Desde la National Gallery y los barrios emblemáticos hasta los jardines reales y el Big Ben: una propuesta para disfrutar la capital inglesa en sólo 24 horas.
Londres, la capital de Inglaterra. Muchas cosas por ver, muchos museos para visitar, muchos parques por los que pasear, muchas experiencias por vivir.
Se requieren demasiados días para invertir en esta cara metrópolis. Tantos, que el bolsillo no siempre está lo suficientemente lleno como para permitírselo. Pero, ¿quién dijo que para ir a Londres es imprescindible pernoctar una semana?
A continuación, una visita de 24 horas. Un viaje fugaz, pero intenso.
Esta propuesta contrarreloj es ideal para quienes hagan base en otra ciudad europea y acepten moverse con lo puesto, es decir, sin valijas.
El suelo londinense se pisa en el aeropuerto de Heathrow, por ejemplo, a las cinco de la tarde de un sábado, la hora del té inglés. Desde allí, al bajar al metro, "the tube", se puede comprar el ticket para ir hasta Bayswater, cerca del famoso barrio Notting Hill.
Lo más recomendable es adquirir un pasaje que permita viajar todo el día por seis zonas, justamente las que median entre el aeropuerto y el centro. Así, para llegar al hostel elegido habrá que hacer trasbordo en Hammersmith y subir a la línea verde. Pero atención con los distintos subterráneos: en un mismo andén puede circular más de una línea de metro.
La zona de Bayswater es lo que podría considerarse "la Londres arquetípica": si se largase a llover, algo usual en la capital de Inglaterra, el cuadro sería aún más clásico. Además, el ambiente en este barrio es típicamente holmesiano: casas bajas con pocos pisos, alargadas, uniformes, y sobre todo, elegantes y estilizadas.
Dejamos el poco equipaje que llevamos en algún hostel de la calle Princess Square; los pasillos de estas modestas pensiones deslumbran con sus muebles marcadamente isabelinos. Estrechas escaleras y espejos crean cierto aroma de misterio, como en las historias de Sherlock Holmes. Es de noche y quizás siga lloviendo durante toda la fugaz estancia en la ciudad. Pero nada es excusa para quedarse puertas adentro.
Un par de calles más arriba está el bullicio nocturno. Abundan los fast foods de todo tipo: pizzas, multinacionales de hamburguesas, kebabs, cadenas de bocadillos. Todo ideal para un bolsillo ajustado. Para culminar la noche, cualquiera de los bares es bueno para degustar una cerveza. A pesar de la fama que arrastran los londinenses de ser personas frías, lo cierto es que en los bares no se tienen miramientos a la hora de compartir la mesa.
Llega nuestro segundo y último día. Habrá que madrugar para aprovechar el paseo al máximo. A las 5.30 arriba: desayuno en el hostel y paraguas en mano. La primera parada es Baker Street, la estación del subte tiene el mismo nombre que la calle. En el número 221 de esta vía se hizo famoso el carismático sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Aunque el edificio que se erige allí no es especialmente llamativo, en la misma calle hay un museo dedicado al famoso detective, que vale la pena conocer.
De nuevo al metro y esta vez hacia Picadilly Circus, la emblemática plaza rodeada de impresionantes luces de neón; un asalto visual de publicidad a todo color. Después de dejarse sorprender por este concurrido espacio londinense, conviene dirigirse al puente de Waterloo, donde se cruza el serpenteante río Támesis.
A mano izquierda se ve el Teatro Nacional, y al cruzar el puente nos adentramos en Belvedere Road, desde donde se vislumbra la espléndida noria, más conocida como London Eye. Deleitarse con su altura queda al gusto y bolsillo de cada uno, pero es imprescindible acercarse y contemplar la vista de la abadía de Westminster.
Siempre en la misma zona, dejamos atrás los Jubilee Gardens para dirigirnos al London Film Museum, una excelente propuesta para cinéfilos. Claro que el tiempo no alcanzará para conocer más de un museo. Conviene elegir con antelación cuál será.
Ahora regresamos a la otra orilla de Londres a través del famoso puente de Westminster y nos acercamos a la torre que ocupa las postales más típicas de la ciudad: el Big Ben y el Palacio de Westminster. Llega entonces el momento de disfrutar de unos minutos en nuestro primer parque londinense, todos verdes, apacibles y llenos de vida vegetal y animal. Los paseantes se entretienen dando de comer a las aves y alguno intenta ganarse la confianza de una astuta ardilla.
