New York

OK, let’s establish some ground rules. It’s called the City, not Manhattan. And under no circumstance should you ever say New York City. Yes, we know some New Yorkers do take things a bit too far and say they are from the City even when they are visiting relatives in Tulsa – where the nickname really loses its luster.

Whatever it is you are trying to do while you’re in the City, do it quickly and get out of the way. That applies to ordering at the deli (where do you think the Soup Nazi idea came from?), riding the escalators, crossing the street or buying a paper. Things have a faster pace up here and people like it that way. This City will eat you alive if you don’t prepare properly.

But even with all of the millions of people scurrying around, you can still blend into the madness and fit right in. That’s because everyone is too busy to notice you as they race to the subways, run to catch the ferries, or fight for a cab. New York has a “kick you in the teeth” attitude that can make you feel satisfied when you actually accomplish something. And, you know you earned it because you’ve just navigated thru all the madness. Here’s a local tip so don’t sound like a tourist when you are downtown- it’s pronounced “How-Stin” even though it is spelled like Houston. SoHo means south of Houston – now go figure out NoHo on your own.

Immerse yourself in the City, with all it has to offer, and you’ll understand why it’s like no other place on earth. The diversity, the energy, the attitude – you can find anything and everything in the City that never (EVER) sleeps. There’s always a new neighborhood to explore, another restaurant to try, another club to dance at, and another bar to drink in.

Dreams have been realized here since the first settlers and you can feel that same spirit as you walk the streets of each neighborhood. Where else can you see millionaires mingling seamlessly with the working class? From munching on their morning bagels to singing along with Frank Sinatra at the end of the Yankees game, New Yorkers share the local pride. Maybe it’s because everyone has one thing in common – they’ve all lived in that 300 square foot studio apartment and paid $2000 a month for it. And why does everyone say their address like it’s the most regal location in the known universe?

NYC was built (and still runs) on its neighborhoods. You’ll find that each has its own character, so get out and explore. People from all walks of life are really what make this place so special.

Shopping

It’s the only city in the world where you can forget to pack your little black dress and you’re not out of luck. Just simply run across the street and buy anything you need with ease. That brings us to a journeyPod Pick for all you shopaholics out there. Century 21 (which is way downtown, but worth the cab fare or subway to 22 Cortland St., between Church & Bdwy.). No, not the real estate moguls – Century 21 is a retail store with great deals on top designers and a bargain-hunter’s dream. If brand names are your weakness, you’ll savor every moment while pawing through the medley of racks of designer duds. Where else can you pick up an Armani suit at 50% off or save hundreds on that dress that’s all the rage?

NY Shout-outs to: Special Agent JR & Dave, who is special in his own way!

If you are looking for New York hotel recommendations and reviews then read our journeyPod Picks where we hand select only the best hotels in New York. Who has time to read thru thousands of hotel reviews? So we have saved you time and money as we only feature 4 and 5 star hotels in New York plus luxury resorts. journeyPod can help you find a boutique hotel in New York or a luxury accommodation in New York. We have reviews on fun places to stay and feature trendy hotels in New York. Our hotels are stylish and hip so you can stay somewhere unique on your next weekend getaway to New York.

If you are looking for the coolest restaurants in New York, then let journeyPod share our favorite New York restaurants. We know the best places to go and the best chefs in New York. We can help you find the best restaurants in New York as we only feature trendy restaurants and fine dining establishments. Let us guide to you some of the best food in New York. Read our New York restaurant reviews where we feature hot restaurants that have a great vibe and even better food. Who has time to search thousands of New York restaurants? So we have saved you time and money with our select journeyPod Picks and New York restaurant recommendations.