NYC Hotel just over $100 a night

View of Manhattan from Long Island City

Like most visitors to New York City, my wife and I were on a limited budget for a hotel for our last visit.  There are no budget hotels in prime locations in Manhattan, so we had to compromise on location.  Realizing that hotels in Manhattan were over our budget, we searched for what was available outside Manhattan, but still close to the action.  We put together a list for what we needed in our accommodation.  Our hotel needed to:

1. Be close a subway line to easily get into Manhattan.  
2. Be clean and smoke-free. 
3. Offer a free continental breakfast. 
4. Have free Wi-fi
5. Cost less than $125 per night.  

After searching several boroughs and neighborhoods around Manhattan, we found a hotel that met each of our needs: the Howard Johnson Long Island City.   

What to Expect

Howard Johnson Long Island City

Long Island City is a neighborhood within Queens that is just across the East River from Manhattan.  It famous for having New York's highest concentration of art galleries.  We had read reviews about the hotel being located in "the ghetto," and were nervous about the area before our arrival.  While the neighborhood around the Howard Johnson Long Island City is not posh like Manhattan, we never felt unsafe in the area.  Like anywhere in New York City, my advice would be to not travel alone late at night. 

The hotel itself was basic, but clean.  Check in was quick.  The room was comfortable but not fancy (see pictures to see our room).  The free continental breakfast was good but not great.  Basically, it was what we expected out of a two-star hotel.  The best part about the Howard Johnson Long Island City is that it is easy to get into Manhattan from the hotel.  A subway station is only two blocks from the hotel.  Furthermore, the station is only two stops from Manhattan (along the "F" line), meaning we could get from our hotel into the city in 15 minutes!  

Howard Johnson Long Island City

Howard Johnson Long Island City Pros:

• Close to the Subway
• Cost--just over a $100 depending on season
• Free Continental Breakfast
• Free Wi-Fi
• Clean

Howard Johnson Long Island City Cons:

• Located outside of Manhattan  
• No-frills accommodation

Just the Basics

• Address: 38-71 13th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101
  
• Website: Click Here
  
• Phone:  718-880-3855

Best Dessert in NYC

Cafe Lalo, New York City

I first discovered Cafe Lalo's desserts on a trip to New York City last year.  After wandering around the Upper West Side with a friend, we happened upon a cute French-themed cafe and stopped in for some dessert.  The food was so good that we both left thinking we had discovered NYC's best kept secret.  My wife and I visited New York City a few weeks ago, and I wanted to show her the cafe I had "discovered" that had the best dessert in the city.  As soon as we sat down, my wife laughed at me and informed me that I had discovered nothing.  Cafe Lalo was featured in the film "You've Got Mail," and it's existence wasn't a secret at all.  However, after tasting their dessert, she quickly agreed with me; Cafe Lalo has the best dessert in New York City. 

What to Expect

My wife and I visited Cafe Lalo on a summer weeknight.  Though the cafe was busy, we were seated immediately.  Cafe Lalo had a warm and inviting ambience created by their unique decor, a guitarist softly playing jazz in the corner, and the beautiful French windows we sat by that opened to the street.  It would be a great cafe for those looking to impress a date!  Cafe Lalo's menu features a variety of European-themed cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner including waffles, sandwiches, cheeses, and much more.  They also have beer, wine, and spirits to compliment any meal. My wife ordered coffee and lemonade while we perused the menu.   

Chocolate Madness, Cafe Lalo

Even though their dinner menu was tempting, my wife and I were on a mission for dessert, and Cafe Lalo delivered.  Their impressive dessert menu includes countless cakes, tarts, cheesecakes, chocolate fondue, pies....the list could go on and on.   Cafe Lalo also has a display counter packed with their confections, which made choosing the perfect dessert that much harder.  I chose the creme brulee and my wife had the the "Chocolate Madness" cake. I could try to describe how great it was, or you could take my word for it and try it for yourself.

Inside of Cafe Lalo, NYC

Just the Basics

• Cafe Lalo Location: 201 West 83rd Street, New York, NY
• Website: http://cafelalo.com
• Cafe Lalo Hours: M-Th 8am-2am, Friday 8am-4am, Sat. 9am-4am, Sun. 9am-2am
• Advice:  Cafe Lalo is the perfect place to bring a date or stop before or after a Broadway show. 

Photo of the Week: El Dorado NYC

I snapped this photo of NYC's El Dorado a couple of weeks ago while walking through Central Park.  The El Dorado is a luxury apartment building that overlooks Central Park. It is an instantly recognizable landmark of New York City's Upper West Side.  

