Empire State Building by Carol M. Highsmith (Creative Commons)

New York City is often thought of as a playground for adult visitors, but don’t underestimate the variety of attractions available to children. There are plenty of kid-friendly spots to visit throughout the city, and no end of delights for children of all ages and a trip to the Big Apple with children can be endlessly entertaining.

American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is located on the edge of New York’s famous Central Park, an enormous complex of several buildings that host both permanent and temporary exhibitions. With well over 30 million artifacts sourced from our natural world, this museum never ceases to educate both children and adults. Watch as children marvel at huge gemstones, life-sized replicas of whales, patiently built dioramas and the fossils of a terrifying Tyrannosaurus rex.

Empire State Building

This skyscraper holds a place in the imagination of children across the globe. While its history and design may not be the most valuable aspect of this building for children, they nevertheless gleefully visit the observation deck for incredible views and an opportunity to use some of the vintage coin-operated binoculars to scan the horizon. Children will also enjoy a visit to this landmark at night as they watch the city below twinkle in miniature.

FAO Schwarz

Watch as children’s imaginations unfurl when they walk through the doors of this popular toy store. Let them peruse the several floors of this imaginative and colorful wonderland as they tinkle the ivories of the famed jumbo piano keys. Make sure to block out plenty of time to fully enjoy the many departments and floors this store has to offer. FAO Schwarz should not be missed by children nor the young at heart. When you need a break, a café provides relief to the weary parent, while several thousand square feet of candy aisles will satisfy any child’s sweet tooth.

Any child will love it here, so a trip to New York is a great idea for a family. Get on to Cheapflights, pack your bags, and make your way to the Big Apple – you won’t regret it!

Coney Island

If you’re willing to take a short trip out of Manhattan, head to the South shore of Brooklyn and visit Coney Island, a mecca of entertainment that will not fail to amuse both children and adults. Take a stroll down the boardwalk and treat kids to a funnel cake while they look ahead to the classic amusement park rides. A turn on the giant Ferris wheel lets New York City show off while offering a few moments of rest tired parents, and when the whole family needs a break from all the excitement, visit Coney Island Beach and relaxed in the sand while the children play along the shore. As dusk falls, stay a while and enjoy a free fireworks show that illuminates the water.

Central Park by Ed Yourdon (Creative Commons)

Times Square

This Midtown attraction is many things to many people. While adults may enjoy it for a Broadway show or a New York-style slice of pizza, children will enjoy a visit to this frenetic landmark for its shopping opportunities and magical lights. No trip to Times Square with children is complete without a visit to the enormous Lego store. Let children browse the bins as they design their own Lego sets and enjoy the hands-on displays. After shopping, stand in the middle of the square as the sun sets and the billboards come alive.

Love it or hate it, a trip to New York is never forgotten. To make sure you err on the side of the latter, it pays to do a little research about the Big Apple to make sure it doesn’t bite you first; for tips and advice corporatetraveller.com.au is designed to make your oversees stay the most easy and enjoyable experience possible.

Give A Tip

Always tip the staff. The minimum wage for hospitality workers in America is one of the lowest in the developed world. You might notice that the staff in New York bars, restaurants and other venues are especially attentive and friendly; while undoubtedly you yourself are quite charming, they’ve also got their mind on the rent they’ve got to pay. For a lot of hospitality workers, tips are their biggest source of income. So don’t be stingy – not only out of compassion but also to avoid a frosty shoulder or an altercation in response to your closed wallet. New Yorkers are famously vocal about their thoughts.

Be Open To The Unexpected

If you’ve got any free time in your program, make the most of it: you’re in what many argue is the cultural capital of the world. Avoid the tourist traps and be open to new experiences. A local Italian café can be just as interesting and enjoyable as the Rockefeller Centre or the Metropolitan Museum of Art (though we recommend those too if you’ve got time). The Frick Collection (1 East 70th Street) is the former home of tycoon and art patron Henry Clay Frick and holds an incredible variety of rare and beautiful European art works. It’s less famous, less crowded sites such as this that will set your trip apart from the average tourist whirlwind.

