WITH Jingle Bells providing the perfect musical backdrop, I take a sip of mulled wine and gaze around at my own winter wonderland, writes GREG ANDERSON

New York has got everything you need in the run-up to Christmas.

Super shopping, twinkly lights and a large helping of festive cheer.

Plus, with some great last-minute deals you can stock up on gifts and treat yourself to a fabulous mini break.

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It’s the city that never sleeps, so you’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink and be merry and all without the stress and panic that usually builds with each door opening on your Advent calendar.

Don’t let the festive madness send you crackers.

Check in to your hotel and explore all that’s on offer in the Big Apple.

It’s so good, you’ll want to go twice.


No one knows how to shop like Carrie and co, so a wise move would be to hop aboard the official Sex and The City Tour.

Not only do you get to enjoy a Cosmo at the pub that doubles up for Steve’s bar, Scout, the well-informed guides show you all the best places to shop.

There’s even shopaholic discounts at many of the trendy stores.

The bus drops savvy shoppers in the Greenwich Village and SoHo area of the city.

This quaint neighborhood has mainstream high street shops as well as individual boutiques, perfect for souvenirs and unique Christmas gifts.

Stop for a rest at the famous Magnolia Bakery on Bleecker Street.

Enjoy cupcakes and coffee in the sweet cafe, which is on the perfect corner for people-watching.

You might even spot a celebrity or two; Sarah Jessica Parker (far right), Beyoncé and Jay-Z all live nearby.

The big department store to visit is the charming Macy’s, the setting for Christmas film Miracle on 34th Street.

To get fully into the Christmas spirit, there’s no better place to fill your stocking.

Visitors from out of town get a 10% discount – so head to the customer service desk with your passport for a special discount card. Just make sure there’s space in your suitcase for everything.


The perfectly situated Muse Hotel is the ideal place to base yourself to fully explore the city.

The hotel is five minutes from bustling Times Square but nestled in a quiet side street, ensuring that after a busy day of shopping and sightseeing you can have a peaceful night’s sleep.

There’s also a quaint bar, perfect for a classic cocktail to kick off the evening.

If you’re looking for spectacular views over the city, the hotel’s sister property Ink48 has a rooftop bar with well-heeled clientele and even snazzier cocktails.

For dinner head to Etrusca, a brand new stylish eaterie within the Hilton Midtown hotel.

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The restaurant has a delicious Mediterranean menu with sharing platters as well as seasonal three-course options.

The beetroot and pine nut salad was a favourite, but make sure you save enough room for dessert!

New York created the “blow out” bar, a growing trend for friends to head to the salon together and get their hair professionally blow-dried for the night ahead.

To fit in properly with the stylish Manhattan set, you can’t leave home with a hair out of place.

Book yourself in for a Big Apple blow-dry at the John Frieda salon.

More than just a hairdressers, the vibrant salon is an experience in itself, giving a unique take on how the Upper East Siders spend their afternoon. You’ll leave perfectly coiffed.

The salon is across the street from Central Park, the perfect place to take a stroll and show off your stylish city look.

Enjoy a hot chocolate at the frozen boating lake and watch as skilled skaters and clumsy tourists take to the ice.

The park is lined with beautifully maintained trees and gardens and is very safe to explore during the day.

Later, if you prefer your firs with more decoration, head to Rockefella Plaza to see the city’s biggest Christmas tree – the setting for a million greeting cards, and it doesn’t disappoint.


There is plenty to see in New York City but there’s no cooler way to take in the sights than a private tour in a classic car.

New York Fun Tours offer private excursions where the personalised tours are tailored to your specific interests.

If you can brave the cold, put the roof down and sail over the Brooklyn Bridge with the wind in your hair and enjoy the breathtaking view from other side of the river.

If the weather is not quite right for a convertible car, the company also offer tours in 4x4 jeeps and stretch limos.

These unique trips are perfect for a special occasion and our tour guide, Isaac, tells us that many young romantics have popped the question on the back seat.

At the end of the day get dropped off at Radio City Hall and enjoy the famous Christmas Spectacular show, a New York institution that has been running for 75 years.

The must-see musical features the high-kicking Rockettes and there’s no better way to step into Christmas. Happy Holidays!

FACT BOX

Virgin Atlantic (virgin-atlantic.com) offer flights to New York from £375.

Three nights at the Muse Hotel, Manhattan (themusehotel.com) start from £380 based on two sharing.

Tours can be booked at New York Fun Tours (newyorkfuntours.com) and On Location Tours (screentours.com). 

Hair appointments at John Frieda (johnfrieda.com) need to be booked in advance.

Tickets for the Christmas Spectacular (radiocity.com) can be purchased online.