Central Park should top of every visitor's list of places to experience in New York City.  It is an urban oasis like non-other, combining water, trees, art, history, open space...all in a bubble of urban chaos.  

El Dorado, Central Park West, New York City

Photo of the week is part of "Photo Thursday," started by Nancie at the Budget Travelers Sandbox.  Please visit her site to check out other amazing photos!

Subway and Bus from LaGuardia

The cheapest way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan is to take the M60 bus to the subway, and then ride the subway into the city.  Unfortunately, there is no subway or rail line that services Laguardia Airport (LGA). That doesn't mean you are stuck paying $25 or more for a one way cab ride into Manhattan--just take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation system.  

Step One 

MTA Metrocard Vending Machine

Purchase a metrocard from a Metro Transit Authority (MTA) vending machine.  There is a MTA vending machine at every terminal at LaGuardia.  More information on MTA metrocards can be found here. 

Tip: If you are staying in New York City for more than a couple of days, the best value is to buy a 7-day unlimited ride metrocard for $29 that can be used on all buses, subways, and even the Roosevelt Island Tram.

Step Two

Look for signs for ground transportation/M60 bus, or ask any airport employee and they'll be able to point you in the right direction.  Once the M60 bus arrives, step on and swipe your metrocard in the machine located next to the driver.  

Note: Many people are scared to take subways or buses New York City because they worry about getting lost or feel they are unsafe.  I have visited NYC nearly every year for the past decade and I have never worried about my safety on buses or the subway.  Furthermore, don't be scared to ask for help; I've had overwhelming positive experiences in asking for help in NYC. 

Step Three

It's easy to catch the subway from the M60

Get off the bus at Astoria/31st Street, which is where the subway station is located.  You will have to swipe your metro card again to enter the station.  Once inside, find the platform for a Manhattan bound N or Q train.  The N and Q lines will take you all the way into Times Square!  A map of the subway can be found here.

Note: Rather than getting off at Astoria/31st Street, you could also ride the bus into Harlem to transfer to one of several subway lines located along 125th Street.  See link above for a map of subway lines.  

Photo of the Week: Under the Bridge

My wife and I just returned from a short trip to New York City.  The city holds a special place in our lives; it was where we were engaged and we try to visit the city at least once a year.  New York City is a place that can never be completely uncovered.  There is always a new cafe, museum, or city view to be found in the dense metropolis.

This photo was taken at dusk under the Roosevelt Island Bridge looking into Manhattan.  Read more about the Roosevelt Island Tram here.

Under the Roosevelt Island Bridge

Photo of the week is part of "Photo Thursday," started by Nancie at the Budget Travelers Sandbox.  Please visit her site to check out other amazing photos!

Top 5 Movies for Travel

Movies are a great window into places and cultures that would otherwise be impossible for the average person to see.  Often, these same films inspire people (including myself) to travel to the locations featured in films.  It would be impossible to list all of the films that inspire travel.  Instead, I narrowed my list to five movies by setting a couple of rules; 1. I must have personally traveled to the location of the film.  2. The movie must be good!  The movies I chose are great at giving you a slice of life somewhere else in the world without ever having to leave your couch.  But be careful, you might book an unplanned vacation if you watch any one of these films!

5. 50 First Dates, Hawaii

50 First Dates is a comedy set in Hawaii that tracks the odd romance between  a marine veterinarian and woman with short-term memory loss.  Much of 50 First Dates was filmed in and around Kaneohe, Hawaii, which just happens to be where I worked my first summer out of college.  50 First Dates captures both the natural beauty of Hawaii and the humor of the people that live on the islands.  Travel Tip: If you go to Hawaii, check out the authentic Hawaiian food of real-life Hukilau Cafe (which doesn't look anything like the film version)!  

4. The Hangover, Las Vegas

Not only is The Hangover one of the best comedies of the past decade, it is also my favorite movie set in Las Vegas.  The plot of the film follows three friends, nicknamed the "wolf pack," as they explore Las Vegas trying to comprehend what happened on one crazy night of a bachelor party.  The Hangover inspires the kind of behavior that given Las Vegas the nickname of "Sin City."  The Hangover is a must-see film if you are planning a getaway to Las Vegas where you want what happens there to stay there!   
 
3. Under the Tuscan Sun, Italy

Have you ever wanted to pull up your roots and start over in a completely new place?  To cope with a bitter divorce, a middle-aged author (played by Diane Lane) buys a dilapidated estate in Tuscany Italy.  By rebuilding the house, Lane's character is also able to rebuild her life.  Though Diane Lane is the headline actress, the real star of the film is the Tuscan countryside.  Watching Under the Tuscan Sun inspired my second trip to Italy.  Taking a hint from the film, I focused on enjoying the culture of Italy rather than running from site to site, making the whole experience much more enjoyable.

