Oh Hello, The fall weather is upon us here in North America and the kids are back in school. So let's talk New York, a great long weekend getaway from either side of the Atlantic. This city is a huge melting pot, both with residents and visitors. There's a different language spoken at every corner and always an international representation of cuisine and art. I particularly have fun talking with the West African taxi drivers about their countries, their perspective of the US and what is their hometown beer, such as Metcaff, Guinness or ‘33’.
When looking at a map of America, the island of Manhattan seems small and contained, yet, once in New York it’s amazing how sprawling and intense it is. So the first thing to consider when planning your visit is to not get worked up about your hotel’s location. Rather, focus on the things that you want to see and do and that will help determine an ideal position for accommodation. Remember that this is not a resort destination so you won’t be spending a lot of time in your room.
You can be in New York for weeks and not get through all that it has to offer so it’s best to focus on a particular area, or two just so you’re not spending a lot of time and money getting from A to B. Another way to plan NYC is by theme such as architecture, museums, shopping or general highlights. Don’t pack too much in a daily itinerary so you allow enough time for the best way to understand this city: walking a people watching.
A great pedestrian thoroughfare that just opened up is the “High Line” (http://thehighline.org/). Once an elevated 1930s rail structure on Manhattan’s West Side, the High Line now transverses a wild, self-seeded landscape that grew on the structure. This new attraction is a great link between Chelsea Piers (for harbor sailing excursions) and Greenwich Village. When in Greenwich, don’t forget a visit to Washington Square Park!
Another wonderful “on your own” walking activity is the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s an amazing feat of engineering and a piece of history that is worthy to read (The Great Bridge by John McCullough). The pedestrian path is straight down the middle with the whirring traffic below you. Great views.
When it comes to organized walking tours, don’t forget that American Pursuits can arrange two-hour walking tours of Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn Heights and Harlem – all are casual, informative and unique in their own way.
Check back for more information on my visit to New York or feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Jeff
American Pursuits