Nuestra siguiente parada es el Buckingham Palace, pero atención: quien se apure para llegar a las 11.30 podrá ver el mítico cambio de guardia. Seguro que ahora acecha el hambre, así que a buscar un lugar para comer rápido. Por ejemplo, un kebab.
Caminamos luego a lo largo de la calle Picadilly, al norte del Green Park, pasando por la embajada japonesa, doblamos por Regent Street hasta llegar a la famosa Trafalgar Square. Pasear por Londres por placer y sin prisa, aun con poco tiempo, es un lujo. La plaza se terminó en 1845 y conmemora la victoria naval británica de Cádiz en 1805.
Aquí se encuentra además la National Gallery, el principal museo de arte de la ciudad. De todos los museos que hay para elegir en Londres, este es sin dudas el más prestigioso. El ingreso es gratuito, sólo se cobra el pase a algunas muestras, y alberga obras de artistas como Van Gogh, Velázquez o Monet. Pinturas que van desde el siglo XIII hasta el XX.
Casi es la hora de ir al subte hacia el aeropuerto. Pero no se puede abandonar Londres sin hacer una visita, aunque sea fugaz, al enorme Hyde Park, con unos 1,4 kilómetros cuadrados de superficie. Todo un pulmón en plena ciudad, donde es posible perderse y dedicarle todo el tiempo del mundo. Es cierto que queda poco tiempo, pero el suficiente para volver a jugar con las ardillas y dar un brevísimo paseo.
Ahora sí, el adiós. La parada de metro más cercana para iniciar el retorno es Hyde Park Corner. Un viaje fugaz a Londres revitaliza el espíritu igual que una semana de vacaciones.
Inspiración: Suplemento Viajes, Diario Clarín
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta Itineraries. Mostrar todas las entradas
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta Itineraries. Mostrar todas las entradas
lunes, 30 de enero de 2012
jueves, 16 de junio de 2011
5 days in Madrid, España
Madrid has something for all types of traveller – some of Europe’s best museums can be found here, while for the more party orientated traveller, the nightlife is one of the liveliest in Europe.
Madrid is right in the centre of Spain. It is thanks to this location that it is Spain’s capital. It is also the liveliest of all the Spanish cities and the locals, known as ‘Madrileños’, are just as much an attraction as some of the architecture and museums. Upon arriving in Madrid, check into your accommodation and go for a stroll and see how the locals live. They like to drink coffee during the day and then party hard at night.
After frequenting yourself with some of the city, make your way to Sol which is right in the centre. All around the area are shops if you fancy treating yourself. Also around Sol are an array of cafés in which to grab a coffee. This will give you another opportunity to watch Madrid life sail by. Also in Sol is Plaza Mayor. This is the city’s largest square and is packed with cafés, shops and bars. Something which makes it particularly impressive are the murals around the square. You won’t find it hard to spend a whole afternoon there.
Madrid's nightlife is legendary. It goes on well into the wee hours of the morning and you probably won’t make it to bed until well after 3am. The area between Puerta del Sol and Plaza de Santa Ana is eternally popular, particularly Calle Huertas where pubs, traditional tavernas and theatre cafés line the streets.
Madrid city centre has enough to offer any visitor for a short break, but it is always worth exploring what is on the outskirts of the city. If you do this you will come across Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial in the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, which is 50 kilometres northwest of the city.
Built in the second half of the 16th century by King Phillip II of Spain to mark the Spanish’s victory over the French in August 1557, a monastery, two palaces, and a library was built in the entire complex. It is best known for its symmetrical design and as the burial site for many famous Spanish kings and queens. And once inside it is difficult not to be impressed by the stately rooms and paintings from such masters as Tintoretto and Dürer.
The easiest way to get to the monastery is by hopping on a train from Charmartin Station to El Escorial and then getting a bus from there.
If you are lucky enough to be in Madrid during the months when the Spanish League La Liga is on (end of August until June annually), then don’t miss the chance of seeing one of the world’s most famous teams in action. Home to some of the most famous footballers in the world such as Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo, Real Madrid play their home games at Santiago Bernabéu situated at Concha Espina 1. Madrid’s other team, Athletico Madrid play their home games in Vicente Calderón at Paseo Virgen del Puerto 67.
Games are usually played in the evening so if you decide to go on a little excursion from Madrid for the day you should get back in for a game. And keep note that they are usually played on Saturdays or Sundays.