2. When Harry Met Sally, New York City

There is no better place in the world to film a romantic comedy than New York City.  Simply put, When Harry Met Sally is the best romantic comedy filmed in the Big Apple.  The film follows two friends, played by Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, as they struggle through relationships before finding each other.  When Harry Met Sally showcases New York City in every season, with scenes filmed in Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Washington Square Park.  Meg Ryan's famous "faking it" scene was filmed at Katz Deli. My wife and I make it a point to watch When Harry Met Sally before each trip to get into a "New York state of mind."

1. Whale Rider, New Zealand

The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy are too often mentioned as the only movies to be filmed in New Zealand.  The truth is that New Zealand's dramatic scenery has made it a popular set location for major studio films.  The Last Samurai, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Bridge to Terabithia are just a few of the more recent movies filmed in New Zealand. One film stands above the rest in capturing the "real" New Zealand; Whale Rider.  Whale Rider is able to accurately capture the culture and scenery of rural Maori life on New Zealand better than any other film.  In 2003, I taught in a small Maori school on the Bay of Plenty, and watching Whale Rider brings back the sounds, smells, and sights of my time there.  If you can't afford a plane ticket to New Zealand, watch Whale Rider to get a small piece of the Pacific paradise. 

Roosevelt Island Tram

How can you get a bird's eye view of Eastern Manhattan for only $2.25?  The Roosevelt Island Tram is a unique New York City attraction that is unknown to many who are seasoned Manhattan visitors.   Departing from Manhattan, the tram crosses over the East River to land on Roosevelt Island.  The Roosevelt Island Tram is the cheapest way to see the Manhattan skyline, costing only one swipe a metro card.  Simply by setting foot on Roosevelt Island, you'll be visiting a lesser known part of New York City that is missed by your average tourist.  You may want to stay for a few hours to take in the small town feel of Roosevelt Island that is only a few minutes from Manhattan!

What to Expect

The Roosevelt Island tram station is located at the intersection 60th street and 2nd avenue in East Manhattan.  A one-way fair on the Roosevelt Island Tram only costs $2.25.   You may purchase a metro card at the tram station.  I would suggest purchasing a one day or seven day unlimited metro pass to any one visiting New York City.  The fastest and cheapest way to get around Manhattan is by subway, and the card can also be used for the Roosevelt Island Tram.    (More information about the MTA unlimited passes can be found at: http://www.mta.info/metrocard/mcgtreng.htm).  Expect to wait anywhere from five to fifteen minutes at the platform for the next tram to Roosevelt Island.  The waiting area is not enclosed, so dress appropriately!

View from the Roosevelt Island Tram

Once the tram arrives, wait for the previous passengers to exit, and try to be one of the first in the tram if you want to sit down. The best place to sit to take photos of Manhattan is in the rear of the tram.  The ride itself only takes about five minutes, so have your camera ready as soon as it takes off.  Be aware that your view will, at times, be obstructed by the Queensboro Bridge. Once the tram arrives at Roosevelt Island, all riders must disembark, even if you plan on simply riding back to Manhattan.  If you wish to further explore Roosevelt Island, hop on one of the waiting red buses for only a quarter!

Just the Basics

Manhattan from Roosevelt Island

• Location: The entrance to the tram from the Manhattan side is at 60th Street and 2nd Avenue. 
• Cost: $2.25 one-way (same as a standard subway fare).  You may use your MTA card to ride the tram.   
• Advice:  Be one of the first onto the tram so you don't have to stand.  
• Website: The website for Roosevelt Island is http://www.rioc.com

High Line Park, NYC

High Line Park, New York City

New York City's coolest new attraction is High Line Park.  The free park, located in the heart of Manhattan's up-and-coming meat-packing district, is a whole new take on public space.  High Line Park is built upon an abandoned elevated rail line.  The High Line sat as an unused eyesore since 1980, when it was last used as a freight rail.  Mayor Giuliani tried to have the tracks demolished in the 1990's.   However, a movement began in the early 2000s to recreate the tracks as a public space.  High Line Park was finally opened to the public in the summer of 2009.  This first phase ran from 20th Street to Gansevoort Street.  Once the second phase is complete in Spring 2011,  High Line Park will stretch all the way to 30th Street.   The park is an unique place to take a break from the bustle of the city while offering birds-eye view of the neighborhood.  It's no wonder that National Geographic dubbed High Line "The Miracle Above Manhattan."  

