An unforgettable Christmas in New York
The Big Apple is a top destination for tourists from all over the world, especially during the festive season. It's a magical place, with ice rinks, giant Christmas trees, lots of decorations and Christmas music. If you too are thinking of going there to experience the magic of Christmas in New York, here are some not-to-be-missed attractions and other tips for a successful trip.
What to see at Christmas in New York?
This winter, set off to discover this incredible city and its must-see activities:
- A shopper's paradise, New York offers some of the most beautiful window displays in the world at this time of year, with entertainment worthy of a show in the biggest shopping malls such as Bloomingdale's, Barneys, Macy's... Enough to fill you with wonder in front of their windows and their grandiose decorations.
- THE Christmas tree in New York, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a real institution for the city's residents. It is lit in a ceremony that can also be seen on TV on the Wednesday evening after Thanksgiving, and it lights up every day until 1 January.
- New York's ice rinks at Christmas, like the one in Central Park amid the skyscrapers, the one in Bryant Park with its Christmas market, or the one at Rockefeller Center. There's plenty of fun to be had on the ice for a few afternoons!
- Of course, the Christmas markets are also magical places where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and a glass of mulled wine. Union Square Holiday Market, Winter Village in Bryant Park, Columbus Circle Holiday Market... the atmosphere of Christmas awaits you!
- Don't forget Father Christmas at Macy's, where they've recreated a real village on the 8th floor of the shop. If you're going to New York with the family, this is the place to be for children.
- The shows at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, a true Christmas tradition with music, dance and a touch of humour for a very enjoyable evening with the family.
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What are the formalities for travelling to New York?
Do I need a visa for the USA?
Swiss nationals, like our French and Belgian neighbours, who have a biometric/electronic passport do not need a visa to enter the USA. However, you do need to apply for an ESTA, the electronic travel authorisation for any tourist stay of up to 90 days.
To apply for this authorisation, go online to esta.cbp.dhs.gov, fill in your contact details and passport details and pay (21USD). Validate your request and wait up to 3 days to receive your authorisation, which will be valid for 2 years or until the expiry date of your passport. If you'd like to find out more about ESTA, read our dedicated article.
What insurance do I need to travel to New York?
It's no surprise that medical costs in the USA are extremely high. This is where travel insurance is essential if you don't want to have to advance astronomical sums and pay for treatment out of your own pocket in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Insurance will allow you to access the American health system in the event of an emergency, as costs are so high that doctors and hospitals in the country often ask for proof of solvency before treating you. For more details on medical costs in the USA, read our article here.
The emergency number to call in the event of a problem is 911 throughout the United States.
Europ Assistance insurance for your stay in New York
With our Comfort option, you won't need to pay emergency hospitalisation costs in advance, and we'll cover your medical expenses abroad up to CHF 250,000. In addition, we offer cover in the event of cancellation of your trip, insurance for your luggage and, above all, a 24/7 assistance service in the event of a problem. Do you need to be transported urgently or repatriated to Switzerland? We'll take care of that too, and cover the costs without limit.
Find out more about our offers here.
>> Medical expenses, repatriation, cancellation: insure your next trip <<
