A quick trip to New York City rejuvenates all my senses and I always get re-inspired. For your next dose of fun and inspiration, here are a few recommendations:

STAY:

The south east side of the city is uncharted territory for hotels, however the new Thompson LES fits perfectly amongst this hip and underground crowd. The hotel is equipped with an upscale Chinese restaurant called Shang, open-air bar with the retractable roof, and an outdoor pool for the summer. The rooms are modestly sized and are impeccably designed, (my favorite part is the rain shower in the bathrooms). It’s location is perfect with close access to Soho, Noho and the Village.

190 Allen Street, NY, NY. For reservations: 1.877.460. 8888

TO DO: 

Visit the International Center of Photography and admire the works of renown fashion photographer Richard Avedon. His exhibit will be on from May 15 to September 6, 2009. Avedon’s career spans across magazines such as Harper’s and Vogue, he worked with the likes of Twiggy, Audrey Hepburn, Cher and Bob Dylan.

1133 Avenue of the Americas at 43rd Street, New York, NY 212.857.0000

EAT:

Tucked away in a quaint alley in the lower east side, Freeman’s is a little gem of a restaurant serving an American rustic menu. The room is a taxidermist’s dream and kind of makes you think if your dinner was last night’s catch. They offer a large range of special cocktails and the dim vibey room is packed with hipsters. You have to try the Devil’s on Horseback (feta stuffed olive’s wrapped in bacon) and the Steamed Prince Edward Island Mussels in Hefeweizen broth with garlic aïoli and toast.

End of Freeman Alley, NY, NY (nr. Rivington St) 212.420.0012

Sunny Shum, Your Industry Insider