GUIDE TO: MINNEAPOLIS

Purple, this city may as well be painted down to its streets with it. This is the land that birthed both the 'Purple Rain' of music superstar Prince and the reign of the storied Lakers NBA franchise before they moved to Los Angeles (you know there's no 'land of lakes' in L.A., there's barely a drop of water in that dry house). Sure, that's enough to get this writer excited but believe me this city has a lot more to be proud of than just one of the worlds greatest musicians and ball-clubs. Besides these days they've got the Minnesota Timberwolves and Bon Iver singing songs about them for the twin cities hospitality. As cold as the ice that hangs off your windows and as hot as the hell of a good time yo'll have in Summer, no matter the season this place has reason to visit. Besides they have a shopping mall with a rollercoaster in the middle of it and dinosaur parks. What more could you ask for? If you're planning a trip take it from Jurassic Park legend Jeff Goldblum..."must go faster, must go faster".

The 48th largest city in these 52 States is home to Charlie Brown, the 'Great Gatsby' writer F. Scott Fitzgerald (his soloemn statue is here too) an epic menu worth of places to eat, a libaries worth of places to read, a 'Mall Of America' literally defining place to shop and a massive spoon with a cherry on top in the middle of it all too...literally. The land of twenty lakes and wetlands is a feast for the eyes and when the ice catches them as well as your throat it'll make for some of the best photo albums you've ever developed or shared on social-media. This is your time however so witness this great place in all its glory while you can because from superb suberbs to downtown developments this place has it all. You may want to lay your hat a little longer here because this welcoming place in one trip is one you can call home, whether your on a layover or pernament vacation like Aerosmith. As beautiful as Boston, as American as Kentucky and as young and hip as Portland this is another great American city that shows and tells you this land isn't just about New York or Hollywood. There's real depth here for you to explore.

Make a note in your travel journal to visit a place that is more than just the business connection between Chicago and Seattle. The home of the 'Chains Of Lakes' draws creation to the city by the writer, musician and artist load. You do remember the 'Jazz Age' of 'Gatsby' was birthed in writing here and not New York right? With the Mississipi River uniting Minnesota and Saint Paul, Minny draws everything in like a grand gesture. This big city is great all year round. Visit Lake Calhoun in Summer if you want to bring your fishing line and the forzen over Lake Harriet in Winter if you want to bring your kite for that festival. It's crazy to think that what you and your kids are standing on is inches of ice that seperates you from the coldest, chilling water. Trust me, however it's not as scary as you think, it's all fun and they've got hot chocolate (with marshmellows) and burgers too...sold?! The water tower of Prospect Park may be this places highest point, but this down to earth city is all about the little things. The places to eat, drink and hear great music with some great friends, and I tell you it doesn't get much better or cooler than Psycho Suzies. It's one of those places that you don't want to tell people too much about, because you wan't them to explore it themselves. So no spoilers here, just go, the only thing it'll ruin is all the other bars you go to back home.

From the Minneapolis Institue Of Arts to the science museum (want to see some real dinosaurs? They do actually plan on having some on their tour!) there's plenty of tourist things to do that are more than just the brochure to go along with the parks and rec of the great outdoors. So raining or sweltering you'll always find something to do even if you have a coat or not. Make sure you pack your thermals, scarfs, gloves and long-Johns however in the early months because jeez Louise it's going to be chilly. Still, that doesnt matter because what other place can you have a great time even if you feel like your about to lose your nipples? This place is more than just the great shops, bars, restaurants, parks and lakes however. It's about the people you meet and the experiences you have on a day to day basis. Sure you can take a picture of all the tourist landmarks you want and sure that'll be amazing, but it's the memories you leave behind here that really matter for your memories. They once said, 'take only photographs, leave only footprints' and when it comes to the beautifully simple ways of just truly living on vacation instead of rushing through it, Minnesota has it down. The M.P.L.S. Lakers may have left town, but Prince and his Paisley park haven't and you wont want to either. That't the long and short of it. For a couples retreat in a couple of weeks, it's all about the twins. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

GUIDE TO: KENTUCKY

"Kentucky, you are the dearest land outside of Heaven to me", The Everly Brothers sang. You can hear it 'Foreverly' on the new covers album of the brothers hits by todays pairing of modern greats Norah Jones and Billie-Joe Armstrong of Green Day. Or you can just see it for yourself. Miles and miles of beautiful country, Kentucky is the place to be. Even if you've seen New York, Boston, Chicago, Miami, San Fransisco or Los Angeles, THIS my friend is America. This my friend is the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken. The home of one of the proudest and best college Basketball franchises of all-time and not to mention coaches. This is a place where you can find a falls more picturesque than Niagara. This is a place famous for Bourbon, big trucks, even bigger roads and even bigger personalities still. Yep, you're not going to find much nicer people this side of Canada than the warm welcome you'll receive in Kentucky.

