New York: Santacon

There’s a reason New York is considered the greatest Christmas destination on Earth.

From ice skating in Central Park to hand-in hand shopping at Madison Square.

It’s the place you can relive romantic movie scenes and kiss your lover like it’s your first time under the giant Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center.

If you’re looking to blow your missus away this Christmas, bring her here!

It’s an absolute must this time of year for loved up couples – and always has been.

But what’s the Big Apple got in store for single lads?

The answer of course… is American women!

There’s almost three girls to every guy in New York and in case you didn’t know, American girls LOVE a British accent. Speaking is like cheating in the States, so if you’re a confident talker, you’re in for a treat!

Talking of treats, have you ever heard of Santacon?

It’s an annual event where THOUSANDS of sexy Santas take to the streets dressed as Father Christmas, and party hard!

Sadly, I couldn’t squeeze my Saint Nicholas costume into my luggage, but found good use for my little elves jumper – and proudly became Santa’s Little helper during the festive pub crawl!

If you think Carnage is animal, think again! Americans put us Brits to shame when it comes to partying and it’s not just down to the size of their shots or towering personalities!

Another thing New Yorkers do bigger and better than us Brits, is food.

There’s a reason the Teenage Mutent Ninja Turtles were addicted to their $2 pizza slices and why almost 70% of American’s are overweight – the portions are insane.

Fortunately, me and my John Lennon look-alike pal, Luke managed to burn most of what we ate, by walking miles and miles, up and down the blocks and avenues, spending dollar like we were millionaires.

From Macy’s, the World’s largest department store to the World’s rarest sneaker shop, Flight Club on 812 Broadway – it was hard not to max out out credit cards.

Luke was keen on ticking off a few tourist attractions, so we visited the Empire State, Ground Zero and Central Park – before agreeing the rest we’d save for when we next visit with our missuses.

There really is so much to do here.

Our last night we tried keeping up with the students in a place called 13th Step which sits somewhere between 9th & 10th Street, East Village (the equivalent to Shoreditch) – but struggled to make the 4am closing time for the second night in a row.

It’s hard to admit, but fair to say as I approach my big 30, that I’m slowly getting too old for these back to back parties and I was easily outclassed by the Yankie youth.

A night out in Brooklyn is almost as recommended as a morning breakie in Joe Jrs – both you must add to your itinerary.

There are few places in the world that rival New York so when you come, be sure to bring lots of energy, Pro Plus and Durex.