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New York Information for Visitors and Tourists to New York - from Midas Hotels

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Midas Hotels: New York: Extensive Visitor Information for New York

 

New York New York. The Big Apple. The Empire State. The city that never sleeps. No matter what you call it - it's New York - and it's one hell of a city! Not a bad deal for a handful of beads a few hundred years ago. Millions and possibly billions of words have been written about it, thousands and possibly millions of films and pictures have featured it, but no one - and no description or film - can even start to capture this incredible, wonderful, seething mass of humanity that is New York City - unless they spend some time in it. In a way it seems preordained that this, probably the greatest city on earth was the scene of one of the greatest single atrocities by man against man on earth.

New York post 9/11 - dazed, battered, bruised and deeply, terribly hurting. Today it is still the same city - but has rallied and moved on, with both it's people and the city absorbing 9/11 into its unique culture and history, drawing enormous spiritual strength from it with a never ever to be forgotten legacy. The city is once again the powerhouse that it always was, but now with a new purpose and destiny that is totally unique. Over 1.2 million visitors from the UK visited New York in 2007 to see first hand what this amazing, big, buzzing, mind boggling, "king of cities" has - charm, wit, culture, the arts, shopping, and whatever choice of capitalist inspired excess can be found on earth, along with great lashings of - well - WOW!! Eight million people living on top of each other is nothing new to Londoners but nobody in the world does it as well as the special people that are New Yorkers. But - don't take our word for it - take a bite and see for yourself. We at Midas Hotels have got a a deal for everyone - no matter your budget. So get on your bike - Now!


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  zoom map of manhattan ZOOM MAP: MANHATTAN - NEW YORK CITY
 


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New York City Neighborhoods (Manhattan Districts)

Ok, so you've decided it's time to visit the Big Apple. You want to book a New York hotel but you're not quite sure of the geography. First things first, New York is split into 5 main districts, Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, The Bronx and Manhattan Island. By far the most popular is Manhattan, where all the famous sights and sounds of New York can be experienced, and Midas Hotels have got New York hotels to suit all budgets.

Ok, that's the geography bit over with. Now, here's the good news… Navigating around Manhattan couldn't be easier as our friends across the pond planned the whole of the city on a grid system. Even better news, they showed a distinct lack of imagination when naming the Streets opting for the not so inspirational 1st Street 2nd Street etc which to be fair, makes our job even easier.

So here's the deal, think of Manhattan as a long thin island with streets running east to west and avenues running north to south. On a good day with a decent headwind and a lucky run of green WALK signs it takes around a minute to walk from one street to another. Hence from 32nd Street to 42nd Street will take around 10 minutes. From 50th Street to 65th will take around 15 minutes, from 25th Street to 55th Street will take around… well I'm sure you get the picture.

Similarly the Avenues, which run north to south and take around 3 minutes to walk. So to get from 1st Avenue to 3rd Avenue will take around 6 minutes. This all being said, Manhattan is a true walking city and one of the best things to do is just head off on foot and explore all the districts that this vibrant island has to offer.

Midtown Manhattan
What can we say? Midtown has got everything. With a host of New York Hotel options and a wealth of sites to see, Midtown starts around 30th street and goes up to around 60th street where Central Park starts. The hub of Midtown, in fact the hub of New York is Times Square where Broadway meets 42nd Street. Other sights of Midtown include the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, Grand Central Station, the Chrysler Building and a wealth of shopping including Bloomingdales and Macys. Oh and don't forgot all the fantastic restaurants and bars scattered around all the New York Hotels offering comfortable retreats no matter what the budget.

Upper East Side
Think Upper East Side, think Sex and The City. This is a true New York neighbourhood where the locals, or at least the locals rich enough to afford a place in Manhattan, live. Upper East Side has got a cosy neighbourhood feel, but because it's largely a residential area a number of interesting and award winning restaurants and bars have popped up in recent years to service the community. There is a good selection of New York hotels scattered about the Upper East Side allowing you the opportunity to join the locals during your visit. Oh and don't forget about Museum Mile, the affectionate name for the stretch of 5th Avenue where a plethora of Museums exist to thrill both tourists and natives alike, including The Museum of the City of New York, the Guggenheim Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Across the road 5th Avenue is lined with trees hiding the urban oasis of Central Park.

Upper West Side
This is Seinfeld land. The most successful US comedy show in history was based in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Whilst it might not be quite as classy as the East, it's still a great neighbourhood to visit, with a wealth of bars and restaurants servicing the New Yorkers who live here, giving each establishment a real and local feel. There is also a great selection of New York hotels on the Upper West Side offering a wide range to suit all budgets. Finally there's the ace in the hole, the American Museum of Natural History, there's always a special exhibit on so it's worth checking a guide for details. Everyone should visit here once in their lifetime, and once you do, you'll keep coming back.

Soho / Tribeca / Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village, SoHo and TriBeC are located in lower Manhattan, and are 24/7 neighbourhoods that are hip, cool and young. This is the cradle of NYC culture - where it is born, grown and then adopted uptown - and exported to the rest of the world. The district joins old and new in a neighbourhood renowned for it's its great restaurants, bars, theatres, famous green market and boutique shops. It also has the NYU (university) at its core with residential areas to the east and west with the village itself where young New Yorkers live, work, study and play. World-class art galleries and all are easy walking distance and Little Italy, Chinatown, Wall Street, and Times Square are also a 5 minute cab ride away. Greenwich Village is of course also known the world over with its famous neighbourhood name evoking memories of Joan Baez, Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin to name a few. The 'Village' (as it is known) occupies the area between Houston Street and 14th Avenue from river to river. There is lot to do from a day in Washington Sq. Park to trying to cover the innumerable great art galleries and boutiques in the area, as well as a plethora of superb restaurants and night spots.

As for Washington Sq. Park, it is a mini 'Greenwich Village' experience itself. Occupying an area of over 9 acres it is located right at the beginning of 5th Avenue. Entering through its famous arch, it has everything including great performances from fantastic street performers, fortune tellers, comics, footpath artists and a whole bunch of funny, zany talented people. Make sure you don't run down by the hundreds of roller bladers that zip around everywhere! Off the park are old cobblestone streets with all kinds of neat shops. Night life in Greenwich Village is awesome; you can spend a quiet evening in a coffee house or see one of the famous jazz clubs in the area. The SoHo area, (abbreviated name for 'South of Huston') is relatively small and centred around Spring and Prince Street and is lined with art galleries, pubs and restaurants. More 'tourist' oriented than the Village, the cobblestone provide the perfect backdrop to an ever-changing cultural scene. South of 'SoHo', the TriBeCa area is the abbreviation for 'Triangle below Canal' and is a commercial rapidly transforming into an upmarket residential neighbourhood.

Little Italy / Chinatown
The Little Italy/Chinatown area is downtown on the East Side and is the area from Brooklyn Bridge to Houston Street and the Bowery to Lafayette Street. Canal Street is the unofficial dividing line, with Chinatown to the south and Little Italy to the north. An incredibly rich and diverse ethnic area (as is all of New York City but more so here) it is probably most famous for its absolutely awesome choice of food and atmosphere. Chinatown is one of Manhattan's oldest neighbourhoods and Chatham Square in China town was the acknowledged entertainment centre of New York long before Times Square became the 'centre' of New York. NYC Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in the United States and one of the largest in the world. New and superbly converted apartments live alongside old world retail shops and old-fashioned world food markets. Walk north and you feel that you have transported yourself to another country – Italy! Little Italy runs north from Canal Street to Houston Street, and is west of Mott Street. Asian style calligraphy changes to red and green, and the aroma of fresh coffee permeates the air. For ten days in September, the world famous feast of 'San Gennaro' (11 -21 September 2008) fills the cobble-stoned streets with parades, music, laughter and Italian food, bringing the world to Little Italy.

