You want to find Spider-Man? Then here’s a hint. In his normal form Spider-Man is known as Peter Parker, a freelance photographer at the Daily Bugle. Finding the Daily Bugle in itself may be a hell of a task, so we recommend you base yourself at Spidey’s favourite digs, the Ace Hotel – New York’s most “original” new hotel.

We’re not sure if it’s because the hotel has an excellent view of the Empire State Building – a perfect spot to snap pictures of Spidey (as if we don’t know Peter is taking pictures of himself) – or if it’s because the hotel reminds him a little of his Aunt May’s house, what with all the antique comforts. Whatever it is, the Ace Hotel is perfect for any arachnid. Dubbed America’s most original new hotel, the 12-story boutique masterpiece is set in the heart of mid-town Manhattan – and at the heart of the local trend set too.

Stepping into the hotel, you’re first struck by the beauty of the lobby and then by the number of people in it! We can guarantee you that there won’t be a single seat open. The place is just continuously filled with the kind of people that make New York interesting. Yes, the big attraction is the grungy Lobby Bar, but it’s more than this. There’s a vibe about the place that captures you like a fly in a web.

So unmistakable is this vibe that some guests don’t even venture out of the hotel! And who can blame them? The Ace’s very own coffee shop, Stumptown, boasts the best coffee in town, and Sub 7 (beside the lobby) makes incredible breakfast subs. But it’s the acclaimed Breslin restaurant – opened by April Bloomfield and Ken Friedman, the original owners of the Michelin-rated Spotted Pig – that gets the taste buds hopping. The menu caters for carnivores who like to indulge in sweetbreads, bone marrow and the like. Should you be less adventurous, order the lamb burger, which is topped with goat’s cheese and served on a toasted Italian roll.

Besides the food and wine, it’s the design of this hotel that has fans climbing the walls. New York design team Roman & Williams are responsible for the interiors. Antique objects cleverly mix with designer lighting and classic finishes from time gone by. The Ace offers quirkiness and a sense of freedom.

The rooms are described as “efficient” and sport clothes racks and desk legs made from bent plumbing pipes. The walls are painted from cornice to skirting with chalkboard paint and sport witty messages. Some of the walls look as if they’ve fallen out of a comic book, while artworks by local artists hang in the various rooms. But the best part is having your own retro SMEG fridge in your room because it means a short walk to the convenience and bottle stores, and hey presto, you have your own room party.

The Ace was built in 1904 and became part of the “avenue of hotels”. The property was situated in the Times Square of the turn of the century, an area full of clubs and restaurants. It was New York’s first neighbourhood to get electrified signs. Today the area is filled with history and amazing architecture, and because it’s in the middle of Manhattan, it’s convenient to get to popular places such as Madison Square Garden, Times Square, Macy’s and the Broadway theatres. 

Dog on the Corner
When you’re holidaying in New York you may very well have time to sit down and eat at a reputable establishment. But to get a real taste of the Big Apple, just pretend you’re a hungry pedestrian, and head for the nearest street corner. There’s nothing greater than the smell of chilli dogs grilling on an open fire or hot pretzels, freshly baked, salted and ready to be devoured. Just pull up a wall (there are loads to choose from), lean and tuck in!

Broadway
Few things beat the thrill of a Broadway production in New York city. Just off Times Square, a plethora of theatres are waiting to swallow you up for a few hours of unmatched entertainment. Although Spider-Man The Musical is currently showing, it has had mixed reviews, so we recommend Rain, a musical documentary about the Beatles. The show covers songs ranging from the early days of the band’s appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show through the Abbey Road years and includes historical film footage and television commercials.