Before you go: New York – Part 1

I Want to Be a Part of It

New York! New York! The lights of the city that never sleeps keeps on calling you and you have to follow. But before you skedaddle there might be one or two things you might want to do.

First, always make sure you have your budget completely planned out. Do as much research as you can of hotel rates, taxi rates, gas rates, and how much food will cost you. Always leave yourself a little extra spending money just in case you stumble upon that little doohicky you just can’t live without. If you’re staying for a while in New York, even if it’s just vacation, you might want to check out surrounding suburbs for slightly lower hotel rates. Of course one thing that is fantastic about New York is its transportation system. Make sure to make full use of the subway, ferries, and the elevated train as all might be cheaper than a taxi.

However, another important part of coming to New York is what to expect. New York has a unique kind of independence about it. Its honking and bustling just shouts absolute freedom and exhibits American liberty like no other city in America. You must try to visit all of the highlights during your stay. But remember not to wear yourself out. Savor every part that you visit. Relax and take your time. Remember to observe as you travel from place to place. Walk as often as you can and take in the full meaning of the city.

The Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, Central Park, Madison Square Garden, The Plaza, Fifth Avenue, Broadway. All of these are just a small percent of all of the fabulous locations for sightseeing in New York City. You will want to get full maps and brochures as soon as you get to the city.

However, in all this planning you must not forget to research where you should not visit. There are certain places in New York that might want to be avoided. This is nothing to be overly concerned with. There is danger in every place in the world, but it happens to abound in New York. Just use common sense. Do not do a lot of walking at night. Stay away from alleys at all cost. Don’t display your money at any time, and it might be wise to carry just a credit card. (You might still get beat up, but you’ll still have your money.)

Take plenty of pictures and make sure to see a Broadway show. Just remember to take it slow and really enjoy your stay. This city is the pinnacle of America’s success and it should be treasured and respected. So do everything beforehand that is possible to make your stay to New York the most intriguing and rewarding experience.

Top five tourist attractions in the USA – Part 1

The United States is a vast country. From sea to shining sea you can find mountains, deserts, plains and enough attractions to keep any tourist busy for the rest of their life. Here are my top five attractions.

New York City

The Big Apple has got to be on the top attraction on any tourist’s list when it comes to travel in the United States. It appeals to Americans and also to visitors from around the world. The Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty are landmarks recognized by people everywhere. Broadway, Fifth Avenue and Wall Street are places that have worked their way into everyone’s language. Time Square is the center of the American universe. New York City will appeal to children, adults and seniors; it is a city for everyone. Central Park offers a respite from the skyscrapers and brings a bit of the country mid-town.

With some of the world’s greatest museums and cuisine to temp andy pallate, New York city really is The City That Never Sleeps.

The Grand Canyon

At the other end of the spectrum the Grand Canyon is all about wide open spaces where the only thing you see when you look up are canyon walls and bright blue skies.

When it comes to spectacular scenery, there is nowhere in the United States that can compare to the Grand Canyon. Whether you choose the South Rim or the North Rim, you will have views that are unsurpassed; it is hard to imagine that these colors actually exist in nature. It is even more beautiful than any picture you have ever seen. If you are visiting the north rim it is easy to combine the Canyon with a visit to Sin City, sort of a 2 for 1. You will even feel good about choosing to combine scenery with all the glitz of Las Vegas.

New Orleans

It isn’t just about Mardi Gras in New Orleans. There isn’t another city in the United States like it. The architecture, the jazz , the voodoo and the beignets are all guaranteed to make you fall in love. Walking or driving along the levis holding back the mighty Mississippi makes you realize what a precarious position this city survives in and that makes New Orleans all the more precious and unique.

The historic parts of the city were almost untouched by Katrina but it is the rebuilding of this great city that is bringing many tourists back to Nawlins. Don’t wait for Mardi Gras, this is a city that is at its best all year round.

Charlottesville, Va.

While this city may not be on every tourist’s radar, it should be. Three of our presidents found it charming enough to make it their home. The most famous former resident is Thomas Jefferson, who helped design the University of Virginia, which is also located in Charlottesville. He built his famous home Monticello here and today you can visit it as well as the homes of James Madison and James Monroe. Charlottesville has all the vibes of a college town and more.

