We greatly appreciate all of the encouragement and help that we have received, and we would like to say "thank you" by offering some of the best tourism deals in our City's history. So if you or someone you know is thinking about traveling to New York and taking in any of our diverse holiday attractions, tell them to look into our new "Paint the Town Red, White & Blue" packages. They're the easiest and most enjoyable way that you and visitors from around the globe can contribute to the comeback of the Capital of the World. This holiday season is certainly filled with feelings of sadness and mourning for all those who were so unjustly and suddenly taken from us in the September 11th attacks on America. It is a difficult and draining time for far too many families across New York City and the nation this year, including those whose loved ones are in the military, protecting our freedom throughout the world. Our losses have been overwhelming, but at the same time, our pride has never been stronger. We will forever be indebted to the heroes who gave their lives to save others. To them we give endless thanks this holiday season, for their selfless sacrifices have given us a new, deeper understanding of courage and service to one's fellow human being. We appreciate now more than ever the importance of community. Family and friends have been the backbone of our successful recovery efforts and our ability to move forward with courage. They will also be the foundation for all that we do this holiday season. Realizing that the holidays will be inordinately challenging to so many families throughout our City and across the country this year, the entire New York City travel industry has come together to make getting to and enjoying the City's attractions and traditions as easy and affordable as possible. The "Paint the Town Red, White & Blue" program runs from November 5, 2001 through February 28, 2002, and offers discounts on hotels, Broadway shows, stores, restaurants, museums and much more. "NYC Freedom Packages" are also available, and provide you with a wide selection of the best that the City has to offer, in a simple and flexible package deal. Most importantly, besides contributing to businesses that have been severely effected by the September 11th tragedy, you will also be making a contribution to the Twin Towers Fund, which benefits the families of the victims of the uniformed service members who gave their lives in the World Trade Center rescue effort. New York is the most exciting place in the world to be during the holiday season. From the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center to the storefronts of 5th Avenue, the holiday traditions in this City are endless. So I urge you to go out and enjoy them all, and make your New York dreams come true. For more information on how you can "Paint the Town Red, White & Blue" this holiday season, contact NYC & Company, the city's Convention and Visitors Bureau. Call 800-NYC-GUIDE, log on to www.nycvisit.com, or stop by the official Visitor Information Center at 810 Seventh Avenue (at 53rd Street). |
