As a visitor to New York, waking up in the city that never sleeps presents you with infinite possibilities. No other city on Earth offers as many opportunities to experience the arts, entertainment, history, fashion, cuisine, signature landmarks, natural resources, cultural diversity, and stimulating energy quite like New York City.
With all it has to offer, it’s no wonder over 60 million visitors took a bite out of the Big Apple in 2016. Every day, people from all over the country – and the world – fill the sidewalks, subways, and streets of Gotham (a nickname for NYC), to make their mark, and see the sights.
In a city as big as this, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with so much to do, see, and learn. Without some perspective and a little guidance, you might miss things that would make your trip as rich and diverse as the city itself.
To turn an ordinary visit to New York into a fully immersive adventure, try experiencing the city as a real New Yorker. That means delving into its culturally textured history, getting a beat on its live entertainment and art scene, discovering its most breathtaking views and tranquil settings, shopping in its finest establishments, and savoring its world-class cuisine.
“Experience It As A New Yorker” is our year-long series that will give you the perspective of a Manhattanite (a native or inhabitant of Manhattan), to make your stay in the city more enjoyable and rewarding, while helping you assimilate New York on a deeper level. Here is a brief description of what’s in store:
New York City: The Borough of Manhattan
In the first month, you’ll get to know the borough of Manhattan a little better with some historical background. You’ll also gain practical knowledge of its entire layout – including the easy-to-navigate grid system of streets, and be introduced to the distinct neighborhoods and islands that make up Manhattan. We’ll give you a general overview of all of it, from Roosevelt Island to Hell’s Kitchen, Marble Hill to Ellis Island, and everywhere in between. What’s more, you’ll get practical advice and tips about getting around.
Art and History
There are hundreds of museums, art exhibits, and galleries in Manhattan. We’ll cover a variety of them – from the city’s most renowned exhibits, to smaller galleries and art houses, to those lesser-known, hidden gems.
Broadway
Broadway – whose brilliant lights inspired the moniker “The Great White Way” – broke records in the 2015-2015 season, with over 13 million people in attendance. Nothing delights and inspires quite like a live performance, and Broadway’s diversified plays and musicals continue to thrill people of all ages, cultures, and interests. We’ll take a look at the appeal of Broadway’s longest-running hits and what’s hot now. Also, you’ll get a glimpse into “the pit” with the musicians that keep Broadway singing and dancing.
Shopping
No trip to New York would be complete without shopping its landmark stores and trend-setting boutiques. We’ll take a look at well-known department stores v.s. smaller boutiques, take you on a tour of Manhattan’s legendary shops, and also introduce you to some NYC fashion scene up-and-comers.
Step Back in Time
The dichotomy between old and new is part of New York City’s magic. While one may be awestruck at its soaring contemporary monoliths, chic eateries, and fast-paced rhythm, there is an abundance of old-world charm as well. This section will help you discover the beauty of NYC’s old-fashioned storefronts, time-honored restaurants, and opportunities to turn back time and spend a day in another era – New York style.
Restaurants
Speaking of restaurants, in month six, you’ll experience all things culinary – from the finest dining establishments to the charm of small eateries and unexpected culinary delights that New York City is known for.
Parks
Manhattan’s natural resources are unparalleled and abundant. The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation maintains nearly 30,000 acres of land – that’s nearly 14% of New York City! Along with taking you on a stroll through Central Park, we’ll introduce you to two of Manhattan’s other great outdoor spaces – Bryant Park and Riverside Park.
Along, And On, The Water
Just as impressive as its parks system is NYC’s other great outdoor attraction: its waterways. Whether you set sail on one of NYC’s many boat restaurants, spend a day at the South Street Seaport, or take a sight-seeing ferry, there’s so much to see by day – and night. We’ll share our favorite NYC experiences on, and near, the water.
The Holidays
Any holiday is made even more special when celebrated in New York, and this installment in our series will get you in the holiday mood. First we’ll cover the many parades of New York City. Next, we’ll give you a rundown of the city’s traditional holiday live performances, and iconic holiday displays of 5th Avenue.
Views
There’s nothing like New York City’s impressive skyline, and we’ll explore two of the most spectacular ways to view it – Top of the Rock, and helicopter tours. We’ll also take a cinematic look at one of Manhattan’s most iconic skyscrapers – the Empire State building.
Peace and Quiet
Finally, from quaint cafes, to yoga/meditation studios, to The Marmara Park Avenue’s own serene Turkish Hammam, we’ll share some of the most relaxing ways you can take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle for a while.
Putting It To The Test
By the end of this series, you’ll have all the knowledge, background, tips, and know-how you need to be more than just a tourist in New York City. You’ll be exploring the streets of one of the greatest cities in the world with some of that trademark New Yorker style, confidence, and savvy.
Look for next week’s blog: “New York City: The Borough of Manhattan”
