LisaAnnBurke

The Upper West Side is my absolute favorite neighborhood of the city and the part I will always call my true home no matter where I may venture. It is bordered by 59th Street to the south and 110th the north, from Central park West to the Hudson River.

The Upper West Side has a very different vibe than the Upper East Side and when I ask people to put this difference into words, the most frequent answer I get is that the neighborhood offers a "real sense of community." Area residents are very friendly and welcoming to the newcomer and tourist alike. While the neighborhood has roots within the Jewish community, it is now has much more diverse population with an eclectic mix of the intellectual and cultural. There are still are few Jewish eateries like Lenny's on Columbus Avenue between 83rd and 84th Street and Artie's on Broadway and 83rd Street. Apartments here are small and expensive but you may find some good deals once you venture into the 90s and 100s.

There are a few museums in the area including the Museum of Natural History is on 79th Street and Central Park West. The Museum is renowned for its exhibitions and scientific collections and offers a wonderful combination of the educational with the fun for both children and adults. Special events are held throughout the year and it is a very popular destination for class trips. Attached to the Museum of Natural History is the Hayden Planetarium a fun place to explore the world of astrophysics with special presentation, lectures, and demonstrations for adults and children. A spectacular new show is Journey to the Start, narrated by actress Whoopi Golderberg. The half-hour show spans billions of years in explaining how the universe was created, beginning on Earth and extending beyond our galaxy before returning.

The Upper West Side offers a wide range of dining experiences with high priced restaurants, but also many family-owned venues that provide some of the best but moderately food in Manhattan. Sarabeth's on Amsterdam Avenue between 80th and 81st Street is an especially popular brunch venue and in the warm weather the sidewalk is filled with patrons waiting for a table.

The neighborhood is nicely situated between two of the best parks in the city: Central park and Riverside Park. I prefer Riverside Park as it is a bit less touristy and quiet than Central Park. a great place to take a nice walk or bike ride along the Hudson. The Riverside Park promenade extends all the way down to Battery Park City and up into Harlem so is a great place to take a nice walk or bike ride along the Hudson.

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts on Broadway between 62nd and 65th Streets offers some of the best music, ballet, opera and jazz performances in the city. During the warmer months Lincoln Center Out-of-Doors offers free music performances from many different cultures. There is also the Walter Reade Film Forum of the Film Society of Lincoln Center/Walter Read Film Forum on 65th and Broadway celebrates American and international film by new and established filmmakers. The Film Society seeks to enhance awareness and appreciation of diverse film perspectives among a broad audience.

If books are your things, the best Barnes & Noble bookstore in the city is on 66th and Broadway. The store offers three floors of books with the top floor being devoted to a Barnes & Noble Cafe (Starbucks). I can (and have) spent hours here on a chilly winter weekend reading the paper and a few magazines. I love the culture of B&N with everyone spread on the floor with some reading material or their laptop.

The neighborhood also has many wonderful boutiques along with some larger stores, such as the Apple Store on Broadway and 65th, Patagonia sports store on Columbus Avenue and 80th Street, lululemon athletica, athletic wear on Columbus and 65th Street, and Sephora on Broadway and 76th Street. There are also street festivals every spring and fall that generally run from 72nd to 86th Street on Broadway and offer all kinds of goodies, from watches to oriental rugs, along with a variety of foods.

The Upper West Side is well served by subway with the 1,2,3,B,and C making several stops in the area.

Tribeca is a pretty little neighborhood in the downtown area of Manhattan. Tribeca, which stands for the "TRIangle BElow CAnal" is roughly bordered by the Financial District to the south, Canal Street to the north and extends from Broadway to the Hudson River. You can cross over the West Side Highway and enjoy a nice walk or bike ride along Hudson River park and the River Promenade which stretches from Battery Park City all the way to Riverside Park on the Upper West Side.

Many consider Tribeca to the best best place to live in Manhattan if you can afford it. While it was once a industrial area in the 1960s, artists started coming to the area in the 1970s, attracted by the spacious and bright lofts. As a result, Tribeca became a trendy and hip neighborhood, with rising real estate prices. Today, Forbes ranks Tribeca as one of the country's most expensive zip codes (10013).

Many celebrities have called Tribeca home, the most notable of which was John F. Kennedy Jr. Robert DeNiro opened the Tribeca Grill on Greenwich and Franklin Streets. Many people who come to the restaurant are hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous star but most often run into other out-of-towners who are there for the same reason. Prices are moderately expensive and they are packed for Sunday brunch.

Tribeca is also home to the Tribeca Film Festival also started by Robert DeNiro in 2011 in an effort to foster revitalization of the downtown area in the aftermath of the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center through an annual celebration of film and music. The mission of the Festival is to enable both new and established filmmakers to reach a wide and diverse audience and to promote New York City as a vital center for filmmaking. Since 2002, the Festival has shown 1200 films produced in over 80 countries with an estimated total attendance of 3.2 million.

Tribeca has many trendy shops with moderate to expensive prices. Edon Manor on Greenwich Street which carries a wide selection of designer handbags, shoes and accessories and aims to be the Barneys of the downtown area. Gotham Bikes on West Broadway is a fun place to explore when you are in the market for new wheels or accessories. NYC Home and Craft Center on Lispenard Street, is a Pear Paint affiliate offering home-improvement items and varying crafts. Then there my favorite store in just about the whole world,Pearl Paint on Canal Street offering everything an artist could ever need....and then some. Paul Kohn Design on Hudson Street is a 2000-square-foot furnished loft complete with bedroom, living room, and dining area. Then there is Syliva Weinstock Cakes on Church Street. Weinstock is often referred to as the the "Queen of Cakes" by her peers for her elaborate cakes. She is the go to person for sweets by many New York City socialites.

Transportation to the area is good with the 1, 2, A,C,E,N,Q,R all stopping at Canal Street or points near. There will be a bit of a walk when you exit the train station but, in New York City, there is always something to see along the way.

Turtle Bay is a pretty neighborhood in the Midtown-East section of Manhattan. It extends from 42nd Street to 53rd Street and First to Lexington Avenues. Many believe that the area got its name from the turtle-filled creek that at one time emptied into a bay of the East River.

The United Nations, along with many consulates are located in this area. This does not really affect area residents except when they close streets when the General Assembly meets and dignitaries from many countries come into town and stay at nearby hotels.

The area is primarily residential and has a mix of Beaux Art apartment buildings and lovely brownstones. The street are tree-lined and make for a nice walk in the spring and summer. The buildings are mostly coops with some rentals and prices are moderately high. The nearer to the water, the more expensive the real estate.

There are a handful of grocery stores and drug stores but you will need to walk closer to Third or Lexington Avenue to do most of your shopping. YThere are some excellent restaurants in the neighborhood, such as Pietro's Steakhouse on East 43rd which has a long-time following, Caterina's Restaurant on East 53rd, a charming place offering a somewhat unique mix of Hungarian and Italian food. There is not much nightlife east of Third Avenue although a younger crowd does hang out at the bard along Lexington Avenue. However, these are likely commuters and not residents of Turtle Bay.

Turtle Bay is also in close proximity to the Midtown area and, as such easily within walking distance. The Chrysler Building, considered a masterpiece of art deco architecture is located is across the street from Grand Central Station. The Chrysler Building was the tallest building in the world before the construction of the Empire State Building. It now ranks as one of the top 50 tallest buildings in the world. The Chrysler Building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.