What to Expect

I was lucky enough to be given a tour of High Line Park from a friend who has lived in the neighborhood for over 20 years.  He offered an insightful perspective about the park; he was excited that the tracks were being used and that the neighborhood was being improved.  However, he was also a bit sad that the old world character of the area was being replaced by trendy shops and apartments.

High Line Park Phase 1

We entered the park from the stairs off of Gansevoort Street.  High Line is a combination of city, modern art, and an English garden.  There is ample room to walk on stone pathways that are bordered by plants, trees, and wild grasses.  True to the original rail line, High Line Park passes through the middle of some buildings, which in the past were factory stops for the trains.  Park designers purposely kept many portions of the original tracks intact and also chose to plant grasses and reeds that were native to the line it's years of neglect.  It should take only take you 15-20 minutes to walk the length of the first phase of the park, but you will probably want to stay longer.  There are wooden benches built throughout the park to relax and you never know who you might see.  On our first visit to High Line, we spotted Oscar winner Tilda Swinton strolling through the park.  Even celebrities want to check out Manhattan's newest wonder!

Just the Basics

Rail lines still visible in High Line Park

• Location: Manhattan's West Side, running from Gansevoort Street to 20th Street.  It is possible to access the park using stairs from at Gansevoort Street, 18th Street, and 20th Street. 
• Cost:  Free! 
• Advice: Use your time at the park as a chance to relax, rather than another destination to check off of your list.  
• Concessions: Sold at the Chelsea Market Passage. 

The Best Coffee Shop in NYC

Bis.Co.Latte Coffee Shop NYC

New York's City finicky weather did not cooperate with my wife and I on our trip to the city last fall.  It was cold and rainy for most of the weekend.  After slugging it out with the weather for most of the morning we needed a break to recoup.  By chance, we ended up at Bis.Co. Latte in midtown's Hell's Kitchen district.  We weren't expecting much more than a hot cup of coffee and a warm place to sit.  Bis.Co.Latte delivered much more; it is the best coffee shop in New York City, and quite possibly the best coffee shop in the world!   

What to Expect

Bis.Co.Latte has an inviting atmosphere that is uncommon in restaurants and cafe's in Manhattan.  Most are cramped and count on high turnover among customers to make a profit.  With comfortable tables, light background music, and a shelf full of books, we knew this was a place that invited customers to stay.  While Bis.Co.Latte was busy, my wife and I had no problem finding a place to sit.   

Besides coffee, Bis.Co.Latte also offers a menu of traditional European baked goods and soups.  Their specialty is handmade biscotti--they are New York City's only handmade bicotti bakeshop and cafe.  Biscotti are twice-baked biscuits native to Italy, that are traditionally dry in order to allow them to be stored for long amounts of time.  My only experience with biscotti prior to our visit was the plastic wrapped kind offered by national chain coffee-shops.  There is no comparison.  Bis.Co.Latte's biscotti, paired with a coffee drink, us the best mid-morning snack known to mankind.   

Nora enjoying a latte at Bis.Co.Latte

Before we left, my wife and I loaded up on enough biscotti to last for the rest of our trip.  If you can't make it to New York City, Bis.Co.Latte does ship their baked goods.  See their website for details. 

Just the Basics

• Location: 667 Tenth Ave. at West 47th Street
• Hours: M-F 8am-7pm, Sat. 9am-7pm, Sun. 9am-6pm
• Website: http://www.biscolatte.com/cafe.html 
• Email: info@biscolatte.com 
• Phone: 212-581-3900

Spend less than $75 on hotel for a New York City visit

Room at the Meadowlands Plaza Hotel

I have tried a variety of ways to save money on lodgings when I have visited New York--from hostels in Manhattan to crashing with friends.  The best value for the dollar that I have found (and most enjoyable) has been to stay in New Jersey.   Jersey hasn't always had the best reputation (insert your favorite Jersey joke here).  But seriously, I have enjoyed lodging across the Hudson River for a variety of reasons. 

• It is usually cheaper to fly into Newark than JFK or Laguardia. 
• By using websites such as priceline.com, you can stay in 3 to 4 star hotels for around $75 a night.  Try finding a better deal anywhere in Manhattan! 
• Traveling on New Jersey Transit system buses from Secaucus, New Jersey (where I usually stay) to Port Authority terminal in Manhattan only costs $2.55 and takes about 20 minutes!
• Secaucus itself has many great options for food and entertainment.  

