Writing about New York always brings back memories of a city designed for the hopeful. It probably can be attributed to its origin as a port of call for European immigrants who made their way to the New World to start life anew. Much time has passed but the city has not lost its ability to inspire and captivate the hearts of its inhabitants. Beyond the noise, grime and hype, lies a city pulsating with energy and positivity that I will always want to go back to. This travelogue captures some of my favorite parts of the city.

You can’t really talk about New York without talking about the Statue of Liberty.Probably one of the most iconic statues in the world, this federal monument is situated on Liberty Island, a short ferry ride away from the southern side of Manhattan Island.  Reserve a seat on one of the ferries from Battery Park and you’ll find yourself staring up at this giant copper statue (that’s why it looks green!) that was a gift from France to the US to mark the US’ independence. Today it has become a symbol to all immigrants coming to the US via New Work of the opportunities waiting for them. If you’re interested, there are other islands you can explore nearby too including Ellis Islandand Governors Island.

Another iconic part of New York is Times Square. At the junction of Broadway and 7th Avenue, this major commercial intersection is where people congregate under gigantic billboards and electricity fills the air. Named so because the New York Times moved its main office to an office building nearby in the early 1900s, Times Square is quintessential New York, complete with the Ball Drop, Broadway theaters and the many costumed tourist traps around. You can go shopping in some of the nearby shops but I would say the most fun is to definitely just keep your head looking up at all the wonder of consumerism.

If you’re into the stock market or corporate financing, you probably won’t be able to keep yourself away from Wall Street,  home to the New York Stock Exchange, NASDAQ, and many other major financial institutions. There’s not actually much to see in itself on this street, except for well-dressed people rushing to their next meeting, but you can soak up the vibe of one of the US’ most iconic backdrops. If you do want a photo, head to the Charging Bull statue, a tribute to the bull markets that drive Wall Street.

Completely underrated in New York are the various parks and green spaces. It was only on my third visit that I was able to finally make time to just walk around aimlessly. Do not miss out at all on Central Park, one of the best parks I’ve been to after years of traveling. Their lakes and reservoirs are iconic, especially with the backdrop of New York’s skyscrapers. Give yourself a couple of hours to roam around.

For a different type of park, check out The High Line, a re-purposed railroad that is one of the best examples on how urban design can be beautiful. Going parallel to 10th Ave, this stretch provides one of my favorite views of New York. You can peak at other skyscrapers while enjoying the greenery on the side.

Of course, if you’re as old as I am, you would also remember that New York was unfortunately the site of the horrific World Trade Center (WTC) 9/11 terrorism incident that killed many and punctuated the global response to terrorist threats. While the WTC has been rebuilt, New York has also committed to never forget the tragedy that befell their city. If you go to the WTC Memorial, you will find a poignant tribute to the people who lost their lives and the story of those who worked to save and repair what was left. They say a crisis brings people together – you can see that here. It’s another reminder that cities are homes to real people and real stories, and we should never erase them when we visit such places.

When you’re in New York, do not miss out on the museums. Home to some of the best museums in the world, New York is a cultural capital and a destination for growing your soul and spirit. There are the giants of course such as The Met, MOMA, MOMA PS1 and the Museum of Natural History. But also check out the galleries and private shows, such as the Guggeinheim. Of course, visit Broadway while you’re there for the theater shows, and if you have the time, wait in line for a lottery ticket so you don’t have to burst your wallet.

I don’t have pictures for some of the other iconic spots in New York, but most guides will also point you towards checking out sites such as the Empire State Building (where King Kong climbed), Rockefeller Center (where TV studios are and where they have a giant Christmas tree),  Grand Central Terminal, and the NY Public Library. Check them out if it’s along the way or if you have time!

You’re going to be pretty occupied by what’s going on in New York City in itself, but if you can, take some time out to go to some of the boroughs around NYC. I loved crossing the Brooklyn Bridge to get to Brooklyn, where there’s a bunch of nice cafes and restaurants. It’s also where the better parties are at. Dumbo (short for Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is a part of Brooklyn that has a great view of NYC itself. Come here during the evening for a beautiful skyline picture. Of course, there’s also Queens, the grittier (and more affordable) sibling to the big city that is also home to Flushing, the real Chinatown of New York. Finally, there’s the Bronx, an increasingly gentrified neighborhood where the Yankee Stadium is at. Wherever you choose to explore, know that New York goes beyond the city and has a lot to offer.

You’re going to be spoiled for choices for food and because the F&B scene evolves so quickly, I’m going to point you to my favorite Eater List for the latest recommendations. However, I will highlight the following:

1. Ess-a-Bagel for some proper NY style bagels and schmears
2. Katz’s Deli for their god-awesome Pastrami sandwich that will FILL YOU UP.
3. Grimaldi’s Pizza for arguably one of NY’s best pizzas (they say it has to do with the water)
4. Papaya Dog for the classic cheap NY style dog and some juices.
5. Milk Bar for some amazing desserts

For nightlife, the Meatpacking District is where all the snobby but packed clubs are. However, most young New Yorkers will tell you to cross the bridge and go to the shows in Brooklyn for the unpretentious fun. You can also go online to see where the best parties are going to be. For jazz, go to Greenwich Village, which has tons of live shows. I loved my experience at 55 Bar. Random additions that were fun include The Garret (speakeasy in a Five Guys) and Rudy’s Bar and Grill (free hot dogs anyone?)

New York strikes me as a place I’ll want to definitely live in for a couple of years. It has most things you want from a city – diversity, vibrancy, excellence and connectedness. It could probably do better with cleanliness, crime prevention, public transportation and governance but for one of the most populated cities in the world, you can live with it. I definitely look forward to the next time I can make my way back!