Make a drive to the big city of Lexington then you'll see plenty of cool stuff for your cameras, along with a lot of shops, places to eat, drink and a real cool old fashioned stretch in this modern place. You can even catch a U.K. game at the Rupp Arena as the University Of Kentucky are known for the NBA great likes of Anthony Davis, DeMarcus Cousins, Eric Bledsoe and John Wall...and that's just over the last few graduations. Don't make us list the whole roster. This legendary legacy is one of the reasons you see the symbol U.K. on every drive and in every car rear-window and just everywhere like you where in England. The other is simply dedication and devotion. People here don't give up and after meeting some of the locals you'll feel like you've been here for years...and you wish you could stay that long too. Lexington and Louisville (where the greatest Muhammed Ali came from) offer you big hoops, lights and the big city, but if you want to see the heart of Kentucky and therefore the real America its time to hop in your pick-up and head to Corbin. It's got a few shops, places to grab a good bite to eat ('Crackerbarrell', the 'Waffle House' and everything else is a roadside must), a great new coffee shop that offers books, bands, board games and a place that'll put the chains to shame (the aptly named 'You & Me, Coffee & Tea', it really is the new hot cup of Joe spot to be) and a cinema. Still, this isn't why your on holiday. These things are cool but you can do these things at home. Your here to relax and see the real landscape of this place.

A place where just simply driving around from the streets to the highways is a tourist experience in itself. With beautiful mountains and greenery no matter what time of the year that you'll drink in like a shot of Bourbon, just make sure you watch the road and your camera hanging out the window. Still, there's more than just a backseat view to take in when touring this town. From the beautiful, vast Cumberland Gap to the crafted 'Chained Rock' on Log Mountain there are countless feats of nature and man to explore. With each place steeped in rich history I hope you have a great tour guide or have a friend that can tell you all the stories that speak loudly and proudly out of this cool and calm place. Now, if you want to see one of the best things you'll witness in the United State of Kentucky and all of America then you have to go to Cumberland Falls. It's known as 'Little Niagara', but with all due respect to one of the eight wonders that connects Toronto and New York, this is better than big brother. No hand me down in any way Cumberland Falls is incredibly beautiful. Words on this page, or pictures found don't do justice to what you will witness with your own two. Plus when you turn around you don't see a mini Vegas or Atlantic City either. With all due respect to Niagara (and Vegas and Atlantic) it is incredible, a wonder in itself and perhaps seeing it in December was the wrong idea. Still, even in late January and all frozen over to the end of the waterfall the Cumberland Falls still looked like nothing else especially iced over to a true Winter wonder.

Just wait until you go there in the Summer because if you think this place is beautiful now then there's a lot more in store. Like the NIBROC (Corbin backwards you know) festival of open-air concerts, carnival attractions and one hell of a parade. Or fishing and even scuba diving in Laurel River Lake. Through all these parks, roads and rivers you're going to work up more than an appetite, so how about some history while you eat? If you visit the first ever K.F.C, in the world you'll see that Kentucky is the true home of fried chicken. You won't find a better wing or side of slaw anywhere. Plus with the original roadside shop and hotel preserved in it's original way, with photos and more documents detailing its history this place is a museum in itself. Here you'll see how Harland Sanders (I know right...you thought his first name was 'Colonel' too?!) revolutionised the fast-food game. Proud of its seasoning, this place offers more than a quick bite or trip however. There's much more for all the senses in this place to smell, taste, feel, see and hear. So it's time to stop reading and get out there and start experiencing. More than just a simple holiday this is a place that you'll feel settled in like you want to live and even for a small-trip you'll feel truly relaxed and refreshed. After all isn't that why we "get away" in the first place? Like The Everly Brothers sang, Kentucky will see you soon. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

