New York, New York, a city so nice they named it twice. From the bustling sound of traffic to the soothing sound of the Hudson River, the vibrant city is composed of five boroughs all at your fingertips.
Whether you decide to watch musicals on Broadway or the Knicks game in Madison Square Garden, New York is packed with abundant activities for everyone. Rocky rollercoasters, breathtaking bridges, iconic monuments and people of every colour shade and hue, there is nothing like New York. One visit, and you’ll fall in love with the Big Apple.
History
The Native American presence in New York dates as far back as 10,000 BC. By 1100 AD, the two main native cultures were the Iroquois and Algonquian speaking tribes. First ‘discovered’ by the Italian Giovanni da Verrazano in early 1500s, actual European settlement began in 1609 by the Dutch West India Company, who commissioned English Explorer Henry Hudson to find a northwest passage to the Indies. He sailed into Upper New York bay along the river that now bears his name. The land was bought from the Algonquian speaking people for goods worth $24, though little explanation for what such a purchase meant was given, or indeed understood. With the purchase of Manhattan Island, flocks of settlers from Germany, England, France, and New Netherlands migrated to the island bringing with them along with indentured servants and people taken from Africa as slaves, causing the population to increase drastically.
The colony, named New Amsterdam expanded through out the early 1600s, at the expense of thousands of Native American and colonist lives. The Native American population was also decimated by smallpox, first contracted by the Mohawk following contact with children of Dutch traders. In 1664 an English naval expedition sailed to New Amsterdam and the Dutch, under threat of attack, capitulated; New Amsterdam was renamed New York, after the Duke of York.
New York played a pivotal role during the American Revolution between 1765 and 1783. In 1780 New York, along with a number of other colonies ratified a constitution declaring itself a state, despite being intermittently held by the British during the revolution. In 1787, New York became the eleventh state to ratify the United States Constitution. In 1895 the cities of Queens, The Bronx, Brooklyn and Staten Island voted to join Manhattan becoming part of the Greater New York. Through Ellis Island about 12 million foreigners arrived seeking citizenship in the United States during the 1900s. Through out the 20th century, advances in culture, transportation, architecture, media and more, New York became one of the most happening cities in the world. Alas, the attack of the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001 sent a shockwave of distress among New Yorkers questioning the protection of the citizens. Nevertheless, Gotham City made a comeback with the construction of the Freedom Tower and the 9/11 Memorial site. The resilient city attracts more than 40 million tourists every year.
Food
Unlike many tourist destinations, New York’s cuisine isn’t influenced by one particular culture. As a matter of fact, you can find Chinese, Thai, Korean, Turkish, Indian, Italian, Spanish, and soul food at every other corner of New York. Finger food usually sold in carts include hotdogs, gyros, and kebabs – but be sure to double check the halal status. Pizza is a very common finger food and can be found in small pizza shops around the city or Italian restaurants. Saint Mark’s Place in lower east side has some of the best slices and it’s quiet cheap, only $1 per slice.
Talk of the Town
If you’re looking for a quiet evening with scrumptious food, try Talk of the Town located in Jackson Heights. Halal certified, the restaurant serves Chinese and Indian cuisine. The dimmed lights create a peaceful atmosphere while the waiters quickly serve the dishes. Famously known for their chicken lollipops, Talk of the Town have customers that come back just for those red fiery wings. The shrimp biriyani and the lamb sizzler is a great combo and it comes in great portions as well. Don’t forget to taste some Chinese dishes like the Hong Kong noodles. Cool your mouth with some sweet mango, strawberry, or lychee lassi. If you enjoy Indian and Chinese food this restaurant is a must!
Max Brenner
Take a shot…of chocolate! Max Brenner or the chocolate wonderland as it is commonly known gives customers just the right kind of sugar rush. Although, the restaurant is not halal friendly, there are equally delicious meat free dishes. Customers can stick to salads like Quinoa and Chickpea Salad or fish dishes like sesame salmon. Max Brenner even has special chocolaty dishes like the chocolate pizza. But don’t eat too much, leave plenty of room for dessert! Choose from the many dessert options like the chocolate fondue, sugar waffles, and choctails! Enjoy the heavenly sweets with your significant other.
