New YorkUnited States of America

Feel the buzzing atmosphere of this metropolis everywhere you go, whether you immerse yourself in the exhilaration of Times Square at night or the intense emotion of the 9/11 Memorial at World Trade Center Ground Zero. New York offers experiences that embody both the upbeat energy of the city and the deep-rooted culture of its population.

Perhaps the most iconic landmark, the Statue of Liberty, stands on Liberty Island in the city harbour as a symbol of the freedom and opportunity that is historically associated with New York, a welcoming figure for the millions seeking a better life in the 19th century, away from the ravages of war and famine.

First-time visitors should head for the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building and the Rockefeller Center, for breath-taking views over the city from the observation deck, not forgetting the bustling Grand Central Terminal and the peaceful New York Public Library.

New York’s five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx are home to an eight million-strong population characterised by a widely varied cultural mix. Harlem celebrates African American music and culture and Borough Park in Brooklyn is home to one of the largest Orthodox Jewish communities outside Israel. One of the best ways to experience this cultural diversity directly and personally is through the myriad of authentic ethnic restaurants this city has to offer. Do not miss Chinatown for unbeatable Cantonese and Mandarin cuisine, or Little Italy for authentic Italian cooking, passed down through the generations.

When in New York, you cannot pass up the opportunity to see a Broadway show! 40 theatres in the aptly-named Theater District along Broadway and the Lincoln Center offer some of the best theatre experiences going. Alternatively, try the Metropolitan Opera or the Museum of Modern Art – all cultural tastes are catered for.

Whatever you choose to do, you should never worry about finding your way around the city. The best means of transport is via the Subway which covers the whole city in an easy-to-navigate system. Simply buy a MetroCard and top it up as and when you need to. If you travel on foot, you’ll be able to experience first-hand the vibrant atmosphere, and will simply have to follow the iconic grid road map. The “Big Apple” is waiting for you!