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Transportation network companies (TNCs) like Uber are convenient, but as we touched upon in a previous entry, it is unusual that a TNC meets the safety and hospitality services of a chauffeured transportation company. This is partly because TNC regulations differ in each state.
Recently, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker filed legislation to regulate TNCs for better industry and consumer safety. The stricter regulations call for consistent background checks of TNC employees and a regulatory framework through which states and municipalities can oversee TNCs. While this legislation is an improvement, it still approaches nowhere near the industry standards for chauffeured transportation companies like EmpireCLS.
At EmpireCLS, we take it upon ourselves to train our chauffeurs in the highest levels of hospitality and safety. It’s not because we’re required by the state to do so: we train our chauffeurs to offer five-star service because we believe our clients deserve nothing less than a memorable, safe transportation experience.
Before hiring any new staff member, we do fingerprint and social security number background checks in DMV, local and federal databases going back seven years. We also screen employees for drug and alcohol use and have a zero tolerance policy for driver impairment and illegal drug use. Furthermore, a clean background must be supplemented by passing a personality assessment test. We use this test to determine whether chauffeurs understand what it means to offer five-star service and treat you as our welcome guest.
Each chauffeur undergoes training through “EmpireCLS University,”our in-house training program built with the same customer service and hospitality standards as our five-diamond hotel partners. We teach our chauffeurs how to offer the level of customer service we call “chauffeured hospitality,” a standard that sets us apart from other transportation providers. In addition, chauffeurs learn about vehicle maintenance and safe driving techniques.
As a supplement to our own safe driving course, EmpireCLS uses the Smith System defensive driving standards. The Smith System is a defensive driving system used by Fortune 500 organizations to improve fleet performance and safety. We implement the “Smith 5 Keys” standards for chauffeurs to learn how to provide a smooth and comfortable ride while learning safe and defensive driving techniques. The 5 Keys are:
1. “Aim High in Steering”— Chauffeurs are taught to look further ahead down the road than other drivers so they see what’s coming and avoid any danger or obstacles more readily.
2. “Get the Big Picture”— Chauffeurs maintain a wide view of the road so that they are aware of dangers other drivers don’t see.
3. “Keep Your Eyes Moving”—Chauffeurs learn methods for staying attentive and alert.
4. “Leave Yourself an Out”—Chauffeurs learn to position their vehicle in traffic so that they can easily avoid collisions.
5. “Making Sure They See You”— Chauffeurs are trained to make their vehicle more visible to other drivers.
Drivers who know the Smith System, and know how to navigate traffic skillfully, are calmer and treat their vehicles with respect, creating a better experience for passengers overall.
Despite our thorough training, there are some qualities that can’t be taught. We attract individuals who are born with the crucial qualities that make a professional chauffeur. Our chauffeurs are innately passionate about service, dedicated to consistently exceeding our guests’ expectations and thoroughly reliable. These are qualities that can be neither taught nor feigned. Each time you travel with EmpireCLS, you’ll be chauffeured by someone who truly cares about your safety, comfort and luxury experience.
To stay in the know about how our ever-improving safety measures and levels of hospitality, stay up-to-date with this blog or visit the EmpireCLS website.
Photo Credit: Nate Steiner via flickr
Recently, lawmakers made amendments to NJ Law A-3765, which addresses safety regulations and requirements for transportation network companies, also called TNCs (Uber, Lyft, Sidecar, etc.), for tightening security on things like TNC drivers’ criminal histories and fare regulation.
We, too, approve of New Jersey’s concern for passengers who choose to ride with TNCs, and we will always support efforts to protect the livery rights of passengers. However, our concern is not assuaged by the amendments to A-3765, and the same holds for many other business owners in the ground transportation industry.
While these new amendments for TNCs are a step in the right direction, they are still lacking when compared to the established requirements for limousine and chauffeured transportation companies. For a better understanding of why this law has yet to catch up with the safety requirements for vehicles and passengers that EmpireCLS abides by every day, we have highlighted the key differences between the industry regulations for limousine companies and TNCs.
