In a few days, we'll be flying cross-country to New York City. It'll mark my first time in New York – ever. I'm not sure what to expect, so any tips would be appreciated. It's business this time around, so sightseeing probably won't happen. I hope to at least catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, Ground Zero, and the Empire State Building before leaving NYC, but just being in the vicinity is cool enough for now. I'd also love to catch a live taping of the Daily Show (which they do in New York), but that's probably not going to happen, either. New York City is one of those cities that I should have experienced long before now. I've only heard things about NY and its citizens, though. We're going to New York to cover Search Engine Strategies for The Chris Pirillo Show (with our conference sponsor, MSN Search). I'm going to be a part of it – New York, New York!

New York City is the safest big city in the country, according to a report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The FBI’s 2002 “Crime in the United States” indicates that while crime increased nationwide, New York City’s crime rate actually decreased 5% to the lowest level since the 1960s. In addition, the city’s murder rate dropped 9.6% in 2002 to reach the lowest level since 1963.
The FBI’s ranking of New York City as the safest large city in the United States means that, of all American cities with populations of 1 million or more, New York City has the lowest rate of total crime committed.
“These statistics are terrific news for New York City’s visitor industry,” said NYC & Company President & CEO Cristyne L. Nicholas. “With winter approaching, millions of people and families from around the world will consider a trip to New York City to see its many magical holiday attractions. New York City is one of the world’s foremost family destinations and these new FBI crime reduction figures reinforce what a safe place it is to visit.”

Well, I haven't been stabbed yet (although, I have been a witness for a double homicide). 'Cause everyone's your friend in New York City – and everything looks beautiful when you're young and pretty. The streets are paved with diamonds and there's just so much to see… but the best thing about New York City is you and me.