New York Guest Blog
My New York Experience by Sophie Guest
On my first trip to New York, I was unsure what to expect. From seeing it in all the big films it was always somewhere I always dreamt of going but never thought I would actually get there. I expected it to be a slightly surreal experience, and I was not disappointed as my time out in the city that literally never sleeps, was better than I could have ever imagined.
The first time stepping out onto Broadway and seeing the iconic New York taxis lined up down the street, I instantly felt like I was on a film set. On the first day we sailed down the Hudson River, this is a great chance to get a view of the Manhattan Skyline whilst also sailing past the Statue of Liberty and spotting many other of New Yorks famous landmarks. This river cruise is a great chance to get some iconic New York snaps to show everyone back home.
In the afternoon we took a bus tour around Uptown Manhattan, which dropped us of at the famous Central Park. When you first arrive at the park you are greeted by people trying to sell you bicycle hire or to view the park by horse and carriage, which did get pretty intense and annoying, but once you’ve got past them, the views that await you are magical and you see stunning views of a park you’ve only ever dreamt about before. My visit was toward the end of summer, and still with high temperatures, central park looked as picturesque as I imagined. From the park you can see the Plaza Hotel, renowned for being used in many films, including Home Alone 2, a film I’ve watched almost every year whilst growing up.
On the second day we visited the 9/11 memorial. It was a complete different experience from the rest of my time in New York, but something that I would recommend everyone to do. New York never stops, the noise and adrenaline fills the avenues but a ground zero, its almost silent as people pay respect to the victims.
Later that day we went up to Rockefeller building, it was between this and the Empire State building. I would recommend anyone to go up ‘The Rock’ when in NYC, as you get the Empire State in all your photographs you take as you look down over the city. From here you also get stunning views of Central Park. When I return to New York, I plan to go back up the Rockefeller at night, so I can see the magical city lit up.
On returning from New York, every time I see it on TV I look out for the places I have been and reminisce what we got up to with my family. It is such a magical city and I cannot wait to return soon!
New York City
New York City has so much to offer and is an amazing place to visit. A very good friend of mine lives in Williamsburg, just across the bridge from Manhattan, and loves it. There is just so much to do and see that even a week is not enough time to get totally stuck in but, I believe, any time in New York is better than no time in New York. The trip across the Atlantic is only about 7 hours and New York and New Jersey airports host up to 25 flights a day from London alone. The most popular time to go is from September to mid-December for shopping trips but be prepared to pay a higher price for hotels and expect some snow. All in all, this is part of the experience.
Things to do
There are so many things to see and do but if you just want to chill out and watch the world go by then there’s always Central Park. A day could easily be spent here just lazing around in the summer or, in winter, why not have a go at some ice skating. If you’re thinking of a short stroll from end to end, best keep in mind that this park is 2.5 miles long and you’ll quite likely get sidetracked so leave yourself a good few hours to explore.
Shopping, of course, is a huge draw to New York, and it seems that everybody ends up in Macy’s to get some deals but, once again, leave yourself some time. This department store is massive, and even the most rushed of shoppers can spend hours in here. Make sure you take advantage of the tourist discount cards they offer, as well. The other shopping hotspot is 5th Avenue where, due to prices, you’ll find more window shoppers than spenders but it’s a must see.
There are many other must-sees in Manhattan, such as the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Centre, Madison Square Garden and Grand Central Station to name just a few. Grand Central is an amazing building, is beautiful, and hosts numerous high-end food shops that are great for a browse. If you need inspiration for things to do, just give me a ring.
Getting away
While Midtown is the hub of everything in New York City, there are loads of wonderful neighbourhoods to explore; Little Italy and Chinatown are fun but getting out to Brooklyn or the Bronx can be a lot of fun as well. Get yourself a good top up for the subway and go exploring but take a good look around the stations as well…there are some interesting sights to see underground.