Situated on Paseo del Prado, Museo del Prado is widely regarded as one of the world’s best art museums. It houses over two and a half thousand works of art dating from the 1400's right up to the 1800’s. While a lot of the emphasis does lie with the great Spanish artists such as El Greco, Goya and Velazques, you will also have the opportunity to see hundreds of works by Flemish and Italian artists including Botticelli, Mantegna, Bosch, Rembrandt and Ruebens. A visit to this museum is a highly enjoable way to begin the day.
Whether of not you decide to spend a full day there is up to yourself. If looking at painting after painting becomes a little too tiresome for you, just across the street from the museum is Real Jardin Botanico, one of the nicest of the city centre parks. There are over 100 species of trees in the park and over 3,000 types of plant. A ‘must do’ for nature lovers.
That evening visit the area around the Gran Via. Here you will find an abundance of bars and nightclubs. It’s so popular and busy at night time that you are bound to see traffic jams at around 4am! Going from Cibeles Square to Plaza de Espana, this huge street can be a tad tacky at some points but is worth a look.
Another town not far from Madrid is Toledo. Dating back as far back as before Roman times, this medieval city is full with old narrow streets (sometimes with cars flying up and down), and an array of attractions.
La Catedral de Toledo which is situated in the old city can’t be missed. Built between the 13th and 15th century, this gothic cathedral has burial chambers of kings, amazing art and, of course, you can always sit and gather your thoughts if you wish.
The city’s other big drawcard is the alcázar, an ancient fortress which was destroyed constantly under siege in the Middle Ages and the Spanish Civil War, and was totally destroyed in 1535. The views over the city from here are the best in the city.
If you have any time remaining after seeing the city’s premier landmarks, an old church called Iglesia de Santo Tomé, Puente de Alcantara, one of the entrances to the old city, and Puerta de Bisagra (another one) should be paid visits. But, what’s more than likely to happen on a day out in Toledo is that you will walk around the fascinating winding streets for most of the day.
*Note: Even though Toledo is approximately 1 hour outside Madrid it is well worth the visit and is connected well by both bus and train services.
After seeing so much of Madrid on foot, your feet will need a rest. The best place to do so is at Madrid’s observatory tower which offers amazing views over the city called the Faro de Moncloa (Light of Moncloa). Located in the university district the building stands at 302 feet high and, as well offering fabulous vistas of the city, it’s a nice way to get away from the bustling streets in the city for about an hour or so.
Going up the Faro de Moncloa won’t take up a whole morning, leaving you with loads of time to visit the Palacio Real (Royal Palace). Lived in by the Royal Family until 1931, today the palace is used for official state visits. Altogether there are over 3,000 rooms in the palace, more than any other European palace and each one is decorated with great opulence. It also is home to one of the largest libraries in the world, as well as a very serious collection of weapons and armoury dating as far back as the 15th Century. Today it is open to the public and organised tours take approximately two hours. After walking around the palace for a while, you could find yourself lazing in the gardens for some of the afternoon as they are perfect for doing so, plus they offer some amazing views of Madrid.
If you still have some time left after visiting both the observatory deck and the Royal Palace (which is pretty likely), take some time to do a spot of shopping. The best known area for shopping is between Sol and Gran Via. Serrano Street, up from Plaza de la Independencia in the north east of the city is especially good for clothes shops and if you are going to be in the city on a Sunday, make sure and visit the El Rastro flea market.
A great way to spend a night in Madrid is by hopping from one ‘tapas bar’ to another. Tapas is a Spanish culinary speciality, but bars serving it usually sell beer also. By going on a bar crawl it is a good way to mingle with some locals, rather than visiting all the city’s touristy spots night after night.
Something which is totally unique to the Spanish capital are bars which don’t open their hours until 3am! Wherever you hear the phrase ‘tres de la madrugada’, this means that the certain event in question doesn’t begin until that time.
Day 1 | See how the locals live
Madrid is right in the centre of Spain. It is thanks to this location that it is Spain’s capital. It is also the liveliest of all the Spanish cities and the locals, known as ‘Madrileños’, are just as much an attraction as some of the architecture and museums. Upon arriving in Madrid, check into your accommodation and go for a stroll and see how the locals live. They like to drink coffee during the day and then party hard at night.
