New York New York! Taking a bite out of the Big Apple...

Image by Joey BLS Photography

Have you ever wondered how it would be possible to conquer all New York has to offer in a weekend?

Just imagine how intimidating the wealth of the city's attractions has to a first-time visitor, there for just one weekend but eager to soak up as much of it as possible.

As the plane touched down in JFK I was excited about the sights and sounds that would be before me as soon as I stepped out of the airport, conscious of the time ticking like a grandfather clock - reminding me that no minute was to be wasted while I was here.

Simone de Beauvior (America Day by Day) had it right when he said "there is something in the New York air that makes sleep useless."

And so it was, that my fun-filled weekend began in the Big Apple... And so it is that I share my top 10 list for a first-timer:

1. Times Square - save your visit here for night time as the lights at night make it all the more spectacular (and leaves your day time free for all those other sites!)
2. The Statue of Liberty - the visual that comes to attention when thinking of New York, the ferry out to Liberty Island is well worth the trip. Interested in ancestry? Check out the Ellis Island Immigration Museum - included in your ticket to see the famous lady. (Note you would need to arrive early in the morning to take advantage of both!)
3. Empire State Building - the view from the 86th-floor observation deck is breathtaking. To avoid the throngs, try visiting at 8:30 a.m. - like I did.
4. Central Park - take a break from the hustle and bustle and explore New York's natural oasis. The best way to see it all is on a bicycle - with its well-marked routes you will be able to explore at your own leisure.
5. Afternoon tea at the Ritz - reward your cycling efforts with a well-deserved spot of afternoon at one of New York's most iconic hotels.
6. Grand Central Terminal - travel back in time with a visit to New York's most famous station.
7. Catch a Broadway Show - Jersey Boys to the Lion King, Phantom of the Opera to Mamma Mia, there is an offering at Broadway to suit everyone's palette.
8. New York Public Library - Two marble lions mark the entrance to this masterpiece of a building, a National Historic Landmark containing more than six million books.
9. Greenwich Village - Like a small town within Manhattan, the Village has narrow tree-lined streets and brick townhouses - and plenty of trendy bars and restaurants.
10. Fifth Avenue - Of course a visit to New York is not complete without a stroll along this famous street offering some of the most expensive and fashionable shops in the city. 

Phew! What a list! Early mornings, and late nights... I might not have eaten all of the Big Apple, but I definitely got my fill in one weekend!