New York is still number one on the list of cities that vacationers and timeshare owners most want to visit.

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Before considering all that the city has to offer, one of the most appealing aspects of a city break in New York is the ease of travel. All major airlines fly into New York, with JFK Airport receiving almost 1200 planes each day. So what are you waiting for?

Lights

We know New York already, from countless cop series, thrillers and Hollywood movies. But the real New York is somewhat better than the fictionalised version. It exudes life, attitude and innovation. The skyline at night enchants, still a perfect Rhapsody In Blue and at Christmas the famous 100 foot high Rockefeller Christmas tree is ablaze with over 3,000 lights. Whatever season you arrive, however, head to Times Square for the city’s bright lights and find dancing billboards, theatres and restaurants, with a steady stream of big yellow taxis to complete the experience. You’ve arrived.

Camera

New York is a great place to get snapping. Book a ticket to visit the Crown of the Statue of Liberty, then climb the 146 steps from the Pedestal for a stunning view out over the Hudson River and across the city. For wide open spaces, stroll or cycle in Central Park to see the Alice in Wonderland Statue, Belvedere Statue or the most photographed landmark, Bow Bridge. Then follow the sound of music to the Imagine Mosaic to pay tribute to former resident, John Lennon.

For something a bit different, take a stroll around West Village, where cobbled streets form a maze of delights. Walk along Bleecker Street and Commerce Street – it’s beautiful. Shops abound, but head off for lunch at Frank Sinatra’s favourite restaurant, Grimaldi’s, the famous coal-fired pizzeria under the Brooklyn Bridge. You’ll have a stunning panoramic view of Manhattan – and a superb pizza.

Action

Fuelled up, it’s time to head for the deco Empire State Building, at 350 Fifth Avenue, a must for serious tourists. The view from the viewing platform, way up on the 86th floor, is breath-taking. If you’ve seen enough of the cityscape, however, you might prefer a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MoMa). There’s always an exciting new exhibition or you can browse their permanent collection, which includes works by Van Gogh, Picasso, Dali, Monet, Frida Kahlo and Francis Bacon.

If you want more action, then take a trip on the Staten Island Ferry. It’s free and you can see the Brooklyn Bridge, Governor’s Island and the Statue of Liberty on the move. Transport fanatics may also enjoy a visit to the famous Beaux-Arts architecture of the Grand Central Terminal. Other architectural gems include the Chrysler Building ceiling mural.

Many people fall in love with New York and decide to buy a home for personal use or for an investment; it could be worth consulting an expert like Robert Stones from Target Markets for advice

There are countless other New York sights and experiences. You can make your own personal movie, with all of your favourite ingredients. And don’t be surprised if you see a real movie being made as you travel around. New York’s mythology lives on and it’s easy to see why.