September is known as back-to-school month. In Manhattan, September is also known as back-to-business month. In the days before Labor Day, the city streets are oddly empty as all Manhattanites enjoy their last days of summer in the Hamptons. The majority of people in the streets are vacationing from faraway lands. Magically, the Tuesday after Labor Day, all the intensity that defines Manhattan returns. Overnight, the lazy days of summer seem like a dream from another decade.

I find this to be an exciting time, as there is so much to do and so much to see. Three weeks ago, NYC hosted the U.S. Open, two weeks ago Fashion Week, and last week it was UN Week. I could do without UN Week from a logistical standpoint. Every major world leader descends upon our small island and takes over. I had to fight Secret Service just to enter my apartment building!

I saw celebrities, athletes and politicians; and I was happy to see the travel industry keeping pace with the intensity by announcing news and improvements. Last week, my colleague Olivia and I had the pleasure of viewing Alitalia’s new A330 aircraft at a launch event at JFK. The award-winning Alitalia food was served in the lounge, then we were given a tour of the aircraft. The food we sampled was from the same menu being served on board the flight departing that evening. It was delicious — pasta served two ways, fish and vegetables — better than some restaurants in the city!

The new Magnifica Class brings magnificence back to Alitalia’s business class, with fully flat beds, large entertainment screens and privacy for each traveler. Alitalia also introduced the Classica Plus premium economy cabin, giving passengers more room and more premium service than economy class.

Look out for news from the Italian Government Tourist Board, Turkish Airlines, Renaissance Hotels and more. Stay tuned to find out what the travel world has in store for you!

— Alex Young, vice president and associate publisher