Downtown / Financial District
The Financial District of New York City (FiDi) is an area located on the southern most section of Manhattan which encompasses the offices and headquarters of most of the city's major financial institutions, including the New York Stock Exchange and the American Stock Exchange. The neighbourhoods' most famous iconic building was the World Trade Centre until the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The neighbourhood roughly follows the boundaries of the New Amsterdam settlement in the late 17th century. As a district, it encompasses roughly the area south of City Hall Park but excludes Battery Park and Battery Park City. The heart of the Financial District is often considered to be the corner of Wall Street and Broad Street, both of which are contained entirely within the district. The area has a growing number of full-time residents, with 2005 estimates showing that there were approximately 30,000 people living in the area, a major increase from the 15-20 thousand living here before September 11th. It also has a growing number of tourist attractions such as the South Street Seaport, which is located in Civic Centre and the all-new Sports Museum of America, located at the base of the Canyon of Heroes where the famed New York City Ticker-tape parades begin. Given this growing residential profile, the Financial District is evolving into a 24/7 mixed-use district. Roughly 310,000 white-collar workers occupy this area during the week with 2012 estimates a total exceeding 356,000.

The World Financial Centre sustained major damage on 9/11 when the South Tower of the World Trade Centre was brought down in the terrorist attack and severely damaged the complex. However the World Financial Centre has rebounded since 9/11 with office occupancy now is around 95%, with the same for the retail space. Around 5.8 million tourists visited Lower Manhattan in 2006, and that is expected to double by 2012 when the World Trade Centre Museum and Memorial is scheduled for completion. Once the transit hub and World Trade Centre Memorial are completed, both shopping and sightseeing options will multiply greatly with 2 major transit hubs under development for 2010, the $888 million Fulton Street Transit Center connecting 12 subway lines with an estimated half a million people accessing the station every day and Ground Zero station, a $2.1 billion transit hub that is due to be finished in 2012 with another 450,000 people travelling through it every day.

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New York Bars and Night Clubs

it is absolutely impossible to even start to list the bar and club scene in New York. Suffice to say the cost (and quality) of drinks is a welcome relief to the sledgehammer prices we currently pay in the UK and especially London. Think Margarita = $5.00 for probably the best 'Margi' you could ever think of having - plus a beer shooter throw in! Wine - a cracking US Chardonnay for $3.50 a glass. And that's the posh bars! New Yorkers love their bars - posh bars, music bars, taverns and the 'duct-tape-and-formica-jobs' as well. Plus most serve pretty delicious finger food and tapas at very cheap prices. Of course there are the completely 'over the top' ridiculously expensive bars, but unlike London they don't last long unless they are REALLY REALLY good. Try them out for yourself. As to the club scene, the old meat packing district seems to be the hip area at present and no matter what your music preference is, your gonna find a club here to make your booty wiggle - trance, house, modern, jazz, big band, pop, classic, guitar, sax, comedy, experimental, or even mental! Whatever - its all here. Here's some great web sites to check things out for yourself:
Bars I More Bars I Stay up till Dawn Nightlife Planner I Clubs I NYC CLub Calender I Zoomable Club Map

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Parks & Gardens: Central Park

New Yorkers love their Central Park. We would strongly suggest you visit and take a look for yourself, especially in the spring and summer months when it is absolutely buzzing with things to do and well - just people hanging out and having fun. Central Park is considered to be the heart and lungs of New York City, comparable probably to Hyde Park in London. Located in uptown Manhattan, Central Park is however very large - 843 acres - and is a rectangle 2.6 miles long by approximately half a mile wide. It is bordered on the north by West 110th Street, on the south by West 59th Street and on the west by Eighth Avenue. The parks borders are called Central Park North, Central Park South, and Central Park West with Fifth Avenue retaining its name along the eastern border of the park. Most of the surrounding area adjacent to the park is amongst the most valuable real estate in the world. It has about 26 million visitors annually and is the most visited city park in the US. It is also famous world wide due to its exposure in thousands of TV shows and films.

The park was designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted and architect Calvert Vaux, started around 1857 and completed in 1873 after much trial and tribulation. It has also been a National Historic Landmark since 1963. While much of the park looks natural, it is in fact almost entirely landscaped. It contains lakes and ponds, extensive walking tracks, two ice-skating rinks, the famous Central Park Zoo, the Central Park Conservatory Garden, a wildlife sanctuary, a large area of natural woods, a huge reservoir with a running track around it, and an outdoor amphitheatre (the 'Delacorte Theatre') which hosts the "Shakespeare in the Park" summer festivals. It also has indoor attractions: Belvedere Castle with a nature centre, the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre, and the historic Carousel. In addition there are numerous open grassy areas with some designated as quiet areas, and many enclosed playgrounds for children.
Official Web Site for Central Park I Map of Central Park I Central Park Information Web Site

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Parades: Famous Parades: St Patricks Day, Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, Ithaca Music Festival, More:

New York City has a growing number of street parades, however Macy's and 'St Paddys' day parades are certainly the most famous. The first St Patrick's Day Parade first took place in 1766 when Irishmen from the Revolutionary War moved to the New World – 2008 marked the 247th Consecutive Year Up Fifth Avenue in New York City. The 82nd annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will take place 27th November 2008. More than 2.5 million people lined the 2.5 miles and more than 44 million people watched the parade on TV last year. Not bad for something that began in 1924 when a group of Macy's employees wanted to treat Manhattan to a parade!. A comprehensive list of parades for New York can be found here and another list of street parties here: The Ithaca Music Festival is a 4 day Community event spread over four days and several venues around Ithaca. 19 - 22 Jun 2008 (annual). The 2008 festival is themed "I Am Ithaca". Local artists and groups all perform, however the absolute highlight is the incredibly quirky, 'off-the-wall' parade from Washington Park, via Buffalo Street to State St.

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Personal Safety and Crime in New York

We all know the story. Back in the 80s and 90s you had to be VERY careful when visiting New York, where you went in New York, who you looked at, where you stayed, and what you did. It was considered dangerous to the uninitiated and careless visitor. Not that any big city is never without risk, simply due to the extraordinary pressure that 8 million people living side by side (especially in the 'dog days' unbearable humidity of the summer months in New York) exert on each other. However, an amazing transformation has now taken place since those dark years of the 80s and 90s with recent statistics and actual experience showing a truly remarkable transformation.

Figures released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation during the last 2 years show a significant and increasing decrease in crime, with New York City presently enjoying a reputation as the safest large city (population of one million or more) in the United States, with crime at its lowest level since 1968. Obviously much of this is a security tightening follow-on from the tragic events of 9/11. Of course, visitors are still advised to follow normal precautions for any major city: keep your money and valuables safe in your hotel, stay away from street scammers, keep to well-lit areas at night; and remain aware of your surroundings. A big difference from our own mega city - London - with knife crime rampant and some areas now so bad that not even the police will enter. (New York authorities are now actually advising the Met in London on how to combat crime and make the city safer!) 

