New York City is bursting with bucket list experiences. The most famous would easily be the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, but there are plenty of other must-see spots across the city. In my opinion, top sights include Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the museums along Museum Mile. Whether you’re into history, food, or just soaking up the energy of the city, New York has something for everyone. Keep reading for everything you need to know before your trip!
As a visitor, you’ll likely fly into one of three major airports:
Smaller airports like Westchester County (HPN) or Long Island MacArthur (ISP) are options if you’re staying outside the city. You can compare flights to NYC on Skyscanner or Google Flights.
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New York is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas like Midtown and Lower Manhattan. Even so, I’d recommend keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places like the subway or Times Square. Pickpocketing can happen. The other thing to note is that while violent crime is relatively low in tourist zones, it’s smart to stay aware of your surroundings at night, especially in less busy areas.
New York has four distinct seasons:
I visited in October, and the weather was perfect: cool mornings and warm afternoons, ideal for exploring.
New York is not a budget-friendly destination, especially compared to places like Southeast Asia or even parts of Europe. Here’s a rough breakdown:
Your money won’t go as far here as in other cities, but there are ways to save, like eating at food trucks or using public transit instead of taxis.
New York can be overwhelming, but with a little planning, it’s one of the most exciting cities in the world. Enjoy your trip!
Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This small but stunning country is packed with lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and pristine beaches making it one of the best places in the world for eco-tourism. The most famous spots include Manuel Antonio National Park (where jungle meets ocean), the Arenal Volcano (with its hot springs), and the Monteverde Cloud Forest (home to rare wildlife).
Congo is a land of untamed wilderness and raw beauty, offering some of the most bucket-list-worthy experiences in Africa. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is home to lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and rare wildlife, while the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) boasts pristine national parks and the mighty Congo River. Top sights include Virunga National Park (the world’s most biodiverse protected area), Nyiragongo Volcano’s lava lake, and Odzala-Kokoua National Park for lowland gorilla trekking.
Comoros is a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean, offering untouched beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a rich blend of African, Arab, and French cultures. This archipelago may be small, but it’s packed with ‘bucket list’ experiences from hiking the active Mount Karthala volcano to exploring the fragrant ylang-ylang plantations. The capital, Moroni, is a maze of narrow streets and bustling markets, while the islands of Mohéli and Anjouan provide secluded beaches and incredible marine life.
Colombia is a diverse and vibrant destination, packed with bucket list experiences from the colorful streets of Cartagena (tourism hotspot) to the lush coffee regions and the towering Andes mountains. In my opinion, the top sights include the historic walled city of Cartagena, the buzzing capital Bogotá, and the stunning Cocora Valley with its giant wax palms.
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