ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hi! My name is Iren and I want to welcome to New York City.
I fell in love with New York the moment I first set foot here, and I moved to the area at the very first opportunity. More than 20 years later, I’m still discovering new corners of this city — and I love sharing them with you.
I enjoy showing people the many faces of NYC: from the iconic skyline of soaring skyscrapers to the quiet, out-of-the-way neighborhoods most visitors never see. I tell stories of the people who shaped the city — self-made millionaires, famous writers, visionary architects, and bold, unforgettable women. I’ll take you to major landmarks as well as secret spots and cozy old bars where New York’s history comes alive. And if you’d like a taste of the city’s nightlife, I can show you where jazz still owns the night and where people gather to swing dance — a joyful tradition born right here in Harlem.
I’m a licensed sightseeing guide with more than 15 years of experience. I’ve studied History of Art at Harvard Extension School (Cambridge, MA), at The New School (NYC), and New York Architectural History at Cooper Union (NYC). I’m also a Lindy Hop dancer, a writer, a New York historian — and an overall fun person to explore the city with.
If you’d like to take a tour with me, please browse through my favorite offerings or contact me to create a custom experience tailored just for you. I also hope you’ll enjoy my history blog, CityBeautifulBlog.com, where I share stories about New York’s architecture, landmarks, and remarkable personalities. And if you prefer exploring on your own, like I do, try my self-guided audio tours.
Enjoy exploring New York City!
Interested in a tour? Need a custom itinerary? Can’t find availability?
Please email me: irengurarye@gmail.com
NYC tours aren’t just for visitors — there’s always something new to discover, even for lifelong New Yorkers. Tours make wonderful gifts and create unforgettable memories for any occasion.