudson Yards, Fotografiska photography museum, synthwave parties… and other fabulous things we can look forward to in the future.

I’m feeling the urge to keep things simple, during lockdown. However, I like putting on a few touches of makeup for video conference calls, or for essential trips outside.

I rely on pro-level products from Anastasia Beverly Hills, as they feel great and let me easily get “put together.” 

Anastasia Soare is considered the Eyebrow Queen, and makeup artists agree that her brow products are the best out there. I especially recommend ABH Dipbrow Gel and Pomade, which let you build natural-looking brows that stay on all day.

(Click the pics below for more about these items:)

For a 5-minute look, I apply The Ordinary mineral sunscreen, followed by Anthelios tinted sunscreen. I do my brows, and flick on Anastasia’s Liquid Liner and Lash Brag mascara. Then, I’ll swipe on ABH Liquid Lipstick, which stays on all day so I don’t need to re-apply. Done.

My Pugnale Italy sunglasses add drama to the simple look. These pink Spalla frames are a collaboration with fashion house Tagliatore; the metallic edges are adorned with hand-sewn pleated fabric.

I accessorized with an Alex Streeter Ouroboros silver ring, and new diamond floral ring.

If you’re lounging around all day… you might as well do it in Satanic sweatpants!

Hail Long Clothing, purveyors of devilish streetwear. This indie fashion label has a range of unisex joggers and tops, marked with devilish messages.

I couldn’t resist their black lounge pants… There’s a smily-faced pentagram on the hip, and the heartwarming message “Satan loves you for who you are”! (You can get this design on a t-shirt or tank as well.)

Charli Cohen’s Goth activewear is also perfect for at-home outfits. I wear her red Athena halter as a bikini top, as a sports bra for yoga workouts, or simply for lounging around.

It coordinates well with my Long Clothing beanie and “Satan Loves  You” joggers. (The two side pockets and stretchy ribbon-tie waist are handy as well.) When I go out, I can throw over a mesh top and leather jacket.

Here’s a close-up of my essential Anastasia Beverly Hills products. If I only have two minutes for makeup, I’ll apply Dipbrow Pomade to my eyebrows with a 12 Dual-Ended Brush, which has a firm angle and spoolie at either end.

Then, I’ll put on a coat of ABH Liquid Lipstick. In the past few years, I’ve switched over to wearing liquid lipsticks, as the pigment doesn’t come off even if you’re eating and drinking.

Anastasia has an enormous range of liquid lip colors, including alternative shades like dark blue and green. I’ll wear Dusty Rose for a natural look, or Goth it up with the dark purple Trust Issues.

(Find out more and try these products here:)

Let’s be real… I’m wearing hats in all my recent photos because my hair roots are atrocious! (They’re four inches long at this point…)

Until I can see my professional stylist, I’m keeping my dark purple color vibrant with oVertone. I wash my hair with their Extreme Purple daily conditioner, and every few weeks, I apply the leave-in coloring conditioner / mask for 15 minutes.

Overtone makes me look as if I’d just dyed my hair (when in fact, it’s been many months). Their color-depositing conditioners are free of sulfates, parabens or ammonia, so your hair stays hydrated and healthy. And they come in every shade of the rainbow: perfect for Goth and alternative hairstyles.

(My butterfly sunglasses are Pugnale Eyewear, handmade in Italy.)

Until I can venture out into the world again, I’ve been looking back fondly at my travels. New York City is on my mind…

In February 2020, I returned to NYC for Molly’s breast cancer fashion show. I also got to reunite with friends and see some of the city’s newest attractions — including Vessel at Hudson Yards. 

The wind was angry that day, my friends!

OOTD — channeling Michael Jackson’s one-glove realness. I wore Spalla pink sunglasses by Pugnale Eyewear, a leather miniskirt by Jeremy Scott, and leopard print leather glove by Moschino.

(Have you seen Moschino’s recent Halloween collection, which included a ghost dress and coffin purse? They’ve released designs inspired by space, skeletons, Power Puff girls… See more Moschino below.)

There’s always something new and intriguing to see in NYC. I docked at Vessel, a new architectural landmark that was unveiled in 2019.

Designed by Thomas Heatherwick, Vessel is the focal point of the revamped Hudson Yards. The modern structure is 16 stories high, and contains 2500 steps over 154 flights of stairs.

Is it an acorn? A bee’s nest? A woven basket? The interpretation is up to you.

When I lived in NYC, this area was a nowhere zone called Death Avenue (how Gothic!). In the past years, Hudson Yards has developed into an urban and artistic space.

Hudson Yards is now home to a shopping center, residences, and art museums. Right next to Vessel, you’ll find The Shed — a museum for emerging artists that work in media ranging from theater to hip hop.

Anyone can visit Vessel for free, but you need to reserve at time slot online in advance via their website. I encourage you to book a free ticket as far in advance as you can, since the dates and times can sell out.

