Guy Brighton's New York Guide

Book Review: Access New York 11th Edition

When I first came to New York I bought about 2 guide books to help me. I found the 10th Edition of Access New York at Strands by Union Square and it became an invaluable tool to help me explore the city.

Access New York is set out a little differently from other guides. Many guides provide themed sections like on 'shopping','tours' and so on but Access color codes different activities and sorts them by neighborhood. You can use the book to establish a day sight seeing; setting out the path you want to walk. There's a lot of love and attention here. It covers the five boroughs very nicely and even encourages the adventure of getting out there and seeing it.

With the 11th edition some info hasn't been refreshed since last year but my only real problem with the book is that it's not ideal if you're on the street and you want to get it out of your bag and refer to it. It's hard to find a place quickly. Best to use it for research then write a list. But a great list you will have!! Enjoy this. Enjoy New York.

Buy Book From Amazon

Also published by Harper Collins: New York - The Photo Atlas : An Aerial View of All Five Boroughs - stunning photography of every street and park in the city. If you love New York and you love maps you'll love this spectacular book. Buy At Amazon

Book Review: New York Chronology

The New York Chronology from James Trager tells the story of how a remote trading outpost grew into what some might call the "world's capital". Year by year the book chronicles the key events of that year.

When I first looked at the book my first reaction is that I wasn't going to relate to it; that I'd find it difficult to emmerse myself in this huge volume (930 pages). But then I opened the book up at a random page and it sucked me in. The book mixes popular history (Gangs of New York stylee) with important socio-political moments that shaped the way the city is today. Every page brings a great nugget (which I intend to use next time I am with the guys in the pub). The book brings a flavour of the times and for someone who loves the city as I do - you begin to truly understand the background of some of the city's famous streets and neighbourhoods.

New York Chronology At Amazon