GUIDE TO: NASHVILLE

Welcome to 'Music City', U.S.A. This is Nashville and if you want to see more of this city than just the T.V. series of the same name then it's time to ride a steel horse with a six-string on your back because Bon Jovi or not this week in this city your a cowboy. Or at least an honorary one with the tip of the local Stetson to you. O.K. let's not get too corny but this is the capital of country music in not only in these United States but the world. It doesn't get much more distinctly American than this when it comes to the definitive wide range of diverse landscapes on this continent. Just a couple of albums drive from Memphis, Tennessee, you'll see a lot of the states son and rock and roll king Elvis Presley here, but when it all comes down to it and you drive from one soundscape city to another down that beautifully grand highway-as your radio tunes into a more country frequency-its all about the boots and spurs clicking music down here thank you very much. You can buy a decent pair, or two (or three with one locals buy two get the third free offer) and walk the walk while taking a tour down the main street of shopping and knee slapping, with some of the best places to spend your money that your wallet will ever find.

You've got classy clothes stores, inspired independent shops of the sort and a hell of a lot of super souvenir shops for your memories memorabilia. For the record, music shops aren't dying out here, with record stores a plenty where you can find it all under one roof...so long as it's got a good story. This is the city that Dolly Parton built and her and all her country friends keep this street running past 9 to 5. Even White Stripe, Raconteur and Dead Weather bandsman Jack White has a record store here, on his Third Imprint. It doesn't get much cooler that that. No wonder everyone from homegirl Taylor Swift to Tennessee kid by way of Memphis Justin Timberlake have homes here. Still its the legends that leave a legacy on the streets here all the way to the Country Music Hall Of Fame where you can see Willie Nelson and all the friends he's made music with. Still hello, what about the 'Man in Black' who's name is Johnny Cash? Well the 'Ring Of Fire' legend himself has his own museum and shop that will take you from Folsom Prison all the way to the 'American Recordings' with Rick Rubin that closed and defined the final years of his life. You can see all this for around the price of one of his albums. Like The Beatles museum in Liverpool this is a historical must for this city.

Still, if you'd rather see some of the local acts that aren't world famous yet the whole street is littered with great hallmark American bars playing country strong music by the songbook of their traditional American bands. The only thing that feels more alive then this place live after hours on Saturday night, is this place live after hours at night on New Years. Still, if you want to calm it down a bit and are sick of country music by now you could cross that grand, epic bridge to the sports stadiums and suburbs, where all the major sports and spots are found. Out of town you've got even more real nice, self-owned places to have a coffee or a hearty bite for your independent soul and it all looks so green and beautiful no matter the time of year. Sure it gets cold here, but one travelling day for research in January was like a perfect July one. There's a lot of great parks and recreational activities for your sunny days to and why not look up 'Him & Honey' if your on a couples retreat for the perfect photo album memory and tour of this city? Take the bridge and the massive main road in the opposite direction however and you'll pass plenty of pizza places and named chains for your fill, but before the hotel district and all your budget and brilliant places to stay there's a small strip of shops and a Barnes & Noble bookstore that doubles up as a University store and Starbucks. If reading dates and a spot of small, boutique shopping is your forte this is the quiet evening for you.

Further up the road the hotels offer a great, unforgettable view of the Vanderbilt University sports stadiums if you want to see just why college sports are considered even more fan fareing, passion proud, epic events then the majors...especially around March. The University campus is beautiful too and classic America if you're thinking of taking the studying route. After you've checked into your hotel, hostel or dorm you have to check out what's available to eat and trust me this place as got as many great spots as it has walls with murals (a picture perfect guided tour in itself). Our top pick however is 'Ted's Grill', what better thing to order in this part of America than BBQ? As well as a wood saloon, atmospheric decor that would have made Capone proud to eat here this traditional place doesn't have to change with the times when it not only has the best burgers in town, but the best-whether beef or speciality bison- in the world. Trust me, this is a guy whose eaten more burgers than Morgan Sperlock. Still this isn't quite your fill when it comes to Nashville, all the hotels surrounding this area are located next to the grand park that leads to the Parthenon, Nashville's perfect answer to Washington's Lincoln Memorial. Just don't watch 'Percy Jackson-Lightening Thief', before you go...because you might not want to. Still this is the iconic landmark of this town whose roots sing deeper than country music. This is a city that has everything you could want on one big and all encompassing road, you barely have to take a left to find what's right for you. With all this on the playlist this itinerary makes Nashville sound like the next place that needs to hear from you. Make the play. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

GUIDE TO: PHILADELPHIA

Philadelphia is more than an Academy Award winning classic film of the nighties starring greats Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington. The city of brotherly love is also one of the greatest places in the United States of America. Iconic, legendary American singer/songwriters Bruce Springsteen and Neil Young sang about it. This place birthed John Coltrane and Tammi Terrell and West Philadelphia was where the Fresh Prince Will Smith was born and raised...and on the playground is where he spent most of his days. If that isn't enough then wait until you try a Philly Cheese Steak, sandwiches synonymous with a city don't get more hallmark or tasty than this. As American as apple pie this is the place to be. Let's take a bite.