Philadelphia, Pa.

There is no city that is more representative of what the Unites States is all about than Philadelphia. Ben Franklin is probably one of the best known Americans to have ever lived. History, art, entertainment and plenty of outdoor activities guarantee that you can visit here every year and never get bored. Philadelphia has undergone a renaissance and it is the place to really feel the pulse of historic America.

These are just a few of my favorite attractions in the United States. You could spend a lifetime seeing everything this wonderful country has to offer. From east to west, north to south, there are attractions to appeal to every tourist from every country and of course if none of these appeal there is always Orlando or Anaheim.

Places to see before you die: Reasons to add New York City to the list – Part 10

If you arrive in New York City from anywhere, the first awareness you have is that it has a rhythm of its own. The mass of people that fills the streets carry on single minded up and down the avenues. After you have caught your breath, you will begin to feel its wonder, and want to return to it time and time again.

You will need more then one weekend to see all that the New York City has to offer.You will find yourself doing your own search each time you go.

If time permits during holiday get a map of the city layout so you can plan all the areas you have heard about.Be sure you have on good walking shoes,as that is the best way to get around.

There are some beautiful cathedrals, one being St.Patrick ,as well as many Museums and across from the Museum of Natural History is the Hayden Planetarium.

If your legs begin to give out ,you can use cabs, to get around the city.But keep in mind that they are contending with traffic. Or use the subway system.which is less crowded on weekends.It will take you from the theater district to ground Zero in about 15 minutes.And you may even consider a hop on a double decker bus.

If you have arrived early enough,consider walking to the Empire State Building on 34th street and Fifth Ave.,and Rockefeller Center.go to their observation towers.

Any time you come to N.Y. there are new things to do,and we know you will never be bored.Hotel accommodations can be made according to your budget and choices are many.But most often pricey.Some incorporate package deals for the weekend with theater and fine restaurants.

.During the Holidays, there is a huge Christmas tree,at Rockefeller Center, that is decorated, music fills the air,while ice skaters skate in the rink,this is open for your participation.

You may want to want to window shop on Fifth Avenue,there are beautiful designed front windows,all up and down the avenues .There are moderate and high style locations.for fashion and jewelry.

.

After shopping you will probably be hungry,stop by for a hot dog ,or buy a hot pretzel from a street vendor.or even consider hot chestnuts.If you really need a good lunch,there are many modest and even fast food or fine spots to enjoy in the city. It is a multi cultural city ,diversity is their name,search out China town,or go to little Italy and the Soho areas.

Lunch can be pricey but nice, around the skating rink you can go to 46th St. restaurant row -with numerous restaurants to choose from..

After lunch

Spring break destinations: New York City – Part 1

Spring break at a hot, sunny destination might seem like fun at first, but does it really leave you refreshed and ready to hit the books when it’s all over? After all, there is only so much sun, sand, booze and hang-overs a person can take before it begins to wear thin. This is especially true when you consider other great destinations that have so much to offer.

New York City is an excellent example of a Spring break destination that can be fun, educational, and rejuvenating all at the same time. Plus you don’t have to suffer through a single hang-over in order to enjoy yourself.

If you go with a few college buddies you can easily manage to find a hotel near Times Square that will suit your budget. That way you will be close to all the action. There’s lots to see and do and you will never be bored during your week-long visit.

Taxis to and from the Airport can be expensive and few people think of using public transportation. Consider taking the Air-Train instead of a taxi. It’s fast, efficient and a lot less expensive. You can save tons of money by avoiding taxis and using public transportation. Pretty much everything in New York is accessible by subway, so purchase a subway pass and at the same time be sure to find a subway map of the city. A good tip is dress and act like the locals and don’t make it too obvious that you are a tourist.

Do your research before you leave home and make a list of all the free attractions. For example, The Staten Island Ferry is the perfect way to see the Statue of Liberty, and the Manhattan skyline from the middle of the Hudson River. Best of all, it’s free! Some other free sights include Central Park and all it has to offer. That’s where you will find the New York City Museum. There’s no charge, but donations are appreciated.