Turkish Kitchen
Located on the Murray Hill section of Manhattan, this upscale halal certified restaurant has traditional Turkish food. Appetizers include falafel, beef dumplings, pan-fried zucchini pancakes and more. Some of the main dishes are Pirzola which is grilled baby lambs chops served with traditional rice, Tilapia Bugulama which is a fish filet tilapia that comes with casserole. Even if you are not Turkish this restaurant is a great way to try some halal Turkish food.
The Halal Guys
Famous among Muslims and Non-Muslims, this popular halal street food have New Yorkers waiting on lines that extend to the end of the block. Customers can choose between lamb or chicken over rice served with salad and Nan on the side. Or the gyro which is lamb or chicken wrapped with Nun resembling a burrito. Their delicious recipe of white sauce and hot sauce are one of a kind. When in New York stop by the Halal Guys cart located in Midtown on 53th and 6th avenue or try the restaurant located on 14th street.
Attractions
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty symbolizes freedom that comes with fulfilling the American Dream. There are several ways to catch a glimpse of this remarkable woman. One of them is from the Staten Island Ferry that runs in the New York Harbor carrying passengers from Manhattan to Staten Island. From the ferry visitors can get a great shot of Lady Liberty at any time of the day as the ferry runs 24/7 at no cost. You can also take the traditional route by visiting Liberty Island where the statue is located. The best way to make this trip efficient is by making reservations prior to the visit. Tourists can visit the ground or book the tickets for the crown as well. Luckily your ticket gives access to Ellis Island and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum where millions of immigrants are listed. From important documents to famous poems, this National Monument never fails to catch the eye, don’t miss it!
Top of the Rock
An extraordinary view of Gotham City can be captured at the 70th floor of Top of the Rock observation deck. Located in midtown Manhattan the 30 Rockefeller Center is the home to NBC Television headquarters. From the observation deck visitors can peek the phenomenal empire states building, shiny freedom tower, and just about every building the sun touches till the horizon. The 360 degrees view means you can soak in every angle of the Big Apple. On the second floor a professional photographer awaits to get a group picture with a black and white background on Manhattan that you can purchase. High above on the 14th tallest building in New York, take a picture with the dream city in the back. Frame it on your wall and reminisce the memories as you walk pass.
Coney Island
A day of family fun, Coney Island is filled with thrilling attractions like rollercoasters, beaches, and even an aquarium! From kitty rides to rides that will knock your socks off, Luna Park has tons of rides appealing to your thrilometer. Sit through the Haunted House and let it give you goosebumps or get shot in the air with the Sling Shot ride. The Coney Island Raceway is another famous ride that have people waiting on lines. Scratch off Cyclone from your list, one of the oldest rollercoasters in the world, functioning since 1927. Calm your nerves by heading over to the aquarium to watch the sharks, rays, and turtles as they swim around. But, come back out in time for the sunset. Take a stroll in the beach right across the boardwalk from the Aquarium. There’s so many activities in Coney Island, plan wisely, time flies!
Natural Wonders
Central Park
Step away from the city lights and enter Central Park located in the middle of Upper Manhattan. This urban park is one of the gems in New York with it’s natural beauty and a unique view of the skyscrapers in the background. Ride on a horse drawn carriage that will take you on a tour of Central Park. Make sure to take a tour of the lake, reservoir and the pond where fishes and ducks inhabit. You can also rent a canoe and go rowing in the lake. Experience nature firsthand with a memorable walks in one of the most filmed locations in the world.
Mosque
Islamic Cultural Centre
Seek forgiveness from the Al-Mighty in one of the most well-known mosques in New York called the Islamic Cultural Centre located in upper Manhattan. The building is positioned directly towards Mecca. The white dome of the mosque stands out from the skyscrapers of New York, and is a sight to behold. Inside, the minaret is painted in brown with the walls in solid white. Prayer services like Jumah, Tarawih and Idu-Fitr prayers are held along with daily prayers. The mosque also has a women’s section. The Islamic Cultural Centre is even open to visitors, educational institutions, and interfaith meetings. When in New York take advantage of this mosque and experience the greatness for yourself!
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