During the administrations of Mayor Rudolph Giuliani (1994-2001) and Mayor Michael Bloomberg (2002-present), crime has/had dropped dramatically, with this major crime reduction strongly correlated with the increases in the number of police officers that started under Mayor Dinkins and continued through the Bloomberg administration
Among the 182 American cities with populations of more than 100,000 people New York City ranks 136th for crime (about the same crime rate as Boise, Idaho)

As of 2005, New York City has the lowest crime rate among the ten largest cities in the United States, and since 1991 the city has seen a continuous fifteen-year drop in crime, with violent crime in the city dropping by seventy five percent in the last twelve years. In 2007 the city also initiated the "Lower Manhattan Security Initiative" and installed an extensive web of cameras and roadblocks, designed to counteract terrorism along the same lines as the City of London's "Ring of Steel".

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Public Holidays in New York

Bank Holidays 2008

Day Observed

Date

New Years Day

January 1

Tuesday, January 1, 2008

Martin L King's Birthday

3rd Monday in January

Monday, January 21, 2008

President's Day

3rd Monday in February

Monday, February 18, 2008

Memorial Day

Last Monday in May

Monday, May 26, 2008

Independence Day

July 4

Friday, July 4, 2008

Labor Day

1st Monday in September

Monday, September 1, 2008

Columbus Day

2nd Monday in October

Monday, October 13, 2008

Veteran's Day

November 11

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Thanksgiving Day

4th Thursday in November

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Christmas Day

December 25

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Bank Holidays 2009

Day Observed

Date

New Years Day

January 1

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Martin L King's Birthday

3rd Monday in January

Monday, January 19, 2009

President's Day

3rd Monday in February

Monday, February 16, 2009

Memorial Day

Last Monday in May

Monday, May 25, 2009

Independence Day

July 4

Friday, July 3, 2009

Labor Day

1st Monday in September

Monday, September 7, 2009

Columbus Day

2nd Monday in October

Monday, October 12, 2009

Veteran's Day

November 11

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Thanksgiving Day

4th Thursday in November

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Christmas Day

December 25

Friday, December 25, 2009

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Sex & The City .. (The Tour)

Yesssss.... You too can get to place your 6 inch stillettos along side Carrie and the Gang! Obviously the phenomena of the latest "Sex and the City" movie has not been lost on New York tour companies (who would have thought: $200 million dollars in 2 weeks since opening and still showing to packed audiences!) Tours usually last about three hours on an air conditioned bus and highlight most of the top 40 spots used in "Sex & The City" movie. Stops include 'Tao' where the gals drink and flirt; the 'Church Around the Corner'; 'O'Neal's' speakeasy where scenes from 'Scout' are taped; and the gallery where Charlotte worked. You will also usually see the 'New York Sports Club' where Miranda works out; the West Village area where Sarah Jessica Parker lives with Matthew Broderick, and Tiffany's - where Charlotte got her engagement ring from. Usually the more risque (and fun!) bits are the assorted "Sex & The City" souvenirs for sale including nipple enhancers and shopping at 'The Pleasure Chest' where Charlotte bought her wascally 'wabbit'. If you're interested in taking the tour it's around $40 US per person from most tour operators. The New York Pass and the Entertainment Book currently has a buy one, get one free coupon for the tour. We recommend On Location Tours for your booking.

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Sightseeing: Art Galleries and Museums

Museums: New York is simply, besides London one of the most important cultural cities in the world for museums and art museums with many world famous famous museums housing incredible treasures - such as the Whitney Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum and many more. What we do suggest is that you buy a special City Pass or Museum Pass that will provide great discounts for as many museums or art galleries that you want to visit. Here are couple of good passes to check out: New York Museum Pass and City Pass Discount Book for Museums and Art Galleries

 We would also recommend you try out Museum Mile - which is the area on 5th Avenue from 82-105 Streets. It is a lovely tree lined stretch to walk along 5th Avenue, best in spring, summer and autumn. The area is crammed with museums and fine arts institutions and galleries, with amongst the more famous here: El Museo del Barrio at 104th Street, Museum of the City of New York at 103rd Street, International Centre of Photography at 94th Street, The Jewish Museum at 92nd Street, Cooper-Hewitt National Museum of Design at 91st Street, National Academy Museum and School of Fine Arts at 89th Street, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum at 88th Street, Metropolitan Museum of Art from 82-86 Street and the Goethe House German Cultural Centre at 82nd Street

Also don't miss the Museum Mile Festival in June each year when Fifth Avenue is closed to traffic and all the museums are open to the public, with a real carnival atmosphere whilst entertainers and street entertainers are everywhere.
Below is a brief list of the most important museums that that you might wish to visit. Suffice to say it would be impossible to list and detail all the museums in New York here but here are a few you might want to check out:.
The Cloisters Museum and Gardens
Sports Museum of America
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Museum of the City of New York
The Studio Museum in Harlem
The Hispanic Society of America
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
American Museum of Natural History
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
Van Cortlandt House Museum
Whitney Museum of American Art
Brooklyn Museum
Bronx Museum of the Arts
New York Hall of Science
New York Transit Museum
Brooklyn Childrens Museum
Historic Richmond Town
Museum of Television & Radio
Museum of the Moving Image
Noble Maritime Collection
Queens Museum of Art
Staten Island Childrens Museum
The New York City Police Museum
The Museum of Sex


List of ALL New York City Museums
List of ALL Art Galleries in New York
Google Zoom Map of New York Museums
Google Zoom Map of New York Art Galleries
Yellow Pages Art Galleries and Art Dealers in New York 

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Sightseeing: Famous Landmarks: Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Rockefeller Centre, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Grand Central Station (*Grand Central Terminal) & Wall Street

Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is probably one of, if not the most famous building in the world. It's a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper on the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street. It was named by the American Society of Civil Engineers as one of the seven wonders of the modern world as well as being designated as a national historic landmark in 1986. Sure its touristy, but it's also a very very cool building and frankly the first time you see it you get such a buzz as its just so famous and recognisable! It's actually so cool that it also has its own postal ZIP code. Built between 1930 and finished in 1931, its name comes from the nickname for the state of New York, "The Empire State". It was the world's tallest building for more than forty years, from its completion in 1931 until construction of the World Trade Centres in 1972, but following the destruction of the Centres in 2001 it has once again became the tallest building in New York City. It has now been overtaken by Chicago and then Dubai for the title of the world's tallest building, but nothing in the world comes close to the Empire State for its great history and looks.

Designed from the top down by architectural firm Shreve, Lamb and Harmon the building drawings were finished in a staggering 2 weeks and were based on the plans on its earlier design for the Carew Tower in Cincinnati, Ohio. Work began on the site on 22 January, 1930, and construction on the building itself started on 17th March (St Patrick's Day) with the opening ribbon being cut on May 1 1931. The project involved over 3,400 workers mostly immigrants from Europe and spearheaded by hundreds of Mohawk Indian iron workers who were regarded as the best iron workers in the world for their speed, agility and fearlessness for working at great heights.

The building's opening was smack in the middle of the depression in the United States, and much of its office space could not be rented for many years. In actual fact, the the observation deck took a massive 2 million dollars, as much as the income from office space rental in that year, and the building did not become profitable until 1950. The building's highly distinctive Art Deco spire was designed to be a mooring mast and depot for airships and the 102nd floor was originally a landing platform with a gangplank for the airships. A dedicated elevator travelling between the 86th and 102nd floors was part of the original design and built to transport passengers after they checked in at the observation deck on the 86th floor. However this was both totally impractical as well as extremely dangerous and after a few very perilous attempts (due to the enormous winds and updrafts at that height from the building itself) the facility was closed and would never reopen, especially after the "Hindenburg" airship disaster in 1936. A large broadcast tower was added to the top of the spire in 1952 and various TV and radio masts also added since then. It's a MUST SEE and a MUST DO - especially the view from the observation deck on a clear spring, summer or autumn day. Its incredible! Standard Observation Tickets are $19.00 per Adult and $13.00 per child.  The Empire State Building Web Site:

Chrysler Building
The Chrysler building is the absolute embodiment of Art Deco architecture in its most stunning form. The building beautifully exemplifies the machine age of the 1920s and is now besides being voted by New Yorkers as their favourite building it is also one of the top 10 iconic buildings in the world. It is NOT open to the public but can be viewed from the Empire State Building observation platform.