New York is a fabulous city to visit and explore and has something for all ages. This is not one of those places that you can only enjoy without kids, and I’d venture so far as to say it would be more fun with them.
Virgin Voyages CruisesDaniel Reed | September 21, 2022Virgin Voyages Cruises Virgin Voyages Cruises, Adult-by-Design which means that this holiday is just for those 18 and over. No kidding. With elevated experiences curated with adults in mind. Virgin Voyages have created a place where only your Sailors’ inner-child...... Read More...
- Liberty of the Seas | Mediterranean Cruises | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
Just a few lines to say a great huge big THANK YOU for organising another wonderful holiday for us! The cruise was excellent. The whole experience was stress free which is a major factor for me! The taxis all turned up on time which was amazing. We also thought the hotel in Barcelona was excellent, so thank you again Tim. You really are a star.
by Ann
Guildford, SurreyAdventure of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
I thought we'd just let you know what a wonderful time we all had aboard the Adventure of the Seas, and thank you for your part in the arrangements, we enjoyed every minute, no doubt probably our best cruise to date. Also I would say that disparaging remarks or criticism were totally unfounded, we gave all the staff, food, cabins, entertainment, weather and the ports of call, 10 out of 10, its a great ship, managed by a fine Master and very dedicated crew. We may have to give next year a miss to build up the bank balance, but we will come back to you for your expertise, as our Cruise Connoisseur.
by Barry
Pontypridd, Mid GlamorganCala Galdana | Menorca | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
Thank you so very much for the trip you arranged for us, it was everything we wanted. The hotel was lovely and we thoroughly enjoyed just relaxing in the shade watching the world go by. My wife took four books on her kindle, but only read 16% of the first one because we met and talked to so many lovely people.
by Alan
Broadstairs, KentNY / Disney / Clearwater | Disney Florida | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
Thanks again for helping us organise the holiday of a lifetime!!! We had an amazing time and really appreciated you assistance with the breakfast in Clearwater ;o)
by Lisa
Birmingham, West MidlandsMilano | Verona | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for organising our trip to Verona last weekend. This was a very emotive trip for my wife & I, as it was our first trip to Italy since my wife's cancer diagnosis 2 years ago. Italy is without a doubt our favourite place on the planet and we were not sure if she would see it again. Thanks to you, she has regained, what I call her Italian smile, it came across her face the minute we touched down. Money cannot pay for that smile!The hotel at Gatwick was literally a 2 minute bus ride from the airport, front row seats on the flight over and chauffeur driven limo to meet us at the airport was an amazing start to the weekend. When you said we were staying in a 3 star hotel, I was, if I'm honest, a little nervous, generally speaking, 3 star hotels in Italy means you are sleeping in a cow shed. Not at the Hotel Milano, what an amazing hotel, slap bang in the centre of Verona, with views of the arena, excellent breakfast, towels changed twice daily, good size bedrooms and very comfortable beds! The air con worked superbly, which was just as well with temperatures in the 30's every day. Thank you for making this trip memorable for both of us.
by Mike
Sittingbourne, KentAzura | Fjords Cruises | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
First of all thank you for helping our son & daughter to organise such a great surprise trip for us. The only cruise I've wanted to do and it certainly came up to expectations. It really was fantastic and made a wonderful golden wedding present with all the immediate family with us - a rare occasion! A really big thank you for the wonderful bouquet of roses which arrived in our cabin. I was really touched by such a kind thought, they were beautiful and very much appreciated.
by Trish
Oxford, OxfordshireSerenade of the Seas | Worldwide Cruises | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
There aren't many people I can say this to, but you've totally impressed my mother-in-law. Seriously, thank you for all you hard work in arranging the cruise on board Serenade of the Seas for my in-laws and four other guests. Not only were your clients located in in three corners of the UK, but you had to deal with very late booking alterations, various medical requirements, special dietary requirements and not to mention 6 very experienced cruisers.All arrangements were completed by you with professional calm and flourish and, due to your personal intervention and attention to detail, everything was perfect from beginning to end. The whole party, who have much cruising experience between them, were totally impressed and will undoubtedly be booking with you again.
