Things To Do In New York City

If you're anything like me, you enjoy something new every now and then.

On my second trip to the Big Apple - home of streets congested with bright yellow taxis, Central Park, and of course the Statue of Liberty - I received a new taste of the city that never sleeps. Here are some things I'd like to call "not for tourists" ... Take a look!

1. Try a slice of cake at Little Cupcake Bakeshop: Located on a small corner on Prince Street in Little Italy in Manhattan's Nolita neighborhood, this shop specilizes in cakes, but also offers a wide variety of pies, cupcakes, candy, and hot drinks. My personal favorites are the pistachio cake accompanied by a chai latte, altogether worth under $8. Oh, and the cake slice is big enough for two people, perfect to share on a cool New York afternoon. Absolutely to die for. 30 Prince Street, NY, NY 10012.

2. Ride the subway from Brooklyn to Manhattan (or vice versa): Although public transit might not only annoy, but even scare some people, I personally went along for the ride and had fun with it. Staying in a hotel in lower Brooklyn, it became necessary to use the subway every day to get into the heart of the city. Plus, taking the subway reminded me of one of my favorite books, Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist, set in NYC. You'll get to see some interesting people, too.

3. Sample a pastry in Chinatown: In my opinion, NYC Chinatown, located right below Little Italy on the map, is the craziest Chinatown out there (aside towns in San Francisco, Vancouver, L.A., and Montreal). Outside markets and scetchy shops line blocks and blocks of the district, complete with the hustle and bustle of sellers and shoppers. However, NYC Chinatown deserves an applause for being maybe the cheapest area in the entire city for good quality food. From meat and cheese buns to sweet pastries to rolls shaped like turtles - one I sampled myself! - each won't cost you more than $2. 210 Grand Street, NY, NY 10013.

4. Get lost in the city streets ... just for fun: The island of Manhattan has more than 200 numbered streets alone, not counting everything else. A new feat for me, who is used to knowing San Francisco has only 48 avenues before it reaches the ocean.

5. Stroll down The High Line: This one-mile strand of land is actually a park, suspected 30 feet above ground, and cuts right through city streets, starting on Gansevoort Street in Chelsea district and ending by the Hudson River. Pretty cool to walk at the same level as apartments situated on a few floors above ground. Plus, there are a few surprises here and there if you look around closely. Starting at 122 Gansevoort Street, ending around 30^th Street, NY, NY.

6. Grab lunch or dinner at Carnegie Deli: Situated on the same block at Carnegie Hall, in operation since 1937, this hot spot features the world famous pastrami and corned beef sandwich, and don't forgot the classic New York cheesecake. It's creamy, smooth texture soothes the palate, and you can get it plain, chocolate, strawberry, or topped with cherries or blueberries (I had the latter myself). Only one pointer: All the food is super expensive, the signature sandwiches costing $16.95 each and a slice of cheesecake going for $9.75 for plain, $9.95 with topping and chocolate, and $10.95 for strawberry ... But if you have the extra cash to spend, I absolutely recommend it. 854 7th Avenue at 55th Street, NY, NY 10019.

7. Lastly, if all else fails, people watch! I've noticed that in NYC, peoples' personalities really shine in the clothing they wear. There is a book coming out soon called "Humans of New York," its theme being exactly that - NYC street wear. That should give you an idea ...

There you go! Now, any places you can recommend?