Built at a cost of 15 million pounds in 1930 by architect William Van Alen to house the Chrysler Corporation 391, 831 rivets were used in its construction (actual numbers given - but we don't know where the last (1) rivet went though!) as well as 3,826,000 bricks. At the time of the ground breaking on September 19, 1928, there was intense competition in New York City to build the world's tallest skyscraper. The building was designed to surpass 40 Wall street and the Eiffel Tower as the tallest structure in the world by hoisting a secret 185ft (56.3m) stainless steel spire - inspired by the current Chrysler car radiator grill at the time - on the completion of the tower. The building is constructed of masonry with a steel frame and using metal cladding. Construction was completed on May 28, 1930 and the added height of the spire meant that the Chrysler Building did surpass both 40 Wall Street as the tallest building in the world and the Eiffel Tower as the tallest structure in the world. It was the first man-made structure in the world to stand taller than 1,000 feet (305 m) tall but less than a year after it opened it was surpassed in height by the Empire State Building.

Van Alen's original design for the skyscraper was a decorative jewel-like glass crown and topped by twelve stories with glass-wrapped corners, creating an impression that the tower appeared visually as if it was floating in mid-air. The height of the skyscraper was also originally designed to be 246 metres (807 ft) but the design was too advanced (as well as too costly) for the ability of the first building contractor. The design and lease was then sold to Walter P. Chrysler, who worked with Van Alen and redesigned the skyscraper to be 282 metres (925 ft) tall. As Chrysler was the chairman of the Chrysler Automobile Corporation various architectural details including the building's gargoyles were modelled after Chrysler automobile products such as the corners of the 61st floor ( eagles - replicas of the 1929 Chrysler hood ornament) with the 31st floor using replicas of the 1929 Chrysler radiator cap. When the building was being renovated in 2002 it was discovered that all 3,800 windows were in perfect condition however the spire was leaking which was renovated.
Here is a great reference web site with stunning pictures and full history of the Chrysler Building

Rockefeller Centre
Built by the Rockefeller family, (of course!) Rockefeller Center is a complex of 19 buildings covering over 22 acres and is located in the centre of midtown Manhattan between 48th and 51st streets. It is the largest privately held complex of its kind in the world, and is an international symbol of modernist architecture and capitalism combined. It was declared a National Historic landmark in 1987. It was the largest private building project ever undertaken in modern times and entirely financed by Rockefeller and even to him it was a huge gamble and enormous financial risk. Construction of the 14 buildings in the Art Deco style began in May 1930 and was completed in November 1939. The Centre is now a combination of two building complexes, the older and original 14 Art Deco office buildings from the 1930s, and a set of four International-style towers built along the west side of Avenue of the Americas during the 1960s and 1970s, as well as the new Lehman Brothers Building.

An interesting footnote of history was the attempt to rent out a part of the complex to German commercial concerns in the late 1930's and name it the "Deutsches Haus". This was quickly stopped after seeing Hitler moving towards World War II. However in a wonderful example of serendipity the space subsequently became the primary location of the U.S. operations of British Intelligence during World War 2 with Room 3603 becoming the principal operations centre for Allied intelligence, as well as the office of the future head of what was later to become the Central Intelligence Agency, Allen Dulles.

The centrepiece of the Rockefeller Center is the 70-floor, 872-foot GE Building at 30 Rockefeller Plaza centred behind the sunken plaza. It's now the headquarters of NBC and houses most of the network's New York studios, including the legendary Studio 8H, home of Saturday Night Live. Unlike most other Art Deco towers built during the 1930s, the GE Building was constructed as a slab with a flat roof, where the newly renovated observation deck, the 'Top of the Rock' is located being completed in 2005. It spans from the 67-70th floors and includes a multimedia exhibition exploring the history of the Centre. The 70th floor has a 20-foot (6.1 m) wide viewing area, allowing visitors a wonderful 360 degree panorama of New York City. - It's well worth the visit!

Most New Yorkers and visitors now find the Plaza area to be New York's favourite Christmas place to be, with the spirit of the laborers who decorated the first tree on the site over seventy years ago being rekindled ever year with the giant illuminated spruce tree that stands in the Plaza throughout the Xmas season. The tree lighting ceremony draws large crowds signalling the start of the Xmas season, and for weeks rosy cheeked kids, smiling adults and grumpy commuters all are spellbound by the sight of the wonderful xmas lights and decorations, gossamer winged, golden trumpet carrying angels, and the sound of music in the crisp winter air. Rockefeller Centre website:

Statue of Liberty
Located on a 12 acre island off the top of Manhattan island, the Statue of Liberty was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States. The famous torch bearing lady was opened on October 28, 1886, designated as a National Monument in 1924 and restored for her former glory for her hundredth birthday on July 4, 1986. The statue was originally given to America by France to symbolise the friendship between France and America from the American Revolution, when the French joined forces with the American settlers to get rid of the British. Worth remembering next time you take a look at her! However, it's got much more warm and cuddly these days with the statue now officially described as "representing freedom and democracy as well as international friendship". It's the first thing most of the enormous wave of settlers saw on arriving in the US in the last century and now has become arguably the most famous statue in the world. The statue is well worth visiting (take the ferry tour as the national park fee cost is included in the ferry ticket price) Note that due to new security constrictions you can no longer climb up inside her skirt so you visit is limited to access to the statue's pedestal observation deck, promenade and museum. Access to the crown of the Statue of Liberty and the copper structure itself remains closed indefinitely. 

The story of the Statue of Liberty and her island has been one of continual change. The Statue was originally placed inside the courtyard of the star-shaped walls of Fort Wood - which had been completed for the War of 1812 and the United States Lighthouse Board had responsibility for the operation of the Statue of Liberty until 1901, then in 1902 she was given to the War Department to look after. After an act of sabotage with the 'Black Tom Explosion' on July 30, 1916, the statue's torch was closed. In 1933, the administration of the statue was then transferred to the National Park Service and in 1956 the island's name was changed to 'Liberty Island' and the park's boundaries expanded when Ellis Island was transferred to the National Park Service which then became part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. The statue was then further designated as a World Heritage site in 1984. Details: Entrance Fees - None. There is no entrance fee to enter the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island and National Park Pass costs only apply to entrance fees.

Statue of Liberty National Park and Ellis Island Ferry Fees
$12.00 - Ages 13+ - Day
$10.00- Seniors 62 and over - Day
$5.00- Children 4-12. - Day
Reservations and Monument Access:
For anyone planning to enter the monument, a mandatory secondary screening is necessary and visitors must be in possession of a ticket that states "Monument Access". The "Monument Access" reservation system enables holders to visit the museum gallery and pedestal observation levels. More Information on the Statue of Liberty:

Times Square
Its probably the most over-rated location in the world, but a 'must see' as you join forces with hundreds of thousands of other rubber necked tourists and gasp at the sheer energy, volume of people and the buzz that this famous intersection has. Its hard to remember that back in the 60's and 70's this giant illuminated mobile billboard of a location was once 'sleaze on wheels' and besides being a concentration of nearly all sex shops it was one of the most dangerous places in New York with a terrible crime rate. Today it is dramatically changed but still carries an iconic reputation for sheer energy, 'razzle dazzle' and spectacle from its previous incarnation.

