Considered as one of the top places for art, fashion, and theater, 8 million people call this island home within the 5 boroughs; Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. With more than 800 spoken languages, it is true when people say that this city is diverse and bursting with culture. Located on the East Coast of the United States, New York is an absolute bucket list destination to experience. Every day is a new experience with each day not being like the last. Why wouldn’t you want to come to New York City?
New York has clearly defined seasons. The seasons are categorised into 4: winter is between the months of December, January, February and you should be prepared for snowfall. Spring is in March, April, May- it is still quite chilly so it is recommended to bring long-sleeved shirts and jeans or maybe a sweater for the night time. The summer season is in June, July, August and it can get hot and humid. Last but not least the fall is in September, October, and November and the temperature is quite lovely.
‘Concrete jungle where dreams are made of, there’s nothing you can’t do, now you’re in New York’- Alicia Keys was very right in saying that New York is a concrete jungle. Since there isn’t a lot of space to spread out, all buildings shoot upwards - obviously the reason why they are called skyscrapers and you’ll find yourself looking up a lot!.
New York City is home to the most beautiful architecture. Whether it be Grand Central, Metropolitan Life Tower, Flatiron Building or Washington Square Park, those who love nothing better than admiring building architecture will be in awe of the intracity that fills this city.
A city where no idea is crazy, as long as you can dream of it you can grab it and make it your reality. New York City is built for any type of person, there is no ‘normal’ so expect to be wowed and ready to conquer your craziest dreams and goals. Time doesn’t stop for anyone in New York, you can be guaranteed that you will never be short of things to do in this city as it is 24/7 non-stop and fast-paced.
Did you know the colour of taxis used to be red and green, not the famous and world-known yellow?
Honestly, with food, you can’t go wrong! You have the choice of every cuisine known to man-kind on offer. There are popular hot spots to go and try. Five Napkin Burgers is located all over the city. With an amazing, juicy, wide range of burgers, it is probably the best place to go for a burger. Staying along that line of cuisine Big Daddy is like taking a step back into the ’80s. With its retro-themed restaurant, 80’s music playing whilst enjoying old school milkshakes, tater tots, and burgers this is the best place to go on a cheat day or the weekend with your friends. For a once in a lifetime foodie experience Serendipity is based on a 90’s romantic movie ‘Serendipity’ and of course the actual meaning of Serendipity- the rare occurrence of events that happen by chance or fate. This restaurant is truly magical, with mesmerising deserts, and cafe fare.
When in New York you must experience going to a deli, where you can have the option of a panini press, club sandwiches, really any type of sandwich all in a small deli. The food is to die for and can easily beat any 5-star restaurant food.
From Chanel to Michael Kors and Gucci, New York City has all of the top label brands. However, if they are a little out of your reach, or you just love a bargain, Macy’s is the place to stop and shop. Here you can high end brands at reasonable prices and snag that bag you have been eyeing off! The department store itself is well known globally for its Macy’s Day Parade during Thanksgiving in the month of November. And of course for its Christmas and Spring decorations.
Christmas in New York should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is truly spectacular and even more so when it’s snowing. Starting off with a stroll through Union Square Holiday Market. Here you will see an ice skating rink and a well lit Christmas tree whilst looking at market stores. Next you should go to the Rockefeller ice rink, where you will see the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree and the 5th Avenue Sax light display on the side of the building. Beneath it there is a Christmas display as well. You will have to wait in line to see this but it is well worth the wait. To end the night you must go to Serendipity to have a hot chocolate. What more could you possibly want!
Now let’s get to the famous landmarks of New York! Built in 1938 the Empire State Building is an absolute must to see. Here you receive a guided tour through the building and once at the top you can see the city. It is either recommended to go to the Empire State Building on a blue sky day or at night to see the night lights of the city. Downtown you can pay your respects for the lives lost at the World Trade Centre at the 9/11 Memorial. Even if art isn’t your forte, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is known for being one of the world’s greatest collections making it worth the visit. Connecting the two boroughs Brooklyn and Manhattan the Brooklyn Bridge is a lovely walk and an awesome place to take those instagram worthy photos. And of course there’s the Statue of Liberty. To get there you will need to catch a ferry to Staten Island. It is a quick 10 minute ferry ride with beautiful scenery. Central Park is full of activities to do and things to see. With 4 kilometres worth of pathways, Central Park Zoo, an ice skating rink, boat rentals, and sporting fields you can easily lose yourself here for the day. Music lovers don’t miss out on a concert at the Barclay Centre in Brooklyn or in midtown at the Madison Square Garden. New York is also known for its big hit broadway shows and you are bound to find something to thrill and entertain you and will leave you wanting more. In the middle of the city is Times Square, one of those places you can say you’ve been! Most people know Times Square for the New Year’s Eve festivities and where the ball drop happens. You won’t find many locals in Times Square on New Year’s Eve but a lot of tourists. Most locals go to bars and friends apartments to see the New Year in.
New York City is known for many things but here’s a few hidden treasures you may not know about. Coming first the High Line. An old rail line above street level with river and city views. It is truly jaw dropping. You are able to read, walk, look at the sightings or meet up with friends at the side stalls. It’s easy to take a breather up there and have some peace and quiet from all the hustle and bustle. Just below the High Line, Chelsea Market is a place with restaurants, food and drink tastings, and the occasional clothes store, so why not get a hot chocolate and come to the high line for the afternoon. The neighbourhood of Chelsea, once known as the LGBT hood, is full of trendy restaurants, bars, and apartments and is just a very cool place to hang out.
New York City is one of the greatest places to travel. Where you can try new things, learn more about the world and what’s possible all in the space of a few miles. And remember, if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere!