Speaking of which, from the City Tavern to the Tabu Lounge and other sensational sports bars, Phila has plenty of places to chomp it out while you chop it up over a game or just your day. Still for the real taste of Philadelphia you have to get your greasy mitts on a tasty cheese steak snack, preferably at the classic corner of 'Pat's Steak's'. It really is part of the experience just like the hard to miss 'Soft Pretzel'. This classic cuisine really opens your eyes and mouth to this classy city. Plus from downtown to the beautiful, hallmark Reading Terminal Market there are plenty more great places to eat, drink and shop on offer. So whether its caffeine or bargains that are your drug of choice, this big, beautiful city that has a small town, feel and charm truly has it all.

Spending some more time in sports bars for a second, if that type of recreation is your thing then Philly really is a hot bed for sports. Literally the South Philadelphia Sports Complex is home to three terrific stadiums. All four major sports are catered for with the Eagles of the NFL, the Flyers of the NHL, the Philadelphia Phillies of the MLB Baseball league and the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA. The Sixers are a legendary Basketball team who have hosted iconic stars such as Wilt Chamberlain (who once scored 100 points in a single game), Julius (Dr. J) Erving, Moses Malone, Charles Barkley and culture changer Allen Iverson and lately with guys like Andre Igudola, Elton Brand, Thaddeus Young and Lou Williams they have a new team to be reckoned with.

Back to sports bar's...because you know it's right. Under 10 blocks away 'Chickie's and Pete's' is THE place to eat and watch all sports all day. It's trademark and tradition to this city. Still this are offer a lot of other cool cake shops and places to grub on, including the perfectly nice Pizza place, 'Celebres' down the road. All these stadiums provide a great place to host gigs and concerts so you know stars will flock here too, but one of the most glittering parts of this area is the incredible view of Downtown Philly and it's skyline. From day to night you won't be able to take your eyes off it, regardless of who's playing.

Tourists make sure you ascend the 'Rocky' steps and check out the Sylvester Stallone statue from the iconic series of boxing cinema. Yes...don't worry about doing the jog and jump either...because everyone does it, you just can't resist one of the best photo opportunities. Before you head there two whatever your nationality you are greeted by a beautiful long walk featuring flags of different countries and their cities. Plus the steps lead to the picture perfect Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is as stunning inside as it is on the Greek looking outer. Also there's an incredible Van Gogh exhibition on at the moment that you really have to lend your ears and eyes too.

More magnificent museums and supreme statues decorate this city of the state of Pennsylvania's landscape and timetable and they are all worth a timetable and a slot. Nothing however stands taller than the sublime but subtle skyline headed by 'One Liberty Place'. Except that is for the monument that is City Hall in itself (which in itself is rivalled in brilliance and beauty by the iconic Independence Hall). The real sight to behold though is the moving and magical Liberty Bell. A cracking site that means so much to the itinerary. Like the statue of Benjamin Franklin which is far from a bust to your trip.

Take a break here and stop in anywhere from the Hotel Palomar Philadelphia to the Hi International Hostel, because whatever your budget there's so much more to do. Sure you could do Philly in a day, at a push and a rush, but to really see this place you've got to take a few days, you could really relax in this friendly small town feeling city. Plus from the fountain of beauty of Fairmount Park to the artistic integrity of the Italian Market in South Philly there's so much more than what meets the downtown tourists eyes. A T.V. show says 'It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia' a trip here whatever the weather or season shows you that this place truly shines. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

TRAVEL BITES: SERENDIPITY 3, NEW YORK CITY

'Serendipity' means a 'happy accident or 'pleasant surprise' and is reportedly one of the world populations favourite words...somewhere next to 'love' and 'happiness' I'm sure. It's also the name of a classic, hit romantic comedy starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale where a man an a woman meet thanks to a pleasant accident.