What is Times Square exactly? It's a major intersection in Manhattan and is the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue and stretches from West 42nd to West 47th Streets. The area is officially designated as the city blocks between Sixth and Eighth Avenues from east to west, and West 40th and West 53rd Streets from south to north. Formerly known as Longacre Square it was renamed Times Square in April 1904 after the former offices of The New York Times - the 'Times Building'. Like its famous other sister squares world-wide, Trafalgar Square in London, Red Square in Moscow, and Tiananmen Square in Beijing, it has achieved iconic world landmark status and has become a global symbol of New York. It is probably best recognised for its incredible array of electronic signage that actually outdoes Las Vegas, and is the only neighborhood in NYC with zoning regulations making it mandatory for buildings to display illuminated signs. Officially, signs in Times Square are called "spectaculars" with the largest of them called "jumbotrons". Times Square is also the site of the annual New Year's Eve ball drop which first started on December 31, 1907, when a crystal ball signifying the New Year arrival slowly drops down on a pole. The square has held the status ever since as the official public New Year's celebration venue for New York. A new 'green' energy style efficient LED ball is now in place and debuted the arrival of 2008.
Verdict: A must see - especially at night! I Times Square Live Webcam here: I Times Square Official Web Site: I

Grand Central Station (*Grand Central Terminal)
Suprise! The correct name is actually 'Grand Central Terminal', and although its real name has been "Grand Central Terminal" since 1913, most people still call it "Grand Central Station". No matter. Grand Central (or Grand Central Terminal) is a must visit. It is in a word - breathtaking. Manhattan's, and one of Americas last remaining great railway stations besides Los Angeles Union Station, Grand Central is absolutely spectacular in size and function. The vast great concourse is entered directly from Vanderbilt Avenue (named after the founder of the New York Central railroad) and is matched only by the building's status as one of the definitive iconic and symbolic landmarks of the city. This 'Beaux-Arts' structure is the core of what was once "Terminal City," an impressive aggregate of interconnected hotels and office buildings all consistently designed by Warren & Wetmore. Built by and named for the New York Central Railroad in the halcyon days of trans-continental passenger trains, it is the largest train station in the world when compared by its 44 platforms and 67 tracks. Between 1899 and 1900, the original Grand Central Station was basically demolished, being expanded from three to six stories and an entirely new facade put on it, but the train shed was kept. Between 1903 and 1913, the entire building was torn down in phases and replaced by the current Grand Central Terminal. The new terminal opened on February 2, 1913. Today it is a fraction of its former busy self and only serves as a commuter station to Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess counties in New York State, and Fairfield and New Haven counties in Connecticut.

It is worth noting that Penn Station on the West Side of New York (which housed the Pennsylvania Rail Road that principally served the Atlantic Coast) whose scandalous demolition in the mid 1960's led to the creation of the city landmarks law, had grander interiors than Grand Central Terminal - both in scale and design, which then gave New York two world-class train stations and like Los Angeles iconic Union Station enthralled the world. However - its gone and Grand Central remains. The four faced clock in the main concourse is at the centre of Grand Central. Each of the four clock faces is made from opal, and both Sotheby's and Christie's have estimated the value to be between US$10 million and US$20 million. Supposedly within the marble and brass pagoda lies a "secret" door that conceals a spiral staircase leading to the lower level information booth.

Footnote: A "secret" sub basement known as M42 is located under the station which contains the electric AC to DC converters that are used to supply electric power to the trains. The exact location of M42 is a closely guarded secret and is not shown on maps or any information for the station. The original machinery was not removed until late in the 1990s when solid state convertors took their place. It was reputed that during World War II, this was one of the most guarded facilities in America with guards having 'shoot on sight' instructions, as it could have been easily sabotaged and thus disrupt all rail travel in the US, especially troop movements throughout the USA.
Verdict: Must see: Grand Central Station Web Site

Wall Street
Probably one of the most famous streets in the world and known primarily for its concentration of the world's premier finance institutions. Located in lower Manhattan, it runs east from Broadway to South Street on the East River, running through the historical centre of the prime Financial District of Manhattan. Wall Street was the first permanent home of the New York Stock Exchange, with the name 'Wall Street' becoming over time synonymous with finance and the financial industry world wide. Many major U.S. stock and other financial trading exchanges are still located on Wall Street and in the Financial District, including the NYSE, NASDAQ, AMEX, NYMEX, and NYBOT but many previously Wall street financial firms have moved to midtown Manhattan and further out to the outer boroughs and counties or New Jersey.

In the late 18th century, there was an old tree at the bottom of Wall Street where traders and speculators gathered to trade. In 1792, the traders formalised their association with the 'Buttonwood Agreement', which became the origin of the New York Stock Exchange. In 1889, the original stock report called the: 'Customers' Afternoon Letter', was renamed as the 'Wall Street Journal' to reflect the actual name of the street. Worth visiting? - Not really - unless you are a London 4X trader or a Canary Wharf finance 'wannabee'. Wikipedia Wall St Web site:

St Patrick's Cathedral
St Patrick's Cathedral at Fifth Ave. between 50th and 51st St.is the largest Neo Gothic style Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States, replacing an earlier church at Mott St that was destroyed by fire in 1866. Designed by James Renwick Jr. the cathedral was built in the Gothic revival style and finished in 1878, with the building dedicated in 1879. The cathedral is built of marble in the traditional cruciform shape, has 12 side chapels as well as many beautiful stained-glass windows and a bell chime of 19 bells and the spires rise 330 feet from street level. It is the seat of the archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York as well as a parish church. The parish is bounded by 59th Street, 3rd Avenue, 44th Street, and 7th Avenue and encompasses 302 city blocks in total.

The archbishop's house and rectory were added from 1882 to 1884, the towers on the West Facade were added in 1888, and an addition on the east, including a Lady Chapel, designed by Charles T. Mathews, added in 1901. The stained glass windows in the Lady Chapel were made and designed in Chipping Camden, England, by Paul Vincent Woodroffe between 1912-1930. The cathedral was renovated between 1927 and 1931, when the great organ was installed, and the sanctuary was enlarged. The great rose window is also one of Charles Connick's major works. The St. Michael and St. Louis altar was designed by Tiffany & Co, and the St. Elizabeth altar was designed by Paolo Medici of Rome. A bust of Pope John Paul II is located in the rear of the cathedral, commemorating his visit to the city in 1979. The cathedral was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1976. Our take: Worth popping in to take a look as its quite near Rockefeller Plaza. Check out the magnificent stained glass windows and soaring ceilings - it is a wonderful oasis in the heart of the city. St Patrick's Web Site

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Sightseeing: Famous Show Venues: Radio City, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Centre, The Met Opera, Madison Square

Radio City Music Hall
Over 300 million people have visited the amazing Radio City Music Hall since its opening in the 1930's to enjoy stage shows, movies, concerts and special events. It is the largest indoor theatre in the world, and its marquee is a full city-block long. Its auditorium measures 160 feet from back to stage and the ceiling reaches a height of 84 feet. The walls and ceiling are formed by a series of sweeping arches that define a splendid and immense curving space. Choral staircases rise up the sides toward the back wall. Actors can enter there to bring live action right into the house with no columns to obstruct the views so that every seat in Radio City Music Hall is a good seat.

