New-York

A gift from the French to celebrate the centenary of the American Declaration of Independence, the Stature of Liberty is a mark of friendship between the two nations. Inaugurated en 1886, it has since become a universal symbol of liberty and emancipation across the world. For several decades, it was also the first sight to greet the eyes of millions of immigrants who left Europe in search of a new life.

The memorial to the September 11 attacks is built on the exact former location of the twin towers. It is composed of two large pools with water cascading down the sides and a commemorative museum offering a visit filled with emotion. The new One World Trade Center was built next to it, culminating at a height of 1,776m and making it the tallest skyscraper in New York and the Western Hemisphere.

This building, built in 1930, is the best known and most iconic in New York. Despite its age, it is still the third tallest skyscraper in Manhattan after One World Trade Center and 432 Park Avenue, built 70 years later. It is an Art Deco masterpiece made particularly famous by the film King Kong. Visitors can go up to the 86th floor and enjoy an incredible view from the outdoor terrace of the observatory.

The home of Afro-American culture and the struggle for equal rights, Harlem is the best district to visit to attend mass with gospel music, which originated in the emancipation of slaves. The congregation sings together and clap their hands to express their joy, hopes and comfort. Attend the first service in the morning to experience, with respect, this incredible service that will send shivers down your spine and put a smile on your face.

The forty or so theatres in Broadway put on large scale productions that draw huge crowds. With productions inspired by great film classics (King Kong, Beetlejuice, Harry Potter, Moulin Rouge), Disney animations (The Lion King, Frozen, Aladin), ballets or other musicals, there is a wide selection of choice. It is nevertheless advisable to book in advance, especially towards the end of the year.

This famous crossroads shines brightly with its immense illuminated signs. Both night and day, giant powerful screens clock up the kilowatts with their displays of advertising videos, show posters and even stock market prices. But the most eagerly anticipated countdown is at New Year, attended by thousands of spectators.

Whether it's for shopping, visiting a museum or just for the enjoyment of walking along this legendary street, visiting 5th Avenue is a must. Its wealth does not stop at the numerous rivalling luxury boutiques, but also includes many major monuments springing up all along it.

This gigantic building complex is known for its famous Christmas tree and ice rink in winter, but is also home to monumental statues and multiple shops spreading out in a large underground labyrinth. The terrace on the 65th floor of Comcast Building rivals that of the Empire State Building, offering an equally breathtaking view and a thrilling ascent with special light effects.

This hearty breakfast is largely composed of pancakes, waffles and other sweet treats and is very popular with New Yorkers who look forward to it every weekend. They also love cupcakes and doughnuts, which are sold in large quantities all over the city.  It’s all very indulgent!

All kinds of world cuisine can be found in New York, which is a cosmopolitan, multicultural and international city by excellence. We’re not talking about poor imitations, but truly the best of French, Mexican, Chinese or Japanese gastronomy, to name just a few. World famous chefs have moved to this city offering tantalising promises of success.

Pastrami is a technique that consists in marinating beef in brine, then seasoning it with herbs and spices before pressing, smoking and steaming it. It is then cut by hand and served in a rye bread sandwich. It is a true New York speciality.

Although originally from Europe, cheesecake has its own New York version which has become a classic dish in itself, often found on the menu in restaurants and cafes. It is believed that the owner of Turf restaurant on 49th Avenue modernised the recipe in 1929. Its creamy texture and lemony flavour will seduce more than one!

The number of vegans in the United States is exploding. Not just a fad, it is a genuine way of life in which the person stops consuming all products of animal origin. Always ahead of the game, New York already boasts many restaurants at the forefront of this entirely plant-based perspective on food. Whether you’re already vegan or simply curious, you are sure to love it!