New York Mini Guide
What’s the Story of New York?
It was founded nearly 400 years ago by the Dutch as a trading post called New Amsterdam. The British took it over and renamed it New York. It was the US capital for five years until 1790 when, although it was the nation’s biggest city, it was replaced by
Philadelphia. It has since grown to become one of the world’s most important cities both culturally and financially. Today many of its attractions are recognised across the world and it is the most popular tourist destination in the US.
How do I get Into New York?
There are three major airports, JFK, La Guardia and Newark Airport. JFK is the closest to the city with Newark the furthest away. It’s possible to fly to New York from every continent. Most international flights come into JFK or Newark and transfers into the city are easy by metro or hire car. You can also arrive there by train from destinations across the US with the terminus being the iconic Grand Central Station.
What Should I see When I’m in New York?
It’s a case of prioritising depending on how long you’ve got in the city. There’s so much that something will get left out. A trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is obligatory to see how the first immigrants arrived and were processed ready for their new lives in America. A cab ride or a trip in your hire car through Lower Manhattan is essential to see the iconic skyline from the foot of the skyscrapers. If you get hungry during the day, forget restaurants and cafes, do as the New Yorkers do and grab a bite from a street vendor with hot dogs being the top of the list. At night, wander through Times Square then on to a show on Broadway. In the morning, grab a coffee and stroll through Central Park before paying homage at Ground Zero.
What are Good Buys in New York?
New York is America’s fashion capital so if you’ve got a bit of spare money, treat yourself to something designer. For those on more restricted budgets there are always the baseball caps of the city’s teams or T-shirts with the ‘Big Apple’ logo. Souvenirs include mini Statues of Liberty or baseballs or even your programme from a Broadway show.
What Should I eat in the City?
There are many expensive restaurants in the city but try the food you won’t get anywhere else such as the hot dog or chilli dog, toasted bagels, deli sandwiches, New York pizza and New York baked cheesecake. You’ll need a much healthier diet on your return but as they say, ‘When in Rome (or New York!)….
What About Parties and Celebrations?
You need to be careful where you go for entertainment as you would in many big cities but many of the bars and clubs are fun and welcoming. New York does New Year’s Eve on a grand scale from Times Square and at other times of the year such as St Patrick’s Day or July 4th, the city doesn’t need much of an excuse for a party.