After frequenting yourself with some of the city, make your way to Sol which is right in the centre. All around the area are shops if you fancy treating yourself. Also around Sol are an array of cafés in which to grab a coffee. This will give you another opportunity to watch Madrid life sail by. Also in Sol is Plaza Mayor. This is the city’s largest square and is packed with cafés, shops and bars. Something which makes it particularly impressive are the murals around the square. You won’t find it hard to spend a whole afternoon there.
Madrid's nightlife is legendary. It goes on well into the wee hours of the morning and you probably won’t make it to bed until well after 3am. The area between Puerta del Sol and Plaza de Santa Ana is eternally popular, particularly Calle Huertas where pubs, traditional tavernas and theatre cafés line the streets.
Day 2 | Monasteries and the most famous team in the world?
Madrid city centre has enough to offer any visitor for a short break, but it is always worth exploring what is on the outskirts of the city. If you do this you will come across Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial in the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, which is 50 kilometres northwest of the city.
Built in the second half of the 16th century by King Phillip II of Spain to mark the Spanish’s victory over the French in August 1557, a monastery, two palaces, and a library was built in the entire complex. It is best known for its symmetrical design and as the burial site for many famous Spanish kings and queens. And once inside it is difficult not to be impressed by the stately rooms and paintings from such masters as Tintoretto and Dürer.
The easiest way to get to the monastery is by hopping on a train from Charmartin Station to El Escorial and then getting a bus from there.
If you are lucky enough to be in Madrid during the months when the Spanish League La Liga is on (end of August until June annually), then don’t miss the chance of seeing one of the world’s most famous teams in action. Home to some of the most famous footballers in the world such as Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo, Real Madrid play their home games at Santiago Bernabéu situated at Concha Espina 1. Madrid’s other team, Athletico Madrid play their home games in Vicente Calderón at Paseo Virgen del Puerto 67.
Games are usually played in the evening so if you decide to go on a little excursion from Madrid for the day you should get back in for a game. And keep note that they are usually played on Saturdays or Sundays.
Day 3 | From Museo del Prado to the park
Situated on Paseo del Prado, Museo del Prado is widely regarded as one of the world’s best art museums. It houses over two and a half thousand works of art dating from the 1400's right up to the 1800’s. While a lot of the emphasis does lie with the great Spanish artists such as El Greco, Goya and Velazques, you will also have the opportunity to see hundreds of works by Flemish and Italian artists including Botticelli, Mantegna, Bosch, Rembrandt and Ruebens. A visit to this museum is a highly enjoable way to begin the day.
Whether of not you decide to spend a full day there is up to yourself. If looking at painting after painting becomes a little too tiresome for you, just across the street from the museum is Real Jardin Botanico, one of the nicest of the city centre parks. There are over 100 species of trees in the park and over 3,000 types of plant. A ‘must do’ for nature lovers.
That evening visit the area around the Gran Via. Here you will find an abundance of bars and nightclubs. It’s so popular and busy at night time that you are bound to see traffic jams at around 4am! Going from Cibeles Square to Plaza de Espana, this huge street can be a tad tacky at some points but is worth a look.
Day 4 | Toledo
Another town not far from Madrid is Toledo. Dating back as far back as before Roman times, this medieval city is full with old narrow streets (sometimes with cars flying up and down), and an array of attractions.
La Catedral de Toledo which is situated in the old city can’t be missed. Built between the 13th and 15th century, this gothic cathedral has burial chambers of kings, amazing art and, of course, you can always sit and gather your thoughts if you wish.
The city’s other big drawcard is the alcázar, an ancient fortress which was destroyed constantly under siege in the Middle Ages and the Spanish Civil War, and was totally destroyed in 1535. The views over the city from here are the best in the city.
If you have any time remaining after seeing the city’s premier landmarks, an old church called Iglesia de Santo Tomé, Puente de Alcantara, one of the entrances to the old city, and Puerta de Bisagra (another one) should be paid visits. But, what’s more than likely to happen on a day out in Toledo is that you will walk around the fascinating winding streets for most of the day.
*Note: Even though Toledo is approximately 1 hour outside Madrid it is well worth the visit and is connected well by both bus and train services.
Day 5 | Tasty views, then Tapas Bars
After seeing so much of Madrid on foot, your feet will need a rest. The best place to do so is at Madrid’s observatory tower which offers amazing views over the city called the Faro de Moncloa (Light of Moncloa). Located in the university district the building stands at 302 feet high and, as well offering fabulous vistas of the city, it’s a nice way to get away from the bustling streets in the city for about an hour or so.
