Book a trip from Melbourne to New York with Cathay Pacific , fares from AUD1,877

Passengers arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport can reach downtown Manhattan in approximately 35 minutes by taxi. Alternatively, you can take the AirTrain, which connects to the New York subway, taking around 15 minutes to reach Howard Beach station in Queens. From there, you can board the A subway train and arrive in the city centre in about an hour.

Start your holiday with a culturally engaging trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Located on the iconic Fifth Avenue, this world-renowned museum houses an extensive collection of over two million works spanning 5,000 years of art from every corner of the globe. Start your visit by exploring the impressive American Wing, which showcases masterpieces of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Take your time exploring the Egyptian Art gallery, where you can marvel at ancient artefacts, including mummies and monumental sculptures. For those interested in European art, the European Paintings collection features works by masters like Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh. If you have time, climb to the Met's Roof Garden for stunning views of Central Park and the skyline.

If you’re looking for stunning views of the city, the Brooklyn Bridge is a quintessential stop. Spanning the East River, this iconic bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn and is renowned for its majestic stone arches and intricate cable design. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge along its dedicated pedestrian promenade, taking in panoramic views of the skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the waterfront. The bridge is approximately 1,595 feet long, making it a perfect spot for memorable photos. Along the way, you'll find informative plaques detailing the bridge's rich history, including its completion in 1883 and its designation as a National Historic Landmark. Once in Brooklyn, explore the charming neighbourhoods, enjoy local eateries, or relax at Brooklyn Bridge Park, which offers recreational areas and beautiful green spaces.

Finish your holiday relaxing at the High Line, a unique elevated park situated on Manhattan's West Side. This 1.45-mile-long green space was transformed from an old freight rail line into a beautiful park filled with gardens, art installations, and stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding skyline. As you stroll along the High Line, take in the diverse plant life that changes with the seasons, providing a vibrant backdrop for your walk. Here you can also find various public art pieces and installations scattered along the path, showcasing both local and international artists. The High Line is also home to several viewing platforms where you can pause and enjoy the scenery. Convenient access points make it easy to join or leave the park at various locations.

Cathay Holidays brings the convenience of finding the perfect hotels for your stay. The Gallivant Times Square is an ideal choice for those seeking an affordable stay in the heart of New York City. Located just steps from the bustling energy of Times Square, this hotel offers a comfortable retreat for exploring the city. With a range of refurbished guest rooms, including family-friendly options with bunk beds, The Gallivant provides flexibility for various travel needs. Some rooms even feature private outdoor balconies, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or evening views of the city. Nearby attractions include the iconic M&M Store and the bright lights of Broadway, where you can catch a world-class show. The hotel is also close to renowned dining options, such as Vietnamese cuisine at An'nam and classic Irish fare at Hurley’s. For a taste of local culture, visit the nearby Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or take a leisurely stroll through Central Park. The Gallivant's central location allows easy access to transportation, making it simple to explore all that New York City has to offer. If you’re looking to treat yourself this holiday, consider staying at The Plaza. This historic hotel opened in 1907, offers guests a blend of timeless elegance and modern amenities, making it the perfect choice for those seeking an opulent experience. The Plaza features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many with stunning views of Central Park. Guests can indulge in world-class dining at The Palm Court, famous for its exquisite Afternoon Tea, or enjoy fine dining at The Champagne Bar. The hotel also boasts the award-winning Guerlain Spa, offering a serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. Nearby attractions include a leisurely stroll through Central Park, shopping at renowned stores on Fifth Avenue, and exploring Museum Mile, home to cultural gems like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Guests can also catch a performance at Carnegie Hall or visit the iconic Theater District for a Broadway show. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

For food enthusiasts, New York is a haven of flavours, boasting a diverse dining scene that harmoniously blends global cuisines into a tapestry of culinary delights. Originally opened in 1879 and revived in 2021, Gage & Tollner beautifully blends tradition with modern culinary excellence. Start your meal with the Oysters, sourced from the East Coast, offering a fresh taste of the sea. The Crab Cake is another must-try, featuring a delightful mix of flavours with a smoked onion remoulade. For mains, indulge in the Roasted Short Rib, which is exceptionally tender and served with couscous and ras el hanout, or try the Grilled Citrus-Marinated Chicken drizzled with the restaurant's signature hot sauce. Vegetarians will enjoy the Stuffed Cabbage, a creative dish with rye berry risotto and roasted kabocha squash. Finish your meal with the Brooklyn Blackout Cake, a rich chocolate dessert layered with dark chocolate ganache, or the Citrus Pudding, a refreshing end to your dining experience. Alternately, Tatiana By Kwame Onwuachi is a vibrant Afro-Caribbean restaurant located in New York City, offering a flavourful journey through diverse culinary traditions. This unique dining experience reflects Chef Onwuachi's heritage and celebrates the rich tapestry of flavours from the Caribbean and Africa. Start your meal with the Oxtail & Crab Rangoon, which features a delightful blend of ingredients served with a savoury Peking jus. The Curried Goat Patties are another standout appetiser, paired with a tangy mango chutney that enhances their rich flavours. For a hearty main course, try the Braised Oxtails served with rice and peas, accompanied by seasonal vegetables. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Fried Branzino, perfectly seasoned and served with cilantro and onion. Seafood lovers should try the Curried Snow Crab, which is cooked in a luscious coconut milk sauce. Finish your dining experience with the Golden Rum Cake, a deliciously moist dessert, or the Harlem Chocolate Factory White Chocolate Cheesecake, which offers a sweet twist.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to New York.

• Currency: United States Dollar ($, USD). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 120v Types A and B
• Time zone: GMT-5
• Language: English