Taking a Bite of the Big Apple

Four steps to making the most of your summer vacation destination.

Travelling to a new city is exciting, yet daunting all at once. The anticipation, planning and saving builds up to a series of surreal moments. The memories made and experiences had help us grow as individuals. They are irreplaceable. It does not matter where you are travelling as long as new adventure is to be had. New York City is exactly that—one big adventure.  I guess the question is, how does one unlock the secrets to travelling in New York? Here’s what I learned on my first journey to the Big Apple.

1. Embrace reality.

When planning a trip to a place like New York, it is important to be prepared for the realities of travel and city life. Flights will get delayed, plans will change or something may not turn out to be exactly as you expected. This does not mean the trip is ruined. Just realize it is part of the adventure and that every moment adds to the experience. And as for city life, parts of the city do not exactly smell nice, it is noisy and everyone is always insanely busy. There are also charming apartment buildings, fun restaurants, sights to see and friendly people, so you end up with a balance.

2. Caution, celebrity sightings may cause fangirl (or boy) episodes.

New York City attracts celebrities and budding Broadway stars alike. Makes sense, but not something you necessarily think of right away when planning to visit. I didn’t expect to be sitting in the same Broadway audience as Peter Dinklage. Nor did I expect Neil Patrick Harris to surprise husband David Burtka after his It Shoulda Been You curtain call. This isn’t to say you are guaranteed celebrity sightings when walking the streets or attending Broadway shows, but you never know what can happen in the city that never sleeps.

3.  Don’t be afraid to be a tourist.

There is so much to do and see in this crazy city, it is hard not to be a tourist. Do not be afraid to be a true tourist and take in as much of the city as you can. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Museum of Immigration are two places that should go on every trip itinerary. The ferry ride between the mainland and the two islands is quick, but beautiful. Anyone who has been raised on the East or West Coast will enjoy being out on the water. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is another must-see attraction that will transport you around the world of art and natural history in one afternoon. Finding yourself an “I Love NY” shirt is also a cheesy must.

4. Find some food!

Everyone has an inner foodie and New York is a great place to explore that side of yourself. If you love cookies, Schmackary’s on West 45th street is the place to go. They sell the classic chocolate chip and snickerdoodle cookies, but they also have some unique recipes. Whether it is the Maple Bacon, the Funfetti or the new chocolate and Guinness cookie, they are all equally delicious. Of course, you have to try New York style pizza. Promise me you will try pizza from Patzeria Perfect Pizza on West 46th street. The name speaks for itself.

One of my favorite things about New York is that you can still find nature, even in the hustle and bustle. It may be overwhelming when you first arrive in the city, but all the uncertainty is part of the charm. Be ready for this city to steal a piece of your heart. You will want to be planning another trip before your return flight even takes off.