In this film they go for a drink and sundae in New York Cities Little Italy and more importantly 'Serendipity 3', which could be argued as the true muse of this movie. The beautiful, quaint restaurant has been a part of NYC since 1954 and is hallmark to the Big Apple like the carriages in Central Park or the lights in Times Square.

You have to make a stop or two here. From the beautiful, vintage decor to the souvenir satisfying gift-shop this place more than looks the part. The friendly, welcoming staff are always on hand with plenty of water (you'll need it for the sundaes-one waiter told me "better keep you hydrated for this adventure") and stories and advice (you may need that too).

This is a great place to eat a meal or share a drink, but desserts is where this two-floored heaven makes its bread and butter. From the legendary 'Frozen Hot Chocolate' to the 'Forbidden Broadway Sundae' there are so many devilish treats here...and so many more gorgeous sundaes and incredible desserts to get your teeth and fillings into.

So why not take a chance on this place and be pleasantly surprised? Because this will make for one of your favourite New York memories, like ice skating in Central Park or shopping in Bloomingdale's. This is no accident however, when it comes to 'Serendipity 3', you where meant to come here. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

GUIDE TO: NEW YORK CITY

New York, New York there's nothing quite like it. Arguably the greatest city in the world and whether exploring America or the whole wide world it's a great place to start. Now where do we begin?

The moment you step off the planes, trains or automobiles you travelled on to get here it hits you...your here. The worlds most famous city. You feel it in the air as your eyes widen, you've arrived. You can see the Empire State Building on the ever incredible skyline in the distance and it looks even better then the amazing ways it is portrayed in the movies. Sizzling and scorching hot in the Summer and the truest feeling of Christmas in the white blanketed Winter. It's truly cinematic, but that's enough of the Hollywood stuff, let's save that for Los Angeles and the West-Coast. In the concrete jungle where dreams are made of it's time to get into an 'Empire State Of Mind' like Jay-Z and Alicia Keys and it's time to get down to business and see what you came to see before it's gone in a New York minute and you fail to make it here (as the saying goes).

First off your going to need a place to stay and there's plenty to pick from for all price and taste ranges from East Village to all the other small to grand, big and beautiful areas this city offers in all its nooks and crannies. From the famous, best places to stay like the Waldorf Astoria and the Hotel Pennsylvania to the hip hostels for budget backpackers (which is a great way to meet new people and fellow travellers) like the brilliant Broadway Hotel and Hostel, the cool Chelsea International (across the road from a police station for your convenience) and the wonderful, worldwide 'Hi' (Hostelling International) chains, all and more are a great stay.

Now that's out the way, what to do? What to do? With so much to see and experience the reason they named this city twice is because your going to need more then one trip to do it all in. You better be ready to never sleep either. So with one hell of a portion on your itinerary plate (and we haven't even got to eating out yet) what should you do first? Well, the world is yours but why not go straight to the core of the city and visit the hub of electricity and excitement that is Times Square? At it's best, boldest and most beautiful at night-but still amazing in the day-this is quite possibly the worlds best meeting place. As cultures collide and the big lights of the bright city align your time and photo album may all be used up here if your not careful. With great shops and interactive billboards ('Forever 21' scores twice here), quality places to eat and all-sorts of goings on this is more then the place to see, it's the place to be (especially if you could make some timeless, forever new year, New York memories here).

A more recent edition of bright red bleachers also helps for many reasons. Firstly these stairs serve as a better vantage point for photos and views of those famous, pole-to-pole billboards and there also a great place to sit and just take in the atmosphere and eerie calm of the surroundings at times while everyone else is minding their own tourist business. Still the primary reason for these steps is the scalper surviving, selling of discount theatre tickets officially that goes on underneath. A great way to see more and pay less on your trip and speaking of shows there's plenty to see on Broadway. This makes for another classic New York experience and from traditional shows like 'Jersey Boy's' to more modern adaptations of movies like 'Shrek' and music like Green Day's 'American Idiot' there's something for everyone and every weekend and weekday.

Still if you prefer something a little different and lighter why not visit those guys with clipboards (don't worry they aren't charity pushers (not that those people are bad, but come on your on holiday here) and go see a budget comedy show (like the 'Comedy Central' one) and see a range of up and coming comics and more established ones from popular T.V. shows like '30 Rock' and 'Chappelle Show' (sure we aren't talking about the stars but still some pretty hilarious dudes and dudettes). Or why not try your luck at catching a monologue rehearsal or even being a part of the live studio audience for popular N.Y. based talk shows like 'The Late Show With David Letterman', 'Late Night With Jimmy Fallon' or 'The Daily Show With Jon Stewart'. Tickets are free, but you have to win them, still you never know your luck or who you might see.

