A Shore Excursion in Manhattan - for Cruise Visitors

The tours I give always have a level of enthusiasm that is beyond scripted - because I live here and know that each day brings changes that will interest me and let me excite the tourist. I know the landmarks, but I know the locals, and I can make a tour of an "ordinary" neighborhood exciting because I also know the history of New York. I know why this is the Empire City, and can convey the excitement of discovery on virtually every corner. I have learned to love this city perhaps as one learns to love a beautiful yet willful woman. For me to make a real and true connection with it, I had to become better acquainted with New York through an elaborate series of "dates" with its neighborhoods and their histories. I felt the city telling me to learn more about it first; I had to prove that I cared. Every neighborhood, just as every business in them, is like a library of melodramas and romances written by its denizens, past and present, all informed by a history that is growing every day from the hands, hearts and minds of those people. By running and walking, and making contacts with people in these neighborhoods and businesses, I have fully embraced my lover's assignment. In fact, after entering all these neighborhoods and businesses I felt compelled to "check out" and read their literature. I have became a licensed tour guide. I taught students how to pass the city's tour guide exam at City College. I lead groups, both large and small, that include high school students, businessmen and other adults, as well as retirees, both from the U.S. as well as abroad. I love taking people around my city. Licensed New York City and Washington, DC Tour Guide; B.A., M.A., English; urban historian. My NYC license No. is 0975275; D.C. is TGL11706