The Essential List

This was the first week since being in NYC that my life took a turn toward routine. I started paying attention, and appreciating ordinary things.

I'm making progress in finding a good cup of coffee. Unlike my original assumption that Americans are clueless when it comes to coffee, I am quickly realising there is an almost underground anti-Starbucks movement. The number of people who over the last four weeks have in hushed tones stated 'I hate Starbucks coffee!'. If only they could be a little louder maybe the rest of the world would catch on before the green and black branding takes over every decent local espresso bar in the developed world. My two finds so far are Cafe Grumpy in Chelsea and Sicaffe on the Upper East Side. Both are serve rich and uncompromising brew, with perfect full-fat froth. Unfortunately, I have yet to come across such a good place on my route to work. Have settled into making my own, and skipping the afternoon fix. I say if you can't have quality, it is better to go without! I apply this reasoning to many things ... sex and food included ...

The other great finds have been beauty related. I am now walking around with perfect eyebrows, my skin glowing and not a single stray unwanted hair on my body. All down to separate specialists. It seems so much easier to find them in NYC than anywhere else I have lived. Feel free to email me if you need recommendations. Always happy to share the love ...

My hair is beginning to look unruly and the search for a hairdresser up to the challenge is on.

Dry cleaner - check! I have been issued a red laundry sack. Once its full I make a call with instructions (wash & fold or dry clean), leave the bag with doorman, the following day clothes magically appear clean and neatly folded. Hasn't been fully road tested. Expect an angry entry when the first sock goes missing ;-)

Yoga Studio - check! Second floor airy studio with never more than 5 students. Sure beats the 50+ people stuffed into a City of London basement. Plus the instructors are on average pretty hot.