Vehicle Safety Inspection Requirements
Limousine and chauffeured transportation companies in New Jersey are required to inspect their fleet far more frequently than TNCs are, even with the amendments to A-3765 in place. Before driving on the highway with the intention of picking up passengers, chauffeurs must inspect the vehicle’s condition. Additionally, companies must have their vehicles inspected every other year by the state. During off years, the owner must submit a condition report to the DMV. At EmpireCLS, we go above and beyond these requirements by rotating our fleet through a strict maintenance schedule and weekly inspections.
By comparison, vehicles operated by TNC drivers only need to have their vehicles inspected once every other year. TNCs are not held to nearly the same safety inspection standards as chauffeured transportation companies.
Vehicle Equipment
In addition to requiring regular inspections, New Jersey law also requires that limousine companies carry standard safety equipment. All limousines and other chauffeured transportation vehicles must be equipped with a two-way communications system that can communicate with dispatchers within a 100-mile radius. Limousines must also have an accessible first aid kit and fire extinguisher, in addition to sideboards if the vehicle floor is ten inches or more from the ground.
As for TNCs? Even under Law A-3765, there are no requirements that operators of TNC vehicles carry safety equipment of any kind.
Medical Standards and Controlled Substance Testing for Drivers
Not only do New Jersey laws ensure the safe condition of vehicles, but they also require that their drivers adhere to safe behaviors. All limousine operators in New Jersey must prove that they meet medical standards for commercial drivers and submit proof to the MVC. TNCs still do not fall under any requirements for commercial driver medical standards.
Limousine owners are also required to test drivers for dangerous controlled substances, in order to reduce the risk of injury to their passengers. TNCs must implement a “zero tolerance” substance policy, but they are not required to drug-test drivers. The only “protection” from driver substance abuse offered by Law A-3765 is that the zero tolerance policy is posted on the company website so that passengers can complain should they suspect that their driver is in violation of said policy. But why put passengers in a potentially dangerous situation in the first place?
Clearly, while Law A-3765 is well-intentioned, it fails to hold TNCs to the same stringent standards of safety that chauffeured transportation companies like EmpireCLS already meet and exceed.
Photo Credit: Abdullah AlBargan via flickr
No luxury hotel stay is complete without a sumptuous dining experience. EmpireCLS is proud to be partnered with some of the world’s most glamorous hotels that boast globally-acclaimed dining rooms, lounges and bars. Here are five of our best-loved restaurants in our hotel partner properties.
1. Polo Lounge –The Beverly Hills Hotel
Part of the Dorchester Collection family, this glamorous, resort-like hotel is a favorite of Hollywood’s red carpet set. The fully renovated rooms, palm-lined pool and lounge-worthy cabanas make for a classic Beverly Hills idyll.
The Beverly Hills Hotel is the home of the famed Polo Lounge, which earned it the honor of being named one of Goyot.com’s “Top Brunch Hotels in the US.” A-list celebrities and the rest of the Hollywood elite gather here for private, bespoke-menu dining, sophisticated afternoon tea and the Polo Lounge’s famous Sunday Jazz Brunch, during which diners enjoy a prix-fixe menu while listening to some of Beverly Hill’s finest jazz acts. If you’re staying at the Beverly Hills Hotel, mingle with Hollywood’s finest at the Polo Lounge, or have elegant dining experiences at the Cabana Café, Fountain Coffee Room and Bar Nineteen12.
2. The Garden and TY Bar – Four Seasons NY
Few places that offer up magic and wonder as readily as New York City, if you know where to go. Look no further than the world-renowned Four Seasons. This modern, Deco-inspired building, designed by master architect I.M. Pei, is a bastion of refinement and style in the whirlwind of Midtown Manhattan.
Awaiting you within the Four Seasons are two elite dining experiences. The Garden restaurant is unlike anything else in the city, with intimate tables interspersed between the majestic trunks of African acacia trees. The fare here focuses on creative presentations and is made with only fresh and local ingredients. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch or lunch at The Garden, you will have an unforgettable experience. After hours, enjoy a drink and fine company at TY Bar, an art deco lounge that services bespoke and classic cocktails, craft beer and whiskey and bourbon from Hudson Bourbon.
3. Scarpetta – Montage Beverly Hills
Modern Italian cuisine meets Old Hollywood romance at Scarpetta. This restaurant is a heavenly marriage of celebrity chef Scott Conant’s culinary vision and the Mediterranean-inspired lavishness of the spacious, sun-drenched Montage Beverly Hills.
