Manhattan Wanderlust

Why Manhattan is a MUST 

Manhattan is calling your name 

If cities were celebrities, Manhattan would be Beyoncé—dazzling, world-famous, impossibly busy, and always dressed to impress. As the beating heart of New York City, Manhattan is the place where skyscrapers tickle the clouds on every block, bagels are basically a religion, and every street feels like a movie set.  

But is it really worth the hype?  

Short answer: Yes.
Long answer? Well, grab a hot dog and read on. 

What is the best season to visit Manhattan?  

While Manhattan is magical year-round, the best time to visit is arguably late spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October). Why? Because the weather is perfect—not too cold, not too humid—and the city is in full swing without being suffocatingly crowded. Central Park blooms with spring blossoms or blazes with autumn colour, sidewalk cafes are in full operation, and you can roam the streets without melting into the pavement slipping on patches of black ice.  

Take note: These times are great because there are fewer tourists than the summer crush, and better flight deals than during the December holiday rush. 

How long do you need to stay to make it worthwhile? 

Ideally, 5 to 7 days gives you enough time to see the major sights without rushing around like a subway rat who stole a slice of pizza.  Three days is doable if you’re a caffeinated speed walker. Anything less, and you’ll spend more time trying to figure out the subway map than actually seeing anything. 

 Airbnb vs Hotel: The Great NYC stay debate 

Airbnb Pros: 

• Feels more “local” – you might end up in a brownstone in Harlem or a chic loft in SoHo. 

• Often more space and amenities, like kitchens (helpful when trying to save money or feed kids). 

Airbnb Cons 

• Hidden fees. Suddenly your $100-per-night deal becomes $180 after cleaning and service fees. 

• Legality issues. Not all Airbnb listings in NYC are above board, and the city has cracked down on short-term rentals. 

Hotel Pros: 

• Convenience. Daily cleaning, concierge help, and you’re often right near major sights. 

• Legally safe and hassle-free. 

Hotel Cons: 

• Smaller spaces (unless you book an expensive and expansive suite) and typically pricier than Airbnb for the size. 

Verdict?  

For families or longer stays, Airbnb might be the better value. For a quick city break or if you want zero stress, stick with a hotel.  

What Should I Eat in Manhattan? 

Budget bites (a.k.a. affordable street food heroes): 

• Halal Guys: This food cart in SoHo serves chicken and rice platters with white sauce that deserve their own awards. 

• NYC Pizza slices: Grab one for $1–$3 from almost any corner shop. Joe’s Pizza (Carmine St) is a cult favourite. 

• Bagels with schmear: Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel are pilgrimage-worthy. 

• Hot dogs from Gray’s Papaya are arguably the best hot dogs in NYC. Don’t worry though – the “papaya” refers to the delicious papaya fruit drink sold there. There are no papayas in the hot dogs. (But the drink is worth a try!)  

Take note: If you can’t make it to Gray’s, try a random cart on the street. (Yes, even those are decent). 

Fancy bites (for splurging): 

Le Bernardin – high-end seafood dining that borders on spiritual. This three star Michelin restaurant by Eric Ripert is a Manhattan institution.  

Eleven Madison Park – known for its inventive vegan tasting menus and fine dining prestige overlooking the beautiful Madison Park.  

Katz’s Delicatessen – okay, not “fancy” but still iconic, with mile-high pastrami sandwiches and historic charm…(Not to mention it is the location of the (in)famous restaurant scene from When Harry met Sally…) 

Whether you’re eating off a paper plate or silver platter, Manhattan caters to all appetites and bank balances.  

Is Manhattan safe? 

Generally, yes. Like any major city, you need to keep your wits about you especially at night in less populated areas. But tourist zones, parks, and the subway are safer than their reputations suggest. New Yorkers may seem brusque, but they’re surprisingly helpful if you ask nicely (and loudly – they don’t do subtle). 

Is Manhattan kid friendly? 

Surprisingly, yes! From Central Park’s playgrounds and the zoo, to FAO Schwarz, the ultimate Toy Store, (move over Hamley’s) the American Museum of Natural History, and even Broadway shows like The Lion King, kids are spoiled for choice. Just be prepared to answer the occasional awkward question when passing by Times Square’s more eccentric street performers. 

Ultimate bucket list for Manhattan  

How Do I Get Around in Manhattan? 

• Subway: Fast, cheap, and once you figure it out, kind of charming in a gritty way. 

• Walking: Manhattan is walkable—just wear good shoes. 

• Cabs and Ubers: Convenient, but pricey and slower during peak times. 

• CitiBikes: Rent a bike if you’re feeling bold (and insured). 

Top Tip: Avoid renting a car. Traffic and parking will ruin your will to live. 

Ok – What do you actually do in Manhattan? 

Where do we begin? 

• Statue of Liberty (technically on Liberty Island, but accessed via Manhattan) 

• Empire State Building 

• Central Park 

• Times Square 

• Broadway 

• The Met, MoMA, and Guggenheim Museums 

• Wall Street and the 9/11 Memorial 

• The High Line and Chelsea Market 

• Rockefeller Center and Grand Central Station 

It’s a cinematic city. Basically, if you’ve seen it in a movie, it’s probably here. 

Traveler Tips: How to get from South Africa to the City That Never Sleeps 

Getting There: 

• Flights: Direct flights to JFK or Newark via airlines like Delta or United.  

More likely, you’ll connect through Europe or the Middle East (e.g., via Doha or Amsterdam). 

• Visa: South Africans need a B1/B2 tourist visa for the US. It costs around $185, and you’ll need to book an appointment well in advance.  

Take Note: The process is bureaucratic but manageable. 

Ready to go? Here’s a quick packing list to make the most of your trip: 

• Comfortable walking shoes (non-negotiable) 

• Weather-appropriate layers (check the season!) 

• A power bank 

• A universal travel adaptor 

• An open mind and a sense of humour 

A New York State of mind – What will I come to know as I walk these iconic streets?  

Manhattan is where the world converges. You’ll hear ten languages on a single block. You’ll meet bankers, buskers, artists, and immigrants. You’ll be awed, annoyed, inspired, and humbled – often in the same hour, sometimes by the same interaction. The city teaches resilience, open-mindedness, and the thrill of shared humanity. It shows you how small your world can be – and how exciting it is to make it bigger. 

So yes, Manhattan is worth a visit. Not just for the selfies or the skyline, but because in this city of noise and neon, you might just find a little piece of yourself you didn’t know was missing.