Transportation is via the 4,5, or 6 train. Aside from the U.N, Turtle Bay is not a touristy area and offers a nice respite from the noise and busyness of other parts of the city. As such is a great choice for families with children or anyone who desires suburban living right in Manhattan.

Stuyvesant Town, also known and Peter Cooper Village is a large private residential development on the East Side of Manhattan. The area is known as "Stuy Town" to local residents. The exterior of the buildings are not particularly attractive, although some apartments have been updated with new appliances and flooring. At one time there was a long waiting-list to get an apartments here due to affordable rents and relatively large apartments. Since 2006 there have been several financial and contractual issues which have mired the buildings in disputes between tenants and developers. What were once affordable apartments have become luxury rentals with prices out of the reach of most of the middle class.

Stuyvesant town and its sister complex Peter Cooper village stretch from First Avenue to Avenue C, between 14th and 20th Streets. There are 110 combined buildings, 11,250, apartments, and ove 25,000 residents. The neighborhood is bordered by the East River on the east, Gramercy Park on the west, the East Village (Alphabet City) on the south, and Kips Bay to the north. The area is known for Stuyvesant Square, a two-block part surrounded by park surrounded by the oringinal location of Stuyvesant High School, the Beth Israel Medical center, and St. George Church. The complex itself has also become a bit greener with the development of an 80 acre park.

There is no major shopping to speak of, although there are a good number of grocery stores. On nearby 14th Street you can find drug store chains, and banks. If you walk into the Union Square area (about 1/2 mile the west), you will find many shops such as Starbucks, Whole Foods, Barnes and Noble Bookstore, Filene's Basement, and a Best Buy.

For dining, nightlife, and a taste of culture and additional shopping opportunities lie in more hip neighborhoods like the East Village or Greenwhich Village, both within walking distance to Stuy Town.

Transportation to and from the neighborhood is not terrific with the L train on 1st Avenue and 14th being the closest station. You can also walk to the 4,5, and 6 at Union Square or catch the M15 bus on First Avenue.

For myself, the Stuy Town lacks any personality whatsoever, offers zero culture or amenities and is pretty much a neighborhood to walk through on the way to the Village.

SoHo, which stands for "South of Houston Street", is a neighborhood in downtown Manhattan roughly bordered by Houston Street on the North, Lafayette Street on the east, Canal Street n the south, and West Broadway to the west. Soho is a trendy area that was once home to many artists living in the huge lofts which abound in the area. During the 1960s and 1970s these lofts were inexpensive because they were converted warehouses.s The area was once highly industrial with crime and prostitution commonplace. Starting in the 1980s the area began to change to the upscale and expensive neighborhood that it is known to be today. Those same lofts which once housed rising artists now sell for hundreds of thousands so that these artists have been priced out by Hedge Fund Traders and a good many celebrities who call this area home.

The neighborhood is known for its narrow, quaint side streets, such as Prince, Greene, and Mercer that offering plenty of character and history, along with several art galleries European shops, and trendy cafes. The shopping tends to be expensive (think Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, and Tag Heuer) but there are a few stores where you may find a decent price such as H&M and Urban Outfitter both on Broadway. There is also an Apple Store on Prince Street always a fun place to test new products. Another fun place for kids (both young and adult) is KidRobot on Prince Street. KidRobot offers limited edition toys and clothing created by some of the world's most renowned artists and designers. The area is highly is hot spot of tourist activity and is packed on the weekend.

There are many fine dining establishments in the Soho neighborhood, such as Cipriani Downtown on West Broadway (expensive), Fanelli's on Prince and Broome Street Street (moderately expensive) and Pao! on Spring Street which offers Mediterranean fare. The Broome Street Bar which offers a nice community vibe is one of the few places left for the artists and writer on a limited budget.

SoHo is also home to theAngelika Film Center which is located on Houston and Mercer Streets plays a diverse mix of indie film and is the theater of choice for both filmmakers and film goers alike. Patrons may also enjoy a gourmet snack at the Angelika Cafe.

Transportation to the area is very good with the N,Q,R, W and 1 to Canal Street or 6 train to Spring Street.

Roosevelt Island is across from the Upper East Side of Manhattan and accessible via the tram or F train. However, it can be a long walk to get to either but there are bus lines that travel to different parts of the island. Roosevelt Island was known as Welfare Island from 1921 to 1973 and housed the city's poor. The neighborhood runs from Manhattan's east 46th Street to East 85th Street and is about two miles in length.

Today it is primarily a residential area, technically part of Manhattan, and great for families as it offers somewhat reduced rents that does the city. The apartments are also somewhat more spacious apartments than those in Manhattan and are situated in one of the many high-rise apartment buildings. Most of the buildings are rentals rather than coops. A nice feature of the island is that it is relatively free of traffic and parking is less of a headache than in Manhattan.

The neighborhood is middle class, not upscale but pleasant, and has a couple of good schools, a library and even its own community newspaper. The neighborhood offers an escape from Manhattan with easy accessibility to it and you will need to do most of your shopping in Manhattan. There is no nightlife and the sidewalks pretty much role up after dark.

A trip to Roosevelt Island can be a fun day trip as the area does offer fabulous views of Manhattan and the water which you can take in via the nice walking path stretching along the water. There is also a park at the north nice for reading or watching the boats pass by.

If you want to combine the accessibility of Manhattan with suburban living, Roosevelt Island could be a great option.

Nolita is a pretty little area north of Little Italy. Nolita stands for North of LIttle Italy no doubt devised by real estate agents seeking to drive up apartment prices. The neighborhood runs from about Houston Street to Broome Street, near NYU, and east to west from The Bowery to Lafayette Street. As with little Italy, Nolita has traditionally be an enclave for Italian immigrants but is now composed of a more diverse population. For me the area lacks a distinct personality and is not much different from NoHo and SoHo. Each sort of melds into the other so that you hardly realize you left one area and entered the next. However, the distinction between neighborhoods does become apparent one you venture into either Little Italy or Chinatown.

Many of the streets in this area are tree-line and give a feel of being in Greenwich Village. It is also lined with many of the most quaint shops and cafes of any New York neighborhood. Sigerson Morrison on Mott Street is a chic shop well known for its handbags and accessories while Resurrection, also on Mott Street, is a one stop shop for incredible vintage creations. For the book lovers in the audience you may want to head over to McNally Jackson Booksellers on Prince Street for some great titles. The Bookstore is directly across from Do Kham Tibetan boutique that offers beautiful jewelry, fashions, and accessories from the Himalayas. Finish off you day of shopping with one of the many flavored rice puddings at Rice to Riches on Spring Street.

You might choose to peruse the many great titles at McNally Jackson Booksellers on Prince Street, directly across from the noted Do Kham Tibetan boutique, with beautiful jewelry, fashions, accessories and antiques from the Himalayas. Perhaps finish your Nolita visit on Spring Street with a local treat, the many creative flavors of rice pudding at Rice to Riches on Spring Street. Fun places to watch the show by while grabbing a bite to eat include Care Gitane on Mott Street, Caffe Falai on Layfayette Street, and the famous Lombardi's on Spring Street.

