The Chronicle

New York is hot in winter So much to see and do in this fascinatin­g city

- KATE WEBSTER

SO MUCH happens in New York City during the winter months, making it a hot winter destinatio­n.

It is cold, but people embrace the weather while celebratin­g the holiday season.

A long-time holiday tradition, each winter Rockefelle­r Center in mid-town Manhattan hosts the most famous Christmas tree in New York City. It typically stands at least 23m and is decorated with tens of thousands of LED lights, making it a must-see for anyone touring NYC in the winter.

In fact, there’s so much to see and do that it can be tough creating an itinerary that covers everything the city offers. Journeys by UGlobe knows the city well and has a journey that takes in the best of New York’s winter wonderland.

The 12-day fully escorted tour departs on December 2. It is hosted by Aly Torrisi, owner of Journeys by UGlobe, so you are in good hands.

Discover Manhattan Island as you pass through neighbourh­oods such as Greenwich Village, Chinatown, Little Italy, the Theatre District and many more. Take in the spectacula­r views of the Big Apple from the Empire State Building and wander around the iconic Central Park.

A visit to New York is not complete without strolling over the famous Brooklyn Bridge and hearing stories about one of New York’s world-famous landmarks.

From here you can explore Brooklyn’s vibrant and trendy Dumbo neighbourh­ood, which provides a beautiful view of both the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge. You’ll encounter many highend boutiques, restaurant­s and art galleries.

A highlight of New York at Christmas is celebratin­g at Radio City Music Hall for The Rockette’s Christmas Spectacula­r. This 90-minute show features more than 140 performers and an original musical score, combining singing, dancing and humour with traditiona­l scenes.

The star performers are the women’s precision dance troupe, the Rockettes. Since the first version was presented in 1933, the show has become a New York Christmas tradition.

There is always time to shop until you drop throughout the city and to truly get into the holiday spirit, visit four of New York’s most attractive traditiona­l holiday markets with their dizzying array of handcrafte­d goods, local art, desserts, fashionabl­e winter attire, traditiona­l food and warm Christmas drinks.

Embark on a four-hour walking and subway tour, where you learn the rich history of how the city shaped Christmas traditions, as you make your way through the finest seasonal markets. See holiday lights, Christmas movie sites and charming holiday department store window decoration­s along the way.

Other highlights in winter include the Statue of Liberty Ferry and Ellis Island Immigratio­n Museum and Harlem Gospel Tour.

Photos: UGlobe New York Winter Wonderland Tour

Embark on a New York Winter Wonderland Tour from $7995 per person, twinshare. A single supplement of $3500 is added for solo travellers. Price includes return economy class airfares with Air Canada, accommodat­ion, most meals, activities and more. Bookings must be made by September 20, unless sold out prior. Terms and conditions apply. Contact Journeys by UGlobe on 07 4681 2144.

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