A Bottle of Schweppes

Generally speaking, finer things cost more money, with surcharges for cachet, panache, name and convenience. Some will say that these are not premiums but rather part of what makes them finer. However, these views are often held by those who find the greatest comfort in the greatest price and believe that quality is always measured in dollars. For those that feel this way, any world class city will be a good choice to divest of some cash. New York City comes highly recommended.

In most of the world, outside of large cities, if you have enormous wealth, you will find it difficult to spend enormous amounts of money on ordinary goods and services. So if you would like to spend $8 for an eight ounce bottle of Schweppes Ginger Ale or five dollars for a small bag of potato chips in a hotel room where rates range from $975 to $16,000 per night, I suggest a visit to the Peninsula Hotel.

These minibar prices seem a little high. But ultimately, this is only a New York City hotel renting rooms for the night, and there is only so much luxury that one can offer. So, in a place where everything needs to be special, perhaps everything has to be priced this way, even a bottle of Schweppes.

Admitttedly, the location of the Peninsula New York at 700 Fifth Avenue at 55th Street cannot be beat. The location on Fifth Avenue, often heralded as the world's most expensive street, is neighbor to many of the most recognized flagship stores, including Cartier, Tiffany's, De Beers, Fendi, Armani, Prada, Saks, Bergdorf and Abercrombie & Fitch. The Peninsula is also located near many well known attractions such as Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Radio City Music Hall and Central Park. The hotel has a 3-floor spa, outdoor terraces and a glass enclosed swimming pool.

I was privy to see a room facing Fifth and able to free a window, open it wide, stick my head out and get some spectacular views, up and down Fifth Avenue. As I turned back towards the elegantly appointed room, I glanced at the minibar where on top lay an unfinished ginger ale. No matter how I tried to justify it, there's still a thrifty New Englander inside, and it bothered me to see that bottle of Schweppes...