Going up the Faro de Moncloa won’t take up a whole morning, leaving you with loads of time to visit the Palacio Real (Royal Palace). Lived in by the Royal Family until 1931, today the palace is used for official state visits. Altogether there are over 3,000 rooms in the palace, more than any other European palace and each one is decorated with great opulence. It also is home to one of the largest libraries in the world, as well as a very serious collection of weapons and armoury dating as far back as the 15th Century. Today it is open to the public and organised tours take approximately two hours. After walking around the palace for a while, you could find yourself lazing in the gardens for some of the afternoon as they are perfect for doing so, plus they offer some amazing views of Madrid.
If you still have some time left after visiting both the observatory deck and the Royal Palace (which is pretty likely), take some time to do a spot of shopping. The best known area for shopping is between Sol and Gran Via. Serrano Street, up from Plaza de la Independencia in the north east of the city is especially good for clothes shops and if you are going to be in the city on a Sunday, make sure and visit the El Rastro flea market.
A great way to spend a night in Madrid is by hopping from one ‘tapas bar’ to another. Tapas is a Spanish culinary speciality, but bars serving it usually sell beer also. By going on a bar crawl it is a good way to mingle with some locals, rather than visiting all the city’s touristy spots night after night.
Something which is totally unique to the Spanish capital are bars which don’t open their hours until 3am! Wherever you hear the phrase ‘tres de la madrugada’, this means that the certain event in question doesn’t begin until that time.
Inspiration:
Hostel World
3 days in Boston, EEUU
Due to a layout which is unlike other American cities and its prominent Irish population, Boston has always been a popular destination with travellers going stateside. Fusing the old and the new effortlessly, it has a rustic charm which is hard to find anywhere else.
Explore Downtown Boston, between city hall and Washington Street. This is the heart of the city centre and the best place for shopping in the city. Afterwards take refuge from the crowds in Boston Common and the Public Gardens (right).
After lunch hop on one of the Duck Tours from Copley Place for an enjoying insight into the city's history along with trip down the Charles River.
End the day in Buckowski's Tavern (50 Dalton Street), a favourite bar among Bostonians.
Embark on the Freedom Trail, Boston's number one attraction. It passes by some of its most historic sights such as Massachusetts State House (right). The walk takes approximately three hours to complete.
North of the Charles River, Cambridge and in particular around Harvard Square is the perfect place to finish off the day. Walk through the grounds of Harvard University before checking out its many bars and restaurants.
One of Boston's most famous sons is John F. Kennedy. Located on the Red T-Line (subway), the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum gives an interesting insight into his short life.
In the afternoon, for great views of the city visit the Skywalk Observatory in the Prudential Tower on Boylston Street. Entrance includes an engaging audio guide which explains the history behind many of the city’s best-known buildings.
End the day on Lansdowne Street, the most vibrant street in the city.
Day 1 | Boston city centre
Explore Downtown Boston, between city hall and Washington Street. This is the heart of the city centre and the best place for shopping in the city. Afterwards take refuge from the crowds in Boston Common and the Public Gardens (right).
After lunch hop on one of the Duck Tours from Copley Place for an enjoying insight into the city's history along with trip down the Charles River.
End the day in Buckowski's Tavern (50 Dalton Street), a favourite bar among Bostonians.
Day 2 | The Freedom Trail
Embark on the Freedom Trail, Boston's number one attraction. It passes by some of its most historic sights such as Massachusetts State House (right). The walk takes approximately three hours to complete.
North of the Charles River, Cambridge and in particular around Harvard Square is the perfect place to finish off the day. Walk through the grounds of Harvard University before checking out its many bars and restaurants.
Day 3 | The best view in Boston
One of Boston's most famous sons is John F. Kennedy. Located on the Red T-Line (subway), the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum gives an interesting insight into his short life.
In the afternoon, for great views of the city visit the Skywalk Observatory in the Prudential Tower on Boylston Street. Entrance includes an engaging audio guide which explains the history behind many of the city’s best-known buildings.
End the day on Lansdowne Street, the most vibrant street in the city.
Inspiration:
Hostel World
5 days in New York, EEUU
As the saying goes, New York is so good that they named it twice. America’s most famous city, it's widely regarded as the world’s most famous city too. It is home to everything which epitomizes everything America – hot dogs, baseball and the Statue of Liberty. And with over 200 films made here every year, it is famous the world over.
Manhattan is comprised of numerous neighbourhoods, each with their own characteristics. What they do share is a certain quality that makes Manhattan that little bit different to the city’s other boroughs. So, after dropping your bags in your room, walk outside, take a moment to realise that you are right in the centre of New York, and begin your wander.
