By Politiquette’s Marissa Mitrovich: Politiquette is a place to be inspired by the art of fashion. Readers gain an understanding of the politics of why to wear–and the etiquette of when to wear–specific styles. Marissa Mitrovich founded Politiquette with the goal of bringing further substance to the dialogue surrounding style in DC. 

I recently had the privilege of talking with a true expert when it comes to all things Philadelphia, the city that will host the Democratic National Convention from July 25-28.   Philly is no stranger to hosting political conventions. In 1856, the city hosted the first Republican National Convention to nominate a presidential contender, but things have certainly changed in the past couple of centuries.

James Portner is the on the front-lines of providing facts, solutions and advice when it comes to what you really need to know while you’re in Philly.  He’s the Lead Concierge for the Ritz-Carlton in the “city of love” and he graciously helped me put together a list of all the things Hillary Clinton supporters will need to know during the DNC.   

I have supplemented with my own thoughts, too.

What is the best method of transportation from the airport/train?  

JP: Trains start at seven past the hour (:07) and thirty seven past the hour (:37) to center city. Get off at Suburban Station which is a few blocks from our hotel. We can also set up car service and taxi cabs and Ubers are available.

Fashionably Famous (FF):  Where there is Uber, there is Lyft.  I have confirmed with Lyft that they will be operating in Philly.

What transportation methods do you recommend for getting around Philadelphia?

JP: Walking, Indego Bikes, Taxi Cabs and local buses and subways.

FF: There will also be dedicated shuttles to and from the Wells Fargo Center where the actual convention will take place, check with your hotel.

What salons will be able to take me for a blowout?  Manicure/pedicure?

JP: The Ritz-Carlton has a salon called Richel D’Ambra. For Mani/Pedi there are numerous walk in salons within a 2 to 3 block radius of the the Ritz-Carlton, but Adolf Biecker Spa / Salon on Sansom Street is amazing.

FF:  I have already made my appointments at the Dry Bar for 8:00 a.m. daily, see you there?

 If I need a cobbler, where should I go?

JP: CAPA Shoe Service at 1015 Chestnut St. 215-923-0990

 If I need emergency alterations, is there someone who can help me?

JP: Helen’s Cleaners at 1610 Sansom St. 215-972-0115

FF: With all of the cheesesteak eating there is potential for seam splitting.

If my hotel does not have dry cleaning, is there somewhere I can take my items to be cleaned?

JP: The Ritz-Carlton has dry cleaning services provided through the hotel.  

FF: Many hotels will have in-house dry cleaning. A high-ranking DNC official told me you can go to Sons on 20th and Ludlow.           

What are the best places to shop?

JP: Right in the Ritz-Carlton hotel lobby will be a pop-up Saks Fifth Avenue shop. Also Walnut St. by Rittenhouse Square, Old City and Midtown Village.

FF: I would recommend Joan Shepp for women, I can confirm that this boutique will even be hosting the innovative women of GlobalWIN for a special event.

If I don’t feel well, where is the nearest hospital and/or urgent care?

JP: Jefferson Hospital is 11th and Chestnut St. Also My Doc Urgent Care is 1420 Locust St.  (215-800-1909)

FF: Remember this is a marathon, not a race – pace yourself, stay hydrated and try to avoid medical professionals!

Where can I find a notary?

JP: I am a notary

FF: James Portner is available to help even if you are not a guest at the Ritz-Carlton.  There are going to be a lot of business opportunities in Philly, so you might just need a notary.

What are your best after-hours recommendations for food?

JP: Ritz-Carlton’s new fabulous restaurant chefs Aqimero.  Little Pete’s on 17th St. off of Walnut Street.

FF: I personally like Pat’s King of Steaks where they have “Steak wit or wit-out Cheez Wiz.”

What recommendations for fitness do you have while I am in town?

JP: Hotel gym. There is also PSC at 18th and Market St., and Sweat Gym at 24th and Walnut St. and Sporting Club at Bellevue.

FF: I can’t comment, I don’t know a lot about exercise.

If I have an hour or two to explore the city, where do you recommend I go?

JP: Historic Area, Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Museum.  Big Bus Tour covers all areas of the city.

Do you have any special recommendations or things I might have left off for visitors when they are in Philadelphia?

JP: Reading Terminal Market, Italian Market area and Old City for Art Galleries and great local shops.

All you need to do now is pack your bags.  You’re welcome.