When the stock market crashed in 1929, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. made a bold decision to build an entire complex of buildings on the building space he held that was to be so superior that they would attract commercial tenants even in a depressed city flooded with vacant rental space. The search for a commercial partner led to the Radio Corporation of America, a new company whose NBC radio programs were attracting huge audiences and whose motion picture studios were making immensely popular "movies" to help people forget about the depression. Rockefeller's financial power and RCA's media might were joined by the unusual talents of impresario S.L. "Roxy" Rothafel who had earned a reputation as a theatrical genius by using an new combination of vaudeville, movies and razzle-dazzle decor to revive struggling theatres across America.

Together Rockefeller, RCA and Roxy realized a fantastic dream - a theatre unlike any in the world, and the first completed project within the complex that RCA head David Sarnoff dubbed "Radio City." The Hall was designed by a relatively unknown interior designer, Donald Deskey. From the opening night when visitors passed through the lobby and entered the Grand Foyer, his fame would be enshrined forever with this magnificent achievement. In his design for the Hall he chose elegance over excess and grandeur above glitz. He created a stunning tribute to human achievement in art, science and industry and made art an integral part of the design, engaging fine artists to create murals, wall coverings and sculpture; textile designers to develop draperies and carpets; craftsmen to make ceramics, wood panels and chandeliers. It was a remarkable example of contemporary design in its day and it still has the power to take the breath away. It remains an elegant, sophisticated, and truly beautiful building.

Since 1933 more than 700 movies have opened here and the popular movie-and-stage-show format remained a Radio City signature until 1979, when the new format of mass showcasing new films called for a new focus. Today, the Music Hall still premieres selected films, but is best known as the country's leading hall for popular concerts, stage shows, special attractions and media events. An absolute must see especially is the Radio City Xmas show. Radio City Music Hall is located in the heart of Rockefeller Center at 1260 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas) (Between W. 50th St. and W. 51st St. Radio City Website:

Carnegie Hall
Carnegie Hall is New York's and one of the worlds premier concert venue for classical and popular music. Located in midtown Manhattan it is renown for its beauty, history and acoustics. It is located at 881 Seventh Avenue and occupies the eastern side of Seventh Avenue between West 56th Street and West 57th. The hall exterior is one of the last large buildings in New York built entirely of masonry without a steel frame, however a part frame had to be erected near the turn of the 20th century when extensions were done. The exterior is rendered in narrow Roman bricks of a mellow ochre hue, with details in terracotta and brownstone. Built by US philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in 1891, it is now one of the most famous concert halls in the world, presenting around 100 performances each season. The hall has three separate concert halls: the Main Hall, the Recital Hall and the Chamber Music Hall. The Main Hall auditorium seats 2,804 on five levels and was named for the violinist Isaac Stern in 1997. It is very tall and visitors must climb 105 steps to the top balcony, but all levels but the top level can be reached by elevator. The smaller halls are Zankel Hall, which seats 599 and is named for Judy and Arthur Zankel. This was the first auditorium to open to the public in April, 1891 and after a turbulent history the newly reconstructed hall re-opened in September 2003. Because of its location below street level, passing subways can sometimes be heard through the walls. The other hall - Weill Recital Hall seats 268, and is named for Sanford I. Weill, the chairman of Carnegie Hall's board, and his wife Joan. This auditorium, in use since the hall opened in 1891, was originally called "Chamber Music Hall" (later Carnegie Chamber Music Hall); changed to Carnegie Recital Hall in the 1940s and became Weill Recital Hall in 1986. If you love classical music you must not miss Carnegie Hall.

Lincoln Centre
Lincoln Centre is regarded as the world's leading performing arts centre, hosting 5 million visitors annually. Built in the 1960's by a consortium of civic leaders under the initiative of Rockefeller III, Lincoln Centre was built as part of the 'Lincoln Square Renewal Project' during New York's urban renewal program in the 1960s. Rockefeller was its first president in 1956 and was made chairman in 1961. Besides tipping in a huge amount of his own money, he raised more than half of the $184.5 million in private funds needed to build the complex. Located between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues from West 60th to West 66th Street on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the Lincoln Centre complex was the first conglomerate of major cultural institutions located in a centralised location in a major American city. Built over 16.3 acres, the Lincoln Centre complex is comprised of 12 resident organisations and the Lincoln Centre for the Performing Arts Inc which is one of the 12 resident organisations. The 11 other organisations are:
The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center
The Film Society of Lincoln Center
Jazz at Lincoln Center
The Juilliard School
Lincoln Center Theater
The Metropolitan Opera (*See our separate section below on the Metropolitan Opera House)
New York City Ballet
New York City Opera
New York Philharmonic
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts
The School of American Ballet
Each organisation has its own administration and its own board of directors and together the twelve institutions present thousands of world class performances, educational programs, tours and other major events each year in 22 separate performance venues on the Lincoln Centre campus. Work commenced in March 2006 on a major redevelopment to modernise the centre for its 50th anniversary in 2009. A must go if you are into Opera, Jazz, Classical Music, Ballet or the Performing Arts. This is the worlds best. Lincoln Centre Web Site

*Metropolitan Opera House
The Metropolitan Opera was founded in 1883 and the first Metropolitan Opera House was built on Broadway and 39th Street by a group of wealthy New York businessmen who thought New York (and themselves!) l should have their own opera house. In the start it changed its style several times, first performing everything in Italian (even Carmen and Lohengrin), then everything in German (even Aida and Faust), before finally settling into a policy of performing most works in their original language, with some notable exceptions. Now in 2008 on the eve of its 125th anniversary season, the New York 'Met' is arguably the most famous opera company in the world. It is a vibrant home for creative and talented artists, including singers, conductors, composers, orchestra musicians, stage directors, designers, visual artists, choreographers, and dancers from around the world and has been under the musical direction of James Levine since 1976.

Almost from the beginning, it was clear that the opera house on 39th Street did not have adequate stage facilities but it was not until the Metropolitan Opera joined with other New York institutions in forming the Lincoln Centre for the Performing Arts that a new home for the Met became possible. The new Metropolitan Opera House, which opened at Lincoln Centre in September 1966 was to provide the latest and best technical facilities to provide world class opera. Many great conductors have helped shape the Metropolitan, from Wagner's disciple Anton Seidl in the 1880s and 1890s to Arturo Toscanini who made his debut in 1908. There were two seasons with both Toscanini and Gustav Mahler on the conducting roster. Later, Artur Bodanzky, Bruno Walter, George Szell, Fritz Reiner, and Dimitri Mitropoulos contributed powerful musical direction. James Levine made his debut in 1971 and has been Music Director since 1976 (holding also the title of Artistic Director between 1986 and 2004) with thirty-seven operas having had their Met premieres since 1976 Into Opera? DO NOT miss a performance of the Met - or if you are lucky enough - the summer concert live in Prospect Park .

Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden (MSG) and known simply in NY as "The Garden" is a bit of a misnomer as its no garden, rather it is the name of four arenas that serve New York City and as well is the name of the entity which owns the arena and several of the professional sports franchises which play there. Madison Square Garden derived its name from the park where the first two gardens were located (Madison Square) on Madison Avenue at 26th Street.

The location of the first Madison Square Garden (now known as Madison Square Garden I), was at 26th Street and Madison Avenue, formerly the home of the New York and Harlem Railroad. When the depot moved to what is now the site of the Grand Central Terminal in 1871, the old depot was sold to the famous circus entrepreneur P.T. Barnum who ran his famous shows there. In 1876 it was converted into "Gilmore's Garden," an open air arena named in honor of Patrick Gilmore, America's most famous bandmaster at the time who composed amongst other tunes "When Johnny Comes Marching Home." It was finally renamed as "Madison Square Garden" by William Henry Vanderbilt and the facility was reopened to the public in May 1879 with the first Garden originally designed for the new sport of track cycling.