Ooze Confidence

Be assertive. Americans in general but New Yorkers in particular appreciate those who are enthusiastic and confident. Be comfortable in upselling yourself and your company a little more exuberantly than you otherwise would; you’re in the place for it, so relax and let go of any excessive deference. The streetscape itself can be a little aggressive, but don’t take it personally and don’t be afraid to join in on the hustle and bustle. Equally don’t get too carried away. No one will appreciate an impersonation of De Niro from “Taxi Driver’.

View of New York Skyline at Night Photo by- ajagendorf25, Creative Commons

Become a Transport Native

Speaking of taxis, while there’s a time and place for limousines, have some empathy for the others on the street who have to negotiate around these behemoths. New York’s transport systems are very egalitarian so don’t worry about getting those tailor made shoes grubby; you’ll be rubbing shoulders with the business elite down in the subway. The subway is second to the taxi is terms of the fastest and most convenient way to get around town. If there is a number of people trying to hail a cab and you’re chivalry is wearing thin, position yourself so that you’re ahead of them. Once hailed tell the driver your destination only after you’ve closed the door; once the door is shut the driver is compelled to accept the ride. The more you know, huh?

Chigago by Trey Ratcliff (creative commons)

Chicago, in the heart of America’s Midwest, is the third most populous city in the country. A large sprawling metropolis situated in Illinois on the shores of Lake Michigan – the so-called Windy City is a destination that attracts people from all over the globe.

So what pulls people to Chicago? Why is it such a popular place to live?

Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that Chicago is no ordinary city. As a major transportation hub, Chicago sits at the center of an area of great commercial dynamism. Industry, finance, telecoms and general trade all play a huge role in putting this hard-working place on the map. With its International O’Hare Airport, the second busiest in the world, and a port rivaling those in the Far East, Chicago has a long international reach.

A place with the nickname ‘The City That Works’ is sure to be brimming with opportunities, and no matter which sector of employment is concerned Chicago has it covered. The highly qualified workforce in the Windy City is second to none, and as the city thrives, more and more skilled candidates arrive, aiming for a share in that success.

Apart from the career opportunities, the lifestyle in Chicago is worth a mention. With plenty of open spaces, fantastic shopping along The Magnificent Mile, majestic architecture along a breathtaking skyline and a wealth of leisure choices, moving to Chicago to live is hard to beat. Newbies to the Windy City come from all over the country and for those seeking truck rental Chicago has great services to help new arrivals on the move.

Nobody goes hungry in Chicago with 23 Michelin starred restaurants jostling for attention with more workaday Chicago stuffed crust pizza joints and hotdog sellers. All tastes and appetites can be satisfied in Chicago where something delicious can always be ordered from the menu.

Settling in Chicago makes sense for families. With a large number of quality schools and colleges on hand, world-class healthcare and attractive residential districts, such as Schaumburg and Arlington Heights, families find all they need. For a less suburban feel head more central to Lincoln Park and Wicker Park where property is more expensive, but the cool, arty neighborhoods more than compensate for the extra cost.

For those who thrive on the buzz of city life, Chicago is right up there with New York and Los Angeles. As with all major metropolitan centers the richness and diversity of the population is reflected in the culture on offer at the many theaters, galleries and music venues. The Museum Campus situated on the lakefront hosts The Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum, The Shedd Aquarium and The Field Museum of Natural History – covering a vast span of interests to suit everyone. Sports fans enjoy a never-ending calendar of top quality baseball (Cubs and White Sox), football (Chicago Bears) basketball (Chicago Bulls) and ice hockey (Chicago Blackhawks); so when there is free leisure time to fill, Chicago has it covered.

Chicagoans are famous for working and playing hard in equal measure and for those seeking the ultimate balanced lifestyle, settling in this vibrant Midwest City is worth serious consideration.

Most people have dreamed of starting a new life in a new country, but this dream can often seem to be beyond reach.  With a little careful planning, however, it doesn’t have to be the case.  Moving abroad is a big step, but with the right research it can all go very smoothly.

