When to Visit New York City

Jim Cicchese has been a licensed Realtor in California for more than 25 years. When he’s not assisting his clients with real estate transactions, Jim Cicchese enjoys traveling around the United States to such cities as New York City.

Depending on your funds, interest in crowds, and weather preferences, some months may be better than others for visiting New York City. For mild weather in the 60-to-70-degree range, visiting during September and November is best. The time around Thanksgiving is extremely busy, but crowds are more manageable during other times in the fall. However, hotel rates are high.

Between March and May, the city also sees slightly more mild weather starting in the upper 40s and going to the 60s, but rain is much more common. Springtime is one of the most beautiful times to visit New York thanks to the blooming trees and flowers. Hotel rates are more affordable up until early April, but then they start rising again as summer draws closer.

Summer in New York City lasts from June to August. Summer brings with it temperatures in the 80s and high levels of humidity. Additionally, summertime is one of the most popular times to visit because school is out, so crowds are heavy.

Finally, winter lasts from December through February and sees temperatures in the 20s and 30s. However, the cold deters many tourists, so hotel rates are often discounted in late January and February. Visiting during the holidays brings a major spike in crowds and cost, but outside of that, winter is more affordable and less crowded.

What Is the Difference Between Northern and Southern Indian Cuisine?

A member of the Southland Regional Association of Realtors, Jim Cicchese has served as a corporate relocation specialist and real estate agent at Keller Williams Westlake Village for the last three years. Outside of his professional pursuits, Jim Cicchese enjoys food, particularly Indian cuisine.

In India, each region and group has a specific way of preparing meals, using a wide variety of ingredients and techniques that make the cuisines unique. Many know India for its curries, but there are different options to choose from in the country’s Northern and Southern regions. Many dishes commonly found in United States-based Indian restaurants originate from Northern India. Focusing primarily on curries and breads, this region is famous for its naan bread, aloo ghobi, and paneer dishes. Many Northern Indian dishes such as kadhi also include yogurt and cream in their sauces.

As opposed to Northern cuisine, Southern Indian dishes typically revolve around the use of lentils and rice. Popular regional dishes include dosa, a rice-and-lentil crepe, and sambar, a stew made of vegetables and lentils. Most Southern dishes also employ a variety of chilies to enhance their spiciness. In the Kerala region, curry sauces primarily consist of coconut milk or oil to temper the overall spice levels in the dish.