At Scarpetta, you’ll enjoy alfresco dining on a scenic patio overlooking the garden. Dishes like fennel dusted black cod, hen and prosciutto raviolini and chestnut tagliatelle have inspired Chef Conant’s bestselling cookbook, as well as rave reviews from around the world. Guests will enjoy dinner and dessert in an upscale dining room, and the restaurant has a gourmet vegetarian menu available. Scarpetta also serves its signature cocktails, champagne and wine.
4. SAAM, The Bazaar by José Andrés and Trés by Jose Andres – SLS Beverly Hills
If there’s a culinary experience not to be missed in your lifetime, it’s these restaurants by famed José Andrés. Chef Andrés is a global superstar and culinary innovator, hailed as a genius by his peers and best known in America for introducing the Spanish concept of tapas to the states. In addition to earning accolades like American Chef of the Year, Chef Andrés is also an advocate and educator who works to end global hunger.
Chef Andrés’ limitless creativity has given rise to not one, but three incredible dining experiences at SLS Beverly Hills. The first is SAAM, a luxurious and eclectic experience that must be tasted to be believed: guests will be surprised and delighted by the multi-course tasting menu that awaits them, which might include anything from smoking cocktails to s’mores made with foie gras. At The Bazaar, also located in the SLS Beverly Hills, the creativity continues in an indoor piazza with an intricate menu. Finally, Trés serves contemporary comfort food in a sanctuary-like atmosphere where guests can relax like never before.
5. Koi – Bryant Park Hotel
Built in 1924, the Bryant Park Hotel is an elegant retreat in Midtown, with 100 designer rooms and two rooftop lofts. These luxurious suites and their many boutique amenities draw cosmopolitan guests from all corners of the world and also attract members of New York’s fashion and art elite.
Join the “culturati” at Koi, Bryan Park Hotel’s Asian-fusion restaurant, bar and lounge where Japanese cuisine meets modern Californian flavor. The elegant décor and soft candlelight of this serene restaurant evoke traditional Japanese interiors, but the level of sophistication and service is pure Manhattan.
Visit the EmpireCLS website for more information on our partnerships that enhance your luxury travel experience.
The Knight Frank Wealth Report is an annual survey of almost 500 private bankers and wealth advisors who are asked by the global real estate consultants at Knight Frank to assess the attitudes and behaviors of their ultra-wealthy clients. Their clients are ultra-high net worth individuals (UHNWIs) with a combined wealth of $1.7 trillion. Their attitudes are indicative of global trends and help shape investment strategies. Here are a few key takeaways from this year’s report, courtesy of EmpireCLS.
1. Material Investments
In the past decade, UHNWIs have expressed rising concerns about the security of paper assets. Instead, they are turning to passion investments and luxury assets. The scarcity of material assets like classic cars, fine wine and luxury watches makes them an appealing investment strategy that, historically, is hedged against inflation. In addition to an increasing interest in passion investments, those surveyed by Knight Frank also noticed that property was increasing as a mainstream investment class.
UHNWIs interest rose most in art as a luxury asset, with many advisors confirming that the art market has completely recovered from the economic crisis. Fancy diamonds in rare colors like pink and blue have also seen a huge surge in interest from investors.
Advisors caution that the most common risks encountered by passion investors are fraudulent goods and poor portfolio diversification. Experts suggest a “multi-asset solution.”
2. Growing Wealth
The population of UHNWIs only continues to grow, with a surge of 61% in the past decade. Furthermore, 80% of those surveyed expect their clients’ wealth to grow in 2015. The North American region takes the lead in growth, with a 100% growth rate in 2014 and 100% growth projected again in 2015. Africa and Latin American are close behind in terms of past growth combined with projected growth for the next year.
In conjunction with growing wealth, most of those surveyed expect that their clients’ luxury spending will grow as well. The UK tops the spending growth list, with China, the single biggest consumer of luxury goods in the world, taking the second spot.
UHNWIs are also growing their spending in philanthropy, in addition to real estate and luxury spending.
