 | | Empire State Building, New York |
Our first experience of the Big Apple was a cab ride – something first time visitors to old York will probably experience. But the difference between the ubiquitous yellow cabs of New York City – and they ARE everywhere – and the comparatively sedate taxis in York is marked. Luckily, I was sitting behind the driver and missed the interesting viewpoint my friends shared as we drove at speed into Manhattan. The $45 flat fare (plus tolls) was good value for the fifteen-mile journey. York’s taxi drivers might be interested to know there’s a Bill of Rights for cab passengers in NYC.  | | The Minster, York |
Our cab delivered us to one of the highlights of our stay – and a real find. Stepping into the lobby of the Carlton Hotel in midtown Manhattan was like walking on to a film set! The best thing was the view from our bedroom window looking just five blocks north, to the Empire State Building, resplendent in red, white and blue lights to mark Veterans Day – a memorable first view of this world-famous skyscraper. Although they have their attractions, I don’t think there’s a hotel in old York that offers such a dramatic view. Saturday morning saw our first taste of NYC food with breakfast in a local deli. It took a few minutes to work out how to order – some items were pre-packed, hot food cooked to order, coffee self-served from shiny machines – but we managed it and tucked in to home fries, French toast, bacon and eggs New York City style. I think Yorkshire cooked breakfasts take some beating but this was pretty good!  | | Staten Island Ferry |
Most residents of York and North Yorkshire pass through the city’s Railway Station. However, Grand Central Terminal (not technically a station because trains terminate here) on 42nd Street is truly amazing - it’s HUGE! There’s the dining concourse plus the famous Oyster Bar; market area and shops; the building itself and, of course, the tracks, 67 on two different levels - the raison d’etre of this vast, stylish piece of early 20th century architecture. There’s even a version of our National Railway Museum in the New York Transit Museum Gallery annex. The building also hosts exhibitions and shows throughout the year!  | | York Boat |
York’s visitors often choose a river cruise for a view of the city. In New York there are so many cruises it’s difficult to choose. We picked the 100 year old Staten Island Ferry which costs nothing to ride! If you stand in the open air at the front or back (should that be bow and stern?) you get spectacular views of Manhattan’s financial district, where the Twin Towers stood, and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. You also sail past the Statue of Liberty. Everyone’s heard of Central Park which definitely lived up to expectations. More of a surprise were the other areas of greenery in Manhattan. I especially liked Madison Square Park. This six-acre patch of lawns, trees and gardens was neglected and crime-ridden until recently. Following a two-year restoration plan, it was re-opened in 2001. Cared for by the Madison Square Conservancy it’s a fine example of the improvements made to previously run-down areas of central Manhattan. There are parts of York that could benefit from such schemes.  | | View from the Staten Island Ferry |
Most visitors to New York go up the Empire State Building but we did something different. The recently re-opened Top of the Rock 70th floor observation deck at Rockefeller Center offers unparalleled views over the city including, of course, the Empire State itself! Our visit, at sunset as the city lights came on, was unforgettable. The best vantage point in York is probably the top of the Minster’s South Tower.  | | View from York Boat |
After the breathtaking views we wanted something more laid back. Old York’s many entertainment venues include the National Centre for Early Music in St Margaret’s Church. We found our music in a more modern setting - the new Time Warner building. Dizzy’s Club is named for the jazz musician, Dizzy Gillespie, and we enjoyed the Bobby Hutcherson Quartet in an intimate setting with panoramic views over Central Park. A lovely way to end a hectic weekend in New York City! Fay Yeomans | 
