New York, New York

New York, New York - the city so good they named it twice, America's Big Apple and one of the most famous cities in the world. So what's the lowdown?

When to go

New Years Eve in New York is the stuff of legend - the crowds in Times Square, the countdown, the parties. Don't think this doesn't mean that the city can only be visited once a year, though. In February each year the city comes alive for Chinese New Year, and then once again a month later for St Patrick's Day. For fashionistas, there's also Mercedes Benz fashion week held twice a year, in February and September.

Before you go...

British passport holders who are UK citizens may be able to enter the US without a visa under the American Visa Waiver Program (VWP); non-UK citizens won't qualify though, so you'll need to apply for a visa. Check before travelling. 

Prices for everyday things will work differently in the US, too. Prices in restaurants, cafes and bars will generally not include taxes - and bar and restaurant staff in the US are much more reliant on tips to make up their wages than in the UK, so don't forget. Prices for groceries will also be around 30% higher than in the UK. On the flip side of that, prices for electronics and designer goods will generally be cheaper than in London, so keep an eye out for a bargain or two!

New York is on the east coast of America, so there's something of a time difference from the UK - they are five hours behind. The US does use daylight savings time, but clocks do not change at the same time as the UK, so double check the timezones before you travel.

While you're there...

Getting into the city from JFK airport is easy enough with direct bus connections to Manhattan, Hudson Valley and Long Island. Taxis into Manhattan are also available starting at around $52 a trip.

Travel in and around the city is easy and frequent, with a variety of options available. New York city is famous for its yellow taxi cabs, which are often used by residents. The city's public transport system is much cheaper though, and will frequently be faster too. 

Accommodation in the city starts at around $34 a night at a hostel or ca. $40 a night in a hotel, though obviously various options are available. Shop around!