St. Patrick's Old Cathedral is a lovely old church on the corner of Mott and Prince Streets. The most well-recognized building in the area is the Puck Building at Houston and Lafayette,one of New York's most celebrated landmarks. The building hosts many events and weddings in its grand ballroom.

Apartments in the area are relatively small and moderately expensive for both sales and rental but if you search diligently enough you may find a good deal.

The area is served by the B,D,F,V, and 6 subway lines.

I have lived in and around Manhattan my entire life and have yet to hear anyone talk about going to "NoHo". It seems to be a fiction invented by realtors to move property. It is located between Soho, Greenwich Village and the East Village. NoHo stands for North of Houston Street just as Soho stands for south of Houston Street.

It is a triangular-shaped historic area roughly bordered by Houston to the south, Broadway to the west, and Astor Place to the east. It is nearly equi-distant from the Hudson River and East River and is surrounded by five different neighborhoods: the East Village to the east; Greenwich Village to the west, Lower east Side to the southeast, Nolita to the south, and Soho to the southwest.

The area is filled with loft-style apartments perfect for artists. They are great demand despite the high rents. It is a very safe neighborhood. A large proportion the population is young and attending New York University (NYU) and the purple flags of the college are in evidence throughout the neighborhood. Noho has many large chain stores, in addition and Ann Taylor Loft and Swatch store. There are also many cute shops including Rafe on Bleecker Street which carriers high end bags and shoes; Eye Canday on Layfayette where you can find vintage-style jewelry and accessories; and Classic Kickes, which showcases high-end sneakers;

There are also a plethora of nice places to eat such as the Great Jones Cafe, located on Great Jones Street and offering a good selection of Cajun food, Bond Street, serving upscale Japanese fair, Bianca, fine Italian food in a warm and inviting atmosphere, and Il Buco on Bond Street offering Mediterranean cuisine with a great Sunday brunch.

There are also some beautiful buildings in this neighborhood with perhaps the most beautiful being Grace Church, located on 10th Street and Broadway, and often referred to as a "masterpiece of architecture." Also in the area is the Joseph Papp Public Theater, as well as the Astor Place theater where Blue Man Group Tube has been running for years. Both theaters are located on Lafayette Street just south of Astor Place (so named after the industrialist John Jacob Astor).

Noho is served by 5 different subway lines: the B,D,F,V and 6.

Murray Hill is a pretty neighborhood on the east side of Manhattan. It runs from East 34th Street to East 42nd Street First to Madison Avenue. The neighborhood has a different feel depending on where you are. The noisiest and busiest part is just outside the midtown between 36th and 34th Street between Second and Third Avenue. The rest of the area is residential and relatively quiet with many charming tree-lined blocks. There are many nice and affordable restaurants and bars, along with several grocery stores, including a Gristedes on Third Avenue and 32nd Street and D'Aogstinos on Third Avenue and 35th Street.

While the area does have an active night life, especially along Third Avenue, mostly filled with young professionals, I would also consider this to be a family friendly neighborhood. Murray Hill is also known as "Curry Hill'' due to the number of Indian restaurants along Lexington Avenue from about 30th Street to 27th Street.

Baruch College of the City University of New York is located on 23rd Steet and Lexington Avenue. It is well known for its strong undergraduate and graduate business programs. The college was recently refurbished with a new library and classroom space. Some of the city's top business executives are Baruch alumni and regularly visit the campus to share their experience with students.

There are also several diplomatic missions in the area which is in very close proximity to the United nations on 42nd Street and First Avenue.

The farther north you go the more upscale the neighborhood becomes which becomes apparent in sales and rental prices. The neighborhood has both tall apartment buildings as well as charming brownstones. If you work midtown area, Murray Hill is a great area to live since you can walk to work. This is the main reason that property values are so high in the area.

The NYU Langone Medical Center and its sister facility, The Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation are located on First Avenue and 33rd Street and East 34th Street respectively.

Transportation is somewhat limited with the 4,5, and 6 trains on Lexington Avenues. There are also buses that run on a fairly frequent schedule.

I love Morningside Heights, it has always been one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city. Some claim it is part of the Upper West Side, others that it is north of it. Either way, the area has its own vibe, young mixed with older, academic mixed with hip. Morningside Heights starts on 110th and and runs up to 25th Street from Morningside Drive (Columbus Avenue farther south) to Riverside Drive.

At one time this was a sketchy area but gentrification has changed all that and made it popular destination for students and others who seek relatively affordable housing. However, if should be noted that prices here have climbed for both sales and rentals and while you may still come across a bargain, these are becoming fewer and fewer. Many of the buildings in the are owned by Columbia University and house both professors and students.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine one of the most beautiful churches in the country is located on 112th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. The neihgborhood is also rich in greenery being near three parks: Riverside Park stretching along the Hudson River, Morningside Park which divides the east and west sides, and Central Park which ends on 110th. This end of the park has a beautiful lake known as the Harlem Meer (Dutch for "Lake") and is a popular spot for walking. I often visit this end of the park since it is so removed from the touristy sections and allows me to sit quietly with good book in hand.

Seinfeld fan? Then you will enjoy visiting Tom's Restaurant on Broadway and 112th widely known as the Seinfeld Diner since the outside of the place was always shown whenever the gang hung out there. The area is also the neighborhood where comedian George Carlin grew up. The composer George Gershwin and author F. Scott Fitzgerald also called Morningside Heights home.

What I especially like about this neighborhood are all the great little coffee shops where writers such as myself are invited to sit for a spell and work on our laptops. There are also some great bookstores such as Labyrinth Books on 112th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue, which is the largest scholarly bookstore on the east coast. A great used bookstore is The Last Word on 188th Street and Amsterdam. Nice selection with a focus on old favorites.

The neighborhood is just a few subway stops from the midtown area via the 1, 2, and 3 or the B and C trains.

If I ever decide to live in Manhattan again, Morningside Heights is where I am heading.

Midtown, the heart of it all! I love the area and while I wouldn't live here due to the noise and crowds, it is a must see destination for tourists and locals alike. The area is primarily commercial with some residential buildings scattered about (think Trump on Fifth Avenue and 53rd). Fifth Avenue also has some of the most expensive shopping in Manhattan with Saks and Tiffany's located mere blocks from one another.

Although all parts of midtown are pretty busy, by far the most crowded is Times Square. However, it is nicer since they blocked traffic and built walking and bike lanes. In the summer, people sit at one of the many tables to people watch and have a bite to eat. You almost don't know what to look at first. There is the large ToysRUs store, the Hershey's Store, and all those billboards covered in bright lights. The area has come a very long way from the 1970s when crime and prostitution ruled the Times Square neighborhood.

On the more sedate side is the always pleasant Bryant Park. In the warm weather, people sit on the grass to eat lunch, read, take in some sun. There is also a quiet area sectioned off named the Reading Room with books donated by the publishers of books and magazines. On the south end you will find the carousel open to both children and adults. It is also fun to watch a ping pong, tennis match and even a bocci game on the west side of the park. You can also catch a free movie in the summer--arrive early as the lawn fills up quickly. in the winter you can ice skate on the smaller-size rink which comes down in February in order to prepare the lawn for the upcoming season.

