This year marks my 24th in New York City, and I don’t think I could love a place more. And every year that I have the privilege of making it rain in the greatest city on earth, it’s been nothing but gratitude. I may travel the world, but there’s no place like New York, because there’s no place like home.

A Renaissance in New York City

It’s become a tradition to honor New York on the first Wednesday of September after Labor Day. It’s because of this city that Galavante even exists — so it only seems right. This year especially, feels like a renaissance in the city. The Waldorf, Four Seasons Midtown and The Surrey are back, and indisputably better than ever. Ditto on the restaurant scene, as legacy spots like Fedora and Cafe Commerce resurfaced after some time off. The old Chumley’s space will finally get a restaurant worthy of its place in history from the guys from the Corner Store. (We’re taking bets now that it will be another impossible reservation). And then, there are newcomers like Le Chene that are showing the world that no other place delivers that magic formula of food, service and vibe, quite like New York.

Then, there’s a new Dior Spa (its first in the US) and a slew of wellness concepts, including luxe Continuum to feed our quest to look this good. The point is that there is a lot going on in New York City this fall, and we’re here for it. Expect to see a lot on Galavante that will keep you dialed into all the spots and experiences that only New York City money can buy.

If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere

It’s not like New York is the most expensive city in the world. In fact, by standards like housing prices, New York isn’t even the most expensive city in the United States. We also arguably don’t have the most competitive and lucrative careers anymore. I would say that at this stage, that distinction goes to those who work in AI, and many of those jobs are on the West Coast.

But yet, there is something about New York that is still the G.O.A.T., especially in September. And at this time of year, that BDE is on full display as you rock back into Polo Bar and meet friends for drinks at The Grill. As massive as New York is, there is something genuine about the community you build on your everyday circuit that is just so NYC.

A city that made me who I am today

When I started working 25+ years ago, it was all about Wall Street. And fun fact: I worked for the real-life Gordon Gecko, who was far more terrifying than Michael Douglas ever portrayed him to be on screen. In reminiscing about those days, it got me thinking about the Instagram of Confidence Heist. The deal of Confidence Heist is a guy stops people on NYC streets to ask them why they’re confident. It made me think about what I would say, which ties back to my Gordon Gecko story. I worked arguably for the top place on Wall Street, which was not easy. At the point of my divorce a lifetime ago, I had to start over at 40, personally and financially. It’s also no walk in the park running a business, and even when you’re making it, you’re still trying to make it.

But throughout very single setback, challenge and downright failure, I have always navigated. In fact, I’ve often come out better than I ever could have imagined. No matter what life throws at me, I can handle anything. And for that lesson, along with the immeasurable fortune and highs in life that living here has afforded me, I love New York.

I hope you enjoy our annual New York City issue, as much as we loved putting it together for you.

All the best,

Christine Drinan, Founder

Other Founder’s Notes You’ll Enjoy

A Summer of Epic Travel 
A Daughter of Immigrants 
It’s a European Summer