No summer in New York is complete without taking a trip to (at least) one of the islands.

They’re really easy to get to and (at certain times) some ferries to the islands are free!

The Staten Island ferry is always free and runs from 12am – 11.30pm. Buy a ticket to the Statue of Liberty and hop on a ferry for free to Ellis Island.

After (practically) throwing your cash out of the window on the flight — a free and relaxing boat ride is just what you need.

Today, I’ll be your tour guide and I’ll be taking you through Governors Island. Head to Governors Island before 11.30am on a weekend for $0 (summer only).

On route, you’ll be shown an incredible view of the concentre jungle, where dreams are made of, on a boat, there’s nothing you can’t do, now that you’re in New York.

Governors Island actually used to be a military base (it protected NYC waterways from British Invasion during the War of 1812) and they’ve preserved many historical goodies for you to see.

Today, it’s a social spot with occasional music festivals, outdoor art, games and 1920’s parties (which I’d definitely go to if I lived in NY).

It’s car-free oasis. I would recommend grabbing your bikes — or renting one out if you’re a tourist. Admire the pretty scenery and don’t forget to stop by the monuments for some very American history.

 New Jersey (left) VS New York (right).

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 Below is Castle Williams. A sign on the fort reads, “Castle Williams, with its twin fort, Castle Clinton in the Battery, was built to guard the waterway between Governors Island and New York City. Together these forts provided such a formidable defense that the British fleet never attempted to attack New York City during the War of 1812”.

Ooohh.

 This is the old Governors abode. How American is this house?

 Even though no one lives on the island, I think it would be an amazing place to live. It’s like a little community town: with a little hospital, church and (Wisteria Lane type) suburbian houses. Sadly, no one resides here whilst Mr Trump decides what to do with it.

New York, I love your islands!

God bless America.

Location: Governors Island, New York

I love grabbing an iced frap’ and strolling around the shops.

Especially in New York.

There are many reasons why I love shopping in NYC.

It’s a destination of sartorial satisfaction.

With its wide, open pavements, glorious old buildings, fluttering American flags and every shop from Bloomingdale’s to Sephora, it’s a shopper’s paradise.

Grab your purse and hail a yellow cab — we’re going shopping!

Guys (and ladies too) if you’re not into shopping: get yourself dropped off at Barnes & Noble, put your feet up, grab a coffee and lose yourself into a good book.

 In the meantime, fellow shoppers — If you’re a scrimper with a thirst for designer goodies, I would take you to Century 21.

I warn you, it’s always packed with keen tourists. And with good reason — you won’t leave empty-handed. I fluttered past discounted Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton & Mulberry bags, Versace watches and Timberland boots.

Pleased with myself, I left with: a-very-American Tommy Hilfiger bag, some shiny statement jewellery, a pair of designer sunglasses and a huge grin.

Nordstom Rack is another discount haven — check it out online to avoid the crowds.

 Seeking the latest designer collections? Do your friends compliment you on your new season styles?

You’ll be squealing with excitement in Macy’s, Bloomingdales and Nordstrom.

 Did you know that Macy’s has 11 Floors?! I couldn’t cope.

 If you’re a make-up and beauty hoarder buff — you’ll heard of Sephora.

A department store dedicated to the likes of NARS, Urban Decay, bareMinerals, Bobbi Brown, Lancome and every beauty brand you can think of.

It’s a beauty blogger’s paradise.

 Cheers, Sephora.

Right ladies, it’s time to treat you to some underwear. You sexy thang.

What’s the most famous lingerie brand in the US? (Shh, I’ll tell you a secret Victoria, you’ll know it when I give you a clue: angel wings.)

Victoria Secret, obviously! See what I did there? (I’ll stop calling you Victoria now.)

 My lovely friend Tineal couldn’t resist a perfume purchase. During my uni years — I worked in A&F / Hollister, so I’m not really a fan of apparel store scents.

I was pleasantly surprised by the Victoria Eau de Parfum. It’s my kind of scent — it’s light, floral and summery.

Tineal and Ana also brought some PJ’s, bras and underwear.

I much prefer a different American lingerie brand.

It’s called Aerie.

Created by American Eagle. This is the first thing you see when you walk in.

 Besides Aerie’s engaging brand values, I much prefer their prints, touches of ribbon and lace on flirty shapes. I also brought a bikini — it’s like Seafolly but without the price tag.

 One of life’s greatest pleasures is strolling into a beauty salon after a long, hard day of shopping.

 You jump back into the world feeling and smelling a million dollars.

Welcome to Red Door Spa New York by Elizabeth Arden.

 Tineal is very happy with having her hair played with here. Bless her.

It was time to be released back into the streets that never sleep.

Are there any shops that you think I’ve missed out on this post? I’d love to hear from you.

Location: New York

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Seaside beach town is not the first thing that springs to mind when we think of New York.

Pre-visit, I hadn’t heard of Coney Island. I was surprised to find that New York’s playground is only an hour from the city.

Grab your swimwear, sunglasses and lilo. I’m going to take you to Coney Island (yay!).

Famous for the Luna Park amusement hub, the Wonder Wheel and Cyclone roller coaster — if you’re a big kid like me, it’s the place to bring out your inner child.

This a follow-up from my Aqua post — where I pretended to be a mermaid for the day.

Ok, so the beach is no Bali — but in the summer, it’ll do a good job of charging your batteries after a long week of working in the city (which is what you need if you work in NYC).

Coney Island is famous for and home to the Nathan’s hot dog.

I had to try one of these bad boys for myself.

It is really good. Big, hearty and delicious. I’ve always said that there’s something different in the meat in the US in regarding the taste, texture and flavour, and this hot dog didn’t let me down.

Feeling naughty, I had chilli fries to go with it, I’ve fallen in love with this US classic since I demolished them in L.A. I mean, come on! Fries, creamy cheese and tomato soaked mince. I could just roll in it; it’s delicious.

Smiling (and pleased with ourselves) with our candy floss, teddies and hotdogs, we hesitantly trotted back to the subway to make our way back to the city.

Everyone has that place that brings them back to their childhood. C’mon spill! Where’s yours?

Location: Coney Island, New York

Nivea Suncream | Aveda Shampoo | Aveda Conditioner | Nivea Cleansing Water | Aveda Travel Set | Gariner Michellar Wipes | Giorgio Armani Foundation | Lancome Powder | Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer | Urban Decay Palette | Shiseido Eyelash Curler | YSL Waterproof Mascara | NARS Blush | Carmex Lipbalm | LOreal Lipgloss | Blotting Paper | Evian Facial Spray |