The first thing to consider is whether a visa is required.  Moving to the US can be a minefield as far as visas are concerned, as they can be very difficult to secure. Acquiring a visa depends on who the individual is, what work they are qualified to do, how they intend to support themself, and which country they originate from.  The best way to find out what the specific requirements would be is to take advice from the US embassy in the home country.  Regulations can change frequently; the embassy will be able to provide the latest information.

Finding a home

In America, houses for sale can be found everywhere.  No matter where an individual wants to settle, locating that dream home can be much easier than first thought.  Each town and city will have realtors who can help to find the perfect house or apartment, depending upon the requirements.  There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of US properties and, in many areas, it is possible to get a great bargain on a new home.  Florida, California and cities such as New York are all popular destinations.

Finding work

Work is something that can be harder to find.  In some cases it is necessary to have a firm offer of work before a visa can be issued, as the employer will act as sponsor.  Agencies advertise vacancies online and applying for vacant jobs is easy; however, employers may be expected to demonstrate that the candidate has skills that the employer cannot find elsewhere in order for their visa application to be approved.  The circumstances will be different for each individual, depending upon the specific visa requirements, but there are job opportunities available.  Those who are lucky enough to work for an international company may be able to get a transfer to a US office.

The benefits of the US

The United States has one of the most diverse cultures in the world.  The country has a reputation for welcoming immigrants with open arms and, as a result, the cities are filled with people who have originated from all parts of the world.  The ‘American Dream’ has attracted many immigrants over the years – people who want opportunities that are not available to them in their home country or who want the chance to work and make good money.

In the US, individuals can choose from city living, coastal living and country living.  There are large areas of the country that are not densely populated, and expats can enjoy a very high standard of living.  On the coast, expats can equally enjoy a great climate and a very laidback lifestyle.  The cities are cosmopolitan places where residents have access to great cultural attractions, plenty of work opportunities, and a wide range of housing options.  Whichever option the individual chooses, there will be something in the US to suit their needs.

To meet their favorite cartoon characters

It’s an every child’s dream to meet their favorite and lovable cartoon characters and escape into the sparkling and dazzling world filled with joy. A handshake with these characters and getting their autographs fill the little hearts with excitement that has no bounds! These Disney characters can be met in the Main Street Area and the right time for it will be the morning hours.

To enjoy the Disney rides

The Disneyland has the rides that are the best in the world. If you take your kids to Disneyland you would be presenting them the utmost pleasure of experiencing the adventures they see in the cartoon serials every day. This would be the best gift that you give to your kid which gives it the happiness that its expressive capacity fails to capture! Besides, these rides will also be enjoyed by the adults irrespective of age. These rides bring to the front of the eyes an entirely different land filled with things that we can see only in illusions.

To get entertained by the spectacular events

Besides meeting the Disney characters and enjoying the rides, there are many other means of enjoyment in this wonder land. The musicians on the Main Street, the shows filled with colors and fabulous fireworks at night times and other wonderful events will be the feast to eyes. The kids as well as the parents will enjoy these shows to the bottom of their hearts.

To taste the delicious cuisine of Disneyland

Disneyland provides a very big menu of food items to the visitors. The varieties of food range from fast food to the normal dinner items. Various restaurants are located in different places such as California adventure, Disney Downtown etc, each of which specializes in a particular item. One can relish the delicious food at Disneyland. Tasting the food at their world of fantasies will be highly delightful for the kids.

To shop at Disneyland

Shopping can be wonderful at Disneyland and one can find a collection of toys, prints, cookware, decorations, food items etc at these shops. Most of the shops are concentrated along the Main Street while some others are scattered throughout the park. You can buy your kids a number of funny and lovely toys from them.

To make your kids happy

Above all, as a parent what in this world can give you more happiness than seeing your little kids clapping their hand out of utmost joy with a sparkle in their beautiful eyes. Can’t it be the best reason among all to take your kids to Disneyland? If you can handle any more excitement you can grab some Universal tickets too! The trip will give your kids a bundle of memories to cherish and share with their little friends.

