To go to New York on my own?

[ShutUpMeg]

I've always wanted to go to New York but have been brought up in the mindset that a woman simply cannot go anywhere without a man as she will naturally be beaten, raped and killed. I don't have this mindset but admittedly have been wary of going abroad on my own because of it!

Anyway, I'm a single parent, I do have a DP but we don't live together and I don't think it will last anyway. I have just done a quote for me and the kids for one week in New York - I can afford it.

So - AIBU to bugger off to New York with my 13 and 15 year old lads for a week? would you do it alone?

Not sure what time of year you're going but we went to a Basketball game at Madison Square Gardens and thought it was great - an experience.

Might be worth checking out basketball, baseball, ice hockey fixtures when you're there if you're into that kind of thing at all.

I loved NY. Would go back in a flash and can't wait to take my kids when they're older. The place definitely has a buzz about it.

Another shouting GO !! I'm planning a million things - trip to NY being one of them for me and DD when she's a bit older!! DH is a terrible holiday/ day trip mate and isn't invited!!

You have the money and the opportunity? You would be very U if you didn't go! :o

Go. You will have a blast, and it is very safe. DD1 lived there for a year when she was 18 and then in Chicago for three with no problems beyond the average.

Coach service from Newark Intl to NYC:
Olympia Trails/Coach USA bus.
Trans Bridge Lines.
New Jersey Transit
Ask people for help. I found New Yorkers really helpful. And chatty.

For your return trip, if you take a taxi or any non-train transport to Newark, factor in a good 2+ hours for rush hour traffic (2:30 pm on, 5:30 am on)) depending on when your plane leaves, and do not leave NYC too late for check in at Newark. Better safe than sorry. If you take the shuttle, make a reservation for your return trip and ask them about the time factor.

Don't forget to tip waiters, taxi drivers - a tip is not included in your bill. Food is everywhere, great (and enormous) sandwiches, breakfast places; you can spend as much as you want to but it's possible to eat a lot really cheaply, in delis or in groceries as Amicissimma says.

Pack light. Make sure your bags have wheels or are rucksack type.

yyy - the High Line is fantastic. And baseball is a great way to experience America (season runs to late September) but expensive if you buy food at the ballpark.

Go. You and your DS's will have a great time.

We went with DD (9) in March time. She loved the deli's, central park, Rockefellers etc. When we asked her if she had enjoyed herself, her reply was " of course, how can you not like New York" and that was after we had walked her everywhere.

Get the subway to Coney Island - that is an experience in itself seeing all the different buildings as you get closer to the beach. Plus the funfairs will be open.

Oh yes Coney island and the original 'Nathan's Famous'. Oh so jealous.....