3. Changing Concerns
The Knight Frank Report, in addition to identifying growth patterns and trends, also identifies widespread changes and concerns regarding money management for UHNWIs. The report found that the health of global markets had less impact on the attitudes of UHNWIs than did matters closer to home. The number one point of concern among UHNWIs last year was family succession, followed by the threat of increased wealth taxes and increased government scrutiny of the wealthy and their assets.
Other concerns had to do with the overwhelming influence of the Internet in daily life. UHNWIs reported a greater need for online reputation protection and management, as well as more pressing concerns about online security from privacy invasions and cybercrime.
The report also reflects changes in money management and lifestyle that indicate an adaptation to an increasingly globalized world. Millennials, especially, are UHNWIs to watch, as they come to control more wealth. Millennials have an even greater interest in philanthropy than their parents’ generation, and are turning to more sophisticated management techniques for their charitable causes. Another interesting trend noted that more non-Western Hemisphere UHNWIs were sending their children overseas for education at increasingly younger ages. This trend was most prominent among UHNWIs from Russia and Commonwealth of Independent States countries, with 60% of this population intending to send their children overseas for primary schooling.
For more news on luxury trends and lifestyles, check the EmpireCLS blog frequently and follow us on Facebook.
For three decades, the Lincoln Towncar was the workhorse of the chauffeured transportation and limousine industry. In recent years, chauffeured transportation companies have left the Towncar for newer livery vehicles like the Cadillac XTS luxury sedan.
As a proud partner of Cadillac, we chose the XTS as EmpireCLS’ flagship vehicle because it is one of the few luxury vehicles that meet our stringent standards for style, comfort and safety. And with the recent news from Cadillac, there could be a new luxury sedan added to the EmpireCLS fleet.
In March, Cadillac announced the next level of luxury and service with the premiere of the CT6 sedan, going into production later this year. The news of the new model has thrilled consumers, engineers and transportation company owners alike for its inventive design and next-level luxury features.
The body of the CT6—sleek and sophisticated as only Cadillac can make it—is constructed with aluminum and innovative welding techniques, while a powerful, 400-horsepower engine keeps this car ahead of the curve. The car’s interior sets a new standard for ground transportation, offering 40 inches of leg space and an improved design for maximum comfort and smooth handling. In addition to Cadillac’s signature detailing, the interior features a Bose sound system, individual climate control and seats that deliver five massage settings. The meaning of “luxury” will never be the same.
With its precision engineering and luxury amenities, we think the CT6 will make arriving at your destination even more pleasurable. EmpireCLS flips each vehicle in our fleet every 24 to 36 months, regardless of condition, and has also introduces luxury models to our fleet over the years to suit the ever-changing needs of our guests.
Do you want to see the Cadillac CT6 sedan in EmpireCLS’ fleet? Why or why not? We want to hear from you on our Facebook page about the CT6 or any suggestions you may have to improve your experience traveling with EmpireCLS.
We never understood why other chauffeured transportation companies put limits on their levels of service. When EmpireCLS introduces a service like our airport concierge program, or adds the latest vehicle to our fleet, we don’t sit back and feel satisfied: we immediately think of more ways to make your chauffeured experience as safe and luxurious as possible.
Here are five reasons how EmpireCLS’s fleet of luxury vehicles takes you to levels of luxury that other transportation companies simply cannot.
1. Fewer Vehicles Out of Commission
What would you think of a five-star hotel that couldn’t accommodate you—not because of availability, but because 15% of its rooms were in disrepair? On average, other ground transportation companies have anywhere from 10 – 15% of their fleet out of commission for various reasons. And that’s just unacceptable.
At EmpireCLS, we work tirelessly to make sure no more than 3 – 5% of our fleet in our corporate-owned markets is out of service at any time. And what’s going on with those vehicles? We’re rotating them through our strict schedule of vehicle repairs and servicing so we can continue to provide more vehicles on the road for our guests.
2. Full-Service Detail and Body Shop
EmpireCLS wants your experiences with us to be nothing less than luxurious. That’s why we run our own full-service detail and body shop centers to ensure our white-glove standards of perfection for every vehicle. Few other ground transportation companies can claim this level of service.
Whether you arrive at your destination in a Cadillac XTS, Rolls Royce Ghost or a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, you’ll get there in a vehicle that has been scrupulously buffed, waxed and washed, and is free of scratches, dents and exterior damage. Our service professionals know anything less than a meticulous attention to detail is unacceptable.
