Often called "the city that never sleeps," New York City has a pulsing energy all its own. It's the undisputed center of commerce and culture. It's a melting pot, a proving ground, and an obstacle course. It's an attitude, a flavor, and an atmosphere. The city prides itself on having the best of everything: the best restaurants, best museums, and the best city park ever, Central Park. For visitors, the Big Apple has something to appeal to everyone.

New York has always been a haven for creative types. The lofts of SoHo (South of Houston Street) offered refuge for many struggling artists in the past, but the area's trendy reputation has driven prices out of reach. However, the East Village continues to be a hub of writers, musicians and painters with its many galleries, cafes, shops and nightclubs. Those whose musical tastes run to the hardcore will want to stop by CBGB's, the legendary punk club that launched the careers of Blondie, the Ramones and others. For something mellower, go next door to CB's 313 Gallery, an alternative art gallery and performance space that features aspiring singer/songwriters. If you want to look like a rock star yourself, the latest hotspots for up-and-coming designers peddling funky, affordable fashions are Nolita (North of Little Italy) and the nearby NoHo (North of Houston Street).

When the starving artist lifestyle loses its appeal, New York has its share of upscale offerings. To stock up on the very best of everything, take your wallet for a walk down Fifth Avenue, home of the newly-reopened F.A.O. Schwarz, fashion mainstays Prada, Gucci and Versace, and of course its namesake, Saks Fifth Avenue.

Madison Avenue has been giving Fifth Ave a run for the money (literally) in recent years with new boutiques by Armani, Donna Karan, Valentino and more.
There's no place like New York for a crash course in culture. Many of the best museums in the world are located in Manhattan, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and the American Museum of Natural History. Lincoln Center is home to the performing arts, including the Metropolitan Opera House and the New York Philharmonic. Other places to catch great entertainment include Radio City Music Hall, Carnegie Hall and of course, Broadway. With all the city has to offer, it's no wonder that so many, as Frank Sinatra sang, want to "be a part of it".