About 8 blocks north is the famous Rockefeller Center known for the lighting of the Christmas tree and its ice skating rink, a bit larger than the one at Bryant Park.It is a pretty little area lined with high-end shops and a restaurant that surrounds the rink. In the warm weather, the restaurant extends seating outside in place of the rink. The food is good but Rockefeller Center itself is an Art Deco building and the center is filled with many sculptures themed "New Frontiers" to signify man's development in the arts, sciences, and industry. Rockefeller Center hosts tours and you can buy tickets to the Observation Deck which rises 70 floors high. From the top you will have an exhilarating and unobstructed 360 degree view of Manhattan and points beyond.

Radio City Music Hall is in back of Rockefeller Center on Sixth Avenue (also known as Avenue of the Americas). More than 300 million visitors have come to Radio City Music Hall since its opening in the 1930s. Radio City Music hall is the largest indoor theater in the world with a marquee that stretches a full city block. It is the sight where the famous Rockettes perform in the Christmas Spectacular.

Restaurants abound at all price levels. One of my favorites is Carmines on West 44th, a fine Italian restaurant. This is a good place to spot some Broadway stars after the show. If star-watching is your thing, you can also check out the famous Sardi's also on West 44th (indeed steps from Carmine's). This is convenient in case you wish to have dinner in one place and dessert in the other to increase your chances of spotting celebrities.

Transportation to and from the midtown area is excellent with every train or bus line within a block or two walk.

I could go on and on about the Midtown area but hopefully I have included enough to whet your appetite for a visit.

The Meatpacking district is on the far west side of Manhattan and runs from West 16th Street south to Gansevoort Street and from the Hudson River east to Hudson Street. I have lived in and around Manhattan my entire life and can count on one hand the number of times I have even ventured near this part of town. The area is dirty and has a desolate quality. The Meatpacking district got its name from the slaughterhouses that were once prominent in the area.

Perhaps the prettiest block is Little West 12th which still has a cobblestone street with some quaint restaurants. Little West 12th is somewhat of a misnomer since the street is anything but little and is ripe with people to see and places to be. One of the most popular venues is the Anja bar (formerly Buddha Bar) which is expensive but offers a wonderful mixture of eclectic Asian decor, hypnotizing music and wonderful food. the experience is sure to bring you back for more.

The area has a good number of other bars and clubs which mostly attract the Bridge and Tunnel crowd. This presents an interesting contrast to the butchers and meatpacking facilities which still exist. Some of the more popular venues include the Collective, a trendy restaurant and bar with great food and friendly staff. The newly opened The Standard has an outdoor beer garden and ping pong tables which make for an interesting combination. The Brass Monkey is a popular hangout with a roof top patio.

There are a few bright spots in an otherwise dismal area. There is an Apple store on West 14th at the junction of 9th Avenue and Hudson Street offers a fun house of computer gadgetry with workshops on how to use most Apple products. The Annual New York Food and Wine festival is held every fall season and is the only festival in new York City to bring together culinary experts form around the world with some of the most well-know television chefs. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the festival go to benefit the hunger relief agencies Food Bank for new York and Share Our Strength. l

Public transportation in and out of the neighborhood is poor. The close strains are the 1, 2 , and 3 on 7th Avenue and 14th Street. You can also catch the A,C,E, and L on 14th and 8th Avenue It is a quick trip out of the city by car since the neighborhood is between the Lincoln and Holland Tunnels and a quick trip up the West Side Highway to the George Washington Bridge. Unfortunately, this very feature is what makes the area so attractive to drug dealers and their New Jersey patrons.

Manhattan Valley is on the Upper West side of Manhattan and abuts Morningside Heights. The neighborhood runs from West 96th Street to 110th and from Central Park West to Broadway. The area was once well-know for drugs but in the past 15 to 20 years gentrification has changed the character of this neighborhood with rent and sale prices of apartments rising rapidly. As you might expect the more expensive part of this neighborhood is that bordering Central Park West while some relatively attractive deals may still be found farther the closer you get to Broadway. There ae quiet a number of beautiful building and brownstones on the tree-lined streets.

The neighborhood is a tightly knit and friendly community with residents often sitting out on their stoops during the warmer weather. The area is relatively dirty and there remain pockets of crime. Before signing on the dotted line for any apartment check out the area in the evening and ask current residents for their input regarding the safety of the building. There are a few housing projects in the area (where there continue to be nightly drug deals) as well as several youth hostel. During heavy rains the hilly streets often become flooded, flushing out some furry creatures from the sewers.

The neighborhood is nestled by no less than three parks (Central park Riverside Park, and Morningside Park) and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, one of the most beautiful works of architecture ever built, is on Amsterdam Avenue at 112th Street (technically not part of Manhattan Valley but who's counting.)

Now, you can find decent shopping, plenty of lovely restaurants and cleaned up conveniences like grocery stores, drug stores and coffee shops. There's even a Whole Foods, a surefire mark of gentrification. While this process has pushed the former residents up, it's also made room for the middle-class population who need to live in Manhattan but can't afford the rents further downtown.

Shopping opportunities abound on Broadway with many 99 cent stores and convenient stores mixed in with more upscale venues such as Whole Foods and Starbucks. This trend has attracted more middle class families who have been pushed out of pricier areas further downtown.

The area is also within walking distance to Columbia University but without the higher rents of the Morningside Heights neighborhood. While not a cauldron of evening entertainment the area also offers several nice restaurants, along with some bars and clubs.

The area is served the by the 1, 2, and 3 trains along with several bus lines which make it a quick commute to midtown. This neighborhood is not tourist hot-spot but does offer its residents every amenity.

Madison Square is a patch of land surrounding Madison Square Park on east 23rd where Fifth and Broadway cross one another. Many consider the area to be part of the Flatiron district.

The area includes Madison Square Park, a pretty patch of grass on east 23rd. I have always found Madison Square Park to be a relaxing spot to people watch or read a book. The southwest corner of the park also has a small size dog run. The park is bordered by Fifth and Madison Avenues and extends from 23rd to 26th street. Since renovations were completed in 2001 the park is one of the prettiest in the city albeit on the small size. From anywhere you sit you will have a great view of the architecture of the buildings surrounding the park. Historic landmarks such as the famous Flatiron Building and the Metlife Tower are directly across the street. Both buildings are considered to be among the first skyscrapers ever built.

The area is primarily commercial and offers good shopping opportunities along Fifth Avenue. The Shake Shack which opened in Madison Square Park in 2004 has become one of the most popular burger and hot dog stands in the whole city with lines sometimes extending halfway around the park. They also make an awesome frozen custard. While other Shake Shacks have since opened in other parts of the city, the stand in the park is a crowd favorite. More traditional fare may be found at A Voce, offering fine Italian Cuisine, Ben and Jacks Steakhouse just north of the park, and Dos Caminos offering traditional Mexican dishes and Tabla, offering Indian and American cuisine.

The area is convenient to all areas of Manhattan and is served by the 4, 5 and 6 trains.

The Lower East Side is home to "Alphabet City" so named because most of the avenues have letters rather than numbers or names. Originally known for its slums and tenements the area also was a hot spot of drug activity especially along Avenues A,B,C and D east of fist Avenue. The area has changed dramatically over the past 25 years and is today a hipster hang-out with many nice restaurants and bars next to small shops that retain the original off-beat and funky nature of the neighborhood.