3. Vehicle Inspection
We hope that you’ve never experienced a service issue on the road while traveling with a ground transportation company. But if you have, we know that it must have been an infuriating experience and could mean losing your business.
EmpireCLS, takes precautions to prevent interruptions for chauffeurs and guests on the road. Regularly scheduled, 60-plus point inspections at our in-house, ASE-certified maintenance centers mean those potential issues don’t get the chance to disrupt your arrival.
4. Unparalleled Dedication to Safety
EmpireCLS provides superior security detail service when you need it, but our dedication to safety starts with the vehicle. We care deeply about our guests’ safety, which is why our fleet of luxury vehicles includes only those models with the highest safety ratings, from those manufacturers that understand both luxury and safety. On average, vehicles like the Cadillac XTS sedan and Cadillac Escalade SUV hold 5-star safety ratings. And our strict schedule of regular maintenance and inspection ensures further safety.
Style and peace of mind in a single luxury package: you’ll find it only at EmpireCLS.
5. New Vehicles
Some ground transportation companies may claim to have a fleet of late-model luxury vehicles, but when you’re picked up in a 2005 Lincoln Town Car with cracked leather seats, noticeable interior wear and tear, and a thick air freshener scent to mask years of use, it’s a sign that “luxury” isn’t in their vocabulary. At EmpireCLS, we flip our vehicles every 24 months, no matter how pristine their condition may be. Not only does a newer vehicle enhance the luxuriousness of your travel experience—and really, who doesn’t love that new car smell, it also guarantees fewer mechanical issues that other transportation providers usually encounter with high-mileage vehicles.
Where would you like to go next? With EmpireCLS, you’ll get there on time and in style. Talk to one of our reservation specialists today to plan your upcoming itinerary.
At EmpireCLS, merely being “on time” isn’t good enough for us, which is why our chauffeurs always arrive 15 minutes before pickup to accommodate your schedule. Your watch should be the same way: a luxury experience that puts your priorities as a busy person first. Today, we’ll share five of our favorite watch brands, perfect for staying ahead of schedule.
Audemars Piguet was established in 1875 by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, two horologists with a dedication to craftsmanship and technological mastery. Its pedigree as one of the oldest and finest global watch brands has remained undiluted ever since. Since its inception, Audemars Piguet has been synonymous with innovation, from the development of the world’s first minute repeater wristwatch to its most recent improvements onthe carbon case and movement. This watchmaker is known for elegant classics like the Perpetual Calendar model as well as haute joaillerie like this season’s daring Diamond Punk cuff watch.
2. Hublot
The watchmakers at Hublot know better than anyone else that being distinguished doesn’t necessarily mean being staid or conservative. Founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco, Hublot is a brand that combines Swiss engineering with sartorial flair, Italian-style. Watches like the iconic Big Bang, sophisticated Classic Fusion and striking King Power have won multiple awards for their bold, unusual designs that incorporate technological vigor with aesthetics that are at once bold and playful. Their most recent creation is the Big Bang Full Magic Gold, the only scratch-resistant gold watch in the world.
3. HYT
Innately mysterious, time has been the subject of both philosophical and scientific inquiry. Most recently, quantum physics describes time as a fluid process. A revelation in our understanding of time requires a revelation in our means of capturing it, and the designers at HYT have brought just that to the luxury market. HYT’s H1 Titanium and other models jettison traditional watch engineering and replace them with exclusive hybrid engineering. To wit: this is the first watch brand in history to run on water. Since 2012, these hydro-mechanical watches have won multiple awards for innovation and design. Though the use of fluid is iconoclastic, a long tradition of Swiss precision and luxury flows through these timepieces.
Leave it to an American to whip Swiss business into shape. In the 19th century, Boston watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones left for Switzerland to found the International Watch Company. Not only was he successful in his goal of marrying Swiss engineering with American industrialism, but he also brought prosperity to the town of Schaffhausen. Four generations of watchmaking later, IWC continues to produce stately luxury timepieces like their celebrated Portugieser and Pilot’s watches. And their lineage of good works, too, remains unbroken: currently, IWC partners with altruistic initiatives like the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, and it practices sustainable production.
