Discovering New York in November: Five Must-Do Activities
As the sun dips below the horizon on a crisp autumn day, New York transforms into a dazzling wonderland. While many believe that the excitement fades after Halloween, they simply miss out on the vibrant experiences, hidden gems, and unforgettable adventures awaiting exploration during this magical month. Having visited the city together ten times, we can confidently say that November holds a special place in our hearts. The atmosphere is electric, the decorations are stunning, and there’s a delightful buzz in the air. Here are our five favourite things to do in New York in November. 1. Marvel at the Holiday Shop Windows One of the most enchanting experiences in New York during November is witnessing the breathtaking holiday shop windows that come alive at this time. Iconic stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue go all out for the season, competing to create stunning and often whimsical displays that celebrate joy and festivities through classic tales, holiday symbols, and vibrant colours. These windows are not only captivating for children but also evoke a sense of nostalgia for adults who may have fond memories of visiting them in their own childhood. Fifth Avenue transforms into a sparkling spectacle, drawing countless visitors. Just remember to bundle up because it can get quite chilly, especially as the sun sets. Be prepared to spend several hours soaking in the festive spirit—it’s an experience that’s nothing short of magical. 2. Enjoy Central Park’s Squirrel Spectacle As the temperature drops, Central Park becomes a lively hub of squirrel activity. These playful creatures can be seen frolicking about, busily burying their acorns in preparation for winter. Their antics add a light-hearted charm to the park, making it a delightful spot to enjoy the crisp air and vibrant autumn foliage. During your stroll, keep in mind that the park’s fountains are turned off for winter, creating a different vibe from the warmer months. Central Park also comes alive with street performers showcasing their talents, including the whimsical bubble-makers who craft giant bubbles that float enchantingly in the air. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the rare black squirrel—spotting one is a fun photo opportunity and a unique part of any visit! 3. Experience the Rockefeller Christmas Tree No visit to New York in November would be complete without seeing the iconic Rockefeller Christmas tree. This towering symbol of the holiday season lights up the plaza, captivating visitors with its grandeur. However, be warned—the crowds can be overwhelming, especially during the tree lighting ceremony. For a more serene experience, consider ice skating at Bryant Park. This beautifully situated rink offers a cosy winter wonderland atmosphere that is much more intimate than Rockefeller Centre. Bryant Park also hosts charming winter markets, perfect for shopping for unique gifts and indulging in seasonal treats while sipping on hot chocolate. 4. Celebrate Thanksgiving Day Bliss Fourth on our list is the spectacular Thanksgiving Day Parade. This iconic event showcases giant balloons, lavish floats, and captivating performances that delight audiences of all ages. The parade runs from 77th Street down to Macy’s Herald Square, providing the perfect opportunity to secure a good viewing spot early in the day. After the parade, treat yourself to an extraordinary Thanksgiving dinner at a fabulous restaurant like Manhatta, where you can savour a gourmet meal with breathtaking skyline views. A leisurely stroll through the Financial District afterward offers a surprisingly quiet atmosphere, providing a stark contrast to the holiday hustle and bustle. Be sure to stop by the famous Charging Bull statue—it’s a testament to the energy of Wall Street and a must-see! 5. Soak in the Views from Tall Buildings To truly appreciate the essence of New York, head up to one of its many towering buildings. We’ve explored them all, from the World Trade Centre and Empire State Building to Rockefeller Centre and the Summit. Our top pick? The Summit, located adjacent to Grand Central Terminal on Vanderbilt Street. This new viewing platform offers an immersive experience with multiple levels and interactive exhibits, making it a warm and engaging place to relax while taking in stunning panoramic views of the city. From the Summit, you can see all four corners of Manhattan, as well as the surrounding rivers, with breathtaking views of iconic buildings like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Centre, World Trade Centre, and the Chrysler Building—our personal favourite. Bonus Tip: Prepare for Winter Weather As a final note, remember that the weather can be unpredictable in late November—it’s not uncommon for the city to experience snow. With ten visits under our belt, we’ve encountered snow three times, so be prepared by layering your clothing to stay warm. Comfortable footwear is essential, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. When you feel the chill, take refuge in warm stores or cafes for a breather, hot chocolate, or a freshly baked pastry. These cosy spots are perfect for recharging before heading back out into the crisp city air. See other videos like this one. Conclusion There you have it—our top five unforgettable experiences in New York this November! We hope this inspires you to explore all the magic the city has to offer during this vibrant season. Whether it’s the holiday shop windows, playful squirrels in Central Park, the glittering Rockefeller tree, the joyous Thanksgiving parade, or stunning skyline views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Safe travels, and happy adventures! Until next time—let’s make some unforgettable memories together! Check out our New York Blog here.
