Romantic Breaks in the Big Apple

With so much going in the brash, exciting city that never sleeps, you would be forgiven for thinking that New York is not the ideal location for an intimate, romantic weekend with your loved one. However, you'd be wrong: the Big Apple is one of the most romantic cities in the world, and because of the pound's great exchange rate against the dollar, a romantic break in New York won't necessarily break the bank. Plus, you'll also be able to take in some great shopping opportunities, spectacular sightseeing and enjoy some of the city's fabulous night life on your special break.



If you are inspired by romantic movies then you must take a trip to the observation deck of New York's 102-storey Empire State Building, the location of several notable Hollywood epics. In the 1957 classic "An Affair to Remember" Cary Grant waits in vain for Deborah Kerr to turn up for their agreed liaison unaware that she has been involved in a tragic car accident. More recently, "Sleepless in Seattle" starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan had its comical final scenes filmed at New York's tallest skyscraper.



Recently re-opened and one of New York's best kept secrets is the Observation Deck at the top of the Rockefeller Centre in mid-Manhattan. Simply known as the 'Top of the Rock', its 360 degree unobstructed seventieth floor views of the city are truly spectacular. As well as great views of downtown Manhattan there is a vista of Central Park that is unavailable elsewhere in the city. You and your loved one will simply revel in the experience, especially if you get there at dusk and watch the city literally light up in front of your eyes.



When it comes to romantic daytime activities, what could be better than a bike ride with your loved one around Manhattan's Central Park, a man-made oasis of green on an island of concrete? The Park is so large that you could spend all day cycling on hired bikes regularly stopping off at spots such as Strawberry Fields, dedicated to the memory of former Beatle, John Lennon. And don't forget to pull into the 'Pub in the Park' for a refreshing pit-stop!



Of course if you going to treat your loved one to a romantic trip to New York then you must do it in style by electing to stay in a superb 5 star hotel on Central Park. And after such a memorable romantic trip, the chances are that your partner will love you forever.



Elisha Burberry is a freelance writer who loves her job and the occasional glass of red wine.