What to Expect
I have stayed at a couple of different hotels in Secaucus.  On my last stay, I stayed at the Meadowlands Plaza Hotel.  By booking through priceline.com, I was able to get a Thursday-Sunday stay for less than $70 at night--that's including taxes and fees!   Once I had made the reservation on Priceline, I called the Meadowlands Plaza to reserve a non-smoking room.

The hotel met all of the needs that my wife and I were looking for; it was safe, clean, quite, offered free shuttle to the bus stop/train station, and was within walking distance to Secaucus's main restaurant district.  The staff was friendly and helped answer questions we had about the area.  Check out their website at  http://www.meadowlandsplazahotel.com/.

I have also stayed at the nearby and similarly named Crowne Plaza Hotel in Secauacus.  Though the hotel itself was a bit fancier the Meadowlands Plaza, it was also more costly and located on a less-frequented bus stop.

The Basics 

• Location: Both hotels I have stayed in have been just off of Meadowlands Parkway in Secaucus. 

• Cost: Usually less that $100 per night through Priceline or Hotwire. 

• Advice: Call hotels before arriving to try to secure a non-smoking (or smoking) room.  You should also ask about complimentary shuttles from the train or bus stations.

•   Lodging Recommendation: Meadowlands Plaza Hotel http://www.meadowlandsplazahotel.com/

• Money Saving Tip: Eat lunch in New York City during the day, but come back to enjoy some of the neighborhood dining options in Secaucus.  Two of my favorite restaraunts were Fifth and Front (located at the corner of Fifth and Front and Natoli's. 

• Fifth and Front is a great local bar complete with an extensive burger and sandwich menu, cheap drinks, and occasional live entertainment.  Filthy-mouthed and thick-accented patrons come at no charge.  It is located at the corner of Fifth and Front Street in Secaucus. 
• Just a few blocks away at 300 Clarendon Street is Natoli's, a yummy Italian Eatery.  Space to eat is limited, so I would suggest ordering take-out or delivery. Phone: 201-864-2243 Website: http://www.natolis.com

Pedestrian Friendly Times Square

Times Square Advertisements

Times Square seems to be the epicenter for all the craziness that makes New York City the Big Apple.  Site of the annual New Year's Eve ball drop, there are few people in the world that wouldn't recognize the intersection. I'll admit that Times Square it is not my favorite NYC destination.  However, I am still strangely drawn to it every time that I visit the city.  There is something about all the bright lights, people, and energy that draws me in, despite my distaste for large crowds and noise.  I can't argue with those that call Times Square "the crossroads of the world!" 
What to Expect
Entering Times Square will probably trigger a sensory overload from all of the lights, people, and noise.  MTV, ABC's Good Morning America, Planet Hollywood, Hard Rock Cafe, and the TKTS booth (where you can buy discounted tickets to Broadway shows) all claim a spot in Times Square.  Countless neon and LED signs plaster every available inch of the plaza making it one of the most advertised public spaces in the world.

Expect to be hassled by aggressive salesmen peddling theater/comedy tickets or people claiming to represent charities.  Personally, I'd avoid conversation with anyone trying to get your money.

Times Square

In early 2009, Mayor Bloomberg began a trial program that closed a few of the traffic lanes in an effort to make the area more pedestrian-friendly.  I am a big fan of the move, having visited before the closing.  In the past, you had to shuffle down the sidewalks shoulder-to-shoulder with every other tourist in the world while trying to take pictures and avoid being nailed by a taxi.  The  street closings offer more room to breath and even some small tables and chairs to sit.  Times Square is within walking distance to many New York City attractions, such as Broadway, Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building...the list could go on and on.  In other words, I'd plan to view Times Square on your way to or from another destination. 
Just the Basics 

Times Square Seating

• Location: Crossroads of Broadway and Seventh Avenue stretching from West 42nd to West 47th Streets 
• Cost: Free! 
• Advice: Visit at night so get the full visual effect of all the lights and glamour!  The best place to take pictures in atop the red stairs built above the TKTS ticket booth.  I would suggest pairing a visit to Times Square with the Empire State Building or a Broadway show (for those with a flexible budget) for a great evening in the city.

Free Staten Island Ferry

Staten Island Ferry Terminal

The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry between lower Manhattan and Staten Island.  The short ferry ride is the best way to take pictures the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island at no cost.  The ferry that operate trips that stop at Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty are NOT free.  I have paid $11.50 for the Statue of Liberty ferry and it wasn't that much better than than the free ride that you can get from the Staten Island Ferry.  Besides, there is no better way to get good pictures of lower Manhattan than from the Staten Island Ferry.  See the pictures below and decide for yourself! 