Then of course there’s all the great shopping destinations that New York is world famous for. Of course if you go into Sac’s on Fifth Avenue the prices will cause some severe sticker-shock, but try out the Fashion District and the Chelsea Market for some good deals and a unique shopping experience.

There are a few attractions that you just have to see even if it does cost money. The view of the city from the Empire State Building is a must-see. Taking in a Broadway show is also an opportunity not to be missed. Often half-price tickets are available and a good plan is to check out the current shows and prices on-line before you leave home. Another option is to stand in line at TKS for your Broadway tickets. It’s well worth the wait as it can save you a lot of money.

As far as food goes, you are probably in the best city in the country for variety, quality, and affordability. Try out the bagels, pretzels, and chicken shish-kabobs at one of the many Times Square street vendors. You just “have” to find time to slide on over to Brooklyn and try a world famous slice of Brooklyn Pizza at one of the many amazing Pizzaria’s that are institutions in New York City. Great pizza served with a side order of Brooklyn attitude. What could be better?

There’s no reason you have to forget about partying completely. A night at Radio City Music Hall is a great option for a night of dancing and having a few drinks with your friends.

All-in-all, Spring break in New York City is a great alternative to the usual culture of drinking and partying. Besides, after your trip is long over, your amazing experience will leave you with memories that will last a life-time.

Travel destinations: New York City – Part 3

New York New York so nice they named it twice. I love this city I am a Native New Yorker. I was born at the old Flower Fifth Avenue Hospital overlooking Central Park. (The hospital is no longer there). However, if you are traveling to New York, the first thing is please don’t look like a tourist get in and enjoy that great great city. If you know a Native New Yorker it is worth it to bring them with you because they will know how to get around. Alot of the tourist maps and guides are not up to par on alot of levels. Some things are outdated.

This fascinating city offers Museum’s, Restaurants, Night Life, and just the regular movement of the people getting to and from offers visual excitement. To see it is to want to never leave it!. Things that you must see of course are the wonderful Museums, The Museum of Metropolitan Art, The New York City Museum, and you must must visit Rockerfeller Center, and the Warner Brothers Studio. You might even see a star or two walking in the NBC building getting ready to do a show, they always can be found in there. So just hang around and act like a Native. You will be surprised!. I also recommend the CBS building, there you can see Don King (Boxing Promoter) frequently going to lunch. I have so many friends that still live their and keep me updated daily.

The City is just Buzzing with FLAVA! You can also visit Central Park and take a look at “Strawberry Fields” which is dedicated to John Lennon. It is beautiful. Or just sit in the park and watch the beautiful Horse Carriages go by. There is also the Central Park Zoo which is amazing. Don’t forget to check out the Gorilla they say he is Hilarious. I would also encourage you before going to Central Park which starts on 72nd Street, to visit the “Plaza Hotel” which is owned now by Donald Trump’s former wife Ivana. You can stroll around and if you tip nicely you can see one their several elegant rooms. However, I hope you have about a week it will take you some time to see all that is worth seeing.

Pizza! Pizza! go to any of the Pizza shops in New York City and they will show you how it’s done. There is a great one on 42nd Street. You know that the sidewalk Pretzels and hot dog’s are the best but only if they have been dropped first. (That is an old New York Joke)

They have so many fine eateries. They best I thought was Mama Leone’s put they have torn that down. (so sad) they had the best Italian food ever. There is something for everyone in New York.

Also don’t just stay limited to the city ride the train to Coney Island and be adventurous, there you will see Nathan’s at it’s best and OOHHHH those fries. Cotton Candy and don’t be afraid to ride the CYCLONE! It has been around as long as Coney Island itself. To enjoy New York, you have to visit other sites beside just midtown. Check out Little Italy, and for great Chinese food go to China Town, and you’ll enjoy that as well. Then take a ride on the ferry and see “The Lady” (Statue of Liberty) beautiful, just beautiful. While visiting the Statue of Liberty take the tour of Ellis Island. The first stop for the Immigrants. Also see the “Back of Ellis Island” which is now on tour. This is where they kept the Immigrants that could not go through to the city because of illness or other documentaion. It is very interesting.

Well I can go on for days about this place. If you need some addresses or have questions just email me. I LOVE NEW YORK!