76 December 2014 www.womanthismonth.com LIFESTYLE | travel A New York Noel It’s the time when the bulls and bears on Wall Street make way for reindeers and tinkling bells join the city’s cacophonic yet orchestral soundtrack. As the snow starts to blanket the business-driven streets, New York’s air swells with over-flowing warmth and joy. With its Christmas trees, holiday window displays and festive lights, this winter wonderland beckons families, romantics and a lone voyager alike. So grab some hot coco or eggnog and have yourselves a very merry Christmas in New York. Rockefeller Center Plaza By now we’ve seen enough movies, travel shows and Sex and the City episodes to know about New York’s must-dos and visits: Katz’s Deli, Central Park, retail therapy havens and museums. However, even the most touristy spots undergo such a magical transformation, they deserve a visit. The epicentre of Christmas in New York is at the Rockefeller Center Plaza with its massive Christmas tree. First set up in 1931, this tree now boasts upwards of 30,000 lights and it’s a New York holiday custom to have pictures taken here. This is worth fighting the crowds, particularly after dark when the lights bounce off the golden Prometheus statue. And then of course there’s the dreamlike experience of ice-skating under the twinkling lights. Classic Christmas Ballet A holiday season hallmark is the New York City Ballet production of The Nutcracker, which has delighted children and adults for generations. It features a beautiful score by composer Tchaikovsky and brilliant choreography by ballet legend George Balanchine. This enchanting tale of toys comes to life, with a number of set and costume changes, capturing the essence of childhood and the season. The dancers leap and twirl, bringing the pieces of The Nutcracker suite to life, making every little girl want to be a ballerina. Catch the action at the David H Koch Theater, formerly known as the New York State Theater at the Lincoln Center. Yes it’s typical, almost a cliché, but isn’t Christmas all about tradition? Festive Bites The culinary choices in the city are infinite. When out and about, do remember to keep fuelling up at regular intervals because with all that walking you’re going to do, you’ll need it! Pick up a gourmet-fare-to-go by chef Daniel Boulud at the Café Boulud on 1900 Broadway or sit down for a chicken tagine at Boulud Sud on West 64th Street. Being on a holiday is no excuse to miss out on a traditional Christmas meal with the family. One place that encapsulates the festive cheer like no other is New York City. This month Ankita Mamgain explores what makes the Big Apple even juicier at Christmas time.
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