What can be said that hasn't already been said about New York? Possibly the most famous city in the world, immortalised on screen countless times, New York is like a country in its own right and, once you get there, it's like visiting somewhere you've known for years. Whether you are planning a short city break or considering a longer holiday here a few things that you should certainly consider.
Getting There
Currently flights from Gatwick to New York's JFK airport cost around £270 through an airline such as Delta Air Lines. However, it's recommended that you do your research and shop around. Comparison websites such as Cheapflights.co.uk can make this particularly easy, because they have comparison tables of the best cheap flights available from a range of providers.
Where to Stay
There are hundreds of hotels in New York to suit all price ranges. If you are looking for a deluxe hotel then you could try the 4-star Helmsley Park Lane Hotel where rooms cost in the region of £210 per night. The hotel has a fantastic location opposite Central Park, with commanding views of the Manhattan skyline.
For a budget alternative you could try a youth hostel, such as the one near Broadway and 97th Street, where a bunk costs about £15 per night (although you do have to be a member of the American Youth Hostel Association or Hostelling International to stay). Take a look at HostelBookers.com for hostels in New York. If you are looking for something down right weird then you could try the Library Hotel. Located on Madison Avenue, rooms here cost around £175 and each room is themed around a different genre of reading, from romance to astrology.
What to See and Do
If you have seen all of the usual sights to see then you may want to consider one of the following. A company called Watson Adventures offer scavenger hunts throughout New York. For example, at present, they are doing 'The Murder at the Met' hunt. Tickets cost around £15 but it is well worth it for a different view of the city - although bear in mind a lot of the hunts are for 'adults only'. Another weirdly wonderful place worth taking a look at is The Doll Hospital in Kingston. This is professional antique doll restoration business is interesting, fun and strangely macabre.
Where to Eat
The Ninja Restaurant on Hudson Street is fun and unusual. It is a Japanese themed restaurant designed to look like a feudal ninja castle, complete with drawbridge and moat, where the waiters dress as ninja warriors. Dishes are mainly Japanese, although there are fusions of Japanese and classic American dishes such as a T-bone steak served in Wasabi sauce with a potato gratin. Another restaurant that is highly recommended is Jack's Oyster Bar on Second Avenue. Here you can buy a taster menu for around £25 per head that includes a delicious oyster sorbet.
