What to do in the Big Apple

When we think about visiting the USA, a trip of New York must surely be high up on anyone's list of places to visit.

With so many imported TV programs being part of our regular viewing, perhaps we already feel that we know the Big Apple. But do we really?

We've put together a list of some of the sites and attractions in New York City that we believe are worthy of your consideration.

There can't be many buildings in the world as immediately recognisable as the Empire State Building.  Although since it was built it has subsequently been dwarfed by newer upstarts, in many peoples minds it is still a must see attraction.

Empire State Building

It may seem incongruous that one of the busiest cities in the world has room for a huge park, but New York does - Central Park

Completed in 1873, Central Park occupies 843 acres, and contains an urban oasis of trees, gardens, rolling meadows, arches and sculptures. The Park has many entrances, so you're almost certain to be near one from whichever of the five boroughs your are approaching.

Central Park

New York's Chinatown has a unique character, and may be familiar to you having appeared in many movies. Enjoy the great shopping and eating opportunities.

Chinatown

The 9/11 memorial is bound to touch most of us who were alive on that terrible day and watched the events unfolding.  

9/11 memorial

Another location familiar to many from the movies is Time Square that comes to life after dark with its huge illuminated billboards and thoroughfares to theatreland and Broadway.

Time Square

We'll continue soon with more ideas for your visit to New York. If you can't wait for more inspiration click here.

For luggage for your trip click here.

For the next part of this blog, click here

Top attractions in Romania

Are you thinking about visiting Eastern Europe? Why not Romania?

Located in South-Eastern Europe, Romania features splendid mountains, beautiful rolling hills, fertile plains, numerous rivers and lakes along with character filled cities and medieval towns.

Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is a bustling metropolis and offers plenty to suit all tastes. The Arch of Triumph, a major landmark, was built in 1922 to honour the Romanian soldiers who fought during the First World War. Visitors can climb to the top of the structure for a panoramic view of the city via the interior staircase. Not recommended for those with a fear of heights!

If you’re into architecture, you’ll love a walk down Calea Victoriei- Bucharest’s oldest street, built in 1692. As you stroll along, you’ll see the historical Revolution Square, the vast National History Museum with over 60 valuable exhibitions, the CEC palace, and the magnificent art nouveau Cantacuzino Palace. Bucharest is also home to some beautiful parks, most notably Carol I Park, with its imposing mausoleum. If you prefer to splash the cash, many high-end stores have made their home in the Romanian market since the fall of Communism. However, Bucharest has something to suit every budget; Blvd. Magheru,Piata Romana and Piata Universitatii have a fantastic variety of shops.

No visit to Romaia would be complete without a visit to Transylvania. The area is home to some of the oldest and prettiest towns in Romania, particularly Sighisoara with its medieveal architecture, secret passageways and plethora of unique shops. The main attraction in this region is Bran Castle, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. The gothic fairy tale like structure sits on the edge of a hill and is a breathtaking sight. 

The Carpathian mountain landscape is full of exquisite beauty and mystery. The Oas – Harghita range is the longest volcanic mountain chain in Europe and creates a character filled landscape. The range is also home to the only Crater Lake in Romania- Ana Lake. The National Parks protect some of the largest remaining areas of pristine forest in Europe. However, they are also home to a wide range of terrains allowing visitors to experience the best of Romania. Travellers can trek around glacial lakes, walk through serene alpine meadows covered with scores of wild flowers, climb unique rock formations, explore the Buca mud volcanoes and visit impressive caves.

For those seeking a more relaxing holiday, the Black Sea resorts in Romania are seriously worth considering. The 45 miles of fine sandy beaches are dotted with fine hotels and resorts, many with fantastic sport and entertainment facilities. If you feel like trying something a little different, the Eforie Nord and Mangalia Spas are famous world wide for their specialised mud baths! The mud is taken from the nearby hypersaline lake waters and is said to help relieve arthritis.

For more information, click here

A Romanian Castle