Or maybe sports is more your thing, and if so you've come to the right place. From Ice Hockey's New York Rangers to baseballs Mets, but still the cities two biggest draws are your best bets. A walking distance amount of blocks from Times Square will land you near Penn Station and Madison Square Garden, the worlds most famous arena and the mecca of basketball. The arena is old, but legendary there's nothing quite like it. It also triples up as as the Rangers home and one of the worlds most sought-after concert venues serving everyone from Bruce Springsteen to the Blue Man Group. Still, seeing a basketball game there is the best thing to do and now the New York Knicks have added superstars Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony their actually a good team, a real good team.

Still if you prefer your balls beaten with bats then why not make that trip to the Bronx and see the reason everyone wears Yankee caps for real. A baseball game at Yankee stadium is another instant vintage memory for anyone who wants to experience the real New York first-hand. Speaking of which and The Bronx, don't miss out this borough or Brooklyn, Staten Island or Queens because the magnificence of this city is more then just Manhattan on it's own.

WOW! Now this is already a lot right? We haven't even begun to sight see or even eat right? Told you to forget about sleeping, but to keep yourself going there are countless eateries around the city all with their own classic, individual character whether domestic or international. From New York's first pizzeria ('Lombardi's' since 1905) to Sushi spots, fast-food joints and health-food spas. Still our pick is the 'Metro Diner' on the Upper West Side, 2641 Broadway. Nothing more epitomises the look, feel or traditional nature of this American classic. Breakfast and dinner the portions are always more then generous and the staff genuine, especially favourite Mario who's always welcoming and full of stories and recommendations. Nothing will make you feel more at home. Then if you do sleep why not cross the road and walk a few blocks down for breakfast at 'Broadway Bagel' for the best in the city from their effortlessly efficient and kind staff?

Or if you like things a bit more cinematic, why don't you play John Cusack or Kate Beckinale and visit the iconic 'Serendipity 3' in the beautiful Little Italy? This landmark place that made for the classic rom-com 'Serendipity' offers more than great food, drink and souvenirs. It's also the home of the legendary 'Frozen Hot Chocolate' and the seriously best sundaes in the world. They're unforgettably tempting, unforgiving huge and to die for...if you can make it. From the quaint interior to the kind staff this is one New York moment that will climb your charts.

Why not continue your movie tour with a visit to everywhere from the landmark Lincoln Centre to the 'Ghostbusters' fire house in the Tribeca (one of many great traditional fire stations)? Then check out this delightful district which is home to Robert De Niro and others, from there to Soho, Hells Kitchen, the Meatpacker District and beyond N.Y.C offers even more to see with every amazing area. With beauty and originality on every corner, you will always discover something new with each trip.

Just like the bold and beautiful Highline. A former Subway line turned into a park, (with tracks still intact (no longer functional...don't worry)) which offers some of the best and most beautiful views of the city from day to night. This part of the developing Hudson area (skyscrapers will soar soon too) is now officially one of the best and most underrated tourist destinations to take a bite out of in the Big Apple.

Now time to work that all off. How about a walk in the park? We aint talking about a stroll. If you really want to take in the beauty of New York's Eden Central Park, you better walk the whole length of it until you get to Malcolm X boulevard. There's so much to take and partake in here. From the zoo to the famous ice rink, or to playing sports or simply sitting down to read in the vast middle. At the centre and heart of the city this beautiful bit of nature offers a strange, calm relief from the busiest of cities, despite being right next to it. There's no place quite like it, just imagine for a second. Be sure to pass by Strawberry Fields too and pay your respects to Beatles and music legend John Lennon.

Still if you prefer your picturesque landscapes to view the whole city why not take on any fear of heights and scale one of the cities famous sky scrapers? The big draw is obviously the enormous Empire State Building and from it's beautiful gold lobby to it's vast promise at the top it's an incredible, unforgettable experience. Still our recommendation is to go to the 'Top Of The Rock' at the Rockefeller Centre. First off you actually get a view of the amazing Empire State (rather then just being in it), plus you get an unblemished look of the vastness of Central Park, making for a dream view between the sprawl of buildings. It's hard to determine which sides best. Or what time as witnessing this view bleed from day to night is one of the most beautiful things you'll ever witness. As you look down and see all the goings on, all the people like ants and shimmers of old and chrome of taxi's taking their respective routes it's time to get back down to earth.

