Billy Joel, Tony Bennett, Alicia Keys and Jay-z are just a few of the many artists to sing out on their love for the big apple. A city that truly never sleeps, lives like a dream, and allows one an escape from reality.

For Spring Break 2014, I spent my week in New York City with my boyfriend Brandon. It was my first visit to the city, and it certainly won't be my last.

We saw as many sites as we could in our time constraint of about 4 days. New York has a lot to offer and no where near enough time. We saw the Statue of Liberty, rode the ferry, paid tribute at the National Memorial for 9/11, strolled the American Museum of Natural History, rode on a horse drawn carriage through Central Park, got weird at Ripley's, gamed out at Dave and Busters, shopped at Rockefeller Center, wondered Times Square, explored the city and ate a LOT of food.

Food and culture are what make the city. Chinatown is a must see. We went to a more whole in the wall establishment, but it was some of the best Chinese I've tasted. Everyone has to get a giant slice of pizza in the city or stop by a food vendor cart. The Nuts 4 Nuts carts are such a tasty quick dessert, and I always love a good hot dog. Times Square is fun if you want over the top, themed restaurants. We visited an Irish pub, went into the movie world at Planet Hollywood, and dined with Forrest Gump at Bubba Gump's Shrimp Company.

New York offers so many great experiences, and is lively and action packed whether it be spring, summer, fall or winter. So if you are looking for an idea for next years break, and love that city atmosphere...start spreading the news. New York, New York!