by Michael
Canterbury, KentRocky Mountains Fly Drive | Canada | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
Thank you for all your expertise - all arrangements worked superbly - but then again you know that! Definitely our best holiday ever.
by Julie
Canterbury, KentGarden Route Tour | South Africa | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
Congratulations - you are just brilliant at your job, as we knew you would be. We have just returned from the most amazing holiday. Everything went like clockwork and we cannot thank you enough.The itinerary you gave us was perfect. If we had done Shamwari early on as our companions on the drives were doing then the impact / climax would just not have been the same. The President Protea was a perfect start for us - good swimming pool & very adequate 3 star. Lots to tell you about one day. Terrible drought there, but we just squeezed in before they tightened up. Thank you again so much.
by Jim
Hythe, KentOceania Cruises - Riviera | Mediterranean Cruises | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
Just back from a fantastic holiday. Everything went really well with your arrangements. The Centurion Palace was great and I would strongly recommend it. It is a great location, very comfortable & very attentive staff. Venice was a trifle hot but lovely all the same and now competing for our favourite Italian city. All went well with the ship, again thank you for picking it for us; a perfect choice. Staff were great, cabin very comfortable and what was so nice is that there was no forced seating. We could eat in a choice of restaurants and there was always a table for two if we wanted it. The food choices were outstanding. The itinerary was very interesting particularly Kotor in Montenegro. We easily got a train into Florence and were bold over by Barcelona. A big thank you from us both for organising this trip, and believe it or not, we both came back a few pounds lighter!
by Andrew
Folkestone, KentGF Gran Costa Adeje | Tenerife | Reviewed 13 Feb 2019
Just got back from a trip to Tenerife organised by Sarah... The organisation was perfect... the flights, transfers and Hotel accommodation all worked perfectly and Sarah kept a look out to make sure we were OK throughout... those little personal touches are really appreciated... on our way to Canada with Sarah's help in September … Can't wait... cant recommend her services highly enough.
by Kevin Russell
Haywards Heath, Haywards HeathBEACHES TURKS & CAICOS | Bahamas | Reviewed 02 Dec 2017
I had never used a Travel Consultant before. Daniel was recommended to me at a number of networking events & when I was thinking of planning a holiday I contacted him. From here I noticed a different level of service than I had experienced with other travel sales channels.2 things stick out; 1. Daniel jumped on my request immediately. I was impressed by how he communicated at every step of the way & acted with pace. This created trust very quickly. 2. Daniel always left a next move. This is a very skilful approach to sales. I was never boxed in, always had an alternative & had options.I recommend Daniel & will be using him for all my future travel needs.
by Steve Knapp
Sheffield, SheffieldThe Palace | Malta | Reviewed 02 Dec 2017
Great 4 days in Malta organised by Daniel! My passport had only a couple of months left on it and I was worried that I'd need to quickly get a new one but Daniel checked Malta's entry rules and was able to put my mind at ease ...saving me a wodge of cash.
