Travel Tips: The Cheapest Way to Get Around New York!!

As a first time visitor to New York City (and the USA), I knew already that I need all the help that I could get.

Just like the time that I traveled Europe, I did my research and of compared packages upon packages (the hardest was Paris). In places heavily trafficked with tourists, discount passes for famous attractions will surely be available (and for sure New York has something to offer)

As I browsed the internet, It was not hard to see different travel packages..the real work was choosing which one. There were two discount passes that stood out, the New York City Pass and the New York Pass. After carefully comparing them and considering the span of our stay (we are staying only for 4 days), we have decided to get the New York City Pass!..and we are all happy we did.

Basically, the New York City pass saves you almost 40% on admission to six of the most famous attractions in the City. The Empire State, MET, MOMA and Statue of Liberty to name a few. Check out their full list and rate in their website.

These are basically the sites that we wanted to see in our short stay in the Big Apple. If you have seen my old blogs, I have posted stories and photos of these attractions.

I love that it is valid for 9 days, meaning we can take our time planning which attraction to go to and not rush and run just to get our money’s worth (which is the case of the New York Pass).

For those who are planning on a short stay in New York, I highly recommend getting The New York City Pass, not only that you will save a lot from entrance fees, but you will save a lot of time by skipping (the never ending) lines.

Have stress free holiday!!! ^^

Travel Blog: The Empire State of Mind

The Empire State Building. Once known as the tallest tower in the world, it is still the most iconic building in New York City (or can I say in America?).

 Spending our last day at the observatory deck of the Empire State, overlooking a 360 view of the city. What perfect way to end our New York trip!

Although we didn’t plan it, our timing was perfect. We arrived at half past 7, after waiting in line, we were just in time see the city as the sun kissed the horizon. It was magical. Then one by one, the city started to sparkle from building lights, car headlights and billboards. 

I must admit, I became a little (just a little) emotional looking at the city that became our home for the past days. The roads were we got lost and got really really tired (walking) became a very familiar place to all of us. 

I will miss this city. The annoying sound that welcomed us during our first night. The (sometimes) scary side streets and people staring at you, the rude drivers and the cold looking people trying to catch the next train in order not to be late a work. I can’t say that New York was kind to us, but what I can say is that with all the things that I mentioned, this city has a way to slowly creep in your heart and you will learn to appreciate all the noise, the chaos …and above all the life that is New York. 

Travel Blog: The Statue of Liberty

Never thought that I will be blogging about this. I still can’t believe that I’ve seen this statue with my naked eyes (and up close). My trip in New York City will never be complete without a visit to the Statue of Liberty. 

We were very fortunate that when we planned our trip to New York, the Statue of Liberty just reopened. It was under a repair for the past months due to the damages done by hurricane Sandy. Last 4th of July (2013) it was again open for the public (YEY). 

But due to the highly anticipated reopening, tickets to the Liberty Island sell like hot cakes, specially that it was (is) the season when tourists heavily visit the big apple.

Eventhough I was dreaming of climbing up to the crown of the statue, we were just able to purchase a ticket inside the pedestal of the statue (just until the seams of her skirt). Access to the crown are very limited and the next available one will be on October (and we were still in July). 

Nonetheless, a pedestal access means you’ll get to go inside the statue and visit the museum. It was awesome!!! Getting to know the history of the BIG LADY was a sure treat! From the planning and commissioning stage to some hiccups in between…and alas.. her highly celebrated inauguration. It was interesting to see their initial plans for the statue and to see how she is now, standing tall as a symbol of freedom not only for Americans, but for all of us.

(made from beaten copper with hollow interiors..this how it should have looked w/o being weathered and oxidized) 

(the climb..the closest we can get to the Lady Liberty)

(inside her skirt…sorry for peaking)

After our climb, not only that we were at the foot of the Liberty, we were also treated with the beautiful view of the New York skyline. A 360 view of New York. you can see Manhattan on one side, the brooklyn bridge on the other.  

Standing tall and watching over the city for more than a hundred of years, visiting the Liberty Island should be part of everyone’s bucket list. One of the most celebrated symbol of freedom, the rich history that surrounds the Statue of Liberty is something that changes not only New York City but also the rest of the world. 

To book your Statue of Liberty visit click this LINK