The area has retained its punk and artsy vibe and offers several venues for music and entertainment. Popular places include the Spitzer's Corner offering one of the city;s larges selection of beers, the Laugh Lounge, which offers comedy performances, heavy metal music at the Mercury Lounge, along with free musical shows at the Piano Bar. if you just want some good conversation head over to Local 138 on Ludlow Street which offers an eclectic mix of people and friendly vibe.

The Tenement Museum is located at 97 Orchard Street tells the life stories of those who resided at 97 Orchard Street. The building was home to nearly 7000 immigrant families since its construction in 1873. The museum offers guided tours that recreate immigrant life in the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum is a must-see for New York City History buffs.

Another area attraction is the Essex Street Market located at 120 Essex Street on the corner of Delancy. The Essex Street Market just turned 70 and offers a wide selection of foods tthat includes gourmet cheeses, prime cuts of meat fresh fish and a host of other products to satisfy every taste.

With regard to housing, rents in the area are relatively inexpensive although creeping upward as the area continues to gentrify. This is a popular area for students since it is a quick walk west to NYU and Cooper Union. While in times past it might not have been wise to venture forth at night, this is no longer the case and many young hipsters can be found hanging out into the wee hours.

The one major downside is that transportation to the area is poor with a long walk to the subway. You can take the F or V train to Delancey Street or the J,M, or Z to Essex Street and work north several blocks. Buses to the area include the M9 to Essex Street or the M14 to the Lower East Side.

Being the homebody I am this would not be my preferred area to visit (except for the museum and market), the neighborhood is a sure destination for out-and-about hipsters since it offers a unique blend of the sketchy with the upscale.

Little Italy is a small area on the Lower East of Manhattan. Its size has been reduced significantly due to the expansion of neighboring Chinatown. The main hub is Mulberry Street and its surrounding street where most of the restaurants are located. Most who live here complain of the noise and crowded streets at almost all hours of the day and evening.

The area attracts a good number of tourists who come mostly for the many restaurants offering good food at reasonable prices but you will want to comparison shop. There are some restaurant staff who stand outside and call to you to come inside. As a general rule - keep walking. A long-term favorite of both tourists and residents is Ferrara Cafe located on Grand Street between Mott and Mulberry Streets Ferrara Cafe is a family owned business offering fine Italian cuisine, along delicious pastries and specialty coffees and lattes.

One of the most popular events in the neighborhood is the annual Feast of San Gennaro an 11-day event held every September. The Feast of San Gennaro is known the world over for its festive atmosphere with colorful parades, free musical entertainment every day, a wide selection of Italian food served by street vendors and the neighboring cafes and restaurants. Be sure to catch the renowned cannoli-eating competition.

Little Italy has a lot of mafia history, which makes for some interesting reading. The neighborhood borders Chinatown so that you can easily visit both areas on the same day. Although apartment rents are somewhat lower than other areas of the city, most apartments are small in size and located above restaurants and cafes so get ready for some noise.

Transportation to the area is good with the nearest trains being the J,M,N,R, Q and 6 to the Canal Street station. You will then walk 3 blocks east to Mulberry Street. If the subway is not your thing the M103 and M1 buses also serve the neighborhood and are each a quick walk east. Each bus runs along the East Side of Upper Manhattan but you may transfer at major intersections to catch a bus crosstown.

It's a very touristy neighborhood that is packed with Italian restaurants. It borders Chinatown, though, so when you get tired of pasta, you can always take a short walk for dim sum. That walk toward Chinese food has gotten shorter and shorter as Chinatown continues to expand into Little Italy. These days, there isn't much left of the neighborhood really except for Mulberry Street.

There's a lot of mafia history in Little Italy, if you care to read about it. It's fascinating stuff. For tourists, Mulberry Street is a must. The restaurants are basic Italian, but the food is usually pretty good. It's also a great place to get Italian pastry and gelato, especially in summer when numerous street vendors line the sidewalk. But for living? I wouldn't want to live in this neighborhood. It's just too busy and dirty.

Kips Bay is a nieghborhood in the midtown-east section of the city, extending from 23rd Street to 34th Street and 1st to Lexington Avenue. My association with the area, dating from my college days,are the Kips Bay apartments that house many NYU professors, with the NYU Langone Medical Center on first and 34th Street.

This is a more a residential than commercial area, somewhat removed from other parts of the city. The area offers good shopping options with a Borders Bookstore and Petco on 2nd Avenue and 33rd Street. There are several gourmet grocery stores and the area offers some nice if somewhat pricey restaurants, as well as some good diners. There is not much going on in the way of nightlife, although there is a movie theater located next to Borders.

For myself, the area lacks character and is a place I walk through on the way to someplace else. However, this very feature can make it an attractive housing option for those who seek a quiet neighborhood somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle of the midtown area, yet within walking distance to it. The many office buildings are located primarily on Park Avenue South, Madison Avenue, and Fifth Avenue.Keep in mind that housing in the neighborhood the area is expensive for both buyers and renters with apartments on the smaller side.

The area is served by the Lexington Ave subway, (4,5 and 6) as well as buses. For those with a car, it is also a quick trip outside the city via the midtown tunnel.

This is also a great neighborhood for restaurants. As one of the other reviews said, it isn't a trendy neighborhood, and the apartments tend to be small. But it's still a nice area. I'd live in Kips Bay in a heartbeat.

Inwood is about as far north you can go and still be in Manhattan. It feels as it you have left Manhattan and living in one of the boroughs. Most people who travel to Inwood to visit the Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art located in Fort Tryon Park. The Cloisters were reconstructed in the 1930s from the remnants of several European abbeys and display art and architecture form Medieval Europe. Fort Tryon Park is a nice place to take a walk duirng the day but I advise to stay away after dark.

Inwood is fast-changing from a low-income enclave to a vibrant community full of students and professionals who come for the relative quiet of the area as compared with other parts of the city. For both renters and buyers, Inwood offers great apartment deals for both apartment buyers and sellers with the spaces generally much bigger than apartments further downtown.

With the influx of young professionals drawn by the bargain rents, the neighborhood also offers relatively inexpensive restaurants and groceries. You have the choice between a $1.25 cafe con leche or a $5. vanilla latte Starbucks on the same block. There are also some great discount stores where you can purchase most household supplies. For those who want to get in some aerobic exercise, the neighborhood offers some amazing hills to get your heart going.

Columbia University Medical Center is a short distance south and covers several blocks from the Henry Hudson parkway to Audubon Avenue between 165th and 168th Streets

Though Inwood is a good distance from the center of Manhattan, subway service via the 1 or a train can get you downtown within about 30 minutes. On weekends, the A train operates on a express schedule so that you can get to midtown (42nd Street) in about 15 minutes. There are also a few bus lines serving the area although the trip to midtown will take about an hour. There is also the GWB bus station on Broadway between 178th and 179th Streets which provide local and express service to and from Nothern New Jersey and Rockland County.

Inwood is a very pretty and quiet area worth a visit, even if you don't plan to live here.

Harlem is the birthplace of jazz and blues. The Cotton Club and Savoy ballroom were once there and hosted such greats as Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway and Ella Fitzgerald. The Apollo still stands and is a testament to the thriving musical heritage of the Harlem Renaissance. It has long launched the careers of many Motown superstars such as The Jackson Five. On the day of Michael's death mourners laid hundreds of bouquets and cards at its door.