The financial district on the lower part of the island is where you can get ferries to other boroughs of the city – Staten Island, Brooklyn and the Statue of Liberty, but we’ll get back to them. Sadly, where the World Trade Center once stood is now Ground Zero, the gaping hole in the ground since the buildings were knocked down on September 11th. Just as the Twin Towers were one of the city’s biggest tourist attractions, so too is Ground Zero, although sadly visiting the site is now more of a sombre experience than a joyous one.
When you are at the southern end of Manhattan Island, you may as well travel up to the Brooklyn Bridge. Walking across it should take no longer than twenty minutes and from the other side is probably the best place to look at the Big Apple’s legendary skyline. Once you cross it you now have the opportunity to explore the immediate parts of Brooklyn such as Brooklyn Heights and downtown Brooklyn, before walking back over the bridge.
New York has so much to offer in terms of eating out, particularly in Lower Manhattan. You can go for a McDonald’s or some other fast food chain and they really are everywhere. You can get a hot dog from a stand. Or you may want to make a short trip to Chinatown or Little Italy, both with an excellent selection of restaurants serving their particular country’s culinary delights.
Each of Manhattan's suburbs have endless places to dance/drink the night away and some offer different things to others so don't be afraid to explore. On your first night, try checking out one of the grungy/rock bars in the East Village.
The Hudson River flows through New York, and even though the city is so fast paced (probably the busiest in the world), a cruise up the river is a great way to get out for the day and is also a great way to see some of the city’s hidden treasures.
Just two hours via ferry up the Hudson and you will begin to enjoy the scenic views the whole way up the river. The Rockefeller Estate, home to a breathtaking castle and the land’s wealthiest family, can be found up the Hudson, as can beaches, old farmhouses and parks. Some cruises take up to a couple of hours to complete, while others take most of the the day. With so much time to spend in the ‘Capital of the World’, cruises are a perfect getaway.
After a day on the Hudson, a good place to go that evening is Greenwich Village. It is a good area of the city for socialising, particularly if you enjoy live music. There are lots of students in the area also as it is where New York University is. This means that there are many good value eateries also.
Walking around Manhattan with taxis zooming in and out of lanes and people coming dangerously close to walking into your face is surprisingly appealing. This is New York after all. But what is even more appealing is that right in the middle of the island is a park to retreat to when you want to be in more peaceful surroundings.
Central Park is the perfect place to get lost in. Spanning over an area of 843 acres, the park is separated into different sections and full of various attractions. Spending half the day in the park isn't very challenging.
The Great Lawn is a huge patch of grass where loads of events take place during the summer months. If there isn’t anything on when you are there, just across the 86th St Transverse is the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. Previously known as the Reservoir, it was renamed after JFK’s widow as she used to run around the path frequently.
One of the nicest parts of the park (visually and recreationally) is The Ramble. Extremely hilly, it is the best part of the park to enjoy its wildlife. Elsewhere in the ‘New York’s Lung’, don’t avoid North Central Park at Harlem where you will find the Harlem Meer and the North Meadow. Down at the southern end of the park is the Carousel and the famous Wollman Rink. For the best way to see the city rent a bike inside the park or take a bike tour.
If you are up early enough in the morning, you may be finished exploring the highlights of the park by afternoon. If you are, take advantage of the rest of the afternoon by going on one of the Manhattan TV tours. They visit the Friends apartment, the famous steps in front of the Cosby house and the diner from Seinfeld.
New York is famed for its sports teams. One of the best known baseball teams in the world is the New York Yankees (if solely for their logo which can be seen on half of all baseball caps across the globe) while the New York Nicks are just as famous when it comes to basketball. And, of course, the Giants are the city’s better known American football team. No matter what time of year you visit the Big Apple, you can always go to see one of the teams play as the basketball season runs from October to June, baseball from February to October and football from August to December. As so many games are played at night it is a good way to spend a night.
At some stage during your stay you have to see the city’s most famed landmarks. If you make Times Square your starting point, try to make it your finishing point too as it simply has to be seen after dark.
From Times Square wander down to Broadway and travel south (from Times Square this should be a right). Now don’t rush yourself as New York is one of the few city’s in the world where the streets, the people and atmosphere in the air are just as big an attraction as the most famous buildings. So as you meander among the pedestrians on the sidewalk, enjoy it. Once on Broadway you will be able to see the Empire State Building standing high in the sky. The easiest way to reach the landmark skyscraper is to keep walking until you can’t see the top anymore. This way you know you aren’t far away.
