Dear New York

Dear New York you stole my heart and I want it back!New York was everything everyone had told me it would be and more. Coming home and going through “the camera roll”  I realised how few photos I actually took of The City. Looking back I was probably so immersed and mesmerised by all that this incredible place had to offer, I simply chose to experience the moment rather than capturing it. And let’s be honest a photo never does “the moment” justice – unless you have mad photography skills!I was lucky enough to get some great recommendations from a few locals including Lei Lei – who lived in New York for a couple of years – and two lovely New Yorkers – whom I met at the best rooftop bar in The City – they all happily shared some of their local favourites which just added to the entire “local” experience and made this trip even more magical. And so I’m passing them on – as well as some of the more touristy things – so scroll down, enjoy the views and keep these recommendations in mind for when you go to the Big Apple! Food1. Visit the Chelsea Market and taste Eleni’s playful handmade cookies – fun NYC inspired photo is obligatory. 2. Eat breakfast at the cosy Cafe Gitane in Soho, their waffles are divine! 3. For delicious floral gelato visit Amorino Gelato – my favourite flavours are stracciatella and strawberry sorbet. 4. Iconic and classic a red velvet cupcake at Magnolia Bakery is a must. 5. Eat at Broadway Bites, a seasonal culinary pop-up market with a variety of delicious foods. (Image from website) 6. Go to the Smorgasburg Markets at Pier 5 in Brooklyn on Sunday to eat and drink your heart out while having the best view of the city skyline! 5. For a truly authentic New York experience you have to go to Katz’s Deli famous for their pastrami sandwiches and that scene where Sally is faking it in ‘When Harry Met Sally’. 7. Bagels are a must you can get them on any corner street, bakery or at Bagel Bob’sFun things to do1. Follow the old railway and walk above the streets of New York on The High Line to get a different perspective of the city and be sure to get a People’s Pops ice pop! 2. Make friends with squirrels and stroll through Central Park with your take-away lemonade and organic sandwiches from Le Pain Quotidien. 3. Gaze at the incredible window displays at Bergdorfs Goodman and definitely visit their Shoe Salon – you will want to move in! 4. Follow the usher into a giant elevator, walk down the dimly lit corridors and up a staircase to reach the Gallow Green rooftop garden bar at the Mckittrick Hotel – be warned their cocktails are amazing but extremely potent. 5. On your way to the Smorgasburg Markets be sure to walk down Henry Street in Brooklyn to gaze at all the coloured doors and beautiful apartments. 6. Walk off all the delectable goodness you ate at the Smorgasburg Markets by walking across The Brooklyn Bridge – breath taking views included. 7. On warm afternoons visit The Frying Pan an old barge floating on The Hudson, converted into a bar and grill – a must are their Corona buckets.I hope this inspires your future travels to NYC Xx Nadine