(Of course, Vessel is currently closed because of Covid-19, so file this useful info for the Mad Max future.)

Visitors enter from the ground level, and meander up the staircases however they please. Vessel has no defined path upwards, which gives you total freedom to climb up or down the “honeycomb” stairs and landings. (The hexagon design made me feel like I was in an MC Escher drawing.)

Take your time to hang out on the viewing platforms, and snap photos. Vessel has magnificent views of the surrounding shipyards and skyscrapers.

An ingenious curved elevator runs up one side of Vessel. Note that the glass doors only open up to a few platforms, so the stair-based structure isn’t fully accessible.

The bronze, steel and concrete architecture has gotten mixed reactions from New Yorkers. Some adore the landmark, while others say Vessel is a basket-case. What do you think?

I had ramen with my friend Cris Ryan, and he crowned me with this Grinning Ghost cap by his accessories label, Capumon. Pokemon fans, aren’t these hats the best ever? “Be the culprit behind shadows, that laughs under moonlight!”

I matched it with a pink Mongolian lamb (ethically sheared) coat by Skandinavik Fur.

I love strolling around NYC and discovering hidden gems. I froze when I saw this marvelous Medusa, on the side of a brick building in Nolita.

This turned out to be House of Hackney, a British boutique for decadent home design. I peeked at Rococo antiques, avian taxidermy, and other exquisite objects.

On this February trip, I also got a taste of NYC synthwave. I re-lived the 1980s at Night.Wav, a retrowave / outrun club night at The Knitting Factory Brooklyn. The energetic DJs had the young crowd dancing on stage to Italo Disco and sounds of the synthesizer. 

NYC’s museums are world-class (the Met, MoMa, Guggenheim), and I always try to visit at least one whenever I’m in the city. This time, I went to a new photography museum — the Fotografiska NYC,

When I was in Sweden two years ago, I visited the flagship Fotografiska Stockholm museum, and was impressed by the powerful photos I saw.

The NYC outpost turned out to be just as memorable. Fotografiska showcases both emerging and established photographers, in all styles ranging from conceptual to pop provocative.

In early 2020, Fotografiska NY had an entire floor dedicated to Ellen von Unwerth. The exhibit — ‘Devotion! 30 Years of Photographing Women’ — is a playful retrospective of her images throughout the years, including fashion portraits of celebrities like Milla Jovovich.

Many photo collections reflected on social or environmental topics. Anastasia Taylor-Lind’s ‘Other People’s Children’ put the spotlight on immigrant workers and unequal access to childcare. I was drawn to Helene Schmitz’s ‘Thinking Like a Mountain,’ which captured the quiet yet violent devastation of Swedish landscapes.

My favorite room (above) held Tawny Chatmon’s regal portraits of African-American girls and young women, gilded in the style of painter Gustav Klimt.

I had the pleasure of attending a panel discussion with queer photographer Mikael Owunna. The event celebrated the launch of “Limitless Africans,” his portrait photo book that explores LGBTQ African narratives.

The panel spoke with passion about living their truth, and tearing down stereotypes (such as the idea that it was “un-African” to be queer, or that there was no historical precedent in the continent for differential gender identity).

He spoke about the 75 portraits published in “Limitless Africans,” which tell the story of LGBTQ African immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers. Owunna described the project as a coming-together of the community, as it steps towards healing. 

Like pretty much everything in NYC, the Fotografiska museum is currently closed due to the COVID pandemic. But this vibrant space, which gives voice to diverse creators, will open again soon.

I couldn’t leave the Big Apple before scratching my architecture itch a little more.

I was staying in downtown NYC, so I walked over to Santiago Calatrava’s new World Trade Center subway station. Designed with his signature ribbed white curves, the WTC Oculus appears to be lifting its wings for takeoff.

Here’s what the World Trade Center Transportation Hub looks like from inside. Every year on September 11, at 10:28 a.m (the date and time that the North Tower fell in the 9/11 attacks), these twin skylights flood the Oculus with brilliant light. 

(You may recall that I saw another Santiago Calatrava building, Rio’s Museum of Tomorrow, in Brazil with Elizabeth Wurtzel.)

Finally, I paid my respects at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Nearly 3,000 names (of those killed in the 9/11 attacks) are engraved in twin pools fed by waterfalls. Above rises One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom Tower.

New York, NY… we shall meet again soon. Until that day, you can revisit my NYC stories from the past decade (!!) here.

PS: I wrote about Hello Kitty for Fodor’s Travel! Did you know the cute Sanrio cat has attractions all over the world, from maternity wards to dental clinics and beauty spas? Check out all my Fodors articles here.

PPS: I’m still selling my Gothic & Lolita personal wardrobe, on Depop (@lacarmina)! I’m letting go of rare clothes and accessories in all sizes. If you’re interested in anything I’ve listed, let me know and we can work out a discount.

Take a browse on my Depop shop here, and email me if you’d like anything. Looking forward to hearing from you.