New York City,

originally founded as New Amsterdam by Dutch settlers in 1624, has evolved into one of the world's most iconic metropolises. It became part of the British Empire in 1664 and was renamed New York in honor of the Duke of York. Over the centuries, the city grew as a major port, attracting waves of immigrants, which shaped its diverse culture. The 19th and 20th centuries saw New York rise as a financial, cultural, and political powerhouse, with landmarks like the Statue of Liberty symbolizing hope and opportunity. Today, NYC is a global hub for business, art, and fashion, known for its skyscrapers, vibrant neighborhoods, and relentless energy. Its evolution from a colonial outpost to a global city is a testament to its adaptability and resilience.

Here are some surprising facts about New York City!

1. First U.S. Capital: NYC was the U.S. capital from 1789 to 1790.
2. 800+ Languages: The city is the most linguistically diverse in the world.
3. Central Park’s Size: At 843 acres, it’s larger than Monaco.
4. Empire State Building’s Zip Code: The Empire State Building has its own zip code: 10118.
5. Times Square’s History: Named after The New York Times in 1904, it was previously Longacre Square.
6. Statue of Liberty’s Location: Technically in New Jersey waters, but under NYC jurisdiction.
7. Pizza Love: New Yorkers eat 23 pounds of pizza per year on average.
8. Massive Subway System: NYC’s subway has 472 stations, the largest globally.
9. First U.S. Pizzeria: Lombardi’s, opened in 1905, is America’s first pizzeria.
10. Grand Central Whispering Gallery: Stand in opposite corners and whisper—it carries perfectly!

 

The most touristic places to visit are:

TripAdviser - Things to do in New York

 

When flying into New York City from London or Europe, it's generally better to book a window seat on the left side of the plane (port side) to catch views of the Manhattan skyline during landing. 
However, flight paths can vary depending on the weather and air traffic, so there’s no absolute guarantee. But overall, the left side tends to offer the best chance to enjoy that spectacular view! 😍

A few pictures from my travel: 

1. The Neon Wonderland - Times Square 

 

 

2. The best views of Manhattan - Summit One Vanderbilt

Location: One Vanderbilt Avenue, near Grand Central Terminal
Height: 1,401 feet (427 meters)
Observation Deck: Opened in 2021, this immersive experience includes various viewing platforms and stunning views of the skyline.

It takes you to the 91 floor in just 10 seconds! The most recommended viewing spot to watch the views on Manhattan.  

 

 

3.The best way to see different neighbourhoods in NYC - Contrast tour.

This excursion offers a unique perspective than traditional NYC tours learn about the distinct cultures in Haarlem, Brooklyn, Bronx, and Queens.

 

4. The best place to buy souvenirs - Brooklyn Bridge and nearby Chinatown

 

5. Broadway - [link with impact] - amazing experience! 

With TodayTix, you can buy much cheaper tickets for events, including Broadway shows, with prices starting from $20, depending on the show. Drinks in the theater are a bit more expensive, but if you buy a cup, you'll get a $5 discount on your next drink.

6. Following the trail of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York filming locations. 

Hotel Plaza [link with CJ-booking.com] - 

The Plaza Hotel, where mentioned iconic scenes from Home Alone 2: Lost in New York were filmed, is one of the most famous hotels in the city. Located on Fifth Avenue, visitors can explore its elegant lobby and even dine in its renowned restaurants, though access to the private hotel areas is restricted to guests.

 

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Saint Patrick's Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, is located on Fifth Avenue as well. Known for its striking stained glass windows and grandiose spires, it’s a serene escape in the heart of Manhattan.

FAO Schwarz - [link with CJ?] - Just a short walk away is FAO Schwarz, one of the most iconic toy stores in New York. Famous for its grand piano and extensive selection of toys, it's a must-visit for families and anyone in search of unique gifts.

7. The Statue of Liberty - The Staten Island Ferry - Free

Staten Island offers a fantastic and free way to see the Statue of Liberty from a distance: the Staten Island Ferry. This iconic ferry service runs between Manhattan and Staten Island, providing stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the New York Harbor along the way. The ferry operates regularly and is free for all passengers, making it a popular choice for both tourists and locals.

Once you arrive on Staten Island, you can enjoy the scenic waterfront and explore attractions such as the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and the Staten Island Museum. For more information about the Staten Island Ferry, you can visit the official website of the NYC Ferry service

8. Transportation around NYC 

The OMNY card is New York City's new contactless payment system for subway and bus rides. You can use your contactless credit card, smartphone, or smart device to pay for fares easily. A single ride costs $2.90, and there's no need for a MetroCard anymore, as OMNY has fully replaced it.

An excellent feature of OMNY is its weekly fare cap: once you’ve spent $34 on subway and local bus rides, any additional trips within that seven-day period are free, just like the benefits of a 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard. This makes it easier to save on multiple trips in one week. For reduced-fare customers, the cap is set at $17. It’s worth noting that this system tracks your payments automatically, so you don’t need to register for a specific card or app.

 

9 . Where to eat: 

New York City offers a wealth of affordable dining options, including street food, casual eateries, and budget-friendly restaurants. Here are some great places to eat cheap in NYC:

Street Food:

Halal Guys – Famous for their chicken and gyro platters served with rice, salad, and their signature white sauce, found at their food cart on 53rd and 6th Avenue.
Los Tacos No. 1 – Located in Chelsea Market, this spot offers delicious tacos starting at around $3 each, with authentic flavors.
Gray's Papaya – Known for their cheap and tasty hot dogs, this iconic spot offers two dogs and a drink for around $6.
Mamouns Falafel – A beloved spot in Greenwich Village, serving authentic falafel sandwiches for about $5.

Budget-Friendly Restaurants:

Joe’s Pizza – A classic NYC pizza,  where you can grab a slice for around $3.50. The best NYC pizza - queuing around 30 min. 

Xi'an Famous Foods – Offers spicy hand-pulled noodles and burgers starting at $10, with various locations around the city.
Chickpea – A fast-casual eatery specializing in affordable Mediterranean bowls and wraps, with many options under $10.
Katz's Delicatessen – While not the cheapest option, you can enjoy a classic pastrami sandwich for around $24, which is filling enough to share.

 

Cafés and Bakeries:

Ess-a-Bagel – Grab a fresh bagel with cream cheese for around $5; they have various locations across the city.
The Donut Project – Unique and delicious donuts starting at $4 each, perfect for a sweet snack on the go.
Balthazar Bakery – Affordable pastries and sandwiches in SoHo, with many options under $10.

 

NYC cheesecake is a must to try!