Golden Gate Bridge

Visiting San Francisco city does not have to be an expensive trip, despite being one of the most expensive cities in the USA. In this post we outline the ways you can enjoy the best of the city without breaking the bank. All it really takes is a bit of planning and research into getting there cheaply, where to stay, eat, and visit.

As you explore this beautiful city, you have to take time to find the best deals, where you can visit beaches, parks and other historic landmarks for free. Being a tourist, doesn’t necessarily mean that you are not entitled to bargain eateries, cheap hotels, and free attractions. There are value hotel rooms within the town that have kitchenettes where you can prepare your own food. Here, are some things you can do freely or cheaply in San Francisco:

Getting and staying there

If you are on a tight budget, the first thing that you need to do is plan your holiday early. Do not leave things like booking flights and accommodation until the last minute because you will always pay a premium if you do. There are so many discounts available online if you just take the time to do a little research and spend some time getting Vacation coupon codes for your trips.

In San Francisco the best place to look for cheaper accommodation is down town because there are relatively cheaper lodges and hotels with quality services at less than $100 a night and with cheaper parking fees.

Finding bargains

If you want to buy souvenirs and you are looking for good quality products but for a bargain, then avoid China Town. Instead, pay a visit to the Inner Richmond neighborhood where, the same merchandise is sold by the same people as is sold in China Town but at cheaper prices.

Places to visit 

There are various tourist attractions within the city that are free of charge. These include; Chinatown, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge Park and Fisherman’s Wharf. The Golden Gate Park is a pleasant to place to visit alone or even with the family. There is no entrance fee , but there may be some fee charged to visit some of the sites in the park. You can spend hours wandering around the place watching herds of buffaloes or you can take your kids to a paddle boat ride at Stowe Lake.

The beach is also a delightful, fun place to visit because there are free and even cheap parking places. Sometimes you do have to spend a dime while you are at it. The kids can play around the Land’s End and Sutro Baths areas and also around the Cliff House area on Ocean Beach.

You can also sign up for free city tours around the town where there are volunteers who conduct neighborhood tours for free. This will give you an opportunity to stroll around the town and learn about its culture and attractions.

There are also ways to save money on tourist trips when using a code for Tours4fun.

Where to eat

You should try eating like the San Francisco locals, by visiting the city’s taquerias where with just $4 you can have a enjoyable meal. This will not only be cheap, but it will also be fun to sample the local dishes. You can also visit the Richmond and Sunset neighborhoods for a budget-friendly mouth-watering treat.

A trip to San Francisco needn’t break the bank, with a little foresight and planning it is possible to save money on flights, accommodation, sight-seeing and food. With that many savings to be had, what are you waiting for?

Known around the world as The Big Easy, New Orleans is located below sea level, but is very high on the list of the United States’ most popular and most visited cities. With it’s proximity to the mighty Mississippi river and a truly diverse and multicultural population, New Orleans is a vibrant city with a great deal to offer the visitor, from legendary parties to delectable food and a plethora of delightful things to do and see in between.

The French Quarter

Undeniably the heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter, or Vieux Carre, is a 1.7 square kilometer area housing some of the oldest buildings in the United States. Jam packed with restaurants of every possible variety, bars serving everything from luxury high end bottles of champagne to cheap booze packed concoctions guaranteed to have you stumbling in seconds, and music venues projecting their funky sounds into the streets, the Quarter is where the action is. Try the rabbit jambalaya at Coop’s Place, sip a famous ice cream daiquiri at the Gazebo Cafe, or check out a jazz band at Preservation Hall. Whatever your choice, expect revelry and shenanigans at every turn.

New Orleans City Park

Located in the neighborhood of Mid City, just a few miles west of the French Quarter, City Park’s 1300 acres make it one of the largest urban parks in the USA. Home to the New Orleans Museum of Art as well as the largest grove of live oak trees in the world, the former Allard Plantation is an oasis in a sometimes hectic city. Walking and biking trails, an amusement park, an equestrian center, and boating on the bayou make City Park one of the highlights of a visit to New Orleans.