What to Expect
The photo on the above left shows the St. George Ferry Terminal entrance on the Manhattan side, located at 1 Bay Street.  Both terminals are impressive considering they service a free ferry.  The terminals are spacious and clean with ample restrooms, benches, and concessions.   If you plan on staying in

Statue of Liberty from State Island Ferry

Staten Island, tourist information is also available in the terminal. 

Once the ferry arrives, follow the masses and allow yourself to be herded onto the boat.  There is bench seating throughout the cabin.  The large windows on both sides of the ferry allow good views no matter where you sit.  However, you should still plan your seating location depending what you most want to see.

• If you want great views of lower Manhattan, stay nearest the back of the ferry (where you boarded).  The best view is on the outside of the cabin (see photo above right).
• If you want great views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, head to the front of the cabin and sit on the right side. 
• If you want to view Governor's Island and the Brooklyn Bridge, sit anywhere on the left side of the cabin.   

Once the ferry arrives at Staten Island, EVERYONE must disembark, even if you plan on immediately returning to Manhattan.  If you don't plan on exploring Staten Island, exit the ferry, follow the signs (and the rest of the tourists) and re-board the same ferry for the trip back to Manhattan.  If you get hungry at any point, there are concessions selling snacks, beverages, and beer on all ferries.

Manhattan from State Island Ferry

Just the Basics

• Location: 1 Bay Street 
• Cost: Free! 
• Advice: If you have extra time in the city, spend the day in Staten Island.  You can pick up tourist information and maps in the St. George Ferry Terminal. 
• Seating Tip: Sit in the front of the ferry on the outbound trip for the best views of the Statue of Liberty. 
• Concessions: Yes.  A variety of snacks and beverages (including beer) are sold on board.  
• Website: http://www.siferry.com

A Stroll Through Central Park

Strawberry Fields

 Central Park is my favorite New York City destination.  Every time I visit the city, the park tops my list of places to visit.  It's whopping 843 acres offer endless places to explore.  The park holds a special place in my heart...it is where I asked my fiance to marry me!  There is no way that I can do justice to all that Central Park has to offer, so I'll just mention a few of my personal highlights in this page. 

What to expect
The park is so vast that your itinerary should depend on how much time you can spend in the park.  If you only have a few hours, I would suggest the itinerary below.  The route crosses from the park from West to East.  The route is a great "museum break" if you are planning on seeing both the Museum of Natural History and he Metropolitan Museum of Art in the same day.  It also stops at some the park's most romantic locations.  If you have time, visit as much of the park as possible.  Exit the subway at West 72nd Street and walk across the street into Central Park, following West 72nd Street.  Look for signs to direct you to Strawberry Fields, the memorial the was created to honor John Lennon.  Lennon was assassinated in 1980 just across the street from Central Park, outside of the Dakota apartment complex where he was living at the time. 

Bow Bridge Central Park

From Strawberry Fields, return to the main road of 72nd Street (keeping the lake on your left side) to view the Bethesda Terrace.  The Bethesda Terrace is an excellent place to take photographs and it has also been featured in countless films.

Exit the Bethesda Terrace along the path that keeps the lake to your right (walking Northwest). You will reach the Bow Bridge, which is my favorite location to take photographs in Central Park.  The bridge stretches 60 feet over the lake. The bridge is one of the few spans in the park that is not made of stone. 

Loeb Boathouse Central Park

Walk over the bridge and continue on the path that keeps the lake on your right side.  A great place to stop and eat lunch is the Loeb Boathouse.

Belvedere Castle Central Park

The boathouse offers several dining options (from formal sit-down to take-out) that fit a variety of budgets.  If you are on a tight budget, I would suggest grabbing a sandwich or salad from the Express Cafe and taking it to eat somewhere out on the park.  From the boathouse, take five minute walk North to reach Belvedere Castle.  Stop in the castle to talk to one the knowledgeable guides before climbing the stairs for a 360 degree view of the park and Manhattan--the photo of the great lawn on the top of this page was taken from the castle.  Belvedere Castle is only open from 10am-5pm and is closed on Mondays, so plan your trip accordingly.

Complete your whirlwind tour of Central Park by stretching your legs or simply vegging out on the Great Lawn (see photo below) , which is located just North of Belvedere Castle.

