In the wake of the World Trade Centre disaster, tourists who were intending to travel to Manhattan are faced with the difficult decision of whether or not to go ahead with their trip. Although an instinctive reaction might be that a visit to New York at this time would be insensitive and inappropriate, a strong case can be made for the position that the city's economy, devastated by the attacks, needs the support of the tourist dollar.
The Foreign Office advises that "a large area of southwest Manhattan is still closed and... security in the city is tight", and suggests that "British citizens throughout the US should follow the advice of the US authorities" when deciding to travel.
However, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, currently enjoying unprecedented popularity in New York after his sensitive handling of the crisis, leaves no doubt as to his position on the issue. In a statement posted on NYCvisit.com, he says "I encourage people... who want to help, I have a great way of helping: come here and spend money. Go to a restaurant, a play - you might actually have a better chance of getting tickets to The Producers now, if you want to come here and see it. The life of the city goes on..."
In support of Giuliani's message, the website has posted comprehensive listings of the hotels and restaurants that are open for business, as well as information on which of them are offering reduced rates, or food and rooms to people in need.
NYCvisit.com has also posted details of the visitor attractions which are still open. Many museums such as the Guggenheim and the Museum of Modern Art are offering free admission until further notice. The site also provides information on special events and benefits which have been organised in response to the tragedy.
The NYC Visitor Information Centre has set up a hotline (001 860 496 5972, between 8am and 8pm) providing up to date help for travellers, as well as advice for those wishing to contribute goods, services or money to the relief effort. For tourists already in the city, the Centre has an office at 810 Seventh Avenue, between 52nd and 53rd Streets, which remains open. They too strongly advise that tourists continue to visit New York.
Of the major British carriers to New York, Virgin Atlantic (01293 454109) has now returned to a completely normal schedule, and British Airways (0845 7799977) expects to do so by Sunday September 23.
Useful links
New York City official website
The legacy of terrorism: air travel special report
Terrorism in the US: special report