Fairgrounds Racecourse

Also located in Mid City, Fairgrounds Racecourse is the oldest horse racing site in the country. During racing season, visitors and locals alike pack the stands to bet on the ponies. Pan Zareta and Black Gold, two famous American racing thoroughbreds, are buried in the track infield and the Louisiana Derby, run in early March, offers a purse of 1,000,000 USD, making it one of the richest horse races in the United States. Fairgrounds also hold the annual New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival over two weekends in late April and early May. Jazz Fest, as it’s known, attracts people from all over the world to hear top musicians in all genres perform, as well as to sample some of the finest food New Orleans has to offer. While you’re near Fairgrounds, don’t miss a barbecue shrimp po’ boy at Liuzza’s by the Track. It’s one of the best sandwiches in the world.

Cemeteries

Cemeteries are not usually high on the list of tourist attractions, but New Orleans cemeteries are a sight to behold. Due to the high water table in the city, the dead cannot be buried in the ground. Consequently, elaborate tombs have been constructed and most of them house several generations of families, making some of them over two hundred years old. It is very easy to wander for hours amongst the crypts, reading the inscriptions and taking advantage of the abundant photo opportunities. Some of the highlights are voodoo priestess Marie Laveau’s tomb in St. Louis Cemetery #1, and Lafayette Cemetery #1, where many movies have been filmed, such as Interview with the Vampire.

Easily the United States’ most diverse city, New Orleans has had a hard time over the last several years. Battered by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, some feared that the city may have seen its charm and spirit swept away on the flood waters. That is not the case at all. New Orleans has rebounded with a vengeance, due mainly to the fierce loyalty the residents have to their beloved city. This lively and gorgeous city is now, and always has been, one of the best destinations the USA has to offer.

Cocoa Beach, Orlando

Many people hear Orlando and think Disney World and who could blame them it’s an excellent reason to visit but it’s not the only reason and this post aims to highlight what about Orlando makes it the perfect holiday destination for you.

The beaches

There are several popular beaches within a 90-minute drive from the city, as well as others further out but definitely worth the time taken to get there. Of the closest, the five most popular are Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Canaveral National Seashore, and Melbourne Beach. Cocoa Beach, which is little over an hours drive away is the perfect place to spend the day relaxing and sunbathing before heading back to your Orlando timeshare.

Sea World

No trip to Orlando is complete without a trip to Sea World. One tip you’re your visit is to make sure you go when it’s feeding time, because this one of the highlights of the daily schedule. It allows you can get up close and personal to many of the animals such as the manatees, dolphins, penguins, and sharks. There is never a dull moment at Sea World and you can fully expect to create some life-long memories while you are there. Where else for example would you get to see dolphins dance or a whale fly through the air?

Gatorland

Gatorland is an alligator theme park and wildlife preserve some 110-acres in size. As well as interacting with alligators in a way you thought only Croc Dundee might, a highlight of any trip to Gatorland has to be the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line.  Flying at speeds up to 30 miles per hour above crocodiles and alligators, the Zip line is a thrilling 1,200 feet adventure that is filled with action. If you are feeling particularly brave you can even do the Zip Line at night!

Disney World

You didn’t think I would write a post about Orlando without mentioning the best-loved theme park in the world did you? When you go to Disney World, you have six wondrous parks to choose among. These include two water parks in the form of Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. In addition, you have Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios to keep you entertained. People of all ages can enjoy the parks, as there is literally something for everyone regardless of age. To stay in the heart of the action try Disney Vacation Club Resorts.

Golf crazy

Orlando has an abundance of golf courses. Whether you want to plan a fun game of mini golf with the family or you are a serious golfer, Orlando has the course for you. Many of the locations combine golf with other activities such as swimming or spa treatments so if one member of the family is a golf fanatic but the rest of you aren’t, you can still enjoy a family day out at the course.

You are now entering Party Town!

Las Vegas, Nevada is one of the best places in the world to visit if you want to party! The club scene here is unlike anywhere else in the world because of the casinos and the atmosphere. The crazy party scene doesn’t just happen at night; it actually lasts all day long!

