Take a bite out of New York

Friday, 20 July 2012 9:09 AM

The Big Apple is the most glamorous city on the planet and if you are planning to go travelling in the US, your experience simply won't be complete without taking a tour of New York. Whether for a week or a few days, a trip to the city is not to be missed.

No matter how long you plan to visit for, here's a list of a few of the things you must endeavour to do.

Climb the Empire State Building

When you think of New York, it is likely the image that comes to mind is that spectacular Manhattan skyline. Skyscrapers as we known them are an iconic symbol of America, and no one more so than the Empire State Building, which was the tallest in the world for four decades.

Perhaps more exciting than admiring the landmark itself is climbing to the top to marvel at that amazing skyline. The observatory is situated 1,250 ft above the sidewalk, giving you a bird's eye view of the city.

Grab a slice

You don't have to travel to Italy to eat great pizza, as New York is known for the delicious slices it serves up. It's no wonder one part of the city is called Little Italy!

Lombardi's Pizza is a great place to enjoy some authentic pizza pie. It was established in 1897 and in 1905 gained a license that meant it was the first pizzeria in America. More than a century later, it is still rated as one of the best places in the Big Apple to grab a bite to eat.

Sunbathe in Central Park

New York may be one of the most heavily built-up metropolises in the world, but everyone knows where to go when it comes to relaxing and enjoying some greenery. Central Park is probably the most famous park on the planet and a great place to spend a few hours.

There's so much to do here, from ice skating in the winter to taking a ride in a horse-drawn cart. However, perhaps the best way to spend your time here is by relaxing in the sun and people-watching.

Hit the shops

There are people who visit New York just so they can go shopping, and there are certainly plenty of options to choose from. You can stick to the department stores like Bloomingdale's and Macy's, or check out the flagship stores of some of the world's top designers. Alternatively, you can head to one of the many flea markets to hunt out a bargain, like the huge one in Hell's Kitchen.

Two shops you simply must visit, even if you don't buy anything, are Tiffany & Co and FAO Schwarz. The latter featured in the hit family film Big and was famously the place where Tom Hanks played the giant floor piano, while you can grab yourself a bagel in the morning and tuck into it while admiring the jewellery in the window of Tiffany's, just like Audrey Hepburn did in the classic movie Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Stroll around the West Village

This is where you'll find Manhattan's famous brownstones and the area has remained largely unchanged since the 19th century. It was once the centre of bohemian New York and is home to the iconic Meatpacking District and the Jefferson Market Branch, New York Public Library.

As you stroll, you can pick up a delicious cupcake fresh from the oven at the Magnolia Bakery, or stop for a relaxing beer at The Spotted Pig.

Have dinner at Oyster Bar

The Grand Central Terminal is another of New York's most iconic landmarks. For decades, people have arrived in and left the city from the train station here, so countless joyous greetings and fond farewells have been exchanged beneath these arches.

Downstairs you'll find the legendary Oyster Bar, where you can grab a sandwich to eat at the counter, or enjoy a cocktail or two in the evening. Don't miss the chance to sample it's most famous dish - the oyster. There are literally dozens to choose from and they come from all over the US, with flavours ranging from sweet to metallic.

See the lights of Times Square

As your last day in New York draws to a close, head for Times Square so you can see for yourself why this is the city that never sleeps. The sight of all those lights, the people queuing for the theatre and the yellow taxi cabs beeping their horns is the quintessential image to end your stay with.