Overview Tab
The English took control of what is now Manhattan from the Dutch in 1664, who subsequently changed the name from Nieuw Amsterdam to New York. The city soon grew as an important trading port through the eighteenth century, followed by sustained periods of immigration well into the twentieth century. In the early 1920s New York became the most populous region in the world, becoming the first megacity in the 1930s. It is this vibrant mix of cultures that generates the intense pulsating beat of modern New York City.
Like the city itself, New York’s weather is one of extremes. In summer the mercury rises to around 29 degrees, while in winter daytime temperatures average about three degrees. Therefore summers are usually humid, while snow covers the city in winter. The shoulder seasons of Spring and Autumn offer respite from the extremes.
New York is home to significant international organisations including the United Nations, three US stock exchanges and many banking and investment firms. This is a very important city. The city presents a pivotal point for dozens of industries including media, advertising, fashion, the arts and publishing. Wealth generated in the city account for around nine per cent of the American economy.
Air
Qantas is the only airline that flies direct to New York from Australia. The flight takes 21 hours. Other Airlines that fly to New York via a third city include:
Luxury Hotels
New York boasts unsurpassed elegance when it comes to luxury accommodation options including the Ritz Carlton, the Trump International Hotel and The Setai Fifth Avenue. There are also many intimate boutique hotels if that’s your preference.
To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 1800 017 849 or enquire online.
Sights to See
Thanks to the glory of television and cinema, the streets and avenues, back alleys and river side of New York are imprinted on many visitors’ minds before they even arrive. Strolling through the various neighbourhoods is quite literally like being on a Woody Allen film. You can be forgiven for expecting the girls from Sex in the City or a certain sextet of Friends to turn the corner at any given time. Check out Greenwich Village and SoHo, wander through Central Park and don’t get confused in Times Square.
The landmarks are iconic. The Statue of Liberty, Wall Street with the New York Stock Exchange, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building and Rockefeller Plaza containing the Radio City Music Hall are essential attractions to explore.
Once you’ve treated the city as a museum, drop into the official museums for added culture. Check out the inspirational Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum or the Museum of Modern Art. For artistic appreciation, enjoy a performance at the Metropolitan Opera, Carnegie Hall or the Lincoln Centre.
Don't leave home without...
Ensure your energy levels are fully charged. This is the city that never sleeps, so you’ll want to experience everything it has to offer both during the day and night.
Local Customs
The city proudly welcomes diversity and individuality. Locals openly promote acceptance of people from all walks of life. Therefore tourists are welcomed with genuine American hospitality.
Things to be careful of…
Smoking
Smoking is illegal inside bars, restaurants and other public places. Regardless of the law, most locals would appreciate visitors refraining from lighting up in restricted areas.
Personal Safety
Despite the perception and the propensity of crime dramas set in Manhattan, New York statistically is relatively safe for visitors. It is a big city, so crime does exist but there’s no need to be any more cautious than wandering around any other city.