How to have a Great Nightclub Experience

When it comes to getting into one of the nightclubs, it depends who you are. Most women can easily get into clubs when they are with a group of female friends. If there are one or two guys thrown into the mix, there should be two girls for every guy. There are a lot of passes available that get girls in for free, but most men will have to pay. Attractive women who are in small groups may be asked to join tables where they will get free alcohol. While this might not be fair, that is just how Vegas is!

If there is a medium to large group of guys that have decided on going to a club, table service is the best idea. Although this is going to cost more, it comes with a lot of benefits. When men don’t do bottle service they will have to wait in line for a long time (sometimes hours), pay cover and pay for their drinks. Just one drink alone can run anywhere from $15-$20 in most clubs. Bottle service prices will vary depending on club and location of the table. The host for the club will meet the group of guys in the front, walk them in and make sure they are taken care of. A certain number of bottles are included and more can be added on. This could run anywhere from $500-$5000 (not including tips). When split between a large group, this is much more affordable.

What Vegas Parties go on During the Day?

The party doesn’t stop in Las Vegas when the sun comes up. There are a lot of clubs that last until about 5 in the morning. After that, there is always gambling available 24/7. The bars are also open all day and night so there is always something to do. Want to walk the strip and drink? This is actually completely legal. A lot of cities don’t allow people to go outside with alcohol; Las Vegas is an exception to this. As long as you’re being responsible you can enjoy drinking wherever you would like to, (except for in cars). Some cab drivers will allow you to drink, but it depends on the risk they are willing to take.

There are a lot of sights to see during the day, including all the different hotels and casinos. When going during the summer, the day clubs have to be visited! These are basically pool parties that serve a variety of different drinks and snacks. There are always DJs playing at these clubs to make them worth waking up early for. Just don’t bring anything but your ID and money with you. You will get searched and even things like a pack of gum aren’t allowed! If you can handle partying all day and night, these pool parties are definitely for you.

Here she stands, to welcome us to her fine country

Easy to get in and to get by in the city

Getting into and getting by in New York is easy with so many travel options, the metro and an abundance of cabs everywhere. In fact using the public transport is better than using your own transport, because if you did use your own, you would find difficult to find a parking. It is best to get around on foot if you are not in a hurry, because it is the best way to take in the sights and really get a feel of the city.

Iconic Locations: NOT Lost in New York

Statue of Liberty, Broadway, Empire State building, Central Park these have become iconic places that most us can almost associate with, whether you have been there and seen them or not. You could start from the Times Square and explore the places you have heard of and seen in so many movies, and not only the Hollywood movies. There is the Empire State building, the famous Macy’s. Next destination could be the fifth avenue, then the seventh. A good map should guide you to your destination. In fact, if time is not an issue, there need not be any fixed destination and you could walk on taking in the feel of the city.

Times Square- unmistakeable!

There are many museums in the city, you can pick depending on your area of interest and your age. The American museum of Natural history appeals to the kids and adults alike. There is so much to see from dinosaurs to life in the outer space. It is easy to spend days in the museum and depending on your schedule, you may want to keep an eye on the watch.

Many Options in Food – Hot Dog anyone

Walking is going to make you hungry in a while, fortunately in New York you’d be spoilt for choice of food. From the hot dogs stand on the side walk to the salad bars, soup kitchens, cafes and the fine dining options. Starbucks is a personal favorite. Cafes are a good option to take a break at and get the general hustle and bustle of the city.

NY Shopping: from Prada to Prado

The fashion street in New York is very close to the Times Square and should not be missed. You will find the authentic designer outlets of the famous houses and the ones selling their fakes just around the corner. New York street fashion is unique; you may find unique and quirky gear, to be found nowhere else. However, as you will soon find out, it is not a cheap place.

New York is full of world famous shops!

Night Life: Lounges, Clubs and More

New York is a city that never sleeps. The nightlife is vibrant and exciting. The business like feel of the city completely changes once the street lights come on, the people let down their hair and the air becomes electrifying. If you are so inclined, you could go clubbing, or catch a play.

Why not check out a late night show on Broadway?

New York is one the most preferred location for tourists from all around the world and it is easy to see and enjoy with your family and friends.