"My little bite out of the Big Apple" New York City by 850prc

New York City Travel Guide: 15,557 reviews and 30,993 photos

PChamlis, In a New York state of mind! - New York City

The Greatest City in the World? Believe it.

New York City has often been called the Greatest City in the World. And in many ways, it just might be. I would not even pretend to pass judgement as to which of the world's great metropoli sits atop the summit. But suffice to say that "The Big Apple" has a little bit of everything going for it.

My wife and I recently spent a long weekend in the theater district, celebrating our wedding anniversary. That's one beautiful thing about NYC. You can spend just a few days and yet do so much. And, you can do this sort of quickie vacation over and over, enjoying some different facet of the Big Apple each time.

Subsequenty, I've had occasion to visit the Big Apple several more times, both on business and pleasure. My most recent visit was April 2010, when my wife, daughter and I came up for a couple of shows and other fun. Got to see the King Tut exhibit, too.... and climbed to the very crown of Lady Liberty, an incredible AND cardiopulmonary-challenging experience. :)

Biting into the Big Apple is very satisfying for a traveler. But, I kind of believe that taking lots and lots of little bites might be the best way. We will continue to sink our teeth into this American and world treasure.

A transfusion of patriotism for a bloody wound

Flags of 9/11 remembrance at St. Paul's Chapel

New York City has a long and well-chronicled history. Many people may not remember that it WAS the first capital city of our country. George Washington spent most of his presidency (1789-1797) in the city. As our nation grew into a regional and then world power, NYC was at the forefront of everything that represented America.

Perhaps this is the reason that the city was chosen as a prime target in the September 11th attacks. The heinous cowards who authored this affront to all decency in this world incorrectly assumed they'd be able to stymie America by aiming for the head. But, they failed to consider that we are all about heart, too, in the USA. Their grievous miscalculation of the strength and dedication that IS America led to a national renewal of patriotism and love, unseen for decades.

That's the beautiful thing about the world's greatest democracy. We may argue among ourselves a bit....maybe even more than a bit. But, we care and we live. We believe in what our country and its spirit stands for. And we honor and revere our heroes, those who've paid the ultimate price for our freedom and blessings.

September 11th was meant to bring America to her knees. Instead, it challenged her to greater heights.

The photo accompanying this chapter was taken inside St. Paul's Chapel, at 209 Broadway. This little church is right across from the WTC site, and miraculously survived the attack(s). This congregation has a long history of ministering in times of need, and I'd sincerely recommend a short visit to their sanctuary. (Please see my General Tip on St. Paul's)

NYC.... the land of ooohs and aaaahs

Oooooh! Aaaaah! An amazing place, NYC

Whether it's your first or fiftieth visit to the Big Apple, it's hard to not be awestruck by all that surrounds you. You're constantly craning your neck to see the tops of the buildings surrounding you. Around every corner is something new, different and interesting. One could maybe debate as to whether NYC is really the greatest city in the world. But one thing is for sure...

It is sooooooooo worth the visit. And be prepared to fall completely in love. The land of oooohs and ahhhhs indeed.

Pros and Cons

Pros:It's the big show. Anything and everything can happen here.
Cons:Sometimes, the sheer number(s) of people get on my nerves
In a nutshell:I don't want to live a lifetime in NYC, but it's a great place to LIVE for a few days.

Last visit to New York City: Apr 2010
Intro Updated May 9, 2010
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Comments (58)

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mallyak Apr 10, 2012 at 2:26 AM

Nice way to start my USA plans Pete.We plan 15-20 day trip in Sept hopefully And NY is a must for us.In the meantime we leave next week for 3 months to India where we hope to relocate in the very near future.
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Yaqui Nov 20, 2010 at 8:57 AM

Wow, Top Notch page! You've packed it full of some many much needed information. It the best NYC page yet!
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risse73 Dec 28, 2009 at 7:59 PM

Pete, I enjoyed my virtual restaurant trip in NY! :-) I'm a foodie too, and love those typical NY deli places as well as salivate on the thought of international cuisine at every corner. Will be back to read more of your NY tips. Cheers!
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hopang May 17, 2009 at 1:11 AM

Superb NYC page with superb photos! NYC is one of the greatest tourist destinations in the world with excellent attractions such as Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Broadway shows and Times Square. We hope to visit NYC one day. ~ho & pang
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jo104 Sep 2, 2008 at 5:59 AM

brilliant tips I'm going to NYC in 3 weeks time & definetly will find these handy :-) greetings from London
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toonsarah May 11, 2008 at 11:10 AM

I fell in love with NYC 26 years ago, and will be back for the 1st time since then this Sept :) Thanks for the "book in advance" Empire State Building tip, and many good restaurant suggestions!
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volopolo Feb 28, 2008 at 7:08 AM

New York City has often been called the Greatest City in the World! Yes! NY is one or the number one Greatest City! volopolo
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msbrandysue Jan 3, 2008 at 11:15 PM

You're exactly right....NYC is so worth every second. Sounds like u fell as hard as I did for the big apple.
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VZ-Pam Dec 30, 2007 at 2:50 PM

Thanks for your comment on my Madrid page, Madrid is one of my favorite place ...anyway, greetings from BIG APPLE & Happy New Year To You & your family !!!!
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karenincalifornia May 31, 2007 at 6:57 AM

How's the Big Apple treating you? I'm sure you and FW are treating it very well! Don't let the papparazzi hound you too much!