There is little to compare to the instantly recognisable Manhattan skyline - at once breathtaking and familiar, you are immediately transported to any number of films set in the real-life Gotham and with the wealth of characters around you, feel like the lead in your own movie.

From my grumpy, but pragmatic cab driver who railed against the UN traffic and the 2 hour commute from JFK, to Fonzie who opened my door and made sure I knew exactly who to talk to if I needed anything at all and Ray at the front desk of the fantastic Dreams hotel, who in true New York style

couldn't have been more professional and helpful, proudly giving me the elevator pitch on this unique boutique hotel: the bar, the pool, the pool being above the bar, the 3 restaurants, the hidden nightclub in the bowels of the hotel and the spa (should I feel the need for a little looking after)...

This was going to be a great tour....