what a fun guided tour of NYC! ..and by NYC I mean Manhattan AND Queens. I did the "Immigrant Tour" with these guys. At first I wasn't sure if I wanted to be tied down for 5 hours, and finish in deep Queens. But 5 hours felt like an hour, time went by so fast as it was really alot of fun. Guides were professionally casual, making everyone feel free and relaxed. We hit many awesome spots, some of them holes-in-the-wall.. most of our destinations were small in scale, but famous for what they do among those who know. For example, we stopped in at the "Pickle Guys" whom I had seen on some food channel show. After telling us anecdotes and historical account of the particular neighborhood, the guide pointed out the shop in reference. Since we all were up for a taste of NY's best pickle, the 5 minute stop was a fun memorable part..everyone comparing different flavors and such. Malaysian jerky spot was another favorite..a close tie with Chinese dumpling stop..maybe just after the Peruvian lunch stop. I should point out here that, food was NOT the point of tour. But how can one fully experience NYC without trying all the many wonderful food vendors..?
The $2 Chinatown bus trip from Manhattan CTown to Queens CTown was special too. Since we took up half the bus(it's a minivan) last local took up the $1 seat between the driver+passenger seats. I love details like this..and there were countless number of cool detailed marker or anecdotes. ..so much more interesting than statue of Liberty or Empire State building...
Since everyone in the group happened to enjoy a cold pint of beer, the guide was cool enough to make that happen too..and it was just perfect way to freshen up and continue conversations lingering from tour walk. Although tour had definite structure and itinerary, it felt organic and flexible. If everyone wanted to try something instead, that was cool. Of course laughters in an Irish pub will lead to beginnings of friendships..we made friends on the tour as well.
I gotta say, it was really a lot fun and informing as well. I learned so much cool stuff about several immigrant populations and their history in the city..which I concluded at the end of day that immigrant history IS New York history.