Be Prepared if You Go to NYC between Christmas and New Year’s

I have been to New York City many times, and even lived here a short while.  I have never seen such crowds, as I did this week.  We arrived on Monday the 26th and stay until the 29th.  I purposely chose to leave before New Year’s because you couldn’t pay me to go to Times Square then.  Well, I would go if I were in a suite overlooking the chaos and ordered room service for days!

Everywhere we have gone, there have been massive crowds and hours waiting in lines.  I can’t stand too long due to a back injury.  We ended up forgoing several major attractions because of the crowds.

I do have to say that one of my favorite experiences was the lunch at Han Palace Seafood Restaurant (formerly Golden Sand) in Chinatown today.   There were no crowds of tourists – no line to get in – just a suitable crowd of locals who know good Chinese food!  Food and drink was served within minutes of entering the place and my husband (a foodie) was in heaven.

They came around several times offering us various Chinese (real Chinese) – such as dumplings, bok choy with garlic sauce, pork buns and some other delicious pork dish we couldn’t audibly understand.  There were only 3 non-Chinese tables and the staff hardly spoke a lick of English.  We will definitely be back!

So if you’re going to New York City during the holiday season – think outside the box or schedule your activities before the insanity begins.

P.S. I was told to go to the American Girl store when it opens at 9!