New York City - Safe AND Fun!

Who better to speak about New York City, but one who has been born, raised and worked here all her life! Valarie of Contrino Travel, that's me!

While I do my fair share of traveling, ergo why I'm a travel advisor, I still do love to visit Manhattan as often as I can. There's so much to do and see, STILL!

A big fan of the theater, most recently saw The Adams Family and Promises, Promises. Even though both were quite entertaining, if I had to choose between the two, I'd opt for the latter because I like Burt Bacharach's music, the story was a take on "The Apartment" (which I'm embarrassed to admit I've never seen), but the Sean stole the show! Kristen wasn't too shabby either! Amazing range of vocals. Couldn't get over how tiny she is! Sorry I digress.

Having not been in the City prior to that for some time, I enjoyed my stroll along Broadway at Times' Square. I actually felt like a tourist, walking from one store to the next. What a nice seating area the Mayor created for its tourists and residents to enjoy, even given the controversy it stirred at its inception.

Had a lot of time to kill as I was meeting a friend for dinner and then the theater, so I walked past Radio City to the rink. There is no greater pleasure than taking this walk--doesn't cost you anything. For GMA fans, you see where they shoot production of the show, also something I think is quite exciting.

There is so much to see and do in NYC with its different neighborhoods (i.e. SoHo with its great shopping and restaurants, Chinatown and Little Italy, lower Manhattan and more!).

One would suspect that a trip to NYC would be quite expensive and while I would agree with that to a degree, there is plenty to do and see on the cheap! Creating travel packages, some to include a show on Broadway, or a meal or ride carriage horse ride, does defray the cost. A smart travel advisor knows!