Tourists: I'm going to apologize, in advance, for NYC's Neanderthal subway system.  Aside from the fact that it's unpredictable and extremely non-user friendly, it's expensive, to boot.

If you've ever visited London, Paris, or Hong Kong, for example, then you're fully aware of each city's efficient rail and road system, which makes a mere mockery of ours.  But, before we compare apples to oranges, allow me to offer you a glimmer of hope, should you find yourself visiting The Big Apple: "HopStop."  Now, add the URL ( http://www.hopstop.com/?city=newyork ) to your mobile device or scratch pad - or wherever it is that you deem appropriate.  This magic link will get you from point A to point B, literally and seamlessly, with detailed instructions for every step of your journey - whether you're walking from Rockefeller Center to the Empire State Building, or taking the subway from your hotel in Times Square to Ground Zero. 

Tips

• Download the HopStop application to your mobile device.

• Prior to your visit to NYC, play around on HopStop to familiarize yourself with the site.

• HopStop recognizes major landmarks (i.e. Grand Central Terminal), but you should always make an effort to be cognisant of your current and destination address, if at all possible. Alternatively, you can enter whatever building number you're standing in front of as "point A" of your journey.

• I find it helpful to jot down my hotel's address (or wherever it is that you're staying) and keep it on my person while I'm away from the property.

 Be wise on the street!

…

Until we eat again,

Lindsay, The Lunch Belle