In the south of the United States of America you will find the bustling cultural hybrid that is New York
Why choose New York? Who isn't in a New York state
of mind? Can you think of anyone who wouldn't relish the opportunity to
take in a 'melting pot' of different cultures and the state famous for
its vibrant and colourful atmosphere, in addition to being a shopping
nirvana.
Distance from the UK? Flights are direct from Glasgow with Continental Airlines to Newark Airport, others require you to change
Need to know? New York is a classic honeymoon location due to the film industry choosing Manhattan as the backdrop for many a romantic movie - Sleepless in Seattle, An Affair to Remember and 2 Weeks Notice are just a few examples. The big apple is full to the brim with beautiful bars and 18,000 restaurants that are perfect for honeymooning couples (Spice Market and River Cafe are two of the best). There are also 150 museums and 10,000 shopping outlets; if shopping at Macy's it's worth going to their visitor centre where they give you an 11% discount card if you show them a foreign passport.
The easiest and cheapest way to get around is to use the subway, so it's advisable to get a map and learn how it works. The subway runs pretty much all day and night but after midnight it's probably best to take a cab.The main tourist attractions such as the Empire State Building are well worth a visit but it's best to go very early or late to avoid standing in queues. Its observation deck is open until 2am and the views of the city at night are incredible.
You don't have to spend a fortune to have fun. A walk across Brooklyn
Bridge, New York Public Library, Central Park, Grand Central Station
and St Patrick's Cathedral are all free ways to spend time and take in
the sights of the city. Walking from Brooklyn to Manhattan across the
bridge takes about half an hour and provides breathtaking views of the
skyline. The Staten Island Ferry is also free and sails past the Statue
of Liberty.
Go prepared for the weather: the summer months in New
York are usually very hot and sunny though thunder storms are not
uncommon. The winter months are generally pretty cold and wet with
January-February being the most likely time for snow. Spring and autumn
are changeable so be prepared for anything.
How to get there: Regular flights leave from Glasgow and Edinburgh to John F Kennedy airport in New York.
Tour operators: Just America www.justamerica.co.uk and United Vacations www.unitedvacations.co.uk both deal with holiday travel from Scotland to New York.
Ideal for? New York caters for almost every taste,
though it's probably not best for couples who don't like to be active
on holiday. People who love to shop are well provided for, but it also
suits culture vultures with its massive range of plays, musicals and
museums all over the city. A trip to New York doesn't have to be
exhausting; a day meandering through Central Park or Greenwich Village
can be incredibly relaxing, especially if you throw in a long lunch
along the way!
Got a honeymoon question? Get help from other brides-to-be at the SWD Forum... CLICK HERE!
