New York: the ultimate city break

Although the UK skies are dark and there’s still a winter chill in the air, the holiday season is almost upon us again and now is the perfect time to start looking for your next break away from home. All inclusive vacations are renowned for being fantastic value for money but, rather than jetting to the usual summer hot spots, why not choose to experience the ultimate city break and pick a vacation in New York.

Treating yourself when you are on a vacation in New York is a must. But before you hit the tiles to discover some of the state’s most exquisite restaurants and bars, or call a cab to explore the wonders of its shopping world, first consider your options for accommodation in New York with Virgin Holidays.

If you know where to look, selecting your accommodation can lead you to a league of luxury like no other. Elite hotels such as the Waldorf Astoria and the Gramercy Park Hotel ensure a sensational stay for your city break: opt for hotels hidden away from the city centre that allow for some relaxing down time and the opportunity to appreciate exclusive landmarks such as the private Gramercy Park and its wildlife.

The beauty of taking a vacation in New York is that even if you choose accommodation away from the hustle and bustle, you are never too far from attractions, entertainment, restaurants and The Subway.

The world famous Theatre District, for example, is within walking distance of the wondrous Waldorf Astoria. From plays and musicals to dance and opera there is something on Broadway for everyone – and it’s true when they say no one knows how to entertain quite like the American’s do.

Don’t miss favourites such as 1920s jazz hit Chicago at the Ambassador Theatre in Manhattan, or for a few cheaper laughs check out Avenue Q at New World Stages, the Sesame Street-style puppet musical strictly for adults.

To really appreciate New York in full, head to the Rockefeller Centre. It is here that you will find the best views of the state, as you make your way up over 70 floors to reach the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. The building offers a 360 degrees view of New York including infamous landmarks such as Central Park, the Chrysler Building and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Once you have seen it from almost 900 feet above ground level, Central Park is definitely a day trip worth taking. Those who travel in the summer will be able to experience a little home from home as the Delacorte Theater perform Shakespeare in the Park. The Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle and the Wollman Rink are year-round attractions that make the 843 acre green a tourist haven.

Times Square is where the typical ‘vacation in New York’ postcard was born. It is a larger than life experience that really has to be seen to be believed. Located in Midtown Manhattan the square offers gigantic billboards, theatres and flagship stores including Toys ‘R’ Us, complete with indoor Ferris wheel.

For another picture perfect scene of New York, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is an overwhelming way to feel as though you’ve conquered The Big Apple. As you would expect, the Statue of Liberty can be viewed from mainland Manhattan but to a short boat trip to Liberty Island will allow you to see Lady Liberty up close.

New York offers an abundance of museums most of which are located on the Museum Mile. The NYC Official Guide notes the Museum Mile as one of the top attractions; ‘offering a diverse cultural spectrum, the museums along the “mile” include The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Neue Galerie, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum’ as well as others.

With so much on offer, as well as retail wonders Bloomingdales, Barneys, Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co., why not make a vacation in New York top of your destination list this year?