New York City

New York City brings me to life.
I have spent many solo mini breaks there and made some lifelong friends from the city and beyond.
I have also spent many breaks there with friends and family from the UK.
Here are some money saving tips for seeing the sights and making the most of your break in NYC.

NYC from above
Most tourists will head to the Empire state building to see the city from above but my sister and I took some good advice and bought a ticket for the Rockefellar centre (Top of the rock). The ticket was cheaper and being situated in the Diamond district meant that we got to see other great sites like Radio city. And if you go around Christmas time the ice skating rink along with the famous Christmas tree in the square looks magical. From the Rockefellar centre you can view the whole of NYC including an amazing view below of central park.

NYC by water
Of course there are numerous boat tours on offer which will whizz you out to Ellis Island for a tour at a price but why take a walk further up the water to Battery park where from there you can jump onto the Staten island ferry. It is free and runs daily. A twenty five minute trip across the water is plenty of time to get some great snaps of the statue of Liberty.

NYC by foot
Be sure to take comfortable walking shoes as believe me, the more you walk- the more you will see. Personally I like to stay in or near the Financial district. In this area you can take a walk along the Hudson river and see the old colgate clock! Stop by battery park and take in the views or wander through the streets of the district and stop by the New York stock exchange. Take a moment to sit on the steps and watch the world rush by. You really will feel as if you are in a scene from a movie! From Tribeca you could take a long walk through to Fifth avenue (or jump in a cab) and if you are not as flush as Sarah Jessica Parker then there’s no need to worry as bargain shops are situated along the avenue too.

NYC by Mouth!
I have been pretty spoilt in the city and dabbled in food and restaurants from most cultures, my favorite being the real authentic Italian restaurants hidden away down the side streets. However I understand that if visiting a city for the first time it is sensible to have a plan. Grab a cab or the subway if you are in a group and be aware that it is cheaper to buy a Metro card during your stay to ride through the cities subway at a small cost. East village is prime bar hoping territory with arty hangouts and bargain restaurants. If you manage to visit this district then take a visit to the original Coyote ugly saloon. I enjoyed a beer here and for some reason I remember eating a hotdog?! Lots of fun.
There are so many great spots to enjoy in NYC and I feel privileged to have visited many times.

If you have traveled to NYC, what was your favorite memory/spot and do you have any tips?