First timers turn me on in a badddd way! Dont worry, Ill be gentle!  

Re:need advice from the hobby veterans

Keep an eye out for Sissy at Belle De Jour.

For the amount you're willing to spend....NY Confidental or even Jennifer Lopez.  Pay your fee and review all the member reviews - you'll be amazed how helpful they can be.

That will get you a weekend with 90% of the providers on TER.  For a first time, I don't know that you want to spend that kind of money, or spend that kind of time with one lady.  Why not search the TER reviews, find several ladies who look promising and schedule several one-hour sessions with them?  I warn you, as a newcomer, it's very easy to get caught up in the fantasy.  keep your wits about you.

With that kind of dough, I would go for the pornstar experience.
I met with Miko Lee last year for my birthday. Awesome!

Then search TER for the one that fits your desires.  An incredible amount of selections and reviews.  The higher-end ones charge a lot more because they see a lot fewier guys and are better looking, more sophisticated and educated, and better skilled.

The TER search function is the best tool around.

Everyone is in agreement.  Buy the TER membership, and research research.  I would advise to never tell how much money you are willing to spend.  Easy for someone to take advantage of you.  Most importantly, try all the flavors.  I prefer to deal with independents.  Agencies sometimes cause problems by calling you a lot or keeping records.  Good hunting, and you do have some nice ladies to enjoy in NYC.