This month, two great American cities do battle. It’s the west coast city with angels on its side versus the brash town so good they named it twice...
New York
INHABITANTS
New York is home to the world’s trend-setters. Being globally cool is a full time job – which is probably why everyone seems to be in a massive hurry. 8/10
DO
If you’re ever in New York over Thanksgiving, then Macy’s Day Parade (macys.com/parade) is almost unavoidable. Look out for novelty balloon floats and a celeb or three. Alternatively, take a walk along the Highline through the Gallery and Meatpacking districts – it’s the result of an urban renewal programme to turn abandoned, raised train lines into a park (thehighline.org). 9/10
STAY
Gansevoort on Park Avenue (gansevoorthotelgroup.com) is a luxe party spot with an rooftop pool and bar stretching three levels, while further north the boutique Opera House in the South Bronx (operahousehotel.com) is very cool and great value. 8/10
EAT & DRINK
The city is a gastronaut’s dream, but for an authentic NYC experience, take the 7 Flushing local train through Queens and work your way through an ethnically diverse culinary journey with each stop. 9/10
Los Angeles
INHABITANTS
LA has more than its share of interesting and colourful characters, some of whom aren’t even working part time jobs while trying to break into acting. 8/10
DO
You’re never going to run out of things to do in LA, although if you’re planning on stalking the rich and famous in Hollywood, let Ultimate Hollywood Tours help (ultimatehollywoodtours.com). If you’re set on scoffing as much turkey as possible, you might want to stretch your legs and work up an appetite at the Turkey Trot Los Angeles (turkeytrot.la). 7/10
STAY
Go all out and stay on Sunset Boulevard at the Beverly Hills Hotel (beverlyhillshotel.com). Alternatively, try the Farmer’s Daughter hotel (farmersdaughterhotel.com), which cheekily models itself on a seedy motel. 7/10
EAT & DRINK
Providence was once nominated the best restaurant in the US (providenceLA.com), but dig deep if you want to come here. If you’re not loaded, catch the Kogi BBQ truck (kogibbq.com) for a Korean-meets-Mexican taco. 9/10
And the winner is... New York. LA puts in a good showing, but NYC wins.