Top Five Travel Essentials for Long-Haul Flights
Picture this: You’re staring down the barrel of another long-haul flight. The dread creeps in, but fear not! I’ve got your back. With years of jet-setting under our belts (thanks, Australia, for being so far away from everywhere!), I’ve compiled the top five items to take on board with you to make your journey a breeze. Stick around till the end, because trust me, you don’t want to miss out on the game-changer waiting for you at number five! Welcome aboard the Linke Lifestyle Express! Buckle up, fellow travellers, as we take you on a whirlwind of travel experiences, insider tips, and a sprinkle of entertainment magic along the way. I’m Mardi, joined by my partner in crime, Michael, and together, we’re here to revolutionise your travel game! The Five Travel Essentials for Long-Haul Journeys Imagine this: a throbbing headache, a blocked nose, or aches and pains creeping in. It’s a nightmare! That’s why I always bring an emergency medication kit. My go-to lifesavers include: I keep these organised in handy zip lock bags for easy access and peace of mind. Why let minor discomfort ruin your flight? In the world of long-haul flights, hydration is your best friend. Whether the airline hands you a water bottle or not, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your trusty companion by bringing your own reusable water bottle onboard. Stay refreshed, stay hydrated, and hey, it’s perfect for washing down those painkillers too! The secret to surviving the dry, recycled air of the cabin? Always have lip balm and a moisturiser! Keep your lips soft and your skin glowing with your portable arsenal. I recommend using a sample-sized bottle of moisturiser or transferring it into a tiny pot to save space while keeping your skin replenished throughout the flight. When the cabin feels like a sauna, you need a cool down companion! Beat the heat with your trusty handheld fan. Compact and USB-chargeable, this multitasking champ not only keeps you cool but also provides charging for your devices. Say goodbye to stuffy flights and hello to a breath of fresh air! In-flight entertainment is your savior for those endless hours, so say no to uncomfortable airline headphones and embrace the cozy comfort of your own over-ear headphones. I love my Bose QuietComfort headphones. Immerse yourself in your favorite movies or shows with their outstanding noise-canceling feature. For added convenience, consider pairing them with an AirFly for a seamless entertainment experience. Conclusion Thanks for journeying with us today! If you have your own go-to travel essentials, share them in the comments below. And hey, if you’ve enjoyed this adventure with us, hit that subscribe button and join our ever-growing travel tribe. Let’s spread our wings together and explore the world in style! Until next time, safe travels and happy adventures! Paracetamol/Acetaminophen Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4bpv7wB Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cLxZ82 Melatonin Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4elQz8u Amazon Australia: Not available Tylenol PM Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4b2Q0xw Amazon Australia: Not available Zyrtec Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4cLrgLm Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cLrgLm Chewable antacid tablets Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eJm9xd Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RSbHtg Little zip lock bags Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3XKxJ52 Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cGGJfK Collapsible water bottle Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eo3J4H Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3z2NnhY Lip balm Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3xK6SeT Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RPkagZ Moisturiser Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4cACQsO Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/45MNvOG Travel skincare pot Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RQoj48 Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4eEmi4S Handheld fan Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RsuVFD Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RrncYu Bose QuietComfort headphones Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RtxYgX Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3KJHOaH Airfly Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3xjl2Du Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4aYeW9q
