Before Betsy started at West Point this summer, we only made one annual pilgrimage to New York City every fall. We love it there and will be heading east again, next month.

In honor of David Letterman, who we enjoyed seeing a couple of years ago, I’ve created my “Top 10” list about NYC.

1. The energy. I feel it in New York more than anywhere. It’s almost like you can reach out and grab a bite of it!
2. The amazing collection of people. Walking downtown, on a weekday morning, I’ve seen a stylish older lady, carrying her bird (in it’s travel case of course), and the high-heeling 20-something’s, glued to their smart phones, passing the purse vendors, (whom they’d never be caught dead buying from) and hot dog stands (de-lish! But not on their diet.). There’s always a person asking for money, and somehow, everyone seems to get along, in this high-speed, multi-lingual city.
3. Cheesecake. If you buy it from a high volume, quality restaurant, it will always be fresh and delicious. Carnegie Deli is a cheesecake star! Their sandwiches aren’t bad either…shared of course!

4. Shopping. If it’s been made, designed or discovered, you should be able to find it here! While ABC Carpet and Home is always a destination, I’m branching out, little by little. It’s hard to beat ABC though. If you want to see the newest design trends as well as beautiful antique furniture and rugs, this is it. Can you name a place that tops ABC? I need to diversify!

Now, these photos are over a year old, so I can’t wait to see what’s hot now. Back then it was suzanis and John Robshaw bedding that was being featured.

Of course, I’ll most likely visit TJMax and/or Loehmann’s while there since I’m the queen of shopping cheap whenever possible! Notice I say “whenever possible”! I can cover a lot of territory in a week and Mr. wonderful is a real trooper!
5. Central Park bike carriage tour. You’ll never learn about all the wonderful history and special areas of Central Park, without a bike tour from Key. Reserve an hour or two with him for a grand tour. His number is 917/482-3345.
6. The neighborhoods. There’s a distinct flavor to each of New York’s neighborhoods. Whether you’re in Greenwich Village, SoHo, Little Italy or any of the others, they’re all unique. There are also great walking/eating tours of most of the neighborhoods. The tour guides are real professionals and they happily share their knowledge of the neighborhoods today and back in history. Of course, the double decker bus tours are another good option and you’ll be able to cover more territory in less time and for less money.
7. Neighborhood groceries and food bars. If you’d rather save your calories and dollars for later in the day, we’ll often pick up fresh fruit bowls at the markets. We’ll enjoy the fruit and some oatmeal in our little hotel suite with our coffee and newspaper. Life is good!

8. St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Even if you don’t stay for mass, this is a beautiful place!

9. Broadway shows! I hear “Book of Mormon” is good, so hopefully we’ll get tickets for that. Buy tickets at TIX (discount tickets) at Times Square or at the box office to save handling charges.

10. Last but certainly not least, NYC is a place Mr. Wonderful and I can explore together. Up until 4 or 5 years ago, my only memory of New York was passing through as a child, and Bob had never been, so we’re opening new doors together. And that’s pretty great!