Landings and Takeoffs
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Taking a bite out of the Big Apple – for FREE!

America is full of wonderful destinations in which you can take a well-earned break. From lazing by the pool in sun-drenched coastal regions to hiking the wooded trails and mountain routes through all the states with street signs that warn of bears and cougars, there’s literally something for everyone. But when you’ve had enough of casinos and canyons, when you’ve seen all you can see of towering redwoods and senate buildings, you may just wonder what all the hype is about concerning a little known place that contains many Dutch-sounding suburbs (The Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, Harlem, Brooklyn, the list goes on, in fact, even “Yankee” comes from Dutch, as many Dutch settlers were called Jan Kees, a common name at the time). Yes, we’re talking about New York, New York. So good, they named it twice. In fact, the name New York, New York refers to the city name first, and the name of the same-name state that the city is in, see? Anyway. Enough facts. Let’s get on with it. Let’s take a look at a couple of places you should really visit while in old New Amsterdam … OK last fact, New York used to be called New Amsterdam.

Central Park

Central Park takes pole position purely because unlike some other sight-seeing destinations that could just as easily top the list (e.g. the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty), the park is free! Not only that, but there’s a ton of things to see, from the Alice in Wonderland statue to the boat lake to the butterfly gardens and great lawn … this park is a day out. Beware, however, that personal injuries are known to befall all-day walkers (if you’re affected, see this website).         

Times Square
There’s way more to do in Times Square than you might think. Unfortunately, the only free part is standing in the middle of Times Square itself. But that can be cool. There’s lots to see. Like, One Times Square, for a start, which is perhaps one of the most famous buildings in the world that’s famous just for being famous. There’s also the iconic Knickerbocker Hotel, which has been in about a gazillion movies. But if you do want to spend some money, try Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. Two floors with over twenty galleries of things you’ll want a selfie with. Perfect.

Categories: New York