New York City

There’s a reason New York City is one of the most romanticized cities in the world, providing a vibrant backdrop for many movies, books, and TV shows where everyone’s wildest dreams come to life. Its towering skyline, instantly recognizable by the Empire State Building, reflects off the Hudson River, beckoning you to explore its grid-like streets and all the art, music, poetry, and international cuisine simmering within its urban boundaries. Whether you gravitate towards the lights of Broadway or Yankee Stadium, there’s something for everything in the City That Never Sleeps.

As the beating heart of the east coast, it’s hard to understand the grand scale of New York, whose five boroughs provide distinct senses of character. Manhattan will keep you on your toes as a bustling financial centre, with plenty of iconic sights like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Enjoy the hip vibe of Brooklyn with its thriving underground scene, providing all the struggling artist stereotypes the city is known for. The Bronx is the birthplace of hip-hop, making the area an essential stop for fans of east coast rap. Queens has some of the best international eats in the city, and cinephiles will marvel at the American Museum of the Moving Image. Staten Island connects to central NYC via ferry, giving tourists and commuters alike a great chance to see the harbour and skyline from a beautiful angle before exploring the green and friendly neighbourhoods that await.