by Laura Billingham
Sheffield, SheffieldGrand Hotel Vesuvio Naples | Naples | Reviewed 02 Dec 2017
recently needed to arrange a long weekend break for my partner in Naples. within a couple of days were were able to book, confirm and have the paperwork sorted for us. Daniel took all the messing about which I hate doing and found us a 5*hotel deal. Brillìant service
by Richard Godley
Sheffield, SheffieldMadrid | Reviewed 06 Jun 2017
Hello JillOnce again we would like to thank you very much for giving us such a terrific service. Our recent holiday to Spain with Great Rail Journeys was not quite as straight forward as we had hoped partly because there were days added and two couples - one British and the other Australian.Thank you Jill for filling in all the missing paperwork for taxis. You must have spent considerable time sorting out that problem. For the four of us, nothing could have been more simple. Lovely, executive cars arrived at each designated meeting place with superb drivers.It was pure pleasure to be picked up and delivered so efficiently. There were absolutely no hitches. Thanks must also go to GRJ for providing such excellent transportation. Mr and Mrs Atkinson have asked me to give you their sincere thanks to which we add our own.Thank you Jill Sincerely The Atkinsons and Boylands. June 2017
by Sandi Boyland
Eastbourne, West sussekSanta Maria Suites | Milan | Reviewed 15 May 2017
Joelle arranged this trip for myself and my husband for his 50th birthday. She put a lot of thought and care into selecting the perfect little hotel, close to the city centre and within easy reach of the station. Cannot recommend her skills highly enough!
by Bacon
Bocking, BraintreeMediterranean Palace | Cyprus | Reviewed 16 Aug 2016
Nothing is ever too much for Kristina, no matter how many times we change our mind or budget Kristina still manages to make it work. Kristina goes the extra mile and ensures we are spoilt and well looked after on every trip
by Rebecca
Keen, MarlboroughLe Victoria | Mauritius | Reviewed 11 Nov 2015
Hi Kristina, Everything was brilliant thank you. Mauritius and Le Victoria were AMAZING!! The place was stunning, and the people were so friendly, everyone from the cab driver from the airport to the hotel to the people checking us in on the way home, couldn’t have helped us any more even if they wanted to. I would 100% recommend Mauritius and Le Victoria to anyone asking about it. Thank you for all you done, to help get it booked.
by A Button
Poulton, EssexDREAMS LA ROMANA | Dominican Republic | Reviewed 12 Sep 2015
HiJenny,Thank–you for organising our trip to Dominican Republic everything was brilliant and went really well,as expected when you are organising things, the resort was brilliant much better than we had imagined and we were upgraded to fantastic rooms 7303 and 7304 they were the most recently refurbished and also used for the preferred club.I know its early but sometimes its best to try and sort things early so for next August we are thinking of Dreams St Thomas ? but do not think we can fly there direct from UK so were thinking of 3 nights New York, 12-14 nights at Dreams and then fly back direct if available or via Miami with 2 nights there.Or another thought is Aruba I know the Dreams there does not open till 2018 but I think there are similar chain there.Please could you look at these for August 2016.Thanks again for yet another great holiday this year, how do you manage to ALWAYS get our holidays so spot on ?
by Peter Watts
ESSEX , ESSEXVilla Marija Tucei Croatia | Med & Short Haul | Reviewed 11 Sep 2015
Myself and Harry would just like to say a HUGE thank you for helping us arrange our holiday. It was the most amazing holiday, Tucepi is the most beautiful place. Our room was lovely, a great view right out to the Marina and the beach, and Villa Marija was the perfect location. Thank you again, will definitely be returning, and also will be contacting you again for future holidays!
by K Milner
Tewkesbury, GlosAtrium prestige thalasso spa | Rhodes | Reviewed 06 Sep 2015
Just back from yet another exceptional trip planned for us by Jackie. The hotel was outstanding, fantastic facilities, great location and fabulous service.Jackie goes above and beyond to find the perfect holiday for us each time we've used her services. I cannot recommend her enough.
by Lisa Whitehead
Swinderby , LincsMitsis family village | Kos | Reviewed 31 Aug 2015
Not long back from our 3rd holiday of the year all booked by Jackie, Jackie is excellent at finding great hotels at fantastic prices. firstly we booked a holiday in Mexico at the Occidental Grand Excaret on the Riviera Maya. For the May bank holiday weekend we asked Jackie if she could find us something in the UK with a hot tub for a relaxing break, Jackie quickly replied with a few options and we ended up booking Conifer Lodges at Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway. The price through Jackie was cheaper than what we could of booked it ourselves. Lastly we have not been long back from Kardemeana in Kos, this one proved a bit more difficult to find as we'd been spoilt in Mexico, Jackie spent a lot of time finding us exactly what we asked for and yet again managed to find us a fantastic hotel at a brilliant price. I look forward to booking next years holiday's with Jackie as I know she'll exceed our expectations for what we want.