After a trip to the top of the building you should now head straight back down to Broadway and keep going south. Your next destination is the ferry to the Statue of Liberty. The ferry to see her leaves from the very southern tip of Manhattan in Battery Park. At this stage, if you are feel your stomach becoming somewhat disgruntled with you, stop in Little Italy or Chinatown for a quick bite before making your way to the park and embark the ferry.
During your stay in New York it is a good idea to spend at least one night socialising away from Manhattan and try and go into one of the city’s other boroughs. Possibly the most famous internationally is Brooklyn, and there are organised tours which will bring you into the best bars in the area before ending up back in the Lower East Side of Manhattan.
If it is your first time in New York it will be hard to take yourself off the streets as there is so much to see and do outside. But there is a lot of culture in New York, and in particular some excellent museums.
On the Upper East Side of Manhattan is a part of town known as ‘Museum Mile’, from just above 57th Street all the way up Fifth Avenue. The best known of all the city’s museums is the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art (otherwise known as ‘the Met’). Covering a colossal 140,000 square feet (in other words HUGE), there are all types of exhibitions on show ranging from baseball cards to Islamic art. There are also classic pieces by European masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer.
While it is easy to spend a full day in the Met (as well as get lost) if you do decide to leave after half a day, also on Fifth Ave are the National Academy of Design, the International Center of Photography and the Museum of the City of New York.
Floating around the city’s various museums will definitely take up most of the day so after so much culture (even with a sandwich somewhere during the day), walking around will make you work up a very big appetite. Around the upper east side is a good selection of restaurants, as there is in most parts of Manhattan. This part of town is just closest to the museums.
Also one thing you must do before leaving the Big Apple is see the famous Manhattan skyline in the dark. There is always something a bit more special about seeing a skyline lit up, and this is one of the best. It will also leave a smile on your face thinking about it while sipping over some nice cool beers.
Day 1 - Manhattan
Manhattan is comprised of numerous neighbourhoods, each with their own characteristics. What they do share is a certain quality that makes Manhattan that little bit different to the city’s other boroughs. So, after dropping your bags in your room, walk outside, take a moment to realise that you are right in the centre of New York, and begin your wander.
The financial district on the lower part of the island is where you can get ferries to other boroughs of the city – Staten Island, Brooklyn and the Statue of Liberty, but we’ll get back to them. Sadly, where the World Trade Center once stood is now Ground Zero, the gaping hole in the ground since the buildings were knocked down on September 11th. Just as the Twin Towers were one of the city’s biggest tourist attractions, so too is Ground Zero, although sadly visiting the site is now more of a sombre experience than a joyous one.
When you are at the southern end of Manhattan Island, you may as well travel up to the Brooklyn Bridge. Walking across it should take no longer than twenty minutes and from the other side is probably the best place to look at the Big Apple’s legendary skyline. Once you cross it you now have the opportunity to explore the immediate parts of Brooklyn such as Brooklyn Heights and downtown Brooklyn, before walking back over the bridge.
New York has so much to offer in terms of eating out, particularly in Lower Manhattan. You can go for a McDonald’s or some other fast food chain and they really are everywhere. You can get a hot dog from a stand. Or you may want to make a short trip to Chinatown or Little Italy, both with an excellent selection of restaurants serving their particular country’s culinary delights.
Each of Manhattan's suburbs have endless places to dance/drink the night away and some offer different things to others so don't be afraid to explore. On your first night, try checking out one of the grungy/rock bars in the East Village.
Day 2 - Sailing down the Hudson
The Hudson River flows through New York, and even though the city is so fast paced (probably the busiest in the world), a cruise up the river is a great way to get out for the day and is also a great way to see some of the city’s hidden treasures.
Just two hours via ferry up the Hudson and you will begin to enjoy the scenic views the whole way up the river. The Rockefeller Estate, home to a breathtaking castle and the land’s wealthiest family, can be found up the Hudson, as can beaches, old farmhouses and parks. Some cruises take up to a couple of hours to complete, while others take most of the the day. With so much time to spend in the ‘Capital of the World’, cruises are a perfect getaway.
After a day on the Hudson, a good place to go that evening is Greenwich Village. It is a good area of the city for socialising, particularly if you enjoy live music. There are lots of students in the area also as it is where New York University is. This means that there are many good value eateries also.
