00:00Come with me as I plan trips to some of the biggest events around the world.
00:04This time, I'm headed to the 2025 U.S. Open in New York City.
00:08And you get an insider's look at my itinerary to see where I eat, stay, and celebrate while I'm in town.
00:15First, I wanted to find a hotel that was in one of the city's iconic neighborhoods,
00:19but not too far away from the main event.
00:21The William Vale Hotel in Williamsburg, Brooklyn is about 30 minutes away from this year's Open
00:26at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
00:30They have an incredible package for the Open.
00:32It includes a $50 lift credit, Moet and Chandon split to toast the champions,
00:36and a signature William Vale dad hat to rock courtside.
00:39In the lobby, they even have a display from Wilson featuring Ukrainian tennis superstar
00:44Marta Kostyuk, who stayed at the hotel in September 2024.
00:47Very on theme.
00:49I'm staying in the Gotham Corner Suite, which has one bedroom, a cozy living area, and stunning views.
01:00Oh, look at this bathtub.
01:05Okay, time to hit the courts.
01:08I'm not a pro, but I like to get my blood pumping, even when I'm traveling.
01:11And if I'm here for one of the biggest tennis tournaments in the world,
01:14why not try a tennis meetup at the park?
01:16FYI, it's only $15 an hour.
01:18Perfect.
01:18Just make sure to book your reservation ahead of time.
01:21Oh!
01:22It was just what I needed.
01:23Great game!
01:24Thank you!
01:25Okay, since I'm staying in Williamsburg, I have to explore the neighborhood.
01:29Cool art and local retail therapy are always welcomed on my itinerary.
01:33Now I definitely think it's time to cool off.
01:36I always prefer a hotel with a nice cool.
01:39And the William Vale just so happens to have one of the longest in New York City.
01:42And some good bites always seal the deal.
01:44I tried the summer tomato hummus, the sugar baby watermelon with chili salt,
01:48and the spicy tuna crispy rice.
01:50They were delicious.
01:51But if I'm staying in New York City during the summer, a rooftop bar with great views is key.
01:59So I'm heading upstairs to try their take on the US Open drink, the honeydews.
02:05Love that for me.
02:12After a great first day, it's time to head to the stadium.
02:15But I can not leave Flushing, Queens without exploring and trying a restaurant or two.
02:21August in New York City is hot and humid with temps often in the 80s to 90s.
02:25So I always pack a water bottle, sunscreen, good walking shoes, and lightweight clothes.
02:30Now if you're in Flushing Chinatown, a DIY food tour definitely needs to happen.
02:35Maxi's Noodle is open seven days a week, and they're famous for their wonton noodle soup.
02:39You should also visit the Tangram Mall for shopping and a legendary food court.
02:42But I really had to stop inside Shanghai Yu Garden.
02:46Oh my god, this place is incredible.
02:48The sumptuous soup and the rainbow garden soup dumplings are the must-have dishes you've got to try.
02:53And let me tell you, my friends and I were not disappointed.
02:57Okay, it's finally time to head to the arena.
03:00I have just enough time to do a little more exploring nearby.
03:03They have some beautiful green spaces in New York,
03:04and the USDA Billie Jean King Center is in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
03:08Oh, and at 140 feet in height, 120 feet in diameter, and 700,000 pounds,
03:13there's the biggest globe in the world.
03:15Hi, Unisphere!
03:17Okay, it's time for the big matches.
03:20And the best part is, my itinerary is far from over.
03:23I'm so ready.
03:24Game, set, match.
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