New York is one of those cities you just have to visit in your lifetime. The Big Apple is a modern phenomenom of a city, and possibly the most recognisable one in the world. With such identifiable icons as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, you always know when you are looking at an image of New York. But nothing quite beats seeing it for yourself, and a hire car will give you freedom and independence. Hugely multicultural, over 170 languages are spoken in this city of 8 million people, and its history as an immigration port means people from all over the world are represented here. Its divideed into five seperate burroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island, each with their own distinct characterstics that make them worth visiting. Other attractions you shouldnt miss are:

1. Times Square

This large intersection in Manhattan marks the centre of the city, and its a thriving tourist centre and icon of the city. Its New Years Eve Parties have become the stuff of legend, and the huge neon and LED screens that line its walls make it instantly recognisable. Nearby lies the glitz and glamour of the Broadway theatres, and there are hundreds of themed restaurants and a wide range of hotels just a stones throw away.

2. Statue of Liberty

As if standing guard over the city this impressive statue towers against the skyline, its flame of freedom held high in the air. A gift of friendship from the French in the 19th Century, it is now a universal symbol of liberty and freedom. A ferry runs regularly to the Liberty Island on which it stands, and there you can visit the museum in the statues pedestal. Unfortunately it is no longer possible to climb higher into the statue.

3. The Lincoln Centre

Home to 12 arts organisations, this is the largest individual centre of culture in the world today. The buildings which host the organisations are marvels of architecture, and are worth a visit just for their style alone. It presents more than 400 events annually, and has a large number of performance facilities where you can catch a show or a concert.

4. Brooklyn Bridge

This is the large, un missable bridge that links Brooklyn with Manhattan. The bridge itself is great for photo opportunities, whether you are on it or below it, and the walk across it from one suburb to the other does not take more than half an hour. Built in the 19th Century, the bridge is a historical part of New york that you shouldnt miss experiencing.

5. Central Park

Uptown Manhattan is where you will find this huge and green open space! The park is full of fun attractions for all age groups - there is even a small zoo. Hire a boat and paddle on the lake that is the largest body of water in Manhattan, visit Belevedere Castle and pop in to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a look at some impressive galleries. Alternatively you could just take it easy and enjoy a relaxed stroll or a picnic in the beautiful park!

Gavin Wyatt