The tour guide was very informative, punctual, assertive, take-charge and get it done lady, but she was partial towards the French tourists ( all money is the same so I expected similar, friendly treatment). She was more engaging in conversation and conspicuously attentive to the French tourists. She never introduced herself or stated her name (I realize it was busy and she was rushed for time, but that was a harmless but unprofessional oversight). The tourists want to be engaged in every aspect of the excitement and the journey is just as important as the destination. My sisters and I did appreciate the specific route drop-offs at the end of the tour.
Two drinks were included but if you did not drink alcohol the choices were limited. The place chosen for the Jazz exhibition was small, cramped and had a grade letter of from the Department of Health of New York (the sign was tucked behind a door with bars and you wouldn't notice it unless you were looking intently and closely) "pending" because of sanitation issues. It would have been nice to have visited at least two jazz clubs. The Soul food served at Sylvia's was overall good, but not memorable. The potato salad was too mushy and the ribs were acceptable, but not tender fall off the bone succulent and juicy southern ribs. This tour needs some work for the price charged to tourists. It really needs to broaden its horizons and stepped it up from 10 to 100.
This was a fascinating trip. forget about your preconceptions of Harlem and enjoy the truth about this interesting place. Enjoy the wonderful food at Sylvia's and then relax to excellent jazz with good company. The guide on this tour was excellent.
Travelling through Harlem was interesting. Food at Sylvias was really good. Jazz musician place was small and nothing at all like the photo. we left the Jazz session early as it wasn't really our kind of Jazz music. the musicians seemed to be playing different tunes instead of playing together. Do this tour to see harlem and taste really good fried chicken.