5. Apple Watch The Apple Watch will not be released until late April of this year, but it is destined to change our perceptions of what a watch can be. The first wearable Apple product was designed with the person in mind, and will, according to Apple, adapt to multiple facets of your life. The Apple Watch syncs with your phone and customizes time displays to your lifestyle. And it seems that FaceTime was just the beginning of increased personalization with mobile communication: with Apple Watch, you can send a loved one the impression of your heartbeat. For those who want the best of the best, the only option is the ultra-luxurious Apple Watch Edition. This watch comes in eight iterations of one luxurious design, which includes an 18-karat rose or yellow gold case and sapphire crystal display.
For our west coast readers, visit our friends at Westime to see many of the brands listed above and more. These watch aficionados will help select a timepiece that’s perfect for you.
To learn more about luxury travel experiences with EmpireCLS, explore our website or talk to a reservation specialist today.
Photo credit: Manuel Rebic via flickr
EmpireCLS constantly seeks to improve our guests’ travel experience. For that reason, we complement our level of personalized service by working with aviation companies and five-star hotels to provide exclusive services for our guests.
We are excited to announce the immediate launch of EmpireCLS Airport Concierge Service, offering our guests the next level in travel hospitality. Our exclusive VIP concierge program services all major airports worldwide, which means expedited, white-glove airport assistance to or from your gate.
Here are some highlights of the exclusive features offered by EmpireCLS:
Awaiting your Arrival
Whether you’re checking in curbside or fresh off the plane, your dedicated airport specialist is standing by to meet you the moment you arrive at the airport. They stay by your side to assist you to wherever your final destination may be. Now you don’t have to stay in the airport hotel to expect five-star concierge service: it’s right there for you in the airport, from check-in to boarding.
Need an escort for your connecting domestic flights? We’ve got you covered. Simply let your EmpireCLS reservation specialist know the particulars of your itinerary, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Kick Back on Your Way to Take-Off
Once upon a time, airline travel was a leisurely affair. In today’s world, however, airline travel has become a stressful chore. Whether you fly first-class or coach, increasing security measures and crowded airports frequently take all the fun out of flying.
Return to the days when airline travel was a luxury experience with airport concierge service from EmpireCLS. Enjoy complimentary carry-on luggage assistance, expedited flight check-in and priority boarding for all departing flights. Our professional airport specialists are there to make your trip stress-free.
Hospitali-TSA
There are two types of lines at any airport security checkpoint. The first line snakes back and forth all the way to the entrance and is full of fussy kids, frustrated parents and impatient flyers. The second is the one we all want to be in: it’s the short, efficient line for VIP travelers.
EmpireCLS knows that the only line you should be in is the quickest one. Take advantage of expedited access through all security checkpoints. With our airport concierge service, you’ll be through security in no time, leaving you free to relax before your flight.
Go Clubbin’
Speaking of relaxing: there’s no better place for it than the airport lounge. With EmpireCLS’s airport concierge service, you don’t need an annual membership to enjoy exclusive access to all major airline VIP lounges in more than 100 countries and over 300 cities.
In the lounge, you are free to relax in peace and quiet and enjoy complimentary food and drink. Some lounges even offer showers and beds so that you can feel refreshed for your flight. Whether you need a quiet place to call the office or want to get a head-start on your vacation, EmpireCLS provides full lounge access.
Custom-ized Experience
Long flight ahead? International flights are long enough, even without the trip through Customs. Besides, we’ve never met anyone who enjoys the Customs process, much less waiting in line for it. Our airport concierge service includes expedited access through airport Customs, which allows you get to your Point B quicker.
Less Customs time means more you time, whether your final destination is an important meeting with a client in Manhattan or a rendezvous with friends in a Parisian bistro.
Learn more about our airport concierge services here or speak to an EmpireCLS reservation specialist. Ask how we can extend your chauffeured experience beyond the car.
Photo credit: Nick Harris via flickr
New York, arguably the epicenter of the art world, plays host to huge annual art events. At these fairs and expositions, visitors view thousands of contemporary artworks by big names as well as up-and-comers. These events are rich cultural experiences, and most also allow art buyers to seek out their next big investment. If you plan to attend one of these events, here’s the EmpireCLS guide to traveling in style to the best of New York’s art fairs.