Great Lawn View from Belvedere Castle Central Park

Just the Basics

• Location: North Central Manhattan--you can't miss it, the park takes up 6% of Manhattan's area! 
• Hours: There are no stated opening hours.  The park closes at 1:00 am.   
• Cost: Free! 
• Advise: Visit the park every day you are in NYC.  Seriously.   
• Website: www.centralpark.com

Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge Overview A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is a must for any first time visitor to New York City.  The bridge spans the East River, connecting lower Manhattan with Brooklyn.  A stroll across the bridge presents artistic beauty, history, and stunning views of lower Manhattan.  Completed in 1883, the bridge was a technological wonder of it's time. It was the first suspension bridge to use steel support cables and it was 50% longer than any other suspension bridge previously built. What to Expect The Brooklyn Bridge seems to always be busy with pedestrian, bicycle, and automobile traffic.  Luckily, the pedestrian/bicycle walkway is located on a raised platform above the street traffic.  The location of the walkway in the middle of the bridge presents a stunning visual image as you follow the path of the support cables to the bridge towers.  But don't stand and stare too long, because you might be run over by other tourists or bicyclists!  It's hard to imagine that the towers were the highest structures in the world when the bridge was built.  Foot Traffic on Brooklyn Bridge If possible, plan to walk the bridge on a day when the weather looks favorable.  Cold weather, cutting winds, and rain (or snow) could quickly turn a planned frolic across the bridge into painful march against mother nature.  A brisk walk across the bridge, with time to take a few photos, should take 30-40 minutes, though your experience will depend on your traveling companions.  From the bridge, you can snap photos of lower Manhattan and even the Statue of Liberty.  If you don't want to walk all the way back to Manhattan once you've crossed the bridge into Brooklyn, you can catch a subway from the High Street station from Brooklyn. Just the Basics  Lower Manhattan from Brooklyn Bridge Location: 1071 Fifth Avenue  Cost: Free!  Advice: Time your walk with good weather if you can, otherwise you might be miserable!  As you plan your NYC itinerary, keep in mind that the bridge is close to Wall Street, Ground Zero, and the Staten Island Ferry.

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Top 5 New York City Attractions to Avoid

New York City is a must-see destination for tourists from around the world. I visit the city nearly every fall and have yet to scratch the surface of all the city has to offer. The itineraries of my first visits were based upon the recommendations of well-known travel guides and websites. Sometimes these guides were right on.  However, some sites in New York City that should only be seen if you have extra time. Others should be avoided at all costs! I'm not saying that all of the places listed below are terrible (though some are). I've placed them on the list because they are inconvenient, don't live up the hype, are too expensive, or are painfully boring!

Museum of Natural History Dinosaur

1. Museum of Natural History- Billed as one of New York City's top museums, it doesn't live up to the hype. Even though the Night at the Museum movies have created plenty of buzz for this longstanding attraction, the place is boring. There were a few exhibits I liked, such as the dinosaur fossils and the redwood tree cutout, but it takes forever to travel between the good exhibits because the museum is so large.  Most of the exhibits are cheesy displays that reminded me of an elementary project fair. It appeared to me that many of the museum's exhibit's have not been updated since the museum's founding in 1869. At $16 ($32 if you want to see special exhibits, IMAX films, or planetarium shows), the museum is simply not worth the time or money.

2. TKTS Ticket Booth- For those of you hoping to see a Broadway show while in New York City, the TKTS Ticket Booth is not the way to go. Located in Times Square, the booth offers deep discounts on Broadway shows. But to get those tickets, you will need to stand in line for hours with no guarantee that the tickets won't be sold out by the time you get to the front of the line. If you are lucky enough get tickets for a premium show, they will most likely be in the nosebleed section. After waiting in line for two hours, I was able to score tickets to Phantom of the Opera at nearly half off. When we arrived at the show, we found that our seats were in the last row of the theater!  The next time we bucked up and bought tickets ahead of time. Yes, we paid more, but the seats were excellent, making the whole experience more enjoyable.

Magnolia Bakery

3. Magnolia Bakery- The bakery made famous by Sex in the City is crowded, crazy, and just not that good! Rather than spending your time fighting tourists for an overly sweet cupcake, instead spend you money at any neighborhood bakery. You'll have time (and space) to sit down, relax, and enjoy your desert without getting shoved out the door.

4. Sylvia's- Sylvia's was the biggest let-down on my last visit to New York City. Having seen Sylvia's on the Travel Channel's Man vs. Food, I figured it was a certain grand slam. Buried deep in Harlem, the best part of my visit to Sylvia's was that I walked 20 minutes through Harlem to get there.  Like many tourist traps eateries in New York City, Sylvia's is crowded, loud, and you must wait in line to be seated. In the end, it's soul food does not live up to the billing! Rather than eating world class soul food promised by Adam of Man vs. Food, you are simply offered bland greasy southern food. Not terrible, just not worth all the hoopla. Next time I visit Harlem, I'm going to try one of the smaller, lesser known soul food establishments.

