I’ve been lucky enough to be able to visit Manhattan twice, once in summer and once in winter.

The 1st time we went I was worried about all the usual things (I’ve grown up on American TV same as most people my age) and whether there would be much to entertain the kids. We all loved it and found it to be safe, welcoming, quite European in feel and the residents were lovely.

The winter visit was over New Year and with the ice skating at Rockefeller Plaza as well as in Central Park it looked like an amazing film set. The weather was unseasonably mild (the kids were hoping for snow, so that was a slight disappointment for them!). Again, very safe, welcoming and friendly. The only ‘rudeness’ we encountered was in the diners where staff could be a little abrupt.

Would recommend to anyone, it’s great with kids of all ages and there’s something there for everyone. Do go up The Rock – the views are wonderful. The Statten Island ferry is free and the views, again, are fantastic. Central Park is great, the subway is really good once you get used to how it works. MoMA is well worth queuing or getting there early. Shop at Century 21 for some great bargains. Eat Ray’s Pizza and Junior’s cheesecake, drink Brooklyn beer!