By Isabel Prontes
New York City is one of the biggest melting pots in the
United States, as well as the rest of the world. From international dining to ethnic neighborhoods to sounds of many different languages as you walk down the street, New York City is definitely one of the most exotic cities on the planet. If you are planning to visit New York City as a couple, there are a lot of great exotic activities in which to partake.
Chinatown
New York City's Chinatown is one of the largest in the world. With countless restaurants and shops, walking down the streets of Chinatown will make couples feel like they are discovering a little piece of China right in America. There are a lot of great outdoor markets and larger stores (such as Pearl River Mart) selling a vast amount of Chinese cultural items (including attire, decorations, plates and much more). The food and drink options are endless, with the many traditional Chinese buffet restaurants and cafes to sip on bubble tea.
Irish Pubs
New York City (and many of boroughs, including the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn) has a lot of Irish immigrants, and therefore a lot of Irish pubs. If, as a couple, you want proper Irish breakfast or maybe even a Guinness, there are tons of places in New York City in which to do so. In Manhattan, popular pubs include Stout NYC (133 West 33rd St.), Kinsale Tavern (1672 3rd Ave.), McCormack's (365 3rd Ave.) and the legendary McSorley's Old Ale House (15 East 7th St.). Woodlawn in the Bronx is like a miniature Ireland, and being there will make you feel like you are genuinely on the Emerald Isle.
Hookah Bars
If you want the exotic flair of the Middle East in New York City, you should try out some of the various hookah bars. Hookah bars are also often very dimly lit and have a romantic atmosphere--ideal for couples. If you want to revel in the sweet fragrance of fruity tobacco, you should check out some of New York's most hopping hookah bars, which include Kapadokya (142 Montague St., Brooklyn Heights), Sahara East (184 1st Ave.), Mamlouk (211 East 4th St.), the Egyptian Coffee Shop (2509 Steinway St., Astoria, Queens), and several others.
Japanese Teahouse
As a couple, you can experience the tranquil and serene ambience of a traditional Japanese teahouse when you step into Cha-an, located in Manhattan's downtown (230 East 9th St.). If you want to taste a wide variety of Japanese teas and also experience an assortment of fine foods, Cha-an is a great option. If you want an extra romantic and exotic experience, you can make a reservation to get an authentic tea ceremony in your own private room.
Resources
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.
