New York City Tourism + Conventions has outlined a new strategic plan aimed at drawing high-spending travelers in 2025 and beyond. Part of that plan includes launching an exclusive, password-protected Luxury Hub for travel advisors. It’s the first DMO to launch a B2B hub that focuses on this segment.
Additionally, the DMO is launching a new luxury-focused module this week as part of the NYC Travel Trade Academy, an online educational course for travel advisors. And advisors focusing on this segment will want to know that the B2B NYC Luxury Guide destination fact sheet will be updated regularly.
“In 2024, 10.7 million affluent travelers visited New York City, drawn by some of the world’s best products and experiences,” said Julie Coker, President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions during a press conference held for global travel media at U.S. Travel’s IPW 2025. “This influential segment delivers extraordinary economic impact, and we remain focused on fostering strong trade relationships and showcasing the one-of-a-kind NYC opportunities—from world-class accommodations and dining to culture and shopping—that can only be found across businesses in all five boroughs.
“The beauty of New York City is that there is something for everyone—and we’re proud to provide new tools and inspirational content for luxury travel advisors and their clients,” she added.
Adding to the allure of NYC for the luxury segment, this September will see one of the city’s grand dames, the Waldorf Astoria New York, swinging open her doors after a multiyear restoration. The hotel will now boast only 375 rooms (it originally had 1,400), creating more space for the guests by offering some of Manhattan’s largest guestrooms and suites. The hotel’s decor will pay homage to its storied history and Art Deco architecture, complemented by contemporary furnishings and upgrades. The hotel will also offer a 30,000-sq.-ft. Guerlain Wellness Spa; Lex Yard, a signature restaurant led by chef Michael Anthony (there will be three restaurants in total), and Peacock Alley will return with its iconic 1893 World’s Fair clock, originally commissioned by Queen Victoria for the Chicago World Fair, as well as a restored Cole Porter’s Steinway piano.
Art lovers will want to know that The Frick Collection has reopened following a $220 million renovation, which included restoration of the first-floor galleries and, for the first-time, public access to the historic mansion’s second floor. Today, The Frick is unveiling “Vermeer’s Love Letters,” on view through Aug. 31.
Culinary aficionados, meanwhile, will want to dine their way through NYC, home to more Michelin-star restaurants than any other U.S. city, with three-star establishments including Eleven Madison Park (vegan), Jungsik New York (Korean), Le Bernardin (seafood), Masa (Japanese) and Per Se (contemporary). Plus, five NYC restaurants were recently honored by the James Beard Foundation.
