New York almost seems like my second home as I was born there and lived there for four years of my early life but I really started to enjoy it as I got older. The atmosphere and people in New York are absolutely amazing and they make you feel welcome like no other state.

New York is considered the city that never sleeps because there is so much to do 24 hours of the day. I flew out with Virgin Atlantic from London Gatwick to Newark airport, which I preferred as it is a slightly smaller airport than JFK and it is only five minutes longer in driving time than going to JFK. It costs approximately $45 plus toll to get to the massive 4* New York Helmsley hotel where I stayed.

After checking in and freshening up, the first thing I did was to have dinner at Houston’s Grill in Manhattan. I love their steaks and as we were in America, we were given huge portions. New York caters for people with all types of budgets and some other great places to dine at in New York are; Sushi and Gari located on 78 St. for the sushi lovers, but do not go in big groups as it is a small place, Le Marais serves amazing steak … the thought alone is making me hungry now, and last but not least how can you come to New York and not have some Italian food at San Pietro! It is a small location and up market but I feel it is worth it.

If you are into trendy and upscale clubs, I always like to go to Crobar, Lotus, and Hiro as they have a decent crowd and a mixture of music, or the Knitting Factory which hosts the hottest Jazz bands.  Normally you can easily get on the guest list at these clubs once the concierge at the hotel arranges it for you.

After a good night out and a relaxed morning my itinerary comprises getting a coffee and going for a long walk in Central Park. It’s a huge, lovely park and it looks just as seen in the movies. Also going for a day tour to either the United Nations building or the humongous Empire State Building, and it is sad but amazing to see what has developed from ground Zero where the Twin Towers collapsed.

As we get more dollars from our pounds, shopping is always in order and I always stop at Macy’s on 34th St. where they have a huge range of stuff and great deals always going, Bloomingdales on 59th St., Fao Shwarz where you can get gifts of every kind for kids, the notorious “Fifth Avenue” which is one of the most famous shopping places in the world and you cannot ignore Greenwich Village for the most unusual shops, flea markets and a good bite to eat.

There are so many things to do in NY and to mention but the last thing I will suggest is to head to Broadway and check out a musical. I went to see Chicago the Musical, which was about three hours long and worth the money. Some other musicals to see are Jersey Boys, The Lion King and The Producers.

What more can I say about NY, apart from it’s one of the best places to go!