New york city ny
There are places in the world that nobody has heard of and there are other places that everyone has heard about. New York City belongs to the latter category and is one of the most vibrant and fascinating cities, not only in USA, but also in the world. A rich and varied history, a vibrant culture, enticing shopping, fascinating attractions and a wild nightlife combine to make this city a tourist hotspot as well as the dream city of success and wealth for many. At last count in 2005, about 170 languages were spoken in the city and about 36% of its population was born outside USA. That is cosmopolitan for you!
New York City is located in the southern part of the state of New York and comprises of the counties of The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island. The city began on Manhattan Island and slowly spread to include Staten Island, western Long Island and mainland North America. The islands are linked to each other and to the mainland by a network of bridges and tunnels. With a total land area of 831.4 km?, New York City is one of the most populated cities in USA.
History: A journey through 1524 to 2007
Today, New York City or NYC is one of the most cosmopolitan cities of the world. Before achieving this status, the city has passed through a history in which the Dutch, the British, the founding of the USA and the World War 2 played a major role.
The first European to discover the area was the Italian Giovanni da Verrazzano in 1524. At this time, the Lenape tribe inhabited the region. The Dutch discovered the largest natural harbor in the New World in Manhattan with the help of the explorer Henry Hudson. This discovery took place in September 1609 and realizing the potential of this harbor, the Dutch did not take time in creating a settlement there. They named the city New Amsterdam and Belgian and French Huguenots came there to escape from religious persecution in Europe. The Dutch purchased the island from the Native Americans in 1626.
The British conquered the city in 1664 and renamed it as New York after the British Duke of York, who was the heir to the throne. This name holds today. The city prospered under British rule.
During the American Revolution in the 18th century, NYC was in the forefront. He New York Campaign was a series of battles that took place in 1776 and 1777. The city became the first capital of the newly found country of USA in 1788 and George Washington was inaugurated as president at the Federal Hall in NYC.
The city of New York continued to prosper all through the 20th century due to the Industrial revolution. The 2nd World War did not affect America in the same way as Europe. The immigrants from Europe led to the postwar economic boom.
The city has faced many problems as well. The American Revolution practically destroyed the city. The Depression that took its toll around the world started in NYC and it was badly hit financially. The 1970?s saw the city as a crime-ridden place with gang wars on the streets. The terrorist attack on the Twin Towers in 2001 killed many people and was one of the worst attacks in history. In spite of all this, NYC has managed to come through and hold its place as one of the world?s industrial and financial centers.
A small tour of NYC
There are many interesting things to see and do in New York. Many historical and natural relics adorn the city and are of utmost interest to any visitor.
Empire State Building
Built in 1931, the Empire State building is a skyscraper at a height of 1,453 feet. One of the romantic things to do in New York is to go to the top of this building called as the Cathedral of the Skies.
Statue of Liberty
Given as a gift by the French in 1886, the Statue of Liberty is America's icon. A symbol of liberty, this 151-foot statue symbolizes all that America stands for. It stands in New York Harbor and one must not leave the city without climbing the 354 steps to reach the top and check out an amazing view of the city.
Top of the Rock
Offering an unobstructed view from the 70th floor, the Top of the Rock is a must visit. Central Park, Chrysler Building, Times Square, Hudson River, East River, Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty as well as the northern half of Manhattan can be seen from here.
Central Park
Central Park located in the center of the city and is one of the major landmarks. The 843-acre of greenery offers plenty of attractions such as Sheep Meadow, Great Lawn, boat ride on the Lake, the Mall and games as well as jogging tracks.
Rockefeller Center
A popular hangout for New Yorkers as well as tourists, Rockefeller Center is a huge activity and shopping center consisting of 19 tall buildings. A labyrinth of underground passages connects 14 of the 19 buildings. The Rockefeller Center offers attractions such as an outdoor caf, ice-skating rink, Radio City Music Hall, shopping malls and many other things.
Times Square
Located in the heart of the city, Times Square is a historical landmark of NYC. Lodging, entertainment, tours, shopping, nightlife, concerts, cinemas and performances can all be found in this venue. The Times Square also holds events such as New Year celebrations.
There are also other attractions in New York such as the FAO Schwarz, United Nations, Rose Center for Earth and Space, Wall Street, Metropolitan Museum, Ground Zero, Broadway and so on. The list is endless.
Lets go shopping
New York City is the world's premier place for shopping. Big brands such as Tiffany's and Prado jostle for space in the many malls and shopping areas of the city. After Paris, New York is the fashion capital of the world and all brands of clothing, bags, accessories, electronics, shoes and other items are plentifully available here. New York is a shopper's paradise. This is illustrated in a unique feature of the city's marketing - sample sales.
Not many people are familiar with the concept of sample sales. After all, it is too good to be true. Sample sales are sales where the price of high priced branded goods are reduced from about 50 to 20 percent of its normal price. These sales do not usually take place in the showrooms but in small shops. Information about these sales can be found on the Internet.
With so many attractions, New York City has something for everyone. Whether you like clubs or nature, sports or shopping, you will always find something and someplace to satisfy you. This is why NYC is one of the premier destinations in the world.
Other Articles