Day 3 - Central Park
Walking around Manhattan with taxis zooming in and out of lanes and people coming dangerously close to walking into your face is surprisingly appealing. This is New York after all. But what is even more appealing is that right in the middle of the island is a park to retreat to when you want to be in more peaceful surroundings.
Central Park is the perfect place to get lost in. Spanning over an area of 843 acres, the park is separated into different sections and full of various attractions. Spending half the day in the park isn't very challenging.
The Great Lawn is a huge patch of grass where loads of events take place during the summer months. If there isn’t anything on when you are there, just across the 86th St Transverse is the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. Previously known as the Reservoir, it was renamed after JFK’s widow as she used to run around the path frequently.
One of the nicest parts of the park (visually and recreationally) is The Ramble. Extremely hilly, it is the best part of the park to enjoy its wildlife. Elsewhere in the ‘New York’s Lung’, don’t avoid North Central Park at Harlem where you will find the Harlem Meer and the North Meadow. Down at the southern end of the park is the Carousel and the famous Wollman Rink. For the best way to see the city rent a bike inside the park or take a bike tour.
If you are up early enough in the morning, you may be finished exploring the highlights of the park by afternoon. If you are, take advantage of the rest of the afternoon by going on one of the Manhattan TV tours. They visit the Friends apartment, the famous steps in front of the Cosby house and the diner from Seinfeld.
New York is famed for its sports teams. One of the best known baseball teams in the world is the New York Yankees (if solely for their logo which can be seen on half of all baseball caps across the globe) while the New York Nicks are just as famous when it comes to basketball. And, of course, the Giants are the city’s better known American football team. No matter what time of year you visit the Big Apple, you can always go to see one of the teams play as the basketball season runs from October to June, baseball from February to October and football from August to December. As so many games are played at night it is a good way to spend a night.
Day 4 - Become the typical tourist
At some stage during your stay you have to see the city’s most famed landmarks. If you make Times Square your starting point, try to make it your finishing point too as it simply has to be seen after dark.
From Times Square wander down to Broadway and travel south (from Times Square this should be a right). Now don’t rush yourself as New York is one of the few city’s in the world where the streets, the people and atmosphere in the air are just as big an attraction as the most famous buildings. So as you meander among the pedestrians on the sidewalk, enjoy it. Once on Broadway you will be able to see the Empire State Building standing high in the sky. The easiest way to reach the landmark skyscraper is to keep walking until you can’t see the top anymore. This way you know you aren’t far away.
After a trip to the top of the building you should now head straight back down to Broadway and keep going south. Your next destination is the ferry to the Statue of Liberty. The ferry to see her leaves from the very southern tip of Manhattan in Battery Park. At this stage, if you are feel your stomach becoming somewhat disgruntled with you, stop in Little Italy or Chinatown for a quick bite before making your way to the park and embark the ferry.
During your stay in New York it is a good idea to spend at least one night socialising away from Manhattan and try and go into one of the city’s other boroughs. Possibly the most famous internationally is Brooklyn, and there are organised tours which will bring you into the best bars in the area before ending up back in the Lower East Side of Manhattan.
Day 5 - Time to be a culture vulture
If it is your first time in New York it will be hard to take yourself off the streets as there is so much to see and do outside. But there is a lot of culture in New York, and in particular some excellent museums.
On the Upper East Side of Manhattan is a part of town known as ‘Museum Mile’, from just above 57th Street all the way up Fifth Avenue. The best known of all the city’s museums is the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art (otherwise known as ‘the Met’). Covering a colossal 140,000 square feet (in other words HUGE), there are all types of exhibitions on show ranging from baseball cards to Islamic art. There are also classic pieces by European masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer.
While it is easy to spend a full day in the Met (as well as get lost) if you do decide to leave after half a day, also on Fifth Ave are the National Academy of Design, the International Center of Photography and the Museum of the City of New York.
Floating around the city’s various museums will definitely take up most of the day so after so much culture (even with a sandwich somewhere during the day), walking around will make you work up a very big appetite. Around the upper east side is a good selection of restaurants, as there is in most parts of Manhattan. This part of town is just closest to the museums.
Also one thing you must do before leaving the Big Apple is see the famous Manhattan skyline in the dark. There is always something a bit more special about seeing a skyline lit up, and this is one of the best. It will also leave a smile on your face thinking about it while sipping over some nice cool beers.
Inspiration:
Hostel World
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