Seductive New York - A Lover's Guide

Carriage rides through New York's elegant Central Park are a romantic cliche, but have you discovered Central Park's secluded Conservatory Garden at 104 Street facing the mansions and museums of nonpareil Fifth Avenue? On a beautiful May morning, pledge your troth in the shade of the cherries and crab apples as their softly swirling petals drift to earth.

If Lady Guinevere and courtly Lancelot's doomed love quickens your pulse, you will find a spiritual home in New York's Cloisters. An herb garden in an ancient monastery beguiles with magical flowers once compounded into potions of love, while a short stroll brings you to a castle entwined with Passionflower vines, surrounded by heather and wildflowers. As you contemplate the river below and the rugged cliffs of the Palisades you will be transported to knightly lands.

Man does not live by love alone. Sometimes steak is necessary. For that Donovan's Pub in Woodside, Queens stands at the ready. This friendly neighborhood pub features a blazing fire, intimate atmosphere and gently priced repast.

If the bitter New York winter has left you chill, warm yourself by the Mediterranean ambiance of Astoria's Cavo. Lifted from the gentle blue Aegean, this sophisticated space serves 5-Star Chef Richard Farnabe' seafood, lamb and steaks. Truly food of the Gods, and much more satisfying than mere ambrosia. As the seasons warm, a welcoming 4000 Square foot outdoor garden complete with flowers and waterfall awaits the pleasures of Eros.

Thus fortified, you may return to the gallant labors of the boudoir.

Gently float a peony or a spray of orchids in a water-filled crystal or pewter bowl for subtle seduction. A few soft throw pillows on the couch--the English Crewelwork or Ottoman Empire print in rich saffron yellow, soft blue and olive green that Home Designer Bunny Williams does so well. Add a few truffles or chocolate enrobed strawberries on a silver tray, a flute of Champagne....

Fill in what is lacking with a quick visit Wave Hill or the Brooklyn Botanical Garden's garden shops, both richly provisioned with elegant flowers, dainties and baubles. Perhaps a little honey to drizzle strategically or a delicate filigreed pin. The night is young and full of possibility.