Make sure you take a ride in a New York cab while you can still catch one(albeit a cheap one) because their famous town cars are set to be replaced by mini-vans. Also ride the seriously 'New York' subway and their signature stations. It's all part of the cities experience and you may even catch some great, up and coming performances down there (like the incredible, 'Roosevelt Dime', a band so good and so New York and classic America you could bet your last dollar on them).

Now how about them sites? After all isn't that why your here? From the grandiose, vintage magnificence of Grand Central Station to one of the best walks you'll ever have (we've got San Fran on deck too) across the awe inspiring Brooklyn Bridge. Then why not take a boat out for an even better view of the sublime, inspiring Statue of Liberty (if you can take those Staten Island Ferry lines) and also take in the history of Ellis Island? Speaking of history then why not venture to the classic Coney Island and all it's seaside splendor?

Or you could keep your moments Manhattan and keep your skating styles on ice at the Rockefeller plaza, or take in the testament of the beautiful St. Andrews cathedral across the road. A day at the Natural History Museum is always a rewarding experience, while making an arch to Greenwich Village-the home of many celebrities and inspiration to Bob Dylan-is also enlightening. Speaking of the stars from 'Where Harry Met Sally' in Katz's Delicatessen to the 'Sex and the City' tour and the city as a whole there are famous movie locations everywhere.

It's also vital to leave your cameras at home and pay your respects at Ground Zero and then witness the development of the inspiring freedom tower. A couple of stops away lies Wall Street where you can catch a glimpse of the famous bronze bull and even a photo if you don't mind waiting...and boy will you wait. Speaking of money this is New York surely you'll want to shop right? This is definitely the place from malls to boutiques, Macy's, Bloomingdales, Hollister's and many more personal, private businesses at a drop of your shop. After you put your bags down N.Y. offers an unforgettable nightlife too. Everywhere their are unique, individual bars and clubs to suit your needs. Still, Soho and Chelsea house some of the best spots and with factory sized clubs the Meatpacking district is the place to be. Whatever your poison or plan make sure you mingle with the locals and fellow tourists, because meeting new people and sharing experiences really is what travelling is all about.

Then the next morning if you aren't nursing too bad a hangover why not see for yourself what else the city has to offer because this is just the tip of the iceberg, there's so much more. So go explore the home of thousands of stars (this was the birthplace of everyone from Robert De Niro to Michael Jordan) and movies (where so many do the city justice but most recently Matt Damon's 'The Adjustment Bureau' and Will Smith's 'Hitch' capture it best) and see exactly what everyone is so excited about. Go make your own New York memories and then tell someone else all about it. In the spring and summer it's sensational, in the autumn beautiful and New York in the fall is all about big coats & long walks, cold nights & hot coffee. So take a trip...or maybe two to a city so good they had to name it twice. Don't make me say it again. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

TRAVEL BITES: METRO DINER-NEW YORK CITY

If you're off Broadway in New York City and want a classic taste and feel of American dining then nothing beats the Metro Diner located on 2641 Broadway, New York 10025 at 1000th Street. From breakfast to dinner and great food to service just as hearty this is THE classic American Diner for the modern day nostalgia and memory makers.

From it's maroon outside to it's leather and tile interior this is traditional Americana in all it's pride and beauty. Whether sitting at the bar for a coffee by yourself, talking to the lovely locals or joining your best and closest for a spot of lunch in a booth this makes for one of those New York minute moments that will last a lifetime in the fondness banks.

Want burgers? Then how about three? Because from the mini-bites to the quarter pounders there's more at steak than rib-eye. Bit of a tipper? Then you may feel like emptying your pockets due to the friendly and welcoming service that feels second to none and is truly the embodiment of the American way. All of the staff are warm and genuine but it's the waiter Mario who will really become one of the best and favourite people you'll meet in this great city. Want stories? Travel tips? Advice? Or just general small talk? Then this man has it all and more and he and his fellow staff are always more than happy to help, serve and chat.

From affordable prices to desserts that will leave you floored you really have to make a meal of this place. With a prime time location on Broadway, near some great spots and withing a few stops of the heart of the city the 'Metro' provides you with a glimpse of the true New York. Feast your eyes and mind on this. You'll definitely want to stomach it. TIM DAVID HARVEY