There are many great soul food restaurants with Sylvia's being the most popular for a diverse crowd, including local politicians and celebrities. Former President, Bill Clinton has an office here. Other popular restaurants include Rao's and the Lenox Lounge.

The neighborhood brownstones and churches boast some beautiful architecture but the area is slowly changing the gentrification of the past ten years continues to change its character. While the area is still relatively less expensive that lower parts of Manhattan, prices have been creeping upward as new buildings are developed and old ones gutted and renovated. There is also a real family feel to the area, although it will be necessary to exercise some caution with regard to selecting an apartment. Ask current residents about safety and crime before deciding on any one place. The apartments are larger than downtown, most offering large windows, hardwood floors, and high ceilings. Columbia University is a quick walk south but be careful coming home after dark.

The area is served by the 2 and 3 express trains, while those residents in the middle of the neighborhood also having easy access to the 4 and 5 on the east side. There is also a Metro North subway stop on 125th Street making a weekend country escape easy if you don't have a car.

Hamilton Heights, named after Alexander Hamilton, is in uptown neighborhood, technically a part of Harlem running from 135th to 155th Streets. The neighborhood has seen a good deal of gentrification over the past five to seven years but rents are still relatively low compared with downtown area. The apartments are larger than you will find downtown which makes them attractive to families with children as well as students and young professionals who seek to share.. City College is in this neighborhood and Columbia University is about a mile south.

While there are plenty of fast food and inexpensive restaurants, there really isn't much to do here, although the area does house the Dance Theater of Harlem and a sprinkling of night clubs. The good news is that you aren't terribly far from the busier parts of the city where you can buy any needed item and find many more things to do. Luckily the area has good subway service and you are only a few stops from midtown.

One fun place to visit is Riverbank Park a 28 acre multi-level landscaped state-of-the-art recreational facility. The park rises 70 feet above the Hudson River and offers a variety of recreational, artistic, and arts-related activities for both children and adults. The park contains five buildings with an Olympic size pool, ice skating rink in the winter, an 800 seat theater, a 2,500 seat athletic complex, and a 150 seat restaurant.

While the area has become more safe in recent years, it is still somewhat sketchy and has a higher crime rate than other areas of the city. For this reason, it is a good idea to be careful when coming home after dark. Before renting an apartment survey existing tenants regarding the safety of the building you are interested in. This is especially the case if you are a woman.

The West Village is the westernmost part of Greenwich Village. I have never separated the two in my own mind as they flow right into one another.The West Village extends to the Hudson River and contains many small tree-lined cobblestone streets that zig-zag and are lined with trees and lovely single-family brownstones. The pre-war architecture is beautiful yet understated. The entire effect is one of a quaint out-of-the way suburb right in the midst of Manhattan.

The many bars in the area remain the same as in past times, like the White Horse Tavern a favorite haunt of the poet Dylan Thomas.

Many bars are unchanged since the days of yore, like the White Horse Tavern on Hudson Street where Dylan Thomas drank and wrote. Edge places such as the Bitter End and Cafe Wha? (the place where Bob Dylan started his musical career) provide an interesting contrast to the trendier,hippier Magnolia Bakery and Banana Republic.

Although no longer a bohemian neighborhood, the area still retains a good deal of character with wonderful restaurants (if a bit pricey) lovely boutiques and gourmet and food shops. You will also be sure to catch quite a few celebrity sightings on any given day. The area has something for everyone and is a great place to visit, if a bit expensive to live.

The East Village retains its funky edge even though gentrification has occurred over the past several years. This is the area where the Broadway musical "Rent" and "hair" were set. The area is bordered by Greenwich Village to the west, and Stuyvesant town to the North.

The neighborhoodhas many places for cheap eats, along with hip bars and clubs with live music. The New York Theater Workshop and the Public theater, two of the city most famous theater companies are both in the area. All of the restaurants offer good food at reasonable prices with The Smith being a crowd favorite for its prices and variety of food choices.

A must visit is the Nuyorican Poet's Cafe on East 3rd Street which presents innovate works of literature, theater, music, poetry, and visual art from both established and new artists. The famous poet, Allen Ginsberg lived on East 7th Street and was a regular patron of the Nuyorican Cafe. If you are up for a bit of history, visit McSorely;s Ale House on East 7th Street, reputed to be the oldest bar in the city. Most everything in the place remains the same as when it first opening in 1854. The New York Marble Cemetery is locate don East 2nd Street and is the oldest non-sectarian cemetery in the city.

The main hub of the area is St. Mark's Place (East 8th Street) which houses many quaint and offbeat shops like Trash and Vaudeville, boutiques along with several tattoo piecing parlors. A downside to the East Village is that many chain stores are opening in the area robbing it of some of its edgy flavor.

While no area of Manhattan is inexpensive to live, you can find some reasonable priced rentals i this area, particularly if you are willing to share. Many students from nearby NYU and Cooper Union live here. It is a great area for young people who seek to be out and about and experience the vibe of the neighborhood. More mature singles and couples will likely prefer more sedate areas of the city. The area is also not well served by public transportation.

Greenwich Village is one of my favorite areas of Manhattan. It is always hopping 24/7. Where else can you sit out at 3:00 Am on a summer's evening sipping cappuccino with a group of friends?

Located on the west side of Manhattan and often referred to as "the village" by locals, much of the area has a European feel. This is due to the many quaint brownstones and carriage houses that line the small streets. Unlike parts of Upper Manhattan, the streets in Greenwich Village are not laid out in a grid but sort of meander and curve. Many of these homes display lovely flower arrangements on their stoops and windows giving the area a charming appeal. Bedford Street boasts the oldest home in the area. Over near NYU you can walk the private street named Washington Mews and think you are in Paris.

The area also contains Washington Square Park which underwent major renovation a few years ago. Where once this was a sketch area known for crime, it now boasts a beautiful water fountain and grassy areas where one can sit and people watch There are also street performers and musicians throughout the day and evening.

Restaurants that can satisfy every palette abound, many at reasonable pricies. The Cornelia Street cafe is one of my favorites and often has live music performances. For those who like authentic Spanish food there is Sevilla on Charles Street. If you would like to down a few with some good freinds, almost no other place beats Panchitos on Bleecker Street. The menu displays two large pages of unique and yummy drinks. Just make sure you elect a designated driver for the evening.

Greenwich Village is also where the famous Halloween parade takes place every year. It runs down Sixty Avenue for about an hour and offers many unique floats. The bars and restaurants are hopping at all hours.

While I have never lived in Greenwich Village (and never want to), I have always enjoyed visiting the area. There are so many wonderful boutiques gourmet groceries. While the area was once home to the counterculture movement it is now primarily inhabited by upwardly mobile yuppies. The apartments in the area are very expensive and lots of celebrities call it home such as Matthew Broderick and Sara Jessica Parker, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Uma Thurman, and Kiefer Sutherland.

The Garment District is filled with history being the home of New York's once busy garment industry. has a rich historical is bordered by Times Square to the north and Herald Square to the east. Both areas are tow of the busiest tourist spots in all of the city so that the streets are always packed.

The Garment District is not the cleanest and brightest area of the city by far. About the best that can be said for it is that it is a great area or catch a train or grab some fast food to satisfy that hunger pang. It is also a bit of a sketchy area at night with many homeless sleeping in doorways. Some of the old buildings have large, loft-like apartments, great for artists.

