Five reasons to visit Harlem

Hop on the ‘A’ train uptown to explore a side of Manhattan many visitors miss. Harlem is the USA’s most famous African American community and the cultural heart of Black America.

The Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 30s, driven by icons like Billie Holiday, Paul Robeson and Duke Ellington, put Harlem on the map as a hub of music, literature and art. Today, its jazz, gospel, and soul food scenes still echo that golden era.

After years of decline, Harlem is thriving again. Restored brownstones, new galleries and museums, and a wave of restaurants and boutiques have brought fresh energy to this legendary neighbourhood. Here are some of the best reasons to visit.

If you want to spend some time soaking up all Harlem has to offer, there’s no need to base yourself in midtown Manhattan or beyond – the best hotel in Harlem is far more affordable than many midtown options. Aloft Harlem opened at the end of 2010, the first new hotel to open here since the late 1960s, and has rapidly gained a reputation as a great place to hang out in its own right. A hip, young-at-heart offshoot of the W brand, the Aloft spinoffs pride themselves on their social lobby scenes and the Harlem outpost is no exception. The friendly W XYZ bar is manned by chatty, in-the-know staff who’ll keep you talking all night, though you’ll probably be challenged to a game of pool or asked if you want to join the pub quiz.

Rooms are sleek and contemporary, with nine foot high ceilings, plush supersized bed, a full length wooden desk for working and added touches like vintage alarm clocks and retro-style artwork. No bathtubs here, but the huge walk-in rainshowers and Bliss Spa amenities feel luxurious.

Back downstairs is a 24/7 fresh food-on-the-go area; a one-stop shop for refueling at your convenience. Regardless of the time you arrive or leave, you can pick up anything from a coffee and muffin, sandwich, salad or other gourmet snack. Simply take your pick, swipe your room key and the charge will be added to your bill. There’s also a fully equipped swipe-access gym.