New York, New York
New York, New York
by Ms Q
by Ms Q
Let me state for the record that I am currently a lapsed New Yorker. I loved living in the Big Apple (maybe had a bigger bite of it than I should have), but left it for sunnier climes. I have lived in a few different cities since my departure; however no city in the world beats NYC for vibrant energy, excitement and all-around flavour. I have compiled a list of sights, attractions and experiences that shouldn’t be missed when visiting the city that never sleeps. Some are NY icons, but many are lesser-known gems that will give you some insight into what makes New York tick.
Historically New York was the first stop for many immigrants arriving in the “New World”. Many saw the bustling city and remained to reach for their bit of the “American Dream”. More than the skyscrapers and nightlife, this is what defines New York best – the sons and daughters of immigrants were the cornerstone that built the city.
To illustrate that history, don’t miss a chance to view Lady Liberty herself. Given to the US by the French, the Statue of Liberty sits at the mouth of the Hudson River welcoming all visitors, immigrants, and returning Americans. No need to bother with the ultra-touristy tour and the climb up to the observation deck in the crown. It is even more spectacular to view her from the deck of the free Staten Island Ferry along with fantastic views of the Lower Manhattan skyline. Board the ferry from the southern-most tip of Manhattan, near Battery Park.
The Lower East Side Tenement Museum is an interesting way to see how turn-of-the-century immigrant families lived. The museum is housed in a restored tenement on Manhattan's Lower East Side and was home to an estimated 7,000 people from over 20 nations from 1863 to 1935. You will learn about actual families who lived in the meticulously-restored apartments - from German and Eastern European Jews to Italian Catholics.
If you go to the Tenement Museum, do not miss having lunch at the most famous delicatessen in New York, Katz’s Deli. Originally established by a Russian immigrant family in 1888, Katz Deli has grown to become a shining example of Old World flavours nourishing the New World. Order the enormous pastrami sandwich on rye and don’t forget the sour pickle.
While you’re downtown, stroll over to Canal Street, a chaotic, wonderful bazaar filled with a dizzying array of goods on offer. From jewellery to vintage Army/Navy and everything in between you can find wild souvenirs and interesting bric-a-brac at bargain basement prices.
Times Square used to be a place only pickpockets and other undesirables frequented. The new Disney cleaned-up version of Times Square is a neon-lit temple of commercialism overrun by tourists. Instead of joining the hordes on the street, gaze at the hyperkinetic vista from the revolving restaurant and lounge at the top of the Marriott Marquis hotel. Having dinner there will set you back a buck or 200, but the lounge is a lovely setting for a cocktail.
While you’re in Times Square, make plans to see the Late Show with David Letterman at the Ed Sullivan Theater. As Letterman is one of the most popular talk show hosts on US television, he attracts top celebrity guests. Tickets are not easy to get, but it is worth it to sit in that historic theatre and laugh at Letterman’s antics.
If you would like to worship at the altar of super shopping, make a beeline for the new Time Warner Center located at Columbus Circle. It is a “vertical retail extravaganza where people dine, shop, live, work” and definitely a testament to the power of the almighty dollar. All of the usual high end suspects are represented: from Armani Exchange and Hugo Boss to Sephora. And if you would also like to join a Power Pilates class or have a professional shave with a straight razor, this is catered for too.
Everyone has asked me if it is worth taking the time to see the Empire State building. I have been to the 86th floor observatory – impressive view. Is it a must-see? Eh. It’s a long queue and then a long elevator ride to end up in a gift shop with Empire State tchotchkes for sale. It used to be the tallest building in the world, it is a marvel of engineering and the view is spectacular…you decide if you absolutely must see where King Kong climbed.
Undergoing a second Renaissance, Harlem is not only the home of the Harlem Globetrotters, it is also the cultural heart of chocolate New York. It abounds with museums, elegant architecture, famous landmarks, music venues and restaurants serving up down-home Southern cuisine. If you like gospel music, attend a service at Abyssinian Baptist Church, the spiritual home for thousands and the largest Protestant congregation in the US. If Jazz is more your speed, check out the nightly jam session at St. Nick’s Pub. Make sure to “Take the A train – it’s the quickest way to Harlem”.
If you find yourself on one of the east side subway trains that pass through Grand Central Station, get off and take a look at this extraordinary Beaux-Arts style railroad station. But don’t wander around looking like an out-of-towner, head for the grand Oyster Bar, a quintessential New York restaurant serving up the freshest seafood simply prepared. For quick service in a New York minute grab a seat at the counter.
When you visit New York City, don’t get caught up doing all of the typical tourist things. Walk the streets, ride the subways, grab a bite at one of the many street food carts, visit the open air markets, go to a show – in other words, live like the New Yorker you want to be; even if it’s only for a few days. Then you too will be in a New York state of mind.
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