Solo, Soft, & So Damn Extra: My Birthday Staycation at Voco Hotel Times Square South NYC
This year, I didn’t want a party. I didn’t want people. I didn’t even want cake (okay, maybe just a slice). What I wanted—what my soul needed—was peace, city views, and a bed that didn’t require sharing. Enter: Voco Hotel Times Square South, a Midtown Manhattan gem for solo queens who want silence and skyline.
Let Me Explain Something To You…
When I told people I was spending my birthday alone, you would’ve thought I said I was climbing Everest barefoot. “Alone? Are you okay?” “Don’t you want to celebrate?” “Girl, you sure?” Yes, I’m sure. Because here’s what y’all didn’t see… Over the last 12 months, I went through it. Not “oh life was hard” – I mean life jumped me in a back alley with no warning.
I dealt with:
• Weight gain that made me feel invisible in a world that already tries to erase plus-size bodies.
• Doubt that crept in like a thief, stealing my confidence one thought at a time.
• Debt that made me question if I’d ever breathe financially again.
• Depression that didn’t just knock—it moved in, rearranged my furniture, and tried to unpack its bags.
So no, I didn’t want brunch mimosas and fake laughs this year. I wanted a moment to sit with myself and say: “You survived, sis.” Mentally. Emotionally. Physically. I made it through in one piece. This birthday wasn’t about turning up. It was about turning inward. Reflecting on my strength, honoring my healing, and celebrating my survival. And if I had to do it solo to feel whole? Then solo it was.
Location, Location, Look-at-that-View!
I stayed on the 26th floor and let me tell you, baby—the views were giving cinematic masterpiece. I had front-row seats to the iconic New Yorker Hotel, and I caught both sunrise and sunset like the soft-life star I am. Pro tip: if you want the best views, book a smaller bed. I had a full-size, and for a solo trip? Chef’s kiss. I swear the universe clapped for me.
The Vibe Starts at Check-In
You get a free drink ticket at check-in, but don’t be like me and forget to use it before 10 PM. Shoutout to Johan, who welcomed me like royalty after a long travel day. And to Yvette, who held it down on the overnight shift with kindness, humor, and care. That energy? Unmatched.
Breakfast with Mauricio!
Breakfast is that girl here. From bacon, egg & cheese to avocado toast, they’ve got something for every palate. Coffee lovers? Choose from drip, iced, or cold brew. Ask for Mauricio—the absolute best. Friendly, timely, and attentive.
Plus-Size Friendly & Proud
Not all hotels are shaped for the shapely—but Voco said, “We got you, sis.” The shower, bathroom, and layout were plus-size approved and comfortable without compromise. Spacious. Functional. Fabulous. Accessible.
Balloons, Flowers & Birthday Solitude
I walked in to balloons and flowers in the room. Cue tears. It was the perfect touch for a birthday girl who just wanted quiet luxury and intentional joy. Solitude never looked so celebratory.
Work Hard, Create Content Harder
Since I stayed from Sunday to Monday, I did some remote work—and the work-from-home cubbies were divine. Outlets, lamps, comfy seating? Yes, yes, and yes. Then I snapped into creator mode: Over 60 days of content, all inside this one hotel. They’ve got different backdrops, moody lighting, games, bars, and patios—all Insta-ready. Change your outfit, change the vibe, boom—new shoot.
Entertainment Without Leaving the Lobby
Too tired to hit the streets? No problem.
• Popcorn machine at the entrance
• Fruit-infused water on deck
• Giant games like Jenga & Connect 4
• Outdoor patio that eats for content creators
• Fully stocked bar that keeps the fun flowing
And yes, they’ll hold your bags if you’re early or have a late flight.
Logistics You’ll Thank Me For:
• Parking: Partnered with Myers Parking Garage on 35th Street (about $40/night)
• Location: Steps from 34th St. and 4 minutes from 42nd St. Whether you go uptown or downtown, you’re in the thick of it all.
• Airport Shuttle: Options for JFK, LGA, and Newark available
Final Verdict:
Voco Hotel Times Square South gets a 5 out of 5. It’s solo-travel friendly, plus-size inclusive, content-creator approved, and a soft-life sanctuary for anyone who’s been through the wringer and needs a damn minute to breathe. I didn’t just celebrate a birthday—I reclaimed my joy. Have you ever celebrated yourself solo? Or are you still afraid of sitting with your own reflection? Let’s talk in the comments. And if no one’s told you lately—you deserve peace.