As the venue moved to new sites the name went with it. There have been four separate incarnations of MSG, the first two at Madison Ave. & 26th, then a 17,000 seat venue opening in December 1925 at 50th Street and 8th Avenue, and the current Garden opening in February 1968 at 7th Avenue between 31st and 33rd Streets and built on top of Pennsylvania Station. The arena also lends its name to the Madison Square Garden Network, a cable television network that broadcasts sporting events that are held in the Garden, as well as concerts and entertainment events that have taken place at the venue. Quite famous for especially for sports and concerts. Not a particularly inspiring venue but worth a visit if a good sports fixture (ice hockey in particular) or a good concert is on. Due for massive renovation starting soon in 2008. Madison Square Gardens Web site.

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September 11- Ground Zero 

On September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked and smashed two aircraft into the iconic 100 story Twin Towers of the World Trade Center (WTC) which totally collapsed within hours. Five smaller trade centre buildings were also destroyed beyond repair. The events were televised live and in excruciating detail around the world as they happened, with 3000 people killed including over 350 rescue workers. New York and its people fought back from this terrible event and resolved to rebuild the WTC. After a three year search for a replacement design and memorial redevelopment is now underway to transform Ground Zero back into the symbol of New York that it was with five new towers scheduled for completion by 2011/ 2012.

Visiting Ground Zero now requires a good imagination if you had not visited the Twin Towers before the event, as now, what was - no longer is. Today there is a fence around a huge construction site, with a sombre signs detailing the attacks and listing those who died, allowing visitors to pay their respects as they attempt to comprehend the enormity of the devastation. It's not much to see but still it already attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year.

Glimpses down into the site are possible from a few nearby hotels, the top of the Empire State Building, or from nearby area streets. Helicopter tours of New York City are probably the best way to take in the enormity of the devastation and the enormity of the rebuild project. From the Hudson River, Circle Line boat tours also offer views while construction is below ground level, but as the project progresses upward, so will the views. A live webcam of the site shows the progress of the project in real time.

Memorials
The days following 9/11, nearby St Paul's Chapel on Church Street between Fulton and Vesey Streets was converted into a refuge and rest centre for rescue workers as well as a triage centre for victims, and the embodiment of recovery for NYC as well as the world. New Yorkers and people from all over the USA came to help, whilst others left flowers, photographs, notes and personal mementos on the outside fence. Now, with a permanent memorial, St Paul's Chapel is a 'must visit' to pay respects for all who perished.

Visitors can also visit a temporary memorial in nearby Battery Park. The memorial has an eternal flame lit on the first anniversary of the attacks plus the mangled round ball sculpture (which was located in the WTC plaza prior to the 9/11 attacks) which is now the central piece for the fountain "The Sphere for Plaza Fountain". Nearby is the Tribute World Trade Centre opened September 18, 2006, at 120 Liberty Street. Founded by the September 11th Families Association to memorialise the events of 9/11, it is open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday 12:00 NOON to 6:00 PM. A free walking tour through five exhibits depicts loss, survival, and unbelievable heroism. One-hour guided tours are available for a $10 donation. The Centre is temporary and will be replaced with a permanent museum and memorial, 'Reflecting Absence'.

Today, nearly every fire station in Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs display their own memorial for their fallen comrades that they lost on 9/11. Some of these memorials can be easily viewed when walking by. Also, the New York Fire Museum displays the most complete exhibit commemorating the 9/11 attacks. It is located in Soho at 278 Spring Street and is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM with occasional special events being offered additional days and times. Admission fees are: adults $5; seniors and students $2; and children $1.

Our own special recommendation would be to take a guided tour that is operated by Tribute Centre Tours which is operated by survivors from the attacks. Be prepared to be very, very moved - and yes, you will probably cry. Lots. Details: Tel: (212) 422-3520. Costs: Adults, $10; children under 12 free. Operates weekdays at 1 and 3 p.m., weekend days at noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Tickets available online. Tours meet in front of 120 Liberty St. Nearest subway stations include World Trade Centre and Rector Street.

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Shopping in New York: General

Of course, being only 7 and a bit hours flying time 'across the pond' it makes perfect sense to pop across 'the pond' for a weekend of shopping and pampering in New York! You name it - you can buy it in New York. Besides the obvious advantage of using the British £, retail shopping prices are really really competitive. Of note, and we think offering particular value are the electronic stores (the main concentration of stores are around or just off Broadway) especially for digital cameras, computers and other electronic 'boys (and girls!) toys' at prices that are much better than UK prices even with the advantage of the £. Most of these stores are fiercely competitive and bargaining is welcome and expected! Fifth Avenue is of course one of the most famous shopping icons in the world. Here the most famous names for fashion and jewellery bump up against each other - Armani, Christian Dior, Rolex, Tiffany & Co, Calvin Klein, and more. Then there's Donald's massive piece of bling - Trump Tower - over on 5th between 56th and 57th streets, which is a monument to conspicuous consumption - even by an Arab Sheik's expectations - with exclusive (and VERY expensive goods discreetly placed around the floors of the gold decorated lobby that will leave you reeling with what money - when you can afford this stuff - can really buy. But, Fifth Avenue is NOT all over the top prices, and quite good deals can be had from the shops here - and even better deals with the sales.

Barneys New York is another famous clothes shop that is 'must visit, with two shops both selling designer clothes, one for men inside the World Financial Centre and another on Madison Avenue that sells a wider range of clothes on Madison Avenue. If you are after designer label bargains you could head for the fashion district around Seventh Avenue - between 30th and 39th Streets, or the famous discount designer store, Century 21 on Cortlandt Street, right next to the World Trade Centre. Syms, on Trinity Place, offers similar bargains. (See our section on Bargaining - Discount Stores) If you are in New York on a Sunday its worth a visit to the Lower East Side where clothes, electronics and jewellery markets bring large crowds to Orchard and Grand Streets.

Arty and Antique lovers - the Upper East Side is the place to go in New York. Walk along Madison, Lexington, Colombus and Amsterdam Avenues for a good browse on what's available. It's Soho for the very best in eclectic shopping from the strange to the bizarre - providing very unusual gifts and artefacts to take home, and there are more antique shops on Lower Broadway, with arguably the city's most exclusive antique stores on 57th Street.

South Street Seaport has a shopping centre at Pier 17 with a wide range of shops selling all sorts of funky stuff but with a mostly nautical theme. A bit touristy - but worth a visit. Of course Greenwich Village is a 'must visit' for its funky shops, flea markets and book stores  - apart from its famous name and heritage - and is sort of like a gentler version of Camden Markets in London - but without the crowds of body piercings and purple hair. And of course my favourite - Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan - across from the Statue of Liberty - where you are in 'knock off - designer watch heaven' - and swarms of 'spivvy' guys will sell you the most amazing copies of designer watches for a tenner!. New York - we love it!

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Shopping in New York: New York Pass 

New York is a shopper's dream especially with UK ££s. The New York Pass from $67 US per person, gives you TAX FREE purchasing on clothing and shoes priced under $110. The New York Pass also provides something for your overall shopping experience as well. Some places have special gifts for New York Pass holders, and others like Bloomingdale's and Macy's will offer you an 11% discount, and the Century 21 department store sells designer merchandise at 40% - 70% off retail prices Another huge shopping experience are the world-famous Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, where you can enjoy everyday savings of 25% to 65% from Dolce & Gabbana, Gap Outlet, Nike Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Salvatore Ferragamo, Timberland and many more. With the New York Pass upon your arrival you will receive VIP Coupon Booklet worth hundreds of dollars of additional savings at participating stores. User Reviews on the New York Pass from Viator.

