New York City Town Guide A melting pot of cultures, languages and the arts, New York is an incredible window onto the planet. You'll quickly adapt to the rhythms and energy of this city, where all that is bigger-than-life and bordering on the unimaginable reigns supreme, as you make your way through its lively and very distinct neighbourhoods. Whether leaving a show, strolling the streets or indulging in some shopping, let yourself be swept up into the whirlwind that is New York - it's the best way to appreciate a charm that will bowl you over! Five ideas for discovering another side to the city -  Visit New York from above - take a helicopter ride over the city. The panoramic views will leave you speechless. -  Of New York's more than 150 museums, don't bother with the far too well known Met and MOMA. Instead, try the Art Déco treasures of the Cooper-Hewitt Design Center and the daring architecture of the Guggenheim. -  If you need to clear your lungs, why not go jogging in Central Park? -  NY is a shopping mecca. To make a change, try strolling through the chic boutiques of Soho. -  New York never sleeps, and neither will you! After taking in a musical on Broadway, head off for a drink at one of the city's jazz clubs (Woody Allen's, for example). Time difference New York is five hours behind GMT. To call New York Dial the international code followed by 1 for USA, then 212 for New York and the 7 digits of the person you are calling. Climate Average temperatures by season: - Spring: 11° C - Summer: 23° C - Autumn: 14° C - Winter: -1° C Holidays These holidays apply throughout the USA: - 1 January: New Year - Last Monday in May: Memorial Day - 4 July: Independence Day - First Monday in September: Labour Day - Second Monday in October: Columbus Day - Last Thursday in November: Thanksgiving Day - 25 December: Christmas Getting around In addition to the subway, which is quite efficient and now much safer during the daytime than before, you can take one of New York's famous yellow taxis to explore every nook and cranny of the city. New York Tourism Office The Official New York City Visitor Information Center 810 seventh Avenue, between 52nd and 53nd street street Tel: (international n° +1) 212 484 12 22 New York on the Web http://www.nycvisit.com See our Cultural calendar Back