Yet, the Garment District is all about garments and if you are in the fashion industry this is the place to be. It is the home base for those who love fashion and consider it an art form. There are many design studios in the area, as well as sewing and millinery shops. You also go to the garment district if you need clothing accessories such as a zipper, buttons, trims, and sewing supplies. One of the larger stores is Mood (form Project runway) which has aisle after aisle of embroiders, brocaded, and lace fabrics from all over the world. There are also the small stores on nearly every street that are dark and dirty and where you get in make your purchase and exit, stage left.

For most people the Garment District is a place to pass through on their way to somewhere else. However, if you are interested in clothes and clothing design, this is a good to shop. The area is also home to the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Because the crowds are mostly made up people who work in the Garment District, there are many fast-food restaurants such as White Castle, McDonald's, and Pax for sandwiches and soup. The area offers nothing in terms of culture, fun, or sightseeing opportunities. But, if you lose a button on your sweater, it will be no problem t find a replacement.

The Flatiron District covers several acres of land the borders of which are Union Square to the south; Sixth Avenue and Chelsea to the west; and Madison Square Park to the north and Gramercy to the east. Broadway cuts a line right down the middle of the area.

Main attractions of the neighborhood include Madison Square Park, a pretty little enclave, great for people watching. If you have a dog, there is also a nice size dog run on the southwest corner. Across the street from the park is the famous triangularly-shaped, Flatiron Building which has been named a New York City Landmark. Both the Flatiron Building and New York Life Building are examples of New York's old-world architecture that were considered avant garde when they were built. The remainder of the area composed of tall commercial buildings which house many of the city's advertising and graphic design firms, as well as residential apartments.

Fro tourists the Flatiron offers a good number of trendy yet affordable shops along Fifth Avenue, such as H&M and Anthropologie. There is also ABC Carpet and Home, which stocks many items for the home.

As you tire you can make a stop at one of several bars, like Flute, a champagne and wine venue. There is also the Ryehouse, an upscale hipster hangout. The neighborhood has many fine restaurants for such a small area. A Voce is popular for its high-end Italian fare while Live Bait serves delicious seafood.

The Flatiron is an area that can offers much variety and can satisfy nearly any taste when it comes to shopping and food.

The Financial District has two distinct personalities: it is bustling during the day with the Wall Street crowd and tourists but is calm and actually quite boring at night. For this reason, it would not be such a bad place to live.

For tourists this is a very interesting neighborhood to visit. To be walking through the money capital of the world is quite exciting. There is a mix of old and new buildings with the old showcasing some beautiful architectural details. The Trinity Church Cemetery and Mausoleum overlooks the Hudson River from Riverside Drive and is a special oasis of peace and tranquility in one of the most beautiful natural settings in all of New York City. Trinity Church is home to St. Paul's Chapel located directly across form the former World trade Center site. The church was home to an eight month volunteer effort in the wake of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

The neighborhood is a great area to explore for tourists to explore with its short streets, many of which are still made of the original cobblestone. Indeed Pearl Street go its name because the street is lined with crushed pearls from the time that oyster catchers patrolled the waters of the Hudson River. The financial district is filled with such history while also boasting many modern touches such as the new residential developments that have cropped up over the past ten years.

The area offers panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline and is home to the Police Museum, the Museum of American Finance, and the home of the future World Trade Center Memorial.

East Harlem, also known ans Spanish Harlem (SpaHa) is an eclectic neighborhood made up of people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. It runs on the east side of Upper Manhattan from 96th Street to the Harlem River. There are Hispanic families from the Caribbean (especially Puerto Rico) and those from Central and South America living and working in the neighborhood. There are fewer immigrants as the gentrification of the Upper East Side continues its northward migration combined with the portions of southern Harlem creeping westward. The most evident upswing in the neighborhood is the newly developed Target and Costco Mall located on 188th Street and the East River.

There is a gradation in how expensive real estate in the area is but, in general the farther south and closer to Central park the more expensive the property. Because of the diverse cultures, East Harlem is one of the best laces in the city for great food. The area also offers many bargain stores for everything from furniture to handbags to household goods. There are also street vendors who sell some of the best street meat you will ever come across, along with tasty empanadas and burritos.

Over the past decade, crime in the area has dropped significantly over the past decade or so as gentrification has begun to encroach on the area. There are newly developed condos and apartment buildings, that most current residents cannot afford. The neighborhood is still in transition and the next few years will likely see further gentrification with many current residents priced out of the area. You will find both housing projects and luxury residences. However, it is advisable that bore you sign on the dotted line, you check out the area you wish to live after dark to make sure it is safe. Talk to current residents about safety and crime and make sure that all basic amenities are in close proximity. It is worth noting that East Harlem is the location of many charter schools.

There are several museums in the area located on what is commonly known as Museum Mile. El Museo del Barrio located on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 104th Streeth showcases Latin American art. The fun Museum of the City of New York is located one block sought on 103rd Street.

While the area does have its pros and cons for the present it is an affordable neighborhood to live in if you must be in Manhattan.

The Civic Center covers City Hall, The South Street Seaport, One Police Plaza, and the court buildings of lower Manhattan. This is also the home of city government offices and where the mayor conducts most business. It also is the location of the New York City offices of the federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security.

Pace University is also in this area and offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in many business areas and often holds conferences and seminars that are worth attending even if you are not a student. There is also City Hall Park a great spot for people watching. Many who work in the area or attend Pace make this park their lunchtime hang out. Because of the many civil marriage ceremonies at Worth Street a bit north, newlyweds can often be seen having their picture taken by the fountain.

Of interest to tourists is that the South Street Seaport is a quick walk away featuring a mall, food court, the Seaport Museum, as well as boat rides around Manhattan. While the Seaport can be crowded, you cna always sit outside on the one of three decks and watch the boats pass by.
The Brooklyn Bridge is also here and allows people to walk across to Brooklyn Heights. There you can walk the promenade with magnificent views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan.

Aside from the South Street Seaport, the area does not offer much entertainment. Most people venture to the area for court appointments or other government-related activity. The Civic Center neighborhood really isn't a neighborhood in the sense of offering much in the way of residential buildings. It is more of a defined district housing various courts and government agencies. The buildings offer some nice architectural detail and the view of the Brooklyn Bridge at night is truly beautiful. The area also borders the Financial District and it is a quick walk to Wall Street, the center of commerce.

Chinatown has expanded greatly and have pretty much taken over Little Italy and well into the Lower East Side and Tribeca. It can be difficult to move around the area as the streets are often crowded, especially Canal Street, with both pedestrians and shop owners displaying their wares on the sidewalk. It is also somewhat smelly with all the fish shops on practically every street. The streets are not clean and oftentimes garbage is strewn into the street.

However, there are still some interesting places to visit such as Kam Kuo at 7 Mott Street.This is basically a large supermarket filled with people grocery shopping. Foods you will find include squid, octupus, melonseed crackers, coconut covered figs and dates, and other foods you likely never heard of. The food is one hundred percent authentic and of high quality. Another place to visit is Columbus Park where many Chinese gather to socialize and play mah jong.