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Shopping in New York: Famous Shops: Saks, FAO Schwartz, Bloomingdales, Tiffany & Co, Macy's 

New York is shopping heaven. Make that shopping nirvana, shopping paradise and shopping bliss all rolled into one! With your UK pound worth approximately 2 USD per pound and with the current economic downturn, prices have never been better and regular sales abound - now not just the famous Xmas and New Year sales but regular sales now take place throughout the year even with these famous stores. Saks Fifth Avenue of course is elegance personified, and a 'must visit' for every discerning girl (and man!) that appreciates fashion and haute couture - and at suprisingly good prices - made even better when buying with UK ££s. FAO Schwartz - the big BIG brother of our own Hamleys in London. This iconic 50,000 square feet toy store is at 767 Fifth Avenue, and is opne 7 days a week. With every conceivable toy ever thought of - and probably still being thought of in the world. It is a 'must visit' (with or without the kids!) and the prices are great as well. Bloomingdales - another New York shopping icon. Basically the upmarket version of 'Marks and Sparks' crossed with John Lewis. It's on 3rd Avenue at East 59th Street and is one of the city's favourite large department stores. Open until 9pm Monday to Friday and until 7pm at the weekends. Prices are good, often has great sales, and the selection of merchandise (fashion clothing and bed linen in particular) is awesome.

Tiffany & Co - I think we all remember 'Breakfast at Tiffanys' with the wonderful Audrey Hepburn. It has not changed much since the movie, hushed silence, beautiful surroundings, and discreet, impeccable service amongst some of the most amazing jewellery in the world - with prices ranging from the just/quite affordable (even for non-footballer wives) to jaw dropping, amazing multi-multi million pound creations. Try some of their more modestly priced earrings - great for a dinner party topper to announce that "yes darling, from Tiffanys - New York of course!" Macy's on Broadway at West 34th Street is probably the most iconic name of all the famous New York Stores. The store takes up a whole city block and calls itself 'the largest store in the world'. It claims to - and probably does (!) sell simply everything. Its probably the only store in the world that you can enter at 9am - leave at 6pm or closing time and still not have seen everything on offer. Oh. and it has great (and regular!) sales. A must visit.

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Sports in New York: Famous Teams: Baseball, Basketball, Ice Hockey, New York Marathon .. More: 

Baseball
There's nothing more American than watching the Yankees in Yankee stadium with a dog (hot!) and a beer. Not even apple pie. But if you want to visit the house that Ruth built you'd better be quick. This year is your last chance to catch the Yankees in the iconic home of baseball because the ground is being redeveloped at the end of this season in October 2008. Don't forget there's a second team in New York, and you can see the Mets in action at Shea Stadium on Long Island during the regular season between February and September. We'd recommend a central New York Hotel for your stay as travelling to and from the games on the day is easy.
Times Square – Yankee Stadium 6 miles
Times Square – Shea Stadium 7 miles

Basketball
Do you wanna see the Knicks in the Garden? Madison Square Garden in the heart of Midtown Manhattan is home to the New York Knicks during regular season which runs from October to April. When they're playing well it's notoriously difficult to get tickets but a good concierge will always find availability and it's worth calling in advance to see if they can assist. If you can't afford courtside tickets take some binoculars for celebrity spotting. You're likely to see Spike Lee, Sarah Jessica Parker, Woody Allen and any one of the many Baldwin brothers knocking about. In fact it's almost as much fun as watching the game. Stay in a Midtown New York Hotel and you'll be able to walk to and from the game.
Times Square to Madison Square Garden – 8 blocks

American Football
The New York Giants are the 2008 Superbowl champions after beating their arch rivals the New England Patriots in one of the most exciting finals ever. Each winning team member receives a coveted Superbowl Ring and I guess we can forgive our friends from across the pond for printing World Champions on the jewellery when it's actually a domestic tournament. If you want to see the Giants play in Giants stadium the season runs from September to January. Don't forget there is a second American Football team in New York. The New York Jets play at Meadowlands and you can see them in action during the regular season between September and January. Book any of the central New York hotels for your visit as transport to and from the games is easy.
Times Square to Giants Stadium – 6 miles
Times Square to Meadowlands – 5 miles

Ice Hockey
Joey from Friends was never happier than when he had floor seats to the Rangers in Madison Square Garden. From October to April, the regular season, the Garden is transformed into a Hockey fans' paradise. Tickets for the New York Rangers are generally easy to obtain but for the big match games its worth booking in advance, and with an average of 3 fights per game you're almost getting 2 sports for one ticket. For accommodation wed recommend a New York hotel in Midtown, that way you'll be able to walk to and from the game.
Times Square to Madison Square Garden – 8 blocks

Tennis
Anyone for tennis? Every year the international tennis road show descends on New York for the US open. This Grand Slam event is held at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center next to Shea Stadium, home of the New York Mets, and features the world's best tennis players without exception. Tickets can be hard to come by so it's well worth booking in advance to avoid disappointment. The train goes direct from Midtown so any central New York hotel would be ideal for your stay.
Times Square to Shea Stadium – 7 miles

Soccer
That's football to us, but when in America etc. Major League Soccer or MLS is here to stay. With the arrival of Beckham and a host of European and home grown stars the standard is now considered to be as good as the Championship in the UK and it's gaining momentum each season. New York is home to the New York Red Bulls and the regular season runs from April to October. Tickets to see the Red Bulls at the Giants Stadium are usually available but if you want to see Beckham and LA Galaxy play it's well worth booking in advance. Choose a central New York hotel for your stay as transport from Midtown to the stadium is very easy.
Times Square to Giants Stadium – 6 miles

New York Marathon
Ok here's the scoop. If you're going to go to the Marathon then book your New York hotel with Midas early. Space in Manhattan is at an absolute premium and all New York Hotels will be full come the day of the race. The race usually takes place on the first Sunday in November, so both professional athletes and eager part time joggers can be seen competing on the streets with the Christmas shoppers just as eager for bargains. And if you're running in the race here's a top tip… Spend a bit more on your New York hotel to ensure maximum comfort, and you might want to ensure it has a bath and not just a shower for a well deserved soak after the event.

For tickets to all the major New York sporting events we recommend Barrystickets.com

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Great Rates at Midas Hotels New York

New York at night from East River

New York in Spring

Great Rates at Midas Hotels New York

New Yorks famous Empire State Building

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New York summer sunset over Manhattan

New York black and white Chrysler Buildling

Great Rates at Midas Hotels New York

New York Ellis Island Statue of Liberty from helicopter tour

New Yorks Central Park

New York famous Empire State Building

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New York fro mthe East River at night

New York Central Park

Great Rates at Midas Hotels New York

New York Chrysler Building roof

New York Grand Central Station

New York Central Park

New York in Black and White from the 1930s

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New York skyline at evening with construction work on horizon

New York 9-11-memorial

New York at sunset

Great rates for New York Hotels from Midas Hotels

New York downtown in Spring with famous yellow cab

New York famous Chrysler Building Spire

New York Statue of Liberty at evening

New York at night - spectacular Manhattan skyline

New York Spetember 11 memorial

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New York sunset in downtown Manhattan

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New York Statue of Liberty Torch

New York Statue of Liberty from the air

New Yorks Empire State Building

New York Central Park in Spring

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