My souvenir mug reads “New York, NY A Helluver Town”. There's no argument from me on that one. Two weeks in the Big Apple. Being with my mother and brother meant I saved on accommodation costs, but I would have to make compromises too. My way to do the Statue of Liberty was not theirs. If you tackle this city, get up early and move your butt.

Every day we passed the Dakota Apartments where John Lennon was shot. Our hotel was on West 72nd Street, near two subway stations and Central Park. The city of joggers, yellow cabs, homeless, money, skyscrapers and crime. These were the dominant impressions as we went up, around, across and through building after building. The city of people. Made by them, and dominated by high rise offices, premium space and smog.

The subway system is vast. Those numbers and letters are more important than they seem on the map. That blue line may pass through the station, but it won't necessarily stop there. Each journey is $1.25 wherever you go, a transfer to another line costs no extra. You are given a token which you put in the automatic barrier, than merely exit at your destination. Heated meetings were being held with the general public while I was there concerning a fare increase, so beware. Nice touch of democracy though.

You'll be kept busy sightseeing. I'd recommend Wall Street, a piece of authentic history exists here at Federal Hall where George Washington was sworn in as First President. Free entry here, as at the nearby New York Stock Exchange, which is rare, as even the art galleries have entrance fees in this city. The dollar leaves your pocket at quite a rate, so be prepared to spend, tip and be as tight as possible.

The unmissable sights are the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, World Trade Centre, and for me, Yankee Stadium. The Big Green Lady is full of people every day of the week so catch the first ferry at 9.30am and either catch a lift to the top of the base or walk to the crown. One is far more strenuous than the other! I joined the queue for the crown. But as we moved two steps every five minutes I ducked out of it and had a far more pleasant walk on the base and in the informative museum. she is an impressive lady. The approach by ferry is unforgettable, stand on the starboard side. Experience the only city which gets bigger the further you move away from it. Ellis Island is the next stop for all ferries and some find this old port of entry for immigrants a moving experience. I'd highly recommend the free tour which should tell you all you'd want to know. Italians and Russians formed the highest proportion of new Americans and thousands of their names are on the Wall of Honour just outside the main building.

For a break, take in a game of baseball. Either the New York Yankees or New York Mets should be playing at home between April and September. Both are on the subway. For a more pleasant journey and experience go to Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. Queens, where the Mets play, is definitely a place to avoid. With graffiti, Spanglish and packed trains it looks like a kind of Tottenham at it's worst, and even worse.

Pick a day game at Yankee Stadium and don't worry about finding something to eat — hot dogs, pretzels, soda, beer, peanuts, candy-floss — will be available from the professional young men carrying their wares. The game is inexpensive and you'll have no trouble getting a ticket. Playing “Spot the American Way” is entertaining and even if the game doesn't get you going the between innings score board entertainment will. Wonderful history here and a place you can relax in for a few hours and in complete safety too. Tours are available on non-game days.

On Fifth Avenue, the top of the street is an eye-catching walk. The Warner Brothers Store and the Barnes and Noble book store are highlights. This street has it's own cleaning service, something that did not surprise me at all. Afterwards you can head for Sak's for a browse and then Tiffany's to do the same.

The local train services leave from Grand Central Station and it’s certainly worth a visit. Have a muffin and coffee for breakfast at the cafe. The ceiling features signs of the zodiac which you can only just make out they are so far away.

Central Park, while not a driving metropolis, is a jogging one. The numbers of roller blading, cycle riding, keep fit fanatics requires the use of the Highway Code just as much as the roads. People jog all the daylight hours, which makes me wonder what they all do for a living, maybe they are trapped in this exclusively man-made park, forever on the move for fear of having to think if they stop. A jogger was murdered just before we left for home.
New York is not really a relaxing holiday, but I'm sure it will entice me back, particularly if the Yankees make the World Series.