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WHY GO NOW?
New York's oldest traditional Jewish neighbourhoods on the Lower East Side of Manhattan are changing rapidly. See these richly historical areas soon. The powerful and controversial exhibition at the city's Jewish Museum (1), "Mirroring Evil", runs until 30 June. The New York weather in late spring is usually much more pleasant than its hot and humid summer, and flight and bed prices are lower.
CHECK IN
Only the most Orthodox of Jews would choose not to stay in a particular hotel for religious reasons - consequently there's only one true Jewish hotel in New York - the Avenue Plaza (2) (4624 13th Avenue, Brooklyn: 001 718 552 3200 www.theavenueplaza.com). It's very comfortable and located on 13th Avenue near the 50th Street subway station) in the very heart of Brooklyn's fascinating Borough Park neighbourhood - the largest Orthodox Jewish community outside Israel. Rates (from $160/pounds 118) include a huge buffet breakfast during the week (but just coffee and cake on Saturdays).
BEAM DOWN
Heathrow-New York JFK is the busiest and most competitive international air route in the world, with Virgin Atlantic and Kuwait Airways offering good deals for this month and next. A taxi from JFK will cost $42 (pounds 31, plus tip) to anywhere in Manhattan. Or take the free shuttle bus to Howard Beach subway station, then the subway (A line) to Manhattan ($1.50/pounds 1.10). More details: www.panynj.gov.
GET YOUR BEARINGS
Jewish communities are dotted all over New York (such as Manhattan's Upper East and West Sides and Brooklyn's Williamsburg and Crown Heights). But the most interesting areas for the visitor are the Lower East Side in Manhattan and Borough Park in Brooklyn. Much of the city can be seen on foot: otherwise subway and bus journeys are $1.50 (pounds 1.10) each. A One Day Metro Fun Pass valid for both buses and subways costs just $4 (pounds...