Whitney Biennial, Meatpacking District, TBA 2016
The Whitney Biennial is one of the most famous—and frequently most controversial—art events in the world. Art aficionados and insiders from around the world know that if you want to stay savvy about upcoming art trends and issues, the Biennial is a can’t-miss event.
Dates for the 2016 Whitney Biennial are yet to be announced, but we do know the event will take place at the Whitney Museum’s brand-new downtown location in the Meatpacking District. Close to the High Line Park and the Chelsea galleries, this will be a prime location for visitors who want to explore the trendiest areas of Manhattan. Avoid the crowded subway by arranging travel with EmpireCLS, and arrive with enough style to rival the neighborhood.
Frieze New York, Randall’s Island, May 14-17, 2015
Manhattan isn’t the only island worth visiting. Nestled between Manhattan, the Bronx and Queens, Randall’s Island is the urban oasis you’ve never heard of. Every year, this island park, traversed by pedestrian and bike trails, hosts hundreds of events, including the Frieze New York Fair.
Frieze New York Fair is hosted annually by Frieze Magazine, a leader in contemporary art news and thought. Here, you’ll find an enormous open-air art show featuring work by cutting-edge artists.
By car, Randall’s Island is accessed by the Triborough Bridge. If you plan to visit, avoid dealing with unexpected traffic jams—it’s New York City, after all. Arrange transportation with EmpireCLS. Our trained chauffeurs will safely navigate you to the island, and, in case of a necessary detour, our fleet is equipped with the technology to plan an alternate route.
Art Dealers Association of America Art Show, Upper East Side, TBA 2016
The most luxurious of Manhattan’s art shows has to be the Art Dealers Association of America Art Show. For serious art buyers with an interest in contemporary art, this show is an opportunity to snatch up works from artists sponsored by leading galleries, and the preview gala allows art lovers to mingle and network before the official opening of the show.
The show takes place every year at the Park Avenue Armory, in the Upper East Side, a neighborhood synonymous with luxury and style. Keep the upscale mood and avoid the tourist-trap fees of garage parking at the same time: Take an EmpireCLS car to the show, and don’t skip nearby Museum Mile, where you can see breathtaking classic works of art at the Met and the Frick.
Bushwick Open Studios, Brooklyn, June 5-7, 2015
The most recent addition to the New York art event roster, that’s also gained the most traction, is Bushwick Open Studios, a three-day exhibition by young and experimental artists from the nearby Brooklyn neighborhood of Bushwick.
For unusual and adventurous art by the students and art world outsiders who have flocked to Brooklyn, Bushwick Open Studios is a must-see event. It also gives art investors an opportunity to see works by artists who might become the next big name in the art industry.
Though Bushwick has come a long way from the bleak industrial landscape it once was, the area has few subway stops and still has a dicey reputation. The chauffeurs at EmpireCLS put our guests’ security first and will ensure your safe arrival and departure. Furthermore, some Manhattan taxi drivers will refuse to take you to Brooklyn, but EmpireCLS will take you anywhere you like.
An art fair tour of New York City doesn’t have to involve hailing cabs, suffering the subway or walking for miles. By reserving a car with EmpireCLS through our online reservation system, you can travel from hotel to art show to dinner with the utmost assurance of security and service that EmpireCLS is known more. For more information on our history, team and fleet, visit our homepage at http://empirecls.wpengine.com.
photo credit: Charline von Heyl at the Whitney Biennial via flickr
Out with the old, in with the new—website, that is. We’re excited to officially announce the launch of the new EmpireCLS.com
Our objective was to capture the experience of being transported in an EmpireCLS vehicle while highlighting the level of chauffeured service we offer our customers every day. With more than 30 years of luxury, chauffeured transportation experience, your arrival is more than just a destination. It’s our signature.
What new features can you expect to see while exploring the new website?
For reserving trips online, did we mention building a profile in EmpireCLS’ reservation system makes booking a trip even easier?
Sure, the website may be new, but we’re still the same luxury, chauffeured transportation provider our customers rely upon to transport them safely and memorably every day. We look forward to continuing to delight you.