It is worth a trip just to sample the foods from one of the many Chinese restaurants that line nearly every street such as Big Wong King on Mott Street, as well as the Chinatown Ice Cream factory on Bayard. Many great shopping bargains can also be found in Chinatown, especially for fabrics. The little stores are filled with shoes, hats T-shirts, bags, jewelry, among other things and you can almost always bargain down the already inexpensive prices. This area is also cheaper to live in than other parts of Manhattan, although no area of Manhattan is really inexpensive.

There are also some clubs in Chinatown such as Santos Party House on Lafayette Street and Lolita's on Broome Street.Little Italy abuts the neighborhood so if you tire of Chinese food you can take a quick stroll for some cannoli or espresso. There are also many massage and acupuncture offices which offer each service at relatively inexpensive prices.

All in all Chinatown is an interesting place to visit but I wouldn't want to live there.

Chelsea is a neighborhood that offers a little bit of everything: great restaurants, great shopping, great outdoor activities, and great transportation to anywhere else in the city. In fact, is has such an abundance of resources, that residences never have to leave the area.

While not in midtown, it is easily accessible by train, bus, or foot. Another advantage is that it doesn't have to same level of noise or street traffic, especially west of 7th Avenue. The east side of Chelsea is where most of the stores are located with such chains as Best Buy.Old Navy, Home Depot and Olive Garden. There are also a good number of supermarkets and drug store chains making it a very convenient area for shopping.

Then there is the famous Chelsea Piers sports and entertainment complex, a 30 acre sports village running form 17th to 23rd street along the Hudson River. The complex offers such recreational activities as golf, bowling, basketball, baseball and gymnastics. You may also take a walk or bike ride along the path that stretches form the upper west side down through Battery Park.

Many restaurants such as East of eight (8th Avenue and 23rd) have outdoor patios that, in the spring and summer are always crowded with lunch and dinner guests. Batali owned Del Posto on 10th and 16th offers a more relaxing atmosphere with an equally delicious menu.

The Atlantic Theater Company founded in 1985 by David Mamet and William H. Macy has two locations in Chelsea and produces award-winning Off-Broadway productions. The Atlantic theater offers plays by both new and established playwrights, ranging form Checkov to Woody Allen.

Another venue not to be missed is the Chelsea Market spanning 17 to18th streets on Ninth Avenue. The market offers two dozen specialty shops such as baked goods, cheese, gourmet coffee, desserts, and wines. The cupcakes at Billy's Bakery are said to rival those of the Magnolia Cafe.

The Chelsea Hotel built in 1883 is rich with history such as housing Dylan Thomas, Thomas Wolfe and a variety of other writers. On the more notorious side, this is the place where Sid killed Nancy. If you get hungry at 3:00 AM you can always stroll over to the Cafeteria. This place is open 24 hours and is always busy with some amazing people watching. Because Chelsea is one of the art centers in Manhattan, may visual artists live in the neighborhood giving it a hip and trendy feel.

The neighborhood is great for those city residents who wish to be in the mix of things with a short commute to the midtown area. It is also a hot spot for tourists because of the range of activities the neighborhood offers.

Carnegie Hill is an upscale neighborhood on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The area runs from 86th Street to 96th Street and from Central Park to Third Avenue. Carnegie Hill is home to some of the most beautiful Gothic architecture on the Upper East Side.

The tree lined streets are lined with brownstones and town homes that preserve their original architectural detail. A good number of mansions where built in the area which now house some of the most prestigious private schools. The area is named after the industrialist Andrew Carnegie and his former mansion is now the home of the Cooper-Hewitt Museum. Other notable museums and cultural institutions are also housed in what were once mansions including the Jewish Museum and the National Academy of Design. The area also includes the oddly-shaped Guggenheim Museum designed by architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.

Properties are highly sought after and very expensive. However, the neighborhood is very family oriented and has excellent schools, some claim the best in the city. The beauty of the buildings combined with the abundance of trees amke walking through this neighborhood a special treat.

The northern part of Carnegie Hill borders Spanish Harlem (SpaHa) and is generally considered less desirable, although gentrification has made its way ever northward so that this area is also becoming an attractive option for both buyers and renters. The schools are excellent, the shops offer.

Because of the neighborhood's family orientation, there is not much nightlife here. You will need to venture farther south into the East 80s, over to the west side or downtown to find a greater selection of bars, restaurants, and clubs. A very popular attraction is the 92nd Street Y with its array of classes and lectures for both children and adults. There are many quaint shops along Madison Avenue but with prices out of the reach of many tourists.

If you seek a day away from the hustle and bustle of the midtown area while gazing at some of the most beautiful architecture in all of Manhattan, there is no better neighborhood to visit than Carnegie Hill.

Where once the Bowery was known for its high crime, homeless people, and prostitutes it has become a trendy area filled with many fine shops and cafes. Although parts of it retain an industrial feel, the area has also seen the the developed of upscale residential buildings.

The Bowery is filled with much history from the early Dutch settlers through the underground music scene of the 1960s through the 1980s. Both the neighborhood and the street named The Bowery are a derivation of the Dutch word farm. On November 25, 1783, George Washington gathered his troops at the Bull's Head Tavern in preparation for a victory march uptown. The Bull's Head Tavern still exists and is located near the entrance to the Manhattan Bridge.

The Bowery is the location of the Bowery Poetry Club, a performance space for up and coming poets and the Bowery Ballroom. Although CBGBs is not longer open, there remain many clubs and quite a number of restaurants. The neighborhood is hip, trendy, and popular with a younger crowd. It is in close proximity to the west village, Chinatown, and Little Italy.

Popular restaurants include the Italian restaurant Gemma, located in the Bowery Hotel and often populated by a Hollywood star to two, Five Points where reservations are not needed, and Cafe Habana, a small restaurant with serving delicious cuban food. There is even a Whole Foods supermarket in the area. In the warmer weather the streets are filled with music and people crowding the sidewalks waiting for a table at one of the may new eateries lining the avenue. The New Museum opened in the Bowery over the past year and showcases new work by American and International Artists.

Battery Park City is not to be confused with Battery Park to the south,on the southernmost tip of Manhattan. Both places offer great views of the Statue of Liberty, but more tourists flock to Battery Park since they can catch the boat to Ellis Island or ride the Staten Island ferry.

Battery park City extends up the west side of Manhattan into Tribeca (which stands for the "TRIangle BElow CAnal" since that is the shape of the area. As with the nearby Financial District, there are many working people who visit Battery Park City during the day, many stopping off to have lunch during the warmer months. Because of this many eateries in the area cater to the lunchtime crowd, closing their doors soon after the end of the workday.

The attraction of battery Park City for most tourists is the thin walkway that skirts the Hudson River. The walkway is lined with marble benches, gorgeous flowerbeds, and a sprinkling of small memorials, including one quoting the words of the famous poet, Walt Whitman. The area can be a bit gloomy at night when the office close and the tourists head to other part of the city for dinner and entertainment.

Battery Park City does have several newly built, upscale residential developments. These buildings offer an array of amenities with amazing river views. Imagine sitting by your bedroom or living room window with a morning coffee overlooking the Hudson River with its dramatic skyline view. The only possible glitch in this picture is that Battery Park City seems to lack the character and warmth that make up so many other neighborhoods of New York City. Even with the Greenway. Where Greenwich Village might be described as an Old Victoria with many nooks and crannies in which wander, Battery Park City is more like a McMansion, a box with hardly any special detail to distinguish itself.