by linda turner
carlisle, carlisleAegean Village | Kos | Reviewed 22 Aug 2015
I have just come back from a fantastic week in Kos which Jackie booked at very short notice for my daughter and myself. I was a little nervous about travelling alone with my 7 year old for the first time as my husband was working and, to compound matters, I had an injured shoulder. Jackie arranged everything to make the holiday as easy for me as possible. The hotel was lovely and just what we wanted - we had a great break.Before contacting Jackie I had already wasted almost a full day trawling the internet and tying myself up in knots. Jackie did all the research, gave me loads of suggestions and had the whole holiday booked and organised in just a few hours. All I had to do was pack and turn up for the flight. Next time I'm not going to even think about searching online - I'll get straight in touch with Jackie and ask her to sort it out for me! Thanks Jackie! xx
by Claire Mitchell
Darlington, Co DurhamSol Costa Blanca | Benidorm | Reviewed 17 Jul 2015
Hi Kristina The holiday was more than fantastic thank you, they looked after us brilliantly at the hotel, upgraded the room. Best holiday ever, we loved every minute.Thank you so very much for arranging it all
by S Bowden
Swindon, SwindonEl Nido Resort | Faraway | Reviewed 15 Jul 2015
Hi Kristina, We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the fabulous booking you made us, it far exceeded our expectations, it was out of this world. All the hotels were fabulous. El Nido Resort, Apulit Island, was like a piece of Paradise. We would gladly recommend you and your company to all our friends and family, and look forward to working with you again.
by Mr & Mrs K Manning
Greenford, MiddlesexEl Paso PortAventura | Salou | Reviewed 04 Jun 2015
Hi Olivia, Just wanted to let you know that we had a fabulous holiday at El Paso Hotel, It was excellent, the food plentiful and there was a good selection. All geared up for families, with a lovely big pool. Being close to the theme park and water park was the icing on the cake, we even managed to spend one morning on the beach, this was in walking distance. Our private transfer was perfect, no worrying about the childrens seats as they were in our bus. Thank you so much for arranging everything for me and my family, you were so helpful and nothing was too much trouble, you certainly made the whole holiday experience for the eleven of us a complete joy. I will certainly be using you again.
by Susan Brotherhood
Welwyn Garden City, HertsPlaya Pesquero | Cuba | Reviewed 05 Mar 2015
Hi Kristina, We had a fabulous time. The resort had everything you could want, everyone catered for, people really friendly. The restaurants had a good variety of food, beaches & sea. It was lovely. Thank you very much for finding us this gem.
by P Harding
Cirencester, GlosDubai | Reviewed 30 Jan 2015
We have used Karens expertise on at 3 far away trips to-date and each time we have found Karen to be excellent in offering advise and great service, along with competitive pricing. the hotels have always been first class so we look forward to our next two trips with confidence.
by john
redditch, worcestershireTailormade trip | Australia | Reviewed 02 Dec 2014
Everything went according to plan thank you.The hotel in Sydney was in a great location, as was the accommodation in Port Douglas, Darwin and Singapore. The excursions you organised were excellent, we thank you very much for your help and patience whilst organising our holiday. I have a few ideas for some future adventures so will be in touch for your help.
by K Sayers
Nottingham, NottinghamLe Preskil Beach Resort | Mauritius | Reviewed 22 Oct 2014
Just back from our latest holiday at Le Preskil Beach Resort in Mauritius arranged by Dany. Once again every detail was spot on and we had a room upgrade to a "Prestige Cottage". When you travel - Go Dany!
by Jeremy Lillies
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