Battery Park 9/11 Memorial

5. Ground Zero- I understand that placing ground zero on a list of places to avoid could be taboo, but hear me out. If you want to visit ground zero because of the terrible event that took place there on 9/11 and pay your respects to the fallen, I completely understand and encourage such a visit. On the other hand, if you are looking to view the rubble or a tangible memorial, this is not the place. There is simply nothing there, except for a half-started construction site whose future is in litigation. Currently, there is a walkway over part of the site and plenty of street vendors selling cheap souvenirs. I would instead suggest checking out the small memorial to the twin towers that is in Battery Park (see photo at right).

Katz's Deli

Katz's Deli

Featured in the movie "When Harry Met Sally" and the TV show "Man vs. Food," Katz Deli certainly has been hyped up by the folks in Hollywood. Usually I try to stay away from such places, because my delicate traveling ego doesn't like frequenting tourist traps, but Katz's is an exception. A meal at Katz's is slightly above my typical shoe-string meal budget, but believe me, it is worth it!

What to expect
I went to Katz in the mid-afternoon on a weekday and was surprised to see that the place was still bustling with customers. As soon as I stepped through the door, a credit-card-sized ticket was shoved into my hand by the doorman. He threatened that it would be a $50 charge if I lost the ticket! Clutching the ticket in my sweaty palm, I was confronted with a long counter full of Katz employees serving up a variety of hearty meat sandwiches.

Step Up to the Counter and Order!

Stand back and scan the variety of choices on the board (see photo). When you are ready, walk up to the counter on the right side and place your order. The sandwich chefs will slice up a sandwich from the fresh meat and bread available--they'll even give you a taste of the meat while you wait. I chose the pastrami sandwich--and you should too! Once the sandwich chef is finished, hand over your ticket and he'll write the total on the back. Slide further to the left if you'd like to get a beverage also.

Seating is first come-first serve, so be on the look out for people leaving! The booths against the wall are reserved for those customers who prefer waiter service. The tables in the middle are reserved for customers who were served from the counter. Once you are done, leave your tray at the table, and pay at the door by giving the cashier your ticket. EVERYONE (whether you purchased an item or not) must give the cashier your ticket or risk be charged $50...so don't lose your ticket!

Satisfied Customer

Just the Basics

• Location: Corner of E Houston and Ludlow Street
• Cost: $10-20 for a sandwich and beverage
• Advice: Go in the midday or before 11:00 am to avoid waiting in line.
• Recommendation: Pastrami sandwich
• Money Saving Tip: Split a sandwich with a friend--they are large enough for two people. If you are traveling alone and simply want to go for the experience, order a bowl of soup instead. I had the split pea and it was wonderful!
• Website: www.katzdeli.com

Best Free New York City Attractions

Sometimes the best things in life are free.  New York City is a place that you can enjoy on a small budget. In fact, much of the best sites in the city are free! . Here are some of my favorite free attractions.

• High Line Park- The High Line is a cool new park in the heart of the meat-packing district that was built on existing elevated rail lines. It's a great place to take 30 minutes or an hour away from the city while taking in modern architecture, art, and a little bit of mother nature.

Central Park

• Central Park- The iconic 843 acre park in north central Manhattan that offers just about everything you could ever need; open space, walking trails, a castle, zoo, lakes, restaurants, theater...the list could go on and on. Central Park should be number one on your list of places to visit!

• New York Public Library- Many people associate this library with the film Ghostbusters, but there are so many other reasons you should visit! The Manhattan branch of the New York Public Library system is a wonder for researchers, architects, and art lovers. There are exhibits and artwork spread throughout the library that is still used for academic research.
  

• Brooklyn Bridge- A great engineering marvel of the Industrial Age of America, every visitor to New York City should see the bridge. It's featured in just about every movie ever set in the city and is as synonymous with New York City as the Golden Gate Bridge is to San Francisco. Walk the bridge on a nice day for a great view of lower Manhattan.

Manhattan from Staten Island Ferry




• State Island Ferry- The best way to see both the Statue of Liberty and the famous skyline of lower Manhattan is on the Staten Island Ferry. While you are at it, you might even want to spend the day exploring Staten Island.

• Governor's Island- If you plan on traveling to NYC May-September (it's closed in the winter), this 172 acre island is a great place to spend an afternoon. Both the ferry ride and admission to the island are free. While you are there, you can partake in free walking tours or rent a bike. On Fridays, you can rent a bike for an hour for free! There are also special events and festivals that take place during the summer season.