I’ve previously shared my love of visiting New York City.  However, traveling to the chilly island surrounded by water in the dead of winter, aka January, was not something I’d seriously considered. After a visit last month, it may now be one of my favorite times to visit.

In the interest of time, I’ve condensed into bullet points a week’s work of exploring centuries-old landmarks; dining at a multitude of restaurants; juggling the challenges of vacationing on a budget and most of all, enjoying one of the best destinations in the world. As always, feel free to email me if you’d like more information about any topic, including how to vacation in NYC without spending a fortune.

   Equally as outstanding in its own right, the Empire State Building’s two observation decks (86^th and 106^th floors) offer unmatched vistas of NYC and a panorama stretching across six states and views up to 80 miles away. Touring the building billed as the world’s most magnificent Art Deco skyscraper and tallest building in the world for nearly 40 years after its completion in 1931 was a major highlight. In 2019, a $165 million renovation enhanced room after room of colorful interactive, historical exhibits and breathtaking architecture highlighted by luxurious marble, gold and glass walls, floors and ceilings. It’s a stunning masterpiece that’s not to be missed. 

   To lighten the mood, walk a mile or so down to Battery Park and board the Statue of Liberty Ferry for the short ride out to Liberty Island. I’ve visited the island a few times now, but it’s still thrilling. Walking around the island inhabited by Canadian geese and gazing up at the magnificent statue that will be 100 years old this October never gets old. Also on the grounds are a professionally-designed museum, observation deck, café and gift shop.  

   Last, but not least – I recommend the location of Hilton New York Times Square, both for its easy walking access to the subway, attractions, restaurants and adjacent Target for last-minute items; Delta Airlines for getting me seamlessly to and from Mississippi not just on time, but early both ways; my new Rollink Flex Vega Carry-On that glided smoothly through airports and folded inward to save space upon arrival; ONN cell phone power bank, a $20 Walmart find that saved my life when my battery ran low and most of all, New York City Tourism + Convention’s CityPASS. It provided access at a significant cost-savings to the main sites I wanted to visit and alleviated waiting in long lines. One scan of the app on my phone sent me to the head of the line and in some cases, through the VIP entrance.

White Bean Hummus

2 medium cloves garlic

1 small handful fresh parsley, about ⅓ cup

1 green onion, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 ½ cups cooked cannellini beans or 15-½ ounce can cannellini beans, drained

3 tablespoons tahini

1 ½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice, about ½ lemon

1 teaspoon kosher salt

Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

     With a food processor running, add garlic, parsley and scallion. Process until minced – about 15 seconds. Add remaining ingredients and process until smooth and creamy, a full 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings. Drizzle with olive oil and serve. Perfect with chips, crackers and bread.