As part of our Family Holiday to the US in July 08, we spent 5 fabulous nights in New York. We had many adventures including a live show on Broadway - "Hairspray" which was one of the best shows I have ever seen - even my husband loved it!
A Semi-Circle Cruise on the Hudson gave us a new perspective of Manhattan Island and was a quick and easy way to see the Statue of Liberty, while avoiding the really long queues through security to view it up close. A running commentary from the captain was very informative.
A visit to the old Yankee Stadium to see a game was a highlight for my husband Paul, but we all really enjoyed it. There is such a wonderful atmosphere at a ball game - no down time at all. The girls got to enjoy an American hotdog complete with American mustard of course.
Central Park was beautiful, such an oasis in the middle of the concrete and smoggy jungle of New York. We intended to take a horse and buggy ride, but were convinced by 2 students who worked part-time as Bicycle/Buggy escorts, that we should jump in with them instead. Even though we only got to see half the park in this way, the boys gave us a running commentary about all the features of the park, even showed us where John Lennon lived before his death out the front of his apartment. Other sites included Strawberry Fields - donated by Yoko Ono as a memorial to John. The lake where 'Stuart Little' was filmed, and a view of the buildings featured in "Ghostbusters" I must admit I felt a little sorry for these guys peddling us around in 30+ degree New York summer heat - but we had fun!
The highlight for April and Jemma, was a visit to the "American Girl" store on 5th Avenue... What a way to make two little girls very happy, this place is amazing! Dolls and every possible accessory for them. Had to send Paul off shopping while I did the damage with the Credit Card!
I have to say that many people thought I would feel unsafe in New York - far from it. Although we did not use the subway, and only ventured out at night in the local area, and then only until about 10pm - we felt perfectly safe and saw nothing unsavoury at all. Even the cab drivers were polite! Felt a police presence, but nothing that was concerning.
Times Square was REALLY frantic, people and cars everywhere, was glad we just visited here and stayed a good 15min walk away.
We really jammed in as much as we could into our stay, but loved every moment of it - we can't wait to go back someday...