Introduction to
New York
New York City is one of the most populous cities in the world. New York has since the turn of the 19th century been a leader and a powerful force in finance, commerce and culture. When you arrive in New York, you will have the feeling of: “I have arrived”. New York City is a truly magnificent city and it lives up to the reputation as the “City that never sleeps”.
Things to do in
New York
New York City has many galleries, museums, attractions and other activities available for a visit, this guide consists of some of our favorite attractions
Museums and Galleries
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American Folk Art Museum – This museum is focused on the Folk arts over the history of Western America. With a great variety of artifacts, this museum is one of the most interesting in New York
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American Museum of National History – Very interesting collection from dinosaurs to the modern man and how “us humans” developed as a species. This is a great experience for the young ones with a fun and educational mix
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Brooklyn Museum of Art – Being next to the Brooklyn botanic garden this is a must for a more relaxing museum experience.
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Forbes Gallery – 62 Fifth Avenue – Good way to spend a free afternoon
Cathedrals and Churches
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Cathedral of St John the divine – This is well worth a visit, being the worlds largest Cathedral – There are some good universities to visit in the area, you can make a day of this visit
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St Patrick’s Cathedral - 14 East 51st St. at Fifth Ave – You can visit the Rockefeller centre at the same time
Parks
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Centre Park – This is the Park of all city parks. If you visit New York City and don’t make it to Centre Park you have to go back. With the park running almost 50 blocks in mid Manhattan, this park has everything. Big sports fields, beautiful lakes, ice skating rinks in the winter and lovely walks and running paths.
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Bronx Zoo – Not overly special as a zoo, but children will love it.
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Battery Park – Located in the lower part of Manhattan, this is where you will find all the office workers relaxing and sunbathing in the summer months. A bit of an oasis in the concrete jungle
Other must see’s
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Ground Zero and the financial district – For anyone that was around on September 11, 2001, this will be a place that is well worth a visit. Currently the area is a giant building site, but you will still be able to experience the memories and sadness that this place brings.
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Brooklyn Bridge – Take a walk over the bridge connecting Manhattan with Brooklyn, the two main boroughs of New York. The view of the city lights is amazing after dark
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Empire State Building – This is one of New York Cities favorite attractions, but it comes with its negatives as well, it can get really busy. See if you can plan your visit in advance and get tickets online, also try and go early or late in the day… the views from this historic building is amazing, get yourself a hearing set to listen to the explanation of all the buildings in this wonderful city
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Macy’s department store – One of the famous New York department stores, you could easily spend ½ day and many dollars in this amazing store
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Madison Square Gardens – Plan your trip in advance, see if you could get tickets to a basketball game… be warned, to see any of the New York teams will cost you an arm and a leg.
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Soho – one of the most exciting neighborhood’s in New York, young, trendy, with great café’s and restaurants.
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Statue of Liberty - The French did well with this one, an amazing monument from afar and from close by. You need to take a ferry to get there but it is still a nice trip into understanding the history and the real progress of New York better
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Staten Island – Take the free ferry over to the Island and discover suburbia within a short distance of the hustle and bustle. Great views of the City
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Broadway – This is what New York is about, showbiz! Walk down Broadway, why not go and see one of the musicals or even a comedy. This is a treat at night time!
Getting Around
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Taxi – The famous New York yellow cab – They have a romantic view of them, but the charm will wear off quite quick. Not overly expensive and reasonably quick to get around
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Subway – The New York public transport system is very good, quick, cheap and a good experience overall
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Busses – If you are not an American, you will find the busses very intimidating. They are exactly what America is about, big and brash! Good value and have easy to understand routes. The drivers tend to be more friendly than comparable city bus drivers
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Walking – In Manhattan this is the best way of getting around, the island is broken down in a grid of streets that is easy to navigate around and you will be able to discover many hidden treasures this way
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Ferry – There are various ferries running around Manhattan on the Hudson River, obviously a relaxing choice of transportation but will not get you to your final destination as fast
Survival Tips
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Money – The great US dollar, traditionally the strongest and most traded currency in the world. In current times the currencies have been fluctuating quite a lot, the dollar has recovered against other stronger currencies over the last few months. One dollar is made up of 100cents
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Credit and Debit cards – Cards are widely accepted throughout New York, you should be able to pay at most shops and restaurants without having cash
